Nils is a few pounds lighter, roughly 20-21 pounds well proven reliable engine. Solo is yet to be proven in the long term and has had issues. Also take into account if you use a hand auger the Nils works as both hand or power saving you the cost of a seperate auger, or having to carry one incase of motor problems. Blades on the Lazer you replace the Nils you get resharpened for $20. Wise to buy a spare blade that is more than replacement Lazers but a 1 time cost and figuring in sharpening in time you will save money, sharpening time depends on use but average is 3-5 years. As for speed it's close but my 3 year old blades havent been beat by a solo yet. The Tanaka motors on the Nils have been around for 30+ years and honestly they are the best small motor on the market. Tankas are built to industial standards since their market share is mainly gas drills and such for high voltage power line work.
