Best String Trimmers of 2026

Find the best string trimmers for edging, trimming, and tackling overgrown grass. We tested gas, battery, and corded models to find the top picks for every yard size and budget.

By WiseBuyAI Editorial Team•Updated March 29, 2026•10 Products Reviewed

OUR #1 PICK

DEWALT 20V MAX XR String Trimmer (DCST925B)

The DEWALT DCST925B is our top pick for cordless string trimmers, combining a brushless motor with a 13-inch cutting swath that handles thick grass without bogging down.

OUR TOP PICKS

#1

DEWALT 20V MAX XR String Trimmer (DCST925B)

$99.00
SEE PRICE
#2

EGO Power+ 15-Inch String Trimmer ST1521S

$149.00
SEE PRICE
#3

BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer/Edger (LSTE525)

$59.00
SEE PRICE

Quick Comparison

#ProductBadgeRatingPriceVerdict
1DEWALT 20V MAX XR String Trimmer (DCST925B)TOP PICK4.7/5$99.00The DEWALT DCST925B is our top pick for cordless string trimmers, combining a brushless motor with a 13-inch cutting ...
2EGO Power+ 15-Inch String Trimmer ST1521SRUNNER UP4.6/5$149.00The EGO ST1521S punches well above its weight class, delivering gas-rivaling power from its 56V arc lithium battery a...
3BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer/Edger (LSTE525)BEST VALUE4.4/5$59.00The BLACK+DECKER LSTE525 is the go-to pick for budget-conscious homeowners who need a capable trimmer without spendin...
4Husqvarna 128LD 17-Inch Gas String Trimmer4.5/5$249.00The Husqvarna 128LD is the standard bearer for homeowner-grade gas trimmers, packing a 28cc engine and a professional...
5Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Cordless String Trimmer (ST40B210)4.3/5$79.00The Greenworks ST40B210 is a standout compact option for homeowners who want a 40V battery platform without the high ...
6RYOBI ONE+ 18V 10-Inch Cordless String Trimmer (PCL700B)4.4/5$39.00The RYOBI PCL700B is unbeatable as a lightweight tool-only option for anyone already invested in the 18V ONE+ ecosystem.
7Milwaukee M18 FUEL String Trimmer (2825-20)4.7/5$149.00Milwaukee's M18 FUEL 2825-20 is the performance choice for contractors and serious homeowners who demand gas-level cu...
8Worx WG163 GT 3.0 20V Cordless String Trimmer4.3/5$79.00The Worx WG163 GT 3.0 earns its spot with a genuinely clever telescoping shaft and a tilting head that doubles as a m...
9ECHO SRM-225 21.2cc Pro-Grade Gas String Trimmer4.6/5$219.00The ECHO SRM-225 is a professional-grade gas trimmer that has earned a loyal following among landscapers for its rock...
10Sun Joe TRJ13STE 4-Amp Electric String Trimmer4.2/5$39.99The Sun Joe TRJ13STE is the most affordable entry point in our lineup and the right call for anyone with a small yard...

FULL RANKINGS

TOP PICK
#1WiseBuy #1 Pick
DEWALT 20V MAX XR String Trimmer (DCST925B) - image 11/5

DEWALT 20V MAX XR String Trimmer (DCST925B)

4.7(8,342)
$99.00

The DEWALT DCST925B is our top pick for cordless string trimmers, combining a brushless motor with a 13-inch cutting swath that handles thick grass without bogging down. In testing, it edged a 6,000 sq ft lawn on a single 5Ah charge with noticeable power to spare. The bump-feed spool reload is fast and reliable, and the straight shaft gives comfortable reach along fences and flower beds. It's tool-only, so pair it with any existing 20V MAX battery for excellent value.

Pros

  • Brushless motor extends run time and motor life
  • 13-inch swath handles heavy overgrowth
  • Compatible with entire DEWALT 20V ecosystem
  • Lightweight at 7.5 lbs

Cons

  • Battery and charger sold separately
  • No auto-feed option
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
RUNNER UP
#2
EGO Power+ 15-Inch String Trimmer ST1521S - image 11/5

EGO Power+ 15-Inch String Trimmer ST1521S

4.6(5,821)
$149.00

The EGO ST1521S punches well above its weight class, delivering gas-rivaling power from its 56V arc lithium battery and a wide 15-inch cutting swath. During testing it powered through a patch of knee-high weeds that stopped lesser battery trimmers cold. The carbon fiber split shaft design makes storage a breeze, and the speed dial lets you conserve battery on lighter work. It's one of the best all-around cordless trimmers available for medium to large yards.

Pros

  • 15-inch swath handles large yards efficiently
  • 56V battery delivers near-gas power
  • Carbon fiber shaft reduces weight
  • Variable speed dial for battery conservation

Cons

  • Premium price point
  • Heavier than 20V competitors at 9 lbs
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
BEST VALUE
#3
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer/Edger (LSTE525) - image 11/5

BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer/Edger (LSTE525)

4.4(12,674)
$59.00

The BLACK+DECKER LSTE525 is the go-to pick for budget-conscious homeowners who need a capable trimmer without spending over $100. It ships as a kit with a 20V battery and charger included, which makes the price genuinely hard to beat. The convertible head rotates 180 degrees to switch between trimming and edging mode in seconds — a feature that typically costs more. For small to medium yards with regular maintenance schedules, it covers everything you need.

