8 Best Cordless String Trimmers of 2024 [Reviews]

Best Overall (Gas)

Ryobi RY253SS 25cc 2-cycle string trimmer

Budget Pick (Gas)

Poulan Pro PR28SD string trimmer

Best Overall (Electric)

WORX WG191 56V string trimmer/edger

Budget Pick (Electric)

BLACK+DECKER LST140C

Whether we’re talking gas- or battery-powered, the convenience of a string trimmer without a cord can’t be overstated. Looking to upgrade from your cumbersome corded model? We can help you find the perfect replacement with our detailed reviews of the best cordless string trimmers of the year. 

Along with information about the best cordless string trimmers you can buy, you’ll find a helpful buyers guide below on how to choose the right trimmer for your yard’s specific needs.

Wherever you are in your shopping process, we can help you make a decision so you can get to trimming your lawn’s stubborn grass and weeds sooner rather than later. 

First, let’s clear up a little confusion on the term “cordless string trimmer.” While sometimes “cordless” refers only to battery-powered tools, the category actually covers gas string trimmers, too.

Our top picks above include both types, but we also have separated the best string trimmers below into individual sections so you can compare specs quickly and easily.

Top Cordless Gas String Trimmers – Reviews

1. Ryobi RY253SS 25cc 2-cycle string trimmer

Best Overall (Gas) Ryobi RY253SS 25cc Straight Shaft 18" Lawn Grass Weed Trimmer 2 Cycle Gas Power

Ryobi RY253SS 25cc 2-cycle string trimmer

Our overall champ, the RYOBI RY253SS string trimmer, reigns for its length, ease of use, and versatility.

The RY253SS model from Ryobi is one of the best string trimmers for large yards (or anyone who wants to get their grass trimming over with as quickly as possible).

Our No. 1 pick is the largest trimmer on this list, with a professional-grade 18-inch cutting swath that lets you cover more ground faster. Even though it’s so big, the RY253SS is still maneuverable because of its extended straight shaft designed for reaching around and under obstacles. 

Thanks to Ryobi’s impressive line of “Expand-It” attachments, the RY253SS is incredibly versatile, too. With additional purchases, you can convert this trimmer to an edger, leaf blower, hedge trimmer, and other landscaping tools. 

Even if you use it only as a string trimmer, this tool is well worth its price tag. It features a “reel-easy” trimmer head for simple two-step restringing and a durable full crank engine that can last up to twice as long as typical half crank engines. 

While most reviewers said they were completely happy with this Ryobi model’s performance, some ran into issues.

Some users said the cutting head attachment repeatedly comes off while in use, which obviously slows work down significantly. Others reported that the trimmer sometimes takes several pulls to start (which isn’t uncommon with gas power tools).

Specifications:

  • Power: 25 cc
  • Cutting swath: 18 inches
  • Line diameter: 0.095 inches
  • Weight: 12.2 pounds

Pros:

✓ Large cutting swath
✓ Durable full crank engine 
✓ Attachment capable with a wide variety of options from Ryobi (sold separately)

Cons:

✗ Difficult to start
✗ Cutting head can come unattached while in use

2. Husqvarna 128LD 28cc 2-cycle string trimmer

Husqvarna 128LD 17" Cutting Path Detachable Gas String Trimmer

Husqvarna 128LD Gas String Trimmer

Husqvarna’s 128LD gas string trimmer is powerful and lightweight, and users say it starts quickly and easily.

Husqvarna’s 128LD 2-cycle gas string trimmer is more proof that it ypically makes high-quality, commercial-grade lawn care tools that are easy enough for the average homeowner to use.

This trimmer’s large 28cc engine packs even more power than our top pick from Ryobi, and you should find that it’s more than enough to take down the thick grass and weeds around your home. 

Like the RY253SS model, the 128LD can convert to other tools with additional attachments, though Husqvarna offers far fewer options than Ryobi. 

Along with its powerful engine, the Husqvarna 128LD has loads of convenient features:

  • The Smart Start recoil system and advanced air purge technology for the carburetor ensure quick, easy starts every time you use this tool.
  • Husqvarna’s T25 trimmer head is easy to reload when you run out of string.
  • The 128LD has “Tap ‘N Go” line release, meaning you only have to tap the head against the ground or another surface to advance the line as you work.

With the trusted Husqvarna brand name and special features comes a premium price tag of over $200, but many users found this trimmer worth the extra money.

Reviewers reported that the 128LD’s easy-start features work reliably and that the tool is lightweight compared to other gas string trimmers, making it even easier to use.

