You’ll need many different tools to keep your yard in great shape in the summer, as devices like lawnmowers, pruners, chainsaws, hoses, and sprinklers all have their specific roles to play in keeping your lawn looking great.
A gas string trimmer is a crucial piece of this equation because it allows you to cut weeds and grass in places other tools can’t reach.
These units save you a lot of time and hassle because you can fire them up quickly and get to work without having to lug a heavy machine around the yard or pull your weeds by hand.
Here’s a look at some of the best gas string trimmers available today.
- Things to Consider When Buying Gas String Trimmers
- Top 10 Best Gas String Trimmers 2023
- 1. Best Overall Pick: Husqvarna 128LD Gas String Trimmer
- 2. Best Budget Pick: Remington RM25C Curved Shaft Gas String Trimmer
- 3. Best Premium Pick: Echo SRM-225 String Trimmer
- 4. Best 2-in-1: Craftsman WS235 Brush Cutter and String Trimmer
- 5. Most Powerful Lightweight Trimmer: Wild Badger Power WBP26BCI Grass Trimmer
- 6. Best for Commercial Use: Poulan Pro PR28SD Straight Shaft String Trimmer
- 7. Best for Home Use: Ryobi RY253SS Straight Shaft Weed Trimmer
- 8. Most Powerful Engine: HUYOSEN Grass String Trimmer
- 9. Best Fuel Efficiency: PROYAMA 2-in-1 Grass Trimmer and Brush Cutter
- 10. Easiest to Use: Troy-Bilt TB22 EC Curved Shaft String Trimmer
- Guide to Buying the Best Gas String Trimmers
- Wrapping Things Up
Things to Consider When Buying Gas String Trimmers
A gas string trimmer is a yard care product that helps you cut weeds and long grass in areas your lawnmower can’t reach. These units are smaller than lawnmowers, too. If you don’t want to go through the hassle of getting your mower out of the shed, you can quickly grab your trimmer and get right to it.
At the same time, there are many different types of gas string trimmers on the market, and you’ll make your selection based on how much use it’ll get, the size of your yard, and the amount of power you’ll need to get the job done.
Grabbing one of these products can make your life far easier because you won’t have to pull as many weeds by hand and it can remove grass from problem areas that are otherwise impossible to reach.
Power
One of the first things you’ll want to look at when choosing a gas string trimmer is the power of the motor. Manufacturers measure the engine’s power using CCs, which stands for cubic centimeters.
The number you’ll see associated with the engine represents the amount of air and fuel the motor’s cylinders can push through it.
For example, a string trimmer with 25ccs of power can push 25 cubic centimeters of the air-fuel mixture through the engine and generate the power correlating with that fuel usage.
Generally, the higher the CCs, the more powerful the engine. You can expect to pay a bit more for more CCs, but the motor will cut through thicker grass, weeds and even brush.
Cut Radius
The next aspect to consider when purchasing a string trimmer is the cut radius. The larger the cut radius you have, the more grass the trimmer can cut at one time.
If your trimmer has a 16-inch cut radius, it means the line extends about eight inches on each size, allowing you to cut 16 inches of grass at any given time. In the end, a higher cut radius can save you time because you’ll need fewer passes to get the job done.
Weight
The weight of your string trimmer is worth looking at because you’ll be hauling the tool around your yard as you cut grass and weeds. Heavier units might have larger motors and carry more fuel, making them better for larger yards or commercial applications.
At the same time, lighter units are easier to maneuver around the yard and won’t hurt your arms as much while you try to finish the work.
Newer string trimmers are far lighter than previous generations, and even extremely powerful products are now relatively light. Still, if you’re worried about not having the strength to carry the trimmer, going with a light product like the Troy-Bilt TB22 EC Curved Shaft String Trimmer is smart.
Line Thickness
When looking for a string trimmer line for your unit, you’ll likely see a few options at the hardware store. Generally, a thicker line cuts through larger weeds, but you’ll want to make sure it fits in your trimmer before you buy.
Most modern string trimmers work with multiple line sizes. For example, the Husqvarna 128LD Gas String Trimmer is compatible with .065-inch, .080-inch, and .095-inch line. Your trimmer will come with a pre-wound line, too, so it’s often best to purchase the same size that comes with the unit when you require more.
