I remember the frustration vividly. My first home had what the real estate agent charitably called a “courtyard garden.” In reality, it was a patchwork of grass no bigger than a large area rug, punctuated by awkward flower beds, a narrow side path, and a postage-stamp front lawn. Firing up my neighbor’s borrowed 21-inch gas-powered beast felt like bringing a cannon to a knife fight. It was deafening, smelly, and impossible to maneuver around the tight corners. I’d spend more time wrestling the mower into position than actually cutting grass. For a while, I resorted to just using a string trimmer, but the result was a choppy, uneven mess that screamed “amateur hour.” I needed a single tool that could mow, trim, and edge without the overkill, the noise, or the storage nightmare. This is a common story for millions living in townhouses, condos, or homes with small, complex yards, and finding the right solution is key to enjoying, not enduring, your outdoor space.
- 3 tools in 1, easily converts from mower to trimmer to edger
- AFS automatic feed system ensures continuous work without bumping and having to stop. Ideal property size 750 square feet
- Power drive transmission prevents bogging down. Cutting heights: 1.6 2.4 inches
What to Consider Before Buying a Cordless Combination Lawn Tool
A cordless combination lawn tool, like the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer, is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for modern, compact living. It’s designed to eliminate the common pain points of traditional lawn care: the storage space consumed by multiple large tools, the hassle of maintaining gas engines, the tangle of extension cords, and the sheer physical effort of wrestling heavy equipment. The primary benefit is efficiency and convenience. By integrating a mower, trimmer, and edger into one lightweight, battery-powered unit, it streamlines the entire lawn maintenance process. It empowers users to achieve a manicured look in small spaces with a single, easy-to-manage device, turning a multi-step chore into a quick, quiet, and straightforward task.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the challenges of a small or unconventional yard—think properties up to 750-1,000 square feet, terraced gardens, steep slopes, or lawns with numerous obstacles like trees and pathways. It’s a perfect fit for new homeowners on a budget who can’t invest in three separate tools, seniors or individuals with physical limitations who need something lightweight and easy to start, or anyone who simply despises the noise and fumes of gas equipment. Conversely, this tool is not suitable for those with large, open properties. If you have a quarter-acre or more of uninterrupted turf, the 12-inch cutting width and 20V battery system would be inefficient and frustrating. For those larger spaces, a traditional self-propelled gas mower or a higher-voltage, wider-deck cordless mower would be a much better investment.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: The single biggest advantage here is the compact footprint. At just under 10 pounds and with a detachable base, the entire system can be stored on a shelf or hung on a garage wall. Compare this to a bulky push mower that hogs valuable floor space. Consider your storage situation and the maneuverability you need for your specific yard layout. A 12-inch cutting width is nimble but requires more passes than a 20-inch+ mower.
- Capacity/Performance: Power and runtime are paramount. A 20V battery system is suitable for light-to-medium tasks. The key here is the inclusion of two batteries, effectively doubling your runtime if you keep one on the charger. The cutting height adjustment (1.6″ to 2.4″) is limited but adequate for most common grass types. Critically assess the thickness and height of your typical grass; this tool excels at maintenance cuts, not reclaiming an overgrown jungle.
- Materials & Durability: The construction is primarily durable plastic with an alloy steel shaft. This is a deliberate trade-off. The plastic keeps the unit incredibly lightweight and rust-proof but can feel less substantial than an all-steel mower deck. While some users initially perceive it as “toy-like,” its performance often belies its appearance. For its intended use in small areas, this level of durability is perfectly sufficient.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: This is where combination tools shine. There’s no gas, no oil, no spark plugs, and no pull cords. You simply charge and go. Features like the Automatic Feed System (AFS) for the trimmer line eliminate the frustrating “bump-feeding” process. The tool-free conversion between modes is a major usability win. Long-term care involves little more than keeping the tool clean and charging the batteries.
Keeping these factors in mind, the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer stands out in several areas, particularly for its target audience. You can explore its detailed specifications and features here.
