In this guide, we’ll highlight the best lightweight gas string trimmer at an affordable price. Find the perfect gas string trimmer for your needs with our top picks, including detailed product specs, customer reviews, and tips. Discover the Ryobi RY253SS and Husqvarna 128LD, both offering powerful engines and versatile attachments for all your lawn maintenance needs.
In the case you need to purchase lightweight gas string trimmers, then you do not have to go through dozens of options by yourself. In this guide, we’ll highlight the best lightweight gas string trimmer at an affordable price.
To help you choose the best gas string trimmer, we’ve gathered detailed product specs, customer reviews, and tips.
The string trimmer, also known as a weed eater, weed wacker, weed trimmer, grass trimmer, or anything else you might call it — is a great tool for cutting grass and weeds.
In terms of high power combined with high mobility, gas-powered models are the only real option, though loud and bad for the environment.
Find the best gas string trimmers for homeowners who have a lot of grass to trim with our top picks.
Top 5 Best Lightweight Gas String Trimmer Review
1. Ryobi RY253SS 25 cc 2-cycle straight shaft string trimmer
Specifications
- Engine power: 25 cc
- Cutting swath: 18 inches
- Line diameter: 0.095 inches
- Weight: 12.2 lbs
Our top recommendation is the Ryobi RY253SS straight shaft gas weed eater, because it is affordable, versatile, user-friendly, and effective for small residential yards.
A full crankshaft is found on the engine of this 25 cc, 2-cycle machine, making it last longer than a standard engine. Although starting any gas engine can be challenging at times, several users indicated that the engine started easily and reliably.
Its compatibility with Ryobi’s Expand line makes it one of the best trimmers on the market. A single tool can be made into a variety of others via the purchase of extra attachments, such as a tiller, edger, and blower. This Ryobi tool works better than ordinary string trimmers for tidying up your lawn and minimizing your space and budget requirements.
Despite only using this weed eater a few times a year, the RY253SS is a wonderful product. This trimmer is designed to cut a large 18-inch swath, allowing you to trim rapidly, reach around obstacles, and thread a new line with ease using the reel-easy string head.
Pros
- Ryobi attachments (sold separately) convert this tool to other power tools
- A large swath of cutting
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Reviewers reported that the cutting head came unattached during use
- Some users were forced to replace their carburetors shortly
2. Husqvarna 128LD 2-cycle straight shaft string trimmer
Specifications
- Engine power: 28 cc
- Cutting swath: 17 inches
- Line diameter: 0.095 inches
- Weight: 11 lbs
A trimmer with the power and convenience of the Husqvarna 128LD is available for purchase. The 28 cc, 2-cycle engine in this weed eater is strong enough to handle thick grass and plenty of weeds.
Aside from its lightweight design, the 128LD can be carried for longer periods of time compared to many of our other picks.
Additionally to the big selling points (including the powerful engine and the seal of approval from Husqvarna, the world’s leading power tool manufacturer), the 128LD is full of useful features.
By tapping the cutting head against the grass, you can release the trimmer line using the system called “Tap ‘N Go”. In addition, the head has an automatic feed system for loading new lines.
Husqvarna’s SmartStart technology makes starting a gas engine easier by reducing resistance on the cord. In addition to a trimmer, Husqvarna offers an edger, tiller, and pole saw that can be attached to this trimmer to create other power tools.
The 128LD was noticed as being a little short by some reviewers even though most of them found it to work well. There were some users who hunched over while using the tool who were approximately 6 feet tall.
Pros
- Engine with high power
- A simple way to get started
- Compact and lightweight
- Attachments for Husqvarna power tools are available separately.
Cons
- Quite expensiveQuite expensive
- A short shaft makes it difficult for tall users to use
3. Craftsman WS205 2-cycle straight shaft string trimmer
Specifications
- Engine power: 25 cc
- Cutting swath: 17 inches
- Line diameter: 0.095 inches
- Weight: 13 lbs
Craftsman’s WS205 weed eater can save you even more money while still giving you professional results.
Despite its small size, this Craftsman has a powerful 25 cc, 2-cycle engine that should suffice for residential use. You can find a comfortable and ergonomic working position with the adjustable handle of this model. Although it isn’t super lightweight, the model is also not too heavy.
It’s affordable price is the main selling point of the Craftsman WS205. You can use TrimmerPlus attachments on this trimmer to make other lawn care tools, despite not having as many features as our other picks.
It is unfortunate that this model comes with a level of risk. Despite its good performance, many users report that their trimmer broke down after only 6 months to a year, preventing them from using it.
There was also difficulty getting in touch with customer service for those who encountered problems. So, you can save money by buying the WS205, but it may end up being unreliable for a minority of people.
Pros
- Cost-effective
- Attachments sold separately convert to other power tools
Cons
- A short lifespan was reported by some users
4. Husqvarna 324L 4-cycle straight shaft string trimmer
Specifications
- Engine power: 25 cc
- Cutting swath: 18 inches
- Line diameter: 0.095 inches
- Weight: 5.1 lbs
We’ve selected Husqvarna 324L as our best pick for its 4-cycle engine, which means no mixing of fuel is required. In our list, we would not be able to leave out the 324L due to its high-quality Honda 4-stroke engine.
In addition to the 18-inch cutting width, Husqvarna’s T25 trimmer head, SmartStart technology, and line release “Tap ‘N Go,” you get a 18-inch cutting width.
What makes the Husqvarna 324L so incredible? With a weight of just over 5 pounds, it is extremely lightweight. An electric weed eater is heavy-duty and easier to carry than this gas weed eater powered by a professional-grade 4-stroke engine.
