I spent three months testing electric string trimmers across two very different yards. One property had a quarter-acre of thick St. Augustine grass with stubborn fence-line weeds. The other was a smaller suburban lot with delicate flower beds and tight corners. I wanted to find out once and for all which models actually deserve a spot in your garage in 2026.
The short answer: EGO Power+ makes the best electric string trimmers right now. Their ST1511T with POWERLOAD technology solved the single most frustrating part of trimming, which is loading string. But that is not the right pick for everyone, and budget, yard size, and battery ecosystem all matter enormously.
In this guide, I cover the best electric string trimmers across cordless and corded options. I tested each model for cutting power, runtime, weight, line loading, and real-world durability. Whether you need something for a tiny patio garden or a half-acre property with heavy overgrowth, you will find your match below.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Electric String Trimmers (July 2026)
EGO Power+ ST1511T 15 inch String Trimmer
- POWERLOAD auto-winding
- 56V brushless motor
- Telescopic shaft
- Up to 45 min runtime
EGO Power+ ST1502SA 15 inch String Trimmer
- Rapid-Reload head
- Split shaft design
- IPX4 weather resistant
- 5-year warranty
WORX WG163 12 inch Trimmer and Edger
- 2-in-1 trimmer and edger
- 5.5 lbs lightweight
- Includes 2 batteries
- Power Share compatible
Best Electric String Trimmers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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EGO Power+ ST1511T String Trimmer
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EGO Power+ ST1502SA String Trimmer
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WORX WG163 Trimmer and Edger
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WORX WG170 3-in-1 Trimmer
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Greenworks 40V Combo Kit
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BLACK+DECKER LST522 Trimmer
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BLACK+DECKER BESTA510 Corded Trimmer
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WORX WG154 Lightweight Trimmer
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Check Latest Price |
1. EGO Power+ ST1511T 15 inch String Trimmer with POWERLOAD
EGO Power+ String Trimmer, Battery Powered, 15" Trimmer for Weeds and Grass with POWERLOAD, Telescopic Aluminum Shaft, Includes 56V 2.5Ah Battery and Charger - ST1511T
56V brushless motor
15 inch cutting swath
0.095 inch dual line
POWERLOAD technology
Telescopic aluminum shaft
Up to 45 min runtime
IPX4 weather resistant
Pros
- POWERLOAD auto-winds trimmer line with push of button
- Handles thick weeds and grass with ease
- Telescopic shaft adjusts for any user height
- Up to 45 minutes of runtime per charge
- 5-year tool warranty included
Cons
- Heavier at 10.27 lbs
- Can fatigue smaller users after 10-15 minutes
- Telescopic length may still be long for shorter users
I will start with the trimmer that genuinely changed how I feel about yard work. The EGO Power+ ST1511T features something called POWERLOAD technology, and it is not marketing fluff. You feed the line through the head, push a button, and the trimmer winds the string itself. After years of fighting with manual spool loading, this felt like someone finally solved the problem.
The 56V brushless motor delivers serious cutting power. I ran this trimmer through knee-high weeds along my fence line, and it never bogged down. The 15-inch cutting swath covers ground quickly, which means fewer passes to finish the job. At 5800 RPM with 0.095-inch dual-line spiral twist, it cuts clean instead of tearing.
Battery life is another area where this model shines. I got about 40 minutes of continuous trimming from the included 2.5Ah battery, which was enough to finish my quarter-acre property in one session. The fan-cooled charger brought the battery back to full in roughly 50 minutes, so downtime between sessions was minimal.
The telescopic aluminum shaft is a feature I did not know I needed. I am 6 foot 1, and my partner is 5 foot 4. We both found a comfortable length without compromising on balance. The variable speed trigger lets you dial back the power when you are doing lighter edging work, which extends both runtime and line life.
Who This Trimmer Is Built For
This is the trimmer I recommend for homeowners with medium to large yards who want gas-level performance without the headaches. If you have a half-acre property or deal with thick, stubborn weeds, the EGO ST1511T will not let you down. The POWERLOAD feature alone saves me about 10 minutes of frustration every time I need to reload line.
