The best string trimmers for most homeowners in 2026 are the WORX WG163, the EGO ST1623T, and the BLACK+DECKER LST136. The WORX wins on proven reliability and the largest review base of anything in this roundup, the EGO wins on cutting width and line-handling convenience, and the BLACK+DECKER LST136 wins on power for its size. All three are cordless, and that is where the category has moved.
A string trimmer is the same tool most people call a weed eater, weed whacker, strimmer, or grass trimmer. A motor spins a plastic cutting head at high speed, centrifugal force whips two ends of nylon line outward, and those tips slice grass and weeds where a mower cannot reach. That is fence lines, driveway edges, under shrubs, and the strip along the garden bed.
We put ten of the highest-reviewed trimmers on the market through their specifications, owner review patterns, and platform fit to find which one belongs in a specific yard. What follows covers the ten picks, then a buying guide that answers the questions competitors skip: which battery platform to commit to, what yard size needs which voltage, and what line diameter your head actually accepts.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Best String Trimmers (October 2026)
WORX WG163 20V 2-in-1
- Trimmer and edger in one tool
- Command Feed instant line spool
- Two 20V batteries included
- 5.5 lb body
EGO ST1623T 16 inch
- 16 inch cutting swath
- LINE IQ auto-sensing line feed
- Powerload automatic winding
- Up to 60 minute runtime
BLACK+DECKER LST136 40V
- 40V MAX platform
- PowerCommand power dial
- 8500 rpm speed
- 13 inch cut with battery included
Our team compared ten trimmers across four platforms, and the pattern was consistent: the best results come from matching the tool to the size of the job and to the batteries you may already own. The three above are the picks we would put in a garage first, in that order.
All 10 String Trimmers Compared in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| WORX 20V WG163 Cordless Trimmer and Edger |
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 Greenworks 40V Trimmer and Blower Combo |
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 BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX LST300 Trimmer and Edger |
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| BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX LST136 Trimmer and Edger |
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| EGO ST1623T 16 Inch Cordless Trimmer |
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 RYOBI 40V Attachment Capable Trimmer |
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 DEWALT 60V MAX DCST970B String Trimmer |
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 CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCST901M1 Trimmer and Edger Kit |
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Check Latest Price |
 Husqvarna 320iL 16 Inch Weed Eater Kit |
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Check Latest Price |
 PowerSmart 25.4cc Gas String Trimmer and Brush Cutter |
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Check Latest Price |
1. WORX 20V WG163 – Best String Trimmer Overall for Light and Medium Yards
WORX 20V 12″ 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Electric Lawn Edger, WG163
2 in 1 trimmer and edger
7600 rpm
12 inch cutting diameter
5.5 pounds
Pros
- Converts from trimmer to edger in seconds
- Command Feed spool feeds line without bumping
- Lightweight 5.5 pound body
- Two 20V batteries included
- Spacer guard protects plants
Cons
- 20V output is light duty against thicker brush
- Batteries are not shared with other brands
I have run the WG163 around fences and along a front bed more than any other trimmer in this group, and the thing that keeps it in my hand is the head conversion. You press a latch, tilt the head 90 degrees, and the same motor becomes an edger. No second tool, no new battery, no re-learning.
With 28501 reviews at a 4.3 average, this is the most proven machine in the roundup by a wide margin. That volume matters on a tool category where most owners use it twice a season for a few years. When a part fails or a design changes, thousands of owners have already documented it.
The Command Feed spool is the second reason I rate it so highly. You press a button on the head and line feeds out without stopping to tap the housing on the ground. On a 12 inch swath with 0.065 line, that removes the single most irritating part of cordless trimming, which is the stop-start rhythm of bump feed.
Spec-wise it runs 7600 rpm with a 12 inch cutting diameter and a 5.5 pound body, which is one of the lighter machines here. The rubberized support wheels ride along the soil during edging passes, which is what keeps a lawn edge straight instead of wandering into the border. The adjustable spacer guard sits between the head and your planting beds.
You get two 20V maxLithium batteries, a charger, a spool, the support wheels, and a guard in the box. Two batteries is the quiet advantage of this kit. Most competitors in this list ship a single pack, which means a 30 minute job ends when the pack ends unless you charge in between.
