Which to get, Husqvarna or Stihl trimmer? They are very similar. Both are reliable, strong, and easy to operate. The Husqvarna detachable trimmer 128 LD is more versatile because it is compatible with accessories. The Stihl FS 56 RC-E is more comfortable since it has a 360° adjustable handle.
Would you like to give your lawn the perfect haircut? Can’t reach the corners of your yard with your lawnmower?
I think it is time you buy yourself a lawn trimmer to get your landscaping game on a whole new level.
There are a lot of different lawn trimmers on the market, but Husqvarna and Stihl are among the most trusted names. They make a whole range of electricity, battery, and gas-powered lawn trimmers, so you are assured to find a perfect match!
But today I will focus on two of their most iconic models: the Husqvarna 128LD and the Stihl FS 56 RC-E. I will compare them and determine which is better – the Husqvarna vs Stihl trimmer?
I have found that the Husqvarna 128LD is overall better for most people since it is more versatile and offers better value. But there is more you should know. Let’s take a look.
Contents
Husqvarna Vs Stihl Trimmer – Up Close
Review: Husqvarna Trimmer
You have probably heard of Husqvarna. You may even have one of their tools in your garage already. This wouldn’t come as a surprise, as Husqvarna is a global company that started in 1689.
They make all kinds of outdoor power tools and equipment, from chainsaws and snowblowers to lawn or garden tractors and string trimmers with either a straight shaft or curved shaft.
I have decided to introduce you to Husqvarna trimmers through one of their best models, the Husqvarna 128LD.
Design And Ease Of Use
Husqvarna is known for making lawn trimmers that feel good in your hands. They are user-friendly and lightweight, which are the key features you want in any lawn trimmer.
The Husqvarna 128LD weighs 12.7 lbs without the cutting attachment. The unit is easy to hold and maneuver around the yard, even after you put on the cutting head.
Husqvarna trimmers are not only easy to carry but also easy to operate and start. The controls for every machine are located on the handle. How convenient is that!
Husqvarna is proud to own a copyrighted technology called Smart Start® that makes starting their gas-powered trimmers so much easier. It features an automatic return stop switch, which ensures a quick start for each use.
It takes only two to three pulls to fire up the engine, thanks to the air purge system. Both Husqvarna and Stihl trimmers are equipped with air purges, which remove air from the carburetor and fuel system.
Last but not least, I must mention that Husqvarna combination trimmers are compatible with different attachments. Their detachable shaft can be replaced with accessories that are sold separately. So, if you want a trimmer that can act as an edger, too, opt for the Husqvarna 128LD. Don’t know the difference between an edger vs trimmer? Find out here!
It is safe to say that Husqvarna’s detachable trimmers are more versatile than Stihl’s trimmers because they can be used for other lawn jobs. If you buy one, you won’t have to buy other bulky tools and you’ll end up saving storage space in your garage.
Engine And Power
Husqvarna manufactures battery and gas-powered trimmers. Their gas-powered trimmers are equipped with strong engines that vary in power, depending on the model. The Husqvarna 128LD is one of their better models. It features a 2-stroke 28 cc motor with a power output of 1 horsepower.
Luckily, Husqvarna trimmers have built-in vibration dampeners to make sure the engine doesn’t shake you out of your gardening boots. The Husqvarna 128LD delivers power with reduced vibration and noise.
Battery-powered trimmers are even quieter and they don’t emit any gaseous emissions either! They are very easy to use and are lightweight, weighing up to 7 pounds. All models work on 40V batteries and don’t require expensive fuel. They are not only economical but also friendly to the environment.
Watch this video to see the Husqvarna 128LD in action:
Pros
- Trusted company
- Easy to use and control
- Powerful 2-stroke 28 cc engine
- Big fuel tank
- Smart Start® technology
- Compatible with attachments
- Reduced vibration and noise
- Lightweight
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Don’t have 360° adjustable handle
Review: Stihl Trimmer
Stihl is a company that doesn’t need a detailed introduction. It is one of the leading brands in the outdoor power tool and equipment industry.
It is a German company founded in 1926. This may come to you as a surprise since Stihl has a major global headquarters in Virginia, employing more than 1,900 locals. Stihl also manufactures chainsaws, tillers, garden shredders, trimmers, and the list goes on.
Today, I will focus on the Stihl FS 56 RC-E trimmer. I chose this model because it is very similar to the Husqvarna 128LD. This way, comparing the Husqvarna vs Stihl trimmer is fair.
Design And Ease Of Use
Just by looking at Stihl trimmers, you can immediately tell that the company put a lot of thought into their design. They sell trimmers with different handle types – loop handles, length shaft, and straight shaft variations.
Their innovative 360° adjustable handle is what sets them apart from the competition. This handle adapts to all body types and working postures, ensuring maximum comfort during work.
Stihl trimmers are extremely lightweight. The Stihl FS 56 RC-E trimmer is in fact lighter than the Husqvarna 128LD. It weighs only 10.6 lbs without cutting attachment and the added shoulder strap distributes its weight evenly.
The strap is an excellent feature that only increases comfort. The trimmer won’t strip you of your energy just by carrying it from one corner of the yard to the other.
Stihl trimmers are quick to start, thanks to the Easy2Start system. It doesn’t take a lot to get the engine up and running. Two to three pulls on the starter rope are enough and you don’t have to pull hard! You can tug the starter rope about two-thirds slower than usual, and the engine will fire up.
Stihl trimmers also have all controls housed in the comfortable handle for easy access. You can mow your lawn without ever letting go of the handle. Working with such a design is not only easy but also safe and stress-free.
