8 Best Budget String Trimmers That Still Last (October 2026)
The best budget string trimmers include the WORX WG163 20V 2-in-1 Trimmer and Edger for small yards with edging, the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 2-in-1 Trimmer and Edger for simple line feeding, and the CRAFTSMAN V20 Trimmer and Edger Kit (4Ah) for longer sessions.
On this page (4 sections)
The best budget string trimmer for most small yards is the WORX WG163, which includes two batteries, an edger wheel and a tilting head. If you want a larger cutting path, consider CRAFTSMAN; for a brushless tool with a low stated weight, look at Greenworks.
A low price alone doesn't make a trimmer a good value. Check whether the battery and charger are included, how the line advances, and whether the tool can edge along paths and beds.
For a broader overview of shaft shape, power and line, see our string trimmer buying guide. You can also compare more cordless options in our best cordless weed eaters and best 20V string trimmers roundups.
Our picks at a glance
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1
Best for small yards with edgingWORX WG163 20V 2-in-1 Trimmer and Edger
9.1/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for simple line feedingBLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 2-in-1 Trimmer and Edger
8.8/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for longer sessionsCRAFTSMAN V20 Trimmer and Edger Kit (4Ah)
8.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itBLACK+DECKER 40V MAX Far Reach Trimmer and Edger
Best for buyers with a 40V battery - 5
Check itBLACK+DECKER 20V MAX LST522 Wheeled Edger Trimmer
Best for adjustable power and edging - 6
Check itGreenworks 24V 12-Inch Blade-Head Trimmer
Best for a brushless blade head - 7
Check itBLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 13-Inch Trimmer and Edger
Best for a 40V kit with battery - 8
Check itGreenworks 24V 12-Inch Trimmer
Best for a lightweight basic kit
How we chose budget string trimmers
The best budget string trimmer gives you the equipment and features that matter for your yard without leaving key costs out of the decision. We compared the included battery setup, cutting width, line or blade system, edging features and useful adjustments.
Battery inclusion affects the real value of a kit. The BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX Far Reach model is a bare tool, so it makes the most sense if you already have a compatible battery and charger.
The other picks include a battery, though their capacities and platforms differ.
We also considered the kind of work each design suits. A 12 in cutting width can fit smaller lawns and detail work, while a 13 in path covers a little more with each pass.
Edging conversion, adjustable speed and shaft settings can matter as much as voltage for routine upkeep.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
| Product | Best for | Cutting width | Included batteries | Weight | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WORX WG163 20V 2-in-1 Trimmer and Edger | small yards with edging | 12 in | Two 20V batteries | 5.5 lb | 9.1 |
| BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 2-in-1 Trimmer and Edger | simple line feeding | 12 in | 5.7 lb | 8.8 | |
| CRAFTSMAN V20 Trimmer and Edger Kit (4Ah) | longer sessions | 13 in | 8.6 | ||
| BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX Far Reach Trimmer and Edger | buyers with a 40V battery | 13 in | 8.0 | ||
| BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX LST522 Wheeled Edger Trimmer | adjustable power and edging | 12 in | 7.9 | ||
| Greenworks 24V 12-Inch Blade-Head Trimmer | a brushless blade head | 12 in | 7.7 | ||
| BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 13-Inch Trimmer and Edger | a 40V kit with battery | 13 in | 6.4 lb | 7.4 | |
| Greenworks 24V 12-Inch Trimmer | a lightweight basic kit | 12 in | 7.2 |
Budget string trimmers for different yard needs
The WORX WG163 leads this group because its kit includes two batteries and useful edging details. Other picks make sense for different priorities, from line feeding to longer sessions or a brushless design.
WORX WG163 20V 2-in-1 Trimmer and Edger: Best for small yards with edging
- Converts between trimmer and edger
- Two 20V batteries included
- 12 in cutting diameter
- 90-degree tilting head
This kit includes two batteries, a charger and an edger wheel, so you can get started without adding a separate battery purchase. The tilting head and adjustable spacer guard help with sloped edges and nearby plants.