Curved or Straight Shaft
As you look through the available gas string trimmers on the market, you’ll see that some have curved shafts and others are straight.
What’s the difference?
In short, curved shafts are a little more compact than the straight ones, making them lighter, more stable, and easier to use. They have less torque, too, so you won’t generate the same amount of power.
The benefit of the straight shaft is that it has that additional torque for thicker grass and weeds. It can also get into hard to reach locations because it doesn’t have a curved shaft’s natural barrier.
It all comes down to personal preference for most users, particularly if you’re only using your trimmer in your yard. If you’re worried about ease of use, a curved shaft is the way to go. However, if power is more important, a straight shaft is your better option.
Ease of Starting
One thing to look for when selecting a gas string trimmer is how easily it starts. Experienced users know that these units can be a pain to start, even right out of the box.
Going with a trimmer that offers an easy-start technology like the Craftsman WS235 Straight Shaft Gas Powered Brush Cutter and String Trimmer can make the process a little more straightforward.
Vibration
You’ll encounter a decent amount of vibration when using your string trimmer, making it challenging to use for long periods. In many cases, the entire unit will shake as you use it, and your hands will start to tingle after a while.
The good news is that products like the Echo SRM-225 String Trimmer can generate a decent amount of power with a smaller motor. The result is less vibration and a more comfortable trimming experience.
Keep in mind that these lower-powered units won’t work as well on thick weeds and can’t cut brush, so make your purchase accordingly.
Top 10 Best Gas String Trimmers 2023
1. Best Overall Pick: Husqvarna 128LD Gas String Trimmer
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Power: 28cc
- Cut radius: 17 inches
- Weight: 10.8 pounds
The Husqvarna 128LD Gas String Trimmer is one of the top gas-powered options available because it generates a ton of power without being cumbersome. The product has a 17-inch cut radius, which is more than enough for most yards, and its detachable head makes it incredibly versatile. One potential issue is the carburetor, which often requires an adjustment out of the box to make the fuel mixture richer.
Key Features
With a 28cc motor, the Husqvarna 128LD Gas String Trimmer is powerful enough for thick grass and weeds. It’s also lightweight, making it easy to use, and starts up right away. You can add multiple attachments to the product, including pole saws, cultivators, and edgers, and its straight shaft allows it to generate more torque than its curved counterparts. However, you might find the shaft a bit short compared to other straight options on the market.
Verdict
Overall, it’s tough to bear the Husqvarna 128LD Gas String Trimmer’s combination of price, power, and weight. No other product on the market offers more bang for the buck, and the trimmer even compares favorably to more expensive options. The short length and carburetor are issues but are easy enough to work around when considering the benefits.
Pros
- Incredibly lightweight
- Easy to start
- Multiple attachments
Cons
- Short shaft
- The carburetor might need adjustments
2. Best Budget Pick: Remington RM25C Curved Shaft Gas String Trimmer
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Power: 25cc
- Cut radius: 16 inches
- Weight: 10.2 pounds
If you have a small yard, you won’t want to spend a whole lot on a string trimmer. That’s where the Remington RM25C Curved Shaft Gas String Trimmer comes in, as this product is under $90 and provides enough power for cut through even thick, long grass, although it will struggle with brush.
The product’s dual-line bump head means you won’t have to change the line very often, and its curved shaft and light weight make it easy to carry.
Key Features
For a budget product, the Remington RM25C Curved Shaft Gas String Trimmer starts up quickly and won’t give you any headaches when you try to fire it up for the first time. In fact, its motor will likely outlast many other gas-powered yard tools you have around the house. You might find the shaft a bit short, however, and there’s a fair amount of vibration when using it, which will cause discomfort after a while
Verdict
The Remington RM25C Curved Shaft Gas String Trimmer is an outstanding product for the price, particularly when you consider its 2-cycle motor’s quality. You wouldn’t want to use this trimmer on a large yard because of the vibrations and its small cut radius, but it’ll work well on a small yard for most people who give it a try.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Budget-friendly
- Solid motor
Cons
- Heavy vibrations
- Lacks power
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Power: 21.2cc
- Cut radius: 17 inches
- Weight: 12 pounds
The Echo SRM-225 String Trimmer is a commercial-grade product that is excellent for use on large yards. Despite only having a 21.2cc motor, this trimmer cuts through tall grass and brush easily and has excellent fuel efficiency, as well, thanks to its nearly 15-ounce capacity. The easy tap line works well, too, so you’ll rarely run out of string while cutting weeds or grass.
