A lightweight string trimmer is the difference between finishing the yard in 20 minutes of easy work and fighting a heavy, vibrating machine for an hour. The best models shave off critical pounds without sacrificing the torque needed to chew through overgrown fescue or stubborn crabgrass along fence lines.
I’m Rikta — the co-founder and writer behind Lawn Gear Lab. I’ve spent hundreds of hours cross-referencing manufacturer spec sheets, owner reviews, and real-world performance data to find the string trimmers that actually deliver on the promise of light weight without leaving you stranded mid-yard with a dead battery or a jammed spool.
Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a seasoned gardener upgrading from a gas guzzler, this guide isolates the most arm-friendly, efficient, and reliable lightweight string trimmer options on the market today.
How To Choose The Best Lightweight String Trimmer
A trimmer’s weight is the first spec to check, but it’s not the only one. The balance of the machine, the ease of line feeding, the battery capacity, and the cutting width all determine whether that light frame actually helps you work faster or just means you stop more often to change the line or swap batteries.
Bare Weight vs. Balanced Weight
A 5.5 lb trimmer sounds ideal, but if the battery sits at the very back and the motor is up front, the whole unit can feel nose-heavy after ten minutes. Look for designs where the battery is integrated into the shaft or positioned low to reduce leverage. The best lightweight trimmers feel balanced in your hand, not just light on a scale. The Greenworks 24V Gen 2 and the WORX WG163 both achieve this by centralizing the weight distribution near the handle grip.
Cutting Width and Line Diameter
A wider cutting swath (12″ to 16″) means fewer passes along a fence line, but the trade-off is that a larger head often requires a heavier motor and battery. For most home lawns, a 12″ cutting width with a 0.065″ or 0.080″ line is the sweet spot for balancing speed and power. Thicker line (0.095″) chews through heavier weeds but demands more torque, which usually means a heavier tool. Mid-range models like the VARSK 12-inch and the BLACK+DECKER LST522 manage this balance well with 12″ decks and standard 0.065″ line.
Power Source: Battery vs. Gas vs. Corded
For a truly lightweight trimmer, 20V to 24V lithium-ion battery platforms dominate the category. They eliminate the 8-10 lb starting weight of a gas engine plus the weight of fuel and oil. Gas trimmers like the Husqvarna 122LK still offer the highest power-to-weight ratio for heavy brush but weigh around 10 lbs dry and require mixing two-cycle oil. Corded electric trimmers are lighter still (around 4-5 lbs) but tether you to an outlet. Battery-powered trimmers in the 5-6 lb range give the best freedom-to-weight ratio for most users.
Line Feed Mechanism: Auto-Feed vs. Bump-Feed
Auto-feed systems, like those on the VARSK and EGO ST1620T with LINE IQ, feed line automatically when the trimmer restarts or senses the line is short. Bump-feed systems require tapping the head on the ground to release more line. Auto-feed is more convenient because you never have to stop and tap, but it can waste line if the system is overly aggressive. Bump-feed gives you more control but adds a few extra steps per session. For lightweight use, auto-feed reduces fatigue because you don’t have to bend or tap as often.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greenworks 24V Gen 2 | Battery | Women and seniors | 5.2 lbs, 8,500 RPM | Amazon |
| EGO ST1620T | Battery | Premium auto-feed | 7.7 lbs, 16″ cut | Amazon |
| WORX WG163 | Battery | Suburban yards | 5.5 lbs, 7,600 RPM | Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER LST522 | Battery | Battery ecosystem | 7.6 lbs, 2-speed | Amazon |
| WeGofly WEG21T | Battery | Multi-tool versatility | 5.2 lbs, 15,000 RPM | Amazon |
| VARSK VAR180 | Battery | Best value | 5.3 lbs, 8,700 RPM | Amazon |
| Husqvarna 122LK | Gas | Heavy brush | ~10 lbs, 22cc | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Greenworks 24V Cordless String Trimmer/Edger (Gen 2)
The Greenworks 24V Gen 2 is the definitive lightweight home-run hitter, weighing just 5.2 lbs with the battery installed. That places it at or near the top of the weight class alongside models that cost significantly more. The 8,500 RPM brushless motor provides enough speed to slice through standard turf grass and light weeds without bogging down, and the 12-inch cutting swath covers a typical suburban fence line in minutes. The telescoping aluminum shaft adjusts from 4’8″ to 6’5″, which solves the common complaint of short or tall users having to hunch or stretch.
