I’m still using it—in fact, I got rid of my corded blower and haven’t missed it at all. I’m now reviewing the new EGO Power+ 15” POWERLOAD String Trimmer and let’s just cut to the chase. In fact, it’s better than my trusted Stihl gas trimmer in every way—except for usage time. The Powerload Ego Powerload String and carbon fiber shaft features are really nice. However, it’s also the performance of this string trimmer that has consistently kept it on top of our ratings since its launch. EGO made a couple of major leaps forward in string trimmer technology with their ST1520 model.
The quick handle adjust also makes it easy to change the grip, if you use the trimmer as an edger. Along with my now shelved Stihl gas trimmer, I have an older corded electric trimmer that I’ve almost never used for one main reason—and it’s not the cord. There is no variable speed trigger like gas models have. Chalk up another win for EGO, because the POWERLOAD String Trimmer has a variable speed control that works just like a gas trimmer.
In 2021, a tree worker borrowed it in a pinch and was impressed with how easy it was to use. In general, we were impressed with how all of the attachments performed when attached to the cordless tool. The Ego ST1521S is very similar to our main pick, but it lacks the telescoping shaft and quick handle adjustment.
We think the vast majority of people will be able to get by with a cordless string trimmer. But in some extreme cases, the nonstop power of a gas model is a better fit . For this, we like the Echo SRM-225 String Trimmer. It’s normally priced comparably to the Ego ST1521S, so it’s on the low side for a high-quality Ego Powerload String gas trimmer. In our own tests, the Echo handled waist-high weeds and 3-foot-tall grass with no problem, and it has a tremendous amount of positive feedback on Home Depot’s website. Compared with other cordless trimmers, the Ego ST1511T Power+ String Trimmer with Powerload is on a different level.
Not all options listed available on pre-owned models. Priced at just $199 with a 2.5 Ah battery included, EGO is looking for this to be a competitive model in the residential and commercial markets. It’s covered by both a 5-year tool warranty and a 3-year battery warranty. The build quality of most of the battery operated chainsaws, trimmers, blowers that I’ve held do not feel very skookum. I’d like to see them bring out an attachment system capability with the CF shaft but I wonder how the real weight savings over the AL shafted products actually is.
We apologize for the inconvenience and are working to get this product back in stock. You can still receive delivery on qualifying items for a fee. Delivery is limited to the member’s residence, which must be within the local Participating Beta Test Program Retailer’s delivery service area. Not all merchandise is eligible for delivery from all Participating Beta Test Program Retailers.