While the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer is an excellent choice for its specific niche, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For those with larger yards who may need more power, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Effortless Power for ½ Acre Yards- Experience gas-like performance without the hassle—35 minutes of continuous runtime from a single 4.0Ah battery (full charge in 2 hours). Perfect for small to...
- POWERED BY A RELIABLE B&S ENGINE: Equipped with a powerful 140cc B&S engine, known for its smooth start-up, consistent performance, and long-term durability—ideal for tough mowing jobs.
- Powerful & Easy-Start Gas Engine: Get going quickly with the reliable 144cc 4-stroke OHV engine on this gas lawn mower. Features a convenient primer button for simplified cold starts, delivering...
First Impressions: Unboxing a Versatile Lightweight
Upon arrival, the box for the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer is surprisingly compact and light. Our immediate thought was, “Can something this small really mow a lawn?” The unboxing process confirmed this lightweight philosophy. Assembly was an absolute breeze, taking less than five minutes with no tools required. We simply snapped the guard onto the trimmer head and attached the auxiliary handle. That’s it. Many users echo this sentiment, praising how it’s ready to go almost straight out of the box.
Holding the string trimmer unit, it feels balanced and comfortable. The materials are undeniably plastic, from the motor housing to the mower deck. One user described the mower base as “super cheesy,” and we can understand that initial reaction. It doesn’t have the heft of a traditional steel deck. However, the plastic is thick and seems robust enough for its purpose, and the locking mechanism that holds the trimmer feels secure. The true “aha” moment comes when you click the trimmer into the mower base. The transformation is simple and intuitive, creating a tiny, agile mower that feels more like a small vacuum cleaner than a piece of yard equipment. The package includes the string trimmer, the detachable mower deck, two 20V MAX* Lithium Ion batteries, a charger, and a spool of trimmer line—everything needed to tackle the yard immediately.
Key Benefits
- Incredibly lightweight and easy to maneuver in tight spaces
- Versatile 3-in-1 design saves money and storage space
- Tool-free conversion between mower, trimmer, and edger
- Includes two batteries for extended, continuous runtime
Drawbacks
- Limited battery life (approx. 20 minutes per battery)
- Not powerful enough for large, dense, or wet lawns
A Deep Dive into the BLACK+DECKER MTC220’s Real-World Performance
A tool can look good on paper, but the real test is how it performs under pressure in the yard. We put the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer through its paces on a variety of tasks, from standard mowing on a small patch of turf to navigating tricky slopes and defining crisp edges along a concrete path. We wanted to see if this all-in-one concept was a brilliant innovation or a master of none.
The 3-in-1 Transformation: A Seamless Workflow
The core promise of this tool is its versatility, and we found the execution to be brilliant. The transition between functions is the star of the show. To go from trimming to mowing, you simply hold the trimmer over the mower deck and step down. It clicks into place with a satisfying thud. Releasing it is just as easy: a press of the large orange foot pedal frees the trimmer instantly. We were able to mow a small lawn, pop the trimmer out to clean up around a mailbox, rotate the head to edge the driveway, and then click it back into the mower base to store it, all in one seamless flow.
This functionality is a game-changer for small, complex yards. Instead of lugging three different tools out of the garage, you have one lightweight unit that adapts on the fly. We noticed a few user reports mentioning the trimmer occasionally popping out of the base when lifted to turn. We tried to replicate this and found it only happened if we were careless and accidentally bumped the release pedal. With mindful use, the connection was secure throughout our testing. This single-tool approach not only saves time but also fundamentally changes the mental energy required for lawn care. It transforms it from a series of distinct, heavy-duty chores into one light, continuous activity.
Mowing Performance: The Little Mower That Could
Let’s be clear: this is not a replacement for a 40V or gas-powered mower on a half-acre lot. But for its intended purpose—properties up to 750 square feet—its performance is genuinely impressive. We tested it on a 25 ft by 10 ft patch of Kentucky grass that was slightly overgrown. The POWERDRIVE™ transmission, designed to prevent bogging down, worked surprisingly well. The motor maintained a consistent speed even as it hit thicker patches, something entry-level cordless tools often struggle with.
