Ryobi Strimmer Review
Ryobi offers a wide range of cordless strimmers (trimmers) powered by its popular 18V ONE+ and 40V battery platforms. This review covers the best models for UK and US gardens, comparing power, battery life, and value.
Quick answer
The best Ryobi strimmer for most people is the Ryobi ONE+ 18V Brushless Cordless String Trimmer (RY40270 / RLT1830B25). It offers excellent cutting power, a brushless motor, and compatibility with the massive ONE+ ecosystem. For larger gardens, the 40V Brushless model is a better choice for runtime.
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Research updated June 2026.
Ryobi ONE+ 18V Brushless String Trimmer (RY40270 / RLT1830B25)
Brushless motor, 11-inch cutting swath, and auto-feed line system. Best value in the ONE+ range.
| Model | Best For | Cutting Width | Motor | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RY40270 / RLT1830B25 | Best Overall | 11" | Brushless | 4.6/5 |
| RY40ST40 / RLT4030 | Large Gardens | 15" | Brushless 40V | 4.5/5 |
| RY40220 / RLT1825 | Budget Pick | 10" | Brushed | 4.2/5 |
| RY40260 / RLT1828 | Compact / Edging | 10" | Brushed | 4.3/5 |
| RY40ST50 / RLT4040 | Heavy Duty | 16" | Brushless 40V | 4.4/5 |
Ryobi ONE+ 18V Brushless String Trimmer (RY40270 / RLT1830B25)
Best OverallPros
- Brushless motor for longer runtime and power
- Auto-feed bump head is reliable
- Compatible with over 200 ONE+ tools
Cons
- Battery and charger not included in some kits
- Not ideal for thick brambles or heavy weeds
This is the most popular Ryobi strimmer for a reason. The brushless motor delivers more torque and efficiency than the brushed models, meaning you get better battery life and less overheating. The 11-inch cutting swath is ideal for medium-sized gardens and trimming along fences and flower beds.
Owner reviews highlight the easy line reload system and the fact it uses the same battery as Ryobi drills and saws. Many users find the runtime sufficient for a full trim on a single 4Ah battery. It is a solid choice for anyone already in the Ryobi ecosystem.
Ryobi 40V Brushless String Trimmer (RY40ST40 / RLT4030)
Best for Large GardensPros
- Longer runtime with 40V battery
- Wider cutting swath covers ground faster
- Brushless motor for heavy grass
Cons
- Heavier than 18V models
- Battery not compatible with 18V ONE+ tools
The 40V platform is Ryobi's answer for bigger gardens. This model cuts a 15-inch path, which means fewer passes along a fence line or lawn edge. The brushless motor provides enough torque to tackle thicker weeds and overgrown grass without bogging down.
Owners report excellent battery life, often completing a large garden on a single 4Ah 40V battery. The trade-off is weight; at around 10 pounds, it is heavier than the 18V models. It is a great upgrade for those who find the 18V version underpowered for their needs.
Ryobi ONE+ 18V String Trimmer (RY40220 / RLT1825)
Best Budget PickPros
- Very affordable price point
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Uses the same 18V ONE+ batteries
Cons
- Brushed motor less powerful and efficient
- Thinner line can break on tough weeds
If you are on a tight budget or have a small garden, this is the entry-level Ryobi strimmer. It is a simple, no-frills tool that gets the job done for light trimming around patios and paths. The brushed motor is adequate for grass but will struggle with thick growth.
Owner reviews note it is very light and easy to use, but battery life is shorter than the brushless models. It is a good option for occasional use or as a spare trimmer. For the price difference, many owners recommend stepping up to the brushless version if possible.
Ryobi ONE+ 18V Compact String Trimmer (RY40260 / RLT1828)
Best for Edging & Small SpacesPros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Good for edging along driveways
- Easy to store in tight spaces
Cons
- Fixed head requires manual line adjustment
- Not suitable for large areas or thick weeds
This compact model is designed for precision work. Its smaller head and shorter shaft make it easy to maneuver around flower beds and along edges. It is a dedicated edging tool rather than a full-scale strimmer.
Owner reviews appreciate its lightweight feel and ease of use for small jobs. The fixed head means you have to stop and manually pull out more line, which can be annoying. It is a specialist tool for those who need a trimmer for edging only.
Ryobi 40V Brushless String Trimmer (RY40ST50 / RLT4040)
Best Heavy DutyPros
- Widest cutting swath in the range
- Thicker line for heavy weeds and brambles
- Excellent power and runtime
Cons
- Heaviest model in the lineup
- Higher price point
The RY40ST50 is the most powerful Ryobi strimmer. With a 16-inch cutting width and a thicker 0.095-inch line, it can handle overgrown gardens and tough weeds that would stop smaller models. The brushless motor delivers consistent power under load.
