STIHL FS 56 RC-E
#5 in GasFull review
The STIHL most homeowners should buy: a straight shaft, an easy start and a head that takes heavy line, for a few dollars more than the curved models.
STIHL $259.99$259.99
The STIHL FS 56 RC-E is the better string trimmer overall, rated 3.7 to 3.3. The STIHL FS 56 RC-E leads on line and swath. The STIHL FS 40 C-E wins on weight. The STIHL FS 40 C-E costs $30 less ($229.99 vs $259.99).
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 56 RC-E for line (.105 in line vs .095 in line) and swath (16.5 in swath vs 15 in swath).
- Choose the STIHL FS 40 C-E for weight (9.9 lb (dry) vs 10.6 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 56 RC-E | STIHL FS 40 C-E |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.7/5 | 3.3/5 |
| Value 30% | 56 $15.76 per inch of swath ($259.99, 16.5 in swath) | 58 $15.33 per inch of swath ($229.99, 15 in swath) |
| Line 20% | 100 .105 in line | 60 .095 in line |
| Swath 15% | 62 16.5 in swath | 25 15 in swath |
| Weight 15% | 73 10.6 lb (dry) | 85 9.9 lb (dry) |
| Warranty 20% | 25 2-year warranty | 25 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| STIHL FS 56 RC-E | STIHL FS 40 C-E | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Cutting swath | 16.5 in | 15 in |
| Largest line | .105 in | .095 in |
| Line feed | Bump feed | Bump feed |
| Shaft | Straight | 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 | 10.6 lb (dry) | 9.9 lb (dry) |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |