Best Walk Behind String Trimmer (2026): 5 Top Picks Compared
Five string trimmer picks compared, including two walk-behind gas models, two cordless options and universal line, with cutting width, drive and warranty.
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Top picks at a glance
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- 1
Best OverallPowerSmart DB62229.5/10View on Amazon - 2
Best Self-PropelledBILT HARD 170cc9.5/10View on Amazon - 3
Best Battery AlternativeGreenworks 60V 16 in9.3/10View on Amazon - 4
Best for Light EdgingGreenworks 40V 13 in9.2/10View on Amazon - 5
Best Replacement LineHaiouus 60-Pack Line9.2/10View on Amazon - 6
30 Pack Universal Walk Behind String Trimmer Mower 21.25"View on Amazon - 7
40-Pack 21.25" Line x .155-Inch String Trimmer LineView on Amazon - 8
Anleolife .170" Sawtooth Trimmer Line for Walk-Behind MowersView on Amazon - 9
40PCSView on Amazon - 10
BLACK+DECKER String Trimmer / EdgerView on Amazon
Finding the best walk behind string trimmer comes down to matching cutting width, engine power, and wheel size to the density of your overgrowth. While standard lawn mowers bog down in thick weeds and handheld weed trimmers strain your arms along long fence lines, a wheeled string mower rolls on large rear wheels to clear heavy brush. Below, we compare five string trimmer options: two 22-inch gas walk-behind models, two cordless handheld trimmers, and a universal replacement line pack, using manufacturer-rated specifications.
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Quick picks
- Best Overall PowerSmart DB6222: 22 in cutting swath, 14 in wheels, 0.155 in line and a 2-year limited warranty Check price on Amazon
- Best Self-Propelled BILT HARD 170cc: Self-propelled drive at 1.9 mph, 170cc engine, 22 in swath and 8 cutting heights Check price on Amazon
- Best Battery Alternative Greenworks 60V 16 in: 60V brushless motor, 16 in swath, 11.2 lb weight and a 4-year warranty Check price on Amazon
- Best for Light Edging Greenworks 40V 13 in: 40V battery, 13 in path, 90-degree pivoting head and steel edging guide Check price on Amazon
- Best Replacement Line Haiouus 60-Pack Line: 60-pack of pre-cut 21.25 in by 0.155 in nylon lines for walk-behind trimmers Check price on Amazon
Our acreage picks
PowerSmart DB6222 22 in 170cc Walk-Behind String Trimmer
Gas walk-behind string trimmer with a 22 inch cutting path, 14 inch rear wheels and a 2-year limited warranty.
Who it's for: owners with rough yards, ditch banks, and fence lines looking for a wide 22 in gas string mower with large wheels.
Who should skip it: buyers who want self-propelled drive or consistent engine displacement specs.
Read the full review
The PowerSmart DB6222 is a walk-behind string trimmer featuring a 22 in cutting swath, 14 in rear wheels, adjustable cutting height from 1.90 to 3.90 in, and a foldable handle for storage. The listing states a 170cc 4-cycle OHV engine in the title and bullets, but the spec table gives 161cc. Similarly, line diameter is stated as 0.155 in in bullets and 0.15 in in the spec table, while weight is listed as 56 lb in one entry and 57 lb in another. It includes 10 pieces of 0.155 in line, two wrenches, a spark plug wrench, and an oil funnel, backed by a stated 2-year limited warranty.
Pros
- 22 in cutting swath with heavy-duty 0.155 in trimmer line
- Large 14 in rear wheels roll through uneven terrain
- 2-year limited warranty stated on the listing
- Includes 10 replacement lines, a spark plug wrench, 2 wrenches and an oil funnel
Cons
- Engine displacement is listed as 170cc in bullets but 161cc in the spec table
- Weight is listed as 56 lb in one spec field and 57 lb in another
- Line diameter is given as 0.155 in in bullets and 0.15 in in the spec table
- Push drive with no self-propelled assistance
BILT HARD 170cc Self-Propelled Walk-Behind String Trimmer
Self-propelled gas walk-behind string trimmer with a 170cc engine, 22 inch cutting path and 8 cutting heights.
Who it's for: property owners with slopes or large rough areas who want a self-propelled drive system to cut walking fatigue.
Who should skip it: anyone requiring a stated manufacturer warranty term.
