TOP 15 best Stihl chainsaws: 2022 rating and which professional model is better

The German company Stihl has been on the market for more than 80 years and is popular among both ordinary users and professionals and amateurs. All models are distinguished by high quality, excellent ergonomics due to vibration damping technology and ergonomic handles, and excellent performance indicators.

The model ranges include many modifications from light household units to professional units. But how to choose the right chainsaw of this brand?

To understand this issue, we have compiled for you a rating of the best Stihl chainsaws. The choice of models was carried out taking into account the ratio of cost and quality, performance and technical indicators.

The opinions of professionals and ordinary users, as well as official purchase statistics from Rosstat, were also taken into account. Here you will find only the best models.

Rating of the TOP 15 best Stihl chainsaws for 2022

This ranking includes the best Stihl chainsaws according to experts and users for 2022.

The German company Stihl - the history of the formation of the brand

The company is one of the recognized world leaders in the production of lawn mowers. The year of its foundation is 1926 . The export of Stihl equipment to Russia began in the 30s . As the company developed, technologies improved and various patents were registered. Since the late 50s, the company began producing gas cutters, motor drills, brush cutters, and motor shears. In 1971, Stihl chainsaws became the best-selling chainsaws in the world. To this day they are among the top best models. The company includes two brands - Stihl and Viking , which complement each other perfectly.

Stihl offers gas and electric saws, saw chains and bars, brush cutters, combined systems with various attachments and much more.

How to choose a Stihl chainsaw?

When choosing a suitable chainsaw, you should pay attention to such characteristics as:

• power – saws with a power of up to 2 kW are suitable for household needs, and professional units have performance from 3 kW;
• tire length – most often household units are equipped with tires up to 40 cm long; for professional models this figure can reach 120 cm;
• weight - the lighter the model, the easier it is to operate and the later fatigue will set in during long-term work, however, this indicator largely depends on the volume of the tank and engine power. Lightweight models have less power;
• the presence of additional attachments depends on the intended use of the saw. Some models are additionally equipped with attachments for working on stone or concrete, or trimming hedges.

Conclusions and results

Based on the results of our review, we found out that for a buyer with a small plot of land (5-7 acres) and a small budget, the FS 38 brush cutter is best suited. And for those who value economy and environmental friendliness, as well as more modern technologies, the FS 40 brush cutter is the best choice. Summer residents and gardeners Those with plots of more than 7 acres will choose FS 55 or FS 55C in 80% of cases, as it is equipped with a gearbox, a bicycle handle and a backpack strap, which will help cope with taller grass and tough growth on large volumes.

Professionals or utility workers will prefer the FS 120 and FS 250 gas-powered scythes as they have a powerful engine and are relatively inexpensive. They are also equipped with a rigid shaft for mounting all kinds of cutting and sawing accessories, and are suitable for large volumes of work. These trimmers can handle even small trees, bushes, and reeds.

For the most selective and demanding buyer, Stihl can offer petrol scythes with 2MIX and 4MIX technologies, with a multifunctional handle and a comfortable starting system, which meet the highest European standards. Such as FS 70 (for small volumes of work) and FS 131 (for large volumes of work).

We wish you successful shopping and many years of service with Stihl lawn mowers! Don't forget about free annual maintenance for Stihl lawn mowers!

TOP 5 best Stihl chainsaws by price/quality for 2022

STIHL MS 180 C-BE-16

A lightweight chainsaw with good power can easily cope with wood up to 0.4 m thick. This option is available with

16 inch tire. It is equipped with excellent vibration damping, thanks to which even a long working session will not cause any unpleasant sensations.

The patented QuickStop brake system is designed to quickly stop the chainsaw if necessary. Additionally, the saw is equipped with a quick chain tensioning system, thanks to which it is popular with both amateurs and professionals.

An excellent assistant when collecting firewood, construction work and working on the site for clearing thickets. Users note unpretentiousness, build quality, ease of repair and maintenance.

Specifications:

• Engine: petrol 1500 W / 2 l. With.;
• Chain pitch: 3/8 inch;
• Tire length: 40 cm;
• Fuel/oil tank capacity: 0.25/0.145 l;
• Weight: 4.2 kg.

pros

• fast chain tension;
• quick start system;
• light weight;
• automatic oil supply.

Minuses

• high cost of original spare parts.

STIHL MS 180-16

A simple model, unpretentious in maintenance, characterized by reliability due to high-quality components.
Universal in use, suitable for both professional work and home use.
Copes well with firewood, trees up to 40 cm thick, and building materials. It weighs little, so it can be used in cases where there is no stable position, as well as for cutting down tall branches and branches.

The compensator saturates the fuel mixture with oxygen. If the filter is clogged. The main disadvantage users point out is fast fuel consumption, a small tank and instability during cold starts.

Specifications:

• Engine: petrol 1500 W / 2 l. With.;
• Chain pitch: 3/8 inch;
• Tire length: 40 cm;
• Fuel/oil tank capacity: 0.25/0.145 l;
• Weight: 3.9 kg.

pros

• price;
• light weight;
• ergonomics;
• Possibility of operation with one hand.

Minuses

• small tank;
• difficulty starting in cold weather.

STIHL MS 170

The youngest model and one of the lightest in the line of garden chainsaws. In great demand among private developers

, residents of private houses with stove heating and gardeners.

It has high productivity when collecting firewood and working with building materials, and pruning bushes and trees can be done even with one hand. Equipped with a traditional vibration damping system, patented QuickStop chain brake technology, and compensators in the carburetor.

An ideal solution for precision work and cutting down high branches, but for thick trees its power may not be enough.

Specifications:

• Engine: petrol 1300 W / 1.7 l. With.;
• Chain pitch: 3/8 inch;
• Tire length: 40 cm;
• Fuel/oil tank capacity: 0.25/0.145 l;
• Weight: 3.9 kg.

pros

• price;
• accuracy of work;
• light weight;
• strength of parts.

Minuses

• relatively low power.

STIHL MS 180-14

Household chainsaw for construction work or collecting firewood, as well as work in the garden. Excellent for pruning

or cutting down fruit trees, logs up to 30 cm thick, trimming hedges.

Thanks to its light weight, you can work with one hand and does not cause discomfort during a long session of use. Automatic chain lubrication occurs depending on the intensity of work. Smooth starting is ensured even during long periods of inactivity.

The chain is easily tightened without the use of additional tools. Like all saws of the brand, it has high quality assembly and components, a vibration damping system and a chain brake.

Specifications:

• Engine: petrol 1500 W / 2 l. With.;
• Chain pitch: 3/8 inch;
• Tire length: 40 cm;
• Fuel/oil tank capacity: 0.25/0.145 l;
• Weight: 3.9 kg.

pros

• speed of work;
• smooth ride;
• ease of maintenance;
• price.

Minuses

• uneconomical fuel consumption;
• It takes a long time to start in the cold.

STIHL MS 230

Light weight and good power reserves make the model very relevant on the market in 2022. Its parameters allow

sawing logs of sufficiently large diameter without any problems, while pauses in work are not necessary at all thanks to the overheating protection system.
The only thing that requires a break is the need to refuel.
It does not have viewing windows in the tank, so it can be difficult to track the amount of fuel at the current moment. Otherwise, a chainsaw is an excellent solution both for small jobs like collecting firewood or construction, and for long-term work at logging enterprises.

Specifications:

• Engine: petrol 1900 W / 2.5 l. With.;
• Chain pitch: 3/8 inch;
• Tire length: 40 cm;
• Fuel/oil tank capacity: 0.47/0.2 l;
• Weight: 4.6 kg.

pros

• light;
• ease of maintenance;
• does not overheat;
• long work without pauses.

Minuses

• There are no inspection windows in the fuel tank.

Popularity rating

Each rating of Stihl chainsaws is compiled based on reviews from customers who have tested this unit in operation.

Here it is also worth remembering that when compiling a survey, the following data are taken into account: technical characteristics of the instrument, sales level in the Russian Federation, availability of the model and its popularity.

The company constantly introduces new chainsaw products for sale. Therefore, when reading the information below, it is worth taking this into account.

TOP 5 best lightweight Stihl chainsaws

STIHL MS 260

The all-purpose model has good power for both logging and firewood work.

and construction work. It has a special attachment for trimming hedges, and the power will be sufficient for cutting down trees in the garden.

Easy to maintain and operate due to the decompression valve. Does not cause fatigue even during a long session of work, and is relatively light in weight. Not prone to breakdowns if used correctly; It should be remembered that original spare parts cost an impressive amount.

Specifications:

• Engine: petrol 2600 W / 3.5 l. With.;
• Chain pitch: 3/8 inch;
• Tire length: 40-50 cm;
• Fuel/oil tank capacity: 0.46/0.29 l;
• Weight: 4.8 kg.

pros

• power;
• reliability of design and components;
• the presence of a special nozzle for hedges.

Minuses

• price;
• cost of spare parts.

STIHL MS 250

A reliable lightweight household chainsaw famous for its versatility, good ergonomics and quality

components.
Easily copes with large volumes of firewood, thick branches and trees in a garden or personal plot; it can also be used for trimming hedges.
Light weight and vibration damping ensure high ergonomics and pleasure from working with the unit. The spacious tank guarantees long-term operation without refueling. It uses fuel economically and the volume of exhaust gases is significantly reduced. Oil is supplied automatically, which significantly reduces its consumption.

Specifications:

• Engine: petrol 2300 W / 3.1 l. With.;
• Chain pitch: 3/8 inch;
• Tire length: 40 cm;
• Fuel/oil tank capacity: 0.47/0.2 l;
• Weight: 4.6 kg.

pros

• power and performance;
• ease of use;
• ease of maintenance.

Minuses

• In the cold season it takes a long time to start.

STIHL MS 230 C-BE

Powerful and reliable gas powered tool. Easily copes with thick building materials and firewood up to 30 cm thick.

The two-stroke engine has a power reserve, an impressive service life and starts quickly even in the cold season. Special automatic oil supply technology reduces oil consumption. Stable engine speeds maintain carburetor heating.

Light weight and high-quality vibration absorption add ergonomics. However, despite its power, it has a high noise level; the manufacturer recommends using hearing protection during operation.

Specifications:

• Engine: petrol 2200 W / 3 l. With.;
• Chain pitch: 3/8 inch;
• Tire length: 45 cm;
• Fuel/oil tank capacity: 0.47/0.2 l;
• Weight: 4.9 kg.

pros

• easy to use even in the cold season;
• ease of maintenance;
• quick start and easy refueling;
• doesn't heat up.

Minuses

• makes noise when working;
• high price.

STIHL MS 211

Like all models of the brand, it is distinguished by high reliability, quality components and a vibration damping system. Allows

perform a wide range of work around the house or in the garden thanks to its light weight, balance and ergonomics.

It copes well with logs with a diameter of up to 40 cm, cuts quickly and confidently. Breakdowns most often occur due to improper use, but even with errors in assembly, the model shows itself to be very effective.

The quality of work is significantly affected by the use of branded lubricants, although they are somewhat more expensive than regular ones.

Specifications:

• Engine: petrol 1700 W / 2.3 l. With.;
• Chain pitch: 3/8 inch;
• Tire length: 40 cm;
• Fuel/oil tank capacity: 0.28/0.18 l;
• Weight: 4.3 kg.

pros

• high reliability;
• ergonomics;
• light weight.

Minuses

• noisy;
• expensive branded lubricants.

STIHL MS 250 C-BE

Functional saw, an excellent solution for a private home or farm. Powerful two-stroke engine

copes well with both the preparation of firewood or building materials, and the removal of old branches, dead wood, and thinning of shoots.

The model is easy to operate and maintain, equipped with vibration damping characteristic of all brand models, an ergonomic handle, easy chain tensioning and automatic lubrication. However, the saw has a high noise level, so the manufacturer recommends using hearing protection while operating.

Specifications:

• Engine: petrol 2200 W / 3 l. With.;
• Chain pitch: 0.325 inch;
• Tire length: 45 cm;
• Fuel/oil tank capacity: 0.47/0.2 l;
• Weight: 4.9 kg.

pros

• combination of reliability and power;
• ease of use;
• ergonomics;
• ease of management and maintenance.

Minuses

• difficult to start when cold;
• noisy.

How to choose a tool by cost

The pricing policy for chainsaws directly depends on the class to which a particular tool belongs: household, semi-professional, professional.

Budget models of Stihl chain saws

The line of inexpensive saws starts from 10,000 and ends at 12,000 rubles. This includes tools that are lightweight and cost-effective. They are used mainly for work in subsidiary farming. For example, the Stihl MS 170 model does not exceed 4 kg and has a power of 1.8 liters. This tool can be used in a summer cottage or when performing minor construction and repair work.

Mid-range models

Semi-professional gasoline saws are highly productive. The price for such tools varies from 28,000 to 33,000 rubles. Similar tools are used on large farms. An example is the Stihl MS 271 model, which has a power of 3.5 hp. and a 40 cm long tire. The advantages include: reduced fuel consumption, as well as minimization of harmful exhaust gases. Comfort of operation is ensured by a vibration reduction system.

Premium models

Professional saws start at a cost of 43,000 and end at 90,000 rubles. Such tools can withstand high loads throughout the entire working day. This includes the Stihl MS 461 model - an excellent choice for logging. Allows you to attach 45 and 50 cm tires. The power of this saw is 6 hp. Replacing and tensioning the chain is quick and convenient. For long-term operation, a vibration reduction system is provided.

Basic tips for choosing the best Stihl chainsaw:

The tool you purchase must meet the required tasks and conditions of use. To choose the right chainsaw, you first need to determine the intensity of the load and the nature of the work:

• Household models - chosen for work in the garden or in the country.
• Semi-professional - designed for intensive use.
• Professional - used under heavy loads, for example, during logging.

In addition to this, you must also consider:

• Price.
• Equipment.
• Weight.
• Tire length.

Other useful articles:

• How to spot a fake Stihl chainsaw
• How to use a Stihl chainsaw
• What gasoline to use for Stihl chainsaws

TOP 5 best powerful Stihl chainsaws

STIHL MS 880-47

A professional chainsaw for long-term operation can withstand even extreme loads and cope with

large timber. High performance is ensured by a powerful engine.

The model is equipped with brand-specific vibration damping systems, a chain brake and automatic oil supply.

The chain is tensioned from the side, which prevents contact with cutting parts. Smooth engine starting is ensured by a decompression valve.

The chainsaw is quite heavy, but the comfortable handle guarantees ease of use. The small tank requires regular refilling during long-term operation, but this volume is precisely calculated for pauses in operation to avoid operator fatigue.

Specifications:

• Engine: petrol 6400 W / 8.7 l. With.;
• Chain pitch: 3/8 inch;
• Tire length: 120 cm;
• Oil tank capacity: 0.7 l;
• Weight: 10 kg.

pros

• power;
• easily copes with thick logs;
• comfortable handle.

Minuses

• high noise level.

STIHL MS 880-36

A powerful chainsaw for professional use can cope with large volumes of work, thick trees

and hard woods. It has excellent balance and, despite its weight, is very convenient to use.

Has an increased chain pitch. When sharpened in a timely manner, the chain cuts through wood effortlessly. Reliable and easy to maintain, there are practically no weak points.

However, it is quite noisy during operation, so hearing protection is recommended. A small tank volume is not enough for long-term operation; large volumes require regular refilling.

Specifications:

• Engine: petrol 6400 W / 8.7 l. With.;
• Chain pitch: 3/8 inch;
• Tire length: 91 cm;
• Oil tank capacity: 0.7 l;
• Weight: 10 kg.

pros

• power;
• suitable for hard wood;
• for large-scale work and professional use;
• acceptable cost.