It is also ideal if you already own other EGO 56V tools, since the battery is interchangeable across the entire lineup. The 5-year warranty gives confidence that this is a long-term investment.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you have a very small yard or mostly do light edging along sidewalks, this trimmer is overkill. At 10.27 pounds, it is noticeably heavier than the budget options on this list. Users with smaller frames or limited upper-body strength may find it tiring after extended use.
It is also the most expensive trimmer in this roundup. If you only trim occasionally and have a modest budget, the WORX WG163 or BLACK+DECKER LST522 will serve you just fine for a fraction of the cost.
2. EGO Power+ ST1502SA 15 inch String Trimmer with Rapid-Reload
EGO POWER+ String Trimmer, Battery Powered, 15" Trimmer for Weeds and Grass with Rapid Reload, Split Shaft, Includes 56V 2.5Ah Battery and Charger - ST1502SA
56V brushless motor
15 inch cutting swath
0.095 inch dual line
Rapid-Reload head
Split shaft design
Variable speed
IPX4 weather resistant
5-year warranty
Pros
- Exceptional power through thick weeds
- Rapid-Reload head makes line changes simple
- Split shaft for compact storage
- 5-year tool warranty
- Variable speed control
Cons
- Auto feed can be inconsistent
- Requires occasional tapping
- Charger fan is noisy during use
- Battery adds weight to one side
The EGO Power+ ST1502SA is the sibling of the ST1511T and shares the same 56V brushless motor platform. The key difference is that this model uses a Rapid-Reload head instead of the POWERLOAD system. You manually thread the line through the head openings, but the process is straightforward and much faster than traditional bump-feed spool systems.
I found the cutting performance identical to the ST1511T. The 15-inch swath with 0.095-inch dual-line spiral twist handles dense grass and weeds without hesitation. The split shaft design is a feature I personally love because it makes storage in my cramped garage much easier. The shaft separates into two pieces in seconds.
The included 2.5Ah battery charges from zero to full in about 50 minutes thanks to the fan-cooled charging system. I consistently got 35 to 45 minutes of trimming time depending on how thick the vegetation was. The variable speed control is genuinely useful for extending battery life during lighter tasks.
One thing to note is that the auto-feed system requires an occasional tap to advance the line. Some users report inconsistent feeding, but I found that keeping the head clean and using the OEM line resolved most issues. This is a common theme across all string trimmers, not just this one.
Who This Trimmer Is Built For
The ST1502SA is perfect for homeowners who want EGO-level power and durability but do not need the POWERLOAD feature. If you do not mind manually threading line through the Rapid-Reload head every few weeks, you get the same cutting performance at a lower price point. The split shaft makes this especially appealing for anyone with limited storage space.
This is also a smart pick if you want to start building an EGO battery ecosystem. The 56V battery works with EGO mowers, blowers, chainsaws, and hedge trimmers, which adds tremendous long-term value.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If loading string is your least favorite part of trimming, spend the extra money on the ST1511T with POWERLOAD. The Rapid-Reload system is good, but it still requires manual threading that the POWERLOAD eliminates entirely.
The 4.2-star rating is slightly lower than the ST1511T, largely due to auto-feed complaints. If you want a completely maintenance-free line system, look at the WORX models with Command Feed technology instead.
3. WORX WG163 12 inch Cordless Trimmer and Edger
WORX Cordless String Trimmer & Lawn Edger, 12" Electric Weed Wacker with Command Feed, 20V Weed Eater with 5.5 LBS, 2 Batteries & Charger Included, WG163
20V motor
12 inch cutting swath
0.065 inch line
2-in-1 trimmer and edger
5.5 lbs
2 batteries included
Command Feed system
7600 RPM
Pros
- Lightweight at only 5.5 pounds
- Includes 2 batteries and charger
- Converts to wheeled edger instantly
- Command Feed push-button line feeding
- 90 degree head tilt for slopes
- Power Share battery works with 75+ WORX tools
Cons
- Small batteries drain quickly
- Charger takes several hours
- No height adjustment
- Not for heavy overgrowth
The WORX WG163 is the trimmer I recommend more than any other for typical suburban homeowners. At 5.5 pounds, it is light enough that anyone in the family can use it without strain. The 2-in-1 design converts from trimmer to wheeled edger in seconds, which means you get two tools in one compact package.
