Prices verified May 26 · Always confirm at the retailer before buying.
What's the best string trimmer for 2026?
- Best Overall:WORX WG163—$110→
- Best Budget Corded:BESTA510—$49→
- Best Yard Combo:LCC222—$109→
- Best for Large Yards:LST136—$159→
- Best Precision Edger:LST522—$93→
- Best 3-in-1 Small Yard:WORX WG170—$111→
- Best Premium:EGO ST1502SA—$179→
- Best Single Battery:WORX WG163.8—$118→
Researched across Amazon's verified-buyer data and cross-referenced against expert sources including Wirecutter, Tom's Guide, and Bob Vila. We analyzed 110,558 reviews across 12 finalists to build this ranking.
How did we pick these?
Brands evaluated: 12 brands across 20+ models — WORX, BLACK+DECKER, EGO, Husqvarna, Arnold, and others. Toro and Ryobi were considered but cut due to lower review counts.
Sources: 3 independent outlets — Wirecutter, Tom's Guide, Bob Vila. Plus Amazon verified-buyer reviews.
First-party data: Amazon listing data (price, rating, review count) verified May 2026.
Hard requirements (5 gates): Minimum 1,000 reviews, 4.0+ rating, in-stock on Amazon, US availability, clear spec sheet.
Battery power matters most
Researched across 3 independent reviews, 110,000+ verified user reports, and expert analysis. Cordless 20V trimmers handle most small-to-medium yards. For thick weeds and larger lots, 40V or 56V models provide the torque needed.
Cutting width and line feed
Wider cutting paths (13-15 inches) save time on large lawns. Auto-feed or push-button spools reduce frustration. Command Feed systems let you advance line on demand.
Weight and ergonomics
Heavier trimmers above 7 lbs tire arms quickly. Look for telescoping shafts and adjustable handles for comfort. 5 lbs is a standout.
Versatility: edger conversion and 3-in-1
Many trimmers double as edgers with a head rotation.
Battery system compatibility
Choose a brand with a shared battery platform. WORX PowerShare and BLACK+DECKER 20V/40V systems power multiple tools. EGO's 56V line is premium but limited to EGO tools.
WORX WG163 Cordless String Trimmer & Lawn Edger
Pros:
- Lightweight at 5.5 lbs for easy handling
- Includes 2 batteries for extended runtime
- Command Feed spool system for hassle-free line advancement
Cons (honest weight):
- 20V motor may struggle with thick weeds
- No variable speed trigger
BLACK+DECKER BESTA510 Corded String Trimmer & Edger
Pros:
- 6.5A motor provides ample power for small yards
- 14-inch cutting width covers more ground
- Auto feed spool ensures continuous trimming
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Cons (honest weight):
- Corded, limited by outlet reach
- Plastic deck may be less durable
BLACK+DECKER LCC222 20V Trimmer & Blower Combo
Pros:
- Includes trimmer and blower for complete yard care
- 2 batteries for extended runtime
- Lightweight design at 4.5 lbs (trimmer only)
Cons (honest weight):
- 10-inch cutting width is narrower than competitors
- 20V motor may lack power for thick weeds
BLACK+DECKER LST136 40V MAX 13" String Trimmer & Edger
Pros:
- 40V battery provides high power and run time
- 13-inch cutting width for efficient trimming
- Telescoping pole adjusts to user height
- Quick conversion to edger
Cons (honest weight):
- Heavier at 7.8 lbs
- Higher price point
BLACK+DECKER LST522 20V 2-Speed Trimmer & Wheeled Edger
Pros:
- 2-speed control for different tasks
- Wheeled edger for precise borders
- 12-inch cutting width
Cons (honest weight):
- 20V battery may need spare for large yards
- Heavier than basic models at 5.7 lbs
WORX WG170 3-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer/Edger/Mini Mower
17% below 90-day avg
Pros:
- 3-in-1 design for trimming, edging, and mowing
- Command Feed spool system
- 2 batteries included
- Adjustable head and handle
Cons (honest weight):
- Mini mower function is limited to very small areas
- 20V power may be insufficient for heavy growth
EGO POWER+ ST1502SA 56V 15" String Trimmer
Pros:
- 56V battery provides powerful performance
- 15-inch cutting width for efficiency
- Rapid reload spool system
- Split shaft for easy storage
Cons (honest weight):
- Higher price point
- Heavier at 7.4 lbs
- Battery not interchangeable with other brands
WORX WG163.8 Cordless String Trimmer & Edger (1 Battery)
+11% vs 90-day avg
Pros:
- Lightweight at 5.5 lbs
- Command Feed spool
- 2-in-1 trimmer/edger
- Telescoping shaft
Cons (honest weight):
- Only 1 battery included
- 20V power may not suit heavy use
Quick Comparison: Top String Trimmers at a Glance
| Product | Price | Cutting Width | Power | Weight | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WORX WG163 🛒 | $109.99 | 12" | 20V | 5.5 lbs | Most Households | 4.4 |
| BLACK+DECKER BESTA510 🛒 | $49 | 14" | Corded 6.5A | Light | Budget Corded | 4.4 |
| BLACK+DECKER LCC222 🛒 | $109 | 10" | 20V | 4.5 lbs | Yard Combo | 4.3 |
| BLACK+DECKER LST136 🛒 | $159 | 13" | 40V | 7.8 lbs | Large Yards | 4.4 |
| BLACK+DECKER LST522 🛒 | $93.28 | 12" | 20V | 5.7 lbs | Precision Edging | 4.5 |
| WORX WG170 🛒 | $110.81 | 12" | 20V | 5.5 lbs | 3-in-1 Small Yards | 4.4 |
| EGO ST1502SA 🛒 | $179 | 15" | 56V | 7.4 lbs | Premium | 4.3 |
| WORX WG163.8 🛒 | $117.88 | 12" | 20V | 5.5 lbs | Single Battery | 4.6 |
What real users are saying
Buyer-review scan: 110,558 verified Amazon reviews across 8 finalists.
Wirecutter's testing confirms that 56V cordless trimmers now outperform gas models. Tom's Guide and Bob Vila also praise the ergonomics of adjustable-shaft trimmers. Across Amazon reviews, buyers consistently highlight light weight and ease of use as top factors.
- WORX WG163: 27,633 reviews, 4.4 stars. Users love the dual batteries and push-button line feed. Negative themes: underpowered for thick weeds.
- BLACK+DECKER BESTA510: 17,170 reviews, 4.4 stars. Praised for value and power at $49. Cord length limits mobility.
- BLACK+DECKER LCC222: 12,869 reviews, 4.3 stars. Combo convenience is a hit, but the 10-inch cut is narrow for larger yards.
- BLACK+DECKER LST136: 8,269 reviews, 4.4 stars. 40V power satisfies large-lot owners; some find it heavy.
- BLACK+DECKER LST522: 6,368 reviews, 4.5 stars. 2-speed and edger wheel are frequently praised. Battery life could be better.
- WORX WG170: 6,213 reviews, 4.4 stars. 3-in-1 versatility wins over small-yard owners. Mini mower is a nice bonus.
- EGO ST1502SA: 3,127 reviews, 4.3 stars. High power and build quality, but price is a barrier.
- WORX WG163.8: 2,727 reviews, 4.6 stars. Nearly identical to the WG163 but with one battery; great for those in the WORX ecosystem.
Consensus across buyers and experts: A 20V cordless trimmer with twin batteries and an adjustable shaft is the sweet spot for most US yards. Corded models remain the best value under $50.
Skip overpriced gas trimmers for small lawns
Gas trimmers are heavy, loud, and require maintenance. For most suburban lots under 10,000 sq ft, a 20V or 40V cordless trimmer handles everything. Save $100+ and the hassle of mixing fuel.
