Maintaining a small yard requires a tool that’s as nimble and efficient as the space itself. A battery-powered grass trimmer offers the perfect blend of convenience and power, freeing you from the hassle of cords and the noise and fumes of gas models. The right trimmer can make quick work of overgrown edges and tight corners, keeping your lawn looking manicured with minimal effort.
With so many options on the market, selecting the ideal cordless trimmer can feel overwhelming. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting nine of the best models tailored for small yards. We’ve considered factors like battery life, cutting width, weight, and special features to help you find the perfect match for your gardening needs.
The Best Battery-Powered Grass Trimmers for Small Yards
- Worx String Trimmer Cordless GT3.0 20V PowerShare
- BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless String Trimmer
- JAGROM Electric String Trimmer Cordless with 2×2.0Ah Battery
- EGO POWER+ String Trimmer with POWERLOAD & LINE IQ
- Cordless Weed Wacker Electric Grass Trimmer with 21v 4.0Ah Battery
- Greenworks 40V 13-Inch Cordless String Trimmer / Edger
- EGO Power+ Replacement POWERLOAD Head for EGO String Trimmer
- Snapper XD 82V MAX Lawn Edger Attachment
- DEWALT 20V MAX String Trimmer
Worx String Trimmer Cordless GT3.0 20V PowerShare
The Worx GT3.0 is a versatile 2-in-1 tool that easily converts from a string trimmer to an edger in seconds, making it a fantastic space-saver for small yard toolkits. Its innovative Command Feed spool system allows for instant line feeding at the push of a button, and Worx supports this with their “Free Spools for Life” program. This feature alone can save you money and frustration over the long term.
Maneuverability is a key strength, as the head tilts a full 90 degrees. This allows you to comfortably tackle sloped terrain and reach under bushes or along fences with ease. The included two batteries and charger mean you can start working right out of the box and always have a backup power source ready to go.
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless String Trimmer
For those seeking a straightforward and reliable trimming experience, the BLACK+DECKER LST300 is an excellent choice. It is designed for simplicity and ease of use, featuring an Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) that eliminates the need for bumping to advance the line. The system automatically feeds line when needed, providing a smooth and uninterrupted workflow.
Power is delivered efficiently through the POWERDRIVE Transmission, which effectively transfers motor power to the cutting string for faster cutting of grass and weeds. The included 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery offers a solid runtime for maintaining a small yard, and its compatibility with the 20V MAX system allows for potential use with other tools you may own.
JAGROM Electric String Trimmer Cordless with 2×2.0Ah Battery
The JAGROM trimmer stands out with its highly adaptable and user-friendly design. It functions as a 2-in-1 trimmer and edger, aided by a wheel for enhanced stability and control. With a no-load speed of 9500RPM, it provides ample power for typical yard maintenance, and the inclusion of two 2.0Ah batteries offers a combined runtime of around 40 minutes.
This model prioritizes storage and comfort. The shaft is foldable in three directions, making it compact and easy to store in a small shed or garage. The handle and cutting head are fully adjustable, allowing you to customize the tool’s angle and height to reduce strain on your back and arms during extended use.
EGO POWER+ String Trimmer with POWERLOAD & LINE IQ
The EGO POWER+ ST1623T represents the premium end of cordless trimmers, packed with innovative technology for a superior user experience. Its patented LINE IQ technology automatically monitors and feeds the trimmer line to maintain a consistent 16-inch cutting swath without any bumping or stopping. This allows for highly efficient and continuous trimming.
Reloading line is remarkably simple with the POWERLOAD feature; you just feed the line through the head and push a button to wind it automatically. The telescopic carbon fiber shaft is both lightweight and durable, and it can be adjusted to fit your height for optimal comfort and control, making yard work less physically demanding.
Cordless Weed Wacker Electric Grass Trimmer with 21v 4.0Ah Battery
This 3-in-1 cordless tool offers significant versatility, functioning as a trimmer, brush cutter, and lawn mower with the help of detachable wheels. The high-power motor and two 4.0Ah batteries provide substantial runtime and strength for tougher jobs that might be beyond a basic string trimmer. The dual control switch adds an important layer of safety during operation.
The design is focused on user comfort and adaptability. The head rotates 90 degrees to access difficult angles, and the shaft height is adjustable from 40 to 51 inches to suit users of different statures. The included wheels make it easy to guide the tool across your lawn, reducing fatigue and improving cutting precision.
Greenworks 40V 13-Inch Cordless String Trimmer / Edger
If you are already invested in the Greenworks 40V ecosystem or plan to be, this Gen 2 trimmer is a smart addition. It operates on the same battery platform that powers over 75 different tools, offering great expandability. The tool converts from a trimmer to an edger with a simple push of a button, providing essential functionality for lawn detailing.
Its 90-degree pivoting head allows you to edge and trim at multiple angles without straining. It’s important to note that this is a tool-only product, so it’s an ideal choice for those who already own a compatible Greenworks 40V battery and charger, keeping the initial cost lower.
EGO Power+ Replacement POWERLOAD Head
This is not a full trimmer, but a crucial replacement part for specific EGO POWER+ models. If you own an EGO ST1520, ST1520S, or other compatible trimmers, this POWERLOAD head allows you to restore the convenient, push-button line reloading feature that makes EGO trimmers so user-friendly.