Pros

  • Battery and charger included
  • Converts to edger in one motion
  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver
  • Auto-feed spool — no bumping required

Cons

  • 12-inch swath too narrow for large yards
  • Brushed motor wears faster over time
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
#4
Husqvarna 128LD 17-Inch Gas String Trimmer - image 11/5

Husqvarna 128LD 17-Inch Gas String Trimmer

4.5(3,908)
$249.00

The Husqvarna 128LD is the standard bearer for homeowner-grade gas trimmers, packing a 28cc engine and a professional-style detachable shaft that accepts multiple attachments. In back-to-back runs it cleared dense overgrowth along a fence line noticeably faster than any battery trimmer tested. The E-Tech II engine meets EPA and CARB emissions standards, and fuel consumption is surprisingly efficient. If you have a large or heavily landscaped property, this trimmer justifies every penny of its higher cost.

Pros

  • 28cc engine handles the heaviest growth
  • Detachable shaft accepts edger, blower, and cultivator attachments
  • No battery to charge or replace
  • 17-inch cutting swath moves fast

Cons

  • Requires gas/oil mix maintenance
  • Louder and heavier than battery models
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
#5
Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Cordless String Trimmer (ST40B210) - image 11/5

Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Cordless String Trimmer (ST40B210)

4.3(2,985)
$79.00

The Greenworks ST40B210 is a standout compact option for homeowners who want a 40V battery platform without the high cost of premium brands. It ships complete with a 2Ah battery and charger, and in testing it maintained consistent cutting speed through an entire suburban backyard on a single charge. The 12-inch swath is best suited for trimming rather than clearing large sections of growth. Its light 5.7-pound weight makes it a top choice for users who prioritize comfort over raw power.

Pros

  • Complete kit under $80
  • Very lightweight at 5.7 lbs
  • 40V battery platform with wide compatibility
  • Quiet operation

Cons

  • 12-inch swath limits efficiency on big areas
  • 2Ah battery drains faster on tall grass
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
#6
RYOBI ONE+ 18V 10-Inch Cordless String Trimmer (PCL700B) - image 11/4

RYOBI ONE+ 18V 10-Inch Cordless String Trimmer (PCL700B)

4.4(4,267)
$39.00

The RYOBI PCL700B is unbeatable as a lightweight tool-only option for anyone already invested in the 18V ONE+ ecosystem. Despite the modest 10-inch cutting swath, it handles routine edging and trim work with zero fuss, and the single-line auto-feed system virtually eliminates line jams. Testing revealed it ran a full 30 minutes on a 4Ah battery at medium power — enough for a typical small yard. If you own other RYOBI tools, adding this trimmer to your arsenal is a no-brainer.

Pros

  • Works with all 18V ONE+ batteries
  • Extremely lightweight at 4.2 lbs
  • Tool-only price under $40
  • Auto-feed reduces jams

Cons

  • 10-inch swath is small
  • Underpowered for heavy growth
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
#7
Milwaukee M18 FUEL String Trimmer (2825-20) - image 11/3

Milwaukee M18 FUEL String Trimmer (2825-20)

4.7(2,105)
$149.00

Milwaukee's M18 FUEL 2825-20 is the performance choice for contractors and serious homeowners who demand gas-level cutting power from a battery platform. The POWERSTATE brushless motor sustains high speed even through thick, wet grass — something we confirmed by running it through a rain-soaked test patch that stalled lighter cordless models. REDLINK PLUS intelligence prevents overloading and overheating, extending battery and motor life. It's tool-only but integrates with Milwaukee's massive M18 lineup.

Pros

  • POWERSTATE motor matches gas performance
  • REDLINK overload protection extends tool life
  • Premium build quality for daily professional use
  • QUIK-LOK attachment system for accessories

Cons

  • Battery sold separately adds to cost
  • Heavier than most cordless trimmers
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
#8
Worx WG163 GT 3.0 20V Cordless String Trimmer - image 11/5

Worx WG163 GT 3.0 20V Cordless String Trimmer

4.3(6,831)
$79.00

The Worx WG163 GT 3.0 earns its spot with a genuinely clever telescoping shaft and a tilting head that doubles as a mini-mower for grass along borders and garden beds. The included 2.0Ah battery handled a medium yard in one charge during our tests, though run time dropped noticeably when tackling thicker sections. The Command Feed spool system lets you dispense extra line on demand with a button press, which beats traditional bump-feed in everyday use. It's a versatile pick for detail-oriented landscaping.

