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 3.4. The STIHL FS 56 RC-E leads on value. The STIHL FS 56 RC-E costs $100 less ($259.99 vs $359.99).
STIHL FS 70 R
#10 in GasFull review
A pro grade trimmer for owners of big properties who run it for hours at a time and want it to last years.
STIHL $359.99$359.99
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 value ($15.76 per inch of swath ($259.99, 16.5 in swath) vs $21.82 per inch of swath ($359.99, 16.5 in swath)).
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 70 R |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.7/5 | 3.4/5 |
| Value 30% | 56 $15.76 per inch of swath ($259.99, 16.5 in swath) | 24 $21.82 per inch of swath ($359.99, 16.5 in swath) |
| Line 20% | 100 .105 in line | 100 .105 in line |
| Swath 15% | 62 16.5 in swath | 62 16.5 in swath |
| Weight 15% | 73 10.6 lb (dry) | 78 10.3 lb (dry) |
| Warranty 20% | 25 2-year warranty | 25 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| STIHL FS 56 RC-E | STIHL FS 70 R | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Cutting swath | 16.5 in | 16.5 in |
| Largest line | .105 in | .105 in |
| Line feed | Bump feed | Bump feed |
| Shaft | Straight | Straight |
| 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) | 10.3 lb (dry) |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |