Tony O’Neill, expert gardener and best-selling author of the famous “Simplify Vegetable Gardening,” “Composting Masterclass,” and “Your First Vegetable Garden,” combines lifelong passion and expert knowledge to simplify gardening. His mission? Helping you cultivate a thriving garden. More on Tony O’Neill
**”Oops! Looks like you’re missing a license key. Make sure you’ve got the right key before proceeding. It’s kind of like needing your ticket to get into a concert—you can’t get in without it. Without this key, you won’t have access.”**
Whether you call it a line trimmer, a weed eater, or a whipper snipper (as the Australians do), it remains one of the best solutions to cutting grass or weeds where a solid blade would be neither effective nor safe.
The continued development of electricity storage technologies ensures that batteries get smaller, last longer, charge faster, and deliver more punch. Add the ability to charge them off the grid, and you have a solution to noise and air pollution on a machine that does what only it can do – the battery-powered string trimmer.
We reviewed more than 40 battery-powered line trimmers and shortlisted 15 for your consideration. We then categorized them according to price and Amazon reviews. Let’s look at each one in-depth and see what could work for you. We’re also going to look at some interesting science facts – calculating the actual speed of the line as it cuts through the plants (theoretically). Enjoy.
A. The 5 Top Line Trimmers
| Model | Battery | Width | Weight (lbs) | Amazon Reviews | 4 & 5-Star Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makita XRU15PT1 36V (18V X2) LXT | 18V x 2 0.5Ah | 15″ | 21 | 1,001 | 96-percent |
| EGO Power+ ST1521S 15-Inch String Trimmer with POWERLOAD and Carbon Fiber Split Shaft | Arc Lithium 56v 5.0Ah | 15″ | 12 | 705 | 94-percent |
| Milwaukee 2825-21ST M18 | 18V Lithium-Ion 8Ah | 16″ | 2.2 | 373 | 92-percent |
| DeWALT DCST922P1 20V MAX String Trimmer Kit, 5-Ah | 20V Lithium-Ion 5Ah | 14″ | 13.37 | 932 | 91-percent |
| EGO Power+ ST1534 15-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Rear Motor String Trimmer Kit | Arc Lithium 56v 5.0Ah | 15″ | 22.6 | 603 | 90-percent |
1. Makita XRU15PT1 36V (18V X2) LXT
Over the decades, Makita has built a formidable reputation for quality and innovation. As string trimmers go, the Makita XRU15PT1 36V LXT is in a class of its own. While we looked at other machines incorporating some technology (like torque response), Makita outperformed them all.
Their direct drive BL Brushless Motor system provides the highest power and most intelligent torque response to varying environmental demands. When you need power, the machine gives it to you, and when there is less demand placed on the motor, it automatically adjusts, lowering the revs.
The automatic torque-drive mode only shifts from 3,500 to 6,500 RPM when power is required to optimize run times.
Speaking of RPM (revs per minute), at 6,500 RPM, how fast is the string moving on a 15-inch diameter?
Circumference = diameter x PI = 15 x 3.1416 = 47.124 inches
At 6,500 rpm, the tip of that 0.080-inch string is covering 306,306 inches a minute (6,500 x 47.124)
There are 63,360 inches to the mile, so our little string covers about 4.83 miles (306,306 / 63,360) a minute or 290 miles per hour (4.83 x 60). Yep, that’s seriously fast.
The Makita XRU15PT1 36V LXT has 3-speeds:
- Low: 3,500 RPM
- Medium: 5,300 RPM
- High: 6,500 RPM
With its 15-inch cutting swath, you get added productivity.
Protecting your battery from overload, over-discharge, and overheating is the bespoke Star Protection computer controls™ for efficient power management.
- Overload protection allows the battery and tool to communicate to protect from overload.
- Over-discharge protection extends battery life by stopping the tool when the battery is low.
- Overheat protection monitors battery temperature, stopping the tool before the battery is damaged.