The Command Feed system is WORX’s answer to the line-loading problem. Instead of bumping the head on the ground or manually threading string, you push a button and the line feeds automatically. I found this system reliable and convenient, especially when working along fence lines and flower beds.
What makes this the best value pick is that WORX includes two batteries and a charger in the box. Most competitors at this price point give you a single battery. Having a backup means you can swap batteries mid-job without waiting for a recharge. The 12-inch cutting swath is narrower than the EGO models, but it is perfectly adequate for standard residential yards.
The Power Share battery system is where the long-term value really shines. That same 20V battery works with over 75 WORX tools, including their blowers, hedge trimmers, and drills. If you invest in the WORX ecosystem, you accumulate batteries that work across your entire tool collection.
Who This Trimmer Is Built For
This is the ideal trimmer for homeowners with small to medium yards who want a reliable, lightweight tool without spending premium money. If you primarily need to edge along sidewalks, trim around flower beds, and clean up fence lines, the WG163 handles all of that with ease. The included second battery makes this especially attractive.
It is also my top recommendation for anyone who already owns WORX Power Share tools. The battery compatibility means you are essentially getting a trimmer body, which is an incredible value.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you have a large property or regularly deal with thick, woody weeds, this trimmer will struggle. The 20V motor is designed for residential use, not heavy-duty clearing. The batteries are also relatively small capacity, so expect about 20 to 25 minutes of runtime per charge.
Users who need a wider cutting swath should consider the EGO models with their 15-inch coverage. The 12-inch swath on the WG163 means more passes to cover the same ground.
4. WORX WG170 GT Revolution 3-in-1 Cordless Trimmer
WORX 3 in 1 Cordless String Trimmer/Lawn Edger/Mini Mower, 12" Electric Weed Wacker with Command Feed, 20V Weed Eater with 5.5 LBS, 2 Batteries & Charger Included, WG170
20V motor
12 inch cutting swath
3-in-1 trimmer/edger/mini-mower
5.5 lbs
2 batteries included
7 handle adjustments
6 rotating head settings
Command Feed
Pros
- Three tools in one package
- 7 handle and 6 head position adjustments
- Includes 2 batteries and 3 spools
- Command Feed push-button line system
- Longer shaft than previous WORX models
- Lightweight at 5.5 pounds
Cons
- Wheel mounting can loosen over time
- Batteries may degrade after 2-3 years
- Charger takes several hours
- Battery life varies between units
The WORX WG170 takes the WG163 platform and adds a third function. In addition to trimming and edging, this model works as a mini mower for small patches of grass. I tested the mini mower mode on a narrow strip between my driveway and sidewalk, and it actually cut the grass cleanly rather than just whipping it.
The adjustment options on this model are impressive. There are 7 handle positions and 6 rotating head settings, which means virtually anyone can find a comfortable working angle. I particularly appreciated the adjustable handle when switching between trimming overhead branches along a fence and edging at ground level.
Like the WG163, this model includes two batteries and a charger. WORX also throws in three trimmer spools, so you will not need to buy replacement line for a while. The Command Feed system works identically here, with push-button line advancement that eliminates bumping.
The shaft is a foot longer than previous WORX generations, which was a common complaint from taller users. I am over 6 feet tall and found the extended length comfortable without having to hunch. The build quality feels solid, though the edger wheel mounting mechanism has been known to loosen with extended use.
Who This Trimmer Is Built For
The WG170 is perfect for homeowners who want maximum versatility from a single tool. If you have a small yard where storing a separate mower, trimmer, and edger is not practical, the 3-in-1 design covers all three functions. The extensive adjustment options also make this the best choice for households where multiple people of different heights share the same trimmer.
This is also a great upgrade if you own an older WORX trimmer. The longer shaft, additional adjustments, and mini mower capability are meaningful improvements over earlier generations.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you already own the WG163, the upgrades may not justify the additional cost unless you specifically need the mini mower function. The core trimming and edging performance is nearly identical between the two models.
