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Finding the best 18V string trimmers requires looking at published specs rather than marketing claims. We compared 10 models to help you choose. Our top pick is the Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head because its brushless motor and couple shaft design allow for customizable cutting setups with existing Makita batteries. All selections are ranked strictly by the specifications published on the listings. This guide helps you decide which voltage, battery capacity, and motor type fit your yard size and tool ecosystem.
Choose based on cutting width and battery capacity
Most models feature 13-inch cutting widths, but wider options like the 17-inch Makita or 16-inch Bosch exist for larger areas. Battery capacity varies significantly, with some kits including 4.0Ah cells while others offer 5.0Ah or 8.0Ah units. Select the width that matches your yard size and the battery capacity that ensures sufficient runtime for your specific tasks.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head Best overall | customizable cutting setups with existing Makita batteries | |
| 2 | Makita 13-Inch Brushless Trimmer Also great | standard residential trimming with included battery | |
| 3 | Makita 36V 15" Brushless Trimmer Kit Best premium | extended runtime and adjustable speed control | |
| 4 | Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft String Trimmer Also great | Users wanting a versatile multi-tool power head system | |
| 5 | Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer Best budget | users seeking gas-equivalent power and a wide 17-inch swath | |
| 6 | Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Also great | Makita users needing versatile high-power attachments | |
| 7 | Bosch 18V 16-Inch Cordless String Trimmer Best 8.0ah | large yards requiring long runtime | |
| 8 | Makita 13-Inch Brushless String Trimmer Best 20-inch | compact trimming and tool-less changes | |
| 9 | Ryobi 13-Inch Cordless String Trimmer Best leaf blower | Small yards needing trimmer and blower combo | |
| 10 | Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer 15-Inch Also great | Users needing high runtime and speed control |
The best fit for you
- You want the most versatile cutting setup – Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head – This couple shaft power head lets you swap attachments for different cutting tasks.
- You need the longest runtime for large yards – Bosch 18V 16-Inch Cordless String Trimmer – It includes an 8.0Ah battery, providing extended runtime for dense vegetation.
- You prefer a wide cutting swath for efficiency – Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer – The 17-inch cutting width covers more ground per pass than narrower models.
- You want a trimmer and leaf blower combo – Ryobi 13-Inch Cordless String Trimmer – This kit includes a leaf blower attachment for light maintenance tasks.
Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head
Best for: customizable cutting setups with existing Makita batteries
- Voltage
- 18V
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Shaft Type
- Couple Shaft
- Power Type
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 41.7 × 15 × 5 inches
This Makita power head uses two 18V batteries for 36V performance. It features a brushless motor with three speed settings. You can adjust the RPM from 4,200 to 7,100 to match your cutting needs. The couple shaft design lets you swap attachments quickly. It includes electronic torque control to protect the motor. This tool suits users who need versatile, high-speed cutting power.
- Brushless motor delivers up to 7,100 RPM
- Three speed settings for different applications
- Couple shaft allows quick attachment changes
- Electronic torque control prevents motor damage
- Requires two 18V batteries for full 36V operation
- Sold as a power head only, no trimmer head included
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You need variable speed control for different tasks
- You want to swap between multiple attachments
- You prefer a single 36V battery system
- You want a complete trimmer kit with head
- You need a lightweight, single-battery tool
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head offers precise speed control and versatile attachment options for users with existing Makita batteries. It is ideal for those who customize their cutting tools rather than buying a fixed unit.
Makita 13-Inch Brushless Trimmer
Best for: standard residential trimming with included battery
- Voltage
- 18V
- Cutting Width
- 13"
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0Ah
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Power Type
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 8.23 × 40 × 7.36 inches
This Makita kit pairs an 18V brushless power head with a 13-inch string trimmer attachment. The motor reaches 7,000 RPM for efficient cutting. It includes a 4.0Ah battery for runtime. The lever-style lock allows quick, tool-less attachment changes. You get a cordless system with no gas or oil mixing. This setup suits users who want a reliable, mid-range trimmer with a decent battery included.
- 13-inch cutting width for standard trimming tasks
- Brushless motor delivers up to 7,000 RPM
- Includes 4.0Ah battery for cordless operation
- Lever-style lock enables quick, tool-less attachment changes
- 4.0Ah battery capacity is lower than the 5.0Ah options on this list
- 18V single platform is less powerful than the 36V (18V X2) models available
- You prefer a single 18V battery platform for other tools
- You want a complete kit with a battery included
- You need a 13-inch cutting width for typical lawn edges
- You require the maximum power available from a dual 18V system
- You need a battery larger than 4.0Ah for extended runtime
- You prefer a longer cutting width than 13 inches
Verdict: Makita 13" Brushless String Trimmer Kit fits users who want a complete, easy-to-use 18V system without the bulk of dual-battery setups. It is a solid choice for standard residential trimming where 4.0Ah runtime is sufficient.
