Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Brushless String Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
The Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Brushless String Trimmer delivers a compact 16-inch cutting path and a lightweight 11.3-pound design. Its brushless motor offers torque and quiet operation, while the 40V platform supports over 75 tools. If you are searching for greenworks 40v 16 inch brushless string alternatives, you may want different specs. Some users prefer a wider 17-inch swath or a narrower 15-inch path for precision. Others might need a different voltage or a specific shaft type like carbon fiber.
This guide compares 6 similar picks ranked by their specifications. We selected these models because their core stats overlap with the original Greenworks trimmer. You will find options with varying cutting widths, from 13 to 17 inches. Motor types are mostly brushless, and weights range from 9.23 to 15.2 pounds. Each product shares the cordless power source, but battery compatibility varies by brand. We explain how these differences affect your trimming tasks, so you can choose the tool that fits your yard size and existing battery ecosystem.
How these picks compare to Greenworks
Greenworks 40V 16-Inch String Trimmer
This Greenworks model includes a 4.0 Ah battery, adding 3.9 pounds to the 11.3-pound tool-only weight of the original. The total 15.2-pound weight is heavier but provides immediate power without separate charging. It shares the same 16-inch cutting width and 40V brushless motor architecture. You gain included battery capacity and attachment compatibility for edgers and blowers. You accept the extra bulk for all-in-one convenience. This pick suits users who want a complete ready-to-run package rather than buying a battery separately.
RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer
The RYOBI option offers a wider 17-inch cutting swath, covering more ground per pass than the 16-inch Greenworks. It weighs 12 pounds, which is slightly heavier than the 11.3-pound Greenworks tool-only unit. The carbon fiber shaft provides stiffness and durability. It uses the RYOBI 40V platform, requiring you to switch battery ecosystems if you already own Greenworks batteries. This trimmer is best for RYOBI users who want a wider cut and do not mind the slight weight increase for broader coverage.
Makita 40V max Brushless 15" String Trimmer
Makita provides a narrower 15-inch cutting width, which is one inch less than the Greenworks 16-inch model. This allows for tighter maneuvering around obstacles. The tool weighs 11.3 pounds, matching the Greenworks tool-only weight exactly. It features automatic torque control for consistent power. You must use Makita 40V XGT batteries, which are not compatible with the Greenworks 40V platform. This choice fits users who prioritize precision in tight spaces and already invest in the Makita ecosystem over the wider cutting path.
RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Attachment Capable Trimmer
This RYOBI trimmer features a 17-inch cutting width, offering one inch more coverage than the Greenworks. It weighs 11 pounds, making it slightly lighter than the 11.3-pound Greenworks tool. The shaft is attachment-capable, allowing you to connect various tools. It uses the RYOBI 40V platform, requiring compatible batteries. You gain a wider cut and lighter weight but lose the specific Greenworks 16-inch balance. This pick is ideal for RYOBI owners who want a lighter, wider-cutting tool with attachment versatility.
Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer
The Makita 13-inch model has a significantly narrower cutting width, reducing ground coverage compared to the 16-inch Greenworks. It weighs only 9.23 pounds, which is 2 pounds lighter than the Greenworks tool-only unit. This makes it highly maneuverable in confined areas. It uses the Makita 18V platform, requiring different batteries. You trade cutting width for superior portability and ease of use in tight spaces. This trimmer suits users who prioritize lightweight handling and precise trimming over maximum swath width.
Bosch 16-Inch 18V Cordless String Trimmer
The Bosch trimmer offers a 16-inch cutting width, matching the Greenworks exactly. It weighs 12.7 pounds, which is 1.4 pounds heavier than the Greenworks tool-only unit. It uses the 18V AMPShare battery platform, requiring compatible batteries. This tool is designed for lawn edging and trimming, providing dual functionality. You accept the extra weight and different battery ecosystem for a specialized edging tool with the same cutting width. This pick fits users who need edging capability and already own AMPShare batteries.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Brushless String Trimmer
Best for: Existing Greenworks 40V battery owners
- Voltage
- 40V
- Cutting Swath
- 16 in
- Power Source
- battery
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Line Feed System
- bump feed
- Cutting Width
- 16-Inch
View on Amazon: Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Brushless String Trimmer Affiliate link
This Greenworks 40V string trimmer features a 16-inch cutting swath and a brushless motor for efficient operation. It weighs 11.3 pounds and offers two-speed settings with a variable trigger. The tool-only design fits your existing battery ecosystem. It is ideal for trimming around sidewalks and flower beds. You will appreciate the compact build and bump-feed head for quick line reloads.
