11 Best Cordless String Trimmers for Yards (May 2026)

I spent three weekends testing cordless string trimmers on my half-acre property in late summer, when the weeds were at their thickest. The difference between a frustrating afternoon and a quick yard cleanup often came down to which battery-powered weed wacker I had in my hands. After running 11 different models through fence lines, garden beds, and overgrown corners, I have clear favorites for every budget and yard size.

If you are shopping for the best cordless string trimmers in 2026, you are in the right place. I will walk you through what actually matters when choosing a battery trimmer: real runtime numbers, weight with the battery attached, and whether that auto-feed line system actually works or just creates headaches. Whether you have a small suburban lot or a sprawling rural property, this guide will help you find the right tool.

Our team tested these trimmers in real conditions, not just on showroom floors. We measured runtime with stopwatches, weighed each unit with batteries installed, and cut through everything from thin grass to thick blackberry canes. Here is what we found.

Top 3 Picks for Best Cordless String Trimmers for Yards (May 2026)

These three models represent the sweet spots across different price points and needs. The EGO delivers professional-grade power with its 56V system. The WORX offers unmatched versatility with its instant line feed and dual-battery setup. The BLACK+DECKER LST522 packs the best value under $100 with dual-speed control and extended runtime.

Best Cordless String Trimmers for Yards in 2026

This table covers all 11 models we tested, from premium 56V professional units to budget-friendly 20V options perfect for small yards. Compare battery voltage, cutting width, and weight to narrow down your choices before reading the detailed reviews below.

1. EGO POWER+ ST1502SA 56V Trimmer – Premium Power for Large Yards

I tested the EGO ST1502SA on a property with thick fescue grass and heavy weed patches along a fence line. The 56V battery delivered noticeably more cutting power than any 20V model in this roundup. Where lesser trimmers bogged down and stalled, the EGO kept spinning through thick growth without hesitation.

The 15-inch cutting swath is a genuine time-saver on large properties. I cleared a 200-foot fence line in roughly two-thirds the time it took with 12-inch models. The brushless motor runs cooler and quieter than brushed alternatives, and EGO claims it extends motor life significantly. After multiple extended sessions, I noticed no power drop-off as the battery drained.

The Rapid-Reload head actually lives up to its name. I reloaded line in under 30 seconds without disassembling the head, which is a huge improvement over traditional bump heads. The split shaft design makes storage easier in tight garages, though I rarely needed to break it down during testing.

The variable speed trigger lets you dial back power for light trimming around delicate flowers, then squeeze fully for the full 5800 RPM when attacking thick weeds. The 50-minute runtime proved accurate in my testing at moderate speeds, though heavy use in thick grass reduced that to about 38 minutes.

Who Should Buy This Trimmer

Homeowners with half-acre lots or larger will appreciate the EGO’s combination of power and runtime. If you already own other EGO 56V tools like their mowers or blowers, adding this trimmer makes perfect sense since batteries interchange across the entire platform. Anyone dealing with heavy vegetation regularly needs this level of 56V power.

Who Should Skip This Trimmer

If your yard is under 5,000 square feet with mostly light grass trimming, the EGO is overkill and the higher price is hard to justify. Users with physical limitations might find the larger battery adds noticeable weight during extended sessions. Budget-conscious buyers should look at the 20V options below instead.

2. WORX WG163 20V Trimmer & Edger – Best All-Around Value

The WORX WG163 is the trimmer I recommend to most homeowners who ask for advice. At just 5.5 pounds, it is the lightest full-size trimmer I tested, making it manageable for users of any strength or size. My teenage daughter handled it comfortably for an entire yard session without complaints.

The Command Feed system is genuinely innovative. Push a button on the handle and fresh line extends instantly, no bumping required. In three weekends of testing, the line fed correctly every single time without tangles or jams. The wheeled edging mode converts with a simple pivot and actually produces clean, straight edges along sidewalks.

Having two batteries in the box is a major advantage. While one battery charges, you keep working with the second. Each battery delivered about 25 minutes of runtime in typical grass, giving you nearly an hour of total work time with the pair. The Power Share system means these batteries also work with other WORX 20V and 40V tools.

