Best String Trimmers: Top Picks for Cordless, Corded, and Gas Models

A string trimmer (weed whacker) is essential for clean edges, tight corners, and areas mowers can't reach. The right choice depends on yard size, vegetation type, and your tolerance for noise, weight, and maintenance. This guide breaks down the best models in each power category based on performance, ergonomics, and value.

Quick Comparison: Power Source Trade-offs

Type	Best For	Pros	Cons
Cordless Electric	Small–medium yards, light weeds	Quiet, no cord, low maintenance, lightweight	Limited runtime (20–45 min), less power
Corded Electric	Small–medium yards, outlet access	Unlimited runtime, light, quiet, cheap	Cord management, limited reach
Gas (2-stroke/4-stroke)	Large yards, thick weeds, brush	Max power, unlimited range, versatile attachments	Heavy, loud, maintenance, emissions

Top Cordless Electric Trimmers

Black+Decker LST136 (40V Max) – Best Overall Value

Replaces older NST2018 (18V NiCd). Lithium-ion battery delivers consistent power, 30–45 min runtime. 13″ cut swath, auto-feed spool, PowerDrive transmission for torque. Telescoping shaft, edger conversion. ~$130 with battery/charger. Excellent for average suburban lawns.

Ego Power+ ST1511T (56V) – Premium Performance

15″ cut, 0.095″ line, brushless motor, variable speed trigger. 45–60 min with 2.5 Ah battery. Weather-resistant construction. ~$180 tool-only; ~$280 with 2.5 Ah kit. Top-tier power rivals gas for residential use.

Greenworks 40V 21312 – Budget-Friendly

13″ cut, bump-feed head, 30 min runtime. ~$100 with 2 Ah battery. Good for light duty; line feed can be finicky.

Top Corded Electric Trimmers

Stihl FSE 60 – Best Corded Performance

5.5-amp motor, 14″ cut, straight shaft, excellent balance. Built like a pro tool. Quiet, durable, handles tall grass well. Requires 12–14 gauge extension cord. ~$160. No battery hassle; just plug and go.

Troy-Bilt TB50 (TB525 EC) – Best Budget Corded

4.5-amp, 15″ dual-line, adjustable handle, edger conversion. ~$60. Light, decent power for price. Cord retention clip helps. Not for heavy daily use.

Black+Decker ST8600 – Lightweight Option

6.5-amp, 14″ cut, auto-feed, 6.5 lbs. ~$50. Good for small yards; auto-feed wastes line.

Top Gas Trimmers

Husqvarna 128LD – Best All-Around Gas Trimmer

28cc 2-stroke, 17″ cut, detachable shaft (accepts edger, cultivator, pole saw attachments). Smart Start®, air purge, T25 tap-advance head. ~$220. Pro-grade feel at consumer price.

Stihl FS 40 C-E – Premium Homeowner Gas

27.2cc 2-stroke, Easy2Start™, 16.5″ cut, 10.1 lbs. Exceptional build, low vibration, great dealer support. ~$250. Worth it for reliability.

Craftsman CMXGTAMD30SA (30cc 4-stroke) – Low-Maintenance Gas

No fuel mixing, quieter, lower emissions. 17″ cut, bump-feed, accepts attachments. ~$230. Heavier (14 lbs) but cleaner operation.

Key Features to Evaluate

• Shaft style: Straight shaft = better reach, attachment compatibility. Curved = lighter, better for close work.
• Line feed: Bump-feed (tap head) > auto-feed (wastes line) > fixed-line (load individual pieces).
• Line diameter: 0.080″ light; 0.095″ standard; 0.105″+ heavy brush.
• Weight & balance: Test before buying—balance matters more than spec sheet weight.
• Attachment system: Only straight-shaft gas and some high-end battery trimmers support edgers, cultivators, pole saws.

Safety Non-Negotiables

• Eye protection (ANSI Z87.1) – always
• Long pants, closed-toe shoes, hearing protection (gas)
• Clear area of rocks, wire, toys, pets
• Never remove guard or use metal blades on line trimmer
• Keep power cord behind you (corded); watch battery temp (cordless)

Match the tool to your actual needs—most homeowners overbuy on gas power they'll rarely use. A quality 40V+ cordless or a Stihl corded covers 80% of residential tasks with far less hassle.