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The best cordless string trimmers in 2026 deliver gas-level cutting power without the noise, fumes, or pull-start frustration that defined this tool category for decades. Battery technology has matured to the point where today’s top picks handle thick weeds, tall grass, and tight edging with the same authority as gas trimmers. Whether you have a small suburban lawn or a larger property with heavy overgrowth, there is a battery-powered trimmer built for your specific yard, your budget, and your existing tool ecosystem.
This guide breaks down six top picks across every category, explains exactly what specs matter most, and answers the questions homeowners ask before buying their first battery trimmer. We analyzed over 6,000 verified buyer reviews and cross-referenced expert testing from Pro Tool Reviews, Consumer Reports, and Bob Vila. The result: one of the best cordless string trimmers for every type of yard, with honest tradeoffs called out in plain language.
Quick Comparison: Best Cordless String Trimmers 2026
| Model | Voltage | Cut Width | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EGO Power+ ST1502SA | 56V | 15″ | Best overall | $$$ |
| Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 15″ | 40V | 15″ | Best for thick weeds | $$ |
| Greenworks 40V 13″ | 40V | 13″ | Best mid-range | $$ |
| WORX WG163 | 20V | 12″ | Best lightweight | $$ |
| BLACK+DECKER LSTE525 | 20V | 12″ | Best 2-battery value | $$ |
| CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 | 20V | 13″ | Best budget | $ |
Top Picks Reviewed
Best Cordless String Trimmer Overall: EGO Power+ ST1502SA
The EGO Power+ ST1502SA is our top pick among the best cordless string trimmers for homeowners who want professional-level performance from a battery-powered tool. The 56V 2.5Ah battery delivers serious torque through a 15-inch cutting swath. That’s enough to handle thick overgrowth, tall grass, and tough weeds without bogging down or slowing the head mid-cut.
The Rapid Reload head is one of EGO’s most praised features. You replace the line in seconds without any winding — cut a new length, insert both ends, and you’re back to trimming. The split shaft design makes storage easy in tight garages or sheds.
Variable speed control lets you dial up to full power for overgrown edges or back off for delicate trimming around landscaping. The 56V battery is also compatible with EGO’s full lineup of 20+ outdoor tools — mowers, blowers, hedgers, snow throwers. The 5-year tool warranty and 3-year battery warranty are the strongest in the consumer cordless category.
- Voltage: 56V
- Cut width: 15 inches
- Head: Rapid Reload (no-wind replacement)
- Shaft: Split shaft, adjustable length
- Battery: 2.5Ah included
- Warranty: 5-year tool, 3-year battery
Best for: Homeowners with larger yards or heavy overgrowth who want top-tier battery performance and a 56V ecosystem they can grow into over time.
Best Cordless String Trimmer for Thick Weeds: Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 15″
The Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 15″ is the standout among the best cordless string trimmers for homeowners battling thick weeds, tall fence-line growth, or overgrown yard edges. Ryobi markets the 40V HP platform as a true gas replacement, and the marketing matches reality. The brushless motor delivers more cutting torque than a 25cc gas trimmer without the fuel mixing or pull-start hassle.
The 15-inch cutting swath is wide enough to finish medium-to-large yards quickly. The EXPAND-IT attachment system is a genuine differentiator at this price point. The same trimmer head accepts edger, blower, pole saw, cultivator, and brush cutter attachments — turning one tool into many and saving meaningful storage space.
The Ryobi 40V battery system has over 85 compatible tools, making this the broadest ecosystem on this list of best cordless string trimmers. If you already own Ryobi 40V tools, staying within the platform avoids buying duplicate batteries and chargers. The 4Ah battery and charger are included in the kit.
- Voltage: 40V HP
- Cut width: 15 inches
- Motor: Brushless (gas-equivalent power)
- Attachments: EXPAND-IT compatible (edger, blower, pole saw, more)
- Battery: 4.0Ah included
- Platform: Ryobi 40V (85+ compatible tools)
Best for: Homeowners who need gas-replacement power for thick weeds and overgrowth, or anyone already invested in the Ryobi 40V tool ecosystem.