The 7600 RPM no-load speed is higher than many competitors, which helps compensate for the lighter-duty line diameter. I found it cut effectively through standard lawn grass and light weeds, though thick overgrowth did slow it down. The adjustable handle and telescoping shaft accommodate users from 5 feet to over 6 feet tall comfortably.

Who Should Buy This Trimmer

Anyone with a small to medium yard up to a quarter-acre will find the WORX WG163 perfect for their needs. Users who want a single tool for both trimming and edging without buying separate devices should strongly consider this model. First-time cordless tool buyers benefit from the included dual batteries and compatibility with the broader WORX platform.

Who Should Skip This Trimmer

Property owners with thick brush, heavy weeds, or significant overgrowth will find the 0.065 inch line and 20V power limiting. Large yards over a third of an acre require either multiple battery sets or a higher voltage system. Professional users or those needing commercial-grade durability should look at the EGO 56V or professional-grade options.

3. BLACK+DECKER LST522 20V Trimmer – Budget Champion with Premium Features

BLACK+DECKER has been making string trimmers since cordless tools first emerged, and the LST522 shows decades of refinement. This model impressed me by packing features usually found on pricier units into a sub-$100 package. The dual-speed control alone is rare at this price point.

I tested both speed settings extensively. The lower speed extends runtime for light trimming and edge work, while the higher speed delivers the torque needed for thicker patches. The PowerDrive transmission genuinely makes a difference, you can feel the extra torque at the cutting head when engaging dense growth.

The 2.5Ah battery included with this kit is larger than the 1.5Ah or 2.0Ah cells typically bundled with budget trimmers. BLACK+DECKER claims 66% more runtime than their standard batteries, and my stopwatch testing confirmed roughly 35 minutes of continuous use on high speed. That is enough for most suburban yards on a single charge.

The automatic feed spool works reliably, dispensing line as needed without the frustrating bumping that older trimmers required. The wheeled edging attachment is less sophisticated than the WORX pivot system but still produces acceptable edges along hard surfaces. The soft-grip handle reduces vibration during extended use.

Who Should Buy This Trimmer

Budget-conscious buyers who want reliable performance without premium pricing should start here. Homeowners with small to medium yards who need occasional edging will appreciate the 2-in-1 design. Anyone already invested in the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX ecosystem gains another tool compatible with their existing batteries.

Who Should Skip This Trimmer

Users with significant property sizes or heavy vegetation will find the 20V power and 12-inch swath limiting for big jobs. Those wanting the absolute lightest weight should consider the WORX instead. If you need professional-grade durability for daily use, look at higher voltage options.

4. BLACK+DECKER LCC340C 40V Sweeper & Trimmer Combo – Power Upgrade

Stepping up to 40V power makes a noticeable difference for homeowners with more demanding yard work. The LCC340C delivered cleaner cuts through thick grass and handled overgrown areas that stalled 20V trimmers in my testing. The included sweeper is genuinely useful for clearing clippings after trimming.

The 13-inch cutting swath splits the difference between compact 12-inch models and premium 15-inch options. I found it trimmed efficiently around garden beds and along fences while still being manageable in tight spaces. The POWERDRIVE transmission maintains consistent torque even as battery voltage drops during use.

The state of charge indicator on the battery pack is a small but significant feature. You know exactly how much runtime remains instead of guessing and getting stranded halfway through a job. The low noise design is noticeably quieter than gas trimmers and even some louder electric competitors.

The sweeper reaches 130 MPH, sufficient for clearing grass clippings, light leaves, and debris from hard surfaces. Having both tools share a single battery platform means you can alternate between trimming and sweeping without swapping batteries. The 2-year limited warranty covers defects and provides peace of mind.

Who Should Buy This Combo

Homeowners with larger yards who need more power than 20V systems offer will appreciate the 40V boost. Those who want both trimming and debris clearing capability in one purchase get solid value here. Users with physical strength to handle the extra weight benefit from the increased cutting capability.

Who Should Skip This Combo

Anyone prioritizing lightweight handling should stick to 20V options at roughly half the weight. Small yard owners do not need the extra power or the sweeper attachment. Budget buyers can find similar trimming capability for significantly less money.

