Best String Trimmers with 5.0 Ah in 2026: 7 Picks Ranked by Specs
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Finding the best string trimmers with 5 0 ah requires looking at how battery capacity and motor type affect runtime and power. We compared 7 models using only the specifications published on their listings. The CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer leads because its 9.44-pound weight makes it ideal for lightweight maintenance of small to medium lawns. This guide helps you decide which tool fits your yard size and existing battery system based on weight, voltage, and cutting width.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You need the lightest trimmer for small yards WORX 20V 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer The WORX weighs 8.16 pounds, making it the lightest option for easy handling.
- You want a wide 17-inch cut width NovorikX 60V 17-Inch Cordless String Trimmer The NovorikX offers a 17-inch cutting width for faster coverage of large areas.
- You prefer a straight shaft for tight spaces Craftsman V20 Brushless 13-Inch Straight Shaft Trimmer The Craftsman straight shaft design improves maneuverability in confined areas around obstacles.
- You need two batteries included for longer runtime Makita 36V 15" Brushless Trimmer Kit The Makita kit includes two 5.0 Ah batteries, providing extended use without swapping.
Our 7 picks
CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer
Best for: lightweight maintenance of small to medium lawns
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0 Ah (what this guide is about)
- Voltage
- 20V
- Cutting Swath
- 11 to 13 in
- Power Source
- battery
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Line Feed System
- push-button
View on Amazon: CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer Affiliate link
This Craftsman V20 RP kit pairs a brushless motor with a 5.0 Ah battery for extended runtime. It features an adjustable 11 to 13-inch cutting swath and a push-button line feed system. The compact design weighs 9.44 pounds, making it lighter than gas alternatives. It includes WeatherGuard technology for moisture protection. This setup suits users needing reliable cordless performance for standard lawn maintenance tasks.
Pros
- Brushless motor for up to 75 minutes of runtime
- Adjustable 11 to 13-inch cutting swath
- Push-button line feed system for controlled advancement
- Includes 5.0 Ah battery and charger
Cons
- 20V system offers less power than 36V or 60V competitors
- Single tool kit lacks a blower attachment
- WeatherGuard protection applies to the tool only, not the battery
Good fit if
- You prefer a lightweight tool under 10 pounds
- You want an adjustable cutting width for precision
- You already own Craftsman V20 batteries
Skip if
- You need high power for thick brush or weeds
- You want a 2-in-1 trimmer and edger function
- You require a blower included in the kit
Verdict: Craftsman V20 RP Brushless 5.0Ah delivers efficient runtime and a comfortable weight for small to medium yards. It fits buyers who prioritize maneuverability and existing battery compatibility over raw cutting power.
WORX 20V 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer
Best for: Small yards and quick maintenance tasks
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0 Ah (what this guide is about)
- Voltage
- 20V
- Cutting Swath
- 13 in, 15 in
- Power Source
- battery
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Line Feed System
- bump feed
View on Amazon: WORX 20V 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer Affiliate link
The WORX WG176 is a 20V cordless string trimmer with a 15-inch cutting width. It features a brushless motor and a quick-wind spool for efficient line management. The tool includes a 5.0 Ah battery, providing substantial runtime for yard work. Its lightweight design at 8.16 pounds reduces fatigue during use. This model suits users seeking a versatile 2-in-1 trimmer and edger with reliable power.
Pros
- Brushless motor for extended runtime
- Includes 5.0 Ah battery
- Quick-wind spool system
- Adjustable 13 or 15 inch cutting width
Cons
- Lower 20V voltage compared to 36V or 40V competitors
- 8.16 pound weight is heavier than some alternatives
- Smaller 15 inch cutting swath limits efficiency on large areas
Good fit if
- You want a lightweight tool for small to medium yards
- You need a trimmer that converts to an edger
- You already own WORX 20V batteries
Skip if
- You require maximum power for thick overgrowth
- You prefer a larger 17 inch or wider cutting path
- You need a 40V or higher voltage system
Verdict: WORX WG176 20V 15" Trimmer fits small yards where its lightweight build and included 5.0 Ah battery make maintenance easy. It is ideal for users who value versatility and quick line reloading over raw cutting power.
NovorikX 60V 17-Inch Cordless String Trimmer
Best for: large yards needing high voltage power
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0 Ah (what this guide is about)
- Voltage
- 60V
- Cutting Swath
- 17 in
- Power Source
- battery
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Line Feed System
- bump feed
View on Amazon: NovorikX 60V 17-Inch Cordless String Trimmer Affiliate link
This NovorikX trimmer uses a 60V 5.0Ah battery and a 1200W brushless motor for strong cutting power. It features a 17-inch cutting swath and dual-speed control up to 6100 RPM. The lightweight design weighs 15 lbs with the battery. You get up to 54 minutes of runtime and a one-hour fast charge. It includes a bump feed system and extra spools for continuous use.
