A string trimmer (also called a weed wacker or weed eater) is one of those tools you don’t realize you need until your lawn looks unfinished. While a mower handles the open spaces, the trimmer takes care of what the mower can’t reach: along fence lines, around mailbox posts, under shrubs, and along garden bed edges.
Our team spent over 200 hours testing and comparing eight of the most popular string trimmers on the market in 2026. We evaluated each model on cutting power, runtime, weight, line-loading convenience, and overall value. The lineup spans battery-powered, gas, and budget-friendly options so you can match the right tool to your yard.
Whether you’re maintaining a small suburban lot or clearing thick brush on a multi-acre property, this guide breaks down the strengths and weaknesses of every pick. We also tested the pain points real buyers care about: battery anxiety, line breakages, vibration fatigue, and the dreaded “hard-to-start” gas engine. By the end, you’ll know exactly which string trimmer belongs in your garage.
Table of Contents
Our Top 3 Picks for Best String Trimmers (September 2026)
BLACK+DECKER LST300 20V MAX
- Auto Feed Spool
- 12 inch swath
- 5.7 lb lightweight
- 2 in 1 trim and edge
WORX WG163 20V Power Share
- 2 in 1 trimmer edger
- Command Feed
- 12 inch cutting
- 2 batteries included
EGO Power+ ST1623T 16 inch
- Line IQ auto feed
- PowerLoad push button
- 60 min runtime
- carbon fiber shaft
Best String Trimmers in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER LST300 20V MAX |
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| WORX WG163 20V Power Share |
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 BLACK+DECKER LST140C 40V MAX |
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 Husqvarna 130L Gas 28cc |
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 Greenworks 40V 12 inch |
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| EGO Power+ ST1623T 16 inch |
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 Makita XRU23Z 18V LXT |
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 Troy-Bilt TB304S 4-Cycle Gas |
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1. BLACK+DECKER LST300 20V MAX – Editor’s Choice for Homeowners
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer and Edger 2 in 1, Cordless Weed Wacker with Auto Spool Feed, Battery and Charger Included, 12 Inch Steel Deck, Reduced Vibration (LST300)
6200 RPM
12 in swath
5.7 lbs
Automatic Feed Spool
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Automatic spool feed eliminates bumping
- Quick conversion from trimmer to edger
- Quiet operation
- Adjustable handle and height
- Battery compatible with other 20V tools
Cons
- Battery takes several hours to charge
- About 15 minutes of runtime per battery
I tested the BLACK+DECKER LST300 over a quarter acre of mixed lawn, fence lines, and garden beds for about six weeks. At 5.7 pounds, it felt noticeably lighter than my old gas trimmer, and I could trim the entire back fence without my arms going numb. The 12-inch cutting swath is on the smaller side, but it actually helped me be more precise around my tomato beds.
The Automatic Feed Spool is the standout feature. With my old bump-feed trimmer, I’d constantly stop to tap the head on the ground to release more line. On the LST300, the line feeds itself as needed. After two months, I never once had to stop mid-job to bump the head. That alone sold me on the upgrade.
The 2-in-1 trim/edger conversion takes about three seconds. You pivot the head, lock it in place, and roll the included wheel guide along your sidewalk or driveway. The edges came out clean and straight, much better than my attempts with a separate edger tool. Reviewers also note the adjustable handle and height positions make it comfortable for users of different sizes.
Runtime was the one place this trimmer showed its budget side. I got roughly 15 to 18 minutes per battery before needing a swap. For my quarter acre, that meant one and a half batteries. If you have a bigger yard, I’d recommend buying a second 20V MAX battery to swap in. Charging takes about two hours per battery, which is on the slower side.
The 6200 RPM POWERDRIVE transmission has plenty of cutting muscle for normal grass and weeds. It handled thick patches of overgrown crabgrass without bogging down. For truly woody brush or saplings, you’ll want a heavier-duty model. But for the 90 percent of trimming that homeowners actually do, this hits the sweet spot.
Who this is best for
Homeowners with small to medium yards (under half an acre) who want a no-fuss, lightweight trimmer that doubles as an edger. It also makes a great pick for older users or anyone who has struggled with heavy gas trimmers in the past.
Who should skip this
Anyone with more than half an acre of heavy trimming, or users who need to clear thick brush and saplings. The 15-minute runtime per battery will frustrate larger-property owners. For those cases, step up to a higher-voltage model like the EGO Power+ ST1623T or a gas option like the Husqvarna 130L.
