In soccer, the US team famously beat Sweden 2-0 in the 2019 Women’s World Cup Final. In the men’s game, both teams have won four and lost four when going head-to-head.
But how do the countries fare when it comes to the battle of the string trimmers?
In the blue and yellow corner, we have Husqvarna from Sweden.
And in the red and white corner, we have Echo from the USA.
Both power tool manufacturers are at the top of their respective games, but who will come out on top in this matchup?
Husqvarna vs Echo trimmer – don’t you dare touch that dial.
Contents
- The Short Answer on Echo vs Husqvarna Trimmers
- Husqvarna vs Echo Stand-Off
- Sample Reviews
- FAQs
- Which is better, Echo or Husqvarna trimmer?
- What is the best string trimmer on the market?
- Are Echo trimmers worth the money?
- What is the best gas trimmer to buy?
- Are Echo trimmers any good?
- What company makes Echo trimmers?
- Where are Husqvarna trimmers made?
- Which Echo trimmer is best?
- Which is better: Stihl, Echo, or Husqvarna Trimmers?
- Summary
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The Short Answer on Echo vs Husqvarna Trimmers
If you’re just dying to know the winner before we fully get into detail, then here’s the short answer.
Both companies offer great options, and to be perfectly honest there is no clear winner – each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
In the end, it just comes down to brand loyalty and your own personal preferences.
Having said that, let’s dig a little deeper, and perhaps you can make your own decision about who comes out on top.
And in this particular review, the Echo edges out the Husqvarna – but it’s a close call. Read on to discover what happens.
Note: We’re covering string trimmers in this article, and not hedge trimmers. We might cover an Echo vs Husqvarna hedge trimmer battle at a later date – so watch this space.
But if that’s what you were looking for all along, we have covered the topic of some quality gas-powered hedge trimmers, so check that out.
Husqvarna vs Echo Stand-Off
Echo – The Company
With roots in Japan, the Echo name was officially established in the USA in 1978, when they switched from importing Japanese 2-cycle engines and hand-held products to engineering and manufacturing in Wheeling, Illinois.
They soon developed an extensive power tool range that included chainsaws, string and hedge trimmers, and brush cutters, backed by Japanese craftsmanship.
Today a subsidiary of the Yamabiko Corporation of Japan, Echo builds the majority of its tools in the US from components sourced around the world and at home.
Known for its mutually beneficial relationship with Home Depot since 1994, Echo is an innovative company that continually strives to make their presence known in the market, while attempting to be as environmentally friendly as possible.
Husqvarna – The Company
When it comes to history, it’s indisputable that Husqvarna has Echo beat. In fact, they’ve got a lot of companies beat, as they were first founded over 330 years ago, way back in 1689.
Originally established to build rifles and munitions, they later manufactured everything from sewing machines to wood stoves, and motorcycles to hunting weapons. They were responsible for the first Swedish typewriter in 1895.
These days, however, they’re far more well known for their world-class line of outdoor power tools, including these awesome chainsaws, hedge and string trimmers, zero turn lawnmowers, brush cutters, and lawn tractors.
Several other notable brands, such as Poulan Pro, Gardena, Flymo, and McCulloch are also under the Husqvarna umbrella.
Suffice to say, in this field, they’re one of the most recognizable and successful companies in the world.
Power
With the Husqvarna offering a 27.6 cc engine compared to the Echo’s 21.2, the Swedes come out on top when it comes to power.
Regardless, they both offer excellent power to price ratios, as well as being on the quieter side of string trimmer operation.
Either way, between them they make some of the best commercial weed eaters available, offering some powerful, professional-grade machines for home and garden use.
Build Quality
Both machines offer a premium build quality that is as tough and durable as you would come to expect from market leaders in this class.
Although Husqvarna might have a better reputation globally, Echo are more than a match with the look and feel of their trimmers. And being a US-based company, you might find more positive reviews for Echo machines in the States and Canada.
But both these tools are designed to last, and as such, in this category, there is no clear winner. Thumbs up on both accounts.
Attachments
Both trimmers offer an excellent range of attachments so you can switch up the tool head depending on the job you need to do.
Hedge trimmers, edgers, blowers, cultivators, extension poles, brush cutters and more can seriously improve the bang-for-buck you’re getting out of these versatile tools.