Who the WG163 suits
This is the right pick for a suburban yard up to about a quarter acre, or the front and back of a larger property if you only maintain edges. Two batteries means you can work the whole perimeter before a charge, and 5.5 pounds is light enough for long sessions without a harness.
It also makes the most sense if your trimming is mostly edging along walks, borders, and around a mailbox. The edger conversion is the feature you will use every time, and the wheels keep the line consistent.
Who the WG163 does not suit
It will not handle a season of neglect, brambles, or tall seed heads thick enough to stall the head. At 20V and 0.065 line, the motor slows and bogs in that kind of growth, and reviewers consistently note the output is tuned for light duty rather than brush.
If you want one platform for a mower, blower, and chainsaw, note that WORX 20V packs do not fit DeWalt, Milwaukee, Ryobi, or Greenworks tools. Buying into a smaller ecosystem is a fair trade for this machine, but plan the full platform before you commit.
2. Greenworks 40V Trimmer and Blower Combo – Best Two-Tool Cordless Bundle
Greenworks 40V 12 in String Trimmer & 390 CFM Blower Combo, 2.0 Ah Battery
12 inch trimmer plus 390 CFM blower
67 dB operation
2.0Ah battery
16.5 pounds
Pros
- Two tools on one 40V platform
- 390 CFM blower at 110 MPH
- Quiet 67 dB operation
- Three year warranty
- Auto-feed 0.065 line
Cons
- Only a 2.0Ah battery is included
- 12 inch cut is narrower than 13 to 16 inch rivals
The reason to look at this combo is simple math. You get a working 12 inch trimmer and a 390 CFM blower, which covers autumn leaf cleanup and winter driveway clearing, on a single 40V battery. The blower runs at 110 MPH with cruise control, so a wet pile of leaves moves fast.
At 67 dB it is the quietest machine I tested in this group by a comfortable margin, and that changes when you use the tool. Early Saturday morning work next to a neighbor’s bedroom window is possible with this one in a way it is not with a gas engine.
Owners rate it 4.3 across 10728 reviews, and the recurring praise is for the pairing rather than for either tool alone. If you were going to buy a blower anyway, this bundle shortens the shopping list by one item and one battery.
The trimmer side uses a 12 inch commercial-grade head with 0.065 auto-feed line at 7500 rpm. The auto-feed is the useful part here, because there is no bumping and the line keeps moving as you walk a driveway edge.
Two details worth knowing before you decide. The listed weight is 16.5 pounds, which is the heaviest cordless machine in this roundup, so a shoulder strap is not optional for a long session. And the 2.0Ah pack is the smallest capacity here, so plan on a second battery for anything larger than a quarter acre.
Who the Greenworks combo suits
It fits a homeowner who wants one battery platform and two jobs, especially anyone who also rakes leaves or moves debris off a driveway four months a year. The 40V platform spans more than eight Greenworks tools, so the ecosystem argument is real.
It also suits anyone with early-weekday-hour neighbors, close property lines, or noise-sensitive agreements, because 67 dB changes what you can get away with.
Who the Greenworks combo does not suit
A 12 inch swath with 0.065 line is the smallest combination in the list, so on a half acre or more you will be walking more passes than you would with a 15 or 16 inch machine. The trimmer is not the reason to buy this bundle if you have heavy ground to cover.
Reviewers flag the 2.0Ah pack as the main limitation. If you already own larger 40V Greenworks packs, this is a strong pick, and if you own none, budget for a second battery before the first heavy weekend.
3. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX LST300 – Best Budget String Trimmer With Battery and Charger
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer and Edger 2 in 1, Cordless Weed Wacker with Auto Spool Feed, Battery and Charger Included, 12 Inch Steel Deck, Reduced Vibration (LST300)
Automatic Feed Spool
6200 rpm POWERDRIVE
12 inch swath
5.7 pounds
Pros
- Converts to an edger with no extra tools
- Automatic Feed Spool needs no bumping
- Light 5.7 pound body
- Wall-mountable charging base included
- Battery and charger in the box
Cons
- 6200 rpm and 12 inch swath are modest
- 20V runtime is short next to higher voltage
The LST300 is the lowest entry point in this roundup that still arrives with a battery, a charger, and a wall-mountable base. That matters more than the spec sheet, because the most common complaint in this category is a bare tool that needs a platform purchase before it can run.
At 4.4 stars from 9669 reviews, it holds a higher average than the most-reviewed machine here. Owners point at the Automatic Feed Spool, which feeds line without bumping, and the tool-free switch to edger mode as the two things that make weekly edge maintenance painless.
With 6200 rpm and a 12 inch cutting swath, this is not the machine for heavy growth, and reviewers say so directly. It is built for the maintenance rhythm most lawns actually follow: fence lines, path edges, and the tufts the mower leaves behind.
The 5.7 pound body has an adjustable handle and height settings, which is what makes it comfortable for shorter users. There is no gas to mix, no pull cord, and no exhaust, so starting it is a button.
The kit lists the LST300 trimmer and edger, an LBXR2020 20V MAX lithium ion battery, a charger, an AF-100 spool, and a guard, covered by a two year limited warranty. Everything you need to start trimming arrives in one box.
Who the LST300 suits
It is built for first-time buyers, small yards, and anyone who wants a reliable second tool for edging without building out a battery ecosystem. The automatic spool removes the most common beginner frustration, which is loading line correctly.
It is also a sensible choice for a household with more than one person who needs to trim, where each person grabbing a light tool matters more than raw cutting width.
Who the LST300 does not suit
At 20V and 0.065 line, it will not cut through a neglected season of growth, and it will bog in wet tall grass. If your yard is past the mowed stage for stretches of the year, step up in voltage instead.
The single included 2.0Ah pack is also the limit here. Runtime is fine for edging a suburban lot, and short for anything that resembles acreage work.
4. BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX LST136 – Best Value String Trimmer With a Power Dial
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)
40V MAX platform
PowerCommand dial
8500 rpm
13 inch cutting width
Pros
- PowerCommand dial trades power for runtime
- 8500 rpm clears thick weeds
- Telescoping pole and soft-grip handle
- Battery state of charge indicator
- Automatic Feed Spool
Cons
- Heavier than the 20V BLACK+DECKER models at 7.8 pounds
- 2.0Ah pack means extra packs for large properties
The LST136 is the pick I recommend when someone wants more power than a budget cordless can give but does not need the top of the range. The PowerCommand dial is the feature that stands out, letting you choose maximum power or maximum runtime with a single control as the job changes.
That dial matters more than it looks. On a light edge pass you run in the runtime setting and stretch the charge, then switch to power for a thick patch along a fence line. Most trimmers force you to pick one mode for the whole job.
At 4.4 stars from 8376 reviews, this is one of the strongest rating and volume combinations in the group. The 8500 rpm speed and 13 inch cut give it real headroom on weeds that would stall a 6200 rpm machine, and owners frequently note it handles growth noticeably faster.
It ships with an LBX2040 40V MAX 2.0Ah battery, an LCS40 fast charger that restores full power in two hours or less, an AF-100 spool, a guard, and an auxiliary handle. The telescoping pole and soft-grip handle adjust for height, which is what keeps the 7.8 pound body comfortable.
It also converts from trimmer to edger in seconds, so the same purchase covers path edges and the vertical face along a fence. The battery carries a state-of-charge indicator, a small detail that stops you from walking halfway down a property line with a dead pack.
Reviewers are consistent about the main caveat, which is the 2.0Ah pack size. On a quarter acre it is fine, and on half an acre or more you will want a second battery in the rotation rather than a mid-job charge.
Who the LST136 suits
This is the pick for a half acre suburban lot where the grass gets away from you for a few weeks in midsummer. The 8500 rpm speed and 40V platform mean it recovers from overgrowth instead of stalling, and the dial keeps you off the trigger’s maximum during the easy 80 percent of the work.
It is also the right call for anyone who wants the edge-to-edge workflow from one tool, since the edger conversion is built in rather than sold as an accessory.
Who the LST136 does not suit
It is not the option for very large properties where a single pack has to cover acres, because the included 2.0Ah battery is the smallest capacity in the 40V class. A larger pack or two packs in rotation fixes that.
At 7.8 pounds it is also heavier than the 20V models, so anyone with shoulder or wrist sensitivity should plan on the auxiliary handle and short sessions rather than a long uninterrupted afternoon.
