This guide will help you locate the Best STIHL Chainsaw for homeowners. As you may know, STIHL outdoor equipment is widely considered the top-rated on the market.
Professionals in the lumber industry widely use the STIHL chainsaw, the first choice for many homeowners.
Today, we feature the Top 8 best-selling STIHL chainsaws, from gas-powered to electric, and explain why each model on our list is considered the best overall.
Having used many different Chainsaws over the years, I love the dependability and durability of the STIHL brand, which, in my opinion, is unmatched.
These are the two reasons why most wood-timbering experts consider STIHL the best chainsaw you can buy.
I also suspect most homeowners are not just looking for a cheap chainsaw; they need performance and dependability, and STIHL chainsaws can better meet those three criteria than most brands.
8 Best STIHL Chainsaws for Homeowners
This 2026 Buyers Guide below includes the Best STIHL Chainsaws for homeowners, ranked by “Dependability and Popularity.”
Be sure to click the Product links below to view current information and pricing – from the #1 online retail outlet for STIHL leaf blowers: Ace Hardware.com
1) STIHL MS170 – 16″ – 30.1 cc Gas Powered Chainsaw
Rated the best homeowner chainsaw on the market, homeowners with medium to larger-sized properties equally appreciate the STIHL MS-170.
STIHL MS 170 SPECIFICATIONS:
- Antivibration Handle
- Bar Length: 16 in.
- Brand Name: STIHL
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- CSA Listed: No
- Chain Brake: Yes
- Weight: 8.9 lbs.
- Engine Displacement: 30.1 cc
- Engine Type: 2 Cycle (Gas/Oil Mix)
- Maximum Cutting Diameter: 17 in.
- Model Number: MS 170
- Start Type: Pull Start
- Tension Adjustment Type: Quick-Adjust
- Powered By: Gas
STIHL – MS 170 – 16″ Gas Powered Chainsaw
2) STIHL MS 250 – 18″ 45.4 cc – Gas Powered Chainsaw
While the STIHL MS—170 (above) is the best-selling STIHL chainsaw for homeowners, it has certain limitations over bigger STIHL chainsaw models, namely, Power and Chainsaw bar length.
While the MS-170 is ideally suited for occasional log cutting and trimming of fallen branches around the house.
If you intend to cut larger trees or use a chainsaw more than occasionally, we recommend the STIHL MS250, which has an 18″ bar and 45.4 cc engine.
Pound for pound, the STIHL MS250 may be the best STIHL chainsaw ever. It’s also our favorite chainsaw for the more “skilled” and demanding consumer. It’s perfect for the homeowner who needs a bigger, more powerful chainsaw and is ok with a slightly heavier one.
STIHL MS 250 SPECS:
- Antivibration Handle
- Master Control Lever
- Bar Length: 18 in.
- Brand Name: STIHL
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- Engine Displacement: 45.4 cc
- Engine Type: 2 Cycle (Oil/Gas Mix)
- Maximum Cutting Diameter: 35 in.
- Model Number: MS 250
- Start Type: Pull Start
- Tension Adjustment Type: Quick-Adjust
- Weight: 10.4 lb.
- Powered By: Gas
STIHL – MS 250 – 18″ Gas Powered Chainsaw
For those looking for the best features STIHL offers, the Wood Boss MS 271 meets those needs. The MS 271, with its high-torque 50 cc engine, is also considered a fuel-efficient chainsaw.
This powerful, medium-weight STIHL chainsaw delivers 20% fuel savings compared to a typical gas-powered engine and 50% fewer carbon emissions.
Coming in at #4 of all STIHL chainsaws sold, it has become an extremely popular model.
The 20″ chainsaw bar is ideal for heavy use, and the Master Control Lever is an easy-to-use single lever that operates the choke, starts the throttle lock, and turns the on-off switch.
STIHL MS 271 SPECS:
- Anti-vibration Handle: Yes
- Bar Length: 20 in.
- Brand Name: STIHL
- Weight: 10.8 lbs.
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- Engine Displacement: 50 cc
- Engine Type: 2 Cycle (oil/gas mix)
- Model Number: MS 271
- Start Type: Pull Start
- Sub Brand: Wood Boss
- Tension Adjustment Type: Quick-Adjust
- Powered By: Gas
STIHL MS 271- 20″ Wood Boss -Gas-Powered Chainsaw
4) STIHL MS 251 C-BE 18 in. 2.78 cc Wood Boss – Gas Chainsaw
Like the STIHL MS 251 model above, this STIHL workhorse offers all the same features, plus the “Easy2start” system.
The STIHL Easy-2-Start system makes starting STIHL outdoor power tools almost effortless, eliminating the need for a strong pull of the starting cord.
Also, like the MS 251, the MS 251C-BE has incredible fuel efficiency and the ultimate convenience of the Master Control Lever described above.
This is sort of the ultimate gas-powered chainsaw for homeowners – as long as your budget allows it :)
STIHL MS 252 C- BE – SPECIFICATIONS:
- Anti-vibration Handle: Yes
- Bar Length: 18 in.
