I opened an Echo chainsaw repair business four years ago and I am still waiting for my first customer. My best friend opened a Stihl repair shop around the same time and has now moved to the Bahama's into a house on the ocean with my wife that left me for a wealthier man.
I have 35 years experience using chainsaws and currently have en echo CS 3700 and a Stihl MS 250. Whilst the Stihl is a very good saw, the Echo in every way is a superior machine and I have not found a brand to beat it. Japanese quality and reliability is still in my view the best
Well fellows after some nearly 40 years using chainsaws I find comparisons are sort of like Ford/Chevy in that many saws cut well and feel well in different hands and folks have personal preferences. Most saws hold up more in the hands of those who use them properly, the way they personally cut things. Both here are good saws in the end.
@Bert Novilla I have an Echo and there's nothing "Clunky" as you say about them. Read user reviews. The echo always gets better reviews overall than Stihl. I would have purchased a Stihl but I done my research. Don't get me wrong. Stihl is a good saw. It's one of the higher-rated ones and so is Husqvarna. However, a family member of mine has a newer Stihl and he was over recently helping us cut some trees. He had to pull his starter rope like 20-30 times to get it started after he refilled after it ran out of gas. Those people who have problems with their Stihl's claim that they are hard to start.
I used Stihl for years - in a big storm, I bought an Echo as a "Back-up" saw - it was, tbh, cheap. I now use that cheap Echo as my go-to daily saw & it refuses to die or give grief. I am- unashamedly - an Echo fanboy these days.
The echo is closer to a pro saw and the stihl is a plastic homeowner saw. The echo actually has mag cases and removable cylinder with adjustable oiler and decomp valve. Echo is a better value for the money while the stihls make more power.
I've owned an Echo CS 346 for over 12 years, cleared and cut down lots of trees, too many to count. The Echo still works almost perfect, l'm very impressed cause l bought this saw already well used at a pawn shop for $149 .
I have owned two Stihls, a pro 036 and 310. Both were good saws, but I recently sold both and bought a Echo 590 and smaller 400. The 400 I bought 1st looking for a lighter saw for trim work, and wow, what a great lightweight saw that cuts surprising fast through anything, and is so balanced, does not wear you out. I was so impressed, I bought the 590. The 590 simply smokes the Stihls............it has surprising power, not for the in-experienced. Again, Stihl makes great saws, but as far as performance goes, Echo out cuts them. Time will tell if the last as long, but for now I am totally satisfied.
I have an echo cs600p been running it for 4 years now and has never let me down. I use it on the farm all the time and cut about two or more tri axle loads of wood a year. An echo will hold up just as long as a stihl in my opinion.
I have a Stihl MS-250 chainsaw and it have not lived up to my expectation since it is hard to start, and I can't get anything done with it. Before I purchased the Stihl, I had a Poulan which I purchased in 2000, and it works great still, but I only use it around home. It sounds like the Echo chainsaw would be much better if I could find one in my area.
Hotdog Nonesky so true !! Not an equal comparison at ALL!! Just silly!! Echos 590 is echos very best 60cc 20” saw, but not so with stihl. Try putting this echo 590 against the stihl ms261 then you have equal fight n comparison !!!
@@twal5299 Not even close. If you want to compare professional saws, compare professional saws. The farm saw will definitely Outlast the pro echo because it is designed to be a lower rpm saw that is simply a workhorse. It is a dumbed down saw that is built for longevity. The 261 is a smaller saw, but it is a pro saw. It will destroy both the 290 and the echo.
I was running this saw for about 2 hours at about a 30-50% duty cycle ruclips.net/user/postUgkxfQm1wmg0ItKDLavxj1nXtQY9HP7EF504 and it did a great job. I used the lever for the built in sharpener to clear chip buildup out more than to actually sharpen the chain. It managed to cut some hardwood stumps much larger than it's size without bothering the neighbors with hours of 2 stroke noise.
I bought the Echo because I couldn't justify 200 dollars more for a comparable Stihl. That price delta will buy a lot of consumables. I went with arboristsite reviews because that is probably the canonical pro and prosumer arborist website. The Echo is well made, and you can get the 600 if you want the pro version differences or just replace the bar with an upgrade (if necessary for your use case) when you wear out the original. No matter what saw you buy, there's always a better, more expensive saw available. The Echo is IMO great bang for the buck.
i bought my a 490 and returned it for the 590 after i saw this video, the echo 590 is a badass saw. i sold my stihl170 to help pay for it. great video!
@@hotdognonesky3766 Nonsense. I use Echo 310's and Stihl 170's all the time, because they're great small saws and absolutely serve a purpose. Not all of us are basic tree cutters. Some natural resources professionals (myself included) are required to hike 10-15 miles through the backcountry in order to reach a site, and can't be carrying 50cc saws, gas, oil, PPE, etc. that distance while fighting through multiflora thickets. Trust me, I know plenty of people who use the 170 as their primary saw because it's light and very powerful for it's size, and these people likely have thousands of hours more experience than you do.
@@ignorethefashion82 More experience than me? Lol I've been doing forestry and running arboriculture activities for over 30 years. If you're using a 170, you're an idiot. The 170 is heavier and about half the HP of the 201 tc-m. A professional would know this. Any questions?
Hotdog Nonesky 😂😂 True dat! I know a little something because I’ve sawed many felled oak trees for a whole summer helping my dad out on his property after storms using his cs 590 echo timber wolf seen in video! And yes they are very good saws but you are right this is not a equal comparison at all! They should have compared this echo 590 to a stihl ms 261 !!! See what happens then🎯💯
Used an ECHO for 4 years (for everything, my wood heat included) without a single breakdown or issue, NOTHING! It has performed flawlessly and with great power no matter what obstacle I put it against....wood, ice, shingles, extreme cold, doesn't matter. You can't stop an ECHO. They really are great machines.
I have both an Echo and Stihl. I service them myself. I use them for how they were designed. If I need a bigger and more powerful saw, I will purchase another. For now, using them within their design parameters, they are both good tools.
Echo saws have been gaining favor with the loggers around here for a few years. Their trimmers and top handle climber's saws have been popular for a long time and proven reliable. When the saw shops started carrying Echo's bigger saws people started trying them and liking them. There are three Echo dealers near me. Two of them also sell Husqvarna and the other sells Stihl. All three say Echo is their most reliable brand.
