Lightweight durability, high-performance components and ergonomic controls are a few of the features of Echo's GT-251 gas string trimmer. This model is sleek in design, with supercharged features that ultimately enhance your productivity. The 25.4cc Power Boost Vortex engine, for example, delivers more power while using less fuel. Starting the GT-251 is simple, as the trimmer's specialized starting system reduces the amount of effort that is needed to pull the starting rope by 30 percent. The motor runs smoothly and produces far less noise than some models you'll encounter. Echo's excellent 5-year consumer warranty is another feature that sets this trimmer apart.

We like the modern profile and specialized design of the GT-251's adjustable foam-covered handle and cushioned throttle grip. This unit produces less vibration than some other available models; less vibration means less wear and tear on your hands and body. While the shaft angle isn't bad, it could be better.

Changing the string can be a pain, depending on your perspective, as the trimmer head is a fixed-line head, which means that it holds two pre-cut lengths of string that you need to replace as they wear down; you have to stop the machine in order to replace the lines -- you can't automatically advance the line when the throttle reaches a certain speed or when you tap the trimmer head on the ground. We like the convenience of automatic advance, but the two-line fixed head takes less than 10 seconds to reload and may be nothing more than a minor inconvenience.

Head preference aside, though, the Echo GT-251 gas string trimmer offers plenty of power and performance in a sleek, lightweight design.


Pros: Lightweight, high performance components, ergonomic controls, sleek design, easy starts, smooth-running engine, reduced vibration, 5-year warranty
Cons: Fixed-line head may be an annoyance to some, angle on curved shaft not ideal