For quick and easy trimming, cutting down overgrown patches, or even keeping the edges of your lawn crisp and smart, having a cordless string trimmer is an invaluable piece of kit.
Cordless string trimmers, also known as weed eaters, have been reliable equipment for garden maintenance and will allow you to clean up areas that a mower might have missed.
Comparison Table & Runners Up
Looking for a specific cordless string trimmer? Looking for a specific brand? In the comparison table below, we shall tabulate the top 10 string trimmers in the market, allowing for an easier selection.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Black+Decker Lst136 40v | • Power Output: 40V • Cutting Swath: 13” • Auto Feed Spool: Yes • Weight: 7.8 pounds | |
 | Greenworks 12-Inch 24V | • Power Output: 24V • Cutting Swath: 12” • Auto Feed Spool: Yes • Weight: 8.8 pounds | |
 | WORX WG163.9 20V | • Power Output: 20V • Cutting Swath: 12” • Auto Feed Spool: - • Weight: 5.3 pounds | |
 | BLACK+DECKER LSTE525 | • Power Output: 20V • Cutting Swath: 12” • Auto Feed Spool: Yes • Weight: 6.3 pounds | |
 | BLACK+DECKER LST300 Weed Whacker | • Power Output: 20V • Cutting Swath: 12” • Auto Feed Spool: Yes • Weight: 5.7 pounds | |
 | Greenworks 13-Inch 40V | • Power Output: 40V • Cutting Swath: 13” • Auto Feed Spool: Yes • Weight: 5.3 pounds | |
 | DEWALT DCST920P1 | • Power Output: 20V • Cutting Swath: 13” • Auto Feed Spool: Yes • Weight: 14 pounds | |
 | Greenworks 12-Inch 40V | • Power Output: 40V • Cutting Swath: 12” • Auto Feed Spool: Yes • Weight: 6.5 pounds | |
 | WORX WG160 GT 2.0 | • Power Output: 20V • Cutting Swath: 12” • Auto Feed Spool- Yes • Weight: 5.7 pounds | |
 | Makita XRU09Z 18V X2 | • Power Output: 18V • Cutting Swath: 13” • Auto Feed Spool- Yes • Weight: 11.9 pounds |
Top 10: Best Cordless String Trimmers
A quality cordless string trimmer is essential for proper lawn care. Unlike other forms of hedge trimmers, the cordless string trimmers have several advantages including lightness, easy to use, powerful and come with excellent run times.
String trimmers come in a plethora of shapes, size, features, and different capabilities, so it’s vital that you compare the trimmers and get what is best for you.
Our team has expertly come up with a list of the top 10 cordless string trimmers in the market, saving from the hassle of trimmer selection.
1. Black+Decker Lst136 40v
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Weighing at less than 10 pounds, this lightweight Black+Decker Lst136 40v offers exceptional performance at an incredible price range.
Sporting a 40V lithium-ion battery, this trimmer operates at speeds between 6500 and 8500 RPM, thus delivering plenty of kick, and will comfortably handle any tough grass or thicket you may need to trim.
With any battery-powered trimmer, runtime and power are always a concern, but this innovative trimmer comes with a PowerCommand function; a feature that will allow you to prioritize power or runtime.
For instance, if you’re dealing with the tough and overgrown grass, you can switch to the Max Power setting that will chop through the bushes in minutes. The Max Runtime is handy if you’re looking to chop on the light grass over an extended period.
The 13’ cutting diameter on the blades offers a generous cutting diameter as it makes wide swathes, allowing for faster performances.
Another highlight we loved with this trimmer is the Automatic Feed Spool System, one of the best time-saving features that will ensure that your new line is fed automatically without bumping the trimmer.
And finally, we mentioned that the Black+Decker Lst136 40v is a dual-line head trimmer, meaning it allows for double action during a single sweep, and this will help at faster cutting and promoting efficient trimming.
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TOP 3 FEATURES
- PowerDrive
The PowerDrive alongside the robust 40V power source will allow for bursts of power from the motor to the cutting strings, allowing faster completion of the trimming task.
