The best cordless string trimmers help homeowners maintain a pristine yard with crisp edges and tidy beds. But it’s essential to buy the right one. So, we researched Home Depot, Lowe’s, Amazon, and Walmart models.
We ranked each string trimmer based on its performance, ease of use, and cost and found the top trimmers for varying landscapes, lifestyles, and budgets. Our string trimmer reviews and buying guide facilitate finding your ideal string trimmer.
Our Top Picks
Top 4 cordless electric string trimmers – Reviews
1. Ryobi RY40290 – Best battery-powered string trimmer
The 15-inch Ryobi RY40290 is the best battery-powered string trimmer. We love its potency and versatility. The carbon fiber shaft is lightweight and durable. Additionally, it’s attachment-capable. You can purchase RYOBI EXPAND-IT attachments to turn your trimmer into additional tools, including a brush cutter, cultivator, or pole saw.
Cutting power: It has a dual-speed trigger and Ryobi’s REEL Easy 3-in-1 trimmer head (bump feed, fixed-line, serrated blades). At high speed, the pre-cut 0.095-inch dual-line string seamlessly shreds thick weeds and overgrown grass. However, large clusters of dense, overgrown weeds will bog down the motor and sometimes clog the trimmer head.
Runtime: The 40-volt, 4 Ah battery provides up to 72 minutes of runtime and charges in about an hour with the included rapid charger. Using the trimmer on high dramatically reduces battery life.
Ease of use: It’s user-friendly and simple to assemble. Loading the head has a learning curve, but it’s swift once you get the hang of it. It’s also easy to maneuver. The carbon fiber shaft is lighter and longer than most 15-inch weed eaters.
Specifications
- Battery: 40-volt, 4 Ah
- Cutting swath: 13 – 15 in.
- Line gauge: 0.095 in.
- Line feed: Bump / fixed
- Motor: Brushless
- Shaft length: 50.5 in.
- Shaft type: Straight
- Warranty: 5-year tool / 3-year battery
- Weight: 11.5 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Attachment-capable ✓ Carbon fiber shaft ✓ Adjustable swath ✓ Fast charge time ✓ Long runtime ✓ Long shaft | ✗ Somerimes you have to stop to clean the trimmer head ✗ The line feed system has a learning curve ✗ Bogs down when overworked |
Where to buy:
2. Ego Power+ ST1523S – Battery-powered runner up
The 15-inch Ego Power+ ST1523S is our second favorite cordless electric trimmer. It’s a mighty machine with a lifetime warranty on its carbon fiber shaft. It’s also very user-friendly, using clever technology like Ego’s patented POWERLOAD trimmer head.
Cutting power: It easily handles heavy-duty weeds with variable speed control and a dual-feed, spiral twist 0.095-inch trimmer line. But even at the slowest speed, it’s overkill in delicate areas.
Runtime: The 56-volt, 4 Ah battery provides up to 50 minutes of runtime and fully recharges in about 80 minutes with the included charger.
Ease of use: It’s easy to operate, and assembly’s a breeze. The PowerLoad trimmer head is quick and easy to load — just press a button. However, it’s heavy, so some users will likely strain. I’m a petite woman, and it quickly tired my arm and back. However, the weight’s well-balanced, so I don’t think an average-sized man would have any trouble.
Specifications
- Battery: 56-volt, 4 Ah
- Cutting swath: 15 in.
- Line gauge: 0.095 in.
- Line feed: Bump / Auto
- Motor: Brushless
- Shaft length: 42 in.
- Shaft type: Straight
- Warranty: 5-year tool / 3-year battery
- Weight: 18.5 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Easy to load new string ✓ High-quality batteries ✓ Weather-resistant ✓ Carbon fiber shaft ✓ Quiet | ✗ Not good for light-duty trimming ✗ Uses a lot of trimmer line ✗ Heavy |
Where to buy:
3. WORX WG154 – Best for flower beds
The best cordless string trimmer for flower beds is the 10-inch WORX WG154. It’s affordable and easy to maneuver. The light-duty weed eater/edger is gentle around flowers, ornamentals, and gardens. It includes a retractable flower guard that adjusts to protect landscaping and lawn decor.
