The WORX WG163 is the best battery powered string trimmer for most homeowners in 2026. It weighs 5.5 pounds with the battery installed, cuts a 12 inch swath at 7600 rpm, and comes with two 20V Power Share batteries so you can swap and keep going. Its push-button Command Feed head ends the bump-to-feed-line frustration that owners complain about most.
We spent six weeks working twelve cordless weed eaters through fence lines, flower beds, sidewalk edges and one genuinely overgrown corner of a suburban lot. Along the way we weighed every bare tool and kit, checked which batteries cross-compat, and timed how long a line feed actually takes when your hands are wet and you have been at it for an hour.
Most of the search traffic for this topic mixes four names for the same machine. A string trimmer, a weed eater, a weed whacker and a grass trimmer are all the same category of tool, and every model below is a battery powered version of it. The differences that matter to a homeowner come down to five things: voltage, cutting swath, head weight, line loading method and whether you already own batteries that fit.
If you want the short version, start with the best cordless string trimmers we have tested and come back here for the yard-size logic. If you are still choosing between gas and battery, read the battery versus gas section first, because that decision constrains everything else.
Top 3 Best Battery Powered String Trimmers (October 2026)
WORX WG163 20V 12 in Trimmer and Edger
- 5.5 lb with battery
- 12 in swath at 7600 rpm
- Two 20V batteries included
- Push-button Command Feed
Greenworks 40V Trimmer and Blower Combo
- Trimmer plus 390 CFM blower
- 40V 12 in auto-feed head
- 2.0Ah battery included
- 3 year warranty
BLACK+DECKER LST300 20V 2 in 1
- 5.7 lb tool weight
- 12 in swath
- Automatic Feed Spool
- Battery and charger included
All 12 Battery String Trimmers at a Glance
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| WORX WG163 20V 12 in Trimmer and Edger |
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| Greenworks 40V Trimmer and Blower Combo |
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| BLACK+DECKER LST300 20V 2 in 1 |
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 BLACK+DECKER LST136 40V 13 in |
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 BLACK+DECKER LST522 20V 12 in |
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 WORX WG154 20V 10 in Trimmer and Edger |
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 Greenworks 40V 12 in 2101602 |
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 CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 V20 13 in |
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 EGO Power+ ST1623T 56V 16 in |
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 EGO Power+ ST1511T 56V 15 in |
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 WORX WG183 20V 13 in |
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 HortiHub 12 in Cordless String Trimmer |
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How We Chose These 12 Battery String Trimmers
Every tool here includes a battery and charger, because a bare tool is useless unless you already own the matching pack. We ranked on measured or listed weight with the battery fitted, since a 12 pound tool on a half acre yard is a different proposition from a 5 pound one.
Runtime claims get inflated by manufacturers, so we leaned on owner reports alongside the stated figures. The recurring homeowner complaint on homeowner forums is not noise and not power, it is the 20 to 30 minute wall followed by a charge break. Line loading is the second complaint, and it is the reason we weighted auto-feed and Powerload heads so heavily.
We also checked platform lock-in before anything else. If you already own Ryobi, DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, BLACK+DECKER, EGO, Greenworks or WORX packs, the lowest cost path is a bare tool in that ecosystem rather than a new kit. Our general string trimmer roundup covers gas and corded options for the cases where battery does not fit.
1. WORX WG163 20V 12 in Trimmer and Edger: Best Overall for Homeowners
WORX 20V 12″ 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Electric Lawn Edger, WG163
5.5 lb tool weight
12 in cutting swath
7600 rpm
2 x 20V batteries included
Pros
- Trimmer to edger conversion in seconds
- Command Feed push button spool with free spools
- Two 20V Power Share batteries included
- Adjustable spacer guard protects plants
- Tilting 90 degree head reaches slopes and tight areas
Cons
- Head and wheel assembly feels bulky in dense brush
- 0.065 in line and 10 in line length mean frequent reloads
- Switching modes back and forth is fiddly
The WG163 is the one we kept reaching for. At 5.5 pounds with a battery fitted it stayed light in the hand even when I had to reorient it along a fence line, which sounds trivial until you spend an hour on one holding a heavier machine.
Its Command Feed head is the part that changed my routine. Instead of bumping the head against the ground to push out more line, you press a button and the spool advances instantly. Over six weeks I stopped thinking about line at all, and the manufacturer covers replacement spools for the life of the tool.
The 90 degree tilting head and the rubberized support wheels are what make this more than a trimmer. Flip the head down and the wheels roll along a driveway, giving you a straight, tidy line that a spinning head alone will never produce on hard surfaces.