The mini mower mode works well for small strips of grass, but it cannot replace a real lawn mower. If you have anything beyond a tiny patch to mow, you will need a dedicated mower for that job.
5. Greenworks 40V Cordless Trimmer and Blower Combo Kit
Greenworks 40V Cordless Yard Tool Combo Kit with 2.0Ah Battery & Charger – 12" Auto Feed String Trimmer and 390 CFM Leaf Blower, Lightweight Design
40V system
12 inch auto-feed trimmer
390 CFM leaf blower
2.0Ah battery included
67dB quiet operation
8 lb balanced design
3-year warranty
7500 RPM
Pros
- Includes both trimmer and blower
- Quiet operation at 67 decibels
- 40V power handles thick weeds
- Balanced lightweight design
- 3-year manufacturer warranty
- Compatible with 8+ Greenworks 40V tools
Cons
- Auto-feed requires manual stopping
- Battery lasts 40 minutes under heavy use
- Blower could use more power
- Charger may fail over time
The Greenworks 40V combo kit is the smartest purchase if you need both a trimmer and a blower. Buying these tools as a kit saves significant money compared to purchasing them separately, and you get a shared battery platform. The 40V motor is a step up from the 20V options on this list, which translates to more cutting power in thick grass.
I tested the trimmer on a section of my yard that had not been maintained for several weeks. The 12-inch auto-feed head with 0.065-inch line cut through the overgrowth without stalling. At 7500 RPM, this trimmer spins fast enough to handle most residential weed problems. The 8-pound balanced design made it comfortable to maneuver around trees and garden borders.
The included leaf blower produces 110 MPH and 390 CFM, which is plenty for clearing grass clippings, leaves, and light debris from driveways and patios. The 67-decibel operation is notably quieter than gas blowers, which my neighbors definitely appreciated during early morning yard sessions.
The 2.0Ah battery takes about 60 minutes to fully charge and gives you roughly 30 to 40 minutes of runtime under typical conditions. One thing I noticed is that the auto-feed system does not always advance line reliably. I had to stop and manually pull line on a few occasions, which is a known issue mentioned by other users.
Who This Combo Kit Is Built For
This kit is ideal for homeowners who need to outfit their garage with essential yard tools without buying individual products. If you do not already own a trimmer or a blower, this combo gives you both for less than the cost of a single premium EGO trimmer. The 40V power level is suitable for medium yards with moderate weed pressure.
It is also worth considering if you want a quieter alternative to gas tools. At 67 decibels, this is one of the quietest powered trimmers I have tested. You can use it early in the morning without disturbing the neighborhood.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you already own a leaf blower you are happy with, the combo value diminishes. In that case, a dedicated trimmer like the EGO or WORX models gives you more features for the money. The auto-feed reliability issues are also worth noting if you want a completely hands-off line feeding experience.
The Greenworks 40V battery is not compatible with their 80V lineup, so if you plan to upgrade to higher-voltage tools later, factor that into your decision. The proprietary battery concern is real, as users on forums have pointed out.
6. BLACK+DECKER LST522 20V MAX 12 inch Trimmer and Edger
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 12 Inch Weed Eater Cordless String Trimmer and Wheeled Edger Lawn Tool with Spool, 2.5Ah Battery and Charger Included, Lightweight, 2 Speed PowerDrive (LST522)
20V motor
12 inch cutting swath
2-speed PowerDrive
AFS automatic line feed
5.7 lbs
2.5Ah battery included
Wheeled edger conversion
2-year warranty
Pros
- AFS automatic line advancement system
- Dual speed control for power or runtime
- 66 percent more runtime than standard battery
- PowerDrive Transmission for dense growth
- Adjustable height and handle settings
- Compatible with BLACK+DECKER 20V tools
Cons
- Switch mechanism may fail over time
- Slow charger included
- Some auto-feed issues reported
The BLACK+DECKER LST522 is one of the highest-rated budget trimmers on the market, and for good reason. The AFS automatic line advancement system dispenses trimmer line without any bumping or button-pushing. This is the closest thing to a set-it-and-forget-it line system at this price point.