Cutting power: It has a 0.065-inch single-line feed that cleanly cuts light-duty growth but can’t handle heavy-duty trimming.
Runtime: With its 20-volt, 2 Ah battery, it usually runs 15 to 30 minutes per battery charge and recharges in about 5 hours. Attempting to trim hardy overgrowth drastically reduces runtime.
Ease of use: The trimmer’s very lightweight, maneuverable, and easy to assemble. Simply rotate the trimmer head to switch between edging and trimming. And the automatic line feed makes it easy to load a new spool.
Specifications
- Battery: 20-volt, 2 Ah
- Cutting swath: 10 in.
- Line gauge: 0.065 in.
- Line feed: Automatic
- Motor: Brushed
- Shaft length: 41 in.
- Shaft type: Straight
- Warranty: 3 years
- Weight: 4.2 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Retractable flower guard ✓ Easy to load new string ✓ 2-in-1 functionality ✓ Easy to maneuver ✓ Very lightweight✓ Affordable | ✗ Struggles with thick weeds ✗ Uses a lot of trimmer line ✗ Long charge time ✗ Brushed motor |
Where to buy:
4. Ego Power+ ST1511T – Best telescopic trimmer
The 15-inch Ego ST1511T is the best cordless telescopic trimmer. It’s strong as an ox but quiet as a mouse. The trimmer is IPX4 weather-resistant and has an adjustable aluminum shaft. It also has user-friendly features and a slick design.
Cutting power: Its professional-grade, 0.095-inch, spiral-twist string sharply slices overgrown grass and weeds. However, it bogs down if the weeds are very tall and stout.
Runtime: The 56-volt, 2.5 Ah battery provides up to 45 minutes of runtime and recharges in under an hour with the included Power+ charger.
Ease of use: It’s lightweight and easy to use. The shaft is simple to adjust, and the PowerLoad trimmer head loads a new spool with the push of a button.
Specifications
- Battery: 56-volt, 2.5 Ah
- Cutting swath: 15 in.
- Line gauge: 0.095 in.
- Line feed: Bump / Auto
- Motor: Brushless
- Shaft length: 42 in.
- Shaft type: Telescopic
- Warranty: 5-year tool / 3-year battery
- Weight: 10.6 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Easy to load new string ✓ Weather-resistant ✓ Fast charge time ✓ Adjustable shaft ✓ Ergonomic ✓ Quiet | ✗ Gets bogged down on thick, overgrown weeds ✗ Uses a lot of trimmer line |
Where to buy:
Top 3 gas string trimmers – Reviews
1. Echo SRM-266 – Best gas-powered string trimmer
The 17-inch Echo SRM-266 is the best gas-powered string trimmer. It’s powerful enough for pros but chock-full of user-friendly features that homeowners covet. It’s ergonomic and potent, so you can effortlessly expel the toughest lawn weeds on lawns as large as an acre.
Cutting power: The diamond-shaped 0.095-inch trimmer line is the best weed eater string. It effortlessly slices through thick, overgrown weeds like a hot knife through butter.
Mechanics: Its 25.4 cc pro-grade two-stroke engine is a workhorse that can handle heavy-duty weeds and harsh conditions. The two-stage air filtration system keeps the engine clean, reducing maintenance and prolonging its lifespan. Cylinder and piston plating further enhance the engine’s reliability.
Ease of use: The SRM-266 is user-friendly and ergonomic. Its 59-inch staff provides extended reach, and the Speed-Feed 400 trimmer head is a cinch to load. The i-30 starting system makes the machine easier to start, and the rubber over-mold handles are satisfying to hold. Although slightly heavy, the weight is well-balanced. But small users may struggle with its weight/length.
Specifications
- Cutting swath: 17 in.
- Engine: 25.4-cc, 2-stroke
- Fuel tank: 16.9 fl. oz.
- Line gauge: .095 in.
- Line feed: Bump
- Shaft length: 59 in.
- Shaft type: Straight
- Warranty: 5 years
- Weight: 13.4 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Easy to load new string ✓ Mighty cutting power ✓ Reliable engine ✓ Large fuel tank ✓ Ergonomic ✓ Long shaft | ✗ Small users may struggle with its weight and length ✗ It takes 2 – 3 minutes to warm up ✗ Trigger is a bit stiff ✗ Expensive |
Where to buy:
2. Husqvarna 130L – Gas-powered runner up
The 18-inch Husqvarna 130L is our second favorite gas-powered string trimmer. Although not as powerful as the Echo SRM-266, it’s still pretty potent, especially at its price point. It only costs a few dollars more than the average gas trimmer but has superior strength and handling.
Cutting power: The trimmer’s high-torque head receives a hefty 0.095-inch string. It cleanly cuts through most yard weeds but struggles if weeds are overly thick and tall.
Mechanics: It has a powerful 28-cc, 1-horsepower two-stroke engine. Air purges from the carburetor and fuel system.
Ease of use: Its air purge system, digital ignition, and auto-reset stop switch make starting quick and easy. Additionally, it has intuitive controls, an easy load trimmer head, and a comfortably curved vibration-reducing handle.
Specifications
- Cutting swath: 18 in.
- Engine: 28-cc, 2-stroke
- Fuel tank: 17.82 fl. oz.
- Line gauge: .095 in.
- Line feed: Bump
- Shaft length: 51 in.
- Shaft type: Straight
- Warranty: 2 years
- Weight: 12.2 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Easy to load new string ✓ Large fuel tank ✓ Easy to start ✓ Ergonomic ✓ Fast | ✗ Struggles with some weeds that are very thick and tall ✗ The trimmer head could be more durable ✗ Loud |
Where to buy:
3. Wild Badger Power WB26BCI – Best bargain trimmer
The 17-inch Wild Badger Power WB26BCI is more than just a powerful string trimmer. It’s a smart investment. It comes with a brush cutter and is compatible with additional attachments from top brands like Craftsman, John Deer, and Toro. It has enough cutting power to put most models to shame but costs 40% less than the average cordless string trimmer.
Cutting power: Its 0.095-inch line powers through tough weeds, overgrown grass, and ground cover. We had no problem slicing through 2-inch thick weeds, and the brush cutter attachment cleared dense brush.
Mechanics: It has a reliable commercial-grade 26-cc full-crank engine with plenty of power for heavy-duty trimming on yards as large as an acre. It has reduced fuel consumption and emissions compared to a typical two-stroke engine. Additionally, you can change the air filter without any tools.
Ease of use: The reduced-effort starter usually fires up within five pulls. The vibration-reducing P-handle is ergonomic with sturdy grips. It has a long shaft that quickly reaches weeds beneath decks and patios. Although lightweight for a 17-inch trimmer, the weight isn’t well balanced. However, it includes a shoulder strap that makes the weight easier to manage.
Specifications
- Cutting swath: 17 in.
- Engine: 26-cc, 2-stroke
- Fuel tank: 30 fl. oz.
- Line gauge: .095 in.
- Line feed: Bump and fixed
- Shaft length: 57 in.
- Shaft type: Straight
- Warranty: 3 years
- Weight: 11 lb.
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Includes shoulder strap ✓ Reduced effort starting ✓ Comfortable handle ✓ Large fuel tank ✓ Long shaft ✓ Affordable ✓ Powerful | ✗ It runs hot ✗ Instructions are hard to follow ✗ The weight isn’t well-balanced |
Where to buy:
Buyer’s guide
Corded string trimmers are cumbersome, but to choose the best cordless string trimmer, you must consider the following:
How string trimmers work
String trimmers cut weeds, tall grass, and ground cover using a spool of string called the trimmer line. They are commonly called weed eaters, weed whackers, grass trimmers, and weed trimmers.
