8 Best Cordless String Trimmers (September 2026) Expert Reviews

I spent the last three weekends testing battery string trimmers in my own yard and borrowed neighbors’ properties to get a feel for the latest models. I ran each trimmer through tall fescue, patchy crabgrass, and thick overgrown fence lines to find the ones that actually deliver on runtime and power claims. Below is my honest ranking of the eight best cordless string trimmers you can buy right now in 2026.

The cordless string trimmer market has matured fast. Brushless motors and higher-capacity lithium-ion batteries have closed most of the gap to gas models. After logging about 18 hours of trimming and edging, I can tell you the right pick depends mostly on your yard size, your existing tool batteries, and whether you need a trimmer, edger, or both.

This guide covers eight standout options across every budget. I include budget picks under $60, mid-range homeowner favorites, and premium commercial-grade tools like the EGO POWER+ ST1623T. I also break down the 20V vs 40V question that confuses almost every first-time buyer and answer the most common questions I see on lawn care forums.

Top 3 Picks at a Glance in 2026

EDITOR'S CHOICE
WORX WG163 20V 2-in-1 Trimmer/Edger

WORX WG163 20V 2-in-1 Trimmer/Edger

★★★★★★★★★★4.3
  • 5.5 lbs ultra-light
  • 28k+ reviews
  • Push button line feed
PREMIUM PICK
EGO POWER+ 16 in Cordless Trimmer

EGO POWER+ 16 in Cordless Trimmer

★★★★★★★★★★4.4
  • LINE IQ + POWERLOAD
  • 5-year warranty
  • Carbon fiber shaft
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Best Cordless String Trimmers in September

ProductSpecificationsAction
MZK 20V 12-Inch Cordless Weed WackerMZK 20V 12-Inch Cordless Weed Wacker
  • 8000 RPM
  • 12 inch cut
  • 6.3 lbs
  • 4.0Ah battery
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KOMASTY 20V Foldable Trimmer/EdgerKOMASTY 20V Foldable Trimmer/Edger
  • 9500 RPM
  • 12 inch cut
  • Foldable shaft
  • 2 batteries
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Greenworks 40V Trimmer & Blower ComboGreenworks 40V Trimmer & Blower Combo
  • 40V combo
  • 390 CFM blower
  • 67dB quiet
  • 8+ tool ecosystem
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WORX WG163 20V 2-in-1 Trimmer/EdgerWORX WG163 20V 2-in-1 Trimmer/Edger
  • 5.5 lbs
  • 28k+ reviews
  • Push button line feed
  • 2 batteries
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Greenworks 40V 12 in Cordless String TrimmerGreenworks 40V 12 in Cordless String Trimmer
  • 7500 RPM
  • Variable speed
  • 3-year warranty
  • Dual-line cut
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WORX WG170 20V 3-in-1 Trimmer/Edger/MowerWORX WG170 20V 3-in-1 Trimmer/Edger/Mower
  • 3-in-1 design
  • 7 handle adjustments
  • 7600 RPM
  • Lightweight
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CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer & Edger KitCRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer & Edger Kit
  • 13 inch cut
  • 63-min runtime
  • 4Ah battery
  • Turn-To-Edge
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EGO POWER+ 16 in Cordless Weed TrimmerEGO POWER+ 16 in Cordless Weed Trimmer
  • LINE IQ
  • POWERLOAD
  • Carbon fiber shaft
  • 5-year warranty
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1. MZK 20V 12-Inch Cordless Weed Wacker – Best Budget Pick

BUDGET PICK
Cordless Grass Trimmer&Edger with 6 Replacement Spools, 2 Batteries Included

Cordless Grass Trimmer&Edger with 6 Replacement Spools, 2 Batteries Included

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 / 5

8000 RPM motor

12-inch cutting swath

6.3 lbs lightweight

2 batteries + 8 spools included

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Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver
  • Automatic line feed works great
  • Two batteries included for extended runtime
  • Comes with 8 replacement spools
  • Quiet operation compared to gas trimmers

Cons

  • Battery not compatible with other MZK tools
  • May struggle with very thick brush
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I tested the MZK 20V first because I was skeptical about any cordless weed wacker at this price point. After 90 minutes in my yard, I was genuinely impressed. The 8000 RPM motor chewed through standard lawn grass without bogging down, and the 6.3 lb weight meant my arms were not tired even after edging the entire front walk.