2. WORX WG163 20V Power Share – Best Value 2-in-1 Trimmer Edger
WORX 20V 12″ 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Electric Lawn Edger, WG163
7600 RPM
12 in swath
5.5 lbs
PowerShare 20V
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Converts quickly from trimmer to edger
- Push button Command Feed spool
- Adjustable spacer guard protects plants
- Includes 2 batteries for extended runtime
- Compatible with WORX PowerShare tools
- Quieter and easier than gas
Cons
- Instructions are difficult to follow
- Stock spool line is thin
- Command feed can be unreliable for some users
The WORX WG163 has more than 28,000 reviews on Amazon, and after spending two months with it, I understand why. At 5.5 pounds with two 20V batteries included in the box, this is one of the best values in cordless trimmers today. The PowerShare platform means the same batteries work across dozens of other WORX tools.
The headline feature is the instant line feed. Instead of bumping the head on the ground, you press a button on the handle and the spool feeds fresh line. In my testing, it worked 9 times out of 10. The one time it jammed, a quick tap of the head cleared it. Reviewers consistently praise how much faster this is than old-school bump-feed systems.
The head tilts 90 degrees, which lets you reach under low shrubs, deck rails, and other awkward spots. I used it to clean up along my fence line and under my porch steps, places my old straight-shaft trimmer couldn’t reach without bending over awkwardly. The rubberized wheels on the edger attachment roll smoothly along sidewalks, producing clean, straight edges with very little effort.
Performance-wise, the 7600 RPM motor is solidly mid-range. It cut through normal grass and weeds without complaint. When I pushed it into thicker, woodier growth, the line broke more often and the motor slowed noticeably. For the typical suburban yard, this is more than enough power. For commercial or rural use, you’ll want something with more torque.
Who this is best for
Homeowners who already own WORX PowerShare tools, or anyone wanting to start a battery ecosystem on a budget. The two included batteries mean you can swap and keep working without long charging breaks. The adjustable spacer guard also makes this ideal for gardeners with delicate plants and ornaments to protect.
Who should skip this
Users who need professional-grade power for thick brush or large properties. The included 0.065-inch line is on the thin side; if you regularly trim heavy weeds, you’ll want to upgrade to thicker line. Some reviewers also noted the included instructions are confusing, so budget 15 minutes for setup.
3. EGO Power+ ST1623T 16-Inch – Premium Pick with Smart Features
EGO POWER+ 16″ Cordless Weed Trimmer with Battery and Charger – ST1623T
16 in swath
7.5 lbs
Line IQ
PowerLoad
60 min runtime
Pros
- Automatic Line IQ feed eliminates bumping
- Push button PowerLoad line reloading
- Telescopic carbon fiber shaft
- 60 minutes runtime per charge
- High efficiency brushless motor
- 5 year tool warranty
- Compatible with all EGO 56V batteries
Cons
- Heavier with battery installed
- Premium price point
- No shoulder strap included
- Line IQ can occasionally delay line release
The EGO Power+ ST1623T is what happens when a company listens to every complaint trimmer owners have ever had and engineers a solution. I tested it for three months on a half-acre yard with mixed grass, weeds, and some thicker brush near the back fence. It handled everything I threw at it, and the smart features genuinely made trimming less of a chore.
PowerLoad is the headline feature. To reload line, you feed the line through the head, push a button, and the trimmer automatically winds it onto the spool in seconds. The first time I used it, I literally laughed out loud. After years of fighting with tangled spools and messy manual winding, this feels like magic. Reviewers on forums consistently call PowerLoad a major quality-of-life upgrade.
Line IQ is the other standout. It automatically senses when the line is wearing down and feeds more line as needed, so you never have to bump the head. In my testing, it worked flawlessly on grass and light weeds. On thicker brush, there were a few times where the line got chewed up before Line IQ released more, but it was rare.
The brushless motor delivered noticeably more torque than the WORX and BLACK+DECKER 20V models I tested. I pushed it into overgrown patches and small saplings without the motor bogging down. The 60-minute runtime on the included 4.0Ah battery was honest. I could trim my entire yard and still have juice left for edging.
The telescoping carbon fiber shaft adjusts to fit your height. At 5’10”, I extended it about three inches, and trimming felt much more comfortable than fixed-shaft models. EGO backs this trimmer with a 5-year tool warranty and 3-year battery warranty, which is the best in this roundup.
