8 Best Battery String Trimmers (September 2026) Tested
After six weekends of testing eight different cordless models against weeds, tall grass, and overgrown fence lines, I can say with confidence that the best battery string trimmer has changed more in three years than gas trimmers did in the last decade. Our team put each model through real yard work, not lab tests. We measured runtime on full charges, weighed balance on extended sessions, and watched how line feed systems performed when the grass got thick and wet.
The shift from gas to cordless has accelerated, and 2026 is the tipping point. Battery platforms like EGO Power+ and Milwaukee M18 now rival 25cc gas engines on raw cutting power. They start instantly, run quieter than a dishwasher, and skip the oil changes and spark plug swaps entirely. Whether you have a small suburban lot or three acres of rough terrain, there is a battery string trimmer here that will handle your workload.
I have been writing about outdoor power tools for over a decade, and I currently own three battery trimmers on my own property. This guide pulls from that hands-on experience plus aggregated feedback from thousands of verified owners on forums like r/landscaping and lawnsite.com. You will find my honest recommendations broken into three tiers, a full comparison table, and detailed specs on every model. For an even deeper look at the cordless category as a whole, our 10 Best Battery Powered String Trimmers Tested roundup covers the broader market.
Our Top 3 Tested Battery String Trimmers for 2026
These three picks cover the most common buyer scenarios. The BLACK+DECKER LST300 wins on pure value-to-volume ratio with over 9,600 reviews backing its 4.4-star average. EGO Power+ ST1623T takes the premium spot for users who want gas-like cutting without the noise. WORX WG170 is the most versatile of the eight for buyers who want trimmer, edger, and mini-mower in one tool.
Comparing the Best Cordless Trimmers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER LST300 |
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 BLACK+DECKER LST522 |
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 WORX WG170 |
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 WORX WG154 |
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 BLACK+DECKER LST140C |
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 Greenworks 40V |
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| EGO Power+ ST1623T |
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 RYOBI 40V |
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1. BLACK+DECKER LST300 – Best Overall for Most Homeowners
- Lightweight 5.7 pound design reduces arm fatigue
- Automatic Feed Spool advances line without bumping
- Converts from trimmer to edger in seconds
- Battery compatible with other 20V BLACK+DECKER tools
- Quieter than any gas trimmer I have used
- Not powerful enough for heavy brush
- Line can tangle if spool is overfilled
The LST300 is the trimmer I recommend to friends and family more than any other model in this guide. Its combination of 9,606 reviews, a 4.4-star rating, and a proven 20V platform makes it the safest choice for homeowners with small to medium yards. At 5.7 pounds, it is light enough to use one-handed for edging along walkways without wearing out your shoulder.
I tested the LST300 against a half-acre of mixed grass and weeds. The 6200 RPM POWERDRIVE transmission handled everything except thick, woody brush. The Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) released line smoothly each time I needed more cutting reach. The 2-in-1 design means you can pivot the head and lock the wheel guide down for clean edging along the driveway.
One thing I appreciate about this model is the battery ecosystem. If you already own a BLACK+DECKER drill, leaf blower, or hedge trimmer from the 20V MAX line, the LBXR2020 battery swaps between all of them. This shared platform is the main reason owners on r/BuyItForLife keep coming back to the brand.
Runtime and Battery Performance
The included 2.0Ah battery delivered roughly 25 to 30 minutes of continuous trimming in my testing, which is enough for most quarter-acre lawns. Heavier grass conditions dropped that to about 20 minutes. Charging from empty takes around 4 hours with the included charger. If you have a larger yard, picking up a second battery keeps you moving without long waits.
Who This Trimmer Is Best For
This is the right pick for first-time trimmer buyers, suburban homeowners with under half an acre, and anyone already invested in the 20V BLACK+DECKER platform. Skip this model if you regularly tackle overgrown fields or have a property larger than one acre, where a 40V or 56V platform will save you time.
Where It Falls Short
The 20V system simply does not have the torque for heavy brush or saplings. When I pushed it into thick, wet overgrowth near a fence line, the motor bogged down and the line snapped more frequently. For typical residential edging and trimming, the LST300 is excellent. For rough terrain, you need to step up to a higher-voltage platform.
2. BLACK+DECKER LST522 – Best for Wheeled Edging Convenience
- Dual speed control switches between power and runtime modes
- Wheeled edger mode creates cleaner lines along driveways
- AFS automatic line feed works reliably
- Lightweight 5.7 pound design
- Effortless conversion from trimmer to edger
- Trigger switch can wear out after extended use
- Battery takes several hours to recharge
The LST522 is the upgraded sibling of the LST300, and it shines if you edge more than you trim. Its integrated wheels deploy in seconds, giving you a stable rolling platform that produces straighter, more consistent edges than freehand work. For homeowners who take pride in crisp lawn borders, this is a meaningful upgrade.
The dual speed control is a feature I wish more trimmers had. Low speed stretches battery life for light cleanup, while high speed delivers more torque for thicker grass. With 6,478 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this is one of the highest-rated models in the entire category. Owners on forums consistently praise how easy it makes weekly edging.
Cutting Power and Line Feed
The 2.5Ah LBXR2520 battery delivers 66 percent more runtime than the LST300’s smaller pack. In my testing, that translated to roughly 40 minutes of mixed trimming and edging on a single charge. The PowerDrive transmission provides noticeably more torque than the entry-level model. The AFS spool advanced line every time without manual bumping.
Who This Trimmer Is Best For
Pick the LST522 if you want a single tool that handles both trimming and edging without compromise, and if you already use other 20V BLACK+DECKER tools. It is also a strong value pick, since the higher-capacity battery alone justifies the modest price bump over the LST300.
Where It Falls Short
The most common complaint from long-term owners involves the trigger switch wearing out after a year or two of heavy use. Replacing the switch is straightforward but requires basic disassembly. If you are gentle with the trigger, it should last for many seasons. The charging time of 4 to 5 hours also means you need to plan ahead if you only have one battery.
3. WORX WG170 – Most Versatile 3-in-1 Design
WORX 20V 12″ 3-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer/Lawn Edger/Mini Mower, WG170
- Converts to mini mower for small lawn areas
- Command Feed advances line with a button push
- Twin batteries included for extended runtime
- 7 handle adjustments and 6 rotating head positions
- 7600 RPM motor speed handles thicker grass
- Batteries take up to 5 hours to charge
- Handle can vibrate loose during heavy use
- Single battery runtime can drop to 10 minutes under load
The WG170 stands out for sheer versatility. It functions as a string trimmer, an in-line edger, and a mini mower for tight spots where a full mower cannot reach. The 3-in-1 conversion takes about 10 seconds and requires no tools. I used it along garden borders, around mailbox posts, and to clean up a small patch of tall weeds behind my shed.
The Command Feed system is a small but valuable upgrade over older bump-feed designs. Press a button on the handle and the line advances automatically. No more stopping to bump the head on bare ground. With two 2.0Ah batteries in the box, you get genuine continuous runtime by swapping packs.
PowerShare Battery Compatibility
WORX runs its PowerShare platform across 20V, 40V, and 80V tools. If you already own a WORX drill, chainsaw, or pressure washer, the same batteries work in the WG170. This shared ecosystem is one of the brand’s strongest selling points and was praised repeatedly by owners on gardening forums.
Who This Trimmer Is Best For
Pick the WG170 if you want maximum versatility from a single tool and you have small to medium lawn areas where a full mower is overkill. The included twin batteries also make it appealing for users who do not want to buy spares separately. Skip it if you primarily need raw cutting power for heavy brush, where higher-voltage platforms perform better.
Where It Falls Short
The charging time is the biggest weakness. With the included 0.4Ah charger, both batteries need roughly 5 hours to refill from empty. Many owners on forums recommend buying a higher-amperage charger separately. The handle can also vibrate loose during extended sessions, so periodic retightening is necessary.
4. WORX WG154 – Lightest Cordless Trimmer for Tight Spaces
Worx 20V 10″ 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Lawn Edger for Yard, WG154
- Weighs only 4.2 pounds for easy one-handed use
- 180 degree rotating head for tight edging
- Flower guard protects garden plants
- Auto Feed Line System eliminates bumping
- PowerShare compatible with 20V
- 40V
- and 80V WORX tools
- Shaft length is not adjustable
- No wheel guide for stable edging
- Line can stick together in humid conditions
If you have a tiny yard with lots of narrow strips along fences and flower beds, the WG154 is the most maneuverable cordless trimmer in this guide. At just 4.2 pounds, it disappears in your hand. I used it for a full hour without any forearm fatigue, something that is rare with heavier models.
The compact 10-inch cutting swath is a deliberate trade-off. You cover less ground per pass, but you can fit into gaps that wider trimmers cannot reach. Around mailbox posts, between shrubs, and along fence rails, this is a significant advantage.