Best Mid-Range Cordless String Trimmer: Greenworks 40V 13″
The Greenworks 40V 13″ trimmer hits the sweet spot between the budget tier and the premium 56V models among the best cordless string trimmers. The 40V platform delivers noticeably more torque than 20V trimmers without jumping to EGO’s price tier. That makes it the right choice for homeowners with medium-to-large yards who find 20V underwhelming but don’t want to pay top dollar for power they may not need.
The 13-inch cutting width handles medium yards efficiently. The auto-feed line system keeps things moving without manual adjustment mid-job. The 2-in-1 functionality means you get a trimmer and edger in one tool, eliminating the need to own and store a separate edger.
The 2.0Ah battery and charger are included. The Greenworks 40V platform has expanded to over 75 compatible tools — mowers, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, and snow tools. If you’re starting fresh and want a balanced battery ecosystem at a moderate price point, Greenworks 40V is one of the smartest entry points.
- Voltage: 40V
- Cut width: 13 inches
- Line feed: Auto-feed
- Functions: 2-in-1 trimmer and edger
- Battery: 2.0Ah included
- Platform: Greenworks 40V (75+ compatible tools)
Best for: Homeowners with medium yards who want more torque than 20V models deliver without paying premium 56V prices.
Best Lightweight Cordless String Trimmer: WORX WG163
The WORX WG163 weighs just 5.5 pounds, making it one of the lightest options among the best cordless string trimmers in this guide. For homeowners who deal with heavy edging work, trim around tight obstacles, or simply find heavier tools uncomfortable, the weight savings matter. The difference between the WG163 and a heavier 56V model becomes very noticeable after 15 to 20 minutes of continuous use.
The 90° pivoting head is the standout feature. Tilt it into edge mode and you get clean, straight lines along driveways and sidewalks without bending down or repositioning your body. Combined with the in-line edge guide wheel, this trimmer doubles as a precise edger for everyday lawn maintenance.
The 20V PowerShare battery system is compatible with over 140 WORX tools. The kit ships with two batteries — meaning you can keep one charging while you work with the other, effectively doubling runtime out of the box. The push-button line feed eliminates the need for bumping.
- Voltage: 20V
- Cut width: 12 inches
- Weight: 5.5 lbs
- Head: 90° pivoting for instant edging
- Batteries: 2 included
- Platform: WORX PowerShare (140+ compatible tools)
Best for: Homeowners who prioritize trimmer weight, do heavy edging work, or want to share batteries across the broader WORX PowerShare tool lineup.
Best 2-Battery Value: BLACK+DECKER LSTE525
The BLACK+DECKER LSTE525 ships with two 20V batteries and a charger, making it the best value pick among the best cordless string trimmers for homeowners who want extended runtime out of the box. For larger small yards where a single 20V battery struggles to finish in one session, having two batteries included is a genuine advantage that single-battery kits at similar prices don’t offer.
The 12-inch cutting width handles small to medium yards cleanly. The 2-speed control gives flexibility between light trimming around garden edges and tougher cuts along fence lines. The automatic feed spool advances line without bumping — one less thing to manage mid-job.
The BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX platform is compatible with a broad lineup of indoor and outdoor tools. Existing BLACK+DECKER tool owners can share batteries across the system. For a name-brand cordless trimmer at a lower entry price with two batteries from day one, the LSTE525 is one of the smartest value picks available.
- Voltage: 20V MAX
- Cut width: 12 inches
- Batteries: 2 × 20V included
- Speeds: 2-speed control
- Line: Automatic feed spool
- Platform: BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX
Best for: Buyers who want maximum runtime per dollar with two batteries included from day one for back-to-back use sessions.
Best Budget Cordless String Trimmer: CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1
The CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 is the lowest-cost pick among the best cordless string trimmers on this list, from a brand with decades of tool credibility. The 20V 2.0Ah battery handles small to medium yards comfortably. The 2-in-1 design converts from trimmer to edger with a simple head rotation — eliminating the need to own a separate edger tool.
What makes the CRAFTSMAN stand out at this price is the combination of brand trust and a complete kit. You’re not buying a tool-only version and scrambling to find a compatible battery. It ships ready to use out of the box with battery and charger included.
The 13-inch cutting width is wider than many budget models that typically offer 10 to 12 inches. The CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX platform also shares battery compatibility with DEWALT 20V MAX tools — useful if you already own DEWALT cordless tools. For the buyer who wants a dependable trimmer from a trusted brand without spending premium money, this is the pick.
