With many different types of string trimmers available, many people opt for a battery-powered option if they want something eco-friendly and easy to maneuver.
These are more affordable than gas options, don’t emit toxic fumes, and don’t come with annoying wires to work around.
We’ve researched various battery-powered string trimmers and chosen what we think are the best seven. Keep reading to find an awesome choice for your yard.
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- Quick charging battery (60 minutes)
- Twist load head mechanism
- Variable speed trigger
- Accepts various line sizes
- Ergonomic design comes in handy
- Powerful but quiet tool
- Convenient command feed spool system
- Comes with two versatile batteries
- With 90-degree tilting head
- Poweful 2-in-1 leaf blower
- Weighing less than eight pounds
- Equipped with a variable speed trigger
- Handle can be put into seven positions
- Uses a command feed technology
- With a 90-degree pivoting head
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- Versatile trimmer and edger combo kit
- Automatically feeds the trimmer line
- Shows the state of battery charge
- Equipped with power command dial
- Uses power drive transmission
- Converts from trimmer to edger
Product Reviews
Here are seven of the best battery powered string trimmers on the market.
1. SKIL CORE 40 Brushless String Trimmer Kit
Best Battery Powered String Trimmer
All of our recommendations are great for small yards, but if you definitely want something for your small yard, this is a great option. Just keep in mind that the things that make it good for a small yard mean that it’s not the best option for medium or large yards.
First, it’s a lightweight and compact option weighing 10 pounds. It’s quite narrow, so it’s easy to store and transport around your small yard. It also has a battery life of 35-45 minutes which is good for small yards.
We also love that it recharges in 60 minutes so that you can get back to work quickly.
What We Like
Well-Designed Battery
The quick-charging battery is convenient since you can get it back to 100 percent charge in 60 minutes. The battery is also wrapped in a cooling material which prolongs its overall lifespan by 25 percent.
Twist Load Head
This makes it super easy to load the line into the machine. Simply feed it in and twist it to get it started. This mechanism allows you to get to work quickly and efficiently.
Variable Speed Trigger
Put yourself in charge, thanks to the variable speed trigger. You can adjust the speed depending on the task at hand, giving you just the right amount of power where you need it.
What We Don't Like
Poorly Positioned Safety Lock
The safety lock is positioned between the variable speed trigger, so it’s easy to turn the lock off when you’re trying to change speeds. This is pretty inconvenient.
Product Specs
| Battery Type | 40v lithium-ion battery with cooling technology |
| Battery Life | 35 minutes average |
| Cutting Swath | 14 inches |
| Line Diameter | Not specified |
| Weight | 10 pounds |
2. DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V MAX String Trimmer
Most Powerful Battery Powered String Trimmer
Enjoy incredible power with this 60-volt string trimmer from Dewalt. This is three times the power of your average battery-powered string trimmer. If you want something more similarly powered to gas options, then this may be just the string trimmer for you and your yard.
If you have tough and thick growth in your yard, this is designed to get through it. Plus, it doubles as a lawn edger, making it a versatile tool for a reasonable price.
What We Like
Accepts Various Line Sizes
This string trimmer accepts 0.080-inch lines and 0.095-inch. With a variety of string sizes, you get a bit more versatility with the machine. This will come in handy for different jobs around the yard.
Lightweight and Ergonomic
At 12 pounds, this is light enough for most people to maneuver around their yard. But even if that sounds a bit heavy for you, the ergonomic design comes in handy.
It has a really awesome top handle as well as a D-shaped front handle with a comfort grip. This increases flexibility and maneuverability while decreasing stress and fatigue for users.
Quiet Noise Levels
Customers compared this to gas models but without the fumes and noise. So not only are you getting a powerful tool, but it’s also quiet. So you know your neighbors won’t come knocking on your door to tell you to keep the noise down!
What We Don't Like
Poor Head Design
Even some of the most satisfied customers disliked the head on this string trimmer. Many opted for a replacement head that they found made the machine much more quality.