I tested both speed settings extensively. The high-speed mode delivers maximum cutting power for thick weeds, while the low-speed mode extends battery runtime for lighter trimming tasks. The PowerDrive Transmission boosts torque, which helps the trimmer power through dense growth without stalling. I was genuinely surprised by how well this budget model handled patches of crabgrass.
The 2.5Ah battery offers 66 percent more runtime than BLACK+DECKER’s standard battery, which translates to about 30 minutes of continuous use. The battery is compatible with the entire BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX system, so if you already own their drills or other tools, this trimmer uses the same power source.
The wheeled edger conversion is quick and easy. You flip the head 180 degrees, deploy the guide wheel, and you have a dedicated edging tool for sidewalks and driveway borders. The adjustable height and handle settings accommodate different user heights and preferences, which is not always standard at this price.
Who This Trimmer Is Built For
This is the best electric string trimmer for budget-conscious homeowners who want reliable performance without paying premium prices. The 4.5-star rating with over 6,400 reviews tells you that real users are satisfied with this tool. If you have a small to medium yard and need basic trimming and edging capability, the LST522 delivers everything you need.
It is also my top pick for first-time trimmer buyers. The controls are intuitive, the weight is manageable at 5.7 pounds, and the 2-year warranty provides peace of mind.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
The most common complaint about this trimmer is switch mechanism failure over time. Several long-term users report that the power switch stops working after a year or two of regular use. If you plan to use your trimmer heavily, you may want to invest in a more durable option like the EGO models.
The included charger is also notably slow. If you want faster recharge times, you will need to purchase an upgraded charger separately, which adds to the overall cost.
7. BLACK+DECKER BESTA510 14 inch Corded Electric Trimmer
BLACK+DECKER Weed Wacker with Auto Feed, 14-Inch 2 in 1 String Trimmer Lawn Edger, Powerful 6.5-Amp Lightweight Electric Weed Eater (BESTA510)
6.5 amp motor
14 inch cutting swath
8000 RPM
Corded electric
Auto feed spool
6.3 lbs
2-in-1 trimmer and edger
PowerDrive Transmission
Pros
- Unlimited runtime with corded power
- 6.5 amp motor handles tough growth
- 14 inch swath covers ground fast
- Automatic feed spool technology
- Cord retention system prevents disconnects
- Excellent value at budget price
Cons
- Extension cord required
- Cord can be inconvenient
- No height adjustment
- Auto feed dispenses line quickly in heavy use
The BLACK+DECKER BESTA510 is the only corded trimmer in this roundup, and it earns its spot for one simple reason. When you have unlimited power from an outlet, you never worry about battery life. The 6.5-amp motor delivers consistent cutting power that battery models simply cannot match at this price point.
I tested this trimmer on a friend’s property where an outlet was conveniently located near the yard. The 14-inch cutting swath is wider than most battery-powered models in this price range, which means fewer passes to finish the job. At 8000 RPM, this trimmer spins fast and cuts clean.
The automatic feed spool technology eliminates bumping, which is a feature I always appreciate. The cord retention system is a thoughtful touch that prevents your extension cord from disconnecting mid-trim. The 2-in-1 design converts to a wheeled edger, giving you sidewalk and driveway edging capability without buying a separate tool.
The main trade-off is obvious. You are tethered to an extension cord, which limits your range and can be annoying to manage around trees and garden obstacles. For yards within 100 feet of an outdoor outlet, this is a non-issue. For larger properties, the cord becomes a genuine limitation.
Who This Trimmer Is Built For
This is the perfect trimmer for homeowners with small to medium yards who have convenient access to outdoor electrical outlets. If you hate dealing with battery charging, degradation, and replacement costs, a corded trimmer eliminates all of those concerns. The 6.5-amp motor provides more than enough power for typical residential trimming.
It is also the most affordable option on this list. If you are on a tight budget and want maximum cutting performance per dollar, the BESTA510 is hard to beat.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If your yard is large or extends beyond the reach of a 100-foot extension cord, this trimmer will frustrate you. Managing a long extension cord around trees, fences, and garden beds gets old quickly. You also need to purchase a heavy-duty outdoor extension cord separately, which adds to the total cost.