Landscapers are demanding more cordless alternatives to gas-powered outdoor power equipment. Makita meets demand with an expanding line-up of cordless OPE (Outdoor Power Equipment), including the flagship 18V X2 (36V) LXT Brushless Cordless String Trimmer Kit (model XRU15PT1). With zero emissions, lower noise and considerably less maintenance than gas-powered string trimmers, the 18V X2 (36V) LXT Cordless String Trimmer is a welcome solution for landscapers.
It’s powered by two fast-charging 18V LXT batteries for maximum power and run time without leaving the strongly preferred 18V battery platform. Electronic controls efficiently use battery energy to match the changing demands of the application for increased power and speed when needed.
In addition, the string trimmer rotates in the same counter-clockwise direction as professional-grade trimmers and uses industry-standard spindles (M10x1. 25 LH) for added convenience. With the efficient Makita BL brushless motor, the trimmer delivers a longer run time, more power and speed, and longer tool life.
Makita’s efficient BL Brushless motor is electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use for up to 50% longer run time per battery charge than similar non-brushless tools. The XRU15PT features a Makita-built Outer Rotor Brushless Motor with direct drive, providing high power and increased torque.
The String Trimmer features Makita Extreme Protection Technology (XPT). XPT is a protective seal inside the tool and is engineered for improved operation in harsh conditions by channeling water and dust from key internal components. It’s part of Makita’s expanding 18V LXT System, the world’s largest cordless tool system powered by 18V lithium-ion slide-style batteries.
Makita 18V Lithium-Ion batteries have the fastest charge times in their categories, so they spend more time working and less time sitting on the charger. Makita created Star Protection Computer Controls to improve tool performance and extended battery life.
Star Protection is a communication technology that allows the Star Protection-equipped tool and battery to exchange data in real-time and monitor conditions during use to protect against overloading, over-discharging and overheating. For increased versatility, the tool can also be powered by Makita 18V LXT and Compact Lithium-Ion batteries, with the star symbol on the battery indicating star protection inside.
Makita is a Japanese company that operates factories worldwide, including the U.S.A.
2. EGO Power+ ST1521S 15-Inch String Trimmer with POWERLOAD and Carbon Fiber Split Shaft
EGO features twice in our top-five listings. No wonder the company produces some great outdoor power equipment (OPE). EGO is a Chevron Corporation product, and some heavy investment has gone into setting this brand up as a leader in the OPE sector. Below is a quote from the Chevron website.
Introduced in 2014, the groundbreaking EGO POWER+ platform is rated #1 in the industry based on power, performance, durability, and value.
All EGO POWER+ products share the unique ARC-Lithium™ Battery and Charger system, allowing for complete interchangeability among all EGO products. Each EGO POWER+ product is designed to provide superior performance, making yard maintenance easier and more enjoyable. EGO delivers on the promise of “The power and performance of gas/petrol without the noise, fuss and fumes.”
| CUTTING WIDTH | 15-inches |
| RUN TIME 4.0AH | 45 minutes |
| RUN TIME 5.0AH | 110 minutes |
| RUN TIME 7.5AH | 160 minutes |
| SPEED MODES | Variable speed |
| LINE DIAMETER | 0.95-inches |
| LINE FEED | Rapid reload bump feed head |
| ROTATING DIRECTION | Clockwise |
EGO’s patent is pending on their world’s first String Trimmer with POWERLOAD Technology. One of the pain points of using a string trimmer is the string. EGO has come up with a unique solution, the POWERLOAD. POWERLOAD technology automatically winds your trimmer.
Replacing your string line is as easy as feeding the line into the head and pressing a button! The EGO POWER+ 15” POWERLOAD String Trimmer has a Carbon Fiber shaft stronger than any other string trimmer shaft on the market today.
The shaft has a lifetime warranty, so the strength and durability will last forever! This revolutionary trimmer uses a bespoke hi-efficiency brushless motor, bump feed line advance, and .095” professional cutting line. It is compatible with all EGO ARC Lithium batteries to maximize cordless convenience and deliver Power Beyond Belief.
The quintessential element of EGO products is their unique power-cell technology. The company has invested millions in getting the heart of each OPE product better than any competitor.
Designed from the ground up to deliver petrol-matching performance, the EGO Power+ Arc Lithium 56v battery has an innovative design to maximize battery cooling. Unlike conventional brick-shaped batteries, where the cells are packed, overheated, and shut down, our unique Arc design dissipates heat more effectively.
Keep Cool™ Technology
It’s not just the innovative Arc design that helps prevent overheating. Each cell is surrounded by our unique Keep Cool™ material that absorbs heat energy and keeps cells at their optimum temperature for longer.
Intelligent Power
The EGO Power+ Arc Lithium 56v battery uses intelligent power management to monitor and optimize each cell constantly, so you always get the very best power, performance, and run time.
Fast Recharge
Not only does EGO Power+ Arc Lithium 56v battery deliver the industry’s highest energy capacity in a portable handheld battery, it’s also the fastest to recharge.
Real Flexibility
The same Arc Lithium battery fits every tool in the EGO Power+ range. Just click the battery in and you’re ready to go.
Peace of Mind
All EGO Power+ products come with a domestic user 5-year warranty on tools and a 3-year warranty on batteries. The warranty for commercial users is 12 months.
The EGO Power+ system delivers petrol-matching power but without any of the downsides. The system is simpler, cleaner, quieter, and with less vibration, it is more comfortable to use. With lower running and maintenance costs, switching to EGO Power+ will lead to long-term savings. Plus, with zero emissions during use, you can do your bit to reduce your impact on the environment too.
3. Milwaukee 2825-21ST M18
Designed to meet the needs of landscape maintenance professionals, the M18 FUEL™ String Trimmer kit w/ QUIK-LOK™ provides you with the power to clear thick brush, reaches full throttle in under 1 second, and features a balanced design that increases user control.
The cordless string trimmer consists of the M18 FUEL™ Power Head w/ QUIK-LOK™ and QUIK-LOK™ String Trimmer Attachment. This M18 FUEL™ Power Head, part of the M18 FUEL™ QUIK-LOK™
The attachment system is compatible with multiple attachments such as their Edger, Articulating Hedge Trimmer, and Pole Saw Attachment. This gives you the ability to quickly swap out attachments on a single powerhead, delivering ultimate versatility and a lower cost of ownership.
The POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor delivers up to 6,200 RPM with up to a 16-inch cutting swath and gives you the power to maintain speed in demanding applications without bogging down. The motor is positioned in the rear of the trimmer to provide the best combination of power, balance, and maneuverability.
REDLINK PLUS™ intelligence gives you maximum performance while protecting from overload, overheating and over-discharge. The advanced electronic package also delivers instant throttle response, high and low speeds, and a variable speed trigger giving you ultimate control over the power range.
The M18™ REDLITHIUM™ HIGH OUTPUT XC8.0 Battery (sold separately) gives you best-in-class performance and run-time in all applications. The Easy Load Trimmer Head provides you with an easy line loading experience and the ability to load up to 25′ of trimmer line in under 30 seconds. Our M18 FUEL™ String Trimmer w/ QUIK-LOK™ is part of the M18™ system, fully compatible with over 200 tools.
Power to Clear Thick Brush
POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor sustains power under load without bogging down, powering through the most demanding applications.
REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence constantly monitors and controls the power delivery from the battery to the motor, ensuring maximum performance.
Full Throttle Under 1 Second
REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence provides instant acceleration, reaching full power in under 1 second.
Balanced Design, Increased Control
The balanced design is optimized to increase control and reduce user fatigue during use.
Quik-Lok™ Attachment System Multiple Attachments Powered by a Single Power Head
- String Trimmer Attachment
- Edger Attachment
- Articulating Hedge Trimmer Attachment
- 10-inch Pole Saw Attachment
- 3-foot Attachment Extension
4. DeWALT DCST922P1 20V MAX String Trimmer Kit, 5-Ah
This 20V MAX* 14-inch String Trimmer features an innovative folding hinge mechanism that reduces the length by 40% for accessible storage and quick portability.
The QuickLoad Spool of the edge trimmer allows for fast and easy line replacement of the DEWALT 0.080-inch line.
The 14-inch swath gives a large cutting radius for knocking down wide sections of overgrowth in one pass.
The variable speed trigger of the grass cutter offers precise power control and performance and run-time management with the Hi/Lo speed control switch.
Specifications
| Cordless | Yes |
| Width | 5.375 in. |
| Height | 39.125 in. |
| Depth | 10.125 in. |
| Weight | 7.9 lbs. |
| Batteries Included | 1 |
| Battery Amp Hour | 5 Ah |
| Battery System | 20V MAX |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion |
| Battery Warranty | 3 Year |
| Bluetooth Compatibility | No |
| Case Included | No |
| Charge Time | 90 Minutes |
| Charger Included | Yes |
| Cutting Capacity | 13 in |
| Drive Shaft Length | 38 in |
| Drive Shaft Type | Straight |
| Handle Type | In Line |
| Line Diameter | 0.080 in |
| Line Feed System | Bump |
| Motor Type | Brushless |
| No-Load Speed (RPM) | 4600/6000 |
| Power Source | Cordless |
| Speed Settings | Variable |
| Starter Type | Electric |
| Voltage | 20V |
| Wifi compatibility | No |
5. EGO Power+ ST1534 15-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Rear Motor String Trimmer Kit
This is our second trimmer from EGO, the cordless specialists. EGO Power+ delivers gas-matching power but without noise, fuss or emissions.
Their industry-leading 56V Arc Lithium battery technology offers a new level of performance, giving you the power you need to keep working hard until the job’s done.
With impressive run times and fast recharge, there is no need to purchase or store highly flammable fuel; instead, you get the freedom to work emission-free. All of EGO’s 56V Arc Lithium batteries fit every tool in the EGO Power + 56V range for total flexibility. Just click the battery in, and you’re ready to go. When you try this revolutionary cordless system, you’ll never look back.
The 56V Arc Lithium battery powered by EGO Power+ line trimmers gives you all the power you need to tackle the toughest jobs. The quick-adjust loop-handle can be positioned for optimum balance and control, while the large cutting swathe cuts any task down to size. Plus, the variable speed control ensures consistent trimming every time.
Built with ease-of-use in mind, ergonomic design, super-fast charging and groundbreaking Powerload™ technology combine to create a truly revolutionary tool.
EGO’s range of Line Trimmers includes options suitable for different types of terrain and even the toughest rough ground; wider handles for control over larger areas and bigger tasks, single-shoulder and double-shoulder harness for extra comfort and support, plus a Brush Cutter blade head for tackling tougher undergrowth.
B. 5 Good Medium Priced Line Trimmers (between $100 and $200)
| Model | Battery Details | Width | Weight (lbs) | Amazon Reviews | 4 & 5-Star Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WORX Nitro WG186.9 40V Power Share PRO 15″ Cordless String Trimmer | Nitro 40V (20 +20) 4.0Ah PRO | 15″ | 11.88 | 40 | 100-percent |
| BLACK+DECKER (LST136) 40V Max String Trimmer / Edger, 13-Inch | 40V Lithium-Ion | 13″ | 7.8 | 6,697 | 90-percent |
| Greenworks 40V 12 in. Front Mount String Trimmer with 2Ah Battery and Charger, 2101602 | 40V Lithium-Ion 2Ah | 12″ | 9.2 | 2,939 | 90-percent |
| Cordless String Trimmer – KIMO 2-in-1 String Trimmer/Edger | 20V Lithium 2.0Ah | 10″ | 3.5 | 46 | 86-percent |
| Greenworks 40V 13-Inch Cordless String Trimmer/Edger, 2.0 AH Battery Included | 40V Lithium-Ion 2Ah | 13″ | 9.26 | 11,563 | 82-percent |
1. WORX Nitro WG186.9 40V Power Share PRO 15” Cordless String Trimmer
The Worx Nitro WG186 40V Power Share Cordless Attachment-Capable Driveshare 15” String Trimmer was designed to give any lawn or property professional-looking landscaping results.