5. WORX WG928 Trimmer & Leaf Blower Combo – Complete Yard Kit

The WG928 combo provides everything needed for basic yard maintenance in one box. I tested this kit on a rental property where the yard had been neglected for weeks. The trimmer handled grass and light weeds while the blower cleared the mess efficiently afterward.

WORX turbine technology genuinely moves more air than standard blower designs. The 360 CFM rating is respectable for a compact unit, though it will not replace a heavy-duty backpack blower for large properties. For clearing driveways, patios, and small lawns, it performs admirably.

Both tools use the same 20V Power Share batteries, so you can dedicate one battery to the trimmer while the other powers the blower. The combined weight of both tools with batteries is still under 10 pounds, making this an excellent choice for users who fatigue easily or need to carry tools up stairs.

The trimmer head converts to edging mode with a simple pivot, and the push-button line feed works as reliably as on the standalone WG163 model. For small property owners who need basic trimming and cleanup capability without investing heavily, this combo delivers solid value.

Who Should Buy This Combo

First-time homeowners or renters who need basic yard tools without breaking the bank benefit most from this kit. Users with small yards under 5,000 square feet get adequate power for their needs. Anyone wanting two tools that share batteries for convenience should consider this bundle.

Who Should Skip This Combo

Property owners with established landscaping or heavy maintenance needs will outgrow these tools quickly. Those expecting professional-grade blower performance will be disappointed. If you already own other WORX tools with larger batteries, you might want standalone tools instead.

6. BLACK+DECKER LCC222 Combo Kit – Trimmer, Edger & Sweeper

This three-tool combo covers all the basics for small yard maintenance. I tested it on a townhouse yard where storage space was limited and versatility mattered more than raw power. The compact size of all three components fits easily in a small closet or garage corner.

The trimmer’s 10-inch cutting swath is smaller than the 12-inch standard, but for tight spaces between houses and along narrow walkways, the compact head actually maneuvers better. The wheeled edger attachment creates acceptable borders along the small concrete patio and walkway.

The sweeper at just 3.7 pounds is genuinely pleasant to use. It clears grass clippings and light debris from the patio without the fatigue of heavier blowers. The 130 MPH speed is adequate for hard surfaces around a small property.

Both batteries included are 1.5Ah capacity, which provides roughly 20 minutes of runtime per charge. For small yards, this is sufficient to complete the job. The batteries hold charge for up to 18 months in storage, so occasional users do not find dead batteries when they finally get motivated to trim.

Who Should Buy This Kit

Townhouse and condo owners with minimal yard space get everything needed in one affordable purchase. Users who prioritize lightweight tools over heavy-duty power will appreciate the sub-5-pound weights. Anyone wanting quiet operation for noise-restricted communities benefits from this low-noise design.

Who Should Skip This Kit

Homeowners with more than a minimal patch of grass will find the 10-inch swath and 1.5Ah batteries frustratingly limiting. Those dealing with anything beyond light grass and weeds need more power. If you have a garage full of other BLACK+DECKER 20V tools with larger batteries, the included small batteries add little value.

7. BLACK+DECKER LST300 – Reliable Entry-Level Option

The LST300 represents BLACK+DECKER’s entry-level offering, and it performs reliably for light-duty work. I tested this on a neighbor’s small front yard where the primary need was maintaining edges along the sidewalk and trimming around a few trees. For that use case, it performed adequately.

The PowerDrive transmission is the standout feature at this price point. It genuinely delivers more torque to the cutting string than basic transmissions, making a noticeable difference when cutting through patches of thicker grass. The 6200 RPM speed is competitive with other 20V models.

The automatic feed spool eliminates the frustrating bump-feed mechanism that plagued older trimmers. Line feeds smoothly when needed without user intervention. I found it worked reliably for standard 0.065 inch line, though heavier line types might strain the mechanism.

The included 2.0Ah battery provides about 25 minutes of runtime, enough for small yards but requiring a mid-job charge for larger properties. The wall-mountable charging base is convenient for garage installation, keeping the charger and battery organized and ready.

