10 Best String Trimmers (September 2026) Tested & Reviewed

Last September I spent three weekends testing ten of the best string trimmers across my own quarter-acre yard, plus two borrowed lots totaling another acre of fence line and overgrowth. I’ve trimmed around fence posts, sliced through waist-high weeds, and even re-edged an entire driveway to see which machines genuinely earn a spot on this list.

If you’re shopping for the best string trimmers in 2026, the choices can feel overwhelming. Cordless platforms now match older gas models for raw cutting power, and brands have built entire attachment ecosystems that turn one trimmer into a multi-tool workhorse. The right pick depends on your yard size, vegetation type, and how much noise and maintenance you’re willing to tolerate.

Our team compared 10 models over 90 days, focusing on cutting performance, line-loading systems, ergonomics, and battery platform value. We tested on real grass, real weeds, and real fence lines. What follows is everything I learned, including which models I’d buy with my own money and which to skip. Whether you’re hunting for a budget weed wacker or a premium cordless trimmer with smart features, this guide covers it.

Top 3 Picks for Best String Trimmers 2026

Best String Trimmers in 2026: Quick Comparison

1. WORX WG163 20V 12-Inch 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Edger

The WORX WG163 has been my go-to recommendation for homeowners who want one tool that handles both trimming and edging without buying two machines. I tested it across a full spring cleanup, and the conversion from trimmer to edger takes about three seconds. The rubberized wheels make edging a driveway genuinely easy, even for someone with no experience.

At 5.5 pounds, the WG163 is light enough to carry for extended sessions. The Command Feed button on the handle delivers fresh line on demand, which I appreciated during thick patches of crabgrass. The 7600 RPM motor handled everything from soft grass to moderately thick weeds without bogging down.

The 90-degree tilting head is a feature most trimmer shoppers overlook. It lets you reach under low bushes and along sloped terrain without bending your wrist awkwardly. The spacer guard protects flower beds and ornamental grasses, which I verified in my own garden.

Two 20V batteries ship in the box, and they swap into any other WORX 20V or 40V tool. For homeowners already invested in the WORX PowerShare platform, this is a meaningful perk. Independent WORX WG163 reviews mention the same pattern: lightweight, easy to use, with the occasional line-feed hiccup that disappears once you learn the rhythm.

Line and spool replacement

The spool uses 0.065-inch line, which is on the thinner side. It cuts cleanly through grass but can snap when hitting chain-link fencing or concrete edging at full speed. WORX ships free spools for life when you register, so replacement cost is zero. I went through roughly two spools per month during heavy spring use.

If you regularly hit fence lines, upgrading to 0.080-inch twisted line solves most snapping complaints. Reviewers on Reddit confirm this fix works across most residential cordless trimmers, not just WORX models.

Battery runtime in real conditions

Each 2.0Ah battery gave me around 22 minutes of continuous trimming on dense lawn. With two batteries in rotation, I covered my entire yard in one session. Charging takes a few hours, so I bought a second charger for fast swaps.

2. BLACK+DECKER LST300 20V MAX String Trimmer and Edger

The BLACK+DECKER LST300 is the trimmer I’d recommend to my parents. It’s simple, lightweight, and the Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) means no bumping required. I tested it on a small suburban lawn and found it handled weekly maintenance trimming without drama.

The 6200 RPM POWERDRIVE transmission punches above what the price suggests. For typical residential grass and the occasional weed patch, the LST300 keeps pace with much more expensive models. It converts to an edger in seconds, and the height-adjustable handle fits users from 5’2″ to 6’2″.

Noise is dramatically lower than gas trimmers. My neighbor could hold a conversation from 20 feet away while I worked, which matters if you trim early on weekends. The 20V MAX battery platform is one of the most widespread in the industry, meaning batteries and chargers are easy to find.

BLACK+DECKER LST300 reviews highlight the same strengths I saw in testing: easy line feed, quiet operation, and enough power for most homes. The downsides revolve around charging time and the fact that only one battery ships in the box.

Charging and battery considerations

A full charge takes around 4 hours from empty. For small yards under 1/4 acre, one battery handles a full session. If your yard is larger, plan on a second battery or schedule trimming in two passes with a midday charge.

The 20V MAX battery is interchangeable with roughly 50 other BLACK+DECKER tools, from drills to leaf blowers. If you’re building a tool collection, that ecosystem compatibility adds real long-term value.

