The best chainsaws - rating, comparisons and reviews of the best models
When choosing a chainsaw, a certain difficulty lies in the often identical characteristics of devices from different manufacturers, despite the tangible difference in price. To understand where the cost of the device corresponds to its quality, you will be helped by our rating of chainsaws in quality and reliability, which we compiled on the basis of reviews that customers leave on forums and various resources on the Internet.
The main criteria for getting into the rating are good technical characteristics and the predominant presence of positive opinions about the operation of the device. Based on these data, the best household, semi- and professional models in various price categories are collected below.
Content:
Best household chainsaws
The engine life of such devices suggests that they will rarely be used - a maximum of an hour per day. They are not designed for cutting thick tree trunks, respectively, they have small power (up to 2 kW), engine size (about 40 cm³) and weight. There are other external differences - the household saw is equipped with a tire 30-40 cm long, and the safety links are visible on the chain, which although they limit the speed of work, they also reduce the tool return, minimizing possible risks of using the tool.
This is the best chainsaw, if the main task of the tool is to "be on the hook" for cases when for household needs periodically it is necessary to saw small amounts of firewood, or cut trees.
 |  |  | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makita EA 3202 S 40 B | Partner P340S | Hitachi CS 33 EB | |||||||
  |
  |
  |
|||||||
| Horsepower / kW | 1,8 / 1,35 | 1,9 / 1,44 | 1,68 / 1,2 | ||||||
| Tire length cm | 40 | 35 | 35 | ||||||
| Engine displacement, cube cm. | 32 | 35 | 32,2 | ||||||
| Groove width mm | 1,3 | 1,3 | 1,3 | ||||||
| Chain pitch, inch | 3/8 | 3/8 | 3/8 | ||||||
| Number of links | 56 | 52 | 52 | ||||||
| Fuel tank, l | 0,4 | 0,3 | 0,35 | ||||||
| Oil tank, l | 0,28 | 0,15 | 0,2 | ||||||
Makita EA 3202 S 40 B
Household saw with Easy-Start quick start system, vibration damping system and automatic lubrication system for important components.
+ Pros Makita EA 3202 S 40 B
- Cold start function - easy to start in different weather conditions.
- Relatively quiet sound at work.
- Light weight - confidently holds in hands.
- The spring-loaded anti-vibration mechanism ensures an almost complete absence of recoil during operation.
- Sensitive feedback sensors - when it occurs, the saw immediately stalls and blocks the chain.
- Large fuel tank - there are plenty of refueling to do everyday work.
- Adjustable oil supply for chain lubrication.
- Cons Makita EA 3202 S 40 B
- Native gas hoses can jump off - it is treated with a replacement.
- When working in a horizontal position, a chain can fly off - the key for its installation must be kept with you.
- Custom installation of the chain - requires some skill.
- It is inconvenient to cut with the end - it is difficult to make an exact incision.
- It is necessary to get used to the system of protection against back impact - from an unaccustomed habit, the saw may stall without an emergency situation.
- The drive sprocket is welded to the clutch drum - if replacement is necessary, this increases the cost of repair.
A well-made tool for household tasks - sawing building materials and felling thin (up to 20-30 cm in diameter) trees. Light weight makes the saw comfortable when working requiring mobility, such as pruning branches.
Partner P340S
Under this brand, China produces Husqvarna chainsaws, one of the recognized industry leaders. Household in terms of characteristics, the tool is equipped with automatic chain lubrication, a blocking system for a reverse impact and anti-vibration springs.
+ Pros of Partner P340S
- The presence of a primer to facilitate the start.
- Light weight - if necessary, you can saw for some time on outstretched arms.
- Low gas and oil consumption
- The overall build quality of the engine. It is felt both in work and during storage - no oil smudges and similar problems were noticed.
- A large selection of components - can be purchased at retail or ordered via the Internet.
- Convenient in itself, the design is equipped with detailed instructions.
- Good value for money if used as intended.
- Cons Partner P340S
- The back cover and the oil supply pipe to the chain are poorly protected from sawdust - during continuous operation, these places must be cleaned.
- There is no oil and gas level sensor - you have to orient yourself “by eye”.
- Poor vibration protection. In addition to affecting the hands, it affects the bolt connections of the handles - they have to be tightened periodically.
- The chain that comes with it is advisable to replace it immediately.
- The air filter is often clogged.
- Only a chain and a key for its tension are included.
- Be sure to revise the oil supply hose to the chain - it can be transferred during assembly.
The manufacturer is positioned solely as a household tool for short-term housework. The owners note that with proper use, the saw is capable of serving more than one year without complaints.