Owner reviews praise its ability to cut through thick vegetation without stalling. The main downsides are its weight and cost. It is best suited for owners with large, rough gardens who need a cordless alternative to a petrol strimmer.
What to check before buying a Ryobi strimmer
Before purchasing, consider your garden size and the type of vegetation you need to cut. For small to medium lawns with grass only, the 18V brushless model is sufficient. For larger gardens or areas with thick weeds, the 40V platform is a better investment.
Check the battery ecosystem. If you already own Ryobi 18V ONE+ tools, the 18V strimmers are a no-brainer. If you are starting from scratch, the 40V models offer more power but limit you to that platform for future tool purchases.
Mistakes to avoid when buying a Ryobi strimmer
Do not buy the brushed 18V model (RY40220) if you have a large garden or thick weeds. It will struggle and drain batteries quickly. The brushless upgrade is worth the extra cost for most users.
Avoid buying a trimmer without a battery and charger if you do not already own Ryobi tools. The cost of a starter kit with a battery and charger is often better value than buying the tool alone.
Who is a Ryobi strimmer for?
Ryobi strimmers are designed for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. They are not for professional landscapers who need daily, heavy-duty use. The 18V models are ideal for small to medium gardens, while the 40V models suit larger properties.
The main appeal is the ONE+ battery system, which allows you to use the same batteries across a huge range of Ryobi tools. This makes them a great choice for anyone building a home tool collection.
Performance and build quality
Ryobi strimmers are generally well-built for the price point. The brushless models offer better performance and longevity than the brushed ones. The auto-feed bump heads on the brushless models are reliable, though some owners report occasional jamming.
Build quality is good for the price, but they are not as robust as professional brands like Stihl or Husqvarna. The plastic components are durable enough for home use but may not survive heavy abuse. Warranty is typically 3 years for the tool and 2 years for the battery.
Alternatives to Ryobi strimmers
If you want more power and are willing to pay more, consider a Stihl cordless strimmer or a DeWalt 20V MAX trimmer. Stihl offers professional-grade durability, while DeWalt offers a similar battery ecosystem for tradespeople.
For a budget alternative, the Black+Decker string trimmers are cheaper but less powerful. For petrol-like performance, the Makita 36V (18Vx2) range is a strong competitor, though it costs more than Ryobi's 40V models.
FAQs
Are Ryobi strimmers any good?
Yes, for home use. They offer good value, a wide range of models, and the convenience of the ONE+ battery system.
Which Ryobi strimmer is best?
The Ryobi ONE+ 18V Brushless (RY40270) is the best all-rounder for most gardens.
Is Ryobi 18V or 40V strimmer better?
40V is better for larger gardens and thick weeds. 18V is lighter and cheaper, and uses the same batteries as other ONE+ tools.
Do Ryobi strimmers come with a battery?
Some kits include a battery and charger, while others are tool only. Check the product listing carefully.
How long does a Ryobi strimmer battery last?
With a 4Ah 18V battery, expect 20-30 minutes of continuous trimming. 40V batteries last longer, around 30-45 minutes.
Can I use a Ryobi strimmer as an edger?
Some models have a rotating head that allows edging. The compact RY40260 is specifically designed for edging.
Are Ryobi strimmers easy to use?
Yes, they are lightweight and have simple controls. The bump feed heads are easy to operate.
What line does a Ryobi strimmer use?
Most 18V models use 0.065 or 0.080 inch line. 40V models typically use 0.080 or 0.095 inch line.
How do I replace the line on a Ryobi strimmer?
Most models have a bump feed head that you reload by threading new line through the spool. Refer to the manual for specific instructions.
Is Ryobi better than Black+Decker?
Ryobi generally offers more power and a larger battery ecosystem, making it a better long-term investment.
Where are Ryobi strimmers made?
Ryobi tools are primarily manufactured in China, with design and engineering based in Japan.
What is the warranty on a Ryobi strimmer?
Ryobi offers a 3-year warranty on the tool and a 2-year warranty on the battery.
Our verdict
The best Ryobi strimmer for most people is the Ryobi ONE+ 18V Brushless (RY40270) for its balance of power, price, and ecosystem compatibility. For larger gardens, the 40V Brushless model (RY40ST40) is the better choice for extended runtime and cutting power. The budget pick is the brushed 18V model (RY40220), but only for very light use.