BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 12 Inch Weed Eater Cordless String Trimmer and Wheeled Edger Lawn Tool with Spool, 2.5Ah Battery and Charger…
Best for
Best budget
Amazon rating
Amazon aggregate, one input among many in the Verdict Score
Based on 2 trusted sources
Current price
$89.95
Updated May 16, 2026 · 1 min read
Sources behind this verdict
10 reviewers weighted by source trust
The consensus
What reviewers found
Synthesized across the trust-weighted source mix below.
Across the reviewers we read, the Black+Decker LST522 is the consensus budget cordless pick. The Amazon sample of more than 6,300 reviews at 4.5 stars is large and stable, and r/BuyItForLife threads include owners reporting 13–15 years of service from older Black+Decker trimmers in the same family — unusual longevity for a sub-$100 tool. On r/BatteryLawnTools, one owner specifically pairs it with a heavier 60V trimmer for finish work, calling it easy to control and precise.
What reviewers liked
- 4.5-star Amazon average across more than 6,300 verified-purchase reviews
- r/BuyItForLife threads cite remarkable long-term durability of the Black+Decker line
- Light weight and 2-speed control praised for precision on r/BatteryLawnTools
- Shares batteries with a large Black+Decker 20V Max ecosystem
Where it falls short
- r/Tools owners report the auto-feed mechanism failing after light use
- Homedepot.com reviewers say it bogs down in thicker growth
- 12-inch swath and 2.5Ah battery limit coverage per charge
- Reviewers note long recharge times relative to newer competitors
Across the reviewers we read, the Black+Decker LST522 is the consensus budget cordless pick. The Amazon sample of more than 6,300 reviews at 4.5 stars is large and stable, and r/BuyItForLife threads include owners reporting 13–15 years of service from older Black+Decker trimmers in the same family — unusual longevity for a sub-$100 tool. On r/BatteryLawnTools, one owner specifically pairs it with a heavier 60V trimmer for finish work, calling it easy to control and precise.
The honest counter-signal comes from a recent r/Tools thread where an owner of the closely related LSTE525 reports the auto-feed mechanism failing after light use, with the line no longer advancing automatically. Homedepot.com reviewers echo that the tool is fine on light-to-medium tasks but bogs down on thicker growth. The 2.5Ah battery and 12-inch swath also limit how much yard you can cover per charge.
The synthesis: for small yards, detail trimming, or as a lightweight second tool on the 20V Max platform, it earns broad endorsement. Heavier-duty users should plan to step up a tier.
- Automatic Line Advancement
- The AFS system automatically dispenses trimmer line as you work, delivering uninterrupted performance with your Electric Weed Wacker
- Extended Battery Capacity
- The LBXR2520 battery offers 66% more runtime compared to standard models, ensuring your lawn trimmer keeps going through larger projects
- Dual Speed Control
- Easily switch between higher power for tough areas or longer runtime for extended jobs, optimizing results with this versatile lawn edger
- Enhanced Cutting Power
- PowerDrive Transmission boosts torque at the string, giving your grass edger the strength to tackle dense growth
- Effortless Conversion
- Quickly transform the tool from trimming to wheeled edging for clean lines along sidewalks and driveways
- Adjustable Comfort
- Enjoy customizable height and handle settings with a premium soft grip for improved control and comfort
- Premium Handle Grip
- Micro-texture handle design provides a secure, comfortable grip during use
- 20V MAX System Compatibility
- * Part of the 20V MAX* system, offering flexible power for a wide range of tasks
Our Black and Decker weed wacker is still going strong at 15+ years with heavy use. YMMV.
I have a Black & Decker 20v Weed Whacker, Model LSTE525 that is almost like new. I got it in late Nov 2024, used it a few times the first few weeks.
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“Honest Review” · BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer
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