Pros
- 60V 5.0Ah battery provides gas-like power
- 17-inch wide cutting swath covers more ground
- 1200W brushless motor offers long life
- Dual-speed trigger controls RPM for different tasks
- 15 lbs weight reduces user fatigue
Cons
- Heavier at 21 lbs without the battery
- Only one battery capacity option listed
- No variable speed dial, only trigger control
Good fit if
- You need high voltage for tough weeds
- You want a wide 17-inch cutting path
- You prefer a lightweight tool for extended use
Skip if
- You already have a 20V or 36V system
- You need a compact tool under 15 lbs total
- You require a variable speed trigger dial
Verdict: NovorikX 60V Brushless String Trimmer suits users who need high voltage and a wide cut for large yards. It fits those who value lightweight handling and fast charging over system compatibility.
Makita 36V 15" Brushless Trimmer Kit
Best for: Users wanting wide cuts and speed control
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0 Ah (what this guide is about)
- Voltage
- 36V (18V X2)
- Cutting Swath
- 15"
- Power Source
- battery
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Line Feed System
- bump feed
View on Amazon: Makita 36V 15" Brushless Trimmer Kit Affiliate link
This Makita kit pairs two 18V batteries for 36V power. It features a brushless motor and a 15-inch cutting swath. You get three speed settings ranging from 3,500 to 6,500 RPM. The unit weighs 9.1 pounds with two 5.0Ah batteries included. It suits users who want adjustable power and a wide cut width.
Pros
- 36V system provides high torque
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- Three speed options for control
- 15-inch cutting swath
- Includes two 5.0Ah batteries
Cons
- Heavier at 9.1 pounds with batteries
- Only bump and feed line system
- No variable speed trigger mentioned
Good fit if
- You need a wide 15-inch cut
- You want three speed settings
- You prefer brushless motor efficiency
Skip if
- You want a lighter tool under 8 pounds
- You prefer auto-feed line systems
- You only need a single 18V battery
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer Kit offers strong torque and a wide cut for users who value speed control and included batteries. It fits those who do not mind the extra weight for more power.
Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer
Best for: Users wanting 17-inch cut width and variable speed
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0 Ah (what this guide is about)
- Voltage
- 36V (18V X2)
- Cutting Swath
- 17 in
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Dimensions
- 8.66 × 78 × 9.76 inches
- Weight
- 26 pounds
View on Amazon: Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer Affiliate link
This Makita XRU18PT kit delivers power equivalent to a 30cc gas trimmer using two 18V batteries for a 36V system. The brushless motor provides high torque and efficiency. You get a 17-inch cutting swath and variable speed control for precise trimming. The 5.0Ah battery ensures extended runtime. This setup suits users who want gas-like performance without the maintenance of fuel mixing or pull starts.
Pros
- Brushless motor for high power and torque
- 17-inch cutting swath increases productivity
- Variable speed trigger for controlled cutting
- Equivalent to 30cc gas trimmer power
Cons
- Heavier at 26 pounds compared to lighter competitors
- Requires two 18V batteries for operation
- No remote or app connectivity listed
Good fit if
- You prefer brushless motor efficiency
- You want a wider 17-inch cutting path
- You need variable speed control
Skip if
- You want a lighter tool under 20 pounds
- You only have 20V single-battery systems
- You prefer a narrower cutting width
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer fits users who prioritize a wider 17-inch cut and variable speed control. It is ideal for those who already own Makita 18V batteries and want gas-equivalent power without the hassle of fuel maintenance.
Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft String Trimmer
Best for: Makita users needing multi-tool versatility
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0 Ah (what this guide is about)
- Voltage
- 36V (18V X2)
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Shaft Type
- couple shaft
- Dimensions
- 15.3 × 42 × 10.5 inches
View on Amazon: Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft String Trimmer Affiliate link
The Makita XUX01M5PT is a 36V brushless string trimmer kit featuring a 5.0Ah battery. It delivers up to 7,100 RPM with three speed settings for precise power management. The couple shaft design allows you to swap attachments quickly using a lever lock. You get a variable speed trigger for controlled cutting. This system suits users who want one power head for multiple yard tasks.
Pros
- Brushless motor reaches 7,100 RPM
- Three speed settings for power control
- Couple shaft for quick attachment swaps
- Variable speed trigger for precision
Cons
- Couple shaft requires separate attachment purchase
- No straight shaft option included
- Heavier than single-battery 20V models
Good fit if
- You already own Makita 18V batteries
- You want to use other couple shaft tools
- You need high RPM for thick weeds
Skip if
- You prefer a single straight shaft unit
- You only need a basic string trimmer
- You want a lighter single-battery tool
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Trimmer fits users who already have Makita batteries and want to expand their toolkit with interchangeable attachments. It offers high power and versatility for those who value a multi-tool system over a standalone trimmer.
Craftsman V20 Brushless 13-Inch Straight Shaft Trimmer
Best for: tight spaces and light trimming
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0 Ah (what this guide is about)
- Voltage
- 20V
- Cutting Swath
- 13 in
- Power Source
- battery
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Shaft Type
- straight
View on Amazon: Craftsman V20 Brushless 13-Inch Straight Shaft Trimmer Affiliate link
This Craftsman trimmer uses a 20V brushless motor and a 5.0 Ah battery for up to 75 minutes of runtime. It features a 13-inch cutting swath that adjusts down to 11 inches. The straight shaft design offers better maneuverability in tight spaces. It includes a push-button feed system and comes with the battery and charger. You get a compact tool that is significantly lighter than gas models.
Pros
- Brushless motor for extended runtime
- Adjustable 11-in to 13-in cutting swath
- Includes 5.0 Ah battery and charger
- Push-button line feed system
Cons
- Lower 20V voltage compared to 36V or 60V competitors
- Smaller 13-inch cutting width
- No variable speed control listed
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight tool for tight spaces
- You prefer a straight shaft for better control
- You want a complete kit with battery included
Skip if
- You require high power for thick brush
- You need a wider cutting swath
- You prefer a 36V or 60V system
Verdict: Craftsman V20 13-in Straight Shaft suits users who prioritize maneuverability and a complete starter kit over raw power. It is ideal for small lawns where a lighter, straight-shaft tool is easier to handle.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer | WORX 20V 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer | NovorikX 60V 17-Inch Cordless String Trimmer | Makita 36V 15" Brushless Trimmer Kit | Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer | Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft String Trimmer | Craftsman V20 Brushless 13-Inch Straight Shaft Trimmer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 20V | 20V | 60V | 36V (18V X2) | 36V (18V X2) | 36V (18V X2) | 20V |
| Cutting Swath | 11 to 13 in | 13 in, 15 in | 17 in | 15" | 17 in | not stated | 13 in |
| Power Source | battery | battery | battery | battery | not stated | not stated | battery |
| Motor Type | brushless | brushless | brushless | brushless | brushless | brushless | brushless |
| Shaft Type | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | couple shaft | straight |
| Line Feed System | push-button | bump feed | bump feed | bump feed | not stated | not stated | push button feed |
| Battery Capacity | 5.0Ah | 5.0Ah | 5.0Ah | 5.0Ah | 5.0Ah | 5.0Ah | 5.0Ah |
| Cutting Width | 13-Inch | 15-Inch | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 13-Inch |
| Application | Lawn | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Size | 13 inches | 15" | 17-Inch | Kit with two 5.0Ah batteries | 17" | not stated | 13-in |
| Included Battery | Battery and Charger Included | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Battery and Charger Included |
| Dimensions | 6.2 × 10.4 × 5 inches | 63.9 × 40.3 × 5 inches | 72.8 × 14.2 × 5 inches | 7.09 × 72.8 × 8.78 inches | 8.66 × 78 × 9.76 inches | 15.3 × 42 × 10.5 inches | 37.1 × 10.4 × 5 inches |
| Weight | 9.44 pounds | 8.16 pounds | 21 pounds | 9.1 pounds | 26 pounds | not stated | not stated |
| Color | Red, Black | Black and Orange | 60V 5.0AH | Teal | Teal | Teal | black and red |
| Model | CMCST930P1 | WG176 | 3004DCJ004US | XRU15PT | XRU18PT | XUX01M5PT | 1098788 |
How to Choose the Right One
-
Check Motor Type
Look for brushless motors in all listed models. Brushless designs reduce friction and heat, which extends the life of the motor and improves efficiency. This means you get more runtime from your 5.0 Ah battery compared to brushed alternatives. Every trimmer in this guide features a brushless drive, ensuring consistent power delivery. You do not need to worry about carbon brush wear or maintenance. This spec is a standard baseline for modern cordless tools. It guarantees reliable performance over many seasons without the need for frequent part replacements.
