Maintaining a well-trimmed lawn is a lot of work. A gas-powered weed eater can be of great help, but the tool itself also requires a lot of maintenance.
The best battery powered weed eaters offer a simple, more convenient alternative. They are much lighter and quieter than gas-powered models. They also start easily every time and there’s no mixing of fuel.
When they appeared on the market for the first time, they were considered to be nothing more than glorified toys. But, battery-powered weed eaters have come a long way in the last decade. Check out these lawn sweepers that can make cleaning up much quicker.
The best battery powered weed eaters of today can match the performance of a gas-powered or corded electric model. Here are 10 great battery powered weed eaters which prove that this type of tool is not a gimmick, but a great addition to any outdoor power equipment collection.
Our Top Pick: [amazon link=”B07BBW8P9Y” title=”Ego ST1521S battery powered weed eater” /]
Features
- 15″ cutting swath
- Push-button load system
- Great run time
- Variable speed control
- Brushless motor
Contents
Best Battery Powered Weed Eater Reviews
WORX WG191 56V Cordless String Trimmer and Edger
[amazon fields=”B00Q6EH2AU” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”WORX WG191 56V Cordless String Trimmer and Edger” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Cutting swath: 13″
- Weight: 7 lbs
- Power: 56V Max
Thanks to its innovative design, the Worx WG191 battery powered weed eater also doubles as an edge trimmer. If you are looking for a 2-in-1 option and have a lot of landscaping features to edge around, this model may be perfect for you.
Powered by a 56V Max battery, the Worx WG191 can handle even the toughest weeds with great ease. It comes with a variable speed trigger that allows you to get more run time out of the battery.
The Worx WG191 packs a variety of cool features. The weed eater comes with an added wheel that makes edging much easier. You can use it on any type of terrain, thanks to the 90° pivoting cutting head.
When you need more lines, simply press the switch to load it. It really beats the traditional bump feed system.
Pros
- Doubles as an edge trimmer
- Powerful
- 90° pivoting cutting head
- Variable speed control
- Command feed system
Cons
- Expensive batteries
[amazon fields=”B00Q6EH2AU” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
DEWALT DCST990B String Trimmer
[amazon fields=”B01C5YWS26″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”DEWALT DCST990B String Trimmer” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Cutting swath: 15″
- Weight: 15 lbs
- Power: 40V Max
The DeWalt DCST990B battery powered weed eater is one of the best straight shaft weed eaters on the market. This weed eater comes out of the box ready for use—no partial assembly required. And, like most DeWalt power tools, there’s no doubt it’s made to last.
It sports a brushless motor that comes with DeWalt’s “gas performance guarantee.” The brushless motor is designed to adjust according to load, conserving energy when needed. It also generates much more torque than the average brushed motor of the same size.
The weed eater is fitted with a smooth and responsive variable speed trigger. It has a 15″ cutting swath, so it’s a great option for those who want battery convenience without sacrificing major features.
Pros
- Durable
- Well-balanced
- Variable speed trigger
- No assembly required
- Brushless motor
Cons
- Guard not removable
[amazon fields=”B01C5YWS26″ value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Ego ST1521S String Trimmer
[amazon fields=”B07BBW8P9Y” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Ego ST1521S String Trimmer” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Cutting swath: 15″
- Weight: 11 lbs
- Power: 56V
This Ego battery powered weed eater can devour tough and thick Japanese knotweed like it is grass. Not many battery-powered weed eaters have earned that bragging right.
And, for such a powerful tool, the Ego ST1521S is surprisingly quiet. It’s no louder than a hairdryer. It offers the performance of a gas-powered model without the time-consuming maintenance.
The weed eater sports a super convenient push-button line load system. The Ego weed eater is easy to maneuver and swing around in tight spots thanks to its well-balanced design.
It’s not the lightest weed eater around, but it is one of the best models for extended use. The Ego weed eater offers 60 minutes of run time on a single battery charge. Without a doubt, it’s one of the most capable weed eaters on the market.
Pros
- Great run time
- Push-button line load system
- Quiet
- Powerful
- Well-balanced
Cons
- Takes some time to charge the battery
[amazon fields=”B07BBW8P9Y” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
GreenWorks 21302 Weed Eater
[amazon fields=”B0030GEXUO” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”GreenWorks 21302″ image_align=”center”]
Features
- Cutting swath: 13″
- Weight: 9.3 lbs
- Power: 40V
Light and easy to handle, The Greenworks 40V battery powered weed eater is a great solution for a medium-sized yard. If offers 30 minutes of runtime.
The tool allows for instant line feeding, thanks to its innovative command feed spool system. Sporting a rubber twin wheelset, the GreenWorks 21302 doubles as an edger.
