The best string trimmers balance cutting power, runtime, line control, weight, and price instead of chasing one big spec. My top overall pick is the EGO POWER+ 16-Inch String Trimmer with 56V Battery and Charger because it gives most homeowners the strongest mix of cordless power, reach, and everyday usability. The Greenworks 60V 16 Inch Brushless Cordless String Trimmer is the value standout for buyers who want near-premium performance with the battery included, while the DEWALT 60V Cordless String Trimmer makes more sense for large properties and attachment-ready yard work. The main tradeoffs are battery platform, cutting width, weight, line-loading convenience, and whether you need light edging or rougher clearing power. Continue reading for the full breakdown of which trimmer fits each yard, budget, and comfort level.
Key Takeaways
- EGO takes the top tier in this lineup because its 56V models combine wide cutting paths with better user-friendly details than most heavy-duty cordless rivals.
- Greenworks 60V is the strongest value play for buyers who want more muscle than 20V models without paying DEWALT-level pricing.
- WORX models are the most beginner-friendly, especially the WG163 and WG170, because they prioritize light weight, edging convenience, and small-yard flexibility over raw clearing force.
- Black+Decker splits into two clear lanes: the 20V and corded models favor budget and simplicity, while the 40V kits sit in the practical middle for routine suburban trimming.
- DEWALT is the most specialized pick; its 60V, 17-inch, attachment-capable design is built for larger jobs, but many homeowners will find it heavier and pricier than needed.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Black+Decker 40V MAX 13-Inch Cordless String Trimmer and Edger Kit
I rank the Black+Decker 40V MAX 13-Inch as the practical middle ground in this group: stronger than the smaller Black+Decker 20V MAX, but much easier to handle than higher-output picks like the Greenworks 60V. The 6.4-pound weight matters if edging sidewalks, trimming fence lines, or carrying the tool around a medium yard feels tiring with bulkier cordless models. Its 13-inch cut is wide enough for routine cleanup, and the quick trimmer-to-edger change gives it more range than a basic single-purpose tool. The tradeoff is durability and stamina. I would not choose it for thick acreage or repeated heavy weed clearing, where the Greenworks or EGO models justify their size and price.
Pros:- Light 6.4-pound body is easier to maneuver than many higher-voltage cordless trimmers
- 40V battery gives it more headroom than compact 20V options
- Converts quickly from trimming to edging for lawn borders and sidewalks
- Battery charge indicator helps plan shorter yard sessions
Cons:- Battery may run short on larger yards or dense growth
- Automatic feed can jam if the line is not handled cleanly
- Less rugged than heavier-duty 60V and 56V competitors
Best for: Homeowners with small to medium yards who want more power than a 20V trimmer without moving up to a heavier pro-style cordless model.
Not ideal for: Owners of large, rough, or weed-heavy properties, since the battery life and build are better matched to routine maintenance than hard clearing.
- Power Source:Lithium-ion battery
- Voltage:40V MAX
- Cutting Width:13 inches
- Battery Included:1 battery
- Weight:6.4 pounds
- Dimensions:40 in L x 9 in W
- Modes:Trimmer and edger
- Line Feed:Automatic feed
Bottom line: This is the best fit if you want a lighter cordless kit with enough power for regular yard upkeep.
WORX 3-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer, Edger, and Mini Mower, 12″, 20V, WG170
The WORX WG170 earns its place because it solves a different problem than the Greenworks 60V or EGO 56V: it is built for light shaping and versatility, not brute force. The mini mower mode is useful for small patches, awkward edges, and spots where dragging out a full mower feels silly. Compared with the Black+Decker 20V MAX, it offers more adjustability and includes two batteries, which makes it more flexible for stop-and-start yard work. Still, the 12-inch swath and 20V platform put a ceiling on performance. I would treat it as a clever small-yard tool, not a weed-clearing machine. The long charging time also hurts if one session runs past the included battery pair.
Pros:- 3-in-1 design handles trimming, edging, and small patch mowing
- Very light 5.5-pound build reduces fatigue during quick cleanup
- Adjustable handle and rotating head help with reach and control
- Includes two batteries for longer small-yard sessions
Cons:- 12-inch cutting width is slower across larger areas
- Five-hour charging time can delay unfinished yard work
- Requires both batteries to get the best runtime
Best for: Townhome owners, patio-lawn users, and small-yard buyers who want one cordless tool for trimming, edging, and touch-up mowing.
Not ideal for: Buyers with thick weeds, long fence lines, or full-size lawns, since its 12-inch cut and 20V power are aimed at lighter work.
- Power Source:Battery powered
- Voltage:20V
- Cutting Width:12 inches
- Speed:7600 RPM
- Batteries Included:2 lithium-ion batteries
- Weight:5.5 pounds
- Dimensions:45.1 in L x 37.4 in W
- Functions:Trimmer, edger, and mini mower
Bottom line: Choose this if compact-lawn versatility matters more than raw cutting strength.
Greenworks 60V 16 Inch Brushless Cordless String Trimmer with 2.5Ah Battery & Charger
The Greenworks 60V 16 Inch Brushless sits near the top of my ranking for buyers who care about coverage and cutting authority. Its 16-inch swath, brushless motor, and .095-inch line make it better suited to tall grass and heavier growth than the Black+Decker 40V MAX or WORX WG170. Compared with the EGO POWER+ 16-inch model, the Greenworks leans more toward value-for-power, while EGO feels more refined with its carbon fiber shaft and Line IQ feed. The Greenworks is not the lightest choice at 11.2 pounds with the battery, and the 45-minute recharge can interrupt long jobs. Still, for buyers trying to replace gas without buying the priciest cordless option, this model makes a strong case.
Pros:- 60V brushless motor is built for tougher cutting than most compact cordless trimmers
- 16-inch swath clears more area per pass
- .095-inch line is better for thicker weeds and rougher edges
- Up to 53 minutes of runtime suits larger properties
Cons:- 11.2-pound weight may fatigue some users during long sessions
- Recharge time can pause work on bigger yards
- Still may fall behind gas models in very dense overgrowth
Best for: Owners of larger suburban yards who need a cordless trimmer with enough force and runtime for thick grass, fence lines, and extended cleanup.
Not ideal for: Users who prioritize low weight above power, since this model is heavier than the Black+Decker and WORX options.
- Motor:Brushless 60V
- Cutting Swath:16 inches
- Line Diameter:0.095 inch
- Battery:2.5Ah
- Runtime:Up to 53 minutes
- Weight:11.2 pounds with battery
- Noise Level:68 dB
- Warranty:4 years
Bottom line: This is the pick I would steer toward larger yards when power matters more than featherweight handling.
EGO POWER+ 16-Inch String Trimmer with 56V Battery and Charger
The EGO POWER+ 16-Inch is the premium choice here because it combines long runtime with comfort-focused design rather than chasing power alone. Compared with the Greenworks 60V, it trades a slightly less aggressive voltage story for a more polished package: carbon fiber shaft, telescoping adjustment, Powerload, Line IQ, and a digital two-speed selector. Those details matter when trimming takes more than a quick lap around the yard, since line feeding and shaft fit can decide whether the job feels smooth or fussy. It is still not the simplest pick. The weight may bother smaller users, and the line system can feel less approachable than the basic Black+Decker models. I rank it highest for buyers who want a cordless trimmer that feels closer to a long-term yard tool than a starter kit.
Pros:- Up to 60 minutes of runtime supports longer yard work
- Carbon fiber telescopic shaft improves fit and long-term durability
- Line IQ and Powerload reduce manual line handling
- 16-inch cut and 0.095-inch line handle broad trimming passes
Cons:- Can feel heavy during extended use
- Line replacement may be confusing for some beginners
- Premium feature set raises the price compared with simpler kits
Best for: Homeowners with medium to large yards who want a refined battery trimmer with strong runtime, automatic line management, and adjustable fit.
Not ideal for: Budget buyers or first-time users who want the simplest possible line setup and a lighter tool for short trimming sessions.
