Greenworks or Makita? String Trimmers Compared in 2026
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Choosing between a greenworks vs makita string trimmer depends on your voltage needs and power source. Both are cordless battery tools designed for yard maintenance. The Greenworks model is a 40V combo unit that includes a blower and comes with a 2.0Ah battery. The Makita is a standalone 18V trimmer with a brushless motor. You must purchase the battery separately for the Makita. This guide compares their key specifications to help you decide which fits your yard work.
Key differences
| Aspect | Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Trimmer and Blower Combo | Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 40V | 18V |
| Cutting Swath | 12 in | 13 in |
| Motor Type | not listed | Brushless |
| Battery Included | 2.0Ah | Tool Only |
| Package Content | Trimmer + Blower Combo | Trimmer Only |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Trimmer and Blower Combo if
- You want a complete yard cleanup kit with a blower included in the box.
- You are already using Greenworks 40V tools and have compatible batteries.
- You need a lighter tool for detailed edging and flower bed work.
Choose Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer if
- You prefer the efficiency and longevity of a brushless motor.
- You need a wider 13-inch cutting path for faster trimming.
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries and want to use them.
Verdict: Choose the Greenworks if you need a versatile combo tool with a blower and already have 40V batteries. Pick the Makita if you prioritize brushless motor efficiency and a wider cutting swath. Your existing battery ecosystem should drive this final decision.
Greenworks vs Makita Trimmer Specs
Voltage platform
The Greenworks unit operates on a 40V system, while the Makita tool runs on 18V LXT technology. Voltage often correlates with available power for tougher tasks. You get 40V from Greenworks, which may handle denser vegetation better than the 18V Makita. However, the Makita uses a brushless motor to maximize efficiency within its lower voltage platform. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize raw voltage or motor efficiency. If you already own 18V batteries, the Makita fits your ecosystem. If you need higher voltage for heavy duty work, the Greenworks 40V system offers more potential power output for demanding jobs.
Cutting width
The Makita string trimmer features a 13-inch cutting swath. The Greenworks model has a 12-inch cutting width. A wider swath means you cover more ground with each pass. The Makita offers a one-inch advantage in width. This difference is small but noticeable when trimming large areas. You will make slightly fewer passes with the Makita. The Greenworks 12-inch deck is still sufficient for most residential edges and borders. The extra width on the Makita provides a marginal efficiency gain for wider open spaces. For tight corners or narrow paths, both widths are manageable, but the Makita has the edge here.
Motor type
The Makita trimmer uses a brushless motor. The Greenworks specifications do not explicitly list the motor type for this specific combo unit. Brushless motors generally offer longer life, better efficiency, and more power than brushed motors. The Makita BL motor delivers up to 6,000 RPM. This technology reduces maintenance needs since there are no brushes to replace. You get a technical advantage with the Makita due to the brushless design. The Greenworks tool may use a brushed motor, which is common in entry level kits. If motor longevity and consistent power are priorities, the Makita brushless design is the superior choice.
Battery inclusion
The Greenworks kit includes a 2.0Ah battery. The Makita is sold as a tool only, meaning you must buy the battery separately. This is a significant difference for your initial setup. With the Greenworks, you have immediate power upon unboxing. The Makita requires an additional purchase to function. The Greenworks 2.0Ah battery provides limited run time compared to larger packs. However, having it included removes a hidden cost. You get immediate usability with the Greenworks. The Makita is cheaper upfront if you already own compatible 18V batteries. For new buyers, the Greenworks includes the necessary power source.
Weight and balance
The Greenworks combo kit weighs 16.5 pounds total. The Makita trimmer alone weighs 9.23 pounds. The Makita is significantly lighter, which reduces fatigue during extended use. You will feel less strain holding the Makita for long periods. The Greenworks unit is heavier due to the motor and included battery. The Makita also features variable speed trigger control for precise management. The Greenworks focuses on high speed with cruise control. For delicate trimming near flowers or fences, the lighter Makita offers better maneuverability. The weight difference makes the Makita more comfortable for detailed work.
Which Cordless Trimmer Fits Your Yard
Users needing a blower and trimmer combo
The Greenworks package includes a 390 CFM blower alongside the 12-inch trimmer. This 40V system comes with a 2.0Ah battery, allowing you to switch between tools. The auto-feed line system simplifies maintenance. You get two tools in one purchase, making it efficient for clearing walkways and edges without buying separate devices.
Gardeners wanting a lighter, brushless tool
The Makita trimmer weighs only 9.23 pounds, which is significantly lighter than the Greenworks option. It features a brushless motor for efficient power delivery. The 13-inch cutting swath is wider than the Greenworks 12-inch model. You get precise control via a variable speed trigger and a high/low power button for managing battery life.
Buyers prioritizing wider cutting width
The Makita offers a 13-inch cutting width, providing a slightly wider path than the Greenworks 12-inch trimmer. This extra inch helps you cover more ground per pass. The brushless motor delivers up to 6,000 RPM for consistent cutting. You get a dedicated tool designed for efficiency, though you must purchase the battery separately.
The products compared
Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Trimmer and Blower Combo
Best for: small yards needing trim and blow tasks
- Voltage
- 40V
- Cutting Swath
- 12 in
- Power Source
- battery
- Line Feed System
- auto-feed
- Battery Capacity
- 2.0 Ah
- Cutting Width
- 12-Inch
View on Amazon: Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Trimmer and Blower Combo Affiliate link
This Greenworks combo includes a 40V string trimmer with a 12-inch cutting swath and a 390 CFM blower. It uses a 2.0Ah battery that charges in 60 minutes. The trimmer features an auto-feed line system. The set weighs 16.5 pounds. It suits users who want to clear edges and blow debris with one tool system. The 40V platform supports over eight tools.
Pros
- 12-inch cutting swath for efficient edge trimming
- 390 CFM blower clears wet leaves and debris
- Auto-feed line system reduces manual bumping
- 2.0Ah battery charges in 60 minutes
- 16.5-pound weight for reduced fatigue
Cons
- 2.0Ah battery capacity is smaller than higher-end options
- 12-inch cutting width is narrower than 16-inch models
- Blower airflow is lower than 540 CFM alternatives
Good fit if
- You need a trimmer and blower combo for small yards
- You prefer a lighter tool for extended use
- You want to use one battery across multiple tools
Skip if
- You require a 16-inch cutting swath for thick brush
- You need a blower with 540 CFM airflow
- You prefer a 60V system for longer runtime
Verdict: Greenworks 40V 12in Trimmer & Blower fits users who value a lightweight combo for small to medium yards. It is less suitable if you need wider cutting widths or higher blower power.
Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer
Best for: Users with existing Makita 18V batteries
- 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 Makita string trimmer features a 13-inch cutting swath and a brushless motor that reaches 6,000 RPM. It runs on 18V LXT batteries, offering up to one hour of runtime with a 4.0Ah cell. The tool weighs 9.23 pounds and includes a high/low power button and variable speed trigger. It is tool-only, so you need to supply your own battery and charger. This setup suits users who want precise control and reduced maintenance.
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers up to 6,000 RPM for efficient cutting
- Variable speed trigger allows for controlled cutting speed
- High/low button helps manage power and extend run time
- Lightweight design at 9.23 pounds reduces user fatigue
Cons
- Sold as tool-only, requiring a separate battery purchase
- Smaller 13-inch cutting swath compared to larger models
- Lower 18V system may limit power for thick vegetation
Good fit if
- You prefer a lightweight tool for extended use
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You want precise speed control for detailed trimming
Skip if
- You need a complete kit with battery and charger included
- You require a wider cutting swath for large areas
- You prefer a higher voltage system for maximum power
Verdict: Makita 13-Inch Brushless String Trimmer fits users who already have Makita batteries and value precise control. It is ideal for moderate tasks where its lightweight build and variable speed trigger shine.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Trimmer and Blower Combo | Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 40V | 18V |
| Cutting Swath | 12 in | 13 in |
| Power Source | battery | battery |
| Motor Type | not stated | brushless |
| Line Feed System | auto-feed | not stated |
| Battery Capacity | 2.0 Ah | not stated |
| Cutting Width | 12-Inch | 13-Inch |
| Application | Lawn | not stated |
| Included Battery | not stated | Tool Only |
| Dimensions | 64.5 × 7.5 × 5 inches | 8.07 × 40.3 × 8.39 inches |
| Weight | 16.5 pounds | 9.23 pounds |
| Size | 40V 12" + 390CFM (2.0Ah) | 13 inches |
| Color | Green/Black | Teal |
| Model | STBA40B210 | XRU23Z |
Frequently asked questions
Which string trimmer is lighter to hold?
The Makita model is lighter. It weighs 9.23 pounds. The Greenworks combo unit weighs 16.5 pounds. You will feel less fatigue with the Makita tool. Its lighter build suits longer trimming sessions. The Greenworks unit includes a blower, which adds weight.
Do I need a blower with my trimmer?
Only if you want a combo tool. The Greenworks option includes a 390 CFM blower. The Makita tool is a trimmer only. You must buy a separate blower if you choose Makita. The Greenworks package saves you from purchasing two separate items.
What is the cutting width difference?
The Makita trim has a 13-inch cutting width. The Greenworks trimmer has a 12-inch width. The Makita cuts a slightly wider swath. This covers more ground per pass. The difference is one inch. It may reduce the time needed for larger lawns.
Which system works with more batteries?
The Greenworks 40V system works with many tools. It includes a 2.0Ah battery in the combo pack. The Makita 18V LXT system also has a wide range. However, the Makita tool is sold as tool only. You need existing Makita batteries to use it.
Is the Greenworks trimmer suitable for small yards?
Yes, it fits small yards well. It is a lightweight combo unit. The 12-inch cutting width handles light to moderate tasks. It includes a blower for cleanup. This makes it efficient for small spaces. You get trim and blow functions in one package.
Does the Makita have a brushless motor?
Yes, it features a brushless motor. This type of motor offers better efficiency. It provides precise control over speed. The variable speed trigger works with this motor. You get more runtime from your battery. The Greenworks model does not specify this feature.
How long is the Greenworks trimmer shaft?
The Greenworks trimmer is 64.5 inches long. The Makita tool length is not fully specified in the same way. The Greenworks length helps with reach. You can trim under bushes easily. The overall size fits standard yard tasks.