Hitachi CS 33 EB
The “trick” of the model is the New Pure Fire system for reducing the power and exhaust emissions, which in addition reduces fuel consumption.
+ Pros of Hitachi CS 33 EB
- Easy engine start system - after running-in, it starts from the first or second throttle jerk.
- The light weight of 4.2 kg allows you to work comfortably even in uncomfortable places.
- Well-designed anti-vibration mechanism - apart from the weight of the saw itself, nothing works on the hands.
- The overall price-performance ratio, even for a household model.
- The use of technology to reduce exhaust from the engine is a contribution to environmental conservation and an additional reduction in vibration.
- The quality of components - many owners of this saw say that it has been working with them for 5-8 years.
- A balanced center of gravity.
- Cons Hitachi CS 33 EB
- The absence of a Russian-language instruction - you need to look separately or understand it yourself.
- If it heats up and dies, then until it cools down - it will not start.
- The air filter may let fine dust pass into the carburetor. For treatment, it is necessary to additionally coat the gap between its halves.
- There is no manual pumping of fuel - at the very first start-up, the air plug is removed for a long time - in some cases, it is necessary to turn the starter for 20-30 minutes.
- The chain in the set is break-in - you must immediately buy a working one.
- Special attention should be paid to the tension mechanism. Before adjusting, be sure to release the tire fasteners - otherwise a high probability of breakage.
- Without additional adjustment, excessively high oil consumption for chain lubrication.
Despite the “household” characteristics, due to its weight and reliability, this chainsaw is suitable for professionals as an addition to more powerful models.
The best semi-professional chainsaws
Such chainsaws were included in the ranking of the best due to their versatility - they are powerful enough to be used for felling small and medium trees, light enough to carry too much inconvenience. If you periodically give such a saw a rest, then without fear it can be used for 4 to 5 hours a day.
These devices can already be used by household services or those who earn extra money by providing services for cutting trees or sawing firewood. On such tools, an engine with a power of 2-3 kW is installed, with a displacement of 40-60 cm³ and a tire with a length of 50-60 cm.
 |  | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stihl MS 211 | Husqvarna 450e | |||||||
| |
|
|||||||
| Horsepower / kW | 2,3 / 1,7 | 3,2 / 2,4 | ||||||
| Tire length cm | 35 | 38 | ||||||
| Engine displacement, cube cm. | 35,2 | 50,2 | ||||||
| Groove width mm | 1,3 | 1,3 | ||||||
| Chain pitch, inch | 3/8 | 0,325 | ||||||
| Number of links | 50 | 64 | ||||||
| Fuel tank, l | 0,28 | 0,45 | ||||||
| Oil tank, l | 0,18 | 0,26 | ||||||
| Noise level, dB | 113 | 115 | ||||||
Stihl MS 211
Semi-professional tool from a manufacturer known for the quality of its products. The saw is equipped with protection systems, lightweight (in use and weight) and practical.
+ Pros of Stihl MS 211
- Reliability, quality of components and assembly.
- Engine power is more than enough for everyday work.
- The weight of the chainsaw is the same as in household models.
- A well-designed engine vibration damping system - it is almost invisible even if you put the saw on a hard surface.
- Convenient location and method of opening containers for gasoline and oil.
- Sophisticated chain pulling mechanism.
- Quickly disassembled for cleaning or transfer to the "stowed" position.
- Cons Stihl MS 211
- For use, only original fuel oils and chain lubricants are recommended.
- The exhaust is directed upwards, so they often get in the face. If you plan a long work, it is better to wear a respirator.
- The plastic case, although it looks quite durable, but it seems that an accidental fall may not survive.
- The factory air filter will soon have to be changed - you must immediately take a spare wheel.
- Tanks for fuel and lubricant are too small - for long-term operation it is necessary to take additional containers with you.
For lumberjacks, the power of this chainsaw is not enough, but it is more than enough for domestic needs. If you purchase a high-quality chain and tire for it, then the service life is guaranteed to be more than one year.
Husqvarna 450e
To simplify starting a 2.4 kW engine, Smart Start and Primer technologies are used. The anti-vibration spring mechanism is responsible for comfortable operation, and safety is ensured by the emergency braking system.
+ Husqvarna 450e Pros
- Powerful engine - works without problems with a native tire 38 cm long.
- Reliability and durability - when using high-quality consumables, the already rather big motor resource is significantly increased.
- Good ergonomics - it’s convenient to hold the saw in your hands at any angle.
- Roomy fuel tank and oil tank that lubricates the chain.
- Economical fuel consumption. Its level in the tank can be monitored through a transparent wall.