Plus, users said a spool of trimmer line lasts an impressively long time in the 128LD, which may end up saving you money in the long run. 

Specifications:

  • Power: 28 cc
  • Cutting swath: 17 inches
  • Line diameter: 0.095 inches
  • Weight: 11 pounds

Pros:

✓ Powerful engine
✓ Consistently easy startups 
✓ Lightweight for a gas string trimmer
✓ Can convert to edger, cultivator, and pole saw with Husqvarna attachments (sold separately)

Cons:

✗ Expensive 
✗ Some users had a hard time contacting Husqvarna’s customer service if they ran into issues with the trimmer

3. Poulan Pro PR28SD 28cc 2-cycle string trimmer

Budget Pick (Gas) Poulan Pro PR28SD, 17 in. 28cc 2-Cycle Gas Straight Shaft String Trimmer

Poulan Pro PR28SD string trimmer

This Poulan Pro trimmer is a lot like the Husqvarna model above, but it will cost you a chunk less.

The Poulan Pro PR28SD has a lot in common with our pick from Husqvarna, but it’s significantly cheaper. If you’re looking for high power on a budget, this might be the trimmer for you.

Like the Husqvarna, this Poulan Pro model has a large 28 cc engine and guaranteed easy starts thanks to its spring-assisted pull cord and purge bulb that keeps air out of the carburetor. It also features a similar “Tap ‘N Go” line release system. 

Aside from the price, the biggest differences between the Husqvarna and Poulan Pro models are the weight and the attachment capabilities.

The Poulan Pro is heavy, even for a gas trimmer, at about 14 pounds. It may be difficult for some homeowners to carry this tool for extended periods of time.

On the other hand, the PR28SD is a lot more versatile than the Husqvarna because it has twice as many attachments available. Users reported that it’s easy to convert this trimmer to an edger, blower, brush cutter, pole saw, hedge trimmer, or cultivator with Poulan’s Pro-Link line. 

Bottom line: All in all, the PR28SD is a solid trimmer for heavy-duty jobs that wil be easier on your wallet than the comparable Husqvarna option. 

Specifications:

  • Power: 28 cc
  • Cutting swath: 17 inches
  • Line diameter: 0.095 inches
  • Weight: 14 pounds

Pros:

✓ Powerful engine
✓ Easy start technology
✓ Attachment capable with Pro-Link products (sold separately)

Cons:

✗ Heavy
✗ Customers reported restringing the head is difficult
✗ Some users had trouble with the bump-feed jamming 

4. Craftsman WS205 25cc 2-cycle string trimmer

Craftsman WS205 25cc 2-Cycle 17-Inch Straight Shaft Gas Powered String Trimmer and Brushcutter Handheld Weed Wacker

Craftsman WS205 gas string trimmer

This Craftsman WS2200 is lightweight, easy to use, and it will get the trimming job done — all for about $150.

For homeowners on a budget, the Craftsman WS205 is a solid option that costs around $150. Its engine isn’t as large as our professional-grade picks from Husqvarna and Poulan Pro, but it’s comparable in power to our top pick from Ryobi.

The 25cc engine should be plenty powerful to manage a typical lawn, and the three-step easy start technology leads to an easier start than you’ll get with many other gas trimmers. 

Craftsman designed the WS205 with user comfort in mind. Along with easy starts, it’s easy to carry for extended periods of time thanks to the ergonomic adjustable handle and vibration dampeners that help prevent user fatigue.

Like our other top gas picks, it can do the work of many lawn care tools with additional attachments, saving you money and storage space. The WS205 is compatible with attachments from TrimmerPlus and other brands. 

While the Craftsman WS205 doesn’t have as many bells and whistles as the other string trimmers listed here, it’s maneuverable and should meet the needs of most typical lawns.

That being said, some users reported issues, such as the bump-feed not releasing line properly or the engine taking several pulls to start. When customers found problems with their trimmers, many had negative experiences with the brand’s customer support. 

Specifications:

  • Power: 25 cc
  • Cutting swath: 17 inches
  • Line diameter: 0.095 inches
  • Weight: 13 pounds

Pros:

✓ Inexpensive
✓ Ergonomic design
✓ Converts to other lawn care tools with TrimmerPlus attachments (sold separately)

Cons:

✗ Bump-feed doesn’t always work correctly
✗ Engine is sometimes a pain to start
✗ Users reported having problems with Craftsman’s customer support

Top Cordless Electric String Trimmers – Reviews

1. WORX WG191 56V string trimmer/edger

Best Overall (Electric) WORX WG191 56V 13" Cordless String Trimmer & Wheeled Edger (has been discontinued)

WORX WG191 56V string trimmer/edger

The WORX WG191 combines power and versatility. The 56-volt battery is a whopper, rivaling the power of gas trimmers.