The 2-in-1 design converts from trimmer to edger with a single button press — no tools, no wrestling with the head. The 90° rotating head makes edging around tree roots and garden beds genuinely simple, and the built-in stabilizer wheel guides the edger for straight, clean sidewalk lines. The auto-feed line system keeps the 0.065″ line at the correct length without bumping or tapping. Battery runtime sits around 30 minutes with the included 2.0Ah pack, which is enough for a standard 0.25-acre lot but not for heavy overgrowth.
Owner feedback consistently praises the lack of vibration and the quiet 75 dB operation, which makes it HOA-friendly for early morning or evening trimming. The main criticism is that the battery life degrades noticeably after several seasons, and replacement 24V batteries from Greenworks add to the long-term cost. Still, for a lightweight, fatigue-free trimmer that edges as well as it trims, this unit is the most balanced option for the widest range of users.
What works
- Ultra-light 5.2 lb weight is best-in-class for cordless models
- Telescoping shaft fits users from 4’8″ to 6’5″ comfortably
- One-button edger conversion with stabilizer wheel
What doesn’t
- Battery capacity (2.0Ah) may not finish larger lots on one charge
- Auto-feed system can jam if line gets tangled inside the spool
2. EGO POWER+ String Trimmer ST1620T
The EGO ST1620T is the premium lightweight option for those who refuse to compromise on cutting width and line technology. At 7.67 lbs with the battery, it is heavier than the Greenworks or WORX models, but the carbon fiber shaft saves about a pound compared to aluminum equivalents and provides a lifetime warranty when registered. The 16-inch cutting swath is the widest in this lineup, meaning fewer passes along a long fence line or garden border. The high-efficiency brushless motor delivers consistent torque across the digital 2-speed selector (high speed for weeds, high torque for thick grass).
The patented LINE IQ technology is the real differentiator — it monitors line length and feeds automatically without bumping, and it never overfeeds line. Combined with POWERLOAD, which lets you load a pre-cut 0.095″ dual line by simply pressing a button, the ST1620T eliminates every annoying line-management ritual. The telescopic carbon fiber shaft adjusts quickly to your height, reducing stooping fatigue. The recommended 4.0Ah battery provides up to 60 minutes of runtime, though the tool is sold without a battery or charger, so you must own or purchase the EGO 56V ARC Lithium platform separately.
Owner feedback centers on two themes: the system is incredibly powerful and quiet, and the LINE IQ is a genuine game-changer for line management. However, several users report that without the edging wheel attachment, the trimmer is harder to use for precise sidewalk edging. Some tall users (over 6’2″) also note that even fully extended, the telescopic shaft could use another inch or two. If you already own EGO batteries and want a professional-grade, lightweight trimmer with the widest cut and best line system, this is the top choice.
What works
- LINE IQ auto-feed system never overfeeds or underfeeds line
- Carbon fiber shaft is both ultra-light and backed by a lifetime warranty
- 16-inch cutting swath reduces total trimming time by 20-30%
What doesn’t
- No battery or charger included — requires existing EGO 56V system
- Heavier than smaller models at 7.7 lbs with battery
3. WORX Cordless String Trimmer & Lawn Edger WG163
The WORX WG163 stakes its claim on two subjects: extreme lightness at 5.5 lbs and the inclusion of two 20V Power Share batteries. The dual-battery setup gives you around 30 minutes of combined runtime, which is enough for a standard 0.25-acre lot with some margin for edging. The 7,600 RPM no-load speed is slightly lower than the Greenworks and VARSK offerings, but the motor maintains consistent power through moderate grass without bogging. The 12-inch cutting diameter with a 10-inch line length and 0.065″ line diameter makes it suitable for routine maintenance rather than heavy brush clearing.
The push-button Command Feed spool system is one of the most intuitive on the market — press a button to feed line instantly, no bumping or tapping required. The 2-in-1 conversion from trimmer to edger takes seconds, with the rubberized support wheels providing stable guidance for clean sidewalk edges. The head tilts 90° for sloped terrain, and the adjustable spacer guard protects plants and landscape features. The entire WORX Power Share ecosystem means the batteries work with over 75 other WORX tools.
Owner reviews consistently applaud the lightweight feel and the fact that two batteries finish the yard without needing to recharge mid-job. The most common complaint is that the battery release button on the charger is extremely stiff, making removal difficult enough that some users resort to using pliers. A few owners also note that the height adjustment mechanism is hard to operate and that the guard can interfere with edging in tight corners. For a well-priced, lightweight trimmer with excellent runtime and a great battery ecosystem, the WG163 is a reliable performer.
