The best string trimmers under 200 in 2026 are the WORX WG163 if you want the most proven all-rounder, the BLACK+DECKER LSTE525 if you want two batteries in the box, and the Greenworks 40V trimmer and blower combo if you want a second tool for leaf cleanup. All three arrive with everything you need to start cutting that afternoon.
That last detail is what separates this tier from the ones above it. Under this ceiling, a trimmer that lists as a complete kit with a battery and charger in the box is the norm, not the exception, and the tool itself is a real working machine rather than a bare shell. What you give up is raw power: the 40V and 56V platforms that outcut everything here live in the 250 to 350 range, so a sub-200 pick is sized for routine post-mow edging, fence lines, and light weed control rather than clearing a lot that has been untouched for a season.
Our team compared all ten models in this roundup on cutting width, no-load speed, line feed system, weight, and what actually ships in the box. We weighted review volume heavily, because a tool with a 28,000-review history tells you more about long-term reliability than a spec sheet does. Owners of the WORX WG163 on r/lawncare and r/Tools describe it as the unit they keep reaching for years later, and that consistency is why it takes the top slot here.
Read on for the full ranking, the gas versus cordless call, and the failure modes owners actually report. We also cover the ten string trimmers under 200 line by line so you can match a tool to your yard size before you buy.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best String Trimmers Under $200 in October
WORX WG163 2-in-1 Trimmer
- 12 inch cutting width
- 2-in-1 trimmer and edger
- 2 x 20V 2.0Ah batteries included
- 5.5 lb and head tilts 90 degrees
BLACK+DECKER LSTE525 Kit
- 2 x 20V MAX batteries included
- 2-speed control
- EASYFEED button line advance
- converts to wheeled edger
Greenworks 40V Trimmer and Blower
- Trim and blow in one kit
- 12 inch head with auto-feed line
- 390 CFM blower
- 3 year warranty
All 10 String Trimmers Under $200 Compared Side by Side in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| WORX WG163 20V 2-in-1 Trimmer and Edger |
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Check Latest Price |
| BLACK+DECKER LSTE525 20V MAX 12 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Greenworks 40V 12 in Trimmer and 390 CFM Blower Combo |
|
Check Latest Price |
 BLACK+DECKER LST300 20V MAX 12 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
 BLACK+DECKER LST522 20V MAX 12 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
 CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 V20 13 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
 LawnMaster No-Pull 26cc 2-Cycle 17 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
 PowerSmart 25cc 2-Cycle 16 inch 2-in-1 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 WORX WG154 20V 10 inch 2-in-1 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Greenworks 40V 12 inch Cordless Trimmer |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. WORX WG163 20V 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer and Edger: The Best Overall Pick
WORX 20V 12″ 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Electric Lawn Edger, WG163
12 inch cutting width
7600 rpm
5.5 lb
2 x 20V 2.0Ah batteries and charger
Pros
- Converts from trimmer to edger in seconds
- Push button command feed spool
- Lightweight 5.5 lb body
- Two batteries included
- Head tilts 90 degrees for slopes
Cons
- Not for woody brush or small branches
- Spool area can trap vines
- Included packs give short run time
The WG163 is the pick I recommend to almost anyone, and the reason is the sheer volume of long-term ownership behind it. It holds a 4.3 rating across more than 28,000 reviews, which is far more history than anything else on this list, and the pattern in those reviews is consistent rather than noisy. People bought it to tidy a suburban yard and kept it for years.
At 5.5 lb, it is light enough that a full afternoon of fence-line work does not leave you sore. The 12 inch swath and 7600 rpm no-load speed sit at the upper end of the 20V class here, so it moves through ordinary grass and light weeds without bogging down.
The conversion from trimmer to edger is the part that quietly justifies the money. You rotate the head, drop in the rubberized support wheels, and the same tool lays a clean line along a sidewalk or garden path. Owners on r/lawncare describe it as the feature they did not expect to care about and now rely on every spring.
Two 20V PowerShare 2.0Ah batteries and a charger ship in the box, so you can swap packs instead of waiting. That matters more than it sounds on a mid-sized lot, because a single pack on a trimmer this size covers a short session rather than a whole afternoon.
What the WG163 does well and where it runs out
Line handling is the best in this roundup. The command feed spool advances line with a button press instead of a bump against the ground, and the head tilts 90 degrees so you can work the underside of deck rails and around mailbox posts without bending. The spacer guard keeps grass off flowers and edging.
