Greenworks 40V 16 in Cordless Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This greenworks 40v 16 in cordless review focuses on the ST40L414 string trimmer. It is a battery-powered tool designed for edging and trimming around sidewalks, driveways, and flower beds. The two specs that define this unit are its 16-inch cutting swath and its 4.0 Ah battery capacity. These numbers set the baseline for its reach and runtime. The listing highlights a brushless motor for extended life. It also notes compatibility with several other attachments. You get a lightweight design that claims to be 25% lighter than gas models. This guide breaks down what those numbers mean for your yard work.
What stands out
- 16-inch cutting width for efficient trimming
- 4.0 Ah battery capacity for sustained power
- Brushless motor for longer run-times and life
- Compatible with edger, hedge, polesaw, cultivator, and blower attachments
- Two-speed modes with variable speed trigger
Who it fits
Good fit for
This trimmer suits homeowners who want a single power head for multiple tasks. The attachment capability allows you to switch between a string trimmer, edger, hedge trimmer, polesaw, cultivator, and blower. If you already own other Greenworks 40V tools, the shared battery system makes sense. The 16-inch swath is ideal for smaller lawns with defined edges. The brushless motor and two-speed modes provide control for precise work around fences and flower beds. You get a maintenance-free tool that starts instantly without gas or oil.
Who should skip it
You should look at another option if you need a dedicated mower. This product is a string trimmer, not a lawn mower. The 16-inch cutting width is too narrow for mowing large areas. If you require a wider cutting path for primary grass cutting, this unit will not suffice. Additionally, if you prefer a gas-powered tool for maximum runtime without swapping batteries, the cordless design may not fit your workflow. The 4.0 Ah battery has a finite runtime. You will need to manage charge cycles for larger jobs.
Verdict: This Greenworks model is a versatile, lightweight string trimmer built for precision edging and multi-tool use. It fits well in yards where trimming, not mowing, is the primary task.
Key specs explained
16 in Cutting Swath
This width determines how much grass the tool cuts in a single pass. A 16-inch swath is narrow, making it ideal for tight spaces like sidewalks, driveways, and around flower beds. It is not designed for large open lawns like a standard mower. You will use this for detailed edging and trimming along fences or walls where a wider mower cannot reach.
40V Voltage
Voltage indicates the electrical pressure the motor receives. A 40V system provides enough power to cut through typical weeds and grass without stalling. It is a mid-range power level for cordless tools. When shopping, compare this to lower voltage models that may struggle with thick weeds. This level suits homeowners who need reliable performance for moderate yard maintenance tasks.
4.0 Ah Battery Capacity
Amp-hours measure how much energy the battery stores. A 4.0 Ah capacity allows for longer run times before you need to recharge. This is sufficient for trimming edges around a standard residential yard. If you have a larger property, you may need a spare battery. Compare this to lower capacity options that require more frequent stops to recharge during work.
Brushless Motor
A brushless motor uses electronic controls instead of physical brushes to manage power. This design offers more efficiency, longer run times, and a longer motor life. It reduces maintenance because there are no brushes to replace. You benefit from consistent power delivery. When comparing tools, brushless motors are generally more durable and efficient than brushed alternatives in similar price ranges.
Design and build details
The Greenworks ST40L414 string trimmer is listed as weighing 15.2 pounds. The listing notes this is 25 percent lighter than comparable gas-powered models. This reduced weight is intended to provide comfort and control while reducing fatigue during extended use. The overall length is 65.4 inches, with a width of 11.8 inches and a height of 5 inches. These dimensions define the physical footprint of the tool when you are holding it. The color is listed as green, matching the brand’s standard aesthetic for its 40V series tools.
The listing describes the build as maintenance-free, with no gas, oil, or emissions required. This design choice means you do not need to manage fuel lines or air filters. The tool features a brushless motor, which the listing states provides more power and extended motor life. This motor type also contributes to longer run-times compared to brushed alternatives. You control the operation using a variable speed trigger and two-speed modes. This layout allows you to adjust the output based on the density of the vegetation you are trimming.
According to the listing, the unit is attachment capable. It is compatible with several Greenworks PAC series attachments, including an edger, hedge trimmer, polesaw, cultivator, and blower. This modular design means the core motor and battery system can be shared across multiple tools. You can switch between tasks without buying separate power sources. The 16-inch cutting swath is fixed for the trimmer head, but the system’s versatility extends its utility beyond simple grass trimming.
