BLACK+DECKER 40V String Trimmers Compared: Which Model Suits Your Yard?
6 models comparedSeptember 22, 202614 min read
Specs below are quoted from each Amazon listing. Scores are the average rating Amazon buyers left. Nothing on this page was handled or measured by us.
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Finding the right black and decker 40 volt string trimmer depends on your current collection of lawn equipment, the physical layout of your property, and how much tough brush you encounter along fence lines. BLACK+DECKER designed its 40V MAX outdoor system around high-torque gearing and push-button line management, giving property owners enough rotational strength to replace small gas engines without the hassle of mixing fuel or pulling recoil cords. Deciding on the right setup requires balancing motor performance against package contents so you do not purchase extra chargers and cells you already own, or end up with a bare tool when you need a complete operational kit.
This black and decker 40v max string trimmer review examines six distinct options across the brand catalog to help you determine which BLACK+DECKER string trimmer to buy. We explore five dedicated 40V packages alongside one compact 20V alternative to illustrate how power delivery, shaft adjustability, and bundled accessories vary across the lineup. While some units arrive as standalone bare tools intended for users who already maintain compatible 40-volt battery banks, others bundle high-output fast chargers, hard-surface sweepers, or extra pre-wound spools. Reviewing each configuration side by side clarifies how each tool manages lawn borders, walkway transitions, and tough garden overgrowth.
Which BLACK+DECKER 40V String Trimmers Should You Buy
Buy the LST136B bare tool if you already own 40V MAX batteries and want the runtime control of a multi-speed power adjustment dial.
Buy the LST140C complete kit if you need an out-of-the-box 40V cordless weed eater with battery and charger that includes a wall-mountable dock.
Buy the LST136 complete kit if you require an adjustable telescoping pole trimmer with high-speed performance and a rapid two-hour charger.
Buy the LCC340C combo if you want a complete lawn maintenance package that pairs a 13-inch string trimmer with a 130 MPH hard-surface leaf sweeper.
Buy the LST140C multi-spool bundle if you maintain long fence runs and want extra factory line spools packed directly with your trimmer.
Buy the LST300 compact model if you have a modest suburban yard and prefer a lighter 20V tool with a wheeled edging guide.
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Best for Users seeking extra replacement line spools
Pros
Includes two AF-100 autofeed spools
State of charge battery indicator
High torque 7000 RPM drive
Cons
Listing notes nonstandard battery requirement
BLACK+DECKER 40V Max Cordless Sweeper &
Best for Lawn care requiring post-trimming driveway cleanup
Pros
Includes 130 MPH leaf sweeper
Shared 40V battery and charger
Low noise sweeper engineering
Cons
Heavier combined box weight
BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 13 in String
Best for Yards needing variable power and height adjustability
Pros
PowerCommand dial with 8500 RPM
Adjustable telescoping pole
Rapid two-hour charger included
Cons
Heavier weight at 7.8 pounds
Black+Decker 40V MAX 13 Inch String
Best for Shoppers wanting a complete battery kit
Pros
Battery and charger included
State of charge indicator
Wall mountable charging base
Cons
Lacks variable speed power dial
Best for Homeowners who already own 40V batteries
Pros
Power command dial
Powerdrive high-torque transmission
Automatic feed spool
Cons
Battery and charger not included
The BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX String Trimmer serves as the brand’s dedicated bare-tool option, designated under model number LST136B. It is engineered specifically for homeowners who have already invested in the company’s 40-volt lithium-ion platform through lawn mowers, hedge trimmers, or blowers. Because it ships without a battery or charging base, it eliminates the clutter and cost of redundant accessories. The head utilizes a 13-inch cutting swath powered by the patented Powerdrive transmission, a mechanical gear reduction system designed to amplify rotational torque directly at the line so the motor does not bog down when striking dense weed patches.
A central design highlight on this BLACK+DECKER LST136B bare tool is the integrated Power Command dial. This dial gives users tactile control over motor behavior, allowing you to throttle down to conserve energy when trimming tender turf grass or dial up to maximum output when confronting overgrown ditch banks. The unit features an automatic feed spool string trimmer design that dispenses fresh 0.065-inch monofilament line using centrifugal forces during operation, bypassing the mechanical bumping that often damages drive heads. If you need a backup unit to supplement an existing black and decker corded electric string trimmer for areas far from exterior outlets, this bare 40V model offers free-roaming cordless convenience.
