BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer Review: The Ultimate Solution for Small, Tricky Lawns?

For years, I’ve battled with what I call “lawn islands”—those peculiar patches of green that defy conventional mowing. I’m talking about the narrow strip between the driveway and the fence, the small square of turf in the front yard, and the steeply sloped bank behind the house that feels more like a climbing challenge than a lawn. Dragging out my heavy, gas-powered mower for these small jobs felt like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut. It was loud, cumbersome, and frankly, overkill. I tried using just a string trimmer, but the result was a choppy, uneven mess that screamed “amateur hour.” This constant struggle left me frustrated, searching for a tool that was powerful enough to do the job, yet lightweight and versatile enough for the unique challenges of a compact, modern property.

What to Consider Before Buying a Compact Lawn Care System

A compact, multi-function tool like a 3-in-1 trimmer, edger, and mower is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for homeowners with specific yard maintenance needs. It addresses the common pain points of storing multiple large tools, the hassle of gas and oil, and the difficulty of maneuvering bulky equipment in tight spaces. The main benefits are efficiency, space-saving storage, and the convenience of having one tool that can handle the entire grooming process for a small yard—from the main patch of grass to the finishing touches along the edges. It transforms a multi-tool chore into a streamlined, single-session task, which is a huge win for anyone short on time or storage space. It truly simplifies yard work, which is why we’ve seen a surge in their popularity and have spent so much time testing them.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the exact challenges I described: living in a townhouse with a small yard, maintaining scattered patches of grass, or dealing with steep slopes and obstacles that make a traditional mower impractical. It’s also a perfect fit for individuals who value simplicity and lack the space for a shed full of equipment, or those with physical limitations who find heavy machinery difficult to manage. Conversely, this tool might not be suitable for those with large, sprawling lawns (typically over 1,000 square feet). The smaller cutting width and battery-dependent runtime would make mowing a large area a tedious, multi-day affair. For those users, a more powerful, dedicated walk-behind or riding mower would be a much more effective choice.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: Consider the total area of your lawn. The BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer is specifically designed for properties up to 750 square feet. Also, evaluate the cutting width (12 inches on this model). A narrower width is excellent for maneuverability in tight spots but will require more passes on open areas.
• Capacity/Performance: Battery voltage and capacity (Ah) are your primary metrics for cordless tools. The 20V MAX* system is a common platform, but the runtime per battery is critical. Look for kits that include two batteries, like this one, to minimize downtime. Also, consider features like a gear-driven transmission (like BLACK+DECKER’s POWERDRIVE™) which can significantly improve cutting power in thicker grass.
• Materials & Durability: Most of these tools are constructed from high-impact plastic to keep them lightweight. While durable for their intended use, they won’t withstand the same abuse as a steel-decked mower. Pay attention to the quality of the wheels, adjustment levers, and the locking mechanism that holds the trimmer in the mower deck, as these are key points of interaction.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: How easy is it to convert between modes? A tool-free system is essential for on-the-fly changes. For the trimmer function, an automatic line feed system (like the AFS®) is a must-have to avoid the frustration of manually bumping the head to advance the string. Long-term care is minimal—just keep it clean and the batteries charged.

This compact category offers incredible convenience, but it’s a specific solution for a specific problem. Understanding these factors will ensure you choose a tool that fits your yard, not one you have to fight with.

While the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer is an excellent choice for its niche, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, including more powerful self-propelled options for larger yards, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: A Deceptively Lightweight Powerhouse

Upon unboxing the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer, my initial thought echoed that of several users: “This feels like a toy.” The unit is astonishingly light, tipping the scales at just under 10 pounds. The construction is primarily a durable plastic, which contributes to its featherlight feel. Assembly was a breeze, taking less than five minutes with no tools required—simply snap the handle and guard into place on the trimmer. The mower deck is essentially a plastic base on four wheels that the string trimmer clicks into securely. At first glance, the whole setup seems almost too simple to be effective. However, once I clicked one of the two included 20V MAX* batteries into place, that skepticism began to fade. The unit feels balanced and the adjustable handle provides a comfortable, customized grip. It’s a far cry from the heavy, all-metal mowers of the past, but it’s this modern, lightweight approach that defines its purpose and its surprising capability.

Performance Deep Dive: Putting the 3-in-1 to the Test

A tool that promises to do three jobs must be judged on how well it performs each one. We didn’t just mow a patch of grass; we put the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer through a gauntlet of real-world scenarios, from tidy suburban lawns to neglected, overgrown patches and tricky inclines. Our goal was to discover where it excels and where it hits its limits.