Who Should Buy This Trimmer

Homeowners with minimal trimming needs and small yards under 3,000 square feet find adequate capability here. First-time cordless tool users wanting a simple, affordable entry point benefit from the straightforward design. Those prioritizing quiet operation over power will appreciate the low noise level.

Who Should Skip This Trimmer

Anyone with more than basic light-duty trimming needs will outgrow this model quickly. The durability concerns reported by long-term owners suggest heavy users should invest more upfront. Large property owners need the extended runtime and wider swath of premium alternatives.

8. VARSK 20V Cordless Trimmer – Budget-Friendly with Dual Batteries

VARSK is a newer brand in the outdoor power market, but their 20V trimmer impressed me with the included accessories and thoughtful design. Having two 2.0Ah batteries and six replacement spools in the box means you can work longer without immediate additional purchases.

The 8700 RPM motor speed is actually higher than many name-brand competitors, helping compensate for the 20V voltage limitation. In light grass and standard weeds, the cutting performance matched more expensive options. The 80° pivoting head and 180° adjustable handle accommodate various cutting angles and user preferences.

The integrated stabilizer wheel helps maintain consistent edging depth along hard surfaces. It is not as sophisticated as dedicated edger wheels, but it works adequately for occasional edging tasks. The 30-minute runtime per battery gives you an hour total with both packs.

Assembly was straightforward with clear instructions. The telescoping shaft adjusts for users of different heights, and the overall balance feels natural during operation. For the price, the build quality exceeded my expectations, though long-term durability remains to be seen given the brand’s newer market presence.

Who Should Buy This Trimmer

Budget-conscious buyers who want maximum included accessories find excellent value here. Small to medium yard owners with light maintenance needs get adequate power and runtime. Users wanting dual batteries without premium pricing benefit from the complete kit approach.

Who Should Skip This Trimmer

Anyone dealing with established overgrowth, thick weeds, or brush should avoid this entry-level model. Professional users or those needing daily reliability should invest in established brands with proven track records. Large property owners will find the runtime and power insufficient for big jobs.

9. JAGROM 20V Cordless Trimmer – Extended Runtime on a Budget

The JAGROM trimmer focuses on providing extended runtime at a budget price point. With two batteries delivering a combined 60 minutes of operation, this model outlasts many competitors that provide only 30-40 minutes total. For yard owners who work slowly or have larger spaces, that extra runtime matters.

The 6500 RPM motor speed is slightly lower than the 7500-8700 RPM ratings of some competitors, but in practical testing, the difference was less noticeable than expected. Light grass and standard weeds cut cleanly. The 90° adjustable head and 180° auxiliary handle provide flexibility for different trimming scenarios.

Eight replacement spools in the box means you will not need to purchase line for quite some time. The automatic line feed and cut system worked reliably during my testing, though the smaller spool capacity means slightly more frequent reloading than premium models.

The 5.2-pound weight is among the lightest tested, making it manageable for extended sessions without arm fatigue. The simple assembly process takes under 10 minutes with basic tools. While the 4.1-star rating is lower than top competitors, the value proposition remains strong for budget-focused buyers.

Who Should Buy This Trimmer

Budget buyers prioritizing runtime over brand recognition find good value here. Small yard owners who want to complete the job on one charge benefit from the dual extended batteries. Users needing a lightweight, adjustable trimmer for occasional maintenance will appreciate the ergonomic design.

Who Should Skip This Trimmer

Quality-conscious buyers concerned about long-term reliability should consider established brands instead. Those needing heavy-duty cutting power for thick vegetation will find the 20V system and 6500 RPM motor limiting. Anyone wanting the best customer support and warranty service should stick with major manufacturers.

10. Steelite Trimmer & Blower Combo Kit – Newcomer with Promise

Steelite is a newer market entrant, but early reviews are exceptionally positive with a 4.8-star average. I tested this combo on a property with both trimming and leaf cleanup needs. The standout feature is the blower, which at 500 CFM moves significantly more air than typical combo-kit blowers.

The trimmer head rotates 90° for edging duty, and the auxiliary wheel helps maintain consistent depth. The automatic line advance system fed 0.065 inch line smoothly without tangles during my testing sessions. Six replacement spools provide months of operation before needing resupply.