- Weight: 10.8 lbs.
- Brand Name: STIHL
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- Engine Displacement: 2.78 cc
- Engine Type: 2 Cycle
- Model Number: MS 251 C-BE
- Start Type: Pull Start
- Tension Adjustment Type: Quick-Adjust
- Powered By: Gas
STIHL MS 251 C-BE – 18″ Gas Powered Chainsaw
5) STIHL MS 180 – 16″ Gas Powered Chainsaw
The Stihl MS 180 can be used for any small jobs around the house, including cutting small logs, trimming branches, cutting small trees, and clearing fallen limbs after a storm.
If you’re looking for a reliable, light-duty, and Lightweight chainsaw for occasional use, the MS 180 is a great value.
- STIHL MS 180 SPECIFICATIONS:
- Anti-vibration Handle: Yes
- Bar Length: 16 in.
- Weight: 8.6 lbs
- Brand Name: STIHL
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- CSA Listed: No
- Chain Brake: Yes
- Engine Displacement: 31.9 cc
- Engine Type: 2 Cycle
- Model Number: MS 180
- Start Type: Pull Start
- Tension Adjustment Type: Quick-Adjust
- Powered By: Gas
STIHL MS 180 – 16″ Gas Powered Chainsaw
6) STIHL MS 180 – C- BE – 16″ With Easy-2-Start System
The Stihl MS 180 – C – BE 16″ chainsaw with an “easy2start” system makes starting Stihl outdoor power tools almost effortless, eliminating the need for a strong pull of the starting cord.
The specific design may vary by model, but in each case, a quick pull-over overcomes the engine’s compression, minimizing the strength and effort required to start.
The Intellicarb compensating carburetor automatically adjusts the air/fuel ratio when the air filter becomes restricted or partially clogged, maintaining the engine’s correct RPM.
Designed perhaps as one of the most convenient, easy-to-use chainsaws on the market, the STIHL MS 180 – C—BE, with its Easy-2-Start feature, is equally appreciated by homeowners with small, medium, or larger properties.
STIHL MS180-C-BE – SPECIFICATIONS:
- Anti-vibration Handle: Yes
- Bar Length: 16 in.
- Weight: 8.6 lbs.
- Brand Name: STIHL
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- CSA Listed: No
- Chain Brake: Yes
- Engine Displacement: 31.8 cc
- Engine Type: 2 Cycle
- Model Number: MS 180 C-BE
- Start Type: Pull Start
- Tension Adjustment Type: Quick-Adjust
- Powered By: Gas
STIHL MS 180 – C- BE – 16″ Gas Powered Chainsaw
7) STIHL MSA 140 C-BQ – 12″ Battery-Powered Chainsaw
One of our favorites, the STIHL MSA-140C BQ, is often rated the best STIHL battery-powered chainsaw. Unlike electric corded chainsaws, the MSA chainsaw lineup allows you to go anywhere without being tethered to a cord.
With a 45-minute estimated run-time, this little beauty will easily tackle limbs and small trees in one charge!
- Great for maneuverability and extended use, the AK30 battery lasts approximately 80% longer than the AK20 Model below.
- The chain brake can be activated by inertia, stopping the chain within fractions of a second
- Lightweight and compact, Stihl electric motors require minimal maintenance and feature low noise levels and reduced vibration.
- The soft rubber texture is easy to grip, making the product comfortable for extended use.
Video for the Stihl Battery Powered MSA 140 Chainsaw:
STIHL MSA 140 – C-BQ – SPECIFICATIONS:
- Bar Length: 12 in.
- Brushless Motor
- AK30 (36 Volt / 4.8 Amp Hour (Ah) Lithium-Ion Battery
- Quick-stop Chain Break system
- Ematic™ Lubrication System
- Brand Name: STIHL
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- CSA Listed: Yes
- Chain Brake: Yes
- Maximum Cutting Diameter: 25 in.
- Model Number: MSA 140 C-BQ
- Tension Adjustment Type: Tool-Free
- Weight: 9 lb.
- Powered By: Battery
- Kit or Tool Only: Kit (Battery & Charger)
- Battery Run Time: approximately 45 minutes
STIHL MSA 140 C-BQ – 12″ Battery-Powered Chainsaw
8) STIHL MSA 120 C- B – 12″ Battery-Powered Chainsaw
The STIHL MSA 120 C-B – 12″ Battery-powered chainsaw is another top-of-the-line cordless chainsaw from STIHL and its maintenance-free battery-powered chainsaw products. It is also the lightest STIHL chainsaw you can buy.
For reference, the MSA 120-C-B chainsaw is identical to the STIHL MSA 140 above, with one big exception.
This MSA 120 chainsaw battery kit includes the smaller AK20 (36 volts) 2.8 Ah battery, whereas the MSA 140 uses the AK30 (36 volts) 4.8 Ah lithium-ion battery, which offers 80% longer run time.