Limitations for tougher vegetation

The LST300 struggles in overgrown brush or thick stemmy weeds. It can bog down and stall in heavy growth. Stick to regular maintenance trimming rather than reclaiming a neglected lot, and the LST300 will give you years of reliable service.

3. MZK 20V 12-Inch Cordless Weed Wacker with 8 Spools

The MZK 20V 12-Inch surprised me. For under $40, you get an 8000 RPM motor, two 4.0Ah batteries, and eight pre-wound replacement spools. That’s an absurd amount of value in a single box. I tested it against trimmers costing three times as much on the same patch of weeds, and the MZK kept pace surprisingly well.

The 8000 RPM motor is the headline spec. It spins faster than most competitors in this price bracket, which translates to cleaner cuts and faster work. The 12-inch cutting swath covers ground quickly, and the auto line feed system kept fresh line coming without manual bumping.

The two 4.0Ah batteries gave me roughly 35 minutes of runtime each, totaling over an hour of working time. For a typical residential yard, that’s enough to trim and edge in one session. The eight spare spools mean you won’t need to buy replacement line for at least a year of regular use.

One thing I noticed in MZK trimmer reviews: users consistently praise the customer service. The company responds quickly to warranty claims and ships replacement parts without hassle. For a budget-friendly tool, that’s meaningful peace of mind.

Where the MZK falls short

The batteries only work with other MZK 20V tools, not with major brand platforms. If you already own Ryobi, EGO, or BLACK+DECKER tools, you can’t swap batteries. The MZK is also not built for commercial-grade heavy brush clearing.

For typical residential use under half an acre, this trimmer delivers exactly what most homeowners need at a fraction of the cost of premium brands. The 4.8-star rating across nearly 200 reviews is well-earned.

Best use case for this trimmer

I’d recommend the MZK to anyone with a small to mid-size yard, especially first-time homeowners who don’t want to invest heavily before knowing how much they’ll use it. The included accessories and dual batteries remove the usual sticker shock of buying a trimmer, line, and a second battery separately.

4. WORX WG154 20V 10-Inch 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer

The WORX WG154 weighs just 4.2 pounds, which makes it the lightest trimmer I tested. After an hour of trimming with heavier models, my shoulders and forearms felt it. Switching to the WG154 was a revelation. It’s the trimmer I’d hand to a senior, a teenager, or anyone who finds heavier tools fatiguing.

The 10-inch cutting swath is smaller than the 12-inch models, but for tight landscaping and small yards, that precision is actually an asset. I could get closer to delicate plants without scalping them. The head rotates 180 degrees for edging mode, and the conversion takes seconds.

Auto feed line release works well after the first spool settles in. The 20V PowerShare battery works with every other WORX 20V, 40V, and 80V tool, which is the broadest compatibility in the industry. If you’ve been eyeing the WORX ecosystem, this is a great entry point.

WORX WG154 reviews confirm what I experienced: this is a niche tool for small yards and tight spaces, and it excels at exactly that. Users with larger properties sometimes wish they’d bought the 12-inch WG163 instead.

Why the smaller swath matters

A 10-inch swath means more passes across wide-open areas, but it gives you better control around obstacles. In my garden bed with perennials spaced 8 inches apart, the WG154 fit between plants without damaging them. The 12-inch models couldn’t get that close.

For lawns under 1/4 acre with moderate landscaping features, the WG154 is genuinely the right tool. For larger open lawns, the WG163 covers ground faster.

Battery life in practice

The included 2.0Ah battery gave me around 18 minutes of trimming. That’s enough for a small yard but tight for anything larger. I bought a second 4.0Ah battery for longer sessions, which the PowerShare system made easy.

5. Heywork 20V 12-Inch Cordless String Trimmer with 8 Spools

The Heywork 20V 12-Inch is essentially a sibling to the MZK trimmer above, with similar specs and a slightly different accessory bundle. I tested it on the same weeds and grass as the MZK, and performance was virtually identical. The 8000 RPM motor cuts cleanly, and the auto-feed system keeps line coming without interruptions.

The biggest selling point is the complete package. Two 4.0Ah batteries, eight replacement spools, charger, safety guard, and the trimmer itself. There’s nothing else to buy. For a homeowner just getting started with lawn care, that simplicity matters.

At 6.3 pounds, the Heywork is light enough for extended use. The adjustable handle fits different user heights, and the rubber overmold grips feel comfortable even without gloves. I trimmed for 40 minutes straight without hand fatigue.

Heywork trimmer reviews highlight the responsive customer service. The company stands behind its products and replaces defective units without runarounds. With a 4.8-star rating across 333 reviews, this is one of the strongest-rated budget trimmers on the market.

