10 Best String Trimmers (July 2026) Tested and Reviewed

A clean lawn edge makes the difference between a yard that looks maintained and one that looks forgotten. I have spent the better part of three years testing cordless string trimmers across lawns of every size, from tiny city plots to sprawling multi-acre properties, and the right tool saves you hours of frustration every single week.

If you are searching for the best string trimmers in 2026, you are probably torn between battery convenience, raw cutting power, and what fits your budget. The good news is that battery technology has closed the gap with gas models for most homeowners. Brushless motors, larger battery capacities, and smart line-feeding systems have changed what we should expect from a cordless weed eater.

Our team compared 10 of the most popular models on the market today, ranging from budget-friendly options under $50 to premium picks with carbon fiber shafts and auto-sensing line technology. We looked at cutting swath, runtime, weight, line loading systems, and real-world user feedback from over 60,000 combined reviews. Whether you need a lightweight grass trimmer for a small yard or a heavy-duty brushless string trimmer for thick weeds, this guide covers every scenario.

Top 3 Picks for Best String Trimmers (July 2026)

Best String Trimmers in 2026 – Quick Overview

1. EGO Power+ ST1511T – Best Overall String Trimmer

I have used the EGO Power+ ST1511T for two full seasons on my half-acre property, and it remains the cordless string trimmer I recommend to most homeowners. The POWERLOAD technology alone is worth the price of admission. You feed the line through the head, push a button, and the trimmer winds it automatically. No more taking the head apart in the middle of a sweaty afternoon.

The 56V 2.5Ah battery delivers a solid 45 minutes of runtime in real-world conditions. That is enough to trim my entire yard with charge to spare. The brushless motor keeps vibration low and delivers consistent power whether you are cutting fine grass or hacking through thick weeds along the fence line.

The 15-inch cutting swath with dual-line spiral-twist 0.095-inch trimmer line covers ground quickly. I found that it cuts noticeably faster than 12-inch models, meaning fewer passes along each edge. The bump-feed line advance works reliably, though I did experience occasional jams when using third-party line that was slightly too thick.

One thing to keep in mind is the weight. At 10.3 pounds with the battery installed, it is heavier than budget models like the WORX WG163. The telescopic aluminum shaft helps you find a comfortable length, but if you have wrist or shoulder issues, you may want something lighter for extended sessions.

Battery Platform and Compatibility

The ST1511T uses EGO’s 56V ARC Lithium platform, which is one of the strongest ecosystems in the battery-powered outdoor tool space. If you already own an EGO mower, blower, or chainsaw, the battery swaps between all of them. This is a major advantage that many shoppers overlook when comparing individual trimmers in isolation.

The 2.5Ah battery charges in about 50 minutes on the standard charger. If you have a larger property, you can upgrade to the 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah battery for even longer runtime. The IPX4 weather resistance rating means you can trim in light rain or morning dew without worrying about damage.

Long-Term Durability

EGO backs this trimmer with a 5-year tool warranty, which is among the best in the industry. After two years of regular use, mine shows no signs of motor degradation. The aluminum shaft resists corrosion, and the bump-feed head has held up to dozens of line refills without cracking.

2. WORX WG163 – Best Value Cordless Trimmer

The WORX WG163 is the best-selling cordless string trimmer on Amazon for good reason. With nearly 28,000 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, it has earned its place as the go-to choice for homeowners who want a capable weed eater without spending a fortune. I tested it for six weeks on a quarter-acre suburban lot and came away impressed.

At just 5.5 pounds, this is one of the lightest trimmers you can buy. My wife, who normally avoids yard tools, picked it up and trimmed the entire front yard without complaint. The 12-inch cutting width is smaller than the EGO models, but for typical suburban edging along sidewalks and garden beds, it gets the job done.

The Command Feed system is WORX’s answer to line loading frustration. Instead of bumping the head on the ground, you press a button on the handle and the line advances. It works smoothly in most conditions, though I noticed it can feed too much line occasionally if you press it rapidly.

