String trimmers, also known as weed wackers, weed eaters, or weed whips, are an essential tool for maintaining a manicured lawn. Whether you’re cleaning up your edges or trimming the spaces your lawn mower can’t reach, a good string trimmer is a must-have for lawn owners.
Gas-powered string trimmers can operate all day without pausing to charge and aren’t tethered to an outlet like corded trimmers. If you have a large yard or thick brush on your property, you may need a gas trimmer to keep your landscape looking sharp.
To help you pick the best gas string trimmer for your yard and budget, this article includes our picks for the top 9 gasoline-powered trimmers, as well as a helpful buyers guide and FAQ. To come up with our top 9 list, we looked at the power, utility, weight, and price of gas-powered string trimmers.
Because online shopping prices are always in flux, we’ve provided an estimated range based on multiple sources.
- “Inexpensive” – Under $100
- “Moderate” – between $100 and $200
- “Expensive” – $200 and above
We also have listed multiple buying options, when available, to make it easy to compare prices. For more great products, including battery-powered and corded electric models, see our reviews of the best string trimmers overall.
Top 9 Gas String Trimmers — Reviews
| Best Overall and Category Champs |
| 1. Best Overall: Husqvarna 128LD 28 cc 17” String Trimmer |
| 2. Best Curved Shaft: Husqvarna 128CD Curved-Shaft Trimmer |
| 3. Most Versatile: Craftsman WS235 Brush Cutter and String Trimmer |
| 4. Best Commercial Pick: Proyama 42.7 cc Brush Cutter and Trimmer |
| Runners-Up Best Gas String Trimmers |
| 5. Ryobi RY253SS 25 cc 18” Trimmer |
| 6. Poulan Pro PR28SD 28 cc 17” Trimmer |
| 7. Remington RM25C 25 cc 16” Curved Shaft Trimmer |
| 8. Remington RM25C 25 cc 16” Curved Shaft Trimmer |
| 9. Wild Badger Power WBP52BCI 52 cc Brush Cutter and Trimmer |
1. Best Overall: Husqvarna 128LD 28 cc 17” String Trimmer
A high-performance model from a trusted brand, the Husqvarna 128LD is the gold standard of string trimmers.
Here are the features we liked the most:
- 28 cc, two-cycle engine provides plenty of cutting power without weighing a ton.
- “SmartStart” recoil system, which reduces starting cord resistance by 40%.
- Simple stop/return switch quickly cuts power to the string head.
- A translucent fuel tank lets you know how much juice you have left.
- Several attachments available, including a wheeled edger, pole saw, and tiller.
This gas string trimmer is one of the more expensive options on our list, but this durable Husqvarna trimmer is a great investment and will stand up to years of heavy use.
Note: Because this string trimmer has a 2-stroke engine, it requires special oil to be mixed with gasoline, which is included with purchase.
Specifications
Engine Type: 2-cycle
Engine Capacity: 28 cc
Cutting Width: 17 inches
Weight: 11 lbs
Price Range: Moderate
| Pros | Cons |
| ✓ Easy start ✓ Best-in-class engine power ✓ Wide cutting swath for efficiency | ✗ Pricey ✗ Attachments are expensive |
Where to Buy
2. Best Curved Shaft: Husqvarna 128CD Curved-Shaft Trimmer
With the same engine and features of our top-pick gas string trimmer, the Husqvarna 128CD is the clear choice for a curved-shaft model.
What is the advantage of a curved shaft string trimmer? A curved shaft is more ergonomically effective than a straight one. With better weight distribution, it’s easier to hold close to the ground while you remain upright.
Like its straight-shafted twin, the 128CD features a 28 cc engine and Husqvarna’s “SmartStart” system. The translucent fuel tank lets you keep an eye on your fuel, and the quick stopping switch helps keep you safe.
At 11 pounds, this is a lighter option gas string trimmer that puts ease-of-use first. The only downside of using a curved shaft string trimmer is that it can be harder to get in tight spots and underneath fences.
Specifications
Engine Type: 2-cycle
Engine Capacity: 28 cc
Cutting Width: 17 inches
Weight: 11 lbs
Price Range: Moderate
| Pros | Cons |
| ✓ Easier to hold and use ✓ Powerful engine ✓ Wide cutting swath | ✗ Harder to weed in tight spots ✗ Expensive attachments ✗ Pricey |
Where to Buy
3. Most Versatile: Craftsman WS235 Brush Cutter and String Trimmer
The Craftsman WS235 comes as a 2-in-1 weed wacker and brush cutter, saving you the expense of buying separate attachments. With a string trimmer head for regular use and a heavy-duty blade for cutting through thick brush, this versatile trimmer gives you a lot of bang for your buck.
The 27 cc engine offers great cutting power, and the heavy .095-inch line cuts through weeds with ease. An 18-inch cutting swath helps you trim more in less time.
This gas string trimmer comes with an included shoulder strap and ergonomic J-shaped handle to make handling easier.
Bonus Points: This Craftsman gas string trimmer is compatible with a full line of Craftsman TrimmerPlus accessories for even more versatility.
Downside: The nut that changes the cutting head of this string trimmer can be awkward, as it’s bolted on with reverse threads. Many customer reviews note this as a failing, as the reverse thread is not clearly marked.
Specifications
Engine Type: 2-cycle
Engine Capacity: 27 cc
Cutting Width: 17 inches
Weight: 13 lbs
Price Range: Moderate
| Pros | Cons |
| ✓ Bladed brush cutter included ✓ Powerful ✓ Shoulder strap included | ✗ Heavy ✗ Awkward to change cutting heads |
Where to Buy
4. Best Commercial Pick: Proyama 42.7 cc Brush Cutter and Trimmer
Proyama makes commercial-grade power equipment for lawn care industry professionals, which explains the raw power of this brush cutter and trimmer and its shoulder-mounted design.
With a massive 42.7 cc engine, this trimmer can cut through thick brush and saplings with ease. It comes with a 9-inch chainsaw-tooth blade, a 30-tooth brush blade, and a triangular mowing blade.
When the string trimmer head is used, it delivers an 18-inch cutting swath. The handlebar-style grip and smooth trigger action are designed for comfortable all-day use, and the included shoulder harness reduces engine vibration. The shaft splits in two for easy transport and storage.
This package includes all the accessories you’ll need. Besides the multiple blade attachments, this Proyama trimmer comes with safety goggles, ear protection, gloves, a fuel canister, and a tool bag.
This is a good choice for homeowners who have woods or wild growth encroaching on the border of their lawns.
Specifications
Engine Type: 2-cycle
Engine Capacity: 42.7 cc
Cutting Width: 18 inches
Weight: 20 lbs
Price Range: Expensive
| Pros | Cons |
| ✓ Professional power ✓ All-day operation ✓ Cuts through all types of foliage ✓ Tons of included accessories | ✗ Very heavy ✗ Difficult to start |
Where to Buy
Runners-Up:
5. Ryobi RY253SS 25 cc 18” Trimmer
Ryobi’s gas string trimmer delivers excellent power over a wide 18-inch swath. It has a universal attachment head that allows the owner to purchase a variety of off-brand blades and accessories, making it an adaptable choice.
The RY253SS is a less expensive option for its power class but is a few pounds heavier than other similarly-powerful trimmers.
Specifications
Engine Type: 2-cycle
Engine Capacity: 25 cc
Cutting Width: 18 inches
Weight: 14 lbs
Price Range: Moderate
| Pros | Cons |
| ✓ Universal attachments ✓ Good power ✓ Wide cutting swath | ✗ Heavy |
Where to Buy
6. Poulan Pro PR28SD 28 cc 17” Trimmer
With a 28cc 2-cycle engine, this Poulan trimmer delivers great performance at a reasonable price. The “SureFire” fuel delivery system and spring-assisted starter make firing up the PR28SD a breeze.
A variety of separately sold attachments, including a cultivator and a blower, are compatible. The long shaft makes this a great choice for taller customers.
At 14 pounds, this Poulan Pro trimmer can feel quite heavy after prolonged use.
Specifications
Engine Type: 2-cycle
Engine Capacity: 28 cc
Cutting Width: 17 inches
Weight: 14 lbs
Price Range: Moderate
| Pros | Cons |
| ✓ Easy starting ✓ Long straight shaft | ✗ Heavy |
Where to Buy
7. Remington RM25C 25 cc 16” Curved Shaft Trimmer
The Remington RM25C is a compact curved-shaft trimmer that’s easy on the body and the wallet. Its ergonomic shape is designed for balance and comfort.
This string trimmer comes loaded with a durable .095-inch line, which is fed with an intuitive bump system. The 25 cc engine delivers more than enough power for standard weeding.
The curved-shaft model is better for shorter operators. Taller customers have reported more success with Remington’s RM25S straight shaft version.
Specifications
Engine Type: 2-cycle
Engine Capacity: 25 cc
Cutting Width: 16 inches
Weight: 13 lbs
Price Range: Inexpensive
| Pros | Cons |
| ✓ Ergonomic shape ✓ Affordable price tag | ✗ Shaft not adjustable for tall operators |
Where to Buy
8. Husqvarna 324L 4-Cycle 18” String Trimmer
Husqvarna’s take on a 4-cycle weed wacker is a more expensive option, but it can run for extended periods and makes quick work of heavy brush. 4-cycle engines are quieter and run on fuel straight from the pump.
Husqvarna products are known for their reliability, performance, and durability, and the 324L is no exception. The high price tag may be a dealbreaker for some customers, but if cost is no object this commercial-grade trimmer is a solid choice.
