I personally don’t think you can go wrong with either one. I use the Echo and it has never let me down. One major positive for the Echos are they have a 5 year warranty compared to Stihl’s 2 year warranty.
Wow, was I impressed. I recently bought the Echo 2620T. Couldn't wait to start it up and give it a try, I fueled it and followed the instructions. The beast fired up on the 4th pull for its maiden run. Keeping the speed down, I edged our lawn, and trimmed the few areas my mower can't get into. I called it a Beast, because it is one. I had first ordered the 2320T, and was disappointed that it wouldn't cut our St. Augustine grass runners. Sending it back, I then ordered the 2620T, and what a difference. I also installed a timer on my new beast, and to date, I have run it now for 10.7 minutes. I'm not going to use full power till I reach 25 minutes, but then I haven't had to either. This beast is beautiful, and worth every penny. I highly recommend the Echo brand, because if all their gas engines run as well as my new 2620T trimmer, I will no longer use my old FS55R Stihl. It was good, but then I didn't have anything else to compare it with. Now that I do, I won't be going back to Stihl. I'm also running Ethanol Shield now mixed in my 5 gallon gas container. Life is beautiful in my two yards.
I own that Echo trimmer and have found it to be the best one I have ever had. It is a beast and goes through anything and doesn't complain. First trimmer that I have kept the factory line feed system on. The Echo string is the best, sometimes I will trim for almost an hour and never feed new line out. Since I got this trimmer I have been converting other thing to Echo and have not been disappointed.
I got a 2320T last year. Cleaned out a ditch with Black Diamond 95 line and it was amazing. My neighbor’s kid runs a 2620T for his lawn care business. He’s the one who turned me on to Echo stuff.
This video is about 5 years old now and the comments started out with everyone voting for Stihl. I discovered a shift in votes for ECHO about 2-3 years ago. The word is getting out on how well they compete.
I had a model older than this one that I love. My sister has difficulty with tools that are too heavy and she actually loved mine and found it easy to use ua-cam.com/users/postUgkx_rBCFuDW1zD6blTGhLkvAkxU657uR_lG . This is a newer model but was even lighter which she really appreciates. She enjoys it and I no longer have to go to her house to trim as she can handle it fine. Haven't used it enough to comment on the battery life but lithium batteries last longer than the old style. Being cordless makes it easy to trim the far edges of the property. The entire yard can be trimmed with one charged battery.
I've owned a small lawn care business for 15 years and still have 2 Echo machines running from the beginning. All I have done to my equipment is use non-ethanol fuel (91 octane), Echo brand 2-stroke oil, added Stabil to the fuel. Prior to storing for winter ran the engine till warm, drained fuel from tank, started till engine dies. Never any issues. Solid equipment.
I have a 30 year old echo trimmer, it still runs like new and it’s a good thing since parts are no longer available. Also still using an echo power pruner that is about 25 years old.
Good to hear! My echo trimmer is 40+ years old and works great also. Five years ago my clutch went bad and was able to get a new clutch and throttle trigger. I can get both today if I am willing to wait. Echo online's (out of Florida) prices are great. Do you have the original head on your power pruner. I bought mine when there was no auto oiler. Went thru 2 heads and added two more power pruners. Did you get the 4 ft. extension for it? Hope yours run for many more years.
@@Zach-sg5uu I don't understand. I was stating my opinion in the negative: I think today's quality is not nearly as good as many years ago. Ergo agreeing with your statement.
9 years, 11 miles of road, 7 parks, 5 wells, 1x 3500 plot cemetery.. 4 echo trimmers, replaced all 4, once... most likely from 3 things, abused running wide open, fuel too lean (burnt cylinder) or ran over by a truck... if I recall correctly.
The comparison was pretty close to even except you took the echo right done the middle of the thick grass while you did not do the same with the stihl. You also went over the Echo side twice while only going over the stihl side once. If I had to choose I would choose the Echo. I bought an Echo trimmer from Home Depot two years ago and haven't had a single problem or issue with it. It trimmers about 55 yards a week including edging. Echo all the way all day!
I'd like to comment on LLS comment. I say your exaggerating here ole buddy, I've had a lawn service in SE Texas for 30 years, we now year round, normally do around 100 a week so I can surely see your 55, but doing 50+ a week ain't happening w no home depot echo, man those things wont hold up at all. I have Mexicans running my equipment, they are really hard on stuff, a Stihl is the only thing that will hang with them, they can't tear em up. I have tried echo several times over the years, even just buying one and keeping it for personal use, they just won't hold up period. When they run they do good, but that's a big IF, that new 4-mix Stihl makes is damm near indestructible, next time you buy get you that 131, you can thank me later
I have owned both brands. Stihl was the premium back in the day. With attachments: multiple different blades, harnesses, handles, face shield and muffs cost us a small fortune. Loved it though. Echo is my go to now. Currently have had a straight shaft for over 8 years doing basic tune ups, and just today having to replace the Recoil starter assembly. I run it into the ground and like a timex takes a licking and keeps on ticking. Just purchased another one on sale at Home depot to dedicate it with a blade kit. Thanks for the time you took. Good comparison.
As a former professional user (did a lot of landscaping and gardens maitenance while at university) shindaiwa (same as echo machines) was my choice when i bought my brushcutter for "domestic" use. My T260 (26cc) stood my abuse fighting weekly mediterranean maquis, cistus, heater, bramble bushes and so on, weed is the lightest thing it cut, for 20 years. So, if it never fails on me, it will be replaced by shindaiwa or echo.
thats a good comparison. I'd be happy with either although I'd lean toward the echo because it has a greater fuel capcity so you don't have to refuel so often. Thanx for your effort - it's probably the best - non-bias video I've seen
just a quick fyi, echo and shindaiwa are owned by the same parent company now. the 2620 and shindaiwa t262 are virtually the same machine save for a different grip material, throttle trigger and presence switch and guard.
I have both the echo and the Stihl. The Stihl died after one year and the Echo is still going after 10 years. I use the same cord as you and it is the best trimmer cord I have ever used. Thanks.
I have been a landscaper for the last past 25 years I've used nothing but Echo echo is a great company every time I needed my power equipment and always there they always started that's why I go with Echo
@@fastrivers812 I walked in the home Depot about 20 years ago and I bought the most expensive as one that had the bigger motor and that cost me I think $339.00 see I like the metal face you're able to change the thick string on it and it will go through any grass
I'll say this I used the same Stihl on a golf course for ten years and now use it to do several yards. I am not easy on it whatsoever, I use it to line up honeysuckle and just about everything else, never had an issue with it, never worked on it, only gone through one head, but like I said. I am not easy on it. but after 10+ years of service... like a sore Peter, can't beat it!
All my garden tools are Stihl. I did try Husqvarna, which is a rather known brand but did not make it. For me Stihl, german brand is known for quality and reliability. Stihl has wont me over for quality and relialibity.
I just invested into a SRM-225 (Homeowner grade) and I'm just getting used to the ECHO trimmer, I tuned the fuel screws because it sounded a little rough out of the box. In heavy weeds, it seems to have plenty of power and does not give me problems like the MTD stuff. The ECHO also seems to run a long time on a tank of fuel.
I've had my Echo GT-225 curved shaft trimmer since 2012 & have had zero major issues w/ it. I service it yearly(clean/re-gap spark plug, regrease drive shaft, clean muffler/spark arrestor & clean the throttle assembly/carborator) & I have say that this tool can take a beating & still perform tip top. As someone said in another comment, Echo products are very easy to work on & replacement parts are easy to find for reasonable cost. I have other Echo gas powered tools & I can say the same for those aswell. If you give your Echo a little bit of tlc every 6 - 12 months it'll return it spades by making your outdoor work go fast, smooth & with out a hitch. I highly recommend Echo gas powered products.
@@MarkThomasBuilder It's very convenient that Home Depot is basically Echo's one stop shop. Most of the common replacement parts are usually available but any Echo owner can easily find what they need online with little trouble. Echo tools are as much fun to tinker with as they are to run. Good luck with your yearly maintenance & keep that beast running(Echo's don't purr, they growl). Great video btw. I really liked the drone overhead view. 👍👍👍
I remember our first little string trimmer as a kid. I think it was 1978 and it was a Weedeater brand. Little electric. back then the string on them were SO TINY. I own the Echo P225. Beastly little machine. Would not own anything but Echo.
Haha, I think we had the same trimmer. I also remember a weed cutter that was like a mini hedge trimmer on a stick. It was about 4" wide for cutting the weeds. It was slow going for trimming weeds. Anyways... Thanks for voting!
Both trimmers are really good i don't own the echo 2620 we use the echo srm266 and the stihl fs90r both are very dependable in my company the echos are less maint then the stihl fs90 we have to adjust the valves on them every year its very easy to do but echos and stihl is all we use here in south fla.
markthomasbuilder i use nothing but echo oil not red armor and sometimes husqavarna oil exp we use the heck out of my trimmers 6 days a week all year around.
I have an old Echo trimmer (1982 vintage) which was sold under the John Deere label. I still use it today. It still starts every spring and does everything I need it to. I am looking for a new head for a hedge trimmer and saw for trimming trees/shrubs. Based on the performance of my ancient Echo and this video and comments, I am confident to stick to the reliable Echo. I have heard a lot of good things from service shops about Echo's. They seldom come in for repair.
I'm happy with all my ECHO outdoor power equipment. I use ECHO Red Armor and they all run great for me. Thanks for sharing the story of your vintage trimmer. I'm glad to hear it's still running good.
I've had the same experiences with Echo. Owned lots of them and abused the weedwackers and never had any issues other than old age fuel lines and the occasional tune up. I inherited my grandfathers Stihl FS90R and SH85 blower. I like the FS90R but I find myself always working on it to keep it running right. Nice machine, super powerful and smooth, but not the most reliable. I flat out dislike the SH85 other than using it to blow out the garage and suck stuff out of flower beds. Hard starting, wrist twisting, heavy bogging piece it is. I owned an SRM230 for 9 years and sold it after I got the FS90R (I regret that decision now) and I spent more time cutting down overgrown lawns with that thing than anything else. I also ran a blade on it a lot cutting fist sized branches and stuff I should have used a chainsaw for. I had that thing so hot so many times it faded the plastic cylinder shroud/cover and I burnt the skin off my arms multiple times. It always ran excellent and never had one issue out of it. The FS90R on the other hand has had way less use than that SRM230 and still gives running problems from time to time. I think when the FS90R bites the dust I'll replace it with a SRM2620 from what I've seen here.
I love the echo used Redmax,stihl,husqvarna and shindaiwa. My two favorite is shindaiwa and echo which are basically the same. I can do 9 good size yards on one tank and refill my line in seconds without beating the head to death trying to get it to feed. That speed head is definitely a game changer. Good video man stay safe.
I’ve owned stihl and echo. I live on a small farm. Use both and beat both to death. The stihl is not made nearly as good as the echo. I switched to echo and have only bought 1. If I can’t tear one up then it can’t be tore up. Echo all day.
My FIL bought a Stihl fs90 in the early 90's, and it's still going despite 20 years of ethanol crap gas. It doesn't get used all that much, so it's not wore out. It doesn't hold a candle to my Echo 42cc brush cutter, but that makes sense since the Echo is 14cc's larger. What's interesting is that the Echo uses less fuel for the same amount of work when it's a larger engine. The Echo also starts easier cold and hot running the same non-ethanol mix. I run 40:1 on the fatter side in all my 2-strokes. 50:1 is an EPA compromise and is too dry for my liking. Bottom ends need oil for long bearing life and cooling. What's interesting in your comparison is that the Echo didn't bog and has the smaller engine. If you consider your concern for breaking the line as it slowed your attack, the Echo actually out cut the Stihl. Echo's always been reluctant to post HP ratings, so you can't use that data. But you failed to mention their 3yr commercial and 5yr homeowner warranty vs Stilh's 1yr. I have 2 Echo chainsaws in the 35cc class and the 42cc brush cutter. They range from 3 to 9 years old, and have all been flawless. Stihl's lower end homeowner machines don't compare favorably in the long run. They're just not designed as well or built as robust. I put a brush blade on the FS90 and the shaft flexed when hitting saplings despite it being the same diameter as the Echo's. The Stihl was sold with the brush blade and guard as factory. In fact, it's poor performance with the brush blade is what made me buy the Echo. Stihl and Husqvarna's comparable brush cutters are hundreds more vs the Echo in the same engine class. Stihl does make some great stuff, but you end up paying a lot more for it. When you get into large chainsaws, Echo doesn't offer them (at least not in the US), and Husqvarna and Stihl end up a lot closer price wise, CC for CC.
I use them all. Stihl, Echo and Husqvarna. My Echo 2620T with Weedshark head is my go to for heavy brush out on the property around ponds, etc. For grass and normal; everyday trimming its dealers choice. They are all great machines.
I worked for a lawn care company for about a year, and they only had echo trimmers. They were some of the worst commercial trimmers I ever used. The motors were very temperamental. and there were no guards over the spark plug wires so after they would crack over time from being dropped you would always get zapped like a tazer. The best trimmers I ever used were the stihl fs44s, because they have an excellent power to weight ratio, they are easy to start, and easy to work on. In my opinion, the best trimmer on the market currently is the stihl fs94r. I have had one for about four months and I am very impressed with the trimmer. It is a 2 stroke motor, which makes it much lighter than the stihl 4 mix trimmers. It is also very reliable, I have been using it every day and it has not disappointed me. I know that there are people who will disagree with me, but it’s just my opinion and what I have found to work best for me.
Thanks for sharing. I've never owned an older ECHO trimmer with the shock issue, but I am aware of it. Their newer trimmers like the 2620 works well and don't have that issue. I haven't tried the fs94r, but I'm sure I'd like it, since it's probably close to the fs90r.
plantation lawn The Echo regular head does well too but for his scenario the "T"-model with the 2:1 head would be sufficient. I know this as I believe I have the PAS model of this trimmer but with the regular Speed Feed head and gearbox.
Echo all the way.i have both.. But my fav is Echo.. Less weight.. I just feel a faster reaction from Echo.. Echo last for ever too if you take good care of them.
You totally missed the main difference. The line feed for the Echo is the best in the industry. One would have thought that the one item most used would have been in the review.
Stihl has quick feed head and I have a pile of attachments to do more than ono echo. Have more toque and better fuel economy that's why echo has a bigger tank.
I run the Echomatic head on a SRM 225. It's STUPID how simple and easy to use that head is. It's all of 2 pieces: the outer shell on your weed-eater, and an inner spool with attached spring. Twist and rotate to remove, twist and rotate to replace. Holds plenty of .095" or even .105" inch line. I'll never buy a different head ever again!!
I’m a Landscaper and we use Stihl equipment. My boss swears they are the best of the best. I went to buy a string trimmer to use for home use but they didn’t have the Stihl brand in stock so I settled for an Echo. I was skeptical at first. Now I swear by the Echo string trimmer. I’ve had mine 2 years and haven’t had any issues. It’s easy to string up , very simple actually. I love it. I have a pretty good size yard. I have an Echo backpack blower too. Just as good as a Stihl.
Thanks for sharing. I'm seeing others who've discovered success by stitching to ECHO. I think the introduction of their Xseries is when they really started to gain momentum.
I have one of each. The echo has more torque and stihl more RPMs. Both work well but love the Echo head. Other than that its that Echo parts are available on line at lower prices compared to Stihl at authorized dealers and more expensive. Have also owned e several of each since 70's and they last equally as long. Both good just which models are on sale when I buy.
I have a new Echo Speed Feed head, still in the package. I plan to test it out on my Husqvarna and Stihl trimmer and see how it attaches and if the RPMs increase.
That is so awesome!😀 Tell him I said hi and thanks for watching. I'm happy to send some stickers and a magnet to him. If he would like that, feel free to email me an address to send them. I'm at markthomasbuilder@gmail.com
@@severoferova5928 Nothing & autism doesn’t actually in occur in most people that are supposedly diagnosed with it! A lot of women are under diagnosed & a lot of men are over diagnosed!
Great video! I would take the stihl over the echo, but I'm a bit biased. I used to work for a stihl distributor so maybe that's why. I also like the way the stihl engineers seem to think ahead and incorporate a better service experience when designing their products. However having said that, the echo srm-2620t is one hell of a nice machine.
I like Stihl that said I graveyards and I used both Stihl and echo.Echo gets it done .but Stihl just goes through it a whole different way in my opinion.
Reliability on anything Echo is unbelievable. I have been using the smaller engine Echo trimmer multiple times a week for 8 years now and have done nothing to it except grease the gearbox every now and then. Oh and the Echo speed feed head is the best out there.
Does Echo offer a 4 cycle as well as the 2? If so which would you recommend? Just home owner residential, 1/2 acre lot here. I've stopped using Round Up type products...I think it made my dog sick a few years ago. The fence-line is starting to look rather gnarly. Any advice appreciated.
I really like the Echo SRM-2620, especially with the Speed Feed head, so I think that would work well for you. They only offer a 2 cycle. I'm making a video comparing the brush blades pretty soon. That might be something to consider in thick weeds.
I've had the Stihl FS90R for roughly 4 years, I use it about 10 months a year in South Texas once a week or so. I've changed out the spark plug , air filter, priming bulb and trimmer head. I've never ran an Echo so I have no comparison but my Stihl has been the best weed eater I've ever owned.
GD, I don't know. Our farm Stihl was purchased over 20 years ago and is still running strong. I've put 5-6 plugs, a coil, and a carb in it. It's a heavy beast compared to the echo 266 I bought as a backup, but it just keeps on chugging. Metal blade on the Stihl and string on the Echo
I bought my wife a echo trimmer with easy start it's the best trimmer I've ever had won't buy anything else but echo they are so much better than sthil there's no comparison trust me I own a small engine shop I work on them for a living I know what I'm talking about
I’ve had my echo for about 3 years, it’s a smaller one and it was 200 bucks, one of the things i do for a living is clean yards and i absolutely love the echo. It has never done me wrong, it just wont quit, It always start pretty much at 2 or 3 pulls. Has great power, not to mention restringing it is easier then all other weed eaters. My other tools are stihl.
Sounds like my experience with the Echo line trimmer. It works very well and is starts easily. I'm in the process of putting a ECHO Speed Feed head on my Stihl line trimmer.
I bought a echo pe3100 25 yrs ago used in a.pawn shop and to this day it never been in the shop the driveshaft cable was change twice and filters and it still running like new when i have been through three stihl weedeaters and a stihl hedge trimmer and a stihl blower and two stil edgers
@@MarkThomasBuilder cant remember the oil back when i first got but it was mix 40:1 then i eventually start using super tech 50:1 until i started getting bottles with not the proper amout of oil i been using stihl 50:1 for the last 3-4 yrs
I've read most of the comments and I think it's safe to say both are good machines and people have their loyalties to both. Dealer support is huge though, without it, it doesn't matter what you have if you need service. My dealer is fairly large and sells Stihl, Echo, Shindaiwa and Redmax but their commercial turn around time during peak season can be as long as 5 weeks. I'm fixing to pull the trigger and switch to echo. so i have to cast my vote for echo in this case.
That’s right! This guy obviously doesn’t or hasn’t made any money with his equipment. He looks like he never will have a grasp of reality. The stihl company will NEVER get my business. I’ve been stuck having to use their crap and didn’t make any money those days. Fact is stihl is SHIT!!!
I'm fixing to buy one of these. I don't think it matters which. Both seem to be complete overkill for my application. The Echo did sound more fantastic-er tho. And yes they both sounded incredible idling together. Killer drone shots as well.
I have been using the FS90R for about 3 years now,never had an issue with it,served me well.Most of my equipment is Stihl,must be the German in me.Great video,keep it up.
I cut 18+ yards a week and have a fs70r and it's never failed me once in 4 years. It starts on the first or second pull every time. The thing is a beast with .65 line.
The T in the 2620T stands for torque. It has 2:1 gear reduction. This effectively doubles the horsepower at the head. Therefore it is harder to bog down.
I bought the 91r and the throttle response was abysmal. I returned it for Stihl's only 2 stroke trimmer the fs94r. It's worked flawlessly for 2 seasons. The best power to weight ratio in any trimmer I've used beside my old Kawasaki. Echos are awesome, but heavy beasts.
I've used both trimmers in both commercial and residential applications and I prefer the Stihl all day long. The only drawback with the Stihl that have found is the fuel capacity.
I was given a Stihl FS80R. It came with the more expensive 3 point 12 metal blade and adapter set up. It also came with a cultivator attachment. So I bought a string trimmer head for it, because I got the unit free. The unit is almost 20 years old appears to be from 1999. Well the thing starts right up and runs and cuts great. The clutch might be slightly worn because the blade does not completely stop, but it slows way down. I'm gonna be getting a tube of the grease for it, it could use it. It is still one of the best weed trimmers I ever used hands down. Stihl.
Good comparison video. I own a landscaping business and I swear by Echo trimmers. I have 6 Echo Trimmers. The Stihl trimmers these days don't hold up, and from my experience if you use a weedeater like we do, we get about nearly a season out of the commercial grade Stihls. I think I have 2 of the same Echo trimmers you have, but they may be slightly different models, they are 7 years old and we run them hard every day with no problems except the usual wear and tear. An occasional air filter or maybe the bump head wears out, or a pin hole in the fuel line, or a throttle cable breaks. Normal wear and tear on a machine. The Stihl machines that were the best were the FS 80R's because they didn't have the over head valve motors. The new Stihl's with the over head valve motors like the FS90, in my experience, have too many problems with the valves coming out of alignment. I've got 4 of them with 3/4 of a season on them sitting out there in the junk pile. Also with the Echo machines, they told me that they are all rated at commercial grade machines. Stihl does make good backpack blowers, or they used to, and good regular type chainsaws. But in all honesty, with trimmers or weedeaters, I go with Echo. You'll be working while the other companies are sitting around waiting to get their Stihl weedeaters or trimmers out of the shop.
I love my Shindaiwa T262 which is the same as the Echo 2620 with a little different control placement. I think the ergonomics on the Shindaiwa are better but the engine and rest of the parts are the same. Though the T262 has a steel rod in the shaft but the 2620 has a wire rope, the 2620T has a head which has a little different gearing (slows the line speed but give more torque.) The cutting swath is different I believe, 20in for the T262 and 17in for the 2620. I was a little concerned with the smallish engine but my dealer said it would do great for my usage. I have 700 yards of irrigation ditch and so I am going through thick grass, clover and weeds which can be from a foot to 3 feet tall. I also have several hundred yards of grass along fence lines that I am doing. My usage model is to fill up the trimmer, let it warm up, then start cutting. when the tank is almost empty fill it up and go wide open again. Lots of times I never let up on the throttle because I am going non stop. I will run 3 to 4 tanks like that back to back. I can't comment too much on the part throttle operation but it seems to do good, that is .01% of my usage. In case anyone is curious I use Maxima K2 synthetic oil in my 2 stroke machines. I love how easy to maneuver this trimmer is (lots of odd angles around ditch banks), I think it is well balanced and it doesn't tire me out like other trimmers. I can tear through the thick stuff and it has a lot of power and I am surprised at how thick and fast of material I have to go through to start to load down the engine. I didn't say bog because it never really bogs, it just slows down a little but again I am going through A LOT thicker of material than the average home owner. Also make sure you run about 5 tanks through the Echo before really getting into the power comparison, it breaks in and works even better after the first few and the power really picks up. I will also never own a trimmer that doesn't have the speed feed head. To put new string in the head just align the arrows, feed the line through and then spin the head to wind it inside. You can replace string in about a minute without ever taking the head off or apart. I would take the Shindaiwa/Echo trimmer hands down over the Sthil and I would take the Shindaiwa over the Echo.
Very interesting comments, thanks for posting! I'm very happy with the speed feed head too. I haven't tried Shindaiwa products, but know they are built under the same roof as Echo. Have you tried the Red Armor Oil? Echo highly recommends using it and says that it will improve the rms's and clean the cylinder over a 90 day period. I have the Echo PAS 280 and I'm thinking about buying the trimmer attachment and see how it compares to my 2620T.
I have not tried the Red Armor Oil. I got on the Maxima K2 years ago because that is what the lot of the high RPM kart racers and chain saw racers use. I have never had it gum or carbon up, it burns very clean. I have been using it in my chainsaw for over 10 years and never had a carbon or gum issue and I can't tell you how many log trucks of wood it has cut up. It is a synthetic oil that has a lot of the same properties as the Red Armor. I don't think you can go wrong with either oil, I just get the K2 in big jugs and run it in all of my 2 strokes. When I got my T262 the dealer had both Echo and Shindaiwa so I got to feel them side by side. It also might make a difference my previous trimmer was a Shindaiwa. The dealer did say though that if a guy came in getting trimmers for his crew he would get the Echo's, if he was also going to be doing trimming the owners would get the Shindaiwa because they liked the feel better. The 280 vs 2620T will be interesting, from what I could see the 2620 is supposed to be the longest lasting trimmer Echo has. If that is marketing speech or some truth I don't know.
I run 2 echo 2620s for my small lawncare business and they are great . Taken down some tough yards with ease. Use the easy tune up kits every 6 months and strictly ethonal-free w/red armor. keeps the machine running top shape for an extended time
@@MarkThomasBuilder no problem thanks for videos . The tune kits are great , super easy and i can tell the difference with fresh filters and a spark plug .
Both brands are good for lawn care company use. Honestly though has crazy as it sounds, for a person mowing their own yard I'd recommend a craftsman, I bought one from a sears that was about to close "Marked 65% off" It was the one that's suppose to compete with STIHL "It doesn't" but honestly even the sticker price "$199" well worth the money, blows over my brothers overgrown yard that I mow for him since he works nights with no problem, I was honestly Impressed. Echo's have smaller engines, but it reminds me of a modern Hemi 5.7 VVT vs a chevy 6 liter. The 5.7 will blow it away for reasons other than overall engine output. Both are very respectable brands though. A lot of lawn care channels on youtube claim Echo's can run all season long without problems, while most claim STIHL needs regular carb cleans.
I bought a push mower from Sears several years ago and it's worked well for me. I haven't tried their trimmers though. I've been running mostly ECHO the last few years and happy to say that I'm not having to do carb cleans. My Stihl's have needed that a few times.
Had a Craftsman trimmer for over a decade. It stil lwas awesome but the primer bulb fell off then the carp f'd up. Sears wanted too much to repair it and no one else wanted to touch it. Went to buy another one and they are junk these days . Went with echo. Wish my Craftsman still worked. need to see if I can repair it ...IF I still have it.
I love a stihl "4 mix" basically a 4 stroke without a sump.... I have both brands and you dont have to run the fs series wide open because of the massive torque it produces. I have the fs91r and echo and they are both great depending on what your wanting. I prefer the stihl as I can cruise around with massive torque and not wear myself out. After 3 years the stihl starts first pull 9 times out of 10. The main thing in any trimmer is to run a good oil and NON ETHANOL GAS. To do a true comparison overtime you must run no ethanol to keep the carbs clean. Everyone has their brand though right. Good video man!
Thanks, I appreciate hearing that! I agree with your views. I actually run both trimmers as few time a week. The Stihl started first pull for me today, just like you said they would. I do like the ECHO trimmer too. It's great for the taller stuff, in my opinion.
I run ethanol 93 octane gas in my echo backpack blower and srm225 string trimmer , but I add Stabil 360 marine , marvel mystery oil and echo red armor , I've had zero issues for 3 seasons and they all start right up within 5 or so pulls once primed.
I've never used an Echo but I've heard great things and they look really nice. There's a dealer down the road from me. Stihl I'm not aware of one except maybe a John Deere dealer nearby I think sells them. My friend I used to shoot trap with and I cut his grass swears by Stihl and John Deere. I've used his Stihl FS90R to cut weeds along his fences and it's a joy to use, maybe after extended use you get the hand vibration and shaking and aches from holding it up all day and walking the fences all day, but they work great, plenty of power and they're not too heavy and they're great on gas as long as you use proper throttle control and don't let your grass get too high. If it's high you have to start high and work down which uses more gas and throttle and it can bog down in thick stuff if you're not careful. I love it but just don't need one, and can't afford one. I have a John Deere XT120 trimmer that's great along with a John Deere 12pb 2 stroke silver deck mower that I love, I just wish it was self propelled because I have to work on a hillside but at least it's light and the hill isn't big and that steep. I almost bought an older Echo or a newer one too as they come up used a lot but go fast. But I wanted straight shaft and a John Deere and I got that instead. Too bad it's not old enough to be an Echo made John Deere trimmer. It's an early run Homelite made John Deere trimmer. But at least the quality is still there, parts are still around too for the most part yet a bit expensive. I had to replace the gas cap, which cost me almost $50.
I think the Echo sounded like it had more power. I have an Echo SRM 265S. I'm looking for a new unit. Have been doing some comparative research online with RedMax vs. Maruyama vs. Shindaiwa vs. Echo. I've tried Stihls and I prefer otherwise.
Thanks Alexander! I actually ended up with a Maruyama BC2621CA. It's a 25.4 CC, straight shaft that is very light in terms of weight but has great power, a quick reloading head, near zero vibration and a 5 year commercial warranty. I've had it about 6 weeks and am very happy so far.
Looks pretty much like a wash. Stihl parts and service are only available at select locations and that may be an issue in some areas. Not a lot of personal experience using Stihl's, but have repaired quite a few. Good, tough units and are very popular here in So. Florida with landscapers. Have owned and used Echo's personally and had good serviceability and value with them. Had a Shindaiwa for 34 good years of service, and finally gave it to a friend and his son killed it soon afterwards by running it over with a Dixie Chopper. Gas tanks, air filters, and cutter heads were all that machine ever needed in all those years.
I have an older Echo SRM 230 and SRM 260 and I like them a lot. But I also have a Stihl FS55 and FS90R and I like them a lot too. It's hard to say which brand I like better. I've had no problems with either, and they have both racked up some hours cutting grass and brush.
They sound different because of the 4 stroke vs 2 stroke, the ECHO will rev higher but power output should be similar. I have a FS90R and it has been a great trimmer for me, and trust me I put it to work.
Its going to be at what rpm band the power is made you will tell different the 4 mix will be steady torque range 2stroke will rev higher and faster most of time ditches fences (reasonbly)both do well real over grown thick stringy growth its hard to beat the 4cyc srm 261t 2006 model ? And stihl fs91r is what I work daily with both great
Echo starts every time and I neglect mine for maintenance, nothing in 5 years and runs like i just got it. Only use the power blend echo oil and line. Great engine echo
My Echo weed eater is going on 20years now with gray body straight shaft always start no maintenance needed no bog down with perfect power for what I needed.
Cool Video, around Memorial day My yard will get 2 foot tall grass because I push mow, the Push mower cuts higher than the Riding mower and doesn't scalp the yard as much, plus it gets pretty wet sometimes, but the Stihl FS 90r is a really good trimmer, use it to trim around the Bushes and trees and keep a path through the woods nice, made some paths to some wild black Raspberry bushes with it and I used it to clear an area passed the yard to be able to have a 30 yard shooting range plus I use it to trim overhanging branches that get in my way, when both my Push mower and Riding mower was needing fixed, I trimmed 2 acres with the Stihl FS 90 R trimmer, took about 8 hours to trim it all, just the mowing part with the grass 2 foot tall, The Stihl FS 90r is a freakin' beast, in case you're wondering why the grass will get 2 foot tall, it's because I'll be at work trimming grass for an average of 48 hours a week, even if it gets to be 95 degrees with a humidity that feels like 100 degrees.
No, that don't bother my back at all, before High School I used to help Grandpa with Fire wood, we didn't have equipment other than our backs, a chainsaw, a garden tractor and a makeshift sled made from metal roofing and a rope, or we'd use a trailer, sometimes the leaf collection trailer from those vacuums that fasten to the discharge on the mower deck, and we'd split wood with a Splitting maul, so I got a strong back from that and we had Gym class in school, plus now I trim 8 hours a day, with 3 breaks, at work, one day I trimmed for 11 hours, because we was so far behind for memorial day, the Newbies spent more time on their phones than they did trimming so we got really far behind, but yea, after a long period of time, it can have an effect, if you're not used to it, I got an Outdoors backpack from the Sporting goods store and converted it to a trimming supply backpack, it now holds a 5 gallon steel Jerry can for 2 cycle trimming gas, the small flat screw driver, the rod for changing trimmer heads, that multi tool that comes with it to change attachments on it, a can of Starting fluid, a spool of trimming string, and the Lubrication grease tube, when I was trimming by myself for that extra 4 hours, I used that Backpack that I converted at work, it'll wear you out faster than not having it, but it's a huge help, when you've got a ton of trimming to do.
I love my FS90R, but it’s a pain to get parts for. Have to go to the dealer EVERY TIME and the trimmer has some over engineered designs, which makes sense because it’s German. I also run a small engine shop, so it becomes a huge pain having to deal with the customer and the dealer. I don’t see too many Stihl or Echo machines in, mostly cheap Troy Bilt junk and stuff like that. I’m thinking about replacing some stuff with Echo. If I had to do it over again I’d probably go with Echo.
judging by the condition of each unit the stihl is older and has more wear on it. The stihl kept up and wasn't as loud as the echo. Around my area all the professional lawn care outfits use the stihl so that makes them best
I'VE BEEN USING ECHO SINCE 1990,,AND STIHL FOR 10 YEARS,,BUT ABOUT WICH I THINK IT'S THE BEST (OF COURSE) ECHO, THE BEST WEAPON IN ALL MY BATTLEFIELDS..
I recently was talking with someone who said the same thing. He works for the city doing landscaping at some big cemeteries and really likes using ECHO.
I'm going with Echo, all the way. I've got one that's around 20 years old, still runs excellent, along with a newer version [SRM-3020T] of the old one (which also runs great). Both trimmers are straight shaft designs (superior to curved shaft trimmers). The only thing I've changed on them is the trim heads (at the time of purchase) to Echo Rapid Loader professional heavy duty fixed 2-line heads. These heads are designed so that you can use a couple different sizes in them (.080" - .155"). I've been using .105" line ('cause it gets difficult trying to find the thicker line in the typical big box store) on both trimmers. Thicker line simply makes these trimmers even more efficient. With the .130" or .155" line you can even trim through heavier weeds with the tougher stems, because the heavier line transfers more energy into cutting force, without slowing the trimmer head speed. The old professional head still works as good as the new one does, so that bodes well for life of the new one. Both are easy to use, highly reliable, and comfortable to use. You can get a lot done on a tank of fuel, even at sustained full throttle, trouble-free, on 2-stroke oil and the horrible fuel CA has. The only additional purchase I strongly recommend, is upgrading the standard echo head to the professional Echo 2-Line Rapid Loader Trimmer Head. Stihl has yet to impress me, even with chainsaws, where I'll take a Husqvarna instead.
Interesting perspective. I never knew CA had different fuel than other states. I'm a big fan of the ECHO Speed Feed Head. I also have a Husqvarna chainsaw that has been amazing for me. I think I've had it for about 15 years now.
@@MarkThomasBuilder Yep, there's two state additive formulas, one for winter, one for summer, and it's part of the reason it costs so much (before the 17 other state taxes are even applied). It's also why there's a big price jump during the summer half of the year. You can also buy fuel with standard (non-CA) premixed ratios for small engines only, but it's around $20-22/gallon.😱 (example: VP Small engine fuel, 50:1, TrueFuel 50:1) The simpler the trim head, the better. The bigger the line, the better.
I have used and/or owned all of the following brands: Stihl, Echo, Husqvarna, Homolite, Remington, Poulan and others over the last 15 years on a daily and commercial basis. Obviously some of the new units are no where near the quality they once were and are now just big box store consumer grade throw away cheapies (last 3 on my list). The main thing to consider when buying any unit is how close is the dealer and what level of after the sale service do they provide. Stihl has always been a top name product. Echo has been working very hard to improve their product line and I can see the difference in both design AND reliability from 6 years ago. Husqvarna is also a great product. We have 3 Sthil dealers in my area. All but 1 of them also sell Echo and Husqvarna. Strange as it may sound, I deal with the one that is located the longest distance from our shop. The service, price and overall experience is FANTASTIC!!! When I need something they go out of their way to get it and provide straight up answers to sales related questions when making a purchase. All of our blowers are Husqvarna, all the trimmers/chainsaws are Sthil. Echo bed edgers and top handle chain saws (The new pruning saws are great-CS271T units rock). We went this route and have a mix on the trailers because of the dealers recommendation. All 3 top names are decent (and they all break Lol). Dealer service is worth more than any brand name or price tag. Find a good dealer, buy whatever they sell and be happy. Yes, you can buy an Echo unit (and other brands) for less at a box store, but if and when you need service they will send you to the closest servicing dealer (That may be 100 miles away?). While most will repair your unit, priority will (and should) be given to their customers. Is it really worth the $20 you saved?. My point is that you need to find a dealer you like and buy whatever brand they sell All 3 are decent brands and will work well.