Where it runs out is the same place every 20V trimmer in this price range does. It is not a brush cutter, and it will not take saplings, woody stems, or the kind of dense, tall weeds that stall a 20V motor. The included packs also deliver shorter run time than the headline capacity suggests, so plan on a recharge partway through a large property.
Who should and should not buy this trimmer
Buy it if you have a small to medium yard, a lot of edging to do, or you already own other WORX PowerShare tools and want everything on one battery. It is also the safest recommendation for a first trimmer, because there is almost no learning curve and the spares are plentiful.
Skip it if your property is mostly overgrown, if you are clearing weeds taller than your knee on a regular basis, or if the work takes more than a couple of hours without a break. In those cases, the gas models further down this list are a better use of the same budget.
2. BLACK+DECKER LSTE525 20V MAX Cordless String Trimmer and Edger: Best Value
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless String Trimmer and Edger, 12 Inch Weed Eater, 2-Speed Control Weed Wacker, 2 Batteries, Charger and Spool Included (LSTE525)
12 inch cutting width
7200 rpm
5.3 lb
2 x 20V MAX batteries and charger
Pros
- Two batteries let you swap and keep working
- Lightest of the multi-battery kits
- EASYFEED one button line advance
- 2-speed control for thick patches
- Converts to a wheeled edger
Cons
- Included packs are small capacity
- Long charge time on supplied charger
- Thin line frays easily
At 5.3 lb this is the lightest kit in the roundup that still ships with two batteries, and that combination is genuinely rare. Most of the competition gives you one pack and expects you to plan breaks around a 30 minute charge window. This one lets you swap and keep going.
The 12 inch cutting width and 7200 rpm keep pace with the WG163, and the EASYFEED system advances line with a button rather than a bump. Conversion to a wheeled edger takes seconds, which makes it a two-tool answer for the price of one.
Owners like the 2-speed control in practice rather than on paper. High speed handles a patch of thicker growth, low speed stretches the pack, and the PowerDrive Transmission adds torque at the string where cheaper 20V motors stall. The micro-texture grip also holds up better than the smooth plastic found on budget rivals.
Both batteries and the charger are interchangeable with other 20V MAX tools, so if you own a BLACK+DECKER mower or blower this fits straight into that system. That platform compatibility is the quiet reason this kit keeps its value over a five-year ownership period.
Where the LSTE525 earns its place
The two-battery setup is the differentiator. On a yard of any size where trimming takes more than 30 minutes, a second pack turns an interruption into a non-event. Reviewers consistently point to this as the reason they recommend the kit rather than a cheaper single-battery model.
Also worth noting is the 2 year limited warranty, which is competitive with the better-covered brands in this price band. Replacement spools and guards are cheap and widely stocked, which matters once the head starts wearing.
Where it falls short
The batteries are the weak point. They are small capacity, they recharge slowly on the supplied charger, and the single thin line coming off the spool frays easily on concrete and against fence wire. The plastic trigger lever is also the component most likely to fail eventually, and once it wears the switch gets hard to press.
Owners also report it being louder than expected for a cordless machine. If early morning neighborhood use matters to you, check the noise with a neighbour conversation before committing. For a different noise profile, look at the Greenworks combo later on, which is specified at 67dB.
3. Greenworks 40V 12 in Trimmer and 390 CFM Blower Combo: Two Tools, One Battery
Greenworks 40V 12 in String Trimmer & 390 CFM Blower Combo, 2.0 Ah Battery
12 inch cutting width
7500 rpm
8 lb trimmer, 16.5 lb kit
1 x 40V 2.0Ah battery
Pros
- Trimmer plus 390 CFM blower in one kit
- One 40V battery covers the whole ecosystem
- 67dB operation
- 12 inch commercial-grade head
- 3 year warranty
Cons
- Heavy combined kit weight
- Only one small battery included
- Trimmer and blower cannot run at once
This kit exists for a specific situation: fall cleanup. If you trim edges in summer and then blow wet leaves and debris off the same walkways in November, you are buying two tools here for the price of one trimmer plus a small battery. That is a hard economic case to argue with.
The trimmer half is a genuine 12 inch commercial-grade head running at 7500 rpm with 0.065 inch auto-feed line, and it is specified to slice through 1 inch weeds with a 3 year head warranty. That is more cutting capability than most of the dedicated trimmers in this roundup offer.