Pros
- 16-inch cutting width for efficient trimming
- Brushless motor provides more torque and longer life
- Two-speed selection with variable trigger control
- Compatible with 75+ Greenworks 40V tools
- Weighs 11.3 pounds for reduced fatigue
Cons
- Sold as tool only, requiring separate battery purchase
- 16-inch swath is narrower than some 17-inch competitors
- Single-speed bump feed lacks auto-feed convenience
Good fit if
- You already own Greenworks 40V batteries
- You need a lightweight tool for detailed edging
- You prefer a brushless motor for durability
Skip if
- You require a battery and charger included
- You need a wider 17-inch cutting path
- You want an auto-feed line system
Verdict: Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Brushless Trimmer suits homeowners with existing 40V batteries who need a lightweight, durable tool for precise edging and trimming tasks.
Greenworks 40V 16-Inch String Trimmer
Best for: Versatile trimming with attachment compatibility
- 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. The brushless motor offers extended runtime and durability. It weighs 15.2 pounds and includes two speed modes for precise control. The tool is attachment capable, working with edgers, hedge trimmers, and blowers. It suits users wanting a versatile, maintenance-free option for sidewalks and flower beds.
Pros
- Brushless motor for longer runtimes
- 16-inch cutting width
- Attachment capable for multiple tools
- Two-speed variable trigger control
Cons
- 16-inch swath is narrower than some 17-inch competitors
- Includes only the 4.0 Ah battery, not a charger
- Heavier than 13-inch or 15-inch models
Good fit if
- You need a trimmer that converts to an edger or blower
- You prefer a 16-inch cutting path for moderate weeds
- You want a maintenance-free cordless tool
Skip if
- You require a 17-inch or wider cutting swath
- You already own a 18V 13-inch trimmer
- You need a tool-only version without the battery
Verdict: Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Brushless String Trimmer fits users who value attachment versatility and a 16-inch cutting path over the wider 17-inch swaths found in some competitors.
RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer
Best for: Existing RYOBI 40V users
- Voltage
- 40V
- Cutting Swath
- 17 in
- Power Source
- Battery
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Shaft Type
- Carbon fiber
- Included Battery
- Tool Only
View on Amazon: RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer Affiliate link
This RYOBI trimmer uses a 40V brushless motor to drive a 17-inch cutting swath. The carbon fiber shaft keeps the total weight at 12 pounds. It is sold as a tool only, meaning you must supply your own compatible battery. The compact dimensions make it easy to maneuver around tight garden spaces. You get a durable build without the extra bulk of a heavy battery pack.
Pros
- 40V brushless motor for efficient power delivery
- 17-inch cutting width covers more ground per pass
- Carbon fiber shaft reduces overall weight to 12 pounds
Cons
- Sold as tool only, requiring a separate battery purchase
- 17-inch width is narrower than some competitors
- No included battery means higher initial setup cost
Good fit if
- You already own compatible 40V RYOBI batteries
- You need a lightweight tool for extended use
- You prefer a wider cutting swath for efficiency
Skip if
- You do not own a compatible battery yet
- You need a wider cutting path than 17 inches
- You want a complete kit with battery included
Verdict: RYOBI 40V HP Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer suits existing RYOBI users who want a lightweight, wide-cutting tool without buying a new battery.
Makita 40V max Brushless 15" String Trimmer
Best for: Narrower 15-inch cutting precision
- Voltage
- 40V max
- Cutting Swath
- 15 in
- Power Source
- Battery
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0Ah
- Cutting Width
- 15-Inch
View on Amazon: Makita 40V max Brushless 15" String Trimmer Affiliate link
The Makita 40V max XGT 15-inch string trimmer features a brushless motor with automatic torque drive. It shifts between 3,500 and 6,500 RPM to balance run time and power. The tool offers a 15-inch cutting swath. You get up to one hour of runtime with a 4.0Ah battery. This model is tool-only, so you need compatible XGT batteries.
Pros
- 40V max XGT brushless motor for high torque
- Automatic torque drive shifts up to 6,500 RPM
- 15-inch cutting swath for productivity
- Digital communication optimizes sustained power under load
Cons
- 15-inch cutting width is narrower than the 16-inch and 17-inch alternatives
- Sold as tool-only with no battery included
- Requires 40V XGT platform batteries rather than standard 40V
Good fit if
- You already own 40V XGT batteries and chargers
- You prefer a narrower 15-inch cutting path for precision
- You need automatic torque adjustment for varying grass density
Skip if
- You do not have existing 40V XGT batteries
- You want a wider 16-inch or 17-inch cutting swath
- You need a complete kit with battery and charger included
Verdict: Makita 40V 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer fits users who already have 40V XGT batteries and want a narrower 15-inch cutting path with automatic torque control.
RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Attachment Capable Trimmer
Best for: users with RYOBI batteries needing attachments
- Voltage
- 40V
- Cutting Swath
- 17 in
- Power Source
- battery
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Included Battery
- Tool Only
- Shaft Type
- Attachment Capable
View on Amazon: RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Attachment Capable Trimmer Affiliate link
This 40V HP brushless string trimmer features a 17-inch cutting swath and weighs 11 pounds. It is attachment capable, allowing you to use EXPAND-IT tools. The motor runs 86% quieter than gas models. You get 45 minutes of runtime with a 40V 4Ah battery. It is a tool-only unit. This pick suits users who want a quiet, versatile trimmer for medium-sized lawns.
Pros
- 17-inch cutting width for efficient coverage
- Brushless motor for improved durability and runtime
- Attachment capable for multiple tool uses
- 86% quieter operation than gas trimmers
Cons
- Tool only; battery and charger not included
- Heavier at 11 pounds compared to some competitors
- Shorter 17-inch swath than the 17-inch carbon fiber alternative
Good fit if
- You already own RYOBI 40V batteries
- You want to use attachment tools
- You need a quiet trimmer for early morning use
Skip if
- You need a battery included in the box
- You prefer a lighter tool under 10 pounds
- You only need a basic string trimmer without attachments
Verdict: RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Brushless Trimmer fits users who already have RYOBI batteries and want to expand their tool kit with attachments. It is a practical choice for those prioritizing noise reduction and versatility over raw cutting width.
Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer
Best for: Precise trimming in confined spaces
- Voltage
- 18V
- Cutting Swath
- 13 in
- Power Source
- battery
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Cutting Width
- 13-Inch
- Included Battery
- Tool Only
View on Amazon: Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer Affiliate link
This 18V brushless string trimmer features a 13-inch cutting swath and a variable speed trigger. The BL motor reaches 6,000 RPM. You get high and low power settings to manage runtime. It weighs 9.23 pounds. The tool only model suits users with existing 18V LXT batteries. It offers controlled cutting for smaller yards.
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers up to 6,000 RPM
- 13-inch cutting width for precision work
- Variable speed trigger for controlled cutting
- High/Low button for power management
Cons
- 13-inch cutting swath is narrower than 16-inch competitors
- Tool only; battery not included
- Lighter weight may feel less stable in tall grass
Good fit if
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You need a lighter trimmer for detailed edging
- You prefer variable speed control for delicate tasks
Skip if
- You require a wider 16-inch or larger cutting path
- You do not have compatible 18V batteries
- You want a complete kit with battery included
Verdict: Makita 13-Inch Brushless String Trimmer fits users who prioritize maneuverability and battery compatibility over maximum cutting width. It is ideal for precise trimming in confined spaces.
Bosch 16-Inch 18V Cordless String Trimmer
Best for: Users with AMPShare batteries needing edging capability
- Voltage
- 18V
- Cutting Swath
- 16 in
- Power Source
- battery
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Line Feed System
- automatic
- Cutting Width
- 16-Inch
View on Amazon: Bosch 16-Inch 18V Cordless String Trimmer Affiliate link
This Bosch 18V brushless string trimmer offers a 16-inch cutting swath and a variable-speed trigger for precise control. It features an anti-tangle system and a dual-function handle that switches between trimming and edging. The tool-only model pairs with AMPShare batteries. It suits users who need a versatile tool for lawn edges and dense overgrowth.