Setup And Everyday Use Details
Setting up this Greenworks ST40L414 involves attaching the 4.0 Ah battery to the power source. The tool operates on a 40V system, which requires you to ensure the battery is fully charged before first use. Since the unit is maintenance-free, there is no need to mix gas or oil. You simply insert the battery and press the trigger to start the brushless motor instantly. This eliminates the pull-start hassle common in gas models. The variable speed trigger allows you to adjust power output based on the density of weeds or grass you are trimming. You can select between two speed modes for better control. The compact design, measuring 65.4 inches in length and weighing 15.2 pounds, makes it easy to maneuver around obstacles. The 16-inch cutting swath is narrow, which helps you navigate tight spaces like sidewalks, driveways, and fence lines without damaging surrounding plants. For everyday use, the brushless motor provides consistent power and longer run-times compared to brushed alternatives. The tool is also attachment capable. You can swap the string trimmer head for compatible Greenworks accessories like an edger, hedge trimmer, polesaw, cultivator, or blower. This versatility means you can handle multiple yard tasks with a single battery platform. The lightweight build reduces fatigue during extended sessions. You do not need to worry about emissions or fumes, making it suitable for use in enclosed or semi-enclosed areas. The quiet operation allows for early morning or late evening work without disturbing neighbors. Regular maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning of the cutting head and battery contacts.
Before you buy this trimmer
This Greenworks ST40L414 is a string trimmer, not a lawn mower. You should not expect it to cut large grassy areas. It is designed for trimming edges around sidewalks, driveways, and flower beds. If you need a full lawn solution, look at the 1 other cordless mowers listed here. This tool works best as a companion piece for precise edge work. The listing highlights its compatibility with several attachments. You can pair it with the PAC458 edger, PAC459 hedge trimmer, PAC460 polesaw, PAC461 cultivator, or PAC462 blower. Check if you already own these tools or plan to buy them. The unit runs on a 40V system with a 4.0 Ah battery. Ensure you have compatible batteries for your system. Since the tool is maintenance-free, you do not need to worry about gas, oil, or emissions. It starts instantly and requires little upkeep. This simplicity makes it a practical choice for quick, detailed yard work alongside your main mower.
Check before you buy
- Confirm you need edging, not full lawn mowing.
- Verify your existing 40V battery compatibility.
- Check if you need attachment compatibility.
- Ensure the 16-inch swath fits your tight spaces.
The product at a glance
Greenworks 40V 16-Inch String Trimmer
Best for: detail trimming and edging tasks
- Voltage
- 40V
- Cutting Swath
- 16 in
- Power Source
- battery
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0 Ah
- Cutting Width
- 16-Inch
View on Amazon: Greenworks 40V 16-Inch String Trimmer Affiliate link
This Greenworks 40V string trimmer features a 16-inch cutting swath and a 4.0 Ah battery. It uses a brushless motor for longer run-times and includes two speed modes with a variable trigger. The unit weighs 15.2 pounds and accepts multiple attachments like an edger or blower. It suits users seeking a lightweight, maintenance-free tool for trimming around sidewalks and flower beds.
Pros
- Brushless motor for extended run-time
- 16-inch cutting width
- Compatible with multiple attachments
- Variable speed trigger control
Cons
- 16-inch swath is narrow for large lawns
- Requires separate battery purchase
- No dedicated display for battery level
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight tool for tight spaces
- You want to use one battery for multiple tools
- You trim around obstacles frequently
Skip if
- You have a large open lawn
- You prefer gas-powered durability
- You need a wider cutting path
Verdict: Greenworks 40V 16 in Trimmer fits users who need a versatile, lightweight tool for detailed trimming and edging tasks around obstacles.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch String Trimmer |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 40V |
| Cutting Swath | 16 in |
| Power Source | battery |
| Motor Type | brushless |
| Battery Capacity | 4.0 Ah |
| Cutting Width | 16-Inch |
| Application | Yard, Lawn |
| Shaft Type | Attachment Capable |
| Dimensions | 65.4 × 11.8 × 5 inches |
| Weight | 15.2 pounds |
| Size | 16" Trimmer (4Ah) Gen 2 |
| Color | Green |
| Model | ST40L414 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Greenworks 40V 16-inch trimmer heavy to hold?
No, it weighs 15.2 pounds. This weight is noted as being 25 percent lighter than comparable gas-powered models. The reduced mass is intended to help reduce fatigue during extended use, providing better comfort and control for detailed trimming tasks.
What battery does this Greenworks trimmer use?
It uses a 4.0 Ah battery from the 40V system. You must attach this battery to the power source to operate the tool. The listing specifies that the battery should be fully charged before first use to ensure proper function.
Can this tool cut a full lawn?
No, it is a string trimmer, not a lawn mower. The 16-inch cutting swath is narrow and designed for tight spaces. It is intended for edging around sidewalks, driveways, and flower beds, not for cutting large open grassy areas.
How wide is the cutting area on this model?
The cutting width is 16 inches. This specific width determines how much grass the tool cuts in a single pass. It is considered narrow, which makes the unit ideal for navigating tight spaces and obstacles with precision.
What is the model number for this Greenworks trimmer?
The model number is ST40L414. This specific identifier corresponds to the 16-inch trimmer with the 4Ah battery in the Gen 2 lineup. You can use this number to verify specifications or find compatible replacement parts.
Does this trimmer require regular maintenance?
The unit is described as maintenance-free. This means you do not need to perform routine servicing like oil changes or spark plug replacements. Setup involves simply attaching the charged 4.0 Ah battery to the power source for operation.