The trimmer line feeds through the weed eater’s head. When in use, the head rapidly rotates, giving the string enough cutting torque to slice thick weeds and overgrown grass. The head is attached to a long shaft that cuts where a lawn mower can’t, like beneath patios and decks. String trimmers also edge lawns, garden beds, and fences.
Battery vs. gas power
Cordless string trimmers may run on lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries or gas. Each power source has perks and drawbacks:
- Potency: Gas engines outperform electric motors. Thus, homeowners with large yards or heavy-duty trimming needs typically prefer gas.
- Runtime: Cordless electric trimmers have shorter runtimes and longer refueling times than gas.
- Usability: Cordless electric string trimmers are typically more user-friendly than gas. They’re easier to start, quieter, and require less maintenance.
- Cost: Gas gives more bang for your buck — high-performance battery trimmers are more expensive than competing gas models. However, lower-performance battery trimmers are cheaper than gas and ideal for small yards and light-duty trimming.
- Pollution: Gas trimmers release harmful emissions, and battery trimmers don’t. However, Marco Tedesco of Columbia Climate School warns about lithium mining’s heavy carbon footprint and copious water consumption. Additionally, if not recycled, Li-ion batteries crowd landfills with hazardous waste.
To buy the best battery-powered string trimmer, consider the following:
- Brushed vs. brushless motors: Brushless motors are generally preferred because they’re lighter, quieter, and more durable. They also require less maintenance. However, brushed motors are more affordable.
- Voltage (volts): Higher-voltage batteries can supply more power to the motor. Most weed trimmers run on a 20- to 56-volt battery, but some models run on as little as 12 or as much as 80 volts.
- Amp-hours (Ah): A higher Ah means longer runtime, but higher-volt batteries require more Ah to achieve the same battery life. A typical cordless electric weed eater has a 2 to 6 Ah battery, but some are as low as 1.5 Ah. A couple of models come with multiple batteries that add up to 16 Ah.
- Runtime: Most string trimmers have a max battery life of 25 to 60 minutes, but some run as long as 1 to 2 hours, while others lose power in just 15 minutes.
- Charge time: A typical string trimmer battery charges in 1 to 3 hours, but charge times vary by the battery and the charger. A battery may fully charge in as little as 40 minutes or as long as 8 hours.
- Battery cost: Most string trimmer batteries cost $60 to $350, but some cost as little as $40, while others cost as much as $600. The average Li-ion power tool battery costs $205. Some trimmers come with a battery and charger while others come as a bare tool.
To buy the best gas-powered string trimmer, consider the following:
- Engine strokes: A stroke is the number of phases/cycles it takes a piston to move from one end of a cylinder to the other. The piston provides the crankshaft with vertical energy, which the crankshaft turns into rotational movement.
- Two-stroke engines: Two-stroke engines run on a mixture of gas and oil. Because they burn oil, they expel more toxic emissions than 4-stroke models. However, they’re lighter and quieter. They also vibrate less and require less maintenance.
- Four-stroke engines: Like cars, they run on straight gas and have a separate lubrication system that takes oil. They’re more fuel-efficient, affordable, and durable. But they’re less comfortable to use and require more maintenance.
- Engine displacement: Measured in cubic centimeters (cc), it describes the air volume moving through a gas engine. Greater air volume enables higher potency. Four-stroke engines need more air to reach the same potency as a two-stroke engine. In dirt bike racing, a 250-cc 2-stroke and a 450-cc 4-stroke bike are comparable.
- Fuel tank capacity: String trimmers with larger fuel tanks run longer without refueling.
Cutting swath
Cordless string trimmers have a 10- to 20-inch cutting swath. A string trimmer’s cutting swath is the width of its cut. Trimmers with a broader swath cut a larger area with each pass, so you finish faster. But smaller swaths are easier to handle and able to fit in smaller spaces.
| Battery-powered | Gas-powered | |
| Average swath | 14 in. | 17 in. |
| Typical range | 12 – 16 in. | 16 – 18 in. |
| Extreme low | 10 in. | 12 in. |
| Extreme high | 17 in. | 20 in. |
Line gauge
Cordless string trimmers use 0.065- to 0.105-inch lines. A thicker trimmer line cuts denser weeds.
| Battery-powered | Gas-powered | |
| Average line gauge | 0.08 in. | 0.095 in. |
| Typical range | 0.065 – 0.105 | 0.08 – 0.105 |
Shaft style
Cordless string trimmers have one of the following shaft styles:
- Straight-shaft trimmers are the most common. They have the longest lifespans and the heftiest cutting power.
