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Anyone that has ever looked into chainsaws knows that the brand Stihl dominates that market. Stihl makes great saws that fit every need imaginable. From professional, farm and ranch and even homeowner, they have the saw for you.
But what about the other brands? Are any of them comparable to Stihl?
If you’re looking for a saw that will get the job done, but not break the bank, you’ve come to the right place.
We have scoured the internet, read reviews, and compiled a list of the Top 5 chainsaws that aren’t Stihl and compared them based on size, power, and reliability to a popular Stihl Chainsaw.
If you’re looking for a specific saw, check out the Table of Contents. Otherwise, let’s jump in with an overview of the Stihl MS 251 Wood Boss, the saw we will be comparing to.
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Stihl MS 251 Wood Boss
The Stihl MS 251 Wood Boss is a high performance saw designed to deliver all the power you expect from a Stihl chainsaw, but in a smaller, more comfortable design.
Perfect for cutting down small trees, pruning and trimming, and cutting firewood, the MS 251
is 20% more fuel efficient and has reduced emissions by 50%.
With a 45.6cc 2-stroke gas engine, The Stihl MS 251 Wood Boss is a lean, easy to use chainsaw, that will still pack a punch.
Check out this video of the Stihl MS 251 in Action!
Specifications:
| Engine Displacement | 45.6 cc |
| Engine Power | 3 HP |
| Weight | 10.8 lbs |
| Bar Length | 16″ – 18″ |
| Power Source | 2 Stroke Gas Engine |
Now that we have done a brief overview of the Stihl MS 251 chainsaw, Let’s take a look at the chainsaws we found that compete with the Stihl.
Up First: The Husqvarna 440 II E-series (Affiliate Link)
- 40.9 CC / 2.4 HP Engine
- 9.8 Lbs
- X- Torq Tech = Lower fuel consumption
- 13” – 18” chain bar length compatible
Considered to be an all-around saw, the second generation Husqvarna 440 II E-series chainsaw is ideal for homeowners. This saw is exceptionally easy to start and simple to use.
The Husqvarna 440 II comes equipped with Smart Start, X-Torq, X-Cut chain and X- Force bar technology. Making this chainsaw a reliable workhorse that will outperform the competition.
A 2.4 HP, 40.9cc gas 2 cycle engine is rigged with an inertia activated chain brake, reducing the likeness of injury from kickback. And a Low-Vib Ergonomic Rear Handle increases comfort and cuts back on the vibration to the operator. Which means less fatigue on large jobs.
Other Features of the Husqvarna 440II E Series Chainsaw include:
- Flip-Top Gas Cap for easy refilling
- Quick – Release Air Filter makes cleaning a replacement a breeze
- Smart Start Technology ensures the chainsaw starts quickly with minimal effort
- Transparent Fuel Indicator makes it Easy to check fuel level.
Check it out on Amazon!
Poulan Pro PR4218 (Affiliate Link)
- 20% fuel efficiency over older models
- 42cc, 2 cycle motor
- 13.25 lbs
The Poulan Pro PR4218 is a medium duty saw that is perfect for homeowners that need clean up and trim trees, or someone looking for an inexpensive chainsaw to cut firewood or fell trees. New generations of Poulan Pro chainsaws are equipped with OxyPower technology that offers better fuel efficiency.
With an 18” bar and a 42cc motor, The Poulan Pro PR4218 also features an Effortless Pull Starting system. Along with a Spring-assist pull cord and a purge bulb on the carburetor ensures a fast and easy start with fewer pulls.
Other features of the Poulan Pro PR4218 chainsaw include:
- Automatic Oiler– keeps the bar and chain lubricated.
- SuperClean Air Filter System – lengthens filter life and reduces fuel consumption, without loss of power.
- Advanced Anti-Vibration handle – to lessen user fatigue.
Check it out on Amazon!
Jonsered 2245 (Affiliate Link)
- 45cc 2 stroke
- 13.25 lbs
- CleanPower engine – 75% fewer emissions
Another great homeowner chainsaw is the Jonsered 2245. Equally as powerful as the Stihl MS251, this saw comes with a 2.8 hp, 45cc 2-stroke engine.
It is a great all around saw with an 18” bar for felling trees and cutting up firewood. It has a CleanPower engine that reduces emissions up to 75% and increases fuel economy by 20%.
Jonsered also improved the air filter set up with a unique turbo intake air cleaning system. This separates sawdust from the air before it reaches the air filter, meaning less cleaning and maintenance.
Other features of the Jonsered 2241 chainsaw include:
- Insulated handle – for vibration dampening
- Tool-free chain tensioner
- Quick-release access covers – to air filter and spark plug
Check it out on Amazon!
Confused by the term 2-stroke or 2-cycle? Read up on 2-strokes vs. 4-stroke engines here!
Blue Max 6595 (Affiliate Link)
- 45 cc, 2 stroke engine
- 14”-20” bar
- Heavier – 17.6 LBS
Another great saw for homeowner use is the Blue Max 6595 chainsaw. Often overlooked because of it’s inexpensive price and Chinese origin, this saw proves to be a highly capable saw.
Available with a 14”-20” bar, The Blue Max 6595 comes with a Stihl competing 45cc 2-stroke motor to help cut through what every you sink the chain into.
This chainsaw is also a few pounds heavier than the others on this list. It weighs in at 17.6 lbs. But many users claim that the weight is more helpful than a hindrance when it comes to cutting up fallen trees.
Other Features of the Blue Max 6595 Chainsaw include:
- Rapid kick-back brake, Hand Guard, Trigger Guard – safety features to aid the user
- Auto-oiler – keeps the chain bar lubricated
- Anti-vibe handles – to help reduce fatigue
Check it out on Amazon!
Craftsman CMXGSAMA421S (Affiliate Link)
- 18” Low Kick-back bar
- 42 cc 2 stroke engine
- Easy Start Technology
Lastly, we have a chainsaw from a well-known brand, Craftsman. Although you may not think of Craftsman when you think of chainsaws, the Craftsman CMXGSAMA421S makes you think about it.
This chainsaw offers an 18” low kickback bar that is perfect for limbing, and trimming trees. It comes with a 42cc 2-stroke engine that helps chew through even the toughest of woods.
The Craftsman CMXGSAMA421S features Easy Start Technology, for simpler and more efficient starts. An inertia-activated chain brake helps protect the user from sudden, unexpected kickbacks. While a 5-point anti-vibration handle helps keep the chainsaw balanced and easy to operate.
Other features to mention include:
- Automatic oiler – to keep the bar lubricated.
- Tool-free access – to the air filter and spark plug
- 2-year warranty
Check it out on Amazon!
Let’s Recap!
All of the chainsaws on this list are comparable to the Stihl MS 251 Wood Boss.
While some, like the Husqvarna, Poulan Pro, and Craftsman chainsaws are all slightly less powerful, they offer the same features and are close in size. While the Jonsered and Blue Max chainsaws are equally powerful, but larger in size. You will have to take your own circumstances into consideration before deciding.
While Stihl might be the most widely known chainsaws on the market, they are not the only option. If you are looking for an inexpensive saw that will work wonders around your home, be sure to take a closer look at each of the chain saws on this list. You just might be surprised at what you find!
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