I've got an echo 400 and a Stihl 391. They are technically homeowner saws but I'm a landscaper. I've been running them pretty hard lately and very happy with how both are performing.
I got my first Echo chainsaw 15-18yrs ago, as a gift from my wife. I was a Husqvarna fan, but after a back injury I couldn't even start my big saw. I can say that my Echo's have been trouble free!..from Wyoming USA 🇺🇸 👋🤠
Stanley, first time I ever commented on your videos which I truly find both informative and entertaining. 5 years ago, I had to make the decision between Stihl and Echo. I went with Echo due to simplicity and mist of all - balance. The Farmboss is way to heavy on the motor end fo my liking. Today I had to use the Echo again. Even though it was left with a tank full of stabilized fuel, it started right up and performed flawlessly ( I had to remove the spark plug to relieve the compression and turn it over a couple of times). Stihl may be the name, but times are changing as they say. Stay safe...
I’ve been a professional urban forester for decades, climbing for the better part of that tenure. I always swore by Stihl, but when the time came to get a new top handle saw I chose an Echo cs355t. That was almost four years ago and in that time I’ve had absolutely no issues with it, not even a replacement recoil cord....as a matter of fact I’ve never even removed that cover. As far as I’m concerned that 355t is twice the saw as Stihl’s 201t, and for half the price. Like as not I’ll never buy another Stihl. And now I’m gonna pick up a 24” Echo cs590, as a “bucking” saw for when the diameter of the wood I’m climbing challenges the capabilities of my cs355t.
+omnimous69 That is what started this whole thing. I bought 2 Echo blowers, 2 trimmers and other echo equipment and was really impressed. I tried to find something wrong with my blower- and I couldn't!
I generally love the echo and shindaiwa products, I really think they are underrated. Never had any major problems with any of their petrol products, they just perform.
I have a Echo cs500evl that I bought brand new in 1982. I use it every year cutting my annual firewood supply, usually 3 to 4 cords and for various projects. The only mechanical issue I had was the ignition coil about 20 years ago. So for very long term durability they can't be beat.
I got my hands on an old CS500VL as well and I do love that saw. It's darn near as old as me around 35-39 yrs old and it still runs fantastic, probably with original seals too. I've got some old heavy but super reliable and powerful McCulloch Pro Mac 610s I love as well. Great old saws that cut really well. The 500vl is a 50cc and lighter than the 610s yet heavier than something like a 46cc 250 that might cut pretty equivalent. Probably a little heavy for power to weight these days but man is it a great saw and rugged. I'd take the 500 over a stock 290. I just finished rebuilding 2x 290s and I was less impressed than I'd hoped for even with slight muffler mods. Building the last one into a 390 to see how it performs compared to the old 500 and 610s. I wouldn't mind having one of those 590s to try out at all though.
Bought a john deere 55 back in early 80's made by echo and used it today 07-18-2018 ran like brand new. Because of age parts are hard to find but saw still runs and cuts fantastic.Keep chain sharp and don't abuse bar.
Love my Echo 590. I father builds saws for a living now after retiring. He ported, polished, and punched the 590 he sold me and it is a beast! He said he prefers the Echo over any saw out there when it comes to working on them. I cleared off 1.5 acres with the 590 and while my father-in-law used his Stihl 261. The 590 out performed the 261 hands down. Like I said though, my 590 has been modified. It was fun watching my father-in-law stand back and just laugh in amazement at what the 590 would do.
I’ve run Echos for most of my life because it’s what my dad always had. Just recently picked up a Stihl MS362CM to replace my old Echo 660EVL. It’s simply awesome. That being said... I won’t be neglecting it the same way I have with my Echo’s. Made in Japan to me means reliability.
Right. Stihl is a pro equipment and they do make homeowner series and then mid grade but those are just for product share. If you are going to do a pro series line use the saws they specialize.
Have the Echo with an 18" bar, bought it when it was first released. Best saw I've owned. Power to spare without being a heavy brute. The Echo warranty is actually better than Stihl - not that it really matters as both are top quality machines.
I can not say enough good things about this saw. I run it with a 24" bar and almost no bog down on full cuts. This is an awesome saw. Add in the value, no need to worry, this saw just cuts. Runs like a dragster to my Husky.
One thought about the Echo having a longer bar, this gives more chain teeth to clear the wood cuttings which means there is less chance of clogging. Would be interesting if the Stihl was fitting with the same length bar an chain. However looks a good saw.
I just bought an echo 590 and I run alot of different saws cuz I'm a firewood guy,my friend bought one and I used it and fell in love with it!!it is an incredible saw for the $$ and is good at falling bucking and limbing good size trees!!it really is good at everything and it is a couple hundred dollars less then the comparable Stihl and husquvarna!I love it and think echo products r underated...
Been a hardcore Stihl chainsaw guy for decades... I've had 'em all and I just recently tried a buddy's Echo and was completely impressed. Still gonna stick with my Stihl but I wouldn't hesitate recommending an Echo to anyone...
Even 7 years later. I continue to hear good things about Echo. Lots of people still swear by Stihl and probably will. I plan on getting an Echo though.
You only get quality and power with the Stihl pro saws not the MS290 in this vid. Time to figure out the difference in Stihl cheap saws and their pro saws. Stihls saws start way harder than Echo saws, I have both
@@oliverm5sc The 290 in this video is a farm saw. The echo is a pro saw. If a Stihl starts hard, it's the fault of the owner or operator. My saws start up powerfully and consistently.
The farmBoss is a homeowner type saw, plastic case and all. Let me be clear Stihl makes top of the line products!! However take into consideration the low and mid range models are often over priced for what they are. Sometimes you're paying more for the name and clever marketing, than the quality of the actual product. The same can be said for many Husqvarna saws as well. Echo on the other hand is trying to build the brand up, by producing quality at a more reasonable price. The issue Echo has is lack of supporting dealers. When it comes down to it, these saw are only similar in price. The cs-590 is based on the pro models cs-600, cs-620 and cs-620pw, all of which have mag cases. Mag cased saws are normally more durable more powerful and lighter than the plastic clam shell designs. Right now the Echo cs-590 is without a doubt the most saw you can buy for the money today.