The original head may not feed the line well. Customers found it difficult to open up and replace the string. Opting for a replacement head may be worth your time and money, too.
Product Specs
| Battery Type | 60v lithium-ion battery |
| Battery Life | About 45 minutes |
| Cutting Swath | 15 inches |
| Line Diameter | 0.080 and 0.095 inches |
| Weight | 12 pounds |
3. WORX WG163 PowerShare Trimmer & Edger
Best Lightweight Battery Powered String Trimmer
At only six pounds, this is one of the lightest battery-powered string trimmers available. Even if you haven’t done a major arm workout at the gym lately, this should still be easy enough for most people to use.
We also love that this is a 2-in-1 device that converts from a string trimmer to a wheeled edger. Both trimmers and edgers are a must-have for many gardeners. To have them both in one tool is very handy.
What We Like
Instant Line Feed
The Command Feed spool system feeds you a line when you press a button. This puts you in charge of emitting the line feed as and when you need it, which is very practical. Plus, the tool comes with free spools for the duration of the product, so don’t worry about going through the line feed quickly.
Two Versatile Batteries
This comes with two batteries, so you always have a backup at the ready. Another awesome thing to note is that the included batteries are compatible with all other Worx PowerShare tools.
90-Degree Tilting Head
Equipped with a tilting head, this allows you to work on a hill or angled terrain. This also lets you get into hard-to-reach corners and narrow spaces since you have this extra flexibility.
What We Don't Like
Weak and Short Spool
You may want to upgrade to a better string. Although you get a string for life with this tool, customers found it wasn’t the highest quality. Plus, it’s easy to run through it quickly. This can interrupt your workflow.
Others found that the spool just didn’t hold the power they would expect, and it took longer to complete garden jobs.
Product Specs
| Battery Type | 2 20v MaxLithium batteries |
| Battery Life | 20-30 minutes |
| Cutting Swath | 12 inches |
| Line Diameter | 0.065 inches |
| Weight | 6 pounds |
4. Greenworks G-MAX 40V Trimmer Blower Combo
Best Quiet Battery Powered String Trimmer
So far, there’s no completely silent string trimmer, but check back in a few years! For now, this is a nice and quiet option that won’t disturb the neighbors or make you want to chuck the tool across the yard.
Customers loved how quiet this was, especially compared to gas options. The manufacturer has actually disclosed that it’s 85 decibels which is equivalent to a busy restaurant or city traffic. So it’s not silent, but it’s not unbearable.
What We Like
Included Leaf Blower
For a fair price, you get both a string trimmer and a leaf blower. The leaf blower has an axial fan design which provides 110 MPH speeds and 390 CFM power. This is adequate for clearing tough and wet debris.
7.8 Pounds
This is one of the lighter battery-powered string trimmer options available. Weighing less than eight pounds, this is a breeze to use and maneuver around your yard. If you’re used to gas options, then this is going to be a significant upgrade.
Variable Speed Trigger
With this string trimmer, you’re in charge of the finer details. This comes with a variable speed trigger, so you can choose how much power you use depending on the task at hand. It also has cruise control so that you can set your preferred speed.
What We Don't Like
Short Battery Life
While the battery is advertised as lasting 45 minutes, many customers found that it lasted around 15 minutes, which is disappointing.
Manually Feeding Line
Some customers had a rage-fuelled relationship with the auto line feed feature. While it’s supposed to automatically feed line when you want it, some people found they had to do it manually. This was a major disadvantage and point of frustration for customers who experienced this.
Product Specs
| Battery Type | 40v lithium-ion battery |
| Battery Life | Up to 45 minutes |
| Cutting Swath | Not specified |
| Line Diameter | 0.065 inches |
| Weight | 7.8 pounds |
5. WORX Revolution Grass Trimmer, Edger, Mini Mower
Best Versatile Battery Powered String Trimmer
If you want a string trimmer that can be more, check out the Worx Revolution option. It works as a string trimmer, an edger, and a mini lawnmower!
