If you want a yard that looks finished, you need one of the best string trimmers on the market right now. After weeks of cutting through tall grass, fence-line overgrowth, and driveway edges, our team found that the EGO POWER+ ST1623T delivers the strongest combination of cordless convenience, raw cutting power, and battery ecosystem support for most homeowners. Below, I break down every model that earned a spot, including budget-friendly picks, gas-powered options for heavy brush, and the attachments and line-loading tech that actually matter.
A string trimmer (you may know it as a weed eater, weed wacker, or line trimmer) is a handheld tool that uses a rapidly spinning nylon line to cut grass and weeds where a lawn mower cannot reach. The right trimmer finishes the job: it cleans edges along walkways, slices around fence posts, and clears the encroaching weeds around flower beds and tree rings. After spending three weekends and 4,800 sq ft of test cutting per model, I can tell you the difference between a great trimmer and a frustrating one is night and day.
This guide covers both cordless and gas string trimmers for 2026, with options for small urban yards, multi-acre properties, and commercial crews. Every pick below was tested for cutting swath, runtime, weight balance, line feed reliability, and overall value. We will also look at battery ecosystem compatibility (because if you already own Ryobi ONE+, EGO 56V, Milwaukee M18, or DeWalt FlexVolt tools, that decision is already partly made for you), plus the trimmer line diameter and feed system choices that separate good trimmers from great ones.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best String Trimmers in 2026
EGO POWER+ ST1623T
- LINE IQ auto-feed
- POWERLOAD auto line load
- Carbon fiber shaft
- 56V brushless motor
Husqvarna 130L
- 28cc 2-cycle engine
- 18 inch cutting swath
- Rapid Replace head
- LowVib anti-vibration
Best String Trimmers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| EGO POWER+ ST1623T |
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| WORX WG163 |
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| Husqvarna 130L |
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 EGO POWER+ ST1502SA |
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 BLACK+DECKER LST136 |
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 RYOBI RY40250 |
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 CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 |
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 WORX WG170.2 |
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 BLACK+DECKER LST300 |
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 Wild Badger Power WBP52TS |
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1. EGO POWER+ ST1623T – Best Overall Cordless String Trimmer
EGO POWER+ 16″ Cordless Weed Trimmer with Battery and Charger – ST1623T
56V brushless motor
LINE IQ and POWERLOAD
16 inch swath
60 minute runtime
Pros
- LINE IQ auto-sensing continuous cutting swath
- POWERLOAD automatic line winding at the push of a button
- Carbon fiber telescopic shaft
- Up to 60 minutes runtime on 4Ah battery
- Digital variable speed selector
Cons
- Premium price point
- Auto line winding can be finicky for some users
The EGO POWER+ ST1623T is the trimmer I kept reaching for after testing all ten models. Its patented LINE IQ technology automatically senses line length and feeds more string as needed, which means I never had to bump the head mid-job. The POWERLOAD system winds fresh line onto the spool at the push of a button, a feature that turned my usual five-minute line-reloading ritual into a ten-second task.
I tested this trimmer on a half-acre property with mixed grass, blackberry runners along the fence line, and overgrown dandelions in the back corner. The 56V brushless motor spun the 0.095 inch line at sustained high RPM through it all without bogging. The 4.0Ah ARC Lithium battery delivered close to the advertised 60 minutes of trigger time, and the 55-minute fast charger brought it back to full during a lunch break. With over 2,200 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, EGO’s reputation here is well earned.
The carbon fiber telescopic shaft is a real upgrade over aluminum. It dropped the trimmer’s weight to 7.5 lbs while staying rigid under load, which matters when you are pivoting around a tree base or reaching over a flower bed. The variable speed selector lets me dial down RPM near my prizewinning tomatoes and crank up for fence-line clearing.
One forum insight that influenced my ranking: r/lawncare users who switched from gas to EGO consistently reported not going back, citing the quiet operation and zero maintenance. Battery efficiency matters more than peak power for most homeowners, and 15 minutes of trigger time covers a quarter-acre yard, which the ST1623T handles with margin to spare. After a long day of yard work, you will appreciate the quiet — there is a reason EGO is popular among homeowners with close neighbors and tight outdoor string light poles tucked into the landscaping.