At 67dB it is the quietest unit we list, which matters if your neighbours are close. The trimmer itself is a balanced 8 lb design, so the 16.5 lb figure in the spec sheet is the shipping weight of the full combo rather than what you carry while trimming.
The 40V platform spans eight or more tools in the range, and one 2.0Ah pack covers both halves of this kit. Adding a second battery later gives you a spare while the first charges, and the 60 minute charge time is reasonable for the capacity.
Why the combo is the smart budget play
Leaf blowers and string trimmers share almost no parts, so buying them together in a bundle is where the saving shows up. Owners on r/Greenworks consistently describe the platform as the reason they keep buying into it, because each new tool costs less than a standalone equivalent once you already own the battery.
The 3 year warranty is the longest in this roundup and covers the head as well, which is the part that usually fails first. Front-to-back coverage like that is worth real money when a spool head cracks two seasons in.
Where the combo does not make sense
If you already own a blower, or only trim and never blow, this is half a purchase wasted. And the single small battery is the main limitation. The blower and trimmer draw from the same pack, so you cannot run them together and you will be recharging between fall passes.
The 16.5 lb combined weight also makes it a harder kit to move around than a dedicated trimmer. Check that you have somewhere to store both halves, because this is not a one-piece tool you can lean in a corner.
4. BLACK+DECKER LST300 20V MAX 12 inch String Trimmer and Edger: Simple and Quiet
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer and Edger 2 in 1, Cordless Weed Wacker with Auto Spool Feed, Battery and Charger Included, 12 Inch Steel Deck, Reduced Vibration (LST300)
12 inch cutting swath
6200 rpm
5.7 lb
1 x 2.0 Ah battery and wall base
Pros
- Automatic Feed Spool needs no bumping
- Quiet easy-start operation
- Adjustable handle and height
- Converts to edger in seconds
Cons
- 6200 rpm is low for dense brush
- One battery means a full recharge between passes
- Edger function suits maintaining not creating edges
This is the model most people mean when they say inexpensive string trimmer. At 5.7 lb with a 12 inch swath, it does the ordinary job of tidying a lawn edge without any drama, and the 4.4 rating shows owners are largely satisfied with it for exactly that.
Nothing about it is complicated. The Automatic Feed Spool advances line without bumping, the head converts to an edger in seconds, and the wall mountable charging base means it lives on a garage wall rather than taking up bench space.
The 2.0 Ah pack is specified at 33 percent more runtime than the previous generation BLACK+DECKER pack, which is why this stays useful on medium yards. Vibration is reduced relative to earlier models, and that shows up in how the tool feels at the end of a long session.
If you already own 20V MAX tools, the battery and charger are the same ones you have. That makes this the cheapest way to add a trimmer to an existing kit, and it is one reason the model has accumulated close to 10,000 reviews.
Where the LST300 fits
Small to medium yards with routine grass and light weed trimming, full stop. It is quiet enough for early starts, light enough for anyone to handle, and simple enough that a first-time owner will not need a manual beyond the edger conversion.
It is also the strongest choice here if you want a second trimmer for a garden bed or a side yard and you already own the batteries. The 2 year limited warranty covers the tool.
Where it does not fit
6200 rpm is the lowest output in this roundup, and that number is the whole story. It suits grass and light weeds rather than dense brush or anything overgrown, and pushing it into tall stalks just bends the stems instead of cutting them.
Only one battery ships, so larger properties mean a full recharge between passes. If your trimming routinely runs past 30 minutes, the two-battery kits earlier in this list are the better buy even though they cost more.
5. BLACK+DECKER LST522 20V MAX 12 Inch Cordless String Trimmer: Best Single-Trimmer Kit
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 12 Inch Weed Eater Cordless String Trimmer and Wheeled Edger Lawn Tool with Spool, 2.5Ah Battery and Charger Included, Lightweight, 2 Speed PowerDrive (LST522)
12 inch cutting width
2-speed control
5.7 lb
1 x 2.5 Ah extended runtime battery
Pros
- Highest satisfaction score in this roundup
- 2.5 Ah pack with 66 percent more runtime
- Automatic line feed
- 2-speed control
- Converts to a wheeled edger
Cons
- Only one battery included
- Not for saplings or woody brush
- Listing shows an unusual 100 rpm figure
The LST522 is a single-trimmer version of the kit at number two, and it posts the highest satisfaction score of anything we list: 4.5 stars with 73 percent of reviews at five stars. The reason is a straightforward engineering choice. It ships with a 2.5 Ah pack instead of two smaller ones.
That pack is specified at 66 percent more runtime than the standard 20V battery, and it is the single change that lifts this model above its single-battery siblings. One pack lasts through most trimming sessions on a medium yard, which removes the mid-job recharge that frustrates owners of cheaper kits.
Dual speed control works the same way it does on the LSTE525. Low speed stretches the pack on light growth, high speed adds power when you hit a thicker patch. The PowerDrive Transmission boosts torque at the string, which is where cheaper motors bog down.
Conversion to a wheeled edger is quick, and the adjustable soft grip handle helps with both modes. It is part of the 20V MAX system, so the pack and charger are shared with the rest of the range.
LST522 against the LSTE525
Choose the LST522 if your trimming fits inside one charge cycle and you would rather have a bigger pack than a spare. Choose the LSTE525 if your work runs longer or you want two batteries that can be alternated, which is the better long-term arrangement as packs age.
Both convert to a wheeled edger and both use automatic line feed. The practical difference is battery strategy, and that is a question about your yard size and how long a session runs rather than about trimmer quality.
What to watch
Only one battery is included, so a large property will still mean a recharge. It is not built for saplings, woody brush, or acreage, and one product listing shows an unusual 100 rpm figure that does not match the class, so treat published speed specifications for this model with some caution.
Overall this is the most complete single-trimmer package in the sub-200 tier. If you want one tool that arrives complete and is unlikely to disappoint, this is the version to buy.
6. CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCST900D1 13 Inch Weed Wacker: Widest Cut in the Roundup
CRAFTSMAN V20 Weed Wacker Cordless String Trimmer and Edger, Weed Eater Includes 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger, Lightweight, Extended Runtime, 2 Speed (CMCST900D1)
13 inch cutting swath
6.3 lb
1 x 2.0 Ah battery and charger
3 year warranty
Pros
- Widest 13 inch swath here
- Automatic line advance without tangles
- Telescoping pole for easy conversion
- Two speed settings
Cons
- 2.0 Ah pack gives roughly 45 to 90 minutes
- Edger function weaker than trimming
- A few reports of faulty batteries
Every percentage point of cutting width cuts the number of passes you make, and this is the widest swath in the roundup at 13 inches. For someone with a long driveway edge or a big front yard, that is a real time saving over a 10 inch model every single use.
It also feels better built than its price suggests. Reviewers describe it as a step up from the usual budget tier, and the 3 year limited warranty is among the longer ones available here.
The telescoping pole handles the trimmer to edger conversion without tools, and the automatic 0.065 inch line advance works without the tangles that plague cheaper bump heads. Two speed settings let you trade power for run time, which is the one lever that genuinely matters on a battery tool.
An integrated hook means it hangs on VERSATRACK wall storage, so it does not occupy a corner of the garage. The 6.3 lb weight sits in the middle of the cordless group here, light enough for long sessions without being fragile.
Why the wide swath matters
Coverage per pass is the most underrated spec on a trimmer. Owners with a wide front lawn report finishing a full property in a fraction of the passes, and that is the difference between a 20 minute job and a 45 minute job. It also matters on a slope, where fewer passes means less time balancing with a spinning head uphill.
The two speed settings add control that single-speed budget trimmers lack. Low speed is genuinely lighter on the battery when you are only knocking back grass at the lawn edge, and high speed is there for the bramble at the fence line.
Where it falls short
Runtime is the main limitation. The 2.0 Ah pack gives roughly 45 to 90 minutes depending on the growth, and that is the single most repeated complaint in the reviews. On anything larger than a medium yard, plan for a recharge partway through.
Edging is the weaker half of the conversion, and a small number of buyers received faulty or mischarging battery packs. The run button also sits awkwardly for users with smaller hands, which is worth checking in person if you can.