The dual 20V batteries provide roughly 30 minutes each, and the quick charger gets them back to full faster than standard chargers included with budget kits. While the limited review count means less established reliability data, the initial quality impressions are promising.

This kit essentially provides a complete yard maintenance solution for small to medium properties. The trimmer handles standard grass and weeds, while the blower clears clippings and light leaves efficiently. For buyers willing to take a chance on a newer brand, the value proposition is strong.

Who Should Buy This Combo

Early adopters willing to try newer brands for better features and pricing benefit most. Small property owners wanting both trimming and blower capability in one purchase find good value here. Users prioritizing blower performance in their combo kit should consider this over competitors with weaker blowers.

Who Should Skip This Combo

Risk-averse buyers wanting proven reliability and extensive warranty support should stick with established brands. The limited review history makes long-term durability uncertain. Professional users or those needing daily reliability should invest in proven manufacturers.

11. LPSUK 20V 3-in-1 Trimmer – Versatile Budget Option

The LPSUK trimmer attempts to do more than just trimming, incorporating edging and light mowing functions into a single affordable tool. I tested the mower function on a small patch of grass where it performed adequately for touch-ups, though it will not replace a proper lawn mower.

The 8000 RPM motor is among the fastest in this roundup, cutting through grass cleanly with minimal bogging. The telescoping shaft adjusts from 38 to 49 inches, accommodating users from under 5 feet to over 6 feet tall. The 60° adjustable head and 180° handle provide flexibility for different angles.

The automatic line feed system worked reliably during testing, extending line when needed without manual intervention. The fast charger gets the 2.0Ah battery from empty to full in 80 minutes, faster than many competitors. Eight replacement spools provide months of operation.

The 3-in-1 design works best for small yards where you need occasional touch-up mowing between full cuts, edging along hard surfaces, and standard trimming around obstacles. It is not a specialized tool for any single task, but the versatility appeals to minimalists wanting one device.

Who Should Buy This Trimmer

Small yard owners wanting maximum versatility from a single affordable tool find good value here. Users with limited storage who cannot accommodate multiple dedicated tools benefit from the 3-in-1 design. Budget buyers needing basic trimming, edging, and light mowing in one purchase should consider this model.

Who Should Skip This Trimmer

Anyone with established grass or significant yard maintenance needs will find the 3-in-1 compromises frustrating. Those wanting specialized, high-performance tools for each task should buy dedicated devices. Large property owners need more runtime than the single battery provides.

How to Choose the Best Cordless String Trimmer for Your Yard?

After testing 11 different models across three weekends, I have identified the key factors that actually matter when choosing a battery-powered weed wacker. Here is what to consider before making your purchase.

Battery Voltage and Power

Voltage directly correlates with cutting power. In my testing, the differences were stark when cutting through thick vegetation:

20V systems handle light grass and standard weeds adequately. They are lighter, more affordable, and sufficient for small yards under a quarter-acre. Most homeowners with typical suburban lots find 20V adequate for their needs.

40V systems step up noticeably in power, cutting through thicker grass and moderate weeds without bogging down. The weight increase is moderate, and the price premium is usually worth it for larger yards or heavier vegetation.

56V+ systems deliver gas-equivalent power for the most demanding tasks. Heavy brush, thick overgrowth, and commercial applications justify the higher voltage. The weight and cost increases are significant but necessary for heavy-duty work.

Runtime and Battery Life

Real-world runtime rarely matches manufacturer claims. In my stopwatch testing, actual continuous runtime ranged from 60-80% of advertised figures when cutting actual vegetation versus spinning freely in air.

Most 2.0Ah batteries deliver 20-30 minutes of actual cutting time. Larger 2.5Ah batteries extend this to 35-45 minutes. For yards requiring more time, either buy a model with dual batteries included or invest in additional batteries upfront.

Consider amp-hour rating alongside voltage. A 40V 2.0Ah battery stores more total energy than a 20V 2.0Ah battery, delivering both more power and potentially longer runtime depending on motor efficiency.

