The 4-cycle weed eaters are known for their fuel efficiency and quieter operation. Also, they are more environment-friendly given the reduced emission, which makes them ideal for typical homeowners.
Moreover, with the best 4-cycle weed eater, you never have to go through the hectic process of mixing gas and oil.
But, to make sure you get a suitable model, it is vital to watch out for things like the actual engine capacity, cutting width, handle, and the tool’s overall weight.
There are more than enough 4-cycle weed eater options out there that deliver exceptional performance.
Here we make it easier to narrow down your choices by reviewing some top models and a comprehensive buying guide.
In this post:
4-Cycle Weed Eater Buying Guide – Everything You Need to Know
Before buying 4-cycle weed eater, you should check following things:
1. Engine
The engine on your 4-cycle weed eater is perhaps its most important attribute as it determines what the tool can handle and its efficiency.
Engine power is measured in cubic centimeters (cc), and the higher it is, the more the trimmer can handle. So if you have to do a lot of tough weed trimming jobs, you need a weed eater that is as powerful as possible.
You can get 4-cycle weed eaters with engines that are anything from 20 to 50cc or even larger. However, the larger the engine capacity, the pricier the trimmer. Therefore, you have to balance engine power and how much you are willing to spend.
2. Handle
A weed eater’s handle is a vital component because it facilitates handling and operation of the tool.
You will be looking for a trimmer with a well-positioned and comfortable handle so that it is easy on the hands during operation.
Trimmers with adjustable handles are ideal choices because they can be moved about to achieve an ideal fit for your hands.
When buying your weed eater, you can grab its handles with both arms to get a feel of it.
The handles should also be strong enough such that it won’t collapse or detach with the trimmer’s vibrations.
3. Cutting Width
A weed eater’s cutting width determines, to a greater degree, the machine’s efficiency. The largest width we reviewed was 18 inches.
Such a wide swath maximizes efficiency because you will be trimming a large area per cycle.
In contrast, weed eaters with lower widths, such as 10-inches, will cover a smaller area per cycle compared to those with larger widths.
It is worth noting that a large width requires longer cutting strings at the bump head. Hence, such a trimmer will use up more string resource over time compared to that with a lesser width.
4. Weight
Since you will be holding the trimmer or weed eater with your hands as you operate it, weight becomes an important consideration.
The heavier your trimmer is, the more difficult it will be to handle especially with extended usage. There is bound to be a significant difference between carrying a 25-pound trimmer versus a 10-pound one for the same amount of time.
When shopping for a trimmer, look for one that balances functionality and weight. While a lightweight one is ideal, make sure it still packs standard features such as large-capacity fuel tank, a wide cutting swath.
The only time a heavy trimmer may be more preferable is if it carries more fuel, features, and is suited for commercial use.
5. Brand
There are many brands offering high-quality weed eaters, some of which boast of advanced features such as electric starters, and many more.
The brand you choose will depend largely on its track record and how whether it offers the features you desire in a weed eater.
Some trimmer brands focus on power maximization, while others lean towards cutting efficiency, and easy of handling.
Some are boast of premium designs and features, which tend to cost a lot of money.
There is an unlimited selection of good brands that promise to meet all your trimmer needs and preferences.
5 Best 4-Cycle Weed Eaters Reviewed
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES |
|---|---|---|
 | 1. Husqvarna 967055801 (Best Overall) |
|
 | 2. Makita EM2652LHN (Premium Quality) |
|
 | 3. PowerSmart PS4531 (Most Powerful) |
|
 | 4. Ryobi RY4CCS (Lightweight) |
|
 | 5. Troy-Bilt TB575 (Easy-to-Start) |
|
1. Husqvarna 967055801 (Best Overall)
Photo: Husqvarna
- Engine: 25cc
- Cutting Width: 18 inches
- Weight: 17 pounds
Husqvarna 967055801 is the best overall weed eater designed for residential and commercial usage given its powerful 25cc 4-stroke engine, which runs on pure gas.
If you’re a landscaper and landowner, this trimmer is the ideal semi-professional workmate as it eliminates the need to mix gas and oil. The engine is equipped with a proprietary SmartStart system for quick and minimal effort starting.
The weed eater also cuts an impressive 18-inch swath. This is the largest cutting width of all the trimmers on our list. You can be assured of fast and efficient trimming with this machine.
It also offers some very intuitive controls such as the choke and air purge, while enable easy starting by eliminating air from the fuel system and carburetor. Another useful feature is the Tap ‘n Go trimmer head, which has a dual exit bump feed for ease of use and refilling.
Although the Husqvarna 967055801 trimmer will meet most of your professional weeding needs, its price is considerably high compared to other options on the market. At 17 pounds, it can also prove bulky to carry around especially for continuous usage.
Pros:
- Powerful engine for professional trimming
- Eliminates mixing oil and gas
- Easy and minimal effort
- Cuts wide swathes
Cons:
- Significantly pricier than rival trimmers
- Bulky especially for continuous usage
2. Makita EM2652LHN (Premium Quality)
Photo: Makita
- Engine: 25cc
- Cutting Width: 17 inches
- Weight: 18.5 pounds
Makita EM2652LHN is a premium string trimmer and weed eater, which boasts of a solid steel shaft, large fuel tank, and a multi-position lubrication system for reliable commercial performance.
The trimmer’s driveshaft is made of steel, which has been engineered to minimize vibration and extend the equipment’s durability. While this trimmer is sold and inflexible, it allows for efficient transfer of power from the engine to the trimmer head.