- Battery:56V 4.0Ah
- Cutting Width:16 inches
- Line Diameter:0.095 inch
- Runtime:Up to 60 minutes
- Shaft Material:Carbon fiber
- Weather Resistance:IPX4
- Line System:Powerload technology and Line IQ
- Speed Control:Digital two-speed selector
Bottom line: Pick this when you want the most refined cordless experience in this group and can pay for the extra polish.
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 12 Inch Cordless String Trimmer and Edger with Battery and Charger
I would place the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 12 Inch below the 40V Black+Decker and far below the Greenworks 60V for raw capability, but that is also why it belongs in the roundup. For smaller lawns, its 12-inch cut, adjustable handle, and trimmer-edger conversion make routine cleanup simple without the weight or cost of a higher-voltage tool. Compared with the WORX WG170, it is less versatile because it lacks the mini mower mode, yet it feels more like a straightforward trimmer-edger for buyers who do not want extra functions. The dual speed control adds useful flexibility, though the switch may take a little learning. I would skip it for heavy weeds, but for tidy weekly maintenance, it is one of the easiest fits.
Pros:- Compact 12-inch cut is easy to control around tight landscaping
- Trimmer-to-edger conversion covers common lawn-border tasks
- Automatic line advancement reduces stops during routine work
- Adjustable height and handle help different users find a better fit
Cons:- 20V platform lacks the power of 40V, 56V, and 60V models
- Battery runtime may fall short on larger properties
- Dual speed switch can feel less natural for new users
Best for: Small-lot homeowners who mainly trim around walkways, flower beds, patios, and short fence runs.
Not ideal for: Large-yard owners or anyone clearing thick seasonal growth, since the 20V battery and 12-inch width are built for light maintenance.
- Battery:20V MAX, 2.5Ah
- Cutting Width:12 inches
- Speed Control:Dual speed
- Transmission:PowerDrive
- Modes:Trimmer and edger
- Line Feed:Automatic line advancement
- Included Items:Battery and charger
- Warranty:2-year limited
Bottom line: This is the sensible small-yard pick when ease, size, and price matter more than heavy-duty cutting.
Worx 20V Cordless String Trimmer & Lawn Edger WG154
I place the Worx WG154 in the lineup as the lightweight cordless choice, mainly because its 4.2-pound body and 10-inch cut favor control over raw coverage. Compared with the WORX WG163, it is easier to carry and store, but the WG163 gives a wider 12-inch path, support wheels, and two batteries. That difference matters: the WG154 is better for trimming around beds, fences, and small front lawns, while the WG163 handles longer edging sessions with less stopping. The auto-feed head and flower guard make it friendly for careful work near landscaping, but the small swath and 2.0 Ah battery keep it from being my pick for big yards or thick weeds.
Pros:- Very light 4.2-pound build is easy to steer one-handed
- 2-in-1 rotating head saves buying a separate edger
- Auto-feed line and flower guard help with careful trimming
- Works with other Worx 20V batteries
Cons:- 10-inch cutting width covers less ground than 12- to 15-inch rivals
- 2.0 Ah battery can run short on larger yards
- Line feed can jam, adding stops during cleanup
Best for: Townhome owners and small-lot buyers who want a very light cordless trimmer for weekly edging around beds, fences, and sidewalks.
Not ideal for: Large-lot owners or anyone cutting dense weeds, because the 10-inch path and 2.0 Ah battery slow the job down.
- Battery:20V max lithium-ion
- Battery Included:Yes
- Battery Capacity:2.0 Ah
- Weight:4.2 pounds with battery; 3.2 pounds without battery
- Cutting Diameter:10 inches
- Line Diameter:0.065 inches
- Feed System:Auto feed
- Conversion:Rotating head for trimmer and edger use
- Included Accessories:Battery, charger, and safety guard
Bottom line: My verdict: buy it for small, tidy yards where low weight matters more than speed or heavy cutting power.