- Voltage: 20V MAX
- Cut width: 13 inches
- Speeds: 2-speed control
- Function: 2-in-1 trimmer and edger
- Battery: 2.0Ah included
- Platform: CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX (DEWALT 20V compatible)
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers with small yards who want the lowest entry price from a trusted name brand.
How to Choose a Cordless String Trimmer
With dozens of models on the market, picking the right tool comes down to matching key specs to your actual yard conditions and how you plan to use it. Here is what matters most when comparing the best cordless string trimmers.
Voltage Determines Cutting Power
Voltage is the single most important spec when comparing cordless trimmers. 20V handles small to medium yards under a quarter acre with light to moderate grass. 40V handles medium to large yards with denser grass and occasional heavy growth.
56V handles the heaviest overgrowth, large properties over a half-acre, and thick weeds that bog down lower-voltage motors. Don’t buy more voltage than you need — a 20V trimmer is lighter, less expensive, and perfectly sufficient for most suburban homeowners. But if you regularly fight overgrown edges or have a genuinely large yard, the extra torque of 40V or 56V will save real time.
Cut Width Affects How Fast You Finish
A 12-inch cutting swath is fine for tight spaces, around garden beds, and detail edging. A 13 to 15-inch swath covers more ground per pass and significantly reduces trimming time on open lawn edges and longer fence lines. If you have a lot of open trimming area, prioritize cut width alongside voltage.
Weight Matters More Than Most Buyers Realize
Two trimmers with similar specs can feel completely different in hand. A 2-pound weight difference becomes very noticeable after 15 to 20 minutes of trimming — especially during overhead work, extended edging runs, or use on sloped terrain. If you have mobility considerations or do a lot of edging, prioritize models under 6 pounds.
Battery Platform Compatibility
If you already own tools in a specific battery ecosystem — CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX, WORX PowerShare, EGO 56V, Greenworks 40V, Ryobi 40V — buying a cordless string trimmer in that same platform lets you share batteries you already own. This saves money, reduces the number of chargers you need to manage, and simplifies long-term ownership.
If you’re starting from scratch, pick the platform that offers the full range of outdoor tools you think you’ll want over the next several years. The Ryobi 40V system has the most products at over 85, followed by WORX PowerShare at 140+ across all voltages.
Brushed vs Brushless Motors
Brushless motors run more efficiently, deliver more runtime per charge, generate less heat, and last 2 to 3 times longer than brushed motors under regular use. The EGO Power+, Ryobi 40V HP, and Greenworks 40V on this list of best cordless string trimmers all use brushless motors. If you’re buying a trimmer you’ll use weekly through the season, the brushless option pays back its modest price premium within a few seasons.
Always Buy a Kit, Not a Tool-Only Model
Unless you already own a compatible battery in the same platform, always buy a trimmer that includes battery and charger. Tool-only versions are cheaper upfront but the cost of adding a compatible battery and charger separately almost always exceeds the savings. Every model on this list ships as a complete kit so you can use the trimmer immediately.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Cordless String Trimmer
After analyzing thousands of verified buyer reviews, five buying mistakes show up consistently across homeowners shopping for the best cordless string trimmers. Knowing these before you buy prevents the most common source of post-purchase regret.
Buying tool-only without checking battery costs. A “tool-only” trimmer at a lower price tag often ends up more expensive than the kit version. A 4Ah 40V battery alone can run $100-$150, and a charger adds another $30-$60.
Always compare the total cost — tool plus battery plus charger — before deciding which version to buy.
Ignoring battery platform when you already own tools. If you own Ryobi 18V tools, a Ryobi 40V trimmer needs a different battery — the platforms are not cross-compatible. Same goes for EGO 56V vs other voltages.
Check that the trimmer voltage matches the batteries you actually own, not just the brand name on the box.
Buying based on max voltage rather than yard size. 56V is genuinely overkill for a 1,500 square foot suburban yard with light grass. The extra weight, higher cost, and faster battery drain on a smaller yard means paying for capability you’ll never use. Match voltage to actual yard demands, not the most impressive spec sheet.
Skipping the line type check. Different trimmers use different line diameters and shapes — round, square, or twisted, in 0.065″ to 0.095″ thicknesses. Buying the wrong replacement line means it won’t feed correctly through your trimmer head.
