ConsFirst / String trimmers
String trimmers: the downsides, first
Every string trimmer we compared draws some durability or reliability complaints, and line that won't feed, short runtimes and heavy builds each come up for four. Cheaper cordless trimmers trade power for price. Here are the most popular string trimmers in the US, with their downsides first.
8 models compared15 sources readUpdated October 2026
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All 8 string trimmers, ranked
Ranked by test scores, minus how common and serious the complaints are. How we rank
#1
EGO
$$CordlessScore 4.4/5
10%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)Small sample (856 ratings). This is the tool-only ST1510T listing; the ST1511T kit adds a battery and charger.Wirecutter's top pick: it cut through 1-inch knotweed, ran far longer than rivals, and loads new line at the push of a button. It weighs a little over 10 lb. Amazon owners report mixed durability, and some say the line won't feed out.
In the box: Yes in the ST1511T kit: a 56V battery and charger (Wirecutter says the charger fills the battery in about 40 minutes). The ST1510T on Amazon is tool only.
Top complaints
- Mixed durabilityMentioned often
Durability gets mixed feedback in Amazon's review summary, and some owners say it broke during use. Wirecutter's test unit tore its foam front-handle padding after two years.
- Line sometimes won't come outMentioned often
Amazon's summary flags 'cord removal' as a problem: some owners can't get the string to come out of the head.
- On the heavy sideMentioned often
A little over 10 lb, not the lightest Wirecutter tested. Weight is mixed on Amazon: some call it light, others heavy.
What owners love
- Top cutting power
Wirecutter says no other trimmer it tested topped its cutting strength; it cut 1-inch Japanese knotweed stalks like grass. Amazon owners say it powers through thick grass.
- Long runtime
An earlier version cleared about 3,400 sq ft of dense growth on one charge in Wirecutter's test, against about 2,100 sq ft for the next-best trimmer. Amazon owners rate battery life highly.
- Push-button line loading
Wirecutter calls POWERLOAD the easiest line-load system it has used: new line winds in within seconds. It uses a bump feed and the spool holds about 16 feet. Amazon owners praise the self-loading.
Skip it if…- You want a very light trimmer
- You have only a tiny yard
- You don't want to buy into EGO's 56V batteries
Good for- Medium to large yards and overgrown areas
- Hating to rewind trimmer line
- Users of different heights (telescoping shaft)
Scores (tap for why)
- Cutting power5.0
Why 5.0?
Wirecutter: none of the others topped its cutting strength (1-inch knotweed); power is an Amazon positive. - Runtime5.0
Why 5.0?
Cut about 60% more area per charge than the next-best trimmer in Wirecutter's test; battery life is an Amazon positive. - Line feeding & reloading4.5
Why 4.5?
Easiest line loading Wirecutter has used, plus a reliable bump feed; some Amazon owners can't get the line to come out. - Weight & balance4.0
Why 4.0?
A little over 10 lb but well balanced, with a telescoping shaft and quick handle adjustment (Wirecutter); weight is mixed on Amazon. - Durability3.5
Why 3.5?
Build quality is praised on Amazon, but durability is mixed; the foam handle tore after two years (Wirecutter).
What experts say
- Wirecutter (NYT): Top pick: unmatched mix of power, runtime, ergonomics and easy line loading, and one of the quietest it tested. The foam handle padding can tear.
#2
Husqvarna
$$GasScore 3.6/5
10%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)Popular Mechanics' best gas trimmer: about 12 lb fueled, lighter than most gas models, nimble and powerful. Amazon owners say it starts easily, but reliability is a common complaint (some units won't stay running). Gas means fuel mixing, noise and maintenance, and Wirecutter no longer recommends gas trimmers.
In the box: Not applicable: 2-cycle gas engine (50:1 fuel mix). Popular Mechanics says it comes with enough oil to mix one gallon of gas.
Top complaints
- Reliability problemsVery common
Reliability is mixed in Amazon's summary and is the most-mentioned aspect: some units work well out of the box, others won't stay running. Durability is also mixed, with one report of a break after 3 hours.
- Gas hasslesMentioned often
It needs a 50:1 oil-and-gas mix (Popular Mechanics). Gas trimmers are louder and need more maintenance, and Wirecutter no longer recommends them for homeowners.
- Auxiliary grip can loosenOccasional
Popular Mechanics' auxiliary grip shook loose more than once; it tightens back with a wing nut.
What owners love
- Easy starting
Amazon owners say it consistently starts within the first few pulls.
- Powerful for its weight
Popular Mechanics calls it nimble and says it 'packs a punch.' Amazon owners say it handles thick grass and weeds.