BLACK+DECKER Weed Wacker with Auto Feed, 14-Inch 2-in-1 String Trimmer Lawn Edger, 6.5-Amp Electric
I rank the BLACK+DECKER 6.5-Amp 14-Inch as my best corded value because it trades battery freedom for steady power and a broader cut. Against the Worx WG154, the 14-inch swath and 8000 RPM motor make it better for longer fence lines and heavier weekly growth, and the wheeled edge guide gives cleaner borders than a simple rotating-head design. The catch is the cord: buyers need outdoor outlets, cord management, and the patience to work around shrubs without snagging. Compared with the EGO Power+ 15-Inch, it costs less to keep running because there is no battery platform to buy into, but it lacks cordless reach and the premium reload system. I would choose it for small to midsize lots with easy power access.
Pros:- 6.5-Amp motor is stronger than many entry cordless options
- 14-inch cutting width clears more grass per pass than 10- and 12-inch picks
- Wheeled edge guide helps create cleaner sidewalk and driveway borders
- Automatic feed spool keeps work moving without bumping
Cons:- Corded design ties the job to outlet placement and extension cord length
- Cord management can be frustrating around shrubs, fences, and patio furniture
- Auto-feed spool can be inconsistent under heavier line demand
Best for: Homeowners with nearby outdoor outlets who want strong trimming and edging performance without paying for batteries.
Not ideal for: Properties with long driveways, trees, or distant fence lines, because the extension cord limits reach and can snag.
- Power Source:Corded electric
- Motor:6.5 Amp
- Cutting Width:14 inches
- Speed:8000 RPM
- Weight:6.3 pounds
- Feed System:Automatic feed spool
- Edging Feature:Wheeled edge guide
- Cord Feature:Cord retention system
Bottom line: My verdict: pick it when value and steady power matter more than cordless movement.
EGO Power+ String Trimmer, 15-inch Cordless, Battery-Powered with POWERLOAD Technology
I give the EGO Power+ 15-Inch POWERLOAD the role of best for existing EGO owners, because its biggest advantage only pays off if a 56V battery is already on hand. Compared with the Greenworks 40V 12-Inch kit, it offers a wider 15-inch cut, a brushless motor, and easier line replacement; those choices reduce fiddling and make medium yards feel less choppy. It is also a cleaner fit than the BLACK+DECKER corded model for buyers who want cordless reach. The tradeoff is clear: this package includes no battery or charger, so new EGO buyers may spend more than they planned. I rank it high for convenience, but below full kits for anyone starting from zero.
Pros:- POWERLOAD system makes line replacement much faster than manual winding
- 15-inch cut covers more ground than the 12-inch Greenworks and WORX options
- Brushless motor and 56V platform suit regular yard maintenance
- Telescopic aluminum shaft helps match the tool to different users
Cons:- No battery or charger in this package
- Best value depends on already owning EGO 56V batteries
- Less compelling for very large or heavy brush jobs than 16- and 17-inch higher-power models
Best for: EGO battery-platform owners who want fast line loading and cordless trimming for medium-size lawns.
Not ideal for: First-time cordless buyers on a tight budget, because the battery and charger must be bought separately.
- Power Source:Battery powered
- Battery Platform:EGO 56V ARC Lithium
- Battery Included:No
- Charger Included:No
- Cutting Width:15 inches
- Runtime:Up to 45 minutes
- Motor:High-efficiency brushless
- Weight:7.4 pounds
- Shaft:Adjustable telescopic aluminum
Bottom line: My verdict: choose it if the EGO battery system is already in your garage and line loading is the chore you most want to simplify.
Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Cordless String Trimmer with 2Ah Battery & Charger
I see the Greenworks 40V 12-Inch as the best starter 40V kit because it includes the battery and charger while stepping above basic 20V tools in voltage. Compared with the Worx WG154, the 12-inch dual-line cut gives a little more coverage, and variable speed lets buyers slow down near beds or push harder through regular grass. It is less polished than the EGO Power+ 15-Inch POWERLOAD, though, with a narrower path and no premium line-loading system. The listed 12-pound weight also makes it less nimble than the WORX WG163 despite the smaller cut. I rank it as a practical kit for routine maintenance, not a heavy-growth problem solver.