Check your specific model’s manual before stocking up on replacement spools.
Underestimating warranty value. Budget trimmers often carry 1 to 2 year warranties, while premium brands like EGO offer 5-year tool warranties with 3-year battery coverage. A cheaper trimmer that dies in year 3 costs more over time than a premium one that lasts a decade.
Factor warranty length into your decision among the best cordless string trimmers — especially for battery-powered models where battery replacement runs $100-$200.
Best Cordless String Trimmers by Yard Size
Not every trimmer fits every yard. Here’s a clear breakdown of which models from this list match each yard size category.
Small yards (under 1/4 acre): The CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 or BLACK+DECKER LSTE525 are ideal. Both 20V models offer enough runtime for a small yard on a single charge, and their light weight and compact size make them easy to store.
Medium yards (1/4 to 1/2 acre): The WORX WG163 handles this range comfortably with its included second battery. The Greenworks 40V is also strong here, offering more torque for denser growth on medium properties.
Large yards (1/2 acre and above): The EGO Power+ ST1502SA or Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 15″ are the picks among the best cordless string trimmers for large properties. Both deliver the runtime and torque needed without slowing down, and the 15-inch cutting width on each means fewer passes per area.
Cordless vs Gas String Trimmers
For residential use, the best cordless string trimmers win in nearly every category over gas. Gas trimmers are louder, require fuel mixing, need annual carburetor maintenance, and are notoriously hard to start after sitting through winter. The pull-start mechanism is also a genuine frustration point — especially after months of storage when carburetors gum up.
Cordless models from established brands like EGO, Ryobi, and Greenworks now match gas performance for typical homeowner use cases without any of the seasonal maintenance headaches. The only scenario where gas still makes clear sense is if you have multiple acres of heavy brush to clear regularly.
For a typical suburban lawn — a quarter to a half acre with standard grass growth — a quality cordless trimmer is the better choice in every practical way. Quieter, lighter, cleaner to operate, easier to start, and far lower maintenance over the life of the tool. Gas also comes with ongoing fuel costs that cordless avoids entirely.
How Long Does a Cordless String Trimmer Battery Last Per Charge?
Battery runtime varies depending on voltage, battery capacity (measured in amp-hours, or Ah), and how hard you push the motor. As a general rule, a 20V 2.0Ah battery runs a residential trimmer for 20 to 30 minutes at moderate use. A 40V 4.0Ah battery like the one in the Ryobi runs 40 to 60 minutes.
A 56V 2.5Ah battery like EGO’s runs 35 to 50 minutes — longer at lower speed settings. Most residential yards take 15 to 25 minutes to trim completely — well within the runtime of any of the best cordless string trimmers on this list.
For larger yards, kits with two batteries (like the WORX WG163 or BLACK+DECKER LSTE525) give uninterrupted runtime through battery swapping.
Frequently Asked Questions
What voltage cordless string trimmer do I need?
For most suburban homeowners with a yard up to a half acre, a 20V trimmer is sufficient. Larger yards, denser grass, or heavy overgrowth call for a 40V model. For very large properties or professional-grade residential performance, 56V like the EGO Power+ is the right choice.
Among the best cordless string trimmers, match voltage to actual yard demands rather than buying the highest voltage on the spec sheet.
Are cordless string trimmers as powerful as gas?
For residential use, yes. The best cordless string trimmers from EGO, Ryobi, Greenworks, and CRAFTSMAN now match or exceed gas performance for typical homeowner tasks — trimming grass, edging driveways, and clearing moderate overgrowth. The only area where gas still has a clear edge is extended runtime on very large properties where battery swapping becomes impractical.
How long does a cordless string trimmer battery last?
Most 20V 2.0Ah batteries deliver 20 to 30 minutes of runtime at moderate use. A 40V 4.0Ah battery typically runs 40 to 60 minutes, and a 56V 2.5Ah battery runs 35 to 50 minutes. Most residential yards finish in under 25 minutes of actual trimming time, so a single charge is usually enough for one session.
What is the difference between a string trimmer and a weed eater?