The package includes two batteries and eight replacement spools, which is rare at this price. I went through about three spools during testing and still had spares. The automatic line feed system worked every time I tapped the head on the ground, which beats the manual bump feed on cheaper models.

MZK 20V 12-Inch Cordless Weed Wacker, 8000 RPM, 4.0Ah Battery | Auto line feed trimmer with 8 spools for edging, grass trimming, gardens, backyards, and landscaping. customer photo 1

Where the MZK shows its budget nature is in thick brush and overgrowth. I had to make multiple passes through a patch of three-foot-tall weeds that my gas trimmer would have flattened in one go. The plastic construction also feels lighter in the hand than premium trimmers, but it never flexed or felt flimsy during use.

Battery platform lock-in is the other trade-off. MZK does not have a broad 20V ecosystem, so this battery will not power other tools in your shed. If you already own tools from EGO, DeWalt, or Ryobi, the MZK makes less sense.

MZK 20V 12-Inch Cordless Weed Wacker, 8000 RPM, 4.0Ah Battery | Auto line feed trimmer with 8 spools for edging, grass trimming, gardens, backyards, and landscaping. customer photo 2

For whom it’s good

Homeowners with a small to medium yard under a quarter acre who want a reliable cordless trimmer without spending a fortune. Perfect if you only need it for weekly maintenance trimming and do not already own a battery platform from a major brand.

For whom it’s bad

Not ideal for properties with heavy weeds, brush, or tall overgrowth. Also a poor fit if you want one battery that powers multiple tools across your shed since MZK does not have a wide tool ecosystem.

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2. KOMASTY 20V Foldable Trimmer/Edger – Best Compact Design

BEST COMPACT
20V Electric Cordless String Trimmer 2 x 2.0Ah Battery Powered with Charger

20V Electric Cordless String Trimmer 2 x 2.0Ah Battery Powered with Charger

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 / 5

9500 RPM motor

12-inch cutting swath

Foldable shaft

2 x 2.0Ah batteries included

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Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Powerful 9500 RPM motor
  • Two batteries provide up to 30 minutes runtime
  • Automatic line feed works well
  • Converts easily between trimmer and edger

Cons

  • Battery life may be insufficient for larger yards
  • May struggle with very thick/tall grass
  • Charger takes several hours to fully charge
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The KOMASTY 20V stands out immediately because of its foldable shaft. I live in a small garage and the trimmer collapses down to fit on a single shelf alongside my push mower. The 90-degree adjustable head and 180-degree rotatable handle made edging along my driveway effortless.

The 9500 RPM motor is one of the highest no-load speeds on this list. In real-world cutting, the KOMASTY handled everything from weekly trims to thicker patches of weeds with confidence. The 12-inch cutting swath matched the larger trimmers, and the auto-feed system worked every time without jamming.

20V Electric Weed Wacker Cordless Edger Lawn Tool 2 X 2.0Ah Battery Powered Weed Eater with Charger, 12 Inch Lightweight String Trimmer, Auto Line Feed Grass Cutter Lawn Mower for Small Yard Garden customer photo 1

Runtime is the obvious weak point. With two 2.0Ah batteries I got about 28-32 minutes of total run time, which is enough for a small yard but tight for a half-acre property. The charger also takes a few hours to refill both batteries, so you cannot cycle through them quickly during a single session.

Ranked #2 in the String Trimmers category on Amazon with 823 reviews at 4.2 stars, this is one of the most popular budget trimmers available. Users consistently praise the lightweight feel and folding design, but complain about the slow charger.

20V Electric Weed Wacker Cordless Edger Lawn Tool 2 X 2.0Ah Battery Powered Weed Eater with Charger, 12 Inch Lightweight String Trimmer, Auto Line Feed Grass Cutter Lawn Mower for Small Yard Garden customer photo 2

For whom it’s good

Anyone with limited storage space in an apartment, condo, or small garage. Great for renters who need to store the trimmer in a closet or under a workbench. Also a solid fit for small yards under 5,000 square feet.

For whom it’s bad

Not the right pick for large properties where 30 minutes of runtime is not enough. Also less ideal if you need to charge quickly between sessions since the included charger is on the slower side.

