(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 reliable
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 battery
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 value
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).
- You're on a budget
- You want a light trimmer
- You want to use line other than 0.095 inch
- Beginners who find line feeding a hassle
- Strong cutting with low vibration
- Owners of EGO 56V batteries
Scores (tap for why)
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.