Cutting Swath and Line Diameter
The 10-inch swath pairs with a 0.065-inch line, which is on the thinner side. This cuts cleanly through grass and light weeds but struggles with thick brush. The 2800 RPM motor speed is the lowest in this guide, and you feel that difference when pushing into dense growth. For typical residential trimming, the power is adequate.
Who This Trimmer Is Best For
Pick the WG154 if your yard is under a quarter acre, if you have lots of tight spaces, or if you want the lightest possible tool for arthritic hands or older users. It is also the most affordable trimmer in this roundup. Skip it for larger properties where the 10-inch swath will leave you walking endless laps.
Where It Falls Short
The non-adjustable shaft length is the most common complaint. Taller users will find themselves hunching over during use. There is also no wheel guide for edging, so you have to freehand the cuts. The line can occasionally stick together in humid weather, which causes breakage. These are acceptable trade-offs given the price and weight savings.
5. BLACK+DECKER LST140C – Best 40V Value Upgrade
- 40V platform delivers noticeably more torque than 20V models
- High torque PowerDrive technology cuts through thicker weeds
- Charge indicator on battery shows remaining runtime
- Quick conversion between trimmer and edger modes
- 3 year limited warranty
- 1.5Ah battery is smaller than competitors
- Charging takes several hours
- Some users report battery degradation after one year
The LST140C is the model I reach for when the grass gets thick and wet. The 40V MAX platform produces visibly more torque than the 20V trimmers in this guide. Tall fescue, knee-high weeds, and even small brush yielded cleanly without the motor bogging down. The 13-inch cutting swath covers more ground per pass than narrower models.
Owners rate this trimmer at 4.3 stars across 5,708 reviews, and the most common praise is raw cutting power at a modest price. The wall-mountable charging base is a small but useful feature for keeping your garage organized.
Battery Capacity vs Voltage
Voltage tells you how much power the motor can pull, while amp-hours tell you how long the battery will last. The included 1.5Ah pack is smaller than what most 40V competitors ship. In my testing, runtime hovered around 20 to 25 minutes under load. For heavier work, many owners on lawnsite.com recommend buying a larger 2.5Ah or 4.0Ah battery separately.
Who This Trimmer Is Best For
Pick the LST140C if you want more power than 20V trimmers offer but do not want to pay premium-brand prices. It is a strong step up for homeowners with medium yards who occasionally encounter thick weeds. Skip it if you want maximum runtime from the included battery.
Where It Falls Short
The smaller-than-average battery is the main drawback. While 40V platforms are powerful, runtime is limited with the stock pack. Some owners also report battery capacity dropping after a year of heavy use. Storing the battery at room temperature and avoiding full discharges helps extend its life.
6. Greenworks 40V – Best Warranty in the Category
Greenworks 40V 12 in Cordless String Trimmer, 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger
- 3 year warranty on both tool and battery
- Variable speed trigger matches power to the task
- Dual line 0.065 inch cuts wider swath per pass
- 7500 RPM motor handles thick weeds
- Battery compatible with 40V Greenworks tool family
- Handle assembly requires pliers and patience
- Line feed can stick initially
- Head-heavy balance causes fatigue
Greenworks backs this trimmer with a 3-year warranty on both the tool and the battery, which is the longest in this entire roundup. For buyers who want long-term peace of mind, that warranty alone justifies consideration. The 40V platform matches the BLACK+DECKER LST140C in raw power while adding variable speed control.
The dual-line 0.065-inch cutting head produces a slightly wider effective swath than single-line competitors, which speeds up open-lawn trimming. With 3,967 reviews and a 4.3-star average, this is a well-regarded mid-tier option.
Variable Speed Trigger Benefits
Variable speed is one of those features you do not appreciate until you use it. Light grass at half speed preserves battery. Heavy weeds at full speed deliver maximum torque. The trigger response is smooth, and the motor ramps up without lag.
Who This Trimmer Is Best For
Pick the Greenworks 40V if warranty coverage matters to you, if you already own other 40V Greenworks tools, or if you want variable speed control in this price range. Skip it if you need a lightweight trimmer, since this model is heavier than 20V competitors.
Where It Falls Short
Initial setup is the most common complaint. The handle assembly requires pliers and some patience, and the instructions are minimal. The trimmer is also slightly head-heavy, which causes forearm fatigue during long sessions. Adding a shoulder strap helps significantly.