Transitioning between trimming and sidewalk edging takes only a quick twist of the shaft collar, redirecting the spinning line into a vertical orientation for trenching clean turf borders. The package includes an auxiliary handle and protective debris guard to shield you from scattered mulch. This model gives way to the battery-equipped kits if you do not already possess a functional 40V power pack, but for existing system owners, it represents the most direct, uncomplicated way to add heavy-duty line-trimming capability to their shed.
Power command dial lets you choose between maximum cutting strength and extended battery life
Powerdrive transmission increases motor output directly to the cutting line
Automatic feed spool feeds monofilament line continuously without mechanical bumping
Quick conversion collar switches the cutting head from trimmer to edger in seconds
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The Black+Decker 40V MAX 13 Inch String trimmer kit, bearing model number LST140C, delivers a ready-to-run setup for yards up to a half-acre in size. Unlike bare-tool options, this package includes a 40V MAX lithium-ion battery and a dedicated charging base. The battery features an integrated state-of-charge indicator, allowing you to verify remaining electrical reserve at the touch of a button before starting yard work. This visual display removes guesswork, preventing unexpected stops in the middle of edging long driveway borders.
Weighing in at 6.4 pounds, this 13 inch cordless string trimmer edger balances motor heft and maneuverability cleanly. Its Powerdrive high-torque transmission maintains string velocity through damp turf and fibrous stems, ensuring swift cutting passes without stalling. The automatic line feeding system supplies fresh string smoothly during operation, eliminating the need to strike the tool head against hard patio surfaces. Homeowners comparing this tool against a traditional weed eater corded configuration will appreciate the absolute freedom from extension cords when working around extensive fence perimeters.
Storage management is simple thanks to the included wall-mountable charging station, which keeps the battery energized while saving floor space in crowded garages. The tool quickly rotates from a horizontal grass trimmer into a dedicated vertical lawn edger, allowing you to establish manicured borders along curbs and garden beds. For shoppers who do not already own 40-volt hardware and want an uncomplicated, single-battery solution, this BLACK+DECKER LST140C trimmer edger kit stands out as a dependable workhorse.
Complete kit includes a 40V MAX lithium-ion battery and dedicated charging base
Onboard battery state of charge indicator shows available power at a glance
Powerdrive high-torque transmission delivers strong cutting power for thick grass
Space-saving charging base mounts directly to garage or shed walls
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The BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 13 in String trimmer kit, sold as the LST136, pairs high-output trimming mechanics with enhanced ergonomic adjustability. This 40V cordless weed eater with battery and charger includes a rapid charging dock capable of replenishing the battery pack in two hours or less. Capable of spinning up to 8500 RPM, the cutting head tears through dense undergrowth, briars, and thick-stemmed weeds that typically stall lower-voltage grass trimmers.
Ergonomics take center stage on this BLACK+DECKER LST136 telescoping pole trimmer. The shaft extends and contracts along an adjustable telescoping column, accommodating taller operators and shorter handlers alike without causing lower back strain. A soft-grip auxiliary handle adjusts along the shaft to balance the tool’s 7.8-pound operating weight during long trimming sessions. Like its bare-tool sibling, the LST136 includes the PowerCommand dial, letting you restrict motor speed to extend operating runtime across open lawns or dial in maximum velocity for difficult weed patches.
Line management relies on the proven Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) architecture, dispensing fresh line automatically to maintain a consistent 13-inch cutting swath. Converting the head to edging mode requires moments, utilizing a simple locking mechanism to rotate the trimmer assembly 180 degrees. While slightly heavier than the LST140C, this model provides greater adjustability for households where multiple users of different heights share yard chores.
Adjustable telescoping pole and soft-grip handle provide tailored user comfort
High-speed motor achieves operational velocities up to 8500 RPM
Fast charger restores full battery power in two hours or less
Integrated PowerCommand dial balances runtime against peak motor output
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The BLACK+DECKER 40V Max Cordless Sweeper & String Trimmer Combo Kit, cataloged under model number LCC340C, provides a coordinated outdoor cleanup system in a single box. This kit bundles the LST140 13-inch string trimmer and edger with the LSW40 40V MAX cordless leaf sweeper, supported by a shared 40-volt battery and charger. The pairing targets homeowners who need to manage turf trimming along with the immediate removal of clippings from sidewalks, patios, and garage thresholds.
