STIHL FS 38
#13 in GasFull review
A small, light gas trimmer for tidying the edges of a typical suburban lot. Buyers with thick weeds or long fence lines should look at a straight shaft model.
STIHL $219.99$219.99
The STIHL FS 38 and the STIHL FS 40 C-E are evenly matched, rated 3.3 and 3.3. The STIHL FS 38 leads on weight. The STIHL FS 38 costs $10 less ($219.99 vs $229.99).
STIHL FS 40 C-E
#14 in GasFull review
A light, easy starting STIHL for homeowners who trim around beds and walkways once a week.
STIHL $229.99$229.99
Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the STIHL FS 38 for weight (9.3 lb (dry) vs 9.9 lb (dry)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every gas string trimmer; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | STIHL FS 38 | STIHL FS 40 C-E |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.3/5 | 3.3/5 |
| Value 30% | 63 $14.67 per inch of swath ($219.99, 15 in swath) | 58 $15.33 per inch of swath ($229.99, 15 in swath) |
| Line 20% | 50 line size not published (neutral score used) | 60 .095 in line |
| Swath 15% | 25 15 in swath | 25 15 in swath |
| Weight 15% | 95 9.3 lb (dry) | 85 9.9 lb (dry) |
| Warranty 20% | 25 2-year warranty | 25 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| STIHL FS 38 | STIHL FS 40 C-E | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Cutting swath | 15 in | 15 in |
| Largest line | - | .095 in |
| Line feed | Bump feed | Bump feed |
| Shaft | Curved | Curved |
| Converts to edger | No | No |
| Takes attachments | No | No |
| Power | ||
| Engine or battery | 27.2 cc, 2-stroke | 27.2 cc, 2-stroke |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 9.3 lb (dry) | 9.9 lb (dry) |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |