Cordless grass trimmer Black & Decker Grass Hog NST2018 *Est. $100
Corded electric trimmer; better for weeds Stihl FSE 60 *Est. $120
Best-value gas trimmer Hitachi CG22EASSLP *Est. $190
Propane string trimmer Lehr Eco Trimmer ST025DC *Est. $140

See All String Trimmers

Honda HHT25SLTAT

*Est. $350

Reviewed

May 2011

Pros

Don't have to mix oil with gasoline
Four-cycle engine
Little vibration at any rpm
Powerful enough for weeds and brush

Cons

Expensive
Engine requires regular lubrication

Our Analysis

The Honda HHT25SLTAT string trimmer is considered a heavy-duty model built for durability, and its four-cycle engine meets California's strict emissions requirements even without a carbon canister. The Honda GX engine is quieter, longer lasting, more fuel efficient and better for the environment than the two-cycle engines still used on quite a few gas trimmers. Those who want a less expensive fuel-efficient gas trimmer may want to consider the Hitachi CG22EASSLP (*Est. $190), though its two-stroke engine isn't as powerful for cutting brush.

We found the best review of the Honda HHT25SLTAT gas string trimmer at Popular Mechanics, which tests it in comparison with 11 other gas models. It's also recommended by ThisOldHouse.com and by owners in several garden forums.

Our Sources

This detailed review compares 12 gas string trimmers based on thorough testing. The Honda HHT25SLTAT is recommended for "smooth, vibration-free performance at all rpm ranges." Testers also like the debris shield and say this trimmer has plenty of power. The only drawback noted is its weight -- 13 pounds.

Review: The Fastest (and Toughest) String Trimmers on the Market, Roy Berendsohn, May 2006

2. This Old House

Specific models are recommended in this buyer's guide, including the Honda HHT25S, but no testing is documented. The recommendations carry some weight, however, because of the overall credibility of this website and television series.

Review: Choosing and Using String Trimmers, John Kelsey

3. LawnSite.com

This discussion comparing new Honda string trimmers with other brands such as Echo, Husqvarna, Shindaiwa, Cub Cadet and Troy-Bilt is part of a forum aimed at professional landscapers, but it contains useful information for homeowners as well. Several contributors praise the Honda GX mini-four-stroke engines but not the trimming heads.

Review: Does Anyone Use Honda Weedeaters?, Contributors to LawnSite.com, March 2008

4. GardenWeb.com

This discussion compares several two-cycle and four-cycle engines for gas string trimmers, with Honda getting top marks among four-cycle engines.

Review: String Trimmers, Contributors to GardenWeb.com, February 2007

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