I have used both Stihl is very dependable and has excellent power with wide open throttle on the four mix engines but they honestly make a pretty shitty weed eater I run my equipment without guards to maximize productivity and the stihl hates it it will bog down and foul out there only power is wide open throttle and a lot of times that is not necessary I don’t walk around cutting in wide open throttle it leaves very little room for error if your where to hit something or bump the head on the ground rocks pine cones debris flies everywhere let’s not for get dog shit too anyways I prefer echo traditional 2 stroke great power throttle response and it’s actually longer than the stihl so it’s less fatigue on your back from bending over and you get a broader sweeping cut
Sthil has many different models which have gaurd shield and Sthil has different handles to choose from and can relocate handle bar and long one only for their own home not as a business owner
Stihl 4mix doesn't like the throttle "feathered," neither does the clutch. Echos are more forgiving and when trimming close to things you do not want to cause any damage to, the Echo is the winner hands down in that category. Echo is easier to use at part throttle, and slowing the head down to provide a "gentle touch" comes easy with the Echo over the Stihl.
I have an srm210 I've been using since 2008. I've had to replace a few parts but I like it because it's light. I do have the sthil fs90 and carry it in my trailer every day as a back up. I go with echo every day though.
That's interesting. Do you run them with a trimmer guard? I just took mine off for the first time and was surprised how much lighter it is. I'm probably going to put it back on though.
markthomasbuilder I do run my trimmer with a guard. If I was to take mine off I would take the guard off the sthil. It is so big and makes it hard to get in tight spaces.
@@MarkThomasBuilder no problem! we still have 5-6 feet of snow so i won't be until june that i could try one. i recently bought a 501p chainsaw and was very very satisfied with it!
I had an Echo. Left a Stihl and echo trimmer in the back of my truck. Got back and the Echo had been stolen the Stihl wasn't touched. A good thief knows value and quality. Same thing happened to my echo chainsaw. First echo chainsaw I bought back in the mid 90s was stolen. I do have a Stihl edger I bought in the 90s that still runs to this day. That was before "obsolescence manufacturing" got started.
I owned Stihl as my past 3 trimmers. So again why change with my last one I owned for 3 weeks. It was a total lemon and vibrated so bad my wrist hurt after about half an hour. It took on average sense day one 6-8 pulls to start regardless cold or warm. I kept taking it back to my dealer that sold both brands. After the dealer had it more than I was able to use it I exchanged it for the echo. The Stihls carb was defective and replaced. Then the engine after replacing the carb didn't run much better. The shaft was found to be bent also. But stihl refused to give me a new one until it was sent back for their engineers could look at it to make a determination as to why it was so messed up. The manager offered to give me my money back or exchange it for the echo. I loved my. Other Stihls but now I am wondering how they would have compared to echoes of the previous ones I owned. I love the echo hands down maybe because stihl let me down or because it is so smooth with not much vibration compared to other Stihls I tried other then mine defective one. Echoes engine is more powerful although louder exhaust maybe this is why it is more powerful less restrictive exhaust. Echo starts 1-2 pulls cold or hot every time. Just try an echo before just buying a stihl and make sure you might not like the echo better. Both decent trimmers but you have to be the judge after trying both out don't let the dealers sway you to the stihl only.
I am researching these posts for advice on what weedeater to buy. I recently did a lot of research on various chainsaws and ended up buying an Echo (which turned out to be amazing) because many reviews said Stihl used to be better than it is now. Some people said that Stihl dropped the ball and quality has dropped, especially on their less expensive models. Story is that Echo is made in Japan, like Honda, Toyota, etc. I don't know for sure, so maybe some of you readers have a comment?
How many years of daily service does the Stihl FS90R get? I have only used Echo SRM266T in my business and get 5 years of daily service here in Florida with the Echo SRM266T spending $34.95 in maintenance over that 5 year period excluding fuel and line (head replacement, plugs, and filters) . I use enclosed trailers to protect the equipment from the environment, used Stihl 5lb. commercial green round .095 line spools that cost $25.95 with a $5 off coupon from Ace Hardware. I do use edgers when necessary, but the majority of the time we use the trimmer as a vertical edger. Can you use the Stihl FS90R in a vertical position for edging walk ways and garden curbing? I would be open minded to switching brands. It is all about the cost of doing business in the nickle and dime America we have today.
These are great questions. Yes, both trimmers work well to turn for vertical edging and for daily use. I use ECHO Red Armor oil with 89 octane and that seems to be the trick for great performance. Both of these trimmers perform well and make it a hard choice to choose between the two. Sometimes it comes to dealer support. I've switched to a stick edger from ECHO and it gives me the best results.
The Echo for sure. I just replaced my 18 year-old Echo SRM-210 with the 2620-T.he 210 has taken a beating on my acreage for the last 12 years and finally just wore out. I've run every kind of brush and grass cutting blade on it and worked it for hours at a time; sometimes days on end and it's been great. The gear ratio on the 2620 ups the torque, and it seems to me that may have made the difference in the performance in your test = and the Echo made the first cut through the middle of the circle which the Stihl did not have to make.
I've got 2 echo trimmers, a 230 and a 280t. I'm sold on them. Been running them hard for 7 and 8 years now with no guards. Never had them in the shop although the 230 needs some attention now as it does not idle well. Runs good at 80 to 100 percent throttle.
I traded a cheap Remington chainsaw for Stihl FS56RC trimmer acouple years ago. Best trade ever. Best trimmer ive ever owned and its still running strong and i use it daily for my lawn care business.
Worth mentioning, if you plan on using a brushcutter for big jobs you really need a handlebar and harness type, and buy the best harness you can afford. Your arms and shoulders will thank you. As a landscaper for a big company we had both Echo and Stihl cutters on the yard. My ten cents is that I found The stihl noticeably better engineered and a little quieter in operation, while Echo a seemed slightly tougher and tank built. All in all I prefer the finer engineering of Stihl, but if I was buying bulk for a company I might still go for Echo as long if I could get a good deal, as they could last better.
I've tried a handlebar type and think they're a great choice for the thicker stuff. The drawback from them is when working on a hill. They don't work well if you're walking down a hill because your reach with them is limited. I prefer a harness on a regular brush trimmer. Echo makes a guard to add safety. Check out my recent review of the Echo SRM-3020T... ua-cam.com/video/iCI4jNyopT0/v-deo.html
I find that thinner line cuts considerably better. Doesn't last as long against concrete and fence of course. I run .080 on my FS85. I have extended my shield to gain about 2" diameter cutting path.
![STIHL FS-111R VS. ECHO SRM 3020 Comparison [I Expected More]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/3oBoD4g06-c/mqdefault.jpg)
![STIHL FS-111R VS. ECHO SRM 3020 Comparison [I Expected More]](/img/tr.png)
I personally don’t think you can go wrong with either one. I use the Echo and it has never let me down. One major positive for the Echos are they have a 5 year warranty compared to Stihl’s 2 year warranty.
Yes, good point.
For home use, for commercial use the Echo goes down to 2 years
@@zachsowell8845and your point?
@@MarkThomasBuilderI have both of these. love them both - but for me I prefer the echo. But rate them both.
Wow, was I impressed. I recently bought the Echo 2620T. Couldn't wait to start it up and give it a try, I fueled it and followed the instructions. The beast fired up on the 4th pull for its maiden run. Keeping the speed down, I edged our lawn, and trimmed the few areas my mower can't get into. I called it a Beast, because it is one. I had first ordered the 2320T, and was disappointed that it wouldn't cut our St. Augustine grass runners. Sending it back, I then ordered the 2620T, and what a difference. I also installed a timer on my new beast, and to date, I have run it now for 10.7 minutes. I'm not going to use full power till I reach 25 minutes, but then I haven't had to either. This beast is beautiful, and worth every penny.
I highly recommend the Echo brand, because if all their gas engines run as well as my new 2620T trimmer, I will no longer use my old FS55R Stihl. It was good, but then I didn't have anything else to compare it with. Now that I do, I won't be going back to Stihl. I'm also running Ethanol Shield now mixed in my 5 gallon gas container. Life is beautiful in my two yards.
Thanks for sharing. It's good to hear in depth experiences with both brands. My 2620T is still going strong, by the way.🙌
I own that Echo trimmer and have found it to be the best one I have ever had. It is a beast and goes through anything and doesn't complain. First trimmer that I have kept the factory line feed system on. The Echo string is the best, sometimes I will trim for almost an hour and never feed new line out. Since I got this trimmer I have been converting other thing to Echo and have not been disappointed.
That's awesome! I like their Black Diamond line.
I got a 2320T last year. Cleaned out a ditch with Black Diamond 95 line and it was amazing. My neighbor’s kid runs a 2620T for his lawn care business. He’s the one who turned me on to Echo stuff.
This video is about 5 years old now and the comments started out with everyone voting for Stihl. I discovered a shift in votes for ECHO about 2-3 years ago. The word is getting out on how well they compete.
I had a model older than this one that I love. My sister has difficulty with tools that are too heavy and she actually loved mine and found it easy to use ua-cam.com/users/postUgkx_rBCFuDW1zD6blTGhLkvAkxU657uR_lG . This is a newer model but was even lighter which she really appreciates. She enjoys it and I no longer have to go to her house to trim as she can handle it fine. Haven't used it enough to comment on the battery life but lithium batteries last longer than the old style. Being cordless makes it easy to trim the far edges of the property. The entire yard can be trimmed with one charged battery.
I've owned a small lawn care business for 15 years and still have 2 Echo machines running from the beginning. All I have done to my equipment is use non-ethanol fuel (91 octane), Echo brand 2-stroke oil, added Stabil to the fuel. Prior to storing for winter ran the engine till warm, drained fuel from tank, started till engine dies. Never any issues. Solid equipment.
That's good to hear! Sounds like solid advice for winter storage.
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I have a 30 year old echo trimmer, it still runs like new and it’s a good thing since parts are no longer available. Also still using an echo power pruner that is about 25 years old.
Good to hear! My echo trimmer is 40+ years old and works great also. Five years ago my clutch went bad and was able to get a new clutch and throttle trigger. I can get both today if I am willing to wait. Echo online's (out of Florida) prices are great. Do you have the original head on your power pruner. I bought mine when there was no auto oiler. Went thru 2 heads and added two more power pruners. Did you get the 4 ft. extension for it? Hope yours run for many more years.
@@dogsplantscarsneatstuff176 Modern power plants will be unlikely to last more than 20/25 years definitely not 35 or 40!
@@Zach-sg5uu I wish you were wrong. I hate that they complicate the carb adjustment screws with these outlandish screwdrivers we have to buy.
@@dogsplantscarsneatstuff176 Why do you have to be sarcastic?!
@@Zach-sg5uu I don't understand. I was stating my opinion in the negative: I think today's quality is not nearly as good as many years ago. Ergo agreeing with your statement.
I use Echo products and I’ve never had any problems. I have the SRM-225 and the CS-590 Timber wolf chainsaw. Love them both.
Sounds like my experience too. I'm doing a tree cleanup today and know the ECHO saw will come through for me.
I'm sure the Echo is amazing too but I can only speak to the FS 90R that I've had since 2012 and Stihl starts and runs like it's brand new! Love it!
Mine also does a great job of starting. It's needing an adjustment for a slight miss at top speed. I'm sure there's a UA-cam video for that.
So far I've just been running echo and love them. I put them through hell every week and they keep going so far
Awesome, I'm definitely happy with mine as well.
9 years, 11 miles of road, 7 parks, 5 wells, 1x 3500 plot cemetery.. 4 echo trimmers, replaced all 4, once... most likely from 3 things, abused running wide open, fuel too lean (burnt cylinder) or ran over by a truck... if I recall correctly.
I currently own an electronic echo and love it. My favorite feature is how the line is loaded!
I like the Echo Speed Feed Head. Very innovative!
The comparison was pretty close to even except you took the echo right done the middle of the thick grass while you did not do the same with the stihl. You also went over the Echo side twice while only going over the stihl side once. If I had to choose I would choose the Echo. I bought an Echo trimmer from Home Depot two years ago and haven't had a single problem or issue with it. It trimmers about 55 yards a week including edging. Echo all the way all day!
That's an impressive amount. Thanks for the feedback of your Echo experience.
What mower do you use?
55 yards a week? So you do more than 9 a day?!? Based on a 6 day week??
@@pappas1000 solo if you get route density up can do 15 - 20 yards a day. so 55 could be 15 a day over 4 days.
I'd like to comment on LLS comment. I say your exaggerating here ole buddy, I've had a lawn service in SE Texas for 30 years, we now year round, normally do around 100 a week so I can surely see your 55, but doing 50+ a week ain't happening w no home depot echo, man those things wont hold up at all. I have Mexicans running my equipment, they are really hard on stuff, a Stihl is the only thing that will hang with them, they can't tear em up. I have tried echo several times over the years, even just buying one and keeping it for personal use, they just won't hold up period. When they run they do good, but that's a big IF, that new 4-mix Stihl makes is damm near indestructible, next time you buy get you that 131, you can thank me later
I have owned both brands. Stihl was the premium back in the day. With attachments: multiple different blades, harnesses, handles, face shield and muffs cost us a small fortune. Loved it though. Echo is my go to now. Currently have had a straight shaft for over 8 years doing basic tune ups, and just today having to replace the Recoil starter assembly. I run it into the ground and like a timex takes a licking and keeps on ticking. Just purchased another one on sale at Home depot to dedicate it with a blade kit. Thanks for the time you took. Good comparison.
Thanks Cheryl, I've had better luck with ECHO trimmers. The one in this video is a champ!
As a former professional user (did a lot of landscaping and gardens maitenance while at university) shindaiwa (same as echo machines) was my choice when i bought my brushcutter for "domestic" use. My T260 (26cc) stood my abuse fighting weekly mediterranean maquis, cistus, heater, bramble bushes and so on, weed is the lightest thing it cut, for 20 years. So, if it never fails on me, it will be replaced by shindaiwa or echo.
Interesting to hear that. I'm very happy with my ECHO outdoor equipment as well. They're built to last.💯💪
In P.R. still the price is more expense over $600. I like more eco
thats a good comparison. I'd be happy with either although I'd lean toward the echo because it has a greater fuel capcity so you don't have to refuel so often. Thanx for your effort - it's probably the best - non-bias video I've seen
Thanks, I tried to make the comparison as fair as possible.
I've got an ECHO SRM-266S, & it's an absolute beast; especially w/ the Samurai Fury line. I love it. Nice vid!
I've been happy with the ECHO trimmer's power, ever since the start of using them.
Line suggestions?
I swear by my 2620T trimmer and my Shindaiwa LE254 edger. Both have been extremely reliable.
Thanks for the info!
As a homeowner I’ve run a Shindiawa for 17 years just purchased an Echo 2620 so we shall see! Thanks
I would say your Shindiawa had a good run if it lasted that long. I think you'll be happy with the 2620.
just a quick fyi, echo and shindaiwa are owned by the same parent company now. the 2620 and shindaiwa t262 are virtually the same machine save for a different grip material, throttle trigger and presence switch and guard.
The shindaiwa has a solid shaft.
I have both the echo and the Stihl. The Stihl died after one year and the Echo is still going after 10 years. I use the same cord as you and it is the best trimmer cord I have ever used. Thanks.
That's interesting to hear.
My favorite was definitely the echo I can’t believe it had a smaller engine and it’s performance was better I will definitely buy an echo
The engine really revs up high and keeps going through the tall stuff very well.
I have been a landscaper for the last past 25 years I've used nothing but Echo echo is a great company every time I needed my power equipment and always there they always started that's why I go with Echo
@@fastrivers812 I walked in the home Depot about 20 years ago and I bought the most expensive as one that had the bigger motor and that cost me I think $339.00 see I like the metal face you're able to change the thick string on it and it will go through any grass
I'll say this I used the same Stihl on a golf course for ten years and now use it to do several yards. I am not easy on it whatsoever, I use it to line up honeysuckle and just about everything else, never had an issue with it, never worked on it, only gone through one head, but like I said. I am not easy on it. but after 10+ years of service... like a sore Peter, can't beat it!
Haha, wow! These professional grade trimmers are a classic example of getting what you pay for. Worth the money!
Finally a fair opinion
All my garden tools are Stihl. I did try Husqvarna, which is a rather known brand but did not make it. For me Stihl, german brand is known for quality and reliability. Stihl has wont me over for quality and relialibity.
mine mostually all stihls kombi systems and sh86 blower
I just invested into a SRM-225 (Homeowner grade) and I'm just getting used to the ECHO trimmer, I tuned the fuel screws because it sounded a little rough out of the box. In heavy weeds, it seems to have plenty of power and does not give me problems like the MTD stuff. The ECHO also seems to run a long time on a tank of fuel.
I haven't had to tweak mine yet. The motor seems to take slightly longer to warm up, but once it does, it powers through.
I've had my Echo GT-225 curved shaft trimmer since 2012 & have had zero major issues w/ it. I service it yearly(clean/re-gap spark plug, regrease drive shaft, clean muffler/spark arrestor & clean the throttle assembly/carborator) & I have say that this tool can take a beating & still perform tip top. As someone said in another comment, Echo products are very easy to work on & replacement parts are easy to find for reasonable cost. I have other Echo gas powered tools & I can say the same for those aswell. If you give your Echo a little bit of tlc every 6 - 12 months it'll return it spades by making your outdoor work go fast, smooth & with out a hitch. I highly recommend Echo gas powered products.
That's good to hear! Preventive maintenance is key! I have one of their You Can Tune Up Kits to try out soon.
@@MarkThomasBuilder It's very convenient that Home Depot is basically Echo's one stop shop. Most of the common replacement parts are usually available but any Echo owner can easily find what they need online with little trouble. Echo tools are as much fun to tinker with as they are to run. Good luck with your yearly maintenance & keep that beast running(Echo's don't purr, they growl). Great video btw. I really liked the drone overhead view. 👍👍👍
Thank you! I'll be tuning them up soon.
I use Echo products because thats what my local dealer sells! Love my 2620
Having a good dealer makes a world of difference!
I remember our first little string trimmer as a kid. I think it was 1978 and it was a Weedeater brand. Little electric. back then the string on them were SO TINY. I own the Echo P225. Beastly little machine. Would not own anything but Echo.
Haha, I think we had the same trimmer. I also remember a weed cutter that was like a mini hedge trimmer on a stick. It was about 4" wide for cutting the weeds. It was slow going for trimming weeds. Anyways... Thanks for voting!
Both trimmers are really good i don't own the echo 2620 we use the echo srm266 and the stihl fs90r both are very dependable in my company the echos are less maint then the stihl fs90 we have to adjust the valves on them every year its very easy to do but echos and stihl is all we use here in south fla.
Cool! What oil do you mix with your fuel? I switched to Echo Red Armor.
markthomasbuilder i use nothing but echo oil not red armor and sometimes husqavarna oil exp we use the heck out of my trimmers 6 days a week all year around.
Victor Rippe yeah man! I have a echo 266s and I love it!!!!!
Alexander Goushy yeah man they are really reliable in my company i just got the 2620 its awesome it has a little more power then the 266
Don't forget to tighten the bottom engine pan screws on the Stihl. Always see them back out.
I have an old Echo trimmer (1982 vintage) which was sold under the John Deere label. I still use it today. It still starts every spring and does everything I need it to. I am looking for a new head for a hedge trimmer and saw for trimming trees/shrubs. Based on the performance of my ancient Echo and this video and comments, I am confident to stick to the reliable Echo. I have heard a lot of good things from service shops about Echo's. They seldom come in for repair.
I'm happy with all my ECHO outdoor power equipment. I use ECHO Red Armor and they all run great for me. Thanks for sharing the story of your vintage trimmer. I'm glad to hear it's still running good.
I've had the same experiences with Echo. Owned lots of them and abused the weedwackers and never had any issues other than old age fuel lines and the occasional tune up. I inherited my grandfathers Stihl FS90R and SH85 blower. I like the FS90R but I find myself always working on it to keep it running right. Nice machine, super powerful and smooth, but not the most reliable. I flat out dislike the SH85 other than using it to blow out the garage and suck stuff out of flower beds. Hard starting, wrist twisting, heavy bogging piece it is. I owned an SRM230 for 9 years and sold it after I got the FS90R (I regret that decision now) and I spent more time cutting down overgrown lawns with that thing than anything else. I also ran a blade on it a lot cutting fist sized branches and stuff I should have used a chainsaw for. I had that thing so hot so many times it faded the plastic cylinder shroud/cover and I burnt the skin off my arms multiple times. It always ran excellent and never had one issue out of it. The FS90R on the other hand has had way less use than that SRM230 and still gives running problems from time to time. I think when the FS90R bites the dust I'll replace it with a SRM2620 from what I've seen here.
I love the echo used Redmax,stihl,husqvarna and shindaiwa. My two favorite is shindaiwa and echo which are basically the same. I can do 9 good size yards on one tank and refill my line in seconds without beating the head to death trying to get it to feed. That speed head is definitely a game changer. Good video man stay safe.
Thanks man, I'm a big fan of the speed feed head as well. I'm going to put it on my Stihl trimmer.
I’ve owned stihl and echo. I live on a small farm. Use both and beat both to death. The stihl is not made nearly as good as the echo. I switched to echo and have only bought 1. If I can’t tear one up then it can’t be tore up. Echo all day.
Wow, that's interesting to hear. I've had good luck with both trimmers, but haven't used them in extreme conditions.
My FIL bought a Stihl fs90 in the early 90's, and it's still going despite 20 years of ethanol crap gas. It doesn't get used all that much, so it's not wore out. It doesn't hold a candle to my Echo 42cc brush cutter, but that makes sense since the Echo is 14cc's larger. What's interesting is that the Echo uses less fuel for the same amount of work when it's a larger engine.
The Echo also starts easier cold and hot running the same non-ethanol mix. I run 40:1 on the fatter side in all my 2-strokes. 50:1 is an EPA compromise and is too dry for my liking. Bottom ends need oil for long bearing life and cooling.
What's interesting in your comparison is that the Echo didn't bog and has the smaller engine. If you consider your concern for breaking the line as it slowed your attack, the Echo actually out cut the Stihl.
Echo's always been reluctant to post HP ratings, so you can't use that data. But you failed to mention their 3yr commercial and 5yr homeowner warranty vs Stilh's 1yr.
I have 2 Echo chainsaws in the 35cc class and the 42cc brush cutter. They range from 3 to 9 years old, and have all been flawless. Stihl's lower end homeowner machines don't compare favorably in the long run. They're just not designed as well or built as robust. I put a brush blade on the FS90 and the shaft flexed when hitting saplings despite it being the same diameter as the Echo's. The Stihl was sold with the brush blade and guard as factory. In fact, it's poor performance with the brush blade is what made me buy the Echo. Stihl and Husqvarna's comparable brush cutters are hundreds more vs the Echo in the same engine class. Stihl does make some great stuff, but you end up paying a lot more for it. When you get into large chainsaws, Echo doesn't offer them (at least not in the US), and Husqvarna and Stihl end up a lot closer price wise, CC for CC.
Which echo model did you buy?
Thanks
@@esgp2868 srm-410u
km131r is the monster 36.3cc biggest weed wacker on market
7 years and still running my FS 55 R, it will always be Stihl for me.
Thanks for voting! I used to run the same one a few years back. I wasn't the original owner and don't think it was properly taken care of.
I'm biased since I own an echo but I've used both and sthil like the echo.
Thanks for your vote!
I see what you did there.
HA I see that! Trying to be sneaky huh?????
@@Vffr1 stihl spelled it wrong tho 💁♂️
I use them all. Stihl, Echo and Husqvarna. My Echo 2620T with Weedshark head is my go to for heavy brush out on the property around ponds, etc. For grass and normal; everyday trimming its dealers choice. They are all great machines.
I haven't tried the Weedshark out yet. I'm interested to see how it knocks down the tall weeds.
I worked for a lawn care company for about a year, and they only had echo trimmers. They were some of the worst commercial trimmers I ever used. The motors were very temperamental. and there were no guards over the spark plug wires so after they would crack over time from being dropped you would always get zapped like a tazer. The best trimmers I ever used were the stihl fs44s, because they have an excellent power to weight ratio, they are easy to start, and easy to work on. In my opinion, the best trimmer on the market currently is the stihl fs94r. I have had one for about four months and I am very impressed with the trimmer. It is a 2 stroke motor, which makes it much lighter than the stihl 4 mix trimmers. It is also very reliable, I have been using it every day and it has not disappointed me. I know that there are people who will disagree with me, but it’s just my opinion and what I have found to work best for me.
Thanks for sharing. I've never owned an older ECHO trimmer with the shock issue, but I am aware of it. Their newer trimmers like the 2620 works well and don't have that issue. I haven't tried the fs94r, but I'm sure I'd like it, since it's probably close to the fs90r.