What works
- Two included batteries provide ample runtime for typical suburban yards
- Push-button Command Feed is fast and intuitive
- WORX Power Share ecosystem works with dozens of other tools
What doesn’t
- Batteries are very difficult to remove from the charger
- Height adjustment mechanism is stiff and hard to operate
4. beyond by BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer LST522E1AEV
The BLACK+DECKER LST522 is a heavier entrant at 7.6 lbs, but it earns its weight with a patented POWERDRIVE transmission that increases torque for tackling thicker overgrowth than most 20V trimmers can handle. The two-speed selector lets you choose high power for tough patches or longer runtime for routine trimming. The Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) is bump-free and keeps the 12-inch cutting line at optimal length without tapping the head on the ground. This is a cordless trimmer that behaves more like a midsized gas unit in terms of cutting aggression, but without the fuel smell or pull-cord hassle.
The 2-in-1 edger conversion is done by rotating the trimmer head, and the included edge guide wheel helps keep cuts straight along sidewalks and driveways. The height-adjustable shaft and pivoting handle add a layer of ergonomic customization, though the shaft does not telescope, so very tall or short users may not find an ideal fit. The battery is a single 20V MAX 2.0Ah pack, which provides roughly 30 minutes of runtime in speed mode 1 (low) and closer to 20 minutes in speed mode 2 (high). Many owners pair it with existing BLACK+DECKER 20V batteries from other tools.
Owner feedback highlights the surprising power and longevity of the AFS system. The most serious complaint is the risk of receiving a unit with a dead battery — several reviews describe a battery that will not charge out of the box, forcing the owner to order a replacement separately. The manual is printed in Chinese with limited English, and some users suspect lower build quality on recent production runs. If you already own BLACK+DECKER 20V batteries and want a moderately heavy but torquey trimmer for overgrown edges, this is a strong choice.
What works
- POWERDRIVE transmission delivers higher-than-expected torque for thick grass
- Two-speed selector lets you balance power and runtime
- AFS auto-feed system keeps line at correct length without bumping
What doesn’t
- Heavier than most lightweight competitors at 7.6 lbs
- Battery failure out of the box is a recurring complaint
5. WeGofly 13″ Electric Weed Wacker, 4 in 1 Cordless String Trimmer
The WeGofly WEG21T is a fascinating outlier in the lightweight category because it delivers a 4-in-1 design — string trimmer, lawn edger, mini lawn mower, and brush cutter — while maintaining a remarkable 5.2 lbs machine weight. The secret is the 21V battery platform that uses two 6.0Ah packs, providing substantially more runtime than the 2.0Ah packs found on most competitors. The 15,000 RPM brushless motor is the highest RPM in this guide, and the steel gear set ensures the durability to handle the brush cutter attachment without stripping gears.
The 13-inch cutting width is slightly wider than the standard 12-inch decks, and the included attachments actually work: the metal blade cuts through 1-inch branches cleanly, the saw blade handles thicker brush, and the grass mower attachment works for small patches. The telescopic pole and adjustable cutting head adapt to different user heights, and the anti-slip handle reduces fatigue. Assembly requires no tools, and the kit includes replacement blades, trimmer lines, a storage bag, and installation tools. The auto-feed line system works reliably, though the 0.065″ line is best for grass, not thick weeds.
Owner feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many users noting that the two 6.0Ah batteries provide over an hour of combined runtime, enough to clear overgrown drainage areas and thick patches of wet grass. The brush cutter function is praised for handling branches up to 3 inches in diameter. The downsides are the brand’s limited U.S. support network compared to Greenworks or BLACK+DECKER, and the instruction manual could be clearer. For a highly versatile, ultra-lightweight system that replaces multiple tools, the WeGofly offers exceptional value.
What works
- Two 6.0Ah batteries provide long runtime for large yards
- 4-in-1 design includes functional brush cutter and mini mower
- Steel gear set and 15,000 RPM motor handle thick brush
What doesn’t
- Brand support network is less established than major competitors
- Instruction manual lacks clarity for some assembly steps
6. VARSK 12 Inch 20V Cordless Weed Wacker
The VARSK VAR180 is the budget-friendly champion of this guide, weighing 5.3 lbs and including two 2.0Ah batteries plus six replacement spools. At 8,700 RPM, the motor is slightly faster than the WORX and competitive with the Greenworks, delivering enough speed to cut through standard grass and light weeds without stalling. The 12-inch cutting width is standard for the category, and the auto-feed line technology feeds line automatically when the machine restarts — no bumping or button pressing required. The 90° rotating aluminum tube converts the trimmer to edger mode in seconds, and the integrated stabilizer wheel helps guide straight lines.
The design includes a 180° adjustable handle and an 80° pivoting cutting head for multi-angle operation, making it easier to reach under bushes and along garden beds. The two batteries provide more than 30 minutes of combined runtime, and the fast charger replenishes a battery in about an hour. The package includes six premium replacement spools, which saves you from buying line for the first season or two. The 1-year warranty provides basic coverage, though the brand’s customer service is responsive within 24 hours based on owner reports.