Drive share is the Worx system of lawncare attachments (sold separately) that turn your String Trimmer into a Hedge Trimmer, Brush Cutter, Pole Saw, or Edger. Save money and space by purchasing the Driveshare system rather than 5 separate tools.
You gain the capability of an entire lawncare detailing system when you start using Drive Share. But its gas-like performance truly sets the Nitro 40V String Trimmer apart from your average battery-operated trimmer.
This isn’t your standard 20V cordless trimmer. We’ve doubled its potential, and when paired with two high-capacity Power Share PRO batteries, you’ll enjoy power comparable to gas-powered trimmers without the expense, fumes, or mess. The cutting line length is 20 ft., and the line diameter is 0.095 in. The specs of this String Trimmer are comparable with commercial-grade outdoor power tools. The Driveshare attachment trimmer system was engineered to provide functionality perfect for property owners with larger, more complex lawns. This model is a bare tool only—batteries and Chargers are sold separately.
- Powered by two 20V Max Power Share batteries for 40V of total power and performance.
- Innovative Command Feed™ spool system offers instant line feeding at the touch of a button.
- Variable speed throttle control extends run time and provides power for various grass conditions.
- Professional-grade trimmer line for professionally landscaped results.
- Adjustable, D-grip handle on the shaft enables smooth, comfortable swipes.
- Pivoting cutting head can adjust to any sloped terrain for easy trimming.
What’s in The Box
- (1) – 2X20V String trimmer
- (2) – 20V MaxLithium Batteries (WA3575)
- (1) – 20V Dual-Port Battery Charger (WA3878)
- (1) – Spool (WA0014)
- (1) – Safety Guard
Specifications
| Rated Voltage | 40V MAX |
| No-Load Speed | 7500/min |
| Cutting Diameter | 13 in. |
| Line Diameter | .080 in. |
| Cutting Line Length | 1 x 20 ft. |
| Charging Time | ≈ 60 mins |
| Machine Weight | 8.6 lbs. |
| Warranty | 5 yrs. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this come with a battery and charger?
Yes, this model comes with two batteries and one dual-port charger.
This is advertised as a 40V Power Share™ product. What does that mean? What’s the difference between this and a 20V WORX Power Share™ product?
WORX has been offering 20V garden and power tools for a long time, and we’ve gotten a lot of feedback from customers like you. We’ve taken all of it seriously. We know what it takes to invest in a line of power tools only to discover you need more power.
Can I use just one battery at a time if I don’t need as much power?
The 40V Power Share™ tools are designed to work with a pair of batteries and will not operate with just one battery installed. For optimum performance, when pairing up your batteries, we recommend that both batteries are the same Amp hour rating and are fully charged.
I have multiple batteries. How can I tell if I’ve put the right ones on my String Trimmer / Edger?
Before starting the trimmer or after use, press the button beside the power indicator light on the machine to check the battery capacity. During operation, the battery indicator will constantly sense and automatically display the battery power indicator. With two battery packs, the power indicator light will display the battery’s condition with the lowest power level.
Can I adapt the 13” Cordless String Trimmer / Edger to my height?
The WORX 40V Power Share™ 13” Cordless String Trimmer / Edger has a static length but is equipped with an adjustable auxiliary handle so you can customize the fit of the trimmer to a grip for your height and comfort.
How heavy is the trimmer?
The trimmer weighs 8.6 lbs., even with both batteries installed. The ergonomic design ensures the weight is evenly distributed between the main and auxiliary handle, making trimming a comfortable, easy-to-manage experience for anyone.
How long can you trim with the new 40V Power Share™ platform?
The included 20V Max Lithium batteries are designed to provide enough working time per charge to trim up to the average 1/2 acre homesite on one charge. Actual results may vary on various factors, including the density of the grass or weeds you’re cutting, and the age and charge levels of each battery pack.
What is “variable speed throttle control?” Does that mean I can control the speed of the trimmer?