WORX includes two 20V Power Share batteries, which means you always have a backup ready. The batteries are also compatible with over 100 other WORX tools, which is a great ecosystem advantage if you plan to expand your cordless tool collection.

Who Should Buy the WORX WG163

This trimmer is perfect for homeowners with small to medium yards who prioritize weight and ease of use over raw cutting power. If your trimming involves mostly grass and light weeds along edges, the WG163 handles it without breaking a sweat. The 2-in-1 edger conversion is genuinely useful for creating clean lines along driveways.

It is not the right choice if you have thick brush, heavy overgrowth, or a very large property. The 12-inch swath and 20V battery system simply do not have the muscle for demanding work. For that, you will want something like the EGO Power+ ST1511T or ST1623T.

Free Spools for Life Program

One of the most underrated benefits of the WORX WG163 is the free spools for life program. As long as you own the trimmer, WORX sends you replacement spools for the cost of shipping. Over the life of the tool, this can save you a significant amount compared to buying replacement line for other brands.

3. VARSK 12-Inch 20V – Best Budget String Trimmer

The VARSK 12-inch cordless weed wacker proves that you do not need to spend a lot to get a capable grass trimmer. At its budget price point, it includes two 2.0Ah batteries, a charger, and six replacement spools in the box. That is an impressive package that makes it one of the best string trimmers for the money.

I tested the VARSK on a small backyard for three weeks, using it for weekly edging along a fence line and around raised garden beds. The automatic line feed worked reliably throughout testing, and the 2-in-1 conversion to an edger is straightforward with the included wheel attachment.

The 20V motor spins at a respectable speed and handles standard grass and light weeds without bogging down. However, when I pushed it into a patch of thick crabgrass and clover, it required multiple passes and the motor clearly strained. This is a light-duty tool, and setting realistic expectations is important.

The two batteries give you roughly 30 minutes each of runtime, which means you can trim for about an hour total before needing to recharge. For a small or medium yard, that is more than enough.

What Makes the VARSK Stand Out

The value proposition is what sets this trimmer apart. Getting two batteries, six replacement spools, and a charger at this price point is hard to beat. Most competitors in this range include just one battery and zero spare spools, forcing you to buy accessories separately.

The trimmer also earns points for ease of use. Assembly takes about five minutes, and the adjustable handle accommodates users of different heights. The automatic line feed means you never have to bump the head or manually advance line, which is a nice convenience feature at this price.

Limitations to Consider

The plastic construction is noticeably less rugged than what you get from EGO or BLACK+DECKER. The shaft and head housing feel flexible under load, and I would not expect this trimmer to survive drops or rough handling. The 1-year warranty is also shorter than what premium brands offer.

4. EGO Power+ ST1623T – Best Premium String Trimmer

The EGO Power+ ST1623T is the most advanced cordless string trimmer I have ever tested. It takes everything great about the ST1511T and adds two game-changing features: LINE IQ technology and a carbon fiber shaft. This is the trimmer for homeowners who want zero interruptions during their yard work.

LINE IQ is the standout feature. Using auto-sensing technology, the trimmer monitors line wear and automatically feeds new line as needed. You never have to bump the head, press a button, or stop to check your line. The 16-inch cutting swath stays continuous from start to finish, which means faster work and a more uniform cut.

The carbon fiber shaft is both lighter and stronger than aluminum. It telescopes to adjust for user height and comes with a limited lifetime warranty from EGO. At 7.5 pounds, this trimmer is significantly lighter than the ST1511T despite having a larger cutting swath and bigger battery.

The included 56V 4.0Ah battery delivers up to 60 minutes of runtime, which is exceptional for a cordless trimmer. The digital two-speed selector lets you choose between maximum power for thick weeds and maximum efficiency for lighter work. On the low setting, I was able to stretch runtime even further.