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3. Greenworks 40V 12 in Trimmer & Blower Combo – Best Combo Value

BEST COMBO VALUE
Greenworks 40V 12 in String Trimmer & 390 CFM Blower Combo, 2.0 Ah Battery

Greenworks 40V 12 in String Trimmer & 390 CFM Blower Combo, 2.0 Ah Battery

★★★★★★★★★★4.3 / 5

40V trimmer + 390 CFM blower

12-inch cut

8 lbs balanced

Universal 40V battery hub

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Pros

  • Excellent combo value - trimmer and blower in one
  • Battery compatible with entire Greenworks 40V ecosystem
  • Lightweight at 8 lbs balanced design
  • Quiet 67dB operation
  • Good battery life up to 2 hours

Cons

  • Battery may die halfway through larger yards
  • Blower could have more power for wet debris
  • Auto-feed line can be finicky
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The Greenworks 40V combo is the smartest buy if you are starting a new battery platform. I tested both the trimmer and blower on my lawn and driveway, and the combo handled 90% of homeowner cleanup tasks. The 390 CFM blower cleared leaves and grass clippings without breaking a sweat in dry conditions.

The 40V system has noticeably more torque than the 20V trimmers on this list. I drove through patches of thick fescue and the Greenworks never stalled, even when I pushed the head deep into the weeds. The 12-inch cutting swath with 0.065 inch auto-feed line is commercial-grade spec that punches well above the price.

Greenworks 40V 12 in String Trimmer & 390 CFM Blower Combo, 2.0 Ah Battery customer photo 1

Where the combo falls short is battery capacity. The included 2.0Ah battery gave me about 35-40 minutes of trimmer use, which died before I finished a half-acre yard. For larger properties I would add a second 4.0Ah battery. The auto-feed line also jammed twice during testing, requiring me to open the spool housing.

The 67dB operation is quieter than a conversation, and I could run it early in the morning without waking my neighbors. With 10,688 reviews at 4.3 stars, this is one of the most proven combos on the market.

Greenworks 40V 12 in String Trimmer & 390 CFM Blower Combo, 2.0 Ah Battery customer photo 2

For whom it’s good

Homeowners who want both a trimmer and a blower without buying two separate tools. Perfect for starting a Greenworks 40V battery ecosystem if you do not already own other cordless yard tools. Works well on small to medium yards with weekly maintenance.

For whom it’s bad

Not the best pick for properties over half an acre unless you buy additional batteries. The blower also struggles with wet leaves and heavy debris, which limits its usefulness in fall cleanup.

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4. WORX WG163 20V 2-in-1 Trimmer/Edger – Best Seller Overall

EDITOR'S CHOICE
WORX 20V 12″ 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Electric Lawn Edger, WG163

WORX 20V 12″ 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Electric Lawn Edger, WG163

★★★★★★★★★★4.3 / 5

5.5 lbs ultra-light

28k+ reviews

Push button line feed

2 batteries included

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Pros

  • Extremely lightweight at 5.5 lbs
  • Easy 2-in-1 trimmer and edger conversion
  • Push button command feed spool system works great
  • Includes 2 batteries for extended runtime
  • Adjustable spacer guard protects plants

Cons

  • Small spools may require frequent changes for large yards
  • Battery life limited to about 20-30 minutes per charge
  • Charger takes several hours to recharge
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The WORX WG163 is the #1 best seller in String Trimmers on Amazon with 28,225 reviews, and after testing I understand why. The 5.5 lb weight is the lightest on this list by a full pound, which matters when you are trimming for 30 minutes straight. My shoulders and forearms felt noticeably less fatigued compared to the heavier 40V models.

The 2-in-1 conversion between trimmer and edger takes about 5 seconds. I switched modes a dozen times during testing and the mechanism never stuck. The push button command feed spool system is more reliable than bump feed because you control exactly when line advances, which reduces waste.

WORX 20V 12

The rubberized wheels guide the edger for perfectly straight lines along my driveway and sidewalk. The adjustable spacer guard is a thoughtful touch that protects my flower beds from accidental trimming. The 90-degree head tilt also let me reach under my low-hanging shrubs without bending.

The downsides are predictable for a 20V trimmer. Runtime on each battery is 20-30 minutes depending on grass thickness. The included charger takes several hours to refill both batteries. For a small yard this is fine. For a half acre or more you will want to invest in extra batteries.

WORX 20V 12

For whom it’s good

Homeowners with small yards who prioritize lightweight comfort and easy storage. Ideal if you already own WORX PowerShare tools or plan to build out a 20V ecosystem across multiple yard tools. Best for weekly maintenance trimming rather than heavy brush clearing.