Read the full review
The BILT HARD TJA-1054-01 is a self-propelled walk-behind string trimmer powered by a 170cc 4-cycle OHV engine with manual recoil start. It drives forward at a rated 1.9 mph (3.06 km/h), clearing a 22 in path across 8 cutting height settings from 1.6 to 3.7 in. The listing highlights a one-piece steel deck, side discharge, 10 in flat-free wheels, and a foldable handle. However, the style name in the spec table reads 21inch GEN 2, conflicting with the 22 in diameter in the title, bullets, and cutting width field. Weight, line diameter, and warranty terms are not stated.
Pros
- Self-propelled drive moves forward at 1.9 mph to reduce pushing effort
- 8 cutting height adjustments ranging from 1.6 to 3.7 in
- One-piece steel deck with side discharge to clear clippings
- 10 in flat-free wheels never lose air over rough ground
Cons
- No warranty term is stated
- The listing does not state machine weight
- Style name says 21inch GEN 2 while title and bullets state a 22 in cutting width
- Line diameter and replacement line count are not stated
Greenworks 60V 16 in Cordless Brushless String Trimmer
Cordless 60V string trimmer with a 16 inch cutting swath, 2.5Ah battery and a 4-year tool and battery warranty.
Who it's for: homeowners who want quiet, battery-powered trimming along fence lines and garden beds without mixing gas.
Who should skip it: anyone tackling dense fields who needs the 22 in swath, heavy line, and wheeled support of a dedicated walk-behind mower.
Read the full review
The Greenworks ST60L254 is a 60V cordless string trimmer equipped with a brushless motor delivering 6000 rpm, a 16 in cutting swath, and a spin-to-load dual-line head using 0.095 in line. It weighs 11.2 lb with the included 2.5Ah battery, which the listing states recharges in 45 minutes and averages 65 minutes of life (or up to 1.5 acres per charge). It produces 68 dB of sound and carries a stated 4-year full warranty for tool and battery. As a handheld unit, it does not roll on wheels like a walk-behind machine.
Pros
- 4-year full warranty for tool and battery stated on the listing
- Lightweight at 11.2 lb with battery and includes a 360-degree rotating handle
- Spin-to-load head reloads 0.095 in line in a stated 10 seconds
- Quiet 68 dB operation with zero engine exhaust fumes
Cons
- Handheld design lacks wheels, requiring the operator to carry the tool
- 16 in swath is narrower than the 22 in paths on walk-behind models
- 0.095 in line is lighter than the 0.155 in line on gas string mowers
- Coverage is limited by battery runtime before needing a 45-minute recharge
Greenworks 40V 13 in Cordless String Trimmer and Edger
Cordless 40V string trimmer and edger with a 13 inch swath, 90-degree pivoting head and telescoping shaft.
Who it's for: homeowners needing a lightweight, adjustable tool for detailing lawn borders and edging sidewalks.
Who should skip it: anyone clearing rough acreage, tall brush, or woody weeds that require a heavy wheeled mower.
Read the full review
The Greenworks STF314 is a 40V cordless string trimmer and edger with a 13 in path, a 9000 rpm motor, and a 0.065 in auto-feed line. It features a 90-degree pivoting head with 7 positions, a steel edging guide, and a telescoping shaft that adjusts from 40 to 52 in. The listing states a 3-year tool and 2-year battery warranty (spec table lists 3 year manufacturer). A contradiction appears in weight: bullets state 7.8 lb, while the spec table lists 9.9 lb. The included 2.0Ah battery has an average life of 40 minutes per listing.
Pros
- 7-position pivoting head converts from trimmer to wheeled edger
- Telescoping shaft adjusts from 40 to 52 in for varied user heights
- 3-year tool and 2-year battery warranty stated on the listing
- Fast 9000 rpm motor speed for lawn border cleanups
Cons
- Weight is listed as 7.8 lb in bullets but 9.9 lb in the spec table
- Narrow 13 in cutting path is built for lawn edges, not thick acreage brush
- Thin 0.065 in line breaks easily on woody stalks or heavy weeds
- Handheld unit with 40-minute average runtime on the included 2.0Ah battery
Haiouus 60-Piece 21.25 in by 0.155 in Universal Trimmer Line
Universal replacement trimmer line pack with 60 pre-cut pieces of 21.25 inch by 0.155 inch heavy nylon line.
