Teaser: New DeWALT FlexVolt Modular Cordless Outdoor Power Tool System. DeWALT weed eater attachment

Teaser: New DeWALT FlexVolt Modular Cordless Outdoor Power Tool System

We happened across what looks to be a Spring 2021 sneak peek – a new DeWALT FlexVolt modular cordless outdoor power tool system.

Tool Nut has a listing for the DeWALT DCST972X1 FlexVolt brushless string trimmer kit, and it’s described as being “attachment capable.”

Then, in the optionally add accessories listing, there are 5 new compatible attachments that you can swap with the string trimmer head.

Here are all of the attachments that are launching as part of this system – that we know about so far:

• DCST972X1 FlexVolt power handle and string trimmer attachment kit

• 15″/17″ adaptable swath
• 0.080″ dual line (also works with DeWALT 0.095 line)
• Quick-load spool

• Trim at different angles with 135° articulating head
• 22″ dual-action blade
• Cuts branches with 3/4″ blade gap

• 8″ bar and chain
• Auto-oiling

• 8″ 4-tooth blade

• 7-1/2″ hardened steel blade
• up to 2-1/2″ adjustable cutting depth

• Axial fan design
• Angled concentrator nozzle

DeWALT has not provided any press materials about these new tools yet, and so we’re limited by the details available in the product listings.

And yes, we also know that DeWALT has new mowers coming and also a new cordless washer. Press and media information is not yet available, but I was told to expect details early this year.

The FlexVolt “attachment capable” power handle is said to be highly adaptable in that it has a universal attachment capability to accept additional tool pieces.

Starter Kit String Trimmer (299, comes with charger and 1x 3.0Ah battery)

Discussion

DeWALT joint several other professional cordless power tool makers in offering a new line of modular outdoor power tool attachments.

That this system is part of the FlexVolt cordless lineup makes sense, as it means there’s no compromise on power that might have been true for the 20V Max lineup, although you’re still limited to the same watt-hour battery sizes as in other brands’ 18V cordless systems.

45 Комментарии и мнения владельцев

wondered how long it would take. Glad to see it, now I have another option. The Echo 58V cordless lineup has died as the parent company moved to market the Milwaukee 18V HD system. Honestly makes a bit of sense. So My 2 concerns here are 1) who makes this for SBD? and 2) are the attachments cross compatible with other systems?

MDT. DeWALT has been offering a gas version of this powerhead for a while now. DeWALT 10 in. 27 cc 2-Cycle Gas Pole Saw with Attachment Capability https://www.homedepot.com/p/DeWALT-10-in-27-cc-2-Cycle-Gas-Pole-Saw-with-Attachment-Capability-DXGP210/311756831 The attachments are compatible with TrimmerPlus and Expand-It attachments.

The power head options were why I went with Makita’s couple shaft, though I also retained my regular 18v x2 string trimmer because the motor at the trimmer head rather than in the back makes for better balance in my opinion. I use the 18V x2 power head for the couple shaft most of the time, one reason being the 3 speeds is convenient to use stuff like the edger that does better at a slower speed than full blast. The MM4 power head is also awesome, works great with the cultivator if I know I’m going to hit rocks that’ll bind up the attachment and activate the motor protection on the battery unit, also useful if I’m doing a lot of work and just want longer runtime. Or if I’m going between multiple things (like the hedge trimmer and pole saw), or multiple people are working at the same time, I can put one on one of the power heads, and one on the other. I have enough batteries I could probably have done just two of the 18v x2 power heads, but the gas option is nice when you’re going to be running a tool for a long time. Makita also has a single-battery 18V power head they just released for the couple shaft, which I have on the way. It should shave some weight off the x2 one, it loses some of the features of the x2 battery head, but I figure it might be good for the lighter-power-requirement attachments so again if both of us are out doing yard work, we can both use battery powered heads if desired, rather than the MM4.

WTH? The DeWALT will work with Ryobi Expand-It, but Milwaukee is stuck in the mud with 3 attachments that are proprietary? geeze, what a kick in groin I’ll I want is the cultivator attachment to get rid of the Ryobi 40v power head. It’s isn’t like they are”inventing” any attachments. Just make what everyone else has available. If nothing is announced in the next 90 days as far as attachments, I’ll sell the Milwaukee. Should have just kept my gen1 Ryobi Pole saw at this point.

Power cleaner to be exact, not a full on pressure washer, but still should be pretty handy. https://www.acmetools.com/blog/DeWALT-20v-max-cordless-power-cleaner/

That’s neat. I bought the 20v Worx version recently on clearance. It’s winter, I haven’t even opened the box yet. The DeWALT looks better! And to be honest, it’s not as expensive as I feared it would be.

For comparison, the similar Ryobi cleaner is rated at 320 psi and 1.2 GPM. Worx’s Hydroshot is rated at 320 psi and 0.53 GPM for the 20V brushed version, 350 psi and 0.92 GPM for the brushless 20V. The new 40V Hydroshot is 725psi at 1.1 GPM. DeWALT’s is rated at 550psi and 1.0 GPM. I have the Ryobi one and use it all over the place, car wheels / tires / fender wells, patio furniture, light washing on walkways and brick, the sides of the house, etc. It won’t replace a higher powered pressure washer for deep cleaning of concrete and brick and such, but it does better enough than the hose for like maintenance type washing. Or things where I don’t necessarily want the higher pressure, like the cars. The DeWALT may perform for some of that stuff even better with the higher pressure rating. Maybe DeWALT heard the folks with possibly unrealistic expectations with the Ryobi saying “not powerful enough”, and balanced the specs to be more of a pressure increase over a garden hose to try to avoid that feedback.