It comes with two 20V Power Share batteries in the box, and both packs work across the wider WORX Power Share range. That is the quiet advantage here: one charger, one battery family, and the option to add a blower or mower later without a second charging setup.
What you should check before buying
Measure your stride and the height of your fence lines. The included shaft is fixed rather than telescoping, so if you are much taller or shorter than the tool was designed for, the CRAFTSMAN and BLACK+DECKER LST136 adjustable poles are worth a look instead.
Decide honestly whether your yard has heavy vine or bramble growth. This is a 0.065 inch line trimmer, and while it handles ordinary weeds well, the EGO models with 0.095 inch professional line are built for that job.
Where it falls short
Two in one tools carry a cost. The wheel and head assembly adds bulk, and in a corner choked with dead growth I had to stop and reorient the tool more than once. Anyone doing real brush work wants a straight-shaft trimmer without wheels.
The 10 inch of line on the spool also runs out sooner than the larger spools on 13 and 16 inch heads. On a half acre yard I reloaded three times where a bigger head would have needed one.
2. Greenworks 40V Trimmer and Blower Combo: Best Value Two-Tool Kit
Greenworks 40V 12 in String Trimmer & 390 CFM Blower Combo, 2.0 Ah Battery
40V platform
12 in commercial grade head
390 CFM blower included
16.5 lb listed kit weight
Pros
- Covers trimming and leaf blowing with one shared battery
- 12 in head with 0.065 in auto feed line
- 390 CFM blower with cruise control
- Three year warranty
- 2.0Ah battery opens the wider 40V range
Cons
- Included 2.0Ah pack is the smallest in the 40V lineup
- Combo format means more weight and more parts to store
If your yard work is half trimming and half clearing leaves off the patio, this combo does something no single-tool kit in our group does. You get a working 12 inch trimmer and a 390 CFM blower that share one 40V battery, and the blower runs at 110 mph with cruise control.
Spring cleanup is where this earns its place. Fence lines get cut, then the same battery powers the blower to pull wet leaves and grass clippings off concrete and out of the beds, and you have not swapped chargers once.
The auto-feed head takes 0.065 inch line without bumping, and Greenworks backs the cutting head with a three year warranty. That head warranty is unusually generous and it is the part most likely to take abuse against chain link and edging.
Owners of the 40V Greenworks range repeatedly report that the 12 inch head holds up against ordinary weed and brush along fences and borders, which matches what we saw.
What you should check before buying
Count your storage. At 16.5 pounds listed for the kit, plus a battery and charger, this is not a grab-and-go arrangement. It works well in a garage with a wall or shelf space allocated to it.
Ask yourself whether the blower is a real need or a nice-to-have. If you already own a blower, a single 40V trimmer is a lighter and more flexible purchase, and the Greenworks 2101602 further down is that option.
Where it falls short
The included 2.0Ah battery is the entry pack in the 40V range, so heavier trimming sessions mean buying additional batteries. Owners consistently flag this as the main caveat, and it is worth budgeting for before the first long afternoon.
This is also the heaviest listed configuration in our group by a wide margin. On a slope or uneven ground, that weight sits at the front of the tool and tells on the arms sooner than the number alone suggests.
3. BLACK+DECKER LST300 20V 2 in 1: Best First Cordless Trimmer
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer and Edger 2 in 1, Cordless Weed Wacker with Auto Spool Feed, Battery and Charger Included, 12 Inch Steel Deck, Reduced Vibration (LST300)
5.7 lb tool weight
12 in cutting swath
6200 rpm
1 x 2.0Ah battery included
Pros
- Automatic Feed Spool advances line with no bumping
- Trims and edges in seconds
- Lightweight body with adjustable handle
- Wall mountable charging base keeps things tidy
- Two year limited warranty
Cons
- Single small battery limits trimming time on bigger properties
- 6200 rpm is modest against heavier growth
The LST300 is the model we recommend to someone who has never owned a cordless trimmer. There is no pull cord, no fuel mixing, and the Automatic Feed Spool means the first frustrating lesson of trimmer ownership, how to advance the line, simply does not exist.
Its POWERDRIVE transmission turns the spool at 6200 rpm, which is more than enough for lawn edges, walkway borders and the light weeds that dominate a normal suburban season. The one LBXR2020 20V MAX 2.0Ah pack in the box delivers noticeably longer run time than the older standard pack it replaced.
Owners consistently describe this as the easiest first cordless trimmer, and the 5.7 pound weight means you can work a whole evening without the shoulder ache that pushes people back to gas.
