Grass Trimmer and Brushcutter Shopping Guide

STIHL FSA60 on grass

Whether you are maintaining a small backyard or managing large overgrown areas, STIHL has the perfect grass trimmer or brushcutter to get the job done. From lightweight battery-powered models to powerful petrol-driven machines, our tools are built for performance, comfort, and durability.

What Is the Difference? Grass Trimmers vs. Brushcutters

Grass Trimmers are ideal for light-duty tasks such as edging lawns, trimming around trees, and maintaining garden beds. They are lightweight, easy to handle, and perfect for regular lawn maintenance in residential areas.

Brushcutters are designed for more demanding work, including cutting through thick grass, dense weeds, and overgrown vegetation. With more power and a variety of cutting attachments, they are ideal for larger properties and tougher terrain.

Clearing Saws are heavy-duty tools built for farm and large property owners and professionals who need to manage dense scrub, saplings, and wild overgrowth. These machines offer maximum cutting power and durability for forestry, roadside, and rural land management.

Choosing the Right Power Source

When selecting a grass trimmer or brushcutter, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right power source. STIHL offers three main types: battery-powered, petrol-powered, and electric (corded). Each has its own strengths depending on your garden size, noise sensitivity, and performance needs.

Person in field using brushcutter
Battery Grass Trimmers & Brushcutters

STIHL battery grass trimmers and brushcutters offer quiet, low-maintenance, and eco-friendly performance, making them ideal for both homeowners and professionals. The AS Battery System is designed for smaller townhouses and units with lawns requiring precise work, such as with the FSA 30.  AK Battery System features powerful, versatile and feature rich models like the FSA 57 and FSA 60 R, perfect for residential use, while the AP Battery System powers high-performance tools like the FSA 120 R and FSA 200 R are designed for landscapers who need reliable, cordless tools for demanding tasks.

Key Benefits:

  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Long-lasting lithium-ion batteries with petrol like performance
  • The AS and AK Battery System models are ideal for small to mid-sized gardens
  • The AP Battery System models are ideal for farm and large property owners and professionals.
Person using the STIHL Petrol Brushcutter
Petrol Grass Trimmers & Brushcutters

STIHL petrol grass trimmers and brushcutters are built for power, performance, and endurance making them the top choice for all domestic property types, rural areas, and professional landscaping. These tools are equipped with high-torque engines and robust cutting attachments to handle thick grass, dense weeds, and even woody vegetation. Curved Shaft models like the FS 38 and FS 45 C-E offer ergonomics, easy starting and power for domestic yards, whilst popular straight shaft models like the FS 55 RC-E and the FS 70 R are best suited for larger properties, such as farms, where the need for a blade attachment may be required. Models like the FS 111, FS 131 and FS 240 are best suited for landscapers who need the versatility of either an ergonomic bike handle version or loop handle for their needs, whilst models like the FS 261 C-E, FS 461 C-EM and FS 561 C-EM offer a range of engine sizes and ergonomic features to suit any commercial brushcutting and clearing saw.

Key Benefits:

  • High-performance 2-MIX and 4-MIX engines and M-Tronic models
  • Suitable for heavy-duty clearing, slashing and mowing
  • Great for sloped or hard-to-reach areas
  • Long run times and robust construction with versatile attachments available
Man using STIHL FSE 71 Electric Grass Trimmer
Electric Grass Trimmers & Brushcutters

STIHL electric grass trimmers are perfect for small gardens and users who want a lightweight, plug-and-play solution for trimming tasks. These corded models are quiet, emission-free, and easy to operate—ideal for urban homes with access to outdoor power outlets. The FSE 52 and FSE 71 are compact yet powerful electric trimmers designed for precise edging and light grass trimming around flower beds, fences, and pathways.

Electric trimmers are a great entry-level option for new gardeners or those with limited storage space. With no fuel, no battery charging, and minimal maintenance, STIHL electric trimmers offer a simple and affordable way to keep your lawn looking neat and tidy.

Choosing the Right Tool for Your Property Size & Task

When selecting a grass trimmer or brushcutter, it’s essential to think about the type of vegetation you’ll be cutting and the environment you’ll be working in. Are you maintaining neat lawn edges and trimming around garden features in a compact backyard? Or are you dealing with overgrown grass, thick weeds, or larger outdoor spaces that require more cutting power? For light, everyday tasks, a compact grass trimmer is a great fit. But if you’re tackling tougher growth or working across broader areas, a robust STIHL brushcutter will give you the strength and efficiency you need.

Cutting Attachments Explained

Grass Trimmers Comfort Features That Make a Difference

STIHL designs its grass trimmers and brushcutters with user comfort at the forefront, ensuring that even extended use feels manageable and controlled. Depending on your needs, you can choose between loop handles, which offer excellent maneuverability in tight spaces, or bike handles, which provide better balance and control for sweeping motions across larger areas. These ergonomic options help reduce strain and improve precision, especially when working for long periods.

Many STIHL models also come equipped with harness systems that distribute weight evenly across the shoulders and back, significantly reducing fatigue. Additional features like anti-vibration technology, adjustable shafts, and balanced weight distribution make STIHL tools easier to handle and more comfortable to operate—whether you're a home gardener or a professional landscaper.

Grass Trimmer Safety Tips: How to Use STIHL Tools Safely

Safety is a top priority when using any outdoor power equipment, and STIHL ensures that its tools are designed with multiple layers of protection. To stay safe while trimming or clearing, STIHL strongly recommends wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), including eye protection, gloves, sturdy boots, and hearing protection, especially when using petrol-powered or high-performance tools.

In addition to PPE, STIHL tools are built with integrated safety features such as trigger locks, guard shields, and automatic shut-off systems to help prevent accidents. These features are designed to protect both new and experienced users, giving you peace of mind while working around the home, in the garden, or on larger properties.

Grass Trimmer Maintenance Tips: Keep Your STIHL Tool Running Like New

Keeping your STIHL trimmer or brushcutter in top condition is essential for performance and longevity. After each use, it’s important to clean the tool thoroughly, removing grass clippings, dirt, and debris from the cutting head and air vents. Regularly replace the nylon line or sharpen blades to ensure clean, efficient cuts and reduce strain on the motor or engine.

For battery-powered models, proper battery care is key—store batteries in a cool, dry place and avoid letting them fully discharge. For petrol-powered tools, routine checks of the fuel mix, air filter, and spark plug will help maintain optimal engine performance and prevent costly repairs. STIHL Service Kits are an ideal asset to keep on hand to proactively maintain your machine for long use. Following STIHL’s maintenance guidelines ensures your equipment stays reliable season after season.

Try a STIHL Grass Trimmer In-Store

The best way to choose the right grass trimmer is to try one in person at your local STIHL Dealer. Testing a trimmer in-store lets you assess important factors like weight, grip, balance, and handle comfort, all of which affect how easy and efficient the tool will be for your yard work.

STIHL Dealers are trained to help you find the best grass trimmer for your garden size, vegetation type, and comfort preferences. Whether you are comparing battery-powered, petrol, or corded electric trimmers, your local dealer can demonstrate features, explain cutting attachments, and recommend the right accessories. For expert advice, hands-on experience, and confidence in your purchase, visit your nearest STIHL Dealer and try a grass trimmer before you buy.

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