I switched from gas to battery three years ago and have not looked back, but the trimmer market is full of weak models that disappoint. I tested five cordless string trimmers across two acres of mixed grass, fence lines, and edging. Here is what made the cut.
| Trimmer | Voltage | Cut Width | Battery | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EGO Power+ ST1623T | 56V | 16 in | 4Ah | Large yards |
| Greenworks Pro 80V | 80V | 16 in | 2Ah | Heavy weeds |
| DeWalt 60V Flexvolt | 60V | 15 in | 3Ah | Tool ecosystem |
| Ryobi 40V HP Brushless | 40V | 15 in | 4Ah | Value pick |
| Worx 20V Power Share | 20V | 13 in | 2 x 2Ah | Small yards |
1. EGO Power+ ST1623T - Verdict: Best Overall
This is my main trimmer. The carbon fiber shaft is lighter than the metal alternatives, which matters after 45 minutes of work. The 56V system has the cleanest power delivery in my tests, holding speed in thick grass without dipping. Runtime on the 4Ah battery is around 55 minutes at high speed. The bump feed head works reliably and the line is easy to reload. Pricier than some, but EGO batteries swap into their mowers and blowers.
2. Greenworks Pro 80V - Verdict: Best for Heavy Weeds
When I cleared a neglected fence line full of brambles, the 80V Greenworks bulled through without stalling. It has the strongest cut of anything on this list at the cost of more weight and shorter runtime, about 35 minutes per 2Ah pack. The attachment-capable shaft accepts edgers and pole saws. Build quality feels commercial. Get a second battery, you will need it.
3. DeWalt 60V Flexvolt - Verdict: Best for Pros
If you already own DeWalt cordless tools, this is the obvious add. Same Flexvolt batteries as their drills, saws, and lawn mowers. The trimmer itself is well balanced with a brushless motor that ramps smoothly. Cut power is between the EGO and Greenworks. The variable speed trigger gives fine control near garden beds. Heavier than the EGO at about 12 pounds with the battery.
4. Ryobi 40V HP Brushless - Verdict: Best Value
Ryobi’s 40V HP series is the best deal in cordless yard tools right now. This trimmer cut my mid-suburban lawn without complaint and the 4Ah battery lasted 50 minutes. Build is mostly plastic but the bump head and gearbox feel solid. The 40V Ryobi platform now includes mowers, blowers, and snow throwers, which makes it a smart ecosystem to buy into for first-time battery yard users.
5. Worx 20V Power Share - Verdict: Best for Small Yards
For townhouse and condo lawns, the Worx 20V is light, compact, and converts to an edger by rotating the head. It used two 20V batteries in parallel to make 40V of effective power, which is enough for normal grass but not weeds. Runtime is about 25 minutes. The auto-feed line worked most of the time. A good fit for under a quarter acre.
How to Choose a Cordless String Trimmer
Start with yard size. Under a quarter acre, a 20V or 40V trimmer is enough. Quarter to half acre needs 40V to 56V. Beyond that, look at 60V or 80V. Battery count matters as much as voltage. Two batteries means you can charge one while working.
Consider the cut width. 13 inches is faster to maneuver near beds, 16 inches finishes open lawns quicker. Bump feed line heads are more reliable than auto feed in my testing. Check the line diameter your trimmer accepts. Thicker line cuts thicker weeds.
Weight is real. A 13-pound trimmer feels light at start and exhausting at minute 40. Try the trimmer in store if possible. Look for shoulder strap attachment points if you have a big yard. Finally, buy into a battery ecosystem that covers other tools you need. Buying the same brand for mower, blower, and trimmer halves your battery costs over time.
Frequently asked questions
Are cordless string trimmers strong enough for thick grass?+
Yes, if you pick a 40V or 80V model. I cut through ankle-deep fescue and weed stems without bogging. Lower-voltage trimmers struggle in dense overgrowth.
How long do cordless trimmer batteries last?+
Expect 30 to 60 minutes per charge depending on voltage and trimmer load. Plan for two batteries if your yard is over a quarter acre.
Bump feed or auto feed line?+
Bump feed is more reliable in my experience. Auto-feed mechanisms fail more often, especially in dusty conditions. I prefer manual bump heads.