Thanks. Those specs are helpful. My Hydroshot is a limited-use tool for me. I have a proper full-size gas pressure washer I will use most of the time around the house. The Hydroshot purchase was almost exclusively driven by the desire to have something quick and portable to wash my dirt bike after a race – though I’m sure I’ll think of lots of other uses now that I have it.

Destroy This Note After Reading, Stuart 2 Typos in “Discussion” section. DeWALT joints several other professional cordless power tool makers joins power that might have true for have been CORRECTION GREMLIN, OUT!! Hides in the Bushes

Stuart, where can I learn more about the new lawnmowers? I’ve been dying for this to happen. It’d be great if they came out with a 120V model. I was thinking of getting the 20V x 2 version, then at the end of the summer Lowe’s discounted the Kobalt 80V down from 600 to 250. Came with the 6 amp battery. What an EXCELLENT mower, by the way. I have a sizeable yard (front/side/back) and that battery covered it no problem-even using the self-propelled option. I wish Kobalt would get the credit they deserve. But even their XTR line is starting to drop in price. Just hope they hold on because they are still introducing new tools to their 24V lineup.

Big Richard, thanks a lot! Can you tell me what other FlexVolt tools are in the near future, if any? I have 19 of the 23 (that I am aware of) and love the line. The only one I wouldn’t purchase again is the Recip due to the XR being so strong for a much lesser size. Plus the XR has the 4-position blade change. I even have the Alligator Saw (haven’t put it to use yet) which isn’t in production or sold here in the states. I can’t thank you enough for reaching out, friend. Means a lot.

Louie, I wish I knew. FlexVolt is coming up on 5 years old now, so I would think a few more gen II updates are on the way? But I haven’t heard anything yet. I’d still like to see the 10″ 60v (54v) DCS727 miter saw come to NA, but I don’t know if that is happening. I almost bought that and the alligator saw from a UK vendor pre covid, but shipping was a little to pricey for my blood. I do think the 12v Xtreme line will get some new tools, I know there is a new 5Ah 12v battery, DCB126, coming out soon which is a good sign of expanding the line.

Big Richard, that’s great to know about the 5AH 12V battery. The highest I have right now is the 2, but I have the entire set minus the impact wrench. Really kicking myself for not grabbing it during the holidays when I think it was 69 WITH a 3 amp. I would really like to know how the Xtreme drill would fare against an older 20V brushed drill. As far as the 10”, it does look like a work of art and would like to see it come to NA as well. But I lucked out on the Alligator. Got that (bare) and 6 blades (2 apiece for wood, insulation and block) for like 370 on eBay from a guy in CA. And I get the 60/54V thing, but to clear any doubts, our batteries slap on those 54V branded tools just fine. Again Big Richard… thanks.

Big Richard, I don’t want to come across as a stray cat, but I do have a question that minimally (at best) pertains to our discussion, if at all. Not even sure if I’m crossing a line here. I’ve been trying to purchase DeWALT (and Ridgid) pallets with intent of selling (keeping anything I don’t have already). I have failed miserably, almost tantamount to it being the 80s and having no such luxury of the internet. Tried Home Depot, who sent me to the Pro Desk, who in turn advised me to call their 800 number, who told me to call DeWALT which ultimately turned into “I have no idea, sir.” Yet I see vendors on selling sites (eBay/OfferUp/Mercari) all of the time (asked them as well-no response) doing exactly what I want to do. Any idea? Again, if I crossed a line, please accept my sense of atonement for doing so.

Again… Destroy after reading… “Joints” is now “Joint” instead of “Joins” …Editing tool is not being kind to you right now. Dunno what to say here. No need to keep these Комментарии и мнения владельцев on the page, feel free to delete after done editing.

Milwaukee’s M18 OPE including the Quik-Lock has been a real lifesaver for me, so much so that I’ve sold off all but 2 gas-powered machines and I was glad to see them go. But as with all this stuff there are yellow battery guys who are unwilling to make the leap into another ecosystem. So if these provide the DeWALT users the same utility the red ones have given me, y’all are in for a treat.

That’s great news to me. A couple of years ago, when Sears just started to roll downhill, they still had quite the Craftsman inventory. And they started to go crazy with their deals. This was right around when SBD bought them out. I bought every trimmer attachment that they had-OTHER than the power broom which I STILL keep an eye out for on sites like OfferUp and Mercari. I have the Husqvarna 128D which is great, but it’s gas and love my current FlexVolt trimmer too much. I’m hoping that the 972 is compatible with these.

I am heavily into the DeWALT system and am thrilled to learn about all of this. It is not exactly peak grass cutting season here, but I cannot wait to get one of those two mowers (will wait for reviews to see if I care for self-propelled). I already have the Flexvolt trimmer and blower, and the 20v pole saw and pole hedge trimmer. That said, I will still the power head trimmer with the edger and brush cutter attachments.

I am all for systems that leverage a manufacturers existing 18v or 20v battery system, if needed with dual slots to make them 36v or 40v respectively. Having been orphaned multiple times by companies that went the way of the dodo within 2 – 3 years … or who simply ditched the battery voltage connector … causing consumers to have of equipment they can no longer use; I have refused to buy into any new / niche 56 60 64 72 80 whatever ## voltage battery system. And I will continue to sit on the sideline, as long as possible. I will buy new vacuums, table saw, chop saw, … when they are dual power. Let me slot in 2x 18v. batteries for a quick job or something off the grid. But don’t require me to run a new unit on batteries only, just blowing through the 500 battery cycles, when I have it at home or am next to a wall socket. I will pay the extra 50 or 100 to have the unit with dual power built-in.