Makita 36V 15" Brushless Trimmer Kit
Best for: extended runtime and adjustable speed control
- Voltage
- 18V
- Cutting Width
- 15"
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0Ah
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Line Feed System
- Bump and feed
- Line Diameter
- 0.080"
This Makita 36V (18V x2) string trimmer kit includes two 5.0Ah batteries and a brushless motor. It features a 15-inch cutting swath and three speed settings ranging from 3,500 to 6,500 RPM. The automatic torque drive shifts speeds for power or runtime. It comes with a bump and feed head loaded with 0.080-inch line. This setup suits users needing extended run time and adjustable power management for larger yards.
- 36V dual-battery system provides high power
- 15-inch cutting swath increases productivity
- Three speed options (3,500-6,500 RPM)
- Includes two 5.0Ah batteries in kit
- Brushless motor for increased torque
- Weighs 9.1 pounds, heavier than tool-only options
- Uses 0.080-inch line, smaller than 0.095-inch standard
- 15-inch swath is narrower than 17-inch alternatives
- You need extended run time with dual batteries
- You want adjustable speed settings for different tasks
- You prefer a complete kit with line pre-loaded
- You prioritize the lightest possible tool weight
- You require a wider 17-inch cutting swath
- You only need a tool without batteries
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless Trimmer Kit delivers robust power and runtime for users tackling larger areas. It fits those who value adjustable speeds and included batteries over minimal weight or maximum cutting width.
Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft String Trimmer
Best for: Users wanting a versatile multi-tool power head system
- Voltage
- 18V
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0Ah
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Shaft Type
- Couple Shaft
- Dimensions
- 15.3 × 42 × 10.5 inches
This Makita kit includes a 36V brushless power head and a string trimmer attachment with a 5.0Ah battery. The motor reaches 7,100 RPM on high speed. You get three fixed speed settings plus a variable trigger. The couple shaft design lets you swap attachments quickly using a lever lock. It suits users who need a versatile multi-tool system for yard work.
- Brushless motor delivers up to 7,100 RPM
- Three speed options: 4,200, 6,000, and 7,100 RPM
- Variable speed trigger for controlled cutting
- Includes 5.0Ah battery and string trimmer attachment
- Fixed speed settings limit fine power management compared to variable-only models
- Couple shaft system requires separate attachments for different tasks
- You want a single power head for multiple yard tools
- You need high RPM for faster cutting performance
- You prefer lever-style tool-less attachment changes
- You only need a standalone string trimmer without other attachments
- You prefer a single-speed tool for simplicity
- You do not want to manage multiple shaft attachments
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Kit offers high speed and versatility for users who want one power source for various tools. It fits those who value the ability to switch between a trimmer and other attachments quickly.
Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer
Best for: users seeking gas-equivalent power and a wide 17-inch swath
- Voltage
- 18V
- Cutting Width
- 17"
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Dimensions
- 8.66 × 75 × 9.76 inches
- Weight
- 10.8 pounds
This Makita tool delivers power equivalent to a 30cc gas trimmer using two 18V batteries. It features a 17-inch cutting swath and a brushless motor for high torque. The 10.8-pound weight and variable speed trigger offer controlled operation. It suits users who want gas-like performance without emissions or pull starts in a compact package.
- Power equivalent to a 30cc gas string trimmer
- 17-inch cutting swath for increased productivity
- Makita-built BL Brushless Motor provides high power and torque
- Variable speed trigger switch for controlled cutting
- Heavier at 10.8 pounds compared to lighter 18V options
- Single 17-inch cutting width limits versatility for edging tasks
- You want gas-equivalent power without emissions or oil mixing
- You need a wide 17-inch cutting swath for efficiency
- You prefer variable speed control for precise trimming
- You require a tool-only unit without batteries or charger
- You need a lighter trimmer under 10 pounds
- You want a single 18V battery system instead of dual
Verdict: Makita 17 in Brushless Trimmer fits users who prioritize gas-equivalent power and a wide cutting swath in a brushless system. It is ideal for those willing to carry two batteries for maximum performance.
Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft
Best for: Makita users needing versatile high-power attachments
- Voltage
- 18V
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Shaft Type
- Couple Shaft
- Dimensions
- 15 × 41.7 × 10.2 inches
- Weight
- 9.8 pounds
This Makita tool is a 36V (18V x2) brushless power head designed for couple shaft attachments. It features a Makita-built motor delivering up to 7,100 RPM. You get three speed options: 4,200, 6,000, and 7,100 RPM, plus a variable speed trigger. It weighs 9.8 pounds and measures 41.7 inches in width. This setup suits users who need versatile cutting power for various lawn tasks.
- Brushless motor reaches up to 7,100 RPM
- Three fixed speed settings (4,200, 6,000, 7,100 RPM)
- Variable speed trigger for controlled cutting
- Lever style lock for tool-less attachment changes
- Heavier at 9.8 pounds compared to lighter single-battery models
- Requires two 18V batteries for operation
- Sold as a power head only, no battery or trimmer included
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You want variable speed control for different materials
- You plan to use multiple couple shaft attachments
- You prefer a lightweight single-battery system
- You need a complete ready-to-use string trimmer kit
- You want a tool that includes batteries and a charger
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head offers high RPM and versatile attachment options for existing Makita users. It fits those who value power management and modular tools over all-in-one convenience.
Bosch 18V 16-Inch Cordless String Trimmer
Best for: large yards requiring long runtime
- Voltage
- 18V
- Cutting Width
- 16-inch
- Battery Capacity
- 8.0Ah
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Power Type
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 39.8 × 5.6 × 5 inches
This Bosch 18V string trimmer kit includes an 8.0Ah battery and charger. It features a brushless motor and a 16-inch cutting width. The tool offers variable speed control and an anti-tangle system. You get a wide swath for efficient coverage. The durable aluminum housing supports daily use. This kit suits professionals needing extended runtime and robust performance for large properties.
- Includes 8.0Ah battery for long runtime
- 16-inch cutting width covers more ground
- Brushless motor for efficient power delivery
- Variable-speed trigger for precise control
- Anti-tangle system handles dense overgrowth
- Heavier at 15 pounds compared to lighter competitors
- 18V single battery platform limits peak power versus 36V dual-battery models
- Larger 15-pound weight may cause fatigue during extended overhead use
- You need extended runtime for large yards
- You handle dense overgrowth regularly
- You want a complete kit with battery and charger
- You prefer lighter tools under 12 pounds
- You already own 36V dual-battery systems
- You only need occasional light trimming
Verdict: Bosch GRT18V-40N18X 18V Cordless Trimmer fits professionals who prioritize runtime and cutting width over lightweight portability. You should choose this if you manage large, dense areas daily.
Makita 13-Inch Brushless String Trimmer
Best for: compact trimming and tool-less changes
- Voltage
- 18V
- Cutting Width
- 13"
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0Ah
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Power Type
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 11 × 44.9 × 7.52 inches
This Makita kit pairs an 18V brushless power head with a 13-inch string trimmer attachment. The motor delivers up to 7,000 RPM for efficient cutting. It includes a 4.0Ah battery and uses a lever-style lock for tool-less attachment changes. You get a compact unit measuring 44.9 inches long. It suits users who want a cordless solution with quick setup and reliable brushless performance for small to medium lawns.
- Brushless motor delivers up to 7,000 RPM
- Includes 4.0Ah battery for cordless operation
- Lever-style lock allows tool-less attachment changes
- Compact 13-inch cutting width
- 13-inch cutting width is narrower than the 20-inch options on this list
- 4.0Ah battery capacity is lower than the 5.0Ah batteries found in other kits here
- You prefer a compact 13-inch cutting path for tight spaces
- You value tool-less attachment changes via a lever lock
- You want a complete kit with a 4.0Ah battery included
- You need a wider 20-inch cutting deck for faster coverage
- You require a larger 5.0Ah or higher battery for extended runtime
- You are looking for a dedicated string trimmer without a hedge attachment
Verdict: Makita 18V Brushless String Trimmer Kit fits users who prioritize a compact 13-inch cut and quick tool-less setup over maximum cutting width or battery capacity.
Ryobi 13-Inch Cordless String Trimmer
Best for: Small yards needing trimmer and blower combo
- Voltage
- 18V
- Cutting Width
- 13"
- Power Type
- Cordless
- Included Equipment
- Leaf Blower, Edger
- Dimensions
- 39.8 × 8.82 × 10.6 inches
- Weight
- 13 pounds
This Ryobi P2035 kit combines a 13-inch string trimmer with a jet fan blower. It runs on 18V cordless power. The unit weighs 13 pounds and measures 39.8 inches long. It includes an edger attachment and battery. This setup suits users who want a trimmer and blower in one package. It offers basic cutting width for small yards.
- Includes a 13-inch cutting width for string trimming
- Features a built-in jet fan blower for leaf cleanup
- Comes with an edger attachment for versatile lawn care
- Cordless 18V power source for portable operation
- 13-inch cutting width is narrower than many competitors
- 13-pound weight adds bulk compared to lighter tools
- Single 18V voltage limits power versus dual-battery systems
- You need a trimmer and blower in one kit
- You have a small lawn under a quarter acre
- You prefer cordless convenience over gas engines
- You require a wide cutting path for large areas
- You need high power for thick weeds
- You want a dedicated heavy-duty blower
Verdict: Ryobi 13-Inch 18V String Trimmer and Blower Combo fits homeowners who want a simple, all-in-one tool for light maintenance. It is not suitable for large properties or tough vegetation.
Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer 15-Inch
Best for: Users needing high runtime and speed control
- Voltage
- 18V
- Cutting Width
- 15"
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0Ah
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Line Feed System
- Bump and feed
- Line Diameter
- 0.080"
This Makita kit delivers 36V power using two 18V batteries. It features a brushless motor with three speed settings, ranging from 3,500 to 6,500 RPM. The 15-inch cutting swath handles wider paths efficiently. It includes four 5.0Ah batteries and a bump-and-feed head. This setup suits users who need extended runtime and multiple speed options for various trimming tasks.
- 36V (18V X2) voltage for high torque
- 15-inch cutting width for productivity
- Three speed settings up to 6,500 RPM
- Includes four 5.0Ah batteries
- 15-inch cutting width is narrower than some competing models
- 0.080-inch line diameter is standard rather than heavy-duty
- You need multiple batteries for long jobs
- You want variable speed control for different tasks
- You prefer a brushless motor system
- You require a wider cutting swath than 15 inches
- You prefer a single battery platform without dual-voltage power
- You need a tool-only purchase without included batteries
Verdict: Makita 15" Brushless 36V Trimmer is a solid choice for users who prioritize runtime and speed flexibility. It fits those who need a complete kit with ample battery power for larger yards.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head | Makita 13-Inch Brushless Trimmer | Makita 36V 15" Brushless Trimmer Kit | Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft String Trimmer | Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer | Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft | Bosch 18V 16-Inch Cordless String Trimmer | Makita 13-Inch Brushless String Trimmer | Ryobi 13-Inch Cordless String Trimmer | Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer 15-Inch |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cutting Width | – | 13" | 15" | – | 17" | – | 16-inch | 13" | 13" | 15" |
| Voltage | 18V X2 (36V) | 18V | 36V (18V X2) | 36V (18V X2) | 36V (18V X2) | 36V (18V X2) | 18V | 18V | 18V | 36V (18V X2) |
| Battery Capacity | – | 4.0Ah | 5.0Ah | 5.0Ah | – | – | 8.0Ah | 4.0Ah | – | 5.0Ah |
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | – | Brushless |
| Line Feed System | – | – | Bump and feed | – | – | – | – | – | – | Bump and feed |
| Line Diameter | – | – | 0.080" | – | – | – | – | – | – | 0.080" |
| Shaft Type | Couple Shaft | – | – | Couple Shaft | – | Couple Shaft | – | – | – | – |
| Power Type | Cordless | Cordless | – | – | – | – | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | – |
| Included Equipment | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | Leaf Blower, Edger | – |
| Dimensions | 41.7 × 15 × 5 inches | 8.23 × 40 × 7.36 inches | 7.09 × 72.8 × 8.78 inches | 15.3 × 42 × 10.5 inches | 8.66 × 75 × 9.76 inches | 15 × 41.7 × 10.2 inches | 39.8 × 5.6 × 5 inches | 11 × 44.9 × 7.52 inches | 39.8 × 8.82 × 10.6 inches | 7.09 × 72.8 × 8.78 inches |
| Weight | – | – | 9.1 pounds | – | 10.8 pounds | 9.8 pounds | 15 pounds | – | 13 pounds | 1 pounds |
| Model | XUX01ZM5-cr | XUX02SM1X4 | XRU15PT | XUX01M5PT | XRU18Z | XUX01ZM5 | GRT18V-40N18X | XUX02SM1X2 | P2035 | XRU15PT1 |
| Size | – | 13 inches | Kit with two 5.0Ah batteries | – | 17" | – | 757 in | – | 31x12x10in | 15" |
| Color | – | Teal | Teal | Teal | Teal | Teal | Multi | Teal | Multicolor | Teal |
If you need higher voltage options, evaluate the best string trimmers for lawn to compare wider cutting swaths.
How to Choose the Right 18V Trimmer
Check cutting width needs
Cutting width determines how much vegetation you clear per pass. Narrower models like the 13-inch Makita are easier to maneuver around tight landscaping features and fences. Wider options, such as the 17-inch Makita or 16-inch Bosch, cover more ground quickly in open areas. You should match the width to your yard size and obstacle density. A wider swath reduces total trimming time but may require more storage space and handling strength.
Verify battery capacity
Battery capacity in Amp-hours (Ah) dictates runtime. Higher capacity cells like the 8.0Ah in the Bosch or 5.0Ah in several Makita kits last longer than 4.0Ah units. If you trim large properties or dense brush, prioritize higher Ah ratings to avoid mid-job recharges. Smaller yards may only need 4.0Ah batteries for sufficient runtime. Check the kit contents to see if batteries are included or sold separately, as this affects total system readiness.
Select motor type
All listed models feature brushless motors, which offer longer life and better efficiency than brushed alternatives. Brushless motors generate less heat and require less maintenance because they lack carbon brushes. This results in consistent power delivery throughout the battery charge. You do not need to compare brushed versus brushless here since every option is brushless. Focus instead on how the motor type supports your expected usage frequency and intensity.
Consider drive type
Drive type affects versatility and setup. Couple shaft models allow you to swap attachments for different tools using one power head. Fixed shaft trimmers are ready to use immediately without assembly. If you own multiple compatible tools, a couple shaft system offers flexibility. For simple, dedicated trimming tasks, a fixed shaft unit provides a streamlined experience with fewer connection points to maintain or check for loose fittings.
Evaluate included equipment
Some kits include additional tools like leaf blowers or edgers. The Ryobi combo includes a blower and edger, adding value if you need multiple functions. Other kits focus solely on trimming with higher capacity batteries. Decide if you need a multi-tool system or a dedicated trimmer. Including extra equipment can reduce the need for separate purchases but may increase overall weight and storage requirements for your workspace.
Frequently asked questions
Which 18V string trimmer offers the widest cutting width?
The Makita 17-Inch Brushless String Trimmer provides the widest cutting swath at 17 inches. This wider design helps you clear more vegetation per pass. It is ideal for users who prioritize gas-equivalent power and a broad cutting area over a compact tool.
Does the Makita Couple Shaft system require a separate battery?
Yes, the Makita Couple Shaft models are power heads that require compatible batteries. You can use existing Makita 18V batteries with these units. This design allows for customizable setups rather than buying a fixed, all-in-one unit with a built-in battery.
Which trimmer is best for large yards with dense vegetation?
The Bosch 18V 16-Inch Cordless String Trimmer is suited for large yards. It includes an 8.0Ah battery for extended runtime. This model fits professionals who manage large, dense areas daily and prioritize runtime and cutting width over lightweight portability.
Are all the top picks brushless motor models?
Yes, every model in this list features a brushless motor. Brushless motors offer better efficiency and longer life than brushed alternatives. This includes all Makita and Bosch options, providing robust power and precise speed control for various trimming tasks.
Is there a combo kit that includes a leaf blower?
The Ryobi 13-Inch Cordless String Trimmer is part of a combo kit. It includes a leaf blower and an edger. This all-in-one tool is suitable for homeowners needing simple maintenance for small yards, though it is not for tough vegetation.
Which model is the lightest option available?
The Makita 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer Kit is listed at 1 pound. This low weight makes it easy to handle for extended periods. It is a solid choice for users who prioritize runtime and speed flexibility in a lighter package.
Can I use the trimmer without buying a battery?
Some models are sold as bare tools without batteries. The Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head is available without a battery. You must purchase compatible 18V Makita batteries separately to operate this specific power head unit.
What is the smallest cutting width among these picks?
The smallest cutting width is 13 inches. Several Makita models and the Ryobi kit feature this width. Narrower models are easier to maneuver around tight landscaping features and fences, making them suitable for standard residential trimming tasks.