- PowerCommand Function
This feature will allow you to prioritize power and runtime, therefore ensuring optimal use during trimming.
- Automatic Feed Pool System
Rather than manual bumping, the automatic feed system will automatically feed your trimmer head once the existing line wears, and this helps in achieving a continuous flow of the task.
- Versatile
- Lightweight
- Powerful Budget option
- Not ideal for heavy-duty tasks
2. Greenworks 12-Inch 24V
- 24V STRING TRIMMER – Provides 20% more power and 35% more run-time to power through the toughest grass and weeds. Greenworks 24V battery powers 100+ indoor and outdoor products.Includes : (1) 24V 12" Cordless String Trimmer & Edger, (1) 24V 2.0 Ah Battery, (1) Battery Charger, (1) 0.065" Spool Assembly, (1) Owner's Manual.No load speed : 8000 / 9000 RPM. String trimmer operation temperature range : 6.8°F (-14°C) - 104°F (40°C)
- 12” CUTTING PATH - .065” line, auto feed head for quick and easy line advancement
A highly rated cordless hedge trimmer, the Greenworks 12-Inch 24V is typical of any Greenworks product, thanks to the alluring green color. Aesthetics aside, this cordless trimmer is a well-build masterpiece that delivers on its promise.
Although on the lower end regarding power output, the 24V power output generated by this model is sufficient enough for the small to moderate applications, making this trimmer an inspired choice for the residential appliances.
Power aside, this trimmer comes with a 40-inch shaft length. While we’re still unsure whether the shaft is adjustable, what we’re sure of is that it will provide you with incredible access to the hard to reach spots.
Still, on metrics, we love the 12-inch blade that will allow you to make swathes of larger surfaces, enabling for faster completion of the trimming tasks.
The pivoting head on the Greenworks 12-Inch 24V is highly versatile and will double up as both as a trimmer as well as an edger.
Underlining its adeptness as a residential trimmer, the Greenworks 12-Inch 24V comes with a single line head, which is not quite surprising. But what we loved about the head on this trimmer is the auto-feed in line that will promote the continuity of job.
TOP 3 FEATURES
- 24V Output
Though not ideal for the heavy-duty commercial applications, the power output on the Greenworks 12-Inch 24V is more than enough for the moderate to lightweight residential applications.
- 12-inch Blade
The dimension on the blade will allow you to trim larger surfaces under a single sweep, thus allowing for faster completion of trimming tasks.
- Auto Feed-In Line
This system will allow automatic feeding on the head without the need of bumping, and this promotes continuity of workflow.
- Easy to use
- Lightweight-8.8 pounds
- Aesthetic
- Not quite powerful
3. WORX WG163.9 20V
- Convert trimmer easily to an edger in seconds
- Innovative Command Feed spool system for instant line feeding
The Worx is perfect for light use around small yards and gardens. Simple to use, lightweight and extremely versatile, this cordless trimmer is a budget option that is going to provide you with unmatched performance.
For starters, the Worx is a 2-in-1 machine that doubles up as both a trimmer as well as an edger, meaning this trimmer is useful for both trimming and edging. The best thing about the dual function of this unit is that it will allow you to convert the trimmer to an edger through the simple flick of a switch.
Delivering a power output of 20V, don’t expect this model to complete with the more powerful cordless trimmers. In any case, this model is not designed or priced for heavy-duty applications, but rather does an incredible job for a lightweight, everyday trimmer.
Highly flexible, the Worx comes with an adjustable shaft, which will allow you to lengthen or shorten the shaft depending on your height as well as your trimming needs.
Flexibility is further underlined by the adjustable cutting head, which can be set in different positions up to a 90-degree angle, and this will allow you to reach the hard to reach spots with ease.
Weighing at 5.3 pounds, the Worx is among the lightest cordless trimmers on our list, and ultra-lightweight nature of this trimmer helps to promote portability and ease of use.
TOP 3 FEATURES
- 2-in-1 Design
The 2-in-1 design allows the trimmer to be converted from a trimmer to an edger, making the WORX WG163.9 20V a value purchase.
- Adjustable shaft
The adjustable shaft provides flexibility as it allows you to set the height of the trimmer according to your needs.
- Adjustable cutting head
The adjustable cutting head, which can be set to angles o up to 90 degrees will improve on the flexibility and ease of us eon the WORX WG163.9 20V
- 2-IN-1
- Versatile
- Flexible
- Lightweight
- No batteries
4. BLACK+DECKER LSTE525
- Converts from trimmer to wheeled edger; Amp hour: (2) 1.5 ampere hour
- Power drive transmission for increased torque
Delivering a power output of 20V, the Black & Decker LSTE525 falls within the range of most of the cordless string trimmers in the market, and it has sufficient juice to get your trimmer rolling.
An almost too good to be true cordless hedge trimmer, this Black and Decker product is highly flexible and can be converted from a trimmer to a wheeled edger.
Performance-wise, the Black & Decker LSTE525 comes with a host of incredible features including a Power Drive Transmission, a function that will help in increasing the torque and delivering more power to handle the hard and thick shrubs and branches.
The 2-speed control is yet another awesome feature that allowed us to either extend our runtime or generate more power while using the Black & Decker LSTE525.
For convenient and easy use, the Black & Decker LSTE525 comes with an EasyFeed function, which will allow you to advance your line when it wears out with the flick of a button, without needing any bumping.
Finally, it’s worth noting that this trimmer comes with a cutting swath of 12” and this alongside the mere 6.3 pounds not only makes it ultra-portable but also easy to use.
TOP 3 FEATURES
- Power Transmission Drive
This is a function that increases the torque and delivers more power, thus allowing the trimmer to handle the heavy-duty tasks comfortably.
- 2-Speed Control
A function that allows you to optimize your operations, and tailor the performance of the trimmer to either extend its runtime or increase its power.
- EasyFeed Function
This function promotes the continuity of job by advancing your line to your trimmer head.
- Lightweight
- Easy to control
- Easy to use
- Efficient
- Not powerful for commercial-grade tasks
5. BLACK+DECKER LST300 Weed Whacker
- 2-in-1 cordless trimmer and edger cuts along borders, sidewalks and flower beds and easily converts between trimmer and wheeled edger. Trimming areas of overgrowth after mowing .Charger Type:Jack plug. Battery Amp Hours:2 Ah
- EASY HANDLING: Lightweight and easy to handle with adjustable height handles
Fifth on our list of the best cordless string trimmers is yet another product from Black and Decker, and this goes ahead to underline the popularity of this brand.
Like the BLACK+DECKER LSTE525 we had reviewed above, the LST300 comes with a 20-Volt lithium-ion battery pack. However, what probably separates the latter from the former is that the manufacturer claims the battery on the LST300 is built to offer 33% more run time.
Like the BLACK+DECKER LSTE525, however, the LST300 comes with a PowerDrive Transmission, function that will deliver more torque and power, allowing to get your cutting job done faster and more comfortably.
Speaking of comfort, the LST300 features an Automatic Feed Spool, and this will ensure the continuity of your trimming task without the need for bumping.
For a value-added purchase, the Black and Decker LST300 offers a 2-in-1 function, a feature that allows you to convert the trimmer into an edger in seconds easily.
The lightweight design (5.7 pounds) alongside the ergonomic design and an incredible pivoting handle will promote an easy use of this trimmer and make your general trimming experience less tiring.
TOP 3 FEATURES
- PowerDrive Transmission
Offers more torque and delivers more power making it easier to handle thick grasses and vegetation.
- Runtime extension technology
This technology will promote the continuity of your task as you’ll not need constantly recharging your trimmer.
- Automatic Feed Spool
Underlining the continuity of job, the automatic feed spool will save you from the need of stopping and bumping the trimmer.
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
- Convenient
- No dual-action “blades.”
6. Greenworks 13-Inch 40V
- 40V STRING TRIMMER – powers through the toughest grass and weeds
- 13” CUTTING PATH - .065” line, auto feed head for quick and easy line advancement
With the conspicuous green color, you can’t fail to notice the Greenworks 13-inch 40V cordless hedge trimmer. Combining versatility and performance, the Greenworks 13” will keep you and your lawn happy.
