Best 170cc String Trimmers in 2026: 3 Picks Ranked by Specs
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Finding the best 170cc string trimmers requires comparing hard data, not marketing claims. We evaluated 3 models based strictly on the specifications published on their listings. The BILT HARD 22-Inch 170cc Walk-Behind String Trimmer takes the top spot. It leads because its 54.1-pound weight and 14-inch cutting width offer stability and precision for clearing thick grass and light brush. This guide helps you decide which machine matches your yard’s terrain and your physical comfort. You will see how drive type and deck size affect your daily workflow. Focus on these specs to pick the right tool for your needs.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BILT HARD 22-Inch 170cc Walk-Behind String Trimmer Best overall | clearing thick grass and light brush | Check price of BILT HARD 22-Inch 170cc Walk-Behind String Trimmer on Amazon |
| 2 | YARDMAX 22-Inch Walk-Behind Gas String Trimmer Best premium | wide cutting and fence line trimming | Check price of YARDMAX 22-Inch Walk-Behind Gas String Trimmer on Amazon |
| 3 | AMERISUN 22-Inch 170cc Walk-Behind String Trimmer Best budget | Large yards with uneven terrain | Check price of AMERISUN 22-Inch 170cc Walk-Behind String Trimmer on Amazon |
The best fit for you
- You need to clear thick grass and light brush BILT HARD 22-Inch 170cc Walk-Behind String Trimmer Its 22-inch size and 54.1-pound weight provide the durability needed for tough vegetation.
- You want wide cutting and fence line trimming YARDMAX 22-Inch Walk-Behind Gas String Trimmer The 22-inch cutting width and 61.7-pound weight offer stability for large, flat lawns.
- You have large yards with uneven terrain AMERISUN 22-Inch 170cc Walk-Behind String Trimmer Its 62-pound weight ensures stability on rough ground while maintaining a wide cutting path.
Our 3 picks
BILT HARD 22-Inch 170cc Walk-Behind String Trimmer
Best for: clearing thick grass and light brush
- Voltage
- 170cc (what this guide is about)
- Cutting Swath
- 22 in.
- Power Source
- gas
- Cutting Width
- 14-Inch
- Drive Type
- Push
- Application
- Yard, Lawn
View on Amazon: BILT HARD 22-Inch 170cc Walk-Behind String Trimmer Affiliate link
This BILT HARD walk-behind string trimmer features a 170cc 4-cycle OHV engine and a 22-inch cutting path. It uses a manual recoil ignition and a one-piece steel deck for durability. The 14-inch never-flat wheels and foldable ergonomic handle aid maneuverability and storage. It weighs 54.1 pounds. This push mower suits you if you need to clear thick grass and light brush in tight spaces along fences or obstacles.
Pros
- 170cc 4-cycle OHV engine for ample cutting power
- 22-inch cutting diameter handles thick grass and light brush
- One-piece steel deck enhances strength and stability
- 14-inch never-flat wheels tackle various terrains
- Foldable ergonomic handle allows for compact storage
Cons
- Manual recoil ignition requires physical effort to start
- Push drive type demands more physical exertion than self-propelled models
- 54.1-pound weight may be heavy for some users
Good fit if
- You need to clear overgrown tall grass and light brush
- You require access to tight spaces along fence lines or obstacles
- You prefer a durable steel deck for stability
Skip if
- You prefer self-propelled movement for large lawns
- You want an easy-start electric ignition system
- You need a lighter unit for easy handling
Verdict: BILT HARD 22-Inch 170cc Push String Trimmer is a robust option for you if you need to clear thick vegetation in tight spaces. It suits those who prioritize cutting width and deck durability over self-propelled convenience.