Key Features
A lightweight, fuel-efficient, and low vibration product like the Echo SRM-225 String Trimmer is perfect for homes with larger than average yards. The motor is more powerful than it sounds, and it’s even usable in commercial settings. With a 69-inch straight shaft, the Echo SRM-225 String Trimmer has more than enough length to get into difficult-to-reach areas.
Keep in mind that the product is a little expensive, and there’s a cap over the carburetor screws, so you can’t adjust the fuel mixture.
Verdict
If you can get past the price point and aren’t worried about adjusting the fuel richness, you can’t go wrong with the Echo SRM-225 String Trimmer. This product is good enough for professional lawn care companies, so it will handle any job you throw at it in a residential setting. The motor is powerful, yet low-vibration, and its fuel efficiency means you can go months without topping up, depending on your yard.
Pros
- Fuel efficient
- Surprisingly powerful
- Low-vibration
Cons
- Can't adjust the carburetor
- Expensive
4. Best 2-in-1: Craftsman WS235 Brush Cutter and String Trimmer
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Power: 27cc
- Cut radius: 18 inches
- Weight: 13 pounds
The Craftsman WS235 Straight Shaft Gas Powered Brush Cutter and String Trimmer is surprisingly light, considering the amount of power it produces, and is a versatile product that you can use on heavy brush as well as grass and weeds. Unfortunately, the nut that holds the trimmer’s head on is incredibly challenging to loosen, so you could have some problems when changing it for the first time.
Key Features
This product does everything well, as it effortlessly moves through weeds and grass because of its 27cc motor. The line is simple to replace, and the included shoulder strap makes it easy to haul around the yard. The 18-inch cut radius means you can make your cuts faster than with smaller trimmers, too.
Keep in mind that the larger motor makes the Craftsman WS235 Straight Shaft Gas Powered Brush Cutter and String Trimmer a little noisy to operate, which could be a consideration for residential buyers.
Verdict
The Craftsman WS235 Straight Shaft Gas Powered Brush Cutter and String Trimmer has a lot going for it because of its wide cutting path and robust motor. You won’t struggle to cut through anything with this product, assuming you can figure out how to change the head between string trimmer and brush cutter.
Pros
- Large 18-inch cut radius
- Very powerful
- Comes with a shoulder strap
Cons
- A little noisy
- Difficult to change trimmer heads
5. Most Powerful Lightweight Trimmer: Wild Badger Power WBP26BCI Grass Trimmer
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Power: 26cc
- Cut radius: 17 inches
- Weight: 12 pounds
The Wild Badger Power WBP26BCI Grass Trimmer is powerful enough for lawn care companies yet affordable for the average homeowner. The product features a 26cc motor and has a 17-inch cut radius, allowing it to make short work of yards with large, thick weeds. The trimmer also has an ergonomic trigger, making it easy to use, and a straight shaft that allows it to get into tight areas.
Key Features
You’ll find that the Wild Badger Power WBP26BCI Grass Trimmer has tons of power for its size, which is one reason for its popularity. It also has a removable head that you can replace with a brush cutting blade or other tools. The product starts quickly and comes with a six-year warranty for homeowners should anything go wrong.
However, you might find that the powerful engine causes heavy vibrations when using it. Despite its weight, it’s also a little bulkier than units like the Remington RM25C Curved Shaft Gas String Trimmer. As a result, you could struggle to maneuver it around your yard for lengthy periods.
Verdict
The Wild Badger Power WBP26BCI Grass Trimmer’s warranty is reason enough to give it a try because you won’t find many other products willing to give six years. It’s also a highly powerful unit, and if you can get past the vibrations and bulk, you’ll be incredibly impressed by its performance.
