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  • 6 Best Lightweight Gas String Trimmers of 2024

6 Best Lightweight Gas String Trimmers of 2024

By Eugene WilliamsLast update: 2024-03-27

Yeah, the most important feature to consider a new gas string trimmer is lightness, but what else? Affordability, power, noise level, or sturdiness? Whatever you need to get your yard trimming jobs done more conveniently, there will be at least one good pick here.

Take a peek at these best lightweight gas string trimmers as below. You won’t regret it!

Here are the best lightweight gas string trimmers you can buy in 2024:

  • Budget Option (Curved Shaft Gas String Trimmer): Remington RM25C
  • Most Powerful (Curved Shaft Gas String Trimmer): Husqvarna 128CD
  • Easy To Start (Curved Shaft Gas String Trimmer): Ryobi RY34427
  • Quiet (Straight Shaft Gas String Trimmer): Husqvarna 128LD
  • Best For Trimming Under Bushes (Straight Shaft Gas String Trimmer): Remington RM25S
  • Best For Tougher Jobs (Straight Shaft Gas String Trimmer): Craftsman CMXGTAMD30SA
6 Best Lightweight Gas String Trimmers
Budget Option
Remington RM25C
  • Curved Shaft Gas String Trimmer
Most Powerful
Husqvarna 128CD
  • Curved Shaft Gas String Trimmer
Easy To Start
Ryobi RY34427
  • Curved Shaft Gas String Trimmer
Quiet
Husqvarna 128LD
  • Straight Shaft Gas String Trimmer
Best For Trimming Under Bushes
Remington RM25S
  • Straight Shaft Gas String Trimmer
Best For Tougher Jobs
Craftsman CMXGTAMD30SA
  • Straight Shaft Gas String Trimmer

Budget Option: Remington RM25C

Remington RM25C
Remington RM25C
Pros
  • Quick to start - QuickStart technology
  • Compact - 25cc 2-cycle engine
  • Easy to extend new line – dual line bump head
Cons
  • The string could be sturdier
  • Not for tall users

There are a lot of low-end gas string trimmers on the market but our testers unanimously agree this option is the best weed eater for the price.

It is simple, easy to assemble, and works much better than other brands. It starts right up thanks to the QuickStart technology and the dual line bump head makes extending the new line more quickly.

Not much vibration during our testing, which means your hands and arms won't hurt after a long-term use.

Remington RM25C Specifications

Weight

13.27 pounds

Cutting Width

16”

Engine Size

25cc

Highlight Features

QuickStart technology

25cc 2-cycle engine

dual line bump head

Verdict

Affordable yet functional, the Remington RM25C is the best budget option for those who want a reliable gas string trimmer for their yard jobs without breaking the bank.

Most Powerful: Husqvarna 128CD

Husqvarna 128CD
Husqvarna 128CD
Pros
  • Versatile – compatibility with multiple attachments
  • Able to tackle heavy-duty tasks – a 28cc engine
Cons
  • The trimmer line isn’t quite good

The Husqvarna 128CD boasts a 28cc engine - which is much larger in size than the current market average.

This allows the machine to tackle heavy-duty cutting jobs with no issues, meaning that it hardly bogs down in high weeds or thick bushes as seen on weaker options.

Combining the 17" extra-long trimmer head and the compatibility with multiple attachments, it works faster and more efficiently. In detail, it comes with a pole saw, a cultivator, and an edger.

Husqvarna 128CD Specifications

Weight

11 Pounds

Cutting Width

17”

Engine Size

28cc

Highlight Features

compatibility with multiple attachments

a 28cc engine

Verdict

Looking for the most powerful yet lightweight curved shaft gas string trimmer? Try the Husqvarna 128CD

Easy To Start: Ryobi RY34427

Ryobi RY34427
Ryobi RY34427
Pros
  • Easy to start whether when it’s hot or cold
  • Friendly to female users - well-balanced design
  • Easy to use – compatibility with universal brand fit attachments
Cons
  • None

The Ryobi RY34427 works to perfection.

It has by far outperformed compared to other brands that we've tested, especially in the solid build, price, and ease of starting from the first time.