7. EGO Power+ ST1623T – Premium Pick for Gas-Like Power
- Line IQ auto-feeds line without manual intervention
- PowerLoad winds new line with a single button press
- 16 inch swath is the widest in this roundup
- Up to 60 minutes of runtime per charge
- Telescopic carbon fiber shaft adjusts to user height
- Premium pricing compared to 20V and 40V models
- Battery is heavy and adds overall weight
- Line IQ can have a brief delay before engaging
- No shoulder strap included
The EGO Power+ ST1623T is the trimmer I tested against a 25cc gas Stihl, and it held its own. The 56V brushless motor delivers the kind of torque that previously required a combustion engine. Tall fescue, thick brambles, and overgrown fence lines all yielded without bogging. This is the model to buy if you want to leave gas behind for good.
Two patented technologies set this trimmer apart. PowerLoad lets you thread new line and press a button to wind it automatically. Line IQ senses when the line gets short and feeds more on the fly. Together, these features eliminate the two most annoying parts of trimmer ownership.
Battery Ecosystem and Runtime
EGO’s 56V ARC Lithium platform covers a huge range of outdoor tools, from mowers to chainsaws to snow blowers. The 4.0Ah battery that ships with the ST1623T delivered about 55 minutes of real-world runtime in my testing, close to EGO’s advertised 60 minutes. Charging takes roughly 55 minutes with the included 320W charger.
Who This Trimmer Is Best For
Pick the ST1623T if you have a large property, if you want gas-equivalent power without the noise and emissions, or if you are ready to invest in the EGO ecosystem. It is the strongest performer in this guide for users with demanding yards. Skip it if your yard is small enough that 20V trimmers suffice.
Where It Falls Short
The price is the obvious downside. You pay a premium for the brand and the technology. The 4.0Ah battery also adds noticeable weight, and there is no shoulder strap in the box. Adding an EGO strap is a worthwhile upgrade for anyone using this trimmer for more than 30 minutes at a stretch.
8. RYOBI 40V – Best Attachment-Capable Trimmer
RYOBI 40-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Attachment Capable String Trimmer, 4.0 Ah Battery and Charger Inc
- Accepts RYOBI expand-it and universal gas attachments
- 4.0Ah battery provides longer runtime than most 40V models
- 90 minute charger included for faster turnaround
- Variable speed trigger for cutting control
- Adjustable 13 to 15 inch cutting width
- Heavier than most 40V competitors at 13.9 pounds
- Some users report battery degradation after a year
- Charger reliability issues reported by a small number of owners
The RYOBI 40V is the only trimmer in this roundup that accepts both RYOBI expand-it attachments and most universal gas attachments. If you want a single powerhead that can run a pole saw, hedge trimmer, blower, or cultivator, RYOBI’s attachment ecosystem is the deepest in the category.
The 4.0Ah battery ships in the box, which is larger than most competitors include. Runtime in my testing averaged 45 to 50 minutes per charge. The 90-minute charger is also faster than what most brands provide.
Expand-It Attachment System
RYOBI’s expand-it line covers more than a dozen attachments, including pole saws, hedge trimmers, edgers, cultivators, and snow shovels. Each attachment slides onto the powerhead and locks in place without tools. For users who want one battery platform that handles dozens of yard tasks, this is hard to beat.
Who This Trimmer Is Best For
Pick the RYOBI 40V if you want maximum expandability, if you already own RYOBI 40V tools, or if you want a larger battery included in the box. It is also the best value in this guide for buyers who plan to add attachments over time. Skip it if weight is a concern, since this is one of the heavier models tested.
Where It Falls Short
At 13.9 pounds with the battery installed, the RYOBI is the heaviest trimmer in this guide. Extended sessions cause noticeable fatigue. Some owners on forums also report battery capacity dropping after about a year. The charger reliability issues are rare but worth noting.
How to Choose the Right Battery String Trimmer
Picking the right battery string trimmer comes down to four decisions: voltage platform, cutting swath, weight and ergonomics, and battery ecosystem compatibility. Get these right and you will be happy for years. Get them wrong and you will be shopping again next spring.
Voltage and Power: 20V vs 40V vs 56V
Higher voltage means more torque. For yards under a quarter acre with typical grass, 20V trimmers like the BLACK+DECKER LST300 are sufficient. For medium yards with thicker weeds, step up to 40V. For large properties or commercial-grade work, 56V systems like EGO Power+ match gas performance. Voltage does not equal runtime. Amp-hours determine how long the battery lasts, while voltage determines how hard it can push.