The lack of height adjustment is a drawback for taller users. At 6 foot 1, I found myself bending slightly when using this trimmer, which caused back fatigue after about 20 minutes.
8. WORX WG154 20V 10 inch Lightweight Cordless Trimmer
Worx Cordless String Trimmer & Lawn Edger
20V motor
10 inch cutting swath
4.2 lbs total weight
Auto-feed line system
2-in-1 trimmer and edger
Power Share compatible
1 battery included
Pros
- Ultra lightweight at only 4.2 pounds
- Easiest trimmer to maneuver
- Auto-feed line system
- Converts to edger with rotating head
- Battery works with 75+ WORX tools
- Flower guard protects plants
Cons
- Not adjustable in length
- Handle grip is not adjustable
- No edging wheel included
- Battery life limited for larger yards
- Only one battery included
The WORX WG154 is the lightest trimmer in this roundup at just 4.2 pounds. I handed this trimmer to my elderly mother, who has arthritis in her hands, and she was able to use it comfortably for 15 minutes without strain. That alone makes it worth considering for anyone who finds standard trimmers too heavy.
The 10-inch cutting swath is narrower than most other models here, but that is the trade-off for the ultra-light weight. For small yards, patio areas, and spot trimming around garden beds, the 10-inch width is perfectly adequate. The rotating head converts from trimmer to edger by turning 180 degrees, which is quick and tool-free.
The auto-feed system advances line automatically when you start the trimmer, so there is no bumping or button-pushing required. The flower guard is an adjustable spacer that prevents the trimmer line from damaging plants and ornaments, which I found genuinely useful when working around my wife’s flower beds.
The included 20V battery is compatible with the WORX Power Share family, which includes over 75 tools. If you already own WORX tools, you can use your existing batteries and charger with this trimmer, making it an even better value.
Who This Trimmer Is Built For
This is the best electric string trimmer for seniors, anyone with limited upper-body strength, and homeowners with very small yards. At 4.2 pounds, it is lighter than a gallon of milk. If physical strain is your primary concern when choosing a trimmer, the WG154 solves that problem completely.
It is also an excellent spot-trimmer to keep alongside a larger primary trimmer. I know several homeowners who use a heavy-duty EGO for the main yard and keep a WG154 for quick touch-ups around the mailbox and walkways.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
The 10-inch cutting swath and single battery make this unsuitable for medium or large yards. You will spend significantly more time trimming compared to models with wider swaths, and the single battery limits your runtime. There is no height adjustment, which is a problem for taller users.
If you need serious cutting power for thick weeds or overgrowth, the 20V motor on this trimmer will struggle. This is a light-duty tool designed for maintenance trimming, not heavy clearing work.
How to Choose the Best Electric String Trimmer?
Choosing the right electric string trimmer comes down to understanding your specific yard and your physical needs. I have broken down the key factors below based on my testing experience and the common questions I see in homeowner forums.
Battery Voltage and Power Output
Voltage directly determines cutting power. The 20V trimmers from WORX and BLACK+DECKER are designed for light to medium residential use. They handle grass and light weeds well but struggle with thick, woody growth. The 40V Greenworks and 56V EGO models deliver gas-comparable performance and can power through dense vegetation without stalling.
If your yard has areas of heavy overgrowth or you regularly neglect trimming for weeks at a time, invest in a 40V or higher system. The extra power prevents the frustrating experience of the trimmer bogging down every time you hit a patch of thick weeds.
Cutting Swath Width
Cutting swath is the width of grass the trimmer cuts in a single pass. Wider swaths mean fewer passes and faster job completion. The EGO models feature a 15-inch swath, which is about 50 percent wider than the 10-inch WORX WG154. For larger yards, that difference adds up to significant time savings.
The trade-off is that wider swaths require more power and typically mean heavier trimmers. If you have a small yard, a 10 to 12-inch swath is plenty. For properties over a quarter acre, look for 14 inches or wider.
Line Diameter and Feeding System
Trimmer line comes in different thicknesses, typically ranging from 0.065 to 0.095 inches. Thicker line cuts heavier growth but requires more motor power to spin. The EGO models use 0.095-inch dual-line spiral twist, which is professional-grade and handles anything residential yards throw at it.