It comes with a quick-release trigger lever that allows you to easily adjust the telescopic shaft. Considering the fact that the kit includes a battery and a charger, it comes at a very attractive price point.
Capable of spinning the line at 9,000 RPM, the Greenworks weed eater can certainly take on the average gas-powered model.
In general, Greenworks offer affordable and reliable power tools, so if you are looking to start a collection on the same platform, the Greenworks 21302 is a great, cost-efficient option.
Pros
- Variable speed control
- 9,000 RPM
- Budget-friendly
- Telescopic shaft
- Doubles as an edger
Cons
- Handle feels a bit flimsy
[amazon fields=”B0030GEXUO” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Oregon Cordless ST275 Strimer
[amazon fields=”B01N2AUM2A” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Oregon Cordless ST275″ image_align=”center”]
Features
- Cutting swath: 13″
- Weight: 9.7 lbs
- Power: 40V
If you are tired of dealing with clogger carburetors and fuel priming, the Oregon ST275 battery powered weed eater is a reliable, easy-to-use alternative to a gas-powered weed eater. This tool is all about comfort and convenience.
Assembling the Oregon ST275 takes no more than a few seconds. All you need to do is attach the trim guard and the handle attachment. The battery installs quickly and easily as well.
If you use it with a 6.0 Ah battery, you can get 60 minutes of runtime, which is more than enough to manicure a ½ acre yard. The variable speed trigger lets you tune the power to your liking.
This weed eater boasts a one-of-a-kind speed load system—most likely the fastest one out there. You can replace the line in as little as 20 seconds.
Pros
- Variable speed trigger
- 20s Speed-load system
- Quick assembly
- Durable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Expensive batteries
[amazon fields=”B01N2AUM2A” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
BLACK+DECKER LST300 Weed Eater
[amazon fields=”B00HH4K4HQ” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”BLACK+DECKER LST300 Weed Eater” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Cutting swath: 12″
- Weight: 5.7 lbs
- Power: 20V
A compact, budget-friendly weed eater is a great solution for a smaller yard. And, if you want a reliable but affordable tool, you can never go wrong with Black & Decker battery powered weed eater. If you don’t need the extra power, the Black & Decker LST3000 is definitely the smarter buy.
The tool runs on a 20V battery system. Quiet, lightweight, and very easy to use, it’s a great choice for the average homeowner. You can keep the line at the best length while the weed eater is in use, thanks to the convenient automatic feed spool.
One charge will get you 30 minutes of runtime, which should be more than enough to manicure a ¼ yard. You can even use it as an edger—all you need to do is turn the shaft.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- 2-in-1 tool
- Lightweight
- Quiet
- Easy to use
Cons
- Battery takes very long to charge
[amazon fields=”B00HH4K4HQ” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Ryobi P2052 ONE+ 18-Volt Cordless String Trimmer/Edger
[amazon fields=”B00GJTXB0C” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Ryobi P2052 ONE+ 18-Volt Cordless String Trimmer/Edger” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Cutting swath: 10″
- Weight: 4 lbs
- Power: 20V
This uniquely designed weed eater is all about comfort and versatility. Weighing in at 4 lbs, you can wield it around the yard hours on end without getting tired. It does come with a limited 10” cutting swath, but its intelligent curved design compensates for that shortcoming more than well.
You can effortlessly finesse the Ryobi One+ around obstacles thanks to its unique ergonomic front grip. The shaft pivots to an edger in just a few seconds. There is still a small difference between using lawn edgers vs string trimmers. No matter which One+ battery you get, it will reach a full charge in less than an hour.
The Ryobi One+ battery powered weed eater comes with a variable speed trigger, which is not something you can usually expect to get in this price range. Changing the line takes some getting-used-to. But, once you master it, it will take less than a minute.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Great for extended use
- Ergonomic front grip
- Lightweight
- Well-balanced
Cons
- 10” cutting swath
[amazon fields=”B00GJTXB0C” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Kobalt 80-Volt Max String Trimmer
[amazon fields=”B07MB77SPJ” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Kobalt 80-Volt Max String Trimmer” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Cutting swath: 14″ to 16″
- Weight: 13 lbs
- Power: 80V
The Kobalt 80-Volt Max String Trimmer is a no-nonsense battery powered weed eater that can effortlessly deal with the most stubborn weeds. Weighing in at 13 lbs, this model certainly isn’t a lightweight weed eater. However, the location of its motor provides better balance and more comfortable use.
Sporting a universal fit coupling, the Kobalt weed eater can accept a wide variety of attachments. You can even adjust the cutting diameter from 14″ to 16″. It’s one of the most versatile weed eaters on the market.