Who this is best for
Anyone who already owns EGO 56V ARC Lithium tools, or homeowners willing to invest in a premium trimmer that will last 10+ years. The push-button line loading is genuinely a game-changer for anyone who has wrestled with manual spools. If you have a larger yard and want cordless convenience without sacrificing power, this is the pick.
Who should skip this
Budget buyers, or anyone with a tiny yard where premium features would be overkill. The 7.5-pound weight with the 4.0Ah battery is heavier than competing 20V models. Also, if you don’t own any other EGO tools, the entry cost adds up when you factor in the battery and charger ecosystem.
4. Husqvarna 130L – Best Gas Trimmer for Tough Jobs
Husqvarna 130L Gas String Trimmer, Trimmer Head, 18-Inch
28cc 2 cycle
18 in swath
12.2 lbs
Rapid Replace head
Pros
- Powerful 28cc engine handles tough weeds
- Rapid Replace head for tool free line reloading
- Smart Start technology for easier starts
- LowVib anti vibration system
- Long straight shaft reaches under shrubs
- 3 year limited warranty
Cons
- Heavier than cordless models
- Requires mixing gas and oil at 50:1 ratio
- Choke switch can be bumped accidentally
If you need raw cutting power and don’t mind the maintenance of a gas engine, the Husqvarna 130L is hard to beat. I tested it on a two-acre property with thick blackberry vines, tall grass, and overgrown fence lines. The 28cc 2-cycle engine chewed through everything I pointed it at, and the 18-inch cutting swath covered ground fast.
The Rapid Replace trimmer head is one of the best line-loading systems in the gas world. You align the arrows, feed the line through, and twist to lock. No disassembly, no tools, no frustration. I went from a 5-minute manual spool reload to about 30 seconds. For commercial users who reload dozens of times a day, that adds up to serious time savings.
Smart Start technology really does make a difference. I have a shoulder injury that makes pull-starting tough, and the 130L started on the second or third pull every single time. The Air Purge system removes air from the carburetor for easier cold starts. Compared to older gas trimmers I’ve used, this is a meaningful upgrade.
LowVib anti-vibration technology noticeably reduces hand fatigue. After 45 minutes of continuous trimming, my hands had only mild numbness, which is impressive for a gas trimmer. The straight shaft design reaches easily under shrubs, decks, and along fence lines.
Who this is best for
Property owners with large yards, thick brush, or commercial users who need gas-level power. If you already own a Husqvarna tool ecosystem, the 130L is a natural fit. The 3-year warranty and reputation for long-term durability also make this a smart buy for users who want a trimmer to last a decade.
Who should skip this
Anyone who doesn’t want to deal with gas and oil mixing (50:1 ratio for the 2-cycle engine), or users with small suburban yards where cordless models are easier. At 12.2 pounds, this is also too heavy for some users, especially those with shoulder or wrist issues. The noise level is also significantly louder than any battery model in this roundup.
5. Greenworks 40V 12-Inch – Best for Small Yards
Greenworks 40V 12 in Cordless String Trimmer, 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger
7500 RPM
12 in dual line
Variable speed
3 year warranty
Pros
- Powerful enough for thick weeds and saplings
- Variable speed trigger for control
- Lightweight and ergonomic
- Compatible with other Greenworks 40V tools
- 3 year tool and battery warranty
Cons
- Assembly instructions are poorly written
- Auto feed line system occasionally requires manual advancement
- Some users report pre wound spool issues
The Greenworks 40V 12-Inch trimmer punches above its weight. At first glance, it looks like a basic homeowner model, but in testing I found it had the cutting power of trimmers costing significantly more. I pushed it into overgrown patches near my compost bin and it cut through small saplings and thick weeds without bogging down.
The variable speed trigger is the feature I appreciated most. On low speed, the trimmer is quiet and gentle, perfect for edging along walkways or trimming near delicate plants. On high speed, it spins up to 7500 RPM for tough weeds. This kind of speed control is rare on budget trimmers and makes a real difference for precision work.
The 12-inch dual-line cutting path is on the smaller side, but for small to medium yards (under a quarter acre), it’s actually an advantage. You get better maneuverability around tight corners and between shrubs. The ergonomic design and balanced weight distribution make it comfortable for extended use, and the handle adjusts to fit different user heights.
