One you can scratch from the list is "Snapper". It is poorly balanced, a bear to use and start.
So now I use a cheapie electric one with the PITA extension cord. This actually does a better job and, IMO, easier..The Paramount from 20 years ago was nice, but it finally expired..
Better to buy from a small local dealer and try one out as opposed to going to a big box store..

I have used the Echo "stick" edger for the last three years. It is a pleasure to use and makes fast work of the formally unplesant job.

Thank you, everybody, for the advise. We're also using a cheapie electric and getting tired of the spool/string locking up every 10 feet. I hope this isn't an issue with higher end gas models. The Echo brand seems to be suggested quite often ... hmmm. Thanks again for the info.

Echo two stroke is money down the drain. If the yard is small the only choice is an electric 110 Volt model. If the large is too large for this then buy a four stroke. Four strokes are expensive and heavier than two strokes but at least they start reliably. Personally I consider two strokes a disaster. Just go to any small engine repair depot, and you will find their shop full of these tempamental machines. I might add the much touted replaceable strings are also a crock. They break often and are easy to replace, but starting the two stroke each time can be a major hassle. Spend the time and learn how to wind a bump reel. Also the Echo gas tank leaks,since the three lines to the gas tank go through holes in a rubber grommet. The black gas line also deteriotes in gasoline over time and needs to be replaced. This is possibly one of the major requirements for service. Why they use a gas line that deteriotes in gasoline is beyond me. I bought a Honda four stroke, since I have a large yard and need a reliable machine. The Echo 200R I bought last year was given away to a person, who is a a bear for punishment. It was that or the dump.
Durgan.

I have a Echo for fifteen trouble free years. I would also suggest Redmax brand also. 2 Cycle gas stays fresher longer because its mixed with oil and stablizers. Opposite of 4 cycle engines. If you want to know whats the best look at what the landscaper use. I have landscapers in the family so I know first hand.

If you buy a cheap homelite or equivlent you will get aggravated in the quality and buy again soon. Treat your good quality tool right and it will give you years of trouble free service. All my equipment is fifteen years or better. 1) Lawnboy commersial mower2) Echo back pack blower3) Echo weed eater 3)Mantis tiller/hedger I love 2 cycle.

I am pro 4 cycle trimmer for healthy and noise reason. But judging the problem of 2 cycle engines by the fact that they have a lot of 2 cycle engines in the shop is really not a good way to judge. I am sure there is more than 100 to 1 ratio of 2 cycler in use. Of course there will be more in the shop.