Pros:- Battery and charger are included, so it works as a first cordless kit
- 40V lithium-ion platform offers more headroom than many 20V entry models
- Variable speed control helps balance runtime and cutting pace
- Auto-feed dual-line setup keeps trimming simple
Cons:- 12-inch cutting width is slower than 14- and 15-inch competitors
- Listed 12-pound weight is not as easy to handle as lighter WORX models
- Better for grass and light weeds than thick overgrowth
Best for: Budget-minded homeowners who want a ready-to-use battery kit for routine grass trimming around a small suburban yard.
Not ideal for: Buyers with tall weeds, thick overgrowth, or large properties, because the 12-inch cut and runtime are modest.
- Power Source:Battery
- Battery Type:Lithium ion
- Battery Included:Yes
- Charger Included:Yes
- Cutting Width:12 inches
- Speed:7500 RPM
- Feed System:Auto feed dual-line
- Speed Control:Variable speed
- Weight:12 pounds
Bottom line: My verdict: buy it as an affordable first cordless kit for routine trimming, not as a power upgrade for rough lots.
WORX Cordless String Trimmer & Lawn Edger, 12 inch, 20V, WG163
I place the WORX WG163 as the best cordless edging-control pick because it pairs a 12-inch trimmer with support wheels, a 90-degree tilting head, and two included 20V batteries. Compared with the lighter Worx WG154, it covers more ground and makes edging along sidewalks easier to guide, though it gives up some compact feel. It also costs less to enter than the EGO Power+ 15-Inch if the EGO battery must be bought separately. The compromise is durability and runtime: plastic parts may age faster under rough handling, and larger yards can still drain both batteries. I rank it ahead of the WG154 for neat borders, but behind higher-voltage models for thick weeds.
Pros:- 12-inch cut is more productive than the smaller Worx WG154
- Support wheels and 90-degree head make edging easier to guide
- Two included 20V batteries extend work time versus single-battery kits
- Push-button line feed avoids bumping the head on the ground
Cons:- 20V power is not the best match for dense weeds or neglected areas
- Plastic components may wear faster with rough use
- Extended sessions can still require battery swaps or charging breaks
Best for: Homeowners who care about crisp sidewalk and driveway edges but still want a light cordless trimmer.
Not ideal for: Rough properties with woody weeds or buyers who are hard on tools, because the plastic build and 20V power have limits.
- Cutting Diameter:12 inches
- No-Load Speed:7600 RPM
- Line Diameter:0.065 inches
- Weight:5.5 pounds
- Battery Voltage:20V
- Battery Included:Yes
- Number of Batteries:2
- Charger Included:Yes
- Head and Wheel Features:90-degree head tilt with support wheels
Bottom line: My verdict: choose it for tidy cordless edging around a typical home lawn, especially if clean borders matter as much as trimming.
DEWALT 60V Cordless String Trimmer with Battery & Charger, 17 Inch, Attachment Capable (DCST972X1)
I rank the DEWALT 60V Cordless String Trimmer as the heavy-duty choice because it pairs a 60V FLEXVOLT platform with universal attachment capability, so it is built for buyers who want one power head to handle more than grass edges. Compared with the BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 13-inch kit, this model feels aimed at thicker growth and broader yard chores, while the BLACK+DECKER is easier to manage for routine edging. The tradeoff is weight: at 15 pounds, the DEWALT asks more from your arms than the EGO POWER+ 16-inch model, and the included battery may still fall short on very large properties. I would place it high for power and versatility, lower for comfort.
Pros:- Strong brushless motor suited to tougher grass and weeds
- Universal attachment capability adds yard-tool flexibility
- Adjustable swath helps balance cutting coverage and runtime
- Battery and charger are included
Cons:- Heavy 15-pound body can cause fatigue
- Battery life may not cover very large jobs in one go
- Assembly is required before use
Best for: I would buy this for homeowners with larger yards who want strong cutting power and attachment flexibility from one cordless platform.
Not ideal for: I would skip it for buyers who need a light trimmer for quick curb cleanup, since the 15-pound weight can wear on longer sessions.