The 12-inch cutting width is narrow, meaning more passes are needed, but this is also what makes it so agile. We could easily mow narrow strips of grass between flower beds that a larger mower could never reach. The two cutting height adjustments (1.6 inches and 2.4 inches) are simple to change by raising or lowering the wheels on the deck. While we would appreciate a third, higher setting, the 2.4-inch option provided a clean, healthy cut for our test lawn. We were particularly impressed with its ability to handle tall grass. One user reported tackling 10-inch high grass, and we found that with a couple of slow passes, the MTC220 could indeed bring an overgrown patch back under control. For anyone with a small yard who wants a neat, manicured look without the hassle of a traditional mower, this compact mowing solution is remarkably effective.
Trimming and Edging with Surprising Precision
Once detached from the mower deck, the LST220 string trimmer unit stands strong on its own. The Automatic Feed System (AFS) is a fantastic feature that eliminates the need to bump the trimmer head on the ground to release more line. The tool senses when the line is short and automatically advances it, which led to a continuous, frustration-free trimming experience around fence posts and garden borders. The unit is lightweight, and the adjustable handle allows you to find a comfortable and balanced posture, reducing fatigue.
To switch to edging mode, a quick twist of the shaft rotates the cutting head 90 degrees. A metal wire guide flips down to help you maintain a consistent distance from sidewalks and driveways, preventing you from scalping the lawn or hitting the concrete. The result was a surprisingly clean and professional-looking edge. The only minor ergonomic gripe we share with some users is the trigger system. You must depress a safety button while simultaneously pulling the trigger, which can cause hand fatigue during long trimming sessions. However, for the short bursts of trimming and edging required in a small yard, we found it perfectly manageable. It’s this dual-functionality that truly elevates the MTC220 from a simple mini-mower to a complete lawn maintenance system.
Battery Life and Power Management Strategy
The most common concern with any cordless tool is runtime, and this is a critical aspect of the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer. Each of the two included 20V MAX* 2.0Ah batteries provided us with about 20-25 minutes of continuous use, depending on the task. For light trimming, we got closer to 25 minutes; for mowing thicker grass, it was nearer to 20. This confirms the reports from many users. On its own, 20 minutes isn’t long, but the inclusion of a second battery is the key.
The strategy is simple: one battery in the tool, one in the charger. By the time the first battery is depleted, the second is either fully charged or has enough juice to finish the job. We were able to mow and trim a 700 sq ft yard completely by swapping the batteries once. A user with a much larger combined yard (4,200 sq ft) noted they could complete the whole area with three batteries (the two included, plus one from another B+D tool). This highlights another major advantage: the batteries are part of the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* ecosystem, so they can be shared with dozens of other power tools and outdoor equipment. This smart power management system turns a potential weakness into a workable and efficient solution.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, user feedback confirms our findings: this is a highly specialized tool that is beloved by its target audience. The overwhelming sentiment is one of pleasant surprise. Many, like one user who initially thought “This thing is a toy,” were won over by its actual performance. A woman with physical limitations described it as a “game-changer,” finding it as easy to use as a vacuum cleaner, which allowed her to maintain a steep, difficult yard on her own.
Positive comments consistently praise its lightweight design, ease of assembly, and the sheer convenience of the 3-in-1 system. One reviewer celebrated that it paid for itself in a single use compared to what their lawn service was charging. Another found it perfect for mowing under low-hanging fruit tree branches and blueberry bushes where a riding mower couldn’t go.
The constructive criticism is just as consistent and provides a balanced picture. The most frequent complaint is the short battery life, though most agree that the inclusion of two batteries makes it manageable. A few users have had issues with the trimmer not staying securely in the mower base, and some wish for a higher cutting height setting. These critiques are valid and highlight that the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer is a purpose-built tool, not a one-size-fits-all solution for every lawn.
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 how it stacks up against more traditional options. If your needs fall outside of its specific strengths, one of these alternatives might be a better choice.
1. Greenworks 40V 20″ Twin Blade Mower 4.0Ah + 2.0Ah Battery
- CORDLESS 20” LAWN MOWER – Get more done, faster, with Greenworks electric lawn mowers. This 40V push mower provides the power you need with up to 45 minutes of run-time on a fully charged 4.0Ah...