+bobe8888 Home Depot is about the best dealer you could want to be in with. Echo is in all Home Depots and in AZ about every single landscaper runs them. Within the past few years I probably see Echo 10 to 1 vs Stihl with landscapers and tree trimming companies. Used to be all Id see was Stihl but lately theres been a huge shift to Echo..at least with landscape companies here in AZ
It's obvious this vid is a plug for Echo, which are darn good saws, but Stihl can match or better just about anything on the market. As far as this comparison goes, the horsepower, the type of gas mix, how sharp the blades are and the overall condition of the chainsaws can make a huge difference, so this demonstration is basically a joke. It pisses off all the Stihl folks and gives all the Echo dudes a hard on. Respect the powerful beast that a chainsaw is and give it lots of TLC in the maintenance department and it will serve you well, and stay away from the crappy consumer models, especially ones with batteries. :)
Not a fair comparison but I will say Echo has caught up to Stihl and is now starting to pass them up. The diehard Stihl guys refuse to believe it but it’s true.
I bought a little Echo saw couple years ago. My lawn service hardly ever uses a saw, but has to have one so I couldn't see spending the $600 for a Stihl when the Echo saw was much cheaper. Didn't like $50 for the case but gotta have a case for a saw. I like the Echo saw just fine. For everyday tools like trimmers and blowers its always Stihl. The Echo stuff I have seems fine, especially when cost is considered for those tools I don't use everyday. This video took some time to prep and film. I appreciate it.
i cut timber professionally, an i have for many years. i understand these saws are a smaller caliber than i use on a daily basis. but i have smaller saws than those you are showcasing that cut much faster than that...i have to say this video makes me absolutely nauseous.... one saw is brandnew.. the other is obviously well warn.. an they have different size bars? not to mention neither chain is sharp. also echo chain is extremely an dangerously lose... come on man i love your videos but after this ive lost alot of respect.
well you missed the bit in the beginning where he says he got new chain, bar, tuneup in other words everything was done to make the saw as new as possible... listen and you will learn :)
@@henrydavis970 getting away from stihl is like going through a nasty divorce. You don't wanna let go, but you don't wanna keep getting mistreated by an obviously different woman than the one you first met and fell in love with. Stihl ain't the equipment I first met.
One only get's the top quality with Stihl saws when buying their larger saws. Made in Germany quality. I own 5 Stihls, 3 Echo's and love everyone of them. Like one Commenter said, it's like comparing Chevy's and Fords. But my favorite "go to saw" would have to be the Echo CS-5000. Mabey a little on the Hot Saw Circuit but a Powerhouse in your presence. Cut with other Stihl lovers and they spent more time watching the Echo 5000 cut than their Stihl Farm Boss's. Nothing internal but minor carb, exhaust, timing mods. Get ya Sum!
I have a GT-200R Echo trimmer I bawt in 06 it's 100% unmalested used every yr from spring till fall I don't abuse it. It shows plenty of wear. the original spark plug is still in it. Air cleaner + fuel lines,primer bulb still original. I found an identicle 1 in the trash last fall fixed it with Loctite Super Glue just recently sold it for $50. If I had to buy a new trimmer I'd certainly buy Echo with out a doubt.
Echo makes great trimmers (have 3) that are all poor at bucking logs, for which my Stihl saw is much better. My point is a good trimmer brand is not necessarily a good (or bad) saw brand. I have been considering an Echo saw as well but have decided on another Stihl based on my experience and recommendation of a friend who was a Stihl repair tech. This video comparison is worthless. I have no doubt both are great saws but the bar lengths need to be equal.
I just purchased an Echo 501P. I wanted another 50cc saw, but didn't want auto-tune. I had been running Huskies, but everything up to the 372XP is now auto-tune, and they're now selling a 70cc auto-tune saw which I believe is going to eventually replace the 372XP. I think I've found my new orange saw as long as Echo keeps it simple and doesn't try to get fancy like the other two. My pocketbook also thanked me.
The Echo was brand new and not broke in yet either, I've read several statements from owners that they really pick up after a couple of tanks of gas are run through them.
I purchase old STIHL saws and rebuild them with Chinese Farmertec parts, it's become a self funding hobby. Echo and STIHL, cc for cc & bar length for bar length they should cut about the same. A shorter bar than the log will cut slower than a longer bar, because some chips get dragged around a second pass and these bog the saw down. I put a 42" bar on one of my MS660's to cut 30-40" logs and am amazed at how much better it cuts than the 30" bar I had previously. STIHL saws often need opening up to release there full potential, because of emission standards they often restrict the exhaust and thus lower the power.
The Echo's seem to hold up well BUT, I'd not toss them about. Lots of plastic parts but Sthil has lots of plastic too. Fact is unless it's an accident I don't treat any saw rough. Years ago I dropped a tethered Poulan 2150. I'd accidentally cut the wrong limb so limb took saw with it. The Poulan hit on the nose of the bar, bounced in the air landed upright still idling. Replaced the bent bar finished the tree. Old plastic was tough. New plastic maybe with quality saws. Cheap stuff plastic looks like butter dish stuff.
i have a echo 750 evl, made in 79 i think. for 25 bucks it runs great, and a lot of power. not a lot of speed, but it will out last me. the best saw is the one you got and does the job.
Almost had this happen on a poulan pro chainsaw. The choke that sticks out like that got caught on something and i left it like that without noticing. Now the choke lever is bent down but still works, just not as easy to pull out anymore
matclue4 lol poulan is home depot garbage. And as for yhe chokes Dolmar doesn't have one for a reason. They auto prime and choke 1 pull they always start up even when cold.
My buddy just purchased a MS 362 with an 18 inch bar for a tad bit under 800 bucks. I have an Echo CS590 with a 20 inch bar, now I’ve had this Echo for 3 years, I am running right there beside his 800 dollar saw. Stihl is alright but for almost 500 dollars less Echo is your saw. I also own a smaller stihl and husqvarna. I just like the power of the Echo.
When I went looking for a 14" chainsaw, I read tree arborist's websites. They nearly ALL said Echo. I have used and over used my Echo 310 for 7 years now. SuweeeeeT saw! I will be looking for a Timberwolf. 5 year homeowner warranty!
