Best Reviewed
String Trimmers
- 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
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Corded electric trimmer; better for weeds
- Powerful enough for most weeds and tall grass
- Easy line reloads
- Lighter than a gas trimmer
- Quiet
- Heavier than other electric trimmers
- Extension cord limits its range
Comparison tests show that the Stihl FSE 60 performs as well as gas trimmers in its price range, even for handling tall grass and weeds. Yet it's not only far quieter and better for the environment, but also costs less to maintain and operate. The downside is that the user's range is limited to the length of an extension cord -- with this trimmer, that's up to 200 feet. If you need power but want more mobility, a gas trimmer, such as the highly rated Hitachi CG22EASSLP (*Est. $190), is the way to go.
We found the best review of the Stihl FSE 60 string trimmer at ConsumerReports.org, where editors rate and rank it in comparison with 39 other string trimmers of all types based on objective testing. A single-product review at ConsumerGuide.com provides more detail, and owners reviewing Stihl electric trimmers at Epinions.com give a view into long-term performance.
Our Sources
1. ConsumerReports.orgDetails/Subscribe
This review compares the Stihl FSE 60 string trimmer with seven other corded electric models. Gas and cordless trimmers are also included in the ratings chart. All the string trimmers are ranked based on performance ratings for trimming, edging and handling tall grass and weeds, plus ratings for handling and ease of use.
Review: String Trimmers, Editors of ConsumerReports.org, May 2011
This detailed single-product review rates the Stihl FSE 60 electric string trimmer as good to excellent for every factor except value. Although some testing is referenced, editors don't clearly spell out their evaluation methodology. (Note: Although CosumerGuide.com editors say at the beginning of this review that the Stihl FSE 60 has been discontinued, it's still available and is listed on the Stihl website.)
Review: Expert Review: Stihl FSE 60 Electric String Trimmer, Editors of ConsumerGuide.com, July 21, 2008
3. Epinions.com
It's not clear whether or not some of the older owner-written reviews here refer to the Stihl FSE 60 model, but the handful of owners who review "Stihl electric trimmers" here are very satisfied. Fewer than 10 specifically review the FSE 60, but they give it 4.5 out of 5 stars, with the latest review posted in July 2010.
Review: Stihl Electric Trimmer, Contributors to Epinions.com
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