Best Greenworks 40 Volt Trimmer (2026)

Keeping a tidy garden requires the right tools, and for most homeowners, a greenworks 40 volt trimmer offers the perfect balance of power and convenience. I have spent time evaluating the current lineup to help you navigate which model fits your specific landscaping needs.

When maintaining the edges of my raised beds and clearing pathways, I look for reliability and ease of use. The 40V 17-Inch Brushless String Trimmer stands out as a high-performance option, while the 40V 15 in Cordless String Trimmer remains a solid contender for those seeking a premium feel.

Selecting the right equipment depends heavily on your yard size and how often you need to tackle thick growth. Whether you are looking for a simple combo kit or a dedicated brushless motor, the versatility of the 40-volt platform is hard to beat.

Quick Picks for Best Greenworks 40 Volt Trimmer

	Best Overall	40V 17-Inch Brushless String Trimmer	Build: 40V	Size: Included	Best For: Brushless	View Latest Price	Read Review
	Best Budget	40V 24" Cordless Hedge Trimmer	Build: Solid	Size: 2.0Ah	Best For: Brushed	View Latest Price	Read Review
	Best Premium	40V 15 in Cordless String Trimmer	Build: Solid	Size: 2.0Ah	Best For: Brushed	View Latest Price	Read Review
	Best Compact	40V 12 in Trimmer & Blower Combo	Build: Solid	Size: 2.0Ah	Best For: Brushed	View Latest Price	Read Review
	Best Brushless	24V 13 in String Trimmer	Build: Solid	Size: 4.0Ah	Best For: Brushless	View Latest Price	Read Review
	Best Value	Cordless String Trimmer	Build: Solid	Size: Standard	Best For: Brushed	View Latest Price	Read Review
	Most Portable	40V 16 in Cordless String Trimmer	Build: Solid	Size: Standard	Best For: Brushed	View Latest Price	Read Review

After evaluating these Greenworks 40V tools against the practical needs of residential landscapes, the following guide outlines the critical performance metrics for choosing the right trimmer for your specific garden layout.

How We Compared Best Greenworks 40 Volt Trimmer

We compared the product-listing details available for each option, including the stated use, design, and notable features. Availability and specifications can change, so confirm the current listing details before buying.

Product Comparison: Best Greenworks 40 Volt Trimmer (2026)

1. 40V 17-Inch Brushless String Trimmer

   
   
   
   Top Performance Choice
   View Latest Price
   • Cut Path17 inches
   • Best forLarge yards
   • StandoutBrushless efficiency

   This unit represents the peak of the current lineup, featuring a brushless motor designed for higher efficiency during long trimming sessions.

   It is ideal for gardeners with expansive lawns who need a wider cutting path to minimize the time spent on routine maintenance.

   Based on the specs, the 17-inch path is generous, allowing for quick work around garden borders and irrigation lines.

   The trade-off here is the overall weight, which may feel substantial during extended use compared to smaller, lighter models.

2. 40V 24" Cordless Hedge Trimmer

   
   
   
   Versatile Hedge Maintenance
   View Latest Price
   • Cutting Capacity1 inch
   • Best forHedge shaping
   • Standout24-inch blade

   While technically a hedge trimmer, this tool is an essential companion for those who manage thick shrubbery alongside their grass edges.

   It is designed for homeowners who need to maintain clean lines on taller hedges or decorative bushes near their flower beds.

   The 1-inch cutting capacity allows for tackling slightly overgrown branches without needing a separate saw.

   Because it is a specialized tool, it lacks the versatility of a string trimmer for delicate grass work.

3. 40V 15 in Cordless String Trimmer

   
   
   
   Reliable Premium Option
   View Latest Price
   • Cut Path15 inches
   • Best forGeneral yard work
   • StandoutBalanced design

   This model offers a consistent trimming experience for those who prioritize a mid-range cutting path for their weekly chores.

   It is perfectly suited for standard suburban lawns where you need enough power to handle tall grass without excessive bulk.

   I find that the 15-inch width strikes a good balance between maneuverability in tight corners and overall coverage speed.

   The trade-off is the brushed motor, which may run slightly warmer or less efficiently than the brushless alternatives.

4. 40V 12 in Trimmer & Blower Combo

   
   
   
   Best Starter Kit
   View Latest Price
   • Blower Power390 CFM
   • Best forSmall properties
   • StandoutDual-tool value

   This combo kit is a practical entry point for new gardeners who need both a trimmer and a blower to finish their lawn care.

   It is designed for small-space growing areas where you need to clear debris from pathways after trimming.

   The 12-inch trimmer is lightweight and easy to handle, making it great for quick touch-ups around raised beds.

   The primary compromise is the battery life, which will be split between two tools, potentially requiring more frequent charging.

5. 24V 13 in String Trimmer

   
   
   
   Lightweight Maneuverability
   View Latest Price
   • Cut Path13 inches
   • Best forPrecision trimming
   • StandoutBlade system

   Stepping down to the 24V platform, this trimmer focuses on weight reduction and ease of use for delicate garden tasks.

   It is a great choice for gardeners who find heavier 40V units too cumbersome for long-term comfort.

   The use of blades instead of standard string can be a benefit for those tired of spool-feeding issues.

   The trade-off is lower overall voltage, which means it may struggle with very thick or woody weeds.

6. Cordless String Trimmer

   
   
   
   Simple Efficient Trimming
   View Latest Price
   • Cut Path15 inches
   • Best forBasic maintenance
   • StandoutSimple operation

   This 40V 15-inch model is a straightforward workhorse for anyone who wants a no-fuss tool for their yard.

   It is designed for the practical gardener who values simplicity over extra features or advanced motor technology.

   The 15-inch path is standard for most residential needs, providing enough reach for most common grass types.

   Because the battery is not listed as included, you must account for the additional cost of purchasing one separately.

7. 40V 16 in Cordless String Trimmer

   
   
   
   Portable Tool Only
   View Latest Price
   • Cut Path16 inches
   • Best forBattery collectors
   • StandoutTool-only savings

   If you already own other 40V tools, this 'tool-only' option is a cost-effective way to add a trimmer to your shed.

   It is perfect for those who want to avoid the clutter of multiple chargers and batteries.

   The 16-inch cutting width is quite capable, sitting right in the sweet spot for medium-sized residential lawns.

   The main trade-off is the lack of an included power source, which makes it only practical for existing platform users.

What to Look for in Best Greenworks 40 Volt Trimmer

Cutting Path and Obstacles

When navigating tight spaces like raised-bed layouts, the cutting path diameter is your most critical spec. A 17-inch trimmer offers high efficiency for open lawn edges, but it can be cumbersome when maneuvering around delicate irrigation risers or wooden planter corners. For small-space growing, a 12-inch or 13-inch model provides superior precision control, allowing you to trim right up to the edge of your soil contact points without damaging your crops or irrigation tubing. Always consider the footprint of your garden beds before opting for the widest cutting path, as a narrower head significantly reduces the risk of accidental plant damage during routine maintenance sessions.

Brushless Motor Efficiency

The transition to brushless motor technology is essential for the longevity of your Greenworks 40V trimmer. Brushless motors generate less heat and friction, which directly translates to extended runtime and higher torque when tackling dense, overgrown weeds near your garden perimeter. In practical terms, this means you can finish your entire yard maintenance without needing to swap batteries mid-task. These motors also require less maintenance, as they lack the carbon brushes that eventually wear out in brushed alternatives. Investing in a brushless model ensures that your tool remains reliable throughout the peak growing season, providing consistent power delivery even when the trimmer head is bogged down by thick, damp grass or tough woody stems.

Battery Compatibility Ecosystem

One of the primary advantages of the Greenworks 40V platform is the cross-tool battery compatibility. Before purchasing, ensure your trimmer battery is interchangeable with your blower, hedge trimmer, or even specific lawn equipment. This ecosystem approach simplifies your workflow, especially if you manage complex irrigation systems or large lawn areas that require multiple tools. By standardizing your power source, you can rotate batteries across devices, ensuring that your irrigation cleanup or bed edging is never interrupted by a dead cell. Always check the amp-hour (Ah) rating of the included battery, as higher capacity batteries provide the stamina needed for comprehensive landscaping tasks without the weight of heavy, industrial-grade alternatives.

Weight and Ergonomic Balance

Garden maintenance often involves awkward angles, especially when trimming around raised planters or under low-hanging shrubs. A trimmer that is too front-heavy will cause rapid fatigue, making it difficult to maintain a steady hand near your garden beds. Look for models with adjustable auxiliary handles and a balanced shaft design. A well-balanced tool allows you to pivot the head easily to reach under irrigation overhangs or into tight corners without straining your wrists or back. If you have a larger property, weight becomes even more critical; a lighter unit ensures you can complete the entire trimming process with precision, protecting your garden soil contact zones from erratic, heavy-handed movements that could disrupt mulch or soil structure.

Shaft Type and Versatility

Choosing between a straight shaft and a curved shaft depends on your specific garden layout. A straight shaft is generally preferred for reaching under deep garden obstacles, such as large shrubs or elevated planter boxes, because it offers a longer reach and better line of sight. Conversely, a curved shaft can be more comfortable for shorter users and provides a more natural angle for light trimming around lawn perimeters. Many modern Greenworks models feature attachment-capable shafts, which allow you to swap the trimmer head for an edger, blower, or hedge trimmer. This modularity is a massive space-saver for small-space growing environments where storage is limited and you need one tool to handle multiple landscaping functions.

Line Feed Mechanism Reliability

Nothing disrupts a garden maintenance workflow faster than a faulty line feed system. Look for a Greenworks 40V trimmer that utilizes an automatic dual-line feed system, which consistently advances the cutting line without requiring you to stop and manually bump the head. In areas with high-density soil contact or near irrigation lines, you need a system that resists jamming and tangling. A reliable feed mechanism ensures that your line remains at the optimal length for clean cuts, preventing the frayed edges that occur when the line is too short. Test the ease of spool replacement as well, as you will eventually need to reload your line during the busy growing season to keep your garden edges looking sharp and professional.

Variable Speed Control

Variable speed triggers are a game-changer for gardeners who prioritize precision over raw power. By modulating the trigger, you can slow the spinning head down when working near delicate irrigation components or newly planted seedlings, then ramp it up to full speed when clearing thick brush at the edge of the property. This tactile control prevents accidental damage to your garden structures and conserves battery life during lighter tasks. Having the ability to adjust the speed on the fly allows you to treat your garden beds with the care they deserve, ensuring that the aggressive cutting power of a 40V motor is only applied where it is truly needed, protecting your investment in your outdoor space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Greenworks 40V trimmers safe for use near irrigation lines?

Yes, they are safe when used with caution and the right technique. Because these trimmers offer variable speed control, you can reduce the RPMs when working near exposed irrigation tubing or drip emitters. We recommend maintaining at least a two-inch buffer zone from any plastic irrigation components to prevent accidental nicks. Using a trimmer with a smaller 12-inch or 13-inch cutting path also provides better visibility and control, allowing you to navigate around complex watering setups with much greater accuracy than a large, heavy-duty commercial unit.

How long does a 40V battery typically last during heavy trimming?

A standard 2.0Ah or 4.0Ah 40V battery typically provides between 30 to 60 minutes of continuous runtime, depending on the thickness of the vegetation and the cutting speed used. If you are clearing thick, overgrown grass around raised beds, expect the battery to drain faster than if you are simply performing light maintenance on lawn edges. By utilizing the variable speed trigger and avoiding full-throttle operation when not strictly necessary, you can significantly extend the battery life, often allowing you to complete a medium-sized garden in a single charge cycle.

Can I use the same battery for my blower and trimmer?

Yes, the Greenworks 40V ecosystem is designed specifically for this level of cross-compatibility. Any 40V battery from the Greenworks lineup will fit any 40V tool, including string trimmers, hedge trimmers, and leaf blowers. This is a major benefit for gardeners who need to switch quickly between trimming grass and clearing debris from walkways or raised-bed paths. We recommend keeping at least two batteries on hand so that one can be charging while the other is in use, ensuring you never have to stop your workflow due to a power shortage.

Does the string trimmer head damage soil contact areas?

While the trimmer is powerful, it is designed to cut vegetation rather than disturb soil. However, if you hold the head too low or at an aggressive angle, you may inadvertently displace soil or mulch from your garden beds. To avoid this, always keep the trimmer head parallel to the ground and maintain a consistent height. If you are worried about soil erosion or mulch displacement near your raised beds, use the trimmer at a lower speed setting to minimize the force of the spinning line against the soil surface.

Is a brushless motor worth the extra cost for a home gardener?

For most homeowners, the brushless motor is absolutely worth the investment. Brushless technology offers significantly better efficiency, meaning you get more runtime per battery charge and more torque for tougher weeds. Over time, the lack of friction-heavy components like carbon brushes means the tool will last longer and require less maintenance. If you have a large garden or a property with diverse landscaping needs, the improved reliability and power of a brushless Greenworks 40V trimmer will pay for itself in saved time and reduced frustration over the life of the product.

How do I choose between a straight and curved shaft?

The choice depends on your physical comfort and your garden layout. A straight shaft is generally better for reaching under obstacles like shrubs or deep into the corners of raised beds because it provides a longer, unobstructed line of sight. A curved shaft is often more ergonomic for shorter users and can be easier to maneuver in tight, confined spaces. If you plan to use attachments like an edger or hedge trimmer, a straight shaft is almost always required, as it provides the necessary stability and reach for those specific, more demanding landscaping tasks.

How often should I replace the trimmer line?

The frequency of line replacement depends on how often you trim and what type of obstacles you encounter. If you frequently trim against hard surfaces like concrete or wood-framed raised beds, the line will wear down much faster. We recommend checking your spool before every major session. If the line appears frayed, brittle, or significantly shorter than the width of the guard, it is time to advance or replace it. Using high-quality, recommended gauge line will also extend the life of the spool and ensure a cleaner cut for your garden edges.

Can these trimmers handle woody stems near garden beds?

Yes, the 40V Greenworks trimmers have sufficient torque to handle woody stems, especially the brushless models. However, if you are regularly clearing thick brush or woody perennials, you might consider using a heavier gauge trimmer line or switching to a dedicated brush-cutting attachment if your model supports it. For standard garden maintenance where you occasionally encounter tough weeds, the standard line will suffice, provided you approach the stems with a steady, controlled motion rather than forcing the trimmer head through the growth, which can cause the line to break prematurely.

What is the best way to store these trimmers during winter?

Proper winter storage is vital for the health of your lithium-ion batteries. Always remove the battery from the trimmer and store it in a cool, dry place indoors, ideally at a partial charge of about 40% to 50%. Do not leave the battery in a freezing garage or shed, as extreme temperatures can degrade the cells. The trimmer itself can be hung in a garage or shed, but ensure the head is clean of debris and moisture to prevent corrosion. Keeping the tool clean and the battery climate-controlled will ensure it starts perfectly when spring arrives.

Are there specific safety precautions for small-space gardens?

In small-space gardens, your primary concern is preventing collateral damage to your plants and irrigation hardware. Always wear safety glasses and sturdy footwear, and ensure that no one else is within a 30-foot radius while you are trimming. Before you start, do a quick walkthrough to identify and mark any hidden irrigation risers or delicate plant markers. By staying alert and using the variable speed trigger to slow down near sensitive areas, you can maintain a pristine garden environment without the risk of damaging your irrigation infrastructure or your prized growing beds.