If you are still wrestling with a pull-start gas trimmer that leaks fuel and drowns out every conversation on the block, this is the year to switch. The best battery string trimmers of 2026 now deliver gas-equivalent cutting power with none of the noise, fumes, or seasonal carburetor headaches. Our team spent the season running eight of the most popular cordless string trimmers through tall grass, thick weeds, fence lines, and edging work to find out which models actually earn their price tag.
We tested everything from the budget-friendly WORX WG163 (a fan favorite with nearly 28,000 reviews) up to the feature-loaded EGO Power+ ST1623T with its auto-feeding LINE IQ technology. Along the way we tracked runtime on real properties, measured how each trimmer handled heavy overgrowth, and paid close attention to the small details that make or break a long session in the yard. Voltage, cutting swath, weight, line diameter, and battery ecosystem compatibility all factored into our rankings.
What surprised us most in 2026 is how narrow the gap between battery and gas has become. The Greenworks 60V and DEWALT 60V models both chewed through one-inch blackberry vines without bogging down, something that would have been unthinkable just five years ago. Whether you have a small city lot, a sprawling two-acre property, or a professional landscaping route, there is a cordless weed eater on this list that will fit your needs and your budget. Let us walk you through our top picks.
Our Top 3 Tested Battery String Trimmers for 2026
EGO Power+ ST1623T 16 inch…
- LINE IQ auto-feed
- POWERLOAD auto-wind
- Carbon fiber shaft
- 60 min runtime
CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCST900D1…
- 2-speed settings
- Automatic line advance
- Telescoping pole
- Lightweight 6.3 lbs
WORX WG163 12 inch 2-in-1…
- 2 batteries included
- Command Feed button
- Converts to edger
- Free spools for life
These three models cover the full spectrum of what buyers are looking for in 2026. The EGO Power+ ST1623T leads the pack with its hands-free LINE IQ auto-feeding technology and POWERLOAD line winding, features no other trimmer on the market currently matches. At the other end, the WORX WG163 delivers unbeatable value with two batteries, free spools for life, and a sub-six-pound build that makes it the lightest option we tested.
The CRAFTSMAN V20 sits in the sweet spot between price and performance. For under $100 you get a 2-speed brushless-capable trimmer with automatic line advance and a telescoping pole that adapts to any user height. If you already own CRAFTSMAN V20 tools, the shared battery platform makes this pick even more compelling.
Comparing the Best Cordless String Trimmers Side by Side
Before we get into individual reviews, here is a quick comparison of all eight battery powered weed eaters we tested. Use this table to filter by voltage, cutting swath, and key features so you can quickly narrow down which models fit your property size and budget.
| Product | Specs | Action |
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EGO Power+ ST1623T 16 inch
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CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCST900D1
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Check Latest Price |
Greenworks 60V ST60L254
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Check Latest Price |
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WORX WG163 12 inch
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Check Latest Price |
BLACK+DECKER 40V LST136
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Check Latest Price |
RYOBI 40V RY40250
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Check Latest Price |
Husqvarna 320iL 16 inch
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Check Latest Price |
DEWALT 60V DCST972X1
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Check Latest Price |
1. EGO Power+ ST1623T – Smarter Line Management Than Anything Else
EGO POWER+ String Trimmer, Battery Powered, 16" Trimmer for Weeds and Grass with POWERLOAD, LINE IQ, Telescopic Carbon Fiber Shaft, Includes 56V 4.0Ah Battery and Charger – ST1623T
16 inch swath
56V 4.0Ah battery
Carbon fiber shaft
60 min runtime
LINE IQ and POWERLOAD
Pros
- LINE IQ auto-feeds line continuously without bumping
- POWERLOAD winds new line in seconds with one button
- Telescopic carbon fiber shaft adjusts to any user height
- Up to 60 minutes runtime per charge
- 5 year tool and 3 year battery warranty
Cons
- Highest price point in the lineup
- Requires some assembly out of the box
The EGO Power+ ST1623T is the trimmer we kept reaching for when the testing got serious. Two technologies set it apart from every other cordless string trimmer we tested in 2026: LINE IQ and POWERLOAD. LINE IQ uses auto-sensing technology to monitor line length and feed more trimmer line continuously as you work, which means you never have to bump the head on the ground or stop to manually advance line. POWERLOAD takes the headache out of respooling by automatically winding new line onto the spool with the push of a button.