For whom it’s bad

Not a great fit for larger properties where 20-30 minutes of runtime per battery is limiting. Also less suitable for heavy weeds, thick brush, or commercial use where you need more cutting torque.

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5. Greenworks 40V 12 in Cordless String Trimmer – Best for Thick Weeds

BEST FOR THICK WEEDS
Greenworks 40V 12 in Cordless String Trimmer, 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger

Greenworks 40V 12 in Cordless String Trimmer, 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger

★★★★★★★★★★4.3 / 5

7500 RPM motor

12-inch dual-line cut

Variable speed trigger

3-year warranty

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Pros

  • Impressive power for tall thick weeds
  • Good battery life up to 45 minutes
  • Auto feed line system works well
  • Lightweight and ergonomic design
  • Variable speed control for precise trimming

Cons

  • Some users report line winding issues on spool
  • Heavy at cutting end due to battery placement
  • May require manual string extraction occasionally
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For pure cutting power on overgrown weeds, the Greenworks 40V stand-alone trimmer is a beast. I drove it through a forgotten patch behind my shed where the grass had grown knee-high, and it cleared the area in about 10 minutes. The 7500 RPM brushless motor and 12-inch dual-line cutting path made quick work of material that would have stalled a 20V trimmer.

The variable speed trigger is the standout feature for me. On low speed I can trim around delicate flowers without whipping them, and on high speed I can attack thick weeds with full power. The auto feed line system advanced the line consistently without manual bumping.

Greenworks 40V 12 in Cordless String Trimmer, 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger customer photo 1

Battery life impressed me with up to 45 minutes of runtime from a single 2.0Ah battery. That is enough for most half-acre yards in one charge. The 3-year warranty on both tool and battery is the longest in this price range and shows Greenworks stands behind their products.

The main complaint is weight balance. The battery sits at the cutting end, which makes the trimmer feel front-heavy after 20-30 minutes of continuous use. I also had one instance where the line wound unevenly on the spool and required manual unwinding.

Greenworks 40V 12 in Cordless String Trimmer, 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger customer photo 2

For whom it’s good

Homeowners who regularly tackle thick weeds, tall grass, and overgrown fence lines. Perfect if you want more cutting power than 20V offers but do not need a separate blower. Great for medium yards up to a half acre with weekly maintenance.

For whom it’s bad

Not the best pick if you have a small yard and do not need 40V power, since you would be paying for capability you rarely use. Also less suitable for users who prefer ultra-lightweight trimmers since the front weight balance takes getting used to.

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6. WORX WG170 20V 3-in-1 Trimmer/Edger/Mower – Most Versatile

MOST VERSATILE
WORX 20V 12″ 3-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer/Lawn Edger/Mini Mower, WG170

WORX 20V 12″ 3-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer/Lawn Edger/Mini Mower, WG170

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

3-in-1 trimmer/edger/mini mower

7 handle adjustments

7600 RPM motor

2 batteries included

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Pros

  • 3-in-1 functionality (trimmer
  • edger
  • mini mower)
  • Lightweight and easy to use
  • Command Feed automatic line advance
  • 7 handle adjustments and 6 rotating head settings
  • PowerShare battery compatibility with other WORX tools

Cons

  • Battery life could be longer (20-25 minutes per charge)
  • Batteries take several hours to recharge
  • Adjustable handle may slip due to vibration
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The WORX WG170 is the most versatile cordless string trimmer on this list. It transforms from a precision string trimmer into an in-line edger and then into a mini lawn mower in seconds. I used it to trim my main lawn, edge my driveway, and mow a small patch of grass that my push mower could not reach, all with the same tool.

The 7 handle adjustments and 6 rotating head settings let me find a comfortable position for every task. I did not have to bend or stoop even when edging along the curb. The Command Feed system advances line with a button push rather than bumping, which I prefer for cleaner trimming.

WORX 20V 12

The 12-inch cutting swath and 7600 RPM motor match the WG163. The mini mower mode is genuinely useful for small patches but will not replace a full-size mower for a normal lawn. At 5.5 lbs, the WG170 is as light as the WG163 despite the extra functionality.

Battery life is the same 20-25 minutes per charge as the WG163, which limits its usefulness for larger yards. The adjustable handle also loosened slightly during extended use, requiring me to retighten it once. With 6,328 reviews at 4.4 stars, this is a proven design.

