Best String Trimmers Under $500: 5 Spec-Based Picks

Quick picks

The best fit for you

• You want automatic line feed for convenience EGO Power+ 16-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer It features a 16-inch cutting width and automatic line feed system.
• You need power for large overgrown yards BILT HARD 22-Inch Self-Propelled Gas Trimmer Its 22-inch cutting width and self-propelled drive handle tough vegetation.
• You want adjustable power and runtime control Makita 36V 15" Brushless Trimmer Kit Three speed settings let you manage battery life and cutting power.
• You want a lightweight model with auto feed EGO Power+ 15-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer Weighing 7.28 pounds, it offers automatic line feeding in a 15-inch design.
• You have existing V20 batteries to share CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer Bundle It uses the V20 platform for compatibility with your current batteries.

Our 5 picks

1 Best overall

EGO Power+ 16-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer

Best for: Users wanting automatic line feed

Voltage

56V

Cutting Swath

16 in.

Shaft Type

telescopic carbon fiber

Line Feed System

POWERLOAD, LINE IQ

Battery Capacity

4.0Ah

Cutting Width

16-Inch

View on Amazon: EGO Power+ 16-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer Affiliate link

This EGO string trimmer uses a 56V battery and a 16-inch cutting swath to handle weeds and grass. It features a telescopic carbon fiber shaft for height adjustment and a durable build. The included 4.0Ah battery provides up to 60 minutes of runtime. It also includes a second battery for extended work. The automatic line feed system reduces interruptions during use.

Pros

• 56V power source for consistent performance
• 16-inch cutting swath for efficient trimming
• Telescopic carbon fiber shaft for comfort
• Automatic LINE IQ line feed system
• Includes extra 4.0Ah battery

Cons

• 16-inch swath is narrower than some gas models
• Requires charging time between uses
• Heavier than basic plastic shaft trimmers

Good fit if

• You want automatic line feed to avoid stopping
• You need a lightweight carbon fiber shaft
• You already own EGO 56V batteries

Skip if

• You prefer a self-propelled walk-behind mower
• You need a 170cc gas engine
• You want a 36V dual battery system

Verdict: EGO 16" Cordless Trimmer offers reliable runtime and a comfortable shaft for users who value convenience. It suits those who want to trim without stopping to reload line.

2 Also great

BILT HARD 22-Inch Self-Propelled Gas Trimmer

Best for: large overgrown yards needing power

Cutting Swath

22 in

Power Source

gas

Voltage

170cc

Cutting Width

22-Inch

Drive Type

Self-Propelled

Application

Yard, Lawn

View on Amazon: BILT HARD 22-Inch Self-Propelled Gas Trimmer Affiliate link

This BILT HARD string trimmer uses a 170cc 4-cycle gas engine and self-propelled drive to handle thick weeds and light brush. It features a 22-inch cutting swath and eight height settings. The steel deck and side discharge manage clippings effectively. It suits users with large, overgrown yards who need power and reduced physical effort during mowing.

Pros

• 170cc OHV 4-cycle gas engine for high torque
• Self-propelled drive at 1.9 mph reduces fatigue
• 22-inch cutting diameter covers more ground per pass
• 8-position height adjustment from 1.6 to 3.7 inches
• Heavy-duty one-piece steel deck for stability

Cons

• Gas engine requires fuel mixing and maintenance
• Manual recoil start lacks electric push-button ignition
• Heavier build due to steel deck and engine

Good fit if

• You need to clear dense weeds and light brush
• You want a wider 22-inch cutting path
• You prefer self-propelled operation on uneven terrain

Skip if

• You require a battery-powered or electric tool
• You want a lightweight trimmer for small yards
• You prefer electric start over manual recoil

Verdict: BILT HARD 22" Self-Propelled Gas Trimmer delivers robust power for tough jobs. It fits users managing large, overgrown areas who prioritize cutting width and drive assistance over quiet, clean operation.

3 Best premium

Makita 36V 15" Brushless Trimmer Kit

Best for: Adjustable power and run time

Voltage

36V (18V X2)

Cutting Swath

15"

Power Source

battery

Motor Type

brushless

Line Feed System

bump feed

Battery Capacity

5.0Ah

View on Amazon: Makita 36V 15" Brushless Trimmer Kit Affiliate link

This Makita string trimmer uses two 18V batteries to deliver 36V of power through a brushless motor. It features a 15-inch cutting swath and three speed settings ranging from 3,500 to 6,500 RPM. The kit includes two 5.0Ah batteries and a bump-and-feed head. It suits users who want adjustable torque and extended run time for medium-sized yards.

Pros

• Brushless motor for high power and efficiency
• Three speed options for power management
• Includes two 5.0Ah batteries
• 15-inch cutting swath

Cons

• Heavier at 9.1 pounds
• No variable speed trigger mentioned
• Uses bump-and-feed line system

Good fit if

• You need adjustable torque for thick weeds
• You already own Makita 18V batteries
• You prefer a brushless motor for longevity

Skip if

• You want a lighter tool for overhead use
• You prefer a self-propelled unit
• You need a wider cutting swath

Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer offers precise power control for users who value efficiency. It fits those who want to manage battery life with three distinct speed settings.