7. LawnMaster No-Pull 26cc 2-Cycle 17 Inch Gas Trimmer: Best Gas Pick
LawnMaster No-Pull 26cc 2 Cycle Engine 17” Grass Trimmer, NPTGSP2617A
26cc 2-cycle engine
17 inch cutting width
18.9 lb
400ml fuel tank
Pros
- Electric push start needs no cord pulling
- 26cc outcuts electric trimmers
- 360 degree anti-vibration handle
- Split shaft accepts attachments
Cons
- Heaviest unit in the roundup at nearly 19 lb
- Included spool head feeds poorly
- Some units will not restart after the start battery dies
If you pull-start engines badly, the No-Pull feature on this 26cc is the whole reason to buy it. A button on the handle fires the starter, and the specification claims up to 250 starts per charge on the included lithium pack. Owners who struggle with a recoil starter describe it as the feature that made gas ownership possible for them.
The engine is the reason for the rest. A 26cc 2-cycle with a 17 inch cutting width and 0.095 inch dual line goes through wet grass and tall stalks that stall every battery model in this roundup. The 400ml fuel tank is small for the job, but refilling takes seconds.
The 360 degree rotating anti-vibration handle lets you set the angle that suits your height, and the split shaft accepts multi-tool attachments including tilling heads. That makes this the most expandable tool in the roundup if you already own compatible attachments.
Reviewers confirm the engine outcuts the electric models on thick wet grass, which is exactly the scenario where a gas trimmer justifies itself. There is no battery to recharge and no runtime ceiling, so the work takes as long as it takes.
Where the No-Pull earns its spot
Very overgrown ground, roadside verges, ditches, and anywhere the growth is taller than your knee. Power delivery here is simply a different category from the cordless models, and no amount of battery capacity in this price range closes that gap.
It also suits anyone who would rather own one tool for twenty years. Gas engines of this type are mechanically simple to service, and the parts that wear out are available everywhere.
Where it becomes a burden
At 18.9 lb it is the heaviest model listed, and most owners add a shoulder strap to make it tolerable. Weight is also a safety factor: a spinning 17 inch head at nearly 19 lb is harder to control on a slope than a 5 lb cordless unit.
The included bump-feed spool head is the weak component, and owners commonly replace it with a better head. A smaller group reported the engine dying and not restarting even with a new start battery. The 4.0 star average is the lowest here, so treat it as a capable machine with a rough finish.
8. PowerSmart 25cc 2-Cycle 16 Inch 2-in-1 Trimmer and Brush Cutter: Gas With a Blade
PowerSmart Gas Weed Wacker 2-Cycle 25cc Gas String Trimmer/Edger 16″ and 10″ Brush Cutter & Shoulder Strap Included
25.4cc 2-cycle engine
16 inch cutting width
18.7 lb
10 inch brush blade included
Pros
- Engine outcuts battery trimmers of similar cost
- Includes a 10 inch brush blade
- Shoulder strap included
- Low vibration for a gas model
Cons
- Heaviest unit in the roundup at nearly 19 lb
- Lowest rating with 18 percent one-star reviews
- Brittle plastic parts
The distinguishing feature here is the 10 inch brush blade that ships in the box alongside the trimmer line. That converts a string trimmer into something closer to a brush cutter, which is the difference between bending tall weeds and cutting them down.
Most buyers choose this for the 25.4cc engine. It powers through heavy brush and tall grass that stalls cordless trimmers, and the included shoulder strap is not an accessory at this weight, it is a requirement.
Vibration is reported as low for a gas unit, and the disassembly for storage is straightforward enough to fit in a closet. The 5-times pull starter is a modest concession to anyone who dislikes recoil starting, though it is no match for the electric push start on the LawnMaster above.
Assembly takes roughly 20 minutes for most people, but the instructions are the weak point. Budget extra time for the head and its retaining bolt, which is where buyers most often get stuck.
What it is genuinely good at
Thick, tall, neglected growth. The blade takes down what the line would only bend, and the engine has the torque to keep the blade turning when the going gets hard. For a lot that has been left for a season, this is the only type of tool in the price range that finishes the job in one visit.
It is also the only model here that covers both jobs, so a single purchase handles trimming season and one heavy brush clean-up without a second tool.
Where to spend carefully
This has the lowest rating in the roundup at 4.0 stars, with 18 percent of reviews at one star. The complaints cluster around build quality rather than capability: brittle plastic components, and reports of a choke switch arriving broken. Some buyers also reported failures within an hour of use.
At 18.7 lb it is tied for heaviest here, and the shoulder strap is essential. If you want a gas trimmer but not the very heaviest frame, the LawnMaster at number seven is the steadier choice despite the lower 26cc figure being the same class of engine.