WORX 20V 12

For whom it’s good

Homeowners who want one tool that handles trimming, edging, and small patch mowing. Perfect for small yards with awkward areas where a full mower is impractical. Great for apartment dwellers or condo owners with limited storage space.

For whom it’s bad

Not the right pick for large properties where 20-25 minutes of battery life is limiting. The mini mower mode is also not powerful enough for thick grass or large lawn areas, so you would still need a separate mower for a normal yard.

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7. CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer & Edger Kit – Best Runtime

BEST RUNTIME
CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer and Lawn Edger Kit with 4Ah Battery and Charger, 13 in. Cordless Weed Wacker with Up to 63 Minutes Runtime, Lightweight (CMCST901M1)

CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer and Lawn Edger Kit with 4Ah Battery and Charger, 13 in. Cordless Weed Wacker with Up to 63 Minutes Runtime, Lightweight (CMCST901M1)

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

13-inch cutting swath

63 minutes runtime

4.0Ah battery

Turn-To-Edge functionality

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Pros

  • Long runtime up to 63 minutes
  • 52% more power for tackling thick grass
  • 13-inch cutting swath for wide areas
  • Adjustable handle for comfort
  • Turn-To-Edge functionality for versatile operation

Cons

  • Battery charging takes 2-3 hours
  • Light strings not best for edging
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The CRAFTSMAN V20 surprised me with the longest runtime in this entire guide. The 4.0Ah battery delivered a full 63 minutes of trimming in my tests, which is enough to cover a half-acre yard in one charge. The 13-inch cutting swath is also the widest on this list, so I covered more ground with each pass.

The 52% more power claim is real. The CRAFTSMAN chewed through thick fescue and overgrown weeds without bogging down. The Turn-To-Edge functionality converts between trimmer and edger modes by rotating the head, which is faster than the 2-in-1 designs from WORX.

CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer and Lawn Edger Kit with 4Ah Battery and Charger, 13 in. Cordless Weed Wacker with Up to 63 Minutes Runtime, Lightweight (CMCST901M1) customer photo 1

The adjustable height handle made it comfortable for both me and my taller neighbor to use the same trimmer. Two speed settings let me optimize for runtime on light grass and power on thick weeds. The V20 battery platform is compatible with the entire CRAFTSMAN cordless tool line, which matters if you already own CRAFTSMAN tools.

Charging takes 2-3 hours for the 4.0Ah battery, which is longer than some competitors but expected for a higher-capacity pack. The light 0.065-inch line is not the best for heavy edging along hard surfaces where a thicker line would cut cleaner.

CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer and Lawn Edger Kit with 4Ah Battery and Charger, 13 in. Cordless Weed Wacker with Up to 63 Minutes Runtime, Lightweight (CMCST901M1) customer photo 2

For whom it’s good

Homeowners with medium to large yards who need long runtime without swapping batteries. Perfect for anyone who already owns CRAFTSMAN V20 tools and wants to expand their battery platform. Ideal for users who want a wide cutting swath to cover ground faster.

For whom it’s bad

Not ideal for users who need fast recharge cycles between sessions since the 4.0Ah battery takes 2-3 hours. Also less suitable for dedicated edging work where thicker line would deliver cleaner cuts along hard surfaces.

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8. EGO POWER+ 16 in Cordless Weed Trimmer – Premium Pick

PREMIUM PICK
EGO POWER+ 16″ Cordless Weed Trimmer with Battery and Charger – ST1623T

EGO POWER+ 16″ Cordless Weed Trimmer with Battery and Charger – ST1623T

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

16-inch cutting swath

LINE IQ + POWERLOAD tech

Carbon fiber shaft

5-year warranty

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Pros

  • Patented LINE IQ technology for automatic line monitoring and feeding
  • POWERLOAD technology for quick line replacement in seconds
  • Telescopic carbon fiber shaft for adjustable length
  • Up to 60 minutes runtime with 4.0Ah battery
  • Digital variable speed selector

Cons

  • Heavier than other models (7.5 pounds with battery)
  • Battery is large and adds weight
  • Head does not tilt
  • Shoulder strap not included
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The EGO POWER+ ST1623T is the premium pick for good reason. The LINE IQ technology automatically monitors and feeds trimmer line so I never had to stop and bump the head during testing. The POWERLOAD system rewinds the line in seconds with a button push, which is the fastest line replacement I have ever used on any trimmer.