With its uncommonly powerful 56-volt battery, the WORX WG191 delivers a performance comparable to gas trimmers without the troublesome cord-pull start or harmful emissions.

Because of the high-voltage battery and the fact that this trimmer holds a 0.08-inch thick string, the WG191 can tackle thicker grass and weeds than most other battery-powered options. 

In addition to being powerful, the WG191 is versatile enough for any yard. Its cutting head pivots 90-degrees to trim in tight spots and on uneven terrain. You also can convert this trimmer to a wheeled edger by simply pressing a button and twisting. Unlike with our top gas picks, you won’t have to purchase any additional attachments to convert the WG191.

The WG191 gives you more control than our other top picks. With the “Command Feed” line release feature, you choose when to let out more line and how much to let out with a button on the handle.

You control the trimmer’s torque, too, with a variable speed trigger. You can speed it up when necessary for a tough spot in the lawn and slow it down under normal conditions to preserve battery. 

Specifications:

  • Power: 56 volts
  • Cutting swath: 13 inches
  • Line diameter: 0.08 inches
  • Weight: 6.3 pounds

Pros:

✓ High-voltage battery gives gas-like power
✓ Uses more durable string than other electric trimmers
✓ Variable speed control to extend battery life
✓ Easily converts to wheeled edger without any attachments

Cons:

✗ More expensive than many other options 
✗ Users report it runs much louder than other electric trimmers
✗ Unimpressive battery runtime

2. BLACK+DECKER LST140C 40V MAX string trimmer/edger

Budget Pick (Electric) BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX String Trimmer / Edger, 13-Inch (LST140C)

BLACK+DECKER LST140C

The BLACK+DECKER LST140C is strong and adaptable, and it’s also simple to operate. And it costs around $100.

While not as powerful as our No. 1 pick, the BLACK+DECKER LST140C boasts an impressive voltage for its price point of about $100. Its 40 volts of power, paired with a high-torque transmission, should be able to handle thick growth around your lawn.

This BLACK+DECKER string trimmer also converts to an edger without having to buy any extra attachments, although it doesn’t feature a stabilizing wheel as many 2-in-1 trimmer/edgers do. 

The LST140C is powerful and versatile compared to most other string trimmers in this price range, and it’s easy to use, too.

It’s a little on the heavier side for an electric trimmer, at over 6 pounds, but the weight should still be manageable for most homeowners. The trimmer also has convenient features to make up for its weight, such as the auto-feed spool that releases line on its own as you work. 

Besides its high voltage, the BLACK+DECKER LST140C is fairly standard. It might not have all the bells and whistles, but it has all the basics every homeowner needs for a manicured lawn. For the low price, this reliable string trimmer is a great value. 

Specifications:

  • Power: 40 volts
  • Cutting swath: 13 inches
  • Line diameter: 0.065 inches 
  • Weight: 6.4 pounds

Pros:

✓ Inexpensive
✓ Powerful battery compared to other trimmers in the same price range
✓ Easily converts to edger without any attachments


Cons:

✗ A little heavy compared to other electric string trimmers
✗ No stabilizing wheel for edging 

3. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer/Edger Kit, 10-Inch (LST201)

BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer/Edger Kit, 10-Inch (LST201)

BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX (LST201)

The BLACK+DECKER LST201 checks a lot of boxes. It’s a lightweight, inexpensive, and incredibly simple-to-use trimmer.

Looking for a lightweight trimmer that’s super easy to use and super easy on your wallet? Look no further than the LST201 20-volt trimmer from BLACK+DECKER.

The LST201 is the only trimmer on our list that costs less than $100 and the only one that weighs less than 5 pounds. It should be affordable enough and simple enough to use for just about anyone.

Aside from its impressive light weight, the LST201 is easy to use because of its flexible and ergonomic design. You can adjust the shaft height and handle to find the most comfortable working position for multiple users.

Plus, just like our other pick from BLACK+DECKER, this model features an automatic feed spool so you don’t have to manually release line or even bump the cutting head while you work. 

Of course, with the combination of low price and low weight comes a downside: low power. With only a 20-volt battery, this isn’t a trimmer for heavy-duty grass and weeds.

This string trimmer also has a small cutting swath of only 10 inches, so it may not be the best choice for large yards, either. If you only anticipate doing light work, though, the LST201 should meet all your needs just fine. 

Specifications:

  • Power: 20 volts
  • Cutting swath: 10 inches
  • Line diameter: 0.065 inches
  • Weight: 4.5 pounds

Pros:

✓ Inexpensive
✓ Lightweight
✓ Easily converts to edger without any attachments

Cons:

✗ Low voltage battery
✗ Small cutting swath
✗ No stabilizing wheel for edging 
✗ Users reported the automatic feed spool doesn’t always work 

4. WORX WG163 PowerShare string trimmer/edger

WORX WG163 GT 3.0 20V PowerShare 12" Cordless String Trimmer & Edger

WORX WG163 string trimmer and edger

The WORX WG163 has a lot going for it, including its lower price, but users say it’s not a good pick for heavy-duty trimming.

The WORX WG163 has a lot in common with our No. 1 pick from the same brand, but it’s less powerful and therefore less expensive.

Even though it costs less, the WG163 has many of the same top-notch features as the WG191. It has a similar cutting head that pivots 90 degrees to reach all your yard’s nooks and crannies, an edger mode complete with heavy-duty rubberized guiding wheels, and the “Command Feed” feature that lets you control line release. 

To make it even more of a bargain, the WG163 comes with not one but two 20-volt WORX PowerShare batteries. You can keep the extra battery on charge to use when the first battery runs out of juice to extend your work time or use the battery for an entirely different WORX power tool.

The smaller 20V batteries are lighter than their more powerful cousins, making this trimmer comparatively lightweight and easy to maneuver. 

Users warn that the WG163 is definitely not made for heavy-duty work. If you let your grass get long between cuttings, the trimmer can get bogged down quickly. The WG163 works best when you use it regularly to keep grass and weeds at a manageable height. 

Specifications:

  • Power: 20 volts
  • Cutting swath: 12 inches
  • Line diameter: 0.065 inches
  • Weight: 5.3 pounds

Pros:

✓ Inexpensive
✓ Comes with extra 20-volt battery
✓ Lightweight
✓ Easily converts to wheeled edger without any attachments 

Cons:

✗ Low voltage battery
✗ May not work if you let your grass get too long  

Buyers Guide 

If you’re new to the world of lawn care, you might not be familiar enough with string trimmers to know how to choose the best one for you. Don’t worry, most homeowners are in the same boat.

That’s why we’ve put together this buyers guide to tell you everything you need to know while shopping for a cordless string trimmer. 

String trimmer basics 

String trimmers have many names that all mean exactly the same thing, including weed eater, weed whip, weed wacker, weed trimmer, and grass trimmer. When you see any of these names on a product page, you’re looking at the same type of tool as the ones on this list.

String trimmers (weed eaters, etc) have a long straight or curved shaft with a cutting head on one end. This design allows them to reach places a lawn mower won’t fit. 

In place of a blade, the cutting head spins one or two microfilament strings, also known as the “line,” rapidly enough to slice through weeds, grass, and other growth.

When a length of string wears out, the trimmer head releases more. Different models do this in different ways, as you’ll notice from our top picks. Some release more line automatically, some do so when you tap the head against the ground, and some let you control line release with a button on the handle. 

For details on how to use a string trimmer, see the video below:

Like most modern lawn care tools, string trimmers come in gas-powered, battery-powered, and corded electric models. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. For our purposes, we’re focused on the two cordless types. 

Gas vs. battery-powered: Which is better for you?

Our top picks for the best cordless string trimmers of the year include both gas- and battery-powered models. Before you decide which specific weed eater you want, figure out which of these two basic types would be best for your needs. 

Quick facts about gas string trimmers:

  • Most gas string trimmers can take on the thickest grass and weeds.
  • Not limited by a cord or battery’s run time, gas string trimmers are good for large yards that take a long time to trim and edge.
  • Gas string trimmers produce emissions harmful for the environment and the user’s health.
  • Run much louder than electric string trimmers.
  • Typically are much heavier than their electric counterparts.
  • Gas engines can be difficult to start, and many require lots of upper body strength to pull the cord.
  • Gas engines need a lot of maintenance, and you have to store fuel for them.