It’s 0.080″ trim line comes in really handy when dealing with tougher overgrown areas. The variable speed trigger allows you to lower the speed for light-duty jobs. When powered by a 2.5 Ah battery, it will deliver 60 minutes of runtime.
Pros
- Great runtime
- Powerful
- Adjustable cutting swath
- Easy assembly
- Universal fit coupling
Cons
- Heavy
[amazon fields=”B07MB77SPJ” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Ryobi RY40220 40V Eater
[amazon fields=”B00K34DZAA” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Ryobi RY40220 40V” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Cutting swath: 13″
- Weight: 8.4 lbs
- Power: 80V
The RY40220 battery powered weed eater is a budget-friendly weed eater that has the oomph of a gas-powered model. By offering attachments instead of individual tools, Ryobi allows homeowners to make the most out of their money.
Ryobi’s Expand-It system allows you to turn your weed eater into an edger, blower, cultivator, brush cutter, pole saw, or hedge trimmer (check out my post on the best cordless hedge trimmer). It accepts attachments from other brands as well.
Its Speed-Feed syle load system allows for fast and easy line changes. The tool also allows you to adjust the cutting swath from 11″ to 13″.
The weed eater can deliver 90 minutes of runtime on a 6.0 Ah battery. This makes it a great choice for larger yards.
Pros
- Accepts a variety of attachments
- Great run time
- Adjustable cutting swath
- Budget-friendly
- Fast and easy line changes
Cons
- Noisy
[amazon fields=”B00K34DZAA” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Makita XRU02Z Cordless String Trimmer
[amazon fields=”B00KA3ZGUG” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Makita XRU02Z Cordless String Trimmer” image_align=”center”]
Features
- Cutting swath: 10″
- Weight: 6.9 lbs
- Power: 18V
Woodworkers, construction workers, and lawn care professionals have one thing in common—they all adore the Makita battery powered weed eater brand. They have made a name for themselves by manufacturing reliable tools that can last a lifetime.
If you are looking for a solid lightweight trimmer for light-duty work, you can’t go wrong with the Makita XRU02Z. For its size, it is a surprisingly versatile tool. It comes with a telescopic shaft and can double as an edger. You should also read our review of the best electric string trimmers.
When powered by a 3.0 Ah battery, the Makita weed eater can deliver 45 minutes of runtime. And, it takes just 30 minutes to recharge the battery. If you want all of your tools to be on the same platform, Makita is certainly a good brand to be loyal to.
Pros
- Versatile
- Telescopic shaft
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Comfortable to use
Cons
- 10” cutting swath
[amazon fields=”B00KA3ZGUG” value=”button” button_text=”Check Price on Amazon”]
Best Weed Eater Buying Guide
What you need to know about a weed trimmer is usually found in its specifications. Features like cutting swath, attachment capability, and battery capacity set weed eaters apart from each other. There are other ways to permanently get of weeds in your lawn.
Battery Capacity
On average, 15 to 20 minutes of run time in enough to manicure a ¼ acre lawn. Li-Ion battery-powered weed eaters can offer between 15 to 60 minutes of continuous use.
However, if you have a particularly larger yard, you always have the option of swapping a couple of batteries. But, depending on the model you have, getting an extra battery can be expensive. Still, if you are tackling larger projects very often, a backup battery is a good investment.
Typically, it takes between 30 minutes to 2 hours to recharge a weed eater battery, depending on the type of charger you have. Some brands sell fast chargers, but they usually cost a bit extra.
Battery Interchangeability
You should be able to use your weed eater’s battery with other outdoor power tools from the same manufacturer. Most OPE (outdoor power equipment) manufacturers design their batteries to be compatible with all of their power tools.
Having a collection of tools on the same platform can be very cost-effective. So, if you already have a cordless power tool in your garage, consider buying a weed eater of the same brand.
If it’s your first time buying a cordless tool, it’ a good idea to see what other cordless tools a brand has to offer, and not just their weed eaters. Again, batteries can get very expensive, so if you choose to go with a reliable and trusted manufacturer, brand loyalty can indeed pay off.
Battery Type
There are two types of batteries: Ni-Cad and Li-Ion. Ni-Cad batteries models are still available, but they have become obsolete, more or less, so buying a Ni-Cad powered model or a Ni-Cad battery is a poor investment.
However, many battery-powered weed eaters accept both Li-Ion and Ni-Cad batteries, so, if you have an old Ni-Cad battery of the same brand as your weed eater, it may still be useful.
Li-Ion batteries have become the standard. On average, they are 50% lighter than Ni-Cad batteries. A Li-Ion battery offers a consistent power output for as long as it lasts.
But, they have a finite lifespan. If your weed eater uses a Li-Ion battery, you’ll have to replace it after 3 to 5 years of use.