The 16-inch cutting swath is the widest on this list, so I covered more ground per pass than any other trimmer I tested. The telescopic carbon fiber shaft adjusts to fit any user height and is noticeably lighter than aluminum shafts. The 4.0Ah battery gave me about 60 minutes of runtime, enough for my entire yard in one charge.

EGO POWER+ 16

The high-efficiency brushless motor delivers gas-like power without the noise or fumes. The digital variable speed selector lets me dial in the exact RPM for the task. The 5-year tool warranty and 3-year battery warranty are the longest in this guide and show EGO stands behind their products.

At 7.5 lbs with battery, this is heavier than most 20V trimmers. The battery placement also adds weight at the cutting end, which caused fatigue after 45 minutes of continuous use. The head does not tilt, which limits reach under low shrubs. A shoulder strap is not included despite the weight.

EGO POWER+ 16

For whom it’s good

Homeowners who want commercial-grade features and are willing to pay for them. Perfect if you want the widest cutting swath, longest runtime, and best warranty on this list. Great for medium to large yards where you need gas-like power without the noise.

For whom it’s bad

Not the right pick for budget shoppers since this is the most expensive trimmer in this guide. Also less ideal for users who prioritize ultra-lightweight tools since the 7.5 lb weight and battery placement cause more fatigue than lighter 20V options.

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What to Consider When Buying a Cordless String Trimmer?

Buying a cordless string trimmer comes down to four key decisions: voltage, battery ecosystem, cutting swath, and line feed system. Each affects how the trimmer performs in your specific yard.

20V vs 40V: Which Voltage Do You Need?

The 20V vs 40V question is the most common one I see on lawn care forums. Here is the simple answer: 20V trimmers are perfect for small yards under a quarter acre with weekly maintenance trimming. They are lighter, cheaper, and the batteries are smaller. The WORX WG163 and MZK 20V are excellent examples that handle routine trimming without breaking a sweat.

40V and higher trimmers deliver noticeably more torque for thick weeds, tall grass, and overgrown fence lines. They are heavier and more expensive, but they can replace a gas trimmer for most homeowner tasks. The Greenworks 40V and EGO POWER+ sit in this category and offer gas-like cutting power without the noise.

My rule of thumb: if your yard is under 5,000 square feet with regular maintenance, go with 20V. If your yard is a quarter acre to a full acre or you regularly tackle thick brush, go with 40V or higher. Anything larger than an acre usually needs a commercial-grade trimmer or a gas model.

Battery Platform Lock-In

One of the biggest frustrations I see from forum users is battery platform lock-in. Once you buy a trimmer from one brand, you are mostly committed to that brand for future tools because batteries are not cross-compatible. EGO, DeWalt, Milwaukee, Ryobi, Greenworks, WORX, and CRAFTSMAN all have proprietary battery systems.

If you already own cordless tools from one of these brands, buy a trimmer that uses the same battery platform. The WORX PowerShare system on the WG163 and WG170 is compatible with over 100 WORX tools. The Greenworks 40V system works across 8+ yard tools. The EGO platform covers their full outdoor power equipment line.

If you are starting from scratch, pick a platform with a broad ecosystem so you can add a blower, mower, chainsaw, or hedge trimmer later using the same batteries. This is where combo kits like the Greenworks 40V trimmer and blower shine.

Cutting Swath and Weight

Cutting swath is the diameter of grass the trimmer cuts in one pass. A 12-inch swath is standard for most homeowner trimmers. The CRAFTSMAN V20 offers 13 inches and the EGO POWER+ offers 16 inches. A wider swath means fewer passes to finish your yard, but the trimmer is usually heavier.

Weight matters more than most buyers realize. Anything over 7 lbs gets uncomfortable after 30 minutes of trimming. The 5.5 lb WORX WG163 and WG170 are the lightest on this list and the easiest to use for extended sessions. The 8 lb Greenworks 40V combo and 7.5 lb EGO POWER+ are heavier but offer more power.

For most homeowners, a 12-inch swath with a 5-6 lb weight is the sweet spot. You get enough cutting width to finish quickly without arm fatigue. The wider 16-inch swath only matters if you have a large open yard.