- Light for a gas trimmer, visible tank
12 lb with a full tank, lighter than most gas trimmers. The fuel tank is visible while you work, so you don't run out by surprise (Popular Mechanics).
Skip it if…- You want low noise and no fumes
- You don't want to mix fuel or maintain an engine
- Your area restricts gas lawn equipment
Good for- Properties of an acre or more
- Unlimited runtime (refuel in minutes)
- Buyers who prefer gas engines
Scores (tap for why)
- Cutting power4.0
Why 4.0?
Significant power for its size (Popular Mechanics); handles thick grass and weeds (Amazon). - Runtime4.0
Why 4.0?
Gas runs as long as you have fuel and refills in minutes (Popular Mechanics' general guidance); the visible tank shows fuel level. - Weight & balance3.5
Why 3.5?
12 lb fueled, lighter than most gas trimmers, with good balance (Popular Mechanics); weight is mixed on Amazon. - Durability3.0
Why 3.0?
Reliability and durability are mixed on Amazon; some units won't stay running.
What experts say
- Popular Mechanics (best string trimmers): Best gas-powered trimmer: an excellent entry to gas tools, light, well balanced and strong; the auxiliary grip shook loose at times.
- Wirecutter (NYT): Wirecutter no longer recommends any gas trimmer, saying cordless models are quieter, need little maintenance and are strong enough for homeowners. It did not test the 122L specifically.
#3
EGO
$$$CordlessScore 3.6/5
14%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)Small sample (460 ratings). This is the tool-only ST1620T listing.Pro Tool Reviews' best homeowner trimmer and Popular Mechanics' most user-friendly pick: it feeds out line automatically and rewinds new line at the push of a button. Wirecutter found the auto-feed didn't always keep the full 16-inch length. It's heavy with the battery and pricey.
In the box: Yes in the ST1623T kit: a 56V battery and charger (Pro Tool Reviews weighed it with a 5.0Ah battery; Popular Mechanics lists 4Ah). The ST1620T on Amazon is tool only.
Top complaints
- Auto-feed isn't always reliableMentioned often
Wirecutter had trouble with Line IQ, which didn't always keep the advertised 16-inch length. Line feed is a mixed aspect on Amazon, and some owners report line breaks.
- Heavy with the batteryMentioned often
Popular Mechanics lists the large battery's weight as its only con (11 lb). Pro Tool Reviews measured 12.5 lb with a 5Ah battery.
- Mixed durability and valueMentioned often
Durability and value for money are mixed in Amazon's summary. Pro Tool Reviews suggests other models for entry- to mid-level budgets.
What owners love
- Automatic feed and one-button reloading
Line IQ feeds out line as it wears, and pressing a rewind button winds new line into the head in seconds. A newcomer picked it up right away in Popular Mechanics' testing. Amazon owners like the auto-load.
- Strong cutting power
Excellent cutting performance (Pro Tool Reviews); enough power for the thickest undergrowth, with a two-speed switch for delicate areas (Popular Mechanics). One Amazon owner says it cut 12-inch weeds on low.
- Low vibration, carbon-fiber shaft
Pro Tool Reviews calls its vibration control outstanding. The telescoping carbon-fiber shaft helps offset the battery weight (Popular Mechanics).
Skip it if…- You're on a budget
- You want a light trimmer
- You want to use line other than 0.095 inch
Good for- Beginners who find line feeding a hassle
- Strong cutting with low vibration
- Owners of EGO 56V batteries
Scores (tap for why)
- Cutting power4.5
Why 4.5?
Excellent cutting performance (PTR) and enough power for the thickest undergrowth (Popular Mechanics). - Runtime4.0
Why 4.0?
Amazon owners call battery life impressive; no expert runtime test was found. - Line feeding & reloading3.5
Why 3.5?
Automatic feed and push-button reloading are praised by PTR and Popular Mechanics, but Wirecutter found the auto-feed unreliable and Amazon reviews are mixed. - Weight & balance3.0
Why 3.0?
Outstanding vibration control and a carbon shaft (PTR), but 11-12.5 lb with the battery; Popular Mechanics lists weight as a con. - Durability3.0
Why 3.0?
Durability is mixed on Amazon.
What experts say
- Pro Tool Reviews (best string trimmers): Best for homeowners: 'the best string trimmer homeowners can currently buy,' with excellent performance and convenient line handling; not for tight budgets.
- Popular Mechanics (best string trimmers): Most user-friendly: automatic feed and one-button reloading with ample power; the large battery makes it heavy.