- Power Source:Battery powered
- Battery:1 lithium-ion FLEXVOLT battery included
- Cutting Width:15 inches listed in specs
- Speed:8000 RPM
- Motor:Brushless
- Attachment Capability:Universal attachment capable
- Weight:15 pounds
- Dimensions:40 in L x 10 in W
- Assembly Required:Yes
Bottom line: I would choose this when power and attachment versatility matter more than low weight.
BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 13-inch Cordless String Trimmer Edger Kit
The BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 13-inch Cordless String Trimmer Edger Kit earns a value-minded trimmer-edger role because it balances cordless freedom, a quick 2-hour charger, and an adjustable pole without moving into heavier pro-style territory. Against the DEWALT 60V DCST972X1, it gives up attachment capability and cutting reach, but it is far easier to justify for weekly touch-ups around a driveway, fence, or modest lawn. Compared with the WORX WG170 3-in-1, the BLACK+DECKER has more voltage behind it, though it does not add mini-mower utility. I would choose it for clean edges and manageable power, not for clearing dense weeds or long sessions. Battery runtime is the main limiter, and assembly adds a small setup step.
Pros:- Converts from trimmer to edger for cleaner borders
- 40V MAX battery offers more power than many 20V light-duty models
- 2-hour fast charger helps reduce downtime
- Adjustable telescoping pole supports a more comfortable fit
Cons:- Runtime may feel short on larger yards
- Less capable in thick weeds than 60V or premium brushless options
- Assembly required before first use
Best for: I would buy this for suburban homeowners who mainly need trimming and edging around sidewalks, beds, fences, and smaller lawns.
Not ideal for: I would skip it for large lots with thick overgrowth, since the 13-inch cutting width and battery runtime are better for maintenance work.
- Power Source:Battery powered
- Battery:1 40V MAX lithium-ion battery included
- Cutting Width:13 inches
- Speed:Up to 8500 RPM
- Charge Time:2-hour fast charger included
- Weight:7.8 pounds
- Dimensions:46.5 in L x 13.5 in W x 11 in H
- Function:Converts from trimmer to edger
- Pole:Adjustable telescoping pole
Bottom line: I would choose this for routine trimming and edging when price, power, and ease of handling need to stay balanced.
EGO POWER+ 16″ String Trimmer with POWERLOAD Technology, Battery Not Included
The EGO POWER+ 16-inch String Trimmer with POWERLOAD is the upgrade pick for buyers who hate rewinding line by hand. Its POWERLOAD head, 0.095-inch line, and telescopic carbon fiber shaft make it more polished than the BLACK+DECKER 40V kit, especially for taller users or anyone who wants fewer line-change headaches. It is also lighter than the DEWALT 60V DCST972X1, so it makes more sense for longer edging passes where fatigue matters. The catch is the missing battery and charger: compared with the EGO POWER+ 16-inch kit that includes a 56V battery, this bare-tool version only pays off if you already own EGO batteries. I rank it for convenience and build quality, not first-purchase value.
Pros:- POWERLOAD technology makes line replacement much easier
- Carbon fiber telescopic shaft supports fit and comfort
- 16-inch cutting width covers more ground than compact 12- or 13-inch models
- Brushless motor and IPX4-rated build suit regular yard work
Cons:- Battery and charger are not included
- Total cost rises if you do not already own EGO 56V batteries
- Runtime depends on the separate battery you pair with it
Best for: I would buy this for EGO battery-system owners who want premium line loading, a lighter shaft, and a wider 16-inch cut.
Not ideal for: I would skip it for first-time cordless buyers on a tight budget, since the required 56V battery and charger are sold separately.
- Battery Compatibility:Requires compatible 56V EGO battery
- Battery Included:No
- Runtime:Up to 45 minutes
- Cutting Width:16 inches
- Line Diameter:0.095 inches
- Motor:Brushless
- Shaft:Telescopic carbon fiber
- Weight:7.5 pounds
- Construction:IPX4-rated weather-resistant build
Bottom line: I would choose this as a premium bare-tool upgrade for buyers already invested in EGO’s 56V system.