The feeding system matters more than most people realize. I have spent countless hours fighting with manual bump-feed heads that jam, tangle, or refuse to advance line. The EGO POWERLOAD system and WORX Command Feed are the two best solutions I have tested. Both eliminate the frustration of manual line loading.
Weight and Ergonomics
Weight directly affects how long you can trim comfortably. The WORX WG154 at 4.2 pounds is the lightest option, while the EGO ST1511T at 10.27 pounds is the heaviest. If you have physical limitations or simply want a tool you can use for 30 minutes without fatigue, prioritize lighter models.
Adjustable handles and telescopic shafts are features worth paying for if multiple people use the trimmer. The EGO ST1511T and WORX WG170 both offer extensive adjustment options that accommodate different heights and working angles.
Battery Ecosystem Value
This is the factor that most buyers overlook and most forum users eventually care about. When you buy a trimmer, you are also investing in a battery platform. The EGO 56V system, WORX Power Share 20V system, and Greenworks 40V system all offer multiple tools that share batteries.
If you plan to buy a leaf blower, hedge trimmer, or chainsaw in the future, choose a brand whose battery ecosystem covers those tools. This strategy saves hundreds of dollars over time since you avoid buying redundant batteries and chargers with each new tool.
Runtime and Charging Speed
Runtime varies significantly between models. The EGO ST1511T delivers up to 45 minutes per charge, while the WORX WG154 may only last 15 to 20 minutes. For larger yards, either choose a model with longer runtime or buy a trimmer that includes multiple batteries.
Charging speed matters almost as much as runtime. The EGO fan-cooled charger refills a depleted battery in about 50 minutes. Some budget chargers take 3 to 5 hours, which effectively ends your trimming session if you run out of power mid-job.
FAQs
Who makes the best electric string trimmers?
EGO Power+ currently makes the best electric string trimmers, with their ST1511T model featuring POWERLOAD technology earning the top spot in our testing. WORX and BLACK+DECKER also produce excellent budget and mid-range options that deliver strong value for typical homeowners.
What string trimmer do professionals use?
Professional landscapers typically use gas-powered models from Stihl and Echo for heavy daily use. However, battery-powered professional trimmers like the EGO Power+ 56V lineup and Milwaukee M18 Fuel are increasingly replacing gas models on job sites due to lower noise and zero emissions.
How long do battery string trimmers last on a single charge?
Runtime varies by model and battery capacity. The EGO Power+ ST1511T delivers up to 45 minutes per charge, while 20V budget models like the WORX WG154 typically last 15 to 25 minutes. Heavy cutting through thick weeds drains batteries faster than light edging work.
Can battery-powered trimmers really replace gas models?
Yes, modern 40V and 56V battery trimmers match or exceed gas trimmer performance for residential use. The EGO Power+ line delivers gas-comparable cutting power without the maintenance, noise, and emissions of gas engines. For typical homeowner needs, battery trimmers are a fully viable gas replacement.
What is the easiest string trimmer to load line into?
The EGO Power+ ST1511T with POWERLOAD technology is the easiest trimmer to load. You simply feed the line through the head and press a button, and the trimmer winds the string automatically. The WORX Command Feed system is the second-easiest option, using a push-button line advancement system.
Final Thoughts on the Best Electric String Trimmers
After three months of hands-on testing, the EGO Power+ ST1511T remains my top pick for the best electric string trimmer in 2026. The POWERLOAD technology alone is worth the premium price if you hate loading string as much as I do. For homeowners who want a more affordable option, the WORX WG163 delivers excellent value with its lightweight design, included second battery, and proven Command Feed system.
The most important advice I can give is to think beyond the trimmer itself. Consider the battery ecosystem you are buying into, because that decision affects every future tool purchase. Whether you choose EGO, WORX, Greenworks, or BLACK+DECKER, investing in a cohesive battery platform will save you money and frustration for years to come.
Pick the trimmer that matches your yard size, physical needs, and budget. Any of the eight models on this list will serve you well for years of reliable yard maintenance.