Quick facts about battery-powered string trimmers:

  • Battery-powered string trimmers are environmentally friendly because they don’t produce any emissions.
  • Low-maintenance.
  • Quiet enough to use in neighborhoods with noise restrictions.
  • About half as heavy as their gas counterparts.
  • Free mobility like gas trimmers, not limited by cord. 
  • Lithium-ion batteries typically only give you about 15-30 minutes of run time per charge.
  • Lacking in power compared to gas, many battery-powered gas string trimmers don’t do well in thick grass and weeds 

Based on the facts listed here, it’s clear that gas string trimmers are better for large properties with lots of thick, tall grass and weeds, because gas trimmers pack a lot more power than their battery-powered counterparts and have no time limitations.

However, if you don’t need the extra power and longer run time, a cordless electric string trimmer would be a more convenient choice for you. 

Factors to consider while shopping

Once you’ve decided on a power source, it’s time for the hard part. Among the dozens of models available, you have to figure out which is most worth your money according to your yard’s size and conditions.

In this section, we’ll explain the important specs we used to rank our top picks. You can compare these same specs to help you make the best choice before you buy. 

Power: We measure the power of a string trimmer differently depending on the power source.

For gas, we use cubic centimeters (cc) to describe the size of the engine, which directly impacts power output.

For battery-powered, we measure power output based on the battery’s voltage. 

A larger engine (more cc) or higher voltage battery (more volts) will produce more power, which means it can drive the string through thicker grass and weeds without getting bogged down.

It’s difficult to compare the different power measurements, but you can assume as a rule that a gas trimmer will be more powerful than an electric one. 

Cutting swath: The width of a string trimmer’s head determines its cutting swath (aka cutting width), or the area it can trim at one time. With a larger cutting head and cutting swath, you can cover more ground in less time and finish the job faster. 

Based on our top picks, you may have noticed that gas trimmers tend to have much larger cutting swaths than electric. That’s one reason we recommend gas over electric for large properties.

However, a smaller cutting head can sometimes be helpful for maneuvering in tight spots. 

Line diameter: Line diameter tells how thick of a string a trimmer can hold. Thicker string is more durable and can slice through thicker growth, so more powerful trimmers tend to use thicker string. 

Most of the time, a line that’s 0.065 to 0.08 inches in diameter is thick enough for residential needs.

If you anticipate doing a lot of heavy-duty work with your trimmer, you may want to consider one that holds a professional-grade 0.095-inch (or even thicker) line. 

Weight: String trimmers can weigh more than 10 pounds, which might present a challenge for homeowners with limited upper body strength, such as seniors.

Pay attention to a trimmer’s weight before you buy one so you don’t end up wearing yourself out every time you want to trim or edge the yard.

Some string trimmers can attach to a shoulder strap (often sold separately) to lighten the load on your back and arms. 

Price: The price of string trimmers can vary a lot, ranging from less than $100 to more than $400. For our list, we wanted to stick with more affordable options, so all our top picks cost less than $300. 

Most of the time, you’ll find that battery-powered trimmers are more expensive than comparable corded or gas ones.

On this list, all the gas models are significantly larger and more powerful than most of the battery-powered options, and that’s why they’re closer in price range. 

Note: When you’re looking at a cordless electric trimmer, watch out for the phrase “bare tool.” If you buy a “bare tool,” it doesn’t come with a battery and charger, so you’ll have to buy those separately, which can increase your cost significantly. 

FAQs About Cordless String Trimmers

1. How do you maintain a string trimmer?

For any string trimmer, you’ll have to clean the underside regularly and reload the trimmer line when you run out.

Gas string trimmers require engine maintenance on top of that, including replacing the air filter, cleaning spark plugs, and changing the oil.

Check this detailed guide on string trimmer maintenance from Lowe’s for more information. 

2. Is it OK to hang a string trimmer vertically?

Yes, you can hang any string trimmer (even gas) vertically without causing any issues. 

3. Does a higher Ah battery give a string trimmer more power?

A battery’s Ah (amp hours) is more related to run time than power. Just as higher voltage usually means more power, higher Ah usually means a longer run time.

Conclusion

Whether your lawn is less than half an acre or several acres, a cordless string trimmer will be a lot more convenient than a corded one. With cordless, you have an unlimited range of mobility, and you don’t have to worry about accidentally running (or tripping) over an extension cord. 

There are tons of gas and battery-powered trimmers that can give you this convenience, and our top picks are some of the best on the market today. 

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Jordan Ardoin

Jordan Ardoin

Jordan Ardoin is a writer and editor with a passion for sustainable, earth-friendly gardening and lawn care practices. When she isn't sharing her knowledge about lawn care and landscaping, you can find her curled up with a good book and a cat in her lap.