If you can afford it, you might consider bumping to the MSA 140 model for longer run times.
The smaller 2.8-amp-hour battery provides up to 100 cuts per charge. We recommend the Stihl MSA 120 for homeowners with few trees, only occasional chainsaw needs, and a lightweight, easy-to-maintain piece of equipment.
STIHL MSA 120 – C-B – SPECS:
- Bar Length: 12 in.
- Brand Name: STIHL
- AK20 (36 volt / 2.8 Amp Hour – Lithium-Ion Battery)
- Rated Up to 100 Cuts on a Single Charge
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- CSA Listed: Yes
- Chain Brake: Yes
- Maximum Cutting Diameter: 24 in.
- Model Number: MSA 120
- Start Type: Pull Start
- Tension Adjustment Type: Quick-Adjust
- Kit or Tool Only: Kit (Battery & Charger)
STIHL MSA 120 12 in. Battery-Powered Chainsaw
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Which is better – Gas or Battery-Powered STIHL Chainsaws?
A: There are pros and cons of using STIHL Gas vs. Battery-powered lawn equipment. Gas equipment is louder (some neighbors may even say obnoxious), whereas battery-powered products are generally much quieter.
Ultimately, you can decide whether you prefer more power (Gas) or a quieter and perhaps lighter-weight (battery) chainsaw.
Many users are unaware that the average gas-powered chainsaw’s operating noise level is 110 decibels at full speed, which, according to this PDF chart from Yale.EDU, is above the hearing-damage threshold.
The average battery-powered chainsaw is rated at less than 75 decibels*, similar to a vacuum cleaner.
* By Comparison, CDC.GOV rates everyday conversation at 60 decibels.
Q: What is the Best STIHL Chainsaw?
A: The term “Best” is relative to the User. Based on popularity, the best chainsaw for homeowners is the Stihl MS 170 – 16″ Gas Powered Chainsaw.
Due to its many user-friendly features, lightweight, easy pull-start, and optimal 16″ chainsaw blade length, the STIHL MS 170 is a standout for most homeowners’ chainsaw needs.
Q: Are Stihl Chainsaws Any Good?
A: STIHL Equipment is considered one of the world’s best, most reliable lawn equipment brands. You can also check out the STIHL FAQ page to ask questions and learn about this excellent brand’s features.
Stihl’s Chainsaws are the best-selling product line, even more so than the brand’s STIHL leaf blowers.
With a 94-year history, Stihl delivers outstanding performance, a wide choice of chainsaw types and prices, and a 2-year limited warranty from over 9,000 Stihl service dealers in the United States.
Q: Where Can I Find STIHL Chainsaws On Sale?
A: STIHL Chainsaws do go on sale from time to time. Ace Hardware (click our product links above to visit AceHardware.com) regularly offers promotions on STIHL lawn equipment.
Q: Which is a Better Chainsaw – Stihl or Husqvarna?
A: There is always a healthy “Debate” about the best blower: Stihl or Husqvarna. These lawn equipment companies make strong-performing, quality chainsaw products.
Many factors need to be considered, such as Performance (CFM), Weight, and Price, for the Type (Gas or battery-powered) of chainsaw you’re interested in buying.
Ultimately, it comes down to a “Chevy vs. a Ford” truck-type decision. It’s just a matter of personal preference between two renowned brands. The choice is Yours.
Q: How Do You Mix Oil and Gas for a 2-Cycle Chainsaw?
A: All two-stroke engines require a proper mix ratio of Oil and Gasoline to operate efficiently and protect the engine. Most two-stroke engine manufacturers specify a 50:1 mix ratio.
Which is 50 parts gas to 1 part oil. For this simple mix ratio, you need a suitable gas can, a fresh gallon of gasoline, and a 2.6 oz. Bottle of two-cycle engine oil:
Here is a Quick Video from Stihl: How To Mix Fuel (Oil and Gas)
Conclusion:
STIHL leads the Chainsaw Market for homeowners in terms of quality and dependability, and anyone who has used STIHL equipment knows there is no other product they would rather own.
As noted by Wikipedia, STIHL has been producing outdoor lawn equipment for nearly 100 years and has an unmatched heritage in outdoor gear.
In that timeframe, Stihl has positioned itself as the leader and innovator in lawn equipment, including its outstanding line-up of chainsaws.
Whether you’re looking to improve the reliability and performance of lawn equipment or are just interested in upgrading your current Stihl equipment to newer equipment, we think Stihl lawn equipment should be one of the first brands to consider.
Additional References & Reading:
- STIHL Equipment Features and Technology and Main Features – STIHL.Com
- Best Chainsaw Sharpeners You Can Buy – Besthomegear.com
- How To Fill Gas & Oil on a STIHL Chainsaw – STIHLUSA.Com
- Best Electric Trimmer Blower Combo – Besthomegear.com
- STIHL vs. Husqvarna Chainsaws – Chelford Farm Supplies