Pros
- Powerful engine
- Outstanding warranty
- Lightweight
Cons
- A little bulky
- Heavy vibrations
6. Best for Commercial Use: Poulan Pro PR28SD Straight Shaft String Trimmer
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Power: 28cc
- Cut radius: 17 inches
- Weight: 14 pounds
For a powerful and easy-to-use gas string trimmer, it’s tough to beat the Poulan Pro PR28SD Straight Shaft String Trimmer. This product has all kinds of cutting power, and its long shaft makes it an excellent option for taller users. The trimmer is heavier than many other products, and it’s challenging to load a new line into the unit when you run out.
Key Features
The Poulan Pro PR28SD Straight Shaft String Trimmer doesn’t have a choke, making it easy for less experienced individuals to start. It has automatic line feeding, a string-assisted pull cord, and a wide cutting path. All of this comes together to create one of the most accessible string trimmers on the market. And since the unit is compatible with six different attachments, it’s also one of the most versatile.
Verdict
Overall, the Poulan Pro PR28SD Straight Shaft String Trimmer has more than enough power and is a good choice for anyone with large weeds or without much experience using string trimmers. The unit is heavy, and loading the line is a bit of a pain, but if you can move past that, you can have a heavy-duty trimmer at a reasonable price.
Pros
- Solid motor
- Long shaft
- Easy to start
Cons
- Heavy construction
- Hard to load line
7. Best for Home Use: Ryobi RY253SS Straight Shaft Weed Trimmer
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Power: 25cc
- Cut radius: 18-inches
- Weight: 14 pounds
With its straight shaft, 22cc motor, and 18-inch cut radius, there’s a lot to like about the Ryobi RY253SS Straight Shaft Weed Trimmer. This trimmer gets into difficult-to-reach locations and is easy enough to lug around the yard because it isn’t overly bulky. You might find it challenging to start the unit for the first time, however, because the motor doesn’t respond well when cold.
Key Features
One feature you’ll love on the Ryobi RY253SS Straight Shaft Weed Trimmer is the easy-bump line dispenser. This addition ensures that you don’t run out of line in the middle of your job. You’ll also appreciate the removable head, as you can add new attachments to the shaft, including a brush cutter or blower, depending on the job you need to complete.
Verdict
The Ryobi RY253SS Straight Shaft Weed Trimmer is a decent product that will get the job done around your grounds. The unit is powerful and maneuverable but experiences problems with cold starts. It also has some durability concerns because of the plastic wingnuts you’ll use to assemble it. As a result, it isn’t recommended for heavy use or commercial settings.
Pros
- Adaptable trimmer head
- Strong motor
- Efficient bump head
Cons
- Has plastic parts
- Struggles to start
8. Most Powerful Engine: HUYOSEN Grass String Trimmer
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Power: 51.7cc
- Cut radius: 16 inches
- Weight: 18 pounds
As you can tell by looking at its 51.7cc motor, the HUYOSEN Grass String Trimmer never lacks for power. It can cut through all types of grass and weeds with its string line, or you can add its 3T blade when dealing with tall, thick weeds. The product is heavy, and the instructions are a bit of a challenge to decipher, but this unit is tough to beat for raw power.
Key Features
The HUYOSEN Grass String Trimmer comes with a harness and an ergonomic handle that makes it easier to tote around your premises. The weight is still a challenge, but the handle helps. The unit is excellent for heavy-duty applications, particularly if you have tough weeds that get thick early in the season or wild sections of property that don’t receive regular attention. The product is also surprisingly quiet when you factor in the high-powered engine.
Verdict
There’s a good chance the HUYOSEN Grass String Trimmer will be overkill on your property. Most yards don’t need 51.7cc power to keep them clear of weeds, so you might be better off with a lighter product like the Poulan Pro PR28SD Straight Shaft String Trimmer. However, if you have difficult weeds and other trimmers aren’t cutting it, this unit is a step up that can help you get the job done.