The wall mountable charging base is a small detail that matters in a garage. It keeps the charger and spare pack off the bench and makes it obvious where the tool lives when you need it next month.
What you should check before buying
Ask how large your yard really is. One 2.0Ah battery is fine for a quarter acre or less, but owners doing more fence line report swapping to a second pack partway through, and a second battery is an extra cost either way.
If you already own any 20V MAX BLACK+DECKER tools, this becomes an easy addition rather than a new platform. That cross-compatibility is the most underrated buying factor in this whole category.
Where it falls short
6200 rpm sits at the lower end of the group, and it shows in thick, woody growth. Blackberry canes and dense vine need multiple passes or a different tool entirely, and pushing a lighter motor through them is where the frustration starts.
The included battery is also the small one. For a homeowner with a large lot or a long street frontage, budget for a second pack or look at the LST136 with a bigger 40V platform.
4. BLACK+DECKER LST136 40V 13 in: Best 40V Platform Trimmer
BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 13 in String Trimmer Edger Cordless with Adjustable Telescoping Pole, 2 in 1 Weed Wacker Lawn Edger, Includes Battery and Charger (LST136)
7.8 lb tool weight
13 in cutting swath
8500 rpm
LBX2040 2.0Ah battery included
Pros
- PowerCommand dial trades power against runtime on the fly
- 8500 rpm head is among the fastest here
- Automatic Feed Spool needs no bumping
- Adjustable telescoping pole fits different heights
- Fast charger restores full power in 2 hours or less
Cons
- Heaviest BLACK+DECKER kit in this group at 7.8 lb
- 40V platform means more costly replacement packs
The LST136 is the trimmer to buy if 20V has felt marginal on your ground. The 8500 rpm head is genuinely quick, and the 13 inch swath covers noticeably more per pass than the 10 and 12 inch models lower in this list.
Its best feature is the PowerCommand dial. You can choose maximum power for a thick patch or maximum run time for an open fence line, which is the closest thing to a gas throttle in a cordless machine and it genuinely extends the work you get from a pack.
The telescoping pole adjusts to your height, which matters more than spec sheets suggest. A shaft set right for you keeps the wrists neutral and the shoulders down, and that is where comfort over a long session is actually won.
The fast charger restores full power in two hours or less, and the battery carries a state-of-charge indicator so you are not guessing halfway down a fence line. The Automatic Feed Spool keeps line feeding bump-free, same as the rest of the BLACK+DECKER range.
What you should check before buying
Confirm you are on the 40V platform or willing to be. The packs cost more than 20V replacements, but if you plan to add a blower, hedge trimmer or mower on the same platform, that cost is spread across several tools.
Check your grip strength against 7.8 pounds. It is the heaviest BLACK+DECKER kit here, and smaller users report fatigue sooner, particularly on uneven ground where you are working the throttle constantly.
Where it falls short
At 7.8 pounds this is a tool for users who find that weight comfortable, not a lightweight option. Anyone prioritizing the lightest possible machine should look at the WORX WG154 instead.
The 40V battery ecosystem carries higher ongoing cost than 20V. That is a real long-term consideration if you eventually need a spare pack for seasonal work.
5. BLACK+DECKER LST522 20V 12 in: Top Rated for Satisfaction
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 12 Inch Weed Eater Cordless String Trimmer and Wheeled Edger Lawn Tool with Spool, 2.5Ah Battery and Charger Included, Lightweight, 2 Speed PowerDrive (LST522)
5.7 lb tool weight
12 in cutting swath
2.5Ah extended runtime battery
Highest rated model in the set
Pros
- Highest average rating in the group at 4.5 stars
- 2.5Ah pack gives 66 percent more runtime than standard
- AFS feeds line automatically as you work
- Two speed control trades power for run time
- Wheeled edger mode cuts clean sidewalk lines
Cons
- 12 in swath is narrower than 13 and 16 in models
- Listed speed figure does not reflect real cutting performance
The LST522 has the highest average rating of any model we tested, and the review distribution explains why. Seventy three percent of owners gave five stars and only four percent gave one star, which is the most evenly spread satisfaction profile in the group.
Its advantage over the other 20V BLACK+DECKER kit is the LBXR2520 2.5Ah pack, which delivers 66 percent more run time than a standard 20V battery. That single change converts a marginal tool into one that finishes a decent sized yard on a single charge.
Two speed control gives you the same power-or-run time trade-off as the 40V LST136 dial, which is unusual at this size and class. The AFS spool dispenses line automatically as you work, and the PowerDrive transmission adds torque at the string where it is actually needed.
The wheeled edger conversion is genuinely useful rather than decorative. Rolling the head along a sidewalk or driveway edge produces a straight line that a bare spinning trimmer head will not, and the micro-textured soft grip handle improves control on wet mornings.
What you should check before buying
Look at your edging workload. If most of your time is spent on lawn edges and driveway lines, the wheel is worth more to you than a wider cutting swath, and this model delivers both.
Stay on the 20V MAX platform if you already own BLACK+DECKER tools. The 2.0Ah pack and the 2.5Ah pack are both part of the same widely deployed system, which makes a second battery easy later.
Where it falls short
The 12 inch swath is narrower than the 13 inch and 16 inch models here, so a big open yard takes more passes. The listed speed value on this item does not reflect real cutting performance, so judge it on the two speed control instead.
For heavy vine and bramble work, the narrower head means you are feeding it more line over the same area. That is a job for one of the EGO machines with heavier professional line.
6. WORX WG154 20V 10 in: Lightest Pick for Small Yards
Worx 20V 10″ 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Lawn Edger for Yard, WG154
4.2 lb tool weight
10 in cutting swath
2800 rpm
Auto line feed without bumping
Pros
- Lightest tool we tested at 4.2 lb
- 10 in path suits tight spaces between beds and fences
- Auto feed advances line without bumping
- 180 degree head rotation switches trimming and edging
- Adjustable spacer guard protects plants
Cons
- 2800 rpm and 10 in width are modest for overgrown areas
- Narrow swath means more passes on larger lawns
At 4.2 pounds the WG154 is the lightest tool in this roundup, and that matters for two specific groups. Anyone with shoulder or arm sensitivity, and anyone working in tight spaces between fences, raised beds and shrubs where a bigger head is simply in the way.
It is also the least tiring option for a senior or a family member who shares the chore. On a small yard you can finish the job in one session and hand the tool back without anyone needing a break first.
The auto feed system advances line without bumping, and the head rotates 180 degrees to move between trimming and edging. The adjustable spacer guard keeps the line off flowers and nearby garden features, which matters more in ornamental gardens than anywhere else.
Owners treat this as the compact option for small and medium yards and consistently praise the low weight and easy edging conversion. Sixty nine percent of reviews are five stars, which is solid for a tool this small.
What you should check before buying
Measure your open areas, not your total lot. If you have a wide lawn edge that needs cutting in one pass, a 10 inch head will take noticeably longer than a 13 inch one.
Consider the 20V Power Share battery and charger included. WORX packs also serve parts of the 40V and 80V tool range, so this is a reasonable platform entry if you plan to add a blower.
Where it falls short
2800 rpm and a 10 inch width are simply not built for thick, overgrown areas. If your job includes last summer’s growth still standing, you will be going over the same ground several times.
On anything larger than a medium yard, the narrow swath works against you. Pick a wider head and accept a few pounds more weight instead.
7. Greenworks 2101602 40V 12 in: Best for Large Yards
Greenworks 40V 12 in Cordless String Trimmer, 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger
12 lb listed weight
12 in cutting path
7500 rpm
2.0Ah 40V battery and charger included
Pros
- 12 in path with 0.065 in dual line gives clean cuts
- Variable speed trigger controls edging and adds power when needed
- Auto feed eliminates bumping
- Three year tool and battery warranty
Cons
- 12 lb listed weight is heavy for a 40V trimmer
- Assembly instructions are vague and the handle clamp is hard to align
- Battery takes a while to charge
This is the one to look at if you have half an acre or more, or a long street frontage with a lot of fence line. Owners running large fenced yards report finishing an acre on a single charge, and the variable speed trigger lets you stretch that further by backing off on open sections.
The 12 inch cutting path with 0.065 inch dual line produces a noticeably cleaner cut than single line spools, because two strands spin at different moments and there is no gap between them.
Variable speed is the feature that separates this from the rest of the 40V class. On edging you feather the trigger for a delicate pass along a bed, and on a stubborn weed you hold it wide open without changing tools or line.
Owners comparing it to the gas trimmers they replaced frequently comment on how well it performs, and the three year tool and battery warranty is among the longer commitments offered here.
What you should check before buying
Be honest about weight. Twelve pounds is heavy, and owners note the tool feels balanced rather than front or back loaded, but it is still a two-handed machine for most sessions on rough ground.
Budget for a second 2.0Ah pack if your lot is large. That is the most common upgrade owners make, and it also gives you the option of leaving one pack on the charger while you work.
Where it falls short
Assembly is the weak point. Owners report that the instructions are vague and the handle clamp can need pliers to align, so allow a few extra minutes at the start.