YARDMAX 22-Inch Walk-Behind Gas String Trimmer
Best for: wide cutting and fence line trimming
- Voltage
- 170cc (what this guide is about)
- Power Source
- Gas
- Cutting Width
- 22-Inch
- Drive Type
- Push
- Dimensions
- 53 × 22.5 × 35.5 inches
- Weight
- 61.7 pounds
View on Amazon: YARDMAX 22-Inch Walk-Behind Gas String Trimmer Affiliate link
The YARDMAX YL2250 is a 22-inch gas walk behind string trimmer powered by a 170cc engine. It weighs 61.7 pounds and measures 53 inches long. You get five cutting heights from 1.5 to 3.5 inches. The offset head helps you trim along fences. Rugged 14-inch ball bearing wheels handle various terrains. This push mower suits large yards needing wide coverage.
Pros
- 22-inch cutting width for faster coverage
- Offset head for precise edge trimming
- Five tool-free cutting heights
- 14-inch ball bearing wheels
Cons
- Heavy at 61.7 pounds
- Push drive requires physical effort
- No variable speed control listed
Good fit if
- You need a wide 22-inch cut
- You trim along fences and structures
- You have a large open lawn
Skip if
- You prefer electric power sources
- You have a small yard
- You need a lightweight unit
Verdict: YARDMAX 22-Inch 170cc Gas Trimmer fits users who want a wide cutting path and offset precision for fence lines. It is a solid choice for large, flat to moderately uneven lawns.
AMERISUN 22-Inch 170cc Walk-Behind String Trimmer
Best for: Large yards with uneven terrain
- Voltage
- 170cc (what this guide is about)
- Cutting Swath
- 22 in
- Power Source
- Gas
- Cutting Width
- 14-Inch
- Dimensions
- 25.6 × 19.7 × 5 inches
- Weight
- 62 pounds
View on Amazon: AMERISUN 22-Inch 170cc Walk-Behind String Trimmer Affiliate link
This walk-behind string trimmer features a 170cc four-stroke engine and a 22-inch cutting path. It includes 14-inch high wheels for rough terrain and an adjustable cutting height from 1.9 to 4.0 inches. The foldable handle aids storage. It suits users managing large yards or thick brush who need a wide swath for efficient clearing.
Pros
- 22-inch wide cutting path clears ground faster
- 14-inch high wheels handle rough terrain easily
- Adjustable cutting height from 1.9 to 4.0 inches
- Foldable handle allows compact storage
- 170cc OHV engine provides strong power
Cons
- Weighs 62 pounds, which is heavy to maneuver
- Lacks variable speed control for the engine
- No electric start mechanism listed in specs
Good fit if
- You need a wide 22-inch swath for large areas
- You mow over uneven or rough ground
- You want to store the unit in a small space
Skip if
- You prefer a lighter unit under 50 pounds
- You need precise height adjustments below 1.9 inches
- You want a compact model for small gardens
Verdict: AMERISUN 22-Inch 170cc String Trimmer fits users who prioritize a wide cutting path and stability on rough ground over lightweight portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | BILT HARD 22-Inch 170cc Walk-Behind String Trimmer | YARDMAX 22-Inch Walk-Behind Gas String Trimmer | AMERISUN 22-Inch 170cc Walk-Behind String Trimmer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cutting Swath | 22 in. | not stated | 22 in |
| Power Source | gas | Gas | Gas |
| Voltage | 170cc | 170cc | 170cc |
| Cutting Width | 14-Inch | 22-Inch | 14-Inch |
| Drive Type | Push | Push | not stated |
| Application | Yard, Lawn | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | 20.5 × 21.6 × 5 inches | 53 × 22.5 × 35.5 inches | 25.6 × 19.7 × 5 inches |
| Weight | 54.1 pounds | 61.7 pounds | 62 pounds |
| Size | 22‘’ Hand push | not stated | Large |
| Color | Blue | orange | B+R |
| Model | not stated | YL2250 | AM6222 |
How to choose the right one
-
Check the drive type
All three models use a push drive type. This means you must provide the forward momentum. The BILT HARD, YARDMAX, and AMERISUN units lack self-propelled mechanisms. You will need to push them through the grass. This affects your physical effort significantly. Heavier units like the AMERISUN at 62 pounds require more strength to move. Choose this setup if you prefer manual control and do not need assisted movement. It is simpler but demands more physical energy from you during use.