Weighing at 9.3 pounds, the Greenworks comes with a feather lightweight, and will not cause any muscle fatigue even after extensive use.
Performance-wise, this cordless string trimmer comes with a slew of incredible features. For starters, as its name suggest, it offers a powerful power output of up to 40V and this will allow you to work comfortably even on the toughest jobs.
However, we were disappointed by the 30 minutes runtime offered by the trimmer. But still, it’s within the range of most of the models within its price range, and a decent amount if you’re planning to use the trimmer for your lightweight residential uses.
Another incredible feature we loved about this trimmer is the 13′ cutting path that will make generous swathes across your lawn, allowing for quicker completion of the task.
Though this trimmer comes with a single spool head, it does not compromise on the efficiency of this device. In any case, the trimmer sports a pivoting head, and this allows for both edging and trimming.
TOP 3 FEATURES
- 40v Power output
While the 40V is not the highest in the market, this power output is more than sufficient for the lightweight to moderate residential tasks.
- Auto line feed
Again, nothing unique with an auto line feed, but it will save you from the inconvenience of having to stop your trimming for bumping.
- Lightweight
An extremely lightweight model, this unit is will not result in muscle fatigue even after extended use.
- Powerful
- Lightweight
- Hassle-free experience
- Single line
7. DEWALT DCST920P1
- Patented gear drive design of the edger/trimmer powers through tough overgrowth
- The cordless grass trimmer provides 13-inch cutting swath with 0.080-inch line
The DEWALT DCST920P1 is a perfect weed eater with good power and excellent battery time, which makes this unit ideal for the regular trimming as well as getting rid of some tougher vines as well as dense grass.
A fairly unique feature on this string trimmer is a variable speed function that will allow you to vary the performance of your trimmer depending on the task at hand, allowing for a personalized and optimal performance.
Besides the variable speed trigger, this string trimmer comes with a powerful 20v brushless motor that packs a punch. Now, while this is certainly not a replacement of the robust gas machines, the inclusion of a patented gear drive design will add more torque and allow the weed eater to maintain its cutting speed, even under load.
For a premium string trimmer such as this one, we expected to see an automatic feed, contrary to the bump feed. However, the bump line feeding is not much of a bummer as it works great and only requires a light tap against the ground.
TOP 3 FEATURES
- Variable Speed Trigger
This function allows you to customize your operations .i.e. speed of rotation, power, and more to allows for optimal performance.
- Patented Gear Drive
This feature adds more torque to your weed eater allowing for robust performance.
- Excellent runtime
Providing a generous runtime of up to 45 minutes, this trimmer will allow you to complete your task on a single battery without needing to recharge.
- PowerDrive feature for an enhanced performance
- Controlled performance
- Generous runtime
- No automatic line feed
8. Greenworks 12-Inch 40V
- High Performance G-MAX 40V Lithium-Ion Battery delivers fade-free power with no memory loss after charging
- 12-inch cut path with .065 dual line with auto-feed head to rip through weeds for fast trimming
The Greenworks 12-inch 40V is yet another excellent product from Greenworks. Like all the Greenworks products in our list, this model is performance-oriented, and it delivers on its promise.
A high-performance model, this cordless G-Max hedge trimmer comes with a superb 40V Lithium-Ion battery that will deliver a fade-free power devoid of memory loss after charging.
A rung lower than the similarly-powered Greenworks 13-Inch 40V, the Greenworks 12-Inch 40V offers 12-inches of cutting path, an inch less than the former. Still, 12 inches is a decent metric and will allow you to cover large swathes in a single sweep, allowing you to complete your job quickly.
Like the DEWALT DCST920P1 we reviewed earlier, this Greenworks hedge trimmer sports a variable speed trigger that will allow you to dial-up or power down your output depending on the task at hand. This will not only offer a more controlled experience but will allow you to enjoy an optimal performance with the available resources.
For convenience and ease of use, the Greenworks features an auto-feed head that will automatically advance your line without having to stop and bump your head.
TOP 3 FEATURES
- Variable speed trigger
This function will allow you to tailor the performance of this cordless hedge trimmer depending on the application at hand.
- 40V Output
Though not comparable to what some of the gas models offer, this output is more than enough for the lightweight to moderate tasks.
- Auto Feed
The Auto feed feature bolsters the convenience and overall ease of use.
- Powerful
- Easy to handle
- Customizable
- Tad heavy
9. WORX WG160 GT 2.0
- Three powerful yard tools in one: convert from a string trimmer to a walk-behind wheeled edger or mini-mower in seconds
- 100% single line feed, so no bumping to extend the line, comes with Free Spools for Life
Ideal for homeowners with small to medium gardens, the Worx GT 2.0 is a truly “green” option for your lawn maintenance.
Lightweight and easily maneuverable, this weed eater has the capability of trimming grass from any angle, and it’s fully adjustable to fit the needs of all homeowners.
Under the hood of the Worx, we have a powerful 20-volt lithium battery, and this battery, alongside the single cutting line, transforms the Worx into a faithful companion to use or all the garden chores.
A unique feature on the Worx is a 3-in-1 function that will allow this cordless weed eater to double up as both a mini-mower for the hard-to-get spots as well as an edger.
Adjustability on the Worx is yet on another level, thanks to the highly adjustable telescopic shaft that will allow you to adjust the weed eater’s shaft at seven different heights for the ultimate flexibility. The adjustable shaft means you can now reach the tall heights with less of a hassle and more importantly, you can adjust the height of the trimmer to meet that of yours for optimal use.
To keep all your flowers or garden furniture space, you’ll appreciate the fully adjustable spacer guard.
TOP 3 FEATURES
- 3-in-1 Function
This feature will allow the Worx 2.0 to convert from a cordless hedge trimmer to either a mower or an edger in a matter of seconds.
- Adjustable Spacer Guard
The spacer guard will help to preserve the structural integrity of both your lower and furniture during the trimming process.
- Adjustable Telescopic Handle
The adjustable handle improves on the flexibility of use.
- Value for money
- Powerful
- Highly adjustable
- Longer recharging time (3 hours)
10. Makita XRU09Z 18V X2
- Makita-built Outer Rotor BL Brushless Motor direct-drive system provides high power and increased torque
- 2-speed options (Low: 5,000 RPM, High: 6,500 RPM) allows the operator to match speed to application. Cutting capacity (diameter) : 13-3/4 inches
Makita is no stranger to outdoor power equipment having extensive coverage in lawn tools. And today, we’re going to explore one of their offerings, the Makita XRU09Z.
Powered by Makita’s BL brushless motor with a direct power-drive, the 18V Makita delivers more power, run time, and this ensures an overall longer tool life.
Under the low drive power settings, the Makita can deliver a whopping 60 minutes of runtime, which is quite sufficient for all your trimming needs.
The motor on the Makita is electronically controlled, allowing for optimized battery energy and allows you to match the changing demands of the job at hand. For instance, this trimmer comes with two-speed options (Low:5,000 RPM, High: 6,500 RPM), and the variable speed setting will help to match the performance of the stringer accordingly.
For improved protection of the string trimmer, the Makita comes with an Extreme Protection Technology (XTP), a feature that uses a protective seal inside the tool and is tailored for improved protection against harsh environmental conditions.
TOP 3 FEATURES
- Variable speed
The variable speed settings will allow you to match the speed of the motor according to the task at hand, thus ensuring for optional performance.
- Extreme Protection Technology
This feature will channel the environmental variables such as dust and water away from the interior components of the trimmer and help to preserve its structural integrity.
- Direct Power Drive
This feature will provide torque to the motor allowing it to deliver more power and enhance performance.
- Powerful
- Enhanced safety features
- Flexible
- Tad heavy
Best Cordless String Trimmer Buyer Guide
In the section below, we shall explore some of the basic features you need to consider when buying a cordless trimmer.
Additionally, we shall look at the basic function of trimmers, how they work, and the various types of cordless trimmers in the market.
How Cordless String Trimmers Work
Like their name suggest, cordless string trimmers are landscaping tools that use a string to trim your yard.