The 3-in-1 Transformation: A Masterclass in Versatility

The core genius of the MTC220 is its transformational ability. Switching from mower to trimmer is brilliantly simple: you step on a foot pedal on the mower deck, and the trimmer unit releases instantly. To re-attach, you just line it up and press down until it clicks. This entire process takes less than five seconds. This isn’t just a gimmick; it’s a fundamental enhancement to the workflow of lawn maintenance. During our testing, we would mow the main section of a small yard, then in a single motion, pop the trimmer out to clean up around a mailbox and along a fence line. A quick rotation of the trimmer head turns it into an edger, allowing us to create a sharp, clean line along the driveway. There’s no walking back to the garage to swap tools. This seamless transition encourages a more thorough and complete job every time.

We did note some user feedback about the trimmer occasionally popping out of the base, especially when lifted to turn. In our experience, this only happened if the unit wasn’t clicked in with firm, authoritative pressure. When we made sure to hear that solid “click,” the trimmer stayed securely seated, even when navigating uneven terrain. The adjustable height deck, offering settings between 1.6 and 2.4 inches, is also controlled by a simple lever, adding to the overall ease of use. It’s this thoughtful, user-centric design that truly makes the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer feel like a cohesive system rather than separate parts bundled together.

Real-World Mowing Performance: Power Where It Counts

Let’s be clear: this is not designed to tackle a field of knee-high weeds. Its sweet spot is the maintenance of small lawns up to 750 sq. ft. Within that context, its performance is impressive. The POWERDRIVE™ Transmission is the key; it’s a gearing system that optimizes power from the motor to the cutting string, preventing it from bogging down in moderately dense grass. We tested it on a small front yard that had been left for about two weeks. The MTC220, set to its higher cutting height, powered through without issue, leaving a surprisingly even and clean cut. The 12-inch cutting path means more passes are needed compared to a standard 21-inch mower, but its incredible maneuverability makes up for it. We easily navigated around trees and garden beds in ways that would be impossible with a larger machine.

Where does it struggle? As confirmed by several user experiences, very tall (over 8-10 inches) or wet, heavy grass will challenge it. In these situations, we found it best to work more slowly or make two passes—an initial higher pass to take off the bulk, followed by a lower one to finish. This is a common trait for string-based mowers. However, for regular weekly or bi-weekly maintenance, the power is more than sufficient. One user successfully tackled overgrown Kentucky grass with a couple of passes, and another mowed grass over 10 inches high, confirming that with a little patience, the MTC220 can handle cleanup jobs beyond its everyday duties. This is the kind of real-world capability that makes it such a valuable tool for its target audience. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to gauge if its power meets your specific needs.

Battery Life and Cordless Freedom: The 20V MAX* System in Action

Cordless convenience is the main draw, but it lives and dies by battery performance. BLACK+DECKER wisely includes two 20V MAX* 2.0Ah Lithium Ion batteries with the MTC220. In our tests, each battery provided approximately 20 to 25 minutes of continuous runtime under a normal mowing load. This was consistent with user reports, many of whom found one battery was enough for a small front yard, or that the two combined could handle their entire property. For a 25ft by 10ft backyard, one user noted a single battery was almost enough even on very high grass. Another user with a combined 4,200 sq. ft. of lawn (well beyond the recommended size) managed the entire job with three batteries (the two included plus one from another B&D tool).

This highlights the strength of the B&D 20V MAX* ecosystem. If you own other tools from the lineup, you can build a collection of batteries to tackle larger jobs. The included charger takes a few hours to bring a depleted battery to full, so having the second one ready to go is essential for avoiding long interruptions. We were able to mow our test patch, trim the perimeter, and edge the sidewalk using just over one full battery charge. For the intended user with a small property, the supplied power is perfectly adequate and frees you completely from the hassle and hazard of extension cords or the maintenance of gasoline engines. The ability to just grab it, pop in a battery, and go is a transformative experience. You can always check the latest price and availability for this complete kit.

Ergonomics and User Experience: Like Vacuuming Your Lawn

Perhaps the most underrated feature of the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer is its exceptional ergonomics. Weighing under 10 pounds, it is effortless to push, pull, and carry. One reviewer aptly described using it as being “as easy as vacuuming,” and we couldn’t agree more. This is a game-changer for people who struggle with heavy equipment. We saw feedback from a middle-aged woman with physical limitations who found the tool manageable and easy to use, even with arthritic hands. The adjustable height and pivoting handle allow you to find a comfortable posture, reducing back strain.

The Automatic Feed System (AFS®) also contributes to a smooth experience. It senses when the line is short and automatically advances it, eliminating the need to stop and bump the trimmer head on the ground. It worked flawlessly in our tests. The only ergonomic drawback we and a few other users noted is that you have to continuously depress the trigger to keep it running. For very small jobs, this is a non-issue, but during a longer 20-minute session, it can cause some hand fatigue. Despite this minor point, the overall user experience is one of comfort, low effort, and surprising quietness. It makes lawn care feel less like a chore and more like a simple tidying-up task, which is a significant achievement and a feature that really sets it apart in the market.

What Other Users Are Saying

Our findings align closely with the broad consensus from other owners. The overwhelming sentiment is positive, with users praising the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer for being the perfect solution for small, awkward, or sloped yards where a traditional mower is impractical. One user celebrated, “I absolutely adore this mower/whacker! I have multiple small areas of grass that were once a pain to drag a heavy lawn mower over.” Another, who was initially skeptical, stated, “I took a chance and purchased this product. I have to say, I’m impressed because it does a great job.” The lightweight design is a recurring theme, with many, including one user with a neurological disorder, highlighting how its ease of use made yard work accessible to them again.

The criticisms are equally consistent and fair. The most common complaint is the limited battery life, although most agree that including two batteries largely mitigates this for the intended yard size. A few users mentioned the “cheesy” or “toy-like” plastic feel, but often conceded that it performed better than its appearance suggested. The other notable issue mentioned was the low cutting height, with one user performing a custom modification to raise the deck. This feedback is relevant because it frames the product correctly: it’s not a heavy-duty, all-purpose machine. It’s a specialized, lightweight tool that excels at its specific job.

How Does the MTC220 Compare to the Alternatives?

The BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer occupies a unique niche, but it’s important to understand what other options exist. Depending on your needs—whether you require more power, more tools, or more specialized functions—one of these alternatives might be a better fit.

1. Greenworks 5-Piece Garden Tool Set

If you’re starting from scratch and need a complete yard care arsenal, the Greenworks 5-Piece Garden Tool Set is a compelling option. It goes far beyond the MTC220’s scope by including a 20″ push mower, a string trimmer, a leaf blower, a chainsaw, and a hedge trimmer, all powered by a shared 48V (2x24V) battery system. This is a “whole-yard ecosystem.” You’re getting a more powerful, traditional push mower and a suite of other highly useful tools. The tradeoff is a significantly higher initial investment and the need for more storage space. This is for the homeowner who wants one cohesive, battery-powered system for every outdoor task, not just mowing a small patch of grass.

2. BILT HARD 16 Inch Electric Dethatcher Scarifier

This BILT HARD tool is not a mower and represents a different category of lawn care. A dethatcher or scarifier is a specialized machine designed to improve lawn health by removing the layer of dead grass (thatch) at the soil level, allowing water, air, and nutrients to penetrate the roots. This is an excellent tool for someone who is serious about achieving a lush, healthy lawn and already owns a mower. It is not an alternative for cutting grass but rather a supplementary tool for advanced lawn maintenance. If your primary goal is simply to cut your grass, the MTC220 is the correct choice; if your goal is to revitalize a tired, compacted lawn, this is the tool you need.

3. Greenworks 80V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower 4.0Ah

The Greenworks 80V Mower is a direct step up in power and capability, aimed at homeowners with medium to large lawns. Its 80V platform delivers gas-like power, the 21-inch steel deck covers ground much faster, and the self-propelled feature makes mowing effortless, especially on hills. This is a full-fledged replacement for a traditional gas mower. Someone would choose this over the MTC220 if their yard is simply too large for a 12-inch, battery-draining string trimmer mower. It offers more power, a wider cut, and premium features like LED lights, but it lacks the 3-in-1 versatility and lightweight maneuverability for very small, tight spaces.

The Final Verdict: Is the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Right for You?

After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer is a brilliantly designed and highly effective tool for a very specific user. If you have a small yard (under 750 sq. ft.), awkward patches of grass, steep slopes, or simply hate the noise, weight, and maintenance of traditional mowers, this product is an absolute game-changer. Its lightweight design, effortless transformation between modes, and surprising power make it a joy to use. It successfully turns a dreaded chore into a quick and easy task.

However, it is not for everyone. If you have a large lawn, you will find its 12-inch cutting path and battery life frustrating. But for the niche it was designed for—townhouses, small suburban lots, and properties with complex landscaping—it is arguably one of the best solutions on the market. It solves a real problem with an elegant and affordable design. If you’ve been struggling to find the right tool for your small space, we wholeheartedly recommend you give the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 a serious look; it just might be the perfect fit for your yard.