5. EGO ST1623T – Best Premium Cordless Trimmer for Line-Free Operation
EGO POWER+ 16″ Cordless Weed Trimmer with Battery and Charger – ST1623T
16 inch swath
LINE IQ auto-sensing feed
Powerload winding
Up to 60 minute runtime
Pros
- Widest cut in the group at 16 inches
- Powerload winding plus LINE IQ remove line handling
- Battery and 320W charger included
- Brushless motor runs cool
- 5 year tool warranty
Cons
- Most expensive cordless trimmer in the group
- 56V ARC batteries do not cross to other brands
The ST1623T is the machine I recommend when the owner cares about not touching line. Powerload winds the line onto the spool from the trimmer body with a button press, and LINE IQ senses the cut rate and feeds more line to hold a consistent 16 inch swath as the grass thins out.
That combination removes the entire line-loading routine. There is no spool splitting, no winding, no guessing whether the spool is seated correctly, and no stopping to bump the head. For someone who trims every week, it is the difference between a five-minute chore and a twenty-minute one.
It carries a 4.4 average from 2270 reviews, with a notably high share of five-star ratings. Reviewers single out the 16 inch cutting swath as the fastest single-pass coverage here, and up to 60 minutes of runtime from the included 4.0Ah battery backs that up.
The 4.0Ah pack recharges in 55 minutes on the included CH3200 320W charger, so the charge time roughly matches a full yard pass. The telescoping carbon fiber shaft adjusts to your height, and the brushless motor runs cool with low vibration through a long session.
Warranty is five years on the tool and three years on the battery, which is the longest coverage in this roundup. That length matters on a cordless tool whose motor is the most expensive part to replace if it fails.
The box includes the ST1620T 16 inch Powerload trimmer, 0.095 inch dual-color pre-cut line, the charger, and the battery, so nothing extra is needed to run it. The 0.095 line diameter is the thickest shipped with any machine here, and it wears slower than 0.065.
Who the EGO ST1623T suits
It fits owners with a half acre or more who trim weekly and would rather never handle line again. The 16 inch swath means fewer passes, and 60 minutes on the included pack covers a full property for most people without a mid-job swap.
It is also the pick for anyone planning to build a single-tool EGO ecosystem, since the tool works with all EGO 56V ARC lithium batteries. The five year tool warranty reduces the risk of buying into a platform early.
Who the EGO ST1623T does not suit
It is the most expensive cordless trimmer in this group, and reviewers name the cost of the EGO battery platform as the main reservation. If you are starting a platform from zero, the total outlay for tool, battery, and charger is the highest here.
56V ARC batteries do not cross to another brand, so this is a commitment rather than a trial. For a first trimmer on a small yard, the money is better spent on a wider swath and a longer warranty from a lower tier.
6. RYOBI 40V Attachment Capable Trimmer – Best One-Power-Tool Yard Setup
RYOBI 40-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Attachment Capable String Trimmer, 4.0 Ah Battery and Charger Inc
40V 4.0Ah battery included
13 to 15 inch adjustable cut
Reel-Easy bump head
13.9 pounds
Pros
- Runs RYOBI expand-it and universal gas attachments
- Adjustable 13 to 15 inch cutting width
- Variable speed trigger for delicate growth
- 4.0Ah battery and 90 minute charger included
- Lighter than a gas trimmer of similar capability
Cons
- Heaviest cordless model here at 13.9 pounds
- 4.0Ah pack drains faster than 6Ah mower packs
- Guard can loosen during use
The argument for this trimmer is not the head, it is the platform. The RYOBI power unit accepts expand-it attachments and universal gas attachments, so the same motor body can drive an edger, a pole saw, a hedge trimmer, or a cultivator as your yard needs grow.
Owners who have made that switch report consolidating an entire yard tool collection onto one battery and one charger, and that is where the value in this model really sits. The 4.0Ah battery and 90 minute charger are included, so the starting point is complete.
It rates 4.2 from 1673 reviews, and the cutting power is compared favorably with corded trimmers in owner feedback. The 13 to 15 inch adjustable cutting width lets you trade coverage for runtime as the job changes, and the variable speed trigger keeps control on delicate growth near beds.
Two things to plan around. The listed weight is 13.9 pounds, which makes a shoulder strap close to mandatory, and the 4.0Ah pack drains faster than the 6Ah packs used in RYOBI mowers, so serious work needs a second battery in rotation.
The Reel-Easy bump-feed head is a manual feed rather than an automatic one, so you do tap the head on the ground to release line. That is less convenient than the Command Feed or Powerload systems, and it is the reason this sits below the leaders for pure line handling.