How We Picked
I ranked these string trimmers by how well each one fits the actual buying decision: cutting performance, runtime expectations, ease of line management, weight and handling, and total kit value. Wider cutting swaths and higher-voltage batteries moved models up only when they also made sense for real yard work; extra power matters less if the tool becomes tiring or expensive for a small lawn. I gave extra credit to trimmers that work as clean edgers, include a battery and charger, or reduce the usual frustration around feeding and loading line.
The order favors tools that serve the broadest group first, then moves toward more specific use cases. That is why the EGO POWER+ 16-Inch kit ranks ahead of the heavier DEWALT 60V, even though DEWALT has a wider cut and more expansion potential. It is also why compact WORX and Black+Decker models stay relevant: they are not the strongest machines here, but they solve the right problem for small yards, new homeowners, and buyers who want simple edging without managing a large battery system.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best String Trimmers
Choosing among the best string trimmers is mostly about matching the tool to the size and texture of your yard. I would not buy the most powerful option by default, because the wrong balance of weight, battery cost, and cutting width can make weekly trimming feel like more work than it needs to be.
Match Power to Your Yard Size
Voltage is a useful shortcut, but it should not be the only reason to buy. For small lawns, fences, walkways, and light grass, a 20V trimmer like the WORX WG163 or Black+Decker 20V can be easier to handle than a stronger model. Medium yards usually benefit from the 40V to 60V range, where runtime and cutting strength feel more balanced. Large lots, thick weeds, and fence lines with heavier growth are where the EGO, Greenworks 60V, and DEWALT 60V models start to pull away. Paying for more power makes sense when it saves repeat passes, but it can be wasted money if the trimmer only handles a narrow strip near a patio. The best fit is the one that finishes the job without turning every trim session into a battery and shoulder workout.
Cutting Width Changes More Than Speed
A wider cutting path can shorten yard work, but it also changes how controlled the trimmer feels. The 15- to 17-inch models in this roundup are better for open edges, tall grass, and larger properties because they clear more in each pass. The 12- and 13-inch models make more sense around flower beds, fences, play areas, and tight corners where precision matters. A common mistake is buying the widest trimmer for a small yard, then fighting the tool around delicate landscaping. Narrower models can also be less intimidating for beginners because they feel lighter and easier to place. I would treat cutting width as a yard-layout choice, not simply a performance badge.
Battery Platform May Matter More Than the Tool
The smartest purchase often depends on what batteries already live in the garage. If you already own EGO 56V, the battery-not-included POWERLOAD model can be a better buy than a full kit. If you do not own a compatible platform, a kit with battery and charger included gives a clearer total cost. This matters because bare tools can look cheaper on the product page while becoming expensive once the battery is added. Sticking with one platform also reduces charger clutter and makes it easier to swap packs between jobs. I would only switch battery ecosystems when the trimmer clearly solves a problem your current tools do not.
Line Feeding and Loading Affect Frustration
String trimmers often disappoint buyers less because of power and more because of line hassles. Features like automatic feed, command feed, and POWERLOAD technology can make a real difference if you trim often. EGO’s POWERLOAD models stand out because they reduce one of the most annoying parts of trimmer ownership: rewinding line neatly. WORX’s feed systems are useful for casual users who want quick control without stopping the job. Basic bump-feed designs can still work well, but they ask more from the user and may slow down beginners. I rank line convenience higher when two models have similar power because fewer interruptions usually matters more than a slight spec advantage.
Do Not Ignore Weight and Balance
A powerful trimmer that feels awkward after ten minutes is not a good match for routine lawn care. The DEWALT 60V and larger EGO models make sense for tougher work, but they can be more tool than a small-yard owner needs. Lighter WORX and Black+Decker models trade cutting force for easier handling, which can be the better bargain for short sessions. Balance matters too: a trimmer that carries its battery well will feel less tiring than one with similar listed weight but poor weight distribution. Buyers who edge long sidewalks should pay close attention to shaft adjustability and grip comfort. The right trimmer should feel controlled at full reach, not just manageable when held close to the body.
Corded Still Has a Place
Corded electric trimmers are easy to dismiss, but the Black+Decker 6.5-Amp 14-Inch model still makes sense for a specific buyer. If the yard is small, outlets are nearby, and storage space is limited, corded power avoids battery aging and charging schedules. The tradeoff is mobility; extension cords slow the work and can be irritating around trees, beds, and fences. Corded models also make less sense for large lots or irregular property lines where cord reach becomes the main limit. I would pick cordless for most buyers, but corded remains a smart budget choice for predictable, outlet-friendly trimming. It is the plainest option here, yet that simplicity can be the point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which String Trimmer Is Best for Most Homeowners?
For most homeowners, I would start with the EGO POWER+ 16-Inch String Trimmer with 56V Battery and Charger. It sits in the best middle ground between cutting strength, cordless convenience, and kit value. Compared with the DEWALT 60V, it is less specialized and more approachable for regular weekly trimming. Compared with smaller WORX and Black+Decker models, it has more power and reach for thicker grass. It is the pick that makes the most sense when the yard is not tiny, but the buyer also does not need a pro-style attachment system.
Is a 20V String Trimmer Strong Enough?
A 20V string trimmer can be enough for small lawns, clean edges, and routine trimming around patios, sidewalks, and fences. The WORX WG163, WORX WG154, and Black+Decker 20V models are better suited to convenience than heavy clearing. They are easier to carry and store than the 56V and 60V picks, which matters for buyers who trim for short sessions. The tradeoff is that thick weeds, tall grass, and larger lots will expose their limits faster. I would choose 20V for light maintenance, not for reclaiming overgrown areas.
Should I Buy a Battery Kit or a Bare Tool?
A battery kit is usually the safer buy if this is your first tool in a battery platform. It gives a more honest total price because the charger and battery are included from the start. A bare tool, such as the EGO POWER+ 16-inch POWERLOAD model without battery, makes more sense when you already own compatible batteries. The risk is buying a bare tool for its lower sticker price, then spending more than expected on a separate pack. I would compare the full system cost, not just the trimmer price.
Which Pick Is Best for Edging as Well as Trimming?
For edging, I would look closely at the WORX 3-in-1 WG170 and WORX WG163 because they are built around quick trimming and edging changes. They are not the strongest options here, but they make border cleanup easier for driveways, sidewalks, and small lawns. The Black+Decker 2-in-1 models also fit this role, especially for buyers who want a simpler budget tool. EGO and DEWALT can edge with more power, but their size may feel excessive for delicate borders. If clean lines matter more than clearing thick weeds, a lighter convertible model is often the better match.
When Is the DEWALT 60V Worth the Extra Cost?
The DEWALT 60V Cordless String Trimmer is worth the extra cost when the yard is large, the growth is tougher, or attachment compatibility has real value. Its 17-inch cutting width gives it more coverage than the smaller homeowner-focused picks. It is also better suited to buyers who already own DEWALT 60V tools and want to stay in that battery system. The drawback is that it is heavier, pricier, and less necessary for simple suburban edging. I would reserve it for demanding yards rather than casual trimming around a small lawn.
Conclusion
If I had to choose one model for the widest range of buyers, I would pick the EGO POWER+ 16-Inch String Trimmer with 56V Battery and Charger as the best overall string trimmer. For value, the Greenworks 60V 16 Inch Brushless Cordless String Trimmer gives strong cordless performance with a kit-style package that keeps the total purchase clearer. For beginners, the WORX WG163 is the easiest recommendation because it favors light handling, edging convenience, and small-yard control.
For premium or heavy-duty needs, the DEWALT 60V 17-Inch Attachment Capable String Trimmer is the right fit when power and expansion matter more than weight or price. Buyers who already own EGO batteries should look at the EGO POWER+ 16-inch POWERLOAD bare tool, while budget-focused shoppers with nearby outlets can still make a practical case for the Black+Decker 6.5-Amp corded model. The cleanest way to decide is to match the trimmer to your yard size, battery platform, and tolerance for weight rather than buying the biggest machine on the list.