- The spring-loaded anti-vibration system reduces the strain on the operator’s hands during prolonged use.
- Convenient tire assembly and chain tension adjustment - made without tools.
- Cons Husqvarna 450e
- There are few original components on the market - even from authorized dealers they often have to be ordered in advance.
- The power increased in comparison with household devices proportionally affects the mass of the saw - it is felt during prolonged use.
- Poor protection of oil supply to the circuit - requires periodic cleaning.
- Access to the adjusting screw is difficult, which adjusts the oil flow.
- The chain that comes with the purchase will have to be replaced quickly enough.
A powerful tool that will cover all domestic needs and can partially be used in professional activities, subject to load control.
The models considered above are produced by well-known companies, the tools of which cannot be doubted. Their main disadvantage is the price. That is why below we have presented a selection of the most recommended cheap semi-professional chainsaws from Asian brands.
The characteristics of these devices are slightly above average, but the cost seems unreasonably low. This combination always raises a lot of doubts about the appropriateness of the acquisition, although the price, as for the semi-professional model, to which they can be attributed by characteristics, looks very attractive.
 |  | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PATRIOT 5220 | Champion 254-18 | |||||||
| |
|
|||||||
| Horsepower / kW | 3,4 / 2,5 | 3,3 / 2,5 | ||||||
| Tire length cm | 50 | 45 | ||||||
| Engine displacement, cube cm. | 52 | 54 | ||||||
| Groove width mm | 1,5 | 1,5 | ||||||
| Chain pitch, inch | 3/8 | 0,325 | ||||||
| Number of links | 76 | 72 | ||||||
| Fuel tank, l | 0,55 | 0,52 | ||||||
| Oil tank, l | 0,26 | 0,26 | ||||||
| Noise level, dB | no data | 101 | ||||||
PATRIOT 5220
An engine with a power of 2.5 kW and a volume of 52 cm³, an Oregon tire 50 cm long, a fuel tank of 550 and an oil tank of 260 ml, an Oregon chain, a file for sharpening it, a container for mixing gasoline and oil, a starter repair kit and a metal comb. Such characteristics and equipment of the Patriot 5220 chainsaw make it a good choice for domestic and semi-professional use.
+ Pros of PATRIOT 5220
- A powerful engine allows you to quickly cope with cutting even relatively thick trees - dry and freshly sawn.
- Easy to maintain - easy access to items that need lubrication and cleaning.
- The air filter is made of nylon mesh - does not require replacement - only periodic washing.
- Good ergonomics - it is convenient to hold the saw right and left handed.
- The anti-vibration mechanism allows working without consequences for several hours.
- The economical consumption of gasoline - the tank lasts for 3 hours of operation.
- In terms of price and quality, it outperforms most competitors.
- Cons PATRIOT 5220
- Weight 6.5 kg - palpable for continuous operation. If you mainly use a saw to cut trees, it is better to choose a lighter tool.
- Relatively high oil consumption for chain lubrication.
- There is no decompressor that is felt in cold weather - pulling the winding cable is quite difficult.
- The native chain will have to be changed very soon - it is immediately advisable to buy a spare one.
- Noisy saw - without headphones it is better not to work for a long time.
Reviews about this saw were left by those who work in the household and in the forest - this is not a professional tool, but it is easy to cope with the task of knocking a tree to 40-45 cm in diameter or cutting branches. Since the weight of the saw is already palpable, it is better not to choose it if only light work is expected.
Champion 254-18
According to the main characteristics of the saw, it can be attributed to semi-professional models: engine displacement 54 cm³, power 2.5 kW, a tire 45 cm long is used, a fuel tank is 520 ml and for oil 260.
+ Pros of Champion 254-18
- Despite the powerful engine, the weight of the chainsaw is 5.1 kg - a little more than that of household models.
- Safety sensors reacting to the occurrence of a reverse shock to block the circuit. Anti-vibration mechanism.
- The fuel tank is enough for several hours of operation.
- Well-established service - in addition to spare parts in stores, on the manufacturer's website you can find details of various product models.
- Saw one of the leaders in terms of price and quality.
- Cons Champion 254-18
- The plastic of the case seems to be good and tightly fitted, but it causes a feeling of fear that it will burst if it is strongly hooked.
- Noise at work - without headphones, long-term use is not recommended.
- From time to time, it may “prankish” at startup.
- Chain oil flows continuously - if you need to take a break from work, then the saw should be laid on its side.
- Inconvenient location of oil filler hole.
This chainsaw will be a reasonable compromise between the desire to have a powerful, proven tool on the farm and the willingness to spend the appropriate amount of money on it.