I use Stihl and Echo chainsaws they both do what their meant to do Echo cost less but don't last as long as Stihl. I like both brands and they are both far better than the cheep home use stuff. thanks for the video
After working with a tree service for years that runs both echo and stihl saws. They perform about the same when supplied with the same bar and chains. I've found that the stihls always start easier, but I mean by a pull compared to 2 or 3, and run a little better in the cold. The echo chain retention system seems to get loose very quickly compared to stihl. Neither saw has let us down yet though.
its not the chain tensioning system that lets the chain get loose as the bar nuts hold the bar tight to the saw body. Its the chains getting hot and expanding or the links are wearing from either dirt or not enough chain oil flow
I bought the echo 590 about a year and a half ago! I love mine so far! Made in Illinois USA ! So far it is awsome! I cannot compare to sthil This saw is a upgrade to my 30 some year old Jonshreds 450 that still has been indestructable! Time will tell
Well, I don't think you purposefully tried to skew the results, I just think it wasn't a fair comparison. I know that you have a lot more knowledge of chainsaws, and wood cutting. Maybe you should just try to get Stihl to send you a new saw for testing , and do a part 2. I'm looking forward to seeing it. Thanks, Leo
Leo Brand new saws cut slower than ones that are broken in, if the Stihl saw was brand new it would have cut even slower, that fact is that the only Stihl saws that are good is their pro models like a MS261 or a ms 362 but they cost a LOT more than Echo saws which perform just as good.
Well than someone should tell my 20 year old echo chainsaw it needs to break. I own Huskys, Stihls, Dolmars, and Echo's for some reason I always go for the echo. I think mostly because they are easier to start and have a real world power band. My buddy bought a Echo cs500p it's always the saw that gets picked up first.. Not opions just observations on my part. Every saw I have works well for what it was bought to do. If I could only have 1 saw it would probably be the timberwolf or the cs620p. The cs 8000 is OK but falls behind in performance. Hasn't stopped me from running 30-40 cords through mine. It always starts....which makes it cut a whole lot faster than one that doesn't.
I have used and worked on both brands, I would choose stihl over echo for a chainsaw and all of my other equipment is echo from trimmers to blowers but my personal saws are always Husqvarna!
At my fire department we only run stihl except for one echo saw. (Just ran them last night). Personally we prefer stihl. Overall better quality, easy maintenance, and we can store them and not use them for a while and my worry about it. The echo is ok but overall we prefer stihl. Only thing our echo is used for is cutting roofs cause it has the angled bar
I have a echocs600p ran that against my buddies still 311 both with 20 inch bars and sharp chains . the echo is way faster and more fuel efficient I was impressed. My dad recently purchased a e ho cs620pw and it'll run circles around my 600p
I went Echo and I will never come back. 10 years with these two saws and no complaints. I was looking at a 1979 Echo today...same parts pretty much as my 2009...and the same parts as the 2019 models I was looking at. Best value saw on the market. Better warranty too...and you know why...because they almost never have to honor it.
I just ran my 290 today it's 9 yrs old and came with a 20 In bar. I love it. Very rarely bogs, yours didn't seem like it revved as High as mine does tho. I have a small echo saw for limbing it works well also but for a bigger saws, I'll stick to my 290 and 441. Would be nice to see a timed cut with a 20in on the stihl. Good job tho.
I grew up using Stihl saws, for most part good, remember all the commercials showing them dragging threw timber, water etc? Well you can’t drop 10 feet out of tree, the thing literally broke in half! And half of the time it would not start, so I got fed up and bought a Echo CS 450, absolutely love the saw, great power and cuts amazing! I cut and sell roughly 30 cords a year, and have fireplace in house, i will never buy anything else but Echo now
We have ran Stihl for years - Saws / Weed Eaters / Blowers. The older Stihl was great. The new Stihl's we have had many problems not running good. We always run good premium gas No Ethanol. We bought an Echo saw a year ago Runs great! Bought the biggest Echo Weed Eater and that is a great machine.
Ii have the Echo0 PAS 225 weedeater, I also have the Echo 310 chainsaw. I have a Stihl ms250. Head up, the Echo Whooped the Stihl. Now the Stihl is a good saw, But the echo screams. Being the Echo has Shindawa DNA in its bones, i am not surprised its great equipment. I really like the PAS 225, It can rev up and destroy stuff, but it can also be feathered and has a nice throttle control that you can finesse around delicate stuff. The Stihl weedeaters i have used are balls out or idling. No real finesse in the Stihl weedeaters. They will last nearly forever, but a little jerky.
I know a Stihl is tough. I saw my brother throw one about 30 feet one time because he was so mad at it and nothing broke when it hit the ground. I have a 35 year old Echo with a 20 inch bar on it and quite possibly the same spark plug and has out cut many newer saws. People are amazed at how fast it cuts.
I'm an ECHO owner, but have no horse in this race. Having said that, the fanboyism is strong when the same guys who brag about how bombproof and durable old abused Stihls are the same ones who say, "No fair! The Stihl is older!" 😂 Pick a struggle! You can't both brag about their superiority and make excuses as to why it just got outgunned by the ECHO. Anybody in their right mind knows that Stihl, Husqvarana & ECHO all make great saws and that they perform within 10% of each other. One cuts faster, one starts easier, one takes neglect better and they're all priced in the same range (Timber Wolf, Farm Boss & Rancher). They aren't your typical homeowner saw and they're not what the pros use day in and day out. They're know as "Prosumer" grade saws for non-professionals who need more than just your typical $100 14" plug in big box store chainsaw that's nothing more than a pruner on steroids. I'd take any of either 3, but there's no denying that the ECHO is right up there with the other two big boys and being made in Japan is a BIG PLUS when it comes to reliability and durability. They've been around for almost 1/2 a century. Deal with it. So keep your powder dry and don't get emotional over chainsaws. When you start sponsoring comparison videos by providing equipment to the testers, then you can gripe. Personally, I would've love to have seen identical bar lengths & identical chains on both so that you're getting a real test where the cutting touches the wood. But there's no getting around it...ECHOs run like bobcats on meth. It just is what it is. Test after test proves it. I notice that no one is making excuses as to why the ECHO went through those logs like Child Support goes through a tax return so spare us your indignation. 😂
I had a Stihl MS310 that I liked very much until it was stolen. Then I worked for a logger that ran Stihl MS660s, and a farmer who ran a Pioneer 62. I later bought an Echo CS590. I've cut 2 cord with the Echo so far, and it has been my favorite. Of course it can't cut what a Stihl MS660 can, but I don't cut anything that big for my wood stove anyways. The biggest advantage over both Stihls? My hands weren't numb from the vibration all Stihl saws have. I call Stihl the Harley of chainsaws. Both rattle themselves apart where you need to tighten everything up from time to time.
cool to see another echo fan they love guys like you ands me at tree talk i just joined it great place.just cant swear in there i got warned alreasdy haha they respect my echo casue they know 5 year warranty means 5 year warranty hah this video needs same bars, no good comparison but yeah echo dont break
Stihls number 1 selling saw is the one in this vid the MS290 which is gutless, heavy, built cheap and has way over rated HP. Should tell you something about people wearing Stihl shorts.
devkam13 the 250 (45cc 3.0hp) is a homeowner saw that is more gutless than the 290(55cc 3.7hp) Stihl classifies it in the "farm and ranch" category. Don't waste your time on either if you are going to use a saw for any extended period. Get a pro saw 241, 261, 362 in the end you will have a saw that will last most homeowners / firewood burners a lifetime and if you were to sell,if properly maintained would retain the majority of it's original value....