4 Best budget

EGO Power+ 15-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer

Best for: Users wanting lightweight automatic line feed

Voltage

56V

Cutting Swath

15 in

Power Source

battery

Shaft Type

carbon fiber split shaft

Line Feed System

POWERLOAD

Battery Capacity

2.5Ah

View on Amazon: EGO Power+ 15-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer Affiliate link

This EGO POWER+ trimmer features a 15-inch cutting swath and a 56V battery system. It uses a carbon fiber split shaft for durability and includes a 2.5Ah battery. The POWERLOAD automatic line feed simplifies refilling. It suits users who prefer battery power and want a lightweight tool for standard yard maintenance tasks.

Pros

• 56V battery platform provides strong power
• Carbon fiber shaft is lifetime warranted
• POWERLOAD auto-winds trimmer line
• Lightweight at 7.28 pounds

Cons

• 15-inch cut is narrower than competitors
• 2.5Ah battery holds less charge than 5.0Ah options
• Split shaft requires assembly

Good fit if

• You want a lightweight, easy-to-handle trimmer
• You already own other EGO 56V tools
• You prefer automatic line feed systems

Skip if

• You need a wider 16-inch or 17-inch cutting path
• You require a self-propelled walk-behind unit
• You want a larger 5.0Ah battery for extended runtime

Verdict: The EGO 15-Inch Battery String Trimmer is a solid choice for homeowners who value a lightweight design and automatic line feeding. It fits those who already use the EGO ecosystem and do not need a wider cutting swath.

5 Also great

CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer Bundle

Best for: Users with existing V20 batteries

Voltage

20V

Cutting Swath

13 in

Motor Type

brushless

Line Feed System

automatic

Power Source

Cordless

Application

Lawn

View on Amazon: CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer Bundle Affiliate link

This bundle pairs a lawn mower with a cordless string trimmer in the CRAFTSMAN V20 system. The trimmer offers a 13-inch cutting swath and two speed settings for power or runtime. It features automatic line advance. Both tools share V20 batteries and chargers, though these are sold separately. This setup suits users who want a unified battery ecosystem for yard work.

Pros

• 13-inch cutting swath
• Automatic line advance
• Two speed settings for power or runtime
• Shares V20 battery system with mower

Cons

• Batteries and chargers sold separately
• No variable speed control on the trimmer
• No display to track battery level

Good fit if

• You want a string trimmer that shares batteries with a CRAFTSMAN V20 mower
• You prefer automatic line advance for continuous cutting
• You need two speed settings for different tasks

Skip if

• You already own a different brand of cordless tools
• You want a battery included in the price
• You need a wider cutting swath than 13 inches

Verdict: CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer Bundle is a practical pick for users already invested in the V20 ecosystem who want a compatible trimmer with automatic line advance. It fits those who value shared batteries over included power sources.

Specifications side by side

How to choose the right string trimmer

1. Check the cutting width

   The cutting width determines how much vegetation you clear in a single pass. A wider deck reduces the time needed for large areas. The BILT HARD model offers a 22-inch cut, which is ideal for expansive, overgrown yards. For smaller lawns, a 15-inch or 16-inch width provides better maneuverability. You should match the width to your typical workload. Wider cuts require more power to maintain speed through thick grass. Narrower cuts allow for precise edging around obstacles. Consider your yard size before deciding.

2. Evaluate the power source

   Your choice between gas and cordless affects maintenance and noise levels. Gas trimmers, like the BILT HARD, deliver raw power for tough jobs but require fuel and oil. Cordless models, such as the EGO Power+ options, offer cleaner operation and instant starts. You should consider your access to charging stations. If you already own batteries for a specific brand, stick with that ecosystem. The CRAFTSMAN V20 is a practical choice for existing users. Cordless systems eliminate the hassle of mixing gas and maintaining engines.

3. Look at voltage and amps

   Voltage indicates the power potential of the motor, while amp-hours show runtime. Higher voltage generally means more torque for thick weeds. The EGO Power+ uses a 56V system for strong performance. The Makita kit operates at 36V, which is sufficient for most residential tasks. Battery capacity, measured in amp-hours, dictates how long you can work before recharging. The Makita includes 5.0 Ah batteries for extended runtime. The EGO 15-inch model comes with a 2.5 Ah battery. Choose higher capacity if you have a large area to cover.

4. Consider the shaft material

   The shaft material impacts weight and durability. Carbon fiber shafts are lightweight and resistant to corrosion. The EGO Power+ 16-Inch and 15-Inch models feature carbon fiber shafts. This reduces user fatigue during long trimming sessions. Steel shafts are durable but heavier. The BILT HARD uses a traditional steel construction. You should choose based on your strength and comfort preferences. A lighter shaft allows for easier overhead trimming. It also makes the tool easier to maneuver around tight spaces. Check the shaft type in the specifications.

5. Review motor type

   Brushless motors offer greater efficiency and longer life than brushed motors. They generate less heat and require less maintenance. The Makita 36V kit features a brushless motor for precise power control. This allows for adjustable speed settings to manage battery usage. Brushless motors provide consistent power throughout the battery charge. You should look for this feature if you want reliability. It also means fewer moving parts to wear out. The EGO models do not specify motor type in the data. However, checking for brushless technology can indicate higher performance.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• best lawn mowers under 150
• best lawn mowers under 200
• best string trimmers under 500
• best camcorders under 500