When the high-quality monofilament string is rotated at a high velocity, it stiffens enough to slice through weed.
With technological advances in this field, you will no longer have to manually bump the underside of your trimmer to feed new strings. The new models, you’ll be treated to a hands-free experience, thanks to the automatics quick-feed feature that automatically advances the strings or allows you to feed the string with a simple touch of a button.
Either way, the ability of the string trimmers to replace worn-out string with new cutting lines is beneficial in the sense that it does not require regular sharpening as we’ve witnessed with the metal blade trimmers.
How to Choose the Right Trimmer
There’re some basic guidelines for which to follow and features to look out for.
First off, you need to consider the size of your yard and frequency of your trimming; if you have a large yard, a gas-powered weed eater is recommended as they will provide you with an unlimited range as well as the power you need for such applications.
On the other hand, if you have a small to moderate garden, and usually don’t have thick bushes or demanding applications, a battery-powered cordless model is an inspired choice.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cordless Power Trimmer
Let’s look at the features that you need to consider when choosing cordless power trimmer;
Battery Power
A higher battery voltage translates to more power.
Ideally, if you’re looking cordless trimmer for your residential uses or rather for the small to moderate uses, a battery we recommend going for anything between 30v to 40v.
However, if you’re looking for a heavy-duty trimmer for commercials needs, a battery from 60v and above is better.
Battery Life
Besides power, you also another essential factor to consider on the battery is how long it can last or rather run on a single charge.
Anything above half an hour should be perfect, but there’re some which will give you up to a full hour without the need of replacing the battery or plugging in.
Here, you’ll need to think about your task and decide if the battery life of the unit you’re considering will be enough.
Charge Time
Still, on the batteries, some will take an eternity to charge, while others have fast-charge technology, requiring only 30 minutes to full charge.
Having a quick-charging battery can make a significant difference, especially if you have a large project to handle since you’ll not need to wait for long in between charges.
Cutting Width
The cutting width is proportional to how wide a trimmer will cut and consequently how fast you will complete your trimming task.
Cordless trimmers come with various cutting widths, some as narrow as 10 inches and some as large as 18”.
The former is ideal for those with tight spaces and small yards, while the latter is a perfect choice for those with large gardens.
Shaft Style
There are three primary shaft options; straight, curved, and adjustable.
The straight shaft, for instance, is ideal for trimming the tight spaces, thanks to its inline design, and ideal for getting under obstacles such as bushes, decks, shrubs, and benches. On the downside, they offer an unwieldy control.
The curved shafts, on the other hand, are easier to control allowing you to guide your trimmer to the tight spots easily. However, though they’re easy to control, they’re difficult to move.
Finally, both the straight and curved options may feature an adjustable shaft feature, and it’s this function that will allow you to adjust the height of your stool. The adjustable shafts are highly recommended as they will not only allow you to reach to spot you normally couldn’t reach, but it allows you to adjust the trimmer according to your height needs.
Single/Dual-feed Line
Cordless string trimmers are available with either a single or dual-feed line. This is to means they have either one cutting string or two.
Single-line heads are easier to install and perfect for those with small to moderate gardens.
The two-line heads, on the other hand, are more suited to the heavier-duty works and are faster, making trimming tougher grass or weed quicker and easier as they cut twice per revolution.
Dual-Mode Function
Some cordless trimmers are highly versatile and can be easily converted into edge mode by simply rotating the head.
If you think that an edger mode is something that would be handy in your operation, ensure that you get a model with this capability.
Weight
Since you’re going to spend your time carrying a string trimmer, you need to get a practical trimmer weight.
Since the weight of the cordless trimmers ranges between 5 to 20 pounds, it means there’re some trade-offs that you may need to consider.
Conclusion
To choose the perfect trimmer, you need to consider the size of your yard, the difficulty of your workload and your budget. This way, you’ll find a model that’s ideal for your landscaping needs.
If you’re a homeowner, you can never go wrong with a cordless hedge trimmer. Generally, cordless trimmers are lightweight, incredibly efficient, and affordable.