Tool Only or Battery and Charger Included String Trimmers? Compared by Specs
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
You are looking at the Worx 20V 15-Inch Cordless String Trimmer and the CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer. This guide compares the tool only vs battery and charger included string trimmer options. Both units feature brushless motors and 20V power sources for cordless operation. The main difference lies in what you receive in the box. One option is sold as a tool only unit, requiring you to purchase batteries separately. The other comes as a kit with a battery and charger already included.
Key differences
| Aspect | Worx 20V 15-Inch Cordless String Trimmer | CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Included Battery | Tool Only | Battery and Charger Included |
| Cutting Width | 13 in - 15 in | 11 in - 13 in |
| Battery Capacity | not listed | 5.0 Ah |
| Line Feed System | Quick winding | Push button |
| Weight | 6.62 pounds | 9.44 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Worx 20V 15-Inch Cordless String Trimmer if
- You already own compatible 20V batteries and want to save money on the initial purchase price.
- You prefer a wider maximum cutting swath of up to 15 inches for faster trimming.
- You want a lighter tool that weighs 6.62 pounds for reduced fatigue during use.
Choose CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer if
- You need a complete kit with a 5.0 Ah battery and charger ready to use immediately.
- You prefer a push-button line feed system for controlled advancement.
- You want a unit that includes WeatherGuard technology for moisture and dust protection.
Verdict: Choose the Worx model if you already have batteries in your system or want a lighter tool with a wider cutting width. Select the CRAFTSMAN kit if you need a complete package with a high-capacity battery and charger included. Both tools offer brushless motor efficiency for reliable performance.
Tool Only vs Kit Spec Comparison
Included Battery
The Worx 20V 15-Inch Cordless String Trimmer is listed as tool only. This means you must purchase a compatible battery and charger separately to use it. The CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer comes with a battery and charger included. It includes a 5.0Ah battery, which is ready for immediate use out of the box. If you already own compatible batteries, the Worx option might save money. For those without existing gear, the Craftsman kit provides a complete starting point without extra purchases.
Cutting Width
Cutting width affects how much grass you can trim in a single pass. The Worx model offers an adjustable cutting width ranging from 13 inches to 15 inches. This flexibility allows you to choose a wider swath for efficiency or a narrower one for precision. The Craftsman unit features an adjustable cutting swath from 11 inches to 13 inches. While both are adjustable, the Worx reaches a wider maximum of 15 inches. This gives you a slight advantage in coverage speed when using the widest setting.
Battery Capacity
Battery capacity determines runtime and power availability. The Craftsman kit explicitly includes a 5.0Ah battery. The data for the Worx tool only does not list a specific included battery capacity, as none is included. However, the Worx features recommend using 4.0Ah and higher capacity PowerShare lithium batteries for optimal performance. Without a built-in battery, the Worx runtime depends entirely on the separate battery you choose. The Craftsman provides a known 5.0Ah capacity right away, ensuring consistent initial performance.
Line Feed System
The line feed system controls how trimmer line is advanced during use. The Worx uses a quick winding design for easy line reloading. This method requires manual winding to add new line. The Craftsman employs a push-button feed system. This design helps control feed advancement with a simple button press. Push-button systems often allow for faster, more controlled line extension while working. The Worx quick winding method is efficient but may take slightly more time to reload compared to the instant push-button action of the Craftsman.
Weight
Weight impacts comfort during extended use. The Worx 20V 15-Inch Cordless String Trimmer weighs 6.62 pounds. The Craftsman V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer weighs 9.44 pounds. The Worx unit is significantly lighter, making it easier to handle and less fatiguing to carry. The Craftsman is heavier, which may provide more stability but could lead to quicker arm fatigue. For users prioritizing lightweight maneuverability and comfort, the Worx offers a clear advantage due to its lower weight specification.
Choose the Right String Trimmer for Your Needs
Budget-conscious owner with compatible batteries
This Worx model is sold as a tool only unit. If you already own Worx 20V PowerShare batteries, this lets you avoid buying a new battery kit. The 15-inch adjustable cutting swath covers more ground per pass than the Craftsman. Its 6.62-pound weight is lighter, making it easier to handle for extended periods without fatigue. You save money by reusing existing power sources.
User wanting immediate ready-to-use performance
The Craftsman kit includes a 5.0Ah battery and charger. You do not need to buy extra components to start working. The included battery provides up to 75 minutes of runtime with the brushless motor. The 13-inch adjustable cutting width handles most residential edges. The push-button line feed system offers precise control over line advancement. You get a complete solution out of the box.
Small yard owner prioritizing maneuverability
This Craftsman trimmer features a compact design that is up to 82% lighter than gas models. The 11-to-13-inch adjustable swath allows for fine-tuning around obstacles. WeatherGuard Technology protects the tool from moisture and dust. The integrated hook supports VERSATRACK wall organization. The 13-inch cutting width is sufficient for small yards under a quarter acre. You get durability and easy storage in one package.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Worx 20V 15-Inch Cordless String Trimmer | small yards with existing WORX batteries | Check price of Worx 20V 15-Inch Cordless String Trimmer on Amazon |
| 2 | CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer | Users wanting a complete battery and charger kit | Check price of CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer on Amazon |
The products compared
Worx 20V 15-Inch Cordless String Trimmer
Best for: small yards with existing WORX batteries
- Included Battery
- Tool Only (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 Cordless String Trimmer Affiliate link
This WORX tool offers 20V brushless power with a 13 to 15 inch adjustable cutting width. It weighs 6.62 pounds and features a quick winding line feed system. You get gas-equivalent performance without the hassle of fuel. The design prioritizes balance and efficiency for small yards. This listing includes the tool only, so you need a compatible battery.