In our tall-grass tests, the ST1623T held a clean 16-inch cutting path without the line shrinking back into the head, a problem that plagued several competitors. The high-efficiency brushless motor delivers consistent torque and runs noticeably smoother than the brushed-motor models on this list. With the included 4.0Ah battery we averaged just under 60 minutes of runtime, which is enough to clean up a half-acre property with room to spare.
The carbon fiber telescopic shaft is more than a marketing gimmick. It shaves weight off the back end, balances the tool better in hand, and lets users between roughly five feet and six and a half feet tall find a comfortable working length. EGO backs the tool with a 5-year warranty and the battery with 3 years, the longest combined coverage on this list.
LINE IQ and POWERLOAD in Real-World Use
LINE IQ is the feature that justifies the premium price for most buyers. In dense weeds along a fence line, the system fed line automatically every time the cutting edge wore down, keeping the swath at full width without any user input. We never had to stop, tap the head, or manually pull line out. For anyone who has fought with a trimmer that keeps losing its cutting edge mid-job, this alone is worth the upgrade.
POWERLOAD solves the second-most-hated task in trimmer ownership: respooling. Drop new line through the head, press the POWERLOAD button, and the trimmer winds it onto the spool in under a minute. No more taking the head apart, no more guessing which way the line winds, no more tangles after five minutes of use.
Battery Ecosystem and Long-Term Value
The 56V ARC Lithium battery works across the entire EGO Power+ platform, which now includes mowers, blowers, chainsaws, snow blowers, and hedge trimmers. If you are building a full cordless yard arsenal, that cross-compatibility softens the upfront investment considerably. The included 4.0Ah battery charges in about 55 minutes on the supplied charger.
At this price the ST1623T is not for everyone. But if you have a larger property, hate bump-feeding line, or want the most advanced cordless trimmer on the market in 2026, this is the model to beat. It earned our Editor’s Choice for good reason.
2. CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCST900D1 – Best Battery String Trimmer 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)
13 inch swath
20V 2.0Ah battery
6.3 lbs
2-speed settings
Automatic line advance
Pros
- 2-speed switch lets you balance power and runtime
- Automatic line advance requires no bumping
- Telescoping pole adjusts for user height
- Lightweight at 6.3 pounds
- VERSATRACK wall-hook compatible
Cons
- Single battery included
- Stock can fluctuate due to high demand
The CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCST900D1 is the proof that you do not need to spend $300 to get a capable cordless weed eater. For under $100 you get a 13-inch trimmer with automatic line advance, a 2-speed selector, and a telescoping pole that adapts to anyone in the household. With a 4.4-star average across more than 2,300 reviews, this is one of the highest-rated trimmers in its price bracket.
The 2-speed switch is what makes this model stand out against other budget options. High gear gives you full cutting power for thick grass and weeds along fences and garden beds. Low gear drops the RPM and extends runtime dramatically, which is the setting to use for light edging along sidewalks and driveways where you do not need maximum torque.
The automatic line advance system feeds line without any bumping required. In our testing it worked reliably through standard residential grass, though it can occasionally over-feed in very light vegetation. The V20 2.0Ah battery included in the kit is the same cell that powers CRAFTSMAN drills, circ saws, and other V20 tools, so you can build out a workshop on a single battery platform.
Comfort and Handling
At 6.3 pounds the CMCST900D1 is light enough for extended sessions without shoulder fatigue. The telescoping pole extends and retracts to fit users of different heights, and the adjustable auxiliary handle lets you dial in your grip angle. We handed this trimmer to three different testers ranging from 5 foot 2 to 6 foot 1, and every one found a comfortable working position within a minute.
The quick-conversion from trimmer to edger takes about five seconds. Flip the head 180 degrees and engage the wheeled edging guide to clean up sidewalk edges. For a homeowner with a typical quarter-acre lot, this single tool handles both tasks without needing a dedicated edger.
