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Discover if the Black & Decker 40V Max battery platform delivers for homeowners. We tested its string trimmers, blowers, mowers, and more for power, runtime, and value. Get scores, pros/cons, and tips to pick the right tool for your yard.
Quick Pick: Black & Decker 40V MAX 13 in. String Trimmer (LST522)
Ideal for small to medium yards needing reliable trimming without breaking the bank. Lightweight and easy to handle.
Explore top gardening options in our best gardening tools for beginners guide.
In the world of cordless outdoor power tools, the Black & Decker 40V Max battery platform offers an accessible entry point for weekend warriors and small-yard owners. Launched as a versatile system, it powers everything from string trimmers to lawn mowers with a single 2Ah battery size, making it simple to maintain one power source for multiple jobs. But does it punch above its weight in performance?
Our hands-on tests across seven core tools reveal a platform that's budget-friendly and widely available (found at major retailers like Home Depot and Amazon), scoring an overall 62/100. It's best for light-duty tasks—think suburban lawns under 1/4 acre—where affordability trumps raw power. If you're upgrading from manual tools or basic electrics, this could be your sweet spot. For larger properties, you might need something beefier.
Key highlights from our lab and field tests:
We've reorganized the evaluation into practical categories: tool performance, battery efficiency, and real-world usability. Plus, a comparison table to help you decide fast.
We put each tool through rigorous testing: runtime on a full charge, cutting power on 1/2-inch grass/weeds, noise levels (dB at 10 feet), and ease of use (1-10 scale). Here's how they stack up:
| Tool Model | Overall Score | Runtime (min) | Power (Cuts) | Weight (lbs) | Best For | Noise (dB) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LST522 (13" String Trimmer) | 65 | 25 | Medium grass/weeds | 7.5 | Edging & trimming | 85 |
| LST400 (12" String Trimmer) | 64 | 22 | Light grass | 6.8 | Small yards | 82 |
| LHT360C (20" Hedge Trimmer) | 58 | 28 | 3/4" branches | 8.2 | Bushes & shrubs | 88 |
| LSW40C (550 CFM Blower) | 60 | 20 | Dry leaves | 7.0 | Clearing patios | 90 |
| LCS1200 (12" Chainsaw) | 55 | 18 | 4" logs | 9.5 | Pruning small trees | 92 |
| LM2040 (20" Mower) | 62 | 30 | Up to 1/4 acre | 15 | Flat lawns | 86 |
Standout: The LST522 edges out competitors in balance, handling 0.065" line feeds smoothly for 25 minutes straight.
Check out our best gardening tools for beginners guide for more top-rated options.
At 2Ah capacity, these lithium-ion batteries prioritize portability over marathon sessions. In our tests:
Pro: Universal fit across tools—no adapters needed. Con: No high-capacity options like 4Ah or 6Ah for heavy users.
These lightweight trimmers shine for maintenance trimming.
LST522 Pros:
Cons:
Verdict (65/100): Great starter trimmer. Pair with our best gardening tools for beginners.
20" dual-action blades slice 3/4" branches cleanly.
Pros:
Cons:
Score: 58/100.
550 CFM moves leaves at 110 MPH.
Pros:
Cons:
Score: 60/100.
Tool-free chain tension for quick swaps.
**Pros:**n- Cuts 4" branches in 10 seconds.
Cons:
Score: 55/100.
20" deck with 3 height settings (1.5-3.5").
Pros:
Cons:
Score: 62/100. Ideal for flat, small lawns.
Platform-Wide Pros:
Cons:
Overall, it's a value play scoring 62/100—perfect for casual users, but pros may outgrow it.
No—runtime limits it to under 1/4 acre. Opt for higher-voltage systems for bigger properties.
Slower at 60-90 minutes vs. 30-45 on competitors, but cheaper chargers ($25).
Yes, within the 40V Max line only—not 20V or 60V.
LST522 trimmer for versatility and high scores.
Splash-resistant but not submersible—avoid heavy downpours.
Elevate your outdoor game with these guides:
Ready to tackle your yard? The 40V Max makes it easy and economical.
