Cordless strimmers have transformed how UK gardeners maintain their outdoor spaces. We review seven top-performing models, from budget options to premium kit. Coverage includes lightweight choices for small gardens and more powerful alternatives for larger properties. Prices move often, so check the card under each pick for the current price.
Comparison Table
|
Model |
Price |
Cut Width |
Battery |
Best For |
|
EGO ST1530E 56V |
Check retailer |
38cm |
56V system |
Premium performance |
|
Makita DUR189Z 18V |
See card for current price |
Variable |
18V LXT |
Brushless quality |
|
Bosch UniversalGrassCut 18V-26 |
See card for current price |
26cm |
18V |
Best value mid-range |
|
Ryobi ONE+ OLT1832 |
See card for current price |
25-30cm |
18V ONE+ |
Budget option |
|
WORX WG163E GT 3.0 |
See card for current price |
30cm |
20V |
All-rounders |
|
Greenworks G24LT30MK2 |
See card for current price |
30cm |
24V |
Small-to-medium gardens |
|
BLACK+DECKER STC1820PC-GB |
See card for current price |
28cm |
18V |
Budget alternative |
Detailed Reviews
1. EGO ST1530E 56V – Premium Pick
The EGO ST1530E is our premium choice for serious garden enthusiasts. The 56V model features a 38cm cutting width and an automatic line-feed system, and it copes with a typical suburban garden on a single charge. It is usually sold as a bare tool, so budget for a battery and charger.
Key specs: 56V system, 38cm cutting width, automatic line feed, adjustable cutting head.
Pros: – Wide 38cm cutting width covers ground quickly – Powerful 56V motor tackles thick weeds – Balanced design for extended use – Adjustable cutting head
Cons: – Premium pricing compared to alternatives – Battery and charger add to the initial investment – Battery not shared with other tool brands
Best for: Premium performance
2. Makita DUR189Z 18V LXT – Brushless Quality
The Makita DUR189Z is an excellent choice if you value brushless motor technology and solid build quality. It connects to the wide Makita 18V LXT range, so existing owners can reuse their batteries.
Key specs: 18V LXT, brushless motor, body only (battery and charger not included).
Pros: – Brushless motor for efficiency and longevity – Works with the large Makita LXT battery ecosystem – Quiet compared with petrol alternatives – Superior build quality
Cons: – Higher mid-range cost – Battery and charger sold separately
Best for: Brushless quality
3. Bosch UniversalGrassCut 18V-26 – Best Value Mid-Range
If you want genuine value without compromising on performance, the Bosch UniversalGrassCut 18V-26 deserves serious consideration. The kit we link includes the battery and charger, and the 26cm cutting width suits typical garden maintenance and edge trimming.
Key specs: 18V system, 26cm cutting diameter, battery and charger included (in the 18V-26-500 kit).
Pros: – Strong value with battery and charger included – Light enough for extended sessions – Works across Bosch’s 18V system – Reliable Bosch quality
Cons: – Smaller 26cm cutting width than some competitors – Less powerful than premium models
Best for: Best value mid-range
4. Ryobi ONE+ OLT1832 – Best Budget Option
The Ryobi ONE+ OLT1832 is our pick for gardeners watching their wallet. It plugs into the huge ONE+ 18V family of tools, and the batteries are widely available. The listing we link is the bare tool, so add a battery and charger if you do not already own them.
Key specs: 18V ONE+, 25-30cm cutting width, trimming and edging, battery and charger not included.
Pros: – Affordable entry point – Access to 100+ compatible ONE+ tools – Batteries and chargers widely available – Trims and edges
Cons: – Less powerful than premium models – Battery runtime depends on the pack you choose
Best for: Budget option
5. WORX WG163E GT 3.0 – Popular All-Rounder
The WORX WG163E GT 3.0 has built a loyal following amongst UK gardeners. The 20V model comes with two batteries and a charger in the kit we link, has a 30cm cutting width and Command Feed line advance, and converts to a wheeled edger with a pivoting head.
Key specs: 20V PowerShare, 30cm cutting width, Command Feed, 2-in-1 trimmer/edger, 90 degree pivot head, 2 x 2.0Ah batteries and charger.
Pros: – Excellent price-to-performance ratio – Two batteries included for longer sessions – Converts from trimmer to edger – Batteries work across the WORX PowerShare range
Cons: – 20V power is lower than premium options – Not suited to very dense growth
Best for: All-rounders
6. Greenworks G24LT30MK2 – Best for Small-to-Medium Gardens
The Greenworks G24LT30MK2 is a straightforward 24V strimmer that converts to a wheeled lawn edger. It has a 30cm cutting width and autofeed line, and comes with a 2Ah battery and charger plus a three-year guarantee.
Key specs: 24V, 30cm cutting width, autofeed 1.65mm line, wheeled edger conversion, 2Ah battery and charger, 3-year guarantee.
Pros: – Battery and charger included – Doubles as a wheeled edger – Three-year guarantee – Simple to use
Cons: – Best for light to medium work rather than heavy brush – Limited runtime on the 2Ah battery
Best for: Small-to-medium gardens
7. BLACK+DECKER STC1820PC-GB 18V – Budget Alternative
The BLACK+DECKER STC1820PC-GB offers another budget-friendly entry point to cordless strimming. The 28cm cutting width handles typical grass and light weeds, and the 18V PowerConnect platform fits BLACK+DECKER’s wider range.
Key specs: 18V PowerConnect, 28cm cutting width, AFS automatic line feed, 2.0Ah battery and charger.
Pros: – Very affordable entry point – Battery and charger included – Respectable 28cm cutting width – Light and user-friendly
Cons: – Less powerful than mid-range alternatives – Modest runtime for larger gardens
Best for: Budget alternative
How to Choose a Cordless Strimmer
Garden Size
Small gardens under 500 square metres will happily manage with budget to mid-range options like the Ryobi, Bosch or Greenworks. Larger properties benefit from wider cutting widths and premium power. Battery runtime should sustain complete yard maintenance without requiring battery swaps.
Physical Considerations
Weight makes a genuine difference during extended use. Lighter models reduce fatigue during longer sessions. Users with mobility concerns should prioritise lightweight equipment even at slightly higher cost.
Ecosystem Compatibility
Consider existing cordless tool ownership. Buying within a single battery ecosystem provides interchangeable batteries and typically lower long-term costs. Ryobi ONE+ has a huge range of compatible tools, while Makita LXT and Bosch 18V systems are similarly comprehensive.
Budget Flexibility
Calculate true ownership costs, as some listings are bare tools while others include batteries and chargers. Additional batteries benefit owners with larger gardens requiring extended runtime.
Brand Support
Choose manufacturers with established UK support. Bosch, Makita and WORX all maintain comprehensive support, which matters for repairs and warranty administration.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a cordless strimmer battery last?
Runtime varies by voltage and battery capacity. Expect 20-60 minutes per charge depending on the model and cutting conditions. Dense weeds consume power faster than light grass. Most mid-range and premium models handle typical suburban properties on a single charge.
Can I use the same battery across different brands?
No, batteries lack interchangeability between manufacturers. Each brand uses proprietary connectors, which underscores the importance of considering ecosystem compatibility before purchasing.
Are cordless strimmers powerful enough for thick weeds?
Mid-range and premium options manage thick weeds well. The EGO 56V and Makita DUR189Z demonstrate sufficient capability. Budget models may struggle with particularly dense patches, though regular maintenance prevents this.
How often do I need to replace the cutting line?
Replacement frequency depends on usage and cutting conditions. Light residential use might need line changes every few months, while heavier use might mean more frequent changes during the growing season. Line typically costs a few pounds per spool.
What is the difference between 18V, 20V, 24V and 56V?
Voltage indicates power output. Higher voltage generally means more cutting power and longer runtime, but also more weight. The 18-24V range suits small to medium gardens, while 56V delivers premium power for larger properties.
Do I need multiple batteries?
A single battery suffices for most residential gardens with trimming sessions under one hour. Larger properties benefit from a second battery so you can swap while charging. Some kits, like the WORX above, include two.
Final Verdict
The best cordless strimmer for you depends entirely on your situation. Budget-conscious buyers find value with the Ryobi ONE+ OLT1832 or Bosch UniversalGrassCut 18V-26. The WORX WG163E GT 3.0 delivers reliable all-round performance without premium pricing, and the Greenworks G24LT30MK2 is a simple pick for smaller gardens. Premium buyers should consider the EGO ST1530E for advanced features or the Makita DUR189Z for brushless technology.
Whatever you choose, you are making a smart decision moving to cordless. Eliminating petrol, complex maintenance and extension cords turns strimming into a manageable job. All reviewed models handle typical UK garden strimming, with the final choice reflecting budget, property size and battery ecosystem.
