A string trimmer is one of the most effective and efficient tools you can use to trim your lawn, and it allows you to reach all the corners of the yard, including the tightest one.
As you shop for one, you will typically come across two top brands: Stihl and Husqvarna.
Stihl and Husqvarna are industry leaders that make a wide variety of trimmer types always guaranteed to get the job done.
While you will still have a reliable tool no matter what you choose between them, here we explain what sets them apart to make your choice easier.
In this post:
Stihl Trimmer Overview
Stihl is a German brand that has been making power tools since 1926, and they began with the manufacture and distribution of electric chainsaw. However, their trimmer business started gaining traction back in the 1970s as the company began expanding its operations to meet the increasing demands.
When the company was venturing into the weed trimmer business, they did not make their products. Instead, Stihl relied on supplies from a Japanese string trimmer, but eventually, they started manufacturing trimmers.
Although the brand has its roots and main base of operation in Europe, they now have a global presence, including a massive headquarters in Virginia, USA.
Over the years, Stihl has continued to increase its trimmer options in the market. The company makes both gas and electric trimmers, with both corded and battery-powered versions of the latter available. Additionally, they have string trimmer models for both homeowners and professional users.
Advantages of Stihl Trimmers
- More lightweight and compact
- Easy start engines
- Convenient controls location
- Wide variety of products available
Disadvantages of Stihl Trimmer
- Relatively pricier brand
Husqvarna Trimmer Overview
Husqvarna is a Swedish power tool manufacturer that has been in business longer than most other brands out there.
The company began its operation in 1689, but it has only started focusing on the manufacture of power tools and different outdoor equipment types in the last century.
The Husqvarna brand now has a presence in almost every country globally, and the company continues to grow steadily. Their trimmer business has also not been left behind despite the fact they only started making the weed eaters a few decades ago.
What seems to give the company an edge is that they always focus on giving their trimmers highly powerful engines to outperform most models out there. Like Stihl, they also have different trimmer lines to cater to all kinds of users.
Although their gas-powered trimmers are their most famous line, they also have electric corded and cordless options available in the market. What’s more, the brand offers trimmers for both professional and casual use.
Advantages of Husqvarna trimmer
- More powerful engines
- Wider cutting path
- Relatively affordable trimmers
- Attachment capable
Disadvantages of Husqvarna trimmer
- Quite heavy
Product Comparison: Husqvarna 128LD vs. Stihl FS 56 RC-E
Let’s take a look at our in-depth comparison.
1. Engine Capacity: Husqvarna Packs More Power
When it comes to trimmer engine power, few brands can outperform Husqvarna. With its 28cc 2-cycle engine, the Husqvarna 128LD demonstrates this clearly.
This larger engine packs relatively more power than the 27.2cc engine you get on the Stihl trimmer.
Although both tools are still for medium-duty jobs, the Husqvarna trimmer can handle relatively more and cuts grass faster no matter how tough it might get.
2. Cutting Width: Wider Cutting with Husqvarna
Besides being more powerful, the Husqvarna trimmer is also designed to cut relatively larger areas with every pass, which can be super convenient.
The weed eater has a 17-inch cutting width, meaning you get to trim off larger sections with every pass.
However, the Stihl FS 56 RC-E is not far behind as it provides a cutting width of 16.5 inches which is still quite decent.
When trimming small sections or removing grass from a few hard-to-reach places, the 0.5-inch cutting width difference might not be very significant.
However, when working on large yards and lawns, it can significantly affect how fast you finish the job.
3. Shaft: Detachable Shaft on Husqvarna Trimmer
The shaft difference between these two handy lawn maintenance tools is easy to miss, given that both have a straight shaft design.
However, the shaft difference is evident when you need to pack and carry or store the tool.
With the Husqvarna trimmer, you get a more convenient detachable shaft. This trimmer shaft makes storing and transporting the trimmer more convenient, which gives it a slight edge when it comes to portability.
The shaft on the Stihl FS 56 RC-E is fixed, meaning you will have a more challenging time storing it, and it can take up more room.
4. Weight: Stihl Trimmers Are Always More Lightweight
Although you cannot remove the shaft on the Stihl FS 56 RC-E, it seems to make up for this by being lightweight to allow you to carry it around with ease.
This trimmer weighs just 10.6 pounds, which should be light enough to hold for extended periods.
At 11 pounds, the Husqvarna trimmer weighs almost half a pound more. While this might look insignificant, it can make a huge difference when you have to carry the machine for extended periods to trim large yards.
But, the good news is you can always strap down the tool to your body to minimize the weight you have to bear.
5. Warranty: Husqvarna Covers Domestic Users for Longer
A warranty can be vital when you run into trouble with your string trimmer. Here Husqvarna also seems to have an edge as they give domestic users an impressive 5-year warranty, while Stihl only offers 2 years of protection.
The longer warranty for the Husqvarna trimmer shows just how confident the manufacturer is with their product, and so you can buy it knowing your investment is well secured. But, warranties for both brands are still good enough, and they are known for always honoring the terms.
Comparison Table
Husqvarna 128LD | Stihl FS 56 RC-E |
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Conclusion
You will never go wrong with a Stihl or Husqvarna trimmer as the two brands are famous for making the best performing and most efficient models in the market.
When you have to pick between them, Husqvarna is always the brand to turn to if you are looking for something more powerful and with a wider cutting area.
However, if you want something easier to start and more lightweight, Stihl is the ideal brand.