Best String Trimmers for Fence Lines
Trimming along a fence line is one of the most awkward jobs in the yard, because you are fighting wire, posts, and tight corners while trying to keep the string out of the fence itself. A trimmer that works well in open lawn can feel clumsy here, so the models below were chosen for reach, cutting head design, and how well they handle close-in work along chain link, wood, and vinyl fencing.
Quick answer
The EGO Power+ ST1511T 15-Inch String Trimmer is the best overall pick for fence lines thanks to its carbon fiber shaft, 15-inch cut, and easy line advancement.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Cross-checked manufacturer-published specifications before writing any recommendation
- Verified US market availability and configuration for every model discussed
- Owner-feedback themes are summarized as feedback, never presented as our own hands-on testing
- No invented star ratings; see the visible Research Score criteria on this page
- Flagged chemical-compatibility and safe-handling guidance for sprayer and shredder equipment
- We compare cutting swath, shaft length, head type, and power source against the specific demands of fence-line trimming rather than general lawn use.
Research updated September 2026.
What Matters Most for This Category
For fence lines, the two features that matter most are the cutting head and the shaft. A bump-feed or auto-feed head lets you keep moving without stopping to rewind line, and a longer shaft or telescoping design helps you reach over and around posts without stooping. Battery voltage and runtime matter if you have a long perimeter, while gas models still make sense for very large properties. Weight and balance also count, since you will be holding the trimmer at odd angles for extended stretches.
| Model | Best for | Key specs | Research Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| EGO Power+ ST1511T 15-Inch String Trimmer | Best Overall | 56V battery, 15 inches | 94/100 |
| Greenworks 40V 14-Inch Cordless String Trimmer | Best Value | 40V battery, 14 inches | 90/100 |
| WORX WG163 GT 3.0 20V PowerShare 12-Inch String Trimmer | Best Budget | 20V battery, 12 inches | 87/100 |
| Makita XRU15PT 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless String Trimmer | Best for Heavy Growth | 36V (18V X2) battery, 17 inches | 92/100 |
| Husqvarna 128LD 28cc Gas String Trimmer | Best Gas Option | 28cc gas engine, 17 inches | 88/100 |
| Black+Decker LSTE525 20V MAX 12-Inch String Trimmer | Best for Small Yards | 20V battery, 12 inches | 85/100 |
| Ryobi ONE+ 18V 13-Inch Cordless String Trimmer | Best for ONE+ Users | 18V battery, 13 inches | 86/100 |
EGO Power+ ST1511T 15-Inch String Trimmer
Top PickPros
- Carbon fiber shaft keeps weight down while staying rigid
- 15-inch swath covers fence lines quickly
- Rapid Reload head makes line changes fast
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately in some listings
- Premium price compared to budget corded models
The ST1511T pairs a 15-inch cutting swath with a carbon fiber shaft, which makes it easier to control along a fence without the flex you get from cheaper poles. The Rapid Reload head is one of the quicker line-loading systems available, and the 56V platform shares batteries with other EGO tools. Based on manufacturer specifications, it is a strong all-around choice for homeowners with moderate to large fence perimeters.
Greenworks 40V 14-Inch Cordless String Trimmer
Great ValuePros
- Telescoping shaft adjusts for reach and height
- Includes battery and charger in most kits
- Light enough for extended fence-line trimming
Cons
- 14-inch swath is smaller than premium models
- Bump feed can be finicky with thick line
This Greenworks model is a common value pick because most kits include the battery and charger, so you are ready to trim out of the box. The telescoping aluminum shaft lets you extend reach for tall fences or shorten it for storage. Based on owner-feedback themes, it handles light to moderate fence-line growth well, though very thick weeds may slow it down.
WORX WG163 GT 3.0 20V PowerShare 12-Inch String Trimmer
Budget PickPros
- Command Feed lets you advance line with a button
- Converts to a wheeled edger
- Very light and easy to maneuver
Cons
- 12-inch swath means more passes along long fences
- 20V power is best for light trimming
The WG163 GT 3.0 is a lightweight 20V trimmer that doubles as an edger, which is handy if your fence line borders a sidewalk or driveway. The Command Feed system advances line at the push of a button instead of bumping the head on the ground. Based on manufacturer specifications, it is best suited to light grass and weeds rather than heavy overgrowth.