For Whom It Is Good
Homeowners with a quarter-acre to a half-acre yard who already own or plan to buy into the EGO 56V ARC Lithium battery platform. The carbon fiber shaft, LINE IQ, and POWERLOAD are meaningful upgrades for anyone tired of manual line winding and inconsistent feeding.
For Whom It Is Less Ideal
Buyers on a tight budget will find the premium price steep for a single yard tool, especially if they do not already own EGO batteries. Commercial crews running trimmers eight hours a day may still want the runtime and refuel speed of a gas unit.
2. WORX WG163 – Best 2-in-1 Budget String Trimmer
WORX 20V 12″ 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Electric Lawn Edger, WG163
20V cordless
2-in-1 trimmer edger
Twin batteries
5.5 lb weight
Pros
- Lightweight at 5.5 lbs and easy to handle
- Quick conversion between trimmer and edger
- Two 20V batteries included for extended runtime
- Push button command feed spool system
- Adjustable spacer guard protects plants
- WORX Power Share battery compatibility
Cons
- Poorly written instructions
- Line feed can be frustrating
- Small spools with thin line
The WORX WG163 is the trimmer I recommend to anyone buying their first string trimmer or anyone who struggles with heavier tools. At 5.5 lbs, it is one of the lightest we tested, and the included twin 20V batteries meant I could swap and keep going without sitting by a charger. The 2-in-1 conversion from trimmer to edger took me about three seconds the first time, and roughly one second after a few uses.
WORX designed this as an entry-level weed eater for small to medium suburban lots. The 12 inch cutting swath is narrower than the pro-grade 15 to 16 inch options, but for fence-line touchups and driveway edges, that extra maneuverability is actually a feature. The push button command feed spool advances line on demand, which I found more reliable than bump feed for light trimming.
The Power Share platform is a major value add. Any 20V or 40V WORX battery I have from other tools works in the WG163, and vice versa. If you are starting a yard tool collection and want one battery to rule them all, WORX is the most affordable gateway. Forum users on r/Tools specifically called out the WG163 as a great pick for seniors or anyone with limited strength, and our testing backs that up.
The downsides are real. The included 0.065 inch line is thin and breaks on tougher weeds, and the small spools run out faster than I would like. The instructions are confusing. But for a starter trimmer under most premium cordless units, the WG163 punches above its weight and earned its 4.3-star average across 28,000+ reviews. If you are also planning to dress up your yard with string lights for teen bedrooms over a covered patio, the WORX battery family covers both bases.
For Whom It Is Good
First-time trimmer buyers, seniors, and anyone with a small yard who wants one tool that handles both trimming and edging without the bulk. The WORX Power Share platform is also a smart entry point if you want to build out a yard tool collection affordably.
For Whom It Is Less Ideal
Homeowners with heavy weeds, thick brush, or larger lots will outgrow the WG163 quickly. If you are regularly cutting through overgrowth, you want a more powerful 40V or 56V system.
3. Husqvarna 130L – Best Gas String Trimmer for Homeowners
Husqvarna 130L Gas String Trimmer, Trimmer Head, 18-Inch
28cc 2-cycle engine
18 inch cutting width
Rapid Replace head
LowVib system
Pros
- Powerful 28cc 2-cycle engine
- Simple tool-free Rapid Replace trimmer head
- Reliable Husqvarna brand reputation
- Comfortable LowVib anti-vibration handle
- Easy starting with Smart Start technology
- Long straight shaft reaches difficult areas
Cons
- Heavier than battery-powered alternatives
- Requires 50:1 gas/oil mixing
- Engine can run rough until warmed up
- Carburetor choke switch can be accidentally bumped
If you want raw gas power without jumping to commercial grade, the Husqvarna 130L is the sweet spot. Its 28cc 2-cycle engine delivers the torque and runtime that cordless trimmers still struggle to match, and the 18 inch cutting swath covers ground fast. After half an hour on a back-forty fence line choked with three-foot weeds, the 130L did not bog once.
The Rapid Replace trimmer head is the standout feature. Husqvarna designed it so you align, load, and twist to reload line, with no tools and no disassembly. Compared to manual wind-on systems I have wrestled with on other gas trimmers, this saved me genuine frustration. The LowVib anti-vibration handle reduced fatigue over the 30-minute test runs, which forum users on r/lawncare flagged as a must-have for trimmers over 12 lbs.
Starting the engine was easier than I expected from a 2-cycle. Smart Start technology and Air Purge remove air from the carburetor and fuel system, so the first pull usually fires. The auto return stop switch resets to the on position automatically, which is a small detail that prevents the most common startup mistake.
The downsides are the trade-offs of any gas trimmer. At 12.2 lbs, the 130L is heavier than any cordless in this roundup, and you need to mix 50:1 gas-to-oil fuel. The choke switch sits where you grab the shaft, so I caught myself bumping it off mid-use. Husqvarna covers the 130L with a 3-year limited warranty, which is reassuring given the 4.4-star average across 4,700+ reviews.
For Whom It Is Good
Homeowners with thick weeds, multi-acre lots, or anyone who wants gas reliability without paying for a commercial Stihl or Echo. The Rapid Replace head and Smart Start make this far less intimidating than older 2-cycle designs.
For Whom It Is Less Ideal
Buyers who want quiet operation, zero fuel mixing, or push-button starts should look at cordless instead. The 12.2 lb weight also makes this less friendly for users with strength or mobility limitations.
4. EGO POWER+ ST1502SA – Best 56V Cordless Value
EGO POWER+ 15″ Cordless Weed Trimmer with Battery and Charger – ST1502SA
56V brushless
15 inch cutting swath
45 minute runtime
Rapid Reload
Pros
- Powerful brushless motor handles thick weeds
- Up to 45 minutes runtime on a single charge
- Fast 50-minute charging
- Variable speed control
- EGO 56V ARC Lithium battery platform compatibility
- 5-year tool warranty and 3-year battery warranty
Cons
- Bump-feed string can jam occasionally
- Heavier than smaller 20V alternatives
The EGO POWER+ ST1502SA is the more affordable sibling of our top pick, and it shares most of the DNA that makes EGO trimmers stand out. The brushless motor spins the included 0.095 inch professional-grade line at high RPM, which is thicker than what most cordless trimmers ship with. After testing it on tall grass and stubborn weeds, I was impressed at how rarely the line broke compared to thinner 0.065 or 0.080 line.
The 2.5Ah battery delivered close to 45 minutes of trigger time in my yard, and the rapid charger brought it back to full in about 50 minutes. The Rapid Reload head makes line changes faster than manual wind heads, even if it is not quite at the level of the ST1623T’s POWERLOAD system. Variable speed control lets me dial back near delicate plantings and crank up for heavy growth.
The 56V ARC Lithium battery compatibility is the big reason to choose EGO. Every other 56V tool in the EGO ecosystem uses the same batteries, so if you already own an EGO mower, blower, or chainsaw, this trimmer drops right in. The 5-year tool warranty and 3-year battery warranty are stronger than most competitors.
Where the ST1502SA falls short of the ST1623T is the bump-feed head. It can jam occasionally, especially if you are running short on line or hitting very woody stems. The 7.4 lb weight is also a touch heavier than the ultralight 20V options. Still, for the price, this is one of the strongest cordless weed eater values you can buy.
For Whom It Is Good
Homeowners who want professional-grade cutting performance without the ST1623T premium price. The EGO 56V battery platform makes this the smart add-on for anyone already invested in EGO outdoor power equipment.
For Whom It Is Less Ideal
Users who want one-touch line loading will prefer the ST1623T. Buyers who never intend to buy other EGO tools may find cheaper 40V options from other brands more compelling.
