Stihl FS56 RC Vs Echo SRM-225 – What’s the Better String Trimmer?
“The appearance of your lawn depends on the arsenal of tools at your disposal.”
A good string trimmer should certainly be a part of your lawn care arsenal; but how do you choose the right string trimmer?
After all, these aren’t exactly inexpensive tools. So you have to make sure you get the best value for your yard.
In the following comparison review, we will be taking a look at a couple of string trimmers that are powerful enough to handle all your home lawn care needs (and even some light commercial work).
Stihl FS56 RC Vs Echo SRM-225 Overview
“First and foremost, these are both gas-powered string trimmers.”
The Echo SRM-225 has a 14.2 ounce gas tank and the Stihl FS56 RC has an 11.5 ounce tank. So right off the bat, you will get a bit more runtime between refills with the SRM-225.
However, the Stihl FS56 RC does offer a bit more reach. It has a 69.9” overall reach while the SRM-225 is 59 inches long – something to be aware of if there are hard to reach spots in your lawn or backyard
Quick Facts
Specs |
Stihl FS56 RC |
Echo SRM-225 |
Cutting Width |
16.5 inches |
17 inches |
Engine |
27.2cc |
21.2cc |
Weight |
10.6lbs |
11.5lbs |
Key Differences Between the Stihl FS56 RC and the Echo SRM-225
“These trimmers have slight differences in weight, engine power and cutting width.”
One of the major differences in terms of operation though is reach. You get more reach with the Stihl FS56 RC.
We also noticed during testing that the Stihl FS56 RC vibrates less at high RPMs than the SRM-225.
The difference in weight is negligible as is the power difference. Overall though, we would say that the Stihl FS56 RC is more comfortable overall.
Echo SRM-225 Key Features
⦁ Easy Access Air Filter – You don’t need any tools to access and replace the air filter on this string trimmer.
⦁ Speed-Feed Head – It is very easy to replace the line. There is also no disassembly required to do so.
⦁ Rubber Handle – The front handle of the SRM-225 has a rubber molding for enhanced operator comfort.
Echo SRM-225 Pros & Cons
Pros:
⦁ It’s easy to change the line
⦁ Easy to use overall
⦁ Great for weed-eating
⦁ Comes with a 5-year warranty
⦁ Wide cutting swath
Cons:
⦁ Vibrates more than the Stihl FS56 RC
⦁ A bit more expensive than the Stihl FS56 RC
Overall Score: 95/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
Stihl FS56 RC Key Features
- Lightweight Design – The chassis of the Stihl FS56 RC is made of polymer to keep the overall weight down.
- Fully Adjustable Front Handle – The handle can be rotated around the shaft to accommodate both left and right-handed operators.
- Throttle Trigger Interlock – This is a safety feature that prevents the trimmer head from spinning unless the interlock is depressed.
Stihl FS56 RC Pros & Cons
Pros:
⦁ A bit more affordable than the SRM-225
⦁ Great for home use
⦁ Good for light commercial work
⦁ Upright fuel tank is easy to refill
⦁ Very easy to start
Cons:
⦁ Smaller fuel capacity
⦁ Smaller cutting swath
Overall Score: 97/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
Who Should Buy Each One?
Both of these trimmers would be good for anyone with medium to large yards but if you are looking for a more comfortable machine, the Stihl FS56 RC would be a good choice.
The Echo SRM-225 would be a good choice if you prefer a longer runtime. And in actuality, the SRM-225 would be good for larger properties thanks to its bigger fuel tank and cutting swath.
Price Comparison
The Stihl FS56 RC sells directly from still for $220. The Echo SRM-225 goes for about $230.
Weight & Handling Comparison
The SRM-225 is less than a full pound heavier than the Stihl FS56 RC so there’s really no noticeable difference in weight.
However, the Stihl FS56 RC has a fully lined drive shaft which goes a long way towards reducing vibration. However, keep in mind that the Echo SRM-225 has a wider cutting swath.
Also, it’s important to note that the trimmer head of the Stihl FS56 RC rotates counter-clockwise.
Power Comparison
In terms of power, these trimmers are equally matched. Both of them cut through hearty grass, weeds and even small saplings without any issues.
Line Comparison
Both the Stihl FS56 RC and the SRM-225 take a .095” line.
Efficiency Comparison
These trimmers are pretty equally matched in terms of fuel efficiency as well. Just note that the SRM-225 has a larger fuel tank.
Durability Comparison
We preferred the outer build of the Stihl FS56 RC a bit more. It’s made of an impact-resistant polymer that seems very durable, while also reducing overall weight.
Other String Trimmers to Consider
Husqvarna 128LD
The Husqvarna 128LD is outfitted with a semi-automatic trimmer head and a 28cc, 2-cycle engine. This is a very durable and well-made machine.
But perhaps more than anything, we liked the fact that you could detach the shaft from the trimmer head.
Overall Score: 97/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
Husqvarna 324L
The Husqvaran is a heavy-duty string trimmer that boasts an 18 inch cutting swath. It weighs 17 pounds and is ideal for commercial landscaping and lawn maintenance.
Overall Score: 96/1000
Check Out More Reviews Here:
Worx 40V Line Trimmer
If you prefer an electric string trimmer, the Worx 40V Line Trimmer would be a good choice. It is battery-operated, cordless and gives about 45 minutes of runtime on a full charge.
Plus, no gas tank to refill!
Overall Score: 95/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
Final Assessment
While we really liked the fact that the Echo SRM-225 has a 17” cutting width, that was the only real advantage it had over the Stihl FS56 RC.
The Stihl FS56 RC is more comfortable because it vibrates less, is more affordable, gives you better reach and offers at least equal cutting power to the Echo SRM-225.
If you need to keep your yard and lawn looking tidy, we don’t really see any reason to choose the Echo SRM-225 over the Stihl FS56 RC.