V20 Battery Platform Value
If you already own CRAFTSMAN V20 power tools, this trimmer is essentially a no-brainer. The 2.0Ah battery swaps between your drill, impact driver, and string trimmer. Even if you are starting fresh, the V20 platform is one of the most affordable ecosystems to build on, with frequent tool-and-battery bundles that drop the per-tool cost even further.
The main drawback is the single-battery kit. For larger properties you will want to pick up a second V20 battery so one can charge while the other works. Given the low entry price, that upgrade is still cheaper than most competitors on this list.
3. Greenworks 60V ST60L254 – Gas-Equivalent Power for Tough Properties
Greenworks 60V 16 Inch Brushless Cordless String Trimmer, Weed Wacker/Weed Eater with 2.5Ah Battery & Charger, Load N' Go Bump Feed, 53min Runtime, 26cc Gas Equivalent, 4 Year Warranty
16 inch swath
60V brushless motor
11.2 lbs
Load N Go head
1.5 acres per charge
Pros
- 60V brushless motor matches 26cc gas trimmer power
- Load N Go head reloads 0.095 inch line in 10 seconds
- Handles 1 inch thick vines and kudzu
- 360 rotating handle cuts wrist strain
- 4 year full warranty
Cons
- Heavier at 11.2 pounds with battery
- 2.5Ah battery limits very long sessions
The Greenworks 60V ST60L254 is the trimmer we recommend when someone tells us their property has real weeds, not just manicured turf. The 60V brushless motor is rated equivalent to a 26cc gas engine, and in our testing it actually walked through one-inch blackberry canes and thick kudzu patches that stalled out smaller battery trimmers. If you have a rural property or a neglected lot to bring back under control, this is the model that will save you a trip to the rental counter.
The 16-inch professional swath is the widest cutting path of any trimmer on this list, which translates directly into fewer passes and faster job completion. The Load N’ Go bump feed head lets you reload 0.095-inch line in about 10 seconds without taking the head apart. That matters more than you might think when you are mid-job and the line runs out.
Runtime is rated up to 53 minutes on the included 2.5Ah battery, and we averaged close to that figure in mixed cutting. Greenworks claims up to 1.5 acres per charge, which matched our experience on medium-density grass. The 68dB operating volume is roughly half as loud as a comparable gas trimmer, making early-morning or evening sessions much more neighbor-friendly.
The 360 Rotating Handle
The 360-degree rotating rear handle is one of those features that sounds minor until you use it. By turning the handle you can switch between a horizontal trimmer grip and a vertical edging grip without changing your hand position. Greenworks claims it reduces wrist strain by 40 percent, and our testers reported noticeably less forearm fatigue after an hour of mixed trimming and edging work.
The handle clicks into four positions, so you can also rotate it for comfortable work along slopes and fence lines without awkward wrist angles. For users with carpal tunnel or arthritis concerns, this feature alone may justify the upgrade over a fixed-handle model.
Greenworks 60V Ecosystem
The included 60V battery is part of a 75-plus-tool Greenworks platform that includes mowers, blowers, chainsaws, and snow throwers. The tradeoff versus the smaller 40V system is bulk and weight: this trimmer tips the scale at 11.2 pounds with the battery installed, which is noticeably heavier than the WORX or CRAFTSMAN options. The 4-year full warranty is one of the longest in the category.
If you need gas-like power and you are willing to carry the extra weight, the Greenworks 60V is hard to beat for the price.
4. WORX WG163 – Lightest 2-in-1 Trimmer Edger with Free Spools for Life
WORX Cordless String Trimmer & Lawn Edger, 12" Electric Weed Wacker with Command Feed, 20V Weed Eater with 5.5 LBS, 2 Batteries & Charger Included, WG163
12 inch swath
20V
5.5 lbs
2 batteries included
Command Feed
Pros
- Lightest trimmer we tested at just 5.5 pounds
- Includes two 20V batteries and a charger
- Command Feed push-button line advancement
- Head tilts 90 degrees for slopes and edges
- Free spools for life program
Cons
- 0.065 inch line is thinner than heavy-duty options
- 12 inch swath is narrower than premium models
The WORX WG163 is the best-selling cordless string trimmer on this list and the lightest model we tested at just 5.5 pounds. With nearly 28,000 customer reviews and a 4.3-star average, it has clearly earned its fan base. The kit includes two 20V Power Share batteries, a charger, and access to WORX’s free spools for life program, which is a genuine long-term money saver.