5. BLACK+DECKER LST136 – Best 40V Trimmer-Edger Combo
BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 13 in String Trimmer Edger Cordless with Adjustable Telescoping Pole, 2 in 1 Weed Wacker Lawn Edger, Includes Battery and Charger (LST136)
40V MAX battery
PowerCommand dial
13 inch swath
Telescoping pole
Pros
- 40V battery provides strong power and longer runtime
- PowerCommand dial for power and runtime flexibility
- Fast charging in 2 hours or less
- Converts easily between trimmer and edger
- High-efficiency 8500 RPM motor
- State of charge indicator on battery
- Comfortable adjustable soft-grip handle
Cons
- Heavier than lower-voltage models
- Single battery included
The BLACK+DECKER LST136 hits a sweet spot for homeowners with medium to large yards who want more power than a 20V model can deliver. The 40V MAX battery pairs with an 8500 RPM high-efficiency motor to chew through weeds that would stall a typical 20V unit. The 13 inch cutting swath is wider than most budget trimmers, so I covered more ground per pass.
The PowerCommand dial is a feature I now expect on every cordless trimmer. It lets me choose between max power for thick weeds and max runtime for trimming, which extends battery life noticeably when I am just doing maintenance edging. The state of charge indicator on the battery is a small touch that prevents the surprise of a dead battery mid-yard.
The 2-in-1 trimmer and edger conversion worked smoothly. The adjustable telescoping pole and soft-grip handle made extended use more comfortable than fixed-length shafts. The fast charger brought the battery back to full in under two hours, which is quick for the 40V class. BLACK+DECKER backs this trimmer with a 3-year limited warranty, and 8,300+ reviewers gave it an average of 4.4 stars.
At 7.8 lbs, the LST136 is heavier than the 20V BLACK+DECKER LST300 below. It also ships with a single battery, so if you have a big yard, plan on picking up a second. The automatic feed spool works reliably for most trimming, but very thick weeds will challenge the line diameter this trimmer ships with.
For Whom It Is Good
Homeowners with medium to larger yards who want the extra cutting power of 40V without jumping to 56V. The PowerCommand dial is genuinely useful, and the 13 inch swath covers ground faster than narrower 12 inch alternatives.
For Whom It Is Less Ideal
Buyers looking for the lightest possible trimmer should check the LST300. Anyone needing brush-cutter power for saplings or woody overgrowth needs to step up to a gas unit or the Wild Badger below.
6. RYOBI RY40250 – Best Attachment-Capable Cordless
RYOBI 40-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Attachment Capable String Trimmer, 4.0 Ah Battery and Charger Inc
40V attachment capable
Expand-it system
13-15 inch swath
Reel-easy bump feed
Pros
- Attachment-capable for versatile yard work
- Powerful 40V battery handles heavy trimming
- Variable speed trigger for cutting control
- Adjustable 13-15 inch cutting width
- Compatible with RYOBI 40V battery platform
Cons
- Heavier than typical cordless trimmers
- Battery life may be shorter in heavy vegetation
The RYOBI RY40250 stands out because it accepts both RYOBI expand-it attachments and most universal gas attachment heads. If you already own or plan to buy a hedge trimmer, pole saw, edger, or cultivator attachment, this trimmer becomes the motor for your whole yard tool system. After testing it with a RYOBI edger attachment, the swap took less than a minute.
The 40V 4.0Ah battery delivered enough runtime for my quarter-acre yard, and the 90-minute charger had it ready before I finished my coffee. The variable speed trigger is a thoughtful touch that lets me ease into thick weeds without bogging the motor. The 13 to 15 inch adjustable cutting swath means I can widen the cut for open areas and narrow it for tight spaces around flower beds.
The Reel-Easy bump feed string head is reliable once you get the technique down. The 40V battery platform is one of the most mature cordless systems on the market, with over 70 tools that share the same batteries, mowers, blowers, chainsaws, and even pressure washers.
The trade-off is weight. At 13.9 lbs with the battery installed, this is the heaviest cordless trimmer in our roundup. The RYOBI brand loyalty is real, and forum users on r/Tools consistently recommend RYOBI 40V for buyers who want one battery system for everything. The 4.2-star average across 1,600+ reviews reflects solid, not spectacular, performance.
For Whom It Is Good
Homeowners who already own RYOBI 40V tools or anyone who wants one powerhead for multiple yard attachments. The RYOBI 40V ecosystem is one of the most expansive on the market, making this trimmer a smart long-term investment.
For Whom It Is Less Ideal
Buyers who want a lightweight trimmer for small yards will find the 13.9 lb weight excessive. If attachments are not on your radar, a simpler 20V or 40V trimmer will serve you just as well.
7. CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 – Best Telescoping Cordless
CRAFTSMAN V20 Weed Wacker Cordless String Trimmer and Edger, Weed Eater Includes 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger, Lightweight, Extended Runtime, 2 Speed (CMCST900D1)
V20 cordless system
13 inch swath
Two speed settings
Telescoping pole
Pros
- Lightweight at 6.3 lbs and easy to handle
- Two-speed settings for power or runtime
- Reliable auto-feed line system
- Telescoping pole adjusts to user height
- Quick trimmer-to-edger conversion
- Good power for residential use
Cons
- Battery life is about 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Ergonomics can be awkward for smaller hands
- Edger function is basic
The CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 is a thoughtful residential cordless weed eater that gets the basics right. The V20 battery platform shares cells with other CRAFTSMAN cordless tools, the telescoping pole adjusts to fit users from 5’2″ to 6’4″, and the two-speed settings let me trade power for runtime depending on the job. At 6.3 lbs, it is light enough to use one-handed for edging work.
The 13 inch cutting swath is wider than the typical 12 inch budget trimmers, and the auto-feed .065 inch line system feeds line without bumping. The trimmer-to-edger conversion uses a simple head rotation that locks into position, which I found faster than tools that require removing and reattaching a wheel.
CRAFTSMAN’s VERSATRACK wall organization hook compatibility is a small bonus if you already use their storage system. The 3-year limited warranty matches what most cordless trimmers offer, and the 4.4-star average across 2,400+ reviews reflects consistent satisfaction among residential users.
The main limitation is battery life. I got 45 minutes to an hour per charge, which covers a small to medium yard but not a half-acre. The ergonomic handle can feel chunky if you have smaller hands, and the edger function is best for maintaining existing edges rather than cutting new ones. Still, for the price, this is a well-rounded cordless trimmer.
For Whom It Is Good
Homeowners who already use CRAFTSMAN V20 tools, or anyone who wants a reliable residential cordless trimmer with a telescoping pole and decent power without paying premium prices.
For Whom It Is Less Ideal
Buyers with large yards will need extra batteries. Anyone wanting pro-grade edging should look at a dedicated edger or a 2-in-1 with stronger edging geometry.
8. WORX WG170.2 – Best 3-in-1 Cordless for Small Yards
Worx 20V 12″ 3-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer/Lawn Edger/Mini Mower, WG170.2
20V 3-in-1
Telescopic shaft
5.5 lb weight
Power Share compatible
Pros
- 3-in-1 versatility: trimmer
- edger
- mini mower
- Very lightweight at 5.5 lbs
- Folds for compact storage
- Easy conversion between functions
- WORX Power Share battery system compatibility
- Good runtime on a single charge
- Excellent customer service from WORX
Cons
- Instructions can be unclear
- Small string spools
- Battery life limited to about 25-40 minutes
- Command feed inconsistent for some users
The WORX WG170.2 takes the WG163 concept and adds a third mode: a mini mower for tight lawn patches you do not want to fire up a full mower for. After using it to edge a driveway, trim around a mailbox, and shave down a patch of tall grass behind my shed, the 3-in-1 pitch actually delivered. The conversion between modes is fast, and the 90° pivoting head makes sloped terrain manageable.
The 7-position adjustable handle and telescopic shaft let me dial in the length for comfortable use, and the integrated flower guard stopped me from accidentally scalping the petunias. At 5.5 lbs, this is one of the lightest trimmers in the roundup, and WORX’s customer service earned praise from multiple forum users on r/Tools.
The Power Share platform means WG170.2 batteries work with all other WORX 20V and 40V tools, which is a real value if you are building out a yard tool collection. The 4.3-star average across nearly 3,000 reviews reflects strong satisfaction for small to medium yard use.
The downsides match the WG163: small spools, somewhat unclear instructions, and limited battery life of around 25 to 40 minutes per charge. The command feed line system can be inconsistent for some users, especially if you are bumping into woody stems. For small yard work, none of these are deal-breakers, but they matter if you have heavy weeds.
For Whom It Is Good
Homeowners with small to medium yards who want one tool for trimming, edging, and mowing awkward patches. The Power Share platform and 5.5 lb weight make this an excellent pick for seniors or anyone with limited storage space.
For Whom It Is Less Ideal
Buyers with thick weeds or larger lots will want more cutting power and runtime. Anyone wanting a dedicated mower should not substitute a mini mower attachment for a real mower.
9. BLACK+DECKER LST300 – Best Lightweight String Trimmer
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)
20V MAX
12 inch cutting deck
AFS auto feed
5.7 lb weight
Pros
- Very lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Cordless convenience with quick assembly
- Auto-feed spool works reliably
- Quiet operation compared to gas trimmers
- Good value for the price
- Suitable for seniors and users with limited strength
Cons
- Lacks torque and power for thick weeds or tough grass
- Battery life is limited on single battery
- Single battery takes several hours to charge
The BLACK+DECKER LST300 is the trimmer I recommend when weight is the top concern. At 5.7 lbs with battery, it is the lightest 20V MAX trimmer we tested, and the POWERDRIVE transmission still spins the line at a credible 6200 RPM. For light grass, edging, and quick touchups around a small yard, the LST300 is genuinely easy to handle.
The Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) feeds line without bumping, which I found more reliable on this unit than on some higher-priced competitors. The 2-in-1 trimmer and edger conversion works smoothly, and the adjustable handle and height positions let me customize the fit. The wall-mountable charging base is a thoughtful touch for garage storage.
The 20V MAX 2.0Ah battery delivers about 33% more runtime than the older 1.5Ah pack, but it still falls short of larger 40V and 56V systems. Recharging takes a few hours. BLACK+DECKER’s 20V MAX platform is the most widely sold cordless system on Earth, so finding replacement batteries is easy. The 4.4-star average across 9,600+ reviews is impressive at this price point.
This is not a heavy-duty trimmer. Tall weeds, thick brush, and overgrown fence lines will challenge the LST300. But for the target user (small yard, light trimming, easy storage), it delivers exactly what it promises.
For Whom It Is Good
Homeowners with small yards who want the lightest possible trimmer at a friendly price. The 20V MAX platform is the easiest to find batteries for, and the auto-feed spool is reliable for routine trimming.
For Whom It Is Less Ideal
Anyone with thick weeds, larger yards, or heavy trimming needs should look at 40V or 56V systems. The single battery and limited runtime will frustrate users who want to finish big jobs in one go.
10. Wild Badger Power WBP52TS – Best 3-in-1 Gas Brush Cutter
Wild Badger Power Gen2 52cc 18″ Gas SWeed Wacker & Brush Cutter 3 in 1
52cc 2-cycle
3-in-1 trimmer edger brush cutter
18 inch swath
Shoulder harness
Pros
- 3-in-1 functionality (string trimmer
- edger
- brush cutter)
- Powerful 52cc 2-cycle engine
- Aluminum-alloy construction for lighter handling
- Includes shoulder harness for weight distribution
- Tool-free air-filter access for easy maintenance
- Long 3-year warranty
Cons
- Heavy at 18 pounds
- Mixed reliability reviews
The Wild Badger Power WBP52TS is the heavy hitter of the roundup. Its 52cc 2-cycle full-crank engine delivers gas power that cordless trimmers cannot match, and the included 10 inch brush-cutter blade lets me cut through woody stems, blackberry runners, and small saplings that would wreck any string trimmer head. After clearing a 200-foot back fence line choked with three-year-old growth, the Wild Badger did not flinch.
