The 6 Best String Trimmers Under $200
We looked at string trimmers under $200 using manufacturer specs, independent reviews and owner reports. Each pick lists what it does well and where it falls short, so you can match it to how you'll use it.
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Quick picks
Key specs: 15-inch cutting swath with POWERLOAD auto-feed, 56V ARC Lithium battery, 2.5Ah included, Carbon fiber split shaft.
Key Specifications & Features:
- 15-inch cutting swath with POWERLOAD auto-feed
- 56V ARC Lithium battery, 2.5Ah included
- Carbon fiber split shaft
- Brushless motor
- Typically $170 to $200
Strengths
- POWERLOAD auto-feed removes the most annoying part of trimmer maintenance
- Carbon fiber shaft keeps weight down despite the larger battery and motor
Limitations
- Near the top of this price band once accessories are added
- 56V battery doesn't interchange with more common 40V ecosystems
Key specs: 28cc 2-cycle gas engine, 17-inch cutting swath, Straight shaft with Tap 'n Go head.
Key Specifications & Features:
- 28cc 2-cycle gas engine
- 17-inch cutting swath
- Straight shaft with Tap 'n Go head
- Smart Start recoil system
- Typically $180 to $220
Strengths
- More raw cutting power than any battery trimmer at this price
- 17-inch swath and unlimited runtime suit larger properties
- Click-on attachment compatibility adds versatility for edging and blowing
Limitations
- Requires mixed fuel, oil, and periodic carburetor maintenance
- Heavier and louder than the EGO or any cordless model
Key specs: 13-inch dual-exit cutting head, 40V PowerShare, 2 x 2.0Ah batteries included, Under 5 pounds.
Key Specifications & Features:
- 13-inch dual-exit cutting head
- 40V PowerShare, 2 x 2.0Ah batteries included
- Under 5 pounds
- Pivoting head
- Typically under $100, leaving room in a $200 budget for accessories
Strengths
- Two batteries included covers most yards without a runtime concern
- Lightest trimmer in this comparison
Limitations
- Less motor power and swath width than the EGO or Husqvarna
- Not the pick if maximum cutting performance is the goal at this budget
Key specs: 12-inch cutting swath, 40V lithium battery, 2.0Ah included, Dual line auto-feed.
Key Specifications & Features:
- 12-inch cutting swath
- 40V lithium battery, 2.0Ah included
- Dual line auto-feed
- 3-year warranty
- Typically $80 to $100
Strengths
- 3-year warranty adds confidence at a budget price
- Adequate performance for small to medium yards
Limitations
- Narrowest swath and smallest battery in this comparison
Strengths
- Gas-like power for thick weeds
- PowerLoad winds line automatically
- Telescopic shaft
- Battery and charger included
Limitations
- Heavier than 20V trimmers
- EGO battery platform lock-in
- Premium price
Strengths
- Wide 16-inch cutting path
- 4.0Ah battery for longer runs
- Shares the Greenworks 40V platform
- Quieter than gas
Limitations
- Heavier than 24V trimmers
- Bump feed needs occasional rewinding
- Not as powerful as 56V+ models
How we chose
- Picks are based on manufacturer specs, independent reviews and owner reports. We don't claim our own testing.
- We do not list prices or star ratings because they change. Check Amazon for current details.