The echo sounds like a beast didn't bog at all
It does a great job, for sure!
what's the reduction rate on the stihl? I see the echo is the T which is 2:1 compared to the normal 2620 being 1.62:1 (i think)
plantation lawn The Echo regular head does well too but for his scenario the "T"-model with the 2:1 head would be sufficient. I know this as I believe I have the PAS model of this trimmer but with the regular Speed Feed head and gearbox.
Idk echos we use seem to bog and not run to full power. Even after cleaning them and maitence work. It always seems to happen.
I’ve got a 1000 cc strimmer it goes through anything . It has 200 bhp
Echo all the way.i have both.. But my fav is Echo.. Less weight.. I just feel a faster reaction from Echo.. Echo last for ever too if you take good care of them.
I have an Echo You Can kit for maintenance. I need to do that to this trimmer before next spring.
Yep the Japanese build great engines
You totally missed the main difference. The line feed for the Echo is the best in the industry. One would have thought that the one item most used would have been in the review.
Stihl has quick feed head and I have a pile of attachments to do more than ono echo. Have more toque and better fuel economy that's why echo has a bigger tank.
I run the Echomatic head on a SRM 225. It's STUPID how simple and easy to use that head is. It's all of 2 pieces: the outer shell on your weed-eater, and an inner spool with attached spring. Twist and rotate to remove, twist and rotate to replace. Holds plenty of .095" or even .105" inch line. I'll never buy a different head ever again!!
I’m a Landscaper and we use Stihl equipment. My boss swears they are the best of the best. I went to buy a string trimmer to use for home use but they didn’t have the Stihl brand in stock so I settled for an Echo. I was skeptical at first. Now I swear by the Echo string trimmer. I’ve had mine 2 years and haven’t had any issues. It’s easy to string up , very simple actually. I love it. I have a pretty good size yard. I have an Echo backpack blower too. Just as good as a Stihl.
Thanks for sharing. I'm seeing others who've discovered success by stitching to ECHO. I think the introduction of their Xseries is when they really started to gain momentum.
I have one of each. The echo has more torque and stihl more RPMs. Both work well but love the Echo head. Other than that its that Echo parts are available on line at lower prices compared to Stihl at authorized dealers and more expensive. Have also owned e several of each since 70's and they last equally as long. Both good just which models are on sale when I buy.
I have a new Echo Speed Feed head, still in the package. I plan to test it out on my Husqvarna and Stihl trimmer and see how it attaches and if the RPMs increase.
I just want to say hello from Oklahoma, my son Mateo has autism and you have no idea how he enjoys your videos
That is so awesome!😀 Tell him I said hi and thanks for watching. I'm happy to send some stickers and a magnet to him. If he would like that, feel free to email me an address to send them. I'm at markthomasbuilder@gmail.com
What dose that have to do with the weed eating????
@@severoferova5928 you’re pathetic
Don't be dick all your life Sevro.... Great video man thank you for the knowledge looking to buy new equipment for my farm!
@@severoferova5928 Nothing & autism doesn’t actually in occur in most people that are supposedly diagnosed with it!
A lot of women are under diagnosed & a lot of men are over diagnosed!
Great video! I would take the stihl over the echo, but I'm a bit biased. I used to work for a stihl distributor so maybe that's why. I also like the way the stihl engineers seem to think ahead and incorporate a better service experience when designing their products. However having said that, the echo srm-2620t is one hell of a nice machine.
Thanks, I'm happy with both brands to be honest. I think Echo is also working hard to compete in the professional outdoor tool arena.
I like Stihl that said I graveyards and I used both Stihl and echo.Echo gets it done .but Stihl just goes through it a whole different way in my opinion.
Reliability on anything Echo is unbelievable. I have been using the smaller engine Echo trimmer multiple times a week for 8 years now and have done nothing to it except grease the gearbox every now and then. Oh and the Echo speed feed head is the best out there.
I'm a big fan of the speed feed head. My Echo equipment has held up well.
Yes, the echo speed feed head is by far the best. Stihl auto cut head is junk
Does Echo offer a 4 cycle as well as the 2? If so which would you recommend? Just home owner residential, 1/2 acre lot here. I've stopped using Round Up type products...I think it made my dog sick a few years ago. The fence-line is starting to look rather gnarly. Any advice appreciated.
James Clark
Echo doesn’t have a 4-cycle model. The smaller engine (srm-225) is more than enough for around the house.
I really like the Echo SRM-2620, especially with the Speed Feed head, so I think that would work well for you. They only offer a 2 cycle. I'm making a video comparing the brush blades pretty soon. That might be something to consider in thick weeds.
I've had the Stihl FS90R for roughly 4 years, I use it about 10 months a year in South Texas once a week or so. I've changed out the spark plug , air filter, priming bulb and trimmer head. I've never ran an Echo so I have no comparison but my Stihl has been the best weed eater I've ever owned.
Thanks for your vote! Preventive maintenance is key, as you've demonstrated.
I love Stihl I grew up with em. They run great and they run forever.
I grew up with an old Stihl chainsaw that cut a lot of firewood. I'd like to get another one someday.
Not true none last forever.
GD, I don't know. Our farm Stihl was purchased over 20 years ago and is still running strong. I've put 5-6 plugs, a coil, and a carb in it. It's a heavy beast compared to the echo 266 I bought as a backup, but it just keeps on chugging. Metal blade on the Stihl and string on the Echo
I bought my wife a echo trimmer with easy start it's the best trimmer I've ever had won't buy anything else but echo they are so much better than sthil there's no comparison trust me I own a small engine shop I work on them for a living I know what I'm talking about
Wow, that's interesting to hear. ECHO power equipment has always come through for me.
Echo is my favorite. Have you ever tried a Toro weedeater. Was curious about em.
I'll go for the Stihl, due to its manufacturing quality standard.
Okay, thanks for voting!
Both are excellent. I use and prefer the fs90r by far more powerful machine. One swipe and done as the video elistrated. Thank you for the demo
Cool, thanks for posting!
I’ve had my echo for about 3 years, it’s a smaller one and it was 200 bucks, one of the things i do for a living is clean yards and i absolutely love the echo. It has never done me wrong, it just wont quit, It always start pretty much at 2 or 3 pulls. Has great power, not to mention restringing it is easier then all other weed eaters. My other tools are stihl.
Sounds like my experience with the Echo line trimmer. It works very well and is starts easily. I'm in the process of putting a ECHO Speed Feed head on my Stihl line trimmer.
That will be an awesome upgrade, i love mine.
I bought a echo pe3100 25 yrs ago used in a.pawn shop and to this day it never been in the shop the driveshaft cable was change twice and filters and it still running like new when i have been through three stihl weedeaters and a stihl hedge trimmer and a stihl blower and two stil edgers
Wow, that's amazing! What oil mix do you use?
@@MarkThomasBuilder cant remember the oil back when i first got but it was mix 40:1 then i eventually start using super tech 50:1 until i started getting bottles with not the proper amout of oil i been using stihl 50:1 for the last 3-4 yrs
I've read most of the comments and I think it's safe to say both are good machines and people have their loyalties to both. Dealer support is huge though, without it, it doesn't matter what you have if you need service. My dealer is fairly large and sells Stihl, Echo, Shindaiwa and Redmax but their commercial turn around time during peak season can be as long as 5 weeks. I'm fixing to pull the trigger and switch to echo. so i have to cast my vote for echo in this case.
Wow, 5 weeks is a long time! Dealer support is where it's at. Good luck in your switch! ECHO has served me well, as well as Stihl.
Echo. I have 20 lawns & I've used most all types.Echo for my hard earned money!
I've always use Red Armor fuel in my ECHO equipment and they've always come through for me.
That’s right! This guy obviously doesn’t or hasn’t made any money with his equipment. He looks like he never will have a grasp of reality. The stihl company will NEVER get my business. I’ve been stuck having to use their crap and didn’t make any money those days. Fact is stihl is SHIT!!!
I'm fixing to buy one of these. I don't think it matters which. Both seem to be complete overkill for my application. The Echo did sound more fantastic-er tho. And yes they both sounded incredible idling together. Killer drone shots as well.
Thanks man, even if they're overkill, either one should last you a very long time, giving you a good return on your money.
I have been using the FS90R for about 3 years now,never had an issue with it,served me well.Most of my equipment is Stihl,must be the German in me.Great video,keep it up.
Thanks for commenting. I've had good luck with the FS90R too.
I cut 18+ yards a week and have a fs70r and it's never failed me once in 4 years. It starts on the first or second pull every time. The thing is a beast with .65 line.
I haven't gone to line that thin. How does it handle the thicker weeds?
The T in the 2620T stands for torque. It has 2:1 gear reduction. This effectively doubles the horsepower at the head. Therefore it is harder to bog down.
That's true that it has more torque than the standard version. I was thinking it was somewhere around 25% more torque, but it could be 50%.
@@MarkThomasBuilder regular Echo has a 1.62:1 gear ratio. The T models have a 2:1 gear ratio.
My business runs echo for weedeating. We have 2 265 and 4 2620. The guys really like the 2620
Thanks, glad to hear it. I'm happy with my 2620T.
I bought the 91r and the throttle response was abysmal. I returned it for Stihl's only 2 stroke trimmer the fs94r. It's worked flawlessly for 2 seasons. The best power to weight ratio in any trimmer I've used beside my old Kawasaki. Echos are awesome, but heavy beasts.
I've used both trimmers in both commercial and residential applications and I prefer the Stihl all day long. The only drawback with the Stihl that have found is the fuel capacity.
Thanks for the info! Good to know.
I was given a Stihl FS80R. It came with the more expensive 3 point 12 metal blade and adapter set up. It also came with a cultivator attachment. So I bought a string trimmer head for it, because I got the unit free. The unit is almost 20 years old appears to be from 1999. Well the thing starts right up and runs and cuts great. The clutch might be slightly worn because the blade does not completely stop, but it slows way down. I'm gonna be getting a tube of the grease for it, it could use it. It is still one of the best weed trimmers I ever used hands down. Stihl.
That's a nice run with it, especially if you're using a blade, which is probably more strenuous on the motor.
I would choose the Echo. More power, lighter weight, fewer moving parts...
Thanks for your vote!
Good comparison video. I own a landscaping business and I swear by Echo trimmers. I have 6 Echo Trimmers. The Stihl trimmers these days don't hold up, and from my experience if you use a weedeater like we do, we get about nearly a season out of the commercial grade Stihls. I think I have 2 of the same Echo trimmers you have, but they may be slightly different models, they are 7 years old and we run them hard every day with no problems except the usual wear and tear. An occasional air filter or maybe the bump head wears out, or a pin hole in the fuel line, or a throttle cable breaks. Normal wear and tear on a machine. The Stihl machines that were the best were the FS 80R's because they didn't have the over head valve motors. The new Stihl's with the over head valve motors like the FS90, in my experience, have too many problems with the valves coming out of alignment. I've got 4 of them with 3/4 of a season on them sitting out there in the junk pile. Also with the Echo machines, they told me that they are all rated at commercial grade machines. Stihl does make good backpack blowers, or they used to, and good regular type chainsaws. But in all honesty, with trimmers or weedeaters, I go with Echo. You'll be working while the other companies are sitting around waiting to get their Stihl weedeaters or trimmers out of the shop.
Interesting commentary. Thanks for taking the time to share your experience.
Cole..which echo are you using for your lawn business?
Mostly bull shit
I agree echo is better
I love my Shindaiwa T262 which is the same as the Echo 2620 with a little different control placement. I think the ergonomics on the Shindaiwa are better but the engine and rest of the parts are the same. Though the T262 has a steel rod in the shaft but the 2620 has a wire rope, the 2620T has a head which has a little different gearing (slows the line speed but give more torque.) The cutting swath is different I believe, 20in for the T262 and 17in for the 2620.
I was a little concerned with the smallish engine but my dealer said it would do great for my usage. I have 700 yards of irrigation ditch and so I am going through thick grass, clover and weeds which can be from a foot to 3 feet tall. I also have several hundred yards of grass along fence lines that I am doing. My usage model is to fill up the trimmer, let it warm up, then start cutting. when the tank is almost empty fill it up and go wide open again. Lots of times I never let up on the throttle because I am going non stop. I will run 3 to 4 tanks like that back to back. I can't comment too much on the part throttle operation but it seems to do good, that is .01% of my usage. In case anyone is curious I use Maxima K2 synthetic oil in my 2 stroke machines.