It comes fitted with a fuel tank whose capacity is a decent 20 fluid ounce (oz). The trimmer lasts for longer than you would expect because of its impressive fuel economy. The tank is also translucent, so you can monitor gas usage and anticipate a refill.
Another genius feature is a specially engineered primer, which helps during cold starting.
A unique multi-position lubrication system for the engine allows the trimmer to be used in multiple positions to address a major concern with 4-stroke engines, which do not mix oil and fuel.
Because of this lubrication system, you can even tilt the trimmer on its side and use it as an edger. The engine will also not cut out if you decide to raise it to trim a hillside or slope.
Makita EM2652LHN is true, a premium trimmer of commercial quality, but you get all that at a very steep price, which may prompt you to explore alternatives that offer as much value. You are also likely to become fatigued with extended usage because of its weight.
Pros:
- Solid steel drive shaft for vibration reduction
- Large fuel tank and impressive fuel efficiency
- Special primer for cold starting
- Efficient lubrication system
Cons:
- Very expensive compared to alternative
- Can produce fatigue during extended use
3. PowerSmart PS4531 (Most Powerful)
Photo: PowerSmart
- Engine: 31cc
- Cutting Width: 10 inches
- Weight: 25 pounds
PowerSmart PS4531 is the most powerful weed eater as it packs a massive 31cc, 4-stroke engine. The best part of this machine is that it is reasonably priced compared to all other less powerful options on our list.
The 4-stroke engine promises to produce more power at lower RPM. Because of the power produced by the 31cc engine, the trimmer can handle a thick line. RPMs are easy to vary, and the engine is notably quieter than other lower-power 4-stroke ones.
You can also use this trimmer as a brush cutter because it accepts accessories and attachments. It comes equipped with a 10-inch, 3-teeth cutting blade, which combines well with the powerful engine to cut through tough vegetation easily.
A 2-year limited warranty is offered with this trimmer, so you can be confident in its quality and reliability.
The PowerSmart PS4531 is the most powerful weed eater on our list, but by trimmer standards, it is very heavy at 25 pounds. If you will be stretching your arms out while using it, then you are bound to develop fatigue, especially during extended usage.
That said, a strap is included with the trimmer to enable ease of navigation and reduce strain on your arms.
Pros:
- Powerful 31cc engine
- Reasonably priced
- More power at lower RPMs
- Also works as brush cutter
Cons:
- Too heavy for extended usage
4. Ryobi RY4CCS (Best Lightweight)
Photo: Ryobi
- Engine: 30cc
- Cutting Width: 17 inches
- Weight: 10.5 pounds
Ryobi RY4CCS is the lightest 4-stroke weed eater on our list, weighing only 10.5 pounds. It is also big on power, packing a massive 30cc engine.
Compared to other models such as the PowerSmart PS4531, which weighs double, you are guaranteed ease of handling and navigation and extended operation with this one.
The engine combines well with a wide 17-inch swath cutter to achieve semi-professional trims for your residential or commercial space.
Easier handling is further enhanced by the trimmers curved shaft. This curved design ensures a lower trimmer tilt angle compared to the same on a straight shaft, which will require more tilting while trimming.
This trimmer accepts other Ryobi expand-it attachments, which will help you save gas, time, and money that you’d use on new equipment.
Although Ryobi RY4CCS the most lightweight weed eater on our list and packing impressive engine power at a reasonable price, it will struggle to cut through weeds over 1 foot tall. Thus, it may not be the best trimmer for heavy-duty usage. However, for ordinary home trim jobs, you can count on it to deliver.
Pros:
- Lightweight for easier handling and navigation.
- Powerful engine for professional performance
- Curved shaft for lighter handling
- Accepts other accessory attachments
Cons:
- Struggles to trim weeds over 1 inch tall.
5. Troy-Bilt TB575 (Easy-to-Start)
Photo: Troy-Bilt
- Engine: 29cc
- Cutting Width: 17 inches
- Weight: 18 pounds
Troy-Bilt TB575 is a versatile weed eater, which comes with a proprietary SpringAssist technology for ease of starting and use.
The trimmer also works with the Troy-Bilt JumpStart electric starter to enhance the starting process. However, this starter is sold separately.
It is equipped with a straight shaft, which offers extended reach under shrubs and bushes. A dual-line bump head enhances the convenience of loading more string to the trimmer so that you don’t have to worry about morale-killing detachments.
Trimmer efficiency is further enhanced by a 17-inch cutting swath. It will allow connection to other attachment-capable trimmers from Troy-Bilt, Remington, Craftsman, and many more.
Although Troy-Bilt TB575 is a powerful and easy-to-start weed trimmer, the trim string is susceptible to jamming because of trimmer line inefficiency. Engine performance can sometimes be sub-par especially with its occasional failure to start instantly.
Pros:
- Powerful 29cc engine
- Straight shaft for extended reach under shrubs and bushes
- JumpStart capability to eliminate cord-pull start
- Connects to other compatible trimmers
Cons:
- Trim string susceptible to jamming
- Sub-par engine performance
Conclusion
Having looked at a comprehensive list of the top 4-cycle weed eaters on the market today, it’s time to make your purchase.
Remember some key factors to consider while buying your trimmers. The type of engine makes a big difference. 4-stroke gas engines are the most preferred because they produce more power than electric ones.
The trimmer’s cutting width affects its efficacy. A wide width cuts a large swath hence faster trimming. Check the weed eater’s weight too. A heavy machine may prove too bulky to handle especially with extended usage.
We’re confident that our top 5 best 4-cycle weed earner review and buying guide will steer you in the right direction as you make your purchase.