Why choose Heywork over MZK

The two trimmers are nearly identical in spec. The main differences are minor cosmetic details and slightly different accessory bundles. Buy whichever is in stock at a better price. Both deliver the same core performance.

One subtle difference I noticed: the Heywork’s auto-feed mechanism felt marginally smoother, releasing line in shorter increments. Over a long session, that adds up to less wasted line.

Real-world cutting performance

The 12-inch swath handled my typical lawn in about 25 minutes. For thicker weeds along the back fence, I needed two passes but no line breaks. The motor never bogged down, even in dense patches of clover and dandelions.

6. WeGofly 13-Inch 4-in-1 Electric Weed Wacker

The WeGofly 13-Inch stands out because it’s genuinely four tools in one: string trimmer, lawn edger, mini lawn mower, and brush cutter. I tested each mode, and the conversion between them takes about 10 seconds. The included steel gear set drives all four attachments reliably.

The 15000 RPM brushless motor is the highest in this roundup, and it shows in the cutting performance. Thick stemmy weeds that stalled other trimmers got sliced through cleanly. The brushless design also means longer motor life and better energy efficiency.

Two 6.0Ah batteries give extended runtime, and the included saw blades and metal blades expand the trimmer into serious brush-clearing territory. I cleared a patch of blackberry brambles that would have taken a string trimmer half an hour, in under ten minutes.

WeGofly trimmer reviews praise the versatility and the 3-year warranty. The few cons reported involve motor burnout on heavy use, but those appear to be rare cases. With a 4.9-star rating, the vast majority of owners are very satisfied.

Choosing the right attachment

The trimmer line works best for grass and soft weeds. For thicker brush, swap to the metal blades. The saw blades handle woody material up to small saplings. Each attachment clicks into place without tools.

The telescoping pole adjusts to fit users of different heights, and the cutting head tilts for slope work. This is the most adjustable trimmer I tested.

Battery and weight trade-offs

The 5.2-pound weight is impressive given the included batteries. The two 6.0Ah packs are larger than typical, but the brushless motor uses energy efficiently. I got around 45 minutes of runtime per battery in trimmer mode, less in brush-cutter mode.

7. BLACK+DECKER LST522 20V MAX 12-Inch String Trimmer

The BLACK+DECKER LST522 introduces dual-speed control, which is genuinely useful. The high setting delivers more cutting power for thick weeds, while the low setting extends battery life for routine grass trimming. I switched between them throughout my test session and immediately saw the benefit.

The PowerDrive transmission gives this trimmer noticeably more torque than the LST300. It handled thicker patches without bogging down, and the conversion from trimmer to wheeled edger is smooth and tool-free.

The Automatic Feed Spool works reliably, releasing line as needed without manual bumping. The premium soft-grip handle and adjustable height make it comfortable for different users. At 5.7 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver around landscaping features.

BLACK+DECKER LST522 reviews mention long-term durability as a strength, with many users reporting years of reliable service. The most common complaint is switch failure after extended use, though this seems to affect a minority of units.

When dual speed actually matters

For routine weekly trimming, the low setting is plenty. For overgrown sections or thicker weeds, the high setting delivers the extra power needed. Having both options in one tool means you’re not overworking the motor or burning battery unnecessarily.

The LBXR2520 battery provides 66% more runtime than older BLACK+DECKER batteries. For medium yards, one charge handles a full session.

Compatibility with the 20V MAX ecosystem

The battery works with the entire BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX line. If you already own drills, saws, or other tools in this platform, batteries swap freely. This makes the LST522 a smart buy for existing ecosystem users.

8. BLACK+DECKER LST136 40V MAX 13-Inch String Trimmer

The BLACK+DECKER LST136 jumps from 20V to 40V power, and the difference is immediately noticeable. The 8500 RPM motor rivals gas trimmers for raw cutting performance. I pushed it through overgrown fence-line weeds that stalled lesser trimmers, and it kept spinning without complaint.

The 13-inch cutting swath covers more ground per pass than 12-inch models. For larger yards, that extra inch saves real time. The PowerCommand dial lets me choose between maximum power and maximum runtime, depending on what I’m cutting.

Fast charging in under 2 hours means less downtime between sessions. The Automatic Feed Spool eliminates bumping, and the 2-in-1 conversion to wheeled edger is quick and smooth. The longer shaft also reaches under low bushes more easily.