9. WORX WG154 20V 10 Inch 2-in-1 Trimmer: The Lightest Option
Worx 20V 10″ 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Lawn Edger for Yard, WG154
10 inch cutting path
4.2 lb
2800 rpm
1 x 20V 2.0 Ah battery and charger
Pros
- Lightest model in the roundup at 4.2 lb
- Lowest entry cost of the cordless models
- Automatic line feed
- Head rotates 180 degrees for edging
Cons
- Narrowest 10 inch cutting path here
- 2800 rpm suits grass and light weeds only
- Single 2.0 Ah battery limits runtime
At 4.2 lb this is the lightest tool in the roundup by a full pound, and that weight is the entire argument for it. Anyone with shoulder issues, a small yard, or a lot of close-quarters work will find a 4.2 lb trimmer noticeably easier to use all day.
The head rotates 180 degrees to switch between trimming and in-line edging, and the automatic line feed means you never stop to bump the head against the ground. The adjustable spacer guard protects flowers and lawn ornaments at the closest working distance.
The battery is the same 20V PowerShare pack used across the WORX range, and it also fits select 40V and 80V WORX tools. If you own anything from that platform already, this becomes a very cheap way to add trimming to your setup.
Owners treat it as the sensible budget answer for small to medium yards, and the 4.4 rating reflects a tool that does its narrow job well. It is not trying to be more than that.
Where the WG154 makes sense
Small yards, side strips, and close work around planting beds where a wider head would be more awkward than helpful. The long shaft and auxiliary handle give you reach into tight spots without crouching.
It is also the right call for a shared household tool. A light machine gets used by whoever needs it, and the 4.4 rating suggests it keeps working when that happens.
Where the narrow cut costs you
Ten inches is the narrowest path here, so a medium yard takes noticeably more passes than a 13 inch model. Combined with 2800 rpm, the lowest speed figure in the roundup, this is a grass and light weed tool rather than anything more demanding.
Only one 2.0 Ah battery is included, which limits a session length. If your trimming regularly runs long, spend a little more on a two-battery kit and you will get further per hour.
10. Greenworks 40V 12 Inch Cordless String Trimmer: Best for Thick Weeds
Greenworks 40V 12 in Cordless String Trimmer, 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger
12 inch dual line path
7500 rpm
12 lb
1 x 2.0 Ah battery and charger
Pros
- Variable speed trigger adds real cutting power
- Durable dual 0.065 inch line resists snapping
- Well balanced to reduce fatigue
- Backward compatible 40V batteries
Cons
- Heaviest cordless model at 12 lb
- Assembly instructions are unclear
- Handle clamp needs needle-nose pliers
This is the most capable cordless trimmer in the roundup, and it is not close. The 7500 rpm no-load speed and variable speed trigger give it the torque of a heavier machine, and owners frequently report it outperforming trimmers that cost considerably more.
The dual 0.065 inch line is the detail that separates it from the 20V crowd. Thicker line resists snapping on concrete edges and against fence wire, which is where cheaper line frays constantly and stops the tool dead.
One owner reported edging a full acre on a single 40V charge, which puts the runtime head and shoulders above the 20V kits in this list. The front guard protects trees and shrubs from accidental contact, a small thing that saves plants along a driveway.
Backward compatibility across older Greenworks 40V tools is widely praised. If you bought into the platform years ago, the battery you own will likely still work here, and that is a real saving over restarting on a new system.
Why it handles weeds the 20V models cannot
Two things are working together. The variable speed trigger gives you on-demand power for a thick patch rather than forcing full speed all session, which extends run time at the same time. The dual thicker line resists the snapping that brings cheaper trimmers to a stop mid-stroke.
The result is a cordless tool that can take on weeds a 20V model would only bend. If your growth is genuinely challenging but you want to stay cordless, this is the pick.
Where it gets in the way
At 12 lb it is the heaviest cordless model in the roundup, nearly three times the weight of the WORX WG154. That is a meaningful difference across a full afternoon, and it is worth weighing against the extra cutting capability before you commit.
Assembly instructions are poorly written and the handle clamp can need needle-nose pliers, so allow extra time on first setup. Owners also report that brand pre-wound replacement spools are wound too tight to feed properly, and the workaround is to wind your own line. A few units shipped without the advertised battery and charger.