I love echo, echo is my first choice of equipment, I like stihl too, but the stihl chainsaws are a bear to start, constantly flooding, breaking your arm by how hard they are to pull, and the fact that they are extremely overpriced.
I have gone with all Echo equipment. I also have the Echo Timberwolf CS590, it runs great! I know people love their Stiehl saws, but I've been out with people who are using Stiehl and they can be trying to start them while I'm walking to my truck and still be trying to get them to start after I've pulled mine out and already started it. There are some other reviews of Stihl vs Echo, with similar results as what you saw. My local powersport store has Echo and Stihl equipment, they say that both are good, but hands down recommend the Echo.
I have read a lot of Stihl owner reviews online, a lot of problems starting them and the electronically controlled fuel mixture ones seem to burn down a lot, I will stick with an old fashioned carburetor and Echo.
This was a great comparison of an old, homeowner grade 56cc saw and a new pro grade 60cc saw. If you actually wanted it to be apples to apples you would have had a new ms362 to go against that echo.
Nice review. The log splitter at the end is interesting. Wallenstein makes a log splitter compatible with BCS two-wheeled tractors, but it runs off the PTO and has a dedicated hydraulic pump.
Stilh's are good saws, they have proved themselves to me and countless others. The truth is for the money ECHO is the best saw on the market. That has been proven to me and countless others. I just got through running an Echo for 2 solid days in Panama City Florida cleaning up after hurricane Michael. There was not a stihl in the crowd that could beat it.
Well new chain on farm boss would make it far i have farm boss half that time with a 20in bar but its a new model i run same test 28 seconds so next run a far test thanks....
I have started the saw, and just let it idle for about 20 minutes. It got pretty hot, but it was easy to start. I think it was 4 or 5 pulls. I started it again today and did the same thing and it ran cooler. I think the chain tension was tight.
The nose of the bar had to grind through the log. Honestly think a right sized bar would have made the stihl run better. Also more teeth less wear. And I wonder longevity of the echo? Even a plastic knife will cut great once.
Ppl run echo cause it's cheaper. I've ran both and stihl seems better. Then again I wasn't restricted by cost. Even if you can make the argument that the quality is the same then you have to except they are using slave labor to keep cost down. Echo isn't doing this for free. They are making their money somewhere.
+Murphy Built yeah, like selling at box stores to make money, or maybe their profit margin isn't as high. Stihl Farms out to China and other countries for there slave labor.
+TheBigclow maybe some but I'm referring to supporting local shoppes local companies and locally made. Pick up a catalogue they mark which ones are USA made.
I have ran saws since i was a kid the Echo for the money is hands down the winner. Stihl quality has slipped over the past few years I still think of them as KING but the Echo is a sweet running saw!
Not even close to a fair comparison. The Stihl would likely have cut faster with a longer bar. Anytime the nose of the bar is buried in the wood it works the saw much harder. Power should be close on these two saws. The 590 is a de-tuned and downgraded version of the 600P. Great saw for the money.
also the way he ran the stihl made it take longer. if he would have made the initial top cut wider to slot the whole log,then dug the felling dogs in and rocked the saw through versus holding the saw he would have gotten through it faster and quicker. honestly that's a better job for a 271 farm boss anyway they are made to handle the work and high revs better than a 290
@@michaelmagness1208 Also, they're comparing a pro saw to a farm saw. The farm saw is purposely dumbed down so it lasts longer and runs at a much lower rpm
You’d think if they took it in and had a new bar and chain on the stihl..they would have put the same length of bar as the echo...anyone can make any saw look better than the other if they want...they think everyone is stupid..
I personally love my stihls.. Run a ms250 for all around use and for me it does everything I need and the weight is light enough to work with all day but still heavy enough to feel like its made well... One thing I did notice was the size of the chips.. Seemed like the stihl was throwing fines where the echo was bigger... Are they both running an low kickback chain? I run the yellow chain on my stihl and can tell you the switch from the factory green to the yellow is enough to cut a cut time in half.. I guess the decision for someone is dealer support.. For me have been doing busniess with the dealer for 20 years(1.3 miles away) and he really knows the ins and outs of all the equipment.. Closest echo dealer is 20 miles away
Not to pee in anyone's porridge, but the MS-250 stihl is also a mediocre cash-cow. Similar displacement saws from Husqy/Dolmar/Redmax/Echo/Efco are pro-quality (read- durable), much better values, and will outperform it handily. Haven't found a dealer whose services I need. Stihl makes online parts sales difficult. I've some low-kickback OEM chains that I alternate with normal chains. They all work comparably IMHO. Some snobbery kicks in there.
Did I mention that I am a certified echo technician? I'm also a highly qualified tree care professional that uses professional grade saws every day. I like where echo is going, but I've done my own comparisons. Putting the echo version of a professional saw against a non-professional grade saw is bad enough, but then choosing the biggest turd a company has ever made, just makes you look bad.
I’m pretty much an echo guy. Only way stihl is worth it is the pro models but I’ve found that pretty much all of echos equipment is built to the same level of longevity as stihl pro saws. Echo doesn’t really have all the bells and whistles and they have fewer big chainsaws, stihl has a better selection in this size range but echo’s are great and if you have an older one it is most likely gonna last you til they don’t make parts for it anymore and you finally break something that you can’t replace.
I have a 7 year old entry level Stihl MS 170 and it ALWAYS starts right up 1-2 pulls. My MS 261 CM is the same way. No problem with the manual either. I still respect that Echo 590. Good saw.