I think the DeWALT 60V FlexVolt is pretty safe from being discontinued any time soon. DeWALT is throwing a ton of resources into it, constantly coming out with new tools for it, and it has backwards compatibility for the batteries powering the 20V stuff.

It looks like the power head will accept any standard OPE attachment head? I know the drive shafts of most OPE attachments can be a hex or square design. As long as you go with like for like power head/attachment it should work. Unless DeWALT made a propritary interface. Unlikely if the attachments are MTD in design. Im using MTD pole saw on a Troybilt power head now. Would make it easy for a guy to just buy the batery power head and use his old attachments. Even keep the gas power head for that once a year task that would eat up too many batteries to be practical. Or ditch the dino blood burner and have an excuse to buy more 60v batteries. Wonder if run time/power is limited due to the requirement of the driveshaft transferring power from the motor to the attachment. As I understand it, this can be about a 15 to 20% loss in power. Impressed with a 60v line trimmer I tried last fall. Might have to try this out. Price seems reasonable.

Not really. These are Outdoor Power Equipment… Generally, if you cranked up the power on these, the result would still be marginal at best. What’s a string trimmer, or edger, going to do with 40% more power? Spin faster? Okay, but will you actually cut more faster, or will you cross the threshold where it’s moving so fast it loses accuracy, forcing you to go slower instead? If the hedge trimmer has 35% more power due to the shaft… will it cut more at a time? Or will it be moving so fast at the very end, that instead of cutting it catches and shakes the bushes? The Pole Saw is relatively small, will it truly be worth the extra 0.05 seconds the extra power gives you per branch? And the BLOWER? Okay… Fans through a duct are great under control, but boost it 50%… Do you still have control over leaves and debris, or are you sending things flying out of control? Jet powered Aircraft that have an Afterburner don’t run very well, or control very well, while under that Afterburner state. You have to assume the same is true for a ducted fan getting a power boost. Remember, FlexVOLT Advantage increases things like TORQUE and SPEED, not Runtime. Runtime remains approximately the same.

I don’t think you understand 20v FlexVolt Advantage. If these tools were 20v FVA they would be LESS powerful than these 60v. The 60v tools are still quite a bit more powerful than contemporary 20v FVA tools. The perk would be that they would still work with 20v batteries if they were FVA. I’m fairly confident that’s the point audiovideofreak was trying to make, that it would be nice if they were 20v compatible, like 20v FVA.

No, I understood that part. I’m not sure audiovideofreak did though. These are already 60 volt tools, which means a FlexVOLT battery always makes sure they’re at their prime performance. The only variable is runtime, which is controlled by how high a FlexVOLT battery you go with. 6Ah, 9? 10? 12? However high the end up going next… 14/15/16/20Ah? These being FlexVOLT, they are tuned to perform at their optimum with EVERY battery you drop in them. Though… Maybe it’s more like “It” because they all connect to the same power base, and just lock in the end tool? If it was a 20 Volt FlexVOLT Advantage line, first off, it would be optimized for 20 Volts, not 60. And Runtime would be controlled by the Battery size again. BUT, FlexVOLT Advantage involves a boost in power and performance when you lock in a FlexVOLT battery. It won’t JUST extend runtime, especially if you aren’t using a FlexVOLT battery with a higher Ah Rating. It will also increase the power delivered to the tool whenever it’s a FlexVOLT battery of any sort… Which pretty much means running faster speeds, and increasing torque. Because that’s what happens to the FlexVOLT Advantage Drills and Saws. There’s no direct mention of increased runtime on those tools either. So, I reiterate… It really wouldn’t be that much better if these were FlexVOLT Advantage tools, instead of the full FlexVOLT tools they are now. Though, I do agree with audiovideofreak in this much: The lineup of FlexVOLT Advantage tools should get an expansion. I may disagree about this particular OPE line as that expansion, but I completely agree that it would have been better for drawing people to the FlexVOLT Advantage lineup, if more of the 20 Volt Max and 20 Volt XR tools came in the FlexVOLT Advantage edition. The Grease Gun, Glue Dispensers, Die Grinder, the poor, lonely Right-Angle Drill? I think even the Cement Pencil Vibrators may be candidates for the FlexVOLT Advantage lineup. The boost to THEIR motors, for one, would be the obvious move to BRUSHLESS that they need. I think only the Grease Dispenser was an XR series. That is one thing that DeWALT is always hesitant to do. Release a FULL lineup to get into. They release a handful to see what gets demanded and whined about most, THEN they slowly release those as a trickle… like they’re afraid of the release of each tool. I disagree, whole heartedly. And I side with audiovideofreak on this issue. It’s bad marketing to act so afraid to release more at once. They figured out how to do the Staplers with the XR line… Why not just apply the FlexVOLT Advantage calibration module into the circuitry of ALL the Staplers, and just… Announce that the FlexVOLT Advantage has been added to the FULL LINE of Staplers and Nailers? Gather up the Drywall Sander, the Cutout Tool, and the Drywall Screwdriver… Maybe even the first ELECTRIC Drywall Banjo? (If I got that term wrong, it’s because I only know the tool from an episode of Home Improvement with Tim Allen… The Tape/Paste Dispenser Thing… They called it a Banjo.) Gather them all up, upgrade them with FlexVOLT Advantage, and say the ENTIRE Lineup of Drywall tools is now featuring this new function. The various Vacuum systems may well benefit from FlexVOLT Advantage, round THEM up and release new versions ALL AT ONCE. Show you’re COMMITTED to this new feature. Because audiovideofreak isn’t wrong about DeWALT’s marketing. They are DEEPLY flawed when it comes to releasing lines of new features. And they ALWAYS start with the basic 3 or 4 tools: Drill, Recip, Circular, and Grinder. Only VERY recently have they added the Oscillating Tools to the starting lineup, and the Atomic is the very first of its type to be part of a starting lineup. In a lot of ways, this all-in-one OPE setup is cheating that trend of theirs. They only have to risk ONE tool, and they can risk up to 5 failing, without this tool losing them money. That isn’t a strategy, and it isn’t a tie-in to any one line in particular. It’s kinda wishy-washy on the OPE lineup, and completely noncommited to the FlexVOLT OPE lineup… It’s a double down on not committing to their tools. They HAVE released both 20 Volt XR, AND FlexVOLT OPE lineups… This appears to be a non-committment to EITHER lineup. Typical overcautious move from bad marketing. The downside is… If we follow their current OTHER cowardly moves, these tools can’t fit in THERE either. They don’t make any sense anywhere else. So, I feel the frustration from AVF here… But sadly, what he suggested doesn’t make enough sense to solve what he was going for. I agree SOMETHING has to be added to the FlexVOLT Advantage lineup to truly COMMITT to it… Just not OPE lines.