Minuses

• noisy;
• small fuel tank.

STIHL MS 661-28

A powerful chainsaw designed for professional work or large volumes. A successful solution for forestry enterprises and

logging enterprises, as well as for large-scale construction.

Cutting time is minimal due to the high torque, and no special effort is required from the operator. However, the saw is quite heavy; if you don’t have the skill, it will be somewhat difficult to handle.

Starts very quickly even after long periods of inactivity thanks to the easy-start manual start. The proprietary vibration damping system is complemented by good balance, providing high ergonomics. There is an accidental start blocking system and an emergency brake.

To avoid carburetor clogging, it is recommended to drain the fuel when the car is idle for more than a day.

Specifications:

• Engine: petrol 5400 W / 7.3 l. With.;
• Chain pitch: 3/8 inch;
• Tire length: 71 cm;
• Weight: 7.4 kg.

pros

• fast start;
• power;
• ergonomics;
• high reliability and ease of maintenance.

Minuses

• heavy.

STIHL GS 461

Professional model for felling large diameter trees, bucking logs, sawing hard wood

breeds, root butts.
When re-equipped with attachments, it is possible to work not only with wood, but also with concrete, brick, and stone.
Equipped with an automatic oil supply system based on the principle “more revolutions - more oil”, there is also a manual adjustment of the supply. There are two operating modes - winter and summer; in winter mode, the carburetor warms up due to exhaust gases.

Specifications:

• Engine: petrol 4300 W / 5.8 l. With.;
• Chain pitch: 3/8 inch;
• Tire length: 40-50 cm;
• Fuel/oil tank volume: 0.8/0.325 l;
• Weight: 7.6 kg.

pros

• reduced fuel consumption;
• microprocessor ignition system;
• torque stability;
• Low noise level for working power.

Minuses

• the air filter gets clogged quickly;
• The screws on the carburetor damper are loosened.

STIHL MS 661-20

High-performance semi-professional saw equipped with a powerful motor with 2-MIX system

Provides fast and accurate cutting. Withstands long work sessions and cutting large-sized wood.

Special M-Tronic technology ensures hot and cold starts and maintains speed stability and improves acceleration characteristics. Equipped with an additional automatic fuel supply system. Suitable for working with firewood and building materials, as well as for use in logging conditions.

Specifications:

• Engine: petrol 5400 W / 7.3 l. With.;
• Chain pitch: 3/8 inch;
• Tire length: 50 cm;
• Weight: 7.4 kg.

pros

• performance;
• efficient work in the cold season;
• spacious fuel tank;
• comfortable handle.

Minuses

• difficult maintenance.

Characteristics of the Stihl chainsaw

The chainsaw of the German brand Stihl is a very popular tool for performing various works, both on private and industrial sites.

The company offers customers many varieties of this unit, which has proven itself well over almost a century of history. You can find everything from a chainsaw to a cordless tool. At the same time, chainsaws are not that expensive.

Technological feature

The Shtil tool is primarily distinguished by its ease of use and light weight. This unit also has the following technological feature:

• Purging the combustion chamber with device 2 MIX. Helps reduce fuel consumption and reduce environmental pollution that is released during operation of the unit;
• A device for burning residual fuel in the muffler is usually called a catalyst. This system prevents the chainsaw from heating up during operation. When purchasing, it is worth considering that most of these units are not equipped with a catalyst. Therefore, it is worth carefully learning the technical characteristics of the device;
• The device for cleaning the system is called an air filter. It significantly reduces the load on the filtration element. It can be washed under running water;
• Individual electronic fuel supply system - intelligent engine. This device is no longer found on any of the chainsaws from other manufacturers;
• The system for reducing pressure is a decompression valve. It fulfills its purpose when the starter is turned;
• Carburetor heating system. Thanks to this device, chainsaws start even at -40 C;
• Handle heating system. Allows the unit to operate at any time of the year. Professional models are equipped with this device.