Yes! The 40V Power Share™ Cordless String Trimmer / Edger is equipped with a variable speed throttle control which means you can go from low to GO by controlling how much pressure you put on the trigger. Instead of a switch with high and low settings, your grip controls how much power your trimmer uses.
2. BLACK+DECKER (LST136) 40V Max String Trimmer / Edger, 13-Inch
Packed with POWERDRIVE™ Transmission and a 40V MAX* lithium-ion battery, this power string trimmer has the muscle to tackle tough weeds and overgrowth.
An Automatic Feed Spool AFS® ensures continuous work without bumping. Battery and charger are sold separately, which is ideal for the gardener with a Black+Decker POE.
Just a word of warning – some of the reviews claim that the auto-feed is rather aggressive and that it results in the spool not lasting as long as other machines. Other than that, as can be seen from the reviews, gardeners love it.
Features and Benefits
- BLACK+DECKER™’s electric lawn and garden equipment releases zero emissions in your yard, helping to reduce your carbon footprint
- Compatible with powerful 40V MAX* Lithium Ion rechargeable battery delivering the power with long run-time to complete the toughest jobs (battery and charger not included)
- Use PowerCommand dial to choose between max power to tackle thick weeds and max runtime to increase battery life.
- The PowerDrive Transmission™ delivers more power from the motor to the cutting string so you can get the job done faster.
- The Automatic Feed Spool™ ensures continuous work without bumping and stopping to adjust the spool.
- Easily converts from trimmer to edger
Specifications
| CUTTING SWATH | 13 in |
| FEED SYSTEM | Automatic |
| LINE DIAMETER | .065 in |
| POWER SOURCE | Lithium-Ion Battery |
| REPLACEMENT ACCESSORIES | AF-100 |
| RPM | 6500-8500 rpm |
| SYSTEM | 40V MAX* (battery and charger not included) V |
| WEIGHT | 7.8 lbs |
| USES | Trimming areas of overgrowth after mowing Edging along borders, sidewalks and flower beds |
| INCLUDES | LST136 40V MAX* Lithium Cordless Trimmer/Edger (1) AF-100 Spool (1) Guard (1) Auxiliary Handle |
3. Greenworks 40V 12 in. Front Mount String Trimmer with 2Ah Battery and Charger, 2101602
Cordless outdoor power tools are ideal for homeowners who simplify and focus on what’s essential to getting the most out of life. The Greenworks 40V family of tools is built with medium-weight construction and high-efficiency motors.
The Greenworks 40V lithium-ion platform powers over 40 outdoor products, including lawnmowers, blowers, string trimmers, chainsaws, hedge trimmers, and much more! The 40V lithium-ion battery provides the power needed and delivers fade-free power with no memory loss after charging.
The Greenworks 40V platform has a 3-year tool and battery warranty to protect your investment. Of high-quality manufacturing, these products are easy to start and lighter weight than the gas products you’re used to, making your day of yard work much easier.
Perfect for yards up to ⅓ acre, Greenworks 40V tools are lightweight, start instantly, and require virtually no maintenance – no gas, no oil, no mess – but still deliver gas-like power.
Key Features
- 13″ cut path for quick and easy trimming with powerful results to cut through the toughest weeds
- Versatile design with a 4-position pivoting head for easy trimming at multiple angles
- 90-degree rotating head with edging wheel for walk-behind edging for multi-functional use
- 0.065″ single line auto-feed head for fast results
- Compatible with Greenworks G-MAX 40V Li-Ion System for higher efficiency and longer run time with an assortment of tools to complete your yard work
- Includes 2.0 Ah battery & charger
- 3-Year Limited Tool Warranty
4 Cordless String Trimmer – KIMO 2-in-1 String Trimmer/Edger
Once in a while, you find something that surprises you. Well, this little unknown brand surprised us. It is definitely at the top of the list for affordable quality. While the other two winners in this category won because they do not include batteries and chargers, this little guy includes it all.
According to their website:
In the past two decades, KIMO has spent millions of dollars on research and development to optimize its lithium-ion basic battery. Determined to establish and provide a one-stop cordless battery platform through which professionals can freely use various tools.
Now, the KIMO lithium-ion battery has become one of the most durable batteries in its class. It can guarantee 1000 charging cycles and supports more than 100 KIMO tools. This dedication makes KIMO an important supplier/manufacturer in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and European markets.
Key Features
- 2-in-1 Trimmer and edger allow you to trim your lawn with precision and control.
- Adjustable auxiliary handle that maximizes control and minimizes stress on your arm. For varying heights and angle-180 degrees.
- Fast trimming. Variable speed trigger that delivers on-demand power to cut through tough weeds.
- KIMO Li-ion Battery Lithium-Ion battery provides 20% more power and runtime and delivers fade-free power with no memory loss after charging.
- Adjustable Cutting Head and Shaft for easy trimming at multiple angles, the cutting head supports 90°. Random adjustment allows a clear and easy viewing path.
- KIMO offers 45+ indoor and outdoor products, including ratchet wrench, blowers, string trimmers, chainsaws, power tools, and more!
5. Greenworks 40V 13-Inch Cordless String Trimmer/Edger, 2.0 AH Battery Included
This is the second Greenworks machine in the mid-section category, and we like it a lot. I called Greenworks to check on their customer service, and the lady was very helpful.
The wheel on the trimmer guard makes using it as an edger really effective. It works great for the price. The interchangeability with other Greenworks G-MAX 40V Li-Ion tools increases efficiency and offers a longer run time for various tools.
The machine we tested lasted about an hour before it needed a recharge – not bad for a 2.0Ah battery.
Included in the Box
- (1) 40V 13″ Cordless String Trimmer / Edger
- (1) 2.0 Ah Battery
- (1) Battery Charger
- (1) Owner’s Manual
Specification
| Power: | Cordless |
| Voltage: | 40V |
| Ideal For: | Up to ⅓ Acre |
| Brushless Motor: | No |
| Cutting Path: | 13 Inches |
| Line Diameter: | .065″ |
| Line Type: | Single |
| Line Advance System: | Auto |
| Trigger Speed: | Variable |
| RPM: | 8000 |
| Charge Time: | 120 Minutes |
| Attachment Capable: | No |
| Rotating Head: | 90 Degree |
| Pivoting Head: | 4 position |
| Shaft Extension: | Yes |
| Tool Warranty: | 3 Years |
| Battery Warranty: | 3 Years |
| Battery Capacity: | 2.0 Ah |
| Battery Chemistry: | Li-Ion |
| Replacement Battery: | 29462 |
| Replacement Charger: | 29472 |
C. 5 Budget Line Trimmers for less than $100
| Model | Battery | Width | Weight (lbs) | Amazon Reviews | 4 & 5-Star Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer / Edger, 12-Inch (LST522E1AEV) | 20V Lithium-Ion | 12″ | 7.73 | 374 | 89-percent |
| WORX WG162 20V Cordless Grass Trimmer & Edger, Black and Orange, 12 inches | 20V MAX | 12″ | 5.5 | 1,412 | 88-percent |
| Makita XRU02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless String Trimmer, Tool Only, (Battery Not Included) | 18V LXT Lithium-Ion | 10.25″ | 6.4 | 1,689 | 87-percent |
| Earthwise LST02010 20-Volt 10-Inch Cordless String Trimmer, 2.0Ah Battery & Fast Charger Included | 20V Lithium 2.0Ah | 10″ | 4 | 889 | 79-percent |
| Heywork 20V Cordless Electric Weed Wacker Battery Powered Weed Eater | 20V 2.0Ah Lithium-ion Battery | 10″ | 5.1 | 37 | 71-percent |
1. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer / Edger, 12-Inch (LST522E1AEV)
In our reviews, we always try and simplify things – after all, we are Simplify Gardening. So with the review scores, we combine the 4- and 5-star ratings as a percentage of how many of the shoppers loved the product – as a percentage.
This unit has 89-percent of purchasers happy. I wish I made nine out of ten people happy. It’s heavier than its budget category peers but is average across the range.