However, when push comes to shove, the Echo edges out the Husqvarna with more attachments available, as well as being compatible with other tools from different companies.
The Husqvarna – while still offering quality attachments – is only compatible with a more limited range of its own making.
But take a look at this article if you’re interested in learning the merits of having a dedicated edger as opposed to simply an attachment, as well as the actual difference between a trimmer and edger.
And don’t forget, that the higher-end, more expensive, commercial-grade trimmers aren’t usually compatible with any other tools. They’re designed for one job and one job only.
In my experience, that’s what the very best tools do.
Price Tag
How much a product costs is often the decider when it comes to which model you’re going to end up with.
Researching the balance between performance and price is the reason why I write these reviews – and the reason you read them.
But in this case, and at the time of writing, the difference in the bottom line between these particular two models is negligible.
Of course, this can change at any time and is at the manufacturer and supplier’s discretion. It’s always worth keeping an eye on the market – even if you’re not currently intending to buy.
You never know when you can snap up a bargain.
Ease of Use
String trimmers stand or fall on how easy they are to use and operate, as by their very nature they require at least some degree of physical fitness.
On the subject of weight, therefore, although designed to be on the lighter side, carrying and using a trimmer for long periods of time can still take it out of you and fatigue will settle in.
In this Husqvarna vs Echo weed eater battle, it is the Swedes who triumph with a machine that comes in at 10.3 lbs, while the Echo is 12.3 lbs.
Both have nicely designed, soft-grip, ergonomic handles, and comfortable, easy-to-access trigger operating systems.
Easy-on switches on both machines ensure a restart is as easy as possible, and you don’t have to keep cord pulling and putting your back out every time.
Safety-wise, it has been noted that the Echo’s guard is a little on the narrow side, whereas the Husqvarna is more than enough.
The trade-off here is that your view of your work area isn’t nearly as interrupted with the Echo, which many professional users prefer at the expense of more protection.
Overall Efficiency
When it comes to the fuel capacity, the Husqvarna is seriously lacking against the Echo, with a poor 11.6 fluid ounce gas tank that doesn’t exactly get glowing compliments.
Surely there was no reason they couldn’t match the Echo’s 14.9 fluid ounce counterpart? It would have made all the difference in getting the job done in one sitting, and reducing the constant need to refuel.
Both machines incorporate their own easy-start technology, with the Husqvarna claiming it improves starting efficiency by 40%, with the Echo a more modest 30%.
With each machine offering a 17-inch cutting swath, there’s zero difference when it comes to how much vegetation you can cut with one pass, so it’s a clear tie in this department.
Finally, the rivals go head-to-head on the bump-feed system, in which they both get excellent marks for efficient and fast line feed when you need it most.
For speedy cuts and getting the job done on time, there’s little difference here.
Winner
You’ve backed me into a corner and I need to declare an overall winner in the Echo vs Husqvarna string trimmer match up.
I must admit, in writing this review, my allegiances have alternated several times, sometimes leaning one way, and sometimes the other. It’s been that close.
That being said, in the end, I feel that, although it offers a little less power and is heavier than its rival, the Echo is my choice as the overall winner.
The sheer number of attachments, larger gas tank, and general build quality just edges it over the line by a nose.
However, as a brand, I’m a big Husqvarna fan, so I’ll leave it up to you to decide which is the best for your needs.
Sample Reviews
Note that I chose two, comparable trimmers that were very close in performance and specifications – so the playing field was as even as possible.
Bear in mind, like all power-tool companies, they have a wide range of different machines with varying specifications.
Even if one model beats out another, it might not necessarily mean that brand is the overall winner.
Husqvarna Gas String Trimmer
Here we have Husqvarna’s 27.6 cc, two-stroke straight shaft string trimmer. It features Smart-Start technology to get you off and running as fast as possible, with an easy-release, Tap ‘N Go bump feed head that offers a quick-release line that will keep you smoothly in business throughout the task at hand. The head is also designed for easy line replacement, so you should check out these excellent trimmer lines when you run out. The 129LK has a 17-inch cutting swath, a translucent fuel tank to help you monitor the fuel level, and is fully attachment capable with five extra tools to save you time, space, and money around your property. (Attachments sold separately.)
Pros
- Lightweight design.