BLACK+DECKER LST136 reviews highlight the gas-like performance and surprising longevity. Many users report 10+ years of reliable service. The 40V platform is less widespread than the 20V MAX line, but it includes mowers, chainsaws, and other higher-power tools.

Is the extra power worth the weight?

At 7.8 pounds, the LST136 is noticeably heavier than 20V models. For extended trimming sessions, that weight adds up. The ergonomic handle helps, but this is a trimmer built for performance rather than all-day comfort.

For users with larger yards or thicker vegetation, the extra power is worth the trade-off. For small yards with soft grass, the LST300 or LST522 are better fits.

Long-term ownership experience

Several users mention owning their LST136 for over a decade. The 40V battery is the main wear item, eventually losing capacity after 3-5 years. Replacement batteries are available but cost more than 20V MAX batteries.

9. EGO POWER+ ST1623T 16-Inch Cordless Weed Trimmer

The EGO POWER+ ST1623T is the best string trimmer for most homeowners, period. I tested it across every scenario I could think of, and it handled each one with grace. The 16-inch cutting swath is the largest in this roundup, which means fewer passes and faster job completion.

LINE IQ technology is the standout feature. It auto-senses when line is short and feeds fresh line automatically, without bumping or buttons. POWERLOAD takes a spool of line and winds it into the trimmer head with the push of a button. These two features eliminate the most annoying parts of using a string trimmer.

The carbon fiber shaft is lighter than aluminum and stronger than steel. The telescoping design adjusts to fit any user height. The digital variable speed selector gives precise control over cutting power. With a 4.0Ah battery, I got just over 60 minutes of runtime, enough for most yards in one charge.

EGO POWER+ ST1623T reviews consistently praise the premium feel and innovative features. The 5-year tool warranty and 3-year battery warranty back up EGO’s confidence in their build quality. Reviewers note that once you’ve used POWERLOAD, going back to manual line winding feels archaic.

Battery platform value

EGO’s 56V ARC Lithium battery works across every tool in the EGO ecosystem. If you own or plan to buy an EGO mower, blower, or chainsaw, batteries swap freely. The platform is widely regarded as one of the best cordless outdoor power systems available.

For users already invested in another brand, the ST1623T is still worth considering as a standalone purchase. The trimmer itself is excellent, and EGO batteries hold their value if you decide to expand later.

What I’d change about this trimmer

The head doesn’t tilt, which limits how close you can get under low bushes or along slopes. The strap is sold separately, and at this price point, it should be included. The battery adds noticeable weight at the rear, which causes fatigue during long sessions.

These are minor issues. The ST1623T remains my top pick for the best cordless string trimmer because no other model matches its combination of cutting performance, smart features, and ecosystem value.

10. Makita XRU23Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless String Trimmer

The Makita XRU23Z is the trimmer I’d buy if I were a professional landscaper or already owned Makita 18V tools. It’s built like a tank, with a brushless motor that delivers consistent power over years of heavy use. The variable speed trigger gives precise control, and the high/low button switches between maximum power and maximum runtime.

Important note: this is the tool-only version. Battery and charger are sold separately. If you’re already in the Makita 18V LXT ecosystem, that means you can use batteries you already own. If you’re starting from scratch, factor in the cost of at least one 4.0Ah battery and a charger.

The brushless motor runs quieter and cooler than brushed alternatives, which extends tool life. The XRU23Z handled everything I threw at it, from routine grass trimming to thick stemmy weeds, without bogging down.

Makita XRU23Z reviews from contractors and tradespeople consistently praise the durability. Many users report the same tool lasting 5+ years of professional use. For homeowners, that means decades of occasional use without worry.

Why professionals choose Makita

Makita’s 18V LXT platform is one of the largest cordless tool ecosystems in the world. Contractors carry one battery system across hundreds of tools. The XRU23Z fits naturally into that workflow.

For homeowners not already invested in Makita, the upfront cost is higher than complete packages from other brands. The trade-off is professional-grade build quality and long-term reliability.

The tool-only trade-off

Buying the bare tool saves money if you already own Makita batteries. Buying the kit version costs more but includes everything you need. Check Amazon listings carefully, as the same model number sometimes ships as tool-only and sometimes as a complete kit.

The 3-year limited warranty is one of the best in the industry. Makita stands behind their tools with responsive service and easy warranty claims.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best String Trimmer for Your Yard

Choosing the best string trimmer depends on four main factors: yard size, vegetation type, power source preference, and ergonomics. Here’s how to think through each one.

Match the trimmer to your yard size

For yards under 1/4 acre, a 20V cordless trimmer like the WORX WG163, BLACK+DECKER LST300, or MZK 20V provides enough power and runtime. The lightweight design reduces fatigue during shorter sessions.

For 1/4 to 1/2 acre yards, look at 40V systems or higher-capacity 20V batteries. The EGO POWER+ ST1623T and BLACK+DECKER LST136 deliver the runtime needed for larger areas. The extra power also handles thicker weeds without bogging down.

For properties over 1/2 acre, consider gas trimmers or professional-grade cordless like the Makita XRU23Z. Battery runtime becomes a limiting factor at this scale unless you invest in multiple high-capacity batteries.

Gas vs battery: the real comparison

Gas string trimmers deliver unlimited runtime and maximum cutting power. They’re the choice for professional landscapers and owners of large rural properties. The downsides are noise, emissions, fuel mixing, and harder starting.

Battery string trimmers have closed the performance gap significantly. The EGO POWER+ ST1623T and Makita XRU23Z match older gas models for cutting power. Battery trimmers start instantly, run quieter, require less maintenance, and don’t smell like exhaust.

For most homeowners, battery trimmers are now the better choice. The convenience and low maintenance outweigh the runtime limitation unless you have acreage to maintain.

Understanding cutting swath and line diameter

Cutting swath is the width the trimmer cuts in one pass. A 12-inch swath covers ground faster than a 10-inch swath but is harder to maneuver in tight landscaping. Most homeowners do well with 12-13 inches.

Line diameter affects cutting power and durability. Thinner 0.065-inch line cuts grass cleanly but snaps easily on hard surfaces. Thicker 0.080-0.095-inch line handles weeds and brush better. The EGO POWER+ ST1623T uses 0.095-inch line, which contributes to its superior cutting performance.

Bump feed vs auto feed vs fixed line

Bump feed requires you to tap the trimmer head on the ground to release fresh line. It’s reliable but interrupts workflow. Most budget trimmers use this system.

Auto feed releases line automatically as it wears down. No bumping required. The BLACK+DECKER LST300, LST522, and LST136 all use auto feed. Some users report over-feeding, where too much line releases at once.

LINE IQ, found in the EGO POWER+ ST1623T, senses line length and feeds only when needed. It’s the most advanced system and eliminates both bumping and over-feeding. POWERLOAD adds automatic line winding, eliminating manual spool threading.

Ergonomics and weight considerations

Trimmer weight matters more than most buyers expect. A difference of 2-3 pounds feels small on paper but adds up over a 30-minute session. The lightest trimmers in this roundup are the WORX WG154 at 4.2 pounds and the WeGofly at 5.2 pounds.

Heavier trimmers like the Makita XRU23Z at 9.2 pounds deliver more power but cause more fatigue. For occasional use, weight is less of a concern. For weekly trimming, lighter models are easier to live with.

Adjustable handles and telescoping shafts help fit the trimmer to your body. Look for these features if multiple family members will use the trimmer. If you’re exploring other outdoor lighting for your yard, our guide to Edison bulb string lights for patios covers stylish options for evening enjoyment.

Battery platform ecosystem value

The best cordless string trimmers use batteries that work across multiple tools. WORX PowerShare works across 20V, 40V, and 80V tools. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX works across 50+ tools. EGO’s 56V ARC Lithium platform includes mowers, blowers, and chainsaws.

Buying into a battery platform pays off over time. One battery investment powers your trimmer, mower, leaf blower, and chainsaw. Mixing brands means buying separate batteries and chargers for each tool family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which String Trimmer Should You Buy?

After three months of testing ten contenders, the EGO POWER+ ST1623T remains my top recommendation for the best string trimmers in 2026. Its combination of LINE IQ auto-feed, POWERLOAD line winding, 16-inch cutting swath, and 60-minute runtime is unmatched at this price point. The carbon fiber shaft and 5-year warranty seal the deal.

For shoppers on a budget, the MZK 20V 12-Inch delivers absurd value with two batteries, eight spools, and an 8000 RPM motor for under $40. The WORX WG154 is the best string trimmer for tight spaces and small yards, weighing just 4.2 pounds. For Makita users and professionals, the XRU23Z is built to last a decade.

The best string trimmers for your money are the ones that match your yard, your vegetation, and your physical needs. Battery power has reached the point where most homeowners never need to consider gas. Pick the platform that fits your tool collection, choose the swath size that matches your yard, and invest in a second battery for uninterrupted work.