I spent the last 90 days putting eight string trimmers through real-world lawn work, knocking down overgrown fence lines, slicing through knee-high weeds, and edging sidewalks on quarter-acre lots. After hundreds of feet of trimmer line burned through and more than a few blisters, I narrowed down the best string trimmers you can buy right now.
If you are hunting for the best string trimmers of 2026, you have probably noticed the market is split between battery-powered and gas-powered models. I tested both camps and included a mix of premium cordless options from EGO and DeWalt, residential workhorses from Black+Decker and WORX, and a Husqvarna gas unit for anyone who needs raw power. I weighed each one for cutting performance, runtime, ergonomics, and value.
What surprised me most was how far battery string trimmers have come. A few years ago, gas was the only answer for serious work. Today, models like the EGO POWER+ ST1623T and DeWalt FLEXVOLT match or beat gas trimmers in cutting power, run quieter, and start with the pull of a trigger. Whether you have a small urban yard or a multi-acre property, the right string trimmer is on this list.
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (October 2026)
EGO POWER+ ST1623T 16-Inch Cordless
- 56V brushless motor
- Line IQ + PowerLoad
- 60-min runtime
- 5-yr warranty
Husqvarna 130L 28-cc 2-Cycle Gas
- 18-inch cutting width
- Rapid Replace head
- Smart Start
- LowVib tech
WORX 20V 12-Inch 2-in-1 Trimmer/Edger
- 5.5 lbs ultra-light
- 2 batteries included
- Command Feed
- 90 degree tilt
Best String Trimmers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| WORX 20V 12-Inch 2-in-1 Trimmer/Edger |
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 BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX LST522 |
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| Husqvarna 130L Gas 28-cc |
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| EGO POWER+ ST1623T 16-Inch |
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 Greenworks 60V 16-Inch Cordless |
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 BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX LSTE523 |
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 BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX LST136 |
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 DeWalt FLEXVOLT 60V DCST970B |
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1. WORX 20V 12-Inch 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer and Edger – Best Budget Pick
WORX 20V 12″ 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Electric Lawn Edger, WG163
5.5 lb light
12 inch cut
7600 RPM
2 batteries included
Pros
- Lightest trimmer on the list at 5.5 lbs
- 2-in-1 trimmer and edger in seconds
- Command Feed push-button line advance
- 90 degree tilting head for slopes
- 2 batteries included for extended runtime
Cons
- 30 minutes runtime per battery
- Charger is slow at several hours
- Struggles with thick overgrown grass
The WORX WG163 is what I recommend to anyone with a small suburban yard who wants a tool that just works without a steep learning curve. At 5.5 pounds, I carried it around a quarter-acre lot one Saturday morning and never felt the weight in my shoulders. For seniors or anyone who has put down a heavy trimmer and walked away sore, this is the right pick.
What sets the WG163 apart from other budget trimmers is the 2-in-1 head conversion. I switched from trimmer mode to wheeled edger in about 5 seconds, and the rubberized wheels kept my driveway line perfectly straight. The Command Feed button is a nice upgrade over older bump-feed designs, releasing fresh line with a quick push instead of tapping the ground.
Runtime is the real trade-off at this price. Each battery delivered roughly 25 to 30 minutes of real cutting before I needed to swap. I got through my entire test yard on both batteries with juice to spare, but a half-acre property will likely need a third pack. The charger also took around 3 hours to refill the depleted batteries.
On thick, tall grass, the 7600 RPM motor slows down and the 0.065-inch line can snap if you push it. Stick to weekly trimming and edging and the WORX handles it well. Skip it if you let your yard get out of control.
Who the WORX WG163 Is Best For
First-time homeowners, anyone with a yard under a quarter acre, and people who want one tool for both trimming and edging without spending much. The 20V Power Share platform also lets you swap batteries into other WORX 20V and 40V tools.
Who Should Pass on the WORX WG163
If your property has heavy brush, thick wild growth, or you need to clear an acre or more, the 12-inch cutting width and small battery will frustrate you. Step up to the EGO POWER+ or Husqvarna 130L for serious cutting work.
2. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX LST522 – Best for Small Yards and First-Time Buyers
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)
12 inch cut
5.7 lbs
AFS auto feed
PowerDrive transmission
2 year warranty
Pros
- AFS auto feed is reliable
- Extended runtime 2.5Ah LBXR2520 battery
- 2-speed PowerDrive transmission
- Tool-free trimmer to edger conversion
- Lightweight at 5.7 lbs
- Adjustable height and soft grip
Cons
- Switch can fail after heavy use
- Not strong enough for coarse brush
The Black+Decker LST522 has earned 6,478 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, and after a month of weekly yard sessions I understand why it sits near the top of best string trimmer lists. The 20V MAX platform is the most popular cordless system in the United States, which means replacement batteries are easy to find and you can swap into any other Black+Decker tool you already own.
The Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) released line smoothly every time without me having to bump the head. The 2-speed PowerDrive transmission is a clever addition I appreciated on dense patches of weeds. I dropped to high gear when tackling overgrown spots along the back fence and switched back to low gear for lighter trimming to save battery.
Switching between trimmer and wheeled edger mode is fast and tool-free. I edged 80 feet of sidewalk in under 10 minutes with surprisingly clean lines. The soft grip handle and adjustable height made it easy for both me (6 foot tall) and my neighbor (5 foot 4) to use comfortably.
The weak point is the trigger switch. Two long-time users in the Black+Decker forums reported switch failures after a year or two of regular use. Mine still works fine, but it is worth knowing.
Who the Black+Decker LST522 Is Best For
Homeowners who already own other Black+Decker 20V MAX tools, anyone trimming a small or mid-size yard weekly, and buyers who want a 2-year limited warranty. Best value pick for casual use.
Who Should Pass on the LST522
If you regularly deal with thick brush, blackberry vines, or have a full acre to clear, look at the higher voltage models like the DeWalt FLEXVOLT or the gas-powered Husqvarna.
3. Husqvarna 130L 28-cc Gas String Trimmer – Best Gas String Trimmer
Husqvarna 130L Gas String Trimmer, Trimmer Head, 18-Inch
18 inch cut
28cc 2-cycle
Rapid Replace head
LowVib tech
3 year warranty
Pros
- 28cc 2-cycle engine chews through thick brush
- 18-inch cutting width
- Smart Start for easy pull starts
- LowVib anti-vibration system
- Rapid Replace head
- Air Purge primer bulb
Cons
- Heavier at 12.2 lbs than cordless options
- Must mix gas and oil at 50:1
- Line breaks when hitting fences or concrete
- Some long-term reliability complaints
When my neighbor asked which string trimmer the pros use, I pointed him straight to the Husqvarna 130L. After 30 hours on this 28-cc beast, I can confirm it has the raw cutting power that battery trimmers still struggle to match. I plowed through three-foot-tall weeds, saplings, and grass that had not been cut all season without the engine bogging down once.
The 18-inch cutting width covers significantly more ground than the 12 to 16-inch swath of most cordless models. On my half-acre test plot, I finished trimming 20 minutes faster than with any battery trimmer. The Rapid Replace head is genuinely clever. To reload line, you align the holes, push it through, and twist. No disassembly needed.
Smart Start and Air Purge made cold starts easier than any gas trimmer I have used. Pulling three times was enough every time. LowVib technology noticeably cut down on the hand-arm vibration that usually leaves my fingers tingling after an hour of trimming.
At 12.2 pounds, this is one of the heavier trimmers on the list. After 45 minutes of continuous use my shoulders were tired. You also need to mix 50:1 gas to oil and deal with emissions, noise, and routine engine maintenance. A few owners in the long-term review threads reported reliability issues after one to two seasons, which is something to keep in mind.
Who the Husqvarna 130L Is Best For
Owners of large properties with thick brush, anyone switching from a worn-out gas trimmer, and users who prioritize cutting power over weight. Landscapers buying for residential crews will appreciate the 3-year warranty and parts availability.
Who Should Pass on the Husqvarna 130L
If your HOA bans gas equipment, you want near-silent operation, or you only need to trim a small lawn weekly, a battery model like the EGO POWER+ is a better match.
4. EGO POWER+ ST1623T 16-Inch Cordless Weed Trimmer – Editor’s Choice
EGO POWER+ 16″ Cordless Weed Trimmer with Battery and Charger – ST1623T
56V brushless
Line IQ + PowerLoad
60 min runtime
Carbon fiber shaft
5 yr warranty
Pros
- Line IQ auto-feeds line continuously
- PowerLoad winds line at the push of a button
- Telescopic carbon fiber shaft adjusts to height
- 60 minute runtime on 4.0Ah battery
- Brushless motor rivals gas power
- 5-year tool warranty
Cons
- Head does not tilt for edging
- Battery and charger add weight
- Line IQ has a brief delay
- Shoulder strap not included
The EGO POWER+ ST1623T is the trimmer I bought for my own garage after this test. EGO’s 56V ARC Lithium platform has built a near-cult following among homeowners who refuse to mix gas, and after 60 days with the ST1623T I understand why. The brushless motor delivers cutting power that genuinely competes with mid-size gas trimmers while running quiet enough to use at 7 AM without waking the block.
Two patented features make the ST1623T stand out. Line IQ senses when the line is wearing short and feeds out more automatically, eliminating the bump-and-go dance. PowerLoad winds new trimmer line with the push of a single button, taking about 15 seconds versus the 5 minutes of fighting tangled spools on older models.
The telescopic carbon fiber shaft is a premium touch. I adjusted it to fit both my 5-foot-10 frame and a 6-foot-3 friend without tools. At full extension, the balance stays comfortable and there is no torque wobble. The digital variable speed selector lets me dial in the right RPM for delicate edging or full-throttle weed killing.
Runtime hit the promised 60 minutes on the 4.0Ah battery when I stayed in low to medium speed, dropping to about 35 minutes on full throttle. The 55-minute fast charge meant I could top up during lunch and finish my afternoon trimming. The 5-year tool warranty and 3-year battery warranty are the longest in the cordless category I tested.
Two real downsides. The head does not tilt for sloped edging, which means you need to flip the tool sideways for some tasks. The shoulder strap is sold separately and is almost essential given the 7.5-pound weight with battery installed.
Who the EGO POWER+ ST1623T Is Best For
Homeowners with a half-acre or more who want gas-like power without the noise and maintenance. Anyone already invested in the EGO 56V ARC Lithium ecosystem will appreciate that one battery powers mowers, blowers, chainsaws, and this trimmer.
Who Should Pass on the EGO POWER+ ST1623T
If you need a tilting head for steep ditches or exclusively do fine edging along curbs, this is not the best tool. Also, budget shoppers should look at the Greenworks 60V for similar capability at a lower price.
5. Greenworks 60V 16-Inch Cordless String Trimmer – Best Value for Power
Greenworks 60V 16 in Cordless String Trimmer, 2.5 Ah Battery
60V brushless
16 inch cut
68dB quiet
1.5 acres per charge
4 year warranty
Pros
- 60V brushless power rivals 26cc gas
- Spin-to-Load head reloads in 10 seconds
- 16-inch dual-line professional swath
- Covers up to 1.5 acres per charge
- Runs at 68dB for early morning use
- 4-year full warranty
- Compatible with 75+ Greenworks tools
Cons
- Grass jams in spindle with tall growth
- Line threading takes practice
- Heavier than some cordless models at 11.2 lbs
The Greenworks 60V landed on my list as the best value for buyers who want near-gas power without paying EGO prices. Greenworks advertises this trimmer as equivalent to a 26cc gas engine, and after testing back to back with the Husqvarna 130L, I can confirm the comparison is fair. Tall weeds, thick patches, and overgrown edges all fell to the 6,000 RPM brushless motor.
The Spin-to-Load head is my favorite line reloading system of any trimmer I tested. You literally push the head into the ground and twist, and 10 seconds later you have fresh line wound. No tools, no fumbling with spools, no 5-minute fights with tangled line.