There are a few minor complaints you should be aware of with the 324L, but the majority of users reported complete satisfaction. It runs out of gas quickly due to the tool’s small gas tank, which is responsible for the tool’s impressively light weight.
Additionally, this Husqvarna pick cannot be used with attachments that allow it to perform multiple tasks at once, unlike our other pick.
Pros
- A 4-stroke engine doesn’t require mixing fuel
- Lightweight and compact
- Cuts a large area
Cons
- It’s expensive
- A small tank of fuel
- Other Husqvarna attachments are not compatible
5. CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer
Specifications
- Engine power: 30 cc
- Cutting swath: 17 inches
- Line diameter: 0.095 inches
- Weight: 18 pounds
Despite having a 4-cycle engine, this trimmer from Craftsman is significantly stronger than the Husqvarna 324L. An impressive 30 cc engine makes this trimmer the strongest on our list. CRAFTSMAN is a great option if you need to cut tough grass or do commercial-grade work.
Craftsman’s model isn’t just powerful; it’s also easy to use, with its two-step starting system, the bump head, and a spool that can be wound with up to 20 feet of line.
With its powerful engine, this trimmer is heavy (about 18 pounds), so not all homeowners are going to be able to handle it easily.
You can also convert this trimmer into other lawn care tools with the attachments it comes with, unlike our other 4-stroke pick. In addition to being cheaper, the Craftsman option may also appeal to you over the Husqvarna 324L.
Pros
- A powerful engine
- Add TrimmerPlus attachments to use with other power tools
- 4 stroke engines don’t need to mix fuel
Cons
- It is very heavy
- The cutting head was replaced after a few uses by some reviewers
Buying Guide – Best lightweight gas string trimmer
What to look for
The first step toward finding the best string trimmer for your needs is comparing the various models on the market. Our criteria for determining the best gas string trimmers are outlined below, along with explanations of what each specification means.
Cutting swath
The size of the cutting head determines how wide the cutting swath (or cutting width) is on a string trimmer. The method allows you to trim one area of grass at a time.
The larger swath and cutting head will allow you to finish trimming your lawn more quickly than with a smaller blade.
Conversely, if you are faced with a lot of tight spaces that you need to maneuver through in your yard, you might benefit from a smaller cutting blade.
Engine power
The power of gas string trimmer engines is expressed in cubic centimeters (cc). Technically, the measurement has nothing to do with power, but with engine size.
An engine with a larger displacement (the higher cc rating), produces more power. In order to trim through thick growth or water-logged grass, you will need more power.
As more powerful engines usually cost more, you should consider whether your lawn needs the extra power.
Line diameter
Weed eaters have a capacity to hold a certain diameter of string. Grass can be cut through thicker strings since they are typically more durable.
These top picks all feature 0.095-inch strings, recommended for professionals. They should satisfy your household needs as well.
Weight
It’s necessary to carry a string trimmer when you’re using one. You should pay attention to the weight of a trimmer before buying it to avoid buying one that is too heavy.
If you carried over 10 pounds for a long time, would you tire yourself out? Due to their heavy weight, gas string trimmers are usually not recommended if this is the case.
It will be easier to carry the string trimmer if you attach it to the shoulder strap (they are almost always sold separately).
Price
A gas string trimmer can cost as little as $200 or more than $400, so have a budget in mind before you shop. A powerful engine, a larger cutting swath, and a special feature will typically cost more.
Our top picks are ranked by price in order to present you with the most value for your money.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are gas string trimmers right for you?
Along with gas string trimmers (such as the ones on this list), many other high-quality products are available, including cordless and electric string trimmers.
Due to their absence of emissions, electric options are generally quieter, easier to use, and more eco-friendly than their gas counterparts. As well as being easier to maintain, an electric motor than a gas engine.
In what ways are gas string trimmers advantageous?
Power is the most important. Weed eaters powered by gasoline are typically more powerful than electric models.
Additionally, gas engines don’t require an extension cord or a battery to operate and aren’t limited by the life of either. In the event that a gas trimmer runs out of fuel midway through a job, just fill it back up and keep working. Recharging the battery isn’t necessary.
People with large properties or thick growth usually benefit from gas string trimmers because of these reasons. An electric model may be better suited to small, well-kept yards.
Is there a gas string trimmer that is the lightest?
As one of our top choices, the Husqvarna 324L has the lowest weight at only 5.1 pounds. The electric string trimmer is even lighter than that.
Should I buy a string trimmer the straight way or the curved way?
Depending on your needs, you’ll choose the best option. It is usually cheaper and lighter to buy a trimmer with curved shafts. Due to their longer shafts, straight shaft trimmers can reach wider radiuses and have greater torque. We all chose straight shafts for our top picks.
Conclusion
The string trimmer is important to maintain a well-manicured yard (also called weed eaters, grass trimmers, weed wackers, etc.). A gas weed eater will give you the power you need and be comfortable using around your property. There are a lot of options these days, so be sure to read through several trimmer reviews before committing to a purchase.
All of these are good choices and all have a place in the market, so it really comes down to what you’ll be using the string trimmer for. These trimmers are certainly on the smaller side, but that doesn’t mean they won’t product good results. Just remember to take care of your string trimmer and it’ll take care of you!
As an experienced gardening enthusiast, I possess in-depth knowledge of various tools like lawn mowers, snow blowers, leaf blowers, and more. With hands-on experience, extensive research, and testing, I can provide expert guidance on selecting the ideal equipment for your yard. Whether you require the best lawn mower or an efficient snow blower, I am here to assist you.