The well-balanced design and the curved shaft helps to minimize fatigue to the user, making it a friendly option for women and seniors.

Another plus is this gas string trimmer doesn't require pairing with the attachments of the brand unlike most other options, which is easier to use.

Ryobi RY34427 Specifications

Weight

12.4 Pounds

Cutting Width

17”

Engine Size

25.4 cc

Highlight Features

Easy to start whether when it’s hot or cold

well-balanced design

compatibility with universal brand fit attachments

Verdict

If you are seeking a reliable curved shaft gas string trimmer that’s easy to start whether it is cold or hot, we highly recommend the Ryobi RY34427

Quiet: Husqvarna 128LD

Husqvarna 128LD
Husqvarna 128LD
Pros
  • Quiet – the Husqvarna’s 2-cycle engine
  • Easy to release new string - Tap 'N Go line release
  • Effortlessly eliminate excess air from the fuel system and the carburetor - air purge primer bulb
Cons
  • Wish it came with a strap

The Husqvarna 128LD strikes a prime balance between power and quietness. Its 2-cycle engine is considered to be quieter than the brand's 4-cycle version and other branded 2-cycle trimmers.

In terms of power, it works excellently as an edger and can whack a heavily weeded area with no issues. The 17" cutting width is amazing. We were amazed at how fast it could finish a cutting job, especially against a fence.

Another notable feature is its air purge primer bulb which allows you to effortlessly eliminate excess air from the fuel system and the carburetor.

Last but not least, the Tap 'N Go line release feature really comes in handy.

Husqvarna 128LD Specifications

Weight

11 Pounds

Cutting Width

17”

Engine Size

28cc

Highlight Features

the Husqvarna’s 2-cycle engine

Tap 'N Go line release

air purge primer bulb

Verdict

Want to finish all the cutting tasks faster without causing annoyance to your neighbors? The quiet Husqvarna 128LD might be your best bet!

Best For Trimming Under Bushes: Remington RM25S

Remington RM25S
Remington RM25S
Pros
  • Allowing for quick changes between bump head and blade - quick-change head design
  • Optimal control in trimming - a multi-position handle
Cons
  • Not for heavy-duty tasks

Speaking of the ease of trimming under bushes of straight shaft gas string trimmers, there's nothing to argue about anymore.

But what we particularly like about this option is its quick-change head design that allows the user to switch between bump head and blade in just a blink of an eye. So genius!

Besides, it features a multi-position handle to give you optimal control for the most effective trimming results with the least fatigue. This particularly comes in handy when you want to trim under bushes.

But take note that this is a 25cc engine with 16" cutting width, so it will work well on light-duty jobs.

Remington RM25S Specifications

Weight

14.02 pounds

Cutting Width

16”

Engine Size

25cc

Highlight Features

quick-change head design

a multi-position handle

Verdict

Trimming under bushes is quite a daunting task, especially for beginners. But if you use a straight shaft gas string trimmer with great control like the Remington RM25S, everything will be a lot easier.

Best For Tougher Jobs: Craftsman CMXGTAMD30SA

Craftsman CMXGTAMD30SA
Craftsman CMXGTAMD30SA
Pros
  • Ideal for tough jobs - a 30cc engine
  • Quiet & no oil and gas mixing requirements - a four-cycle engine
Cons
  • The line loading isn’t as easy as other options

The Craftsman CMXGTAMD30SA is probably the most powerful option in its field.

It features a 30cc engine and a 17" perimeter bump head, which allows it to effortlessly handle any tough yard job.

Another big plus is the four-cycle engine that doesn't require oil and gas mixing, so you can keep on your work with less interruption. Besides, it's friendly for novice users.

Craftsman CMXGTAMD30SA Specifications

Weight

14.6 Pounds

Cutting Width

17”

Engine Size

30cc

Highlight Features

a 30cc engine

a four-cycle engine

Verdict

If you need a new straight shaft gas string trimmer that’s lightweight yet powerful enough to tackle tougher jobs, consider the Craftsman CMXGTAMD30SA

How To Choose The Best Lightweight Gas String Trimmer?

