Outdoor Power Tools
Greenworks vs RYOBI String Trimmer: 80V Gen 2 vs 40V Attachment Capable
Quick answer
Buy the RYOBI 40V Attachment Capable kit if you own no batteries yet: the box includes the 4.0Ah battery and charger, and the power head accepts edger and other attachments. Buy the Greenworks 80V 16 in. Gen 2 only if you already own Greenworks 80V batteries, because it ships as a bare tool.
Greenworks 80V 16 in. Brushless String Trimmer Gen 2 (tool only)
Under $250A 16 in. brushless head on the 80V platform, sold as a bare tool.
Best for: Greenworks 80V owners replacing a gas trimmer
Check price on AmazonRYOBI 40V Attachment Capable String Trimmer Kit with 4.0Ah Battery
Under $250A 13 to 15 in. trimmer that takes edger and other attachments, sold with a 4.0Ah battery and charger.
Best for: homeowners who want one power head for trimming plus add-on attachments
Check price on AmazonThese two trimmers are not sold the same way, and that decides most of the price. The Greenworks 80V 16 in. Brushless String Trimmer Gen 2 (tool only) (under $250) has no battery or charger in the box, while the RYOBI 40V Attachment Capable String Trimmer Kit with 4.0Ah Battery (under $250) comes complete with a 4.0Ah pack and charger. Add a battery to the Greenworks and the two end up in a different price tier.
On the yard side, the Greenworks cuts a 16 in. swath, and the RYOBI adjusts from 13 to 15 in. to trade width for runtime. Use the lawn size calculator to see how much trimming a lot your size really needs.
How do the Greenworks and RYOBI string trimmers compare on specs?
The Greenworks has the wider cutting path and the higher-voltage platform; the RYOBI has the attachment system and a complete kit.
| Factor | Greenworks 80V Gen 2 | RYOBI 40V Attachment Capable |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Greenworks 80V | RYOBI 40V |
| Cutting width | 16 in. | 13 to 15 in., adjustable |
| Battery and charger | Not included | 4.0Ah battery and charger included |
| Runtime claim | Up to 60 minutes on a 2Ah battery | Depends on the 4.0Ah pack and width setting |
| Attachments | Not listed on this model | Accepts RYOBI Expand-It and other universal attachments |
| Start | Push-button start | Variable speed trigger |
| Warranty | 4-year tool warranty | Check RYOBI terms on the listing |
| Budget | under $250 bare tool | under $250 with battery and charger |
Specs from the Greenworks and RYOBI Amazon listings. Confirm what is in the box before you buy.
Which should you choose, Greenworks or RYOBI?
Choose the RYOBI 40V Attachment Capable kit if:
- You have no batteries yet and want one box that works today.
- You want one power head that also runs an edger or other attachments.
- Your yard is small to medium and a 13 to 15 in. swath is plenty.
Choose the Greenworks 80V Gen 2 if:
- You already own Greenworks 80V batteries and chargers, so the bare tool is all you need.
- You want the wider 16 in. swath for long fence lines and larger lots.
- You want a 4-year tool warranty and push-button starting.
Which battery platform is better, Greenworks 80V or RYOBI 40V?
Neither is universally better. Greenworks 80V is built for higher-power yard tools such as mowers, blowers and the Greenworks 80V hedge trimmer kit. RYOBI 40V covers a wide range of outdoor tools, including the RYOBI 40V HP hedge trimmer, and RYOBI's separate 18V ONE+ batteries do not fit 40V tools. Pick the platform that matches the tools you already own or plan to buy, and compare against straight vs curved shaft and string trimmer vs edger.
The trimmers and batteries to consider
The two trimmers, plus the same-platform hedge trimmers. More in the best string trimmers roundup.
RYOBI 40V Attachment Capable String Trimmer Kit with 4.0Ah Battery
Under $250Ships with the 4.0Ah battery and charger, with a 13 to 15 in. adjustable swath and attachment support.
Best for: a first cordless trimmer
Check price on AmazonGreenworks 80V 16 in. Brushless String Trimmer Gen 2 (tool only)
Under $250A 16 in. brushless head with push-button start and a 4-year tool warranty, sold as a bare tool.
Best for: adding a trimmer to an 80V set
Check price on AmazonFrequently asked questions
Is Greenworks or RYOBI better for a string trimmer?
It depends on what you already own. The RYOBI 40V kit includes the battery and charger and accepts attachments, which suits a first purchase. The Greenworks 80V Gen 2 cuts a wider 16 in. path but is sold as a bare tool.
Does the Greenworks 80V trimmer come with a battery?
No. The listing states the battery and charger are not included, so you need an 80V battery and charger as well.
Can I use RYOBI 18V batteries in the RYOBI 40V trimmer?
No. RYOBI 18V ONE+ batteries and 40V batteries do not interchange.
Which has the wider cutting path?
The Greenworks cuts 16 in. The RYOBI adjusts from 13 to 15 in.
Researched, not professional advice. This page is compiled from published specifications, manuals, labels and owner-review consensus, not hands-on testing. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and product label, and consult a qualified professional where safety, chemicals, fuel or structures are involved.