Is LINE IQ Worth It

If you have ever been frustrated by line management during a trimming session, LINE IQ eliminates that problem entirely. The sensor detects when line is wearing down and feeds just the right amount to maintain the full 16-inch cutting width. No bumping, no over-feeding, no wasted line.

The trade-off is the premium price. The ST1623T costs significantly more than the ST1511T, and you need to decide whether the convenience of automatic line feeding justifies the difference. For my money, if you trim regularly and value a frustration-free experience, it is absolutely worth it.

Battery Ecosystem Advantages

Like all EGO 56V tools, the ST1623T is compatible with the entire ARC Lithium battery lineup. The included 4.0Ah battery can power your EGO mower, blower, hedge trimmer, and snow blower. This cross-compatibility makes the EGO platform one of the most cost-effective ecosystems to build around over time.

5. BLACK+DECKER LST300 – Reliable Lightweight Trimmer

The BLACK+DECKER LST300 has been a staple in the cordless string trimmer market for years, and with over 9,500 reviews at 4.4 stars, it clearly still resonates with homeowners. I tested it alongside the WORX WG163 and found it to be a solid, no-frills option that excels at basic trimming and edging tasks.

The Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) system is the main selling point here. Unlike bump-feed systems that require you to tap the head on the ground, the AFS system automatically dispenses line as needed. In my testing, it worked flawlessly and never over-fed or jammed.

At 5.7 pounds, the LST300 is extremely lightweight and well-balanced. The POWERDRIVE Transmission delivers more torque from the motor to the cutting string, which helps the 6200 RPM motor power through thicker grass than you might expect from a 20V tool.

The 2-in-1 conversion from trimmer to edger takes about five seconds. You rotate the head and flip down the wheel guide, and suddenly you have a dedicated edger for clean lines along sidewalks and driveways. It is simple but genuinely useful if you care about a polished lawn appearance.

Battery Life and Charging

The LST300 comes with one 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery and a wall-mountable charging base. BLACK+DECKER claims 33% more runtime than their previous battery generation, and I found it delivers roughly 25 to 30 minutes of trimming per charge. That is adequate for a small to medium yard but may require a recharge for larger properties.

The battery is part of the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX system, which means it works with their drills, saws, and other power tools. If you already own BLACK+DECKER tools, this trimmer is a natural addition to your collection.

How It Compares to the LST522

BLACK+DECKER makes a very similar model called the LST522, which adds dual-speed control and a larger 2.5Ah battery. If you want more runtime and the ability to switch between power and efficiency modes, the LST522 is worth the small price difference. The LST300 remains a great choice if you want simplicity at a lower cost.

6. BLACK+DECKER LST522 – Best Dual-Speed Budget Trimmer

The BLACK+DECKER LST522 is the upgraded version of the popular LST300, and the improvements are meaningful. The standout addition is dual-speed control, which lets you switch between a high-power mode for tough weeds and a high-efficiency mode for lighter work. This flexibility makes it one of the best weed eater options in its price range.

I found the dual-speed feature genuinely useful in practice. On high power, the trimmer chewed through a strip of thick weeds behind my shed that had been neglected for weeks. Switching to the efficiency mode for regular grass trimming along the front walkway extended the battery life noticeably.

The included LBXR2520 battery offers 66% more runtime than standard BLACK+DECKER batteries, which translates to roughly 35 to 40 minutes of actual trimming time. The AFS automatic feed system works identically to the LST300, feeding line automatically without any bumping required.

Wheeled Edger Functionality

The LST522 includes a wheeled edger attachment that provides more stability than the basic flip-down guide on some competitors. The wheel supports the tool and keeps your edging lines straight and consistent along sidewalks and driveways. If you take pride in clean lawn edges, this feature adds real value.

Converting from trimmer to edger takes about ten seconds and requires no tools. The adjustable handle and height positions let you customize the fit, and the soft grip reduces hand fatigue during longer sessions.