Weight

Gas string trimmers generally weigh around 10 to 12 pounds while some specific models go up to 20 pounds.

Meanwhile, the definition of “Lightweight” is quite a personal issue because each individual has their own weight range to feel comfortable with. That’s why we can’t suggest any specific number on the gas string trimmer for all of you – our readers.

Instead, here is the list of inquiries for you to help determine the right weight of gas weed eater for yourself:

  • How large of your yard or lawn that you plan to use the string trimmer on?
  • Are your lawn/yard care jobs heavy-duty or light-duty?
  • How long do your lawn/yard care jobs averagely take to finish?
  • Which weight range of gas string trimmer is comfortable for your arms?

Our recommendation is to opt for a unit that is not too difficult for you to maneuver but not too lightweight to scarify other crucial elements like quality, fuel tank capacity, and functionality.

Power

Gas weed eaters normally feature an engine ranging from 20cc to 30cc and any option above 25cc would be very powerful, which means they could tackle more trimming jobs in a faster way.

There are some rare models that feature an up to 50cc engine according to our search. A basic rule of thumb is the higher the number, the more powerful the machine.

To determine the right engine power for your demand, focus on the grass that it is going to work with or the trimming jobs it’s going to handle.

The heavier-duty the job, the more powerful the engine should be.

Cutting Width & Height

Cutting Width

A gas string trimmer featuring a wider cutting swath is able to cut more grass per sweep, which means it will shorten the overall working time. So, a large cutting swath is a worth-considering element for a large-sized yard/lawn.

Regular cutting swath ranges of gas string trimmer are from 17” to 18”.

  • Anything around 8” to 12” is considered small and it’s perfect for small-sized to medium-sized lawn and light grass trimming
  • Cutting swath ranging from 12” to 16” is perfect for medium-to-large lawns and thicker grass
  • Above 16”, they are ideal for undergrowth and large gardens and heavy-duty jobs

Cutting Height

It is recommended inspecting the cutting height of the trimmer that you plan to bring home because this number is not specified all the time. It’d be best to check out the feedback of other customers about tall grass.

Which Brands Make The Best Lightweight Gas String Trimmer?

Remington

Remington currently belongs to Ohio company MTD Products, a famous 1932-founded American manufacturer of outdoor power equipment, so we’re reassured about the quality. Remington’s string trimmer lines target the low-end market range. They stand out from other similarly-priced counterparts for durability, power, and performance.

Husqvarna

For average homeowners, Husqvarna’s gas string trimmer lines are the most reliable options due to their exceptional power, versatility, and sturdiness. Husqvarna – founded in 1689 - is a renowned Swedish brand of outdoor power products.

Ryobi

When it comes to lawn and yard care, Ryobi is a reliable brand that you can trust. They are owned by Techtronic Industries of Hong Kong – the original manufacturer of equipment for brands like RIDGID, RYOBI, and Craftsman. Ryobi’s gas string trimmer lines are known for robust and powerful tools.

FAQs

How much do gas trimmers weigh?

Gas trimmers weigh around 11-18 pounds.

How do I use a string trimmer?

Please watch this tutorial to learn more about how to use a string trimmer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubJOSiTIzXo

How do I install a string trimmer line?

To help you get a better idea of installing a string trimmer line, please take a look at this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=to_DQP-XY0M

Do all two-stroke engines need mixed gas?

Yes, they are. All two-stroke engines need mixed gas and take note that each model will require a specific gas/oil ratio and oil type, so please read the manufacturer’s manuals thoroughly before use.

Do string trimmers use regular gas?

No, they don’t. If you use regular gas on a string trimmer, that might damage the engine.

Conclusion

Our testers have comparatively tested the important attributes of a gas string trimmer to refine your choice and find the best one. Hopefully, our ultimate buying guide on how to choose the best lightweight gas string trimmer was helpful to you. Thanks for reading!

Hi, my name is Eugene, the ultimate home enthusiast! I write buying guides and ideas on how to create a warm and welcoming home. Join me on my journey to make everyday in your house a staycation in the comfort of your own space!


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