Equipment

Stihl chainsaws, regardless of their purpose, are available in this configuration.

• First, the device itself with instructions for its use.
• Secondly, a box with a logo and an image of the instrument.
• Below are detailed instructions for this unit.

The manufacturer also provides a universal key to the chainsaw, intended for assembly or disassembly.

There are tools that are sold with a tire guard and other protective accessories. Important! This point does not affect the operation of the unit in any way, the only thing is that it may be more expensive.

Which company is better - Stihl, Husqvarna or Makita?

Saws from these brands, according to statistics, are among the most popular and affordable. However, each company has its own advantages and disadvantages compared to each other. Let's look at this issue in a little more detail.

The Husqvarna brand has Swedish roots and annually launches both the latest models and updated units into the market. Chainsaws are classified according to their purpose - there are both lines of household units and powerful professional models. Even the simplest saws are of high quality and reasonable prices. However, users complain about regular leaks of oil and gasoline through plugs and leaky hoses, unpredictability of start-up and poor quality of chains.

The Japanese company Makita produces on the market not only chainsaws, but also other equipment - drills, grinders, grinders, etc., but saws are a priority for them. It maintains a stable position in the market, has a high quality standard, and regularly updates its range. There are household, farm, semi-professional and professional lines. They are distinguished by modern production technologies and high build quality. However, the cost of both the models themselves and their components is very high.

The Stihl company stands for German quality, market availability and reasonable cost. It produces many models for various purposes, including specialized chainsaws for working with stone, concrete, and hard wood. The cost of original products is significantly higher compared to domestic analogues, but the company’s products are highly reliable and resistant to cold starts. Has a wide range of farm chainsaws. A significant drawback (which, however, does not depend on the manufacturer itself) is the presence of a large number of fakes on the market, so you should buy the unit either from a dealer or directly from the manufacturer.

Which grass trimmer to choose

Choosing a good trimmer is not difficult if you remember the basic criteria:

1. Gasoline vehicles are mobile and more comfortable to work in large areas. They can be used where there is no electricity. Electric ones are lighter, quieter and do not emit exhaust. However, they are dependent on the mains and need a good extension cord. Rechargeable ones are expensive, but they fully cope with the work, not being inferior in power to their analogues.
2. Power and productivity are needed where there are thick weeds, hogweed thickets, and dead wood. For processing the lawn and flower beds, a minimum power is sufficient.
3. Weight. The weight is influenced by the technical characteristics - the more powerful the unit, the heavier and more massive it is, especially for brush cutters.
4. Equipment type. Light modifications are often equipped with only a reel of fishing line. Knives are found in high-power models because they are designed for heavy loads - trimming bushes, rough processing of trees, as well as cutting thick and dense thickets of weeds.
5. Mowing width. To successfully choose a grass trimmer, you should decide on this indicator by assessing the working conditions. To cut grass in very narrow places, the width of the working area should be smaller. For large areas, options with maximum coverage are suitable; this increases the efficiency of the unit.

After reading the TOP best grass trimmers from Stihl, it will become easier to buy a suitable and inexpensive unit. Our editorial experts carefully studied all the brand’s model lines and selected the most successful and popular ones. And numerous reviews from real customers helped to better understand what their main advantages and disadvantages are.

Comparison with other brands

Selecting the best model is not easy, as there is a whole list of selection criteria. When purchasing a trimmer in order to identify the competitive advantages of a particular brand, it is necessary to compare the performance characteristics of samples from different model ranges.

Stihl equipment is often compared with products:

• Makita;
• Husqvarna;
• Echo.

All of them initially belong to the same class. They have similar technical characteristics, but there are some nuances. This primarily applies to trimmers that are equipped with bicycle-shaped handles. Each model of the Stihl gasoline unit is equipped with a quick start system , like the models of the above brands, and has a belt attachment that reduces the load on your hands. Makita brand products from Shtil are distinguished by an increased rotation speed of the cutting elements.

Stihl trimmers have excellent performance characteristics