Value Proposition

With a 4.5-star rating from over 6,400 reviews, the LST522 has a slightly higher satisfaction rating than its LST300 sibling. The small price premium buys you dual-speed control, a larger battery, and the wheeled edger. For most homeowners choosing between the two, I would recommend spending the extra amount for these upgrades.

7. EGO Power+ ST1502SA – Best for Large Properties

The EGO Power+ ST1502SA sits between the ST1511T and ST1623T in the EGO lineup, offering a 15-inch cutting swath and a Rapid-Reload head instead of POWERLOAD. After testing it for a month on a large property, I can say it is a serious tool for homeowners who need power and runtime but do not want to pay for LINE IQ technology.

The brushless motor delivers serious cutting force. I drove this trimmer into a patch of waist-high weeds and saplings, and it powered through with authority. The variable speed control lets you dial back the power when you are just doing light edging, which extends the already impressive 50-minute runtime.

The Rapid-Reload head is a simpler system than POWERLOAD. You manually thread the line through the head and wind it, but the design makes the process faster and less frustrating than traditional heads. It took me about two minutes per refill once I got the hang of it.

The split shaft design is a feature I wish more trimmers had. The shaft separates into two pieces for compact storage, which is ideal if you keep your tools in a shed or garage with limited wall space. The connection is solid with no wobble during use.

Performance on Tough Vegetation

This is where the ST1502SA really shines. The combination of the 56V battery and brushless motor gives it gas-like power in many situations. I used it to clear a fence line that had been overgrown for an entire season, and it handled the thick grass and weeds without stalling.

The 0.095-inch professional-grade string is key to this performance. Thinner line breaks more easily on tough vegetation, but the heavier gauge on this EGO model holds up well. Just be aware that some users report occasional jams if the line gets twisted inside the head during reloading.

Storage and Portability

The split shaft design reduces the stored length significantly, which makes it easy to hang on a garage wall or fit into a storage bin. At 7.4 pounds without the battery, it is manageable for most users. The variable speed trigger gives you precise control over cutting intensity, which is something I missed when going back to single-speed models.

8. KOMASTY 12-Inch 20V – Compact Foldable Trimmer

The KOMASTY 12-inch cordless string trimmer stands out for its foldable shaft design, which makes it one of the most storage-friendly options on this list. If you live in an apartment, condo, or home with minimal storage space, this trimmer folds down to a fraction of its operating length.

The 9500 RPM motor is actually one of the fastest in this roundup, spinning significantly faster than the BLACK+DECKER models at 6200 RPM. In practice, this high speed translates to clean cuts on grass and light weeds, though the motor does not have the torque of the EGO models for heavy-duty work.

I tested the KOMASTY on a small urban yard, and it handled standard trimming and edging without issues. The 90-degree adjustable head lets you switch between trimming and edging positions, and the 180-degree rotatable handle accommodates both right-handed and left-handed users.

Storage and Portability Benefits

The foldable shaft is the key selling point. When folded, the trimmer fits into a closet, shelf, or car trunk. This makes it ideal for RV owners, apartment dwellers with small courtyards, or anyone who needs to transport their trimmer between properties.

The two included 2.0Ah batteries provide about 30 minutes of runtime total. The automatic line feed system works without bumping, which keeps the operation simple for users who are new to string trimmers.

Best Use Cases

The KOMASTY is best suited for light residential use on small properties. It handles grass along walkways, around garden beds, and along fence lines with ease. For anything thicker than standard lawn grass, you will want to look at the EGO models with their more powerful motors and heavier line.

9. LPSUK 3-in-1 String Trimmer – Ultra-Lightweight Option

The LPSUK 3-in-1 cordless string trimmer is the lightest model on this list at just 5 pounds. For seniors, anyone with mobility limitations, or users who simply want the easiest possible experience, this trimmer removes nearly all the physical barriers to yard maintenance.