Li-Ion batteries slowly drain over time. So, it’s best not to leave the battery on the weed eater when you are not using it. It will drain even when if it’s off, but slower.
If it has been a couple of weeks since you last used your Li-Ion battery, you will probably need to recharge it. If you can, store your Li-Ion batteries indoors.
Battery Voltage and Amps
Li-Ion batteries used on weed eaters range from 18V to 82V. Tougher jobs require more power. If you want more power, go with higher-voltage batteries. To determine how much voltage you need when buying a Li-Ion battery, check your weed eater’s product manual.
Generally, the amp-hours (Ah) of a battery can tell us how long it can hold a charge. The more amp-hours it has, the longer the run time.
Types of Weed Eater Shafts
Weed eaters come in two different styles—straight shaft weed eaters and curved shaft weed eaters.
Straight shaft weed eaters are more common than curved shaft models. A straight shaft weed eater allows you to handle tight spaces and hard to reach corners. This type also works well under fences. They are the better option for taller users since they offer a longer reach.
It’s not uncommon for a straight shaft weed eater to have a telescoping shaft. A model with a telescoping shaft is great for those who prioritize comfort.
As far as battery-powered weed eaters go, curved shaft models are not very common. This type of weed eater is great for weed and grass trimming in open areas. However, they are usually not the best option for small corners.
Generally, curved shaft weed eaters are easier to handle because they are lighter than straight shaft models.
Cutting Path
The cutting swath can be anywhere between 10″ and 18″, but the average weed eater has a cutting swath of 12″.
Weed eaters in the 12″ range can keep the speed up with less torque. They tend to be more efficient. But, the wider the range, the less time it takes to do the job. Professionals generally prefer to use 15” weed eaters.
The cutting path of a weed eater should be narrow enough for you to be able to use the trimmer in small corners, but it also needs to be wide enough to clear a large area with one sweep. So, it’s best to choose a model in the 12” to 15” range.
Line Diameter
The line gauge of a weed eater can be anywhere between 0.060” and 0.105” in diameter. Some professional-grade models use lines even thicker than 0.105” but they are not common.
Thicker lines offer more cutting power. They also don’t break so easily. So, if you want to spend more time trimming the lawn and less time changing lines, it’s best to choose a model that has a line gauge capacity of at least 0.080”.
Line Changes
Changing the line can be a very frustrating process. The best battery-powered weed eaters take advantage of simple and intuitive line changes.
Ideally, you will be able to change the line in just a few minutes. However, if you are not happy with how long the process takes, you can always upgrade the head.
It’s best to go with a model that uses a speed-feed system. It allows you to change the line without removing the spool, so you’ll never have to deal with a jumpy line and tangles.
Speed
A weed eater that can spin the line at more revolutions per minute (RPMs) will get the job done faster. Most cordless weed eaters fall in the 6000 – 9000 RPM range.
If a weed eater has variable speed control, it lets you adjust the speed at which the string spins. Weed eaters with variable speed control are more versatile than single-speed weed eaters.
For instance, if you’re dealing with long grass or tougher weeds, you can choose a higher speed. For light-duty weed whacking, you can choose a lower speed. Lower speeds also allow for a longer run time.
Attachment Capability
Lawn care professionals typically have dedicated tools for edging, trimming, and hedge trimming. If you get a model that uses interchangeable heads, you can get all those tools in one.
Some weed eaters can cover everything from brush cutting to blowing. And, if you get a weed cuter that has a universal connection, you will be able to use attachments from other manufacturers.
Balance
The lighter a weed eater is, the easier it is to work with. But, the distribution of the weight is just as important as the weight itself. A weed eater should be heavier at the top, or the weight should be evenly distributed.
Using a weed eater is more difficult if most of the weight is in the cutting head. You’ll become fatigued quickly and you may even have a hard time holding it steady.
Noise Level
The best battery powered weed eaters are much quieter than gas-powered models, but they are still noisy tools. The level of noise a weed eater makes is measured in decibels (dB). Before you buy a weed eater, you should check your local noise regulations.
The average battery-powered weed produces 86 dB of noise at full throttle. Louder models are rated at 92 dB and more. Even if you buy a quieter weed eater, it’s a good idea to wear hearing protection. These [amazon link=”B01L1U9L5W” title=”Mpow 035 earmuffs” /] are a good and affordable solution.
Takeaway
Of all the weed eaters on the list, the [amazon link=”B07BBW8P9Y” title=”Ego ST1521S String Trimmer” /] does the best job of balancing power and efficiency. It performs just as well as a quality gas-powered model but offers much more convenience. And, considering all the features it has to offer, the Ego ST1521S comes at a very attractive price point.