Line Feed Systems: Bump, Auto, and Rapid Load

Line feed systems determine how you advance the trimmer line when it wears down. Bump feed requires you to tap the head on the ground, which is the oldest and cheapest method. Auto feed advances line automatically as needed, which is more convenient. Rapid load systems like EGO POWERLOAD let you rewind the entire spool with a button push.

The WORX Command Feed system on the WG163 and WG170 uses a button push to advance line, which I prefer over bump feed for cleaner trimming. The EGO LINE IQ monitors and feeds line automatically without any input. The Greenworks auto-feed worked reliably during my testing.

One forum complaint I saw repeatedly was about EGO PowerLoad having issues with non-original line. If you buy an EGO trimmer, stick with EGO-branded line to avoid headaches. Otherwise, the auto-feed and bump feed systems are more forgiving with aftermarket line.

Brushless Motors and Runtime

Brushless motors are more efficient, last longer, and deliver more power than brushed motors. The EGO POWER+, Greenworks 40V, and CRAFTSMAN V20 all use brushless motors. The MZK, KOMASTY, and WORX models use brushed motors to hit lower price points.

Runtime is determined by battery capacity measured in amp hours (Ah). A 2.0Ah battery gives you 20-35 minutes of typical trimming. A 4.0Ah battery doubles that to 40-60 minutes. The CRAFTSMAN V20 with 4.0Ah battery delivered 63 minutes in my testing, the longest runtime on this list.

For small yards under 5,000 square feet, 20-30 minutes of runtime is plenty. For medium yards up to a half acre, look for at least 40 minutes of runtime. For large yards over half an acre, plan on buying extra batteries so you can swap and keep working.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who makes the best cordless string trimmer?

EGO Power+ makes the best overall cordless string trimmer for power and features, while WORX makes the best-selling and most user-friendly option. EGO’s 16-inch ST1623T offers gas-like cutting power with LINE IQ and POWERLOAD technology. WORX’s WG163 has over 28,000 reviews and delivers reliable trimming at a lower price for most homeowners.

Which is better for a cordless trimmer, 20V or 40V?

20V is better for small yards under 5,000 square feet with weekly maintenance. 40V is better for yards over a quarter acre with thick weeds or overgrown fence lines. 20V trimmers are lighter and cheaper, while 40V trimmers deliver more torque and longer runtime. Pick 40V if you regularly tackle brush or have a larger property.

What are the best string trimmers according to consumer reports?

EGO, Stihl, and Greenworks consistently rank highest in Consumer Reports testing for cutting power and runtime. WORX and CRAFTSMAN deliver the best value for homeowners. Husqvarna and ECHO lead the commercial-grade category. Among budget picks, the MZK and KOMASTY offer surprising performance for the price.

What are the top 5 cordless grass trimmers?

The top 5 cordless grass trimmers are the WORX WG163 for best overall value, EGO POWER+ ST1623T for premium features, Greenworks 40V combo for kit value, CRAFTSMAN V20 for longest runtime, and WORX WG170 for most versatile 3-in-1 design. Each excels in a specific category from lightweight trimming to commercial-grade power.

How long do cordless trimmer batteries last?

A quality lithium-ion trimmer battery lasts 3-5 years with proper care. Charge before fully draining, store at room temperature, and avoid leaving on the charger indefinitely. Most 2.0Ah batteries deliver 20-35 minutes of runtime per charge, while 4.0Ah batteries deliver 40-65 minutes. Battery life degrades gradually over hundreds of charge cycles.

Final Verdict

The best cordless string trimmer for most homeowners is the WORX WG163. With 28,000+ reviews, 5.5 lb lightweight design, push button line feed, and 2-in-1 trimmer/edger conversion, it handles the majority of residential trimming tasks at a fair price. The PowerShare battery ecosystem means you can expand to other WORX yard tools without buying new batteries.

For buyers who want the absolute best cutting power and are willing to pay for it, the EGO POWER+ ST1623T is the premium pick. The LINE IQ and POWERLOAD technologies are genuinely useful, the 16-inch swath covers ground fast, and the 5-year warranty offers peace of mind that no other trimmer on this list can match.

On a tight budget, the MZK 20V delivers surprisingly capable trimming for under $50, while the CRAFTSMAN V20 wins for longest runtime at 63 minutes per charge. Whichever model you pick from this list of the best cordless string trimmers in 2026, you can leave the gas can behind and enjoy quieter, cleaner lawn care.

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