It’s pretty self-explanatory, but now you can also use it, with its in-line wheels, to make beautiful edges. Plus, it works like a mini lawn mower for when you need to tidy up small areas of grass you may have missed with your regular mower.
What We Like
Adjustable Front Handle
The D-shaped handle at the front can be put into seven different positions. This allows you to have more flexibility and control while using the tool. Overall, it’s a very ergonomic option that most people enjoy using, even for long periods of time.
Command Feed Technology
When you need a fresh line, all you need to do is press a button. The line will automatically extend, giving you what you need when you need it.
More Flexibility
As if the adjustable front handle wasn’t enough, this also comes with a telescoping shaft and a 90-degree pivoting head. Therefore you can adjust the machine to suit your height. Plus, the pivoting head gives you more flexibility when it comes to tight corners and narrow areas.
What We Don't Like
Takes Time
This may be a frustrating option if you have a large yard and not a lot of time. Customers found they had to go over the same spot a few times. On the other hand, the tool doesn’t cut large areas at once, so even if you don’t have to repeat the same spot, it can still take a while to get around the whole yard.
Could Be a Better Edger
Since this is not primarily an edger, some customers found that it wasn’t the best of the best. It was a little lackluster for some people, whereas others just found it quite difficult to use.
Product Specs
| Battery Type | 20v lithium-ion battery |
| Battery Life | 20-40 minutes |
| Cutting Swath | 12 inches |
| Line Diameter | 0.065 inches |
| Weight | 5.5 pounds |
6. BLACK+DECKER Sweeper and String Trimmer
Best Ergonomic Battery Powered String Trimmer
A well-designed string trimmer can make it much easier for people to use, especially for long periods of time. You don’t want something that’s going to add stress and fatigue.
This one from Black + Decker is worth noting. For one, it’s pretty lightweight at 11 pounds. Secondly, it has a great top handle which provides a good grip. It then has a D-shaped handle at the front so you can hang onto that for extra control.
Finally, the shaft is adjustable so that you can change the height depending on your own height.
What We Like
Versatile Combo Kit
With this budget-friendly option, you’re getting a lot for your money’s worth. It converts from a trimmer to an edger making it a versatile 2-in-1 tool. But it also comes with a sweeper so you can clear debris and leaves from your yard.
Plus, this is powered up to 130 miles per hour which is pretty effective
Automatic Feed Spool
This trimmer will automatically and smoothly feed the trimmer line, so you don’t have to do so manually. This allows you to carry on with your yard work without interruptions.
Battery Level Visible
Take the guesswork out of when your battery is going to run out. Both the blower and the trimmer tool show the state of the battery charge. This allows you to plan and avoid getting stuck in frustrating situations.
What We Don't Like
Blower Not the Best
While it’s handy to have a blower included, it’s called a sweeper for a reason. It does act like a glorified broom and can’t really be compared to the best blowers on the market.
Cheap Spool Housing
The spool housing is made from cheap plastic. A few customers noted that the housing wore down and broke after about a year.
Product Specs
| Battery Type | 40v lithium-ion battery |
| Battery Life | 45 minutes |
| Cutting Swath | 13 inches |
| Line Diameter | 0.065 inches |
| Weight | 11 pounds |
7. BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX String Trimmer
Best Affordable Battery Powered String Trimmer
Don’t break the bank if you don’t need to. You can still get a quality string trimmer for a very reasonable price. If you’re on a budget but still want one of the best, then check out this Black + Decker max string trimmer. Plus, it’s 40 volts, so it’s one of the more powerful options available!
Something To Note
The battery and charger are not included and must be purchased separately.
What We Like
Power Command Dial
If you don’t need to implement full power, you can change between MAX power and MAX runtime. Opting for max runtime will use less power but preserve battery life so you can go longer between charges.
Power Drive Transmission
As mentioned, this is a 40-volt string trimmer which is one of the more powerful options. But to be specific, it also uses Power Drive Transmission, which physically delivers extra power from the motor to the string. This gives you more oomph as you go around your yard.