Cutting Swath and Line Diameter

Cutting swath width determines how much ground you cover with each pass:

10-inch swaths suit tiny yards and tight spaces but require many more passes for larger areas. Only consider this size for townhomes and minimal yards.

12-inch swaths represent the standard for good reason. They balance maneuverability in tight spaces with reasonable efficiency for medium yards. Most homeowners find 12 inches ideal.

13-15 inch swaths significantly speed up large property maintenance. The extra width covers fence lines and open areas faster, though tight spots around delicate plantings become trickier.

Line diameter matters for cutting capability. Thicker 0.080-0.095 inch line cuts through heavier vegetation but requires more power to spin. Thinner 0.065 inch line works fine for light grass but breaks more easily on tough weeds.

Weight and Ergonomics

Weight with battery installed ranges from under 5 pounds to over 11 pounds in this roundup. That difference becomes significant during extended sessions. Lighter trimmers reduce arm fatigue but often sacrifice power or runtime.

Balance matters as much as absolute weight. A well-balanced 7-pound trimmer feels lighter than a poorly balanced 5-pound model. Look for adjustable handles that let you customize the grip position for your height and reach.

Shaft length adjustability accommodates different user heights. Telescoping shafts let multiple family members use the same tool comfortably. Fixed shafts may fit only a limited height range.

Shaft Type: Straight vs Curved

Feature	Straight Shaft	Curved Shaft
Reach	Extended reach under bushes	Closer control for precision
Balance	Better for tall users	Better for shorter users
Storage	Longer, harder to store	Compact, easier storage
Vibration	Less vibration transmission	More vibration felt
Best For	Tall users, heavy cutting	Precision edging, small yards

Most battery trimmers use straight shafts for better reach and reduced vibration. Curved shafts appear mainly on the lightest homeowner models focused on easy maneuverability.

Line Feed Systems

How line extends from the spool significantly impacts user experience:

Bump feed requires tapping the head on the ground to release more line. It works reliably but interrupts workflow and takes practice to master.

Auto feed uses centrifugal force to extend line automatically as it wears. No user intervention needed, but systems vary in reliability. Premium auto-feed systems work well; budget versions often jam.

Command feed (WORX exclusive) lets you push a button to extend line on demand. In my testing, this worked most reliably of all systems, delivering fresh line exactly when needed without guesswork.

Price and Value

Based on my testing, expect these price tiers in 2026:

Under $75: Basic 20V trimmers sufficient for small yards and light duty. Expect 10-12 inch swaths, 1.5-2.0Ah single batteries, and basic features. The VARSK and JAGROM represent this category well.

$75-$150: Mid-range 20V-40V options with better batteries and features. Dual battery sets, auto-feed systems, and combo kits appear here. The WORX WG163 and BLACK+DECKER 40V combo exemplify this range.

$150-$250: Premium 40V-56V systems with professional-grade power. Extended runtime, wide cutting swaths, and brushless motors dominate this tier. The EGO 56V system leads here.

Remember ongoing costs: replacement batteries run $50-150 depending on voltage and amp-hour rating. Factor battery replacement into long-term ownership costs, especially for systems with integrated batteries versus interchangeable platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

After three weekends of hands-on testing across 11 different cordless string trimmers, our recommendations are clear. For the best cordless string trimmers in 2026, the EGO POWER+ ST1502SA stands out for homeowners with larger yards or demanding vegetation. Its 56V power and 15-inch swath handle serious yard work without the hassle of gas.

Most homeowners will be perfectly served by the WORX WG163, which delivers the best balance of features, weight, and value. The Command Feed system and dual batteries make yard work less frustrating than traditional bump-feed trimmers.

Budget buyers should grab the BLACK+DECKER LST522, which packs premium features like dual-speed control into an affordable package. For those with minimal needs, the VARSK and JAGROM options provide adequate capability at entry-level prices.

Match your choice to your actual yard size and vegetation density. A 20V trimmer serves small suburban lots perfectly while saving money and weight. Larger properties justify the investment in 40V or 56V systems that cut faster and run longer. Any of the trimmers in this guide will serve you better than struggling with an old gas model or dealing with extension cords.