The 3-in-1 functionality means it works as a string trimmer, an edger, and a mini lawn mower for very small patches. I tested all three modes and found the trimmer and edger functions to be genuinely useful. The mower function is more of a bonus feature for tiny areas where a full mower will not fit.

The 8000 RPM motor spins fast enough for clean cuts on standard grass. The telescopic shaft extends from 38 to 49 inches, which accommodates users from about 5 feet to over 6 feet tall. The 60-degree adjustable head and 180-degree adjustable handle let you find a comfortable working angle.

Ideal User Profile

This trimmer is designed for seniors, beginners, and anyone with a very small yard. At 5 pounds, it is effortless to carry and maneuver. The one-press start eliminates the pulling and priming associated with gas trimmers, and the automatic line feed removes another common pain point.

The trade-off is power and runtime. The single 2.0Ah battery delivers about 20 to 25 minutes of trimming, which is enough for a small courtyard or patio area. The motor handles grass well but will bog down on thick weeds or woody stems.

What You Get in the Box

LPSUK includes 8 replacement spool lines, which is a generous accessory package at this price point. The fast charger tops up the battery in about an hour. For the price, this is one of the most complete packages available for anyone who needs a simple, lightweight grass trimmer for light-duty work.

10. SEYVUM 12-Inch 20V – Value Trimmer with Dual Batteries

The SEYVUM 12-inch cordless weed wacker rounds out our list as a solid budget option with dual batteries and a generous accessory package. With over 1,000 reviews and a 4.0-star rating, it has built a following among homeowners looking for an affordable trimmer that includes everything needed to get started.

The highlight of the SEYVUM package is the inclusion of two 2.0Ah batteries and a fast charger. SEYVUM claims up to 60 minutes of total runtime from both batteries combined, and in my testing, I got about 50 minutes of actual trimming time. That is impressive for a trimmer at this price point.

The 2-in-1 functionality lets you convert between trimmer and wheeled edger modes. The 90-degree adjustable cutting head and 180-degree adjustable auxiliary handle give you multiple grip options for different angles and user preferences.

Performance and Limitations

The SEYVUM handles standard grass and light weeds well. The automatic line feed is smooth, and the included spacer guard protects plants and landscaping features from accidental contact. However, the string that comes included is on the thinner side and tends to break when hitting tougher vegetation or woody stems.

I recommend buying heavier-duty replacement line if you plan to tackle anything beyond light grass. The included 8 spool lines will last a long time for standard trimming, but upgrading the line diameter will improve cutting performance on tougher jobs.

Charging Reality vs Claims

SEYVUM advertises a 1-hour fast charge, but I found the batteries typically took closer to 90 minutes to reach full capacity. This is still reasonable for the price, but it is worth knowing if you plan to rotate batteries during a longer trimming session. Having two batteries in the box mitigates this issue since you can charge one while using the other.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best String Trimmer

Choosing the right string trimmer comes down to understanding your yard, your budget, and which features actually matter for your situation. After testing 10 models across different property sizes, I can break the decision into the key factors that make the biggest difference.

Power Source: Battery vs Gas vs Corded

Battery-powered string trimmers have become the dominant choice for homeowners in 2026, and for good reason. They start instantly, produce no emissions, run quietly, and require minimal maintenance. Modern brushless motors paired with 56V or higher battery platforms deliver cutting power that rivals gas trimmers for all but the heaviest commercial applications.

Gas trimmers still make sense for professional landscapers and rural property owners dealing with acres of heavy brush. They offer unlimited runtime since you just add more fuel, and the most powerful gas models can cut saplings and woody vegetation that would stall a battery trimmer. The trade-offs are noise, emissions, maintenance, and the hassle of mixing fuel.

Corded electric trimmers are the third option. They provide unlimited runtime as long as you have an outlet and extension cord, but the tether limits mobility. I only recommend corded models for very small yards where an outlet is always within 50 feet of your work area.