- Wirecutter (NYT): Not a pick: like its runner-up but with auto-feed, which gave Wirecutter trouble and didn't always keep the 16-inch length.
#4
Worx
$CordlessScore 3.4/5
8%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)A light (about 5.5-6 lb), very adjustable trimmer that converts to an edger and mini mower, picked by Wirecutter, Bob Vila and Popular Mechanics for small lawns. It's weak in thick weeds, gives about 20 minutes per battery, and uses proprietary spools.
In the box: Yes: 2 x 20V 2.0Ah batteries and charger in the WG170 kit (Amazon listing title; Bob Vila)
Top complaints
- Weak in thick weedsVery common
Wirecutter says it struggled with thicker, stalky weeds and is 'nowhere near as powerful' as its full-size picks. Bob Vila found it less effective on overgrown grass and coarse weeds. Power is mixed on Amazon.
- Short runtime and battery complaintsVery common
About 20 minutes per 2.0Ah battery in Wirecutter's test; Bob Vila lists limited runtime and long recharges as cons. Amazon owners report slow charging and batteries that fail.
- Mixed durability, proprietary spoolsMentioned often
Durability is mixed on Amazon: some units last two years, others fall apart within two months. It uses proprietary pre-loaded spools that may be hard to find (Wirecutter).
What owners love
- Light and very adjustable
5.5 lb (Bob Vila) to 6.19 lb (Popular Mechanics). Wirecutter says the pivoting head, telescoping shaft and pivoting handle let a 6-foot-5 tester stand straight. Weight is an Amazon positive.
- Trimmer, edger and mini mower
Removable wheels convert it to an edger or small mower. Both Wirecutter and Popular Mechanics found the edger works well, though mower mode gives uneven results.
- Quiet, quick line handling, good value
Quieter than its light-duty rivals (Wirecutter). Spools drop in quickly and Popular Mechanics' kit came with two extras. Amazon owners call it well worth the money.
Skip it if…- You have thick weeds or overgrowth
- You need long sessions
- You don't want to buy proprietary spools
Good for- Small lawns and light trimming
- Users who want a light, adjustable trimmer
- Edging walkways (wheeled edger mode)
Scores (tap for why)
- Cutting power2.5
Why 2.5?
Fine on grass but struggles with thick, stalky weeds (Wirecutter, Bob Vila); power is mixed on Amazon. - Runtime3.0
Why 3.0?
About 20 minutes per 2.0Ah battery (Wirecutter), with a second battery in the kit; Bob Vila calls runtime limited. - Line feeding & reloading3.5
Why 3.5?
Automatic feed with a quick cut-off and drop-in spools (Wirecutter), but the spools are proprietary. - Weight & balance5.0
Why 5.0?
One of the lightest tested and the most adjustable (pivoting head, telescoping shaft). - Durability3.0
Why 3.0?
Durability is mixed on Amazon.
What experts say
- Wirecutter (NYT): Best for small lawns: great ergonomics, quiet and light, but not for thick weeds or long sessions, and it uses proprietary spools.
- Popular Mechanics (best string trimmers): Best budget trimmer for small yards: light, compact, three modes and extra spools included; single speed.
- Bob Vila (best string trimmers): Best lightweight: very light and budget-friendly with a spare battery, but limited runtime and weak on coarse weeds.
#5
Milwaukee
$$CordlessScore 3.4/5
13%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)Small sample (171 ratings). This is the tool-only 2828-20 listing.Milwaukee's entry trimmer: a very easy-load head, two speeds and enough power for overgrown weeds. Popular Mechanics recommends it mainly to people already on M18 batteries. Wirecutter found it less powerful and heavier than the EGO models.
In the box: Yes in the 2828-21 kit: M18 6.0Ah battery and charger (Popular Mechanics). The 2828-20 on Amazon is tool only.
Top complaints
- Pricey for what it isMentioned often
Popular Mechanics lists 'more expensive than similar models from other brands' as its con. Wirecutter calls it pricey at $250.
- Less power, more weight than EGOMentioned often
Wirecutter says its 18V battery doesn't give it the power of the EGO or Husqvarna trimmers, and it's heavier than the EGO models even with a smaller battery.
- Mixed durabilityMentioned often
Durability and value are mixed in Amazon's summary; some owners report it breaking after minimal use.
What owners love
- Easy-load head
Line up the marks, feed string straight through and wind it in. Popular Mechanics says it is 'really easy to load.'
- Handles overgrown weeds
It cut overgrown weeds as well as routine edges (Popular Mechanics). An Amazon owner says it can cut down small trees.
- Good runtime on M18 batteries
A little over half an hour of trimming around Popular Mechanics' yard with the 6Ah battery. Battery life is an Amazon positive.