I love how easy to maneuver this trimmer is (lots of odd angles around ditch banks), I think it is well balanced and it doesn't tire me out like other trimmers. I can tear through the thick stuff and it has a lot of power and I am surprised at how thick and fast of material I have to go through to start to load down the engine. I didn't say bog because it never really bogs, it just slows down a little but again I am going through A LOT thicker of material than the average home owner. Also make sure you run about 5 tanks through the Echo before really getting into the power comparison, it breaks in and works even better after the first few and the power really picks up. I will also never own a trimmer that doesn't have the speed feed head. To put new string in the head just align the arrows, feed the line through and then spin the head to wind it inside. You can replace string in about a minute without ever taking the head off or apart. I would take the Shindaiwa/Echo trimmer hands down over the Sthil and I would take the Shindaiwa over the Echo.
Very interesting comments, thanks for posting! I'm very happy with the speed feed head too. I haven't tried Shindaiwa products, but know they are built under the same roof as Echo. Have you tried the Red Armor Oil? Echo highly recommends using it and says that it will improve the rms's and clean the cylinder over a 90 day period. I have the Echo PAS 280 and I'm thinking about buying the trimmer attachment and see how it compares to my 2620T.
I have not tried the Red Armor Oil. I got on the Maxima K2 years ago because that is what the lot of the high RPM kart racers and chain saw racers use. I have never had it gum or carbon up, it burns very clean. I have been using it in my chainsaw for over 10 years and never had a carbon or gum issue and I can't tell you how many log trucks of wood it has cut up. It is a synthetic oil that has a lot of the same properties as the Red Armor. I don't think you can go wrong with either oil, I just get the K2 in big jugs and run it in all of my 2 strokes.
When I got my T262 the dealer had both Echo and Shindaiwa so I got to feel them side by side. It also might make a difference my previous trimmer was a Shindaiwa. The dealer did say though that if a guy came in getting trimmers for his crew he would get the Echo's, if he was also going to be doing trimming the owners would get the Shindaiwa because they liked the feel better. The 280 vs 2620T will be interesting, from what I could see the 2620 is supposed to be the longest lasting trimmer Echo has. If that is marketing speech or some truth I don't know.
I run 2 echo 2620s for my small lawncare business and they are great . Taken down some tough yards with ease. Use the easy tune up kits every 6 months and strictly ethonal-free w/red armor. keeps the machine running top shape for an extended time
Thanks for the tip. I use the same fuel setup as you. I need to try the tune up kit this spring.
@@MarkThomasBuilder no problem thanks for videos .
The tune kits are great , super easy and i can tell the difference with fresh filters and a spark plug .
Both brands are good for lawn care company use. Honestly though has crazy as it sounds, for a person mowing their own yard I'd recommend a craftsman, I bought one from a sears that was about to close "Marked 65% off" It was the one that's suppose to compete with STIHL "It doesn't" but honestly even the sticker price "$199" well worth the money, blows over my brothers overgrown yard that I mow for him since he works nights with no problem, I was honestly Impressed. Echo's have smaller engines, but it reminds me of a modern Hemi 5.7 VVT vs a chevy 6 liter. The 5.7 will blow it away for reasons other than overall engine output. Both are very respectable brands though. A lot of lawn care channels on youtube claim Echo's can run all season long without problems, while most claim STIHL needs regular carb cleans.
I bought a push mower from Sears several years ago and it's worked well for me. I haven't tried their trimmers though. I've been running mostly ECHO the last few years and happy to say that I'm not having to do carb cleans. My Stihl's have needed that a few times.
Had a Craftsman trimmer for over a decade. It stil lwas awesome but the primer bulb fell off then the carp f'd up. Sears wanted too much to repair it and no one else wanted to touch it. Went to buy another one and they are junk these days . Went with echo. Wish my Craftsman still worked. need to see if I can repair it ...IF I still have it.
I love a stihl "4 mix" basically a 4 stroke without a sump.... I have both brands and you dont have to run the fs series wide open because of the massive torque it produces. I have the fs91r and echo and they are both great depending on what your wanting. I prefer the stihl as I can cruise around with massive torque and not wear myself out. After 3 years the stihl starts first pull 9 times out of 10. The main thing in any trimmer is to run a good oil and NON ETHANOL GAS. To do a true comparison overtime you must run no ethanol to keep the carbs clean. Everyone has their brand though right. Good video man!
Thanks, I appreciate hearing that! I agree with your views. I actually run both trimmers as few time a week. The Stihl started first pull for me today, just like you said they would. I do like the ECHO trimmer too. It's great for the taller stuff, in my opinion.
I run ethanol 93 octane gas in my echo backpack blower and srm225 string trimmer , but I add Stabil 360 marine , marvel mystery oil and echo red armor , I've had zero issues for 3 seasons and they all start right up within 5 or so pulls once primed.
I have a lot of Echo, fantastic stuff. Have some Stihl too - also great. Echo seems to start a bit easier usually.
I'm happy with my Echo equipment and find that it starts easy.
You got some beautiful lawn there my friend. Echo all the way
Thanks! I'm happy with my Echo products too!
I'm happy with my fs38 fs55 fs120 fs131 and fs 560 always running winter and summer!
Wow, nice collection!
I've never used an Echo but I've heard great things and they look really nice. There's a dealer down the road from me. Stihl I'm not aware of one except maybe a John Deere dealer nearby I think sells them. My friend I used to shoot trap with and I cut his grass swears by Stihl and John Deere. I've used his Stihl FS90R to cut weeds along his fences and it's a joy to use, maybe after extended use you get the hand vibration and shaking and aches from holding it up all day and walking the fences all day, but they work great, plenty of power and they're not too heavy and they're great on gas as long as you use proper throttle control and don't let your grass get too high. If it's high you have to start high and work down which uses more gas and throttle and it can bog down in thick stuff if you're not careful. I love it but just don't need one, and can't afford one. I have a John Deere XT120 trimmer that's great along with a John Deere 12pb 2 stroke silver deck mower that I love, I just wish it was self propelled because I have to work on a hillside but at least it's light and the hill isn't big and that steep. I almost bought an older Echo or a newer one too as they come up used a lot but go fast. But I wanted straight shaft and a John Deere and I got that instead. Too bad it's not old enough to be an Echo made John Deere trimmer. It's an early run Homelite made John Deere trimmer. But at least the quality is still there, parts are still around too for the most part yet a bit expensive. I had to replace the gas cap, which cost me almost $50.
I think the Echo sounded like it had more power. I have an Echo SRM 265S. I'm looking for a new unit. Have been doing some comparative research online with RedMax vs. Maruyama vs. Shindaiwa vs. Echo. I've tried Stihls and I prefer otherwise.
Thanks for voting! I haven't tried Maruyama or Shindawa yet.
Termite159 yeah, I have a 266s, and I love it! Recommend redmax all the way, or new echo: top two brands for weed eaters are those.
Thanks Alexander! I actually ended up with a Maruyama BC2621CA. It's a 25.4 CC, straight shaft that is very light in terms of weight but has great power, a quick reloading head, near zero vibration and a 5 year commercial warranty. I've had it about 6 weeks and am very happy so far.
markthomasbuilder Kinda late and I figured I would point out that Shindawa makes that Echo trimmer just an FYI.
I have both and they each have little pluses but both same reliability. The ECHO advantage is Echo OEM PARTS available on line; Sthil only at dealers.
Good point!
Echo for ergonomic comfort . When I use Stihl I hurt for 2 days if I had to weed eat for hours, with Echo, not a problem.
I use both on a regular basis. I'll have to take note if I feel different after using either one.
Looks pretty much like a wash. Stihl parts and service are only available at select locations and that may be an issue in some areas. Not a lot of personal experience using Stihl's, but have repaired quite a few. Good, tough units and are very popular here in So. Florida with landscapers. Have owned and used Echo's personally and had good serviceability and value with them. Had a Shindaiwa for 34 good years of service, and finally gave it to a friend and his son killed it soon afterwards by running it over with a Dixie Chopper. Gas tanks, air filters, and cutter heads were all that machine ever needed in all those years.
Wow, that's crazy! I know Shindaiwa has a big following of loyal users. I understand why now.
I have an older Echo SRM 230 and SRM 260 and I like them a lot. But I also have a Stihl FS55 and FS90R and I like them a lot too. It's hard to say which brand I like better. I've had no problems with either, and they have both racked up some hours cutting grass and brush.
I use both Echo and Stihl trimmer. They've both served me well.
They sound different because of the 4 stroke vs 2 stroke, the ECHO will rev higher but power output should be similar. I have a FS90R and it has been a great trimmer for me, and trust me I put it to work.
That's a good point. Thanks for sharing.
Its going to be at what rpm band the power is made you will tell different the 4 mix will be steady torque range 2stroke will rev higher and faster most of time ditches fences (reasonbly)both do well real over grown thick stringy growth its hard to beat the 4cyc srm 261t 2006 model ? And stihl fs91r is what I work daily with both great
Echo starts every time and I neglect mine for maintenance, nothing in 5 years and runs like i just got it. Only use the power blend echo oil and line. Great engine echo
I use the ECHO Red Armor Oil. It does a great job in my machines.
I'll have to look for that oil.
I run 2007 echo srm 230 and love it still runs like a champ. I have run all the major brands but like the echo the most including my cs620p.
Bought my stihl fs 74 in 1994. Still runs strong after 25 years. Will probably out last me.
Wow, that's getting your money's worth!
My Echo weed eater is going on 20years now with gray body straight shaft always start no maintenance needed no bog down with perfect power for what I needed.
Cool Video, around Memorial day My yard will get 2 foot tall grass because I push mow, the Push mower cuts higher than the Riding mower and doesn't scalp the yard as much, plus it gets pretty wet sometimes, but the Stihl FS 90r is a really good trimmer, use it to trim around the Bushes and trees and keep a path through the woods nice, made some paths to some wild black Raspberry bushes with it and I used it to clear an area passed the yard to be able to have a 30 yard shooting range plus I use it to trim overhanging branches that get in my way, when both my Push mower and Riding mower was needing fixed, I trimmed 2 acres with the Stihl FS 90 R trimmer, took about 8 hours to trim it all, just the mowing part with the grass 2 foot tall, The Stihl FS 90r is a freakin' beast, in case you're wondering why the grass will get 2 foot tall, it's because I'll be at work trimming grass for an average of 48 hours a week, even if it gets to be 95 degrees with a humidity that feels like 100 degrees.
Wow, does your back get sore after trimming for 8 hours? Mine came with a shoulder strap, but I rather go without it.
No, that don't bother my back at all, before High School I used to help Grandpa with Fire wood, we didn't have equipment other than our backs, a chainsaw, a garden tractor and a makeshift sled made from metal roofing and a rope, or we'd use a trailer, sometimes the leaf collection trailer from those vacuums that fasten to the discharge on the mower deck, and we'd split wood with a Splitting maul, so I got a strong back from that and we had Gym class in school, plus now I trim 8 hours a day, with 3 breaks, at work, one day I trimmed for 11 hours, because we was so far behind for memorial day, the Newbies spent more time on their phones than they did trimming so we got really far behind, but yea, after a long period of time, it can have an effect, if you're not used to it, I got an Outdoors backpack from the Sporting goods store and converted it to a trimming supply backpack, it now holds a 5 gallon steel Jerry can for 2 cycle trimming gas, the small flat screw driver, the rod for changing trimmer heads, that multi tool that comes with it to change attachments on it, a can of Starting fluid, a spool of trimming string, and the Lubrication grease tube, when I was trimming by myself for that extra 4 hours, I used that Backpack that I converted at work, it'll wear you out faster than not having it, but it's a huge help, when you've got a ton of trimming to do.
I love my FS90R, but it’s a pain to get parts for. Have to go to the dealer EVERY TIME and the trimmer has some over engineered designs, which makes sense because it’s German. I also run a small engine shop, so it becomes a huge pain having to deal with the customer and the dealer. I don’t see too many Stihl or Echo machines in, mostly cheap Troy Bilt junk and stuff like that. I’m thinking about replacing some stuff with Echo. If I had to do it over again I’d probably go with Echo.
Interesting, I never knew that about their parts. I just use ECHO Red Armor oil and 89 octane non-ethanol fuel and it seems to keep them running well.
