Best String Trimmers for Small Yards
A small yard does not need a heavy, gas-powered trimmer that is awkward to store and fussy to start. For most small lots, a lightweight electric or battery trimmer gives you enough cutting power with far less weight, noise, and maintenance.
Quick answer
The EGO Power+ ST1511T 15-Inch String Trimmer is our top pick for most small yards thanks to its telescopic shaft, bump-feed head, and strong 56V battery platform.
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Research updated September 2026.
What Matters Most for This Category
For a small yard, weight and balance matter more than raw power. Look for a trimmer under about 10 pounds, a cutting swath in the 12 to 15 inch range, and a bump-feed or easy-load head so you spend less time fiddling with line. Battery models make sense if you already own that brand's tools, while corded electric trimmers are the simplest choice for tiny lots with an outdoor outlet nearby.
| Model | Best for | Key specs | Research Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| EGO Power+ ST1511T 15-Inch String Trimmer | Best Overall | 56V battery, 15 inches | 94/100 |
| Greenworks 24V Cordless String Trimmer (2100202) | Best Value | 24V battery, 12 inches | 90/100 |
| Black+Decker LST300 12-Inch Cordless Trimmer | Best Budget | 20V battery, 12 inches | 86/100 |
| Worx WG163 GT 3.0 20V Cordless Trimmer and Edger | Best for Edging | 20V battery, 12 inches | 88/100 |
| Ryobi ONE+ 18V 13-Inch String Trimmer (P2030) | Best for Battery Ecosystem | 18V battery, 13 inches | 89/100 |
| Black+Decker BESTA512CM 12-Inch Corded Trimmer | Best Corded | Corded electric, 12 inches | 84/100 |
| Makita XRU15 18V LXT 15-Inch String Trimmer | Best Premium | 18V battery, 15 inches | 91/100 |
EGO Power+ ST1511T 15-Inch String Trimmer
Top PickPros
- Telescopic shaft and adjustable handle fit different heights
- Part of a large 56V battery ecosystem
- Good cutting power for its class
Cons
- Battery and charger add to the total cost
- Heavier than basic corded models
This trimmer pairs a 15-inch cutting swath with a telescopic aluminum shaft, so it stores short and extends for comfortable use. It runs on the EGO 56V platform, which means one battery can serve a mower, blower, and other tools. For a small yard, a single charge typically covers the whole job.
Greenworks 24V Cordless String Trimmer (2100202)
Great ValuePros
- Light and easy to maneuver
- Lower entry price than larger battery platforms
- Shares battery with other Greenworks 24V tools
Cons
- Less power for thick weeds
- Shorter runtime than higher-voltage models
A 12-inch swath and light build make this a good fit for small lawns and tight edges. The 24V battery is enough for light trimming and touch-ups around beds and fences. It is a sensible first cordless trimmer for a modest yard.
Black+Decker LST300 12-Inch Cordless Trimmer
Budget PickPros
- Very light and inexpensive
- Automatic line feed reduces bumping
- Converts to a wheeled edger
Cons
- Limited power for heavy growth
- Small battery capacity
This is one of the lightest and cheapest cordless trimmers you can buy. The automatic feed head keeps line moving without bumping, and the trimmer converts to an edger for sidewalk edges. It suits small, well-kept yards rather than overgrown lots.
Worx WG163 GT 3.0 20V Cordless Trimmer and Edger
2-in-1Pros
- Quick conversion between trimmer and edger
- Lightweight and easy to store
- Tool-free line replacement
Cons
- Not ideal for thick brush
- Battery runtime is modest
The WG163 switches between trimming and edging with a twist of the shaft, which is handy for small yards with sidewalks and driveways. The command feed head lets you advance line with a button. It is built for routine upkeep rather than heavy clearing.
Ryobi ONE+ 18V 13-Inch String Trimmer (P2030)
Ecosystem PickPros
- Works with the huge Ryobi ONE+ battery line
- Adjustable handle and shaft
- Reasonable power for small yards
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately in many listings
- Not a heavy-duty trimmer
If you already own Ryobi ONE+ batteries, this trimmer slots right into your kit. The 13-inch swath and adjustable shaft handle typical small-yard trimming. It is a practical pick for anyone building a single-battery tool collection.
Black+Decker BESTA512CM 12-Inch Corded Trimmer
Corded SimplePros
- No battery to charge or replace
- Very light
- Low upfront cost
Cons
- Requires an outdoor outlet and extension cord
- Cord limits reach
A corded trimmer is the simplest option for a very small yard with a nearby outlet. This model is light, inexpensive, and feeds line automatically. The trade-off is managing an extension cord while you work.
Makita XRU15 18V LXT 15-Inch String Trimmer
Premium BuildPros
- Durable build quality
- Good power for a cordless trimmer
- Part of the large Makita LXT platform
Cons
- Higher price
- Battery and charger cost extra
This Makita trimmer offers a 15-inch swath and solid construction for buyers who want a long-lasting tool. It runs on the 18V LXT platform, which covers a wide range of Makita tools. It is more trimmer than a tiny yard strictly needs, but it should last.
Who Should Avoid the Top Pick
Skip this category if your yard is large or full of thick brush and saplings, where a gas or high-voltage brush cutter is more appropriate. Also avoid corded models if you have no convenient outdoor outlet, and avoid very cheap trimmers if you expect them to clear heavy growth regularly.
Before You Buy
Measure your yard and note how much edging you do, since a 2-in-1 model may save you a second tool. Check whether you already own batteries for a given brand, because that can cut the cost significantly. Finally, confirm the cutting swath and weight, as a lighter trimmer is easier to use for longer stretches.
FAQs
What size string trimmer is best for a small yard?
A 12 to 15 inch cutting swath is usually plenty for a small yard, and lighter models in that range are easier to handle.
Do I need a gas trimmer for a small yard?
No. Electric and battery trimmers handle typical small-yard trimming well, with less noise and maintenance.
How long does a battery trimmer run?
Runtime varies by battery capacity and load, but many small-yard jobs finish on a single charge with a mid-size battery.
Is a corded trimmer a good choice?
Yes, if you have an outdoor outlet and a small area, since corded models are light and inexpensive with no battery to charge.
Can I use one battery for several yard tools?
With brands like EGO, Ryobi, Makita, and Greenworks, the same battery often powers mowers, blowers, and trimmers.
What line thickness should I use?
Most small-yard trimmers use 0.065 to 0.080 inch line, and the manual will list the recommended size.
Our verdict
For most small yards, the EGO Power+ ST1511T offers the best mix of power, comfort, and battery flexibility. Budget buyers can save with the Black+Decker LST300, while Ryobi and Makita owners should lean toward their own battery platforms. Match the trimmer to your yard size and existing batteries, and you will get years of easy use.