Makita XRU15PT 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless String Trimmer
PowerhousePros
- 17-inch swath clears fence lines fast
- Brushless motor for efficiency and longer runtime
- Runs on two 18V LXT batteries
Cons
- Heavier than most cordless trimmers
- Requires two batteries at once
Makita's XRU15PT uses two 18V LXT batteries to deliver 36V of power, and the 17-inch swath is one of the widest in the cordless class. A steel shaft adds durability for rough fence-line conditions. Based on manufacturer specifications, it is a good fit for homeowners already invested in the LXT platform who need more cutting power.
Husqvarna 128LD 28cc Gas String Trimmer
Gas PowerPros
- No battery runtime limits for large properties
- 17-inch swath covers ground quickly
- Accepts multiple attachments
Cons
- Requires fuel mixing and engine maintenance
- Louder and heavier than cordless models
The Husqvarna 128LD is a 28cc gas trimmer with a 17-inch swath and a straight shaft, which helps with reach along fences. It uses the T25 bump-feed head and can accept Husqvarna attachments for added versatility. Based on owner-feedback themes, it suits larger properties where battery runtime would be a limitation.
Black+Decker LSTE525 20V MAX 12-Inch String Trimmer
CompactPros
- Automatic line feed reduces stops
- Includes two batteries for longer runtime
- Lightweight and easy to store
Cons
- 12-inch swath is small for long fences
- Not ideal for thick weeds
The LSTE525 uses Black+Decker's AFS automatic feed system, which spools out line as needed so you spend less time bumping the head. Two included 20V batteries help extend runtime for small to medium yards. Based on manufacturer specifications, it is a practical pick for short fence lines and light trimming.
Ryobi ONE+ 18V 13-Inch Cordless String Trimmer
Ecosystem PickPros
- Works with the large Ryobi ONE+ battery lineup
- Telescoping shaft and adjustable handle
- Affordable bare-tool option
Cons
- 18V power is modest for heavy growth
- Battery and charger may be sold separately
This Ryobi trimmer is a natural fit for anyone already using the ONE+ 18V system, since it runs on the same batteries as the rest of the lineup. The telescoping shaft and adjustable handle help with reach along fences. Based on owner-feedback themes, it handles routine trimming well but is not built for dense overgrowth.
Who Should Avoid the Top Pick
Skip trimmers with very short swaths or fixed, non-adjustable shafts if your fence line is long or you are tall, since these make the work slower and more tiring. Also avoid heavy gas models if you only have a small yard, because the fuel and maintenance overhead is not worth it.
Before You Buy
Measure your fence perimeter and note what you are cutting, since light grass needs far less power than thick weeds against a chain link fence. Check whether the trimmer includes a battery and charger, confirm the line diameter it accepts, and think about whether you already own batteries from a specific brand.
FAQs
What size string trimmer is best for fence lines?
A 14 to 17 inch swath is a good balance for fence lines, since it covers ground quickly without being too bulky to maneuver around posts.
Can I use a corded trimmer along a fence?
Yes, if you have an outdoor outlet and a long enough cord, but cordless models are generally easier to manage around posts and corners.
How do I keep from damaging my fence with a trimmer?
Use a lower speed near the fence, keep the cutting head parallel to the ground, and consider a guard or trimmer line that is appropriate for the material.
Is a bump feed or automatic feed head better for fence lines?
Automatic feed heads reduce stops, while bump feed heads are simple and reliable. Either works well, and the choice often comes down to personal preference.
Do I need a gas trimmer for a large fence line?
Only if battery runtime is a real limitation. Many cordless trimmers now offer enough runtime for large residential fences, especially with spare batteries.
What voltage should I look for in a cordless fence-line trimmer?
For light trimming, 18V to 20V is often enough, while 40V to 56V systems provide more power and runtime for thicker growth and longer fences.
Our verdict
For most homeowners, the EGO Power+ ST1511T offers the best mix of reach, cutting width, and easy line loading for fence-line work. If budget is the priority, the Greenworks 40V and WORX WG163 are solid alternatives, while the Makita XRU15PT and Husqvarna 128LD suit heavier growth and larger properties.