Pros
- Brushless motor for extended runtime
- Adjustable 13 to 15 inch cutting width
- Quick winding line feed system
- Lightweight at 6.62 pounds
Cons
- Tool only, no battery or charger included
- Requires 4.0Ah or higher PowerShare battery for optimal performance
- Fixed 15 inch size in this specific configuration
Good fit if
- You already own WORX 20V batteries
- You want a lightweight trimmer for small yards
- You prefer adjustable cutting widths
Skip if
- You need a complete kit with battery and charger
- You require a larger 40V system
- You prefer a fixed narrow cutting width
Verdict: WORX 20V 15" Cordless String Trimmer suits existing WORX users needing a lightweight, adjustable tool for small yards. It delivers efficient performance without the weight of gas models.
CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer
Best for: Users wanting a complete battery and charger kit
- Included Battery
- Battery and Charger Included (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 trimmer includes a 5.0Ah battery and charger. It features a brushless motor for up to 75 minutes of runtime. The adjustable swath size ranges from 11 to 13 inches. Weighing 9.44 pounds, it offers a compact design. You get push-button line feed and WeatherGuard protection. It suits users wanting extended runtime and edger versatility in a cordless system.
Pros
- Includes 5.0Ah battery and charger
- Brushless motor for extended runtime
- Adjustable 11 to 13-inch cutting swath
- Push-button line feed system
- WeatherGuard technology for moisture protection
Cons
- Heavier than gas alternatives at 9.44 pounds
- Single 13-inch max cutting width
- WeatherGuard applies to tool only
Good fit if
- You want a complete kit with battery and charger
- You need an adjustable cutting swath for different grass heights
- You prefer a brushless motor for longer runtime
Skip if
- You already own compatible 20V batteries
- You prefer a lighter tool under 8 pounds
- You need a wider cutting swath than 13 inches
Verdict: Craftsman V20 13-Inch Brushless Trimmer fits homeowners who want a complete cordless solution with a brushless motor and adjustable cutting width. It is ideal for medium yards where runtime and versatility matter more than minimal weight.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Worx 20V 15-Inch Cordless String Trimmer | CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 20V | 20V |
| Cutting Swath | 13 in - 15 in | 11 to 13 in |
| Power Source | battery | battery |
| Motor Type | brushless | brushless |
| Line Feed System | bump feed | push-button |
| Battery Capacity | not stated | 5.0Ah |
| Cutting Width | 15-Inch | 13-Inch |
| Application | not stated | Lawn |
| Size | 15-Inch | 13 inches |
| Included Battery | Tool Only | Battery and Charger Included |
| Dimensions | 63.9 × 40.3 × 5 inches | 6.2 × 10.4 × 5 inches |
| Weight | 6.62 pounds | 9.44 pounds |
| Color | Black and Orange | Red, Black |
| Model | WG176.9 | CMCST930P1 |
Frequently asked questions
Is a tool-only string trimmer worth buying if I have compatible batteries?
Yes, if you already own compatible batteries. The Worx 20V 15-Inch Cordless String Trimmer is listed as tool only. You must purchase a battery and charger separately. This option suits users with existing WORX batteries who need a lightweight, adjustable tool for small yards.
Does the Craftsman trimmer come with a battery and charger?
Yes, it includes both. The CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer is listed as battery and charger included. It features a 5.0 Ah battery and a brushless motor. This complete kit is ideal for homeowners who want a ready-to-use cordless solution for medium yards.
Which string trimmer is lighter, the Worx or the Craftsman?
The Worx model is lighter. It weighs 6.62 pounds. The Craftsman model weighs 9.44 pounds. The Worx 20V 15-Inch unit is designed for users needing a lightweight tool. The Craftsman is heavier due to its included battery and charger kit.
What is the cutting width difference between these two models?
The Worx has a wider cutting path. It offers a 15-inch cutting width. The Craftsman provides a 13-inch cutting width. The Worx model is suitable for small yards. The Craftsman model is ideal for medium yards where versatility matters.
Do both trimmers use brushless motors?
Yes, both feature brushless motors. The Craftsman is explicitly listed with a brushless motor type. The comparison section confirms both units feature brushless motors. Brushless motors typically offer longer life and better efficiency compared to brushed alternatives in cordless string trimmers.
Can I use the Worx trimmer without buying a new battery?
You can if you have compatible batteries. The Worx 20V 15-Inch Cordless String Trimmer is sold as a tool only unit. You must purchase a compatible battery and charger separately. This allows you to use existing WORX 20V PowerShare batteries if you own them.
Which model is better for a small yard?
The Worx model is better for small yards. It is best for small yards with existing WORX batteries. It delivers efficient performance without the weight of gas models. Its 15-inch cutting width and lightweight design make it suitable for smaller areas.