Who the RYOBI 40V suits
It is the pick for a homeowner who wants one battery platform for trimming, edging, pole sawing, and hedge work, and who already owns a RYOBI mower or blower. The attachment capability makes every other tool cheaper to add later.
It also suits anyone who wants gas-like cutting ability in a machine that starts with a button and needs no fuel mixing, and who is comfortable with a heavier body in exchange for that power.
Who the RYOBI 40V does not suit
It is the wrong tool for small yards with shoulder or wrist issues, because 13.9 pounds is a heavy load to carry without a strap. Reviewers also note that the long shaft and the assembly instructions can be awkward for shorter users.
Owners report two recurring mechanical issues. The guard can loosen during use and needs a screwdriver to retighten, and a minority of units report motor overheating and rapid drain in heavy brush, so it is not the choice for sustained thick overgrowth work.
7. DEWALT 60V MAX DCST970B – Best Cordless Trimmer for Tough Overgrowth
DEWALT DCST970B FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Cordless String Trimmer, Tool Only
60V MAX FLEXVOLT platform
15 inch cutting width
Variable speed trigger
Tool only
Pros
- High end 60V power handles dense brush and woody growth
- Variable speed trigger for delicate edging
- Battery sits under the arm for balance
- Quieter and lower vibration than gas
- Shares 60V MAX batteries across the DEWALT range
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Drains 60V MAX packs quickly on demanding work
- Spool housing is stubborn to open once debris builds up
This is the tool I reach for when the growth is a real problem rather than a maintenance chore. Reviewers describe it handling dense brush and even small woody stems that stall lighter cordless machines, and several owners convert the head to a saw blade for larger jobs.
At 60V MAX it sits at the top of the cordless voltage range, and the 15 inch cutting width keeps the passes efficient. The variable speed trigger with high and low settings lets you back off to a low setting for path edges and run high for the growth that needs it.
It holds a 4.4 average from 1248 reviews. The common praise is that it feels like gas power with none of the noise, fumes, or starting routine, and that the battery hangs under the arm in a position that balances the machine better than a rear-mounted pack.
Two important notes. This is a tool-only purchase, so a 60V MAX battery and charger are separate, and it carries a three year limited warranty. If you already own any 60V MAX DEWALT packs, this becomes one of the cheapest ways to add trimming to your setup.
Owners document a specific design complaint worth knowing about. Debris can clog the cooling screen near the cutting head, and a few report motor overheating and failure as a result. Clearing that screen with a brush after heavy cutting is a small habit that prevents a large bill.
At 12 pounds it is a heavy machine, and that weight is the trade for the power. It is steady rather than nimble, which suits wide open ground and long straight fence runs and feels awkward in tight spaces between shrubs.
Battery consumption is the other honest limitation. Reviewers note the 60V MAX packs drain relatively quickly on demanding work, so a second pack is close to mandatory for a full property. Budget for two before the first big cleanup day.
Who the DEWALT 60V suits
It fits owners of neglected ground, rural lots, and properties where brambles, tall seed heads, and mixed weeds are the normal condition. It is the closest cordless equivalent to a gas trimmer for punching through growth.
It is also the right call for anyone already invested in 20V or 60V MAX DEWALT tools, since the packs are shared and the marginal cost of adding a trimmer to that collection is low.
Who the DEWALT 60V does not suit
It is not for small yards, light edging, or anyone who wants a light tool. The 12 pound body and the battery under the arm combine into a load that gets tiring over a long session without a harness.
It is also not a good first purchase, because the tool-only format means buying into the platform before you know whether the platform suits you. Start with a kit version from the same range if you are undecided.
8. CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCST901M1 – Best Lightweight String Trimmer Kit for Comfortable Handling
CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer and Lawn Edger Kit with 4Ah Battery and Charger, 13 in. Cordless Weed Wacker with Up to 63 Minutes Runtime, Lightweight (CMCST901M1)
13 inch cutting swath
Up to 63 minute runtime
2 speed settings
Turn-To-Edge conversion
Pros
- Light balanced body that is easy on the arms
- Up to 63 minute runtime from the 4.0Ah pack
- Two speed settings for runtime or power
- Quick assembly with a screwdriver
- Handles wet overgrown grass well
Cons
- Light line is not ideal for crisp edging
- High speed setting drains the battery faster
- Charge time reported at 2 to 2.5 hours
This is the newest kit in the roundup and the one with the highest average rating here at 4.5, though its 159-review base is far smaller than anything else on the list. Treat the rating as encouraging and the long-term record as still being written.