Pros
- Tons of power
- Multiple cutting heads
- Ergonomic handle
Cons
- Really heavy
- Confusing instructions
- Might be too powerful for some
9. Best Fuel Efficiency: PROYAMA 2-in-1 Grass Trimmer and Brush Cutter
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Power: 42.7cc
- Cut radius: Adjustable – 12 to 18 inches
- Weight: 20 pounds
Much like the HUYOSEN Grass String Trimmer, the PROYAMA 2 in 1 Extreme Duty Trimmer and Brush Cutter is loaded with power thanks to its 42.7cc motor. The unit comes with all kinds of accessories, including a brush blade, two grass blades, trimmer line, a harness, ear protection, safety glasses, and gloves, providing excellent value for buyers. However, the unit is heavy and made with plastic parts that tend to crack and break.
Key Features
If you need enough power to go through thick weeds, the PROYAMA 2 in 1 Extreme Duty Trimmer and Brush Cutter is worth a look. The product comes with multiple cutting heads, giving you numerous options, and its string trimming feature has an adjustable cutting radius, depending on the job at hand. The blades that come with the device are high-quality so that they won’t break down, and its surprising fuel efficiency means you can cut for hours.
Verdict
Those searching for a heavy-duty residential string trimmer might want to consider the PROYAMA 2 in 1 Extreme Duty Trimmer and Brush Cutter. This unit is a beast in both the positive and negative sense, so it really comes down to how comfortable you are with the additional weight. Durability is also a bit of a concern because there’s a lot of plastic on its exterior.
Pros
- Lots of power
- High-quality blades
- Fuel efficient
Cons
- Poor instructions
- Cheap plastic parts
- Really heavy
10. Easiest to Use: Troy-Bilt TB22 EC Curved Shaft String Trimmer
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Power: 25cc
- Cut radius: 17 inches
- Weight: 11 pounds
If you have a small yard or are worried about carrying a heavy string trimmer, the Troy-Bilt TB22 EC Curved Shaft String Trimmer is a reliable option. This product is light enough for most users, and its curved shaft makes it compact. However, there are issues with its 22cc engine as the product doesn’t always start. It also tends to stall when you don’t have your finger on the throttle trigger.
Key Features
For an inexpensive string trimmer with an assortment of features, have a look at the Troy-Bilt TB22 EC Curved Shaft String Trimmer. The product is usable with various attachments, and its engine is powerful enough to handle all types of grass and weeds. The design of the handle also cuts down on vibrations and user fatigue.
Verdict
The Troy-Bilt TB22 EC Curved Shaft String Trimmer is an inexpensive product that does an excellent job of cutting weeds and grass. Unfortunately, it doesn’t always start, and its performance can quickly degrade over time, as well. If you get a good unit and take care of it, you’ll be happy with your purchase. However, this isn’t a premium product like the Wild Badger Power WBP26BCI Grass Trimmer, so don’t expect too much out of it.
Pros
- Very light
- Good handle design
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Poor performance over time
- Doesn't always start
Guide to Buying the Best Gas String Trimmers
Before you buy a gas string trimmer, it’s a good idea to learn as much as possible about these products. That way, you can be confident that you end up with the right unit to meet your needs.
Those with a large yard or a commercial business will need a different product than someone with a condo-sized yard with a small patch of grass.
Why You Need a String Trimmer
- Maintaining a yard is challenging, as things begin growing in the spring and don’t stop until late in the fall. Much of the growth is unwanted, so coming up with a solution to the problem is essential to your home’s exterior appearance and health.
- Weeds, for example, seem to sprout up everywhere. Once you end up with an area with a massive weed population, you could spend days pulling them without getting very far. The same goes for long grass, which can make your yard unsightly, especially when there are areas you can’t access with a lawnmower.
- If you find yourself with uncontrolled growth in hard-to-reach parts of your outdoor space, a gas string trimmer is an excellent solution to your problem.
Before beginning your search for a gas string trimmer, you should figure out if you actually need one. These products are generally for getting into locations that your lawnmower can’t reach, including under decks, along fence lines, and against retaining walls. They also work well around gardens when you require more precision when cutting your grass.
You can benefit from a gas string trimmer if you have heavy weeds in areas that are difficult to reach. A high-powered trimmer can mow through these weeds quickly and efficiently, saving you a lot of time and hassle in the process.
Gas, Electric, or Battery-Powered
You should also consider the various types of string trimmers on the market before making your decision.