There is no functional difference. String trimmer, weed eater, weed whacker, and line trimmer all refer to the same tool. The names vary by brand and region — “weed eater” became a generic name like Kleenex or Band-Aid after the original Weed Eater brand popularized it in the 1970s.
Can I use a cordless string trimmer as an edger?
Many models — including the CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1, WORX WG163, and Greenworks 40V — feature 2-in-1 or pivoting head designs that let you rotate the head 90° to use the trimmer as an edger. This eliminates the need for a separate edger for most homeowners. For very precise edging, a dedicated lawn edger is still superior, but a 2-in-1 trimmer handles everyday edging well.
What line thickness should I use in my string trimmer?
Most residential cordless trimmers use 0.065″ to 0.080″ diameter line. Lighter line (0.065″) cuts cleanly through grass with less drag on the motor and works well on standard lawns. Heavier line (0.080″ and above) handles tougher weeds and thicker growth.
Always check your trimmer’s manual for the recommended line diameter — using line that’s too thick can strain the motor.
How do I replace the string on a cordless trimmer?
The process varies by head type. For bump-and-feed spools, remove the spool cap, wind new line around the spool in the direction indicated, thread the ends through the eyelets, and reassemble. For models with a Rapid Reload head like the EGO Power+, cut a pre-measured length, insert both ends into slots on the head, and pull through — no winding required.
Is a brushless motor worth it on a cordless string trimmer?
Yes, if you plan to use the trimmer regularly. Brushless motors run more efficiently than brushed motors, which means more runtime per charge, less heat buildup, and a longer motor lifespan — typically 2 to 3 times longer than brushed motors. The EGO Power+, Ryobi 40V HP, and Greenworks 40V all feature brushless motors among the best cordless string trimmers in this guide.
Can cordless string trimmers handle thick weeds?
Higher-voltage models — particularly 40V HP and 56V trimmers — handle thick weeds, tall overgrowth, and dense grass without bogging down. The Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 15″ and EGO Power+ ST1502SA are both rated for heavy-duty cutting through growth that would slow a 20V motor. For very thick brush or woody stems, a brush cutter with a metal blade is more appropriate than a string trimmer.
What is the best cordless string trimmer for a small yard?
For small yards under a quarter acre, the CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 is the best value among the best cordless string trimmers — affordable, complete kit, and wide enough cut at 13 inches to finish quickly. The BLACK+DECKER LSTE525 is also strong if you want two batteries for flexibility. Pair either with a small yard mower from our best lawn mowers for small yards guide.
Are EGO and Ryobi 40V batteries interchangeable?
No. EGO 56V and Ryobi 40V batteries use completely different voltages, connector designs, and chemistries — they are not cross-compatible. Each manufacturer’s batteries only work within that specific platform. If you already own batteries in one ecosystem, sticking with that brand for additional tools saves significant money compared to switching platforms.
Do I need a separate battery if I buy a tool-only cordless trimmer?
Yes. Tool-only versions ship without battery or charger and require you to either own compatible batteries already or buy them separately. A compatible battery and charger combination typically costs $130-$200 depending on the platform — often more than the savings from buying tool-only over the kit version.
How long do cordless string trimmer batteries last over time?
Quality lithium-ion batteries from major brands typically retain 70-80% of original capacity after 500 charge cycles, which translates to 5-8 years of regular residential use. Storing batteries indoors above freezing, avoiding deep discharges, and using the manufacturer’s charger all extend battery lifespan. Replacement batteries when needed run $100-$200 depending on voltage and capacity.
Final Recommendation
For most homeowners, the EGO Power+ ST1502SA is the best cordless string trimmer overall — unmatched battery power, easy line replacement, and a 15-inch cut width that handles anything a residential yard throws at it. The 56V ecosystem and 5-year warranty make it the safest long-term investment in this guide.
For thick weeds, heavy overgrowth, or buyers wanting a true gas replacement at a more accessible price, the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 15″ delivers brushless cutting power and the broadest tool ecosystem of any platform on this list of best cordless string trimmers.
On a tight budget, the CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 delivers reliable performance from a trusted brand with built-in edging that adds real everyday value. If weight is your priority, the WORX WG163 at 5.5 pounds is the easiest to handle for extended sessions.
Once you’ve finished trimming, see our guides to the best lawn edgers for clean border lines, and the best lawn mowers for small yards to complete your spring yard care setup.