The LST140 unit in this combo delivers the signature Powerdrive high-torque transmission, allowing its 13-inch cutting line to slice cleanly through persistent grass along foundations and garden borders. The AFS system automatically meters line outward to keep cutting passes uniform without interruption. When you finish cutting, turning the shaft sets the trimmer into vertical edging mode, carving clean gutters along driveway edges. Both tools incorporate a state-of-charge readout on the battery system, allowing you to gauge whether you have enough power left to complete the subsequent cleanup pass.
Once edging is complete, the LSW40 sweeper takes over, generating air velocities up to 130 MPH to sweep away stray trimmings, dried leaves, and driveway debris without requiring you to unroll a heavy garden hose. The sweeper is built with a low-noise design, keeping neighborhood disruption minimal during early weekend mornings. While the total shipping weight reaches 11 pounds for the boxed bundle, each tool remains well-balanced and lightweight during individual use, making this BLACK+DECKER LCC340C trimmer sweeper combo an efficient dual-tool setup.
Two-tool bundle includes the LST140 string trimmer and the LSW40 cordless sweeper
Leaf sweeper reaches wind speeds up to 130 MPH for clearing hard exterior surfaces
Low-noise motor design ensures quiet operation around residential properties
Shared 40V MAX battery features an onboard state of charge power gauge
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The BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX String Trimmer Edger bundle, model LST140C & AF100-2, pairs the company’s primary 40-volt trimmer with two factory-wound replacement line spools. This package solves one of the most common interruptions in lawn care: exhausting your trimmer line halfway through an edging job. Each included AF-100 spool contains 30 feet of durable 0.065-inch monofilament line, manufactured to feed reliably through the factory AFS mechanism without jamming or binding inside the housing.
The trimmer itself operates at 7000 RPM, harnessing Powerdrive high-torque gearing to chop dense weeds and overgrowth into fine mulch. The tool features a built-in state-of-charge battery monitor, giving operators continuous visibility into cell life. The included spools feature broad cross-compatibility across dozens of BLACK+DECKER grass trimmers, including legacy CST, GH, and NST series tools, making them versatile spare components if you maintain multiple yard tools around the home.
The pre-wound replacement spools eliminate the tedious chore of hand-winding bulk line around tiny hubs, ensuring that line release remains smooth and snag-free. The tool transitions swiftly from standard trimming to sidewalk trenching, providing crisp lawn edges with minimal mechanical friction. For groundskeepers who prefer having backup cutting supplies on hand from day one, this multi-pack bundle prevents sudden downtime during weekend yard maintenance.
Bundles the LST140C trimmer with two factory AF-100 30-foot autofeed replacement spools
High-torque Powerdrive transmission drives cutting line at up to 7000 RPM
Auto Feed System replacement spools eliminate manual string winding
Battery includes a visible state of charge monitor to track power reserves
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Best for Compact yards needing a lightweight edger
Pros
Lightweight 5.7-pound build
Includes 2.0 Ah battery pack
Wheeled edging conversion
Cons
Smaller 12-inch cutting swath
Lower 20V battery platform
The BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer, model LST300, provides a lightweight alternative for homeowners managing smaller townhome lots, patio borders, or compact suburban turf. While operating on the brand’s smaller 20V MAX Powerconnect battery platform rather than the 40-volt architecture, this unit shares vital drive mechanics with its larger siblings. It utilizes a dedicated Powerdrive transmission spinning at 6200 RPM, giving its 12-inch cutting swath sufficient torque to shear through typical lawn grasses and light weed growth.
Weighing only 5.7 pounds, this BLACK+DECKER LST300 20V trimmer is noticeably lighter than any of the 40-volt models, significantly reducing muscle fatigue across your forearms and shoulders. It features an adjustable auxiliary handle and multiple shaft height positions equipped with micro-texture grips, making it easy to steer around garden decorations, patio furniture, and tight fence corners. When edging duty calls, the head switches quickly to a wheeled edging orientation, allowing the built-in guide wheel to support the tool’s weight while you carve crisp lines down curbs and walks.