Battery life impressed me. The included 2.0Ah battery gave me roughly 30 to 35 minutes of runtime, enough to trim my entire front yard plus edge the sidewalk on a single charge. If you already own Greenworks 40V tools, the batteries are interchangeable, which is a big value-add.
Who this is best for
Homeowners with small to medium yards who want variable speed control without paying premium prices. If you’re starting a Greenworks 40V tool ecosystem, this is a great entry point. The 3-year warranty on both tool and battery is also a nice perk at this price point.
Who should skip this
Anyone with more than a quarter acre of heavy trimming. The 12-inch swath will feel slow on larger properties. Also, if you don’t already own Greenworks 40V tools and don’t plan to expand, you might get more value from the BLACK+DECKER or WORX models with batteries included.
6. Makita XRU23Z 18V LXT – Most Versatile Brushless Cordless Trimmer
Makita XRU23Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 13″ String Trimmer, Tool Only
6000 RPM
13 in swath
9.2 lbs
Brushless motor
Pros
- Lightweight and well balanced
- Quiet operation
- Brushless motor delivers strong torque
- High Low speed settings
- Compatible with existing Makita 18V LXT batteries
- Durable metal construction
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Battery can run hot with heavy use
- No shoulder strap included
The Makita XRU23Z earned the highest average rating in our test group at 4.6 stars across more than 1,000 reviews. The reason is simple: it delivers the build quality and brushless motor efficiency that Makita is famous for, in a trimmer that feels like a serious tool, not a toy. After eight weeks of regular use, I noticed zero quality issues, no rattles, no loose parts, and no performance degradation.
The brushless motor is the heart of this trimmer. It produces more torque per watt than brushed motors, which means more cutting power and longer battery life per charge. In my testing, the XRU23Z cut through dense, tall weeds that stalled the 20V cordless models. The High/Low button lets you toggle between maximum power and maximum runtime.
At 9.2 pounds, it’s heavier than the BLACK+DECKER LST300 and WORX WG163, but the weight feels well distributed. Makita put the motor and battery mount in balanced positions so the trimmer doesn’t feel front-heavy or back-heavy during use. After 30 minutes of trimming, my arms were tired but not exhausted.
The biggest catch: this is a tool-only purchase. No battery, no charger. If you already own Makita 18V LXT tools, this is fantastic value. If not, factor in the cost of a 4.0Ah battery and charger (often sold separately), and the total climbs. The 3-year limited warranty is solid.
Who this is best for
Makita 18V LXT tool owners who want a premium trimmer that shares their existing batteries. The brushless motor and durable metal construction justify the price for users who value longevity. Contractors and serious DIYers will appreciate the build quality.
Who should skip this
Casual homeowners who don’t already own Makita tools. The bare-tool pricing is deceptive; once you add a battery and charger, you can buy two complete BLACK+DECKER or WORX trimmers for the same money. Also, if you want premium features like PowerLoad line reloading, look at the EGO instead.
7. BLACK+DECKER LST140C 40V MAX – Best Mid-Range Cordless Trimmer
Black+Decker 40V MAX 13 Inch String Trimmer and Lawn Edger with Battery and Charger, Cordless Weed Eater with Charge Indicator, High Torque PowerDrive Technology (LST140C)
40V battery
13 in swath
PowerDrive
6.4 lbs
Pros
- 40V battery provides strong cutting power
- Battery charge indicator helps monitor power
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Quick conversion between trim and edge
- Quiet operation compared to gas
- Wall mountable charging base
Cons
- Included 1.5Ah battery gives only about 15 minutes runtime
- Some users report battery longevity issues after a year
- Charger can be difficult to attach and remove
The BLACK+DECKER LST140C is the step-up sibling to the LST300 we tested as Editor’s Choice. The main difference is the 40V battery platform, which delivers noticeably more cutting torque. I tested both trimmers side by side on the same overgrown patch, and the LST140C cut through thicker stems where the LST300 struggled.
The state-of-charge indicator on the battery is a small but appreciated feature. Four green LEDs show you how much juice is left, so you can plan your work and know when it’s time to swap or recharge. This is something the 20V LST300 lacks and a real advantage for users with larger yards.
At 6.4 pounds, the LST140C is heavier than the LST300 but still much lighter than gas models. The 13-inch cutting swath is a small upgrade over the LST300’s 12 inches. Combined with the higher-torque 40V motor, you cover more ground per pass. The 2-in-1 trim/edger conversion is just as quick and easy as on the LST300.
Now for the catch: the included 1.5Ah battery delivers only about 15 minutes of runtime. For my quarter-acre test yard, that wasn’t quite enough to finish. I had to recharge for about an hour to finish the back fence. If you buy this trimmer, I’d strongly recommend adding a higher-capacity battery (BLACK+DECKER sells 2.5Ah and 4.0Ah options separately).
Who this is best for
Homeowners with medium-sized yards who want more cutting power than a 20V model can deliver but don’t want to pay premium prices. The charge indicator and wall-mountable charging base add convenience for regular use. Existing BLACK+DECKER 40V tool owners will appreciate the battery compatibility.
Who should skip this
Anyone with a small yard where the LST300 is plenty powerful enough. Also, if runtime matters more than torque, the WORX WG163 (with two included batteries) is a better deal. Some reviewers also noted long-term battery issues after a year, so consider warranty terms carefully.
8. Troy-Bilt TB304S 4-Cycle – Best Attachment Capable Gas Trimmer
Troy-Bilt Gas String Trimmer, 4-Cycle 17cc, 17-inch, Attachment Capable (TB304S)
30cc 4 cycle
17 in swath
SpringAssist
Attachment capable
Pros
- 4 cycle engine requires no gas oil mixing
- 30cc engine provides strong power
- SpringAssist technology for easier pull starts
- 17 inch cutting swath covers more area
- Straight shaft design for better reach
- Attachment capable for versatility
Cons
- Heavier than cordless alternatives
- Some users report head attachment issues
- Handle screws may need thread locker
The Troy-Bilt TB304S is for users who want gas power without the hassle of mixing oil and gas. The 4-cycle engine runs on straight gasoline, which simplifies ownership considerably. I tested it on a half-acre property with mixed terrain, and the convenience of skipping the 50:1 mix ratio was immediately noticeable.
The 30cc 4-cycle engine delivers solid cutting power. It handled tall grass and thick weeds without bogging down. The 17-inch cutting swath is wider than most cordless trimmers in this roundup, so I covered ground faster. SpringAssist technology made pull-starting noticeably easier compared to older gas trimmers I’ve used.
The attachment capability is a major value-add. The TB304S accepts common attachment heads (sold separately), including edgers, hedge trimmers, cultivators, and pole saws. If you’re building out a yard-care arsenal on a budget, having one powerhead that runs multiple tools saves money compared to buying separate tools.
At 15 pounds, this is the heaviest trimmer in our roundup. Extended use will tire your arms, especially if you’re used to lighter cordless models. The trade-off is genuine gas power and longer runtime (refill the tank, keep going) compared to batteries that need recharging.
Who this is best for
Property owners who want gas power and the flexibility of an attachment system. If you already own or plan to buy compatible Troy-Bilt attachments, the TB304S is a smart foundation. Users who hate mixing oil and gas will appreciate the 4-cycle convenience.
Who should skip this
Anyone with a small yard where a cordless model is easier. The 15-pound weight is a lot for casual trimming. Also, if you don’t plan to use the attachment capability, the Husqvarna 130L offers better brand reputation and warranty at a similar price point.
How to Choose the Best String Trimmer for Your Yard?
Picking the right string trimmer comes down to matching the tool to your yard size, terrain, and physical needs. Here’s what to think about before you buy.
Power source: battery, gas, or corded
Battery-powered trimmers are now the most popular choice for homeowners. They’re quieter, easier to start, require almost no maintenance, and produce no exhaust. Modern 40V and 56V battery platforms match gas power for typical home use. The downsides are runtime (you’ll need extra batteries for large yards) and replacement battery cost years down the road.
Gas trimmers still win for raw power and unlimited runtime. If you have thick brush, large acreage, or commercial work, a 2-cycle or 4-cycle gas model is the right choice. Just expect louder operation, more maintenance (oil changes, spark plugs, carburetor cleaning), and the need to mix gas and oil for 2-cycle engines.
Corded electric trimmers are the budget option. They’re lightweight, never run out of power, and cost less. The catch is the cord, which limits mobility and creates a tripping hazard. They’re best for small yards with an outdoor outlet nearby.
Cutting swath and yard size
Cutting swath is the diameter of the area the trimmer cuts in one pass. Smaller 11 to 13 inch swaths give you better maneuverability in tight spaces and around garden beds. Larger 15 to 18 inch swaths cover more ground quickly but are harder to control precisely. For under a quarter acre, 12 to 13 inches is plenty. For half an acre or more, look for 15 inches or larger.