Cutting Swath and Line Diameter
Cutting swath is the diameter of the area the trimmer clears per pass. Wider swaths (15 to 16 inches) cover more ground faster. Narrower swaths (10 to 12 inches) fit into tight spaces around fences and flower beds. Line diameter affects what you can cut. The standard 0.065-inch line handles grass and light weeds. Heavier 0.080-inch line cuts through brush but drains batteries faster.
Weight, Balance, and Ergonomics
Trimmer weight matters more than most buyers expect. A 4.2-pound model like the WORX WG154 disappears in your hand. A 13.9-pound model like the RYOBI 40V causes fatigue within 30 minutes. Balance is equally important. Head-heavy designs pull on your wrist. Look for adjustable handles and telescoping shafts to fine-tune the fit. Shoulder straps help significantly on heavier models.
Battery Ecosystem Compatibility
The biggest hidden cost in cordless tools is buying into a battery platform. If you already own a BLACK+DECKER 20V drill, sticking with 20V trimmers lets you share batteries across tools. EGO, RYOBI, Greenworks, and WORX all have broad ecosystems. Milwaukee and DeWalt extend into professional-grade tools. Pick a platform you can grow into, and you will save money for years. Our guide to the 8 Best Cordless String Trimmers for Edging covers more detail on platform-specific strengths.
Line Feed Systems: Bump, Auto, and Rapid Load
Bump-feed systems require you to tap the head on the ground to release more line. Auto-feed systems advance line automatically as it wears. Rapid-load systems like EGO PowerLoad wind new line with a button press. Each has trade-offs. Bump-feed is reliable but interrupts your work. Auto-feed is convenient but can over-extend line. Rapid-load is the fastest for reloading but costs more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for a cordless trimmer, 20V or 40V?
20V platforms are lighter, less expensive, and ideal for small to medium yards with typical grass. 40V platforms deliver noticeably more torque for thicker weeds and larger properties. Choose 20V if your yard is under a quarter acre and your trimming is light. Choose 40V if you regularly tackle tall grass, wet conditions, or properties over half an acre.
What is the best battery string trimmer for the money?
The BLACK+DECKER LST300 offers the strongest value in this roundup, with over 9,600 reviews averaging 4.4 stars. The included battery, charger, and 2-in-1 trimmer and edger design cover the needs of most homeowners at a modest price. For buyers who want more runtime, the BLACK+DECKER LST522 adds a higher-capacity 2.5Ah battery and wheeled edging.
How long does a battery string trimmer last on a single charge?
Runtime depends on battery capacity (Ah), voltage, and the grass conditions. Typical 20V trimmers with 2.0Ah batteries deliver 20 to 30 minutes. Larger 40V and 56V models with 4.0Ah batteries can run 45 to 60 minutes per charge. Heavy weeds and wet grass reduce runtime by 20 to 30 percent compared to light trimming.
Can a battery string trimmer replace a gas model?
Yes, for most homeowners. Modern 56V systems like the EGO Power+ ST1623T match 25cc gas engines on cutting power and run for up to 60 minutes per charge. The main trade-offs are runtime (gas models run as long as you have fuel) and the upfront cost of batteries. For professional crews working 8-hour days, gas still has an edge. For homeowners with under 3 acres, battery is now the better choice.
What voltage do I need for a battery string trimmer?
For yards under a quarter acre with typical weeds, 20V is sufficient. For medium yards with thicker growth, choose 40V. For large properties or any situation where you previously used gas, go with 56V or 60V systems. Voltage determines peak power, while amp-hours determine runtime. For perspective on how battery trimmers compare to gas alternatives, our breakdown of u003ca href=u0022https://thegoodatheist.net/best-stihl-vs-echo-string-trimmers/u0022u003eStihl vs Echo string trimmersu003c/au003e highlights the differences in cutting approach.
Final Verdict
After testing all eight battery string trimmers in this roundup, my top recommendation is the BLACK+DECKER LST300 for its unbeatable combination of proven reliability, lightweight design, and accessible price. With over 9,600 owner reviews backing its 4.4-star rating, it is the safest pick for first-time buyers and homeowners with small to medium yards. If you want more power without jumping to premium pricing, the BLACK+DECKER LST140C delivers 40V torque at a modest cost. For buyers ready to invest in a serious cordless platform, the EGO Power+ ST1623T is the best battery string trimmer I tested in 2026, with gas-rivaling power and thoughtful features like PowerLoad and Line IQ.
Whichever model you choose, focus on the battery ecosystem. Picking a platform you already own or one you can grow into will save you hundreds over the next five years. The right battery string trimmer is not just about cutting grass. It is the foundation of a cordless yard tool lineup that will serve you for seasons to come.
