Battery-Powered Cord Trimmers to Continue in 2023
Even if you’re not ready to invest in an electric lawn mower, cordless cord trimmers offer a more convenient option for most homeowners. Even professional lawn caregivers now have viable alternatives to gasoline models. So, what is the best battery-operated cord trimmer for your specific needs? Our team has gathered to identify the top picks across various categories.
Want to see our top overall cord trimmer picks, including gas models? Check out this article!
Table of Contents
- Best Overall
- Best Power
- The Best Lightweight String Trimmers
- Best Attachment System
- The Best Bike Handlebar String Trimmers
- Best Budget
- The Best Line of Cordless Cord Trimmers
- More Recommendations from Brands We Trust
- Battery-Powered Lawn Mower Buying Guide
- Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews
EGO PowerLoad Cord Trimmer with Line IQ ST1623T
The EGO PowerLoad Cord Trimmer offers remarkable performance and impressive vibration control. As battery and motor technology continually improve, this trimmer only gets better. Furthermore, EGO’s PowerLoad feature allows for the easiest line changes we’ve ever experienced – simply thread your line in the middle and push a button.
With the latest advancement of the Line IQ automatic wire feed, you can maintain a 16-inch cutting line without any bumping. This trimmer sets the bar high for any other brand seeking to compete for the title of the best battery-operated cord trimmer.
Price: $219.00 bare, $299.00 with 4.0Ah battery and charger
Best Battery-Operated Harness Trimmer Power Supply
Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Whisper Series Carbon Fiber Shaft String Trimmer RY402110VNM
Ryobi has made significant advancements in the lawn care department, especially with their impressive 40V HP brushless products. The latest flagship cord cutter offers exceptional cutting capabilities.
The combination of advanced battery and brushless motor technology allows you to use wires up to 0.105 inches long and cutting tape up to 17 inches. This is especially useful for tackling overgrown areas or maintaining large lawns. Additionally, the Whisper range reduces noise levels by 60% compared to comparable gas models, thanks to meticulous attention to sound pitch.
Price: $279.00 bare, $329.00 with 6.0Ah battery and fast charger
The Best Lightweight Battery-Operated Cord Trimmers
Husqvarna 520iLX Battery Powered Lawn Mower
When it comes to a lightweight cord trimmer suitable for professionals who prefer a lighter model, Husqvarna’s 520iLX stands out. Its combination of light weight, extremely low vibration, thoughtful features, and impressive performance make it unparalleled in its class.
Price: $299.99 bare metal
Best Accessories for Battery Operated Cord Trimmers
STIHL Battery Powered Kombi Systems KMA 135 R
When it comes to cordless accessory systems, none can match the overall performance of STIHL’s 36V KombiSystem. It comes closest to using a gas-powered head. Additionally, STIHL offers a broad range of attachments, surpassing any other brand in terms of availability. Furthermore, STIHL’s extensive dealer and service network ensures excellent after-sales support.
Price: $349.99 Powerhead only
The Best Cordless Handlebar String Trimmers
Greenworks Commercial 82V Bike Handlebar String Trimmer
Greenworks Commercial 82V Bike Grip Cord Trimmer is our top pick among battery-operated options. Its higher power level surpasses that of a 36cc gasoline model, with a top speed of 5700 RPM and an 18-inch cutting belt for quickly clearing overgrowth.
The 4.0Ah battery can power the brushless motor for up to 45 minutes, and Greenworks’ fast charger can fully charge it in just 30 minutes. With an extra battery on hand, you can easily switch them out, ensuring uninterrupted work.
Price: $471.99 bare metal
Best Budget Battery-Operated Cord Trimmers
SKIL 40V PWRCore Brushless Cord Trimmer LT4818-10
If you’re on a tight budget, SKIL offers quality cord trimmers at an affordable price. The SKIL PWRCore 40 Brushless Cord Trimmer strikes the perfect balance between performance and cost-effectiveness. With higher power than 18V/20V models, this trimmer is ideal for individuals looking for enhanced performance without breaking the bank. It also comes with a 5-year limited warranty.
Price: $159.00 with 2.5Ah battery and charger
The Best Line of Battery Powered Harness Trimmers
Echo Black Diamond 0.095″ Trimmer Cable
Echo Black Diamond Trimmer Wire sets itself apart from other wires with its denser composition and sharper cutting edges. For battery-operated cord trimmers, Echo’s Black Diamond 0.095-inch cord delivers excellent cutting performance comparable to thicker lines while optimizing runtime. This line is our preferred choice for gas trimmers and works just as well with cordless models.