The included 2.0 amp-hour lithium-ion battery pack delivers 33 percent more runtime than the older LBXR20 battery pack, providing ample capacity to trim small to medium lawns on a single charge. The kit also includes a wall-mountable charging station to keep your garage organized. While it lacks the raw cutting power and broader 13-inch swath of the 40-volt line, its reduced weight and integrated guide wheel make it an appealing, low-effort alternative for lighter lawn duties.
Lightweight 5.7-pound chassis minimizes fatigue during extended yard work
Includes a 2.0 Ah battery pack delivering 33 percent more runtime than earlier packs
Built-in guide wheel stabilizes the cutting head during vertical lawn edging
Wall-mountable charging dock saves valuable floor and shelf space
What Sets These Models Apart
To assist in your BLACK+DECKER string trimmer comparison, the table below outlines the core technical specifications across all six evaluated models. Examining drive speed, included gear, and operational weight highlights where each model excels, whether you need heavy brush clearing or light edging.
Figures in this table are copied from the Amazon listings for these models.
Buying Tips for BLACK+DECKER 40V String Trimmers
When selecting a battery-powered weed trimmer, battery platform compatibility should dictate your purchasing path. If your shed already houses 40V MAX BLACK+DECKER tools, acquiring a bare tool such as the LST136B lets you utilize your existing lithium-ion cells without acquiring extra charging docks. However, if you are transitioning from gas equipment or starting fresh, investing in a full kit ensures you receive a factory-matched battery equipped with an integrated charge indicator, giving you clear insight into energy reserves before you start working.
Another critical consideration is the balance between motor speed adjustment and physical weight. Tools equipped with the PowerCommand dial, such as the LST136 series, permit fine-tuning between maximum runtime and raw cutting velocity, reaching up to 8500 RPM. This feature is particularly valuable for properties with mixed vegetation, where fine turf borders transition into coarse brush along wooded borders. If ergonomics and user stature vary within your household, prioritizing a model with an adjustable telescoping shaft prevents back strain by letting each operator set a customized shaft length.
Finally, consider how you prefer to handle debris cleanup and replacement wear parts. The Automatic Feed Spool system relies on specific line diameters, typically 0.065-inch monofilament, to advance string correctly through centrifugal force. Choosing a bundle that includes factory-wound spools prevents feeding jams caused by uneven manual spool winding. Similarly, if your property features long concrete walkways or paved driveways, a combo kit featuring an accompanying leaf sweeper simplifies post-trimming cleanup by eliminating the need to rake or manually sweep grass trimmings off hard surfaces.
FAQ
How does the Automatic Feed Spool system advance line on these trimmers?
The Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) mechanism operates via centrifugal force and motor engagement rather than manual ground impacts. When the cutting line wears down and shortens, the decreased centrifugal drag triggers an internal spring-loaded lever to release an incremental length of monofilament string automatically. This design keeps the cutting path at its optimal width without requiring you to bump the tool head against hard paving or lawn soil.
Can I use a 20V MAX battery in a 40V MAX string trimmer?
No, BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX batteries are not compatible with 40V MAX outdoor tools. The 40-volt battery architecture uses a completely different physical terminal configuration, internal cell count, and casing dimension to supply higher electrical potential. To operate a 40V string trimmer, you must use an authentic BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX lithium-ion battery pack.
What is the functional difference between the LST136 and LST140C models?
The LST136 features a PowerCommand speed adjustment dial and an adjustable telescoping pole shaft, allowing operators to choose between maximum power or extended battery runtime while adjusting shaft height. The LST140C provides single-speed operation paired with a lighter 6.4-pound overall chassis and a wall-mountable charging dock, making it a simpler, lighter tool for basic property maintenance.
How do these cordless string trimmers convert into lawn edgers?
Converting these trimmers into lawn edgers requires releasing a mechanical locking collar or turning the shaft assembly 180 degrees. This motion rotates the cutting string from a horizontal plane parallel to the turf into a vertical plane. When turned upright, the spinning monofilament cuts straight trench lines between turf grass and solid hardscapes such as concrete sidewalks, patio pavers, and curbs.
What type of replacement line do these BLACK+DECKER trimmers use?
These trimmers utilize standard 0.065-inch diameter nylon monofilament trimmer line. The tools are designed to work with pre-wound AF-100 replacement spools, which measure 30 feet in length and slot directly into the cutting head without requiring manual line threading or hand winding.