-
Compare cutting width
You have two main options for cutting width. The BILT HARD model features a 14-inch cutting path. The YARDMAX and AMERISUN models both offer a 22-inch width. A wider cut covers more ground per pass. This speeds up mowing for large, flat areas. A narrower cut offers better maneuverability in tight spaces. Select the 22-inch width if you have open lawn space. Choose the 14-inch width if you navigate around obstacles frequently. This spec directly impacts your mowing speed.
-
Review the weight
Weight varies from 54.1 to 62 pounds. The BILT HARD is the lightest at 54.1 pounds. The YARDMAX weighs 61.7 pounds. The AMERISUN is the heaviest at 62 pounds. A lighter unit is easier to lift and transport. It is also easier to push on uneven terrain. Heavier units may offer more stability during operation. Consider how you will move the machine. If you carry it over curbs, the lighter BILT HARD is preferable. For stationary mowing, weight matters less.
-
Confirm the power source
Every model in this list runs on gas. They all share a 170cc engine specification. This means you need to manage fuel and oil. You must store gasoline safely and handle engine maintenance. Electric or battery models are not included here. Gas engines typically provide consistent power for thick vegetation. You will need to check oil levels and spark plugs. This power source suits users who want traditional gas performance without charging time.
-
Assess the physical size
Dimensions differ across the three models. The BILT HARD is 21.6 inches wide and 20.5 inches long. The YARDMAX is significantly larger at 53 inches long. The AMERISUN is 25.6 inches long. These dimensions affect storage space in your garage. A longer unit requires more linear storage room. Consider your available storage area before buying. The compact BILT HARD fits in tighter spaces. The YARDMAX needs a longer wall or rack. Measure your storage area to ensure a proper fit.
Frequently asked questions
Which 170cc string trimmer has the widest cutting path?
The YARDMAX 22-Inch Walk-Behind Gas String Trimmer offers the widest cutting path at 22 inches. This width allows you to cover more ground per pass compared to the 14-inch cuts of the BILT HARD and AMERISUN models. It is ideal for large, flat lawns where efficiency matters.
What is the lightest 170cc string trimmer on the list?
The BILT HARD 22-Inch 170cc Walk-Behind String Trimmer is the lightest option at 54.1 pounds. The YARDMAX model weighs 61.7 pounds, and the AMERISUN unit weighs 62 pounds. Choosing the BILT HARD model reduces the physical effort required to maneuver the machine during use.
Are these 170cc string trimmers self-propelled?
No, all three models use a push drive type. You must provide the forward momentum yourself. None of the listed units feature self-propelled mechanisms. This means you will need to push the trimmer through the grass and vegetation manually.
Which 170cc string trimmer is best for uneven terrain?
The AMERISUN 22-Inch 170cc String Trimmer is best suited for uneven terrain. Its design prioritizes stability on rough ground over lightweight portability. The 62-pound weight helps maintain balance on slopes or bumpy surfaces while you work.
What is the height of the YARDMAX string trimmer?
The YARDMAX 22-Inch Walk-Behind Gas String Trimmer has a height of 35.5 inches. This vertical dimension helps you maintain an upright posture while trimming. The overall length is 53 inches, providing a substantial reach for wide cutting areas.
Does the BILT HARD trimmer have a wide cutting width?
The BILT HARD 22-Inch model has a 14-inch cutting width. Despite its name, the actual cutting path is narrower than the 22-inch options from YARDMAX and AMERISUN. This narrower cut allows for better maneuverability in tight spaces and around obstacles.
How much does the AMERISUN string trimmer weigh?
The AMERISUN 22-Inch 170cc String Trimmer weighs 62 pounds. This is the heaviest unit in this comparison. The extra weight contributes to its stability on rough ground, though it requires more effort to move compared to lighter models.