The Best String Trimmers of 2026: Tame Your Lawn Edges
A lawn mower handles the open areas, but the edges, corners, and tight spots around fences, trees, and flower beds? That’s string trimmer territory. Without one, your yard looks like it got a haircut but skipped the neck and sideburns. A quality string trimmer is the difference between a yard that looks maintained and one that looks professionally landscaped.
The 2026 market has shifted heavily toward battery power, and for good reason — today’s 40V and 56V trimmers match or exceed gas performance without the noise, fumes, and maintenance. We tested five top models through a full season to find the best.
Top 5 String Trimmers Compared
| Product | Price | Cut Width | Power | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EGO Power+ 15″ | $179.00 | 15″ | 56V Battery | Best overall |
| DEWALT 20V MAX | $139.00 | 13″ | 20V Battery | DEWALT ecosystem |
| Greenworks 40V 13″ | $99.99 | 13″ | 40V Battery | Best budget |
| BLACK+DECKER 20V | $79.99 | 12″ | 20V Battery | Light duty |
| Worx 20V Power Share | $89.99 | 12″ | 20V Battery | Multi-tool users |
Detailed Reviews
1. EGO Power+ 15″ String Trimmer — Best Overall
The EGO Power+ is the battery trimmer that convinced us gas is unnecessary for residential use. The 56V battery delivers enough power to cut through thick weeds and light brush without bogging down. The 15-inch cut width covers more ground per pass than any other battery trimmer on our list, and the split-shaft design accepts EGO’s attachment system — meaning you can swap in an edger, pole saw, or hedge trimmer head.
The variable speed trigger gives you control over power and runtime. At full speed, it handles heavy weeds; at lower speed, it extends battery life for lighter trimming. The 0.095″ line is thicker than most battery trimmers use, which means fewer line breaks. At 10.4 lbs with battery, it’s manageable for most adults, though extended sessions will test your arms.
Pros: Gas-equivalent power, 15″ cut, attachment capable, variable speed
Cons: Premium price, heaviest on the list, battery sold separately on some packages
2. DEWALT 20V MAX String Trimmer — Proven Reliability
If you already own DEWALT 20V tools, this trimmer is a no-brainer. It runs on the same batteries as your drill, impact driver, and circular saw — no new charging system needed. The 13-inch cut width is adequate for most residential trimming, and the brushless motor delivers consistent power throughout the battery’s charge.
The 0.080″ line is a step below the EGO’s 0.095″ but handles normal grass and light weeds without issue. The telescoping shaft adjusts to your height, and the auxiliary handle provides balance. The only real downside is the 13″ cut width — if you have a large property, you’ll spend more time edging than with a wider trimmer.
Pros: Shares DEWALT batteries, brushless motor, adjustable shaft
Cons: 13″ cut width, thinner line, less power than 56V models
3. Greenworks 40V 13″ String Trimmer — Best Budget Battery Option
The Greenworks 40V proves you don’t need to spend $150+ for a capable battery trimmer. At $99.99 (often on sale for less), it delivers reliable trimming power for standard suburban yards. The 40V battery provides 30-45 minutes of runtime — enough to edge a typical quarter-acre lot.
The 13-inch cut width and 0.080″ line handle regular grass trimming and edging competently. The push-button feed advances line reliably (no bumping required). The lightweight design at 7.6 lbs makes it comfortable for extended use. It won’t power through thick brush, but for maintaining an already-established lawn, it’s all the trimmer most people need.
Pros: Great value, lightweight, push-button line feed, reliable performance
Cons: Less power for heavy weeds, shorter runtime than premium models
4. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Trimmer/Edger — Light Duty Specialist
The BLACK+DECKER 20V is designed for homeowners with small yards who need basic edging and trimming. The 12-inch cut width is compact enough for tight spaces, and the conversion from trimmer to edger is literally a 90-degree rotation — no tools required.
The automatic feed system works well, and the lightweight design (just 6.1 lbs) makes it easy to handle for anyone. The POWERCOMMAND feature lets you choose between more power or more runtime. At $79.99 with battery included, it’s the most affordable complete package on our list. Just don’t expect it to tackle overgrown lots — this is a maintenance trimmer, not a clearing tool.
Pros: Very affordable, lightweight, easy edger conversion, battery included
Cons: 12″ cut, lowest power, not for heavy-duty work
5. Worx 20V Power Share — Ecosystem Value
The Worx Power Share uses the same 20V battery as over 40 other Worx lawn and power tools. That ecosystem approach saves money if you’re building a cordless yard tool collection. The trimmer itself is competent — 12-inch cut, 0.065″ line, and a telescoping shaft that adjusts from 34″ to 46″.
The Command Feed button advances line cleanly without bumping. At 5.9 lbs without battery, it’s the lightest option here. The wheel attachment for edging mode is a clever touch that adds stability when doing long, straight edge runs. The 0.065″ line is thinner than we’d like for anything beyond light trimming, and the 12-inch width means more passes on larger properties.
Pros: Lightweight, large tool ecosystem, edging wheel, affordable
Cons: Thinnest line (0.065″), 12″ cut, less cutting power
String Trimmer Buying Guide
Battery Voltage: 20V for small yards and light trimming. 40V for medium yards. 56V+ for large properties or heavy vegetation. Higher voltage = more power and runtime.
Cut Width: 12-13″ for small, detailed yards. 14-15″ for faster work on larger properties. Wider is faster but heavier and harder to maneuver in tight spaces.
Line Thickness: 0.065″ for light grass. 0.080″ for general residential use. 0.095″ for thick weeds and heavy-duty trimming. Thicker line breaks less but uses more battery.
Shaft Type: Straight shaft reaches under decks and bushes more easily. Curved shaft is lighter and more comfortable for edging. Split shaft allows attachment swaps.
Battery Sharing: If you already own cordless tools, buying a trimmer from the same brand can save $50-100 on batteries and chargers.
FAQ
How long do battery trimmers run?
20V models: 20-30 minutes. 40V: 30-45 minutes. 56V: 30-60 minutes. A second battery eliminates downtime for larger yards.
Bump feed vs. automatic feed?
Bump feed (tapping the head on the ground) gives you control but can be inconsistent. Automatic/push-button feed is more reliable. Most 2026 models use some form of auto feed.
Can I use a string trimmer on wet grass?
You can, but it’s not ideal. Wet grass clumps on the line and reduces cutting efficiency. If you must, use shorter line and slower passes.
How often should I replace the trimmer line?
A standard spool lasts 3-5 trimming sessions depending on yard size and grass density. Keep a refill on hand — running out mid-job is frustrating.
The Bottom Line
The EGO Power+ 15″ is the best overall string trimmer for most homeowners — powerful, versatile, and built to last. On a budget, the Greenworks 40V delivers solid performance at a great price. And if you’re already in the DEWALT or Worx ecosystem, their respective trimmers offer convenience and savings through battery sharing.