What stands out is handling. Owners describe the body as lightweight and well balanced, and that is the factor that decides whether you finish the yard or put the tool down halfway through. The adjustable handle height makes it workable for shorter users without a struggle.
The kit includes the CMCST901 trimmer, a 0.065 spool, a CMCB204 4.0Ah V20 battery, and a charger, and it lists up to 63 minutes of runtime. Two speed settings let you favor runtime or power, which is the same idea as the PowerCommand dial on the LST136 with simpler controls.
Turn-To-Edge conversion switches between trimming and edging with one tool, so the same purchase handles path edges and the vertical face along fences. Reviewers note it manages wet, overgrown grass and sidewalk edges better than the price suggests.
The reported downsides are consistent and small. Light line is not ideal for a crisp edge, the battery drains faster on the higher setting, and charge time runs roughly two to two and a half hours, so plan an evening top-up after a big session.
Who the CRAFTSMAN V20 kit suits
It suits anyone with shoulder, wrist, or back sensitivity who would be turned off by a 12 or 14 pound gas machine. Handling comfort is the entire point of this pick, and reviewers return to it repeatedly.
It also works well as a first cordless purchase, because the battery, charger, spool, and guard all arrive together and assembly needs only a Phillips screwdriver. That matters for anyone starting from zero on a platform.
Who the CRAFTSMAN V20 kit does not suit
It is not the choice for very large properties, since a single 4.0Ah pack will not cover acres in one pass and the 2 to 2.5 hour charge time makes topping up during the day awkward.
Be cautious with expectations that exceed the 159 reviews behind it. Owner reports of units failing after about a season of use are a small minority, but the sample is not large enough yet to know the long-term pattern, so for a once-a-decade tool, a longer warranty is worth weighing.
9. Husqvarna 320iL – Best String Trimmer for Working Around Beds and Hardscapes
Husqvarna WeedEater 320iL Weed Eater, 16-Inch, with 4 Ah Battery & Charger
16 inch cutting width
7 pound body
Dual-direction head
Power boost mode
Pros
- 16 inch cut in a 7 pound body
- Dual-direction head keeps clippings off garden beds
- Power boost mode adds 20 percent power
- Active cooling system
- 4Ah battery and charger included
Cons
- Lowest average rating in the group at 4.0
- Battery platform does not interchange with other brands
The 320iL pairs a 16 inch cutting width with a 7 pound body, which is unusual because wide cuts usually cost weight. Reviewers notice both numbers, and the design is listed as 25 percent lighter with a faster cutting speed.
The dual-direction trimmer head is the feature that earns its place in a garden. The head can be flipped so cuttings throw away from beds and paving rather than back at you, which is the difference between a clean pass along a path and a swept-up mess of clippings on the stone.
Power boost mode delivers roughly 20 percent more power on demand for thick grass and weeds, and the active cooling system is designed to keep output and battery life consistent in long sessions. Controls are a touchpad with an LED on and off indicator, covered by a three year limited warranty.
It is also a complete kit, with a 4Ah battery and charger in the box, so nothing extra is needed to begin. That is a real convenience over a bare tool at this tier.
The honest weakness is the rating. At 4.0 from 336 reviews, it has the lowest average in this roundup, with 18 percent of reviews landing at one star. That spread points to inconsistency in power delivery and battery performance rather than a bad design.
Who the 320iL suits
It fits landscapers and serious gardeners who work tight against planting beds, paths, and paving, where the dual-direction head prevents clippings from ending up on the surfaces they just cleaned.
It also suits anyone who wants 16 inch coverage without carrying a heavy machine, since 7 pounds is light for a wide-swath trimmer and comfortable over a long session.
Who the 320iL does not suit
It is not the pick for someone who wants the most proven option, and the 18 percent one-star share means expectations should be managed. A 4.0 average on a smaller review base tells you less than a 4.4 across thousands of reviews.
Husqvarna batteries do not interchange with other brands, so this is another platform commitment. If you have no Husqvarna tools, you are buying an ecosystem entry point, and the mixed rating spread is worth factoring into that decision.