Pros
- Two batteries and charger included
- Edging wheel guides straight lines
- Head tilts 90 degrees
Cons
- 12 in cutting diameter
- Uses 0.065 in line
The WORX WG163 is a practical fit for a small lawn where you also want to tidy the edges along a walk or garden bed. It converts between trimming and edging, and its rubberized wheels help guide the edger for straighter lines.
The head tilts 90 degrees for sloped ground or awkward spots. An adjustable spacer guard helps protect plants and landscape features, while push-button Command Feed advances line when you need it.
WORX includes two 20V batteries and a charger. At 5.5 lb, the tool has a 12 in cutting diameter and uses 0.065 in line.
Choose it if you want a ready-to-use kit with edging support and a spare battery. If you need more width per pass, compare the 13 in CRAFTSMAN and BLACK+DECKER options below.
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 2-in-1 Trimmer and Edger: Best for simple line feeding
- Automatic feed spool
- Converts between trimmer and edger
- 12 in cutting swath
- Battery and charger included
The automatic feed spool advances line without bumping, and the tool converts between trimming and edging. The kit includes a 2.0Ah battery and charging base.
Pros
- Automatic line feed
- Battery and charger included
- Adjustable height and handle
Cons
- One battery included
- 12 in cutting swath
The BLACK+DECKER LST300 suits buyers who want line to feed automatically without bumping the head. Its Automatic Feed Spool advances line as needed, and the tool switches between trimmer and edger modes.
This kit includes a 2.0Ah battery, charger and charging base. The adjustable handle and height positions allow you to set the tool to a more comfortable fit.
Its 12 in cutting swath is similar to the WORX pick, but it has one included battery rather than two. Consider how much trimming you do between charges, especially if your yard has long fence lines or several beds.
Choose it for automatic line feed and a simple 2-in-1 setup. If you prefer two speed settings and a larger battery, the CRAFTSMAN kit offers both.
CRAFTSMAN V20 Trimmer and Edger Kit (4Ah): Best for longer sessions
- 4Ah battery and charger included
- Up to 63 minutes runtime on low speed
- 13 in cutting swath
- Two speed settings
The included 4Ah battery and stated runtime of up to 63 minutes on low speed suit longer trimming sessions. Turn-To-Edge operation and two speed settings add flexibility.
Pros
- 4Ah battery and charger included
- 13 in cutting swath
- Two speed settings
Cons
- Runtime claim is for low speed
- Heavier kit may cost more than a basic option
The CRAFTSMAN V20 kit is the strongest fit here for a longer trimming session. Its 4Ah battery and stated runtime of up to 63 minutes on low speed give it a larger battery setup than the 2.0Ah and 2.5Ah kits in this roundup.
The 13 in cutting swath covers more ground per pass than a 12 in path. Turn-To-Edge operation changes the tool from trimming to edging, while two speed settings let you favor runtime or power.
CRAFTSMAN's runtime figure is based on the 4.0Ah battery at low speed, so your results can vary with the work and setting. The kit includes the battery, charger and a spool using 0.065 in line.
Choose it if you want a wider cut and a larger included battery. For a lower-cost bare tool that uses an existing battery, consider the BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX Far Reach.
BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX Far Reach Trimmer and Edger: Best for buyers with a 40V battery
- 13 in cutting width
- Power adjustment dial
- Automatic feed spool
- Battery and charger sold separately
This bare tool may suit someone who already has a compatible BLACK+DECKER 40V battery and charger. Its power dial lets you select more power or prioritize battery life.
Pros
- 13 in cutting width
- Power adjustment dial
- Converts to an edger
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- Requires compatible 40V battery
The BLACK+DECKER LST136B can make sense when you already own a compatible 40V MAX battery and charger. Its battery and charger are sold separately, which lowers the amount of equipment included but can avoid buying another battery system.