Gas vs Cordless String Trimmers Under 200: Which One Fits Your Yard?
Every competitor guide we studied leaves this comparison for the reader to assemble, so here is the short version. Under this budget, cordless wins on everything except raw cutting power. Gas wins on exactly one thing: it does not stop when the battery does.
Choose cordless if your yard is small to medium, your trimming is routine post-mow cleanup, and you care about noise, maintenance, and starting without a fuss. All eight battery models here start instantly, run quietly, and need no fuel mixing. For a suburban lot, that is the correct choice.
Choose gas if your ground is overgrown, your sessions run past an hour, or you are working away from a charger. The 25cc and 26cc engines here push through wet grass and tall stalks that stall every battery model, at the cost of weight, noise, fuel, and a pull start or a push-start button.
Our position, after comparing the ten models, is that most readers should buy cordless. The forum consensus is blunt about the exception: owners with large lots warn against battery power entirely and steer toward straight-shaft gas. If you have a half acre or more of neglected growth each season, the extra weight is worth it, and our guide to the best string trimmers for large yards covers where the budget needs to go next.
One practical note before you decide. Buying gas means owning fuel, a spark plug, an air filter, and eventually a carburetor clean. Buyers on r/Tools and r/lawncare report that gas trimmers get harder to start year over year, and that premixed fuel is the easiest path for a new owner who wants to avoid carb maintenance entirely.
How to Choose a Budget String Trimmer Without Overspending
Check what is actually in the box
A bare tool is a trimmer body with no battery and no charger, and adding them later can push a sub-200 listing well past the ceiling. Every cordless pick in this roundup is a complete kit, which is why we did not include bare tools here. If you see one advertised below this range, add the cost of a battery and charger before assuming it is a bargain.
Match cutting width to your passes, not to the spec sheet
Cutting width is the number that decides how long a job takes. A 10 inch path means more passes than a 13 inch one, every time. If your property is wide rather than cluttered, spend up on width. If you work in tight spaces around beds and posts, a narrower head with a spacer guard is more controllable.
Two related terms get used loosely. Cutting swath is the width of grass the head can cover, cutting diameter is the total width the line sweeps. In practice, for a 12 inch trimmer, treat it as roughly 12 inches of effective cut.
Understand your line feed system
Four systems appear in this roundup. Bump feed advances line when you tap the head on the ground, and it is the cheapest and most common. Auto feed advances automatically as the head spins, which saves you stopping mid-stroke. Push-button load, sold under brand names like EASYFEED, Command Feed, or Automatic Feed Spool, advances line with a press and is the most convenient of the lot. Fixed line is the least common and the least convenient.
All eight cordless models here use auto feed or a push-button system, which is a real quality-of-life difference when you are working a long edge. The two gas models use bump feed, which is why owners of the LawnMaster recommend replacing its head.
On line gauge, the cordless models here run 0.065 inch dual line while the gas models use 0.095 inch. Thicker line survives stone edges and wire fencing, and bulk line costs a fraction of preloaded cartridges, which is a point owners of the WORX platform raise often.
Consider the battery platform before the trimmer
Platform lock-in is the decision that costs you the least attention and the most money over five years. The BLACK+DECKER and WORX models here run 20V packs, the Greenworks models run 40V, and the CRAFTSMAN runs V20. If you already own tools on one of these platforms, staying on it makes the trimmer considerably cheaper.
Owners consistently rate that platform match above any other factor in their satisfaction, more than raw power. It is the reason a cheaper single-battery model can be the smarter purchase for someone who already owns a matching battery.
Check the shaft and balance
A telescoping shaft adjusts to your height and shortens for storage, which matters for anyone in a small garage. A straight shaft transfers force better into tall weeds, while a curved shaft keeps the head closer to the ground for comfort on flat lawn work. Only the CRAFTSMAN here has a telescoping pole, though several others allow handle and height adjustment.
Balance is the spec nobody lists and everybody notices. A 12 lb tool held at its midpoint feels very different from the same weight held at the end of a long shaft, and that is the argument for testing a heavier model in a store before committing.
Spend the leftover budget well
If you have room left after the trimmer, the highest-value additions in order are a spare battery, a bulk roll of line, a shoulder harness, and a second head. Only the gas models here include a strap, and at nearly 19 lb it is the difference between usable and not.
A good harness also matters for battery models on larger properties, and it is a small cost that reduces arm fatigue noticeably over a full session. If the rest of your outdoor setup is not sorted, our guide to the best string lights for backyards covers the other half of finishing the space.
Failure Modes Owners Report and How to Avoid Them
Spool and head jams are the most common complaint across this roundup, especially on the WORX models. Vines and thick stems wrap around the spool housing and the head bearing, and the fix is periodic disassembly to clear them. Several owners replaced the factory head with a better one and stopped having the problem entirely.
Line breakage on thin line is the second theme. Reviewers on both the WORX and BLACK+DECKER models describe the supplied line fraying against concrete and wire fence. Moving up a line gauge, or switching to bulk line wound properly, fixes most of it for very little money.
Short runtime is the third. Owners on r/Tools and r/lawncare describe 20 to 45 minute sessions on stock packs, and the consistent advice is to buy a second battery rather than a second trimmer. The two-battery kits in this roundup exist for exactly that reason.
Hard starting and component fatigue show up on the gas models. Owners report gas trimmers getting harder to start year over year, and premixed fuel removes the mixing variable. On the budget gas units, brittle plastic switches and clamps are the parts that fail first, and the fix is a replacement rather than a new tool.
One last warning from owner reports: 20V trimmers bog down in tall stalky weeds and push grass over instead of cutting it. If that is your normal condition rather than an occasional event, do not spend more on a 20V machine. Step up to a 40V cordless model or a gas engine instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best string trimmer for the money?
The WORX WG163 is the best string trimmer for the money under 200. It ships with two 20V PowerShare 2.0Ah batteries and a charger, weighs 5.5 lb, has a 12 inch cutting width at 7600 rpm, and converts to a wheeled edger in seconds. It holds 4.3 stars across more than 28,000 reviews, the largest review base of any model in this roundup.
What is the best cordless string trimmer under 100?
The WORX WG154 is the best cordless string trimmer under 100. It is 4.2 lb, the lightest model we list, with a 10 inch cutting path, automatic line feed, and a 180 degree head rotation for edging. A 20V 2.0 Ah battery and charger are included. The 2800 rpm speed suits grass and light weeds rather than dense growth.
What is the best inexpensive string trimmer?
The BLACK+DECKER LST300 is the best inexpensive option. It has a 4.4 rating, a 12 inch cutting swath, an Automatic Feed Spool that advances line without bumping, a 2.0 Ah battery, and a wall mountable charging base. It is quiet, easy to start, and light at 5.7 lb, which makes it the least intimidating first trimmer.
What is the most reliable string trimmer?
Reliability tracks review volume and build quality. The WORX WG163 has the longest ownership history in this roundup with more than 28,000 reviews, and the CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 offers a 3 year warranty with build quality reviewers describe as heavier duty. Avoid the two budget gas models if reliability is your priority, as both sit at 4.0 stars with clusters of one-star reports.
Gas vs cordless string trimmers: which is better under 200?
Cordless is better for small to medium yards doing routine cleanup, because it starts instantly, runs quietly, and needs no fuel mixing. Gas is better for overgrown lots or sessions past an hour, because a 25cc or 26cc engine cuts wet grass and tall stalks that stall every battery model. Gas costs you weight, noise, fuel, and maintenance, so most readers should buy cordless.
How long does a 20V battery string trimmer last on one charge?
A stock 20V pack typically gives 20 to 45 minutes of real trimming, and up to roughly 90 minutes on the larger 2.5 Ah pack in the BLACK+DECKER LST522. Dense growth and tall weeds cut that short, and using the low speed setting on light grass stretches it. The simplest fix is a second battery, which is why the two-battery kits rank highest here.
The Verdict: Which String Trimmer Under 200 Should You Buy?
The WORX WG163 is the best string trimmer under 200 in 2026. Two batteries, a 12 inch swath, a 5.5 lb body, and the deepest review history in the class make it the safest purchase of the ten we compared, and it is the one we recommend to most people.
Buy the BLACK+DECKER LSTE525 if you want interchangeable packs across a broader tool range, the CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 if you want the widest cut and a 3 year warranty, or the Greenworks 40V trimmer and blower combo if fall leaf cleanup is part of the job. If your ground is genuinely overgrown, step up to a gas model and accept the extra weight. If your lot is large and long-neglected, our guide to the best string trimmers for large yards covers where the budget needs to go next.