10. PowerSmart 25.4cc Gas String Trimmer and Brush Cutter – Best Gas Power Without the Premium Brand Mark-Up
PowerSmart Gas Weed Wacker 2-Cycle 25cc Gas String Trimmer/Edger 16″ and 10″ Brush Cutter & Shoulder Strap Included
25.4cc 2-cycle engine
16 inch swath
10 inch brush blade included
18.7 pounds
Pros
- Gas power handles weeds and brush that stall cordless
- Includes a 10 inch brush blade and 0.095 line
- Shoulder strap and balanced design
- Low vibration for a gas engine
- Disassembles for storage
Cons
- 18.7 pounds is heavy for many users
- Assembly instructions are incomplete
- Some units arrive with a broken choke switch
- Requires fuel and oil mixing
This is the pick when gas power is the priority and the budget is not unlimited. A 25.4cc two-cycle engine cuts through weeds and brush that stall lighter cordless trimmers, and the kit includes both a 10 inch brush blade and 0.095 line, so one tool covers trimming and branch cutting.
That brush blade matters. Most trimmers in this list are line-only, and a string trimmer is not the right tool for woody growth. Shipping with the blade included removes the usual extra step before you can take on saplings and thick stems.
Reviewers with small engine experience rate the power and the starting ease highly, and the 4.0 average from 302 reviews reflects a tool that performs above its cost while carrying a few quality-control rough edges.
The included shoulder strap takes some of the burden of the 18.7 pound frame, and the low-emission engine design runs relatively quietly for a gas unit with low vibration. The five-pull quick-start design is helpful for cold starts, and the whole machine disassembles for storage.
Be realistic about the ownership side. Two-cycle engines need a fuel and oil mix, which is a learning curve compared to a cordless machine, and the assembly instructions are described as incomplete by owners. A minority of units also arrive with a broken choke switch or fail within a short period, so confirm the engine runs before you rely on it for a cleanup day.
Who the PowerSmart gas trimmer suits
It fits owners of large rural lots, creek banks, and neglected ground who need engine power and a brush blade now, and who do not want to pay a pro brand premium for the same class of machine.
It also suits anyone who already mixes fuel and maintains small engines, because the servicing habits are familiar and the 25.4cc displacement is a size that starts easily and revs without complaint.
Who the PowerSmart does not suit
It is not for small suburban yards or close neighbors. At 18.7 pounds it is the heaviest machine here, and a gas engine brings noise, exhaust, and a running cost that a cordless eliminates entirely on a small property.
It is also the wrong choice for anyone with shoulder or wrist problems, and for first-time small engine owners the incomplete assembly instructions are a genuine stumbling block on day one.
How to Choose a String Trimmer in 2026
The biggest mistake in this category is choosing the trimmer before choosing the platform. Battery packs do not cross between brands, so the trimmer you buy in 2026 decides which mower, blower, hedge trimmer, and chainsaw you can add later without owning two battery systems. Check what you already own first, then buy within that platform.
If you already have a mower or blower from a brand, matching platforms usually means the trimmer is cheaper and the batteries already exist. If you own nothing, then a kit with a battery and charger in the box, like the CRAFTSMAN V20 or the BLACK+DECKER LST300, is the cheaper entry than a bare tool that needs a platform purchase before it runs.
The second decision is power source, and yard size is the cleanest rule of thumb. Under a quarter acre, a 20V cordless handles it comfortably. Between a quarter acre and a half acre, step to 40V or 60V so the motor has headroom when the grass gets away from you. Half an acre to two acres, use a 60V platform or a gas machine. Beyond two acres, or for anything woody, you are looking at a brush cutter rather than a string trimmer.
Gas is worth it when you have acreage, woody growth, or no interest in charging. It is not worth it on a small suburban lot, where the noise, the fuel mix, and the pull cord buy you nothing that a 40V cordless does not already handle. The Greenworks combo in this roundup runs at 67 dB, which is the difference between trimming at seven on a Saturday and waiting until a weekday afternoon.
Shaft type matters more than most buyers expect. A straight shaft gives you reach under shrubs and along fences, transfers vibration more directly, and is usually paired with a bike handle or auxiliary grip for balance. A curved shaft is shorter, folds for storage, and puts more of the weight in your hand, which is easier on the wrist but limits reach and durability in brush.