Stihl trimmers have a swappable head and blade but are not compatible with a whole line of accessories, like Husqvarna trimmers with detachable shaft. If you wish to own a multipurpose tool, you can buy a KombiEngine instead and pair it with these KombiTools.
This KombiSystem allows you to turn one machine into a curved shaft grass trimmer, lawn edge trimmer, bristle brush sweeper, blower, and more.
Engine And Power
Stihl makes battery and gas-powered trimmers, just like Husqvarna. Their gas-powered units have different outputs, so it is difficult to generalize them. Their FS 56 RC-E trimmer has a fuel-efficient 2-stroke 27.2 cc engine with excellent performance.
Stihl is known for making gas-powered trimmers with low emissions. Their FS 56 RC-E trimmer is rated as “low exhaust,” which Stihl defines as being cleaner as EPA emissions standards.
If you want to cut out emissions completely, opt for one of their battery-powered units. They are very quiet and user-friendly.
Watch this video for a complete review of the Stihl FS 56 RC-E:
Pros
- Reputable company
- Reliable quick start
- Easy to operate
- 360° adjustable handle
- Maximum comfort
- Lightweight
- Reduced emissions
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Can’t convert to another kind of tool, you can only change trimmer head types.
Husqvarna & Stihl Features – Face To Face
Engine Power
In terms of engine power, Husqvarna and Stihl trimmers are almost the same. There aren’t any major differences in the power output when comparing trimmers in the same class.
The Husqvarna 128LD has a 2-stroke 28cc engine while a Stihl FS 56 RC-E trimmer carries a 2-stroke 27.2 cc engine. Their power and performance are almost identical.
What’s important is that both trimmers have reduced vibration and are quieter than your typical gas-powered trimmer.
It is a toss-up between Husqvarna vs Stihl trimmer. They are both winners in this case.
Winner: Tie
Cutting Capacity
The cutting width of a trimmer is determined by the length of the string trimmer line. The cutting width of the Husqvarna 128LD is 17 inches. The Stihl FS 56 RC-E cuts 16.5 inches wide.
So, the Husqvarna trimmer cuts slightly wider and faster than Stihl due to the slightly longer trimmer string. The difference in cutting capacity may seem insignificant, but it sure adds up when you are mowing a large area.
The clear winner of this round is the Husqvarna 128LD. It cuts faster than its competitor.
Winner: Husqvarna
Fuel Tank
The size of the fuel tank is more important than people think. The bigger the fuel tank is, the better, so you won’t have to make as many stops and refills.
The Stihl FS 56 RC-E trimmer has a 11.5 fl oz tank. The Husqvarna 128LD trimmer features a bigger reservoir. It stores 13.53 fl oz of fuel. Both tanks are transparent, so you will know exactly how much fuel you have left and how high you have to refill.
The clear winner of this versus battle is the Husqvarna 128LD. It has a bigger fuel tank.
Winner: Husqvarna
Comfort
You don’t want a lawn trimmer that feels bulky and heavy in your hands. It will expend your energy before you are finished with your landscaping.
The Stihl FS 56 RC-E trimmer was designed with comfortability in mind. It weighs only 10.6 lbs compared to the Husqvarna trimmer that stands at 12.7 lbs. The Stihl trimmer also features a 360° adjustable rotating handle which can’t be seen on the Husqvarna trimmer.
The Stihl FS 56 RC-E trimmer is more comfortable and is a clear winner of this battle.
Winner: Stihl
Versatility
Landscaping isn’t a one-tool job. It requires a whole assortment of tools and gadgets. Having a multipurpose trimmer that can do more than trimming is a huge advantage.
All of the Husqvarna detachable trimmers, including the 128 LD, are compatible with other Husqvarna attachments, so you can transform your trimmer into a blower, edger, pole saw, hedge trimmer, bristle brush, sweeper, and other handy tools.
Stihl trimmers can’t be accessorized. They are not as versatile as Husqvarna trimmers, so the clear winner of this round is the Husqvarna trimmer. It can take on many roles with the use of attachments.
Winner: Husqvarna
FAQs
Are Husqvarna trimmers any good?
Husqvarna trimmers are good for personal use around the yard. They have a solid engine on them and are lightweight and easy to operate. Husqvarna trimmers perform best when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Are Stihl trimmers worth the money?
Stihl trimmers are worth the money because they are reliable and easy to use. Stihl trimmers are known for their quality and good performance and they are a good investment if you plan on using your trimmer often and for demanding landscaping jobs.
What does the R mean on Stihl trimmers?
The R on Stihl trimmers means Loop Handle. It lets you know that a particular model has a loop handle in the design. This is not the only symbol you will see on Stihl trimmers. The C stands for Comfort Feature, E for Easy2Start™, and X for Lightweight Version.
Get The Best Of The Best
After the in-depth research, I have come to a clear conclusion. No matter which trimmer you end up buying, you are guaranteed to get the best of the best if it’s one of these two brands. Both make high-grade trimmers that don’t dissapoint.
Take a look at these last tips if you still can’t decide between Husqvarna vs Stihl trimmer.
Buy Husqvarna 128LD trimmer if:
- You would like to cut faster
- You would like a bigger fuel tank
- You would like to upgrade it with accessories.
Buy Stihl FS 56 RC-E trimmer if:
- You would like a lighter unit.
- You want maximum comfort.
- You want an adjustable handle.
My husqvarna LD 128 engine ran eradically the entire time owned ..Never idles and stayed running .. Piece of chit
I’m going with Stihl and it much better ..
The author of this slanted review never mentioned the stihl has auto string advance instead of Husqvarna bumping the string hub for more string
Why didn’t you say something about the km series from stihl??