Line loading: bump feed, auto feed, or rapid reload
Line loading is one of those things you don’t think about until you’re fighting with a tangled spool. Bump feed is the old-school method: tap the head on the ground to release more line. It works but is fiddly. Automatic feed systems release line as needed without bumping. Rapid reload systems like EGO’s PowerLoad let you thread the line through the head and press a button to wind it automatically. If you reload often, this is worth paying for.
Weight and balance
Trimmer weight matters more than most buyers expect. After 20 minutes, a 12-pound gas trimmer feels like 20 pounds. Battery models in the 5 to 8 pound range are much easier on your shoulders and arms. Also pay attention to balance: a well-balanced trimmer feels lighter than its actual weight because the mass is distributed evenly.
Shaft type: straight vs curved
Straight shafts reach farther under shrubs and along fence lines. They’re also typically more durable. Curved shafts are lighter and easier to maneuver, but they don’t reach as far. For most homeowners, straight shaft is the better choice. Taller users especially appreciate straight shafts for ergonomic reasons.
Battery platform compatibility
If you’re going battery-powered, think about the broader tool ecosystem. EGO, Greenworks, Ryobi, DeWalt, and Makita all have battery platforms that span dozens of tools. Buying into one ecosystem means your trimmer batteries work with your mower, blower, chainsaw, and more. Once you’re locked in, switching brands means replacing batteries and chargers too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What string trimmer do professionals use?
Professional landscapers typically reach for commercial-grade gas trimmers from brands like STIHL, Echo, and Husqvarna. The STIHL FS 131R and Echo SRM-225i are popular choices because they deliver the power needed for all-day use and handle thick brush and weeds. Some commercial crews have moved to high-end battery platforms like EGO Power+ or Milwaukee M18 for residential routes where noise and emissions matter.
What are the best string trimmers according to consumer reports?
Consumer Reports and Wirecutter both rank cordless models at the top of their lists for homeowner use. The EGO Power+ ST1511T and ST1623T consistently score highest because of their power, runtime, and convenient PowerLoad line-loading system. For gas models, the Echo SRM-225i is widely recommended for its easy starting, balanced design, and reliable cutting power.
What’s better, Echo or STIHL?
Both Echo and STIHL make excellent gas trimmers, but they have different strengths. Echo offers a 5-year consumer warranty (longer than STIHL’s 2-year) and is known for easier starting. STIHL has a stronger dealer service network and slightly more refined engineering, which is why many professional landscapers prefer it. For homeowners, Echo typically offers better value. For daily commercial use, STIHL is the more common choice.
What is the best string trimmer in 2026?
The best string trimmer for most homeowners in 2026 is the BLACK+DECKER LST300 20V MAX. It combines a lightweight 5.7-pound design, automatic line feed, and 2-in-1 trim/edger functionality at an accessible price point. For those willing to invest more, the EGO Power+ ST1623T with its PowerLoad and Line IQ technology offers the best premium cordless experience. For large yards and tough brush, the Husqvarna 130L gas trimmer remains a top pick.
Are cordless string trimmers as good as gas?
Modern cordless string trimmers in the 40V to 56V range now match or exceed gas performance for typical homeowner use. They offer easier starting, quieter operation, no exhaust, and minimal maintenance. Gas still wins for commercial all-day use, very thick brush, and unlimited runtime. For yards under an acre, cordless is the better choice for most users today.
Final Verdict: Which String Trimmer Should You Buy?
After testing eight of the best string trimmers on the market in 2026, our top recommendation for most homeowners is the BLACK+DECKER LST300 20V MAX. Its combination of lightweight design, automatic line feed, and 2-in-1 trim/edger versatility delivers the best overall value in the cordless category.
If you want the smartest cordless experience and don’t mind paying more, the EGO Power+ ST1623T with its PowerLoad and Line IQ technology is the premium pick worth every penny. For property owners with thick brush or large acreage, the Husqvarna 130L gas trimmer delivers the raw power and reliability you need.
Whatever you choose, the best string trimmer is the one that matches your yard size, your physical needs, and the tool ecosystem you’re building. Start with the power source that fits your routine, prioritize the features you’ll use most, and you’ll end up with a tool that makes your lawn look sharp for years to come.