- LIGHTWEIGHT, EASY TO USE – a lightweight 20” cutting deck allows for easy maneuvering through small to medium yards (up to ½ acre) more efficiently
- TWIN BLADES - offer better cut quality, superior mulching, and bagging capabilities
If you love the idea of cordless electric but have a more traditional, medium-sized lawn (up to 1/2 acre), the Greenworks 40V mower is a significant step up in power and capability. Its 20-inch steel deck and twin blades provide a wider, more efficient cut, drastically reducing mowing time. It offers more power for tackling thicker, denser grass varieties. The trade-off is that it is strictly a mower; it lacks the integrated trimming and edging functions of the MTC220. It’s also significantly heavier and requires more storage space. This is the choice for someone who prioritizes mowing power over all-in-one versatility.
2. Greenworks 60V 17″ Push Lawn Mower 4.0Ah Battery
- Powerful Electric Lawn Mowers - Experience the freedom of cordless mowing with this 60V battery powered lawn mower, delivering up to 40 minutes of runtime on a fully charged 4.0Ah battery. Recharge...
- Advanced Brushless Motor - The high-efficiency brushless motor provides superior power and extends the mower’s longevity. It ensures consistent performance, allowing you to tackle even the toughest...
- Versatile Cutting Options- 6-position height adjustment ranges from 1.5" to 3.15". The 2-in-1 feature enhances versatility, allowing for both mulching and rear bagging, adapting to your lawn care...
The Greenworks 60V mower represents another leap in performance, designed for the serious suburban homeowner who wants to ditch gas without sacrificing muscle. The 60V platform and brushless motor deliver power comparable to gas engines, and it includes features like 2-in-1 mulching and bagging capabilities, which the MTC220 lacks. Its 17-inch deck strikes a good balance between maneuverability and efficiency. This is the best option for someone with a standard suburban lawn who wants a premium, powerful, and feature-rich cordless mowing experience and already has separate tools for trimming and edging.
3. Scotts 2000-20S 20-Inch Push Reel Lawn Mower
- Classic Scotts 20 inch push no-motor manual reel rotary lawn mower features 20" cutting width, 5-blade ball bearing reel, and 10" dual tracking wheels
- Quick-snap 1"-3" cutting height adjustment for a clean, even cut every time with this Scotts classic hand push reel rotary 20 inch lawn mower
- Blades on the Scotts classic hand push reel rotary 20 inch lawn mower are made of quality, heat-treated alloy steel for staying sharp longer
For the ultimate eco-friendly and quiet solution, the Scotts Push Reel Mower is in a class of its own. It uses no gas, no oil, and no batteries—just your own physical effort. It provides a scissor-like cut that is exceptionally healthy for the grass. With a 20-inch cutting width, it’s surprisingly efficient on flat, well-maintained lawns. However, it struggles with tall weeds, uneven terrain, and twigs. This alternative is perfect for the environmentally conscious user with a small to medium, relatively flat lawn who enjoys the exercise and simplicity of a manual tool. It’s the antithesis of the MTC220’s powered convenience.
Our Final Verdict: A Niche Product That Hits a Home Run
After extensive testing, it’s clear that the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer is not trying to compete with large, powerful lawn mowers. Instead, it brilliantly solves a very specific set of problems. It is, without a doubt, the ultimate lawn care solution for anyone with a small yard, a townhouse garden, a steeply sloped area, or a lawn cluttered with obstacles. Its incredibly lightweight design, effortless 3-in-1 conversion, and battery-powered convenience remove nearly every barrier to maintaining a neat and tidy outdoor space.
While the limited battery life and plastic construction are valid considerations, they are logical trade-offs for its portability and affordability. The inclusion of two batteries effectively negates the runtime issue for its intended yard size. This isn’t a tool for a sprawling estate; it’s a precision instrument for the modern compact landscape. If you’ve been struggling with a bulky mower for your small space or trying to get by with just a trimmer, this product is the elegant, efficient, and enjoyable solution you’ve been looking for.
If you’ve decided the BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 String Trimmer is the right fit for your yard, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API