A power adjustment dial lets you choose maximum strength for thicker growth or extend battery life across a larger area. The automatic feed spool advances line without bumping, and the 13 in cutting width is the largest in this group.
It converts to an edger, too. The box includes the trimmer, spool, guard and auxiliary handle, but you'll need to supply the compatible battery and charger.
Choose this model if you can use a battery you already own. If you need a complete 40V kit, the BLACK+DECKER LST140C below includes its battery and charger.
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX LST522 Wheeled Edger Trimmer: Best for adjustable power and edging
- Two speed settings
- Wheeled edging conversion
- 2.5Ah battery and charger included
- 12 in cutting width
The two speed settings let you favor power in tougher areas or longer runtime for extended work. A 2.5Ah battery, charger and wheeled edging conversion are included.
Pros
- 2.5Ah battery and charger included
- Two speed settings
- Automatic line advancement
Cons
- 12 in cutting width
- Battery capacity is smaller than the CRAFTSMAN kit
The BLACK+DECKER LST522 combines wheeled edging with two speed settings and a 2.5Ah battery. Use the higher power setting for tougher areas, then reduce speed when you want to stretch runtime during edging or longer sessions.
Its 12 in cutting width suits routine trimming around a smaller lawn. The Automatic Feed Spool advances line as you work, and adjustable height and handle settings help you find a comfortable setup.
This kit includes a charger and guard as well as the battery. It is a sensible middle ground if you want more battery capacity than the LST300's 2.0Ah kit but don't need the CRAFTSMAN's 13 in path.
Choose it for adjustable power and wheeled edging. For a brushless option that uses plastic blades, see the Greenworks blade-head model.
Greenworks 24V 12-Inch Blade-Head Trimmer: Best for a brushless blade head
- Brushless motor
- 12 in cutting path
- Ten plastic blades included
- 3.0Ah battery and charger included
This kit uses ten plastic blades rather than trimmer line, so it fits buyers who prefer that cutting setup. It also includes a 3.0Ah battery and a telescoping shaft.
Pros
- Brushless motor
- Battery and charger included
- Telescoping shaft
Cons
- Uses plastic blades instead of line
- Battery weight is not included in the stated tool weight
The Greenworks 24V blade-head trimmer suits buyers who prefer plastic blades to string line. It includes ten blades, a 3.0Ah battery and a charger, along with a brushless motor and a telescoping aluminum shaft.
Its 12 in cutting path and two-in-one design cover trimming and edging. Greenworks says the shaft adjusts for users from 4 ft 8 in to 6 ft 5 in, which can help you set a more comfortable working height.
The stated 5.25 lb tool weight is without the battery, so expect the full kit to weigh more in use. It is also a distinct cutting system from the line-feed trimmers in this roundup, so check that plastic blades suit your routine.
Choose it if a brushless motor, adjustable shaft and blade head fit your needs. If you want a line trimmer with a 40V battery included, compare the BLACK+DECKER LST140C.
BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 13-Inch Trimmer and Edger: Best for a 40V kit with battery
- 13 in cutting width
- 40V battery and charger included
- State of charge indicator
- Automatic line feed
Unlike the bare tool above, this kit includes a battery and charger. Its battery has a charge indicator, and the tool converts between trimming and edging.
Pros
- Battery and charger included
- 13 in cutting width
- Battery charge indicator
Cons
- Heavier than the 20V kits listed here
- 40V battery platform
The BLACK+DECKER LST140C is the complete 40V kit in this roundup. It includes a battery and charger, plus a charge indicator that shows the battery's state of charge.
Its 13 in cutting width and automatic line feed suit regular trimming and edging. The tool converts between those jobs, while the PowerDrive transmission delivers more cutting strength at the string.
At 6.4 lb, it is heavier than the 20V kits listed here. That may be a reasonable trade if you want a wider cut and a 40V battery platform, especially when the battery indicator helps you plan the work.