Price: $14.99 for a 1-pound pack (253 feet)
The Best Battery-Operated Cord Trimmers: More Recommendations from Brands We Trust
- Best DeWalt Battery-Operated String Trimmer: 60V Max DCST972
- Best Echo Cordless String Trimmer: 56V eForce X-Series 2600 Series
- Best Greenworks Battery Operated Harness Trimmer: To 60V ST60L254
- Best HART Battery Powered Harness Trimmer: 40V HLST051VNM
- Best Makita Battery Powered Wire Cutter: Max 40V XGT GRU03
- Best Milwaukee Battery-Operated Cord Trimmer: M18 Brushless 2828
- Best Ridgid Cordless Cord Trimmer: 18V Brushless R1201
- Best Stihl Battery-Powered Wire Cutter: 36V FSA 135 R
- Best Toro Cordless Cord Trimmer: 60V Flex Force 51830
Best Battery-Operated Wire Cutter Buying Guide: What We Look For
Cutting Force
Three main factors affect cutting force: wire speed, wire thickness/quality, and motor torque.
The faster the line is wound, the more efficiently it mows. Most battery-operated cord trimmers fall into this category, and a minimum of 5000 RPM is recommended. Higher RPM models, reaching up to 6500 RPM, significantly enhance trimming efficiency.
Wire thickness and quality directly impact cutting power. Higher-quality lines cut through thicker grass more effectively. A thicker line, such as 0.095 inches, offers optimal all-around performance. However, thicker wires require more power to run, affecting runtime.
Motors with higher torque resist deceleration when faced with tough cutting situations. This allows the line to spin better, even at lower top RPMs, resulting in improved cutting performance.
Cutting Swath
A larger cutting swath allows for faster clearing of larger areas or wider borders. However, a larger cutting swath requires more power, affecting runtime. Look for models with a 15-inch to 17-inch cutting diameter for optimal performance.
Runtime
The average homeowner with a 1/4 acre lot typically requires around 15 minutes of continuous trigger time for mowing. Most cordless cord trimmers can easily achieve this at high speeds. However, professional lawn caregivers and homeowners with larger properties may require longer runtime. In such cases, look for trimmers with efficient brushless motors, a 0.095-inch cord, and higher-capacity batteries. Alternatively, carrying multiple batteries can ensure uninterrupted work.
Vibration
Low vibration levels are highly desirable in cord trimmers, as excessive vibration can lead to increased fatigue. Models with minimal vibration in the handle provide a more comfortable user experience.
Weight and Balance
For extended use, a lightweight cord trimmer with optimal power is ideal. Bare weight is not the only consideration, as batteries add significant weight. A trimmer that weighs less than 10 pounds while meeting performance requirements is considered a great achievement. Proper balance is essential, and models with the motor mounted on the trimmer head counterbalance the weight of the battery on the back. Some models also allow for front handle adjustment, optimizing user comfort. For trimmers with attachment capabilities, the balance may shift due to the motor being mounted in the back. In such cases, a shoulder strap can provide additional support.
Sound Level
The transition from gas power to battery power significantly reduces noise levels. Cordless cord trimmers range from just over 80 decibels to just over 90 decibels (measured at the operator’s ear). Upgrading to a higher-quality line can further reduce noise or alter its tone.
Line Changes
Convenient line changes are essential for efficient trimming. Manual loading is becoming less common, and most trimmers now feature some form of rapid loading system. Investing in a trimmer with a quick-load head makes the process even easier. The EGO PowerLoad design offers the easiest and fastest line change, making it the preferred choice.
Attachment Ability
Attachment systems offer convenience and cost savings, allowing users to switch between different tools using interchangeable heads. However, models with attachment capabilities typically have the motor mounted on top, affecting balance. Universal connection systems allow for compatibility with accessories from various brands, providing more options. It is essential to ensure compatibility before investing in multi-head systems.
Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews
At Pro Tool Reviews, we are committed to providing reliable and trustworthy information. Our team comprises professionals with extensive experience in the construction and lawn care industries. We test and review over 350 individual products annually, ensuring that our recommendations are based on real-world usage. We consult with innovators in tool technology and design to gain a broader understanding of product functionality. Additionally, our network of professional contractors across the U.S. provides valuable insights and feedback on products tested under real job site conditions. Rest assured that all our recommendations are founded on editorial, scientific, and professional experience.