Hi Stan when I bought my ms290 in 2003 it came with the 18' bar later I upgraded to the 20' bar and the chipper chain with the yellow label on the chain instead of the green one that came with it from the store. With the new chain and bar it runs great can't really tell that there's an extra 2' on it at all engine runs just as good if not better and cuts bigger logs with no effort at all. And I do hand file all my chains my self I really hate paying people to work on any thing I own. Have a good day Stan
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I opened an Echo chainsaw repair business four years ago and I am still waiting for my first customer. My best friend opened a Stihl repair shop around the same time and has now moved to the Bahama's into a house on the ocean with my wife that left me for a wealthier man.
Says a lot.
Stihl is the worst
LOOOOOOL such a liqr
More people own Stihl and abuse them.
@@Zachpoteet380 Yeah OK bud
I have 35 years experience using chainsaws and currently have en echo CS 3700 and a Stihl MS 250. Whilst the Stihl is a very good saw, the Echo in every way is a superior machine and I have not found a brand to beat it. Japanese quality and reliability is still in my view the best
Well fellows after some nearly 40 years using chainsaws I find comparisons are sort of like Ford/Chevy in that many saws cut well and feel well in different hands and folks have personal preferences. Most saws hold up more in the hands of those who use them properly, the way they personally cut things. Both here are good saws in the end.
finally someone with some sense.
I agree.
Ford and Chevy? Yeah okay, but in walks Toyota.
@@djangoapple8230 Toyota rules! 😎
@Bert Novilla I have an Echo and there's nothing "Clunky" as you say about them. Read user reviews. The echo always gets better reviews overall than Stihl. I would have purchased a Stihl but I done my research. Don't get me wrong. Stihl is a good saw. It's one of the higher-rated ones and so is Husqvarna. However, a family member of mine has a newer Stihl and he was over recently helping us cut some trees. He had to pull his starter rope like 20-30 times to get it started after he refilled after it ran out of gas. Those people who have problems with their Stihl's claim that they are hard to start.
I used Stihl for years - in a big storm, I bought an Echo as a "Back-up" saw - it was, tbh, cheap. I now use that cheap Echo as my go-to daily saw & it refuses to die or give grief. I am- unashamedly - an Echo fanboy these days.
I was under the impression they are similarly priced?
@@ClaytonWillisMusicno Stihl is overpriced
The echo is closer to a pro saw and the stihl is a plastic homeowner saw. The echo actually has mag cases and removable cylinder with adjustable oiler and decomp valve. Echo is a better value for the money while the stihls make more power.
I've owned an Echo CS 346 for over 12 years, cleared and cut down lots of trees, too many to count. The Echo still works almost perfect, l'm very impressed cause l bought this saw already well used at a pawn shop for $149 .
I have owned two Stihls, a pro 036 and 310. Both were good saws, but I recently sold both and bought a Echo 590 and smaller 400. The 400 I bought 1st looking for a lighter saw for trim work, and wow, what a great lightweight saw that cuts surprising fast through anything, and is so balanced, does not wear you out. I was so impressed, I bought the 590. The 590 simply smokes the Stihls............it has surprising power, not for the in-experienced. Again, Stihl makes great saws, but as far as performance goes, Echo out cuts them. Time will tell if the last as long, but for now I am totally satisfied.
Land Baron I have a 400 great saw
Echo will not out cut a stihl. echo saws are weak
@@dereksteele2284 you didn't watch the video😂
@@melissasmess2773 I run saws everyday, I think I know. People like u are clueless
I have an echo cs600p been running it for 4 years now and has never let me down. I use it on the farm all the time and cut about two or more tri axle loads of wood a year. An echo will hold up just as long as a stihl in my opinion.
I have the Echo timber wolf for a couple years now, badass saw..plenty of power..very happy with it..
I love Echo all around and less espensive, more durable too
I have a Stihl MS-250 chainsaw and it have not lived up to my expectation since it is hard to start, and I can't get anything done with it. Before I purchased the Stihl, I had a Poulan which I purchased in 2000, and it works great still, but I only use it around home. It sounds like the Echo chainsaw would be much better if I could find one in my area.
I had the same Stihl…it wore me out. Getting a similar model from Echo.
Unfair test ,First off Echo in not broke in,Stihl is well worn,second Different bars and chains you should be using the same chain and bar size.
Those were my thoughts too.
And putting a professional saw against a farm saw is a brilliant pile of crap also
Hotdog Nonesky so true !! Not an equal comparison at ALL!! Just silly!! Echos 590 is echos very best 60cc 20” saw, but not so with stihl. Try putting this echo 590 against the stihl ms261 then you have equal fight n comparison !!!
They are both 400$$ saws. That's as equal as you can get.
@@twal5299
Not even close. If you want to compare professional saws, compare professional saws. The farm saw will definitely Outlast the pro echo because it is designed to be a lower rpm saw that is simply a workhorse. It is a dumbed down saw that is built for longevity. The 261 is a smaller saw, but it is a pro saw. It will destroy both the 290 and the echo.
I was running this saw for about 2 hours at about a 30-50% duty cycle ruclips.net/user/postUgkxfQm1wmg0ItKDLavxj1nXtQY9HP7EF504 and it did a great job. I used the lever for the built in sharpener to clear chip buildup out more than to actually sharpen the chain. It managed to cut some hardwood stumps much larger than it's size without bothering the neighbors with hours of 2 stroke noise.
is it a 4 stroke? havent heard of one since the 50s!
I bought the Echo because I couldn't justify 200 dollars more for a comparable Stihl. That price delta will buy a lot of consumables. I went with arboristsite reviews because that is probably the canonical pro and prosumer arborist website. The Echo is well made, and you can get the 600 if you want the pro version differences or just replace the bar with an upgrade (if necessary for your use case) when you wear out the original. No matter what saw you buy, there's always a better, more expensive saw available. The Echo is IMO great bang for the buck.
I ran all Stihl for years, saws, blowers, & weed eaters until I picked up an Echo, I now have nothing but Echo.
i bought my a 490 and returned it for the 590 after i saw this video, the echo 590 is a badass saw. i sold my stihl170 to help pay for it. great video!
MONEYBAGS603, the Stihl 170 is the smallest saw Stihl makes. Of course a 59 cc saw will out perform it. That’s comparing apples to oranges.
If you were using a 170, you don't know enough about saws to even speak here.
