Best Cordless String Trimmers (2026 Tested)

Cordless string trimmers in 2026 finally do what gas trimmers do — without the noise, fumes, mixing oil, or pull-starts. For most yards, they're now the obvious choice.

Here are the picks worth your money this spring.

Quick Picks

• Best Overall: EGO Power+ ST1623T 16-Inch Carbon Fiber
• Best Value: Greenworks 60V Pro Brushless 16-Inch
• Best for Heavy Brush: EGO Power+ ST1521S Powerload with Bike Handle
• Best Budget: Ryobi 40V 13-Inch Trimmer
• Best Premium: Stihl FSA 60 R 12-Inch

The Picks in Detail

I've used the EGO ST1623T for over two years. The Powerload head is a real innovation — feed line through the head, click, done. No taking the head apart to load string. The carbon fiber shaft is genuinely lighter than aluminum at the same price point.

EGO uses the same 56V battery as their other tools — if you already have an EGO mower or blower, you have batteries.

The Greenworks 60V Pro line has been my "value alternative to EGO" recommendation for years. It cuts well, the battery system is broadly supported, and the price is dramatically lower.

The attachment-capable shaft accepts edgers, pole saws, and brush cutters — you build out a multi-tool yard system over time.

Standard string trimmer designs aren't ideal for hours-long brush clearing. The bike handle distributes weight across both arms and lets you swing through tougher growth without arm fatigue.

If you have a property edge that grows up to chest height each summer, this is the tool.

Ryobi 40V is the broadly supported budget battery system. The 13-inch trimmer is lighter than the 16-inch premium options and plenty for small yards under 1/8 acre.

Limited runtime (15 to 25 minutes) and less power for heavy brush. Right tool for the right yard.

Stihl's lithium tools are the same precision and durability as their gas tools. Higher upfront cost, but the build quality lasts decades. Best if you want the trimmer your grandkids inherit.

Available primarily through Stihl dealers, not always Amazon. Check both.

How to Pick

Three questions:

1. How Big Is Your Yard?

• Under 1/8 acre — any 40V trimmer is plenty
• 1/4 to 1/2 acre — 56V or 60V brushless trimmer with at least 5Ah battery
• Over 1/2 acre — high-capacity battery and a spare, or step up to gas

2. What Are You Trimming?

• Just lawn edges and around obstacles — 13 to 15 inch cut, light duty
• Heavy weeds along fence or property edge — 16 inch with bike handle
• Brush clearing and property maintenance — bike handle plus a brush cutter blade attachment

3. Do You Already Own Cordless Tools?

If you have EGO tools — get an EGO trimmer (battery sharing). If you have Greenworks 60V — get the Greenworks 60V trimmer. If you have Ryobi 40V — get the Ryobi 40V trimmer.

Don't start a second battery ecosystem unless the price difference is significant.

What to Avoid

• 20-volt and 24-volt trimmers. Underpowered, short runtime, can't handle anything beyond grass.
• Brushed motor trimmers. Wear out fast. Always look for "brushless" in specs.
• Trimmers that take pre-cut "tap and load" pre-wound spools only. You're locked into proprietary line. Get one that accepts bulk line for cost savings.

Accessories Worth Buying

• Bulk trimmer line — way cheaper than pre-wound spools
• An extra battery for larger yards
• A shoulder strap for long sessions

Frequently Asked Questions

How thick should the trimmer line be?

• 0.065" — light duty, manicured lawns
• 0.080" — standard, most yards
• 0.095" or larger — heavy weeds and brush

Match the line size to the trimmer's specifications.

How long does a battery last per charge?

Real-world: 15 to 60 minutes depending on battery size and trimming intensity. Light grass = longer runtime. Heavy weeds = much shorter.

Can I use a string trimmer to edge?

Yes — turn it sideways or use an edger attachment for cleaner straight lines along sidewalks.

Do I really need brushless?

For tools you'll use weekly, yes. Brushless motors run cooler, last 3 to 5 times longer than brushed motors, and run more efficiently. Pay the premium.

Final Thoughts

For most yards, the EGO ST1623T is the right buy. Greenworks 60V Pro is the value pick. Skip 20-volt and 24-volt trimmers — they're underpowered for serious use.