In case you’re wondering, the difference between the 522, 523 and 525 models are – according to Amazon.
522 has an Auto Feed Spool system instead of a button on the handle and comes with (1) LBXR2520 battery which is 66% higher capacity than the standard LBXR20
523 has the Easy Feed string advance where you push a button on the handle.. comes with (1) LB2X3020 battery which is 3.0Ah extended run time.
525 is the same as 523 with the Easy Feed button on the handle, although this model comes with (2) 1.5Ah batteries.
2. WORX WG162 20V Cordless Grass Trimmer & Edger, Black and Orange, 12 inches
The WORX WG162 sets the standard for affordable string trimmers. At under $100, including battery and charger, this is a great deal. Below is a summary of the product, and then we answer some frequently asked questions.
- Lightweight string trimmer, so you can trim & edge the whole yard without fatigue.
- Ergonomically designed so you work comfortably.
- Easily convert from trimmer to edger and back.
- Automatic line feed so your string is always at the optimum length.
- 8500 Revolutions/min leaves clean, even, crisp cuts.
What’s in the Box
- (1) – 20V String Trimmer
- (1) – 20V MaxLithium Battery
- (1) – Trimmer Spools (10 ft/ea)
- (1) – 20V Battery Charger
- (1) – Support Wheels
- (1) – Safety Guard
- (1) – Flower Guard
3. Makita XRU02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless String Trimmer, Tool Only
The XRU02Z delivers 7,800 RPM and up to 45 minutes of run time on a single charge of the 18V LXT Lithium-Ion 3.0Ah battery (sold separately).
The tool is always ready for users: simply load a fully charged 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery (not included) and get to work.
Versatility features include a telescoping shaft to adjust the length of the tool, a 180-degree rotating head with five adjustable positions, an adjustable loop handle, and more.
It weighs only 6.4 pounds with the battery (sold separately).
This unit comes in at below $100 and is most suitable for people already owning a Makita 18V Lithium-Ion battery.
4. Earthwise LST02010 20-Volt 10-Inch Cordless String Trimmer, 2.0Ah Battery & Fast Charger Included
- Powerful 20-volt trimmer with 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery and fast charger included in the package; Durable and reliable motor with a superior run-time
- Trimmer edger with 10″ cutting width with auto-feed; Spool and 0.065″ nylon line included; Flip-down edge guard for a more convenient edging experience
- Eco trimmer with an adjustable handle and telescopic pole so you can adjust the shaft based on your preference and comfort
- Cordless, lightweight and easy to use; Battery-powered, low-maintenance and does not require gas or oil
- Earthwise 20-volt battery that is compatible with all second series 20-volt lithium-ion Earthwise products; 2-year warranty on the tool and 1-year warranty on the battery
5. Heywork 20V Cordless Electric Weed Wacker Battery Powered Weed Eater
Plant guard & 10 inches Cutting Width
- Designed with a plant guard in front of the cutting head to protect your innocent plants
- Equipped with a big cover upon the cutting head to prevent debris from splashing
Well-balanced Front Handle
- 180° Adjustable front handle, comfortable to hold
- Easily set to the most comfortable angle to ease sore arms and waist
Double-start Safety Lock & Soft Rubber Handle
- Press the safety lock and the power switch; the string trimmer cordless will start. Release one, and the weed trimmer will stop working immediately
- Ergonomically Designed Handle, just fit your hand with friction-enhanced designed
You can set Heywork cordless weed trimmer’s rotatable cutting head to 4 adjustable positions for better trimming performance.
Designed with two wheels, you can walk behind; convenient to push with less work fatigue.
The telescopic shaft is adjustable from 35 inches to 44-inches to match your needs.
This article has been about the best battery-operated weed eaters. Why not check out my article on the best electric weed eaters or even best gas-powered weed eaters
Summary
One of the reviewers told me that she used her cordless string trimmer to keep her mom’s gravesite tidy, and suddenly the flexibility of these cordless trimmers became evident. Given the battery and motor technologies, battery-powered units are no longer a lesser substitute for gas-powered units – they pack as much punch if not more.