I likes these attachments with the exception of the blower head. I’ve used a gas powered blower head by Echo and it didnt work nearly as well as a dedicated blower, even a cheap electric one. I’d avoid line powered blowers.

About time DeWALT! Atleast they are doing it right, will give them an edge over Milwaukee. And maybe a Flexvolt pressure washer? Wow! I want one.

Milwaukee will just hold the MX Fuel lineup over DeWALT’s head. Holding Milwaukee against DeWALT is kinda silly at this point in their development. They’ve seriously parted ways, and stopped caring about competing with eachother. If anything, unlike the other brands around them, they actually have started to compliment eachother on the worksite. If you’re starting from scratch on something: DeWALT. If you’re crawling in a hole, or around tight spaces to do the job: Milwaukee. Even Makita, Bosch, and Metabo HPT don’t fit in with eachother as closely as those two. They both just kinda shrug and move on at this point. DeWALT is focussed on Construction and Woodworking Crews, and Milwaukee is focussed on Tradesman Crews. They’ll pass eachother on the same sites, doing totally different jobs, and still sneer at eachother, but the companies themselves have truly diverged in where they’re going, aiming, and selling to. The One-Upmanship of… I want to say 20 years ago, but really even 5 years ago it’s true… It’s really not worth comparing anymore.

gardening tool manufacturers are opting for battery power over fuel or electric, and today’s string trimmers are a case in point. We tested these eco-friendly yard maintenance devices to help consumers make the right purchase for their property.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

Handy outdoor power tools make quick work of tackling overgrown weeds and grass, giving the yard a tidy look and trimming hedges and shrubs. We put battery-powered trimmers through their paces on several grass or weed types to see how well they ran and cut, ultimately arriving at this list of the best battery trimmers.

For ensuring a polished look to a lawn, the best string trimmer is a great investment. These yard-care tools spin a cutting head loaded with nylon string (instead of a fixed blade) to cleanly trim the grass at the edge of a lawn or mow down weedy areas. Though gas and electric models once dominated, new and improved battery-powered versions don’t require mixing fuel or storing gasoline like gas string trimmers do, nor are they limited by the length of an extension cord, like corded electric string trimmers are.

Some battery trimmers are better suited to different-size yards, users, and budgets. So we could help consumers make the right choice, we tested some of the most popular string trimmers to find out how they perform under real-world conditions. To qualify as a top pick, a string trimmer should be durable, powerful, and easy to operate. The string line should exit the reel easily with no need for the user to constantly remove the reel cover and untangle the line.

The following battery-powered string trimmers are at the top of their class. Anyone looking to invest in a trimmer is likely to find one here to fit their landscaping needs.

• BEST OVERALL:STIHL FSA 60 R 36V Battery Trimmer
• RUNNER-UP:Ego ST1511T Power 15-Inch Powerload String Trimmer
• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:BlackDecker LST300 LBXR2020-OPE 20V String Trimmer
• UPGRADE PICK:Makita XRU15PT1 36V LXT Brushless String Trimmer Kit
• BEST HEAVY-DUTY:DeWALT DCST972X1 60V MAX 17-Inch String Trimmer Kit
• BEST LIGHTWEIGHT:BlackDecker LSTE525 20V MAX String Trimmer/Edger
• BEST FOR LARGE YARDS:Echo DSRM-2100 eFORCE 56V 16-Inch Battery Trimmer
• BEST FOR SMALL YARDS:Worx WG163 20V Power Share GT 3.0 String Trimmer
• BEST DUAL DIRECTION:Husqvarna 320iL 40V Battery String Trimmer
• BEST TRIMMER/EDGER COMBO:Worx WG170 20V Power Share Revolution String Trimmer
• MOST VERSATILE:Greenworks Pro 80V 16-Inch Cordless String Trimmer

How We Tested the Best Battery Trimmers

To truly test these battery-powered string trimmers, we started by assembling the tools and charging the batteries. Most trimmers arrived with the batteries about 25 percent charged right out of the box, but a full charge allowed us to gauge runtime at full power. Although some of the trimmers offer lower power settings that could extend runtime, we found that the lower settings simply made them less capable when it came to coarse weeds, so we ran them at full power for testing.

We put each trimmer through its paces in a variety of real-world scenarios: “clean” lawn grass, weedy grass, and natural areas featuring coarse, weedy seedlings and vines. To earn a spot in our lineup, the lightweight 20-volt (V) trimmers had to deliver a clean, crisp cut in both clean and weedy grass sections. In addition to trimming the grass zones, we used the 36V, 56V, and 80V models to cut through woody, viny growth in natural areas. Along with cutting power, we tested for battery runtime, maneuverability, and operator comfort and determined the best battery trimmer by category.

Our Top Picks

These reviews describe the key features of each cordless string trimmer and how the models performed in our backyard tests.

STIHL FSA 60 R 36V Battery Trimmer

It makes sense that the STIHL FSA 60 R would be a top performer in this test group. It comes from a brand with a long history of industry-leading outdoor power equipment. This string trimmer measures just over 66 inches long, weighs less than 10 pounds with the battery installed, and works for about 25 minutes per charge. The 36V 3.9 amp hours (Ah) battery charges in a little more than 2 hours.

The tough polymer material used for the motor housing and debris shield help keep the weight down. A few other standout features include a variable-speed throttle trigger, trigger interlock, battery retainer latch, EasySpool cutting head, bump guard, and hang loop. The trigger interlock and battery retainer latch prevent accidental startup. The variable trigger and EasySpool head improve operating efficiency by saving battery life and minimizing the time it takes to reload, respectively. The bump guard protects sensitive surfaces during close trimming, and the hang loop offers a convenient way to store the tool when not in use.

This is a great all-around pick for quarter- to a half-acre yards. The relatively short runtime of the STIHL FSA 60 R belies a very capable trimmer. In our tests it easily and cleanly sliced through all kinds of grass and weeds, including tough tree saplings up to about ¼ inch thick. The shorter runtime actually mattered less because the trimmer cut so well, and we moved at a faster pace than with some of the other trimmers with longer runtimes.

The other thing we noted here was the amazing level of operating comfort. The trimmer was fairly lightweight to begin with, but the weight was so well balanced—with just enough weight forward of the front handle to keep the head near ground level—that using it required significantly less effort than what was required of some of the other trimmers that weighed about the same. Also, vibration was minimal, so after trimming we had plenty of energy to keep working.

• Weighs less than 10 pounds but easily powers through tough weeds
• 25-minute runtime per charge for about 5,000 linear feet of trimming
• Excellent balance to keep the head at ground level
• EasySpool head, bump guard, variable-speed throttle, and accidental start protection
• Smallish 13.8-inch cutting swath is on the small side for open spaces
• 2-hour recharge time for battery is longer than that of some competitors

Get the STIHL battery trimmer at Ace Hardware or Blain’s Farm Fleet.

Ego ST1511T Power 15-Inch Powerload String Trimmer

Ego Power has made a name for itself in the outdoor power-equipment category by building an affordable battery-powered tool line that competes favorably against old-fashioned 2-cycle gas-powered equipment. The ST1511T 15-inch string trimmer proved to be powerful, clean, and quiet in testing. The 56V 2.5Ah lithium-ion battery delivers up to 45 minutes of runtime, with a recharging time of just 50 minutes. The bump-feed trimmer head comes preloaded with 0.095-inch trimmer line for more cutting force and less noise. Taller users will appreciate the straight shaft design, and the unit weighs in at just over 10 pounds.

In our tests, the Ego trimmer showed ample power to cut through everything in its path, including overgrown, weedy grass; privet seedlings; and honeysuckle vines. Its well-balanced design, with the heavy battery in back offset by the long, straight shaft, made it comfortable to work with and more agile than others we tested. Our only caveat: For seasonal yard cleanup or maintaining larger landscapes, the 45-minute maximum runtime may not be quite enough.

• Auto-loading trimmer head reduces downtime while working
• Adjustable telescoping straight shaft provides a custom fit for different users
• Excellent power and runtime value at a moderate price point
• Heavier than some with less forward weight to keep head down
• Battery is bulkier than others, making the tool tiring to use over an extended period

Get the Ego Power battery trimmer at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or Lowe’s.

BlackDecker LST300 LBXR2020-OPE 20V String Trimmer

To give the yard a polished look without breaking the bank, consider the BlackDecker cordless string trimmer. It features a 12-inch cutting swath to cut down the corners and clean up the edges of small- to medium-size yards. An automatic feed spool means no more stopping to bump the tool when new string is needed. Two 20V lithium-ion batteries are included.

In our tests, this trimmer performed very well in weed-free grass and in weedy lawn areas. With a light weight of just 5.7 pounds, this trimmer is easy to handle without causing arm and shoulder fatigue. The short, straight shaft design is most comfortable for users under 5 feet 9 inches tall. We also liked that with a quick adjustment to the head, the trimmer becomes an edger to neaten up the grass along sidewalks and driveways. In all, we found this affordable tool a solid pick for small obstacle-free landscapes.

• Pack includes 2 batteries for more runtime, less downtime
• Automatic feed spool
• Money- and space-saving design that both trims and edges
• Battery recharges in just 45 minutes

Get the BlackDecker battery string trimmer at Amazon (with extra battery) or The Home Depot.

Makita XRU15PT1 36V LXT Brushless String Trimmer Kit

The Makita XRU15PT1 string trimmer is a premium option to keep the lawn and garden under control. It can handle large yards with enough power to tackle dense weed growth. This cordless string trimmer comes with four 18V 5.0Ah batteries so you’ll never run out of power. Shoppers can purchase this model as a kit that includes a dual battery charger and two sets of batteries, or as a “tool only” for those who already have items from the Makita 18V tool platform.

With a long, straight shaft and high-power cutting head, this 10.4-pound trimmer feels like a pro-quality tool. It was well balanced and articulate while trimming around shrubs and between obstacles. It had plenty of power to cut through tough vegetation. In our tests, it made nice clean cuts and crisp edges in the grassy areas and tore through weedy privet seedlings and honeysuckle vines without hesitation. It’s an excellent candidate to replace gas equipment for medium to large landscapes, though the price may be high for budget-minded shoppers.

• Runtime is longer than charge time for ready-to-go fresh batteries
• Includes a second set of batteries for extended work
• Gas-like power and performance for tough trimming jobs
• Expensive trimmer due to the high cost of batteries
• Small debris guard allows some material close to operator
• Stiff bump head required a hard strike to let out line

Get the Makita battery trimmer at Amazon or Mowers Direct.

DeWALT DCST972X1 60V MAX 17-Inch String Trimmer Kit

When an established leader in pro-grade cordless hand tools enters the lawn-care category, shoppers will want to take note. The DeWALT 60V battery trimmer packs a heavy-duty brushless motor powered by a 60V 3Ah FlexVolt lithium battery that lets it tear through all kinds of tough weeds for at least 40 minutes per charge.

This attachment-capable trimmer comes equipped with a straight shaft and Rapid- loading adjustable spool. It uses.080-inch trimmer line to cut either a 15-inch or 17-inch swath. A safety switch in the grip prevents accidental starts. Users can select high or low power, depending on the project, and control the trimming RPM with a variable-speed trigger. The universal attachment feature lets owners replace the trimmer attachment with a variety of other tool heads, including an edger, hedge trimmer, pole saw, and more.

The DeWALT battery trimmer was one of the heaviest we tested, but also the most powerful. With the standard.080-inch trimmer line that came pre-spooled, this tool had no trouble cutting anything from grass to thin tree seedlings and even tough blackberry canes. In low-power mode it offered more cutting force than the high- power setting of most others we tested. In high range it beat all but the STIHL, which was about an even match in terms of pure power. To be honest, high power was too much for many of our applications, so we also tested thoroughly in low range. It ran about 40 minutes on high, and about 60 on low.

Other than the heavy weight, the only negative point we have to offer is the noise. The trimmer is loud to begin with, and when initially triggering or feathering the trigger it makes an even louder whine/whistle sound. Still, it’s a very impressive tool at a fair price for the power and runtime and a good choice for large properties or cleaning up overgrown areas.

• Battery type: 60V 3Ah FlexVolt lithium ion
• Runtime: 40 minutes
• Weight: 12.95 pounds
• Outstanding power for clearing overgrown weeds and brush
• Works with.080-inch or.095-inch trimmer line for normal or heavy trimming
• Excellent runtime of up to an hour for average grass trimming
• Power head can run other landscaping tool attachments
• Heavy weight of just under 13 pounds, but no shoulder strap
• Longer battery charge time at 135 minutes
• Noisy operation, especially when initially triggering

Get the DeWALT battery trimmer at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.

BlackDecker LSTE525 20V MAX String Trimmer/Edger

Weighing just 8.8 pounds, this string trimmer is easy to carry, maneuver, and control with an adjustable handle and a safety trigger switch to prevent accidental starts. The 12-inch trimming radius is suitable for keeping the lawn properly maintained without damaging fencing, decks, trees, or other common yard obstacles.

This cordless string trimmer operates with a 20V battery that can last for up to 20 minutes, and a spare battery is included. For edging, simply turn the head and use the built-in wheel to balance as the trimmer string handles the task.

When we used the tool to trim weedy lawn grass patches and edge the curb and driveway, it made nice clean cuts and tracked well to make good straight edges. The shaft and handle adjusted to comfortably fit our 6-foot user. The tool is amazingly lightweight for the amount of power it offers, but the weight is mostly balanced to the front of the handle, and having to manually counterbalance it while working fatigued our tester. Though not built for heavily weed-infested yards, it has ample power and runtime to clean up curb lines, driveway edges, and otherwise maintain a smaller landscape.

• Very lightweight and easy to carry
• Handle is customizable to fit the size of user
• Trimmer doubles as an edger with a simple turn of the head
• Battery provides limited runtime, although a spare is included
• Not enough power to tackle coarse, woody weeds
• Weighted toward the front, which may cause user fatigue

Get the BlackDecker MAX battery trimmer/edger at The Home Depot or Tractor Supply Co.

Echo DSRM-2100 eFORCE 56V 16-Inch Battery Trimmer

A wide cutting swath, extended runtime, and powerful trimming ability make the Echo DSRM-2100 eFORCE battery trimmer an excellent choice for large yards. The straight-shaft trimmer is powered by a brushless motor and 56V 2.5Ah lithium battery for up to 56 minutes of powerful performance that rivals traditional 2-cycle trimmers. It cuts a 16-inch-wide swath to get the job done efficiently.

This battery trimmer weighs in at a comfortable 9.75 pounds, making it a relatively lightweight choice at this level of capability. It features battery-saving low/high power settings for different cutting conditions, a variable-speed trigger, and a cushioned handle grip for comfort. The Speed-Feed cutting head comes preloaded with.095 trimmer line and reloads quickly without disassembly.

The Echo eForce battery trimmer is an excellent value for large-property maintenance. In our tests, the cutting power seemed to be slightly less than that of the DeWALT and STIHL trimmers, but it was still very capable. In high-power mode we trimmed for about 40 minutes. But the better-than-average power and wider swath meant that in 40 minutes with the Echo, we were able to complete work that other trimmers would need an hour to accomplish. The noise level was good, and reloading was fast and easy.

This trimmer could have scored higher with improved balance. Although it is a lightweight trimmer overall, most of the weight is in the working end. The heavy cutting head forces the operator to compensate by lifting upward on the front handle and pushing downward on the rear handle while working. We tested with the 2.5Ah battery that comes standard. Working with the available 5Ah battery (sold separately) would rebalance the trimmer to some degree while doubling runtime and increasing overall weight.

• Excellent price for this combination of power and runtime
• Wide cutting swath and power performance for large properties
• Rapid charging system charges the battery in less than 40 minutes

Get the Echo battery trimmer at The Home Depot or Acme Tools.

Worx WG163 20V Power Share GT 3.0 String Trimmer

Owners of small yards may find this lightweight string trimmer an excellent option. It weighs just 5.5 pounds and easily converts from a trimmer to an edging tool; a built-in wheel helps balance the tool while edging. A push-button feed system gives the ability to extend the trimmer string without bumping the 12-inch trimmer head or manually pulling additional string from the trimmer. It comes with two 20V batteries and a charger, and the battery lasts for up to 20 minutes on a full charge.

This Worx string trimmer tackled our grassy areas with ease, both the weedy and weed-free zones, but it wasn’t as capable on rough areas. We were particularly impressed by the edger function, which we found comfortable and well balanced thanks to the 90-degree shaft-rotation capability. The adjustable trimmer head and upper handle let us customize the working angle, but the process of doing so proved clunky. We had to reach down and turn a rather stiff knob at the connection point between the shaft and cutting head to unlock and relock the angle for each adjustment.

• Battery provides limited runtime, although a second battery is included
• Head-tilt adjustment is somewhat awkward and clunky
• Relatively long 60-minute charging time for 20 minutes of runtime

Husqvarna 320iL 40V Battery String Trimmer

One limiting factor of most string trimmers is the cutting head’s direction of rotation; it matters more than one might think. The direction of rotation determines where the clippings will go, and in some situations, how the user should grip the trimmer. The Husqvarna 320iL 40V battery trimmer offers a solution, thanks to its dual-direction cutting head. At the touch of a button, we could change from clockwise to counterclockwise rotation and back, without changing grip on the handles.

This straight-shaft trimmer is powered by an efficient brushless motor and 40V 4Ah battery that drives about 45 minutes of runtime per charge. It features a Rapid-load cutting head that comes prespooled with.080 trimmer line and cuts a 16-inch swath. Low-vibration technology improves operator comfort, and the machine weighs in at just over 10 pounds with the battery.

The Husqvarna 320iL ranked near the top of the test group in terms of user comfort and quiet operation, but its power was somewhat underwhelming after the big showing from the STIHL and DeWALT trimmers. We were super impressed with the dual-direction feature. It allowed us to use the trimmer right- or left-handed, and we could safely trim curb lines from either direction without standing in the street. On high-power mode the trimmer performed lawn-trimming duty superbly, but in heavy weeds and natural areas it could not keep up with the more powerful trimmers.

Anyone not interested in going off the beaten path might still do well to consider this trimmer. Its balance is impeccable, rivaling the STIHL in comfort even though it’s a fraction of a pound heavier. And for quiet operation, this one takes the gold medal. The only real question regarding comfort and control was, why so many buttons? Its four thumb-operated buttons control on/off, high/low power, clockwise rotation, and counterclockwise rotation.

• Dual-direction trimmer head leaves clippings where desired
• Excellent balance for comfortable extended use and less fatigue
• Among the quietest of the trimmers we tested

Get the Husqvarna battery trimmer at Lowe’s.

Worx WG170 20V Power Share Revolution String Trimmer

While plenty of string trimmers also function as edgers, we found this model to have the best dual-function design. At the push of a button, the trimming head on the Worx WG170 Revolution trimmer converts to an edger that rolls easily along the edge of a sidewalk or driveway. The head tilts up to 90 degrees, so it is easy to reach weeds on slopes while standing comfortably.

The trimmer comes with two batteries plus a charger and three extra spools of trimmer line. The string trimmer also boasts a handy spacer guard that keeps it from bumping into plants, and the shaft adjusts to suit taller or shorter users. It cuts a 12-inch swath and operates on a 20V lithium-ion battery. We tested the tool with the 2Ah battery, but it also comes with a 4Ah battery at some retailers.

In our yard, this trimmer cut through and created a crisp edge on both weedless and weedy lawn areas. We really liked the easy adjustable feature on the trimmer head: A twist lock holds it in just the right position, up to 90 degrees, for a customized working angle for users of different heights. Also, the batteries are interchangeable with those of many other Worx 20V cordless tools.

• Adjustable upper handle to accommodate users of different sizes
• Trimmer head converts to an edger for use along sidewalks or driveways
• Comes with 2 batteries to make up for shorter runtime
• Requires a relatively long charging time
• Trimmer feels underpowered for tackling coarse, heavy weeds
• Only 20 minutes of runtime per charge

Get the Worx WG170 GT battery trimmer at Amazon or Target.

Greenworks Pro 80V 16-Inch Cordless String Trimmer

The Greenworks Pro 80V trimmer is a quality tool that adapts to a variety of other functions with attachments such as a brush cutter. (However, attachments are sold separately.) The 2Ah battery provides up to 45 minutes of runtime and recharges in just 30 minutes. The brushless electric motor is efficient and quiet, providing plenty of torque to cut through heavy weeds without the noise and smell of a gas-powered unit.