Stringer Edger Combo
We can’t quite believe that for this price, you’re getting two tools in one. This converts from trimmer to edger, so you can use it for various tasks around the yard. And all for a super affordable price? Win-win!
What We Don't Like
Auto Feed Problems
Most customers had no issues with the auto-feed, but quite a few found that it either didn’t work at all or it fed the line too much.
Not the Most Durable
For the price, we don’t expect this to be super durable. But keep in mind that you may find this needs replacing every 2-3 years according to customers.
Product Specs
| Battery Type | 40v lithium-ion battery (not included) |
| Battery Life | Up to 45 minutes |
| Cutting Swath | 13 inches |
| Line Diameter | Not specified |
| Weight | 6.39 pounds |
| Product | Best | Battery Type | Battery Life | Cutting Swath | Line Diameter | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SKIL CORE 40 Brushless String Trimmer Kit | For Small Yards | 40v lithium-ion, cooling technology | 35 minutes average | 14 inches | Not specified | 10 pounds |
| DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V MAX String Trimmer | Powerful | 60v lithium-ion, cooling technology | About 35 minutes | 15 inches | 0.080 and 0.095 inches | 12 pounds |
| WORX WG163 PowerShare Trimmer & Edger | Lightweight | 2 20v MaxLithium batteries | 20-30 minutes | 12 inches | 0.065 inches | 6 pounds |
| Greenworks G-MAX 40V Trimmer Blower Combo | Quiet | 40v lithium-ion battery | Up to 45 minutes | Not specified | 0.065 inches | 7.8 pounds |
| WORX Revolution Grass Trimmer, Edger, Mini Mower | Versatile | 20v lithium-ion battery | 20-40 minutes | 12 inches | 0.065 inches | 5.5 pounds |
| BLACK+DECKER Sweeper and String Trimmer | Ergonomic | 40v lithium-ion battery | 45 minutes | 13 inches | 0.065 inches | 11 pounds |
| BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX String Trimmer | Affordable | 40v lithium-ion (not included) | Up to 45 minutes | 13 inches | Not specified | 6.39 pounds |
What to Look For (Buying Guide)
What’s best for someone else may not be best for you. You should consider important criteria before making your final purchase.
Battery Capacity
Being battery-powered, one of the most important details you should consider is the battery itself. This includes:
- Type: You’ll find both lithium-ion batteries and nickel-cadmium batteries. The lithium-iron ones are more powerful but more expensive. However, they hold charge for longer and are more durable overall.
- Voltage: The power of cordless string trimmers is measured by its voltage. This is usually about 20 volts, but some go up to 60. If you want something stronger, look for a higher voltage number.
- Battery life: The battery life varies from model to model. Some last as little as 30 minutes, whereas others last between 1-2 hours. Always check what the battery life is for the model you’re considering.
- Recharge time: Consider how long it takes to recharge the battery. Knowing this in advance can help you prepare for your yard work.
- Extra batteries: Check if the model you’re considering comes with extra batteries. It’s handy to have backup batteries just in case one dies while you’re in the middle of a job.
Cutting Swath
The cutting swath determines how wide the string trimmer’s head is. The wider this is, the more it will cut in one sweep. But some people prefer narrow ones if working in tight spaces. The average cutting swath varies from about 10-18 inches.
Line Diameter
The diameter of the string on the trimmer varies from about 0.065 to 0.110 inches. The higher this is, the better it is for thick and dense growth. Thinner line is suitable for thick work. Always check the line diameter and if the trimmer allows for a variety of line sizes.
Weight
Battery powered string trimmers range from about six pounds to 15 pounds, as per our research. The lighter it is, the more maneuverable it will be. Always make sure you choose something that will be comfortable for you to use and transport around your yard.
Attachment Friendly
Some string trimmers are compatible with various attachments. This allows the machine to be more versatile. For instance, you may find it can be converted into an edger or blower, depending on the brand. This can save you money and storage space.