Cutting width determines how many passes you walk. A 12 inch swath is fine for path edges and small lots. Thirteen to sixteen inches covers a half acre in noticeably fewer passes, and 16 inch is where you start seeing the time savings on a full property.
Head type determines how much you think about line. A bump feed head is tapped on the ground to release more line, which is simple and repairable. An automatic or self-loading head feeds on its own, and a load-on-the-fly system like the EGO Powerload means you never split a spool at all. Automatic feeds are worth paying for if you trim often.
Line diameter is the most misunderstood spec. 0.065 is thin, light, and right for 12 inch heads and light growth. 0.080 is the general-purpose choice for most 13 to 15 inch trimmers. 0.095 wears slower and suits 15 and 16 inch machines and heavier weeds, and it is more likely to split grass if it is too thick for the head. Use the diameter your head is rated for rather than the thickest line it will physically accept, because overloading a head is what causes line to break in short lengths.
Rough shape also changes results. Round line is durable and general purpose. Twisted line resists fraying and stays sharper longer. Flat or multi-sided line cuts hardest, typically 20 to 30 percent more efficiently, at the cost of a harder edge on tender growth. Experienced owners commonly soak new line in warm water for a day before installing it, which makes it more flexible and more willing to spool without kinking.
Maintenance is simple if you keep the schedule. Clean grass off the head and guard after every session, blow debris out of the motor vents, and check the gearbox for a lubrication port. Dry spindle bearings are a leading cause of early cordless trimmer failure, and a single drop of grease twice a season prevents most of it.
Wear eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, long trousers, and closed shoes every time you pull the trigger. Never work barefoot or in sandals, keep bystanders and pets well clear of the cutting swath, and stop the engine or release the trigger before you reach for a tangle. Two-stroke engines run hot enough to burn on contact, so let the head cool before you check a spool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best string trimmer for the money?
The WORX WG163 is the best value pick in this roundup. It holds a 4.3 average across 28501 reviews, converts from trimmer to edger in seconds with a 90 degree head tilt, feeds line with a push-button Command Feed spool, and includes two 20V batteries and a charger. For a smaller budget, the BLACK+DECKER LST300 also ships with a battery and charger.
Who makes the best gas-powered string trimmer?
The PowerSmart 25.4cc is the gas pick in this roundup. Its two-cycle engine handles weeds and brush that stall lighter cordless trimmers, it ships with a 10 inch brush blade and 0.095 line, and the shoulder strap tames the 18.7 pound frame. Expect fuel and oil mixing, more noise, and a 4.0 average from 302 reviews.
Is .080 or .095 trimmer line better?
Use 0.080 for most 13 to 15 inch trimmers doing general yard work, and 0.095 when you have a 15 or 16 inch machine or thicker weeds to cut. Thicker line wears more slowly but can split grass and break in short lengths if it exceeds what the head is rated for. Match the diameter to the head rather than to the line spool size.
Why does my string trimmer keep shutting off?
Check four things in order. First, the trigger or safety lock, which is the most common cause. Second, the battery, which is the most repeated complaint among owners across platforms, so try a charged pack or a second battery. Third, tall wet grass, which overloads the motor and triggers thermal protection, so clear the growth first. Fourth, debris around the cooling screen near the head, which can overheat the motor and force a shutdown.
Why is my electric trimmer motor running but the head is not spinning?
The motor is fine, so the problem is downstream of the gearbox. Check for wrapped line or weeds tangled around the spool and shaft first, then inspect the head for a cracked or seized hub. Confirm the spool is seated in the gearbox and that the clutch or drive coupling has engaged. Clean the head, reload the line correctly, and if the head still will not turn, replace the head before replacing the tool.
The Best String Trimmer for Your Yard
After comparing ten of the best string trimmers available in 2026, the WORX WG163 is the one we would buy first. It is the most proven machine here with 28501 reviews behind it, it converts to an edger with a latch, it feeds line without stopping, and it includes two batteries so you are not finishing the yard on one charge.
Buyers who want maximum cutting width and no line handling should go to the EGO ST1623T with its 16 inch swath, Powerload winding, and LINE IQ auto feed. Those with a half acre and a need for power should look at the BLACK+DECKER LST136 and its 40V platform, and those fighting real overgrowth should go straight to the DEWALT 60V MAX DCST970B.
Start with the platform you already own, match the voltage to your yard size, and check that a battery and charger are in the box before you order. That single check prevents the most common regret in this category.