Gas string trimmers are the most powerful, durable, and portable products. Their internal combustion engines ensure that you can cut through even the thickest of weeds, and since you don’t have to worry about cords or batteries, you can take them anywhere with you. The one drawback is the noise, as they are the loudest of the bunch. They’re also the most challenging to start.
Electric string trimmers are far quieter than gas-powered units and start-up much more effortlessly because all you have to do is plug them in and press the trigger. At the same time, you’re always bound by the cord, making them less portable than gas string trimmers. They also have less power, so you could struggle to get through some weeds.
Battery-powered string trimmers are a relatively new addition to the market, and the technology is always evolving. These units are quiet, like the electric products, and some higher-end trimmers have a fair amount of power. Still, they don’t generate the power of a gas string trimmer, and you’ll have to deal with the hassle of keeping the battery charged, too. If the battery dies mid-job, you’re left waiting for the charge to complete to finish.
Mixing Gas and Oil
If you have a gas lawnmower, you know that they have a gas tank and a separate tank for the oil. That’s not the case with string trimmers, as you’ll have to mix the gas and oil before using them.
This process might sound complicated, but it isn’t. There’s a good chance your unit will come with the right amount of oil, so all you’ll have to do is mix it with regular fuel from the gas station at a 40:1 gas to oil ratio. Keep in mind that while most products on the market have that 40:1 rate, some, including the Echo SRM-225 String Trimmer, call for a 50:1 ratio.
Ensure you read the instruction manual that comes with your trimmer to determine the correct oil to gas ratio to use in your unit.
Using a Gas String Trimmers
Using a gas string trimmer begins by starting the motor. To do so, you’ll generally squeeze the primer bulb, adjust the choke, press the trigger, and pull the start cord. It usually takes a few pulls to get the engine going, although high-end products like the Husqvarna 128LD Gas String Trimmer tend to start a little quicker.
You’ll also want to take the necessary safety precautions before you begin. Make sure you’re wearing long pants and close-toed shoes because the weeds will more or less explode while you’re cutting them. You could end up with scrapes or cuts on your legs and feet if you aren’t careful. Eye and ear protection are also highly recommended.
Once you have the unit running, keep a firm grip on the product’s handle at all times. There’s a built-in safety feature that shuts the trimmer off if you let go of the trigger, but you still don’t want to drop it. You should also focus on your stance, as keeping your balance can help prevent injuries.
As you cut, you can adjust the line’s speed depending on how hard you push the trigger. You might not need the same level of power for smaller weeds as you would with a thick one.
Convertible String Trimmers
Depending on how you plan to use your trimmer, you might purchase a convertible product. Some units, including the Craftsman WS235 Straight Shaft Gas Powered Brush Cutter and String Trimmer, allow you to remove the head or part of the shaft and replace it with a different tool.
You can use these convertible units as a leaf blower, chainsaw, or brush cutter, giving you all kinds of adaptability when working in your yard.
Easy Tap Lines
Most modern string trimmers now come with easy tap lines. The gist is that rather than replacing the nylon line every time it wears out, you’ll put an entire spool inside the unit. Whenever your line starts getting short, which happens as you cut weeds, you’ll tap the product on the ground, and more will emerge.
Keep in mind that there’s a bit of a learning curve when setting up these easy tap lines. Follow the directions carefully for the best results.
Winter Storage
Finally, you’ll want to plan for winter storage before temperatures drop. That’s because leaving untreated fuel in your string trimmer during the winter can gum up the carburetor and damage the fuel lines.
You can leave your string trimmer inside or outside in the winter, depending on how much space you have. It’s always best to add a fuel stabilizer to the product when it’ll be sitting for a while because that makes it more likely that it’ll start up again in the spring.
It’s also a good idea to remove all of the fuel from the tank if you’ll be keeping it in an outdoor shed. You can leave the fuel in, however, if you’re storing it inside or even in a heated garage.
Adjust your winterization plan based on your available storage for the best results.
Wrapping Things Up
Taking care of your yard is essential because it improves your home’s curb appeal and makes it a more inviting place for guests. Having weeds and grass running wild in your yard makes the property as a whole less appealing and could be a source of embarrassment. Selecting a string trimmer with the right amount of power and maneuverability is vital because it ensures that it does its job at a high level and that you can effectively use it.