Keeping your primary tool in good working order is key to effortless yard maintenance. This genuine EGO replacement part ensures compatibility and performance, saving you from having to replace the entire trimmer if the original head wears out or becomes damaged.
Snapper XD 82V MAX Lawn Edger Attachment
This product is an attachment designed to expand the capabilities of your existing Snapper XD String Trimmer powerhead. By attaching this dedicated lawn edger, you can achieve crisp, clean edges along your walkways and garden beds, giving your small yard a professionally landscaped appearance.
It features an 8.66-inch steel blade for durable and effective cutting. This approach is cost-effective and space-efficient, as it allows you to use a single powerful battery system for multiple lawn care tasks without needing to store several complete tools.
DEWALT 20V MAX String Trimmer
DEWALT is renowned for building durable and powerful professional-grade tools, and their 20V MAX string trimmer brings that reliability to yard maintenance. While specific features for a particular model are not listed here, DEWALT trimmers are generally known for their robust construction and high-performance motors.
For those who already own other DEWALT 20V MAX tools, this trimmer allows you to share batteries across a wide range of equipment, from drills to blowers. This interoperability can be a major advantage, reducing the number of batteries and chargers you need to own and maintain.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Perfect Battery Powered Grass Trimmer for a Small Yard
When I started looking for a battery powered grass trimmer for my own modest lawn, I quickly realized it wasn’t as simple as just grabbing the first one I saw. The right tool makes all the difference, turning a chore into a quick and satisfying task. For those of us with smaller yards, our needs are specific. We don’t need a commercial-grade monster; we need something nimble, easy to store, and powerful enough to handle the job without a fuss. Here’s what I learned to focus on.
First, think about battery voltage and the overall system. If you already own other tools from a brand like Ryobi, DeWalt, or Milwaukee, it makes a ton of sense to stick with that same battery platform. This saves you money and the hassle of managing different chargers. For small yards, a tool in the 20V to 40V range is usually perfect. Higher voltage generally means more power for tougher weeds, but it can also mean a heavier battery. For most small, routine trimming jobs, a 20V model is completely sufficient.
Next, consider the cutting swath—that’s the width of the path the trimmer cuts with each pass. A wider swath means you finish the job faster. For small yards, a swath between 12 and 15 inches is a great balance between efficiency and maneuverability. You also need to decide on the cutting technology. Most battery powered grass trimmers for small yards use a nylon line that you bump against the ground to feed out more as it wears down. This is ideal for edging along walkways and getting close to fences. Some models offer attachments or even come as multi-tool systems, allowing you to swap the head for an edger or a blower, which is a huge space-saver.
Finally, don’t overlook weight and balance. A lightweight trimmer is a game-changer, especially if you have slopes or need to hold it up for extended periods. Look for a model with an adjustable shaft; this lets you set the length to your height, reducing back strain. Also, check the runtime. For a small yard, you probably don’t need a battery that lasts for hours. A 20-30 minute runtime is often more than enough, and having a spare battery on the charger ensures you’re never stuck mid-task. The goal is to find a tool that feels like an extension of your arm, not a burden you have to wrestle with.
FAQ
How long does the battery typically last on a single charge?
This is the question I had, too. The runtime can vary a lot depending on the battery’s amp-hour (Ah) rating and the voltage of the tool. For a typical 20V to 40V battery designed for a small yard trimmer, you can expect anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes of continuous use. Thick, overgrown weeds will drain the battery faster than just trimming soft grass. My advice is to look for a combo kit that often includes two batteries. That way, you can always have one charged and ready to go if you run out of power mid-job.
Are these trimmers powerful enough for thick weeds?
For the occasional thick weed or patch of tall grass, yes, a modern battery powered model can handle it. The higher-voltage options (like 40V or even 80V) pack a significant punch. However, if your entire yard is consistently overgrown with tough, woody weeds, you might find the limits of a battery tool made for residential use. For most small yards where maintenance is regular, the power is more than adequate. Some models even feature a “turbo” button for a burst of extra power when you need it.
What is the difference between a brushless and a brushed motor?
This is a key difference in modern tools. A brushed motor is a older, simpler design that uses physical brushes to transfer power, which creates friction, heat, and eventually wear. A brushless motor is more advanced and efficient. It uses an electronic controller, which means it generates less heat, loses less energy, and lasts significantly longer. While brushless models are usually more expensive, they provide more power and longer runtime from the same battery. If you can swing it, going brushless is a great investment for the long term.
Can I use these trimmers for edging my lawn?
Many of the best battery powered grass trimmers for small yards have a feature that allows you to pivot the head for edging. This lets you create clean, sharp lines along your driveway and garden beds. It’s a fantastic two-in-one feature that saves you from buying and storing a separate edging tool. When you’re looking at models, check the product description to see if it mentions an “edging wheel” or the ability to tilt the head to a 90-degree angle. It’s a feature I use all the time and wouldn’t want to be without.
How do I know what size battery to get?
Battery size is measured in both voltage (V) and amp-hours (Ah). Think of voltage as the power behind the trimmer, and amp-hours as the fuel tank. A 20V trimmer with a 4.0Ah battery will run much longer than the same 20V trimmer with a 2.0Ah battery. For a small yard, a 2.0Ah battery might be perfectly fine. If your yard has a lot of perimeter to trim or you plan to use other attachments, stepping up to a 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah battery will give you the peace of mind that you won’t run out of juice.