@@hotdognonesky3766 Nonsense. I use Echo 310's and Stihl 170's all the time, because they're great small saws and absolutely serve a purpose. Not all of us are basic tree cutters. Some natural resources professionals (myself included) are required to hike 10-15 miles through the backcountry in order to reach a site, and can't be carrying 50cc saws, gas, oil, PPE, etc. that distance while fighting through multiflora thickets.
Trust me, I know plenty of people who use the 170 as their primary saw because it's light and very powerful for it's size, and these people likely have thousands of hours more experience than you do.
@@ignorethefashion82
More experience than me? Lol
I've been doing forestry and running arboriculture activities for over 30 years. If you're using a 170, you're an idiot. The 170 is heavier and about half the HP of the 201 tc-m. A professional would know this. Any questions?
Hotdog Nonesky 😂😂 True dat! I know a little something because I’ve sawed many felled oak trees for a whole summer helping my dad out on his property after storms using his cs 590 echo timber wolf seen in video! And yes they are very good saws but you are right this is not a equal comparison at all! They should have compared this echo 590 to a stihl ms 261 !!! See what happens then🎯💯
Used an ECHO for 4 years (for everything, my wood heat included) without a single breakdown or issue, NOTHING! It has performed flawlessly and with great power no matter what obstacle I put it against....wood, ice, shingles, extreme cold, doesn't matter. You can't stop an ECHO. They really are great machines.
I have both an Echo and Stihl. I service them myself. I use them for how they were designed. If I need a bigger and more powerful saw, I will purchase another. For now, using them within their design parameters, they are both good tools.
Echo saws have been gaining favor with the loggers around here for a few years. Their trimmers and top handle climber's saws have been popular for a long time and proven reliable. When the saw shops started carrying Echo's bigger saws people started trying them and liking them. There are three Echo dealers near me. Two of them also sell Husqvarna and the other sells Stihl. All three say Echo is their most reliable brand.
No surprise the Japanese know how to build an engine.
I've got an echo 400 and a Stihl 391. They are technically homeowner saws but I'm a landscaper. I've been running them pretty hard lately and very happy with how both are performing.
I got my first Echo chainsaw 15-18yrs ago, as a gift from my wife. I was a Husqvarna fan, but after a back injury I couldn't even start my big saw. I can say that my Echo's have been trouble free!..from Wyoming USA 🇺🇸 👋🤠
Stanley, first time I ever commented on your videos which I truly find both informative and entertaining. 5 years ago, I had to make the decision between Stihl and Echo. I went with Echo due to simplicity and mist of all - balance. The Farmboss is way to heavy on the motor end fo my liking. Today I had to use the Echo again. Even though it was left with a tank full of stabilized fuel, it started right up and performed flawlessly ( I had to remove the spark plug to relieve the compression and turn it over a couple of times). Stihl may be the name, but times are changing as they say. Stay safe...
Thanks so much for the comments John, I appreciate you watching. Stay safe also!
I’ve been a professional urban forester for decades, climbing for the better part of that tenure. I always swore by Stihl, but when the time came to get a new top handle saw I chose an Echo cs355t. That was almost four years ago and in that time I’ve had absolutely no issues with it, not even a replacement recoil cord....as a matter of fact I’ve never even removed that cover. As far as I’m concerned that 355t is twice the saw as Stihl’s 201t, and for half the price. Like as not I’ll never buy another Stihl. And now I’m gonna pick up a 24” Echo cs590, as a “bucking” saw for when the diameter of the wood I’m climbing challenges the capabilities of my cs355t.
I've been very happy with the quality, Warranty and price of my echo blower. I will always consider an Echo product.
+omnimous69 That is what started this whole thing. I bought 2 Echo blowers, 2 trimmers and other echo equipment and was really impressed. I tried to find something wrong with my blower- and I couldn't!
I generally love the echo and shindaiwa products, I really think they are underrated. Never had any major problems with any of their petrol products, they just perform.
I have a Echo cs500evl that I bought brand new in 1982. I use it every year cutting my annual firewood supply, usually 3 to 4 cords and for various projects. The only mechanical issue I had was the ignition coil about 20 years ago. So for very long term durability they can't be beat.
I got my hands on an old CS500VL as well and I do love that saw. It's darn near as old as me around 35-39 yrs old and it still runs fantastic, probably with original seals too. I've got some old heavy but super reliable and powerful McCulloch Pro Mac 610s I love as well. Great old saws that cut really well. The 500vl is a 50cc and lighter than the 610s yet heavier than something like a 46cc 250 that might cut pretty equivalent. Probably a little heavy for power to weight these days but man is it a great saw and rugged. I'd take the 500 over a stock 290. I just finished rebuilding 2x 290s and I was less impressed than I'd hoped for even with slight muffler mods. Building the last one into a 390 to see how it performs compared to the old 500 and 610s. I wouldn't mind having one of those 590s to try out at all though.
my saw cuts every year the amount you have cut in 35 and i trade every 5 years and my saws are still running good.
Bought a john deere 55 back in early 80's made by echo and used it today 07-18-2018 ran like brand new. Because of age parts are hard to find but saw still runs and cuts fantastic.Keep chain sharp and don't abuse bar.
Love my Echo 590. I father builds saws for a living now after retiring. He ported, polished, and punched the 590 he sold me and it is a beast! He said he prefers the Echo over any saw out there when it comes to working on them. I cleared off 1.5 acres with the 590 and while my father-in-law used his Stihl 261. The 590 out performed the 261 hands down. Like I said though, my 590 has been modified. It was fun watching my father-in-law stand back and just laugh in amazement at what the 590 would do.
I have the commercial version of the saw, the CS-620P. I have not been disappointed. I too have ran Stihl for years.
We made the switch a few years ago. The best thing we did. Students can start the saws and they have great power!
I’ve run Echos for most of my life because it’s what my dad always had. Just recently picked up a Stihl MS362CM to replace my old Echo 660EVL. It’s simply awesome. That being said... I won’t be neglecting it the same way I have with my Echo’s. Made in Japan to me means reliability.
Its amazing how many people cant figure out that lower level Stihls saws are heavy, gutless and low quality and cost too much for what they are.
I have a old 660. I cut timber with it a couple years it held together ok. I will stick to Huskies better saw hands down
Right. Stihl is a pro equipment and they do make homeowner series and then mid grade but those are just for product share. If you are going to do a pro series line use the saws they specialize.