Cutting Swath Width

The cutting swath is the diameter of grass that the trimmer cuts in a single pass. Most models in this roundup offer either 12 or 15 to 16 inches. A wider swath means fewer passes and faster work, but it also requires more power to maintain cutting speed.

For small yards under a quarter acre, a 12-inch swath is perfectly adequate. For medium to large yards, I strongly recommend a 15-inch or larger model like the EGO ST1511T or ST1623T. The time savings from fewer passes is significant over an entire season of weekly trimming.

Line Diameter and Loading System

String trimmer line comes in various diameters, with 0.065, 0.080, and 0.095 inch being the most common. Thicker line cuts tougher vegetation but requires more motor power to spin. The EGO models use 0.095-inch professional-grade line, while the budget models typically use 0.065 or 0.080 inch.

The line loading system is a feature many buyers overlook until they are stuck reloading line for the first time. EGO’s POWERLOAD system is the easiest I have used. You feed line through the head and push a button to wind it automatically. Traditional heads require manual winding, which can take several minutes and frustrate new users.

Weight and Ergonomics

String trimmer weight ranges from about 5 pounds for the lightest models to over 10 pounds for powerful units with large batteries. If you have physical limitations or plan to trim for more than 30 minutes at a time, weight should be a primary consideration.

Look for models with telescopic shafts, adjustable handles, and balanced weight distribution. The EGO ST1623T’s carbon fiber shaft and the WORX WG163’s compact design are both excellent examples of weight-conscious engineering.

Battery Platform Compatibility

One of the most important but overlooked factors is battery ecosystem compatibility. When you buy a trimmer from EGO, WORX, or BLACK+DECKER, you are also investing in their battery platform. If you already own tools from one of these brands, choosing a trimmer that shares the same battery system saves money and adds convenience.

EGO’s 56V ARC Lithium platform is the most comprehensive, powering everything from mowers to snow blowers. WORX’s 20V Power Share system covers over 100 tools. BLACK+DECKER’s 20V MAX system is compatible with drills, saws, and other home power tools.

Runtime and Charging

Battery runtime varies dramatically between models. The EGO ST1623T delivers up to 60 minutes on a 4.0Ah battery, while budget models with 2.0Ah batteries typically run 20 to 30 minutes per charge. Consider your yard size and whether you need to trim the entire property in one session.

If runtime is a concern, look for models that include two batteries or models compatible with higher-capacity batteries. Having a backup battery eliminates downtime and lets you finish larger jobs without waiting for a recharge.

Brand Reliability and Warranty

Forum discussions on r/lawncare and r/Tools consistently highlight brand reliability as a top concern. EGO, BLACK+DECKER, and WORX all have established reputations and strong warranty programs. EGO offers 5-year tool warranties on their premium models, while BLACK+DECKER and WORX typically provide 2 to 3 years of coverage.

Reddit users frequently mention that Stihl and Echo are the gold standards for professional gas trimmers. While those brands are not represented in this battery-focused roundup, their reputation for longevity and performance is well deserved if you are considering a gas model.

FAQs

Final Thoughts on the Best String Trimmers for 2026

After testing all 10 models across different yard sizes and conditions, the EGO Power+ ST1511T remains my top recommendation for most homeowners. Its POWERLOAD technology, 45-minute runtime, and 15-inch cutting swath hit the sweet spot of power, convenience, and value. If you want the absolute best technology available, the EGO ST1623T with LINE IQ and carbon fiber shaft is worth the upgrade.

For budget-conscious shoppers, the WORX WG163 and VARSK 12-inch deliver excellent performance at a fraction of the cost. The BLACK+DECKER LST522 with its dual-speed control is another strong contender in the mid-range category. Whatever you choose, investing in one of the best string trimmers on this list will transform your weekly yard maintenance from a chore into a quick, satisfying task.

Our team will continue updating this guide as new models are released and battery technology improves. The cordless outdoor tool market moves fast, and we are committed to bringing you the most current, hands-on testing data available.