There’s nothing quite as satisfying as giving your lawn that clean, sharp edge. But when I first upgraded from a corded strimmer to a cordless one, the experience was nothing short of liberating. No more wrestling with tangled cords or being limited by the length of an extension lead. Instead, it was just me, the strimmer, and the freedom to maneuver my yard. Whether you’re maintaining a small garden or tackling a larger plot, cordless strimmers are a game-changer. But, with so many options out there, how do you choose the best one? I’ve broken it down by budget, yard size, and specific features to help you find the perfect fit.
Best Cordless Strimmers by Budget
Under $200/£150
These are budget-friendly options that don’t compromise much on quality. They’re ideal for smaller gardens or if you’re just starting out with garden maintenance.
- WORX WG163 GT 3.0 (USA/UK): This lightweight, easy-to-use model is perfect for smaller gardens. The two-in-one design (strimmer and edger) makes it versatile. It’s powered by a 20V battery, giving you enough juice for a small yard.
- BLACK+DECKER LST300 (USA/UK): Another great option for those on a budget. It’s slightly heavier but offers a good balance between power and price, with a 20V battery that provides decent runtime.
Under $300/£250
This is the sweet spot where you’ll find the best value for most residential needs.
- Makita DUR181Z (UK/NZ): A well-balanced strimmer with a powerful motor. It’s lightweight and has a telescopic shaft for easy adjustments.
- Greenworks 40V 14-Inch Cordless String Trimmer (USA/AUS): This model offers a wider cutting path (14 inches), making it more efficient for medium-sized gardens. The 40V battery provides longer runtime and faster charging.
Under $400/£350
If you have a bit more to spend, these models bring in more power and features.
- EGO Power+ ST1500 (USA/UK/AUS/NZ): Known for its robust design and long-lasting battery. The 56V power is perfect for larger gardens, and it’s incredibly durable.
- DeWalt DCST922P1 (USA/UK/AUS): This model stands out with its folding hinge, making it easier to store. It’s ideal for those who need a strimmer that can handle tough grass without being bulky.
Best Cordless Strimmers by Yard Size
For Small Gardens (Under 200 sqm)
- Ryobi OLT1832 (UK/AUS/NZ): Compact and lightweight, with an adjustable head that makes it easy to reach tight corners. The 18V battery is sufficient for smaller spaces.
- Bosch EasyGrassCut 18-230 (UK): This strimmer is designed with small gardens in mind. It’s light, easy to use, and the battery lasts just long enough for quick jobs.
For Medium Gardens (200-500 sqm)
- EGO Power+ ST1300E-S (UK/NZ): Offers a good balance between power and weight. The 13-inch cutting width makes it efficient for medium-sized gardens without being too heavy.
- Greenworks 24V 12-Inch Cordless String Trimmer (USA): This strimmer is ideal for medium-sized gardens, offering a balance of power, battery life, and cutting width.
For Large Gardens (Over 500 sqm)
- Husqvarna 115iL (USA/UK/AUS/NZ): This model is built for more extensive gardens. It’s powerful, with a 36V battery that provides a longer runtime, and is ergonomically designed for comfort.
- EGO Power+ ST1521S (USA/UK/AUS): With a wider cutting path and powerful 56V battery, this is a heavy-duty strimmer that can handle larger plots with ease.
Specialized Features
Self-Propelled Strimmers
While rare, self-propelled strimmers are available and ideal for those with mobility issues or larger areas to cover.
- Ryobi RY18LT26A-0 (UK): This model offers a semi-self-propelled function that makes trimming less physically demanding, especially on uneven terrain.
Strimmers with Rollers
For those who love a manicured lawn with sharp edges, strimmers with rollers are a must.
- Makita DUR368AZ (UK/NZ): A high-end model that comes with a roller attachment for precise edging. It’s ideal for those who want that pristine, professional look.
Best Cordless Strimmers by Region
UK
- Flymo Contour 500E: This model is very popular in the UK, known for its reliability and ease of use. It’s great for smaller to medium gardens.
USA
- Milwaukee M18 FUEL: In the US, Milwaukee’s strimmers are a hit for their durability and power. The M18 is robust and designed for professional-grade use.
Australia/New Zealand
- Victa VFORCE+ 40V: Popular in Australia and New Zealand, this strimmer is designed to handle tougher, more rugged terrain. It’s durable and has a long-lasting battery.
Conclusion
Choosing the best cordless strimmer depends on your specific needs: budget, garden size, and any special features you might want. For small gardens, a budget-friendly model like the WORX WG163 GT 3.0 is perfect, while larger gardens might require the power of an EGO Power+ ST1521S. If you’re after that perfect lawn finish, a strimmer with a roller, like the Makita DUR368AZ, is a great investment. Whether you’re in the UK, USA, Australia, or New Zealand, there’s a perfect cordless strimmer out there waiting to make your garden care a breeze.