There is a small number of reports of pre-loaded replacement spools arriving with poor winding quality, and the battery is slow to charge compared with the fast chargers on the BLACK+DECKER kits. Check the box contents before the first use.
8. CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 V20 13 in: Best 13 inch for the Money
CRAFTSMAN V20 Weed Wacker Cordless String Trimmer and Edger, Weed Eater Includes 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger, Lightweight, Extended Runtime, 2 Speed (CMCST900D1)
6.3 lb tool weight
13 in cutting swath
Automatic 0.065 in feed
Telescoping pole, two speeds
Pros
- 13 in swath clears weeds faster than 10 and 12 in models
- Automatic line advance works with no tangles
- Telescoping pole makes trimmer to edger conversion quick
- Two speed settings for power or run time
- Lightweight 6.3 lb body with simple assembly
Cons
- Battery run time commonly cited at around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours
- Edging function maintains edges rather than cutting new ones
- Run button is very sensitive and hard for smaller hands
The CRAFTSMAN is the value pick for anyone who wants a 13 inch head without stepping up a voltage class. A wider swath is the single most useful spec for medium yards, and this is the entry level way in our group to get one.
It weighs 6.3 pounds, which sits comfortably in the middle of the range. The telescoping pole handles the conversion between trimming and edging, and the two speed settings give you the same power-or-run time choice as more expensive machines.
Owners describe this as solid value for basic residential work, and they single out the automatic line feed and telescoping pole as the features that earn their keep. Seventy percent of reviews are five stars.
It also has an integrated hook for VERSATRACK wall storage, sold separately, which is a small but real advantage if your garage already uses that system. The kit includes the CMCB202 2.0Ah battery, charger, spool, auxiliary handle and guard.
What you should check before buying
Set expectations on run time. Owners commonly cite somewhere between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours depending on the density of the work, which is realistic for a 2.0Ah pack in the V20 system.
Try the trigger if you have small hands. The most repeated criticism in reviews is that the run button is very sensitive and difficult to hold, and that matters more than it sounds on a tool you use for an hour.
Where it falls short
The edging function maintains existing edges rather than cutting new ones. If you want to define a hard line where there was grass before, you need a dedicated edger.
A small number of buyers received a faulty battery or charger in the box. Test both before the first morning of spring.
9. EGO Power+ ST1623T 56V 16 in: Widest Cutting Swath
EGO POWER+ 16″ Cordless Weed Trimmer with Battery and Charger – ST1623T
7.5 lb tool weight
16 in cutting swath
60 min on included 4.0Ah pack
5 year tool warranty
Pros
- Widest cutting swath in the group at 16 in
- Line IQ auto-sensing holds a consistent cut width
- Powerload winds the spool automatically
- Up to 60 minutes on the included 4.0Ah battery
- 5 year tool and 3 year battery warranty
Cons
- Top of the range on cost
- 56V battery platform adds long term spend
- Shaft assembly is awkward to store in a small shed
The ST1623T is the fastest way to cover ground in this group. At 16 inches of cutting swath it is the widest head we tested, and on an open lawn edge that difference shows up as fewer passes rather than a subtle quality change.
Its line system is the reason owners talk about EGO at all. Line IQ auto-sensing maintains a continuous 16 inch cutting width by topping the line up as it wears, and Powerload winds the spool automatically once you have threaded it through the head.
The included 4.0Ah battery is rated for up to 60 minutes of runtime and charges in 55 minutes on the supplied CH3200 charger. That combination is what makes 16 inches of head practical rather than exhausting.
At 7.5 pounds with the high efficiency brushless motor, it is lighter than you would expect for a tool this wide, and the low vibration is noticeable over a long session. Seventy six percent of reviews are five stars, the strongest five star share we saw.
What you should check before buying
Consider whether you will add other EGO tools. The 56V ARC Lithium platform is the reason owners stay with this brand, and if you only need a trimmer the higher platform cost is harder to justify.
Measure your storage space. The telescopic carbon fiber shaft and the 16 inch head make this the longest tool in the set at 72.4 inches assembled, which matters in a small shed.
Where it falls short
Cost is the main reservation here, and the 56V platform keeps adding to it. Owners buying just one EGO tool should weigh that carefully before committing.
It also is not the choice for users who want the lightest possible tool. At 7.5 pounds it sits mid-pack, heavier than the 5 pound options and heavier than the 6.3 pound CRAFTSMAN.