- Curved-shaft trimmers are the best for trimming around landscaping obstacles like flower beds. They’re more affordable, lighter, and maneuverable than straight-shaft models. However, their shafts are shorter, so they can’t reach as far.
- Telescopic shaft trimmers have adjustable height for better comfort and reach.
Weight
Most cordless string trimmers are 7 to 14 pounds. Lighter trimmers are more ergonomic and have longer runtimes, but models with a broader swath weigh more. Heavy-duty materials often weigh more, but substances like carbon fiber are lightweight and durable.
| Battery-powered | Gas-powered | |
| Average weight | 10 lb. | 12 lb. |
| Typical range | 6 – 14 lb. | 10 – 15 lb. |
| Extreme low | 4 lb. | 9 lb. |
| Extreme high | 20 lb. | 25 lb. |
Price
Most cordless string trimmers cost $95 to $350, but some are as cheap as $70 and others as expensive as $700.
| Average cost of a cordless string trimmer | $220 |
| Typical price range | $95 – $350 |
| Extreme low | $70 |
| Extreme high | $700 |
The average battery-powered string trimmer costs less than the average gas-powered string trimmer, but high-end battery trimmers are the most expensive.
| Battery-powered | Gas-powered | |
| Average price | $215 | $240 |
| Typical range | $80 – $350 | $125 – $355 |
| Extreme low | $70 | $90 |
| Extreme high | $700 | $550 |
FAQ about cordless string trimmers
How do you put string in a weed eater?
To put string in a weed eater:
- Select the proper string
- Measure the string
- Turn off and clean your weed eater
- Remove the cap
- Take out the old spool
- Attach new string
- Wind the string
- Feed string through holes
- Reassemble the weed eater
What are the best string trimmer brands?
The best string trimmer brands are:
- Echo
- Ego
- Ryobi
- Husqvarna
- Stihl
- Troy-Bilt
- Craftsman
- Worx
- Makita
- Greenworks
What are the top lawn care power tools for homeowners?
The top tools to have in your lawn care arsenal include the following:
- Lawn mower: Proper mowing is the most crucial lawn care practice. According to Bernd Leinauer, a New Mexico State University turf specialist, “Mowing affects turf density, weed infestation, water consumption, and susceptibility to environmental stresses.” Thus, the best lawn mowers encourage healthy grass growth.
- String trimmer: The best string trimmers help homeowners keep crisp edges along lawns, fences, and landscaping.
- Leaf blower: Lawn debris attracts insects and fungus, and the best leaf blowers make DIY leaf removal quick and easy.
- Hedge trimmer: Manually trimming hedges is for the birds, so we recommend the best battery-powered and gas-powered hedge trimmers.
- Fertilizer spreader: Properly spreading lawn food is as important as providing the most nutritious lawn fertilizer. The best fertilizer spreaders apply fertilizers, weed preventers, weed killers, and grass seeds.
When to call a lawn care pro
Homeowners can have a lush lawn with crisp edges without expensive equipment or long-haul labor. Hiring the right pro is the secret to many of your neighbors’ lawn care success.
Luckily, Lawn Love links you to qualified local lawn care pros with surprisingly affordable rates. All our pros are vetted and insured. Getting an online quote is quick and easy, and if you’re not satisfied, we’ll give you your money back.
Sources:
- Leinauer, Bernd. “Mowing Your Lawn.” New Mexico State University
- “Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling.” United States Environmental Protection Agency
- Tedesco, Marco. “The Paradox of Lithium.” Columbia Climate School
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