Pros
- 16-inch cutting swath covers more ground per pass
- Brushless motor delivers up to 5,300 RPMs
- Anti-tangle system prevents grass buildup
- Variable-speed trigger matches power to the task
- Dual-function handle switches between trimming and edging
Cons
- 18V voltage is lower than the 40V alternatives
- Sold as a bare tool without battery or charger
- Heavier at 12.7 pounds than some competitors
Good fit if
- You already own AMPShare compatible 18V batteries
- You need to switch between trimming and edging
- You want a brushless motor for extended runtime
Skip if
- You prefer a 40V system for maximum power
- You need a complete kit with battery and charger
- You want a lighter tool under 12 pounds
Verdict: Bosch 18V 16-Inch Brushless String Trimmer fits users who already have AMPShare batteries and need a dual-function tool for precise lawn edging and trimming tasks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Brushless String Trimmer | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch String Trimmer | RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer | Makita 40V max Brushless 15" String Trimmer | RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Attachment Capable Trimmer | Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer | Bosch 16-Inch 18V Cordless String Trimmer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 40V | 40V | 40V | 40V max | 40V | 18V | 18V |
| Cutting Swath | 16 in | 16 in | 17 in | 15 in | 17 in | 13 in | 16 in |
| Power Source | battery | battery | Battery | Battery | battery | battery | battery |
| Motor Type | brushless | brushless | Brushless | Brushless | brushless | brushless | brushless |
| Shaft Type | not stated | not stated | Carbon fiber | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Line Feed System | bump feed | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | automatic |
| Battery Capacity | not stated | 4.0 Ah | not stated | 4.0Ah | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Cutting Width | 16-Inch | 16-Inch | not stated | 15-Inch | not stated | 13-Inch | 16-Inch |
| Application | Yard, Lawn | Yard, Lawn | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Lawn |
| Included Battery | Tool Only | not stated | Tool Only | Tool Only | Tool Only | Tool Only | Tool Only |
| Dimensions | 65.4 × 11.8 × 5 inches | 65.4 × 11.8 × 5 inches | 36 × 12 × 5 inches | 7.09 × 72.4 × 8.9 inches | 72 × 12 × 5 inches | 8.07 × 40.3 × 8.39 inches | 39.8 × 5.6 × 5 inches |
| Weight | 11.3 pounds | 15.2 pounds | 12 pounds | not stated | 11 pounds | 9.23 pounds | 12.7 pounds |
| Size | 16" Trimmer (Tool Only) Gen 2 | 16" Trimmer (4Ah) Gen 2 | not stated | 15" | 17 in | 13 inches | 757 in |
| Color | Green | Green | LIME GREEN/ BLACK | Teal | Green | Teal | Blue |
| Model | ST40L03 | ST40L414 | RY402110VNM | GRU01Z | RY40HPST02B | XRU23Z | GRT18V-40N |
Frequently asked questions
Which 40V string trimmer has the widest cutting path?
The RYOBI 40V 17-Inch models offer the widest 17-inch cutting path in this list. Both the carbon fiber and attachment-capable versions provide a 17-inch swath. This width allows you to clear more grass per pass compared to the 16-inch Greenworks or the narrower 15-inch Makita options.
Is there a lightweight option under 12 pounds?
Yes, the RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Attachment Capable Trimmer weighs 11 pounds. The Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Brushless model (tool only) is also lightweight at 11.3 pounds. These options reduce fatigue during extended use. The Makita 13-Inch model is even lighter at 9.23 pounds.
Can I use these trimmers with my existing battery?
Most listed tools are sold as tool-only units, meaning you must supply your own battery. The Greenworks 40V models work with your existing 40V batteries. The RYOBI 40V HP models fit your existing RYOBI 40V batteries. The Bosch 18V model requires AMPShare batteries.
Which trimmer is best for narrow spaces and precision?
The Makita 40V 15-Inch Brushless Trimmer is ideal for precise trimming in confined areas. Its 15-inch cutting path offers better control than wider models. The Makita 18V 13-Inch model is also designed for maneuverability and precise trimming in tight spaces, weighing just 9.23 pounds.
Do any of these trimmers support additional attachments?
The RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Attachment Capable Trimmer supports additional attachments. It allows you to expand your tool kit with other compatible accessories. The standard Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Brushless model does not list attachment compatibility in its specifications. Check your specific model for attachment ports.
What is the difference between the two Greenworks 40V 16-inch models?
The main difference is the included battery. The Best Overall model is sold as a tool-only unit, weighing 11.3 pounds. The Best Premium model includes a 4.0 Ah battery, bringing the total weight to 15.2 pounds. Both share the same 16-inch cutting width and brushless motor.
Which trimmer is best for lawn edging?
The Bosch 18V 16-Inch Cordless String Trimmer is noted for its edging capability. It functions as a dual-purpose tool for precise lawn edging and trimming. It requires AMPShare batteries. Other models focus primarily on trimming and do not highlight edging functions in their specifications.
Are all these trimmers brushless?
Yes, all listed models feature brushless motors. The Greenworks, RYOBI, and Makita options all specify brushless technology. Brushless motors provide better torque, efficiency, and durability. They also operate more quietly than brushed alternatives. This applies to both the 40V and 18V models in this comparison.