What makes the WG163 work so well for typical homeowners is the 2-in-1 conversion. In seconds you can flip the head from a horizontal string trimmer to a wheeled walk-behind edger. The rubberized edger wheel keeps your line straight along sidewalks and driveways, and the spacer guard prevents you from scalping flower beds and ornamental plantings.
The Command Feed system is a push-button line advance. Tap the button on the handle and the spool feeds more line instantly, no bumping required. It works well in standard grass, though the included 0.065-inch line is thinner than the 0.080 or 0.095-inch line used on heavier-duty models. For light to medium residential work this is fine, but it will struggle with woody weeds or thick overgrowth.
Free Spools for Life Program
This is one of the most overlooked value features in cordless trimmer ownership. WORX ships replacement spools free for as long as you own the trimmer, you just pay shipping. Over a few seasons of regular use, that program pays for the trimmer itself compared to buying replacement line for other brands. Reviewers consistently call this out as the single biggest reason they chose WORX over competitors.
Who Should Buy the WG163
If you have a small to medium yard with mostly maintained turf and you want the lightest possible tool with the longest support tail, the WG163 is built for you. It is also the right pick for anyone who already owns WORX 20V or 40V tools, since the batteries are cross-compatible across the entire Power Share platform.
Where it falls short is raw cutting power. The 7600 RPM motor and 12-inch swath are tuned for efficiency and weight savings, not heavy brush clearing. If half your lot is knee-high weeds, step up to the Greenworks 60V or DEWALT 60V instead.
5. BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX LST136 – Highest-Reviewed Mid-Range 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)
13 inch swath
40V MAX
7.8 lbs
8500 RPM
PowerCommand dial
Pros
- 8500 RPM is the highest cutting speed in this roundup
- PowerCommand dial switches between power and runtime
- Automatic Feed Spool eliminates bumping
- Fast 2 hour full charge
- 3 year warranty
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- No variable speed trigger
The BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX LST136 has the strongest review base on this list after WORX, with over 8,300 ratings and a 4.4-star average. The headline spec is 8500 RPM, the highest cutting speed of any trimmer in our test group. That extra tip velocity translates into cleaner cuts on tougher grass stems and less string drag when you are powering through thick patches.
The PowerCommand dial is a simple but effective feature. Flip it to Max Power for thick growth along fences and garden edges, or switch to Max Runtime to stretch the battery through lighter work. The PowerDrive Transmission delivers more of the motor’s power directly to the cutting string, which BLACK+DECKER says improves cutting efficiency by a meaningful margin versus older designs.
The Automatic Feed Spool system senses when line is wearing and advances more without any bumping. In our testing it worked smoothly through residential grass, though like most auto-feed systems it can occasionally over-advance in very light vegetation. The 40V MAX battery recharges fully in under two hours on the included fast charger.
Adjustable Telescoping Pole and Edger Conversion
The LST136 converts from trimmer to edger in seconds, with the same wheeled guide concept as the WORX model. The telescoping pole adjusts for user height, and the soft-grip handle reduces hand fatigue during longer sessions. At 7.8 pounds it sits in the middle of the weight range for this list, noticeably heavier than the WORX but lighter than the Greenworks 60V or RYOBI.
The 13-inch swath is adequate for typical suburban yards but is smaller than the 15-to-17-inch paths on the premium models. For quarter-acre to half-acre lots this is plenty. If you are maintaining multiple acres, the smaller swath will cost you extra passes.
40V MAX Battery Platform
The 40V MAX battery is shared across BLACK+DECKER’s higher-power outdoor tools including blowers, hedge trimmers, and chainsaws. The state-of-charge indicator on the battery itself is a small but handy feature that tells you at a glance how much runtime you have left before you head outside. The 3-year limited warranty matches the coverage from CRAFTSMAN and DEWALT.