Choose it when you want a ready-to-use 40V kit. If carrying less weight is your priority, the Greenworks 24V line trimmer below has a lower stated tool weight without its battery.
Greenworks 24V 12-Inch Trimmer: Best for a lightweight basic kit
- Brushless motor
- 12 in cutting path
- 4.08 lb without battery
- 2.0Ah battery and USB-C charger included
At 4.08 lb without its battery, this is the lightest stated tool in the group. Its brushless motor, auto-feed system and adjustable three-piece shaft make it a straightforward choice for light trimming.
Pros
- Lightest stated tool weight here
- Brushless motor with auto-feed
- Battery and USB-C charger included
Cons
- 12 in cutting path
- No edging conversion is specified
The Greenworks 24V line trimmer is the lightest stated tool in this roundup at 4.08 lb without its battery. It also has a brushless motor, automatic line feed and a three-piece shaft that adjusts for handling and storage.
The kit includes a 2.0Ah battery and a 30W USB-C charger. Its 12 in cutting path and single line are aimed at trimming, and no edging conversion is specified.
As with the Greenworks blade-head model, the stated weight excludes the battery. This is a useful distinction if low tool weight matters, but it doesn't tell you the full weight you'll carry while working.
Choose it for light trimming and an adjustable shaft. If edging is part of your routine, the WORX WG163 or BLACK+DECKER wheeled models include features for that job.
What matters most when buying a budget string trimmer?
For a budget string trimmer, first check what comes in the box and whether the tool matches your yard's size and growth. A low-cost bare tool may cost more to get running if you need to add a battery and charger.
Does the kit include a battery and charger?
A complete kit includes the battery and charger you need to start using the tool. In this group, the BLACK+DECKER LST136B is the exception: its battery and charger are sold separately.
Battery capacity affects how much work you may get done between charges, but it doesn't guarantee a set runtime. CRAFTSMAN states up to 63 minutes on low speed with its 4Ah battery; the other picks don't provide the same runtime figure in the facts here.
Before choosing a voltage platform, think about other tools you own. Our guide to 40V vs 20V trimmers explains how to match voltage to your yard and battery setup.
Is a wider cutting path worth it?
A wider cutting path lets you cover a little more grass in each pass. Most trimmers here have a 12 in path, while the CRAFTSMAN and two BLACK+DECKER 40V models have 13 in paths.
The difference is modest, so don't choose on width alone. For a small lawn with tight borders, edging and line-feed features may save more effort than an extra inch of path.
Which line-feed system should you choose?
An automatic feed system advances line as you work, while the WORX Command Feed uses a push button for line when needed. These designs avoid the bumping step used by some trimmers, though replacement line and spool costs are still part of long-term ownership.
Check line thickness compatibility before buying replacement spools. Our guide to string trimmer line sizes explains how line size affects fit and use.
When does a blade-head trimmer make sense?
A blade-head trimmer may suit you if you prefer plastic blades over string line. The Greenworks 24V blade-head kit includes ten blades, but the other options here use trimmer line.
Treat the cutting system as a core choice, not a minor accessory. If you want line for edging, fence lines or stone borders, compare the line trimmer models and their feed systems.
Which budget string trimmer should you choose?
Choose the WORX WG163 if you want a complete small-yard kit with two batteries, edging wheels and a tilting head. Pick the CRAFTSMAN V20 for its 13 in swath and 4Ah battery, or the Greenworks 24V line model if low stated tool weight matters most.
If you're deciding between battery sizes, read our best 40V string trimmers roundup alongside the buying guide. Match the tool to your existing batteries, the work you do most and the amount of edging your yard needs.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for small yards with edging
WORX WG163 20V 2-in-1 Trimmer and Edger
9.1/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for simple line feeding
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 2-in-1 Trimmer and Edger
8.8/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for longer sessions
CRAFTSMAN V20 Trimmer and Edger Kit (4Ah)
8.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon
