Cordless strimmers have reached the point where petrol is no longer the default for UK gardens. They’re lighter, quieter, and — crucially — far easier to start on a damp Tuesday evening.
In a typical British garden, a strimmer isn’t just a luxury; it’s the only practical way to tackle fence lines, shed corners, raised beds and tight paving edges that a mower simply can’t reach.
In this 2026 guide, we compare the best cordless strimmers UK gardeners can buy — from lightweight 18V models for quick edging to more powerful systems built for thicker seasonal growth.
For a broader look at how cordless tools, battery platforms and long-term ownership fit together in real UK gardens, see our HomeGrower Guide to Garden Tools and Equipment.
Affiliate notice: Some links in this guide are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, HomeGrower may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you.
⭐ #1 Pick – Best Overall Value for Most UK Gardens
If you want a cordless strimmer that delivers dependable trimming performance without premium-brand pricing, the Worx WG163E 20V Cordless Grass Trimmer offers the best balance of power, control and battery flexibility for most UK gardens. It isn’t designed for heavy brush clearance — but for typical suburban lawns, fence lines and edging work, it provides more than enough cutting strength without pushing into unnecessary expense.
One feature that genuinely sets it apart is Worx’s Command Feed™ system, which lets you extend the cutting line at the push of a button — particularly useful on uneven paving or gravel edges where bump-feed heads can wear out or jam.
- 20V PowerShare battery system (compatible with Worx mower & hedge trimmer)
- 30 cm cutting width – ideal for fenced UK gardens
- Command Feed™ push-button line extension
- Instant trim-to-edge conversion with guide wheel
- Adjustable shaft for improved comfort
Best for: most UK gardens where edging, border work and battery ecosystem compatibility matter more than raw cutting power.
See the Worx WG163E on Amazon UK
Quick Comparison
When comparing the best cordless strimmers UK gardeners rely on, look beyond voltage alone. Battery platform compatibility, line feed system, and overall weight often matter more in real-world use than headline specs.
⭐ Best Overall for Most UK Gardens
The Worx WG163E is the strimmer that makes the most sense for typical UK gardens. It’s powerful enough for seasonal growth, light enough for regular use, and part of Worx’s wider PowerShare system — which means the same battery can power hedge trimmers, blowers and even some lawn mowers.
With a 30 cm cutting width, it covers ground quickly without feeling bulky around tight fence lines or raised beds. In real-world UK conditions — uneven paving, damp grass edges and awkward corners — that balance matters more than raw power.
The standout feature is Worx’s Command Feed system. Instead of tapping the head on the ground — which can wear down the spool housing over time on paving or concrete edges — you simply press a button to advance fresh line. It’s a small detail, but one that makes day-to-day trimming noticeably easier and reduces long-term wear.
The head also tilts up to 90°, allowing quick conversion from trimming to edging. For clean path lines and patio borders, this makes it far more versatile than single-function strimmers.
Because it runs on the 20V PowerShare platform, it’s also a sensible long-term buy if you’re building a cordless tool setup. One battery system, multiple tools, less clutter.
Best for: Most small-to-medium UK gardens
Why buy: Excellent balance of power, ease of use and battery compatibility
Why skip: Not designed for heavy, overgrown clearing jobs
Best Budget Option
A simple, lightweight strimmer suited to small UK lawns.
The Einhell GC-CT 18/24 Li P is built for light, regular trimming rather than heavy-duty clearing. With a 24 cm cutting width and an 18V Power X-Change battery, it’s best suited to smaller gardens where edging borders and tidying around sheds, paths and raised beds is the main job.
Instead of traditional line, this model uses replaceable plastic blades. That makes it clean and easy for light edging, and there’s no bumping or feed mechanism to manage. For dry grass and routine maintenance, it works well. However, the blade system is less effective in thick, wet growth — particularly along the bottom of typical UK fence lines where grass can build up. If you choose this model, it’s sensible to buy a pack of spare blades at the same time — they wear quickly if you catch brick edges, fence posts or rough paving.
At under 2 kg including battery, it’s comfortable to use for short sessions and easy to store in smaller sheds or garages. Because it runs on Einhell’s Power X-Change system, the same battery can be used across a wide range of other garden and DIY tools — making it a sensible entry point into a budget cordless ecosystem.
Best for: Small, regularly maintained lawns
Why buy: Affordable entry into a large battery ecosystem
Why skip: May struggle with wet, thick growth
Premium / Larger Garden Option
⚠ Buyer Warning:
This model is usually sold as a bare unit. If you don’t already own Makita LXT batteries and a charger, you’ll need to buy them separately — which significantly increases the total cost.
The Makita DUR189Z is aimed at gardeners who want more cutting strength and long-term durability than entry-level 18V models can offer. Built on Makita’s professional-grade LXT platform and powered by a brushless motor, it’s designed for heavier seasonal growth and longer trimming sessions.
With a 30 cm cutting width and Automatic Torque Drive Technology (ADT), the tool automatically adjusts between 4,000 and 6,000 rpm depending on grass density. In practice, that means it ramps up when tackling thicker patches but runs quieter and more efficiently during lighter trimming. This makes it particularly well suited to larger lawns, rougher edges, or gardens where grass isn’t cut every week.
The brushless motor improves efficiency and reduces wear compared to older brushed designs. Combined with features such as soft start, electric brake, reverse rotation for clearing tangled grass, and overload protection, the DUR189Z feels closer to light professional equipment than a casual DIY tool.
However, it’s important to note that this model is typically sold as a bare unit. Batteries and charger are not included, so it offers best value for those already invested in Makita’s 18V LXT ecosystem.
For most average UK gardens, this level of performance isn’t strictly necessary. But for larger plots, thicker growth, or users who already run Makita tools, it’s a powerful and durable upgrade.
Best for: Larger gardens or heavier seasonal growth
Why buy: Brushless motor, intelligent torque control and professional build quality
Why skip: Higher cost and usually sold without battery or charger
Best Lightweight / Compact
The Bosch EasyGrassCut 18-26 is designed for smaller gardens where manoeuvrability and storage matter more than outright cutting power. With a 26 cm cutting width and a lightweight frame, it’s well suited to compact lawns, narrow side paths and tight fence lines typical of urban UK gardens.
Its semi-automatic line feed system advances line when the trigger is released and restarted, reducing the need for bumping the head on the ground. In practice, this keeps trimming straightforward and tidy for regular maintenance, though it’s not intended for thick, overgrown patches.
At under 2 kg, it’s easy to control for short trimming sessions and comfortable for users who don’t want a heavier tool. The edging function allows quick switching between trimming and vertical edge work, which is useful for keeping patio lines clean without needing a separate tool.
Because it runs on Bosch’s 18V Power for All system, it makes the most sense for gardeners already using compatible Bosch or Gardena tools. As with many Bosch listings, it’s often sold as a bare unit — so check whether battery and charger are included before buying.
Best for: Small urban gardens and light, regular trimming
Why buy: Lightweight design and cross-brand battery compatibility
Why skip: Not powerful enough for thick or heavily overgrown grass
Honourable Mention
The Flymo SimpliTrim 250 is designed for simple, regular garden maintenance rather than heavy-duty clearing. With a 25 cm cutting width and automatic line feed, it’s best suited to small lawns, quick tidy-ups, and keeping patio or driveway edges neat.
At just over 2 kg including the battery, it’s lightweight and easy to handle. The shaft length and compact head design make it comfortable for short trimming sessions, particularly in tighter spaces common in UK gardens. Switching between trimming and edging is straightforward, helping maintain clean borders without extra tools.
This version includes both the 18V battery and charger, making it a convenient all-in-one option for first-time cordless buyers. However, Flymo’s battery platform is smaller compared to Bosch, Worx or Makita, so it’s less appealing if you’re planning to build a wider cordless tool collection.
In real-world use, it performs well on dry grass and regularly maintained lawns. It will struggle with long, wet or dense growth, so it’s not the right choice for neglected gardens or thicker boundary weeds.
Best for: Small, well-maintained gardens
Why buy: Lightweight, simple and supplied as a complete kit
Why skip: Limited power and battery ecosystem compared to larger brands
🌿 How to Choose the Best Cordless Strimmers
1) 18V vs Higher Power
For most UK gardens, 18–20V is more than enough.
- 18–20V systems: Ideal for routine edging, small–medium lawns, and regular maintenance.
- Higher power systems (dual battery / 36V+): Better suited to thicker seasonal growth, larger plots, or neglected areas.
Unless you regularly let grass get long and wet, you likely don’t need more than 18–20V.
2) Line Feed Type Matters More Than You Think
Many frustrations with strimmers come from poor line feed systems.
- Push-button feed (e.g. Worx Command Feed): The most controlled and least frustrating option.
- Bump feed: Reliable but can wear down quickly if used on paving or concrete edges.
- Plastic blade systems: Tidy and simple for light edging, but less effective in thick or damp growth.
If ease of use is your priority, line feed type is often more important than raw power.
🔧 Brushless vs Brushed Motors
Brushless motors are more efficient, generate less heat, and usually provide longer run-time per charge. They also tend to last longer.
For occasional trimming and light edging, a brushed motor is perfectly adequate.
If you trim frequently, deal with thicker growth, or want better long-term durability, brushless models are worth the extra investment.
⚡ Battery Systems Explained
If you already own cordless tools, the battery platform often matters more than the strimmer itself. Staying within one system means you can share batteries with your mower, hedge trimmer and other garden tools — saving money and storage space over time.
Most models in this guide run on 18–20V lithium-ion systems. For larger gardens or thicker growth, dual-battery setups (40V equivalent) offer more consistent torque.
For a full comparison of Worx, Bosch, Ryobi, Makita and other UK battery ecosystems, see our detailed guide to Power Share Battery Systems Compared.
🔧 Strimmer Maintenance & Battery Care in UK Sheds
Cordless strimmers require far less upkeep than petrol models, but a few small habits make a big difference in typical UK conditions.
After trimming, clear grass from the guard and spool housing — especially if you’ve been cutting damp edges. Let the tool dry before storing it in a shed to prevent corrosion around the motor housing and fasteners.
Lithium-ion batteries dislike cold, damp storage. If your shed or garage is unheated, remove the battery and store it indoors over winter. Avoid leaving batteries fully discharged for long periods, and top them up every few months during extended storage.
Sharp line, clean airflow and properly stored batteries will extend the life of any cordless strimmer — often more than small differences between brands.
🌻 Final Thoughts
Cordless strimmers have matured in much the same way cordless lawn mowers have — they’re quieter, cleaner and far easier to live with than older corded or petrol models.
For most UK gardens, the best cordless strimmers tend to balance weight, battery system, and line control rather than raw voltage.
In our opnion, the Worx WG163E GT3 strikes the best balance between trimming power, edging precision and battery flexibility. It’s the most well-rounded option for typical lawn maintenance.
If budget is the priority, Einhell’s GC-CT 18/24 Li P is a sensible entry point for light trimming.
If you’re already invested in the Makita LXT platform, the Makita DUR181Z makes practical sense and integrates seamlessly with existing batteries.
Whichever route you choose, sticking to one battery system across your mower, hedge trimmer and other garden tools will usually save money — and storage space — in the long run.