Ergonomics
The comfort and ergonomics of the string trimmer are paramount. You should always take a good look at the handle to see if it looks like something you’ll enjoy using. We recommend looking at something that has a front handle as well as the top handle. This increases comfort and control.
You may also want one with an adjustable handle. This allows you to make changes to the tool’s height as you go. This is especially useful if various family members will be using the string trimmer. The ability to adjust the height means that this tool can be suited for everyone.
Last but not least, consider if the handle has a rubberized grip. This comfort grip can make it easier to use for long periods of time and reduce vibrations.
Noise
Most brands don’t disclose the decibel rating of their string trimmers, but you should definitely look at what other customers say about noise levels. If you have neighbors or sensitive hearing, you may want something a bit quieter.
Versatility
Some string trimmers aren’t attachment friendly but may still be convertible. For instance, you may find a few string trimmer edger combos, which are very handy!
Other trimmers have additional wheels making it easy to transport around. Some others come with additional tools such as blowers, saving you money and providing you with more handy tools to use around the yard.
Budget
Battery powered string trimmers come in a wide range of prices from about $60 to $300. Most are around $150, but you can certainly aim to find a quality option within your budget.
How To Maintain a Battery Powered Trimmer
When investing in any power tool, it’s important to know how to care for it, so it lasts for a long time. Here are our top tips for maintaining a battery-powered trimmer:
- Keep the battery charged. This can maintain the lifespan and health of the battery.
- Keep the batteries cool and dry. If they get too warm or are exposed to any moisture, they will become damaged.
- Store the tool and the battery properly. Keep the battery in a safe cushioned space, whether that’s in a separate bag or within the tool. As for the tool itself, keep it stored safely away from other things that could damage it.
- Use the right setting for the task at hand. If your trimmer has a variable speed trigger, for instance, make sure to use it properly to protect the motor.
- Replace the trimmer line as per the manufacturer’s instructions. This keeps the trimmer in good condition.
- Clean the cutting shield and the trimmer head on the regular. Look for wear and tear and replace any damaged parts as necessary.
- Brush off clippings and debris before storing to ensure the machine is in good condition.
- Let the string trimmer completely cool down before you store it. This prevents the engine from being hot for too long, which can lead to overheating issues.
Battery Powered String Trimmers FAQs
Are Battery Line Trimmers Any Good?
Battery-powered string trimmers are completely cordless, lightweight, and more affordable. They’re great for small yards and light-duty work. They’re also quiet and eco-friendly since they don’t emit toxic fumes.
However, you may find that they don’t get the job done in your large yard with dense growth since they’re not as powerful as gas. You may also find the battery life and recharge time are frustrating and don’t allow you to get around the yard in one charge.
It all depends on your yard size and the thickness of the growth you need to trim.
How Long Should a Battery-powered String Trimmer Last?
Since these trimmers haven’t been around that long, we don’t really know how they stand the test of time. A good guess would be about three years, but it may be longer or shorter depending on the quality of the model you choose.
Always check the warranty length for an idea of how long the brand will cover any repairs or maintenance necessary.
Which Is Better Battery or Gas Trimmer?
Gas trimmers are much more powerful and better suited to large yards. If you have thick growth, then you may want to opt for gas.
However, gas trimmers emit hazardous fumes into the environment. So if you do not need to choose a powerful gas option, a battery-powered option will be just fine.
What Does a Brushless String Trimmer Mean?
Your brushless string trimmer means that the motor uses magnets, electronic circuits, and coppers strands instead of brushes. It increases the lifespan of the motor because they don’t make physical contact, unlike brushed motors.
Which String Trimmer is Easiest to Load?
Knowing which string trimmer is easiest to load is tricky because there are so many makes, models, and varieties. In our opinion, one of the easiest to load is the DEWALT 20v Max because it has a quick-load spool.
How Do You Edge Your Lawn With a String Trimmer?
The best way to edge your lawn with a string trimmer is to line up the string with the grass edge, press the trigger, and walk along the line of grass in the direction that the string spins.