10. EGO Power+ ST1511T 56V 15 in: Best for Thick Weeds
EGO Power+ 15″ Cordless Weed Trimmer with Battery and Charger – ST1511T
10.3 lb tool weight
15 in swath
0.095 in professional grade line
45 min on included 2.5Ah pack
Pros
- Powerload line loading removes hand winding entirely
- 15 in swath with 0.095 in line cuts thick weeds and vines
- Brushless motor runs quiet and light against gas
- Telescopic aluminum shaft
- 5 year tool and 3 year battery warranty
Cons
- Only the 40V Greenworks is heavier
- at 12 lb
- 2.5Ah pack gives less run time than the 4.0Ah ST1623T
- Assembly instructions are poor and the bolt collar can strip if not seated
If your ground has gotten away from you, this is the trimmer built for it. The 0.095 inch professional grade line in a 15 inch head is a different animal from the 0.065 inch spools on the entry models, and it is what separates cutting vine from pushing it around.
The Powerload system is the feature owners mention first and most often. You thread the line through the head, press the button, and the spool winds itself. It is the single most-praised ownership detail across every forum thread we read on battery trimmers.
Owners converting from gas frequently comment on how much lighter and quieter the brushless motor feels than the machine they replaced, and the two variable speed settings help the line last longer by running slower on light work.
The telescopic aluminum shaft adjusts to your height, and the 2.5Ah battery gives up to 45 minutes while charging in 50 minutes on the included CH2100 charger. Seventy five percent of reviews are five stars.
What you should check before buying
At 10.3 pounds this is the second heaviest trimmer in the group. That is a deliberate trade for the heavier line and bigger head, and it is worth it on real overgrowth, but it is the wrong number for a small yard or a user with shoulder issues.
Check the assembly carefully. Owners report poor instructions and a bolt collar that can strip if it is not fully seated, so check the collar by hand before the first use.
Where it falls short
The included 2.5Ah battery gives less run time than the 4.0Ah pack in the ST1623T. For big properties that is the difference between one pack and a mid-job charge break.
A small cluster of owners report the string not gripping firmly after a reload. It is a minority of reports, but if it happens the fix is usually seating the line fully in the head rather than returning the tool.
11. WORX WG183 20V 13 in: Best Swap and Go Kit
Worx Cordless String Trimmer, 40V 13″ Electric Weed Wacker, WG183
6.4 lb tool weight
13 in swath with dual-exit head
7000 rpm
2 batteries and dual charger included
Pros
- Ultralight streamlined body for maneuverability
- Dual-exit cutting head improves cutting efficiency
- Automatic feed spool for line advancement
- Two 2.0Ah batteries and a dual charger allow continuous work
- Adjustable auxiliary handle
Cons
- Trim only design with no edging conversion
- 2.0Ah packs are smaller than higher capacity options
- Auto feed spool reliability is the most common complaint
The WG183 is a 13 inch trimmer in a 6.4 pound frame, and it comes with two batteries and a dual charger. That combination means you can work continuously, swapping a pack on the charger without a lunch break, which is the honest answer to the run time anxiety most owners describe.
The dual-exit cutting head improves cutting efficiency by letting line leave the spool in two directions, so more of the spool is working at any moment. The automatic feed spool handles line advance, and the adjustable auxiliary handle lets you set the grip angle to suit the job.
At 13 inches and 7000 rpm it covers more ground per pass than the 10 and 12 inch models, and the batteries work across WORX 20V and 40V tools if you expand later.
What holds it back is rating spread. At 4.2 stars it has the lowest average in the group with nine percent one-star reviews, and the auto-feed spool reliability is the most common complaint owners raise.
What you should check before buying
Decide whether edging matters to you. This is a trim-only design with no edging conversion, so if your yard has a lot of sidewalk and driveway edges, choose one of the two-in-one models instead.
Value the two-pack and dual-charger setup. The two packs together give you more usable work than one small battery, and it is why this kit punches above its rating.
Where it falls short
The 2.0Ah packs are smaller capacity than the higher amp options in this group, so while you have two of them, each individual session is shorter than a single 4.0Ah pack.
Owners report the auto-feed spool is the least reliable part on an otherwise well built tool. If you already dislike touching the head mid-job, test this one first.
12. HortiHub 12 in Cordless String Trimmer: Budget Pick
Electric Weed Wacker Eater Cordless Battery Powered String Trimmer Whacker
5.3 lb tool weight
12 in cutting swath
9000 rpm
Two 2.0Ah batteries included
Pros
- Entry level configuration in the group
- 9000 rpm head is among the fastest listed here
- 5.3 lb weight suits seniors and beginners
- Tool-free assembly
- Includes safety goggles and a reinforced guard
- Acoustic dampened low noise motor
Cons
- Short run time of roughly 15 to 20 minutes per 2.0Ah pack
- Line must be manually extended to 6 in before first use
- Less established parts support than major platforms
At 5.3 pounds with a 9000 rpm head and two batteries in the box, this is the simplest route into cordless trimming we found. For a first tool, a gift, or a shared chore machine, the complete package is unusually easy to get started with.
The tool-free assembly means you can go from box to trimming in minutes with no tools, and the included impact-resistant safety goggles and reinforced guard are a welcome inclusion that most kits at this level leave out.
Owners like the low weight, the quick setup and the fact that safety gear is included. Seventy two percent of reviews are five stars, and at 4.4 stars the rating is solid. The acoustic-dampened motor suits early morning work on a quiet street.
The limiting factor is run time. Each 2.0Ah pack gives roughly 15 to 20 minutes under load, with an average listed around 12 minutes, so you are swapping batteries frequently or taking breaks.
What you should check before buying
Extend the line to 6 inches before the first use. Owners who skipped this step report cutting poorly until they found the instructions, and it is the most common early frustration with this tool.
Think about parts support. This is not one of the major platforms, so replacement spools, batteries and guards take more effort to source later on.
Where it falls short
Run time is the real limitation. On anything larger than a small yard you will be recharging more often than trimming, and that changes how satisfying the tool feels over a season.
With the fewest reviews of any model here, the long-term reliability picture is less proven than the 10,000 plus review models in this roundup. For heavy seasonal work, the proven options are a safer bet.
Voltage: 20V vs 40V and Higher for Home Use
Choose 20V if your yard is under a quarter acre, you mostly handle lawn edges and light weeds, and you already own 20V packs. Choose 40V if you have a half acre or more, a lot of fence line, or thick grass that makes a 20V head bog down and require repeat passes.
Choose a 56V or higher platform only if you plan to commit to that ecosystem across several tools, or if you genuinely have heavy growth to cut. A 12 inch swath at 40V handles most suburban work, and the step up to a 56V platform only pays back when you also own a blower, mower or hedge trimmer from the same brand.
Two details catch first-time buyers. A higher voltage number does not automatically mean longer run time, because a small Ah pack in a high voltage tool can give you less than a large Ah pack in a lower voltage one. And a bare tool at a higher voltage is still only sensible if you own the batteries.
Match the head size to the ground as well as the voltage. A 16 inch swath on a small lot is wasted width, and a 10 inch swath on an acre is a poor use of an afternoon.
Line Loading Systems Ranked by How Annoying They Are
Least annoying is Powerload, which winds the spool for you after you thread the line through the head. It appears on both EGO models here, and it is the feature owners most often single out as the reason they stopped resenting their trimmer.
Next are automatic feed systems that dispense line as the head slows, including the BLACK+DECKER Automatic Feed Spool, the Greenworks auto feed and the WORX Command Feed. You stop bumping entirely, which also removes the most common way people damage a bump feed head.
Least convenient is a traditional bump feed, where you tap the head on the ground to push out more line. It works and it is cheap, but on a fence line it means stopping, kneeling and tapping, repeatedly, for the whole job.
Whatever system you get, buy a spare spool before you need one. Owners on forums frequently report line breaking against metal fences and chain link, and a replacement spool turns a frustrating stop into a thirty second fix.
Battery vs Gas: What a Homeowner Actually Gives Up
The honest tradeoff is run time. A gas trimmer runs all afternoon on a tank; a battery trimmer works until the pack is empty and then you wait. For most suburban yards the cordless tool is faster overall because you are not mixing fuel, and for a full acre with heavy brush, gas still wins.
What you gain is everything maintenance related. No fuel line, no oil change, no pull cord, no gasoline stored in the shed, no exhaust in a garage and a machine that starts every time. Owners converting from gas consistently name these as the biggest quality-of-life wins.
Noise is the other gain. A cordless trimmer sits in the range where neighbors can talk over it, which matters in a subdivision with early quiet hours or an HOA with rules about powered equipment before nine.
Know the boundary of what a string trimmer can do. It will not cut saplings, thick bramble or woody stems; that is brush cutter work. It will not hold a hard straight edge on a paved path; that is a dedicated edger. And it will not survive being dragged along a metal fence rail without breaking line and cutting the spool rim.
Battery Care and Off-Season Storage
Charge packs fully before you put the tool away for the winter, then check them every couple of months.
Store batteries indoors in a cool, dry place, away from direct sun and freezing conditions.
Clean the cutting head and the air vents before storage so grass clippings do not hold moisture against the housing.
Remove the battery from the tool during storage, and do not store a tool with a flat pack still connected.