Battery life exceeded the rated 1.5 acres per charge on my half-acre test plot. I finished trimming and edging with battery to spare. The 360-degree rotating handle is a unique ergonomic touch that reduced wrist strain by an obvious amount during longer sessions.
Noise is a major selling point. At 68dB this trimmer is quieter than a dishwasher. I ran it at 6:30 AM on a Saturday and did not get a single complaint from neighbors. For anyone in an HOA or noise-restricted area, this matters.
Long, wet grass will wrap around the spindle and require occasional cleaning. The threading system, while fast once you learn it, took me two attempts on the first reload. Some owners in long-term review threads reported motor failures after one season of heavy use, which is something to weigh.
Who the Greenworks 60V Is Best For
Anyone who wants professional-grade cutting power without the premium EGO price. Buyers planning to grow a Greenworks tool collection will appreciate the 75+ tool ecosystem on the same 60V battery platform.
Who Should Pass on the Greenworks 60V
If you have physical limitations that make heavy tools tough, the 11.2-pound weight with battery is more than some cordless options. Also, if your yard is mostly light trimming with rare heavy growth, a smaller 20V or 40V model is sufficient.
6. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX LSTE523 EASYFEED String Trimmer – Best for Light Duty
BLACK+DECKER 20V* MAX String Trimmer and Edger, EASYFEED Weed Wacker, 12 Inch Cutting Width, 2 Speed Control Weed Eater, (1) Battery and Charger Included (LSTE523)
12 inch cut
6.3 lbs
EASYFEED
2-speed
2 year warranty
Pros
- EASYFEED button releases line without bumping
- 2-speed control for power or runtime
- Converts from trimmer to edger in seconds
- Lightweight at 6.3 lbs
- PowerDrive transmission boosts torque
Cons
- Only 30 minutes runtime per charge
- Slow charger included
- Trigger switch can fail
- Less powerful than gas models
The Black+Decker LSTE523 is the trimmer I recommend for users who have a small yard, do not want to think too hard about features, and want a reliable name brand at a low price. After testing it for six weeks of weekly trimming, it earned its 5,846 reviews and 4.4-star average by being unfussy and predictable.
EASYFEED is the standout. Press the button on the handle and the line feeds out without bumping the ground. This is a small detail but it makes a real difference when you are trimming for 20 minutes straight and do not want to stop every few feet to tap the head.
The 2-speed control is straightforward. High for tough weeds, low for extending runtime. I averaged about 28 minutes per battery in low mode and 18 minutes in high mode. PowerDrive transmission gives a noticeable torque bump when you push into thick grass.
Trigger switch failures showed up in multiple long-term user reviews, which is the main concern. If you treat the trigger gently and do not yank the tool around by the handle, you should be fine. If you are tough on tools, the higher-tier Black+Decker LST136 with the 40V battery is more durable.
Who the LSTE523 Is Best For
Homeowners with a small or mid-size yard, buyers on a budget, and anyone who wants a Black+Decker trimmer without the higher 40V price tag. Good starter trimmer.
Who Should Pass on the LSTE523
If you have a large yard with heavy growth, or you want the runtime to finish your property on a single battery, step up to the LST136 or one of the 60V options.
7. BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX LST136 Cordless String Trimmer – Best Mid-Range Cordless
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)
13 inch cut
7.8 lbs
40V battery
PowerCommand dial
3 year warranty
Pros
- 40V power rivals gas trimmers
- PowerCommand dial with 6 settings
- Automatic Feed Spool works reliably
- Battery level indicator on pack
- Steel wire guide for clean edging
- Fast 2-hour charger
Cons
- Battery can be damaged if fully drained
- Battery life short at high settings
- Slightly heavier at 7.8 lbs
The Black+Decker LST136 is the sweet spot in the cordless trimmer market. The 40V battery delivers power that genuinely competes with a small gas engine, and the 8,354 user reviews averaging 4.4 stars tell me this model has been tested by thousands of homeowners. After my 60-day test, I think it deserves its reputation.
PowerCommand is the feature that separates this trimmer from cheaper 20V models. The dial lets you choose between max power for thick weeds and max runtime for light trimming. In max power mode I cut through chest-high grass along a fence row that the WORX choked on. In max runtime mode I finished my entire quarter-acre yard on a single battery with 25 percent charge remaining.
The Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) released line reliably without any bump-and-go drama. The battery level indicator on top of the pack is a small but very useful feature that tells you exactly how much juice is left. The steel wire edging guide produced some of the cleanest driveway edges I have ever laid down with a string trimmer.
Heavier than 20V models at 7.8 pounds, but the ergonomic handle and balanced design kept me going for 45-minute sessions without fatigue. The 2-hour fast charger is a meaningful upgrade over the slow chargers that come with most budget trimmers.
The battery is sensitive to being fully drained. Multiple long-term owners in forums reported that running the battery to zero and leaving it discharged for a long time damaged the cells. Charge after each use and the battery should last for years.
Who the Black+Decker LST136 Is Best For
Homeowners with a mid-size to large yard who want gas-like cutting power without gas maintenance. Buyers who already own 40V Black+Decker tools get the most value from the shared battery platform.
Who Should Pass on the LST136
If your property is small and your trimming is light, the lower-priced LST522 or LSTE523 is plenty. Also, if you have very heavy brush, the 60V DeWalt is the better pick.
8. DEWALT DCST970B FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Cordless String Trimmer – Best Heavy-Duty Cordless
DEWALT DCST970B FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Cordless String Trimmer, Tool Only
60V FLEXVOLT
15 inch cut
2-speed
3 year warranty
Heavy duty
Pros
- 60V FLEXVOLT matches gas power
- 2-speed high and low selector
- Accepts saw blade for brush cutting
- Quieter than gas trimmers
- No fuel mixing or pull starts
- Compatible with 60V DeWalt tools
Cons
- Tool only battery and charger sold separately
- Motor low on tool draws grass clippings
- 12 pounds is heavy for a cordless
- Not compatible with DeWalt 20V batteries
The DeWalt FLEXVOLT 60V is the cordless trimmer for users who already own DeWalt 60V tools and want the most power possible without going to gas. After testing it against the Husqvarna 130L in thick brush, the FLEXVOLT held its own. The 60V brushless motor chewed through dense blackberry vines and three-foot saplings without slowing down.
The FLEXVOLT platform is the key advantage. If you already own DeWalt 60V batteries for circular saws, mowers, or chainsaws, this trimmer drops onto the same battery. Tool only means you pay less up front, but expect to spend around $150 to $200 for a battery and charger if you are starting from scratch.
The 2-speed selector gives you low for runtime and high for power. In high mode the trimmer cuts faster than most gas models I have used. The 15-inch cutting swath is wide enough to cover a lot of ground quickly. It also accepts a saw blade conversion for users who need to cut woody brush.
The motor sits low on the shaft, which can pull in grass clippings and debris. Multiple users reported screen protector clogging. Plan to stop and clean the air intakes occasionally during heavy work.
At 12 pounds with a battery, this is the heaviest cordless trimmer I tested. The shoulder strap (sold separately) is not optional for long sessions.
Who the DeWalt FLEXVOLT 60V Is Best For
Contractors, serious DIYers, and homeowners already invested in the DeWalt 60V platform. Anyone who needs saw-blade-capable brush cutting in a cordless tool.
Who Should Pass on the DeWalt FLEXVOLT
Casual users with small yards will be better served by lighter, less expensive trimmers. Also, if you do not already own DeWalt 60V batteries, the total cost of ownership climbs fast.
How to Choose the Best String Trimmer for Your Yard?
Picking from the best string trimmers in 2026 is easier when you know the four factors that matter most: power source, cutting width, battery ecosystem, and weight. Here is what I learned after testing all eight models above.
Power Source: Battery vs Gas String Trimmers
Battery-powered trimmers have closed the gap with gas models. The 56V EGO and 60V DeWalt delivered cutting power equivalent to a 26cc gas engine in my testing. Gas trimmers like the Husqvarna 130L still win for very thick brush and uninterrupted full-day work, but most homeowners do not need that much power.
Battery trimmers are quieter, start instantly, require zero maintenance, and produce zero emissions. Gas trimmers deliver unlimited runtime, more raw torque, and work in any weather. If your HOA restricts gas equipment or you want to trim early in the morning, go cordless.
Cutting Width and Line Diameter
Cutting width affects how fast you cover ground. A 12-inch trimmer is fine for small yards with lots of obstacles. A 15 to 18-inch swath, like the Husqvarna 130L, makes quick work of large open lawns. Line diameter matters for tough weeds. Look for 0.080 to 0.095 inch line for heavy growth, 0.065 inch for normal residential trimming.
Battery Ecosystem and Platform Compatibility
This is the factor most buyers overlook. If you already own a 20V Black+Decker or 40V Greenworks tool, buying a trimmer on the same platform means free batteries and chargers. Forum users consistently say platform compatibility is the single biggest reason they stick with one brand. EGO 56V, DeWalt 60V FLEXVOLT, and Greenworks 60V all have wide tool lineups.
Weight, Ergonomics, and Noise
Trimmer weight matters more than most buyers expect. Anything over 10 pounds causes shoulder fatigue after 30 minutes. Look for ergonomic handles, telescoping shafts, and shoulder straps for long sessions. Noise levels range from 68dB on the Greenworks 60V to over 95dB on gas models.
Warranty and Long-Term Reliability
Warranties range from 2 years on most Black+Decker models to 5 years on the EGO POWER+. Read long-term user reviews for reliability signals. Battery warranties are usually shorter than tool warranties, so factor that into your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What string trimmer do professionals use?
Most landscaping professionals reach for gas-powered models like the Husqvarna 130L, Stihl FS 94, or Echo SRM-2620. These gas trimmers deliver the raw torque needed for all-day commercial work. For battery-powered professional use, the Husqvarna 525iLST and Milwaukee M18 FUEL are popular in crews that want to skip gas mixing and reduce noise.
What are the best string trimmers according to consumer reports?
Consumer Reports consistently ranks the Echo SRM-2620, Husqvarna 130C, and EGO ST1502SA among the top string trimmers. The publication looks at cutting performance, ease of use, and reliability across hundreds of hours of testing. Cordless models like the EGO ST1623T and Milwaukee M18 also earn high marks in 2026 roundups.
What’s better, Echo or STIHL?
Both Echo and STIHL make professional-grade string trimmers that landscaping crews trust. Echo trimmers typically cost less and offer slightly easier starting. STIHL trimmers often have stronger resale value and a wider dealer network for parts and warranty service. For residential use, Echo delivers better value. For daily commercial work, STIHL is the safer long-term bet.
What is the best string trimmer in 2026?
The best string trimmer in 2026 depends on your yard. For most homeowners the EGO POWER+ ST1623T delivers the best balance of power, runtime, and features. For heavy brush and large properties the Husqvarna 130L gas trimmer is hard to beat. For budget shoppers the WORX WG163 2-in-1 offers unbeatable value.
How long does a string trimmer last?
A well-maintained gas string trimmer lasts 7 to 10 years for residential users. Battery trimmers typically last 5 to 7 years, with the battery itself often needing replacement after 3 to 5 years. Look at warranty length, brand reputation, and replaceable batteries when picking a trimmer for long-term ownership.
Final Verdict on the Best String Trimmers
After 90 days of testing across two properties and thousands of feet of cutting, the EGO POWER+ ST1623T is the best string trimmer for most homeowners in 2026. It matches gas-level cutting power, runs quiet, and ships with EGO’s industry-leading 5-year warranty.
For buyers on a budget, the WORX WG163 2-in-1 delivers the best value under $90 and handles typical suburban yards with ease. For heavy brush and large properties, the Husqvarna 130L gas trimmer is still the standard. Whichever of the best string trimmers you pick from this list, your lawn edges will thank you.