The best professional chainsaws
If the tool requires continuous operation for a long time, then these are the best chainsaws, the rating of which is based on the quality of components and assembly, which increases their motor life by an order of magnitude compared to household and semi-professional models. Manufacturers guarantee that their products can work for 10-16 hours a day for one year with one “lunch” break. True, there is a need for professional care, but this is a feature of any instrument of this class.
To obtain such characteristics, the saw is made of the most reliable materials, which is proportionally reflected in the final cost of the device. You also need to consider the power, because of which such a saw has an impressive weight. If there is a desire and opportunity to spend money, but to purchase a professional device for domestic purposes, it must be taken into account that the potential of the tool may remain unclaimed, and in addition, it will simply be inconvenient for them to work.
Depending on the purpose, the power of professional models is 2–9 kW, with an engine displacement of up to 90 cm³. Some of them are available in lightweight versions, but the cost of such a device will cost an impressive pretty penny.
 |  | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stihl MS 361-16 | Husqvarna 357XP | |||||||
| |
|
|||||||
| Horsepower / kW | 4,6 / 3,4 | 4,4 / 3,2 | ||||||
| Tire length cm | 40 | 33 | ||||||
| Engine displacement, cube cm. | 59 | 56,5 | ||||||
| Groove width mm | 1,6 | 1,5 | ||||||
| Chain pitch, inch | 3/8 | 0.325 or 3/8 | ||||||
| Number of links | 60 | 64 | ||||||
| Fuel tank, l | 0,69 | 0,68 | ||||||
| Oil tank, l | 0,32 | 0,38 | ||||||
| Noise level, dB | 115 | 114 | ||||||
Stihl MS 361-16
Model for professional use in logging or construction work. It is successfully used in cold regions and just in the winter season - for an easy start in such cases, a carburetor heating system is used.
+ Pros of Stihl MS 361-16
- Reliability of components and the engine as a whole. In addition to replacing consumables and natural wear on the drive sprocket, no damage is observed.
- The engine power of 3.4 kW in combination with a tire length of 40 cm allows the saw to be used for most wood sawing tasks.
- The weight of the chainsaw is 5.6 kg - not much more than that of household models.
- High-quality anti-vibration mechanism - shows itself well in daily work.
- Well-calculated fuel supply - allows you to work while holding the saw in any position and it will not stall.
- Quality balancing - weight and effort are distributed evenly on both hands.
- Successful model - it has been produced for more than 10 years and during this time there were no changes in the design.
- Cons Stihl MS 361-16
- Professional equipment requires appropriate skills - both in work and in maintenance.
- With continuous operation, the weight of the saw is still felt - for greater efficiency, it is better to work in shifts.
- For home use, it is better not to purchase such a saw - weight and fuel consumption for such purposes will still be a minus.
- If you use the saw in the winter, that is, there is a chance of snow falling under the starter cover - in this case, idling disappears.
For reliability and unpretentiousness, many users compare this model with the legendary AK-47 assault rifle model or Mercedes cars - if you need a professional tool for regular work, then the Stihl MS 361 is the right choice.
Husqvarna 357XP
Professional manual chainsaw designed for daily work with minimal interruptions. Scope - felling of trees and their cleaning from branches. Equipped with anti-vibration mechanism and chain stop system during reverse impact. Can work with tires up to 55 cm long.
+ Pros of Husqvarna 357XP
- The increased capacity of the fuel and oil tanks is 680 and 380 ml, respectively.
- A metal housing protects the internal filling from accidental impacts.
- The presence of a decompression valve to facilitate the start of the engine.
- Convenient location of control buttons and regulators: easy access to the chain tension screw, the cover is fastened with latches, high-quality air filtration system.
- Thanks to the vibration damping system, the saw has a minimal effect on the hands.
- Cons Husqvarna 357XP
- For home use it has excessive power, respectively, and gas mileage.
- For effective work it requires certain skills, but all the main points are described in the instructions - it is better not to lose it.
- The engine is demanding on the quality of gasoline - if less than 95th is poured, then the saw’s performance will decrease slightly.
The characteristics and weight of the saw suggest its use for logging on an industrial scale or for construction organizations that are engaged in the construction of wooden houses. For home use, the cost of the tool itself and its maintenance will be several times higher than that of household models.
When comparing reviews for any product, one should take into account the great tendency of people to find time to share negative opinions - if a thing works without comment, then it is assumed that this is necessary.
The selection of goods was carried out on the basis of reviews, opinions and ratings of users posted on various resources on the Internet. All information is taken from public sources. We do not cooperate with manufacturers and trademarks and do not call for the purchase of certain products. The article is for informational purposes only.