Skip it if…- You don't own M18 batteries
- You want maximum power
- You want a light trimmer
Good for- Owners of Milwaukee M18 batteries (buy the tool only)
- Easy line reloading
- Routine edge trimming
Scores (tap for why)
- Cutting power3.5
Why 3.5?
Cuts overgrown weeds (Popular Mechanics), but Wirecutter says 18V gives it less power than EGO or Husqvarna. - Runtime3.5
Why 3.5?
A little over 30 minutes of yard trimming on a 6Ah battery (Popular Mechanics); battery life is an Amazon positive. - Line feeding & reloading4.0
Why 4.0?
Easy-load head: feed line straight through and wind (Popular Mechanics). - Weight & balance3.0
Why 3.0?
Heavier than the EGO models even with a smaller battery (Wirecutter). - Durability3.0
Why 3.0?
Durability is mixed on Amazon (small sample).
What experts say
- Popular Mechanics (Milwaukee M18 2828 review): Good for Milwaukee users: a basic trimmer with an easy-load head and two speeds that 'does exactly what it's designed to do'; pricier than rivals.
- Wirecutter (NYT): Not a pick: nice, but less powerful and heavier than the EGO trimmers; the roughly $180 bare tool suits existing M18 owners.
#6
Husqvarna
$$$CordlessScore 3.5/5
21%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)Small sample (343 ratings).Wirecutter's upgrade pick: as powerful as the EGO trimmers, nicely balanced, with a turbo button and a head that reverses direction. Line loading is manual, the shaft doesn't telescope, and Amazon owners report mixed battery life and reliability.
In the box: Yes: 4Ah battery and charger (Amazon listing title)
Top complaints
- Mixed reliability and battery lifeVery common
Reliability and battery life are mixed aspects in Amazon's summary; some owners say it stops working after about 15 minutes.
- Manual line loadingMentioned often
There's no auto-loading: you feed line through the head and wind it in by hand. Wirecutter says it works and is quick, but lacks the EGO's one-button ease.
- No telescoping shaft, mixed valueMentioned often
The shaft is fixed, so it may be unwieldy for shorter users (Wirecutter). Some Amazon owners call it an expensive waste of money.
What owners love
- EGO-level power
The only trimmer Wirecutter tested that rivaled its EGO pick in power; it cut thick knotweed stalks and only bogged down a bit in extremely dense grass. Amazon owners praise its power.
- Great balance and finish
Wirecutter liked its feel, smooth trigger and fit and finish, and weighed it at 10 lb. Amazon owners call it well built and lightweight.
- Reversible head and boost
A button reverses head rotation to throw clippings left or right, and a turbo button adds a burst of power. Wirecutter says its hum is mellower than the EGO's.
Skip it if…- You want push-button line loading
- You're short and need an adjustable shaft
- You want the most reliable owner record
Good for- Buyers who want a premium, well-finished tool
- Owners of Husqvarna's 36V lawn tools
- Steering clippings to one side
Scores (tap for why)
- Cutting power4.5
Why 4.5?
The only model Wirecutter tested that rivaled EGO's power; it cut thick knotweed. Power is an Amazon positive. - Runtime3.0
Why 3.0?
Battery life is mixed on Amazon, with some reports of stopping after about 15 minutes; no expert runtime test found. - Line feeding & reloading3.0
Why 3.0?
Manual line loading; Wirecutter says it is quick but lacks one-button ease. - Weight & balance4.0
Why 4.0?
10 lb with great balance (Wirecutter) and called lightweight on Amazon, but the shaft doesn't telescope. - Durability3.0
Why 3.0?
Wirecutter praises its fit and finish, but reliability is mixed on Amazon.
What experts say
- Wirecutter (NYT): Upgrade pick: powerful, great ergonomics and a unique reversible head. Downsides are manual line loading and a non-telescoping shaft.
#7
Worx
$$CordlessScore 3.2/5
10%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)Amazon's #1 best seller in String Trimmers on 2026-10-10 (28,563 ratings).Amazon's #1 best seller in string trimmers, with about 28,500 ratings. It's light (5.3 lb), converts to an edger and comes with two batteries. Bob Vila got about 20 minutes per battery and found it weak in coarse weeds, and owners are split on power and durability.
In the box: Yes: 2 x 20V 2.0Ah batteries and charger (Amazon listing title; Bob Vila)
Top complaints
- Split opinions on powerVery common
Cutting performance and power are mixed in Amazon's summary: some say it cuts well, others report poor performance. Bob Vila rated performance 3.8/5 and found it 'not perfect in coarse weeds.'