- 2-stroke oil included.
- Detachable shaft for easy storage.
- Easy to assemble.
- Automatic stop return system for easy restart.
Cons
- Compatible with Husqvarna attachments only.
- Small gas tank.
Conclusion
A powerful string trimmer that is bolstered by the fact you can use five useful additional attachments with the tool. It’s just a shame that with the gas tank – you’re not going to have a lot of run time for working on the longer jobs.
Echo Gas 2-Stroke Cycle Trimmer
Our Echo example is this 21.2 CC two-stroke straight shaft trimmer that is also compatible with several attachments for various jobs around your property. It features the Echo i-30 start system for easy starts and a tool-less coupler for switching out different attachments with minimum fuss.
The speed-feed trimmer head reloads in seconds without the need to take anything apart, and an engine vibration reduction system keeps the shakes down during operation – which is ideal if you need to keep working for longer periods. It cuts a 17-inch swath and has a fully adjustable, cushioned handle for added control and comfort.
Pros
- Durable debris shield and cut-off knife.
- Large, see-through gas tank.
- Extensive range of accessories
- Highly recommended by others.
Cons
- On the heavy side.
- The guard could be wider.
Conclusion
Offering an unbeatable variety of attachments, this Echo might not have the engine power of its rival, but it certainly makes up for that with practicality. The larger gas tank is a big win, too.
FAQs
Which is better, Echo or Husqvarna trimmer?
In this review, I’ve gone with the Echo as the overall winner.
Having said that, the call was made based solely on these two models going head-to-head.
Overall, I stand by the original statement that it depends on your personal preference, as well as what you need the machine to do, and how much you’re willing to spend on it.
What is the best string trimmer on the market?
Again, this is a subjective question and can vary from person to person. There is no clear winner when it comes to the best string trimmer available today.
Other brands are also in play, including DeWalt, Ryobi, Stihl, Craftsman, Black and Decker, and Remington, to name just a few.
Everyone has their favorites, and it’s up to you to discover yours.
Are Echo trimmers worth the money?
Yes, they are.
While at this time they might not quite have the reputation as more well-known or used brands such as Husqvarna, DeWalt, and Stihl; Echo trimmers are every bit as good and can more than hold their own in this field.
Constantly improving, these machines are here to stay, especially when it comes to value for money, customer service, parts and maintenance.
What is the best gas trimmer to buy?
The list of quality gas-powered trimmers is as long as your arm – and every major power tool company has their own versions all vying to take the crown.
Take a look at this in-depth and extensive article on the best commercial weed eaters for a wide selection of the finest gas-powered string trimmers available on the market today.
It’s up to you to decide which is the best – which you might not be able to do until you’ve sampled them all!
Are Echo trimmers any good?
Yes. Next question.
As with any power tool, just make sure you’re purchasing the right piece of equipment for the job – and you should get an excellent experience all round.
What company makes Echo trimmers?
Echo is a US-based company that is under the umbrella of the Yamabiko Corporation of Japan.
They build products in the USA from materials and components sourced from around the world.
Where are Husqvarna trimmers made?
Although based out of Sweden, Husqvarna has factories and subsidiaries all over the world, and both parts and labor might come from any number of these locations, including the USA, Germany, and Brazil.
If you’re looking for the origin country of a specific trimmer, you can either contact the company directly or check the specifications of the machine somewhere on the body.
Which Echo trimmer is best?
Again, that’s a subjective question, and it depends on the type of work you need the trimmer for.
Try this awesome product selector guide from Echo that will help you narrow down your search for the right machine, and then you can decide which model is best for you and your needs.
Which is better: Stihl, Echo, or Husqvarna Trimmers?
German company Stihl also manufactures some of the best trimmers and chainsaws in the world.
Check out the entertaining video below for one man’s observations on all three brands.
Summary
The dust has settled, hands have been shaken, and a victor declared.
But while the USA has just pipped Sweden in this particular Husqvarna vs Echo trimmer match-up, the war is far from over.
Both companies will continue to do battle, alongside many other top power tool brands. And speaking of, check out this article for an awesome Cub Cadet, John Deere, Husqvarna dust-up.
And let me know in the comments which trimmer you would prefer and why – or which brand is your personal favorite.
Happy trimming!