What things do you consider while looking for a chainsaw?
Let me take a wild guess; you consider your application, motor type, performance, warranty, price, etc. If you are into farming or ranching and looking for the best 18 inches chainsaw, I might have the perfect product for you.
ECHO CS-590 and Stihl MS 261 chainsaws are heavy-duty and equipped with all the necessary features a reliable chainsaw should have. ECHO CS-590 has a two-stroke 59.8 cc engine, whereas Stihl MS 261 comes with a 50.2 cc two-stroke engine.
Let’s see what other differences they hold apart from the engine size.
A Quick Comparison Table
| Aspect | ECHO CS-590 Chainsaw | Stihl MS 261 Chainsaw |
| Chainsaw Type | Heavy-Duty Professional Chainsaw | Eco-Friendly Professional Chainsaw |
| Special Feature | G-Force Engine Air Pre-Cleaner | Built-In Shock Absorber |
| Benefits | Offers Many Benefits | Offers Many Benefits |
| Engine Displacement | 59.8 Cc | 50.2 Cc |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 21.8 Fl. Oz. | 16.9 Fl. Oz. |
| Weight | 13.2 Lbs. | 12.3 Lbs. |
| Warranty | Five Year/ One Year | One Year/ Three Months |
| Price | $420 – $440 | $400 |
In-Depth Comparison Between ECHO CS-590 And Stihl MS 261 Chainsaw
Now, we’ll look at the comprehensive differences between these two 18 inches chainsaws.
So, here are some key differences between ECHO CS-590 and Stihl MS 261 Chainsaw:
- Chainsaw Type
ECHO CS-590, also known as Timber Wolf, is a professional-grade chainsaw with an outstanding performance record.
This lightweight chainsaw comes with a two-stroke engine and all the superior features.
It is a modern machine with a digital ignition system, allowing it to start quickly and conveniently.
On the other hand, Stihl MS 261 is a professional-grade chainsaw with a two-stroke engine. It comes with a redesigned cylinder and ergonomic housing for a power-to-weight ratio.
Moreover, this lightweight beast is known for its excellent fuel efficiency and convenient features. Since it’s a low emission chainsaw, you will be less harming the environment.
- Features
Both chainsaws are beasts and have various robust features. ECHO CS-590 chainsaw comes with a decompression valve that reduces the rope-pulling effort and makes starting easier.
Because of the extended life of the G-Force Engine Air Pre-Cleaner, you won’t have to worry about dust and debris.
Besides, the two-piece heavy-duty and rear-mounted air filter is easy to access and clean. The clutch-driven oiler is automatic and only operates when the chain moves, reducing oil consumption.
Similarly, Stihl MS 261 chainsaw has a deco valve for easier starting and an adjustable automatic oiler. But it has a unique shock-absorbing Elastrostart starter handle.
It has a built-in shock absorber and reduces the effort while pulling on the starter cord. Besides, the chainsaw has a Stihl proprietary anti-vibration system that helps minimize vibration and operator fatigue.
Because of the side-access chain tensioner, it’ll be more convenient to adjust the saw chain with a wrench. Besides, the pre-separation air filtration and redesigned spiked bumper make this machine more convenient and easier to use.
- Benefits
Despite ECHO CS-590 having some issues, the most vital benefit you will get from the ECHO CS-590 chainsaw is that it comes with three available bar length options, 18 inches, 20 inches, and 24 inches.
You can quickly check the fuel level from the translucent fuel tank. Besides, this machine has a standard vibration reduction system and plastic handle.
On the contrary, Stihl MS 261 chainsaw is designed for large volume cutting. The Ematic Lubrication system smoothly runs the machine. Because of the master control lever, it’s easier for you to operate the chainsaw.
On top of that, the anti-vibration system makes the handle comfortable to grip.
- Engine Displacement
The engine is one of the essential parts of a chainsaw. In most cases, the performance of a chainsaw heavily depends on the engine power.
Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf comes with a professional grade 2-stroke engine with 59.8 cc displacement.
The engine is powered by gas and delivers a compelling performance. But the chainsaw has a digital ignition system.
In contrast to the Timer Wolf, Stihl MS 261 comes with a 50.2 cc two-stroke professional-grade engine. You will get 4.0 bhp engine power from this machine. It is also run by gas and delivers high fuel efficiency and very efficient performance.
- Fuel Tank Capacity
If your chainsaw has a large fuel tank capacity, you won’t have to refuel it during a project. That’s why it’s an essential factor. The fuel tank capacity of the ECHO CS-590 chainsaw is 21.8 fl. oz.
On the other hand, the Stihl MS 261 chainsaw comes with a 16.9 fl. Oz. capacity fuel tank. As you can see, the former chainsaw has a larger fuel tank than the latter.
- Weight
Weight is crucial because the operator has to hold the machine the whole time. So, if your chainsaw is lightweight, it will definitely be easier for you to run.
However, the weight of the ECHO CS-590 chainsaw is 13.2 lbs.
In contrast, the weight of the Stihl MS 261 chainsaw is 12.3 lbs. So, Stihl MS 261 chainsaw is more lightweight than its competitor. No wonder it will be easier for you to run.
- Warranty
An ECHO CS -590 chainsaw comes with 5 years consumer and 1-year commercial warranty. On the contrary, you will get a one-year consumer and three months commercial warranty with Stihl MS 261 chainsaw.
Warranty is very vital for a complex machine like a chainsaw. It gives customers the confidence to go with a brand. The manufacturer of ECHO CS-590 has done this job very well.
- Price
You will have to spend around $420 to $440 for an ECHO CS-590 chainsaw. But a Stihl MS 261 costs around $400. The price is almost similar; however, the ECHO CS-590 is slightly more expensive than its counterpart.
Which Chainsaw Will Be Best For You?
Both chainsaws are seemingly good with their performance and features. But the ECHO CS-590 seems the better option because of its larger engine displacement, larger fuel tank capacity, and better warranty.
So, I suggest you go with ECHO CS-590 Chainsaw.
However, if you want an efficient chainsaw that is eco-friendly and comfortable to hold, Stihl MS 261 Chainsaw is a pretty good option.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
Both are good in terms of quality and performance. But ECHO offers better performance with its large engine displacement and fuel tank. However, Stihl is an excellent eco-friendly option.
ECHO CS 590 Timber Wolf comes with a 59.8 cc two-stroke engine. This engine can produce 4 horsepower, which is suitable for a gas-run chainsaw.
ECHO chainsaws are professionally designed for professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Because of their professional-grade engines and other necessary features, many professionals use these heavy-duty chainsaws.
Stihl MS 261 comes with a two-stroke and professional-grade 50.2 cc engine. It can produce 4.0 HP and is run by gas. It’s a pretty good chainsaw because of this engine displacement power.
Final Thoughts
I’ll stop now before I start sounding out of my way. But now that you know about ECHO CS-590 and Stihl MS 261 chainsaws, you won’t face any more trouble choosing the right chainsaw for your project.
ECHO CS-590 is a perfect option, and I vouch for this chainsaw. But my final suggestion is to recheck the differences and choose one that fits your purpose.
The stihl ms 261 sell for $600-$650 new…not sure where you came up with $400…. In contrast a brand new echo 590 can be purchased new for about $300-$400…… These two saw are not in the same class whatsoever….its like comparing a Camero and an F150…