In our test areas, the Greenworks Pro trimmer was powerful enough to cut through the toughest weeds and vines with ease. The heavy battery weighs the machine down toward the rear, but the included adjustable shoulder strap makes operation more comfortable. The battery is compatible with other Greenworks 80V tools. Just don’t get too excited about the variable-speed trigger: Although it’s intended to allow a gradual increase from “off” to “high” speed, we found the range of movement between the two to be minuscule; in effect, the trimmer is either “off” or “on.”

• Battery type: 80V 2Ah lithium ion
• Runtime: 45 minutes
• Weight: 10.6 pounds without battery
• Trimmer has a quiet, efficient brushless motor
• The recharging time is only 30 minutes; runtime is 45 minutes
• Gas-like power and performance without the noise and smell
• Slight lag time between triggering and full power
• The trimmer’s adjustable speed feature is difficult to use
• Weight is balanced toward the rear, but shoulder strap helps

Get the Greenworks Pro battery trimmer at Amazon.

What to Consider When Choosing a Battery Trimmer

When shopping for string trimmers, also known as weed eaters, keep in mind yard size, how often the tool will be used, and the height and strength of the primary user. The following key considerations will help in selection.

Trim Width

Trim width, also called swath width, indicates how wide a path the trimmer will cut through weeds in a single pass. Many models on the market today feature swath widths of 10 to 18 inches. The wider the width, the more power the trimmer must have, which often means the tool will be heavier because it will require a larger, more powerful battery.

Battery Type

Running a string trimmer requires a hefty dose of power. Though most of today’s trimmers run on rechargeable lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, a few accept nickel cadmium (NiCad) batteries. Li-ion batteries are more powerful, but NiCad batteries are less expensive (an average of 70 to 125 less). Li-ion batteries also are smaller, hold a charge longer, and provide full power throughout the discharge cycle.

NiCad batteries suffer from “memory effect,” meaning if the battery is used before it has fully charged—or if it’s recharged before its power depletes—it will “remember” the earlier charge level and won’t hold a longer charge in the future. If choosing a trimmer that has a NiCad battery, let it charge fully before use and drain completely before charging. For most users, a string trimmer with a Li-ion battery will be the best choice.

Voltage

Along with battery type, consider how much operating power the battery has, which is measured in volts. Today’s rechargeable string trimmer batteries average from 18 volts up to an average of 60 volts of power. powerful batteries at the high end often are intended for commercial use and can cost 200 or more per battery.

Some string trimmers in this category sell without a battery (or battery charger), which the user must purchase separately. This could be a cost-saving benefit for those who are adding to a same-brand, battery-compatible cordless tool collection, since the same battery will power multiple tools. However, it can be more convenient to purchase a kit with multiple batteries to have one on the charger while the other is in use.

Feed Type

The “feed” of a string trimmer indicates how the trimmer head releases additional trimmer line as it becomes frayed and broken during use. The standby is a bump feed where the user bumps the bottom of the trimmer (the area where the spool attaches) on the ground to release a few inches of fresh line.

Some newer models feature an auto-feed sensor that gauges the length of the strings and releases more when needed. Still others have a push button to release more line. Auto and button feeds eliminate the need to bump the spool, which can reduce the risk of damage if bumped too hard, but many commercial-type trimmers still use bump feed because it’s quick and easy.

Curved vs. Straight Shaft

Some string trimmers feature a straight shaft that runs from the handle to the cutting head, while other models feature a distinct curve in the lower shaft about two-thirds of the way down. Some users find curved-shaft trimmers to be easier to operate since the spool end already rests at a handy angle for weed whacking.

Straight-shaft trimmers often accommodate interchangeable tools, such as a tree trimmer head, which can be swapped out depending on the task at hand. In general, straight-shaft trimmers work better for users at least 6 feet tall, while shorter users will appreciate curved-shaft trimmers.

Noise

Battery-powered string trimmers have a distinct advantage over gas-powered trimmers when it comes to noise pollution. Gas-powered trimmers are moderately loud, emitting an average of 90 decibels (about as loud as a motorcycle passing by from 25 feet away). By contrast, a cordless string trimmer emits approximately 77 decibels, which is comparable to casual conversation.

FAQs

Those who are still unsure about how to use a battery string trimmer may find the following answers to common questions about these tools helpful.

Q. Can a string trimmer cut weeds?

A string trimmer is used to cut and control weed growth around the home and garden. However, light-duty trimmers may have issues with very dense weed growth.

Q. Can you use a string trimmer to cut grass?

A string trimmer can be used to cut grass, though you need to be careful not to cut the grass too short while trying to keep the trimmer balanced. It isn’t the easiest way to cut the grass, but it is possible.

Q. Can you edge with a string trimmer?

Yes, a string trimmer can be used for edging the garden, driveway, walkway, or sidewalk. If you have a large yard, it may be better to invest in a separate edging tool.

Q. How many volts should be in a trimmer?

String trimmer batteries average from 18 volts up to 80 volts. Typically, the higher the voltage, the longer the battery life.

Q. How do you edge a lawn with a string trimmer?

Hold the string trimmer perpendicular to the lawn to keep the cut even. Position the head about 4 inches off the soil so the string has space to rotate. The string should rotate and cut through the grass and dirt. As you move along the desired borders, keep the head balanced and even. Clean up the cut grass and dirt to finish the job.

Why Trust Bob Vila

Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.

Meet the Tester

Mark Wolfe is a writer and product tester with a background in the nursery and landscaping industry. For more than 20 years he mowed, edged, planted, pruned, cultivated, irrigated, and renovated beautiful landscapes. Now he tests and writes reviews about the latest outdoor power equipment, hand tools, lawn-care products, and other outdoor-living goods.

Additional research provided by Glenda Taylor.