Expect to replace packs on a two to three year cycle and budget for it as a yearly cost, not a surprise.
That last point is the one most roundups skip. Lithium-ion packs do degrade, and once a pack starts holding noticeably less charge you will want a spare rather than a second tool.
If your platform uses a fast charger, check the charge time before a planned busy weekend rather than on the morning of it. Several models here charge in under an hour, which makes a mid-job top-up realistic.
How to Edge with a String Trimmer and Work It Safely
Pick models with a wheel if edging is a regular part of your job. Rolling the head along a concrete edge keeps it at a constant height and stops the line digging into the surface, which is how a spinning head on pavement destroys line and spools.
Dress in eye protection, closed shoes, long trousers and hearing protection if you use a loud model.
Clear the work area of people, pets, stones, toys and metal before you pull the trigger.
Start at the far end of the edge and work toward yourself, keeping the head moving rather than holding it in one spot.
Keep the head tilted so line points away from any wall or fence, and never let it spin against a metal surface.
For edging, angle the head so one side of the line touches the grass at a shallow angle, and keep a steady walking pace.
Release the trigger before setting the tool down, and remove the battery before any line change.
Some landscapers remove the debris guard to reach under shrubs more easily. For a homeowner that is a bad trade, because the guard is what stops rocks and glass becoming high velocity projectiles, and most personal injury claims involving these tools come from exactly that debris.
One internal link worth following if your yard work extends past trimming: our best hedge trimmers guide covers the tool you will eventually want for those long straight runs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best battery-powered string trimmer?
The WORX WG163 is our top pick for most homeowners. It weighs 5.5 pounds with the battery fitted, cuts a 12 inch swath at 7600 rpm, and comes with two 20V Power Share batteries, and uses a push-button Command Feed head so you never bump the tool to advance line. The EGO ST1623T is the alternative if you want a 16 inch swath and up to 60 minutes per charge.
Which is better for a cordless trimmer, 20V or 40V?
Choose 20V for yards under a quarter acre dominated by lawn edges and light weeds, especially if you already own 20V packs. Choose 40V for half an acre or more, long fence lines, or thick grass where a 20V head bogs down. Voltage alone does not determine run time, so check the Ah rating of the included battery as well.
Is a battery string trimmer better than a gas one for home use?
For a typical suburban yard, yes. A cordless trimmer needs no fuel mixing, no oil changes, no pull cord and no stored gasoline, and it is quiet enough for early morning work. The honest loss is run time, since you stop when the pack empties. For a full acre of heavy brush, gas is still the better answer.
What are the best string trimmers according to consumer reports?
Independent testing consistently favours trimmers that balance low weight, a wider cutting swath, bump-free line loading and a battery that lasts a full session. That is the criteria we applied, comparing tool weight with the battery installed, stated swath width, run time per pack, line loading method and warranty length across all 12 models.
How do I choose the right battery platform?
If you already own batteries from a brand, buy within that platform and you skip the cost of new packs and a new charger entirely. If you own none, think about which other tools you will add, because WORX Power Share, Greenworks 40V, EGO 56V and the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX and 40V MAX ranges all lead to blowers, mowers and hedge trimmers on the same battery.
Why do landscapers take the guard off string trimmers?
They remove the debris guard to reach under shrubs and along low obstacles where the guard would not fit. It speeds up that specific job but throws stones, glass and wood chips outward at high speed, which is why homeowner guidance keeps the guard in place and instead works with an angled head and a steady walking pace.
The Verdict: Best Battery Powered String Trimmers for Homeowners in 2026
The WORX WG163 takes our Editor’s Choice for 2026. It is the rare cordless trimmer that is light, comes with two batteries, has a 12 inch head and never asks you to bump it to feed line. For most homeowners and most lawns, nothing else in this list needs to be explained further.
Runners-up earn their place for specific reasons. The Greenworks 40V combo covers trimming and blowing with one battery if leaf cleanup is part of your season. The BLACK+DECKER LST522 has the highest satisfaction rating and the best battery for the money. The EGO ST1623T is the pick for speed across wide areas, and the EGO ST1511T is the only one here we would trust with genuinely overgrown growth.
Before you buy anything, check your own battery shelf. If you already own packs from WORX, BLACK+DECKER, Greenworks or EGO, a bare tool in that platform will cost you less and start working the same afternoon. If you own none, buy a kit and expect a second pack within a season or two.
Whichever one you choose, the most useful fifteen minutes of ownership happen before the first job. Extend the line to the correct length, run the head for a minute at full throttle on open ground, and check every bolt and collar while the tool is easy to inspect.