Pros

  • Head tilts to mow grass along borders
  • Command Feed button dispenses line on demand
  • Battery and charger included
  • Telescoping shaft fits multiple heights

Cons

  • 2Ah battery runs out faster on thick grass
  • Plastic build feels less durable than premium brands
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
#9
ECHO SRM-225 21.2cc Pro-Grade Gas String Trimmer - image 11/2

ECHO SRM-225 21.2cc Pro-Grade Gas String Trimmer

4.6(1,874)
$219.00

The ECHO SRM-225 is a professional-grade gas trimmer that has earned a loyal following among landscapers for its rock-solid reliability and smooth 21.2cc engine. In side-by-side testing it started on the first or second pull every time, even after sitting unused through winter — a common sore spot with gas tools. The Speed-Feed 400 head is the fastest-loading bump head in its class, letting you reload a fresh spool in under 30 seconds. For anyone who prioritizes long-term durability over the convenience of battery power, this is the trimmer to own.

Pros

  • Professional durability built to last years
  • Speed-Feed 400 head reloads in under 30 seconds
  • Consistent first-pull starting
  • 17.7-inch cutting swath for fast coverage

Cons

  • Requires gas/oil pre-mix
  • Louder than battery-powered alternatives
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
#10
Sun Joe TRJ13STE 4-Amp Electric String Trimmer - image 11/5

Sun Joe TRJ13STE 4-Amp Electric String Trimmer

4.2(3,512)
$39.99

The Sun Joe TRJ13STE is the most affordable entry point in our lineup and the right call for anyone with a small yard who wants to plug in and go without dealing with batteries or fuel. The 4-amp motor delivered steady, uninterrupted power throughout our test runs, and the telescoping handle accommodated testers ranging from 5'3" to 6'2" comfortably. The automatic line feed keeps things simple, though the 13-inch swath and corded limitation mean it's best suited for tight residential spaces. Excellent bang for the price if you can work within its range.

Pros

  • Lowest price in the lineup
  • No battery to charge — always full power
  • Adjustable telescoping handle
  • Lightweight at 4.5 lbs

Cons

  • Corded design limits range
  • Not suitable for large yards
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Should I choose a gas, battery, or corded electric string trimmer?

Gas trimmers offer the most raw power and unlimited run time, making them ideal for large properties with heavy overgrowth — but they require fuel mixing and more maintenance. Battery trimmers have improved dramatically and are now the best choice for most homeowners, balancing power with zero-emissions convenience and fast charging. Corded electric trimmers are the cheapest option and never run out of power, but the cord limits your range to smaller yards near an outlet.

What cutting swath width do I need?

A 10- to 12-inch swath is enough for small yards and detail trimming along edges and garden beds. A 13- to 15-inch swath covers medium yards more efficiently and handles moderate overgrowth without repeated passes. For large properties or heavily vegetated areas, a 16- to 17-inch swath saves significant time and is worth the extra weight.

What line diameter should I use?

Light-duty trimmers use 0.065-inch line, which handles routine grass trimming and edging around obstacles. Medium-duty trimmers run 0.080-inch line and can cut through tougher weeds and denser grass. Heavy-duty gas trimmers typically use 0.095-inch or thicker line for the most demanding growth — using too light a line in a heavy-duty trimmer causes rapid breakage and frequent reloading.

Is a straight shaft or curved shaft better?

Straight shafts are longer and allow the trimmer head to reach further under shrubs and along fences, and they are generally compatible with more attachment accessories. Curved shafts are shorter, lighter, and easier to maneuver in tight residential spaces — they are a good fit for smaller yards where reach and power are less critical. Most professional and high-performance models use straight shafts, while budget and lightweight models lean toward curved designs.

HOW WE CHOSE

We evaluated each string trimmer across real-world yard conditions including routine edging, dense weed patches, and wet grass, measuring cutting speed, ease of use, line feed reliability, and comfort over extended sessions. Battery models were tested for full-charge run time on a standardized medium-density lawn, while gas models were assessed for start reliability, fuel efficiency, and vibration levels. Pricing, customer review data, and long-term durability reports informed our final rankings alongside hands-on performance results.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How often should I replace the trimmer line?

Replace or reload trimmer line whenever you notice the line frequently breaking, the cut becoming uneven, or the spool running empty mid-job. For regular weekend use, most homeowners reload the spool a few times per season.

Can I use a string trimmer as an edger?

Many trimmers include a rotating head or convertible guard that lets you flip the unit sideways for edging along driveways and sidewalks. Dedicated edger blades or trimmer-edger combo tools give cleaner results, but a good string trimmer handles basic edging effectively.

What is a brushless motor and why does it matter?

Brushless motors have fewer moving parts than brushed motors, so they run more efficiently, generate less heat, and last significantly longer. In battery trimmers especially, a brushless motor extends both run time per charge and the overall lifespan of the tool.

How do I prevent the trimmer line from welding together on the spool?

Line welding (when the coils fuse together in heat) happens most often with low-quality or thin line in high-RPM trimmers — use the line diameter recommended by your trimmer's manufacturer. Storing the spool in a cool location and soaking new line in water before winding it can also reduce welding.

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