- Battery capacity and durabilityVery common
Some Amazon owners complain about low battery capacity, and some say it isn't built to last. Bob Vila got about 20 minutes of full-power runtime per battery and about an hour to charge each.
- Awkward head adjustmentOccasional
Bob Vila lists the head-angle adjustment as somewhat awkward.
What owners love
- Light and versatile
5.3 lb with battery (Worx; Bob Vila). The shaft rotates 90 degrees for edging and it folds flat for storage. Amazon owners praise its light weight and versatility.
- Two batteries included
Bob Vila says the two batteries are enough for an average-size yard with power to spare.
- Push-button line feed
Worx's CommandFeed advances line at the press of a button.
Skip it if…- You have thick or overgrown weeds
- You want long runtime from one battery
- You have a large property
Good for- Small yards and light weekly trimming
- Light weight and easy edging
- Swapping between two batteries
Scores (tap for why)
- Cutting power2.5
Why 2.5?
Bob Vila: 3.8/5 and not perfect in coarse weeds; cutting performance and power are mixed on Amazon. - Runtime3.0
Why 3.0?
About 20 minutes per battery at full power, with two batteries included (Bob Vila); battery life is mixed on Amazon. - Line feeding & reloading3.0
Why 3.0?
Push-button CommandFeed (Worx); no expert assessment of feeding or reloading was found. - Weight & balance4.5
Why 4.5?
5.3 lb with battery, rotating shaft for edging (Bob Vila, Worx); head-angle adjustment is somewhat awkward. - Durability3.0
Why 3.0?
Durability is mixed on Amazon.
What experts say
- Bob Vila (best string trimmers): Best for small yards: impressive power for its size, rotating shaft for edging and a second battery; not perfect in coarse weeds, and head adjustment is awkward.
#8
DeWalt
$$$CordlessScore 3.0/5
13%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)Small sample (1,078 ratings).Popular Mechanics' heavy-duty pick: it cut weeds, briars and dense growth and takes blower, hedge and pole-saw attachments. It's the heaviest trimmer PM tested (14.2 lb), and its small 60V battery limits runtime. Wirecutter found DeWalt trimmers short on runtime and power next to EGO.
In the box: Yes: 1 x FLEXVOLT 9Ah battery (3Ah when used at 60V, per Popular Mechanics) and charger (Amazon listing title)
Top complaints
- Short runtimeVery common
Popular Mechanics lists limited runtime as a con: the FLEXVOLT battery is only 3Ah at 60V. Wirecutter says DeWalt's trimmers lacked the run time of its EGO picks. Some Amazon owners say the battery runs down after about 30 minutes.
- HeavyVery common
At 14.2 lb it's the heaviest trimmer Popular Mechanics reviewed, though testers found the balance acceptable. Weight is mixed on Amazon.
- Stock head wears out, mixed valueMentioned often
Some Amazon owners say the stock head wore out within a month. Durability and value for money are mixed, and Wirecutter notes it typically costs around $350.
What owners love
- Heavy-duty cutting
Popular Mechanics testers cut weeds, grass and light-to-medium briars in an overgrown drainage basin. Amazon owners say it has plenty of power and outperforms gas trimmers.
- Attachment system
It converts to an edger, brush cutter, leaf blower, hedge trimmer, pole saw or cultivator with optional attachments (Popular Mechanics). Wirecutter notes it has a larger debris guard than other DeWalt trimmers.
- Two speeds and clean edging
High and low speeds; tipped vertically, it cut a neat edge along a sidewalk and curb (Popular Mechanics).
Skip it if…- Weight is a concern
- You need long runtime on one battery
- You're on a budget
Good for- Dense weeds and light brush
- Owners of DeWalt 20V/60V batteries
- Adding attachments (blower, hedge trimmer, pole saw)
Scores (tap for why)
- Cutting power4.0
Why 4.0?
Cut dense weeds and briars (Popular Mechanics); Amazon owners praise its power, but Wirecutter found DeWalt trimmers short of EGO's power. - Runtime2.5
Why 2.5?
Limited by a 3Ah (at 60V) battery (Popular Mechanics, a con); Wirecutter says DeWalt lacked EGO's runtime; mixed on Amazon. - Line feeding & reloading3.0
Why 3.0?
Popular Mechanics lists a rapid-load design, but some Amazon owners say the stock head wore out within a month. - Weight & balance2.5
Why 2.5?
14.2 lb, the heaviest in Popular Mechanics' test, though balance was acceptable; weight is mixed on Amazon. - Durability3.0
Why 3.0?
Durability is mixed on Amazon.