-
Match Voltage to Yard
Select voltage based on your lawn size and grass thickness. The 20V models, like the CRAFTSMAN V20, are ideal for small to medium yards with light maintenance needs. They offer sufficient power for typical grass without excessive weight. For larger properties or tougher weeds, consider the 60V NovorikX or the 36V Makita options. Higher voltage provides more torque and sustained cutting power. You should avoid underpowered tools that may stall in dense vegetation. Choose the voltage that matches your specific terrain and grass conditions for efficient work.
-
Compare Cutting Width
The cutting width determines how much ground you cover in a single pass. Wider decks, such as the 17-inch NovorikX, allow you to clear large areas faster. Narrower widths, like the 13-inch CRAFTSMAN models, provide better maneuverability around tight obstacles. If you have open space, a wider cut saves time. If you have many garden beds or fences, a narrower tool is easier to control. Match the width to your primary mowing environment. This spec directly impacts your efficiency and the number of passes required to finish the job.
-
Consider Shaft Design
Choose between curved and straight shafts based on your comfort and yard layout. The CRAFTSMAN V20 Straight Shaft model is designed for tight spaces and light trimming tasks. Straight shafts often allow for easier attachment of other tools in a multi-tool system. Curved shafts, like those on many standard trimmers, can be more ergonomic for prolonged standing use. The NovorikX and Makita models feature straight designs for versatility. Evaluate your need for multi-functionality versus simple trimming comfort. The shaft type affects how the tool feels in your hands during extended use.
-
Verify Weight and Balance
Weight significantly impacts user fatigue during operation. The WORX model weighs 8.16 pounds, making it the lightest option for easy handling. The Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer weighs 26 pounds, which is substantially heavier. Heavier tools may require more effort to maneuver, especially overhead or on slopes. Lighter models are better for users who prioritize comfort and long sessions. Check the weight specification before purchasing. A lighter trimmer reduces strain on your arms and back. Balance the weight against the power you need for your specific tasks.
Frequently asked questions
Which string trimmer with a 5.0 Ah battery is the lightest?
The WORX 20V 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer is the lightest option at 8.16 pounds. This low weight makes it ideal for small yards and quick maintenance tasks. Its 15-inch cutting width provides versatility without adding bulk. You can handle it easily for extended periods without fatigue. The included 5.0 Ah battery ensures you have enough power for typical residential jobs.
What is the maximum cutting width available in this list?
The NovorikX 60V 17-Inch Cordless String Trimmer offers the widest cut at 17 inches. This wider swath covers more ground per pass, which is efficient for large yards. The Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer also features a 17-inch cutting width. Both models provide broader coverage than the 13-inch or 15-inch options listed here.
Do all these trimmers use brushless motors?
Yes, every model in this list features a brushless motor. Brushless designs reduce friction and heat, which extends the life of the motor. This efficiency means you get more runtime from your 5.0 Ah battery. Whether you choose a 20V or 60V model, the brushless technology ensures consistent power delivery and lower maintenance needs over time.
Which trimmer is best for tight spaces?
The Craftsman V20 Brushless 13-Inch Straight Shaft Trimmer is best for tight spaces. Its straight shaft design allows for better maneuverability in confined areas. Weighing significantly less than the 60V options, it is easier to handle in small lawns. The 13-inch cutting width is sufficient for light trimming around obstacles and edges.
How does voltage affect performance in these string trimmers?
Voltage determines the power output and suitability for yard size. The 20V models like the CRAFTSMAN and WORX are lighter and suited for small to medium yards. The 36V Makita and 60V NovorikX offer higher torque for larger areas. Higher voltage systems generally provide more power for thick grass, but they may add weight to the tool.
Is the Makita XRU15PT kit different from the XRU18PT?
The Makita XRU15PT is a kit that includes two 5.0 Ah batteries, while the XRU18PT is a single trimmer unit. The XRU15PT has a 15-inch cutting width, whereas the XRU18PT features a wider 17-inch cut. Both use 36V brushless motors. The kit provides backup power, while the XRU18PT prioritizes a wider swath for faster coverage.
Can I use Makita 18V batteries with these 36V trimmers?
The Makita 36V trimmers use two 18V batteries connected in series to create 36V. You can use your existing Makita 18V batteries if they are compatible with the 36V platform. This allows you to expand your toolkit without buying new battery packs. The XUX01M5PT couple shaft model also fits this multi-tool system for versatility.
Which model includes a charger with the battery?
The CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer includes both the battery and charger. The WORX 20V 15-Inch model also comes with an included 5.0 Ah battery, implying a starter kit. The Makita XRU15PT kit includes two batteries, which typically come with a charger. These inclusions mean you can start using the tool immediately upon unboxing.