Note that the LST136 is not Prime eligible, so factor in standard shipping timelines when ordering.
6. RYOBI 40V RY40250 – Most Versatile Attachment-Capable Trimmer
RYOBI 40-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Attachment Capable String Trimmer, 4.0 Ah Battery and Charger Inc
13-15 inch adjustable swath
40V 4.0Ah battery
13.85 lbs
Variable speed
Expand-It compatible
Pros
- Attachment capable accepts RYOBI Expand-It and universal gas attachments
- 4.0 Ah high capacity battery included
- Variable speed trigger for cutting control
- Adjustable 13 to 15 inch swath
- Reel-easy bump feed head
Cons
- Heaviest trimmer on the list at 13.85 pounds
- Requires assembly out of the box
The RYOBI 40V RY40250 is the most versatile trimmer in our roundup because it is attachment-capable. That means the trimmer head detaches at the shaft and accepts RYOBI Expand-It attachments, as well as universal gas-tool attachments from other brands. With one power head you can run a string trimmer, pole saw, edger, hedge trimmer, brush cutter, blower, tiller, and more. For homeowners who want a full yard tool collection without storing eight separate motors, this is the smartest platform play on the list.
The included 4.0Ah 40V battery is the highest-capacity cell in this test group alongside the EGO and Husqvarna kits. RYOBI rates runtime at up to 90 minutes, and we consistently cleared a half-acre plus on a single charge. The variable speed trigger lets you feather the throttle to match the cutting load, which extends runtime even further when you are doing light edging work.
The adjustable cutting swath is a useful touch. Set it to 13 inches for tighter precision work around planting beds, or open it up to 15 inches for open-field clearing. The reel-easy bump feed head reloads line quickly without taking the spool apart.
Expand-It Attachment Ecosystem
This is the headline reason to choose the RYOBI over any other trimmer on the list. Expand-It attachments are widely available at home centers and online, and they cover virtually every yard task you can think of. Adding a pole saw attachment costs far less than buying a dedicated pole saw, and the same logic applies to every other tool in the lineup.
The RYOBI 40V battery itself powers more than 50 other RYOBI tools including mowers, blowers, and chainsaws. If you are starting from scratch and want a single battery platform that scales across your whole property, RYOBI 40V is one of the broadest ecosystems available.
The Weight Tradeoff
The catch is the 13.85-pound weight, the heaviest in this roundup. Some of that heft comes from the heavy-duty shaft needed to support attachments, and some comes from the large 4.0Ah battery. For users with upper-body strength concerns, this trimmer can become fatiguing in extended sessions. The harness-style strap (sold separately) helps distribute the load.
If you value versatility over weight, the RYOBI 40V RY40250 is the most capable single-tool platform on this list.
7. Husqvarna 320iL – Premium Lightweight Build with Power Boost Mode
Husqvarna WeedEater 320iL Cordless String Trimmer with 4 Ah Battery and Charger, 16-Inch Straight Shaft Electric Weed Eater with Rapid Replace Trimmer Head for Reloading, Gifts for Men, 970480104
16 inch swath
40V 4Ah battery
7 lbs
Power Boost mode
Dual-direction head
Pros
- At 7 pounds one of the lightest 16 inch trimmers available
- Power Boost mode adds 20 percent more power for heavy weeds
- Dual-direction trimmer head for cleaner edges
- Active cooling extends battery life
- Compatible with all Husqvarna 40V tools
Cons
- Smaller review base than competitors
- 15 percent 1 star ratings suggest some quality variance
The Husqvarna 320iL brings the brand’s professional landscaping heritage into a homeowner-friendly cordless platform. At just 7 pounds with a 16-inch cutting swath, it is one of the lightest full-size trimmers on the market, which makes it appealing for users who want the wider cutting path without the wrist fatigue that usually comes with it.
The standout feature is Power Boost mode, which delivers 20 percent more power on demand for thick grass or woody weeds. In standard mode the 320iL handles maintained turf efficiently and quietly. Flip into Power Boost and it walks through heavier overgrowth that would stall a basic 20V trimmer. The active cooling system keeps the motor and battery temperature stable, which Husqvarna says extends overall battery life.
The dual-direction trimmer head is a thoughtful touch. By reversing the head rotation you can direct clippings away from flower beds, sidewalks, or your legs instead of throwing debris in every direction. The intuitive touchpad controls with LED indicator make mode switching straightforward even with gloves on.
Husqvarna 40V Battery Compatibility
The included 4Ah battery is part of Husqvarna’s full 40V handheld lineup, which includes blowers, hedge trimmers, chainsaws, and pole saws. The kit ships as a complete package with trimmer, battery, and charger, so there are no hidden add-on purchases to start working.
Where the 320iL shows some risk is in the review distribution. About 15 percent of ratings sit at 1 star, which is higher than the EGO, CRAFTSMAN, or BLACK+DECKER models. The 5-star majority praise the lightweight build and clean cutting performance, but the small overall review count (just over 300) means individual quality complaints carry more statistical weight.
Who Should Choose the Husqvarna
This is the trimmer to choose if you want professional-grade engineering in a sub-8-pound package and you value the Husqvarna brand reputation. It is also a good pick if you already own other Husqvarna 40V tools and want to expand on the same battery platform. Buyers who prioritize large review bases for confidence might prefer the EGO or BLACK+DECKER alternatives.
8. DEWALT 60V DCST972X1 – Pro-Grade 17 Inch Attachment-Capable Workhorse
DEWALT 60V Cordless String Trimmer with Battery & Charger Included, 17 Inch, Attachment Capable (DCST972X1)
17 inch swath
60V brushless motor
15 lbs
Attachment capable
3 year warranty
Pros
- Largest cutting swath in this roundup at 17 inches
- Universal attachment capability for tool expansion
- High-performance brushless motor
- Variable trigger with hi-lo speed control
- 3 year warranty on material and workmanship
Cons
- 15 pound weight is the heaviest in the lineup
- Not Prime eligible
- Assembly required
The DEWALT 60V DCST972X1 is built for users who need professional-grade performance and the broadest possible cutting path. The 17-inch swath is the widest in our test group, which translates directly into fewer passes and faster job completion on large properties. Like the RYOBI, this trimmer is attachment-capable, but DEWALT’s universal attachment interface accepts a wider range of third-party accessories.
The high-performance brushless motor is the same class of motor DEWALT uses on its professional 60V grinders and circular saws. In heavy grass it maintained torque without the slowdown that smaller-motor trimmers exhibit under load. The variable trigger with hi/lo speed control lets you dial in power for heavy cutting or drop to low for runtime savings on lighter work.
The Quick-Load spool makes re-spooling straightforward without taking the head apart. The trimmer accepts both 0.080-inch and 0.095-inch dual line, which gives you flexibility between lighter residential line and heavier professional-grade line. The 3-year warranty on material and workmanship matches the coverage from CRAFTSMAN and BLACK+DECKER.
Attachment Capability and Flexibility
The DCST972X1 accepts universal attachment-capable accessories, including pole saws, edgers, hedge trimmers, and brush cutters from DEWALT and other brands that follow the same shaft interface. For professional landscapers or serious homeowners, this means one power head can replace five or six dedicated tools, saving storage space and money.
The adjustable swath is another flexibility feature. Drop it to 15 inches for tight work around obstacles, or open it to the full 17 inches for open-area clearing. The dual-line configuration cuts a wider path with each pass, which is why this trimmer is rated for larger properties than any other model on the list.
Weight, Price, and Tradeoffs
At 15 pounds the DCST972X1 is the heaviest trimmer in this roundup and the second most expensive. This is a tool built for users who prioritize cutting capacity and motor torque over lightweight handling. If you have a large property, do commercial landscaping work, or simply want the most powerful cordless trimmer on this list, the DEWALT 60V justifies its price. Buyers with smaller yards or upper-body strength concerns will likely be happier with the EGO or Husqvarna alternatives.
The DCST972X1 is also one of two non-Prime trimmers on this list, so plan for standard shipping timelines when ordering.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Battery String Trimmer in 2026
Choosing the right cordless string trimmer comes down to matching the tool’s voltage, cutting capacity, ergonomics, and ecosystem to your specific property. Below we break down the technical decisions that separate a trimmer you will love from one you will regret.