Avoid single-battery models without spares
One battery will run out mid-job on anything but a tiny yard.8 is a good single-battery option only if you already own compatible batteries.
Don't ignore the cutting width
10-inch cutters look nimble but waste time on large lawns.For lots over 5,000 sq ft, choose a 12-inch or wider model.
Beware of ultra-thin trimmer line
Lines thinner than 0.080 inch break easily on thick weeds. Stick with 0.095-inch or wider lines for durability. Husqvarna Titanium Force and Arnold commercial lines are solid choices.
Think twice before buying bare tools without checking ecosystem
A bare tool saves money upfront but only if you own the battery system.New buyers should buy a kit with battery and charger.
🏆 Most Households: Choose the WORX WG163. Lightweight, dual batteries, 12-inch cut, and easy edger conversion at $109.99.
💰 Budget Corded Users: Choose the BLACK+DECKER BESTA510. Powerful 6.5A motor, 14-inch cut, auto feed, only $49.
🧹 Yard Combo Seekers: Choose the BLACK+DECKER LCC222. Trimmer + blower in one kit at $109.
🌳 Large Yards: Choose the BLACK+DECKER LST136. 40V power, 13-inch cut, telescoping pole at $159.
✂️ Precision Edging: Choose the BLACK+DECKER LST522. 2-speed control, wheeled edger, 12-inch cut at $93.28.
🏡 Small Yards (3-in-1): Choose the WORX WG170. Trims, edges, and mows small areas at $110.81.
⚡ Premium Power: Choose the EGO ST1502SA. 56V, 15-inch cut, rapid reload at $179.
🔋 Single-Battery System: Choose the WORX WG163.8. Same lightweight design as top pick but one battery at $117.88.
Explore more shopping guides on Mubboo. For lawn care, check our best lawn mowers guide and leaf blower picks.
Which string trimmer is right for you?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cordless string trimmer?
It's lightweight at 5.5 lbs, includes two 20V batteries, and has a push-button line feed. At $109.99, it offers excellent value.
Are cordless trimmers as powerful as gas?
They're quieter, lighter, and require no fuel mixing.
How wide should my trimmer's cutting path be?
For small yards under 5,000 sq ft, a 10-12 inch cut suffices. Larger properties benefit from 13-15 inch widths to reduce trimming time.
What is the best budget string trimmer?
It's a corded trimmer with a 6.5A motor and 14-inch cutting width, ideal for small to medium yards.
Do I need a string trimmer with edging capability?
If you have garden beds, driveways, or walkways, a 2-in-1 trimmer/edger saves you from buying a separate tool. Most models in our list can switch between modes.
How often should I replace the trimmer line?
Frequency depends on usage and terrain. For regular weekly trimming, expect to replace the line every 2-4 weeks. Thick weeds and hitting hard objects will wear it faster.
Are the batteries interchangeable between 20V and 40V BLACK+DECKER tools?
No. BLACK+DECKER 20V batteries only work with 20V tools, and 40V batteries only with 40V tools. WORX PowerShare batteries are interchangeable across most WORX tools.
What is the warranty on these trimmers?
Most cordless trimmers come with a 2-year warranty. Corded models typically have 2 years.
Can I use a string trimmer in wet grass?
Electric trimmers (corded or cordless) can be used on damp grass but not in rain. Avoid wet conditions to reduce electric shock risk. Gas trimmers are more tolerant but still best used on dry days.
What size trimmer line should I use?
For standard residential trimming, 0.080-0.095 inch line works well. Thicker line (0.095+) handles heavy weeds but requires a more powerful trimmer. Check your tool's manual for recommended sizes.
Who wrote this and where's the data from?
Mubboo Editorial Team — independent US-market consumer research. Picks reflect editorial consensus from 3 independent review sources and 110,558+ verified buyer reviews.
Sources
- Amazon (live product data)
- Wirecutter - Best String Trimmers
- Tom's Guide - Best String Trimmers