Who it's for: owners of walk-behind string trimmers who need a bulk supply of heavy 0.155 in pre-cut line for tough cutting.
Who should skip it: anyone seeking a motorized trimmer or line for small handheld units.
Read the full review
The Haiouus listing offers a 60-piece pack of universal replacement trimmer line designed for walk-behind string mowers. Each line measures 21.25 in long with a thick 0.155 in diameter, intended to fit brands including BILT, Earthquake, Senix, and Toro. Package dimensions are 3 x 3 x 2 in with a weight of 13.4 oz. The listing emphasizes that heavy nylon line avoids blade damage when striking obstacles, though it does not state a concrete warranty term.
Pros
- Heavy 0.155 in line diameter handles thick grass and dense weeds
- Pre-cut 21.25 in length allows quick installation without manual measuring
- Bulk 60-piece pack provides multiple reloads for long cutting sessions
- Compatible with popular walk-behind mowers including BILT and Earthquake
Cons
- No warranty term is stated
- Replacement line only, not a complete string trimmer machine
- Fixed 21.25 in length cannot be adapted to smaller handheld trimmer heads
- Listing provides minimal technical specifications
Other machines to compare
30 Pack Universal Walk Behind String Trimmer Mower 21.25"Check price on Amazon
40-Pack 21.25" Line x .155-Inch String Trimmer LineCheck price on Amazon
Anleolife .170" Sawtooth Trimmer Line for Walk-Behind MowersCheck price on Amazon
40PCSCheck price on Amazon
BLACK+DECKER String Trimmer / EdgerCheck price on Amazon
Side-by-side specs
| Model | Acre Score | Type | Cutting width | Engine or battery | Drive | Weight | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PowerSmart DB6222 | 9.5/10 | Walk-behind string trimmer | 22 in | 170cc 4-cycle OHV | Push | 56 lb | 2-year limited |
| BILT HARD TJA-1054-01 | 9.5/10 | Walk-behind string trimmer | 22 in | 170cc 4-cycle OHV | Self-propelled, 1.9 mph | Not stated | Not stated |
| Greenworks 60V ST60L254 | 9.3/10 | Cordless string trimmer | 16 in | 60V, 2.5Ah battery | Handheld | 11.2 lb | 4 years tool and battery |
| Greenworks 40V STF314 | 9.2/10 | Cordless trimmer and edger | 13 in | 40V, 2.0Ah battery | Handheld | 7.8 lb (9.9 lb in spec) | 3-year tool, 2-year battery |
| Haiouus 60-Pack Line | 9.2/10 | Replacement trimmer line | 21.25 in lines | None (line pack) | Manual install | 13.4 oz | Not stated |
Specifications are manufacturer rated as listed, collected 10 October 2026.
Acreage and terrain fit
PowerSmart DB6222
BILT HARD TJA-1054-01
Greenworks 60V ST60L254
Greenworks 40V STF314
Haiouus 60-Pack Line
Buying guide: choosing the best walk behind string trimmer
Walk-behind string trimmer vs handheld trimmer
A walk-behind string trimmer rolls on large wheels and uses a heavy frame to support a wide cutting head. This design relieves the operator from supporting the weight of a motor on their arms and shoulders during long cutting sessions. In contrast, handheld cordless trimmers like the Greenworks models weigh 7.8 to 11.2 lb and must be carried, making them nimble for tight garden borders but tiring across large fence lines.
Cutting width and line diameter
The walk-behind models here offer a wide 22 in cutting swath and swing thick 0.155 in nylon line. That heavy line diameter resists fraying when striking dense weeds, heavy stalks, and fence posts. The cordless handheld trimmers provide narrower paths: 16 in on the 60V model using 0.095 in line, and 13 in on the 40V unit using 0.065 in line. For owners of walk-behind mowers, bulk replacement line like the Haiouus 60-pack provides pre-cut 21.25 in lengths with a 0.155 in diameter for fast reloads without manual cutting.
Engine power and push vs self-propelled drive
Both walk-behind machines use 170cc 4-cycle OHV gas engines that require no fuel mixing. The main operational distinction is the drive mechanism. The PowerSmart DB6222 is a push trimmer, requiring the operator to roll the machine across the terrain. The BILT HARD model features a self-propelled transmission moving forward at a steady 1.9 mph (3.06 km/h), which reduces pushing effort when navigating inclines or uneven turf. Buyers should note that the PowerSmart listing shows a specification contradiction: the title and bullets list a 170cc engine, whereas the specification table lists 161cc.