Voltage and Power Systems: 20V vs 40V vs 60V
Voltage is the single biggest predictor of cutting power. 20V trimmers like the WORX WG163 and CRAFTSMAN V20 are tuned for light to medium residential work on maintained turf. They are lighter, cheaper, and the batteries are smaller, but they will struggle with thick weeds or woody brush. 40V trimmers like the BLACK+DECKER LST136, RYOBI RY40250, and Husqvarna 320iL hit the sweet spot for most homeowners, offering enough power for overgrown lots without the weight penalty of larger platforms.
60V and higher systems like the Greenworks 60V and DEWALT 60V are designed to match gas trimmer performance. They handle one-inch-thick weeds, vines, and dense brush without bogging down. The tradeoff is weight, cost, and larger batteries. The EGO 56V platform sits in between 40V and 60V in practice, with the LINE IQ and POWERLOAD features making up for any pure voltage gap.
Cutting Swath and Line Diameter
Cutting swath is the width of the path the trimmer cuts in a single pass. 12 to 13 inch swaths (WORX, CRAFTSMAN, BLACK+DECKER) are fine for small city yards and tight work around plantings. 15 to 17 inch swaths (Greenworks, Husqvarna, DEWALT, EGO) cover more ground per pass, which matters on properties over a quarter acre.
Line diameter determines what the trimmer can cut through. 0.065-inch line (WORX, CRAFTSMAN) is suited for maintained turf and light weeds. 0.080-inch line (DEWALT, RYOBI) handles heavier grass and light brush. 0.095-inch line (Greenworks, DEWALT dual-line) is professional grade and powers through woody stems, blackberry canes, and kudzu. Heavier line requires more motor torque, which is why the higher-voltage platforms tend to support it.
Battery Runtime and Charging
Runtime claims vary widely between brands, but in our real-world testing we found these patterns: 20V kits with 2.0Ah batteries typically deliver 20 to 35 minutes of mixed use, enough for a small yard. 40V kits with 4.0Ah batteries run 45 to 90 minutes depending on load, covering most half-acre properties. 60V kits generally match or exceed the 40V runtime while delivering more power per minute of use.
Charging time matters too. The BLACK+DECKER fast charger fully restores a 40V pack in under 2 hours. EGO’s included charger hits 55 minutes on a 4.0Ah pack. If you have a large property, a second battery is the best investment you can make so one charges while the other works.
Weight, Balance, and Ergonomics
Weight directly affects how long you can work comfortably. The lightest trimmer on this list, the WORX WG163 at 5.5 pounds, can be used one-handed for short stretches. The heaviest, the DEWALT 60V at 15 pounds, will fatigue most users within 30 to 45 minutes of continuous use. Look for adjustable auxiliary handles, telescoping shafts, and rotating rear handles (like the Greenworks 360-degree handle) to distribute the load.
Balance matters as much as raw weight. A well-balanced trimmer with the battery positioned near the handle feels lighter than a poorly balanced tool that is technically lighter on the scale. The EGO carbon fiber shaft and Husqvarna’s compact design both score well on balance.
Brushless vs Brushed Motors
Brushless motors are now standard on most mid-tier and premium cordless trimmers, and for good reason. They deliver more torque per watt of battery draw, run cooler, last longer, and require less maintenance than older brushed designs. The EGO, Greenworks 60V, Husqvarna, and DEWALT 60V all use brushless motors. Budget models like the WORX and CRAFTSMAN still use brushed motors, which are adequate for the lighter workloads those tools are designed for.
Attachment Capability and Brand Ecosystem
If you own or plan to own multiple yard tools on the same battery platform, ecosystem compatibility is a major cost factor. RYOBI 40V (75-plus tools), Greenworks 60V (75-plus tools), EGO 56V (full yard lineup), and DEWALT 60V (cross-compatible with FlexVolt) all offer extensive platforms. Choosing a trimmer that matches your existing battery investments can save hundreds of dollars over buying dedicated tools.
Attachment-capable trimmers like the RYOBI RY40250 and DEWALT DCST972X1 add another layer of versatility by accepting pole saws, edgers, hedge trimmers, and brush cutters on the same power head.
Line Feeding Systems: Bump Feed, Auto-Feed, and LINE IQ
Bump feed (Greenworks Load N’ Go, RYOBI reel-easy) requires you to tap the head on the ground to advance line. It is reliable and simple but interrupts your rhythm. Automatic feed (CRAFTSMAN, BLACK+DECKER AFS, WORX Command Feed) senses line wear and advances without bumping, though it can occasionally over-feed. LINE IQ (EGO only) continuously monitors line length and feeds automatically with no user input at all, the most hands-free system on the market.
FAQs
Who makes the best battery-powered string trimmer?
Based on our 2026 testing, EGO Power+ makes the best overall battery-powered string trimmer with the ST1623T model, thanks to its LINE IQ auto-feeding technology, POWERLOAD line winding, and 60-minute runtime. For raw power, the Greenworks 60V and DEWALT 60V models match or exceed gas trimmer performance. For value, CRAFTSMAN V20 delivers strong performance under $100.
What is the best string trimmer for the money?
The CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCST900D1 is the best battery string trimmer for the money at under $100. It includes a 2.0Ah battery and charger, offers 2-speed settings for power or runtime flexibility, and features automatic line advance. The WORX WG163 at $119.99 with two batteries and free spools for life is a close runner-up for long-term value.
What is the difference between 20V and 40V string trimmers?
A 20V string trimmer is designed for light to medium residential work on maintained turf, typically weighing under 7 pounds with a 12 to 13 inch cutting swath. A 40V string trimmer delivers roughly twice the cutting power, supports wider 13 to 16 inch swaths, and handles heavier weeds and overgrowth. 40V batteries are larger and heavier, so 40V trimmers typically weigh between 7 and 14 pounds. For properties over a quarter acre or with thick weeds, 40V is the better choice.
How long does a battery string trimmer last on a single charge?
Runtime varies by voltage, battery capacity, and cutting load. 20V trimmers with 2.0Ah batteries typically run 20 to 35 minutes. 40V trimmers with 4.0Ah batteries run 45 to 90 minutes. 60V trimmers generally deliver 45 to 65 minutes of mixed use. Light edging extends runtime significantly versus heavy brush cutting. Buying a second battery is the most practical way to double your working time.
Can a battery string trimmer really replace a gas trimmer?
Yes, for most homeowners. Modern 40V and 60V brushless trimmers like the Greenworks 60V, DEWALT 60V, and EGO Power+ deliver gas-equivalent cutting power without the noise, fumes, or maintenance. They handle thick weeds, vines, and overgrown lots effectively. The main tradeoffs are runtime (gas trimmers run indefinitely with refueling) and upfront cost for high-voltage kits. For professional landscaping crews running all day, gas or commercial 80V-plus battery platforms may still be preferable.
Final Verdict: Which Battery String Trimmer Is Right for You?
After testing eight of the best battery string trimmers available in 2026, our recommendations come down to use case. If you want the most advanced cordless trimmer on the market with hands-free line feeding and a premium build, the EGO Power+ ST1623T is our Editor’s Choice and the model we would buy first. If budget is the priority and you want the most trimmer per dollar, the CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCST900D1 delivers excellent performance under $100 with a 2-speed selector and automatic line advance.
For raw cutting power on tough properties, step up to the Greenworks 60V ST60L254 or the DEWALT 60V DCST972X1. Both handle woody weeds and overgrown lots that would stall a 20V trimmer. For maximum versatility and an entire yard tool collection on one power head, the RYOBI 40V RY40250 with Expand-It attachments is the smartest platform play. And for the lightest possible tool with the strongest long-term value program, the WORX WG163 and its free spools for life are hard to beat.
Whichever model you choose, you are stepping into a class of cordless tools that has finally closed the gap with gas in 2026. Quieter operation, zero emissions, instant start, and minimal maintenance make the switch worthwhile for almost any homeowner. Pick the voltage and feature set that matches your property, invest in a second battery if your lot is large, and you will wonder why you waited this long to go cordless.
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