EBay have sthil parts.they are a bit cheaper than the sthil dealer.which sthil model do you have
judging by the condition of each unit the stihl is older and has more wear on it. The stihl kept up and wasn't as loud as the echo. Around my area all the professional lawn care outfits use the stihl so that makes them best
The Stihl is a little older, but hasn't had extensive wear or use.
Around me I see them using Echo or Husqvarna. So that's all relative
My Tanaka and Shindaiwa leave these underpowered babys for dead.
SHINDAIWA ARE ECHO.
Barry Gattenhof your right the older models 👍 the Shindaiwa T25 is a real beasts. I have one and it's still going runs like a champ 👍
I'VE BEEN USING ECHO SINCE 1990,,AND STIHL FOR 10 YEARS,,BUT ABOUT WICH I THINK IT'S THE BEST (OF COURSE) ECHO, THE BEST WEAPON IN ALL MY BATTLEFIELDS..
I recently was talking with someone who said the same thing. He works for the city doing landscaping at some big cemeteries and really likes using ECHO.
I'm going with Echo, all the way. I've got one that's around 20 years old, still runs excellent, along with a newer version [SRM-3020T] of the old one (which also runs great). Both trimmers are straight shaft designs (superior to curved shaft trimmers). The only thing I've changed on them is the trim heads (at the time of purchase) to Echo Rapid Loader professional heavy duty fixed 2-line heads. These heads are designed so that you can use a couple different sizes in them (.080" - .155"). I've been using .105" line ('cause it gets difficult trying to find the thicker line in the typical big box store) on both trimmers. Thicker line simply makes these trimmers even more efficient. With the .130" or .155" line you can even trim through heavier weeds with the tougher stems, because the heavier line transfers more energy into cutting force, without slowing the trimmer head speed. The old professional head still works as good as the new one does, so that bodes well for life of the new one. Both are easy to use, highly reliable, and comfortable to use. You can get a lot done on a tank of fuel, even at sustained full throttle, trouble-free, on 2-stroke oil and the horrible fuel CA has. The only additional purchase I strongly recommend, is upgrading the standard echo head to the professional Echo 2-Line Rapid Loader Trimmer Head. Stihl has yet to impress me, even with chainsaws, where I'll take a Husqvarna instead.
Interesting perspective. I never knew CA had different fuel than other states. I'm a big fan of the ECHO Speed Feed Head. I also have a Husqvarna chainsaw that has been amazing for me. I think I've had it for about 15 years now.
@@MarkThomasBuilder Yep, there's two state additive formulas, one for winter, one for summer, and it's part of the reason it costs so much (before the 17 other state taxes are even applied). It's also why there's a big price jump during the summer half of the year. You can also buy fuel with standard (non-CA) premixed ratios for small engines only, but it's around $20-22/gallon.😱 (example: VP Small engine fuel, 50:1, TrueFuel 50:1)
The simpler the trim head, the better. The bigger the line, the better.
I have used and/or owned all of the following brands: Stihl, Echo, Husqvarna, Homolite, Remington, Poulan and others over the last 15 years on a daily and commercial basis. Obviously some of the new units are no where near the quality they once were and are now just big box store consumer grade throw away cheapies (last 3 on my list). The main thing to consider when buying any unit is how close is the dealer and what level of after the sale service do they provide. Stihl has always been a top name product. Echo has been working very hard to improve their product line and I can see the difference in both design AND reliability from 6 years ago. Husqvarna is also a great product. We have 3 Sthil dealers in my area. All but 1 of them also sell Echo and Husqvarna. Strange as it may sound, I deal with the one that is located the longest distance from our shop. The service, price and overall experience is FANTASTIC!!! When I need something they go out of their way to get it and provide straight up answers to sales related questions when making a purchase. All of our blowers are Husqvarna, all the trimmers/chainsaws are Sthil. Echo bed edgers and top handle chain saws (The new pruning saws are great-CS271T units rock). We went this route and have a mix on the trailers because of the dealers recommendation.
All 3 top names are decent (and they all break Lol). Dealer service is worth more than any brand name or price tag. Find a good dealer, buy whatever they sell and be happy. Yes, you can buy an Echo unit (and other brands) for less at a box store, but if and when you need service they will send you to the closest servicing dealer (That may be 100 miles away?). While most will repair your unit, priority will (and should) be given to their customers. Is it really worth the $20 you saved?. My point is that you need to find a dealer you like and buy whatever brand they sell All 3 are decent brands and will work well.
I have used both Stihl is very dependable and has excellent power with wide open throttle on the four mix engines but they honestly make a pretty shitty weed eater I run my equipment without guards to maximize productivity and the stihl hates it it will bog down and foul out there only power is wide open throttle and a lot of times that is not necessary I don’t walk around cutting in wide open throttle it leaves very little room for error if your where to hit something or bump the head on the ground rocks pine cones debris flies everywhere let’s not for get dog shit too anyways I prefer echo traditional 2 stroke great power throttle response and it’s actually longer than the stihl so it’s less fatigue on your back from bending over and you get a broader sweeping cut
I hear ya, I don't like running on full throttle either.
Sthil has many different models which have gaurd shield and Sthil has different handles to choose from and can relocate handle bar and long one only for their own home not as a business owner
Only problem with Sthil gotta hit the head few times for line comes out
Stihl 4mix doesn't like the throttle "feathered," neither does the clutch. Echos are more forgiving and when trimming close to things you do not want to cause any damage to, the Echo is the winner hands down in that category. Echo is easier to use at part throttle, and slowing the head down to provide a "gentle touch" comes easy with the Echo over the Stihl.
That's why I chose the fs-240r. I do go throttle wide open in 3foot high Johnson grass , I have to wear alot of protection. But it's a beast.
I like the fact that the Echo didn't bog down
I know what you mean. It revs high, giving it plenty of power.
Liked the Echo!
Great video! What type of grass do you have…it’s beautiful?
Thanks, I planted a blend years ago that had a higher ratio of Kentucky blue grass.
I have an srm210 I've been using since 2008. I've had to replace a few parts but I like it because it's light. I do have the sthil fs90 and carry it in my trailer every day as a back up. I go with echo every day though.
That's interesting. Do you run them with a trimmer guard? I just took mine off for the first time and was surprised how much lighter it is. I'm probably going to put it back on though.
markthomasbuilder I do run my trimmer with a guard. If I was to take mine off I would take the guard off the sthil. It is so big and makes it hard to get in tight spaces.
Echo, have a straight shaft l,ve been using 4 twenty years now. Great quality
Amazing!
Same. Both of mine are straight shaft, too. The old one still runs great at 20 years, so I'm expecting the same from the newer one.
great video, i think ill give echo a try! had problems with my stihls trimmer, the higher end ones are very expensive..
If you try it out, please let me know how it works out for you. Thanks!
@@MarkThomasBuilder no problem! we still have 5-6 feet of snow so i won't be until june that i could try one. i recently bought a 501p chainsaw and was very very satisfied with it!
Glad to hear the 501p is working well! It sounds like you live north of me. Are you in Canada?
@@MarkThomasBuilder yes im in canada, im in the north east. we still have alot of snow!
I had an Echo. Left a Stihl and echo trimmer in the back of my truck. Got back and the Echo had been stolen the Stihl wasn't touched. A good thief knows value and quality. Same thing happened to my echo chainsaw. First echo chainsaw I bought back in the mid 90s was stolen. I do have a Stihl edger I bought in the 90s that still runs to this day. That was before "obsolescence manufacturing" got started.
I owned Stihl as my past 3 trimmers. So again why change with my last one I owned for 3 weeks. It was a total lemon and vibrated so bad my wrist hurt after about half an hour. It took on average sense day one 6-8 pulls to start regardless cold or warm. I kept taking it back to my dealer that sold both brands. After the dealer had it more than I was able to use it I exchanged it for the echo. The Stihls carb was defective and replaced. Then the engine after replacing the carb didn't run much better. The shaft was found to be bent also. But stihl refused to give me a new one until it was sent back for their engineers could look at it to make a determination as to why it was so messed up. The manager offered to give me my money back or exchange it for the echo. I loved my. Other Stihls but now I am wondering how they would have compared to echoes of the previous ones I owned. I love the echo hands down maybe because stihl let me down or because it is so smooth with not much vibration compared to other Stihls I tried other then mine defective one. Echoes engine is more powerful although louder exhaust maybe this is why it is more powerful less restrictive exhaust. Echo starts 1-2 pulls cold or hot every time. Just try an echo before just buying a stihl and make sure you might not like the echo better. Both decent trimmers but you have to be the judge after trying both out don't let the dealers sway you to the stihl only.
Thanks for sharing your experience with both of the brands. My Stihl often starts first pull. The Echo is usually 2-3 pulls.
I am researching these posts for advice on what weedeater to buy. I recently did a lot of research on various chainsaws and ended up buying an Echo (which turned out to be amazing) because many reviews said Stihl used to be better than it is now. Some people said that Stihl dropped the ball and quality has dropped, especially on their less expensive models. Story is that Echo is made in Japan, like Honda, Toyota, etc. I don't know for sure, so maybe some of you readers have a comment?
How many years of daily service does the Stihl FS90R get? I have only used Echo SRM266T in my business and get 5 years of daily service here in Florida with the Echo SRM266T spending $34.95 in maintenance over that 5 year period excluding fuel and line (head replacement, plugs, and filters) . I use enclosed trailers to protect the equipment from the environment, used Stihl 5lb. commercial green round .095 line spools that cost $25.95 with a $5 off coupon from Ace Hardware. I do use edgers when necessary, but the majority of the time we use the trimmer as a vertical edger. Can you use the Stihl FS90R in a vertical position for edging walk ways and garden curbing? I would be open minded to switching brands. It is all about the cost of doing business in the nickle and dime America we have today.
These are great questions. Yes, both trimmers work well to turn for vertical edging and for daily use. I use ECHO Red Armor oil with 89 octane and that seems to be the trick for great performance. Both of these trimmers perform well and make it a hard choice to choose between the two. Sometimes it comes to dealer support. I've switched to a stick edger from ECHO and it gives me the best results.
The Echo for sure. I just replaced my 18 year-old Echo SRM-210 with the 2620-T.he 210 has taken a beating on my acreage for the last 12 years and finally just wore out. I've run every kind of brush and grass cutting blade on it and worked it for hours at a time; sometimes days on end and it's been great. The gear ratio on the 2620 ups the torque, and it seems to me that may have made the difference in the performance in your test = and the Echo made the first cut through the middle of the circle which the Stihl did not have to make.
I've been very happy with my ECHO trimmer. It definitely powers through the tall stuff with no problem.
I've recently started switching over to echo so I would probably choose the echo, the 4mix is still good though. Great video and comparisons
Thanks!
Mr. Cut Lawn Care, LLC what made you switch
I went from Echo to Stihl. Love the 4-Mix. And the Stihl chainsaws are beast
I've got 2 echo trimmers, a 230 and a 280t. I'm sold on them. Been running them hard for 7 and 8 years now with no guards. Never had them in the shop although the 230 needs some attention now as it does not idle well. Runs good at 80 to 100 percent throttle.
I traded a cheap Remington chainsaw for Stihl FS56RC trimmer acouple years ago. Best trade ever. Best trimmer ive ever owned and its still running strong and i use it daily for my lawn care business.
Cool, that sounds like a good trade!
Worth mentioning, if you plan on using a brushcutter for big jobs you really need a handlebar and harness type, and buy the best harness you can afford. Your arms and shoulders will thank you.
As a landscaper for a big company we had both Echo and Stihl cutters on the yard.
My ten cents is that I found The stihl noticeably better engineered and a little quieter in operation, while Echo a seemed slightly tougher and tank built. All in all I prefer the finer engineering of Stihl, but if I was buying bulk for a company I might still go for Echo as long if I could get a good deal, as they could last better.
I've tried a handlebar type and think they're a great choice for the thicker stuff. The drawback from them is when working on a hill. They don't work well if you're walking down a hill because your reach with them is limited. I prefer a harness on a regular brush trimmer. Echo makes a guard to add safety. Check out my recent review of the Echo SRM-3020T... ua-cam.com/video/iCI4jNyopT0/v-deo.html
I find that thinner line cuts considerably better. Doesn't last as long against concrete and fence of course. I run .080 on my FS85. I have extended my shield to gain about 2" diameter cutting path.
I should try .080 sometime, just for kicks. Thanks for the suggestion.
I'm going to try that on my Echo. I feel like the larger line chops and digs more, instead of a clean cut.
@@radishfox308 yes the thicker line definitely digs more inadvertently creating bald spots