Specifications
Engine Type: 4-cycle
Engine Capacity: 25 cc
Cutting Width: 18 inches
Weight: 14 lbs
Price Range: Expensive
| Pros | Cons |
| ✓ Quiet ✓ No fuel mixing required ✓ Durable | ✗ Expensive ✗ Heavy |
Where to Buy
9. Wild Badger Power WBP52BCI 52 cc Brush Cutter and Trimmer
The most powerful trimmer on the list is the Wild Badger Power WBP52CI. With a massive 52 cc engine, this commercial-grade machine is built with heavy brush clearing in mind.
The WBP52BCI is very reasonably priced and considerably less expensive than other commercial trimmers in its power class. It comes with a standard brush-cutter blade, but other accessories are sold separately. It’s compatible with a variety of attachments and can cut through trees up to 4 inches thick with the right chainsaw-tooth blade.
The massive power comes with a lot of added weight, so a shoulder harness is an essential purchase.
This is an affordable entry-level commercial trimmer and a great choice for professional or residential users.
Specifications
Engine Type: 2-cycle
Engine Capacity: 52 cc
Cutting Width: 17 inches
Weight: 22 lbs
Price Range: Moderate
| Pros | Cons |
| ✓ Very powerful ✓ Affordable ✓ Universal (off-brand) accessories compatible | ✗ Accessories sold separately ✗ Very heavy |
Where to Buy
Buyers Guide: Gas String Trimmers
Gas string trimmers are the industry standard for lawn care professionals and residential operators alike. Gas engines are reliable and can quickly be refueled in the field. Though they require considerably more maintenance than electric string trimmers, they’re the better option for dealing with thicker weeds and brush.
Even with advancements in battery technology, the best electric string trimmers can’t beat the cutting power and longevity of gas string trimmers. For an in-depth comparison, check out our article on gas vs. battery-powered string trimmers.
This buyers guide will outline the key specs to look for when purchasing a gas trimmer, and help you make an informed decision.
What to Look for in a Gas String Trimmer
The most important factors to consider when buying a gasoline-powered string trimmer are:
- Power
- Utility
- Weight
- Price
We’ll take a look at each of these factors to give you a better idea of the range of products on the market and choose the trimmer that best fits your needs and budget.
Engine Power
Because horsepower is a variable measurement, the easiest stat to look at when determining an engine’s consistent output is its capacity. Measured in cubic centimeters (cc), this lets you know how much fuel is burning with each stroke of the motor. A higher capacity means more power in each stroke and more torque.
High-powered engines will enable the cutting of thicker brush. If you’re planning to use your trimmer on regular lawn grass, you can save money and strain by going for a lighter, lower-power option. However, if you have wooded areas or wild growth on your property you may need to invest in a powerful brush cutter.
Utility
Different trimmers have different capabilities. Most of them come with the option to add certain attachments, such as a cutting blade or edging wheel. Knowing what tasks you’d like to accomplish before you purchase will ensure you buy the correct tool for your lawn.
The cutting width of a trimmer will also determine its utility and efficiency. A wider swath will enable you to cut more with each pass, saving you time and effort.
Weight
An important factor for any handheld tool, a trimmer’s weight will partially determine the length of time it can be used. Even professionals get tired lugging a 20-pound weed wacker around all day. Consider your limits and purchase something that will be comfortable to use.
If you need to purchase a heavier tool for the added power, shoulder straps are available that take the load off your arms, allowing comfortable regular use.
Price
Residential gas weed wackers generally cost between $70 and $200, with high-end and commercial models costing as much as $400. The wide price range makes it easy to find something that fits your budget.
FAQ About Gas-Powered String Trimmers
Our head-to-head reviews show that the Husqvarna 128LD (or CD, depending on shaft preference) is the most reliable trimmer on the market.
Electric trimmers have come a long way in the last two decades. Modern battery-powered trimmers, especially ones with a high-voltage battery, can deliver comparable power to gas, without the emissions and maintenance that come with burning fossil fuels.
Gas engines still have the upper hand when it comes to heavy-duty work. Very few electric trimmers can handle saplings or wooded brush, so your needs will depend on the type of foliage you plan to cut.
Additionally, some areas of the U.S. are encouraging or requiring more power tools to be powered by electricity, so it’s a good idea to check your local and state regulations before committing to gas.
Most professionals and enthusiasts use straight-shafted trimmers, as the shape makes it easier to trim in hard-to-reach places. Taller people, especially over 6 feet, often say a straight shaft is more comfortable as well.
For most people, a curved shaft will distribute the trimmer’s weight more ergonomically, putting less strain on the back and shoulders.
Gas weed eaters are sold at a wide range of prices. With less expensive models costing under $100 and higher-end models going for as much as $350 or more, your budget is an important consideration. With fuel, oil, and accessories adding costs, plan to spend around $200 for a well-made, effective trimmer.
When to Call a Lawn Care Pro
Don’t have the time to keep your weeds and edges trimmed and sharp? Lawn Love pros can give your yard a professional manicure at affordable prices. Call 800-706-4117 to see how a professional lawn care crew can show your yard some Lawn Love.
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Main Photo Credit: iStock photo with text overlay