Owner reviews highlight the lightweight feel and the ease of assembly — the tool comes mostly pre-assembled. The auto-feed system works reliably for most users, though a few report that it occasionally overfeeds line if the spool is wound loosely. The battery runtime is adequate for small to medium yards but may not finish a full-acre property on a single charge. For a entry-level price point, the VARSK delivers a surprisingly robust feature set with the auto-feed, 2-in-1 edging, and generous accessory bundle that makes it the best value pick in the category.
What works
- Six extra spools included — no need to buy line for multiple seasons
- Auto-feed line system requires no bumping or button pressing
- 180° adjustable handle and pivoting head for tight spaces
What doesn’t
- Battery runtime may not finish larger properties on one charge
- Auto-feed can overfeed if spool is not wound evenly
7. Husqvarna 122LK Grass Trimmer, 22-cc 2-Cycle
The Husqvarna 122LK is the outlier in this guide because it is a gas-powered trimmer that weighs around 10 lbs dry — not truly lightweight compared to the 5 lb battery models, but it is very light for a gas-powered unit with a 22cc two-cycle engine. The straight shaft design reaches under bushes and obstacles easily, and the 20-inch cutting swath is significantly wider than any battery-powered option, meaning fewer passes along large fence lines. The SmartStart system ensures the engine fires on the first or second pull, and the T25 heavy-duty trimmer head is compatible with a range of Husqvarna attachments, including edgers, brush cutters, and pole saws.
The 122LK runs on a 50:1 gas-oil mix and provides about 45-60 minutes of runtime on a full tank, with power that does not fade as the fuel level drops — unlike battery-powered models where voltage sag reduces cutting speed. The noise level is higher than any electric model (around 90-95 dB), so ear protection is mandatory. The vibration levels are also higher, which can lead to hand and arm fatigue after 20 minutes of continuous use. However, for properties with heavy brush, thick woody weeds, or overgrown areas that bog down 20V motors, the Husqvarna delivers unmatched clearing speed.
Owner reviews are split: many praise the reliable starting and the raw power for clearing heavy vegetation, but a significant minority report hard starting from day one, constant bogging, and carburetor adjustment issues. The handle attachment design has also drawn criticism, with some users finding it poorly designed and difficult to keep tight. If you need a gas-powered trimmer for heavy-duty clearing work and prioritize power and runtime over weight and noise, the 122LK is a capable and popular choice, but it is not the lightweight option for routine suburban trimming.
What works
- 22cc engine delivers reliable power for heavy brush and thick weeds
- 20-inch cutting swath reduces trimming time on large properties
- SmartStart system fires quickly with minimal effort
What doesn’t
- Weighs around 10 lbs — heavier than battery-powered options
- Loud operation requires hearing protection
Hardware & Specs Guide
Battery Voltage and Amp Hours
Most lightweight trimmers use 20V to 24V lithium-ion batteries. The voltage determines the motor’s peak power, while the amp-hour (Ah) rating determines runtime. A 2.0Ah battery provides roughly 20-30 minutes of trimming, enough for a small to medium yard. A 4.0Ah or 6.0Ah battery doubles the runtime but adds weight. The sweet spot for lightweight trimming is a 2.0Ah to 4.0Ah battery on a 20V-24V platform. The EGO ST1620T uses a 56V system for higher power, but requires a battery with a minimum of 2.5Ah to operate the LINE IQ system effectively.
Cutting Swath and Line Diameter
Cutting swath (the width of the cutting path) ranges from 12 to 20 inches. For lightweight trimmers, 12 to 13 inches is the standard, as wider swaths require larger motors and heavier batteries. Line diameter is typically 0.065″ (standard for grass) or 0.080″-0.095″ (for thicker weeds). Thicker line removes more material per rotation but requires more torque, which increases weight. For lightweight trimmers, a 12″ swath with 0.065″ or 0.080″ line provides the best balance of speed and power for routine maintenance.
FAQ
How do I choose between auto-feed and bump-feed line systems?
Can I use a 20V trimmer for thick brush and weeds?
What is the real difference between a 5 lb trimmer and a 7 lb trimmer during use?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most gardeners, the lightweight string trimmer winner is the Greenworks 24V Gen 2 because it combines the lightest weight in the category (5.2 lbs) with a telescoping shaft, one-button edger conversion, and consistent 8,500 RPM power that handles standard suburban yards without fatigue. If you want the widest cutting swath and best line auto-feed system on the market, grab the EGO ST1620T. And for the best overall value with two batteries and six spare spools, the VARSK VAR180 delivers surprising performance at an entry-level price point.