Wheel size for rough ground
Wheel diameter is essential when rolling through ditch banks, ruts, and field borders. The PowerSmart rolls on 14 in rear wheels that bridge depressions and roll over sticks easily. The BILT HARD uses 10 in flat-free wheels that never lose air pressure when working near briars or sharp debris.
Walk-behind trimmer vs brush mower
A walk-behind string trimmer uses flexible nylon line to cut tall grass, weeds, and green vegetation without damaging stone walls, tree trunks, or wire fencing. However, string line cannot slice through woody saplings or heavy timber. None of the string trimmers in this roundup states a maximum sapling cutting capacity. If your acreage has established woody brush or saplings, explore our dedicated brush and field mowers guide for bladed rough-cut machinery.
Slopes
None of the five listings publishes a maximum slope operating limit. Operators should consult their owner manuals, keep firm footing, and avoid steep or slippery ditch embankments. Learn more in our guide on how to measure the slope of your yard before clearing uneven land.
Turn rise and run, or a phone level reading, into degrees and percent, then compare it with typical mower slope ratings.
Wear eye and hearing protection, long pants and sturdy footwear, and keep bystanders well back while the line or blade spins. Clear stones and debris first, and stop the engine or remove the battery before clearing the head. Refuel only with the engine off and cool. See OSHA landscaping safety. Read our Safety Disclaimer.
The Acre Score explained
The Acre Score weighs five factors: performance (cutting width, engine power or battery voltage, and brush-clearing ability), build quality (deck construction, wheel diameter, and drive mechanism), value (specifications relative to class), safety (operator presence controls and certifications), and warranty (stated manufacturer coverage terms). A factor that the listing does not state scores zero.
| Product | Acre Score | Perf. /35 | Build /25 | Value /25 | Safety /10 | Warranty /5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PowerSmart DB6222 | 9.5 | 30 | 20 | 21 | 0 | 3 |
| BILT HARD 170cc | 9.5 | 32 | 21 | 19 | 0 | 0 |
| Greenworks 60V 16 in | 9.3 | 22 | 18 | 18 | 0 | 3 |
| Greenworks 40V 13 in | 9.2 | 18 | 15 | 16 | 0 | 3 |
| Haiouus 60-Pack Line | 9.2 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 0 | 0 |
Scores run from 9.2 to 9.8: each product’s point total is placed on that range, so more points always means a higher score.
FAQ: mowing large lots
What is the difference between a walk-behind string trimmer and a lawn mower?
A lawn mower uses a rigid steel blade housed inside an enclosed deck, designed to give turfgrass a manicured finish at low cutting heights. A walk-behind string trimmer uses thick nylon line (up to 0.155 in) that cuts tall weeds, ditch overgrowth, and fence lines without dulling or bending blades when contacting rocks or fence posts.
Can a walk-behind string trimmer cut woody saplings?
No. Flexible nylon line is engineered for grass, weeds, and soft vegetative brush. None of the string trimmer listings states a sapling diameter capacity. Cutting woody saplings requires a machine with a steel rough-cut blade.
What line diameter does a walk-behind string trimmer use?
The walk-behind models featured here use heavy 0.155 in line, which is significantly thicker than the 0.065 in or 0.095 in line found on handheld residential trimmers. Pre-cut lines measuring 21.25 in long slide directly into the cutting head without hand winding.
Is self-propelled drive necessary on a walk-behind string trimmer?
Self-propelled drive is not strictly necessary on flat ground because large rear wheels roll smoothly. However, a self-propelled drive moving at 1.9 mph, like the one on the BILT HARD model, substantially reduces physical fatigue on sloping ground, rough fields, and extended acreage borders.
More mowing guides
- What Is a String Mower?
- Best String Mower (2026): 5 Top Picks Compared
- Best Walk-Behind Brush Mower: 4 Picks for Rough Ground
- Best String Trimmer for Acreage: 4 Gas and Battery Picks
- Best Cordless String Trimmer: 5 Top Picks Compared (2026)
- Best Gas String Trimmer (2026): 5 Top Picks for Large Lawns and Acreage
- How to Clear an Overgrown Field
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