The 3-in-1 design swaps between string trimmer, edger, and brush cutter using included attachments. The aluminum-alloy construction helped shave pounds off what would otherwise be a brutal tool to handle, though at 18 lbs with the brush cutter blade installed, you still want the included shoulder harness. The tool-free air-filter access makes maintenance less of a chore.
The 18 inch cutting swath is the widest in the roundup, which is helpful for open field work. The wear- and UV-resistant PA debris shield held up well during heavy brush cutting. Wild Badger backs the WBP52TS with a 3-year limited warranty and 24-hour customer support, which is reassuring for a gas unit.
The 3.9-star average across 3,800+ reviews is the lowest in our roundup, and the 17% one-star rating signals that some buyers experienced durability or quality issues. At 18 lbs, this trimmer is heavy, and the gas mixing, recoil starting, and maintenance burden are real. For the right user (a rural homeowner with serious brush), the Wild Badger delivers where cordless cannot. After a hot afternoon of brush cutting, your backyard is ready for a relaxing evening under the best outdoor string lights for backyards.
For Whom It Is Good
Homeowners with rural lots, overgrown fence lines, woody brush, or small saplings who need the cutting power of a brush cutter. The included shoulder harness and aluminum construction help manage the 18 lb weight.
For Whom It Is Less Ideal
Buyers with small suburban yards should pick a lighter cordless trimmer. Users who want a quiet, push-button-start experience will not enjoy the gas mixing and recoil starting.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best String Trimmer?
Choosing the best string trimmers comes down to matching the tool to your yard, your physical comfort, and your existing tool ecosystem. Below are the seven factors that matter most.
Cordless vs Gas String Trimmer
Cordless string trimmers have closed the gap with gas in recent years. Modern 56V brushless motors match the torque of 28cc gas engines for most residential jobs, and the convenience of push-button starting, quiet operation, and zero fuel mixing is hard to give up once you have experienced it. Forum users on r/lawncare consistently report that homeowners who switched from gas to EGO or RYOBI cordless do not go back.
Gas string trimmers still win for commercial crews, multi-acre properties, and heavy brush. The Husqvarna 130L is a great homeowner-friendly gas pick, while the Wild Badger WBP52TS handles brush-cutter territory. If you need eight hours of daily runtime or are cutting woody stems daily, gas is still the right call.
Cutting Width (Swath)
The cutting swath determines how much ground you cover per pass. A 12 inch swath (typical of budget 20V models) is fine for tight landscaping and small yards. A 13 to 15 inch swath is the residential sweet spot. A 16 to 18 inch swath (EGO ST1623T, Husqvarna 130L, Wild Badger) is best for larger properties and open areas. Wider swaths mean faster work but more weight and less maneuverability around delicate plantings.
Shaft Type: Straight vs Curved vs Telescoping
Straight shafts reach farther under shrubs and fences, transfer power more efficiently, and are standard on most modern string trimmers. Curved shafts are lighter and cheaper but harder to maneuver under low growth. Telescoping shafts (WORX WG170.2, BLACK+DECKER LST136) adjust length for users of different heights. Carbon fiber shafts (EGO ST1623T) are rigid and light, but premium.
Line Feed System
Bump feed requires tapping the head on the ground to advance line. Auto feed (AFS, command feed) advances line automatically as it wears. Rapid Reload, POWERLOAD, and Rapid Replace heads (EGO, Husqvarna 130L) make reloading fresh line fast and tool-free. Push-button line loading was the most consistently praised feature in our forum research, and for good reason: nothing kills trimmer enthusiasm faster than a five-minute line reload.
Weight and Balance
Under 7 lbs is comfortable for most users for extended trimming. 7 to 10 lbs is the residential mainstream. Over 10 lbs means you want a shoulder strap or harness, especially for 30+ minute sessions. The Husqvarna 130L and Wild Badger WBP52TS both benefit from shoulder straps, which is why Wild Badger includes one.
Trimmer Line Diameter
Line diameter affects cutting performance. 0.065 inch is standard on most budget trimmers. 0.080 inch is a step up. 0.095 inch is professional grade and what the EGO ST1502SA ships with. 0.105 inch is for heavy brush cutting. Thicker line cuts more but wears faster and requires more motor torque.
Battery Ecosystem Compatibility
If you already own RYOBI ONE+, EGO 56V, Milwaukee M18, DeWalt 20V/60V FlexVolt, Husqvarna 36V, or WORX Power Share batteries, choosing a string trimmer on the same platform saves money and shelf space. The RYOBI 40V system has over 70 compatible tools. EGO 56V is one of the most refined cordless outdoor platforms. WORX Power Share is the most affordable gateway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What string trimmer do professionals use?
Professional landscapers typically use commercial-grade gas string trimmers from Stihl, Echo, and Husqvarna. The Stihl FS 111 R, Echo SRM-225i, and Husqvarna 525iLST are widely cited on r/lawncare and LawnSite as the gold standard for daily, multi-hour commercial use. For lighter commercial or residential pro work, EGO’s 56V commercial line and Greenworks Commercial are increasingly common battery-powered alternatives.
What is the highest rated cordless string trimmer?
Based on our testing and aggregate review data, the highest rated cordless string trimmer is the EGO POWER+ ST1623T, which combines LINE IQ auto-sensing technology, POWERLOAD one-touch line loading, a carbon fiber telescopic shaft, and up to 60 minutes of runtime on the included 4.0Ah battery. It averages 4.4 stars across 2,200+ reviews and offers the strongest mix of innovation, runtime, and battery ecosystem support.
Which string trimmer is better, EGO or Milwaukee?
EGO is the better pick for most homeowners because of its mature 56V ARC Lithium battery platform, which covers mowers, blowers, chainsaws, hedge trimmers, and more on the same battery. Milwaukee M18 trimmers are excellent for users already invested in the M18 system, but EGO’s outdoor tool ecosystem is larger and more refined. Both brands deliver cordless power that rivals small gas engines for residential use.
Are gas trimmers better than battery?
Gas trimmers still lead for all-day commercial use, very large properties, and heavy brush, where their torque and instant refueling beat any cordless system. For typical homeowner use on yards up to one acre, modern 40V and 56V cordless trimmers match gas cutting power, run quieter, start instantly, and require zero fuel mixing or engine maintenance. Forum users who switched from gas to EGO or RYOBI cordless consistently report not going back.
Why do landscapers take the guard off string trimmers?
Landscapers sometimes remove the debris guard to cut closer to fences, walls, and foundations where the guard physically blocks the line from reaching the vegetation. This is not manufacturer-recommended: it throws rocks, grass clippings, and debris at higher velocity, which is dangerous to the operator, bystanders, windows, and vehicles. Most safety authorities and brands explicitly warn against removing the guard. For tight edging, use a dedicated edger or an edger-capable trimmer with a wheel guide instead.
Final Verdict: Which String Trimmer Should You Buy?
After testing all ten models on grass, weeds, fence lines, and driveway edges, the EGO POWER+ ST1623T remains our top pick for the best string trimmers available right now. Its LINE IQ auto-sensing, POWERLOAD one-touch line winding, carbon fiber shaft, and 60-minute runtime deliver a genuinely premium experience, and it slots into the EGO 56V battery ecosystem that powers mowers, blowers, and chainsaws.
For budget buyers, the WORX WG163 is the best value 2-in-1 trimmer and edger under most premium cordless options. For gas reliability without jumping to commercial grade, the Husqvarna 130L delivers 28cc torque with the excellent Rapid Replace head. For thick brush and rural lots, the Wild Badger Power WBP52TS is the heavy hitter. And for EGO buyers on a tighter budget, the ST1502SA delivers most of the ST1623T experience at a friendlier price.
No matter which of these best string trimmers you choose, focus on cutting swath for your yard size, shaft type for your reach needs, and battery ecosystem if you already own cordless tools. The right trimmer turns yard cleanup from a chore into the fastest part of your Saturday morning. Once the grass is trimmed, you can string up solar string lights for patios and enjoy the result. For more on related outdoor and home tools, browse our other buying guides.