@@Jason607 I'll just stick to jonsered
@@MrMaverixk
Johnsered is just cheap Husqvarna.
@@hotdognonesky3766 It Still will last the same time as a husqvarna.
Have the Echo with an 18" bar, bought it when it was first released. Best saw I've owned. Power to spare without being a heavy brute. The Echo warranty is actually better than Stihl - not that it really matters as both are top quality machines.
I've run both. New vs new. The echo was my choice by a long shot in every category.
I like my echo's
You've had some comparisons that were not equal. Just like this video.
I can not say enough good things about this saw. I run it with a 24" bar and almost no bog down on full cuts. This is an awesome saw. Add in the value, no need to worry, this saw just cuts. Runs like a dragster to my Husky.
One thought about the Echo having a longer bar, this gives more chain teeth to clear the wood cuttings which means there is less chance of clogging. Would be interesting if the Stihl was fitting with the same length bar an chain. However looks a good saw.
The neat thing about all my Echo machines is that start and will not stall at low RPM. They putt, but will not quit.. :)
I just bought an echo 590 and I run alot of different saws cuz I'm a firewood guy,my friend bought one and I used it and fell in love with it!!it is an incredible saw for the $$ and is good at falling bucking and limbing good size trees!!it really is good at everything and it is a couple hundred dollars less then the comparable Stihl and husquvarna!I love it and think echo products r underated...
I own and use Stihl and Echo chainsaws both are excellent saws here at the farm besides normal maintenance you cant go wrong with either.
Been a hardcore Stihl chainsaw guy for decades... I've had 'em all and I just recently tried a buddy's Echo and was completely impressed. Still gonna stick with my Stihl but I wouldn't hesitate recommending an Echo to anyone...
gmctech s8
Even 7 years later. I continue to hear good things about Echo. Lots of people still swear by Stihl and probably will. I plan on getting an Echo though.
Stihl for me, quality and easy starting! Also power and tork!
You only get quality and power with the Stihl pro saws not the MS290 in this vid. Time to figure out the difference in Stihl cheap saws and their pro saws. Stihls saws start way harder than Echo saws, I have both
You have no idea what you are talking about! Compare a pro saw to a non pro saw in any lineup and the others will always feel "cheap".
+Oliverm5sc A matter of Opinion. I have a 290 and 590, would take my 290 over the 590 any day. I've had that 290 for 13 years.
@@oliverm5sc
The 290 in this video is a farm saw. The echo is a pro saw.
If a Stihl starts hard, it's the fault of the owner or operator. My saws start up powerfully and consistently.
Just bought the cs 400 today. That thing is a beast cut like a hot knife through butter
The farmBoss is a homeowner type saw, plastic case and all. Let me be clear Stihl makes top of the line products!! However take into consideration the low and mid range models are often over priced for what they are. Sometimes you're paying more for the name and clever marketing, than the quality of the actual product. The same can be said for many Husqvarna saws as well. Echo on the other hand is trying to build the brand up, by producing quality at a more reasonable price. The issue Echo has is lack of supporting dealers.
When it comes down to it, these saw are only similar in price. The cs-590 is based on the pro models cs-600, cs-620 and cs-620pw, all of which have mag cases. Mag cased saws are normally more durable more powerful and lighter than the plastic clam shell designs. Right now the Echo cs-590 is without a doubt the most saw you can buy for the money today.
+bobe8888 This is the best and most accurate comment on here.I agree with every word!
+bobe8888 Home Depot is about the best dealer you could want to be in with. Echo is in all Home Depots and in AZ about every single landscaper runs them. Within the past few years I probably see Echo 10 to 1 vs Stihl with landscapers and tree trimming companies. Used to be all Id see was Stihl but lately theres been a huge shift to Echo..at least with landscape companies here in AZ
Great info😄👍
+Jerry Counts yes. Good info😄
+mojo jojo I changed to echo and love it.
It's obvious this vid is a plug for Echo, which are darn good saws, but Stihl can match or better just about anything on the market.
As far as this comparison goes, the horsepower, the type of gas mix, how sharp the blades are and the overall condition of the chainsaws can make a huge difference, so this demonstration is basically a joke. It pisses off all the Stihl folks and gives all the Echo dudes a hard on.
Respect the powerful beast that a chainsaw is and give it lots of TLC in the maintenance department and it will serve you well, and stay away from the crappy consumer models, especially ones with batteries. :)
A MS290 is a crappy consumer model, heavy and under powered
Dimi K I
Stihl suck..echo all day long
I have 6 stihl chainsaw and love them the best money can buy
That's what I was thinking too before replacing my Sthils for Echos.
Good vid. Thx. Been running a Huski 390xp and a Poulan Pro 52cc 20" , Echo is next on the list.
Not a fair comparison but I will say Echo has caught up to Stihl and is now starting to pass them up. The diehard Stihl guys refuse to believe it but it’s true.
Exactly even at the disadvantage of a bigger bar the echo smoked the stihl. Starting to pass? You mean blew by them. Echo is more dependable too
Paul Greening EXACTLY......WIN / WIN
The chains is obviously less sharp on the stihl. Not a legit comparison.
Turtleneck Rampage bs...the Stihl has a smaller bar and should of ran faster and it/Stijl STILL got smoked
Should I buy an echo?
I bought a little Echo saw couple years ago. My lawn service hardly ever uses a saw, but has to have one so I couldn't see spending the $600 for a Stihl when the Echo saw was much cheaper. Didn't like $50 for the case but gotta have a case for a saw. I like the Echo saw just fine. For everyday tools like trimmers and blowers its always Stihl. The Echo stuff I have seems fine, especially when cost is considered for those tools I don't use everyday.
This video took some time to prep and film. I appreciate it.
Thanks Caleb!
i cut timber professionally, an i have for many years. i understand these saws are a smaller caliber than i use on a daily basis. but i have smaller saws than those you are showcasing that cut much faster than that...i have to say this video makes me absolutely nauseous.... one saw is brandnew.. the other is obviously well warn.. an they have different size bars? not to mention neither chain is sharp. also echo chain is extremely an dangerously lose... come on man i love your videos but after this ive lost alot of respect.
You've missed an important point also... The saws are different cc to start with!
But the Timberwolf is cheaper.
well you missed the bit in the beginning where he says he got new chain, bar, tuneup in other words everything was done to make the saw as new as possible... listen and you will learn :)
You must be Stihl lovers..
@@henrydavis970 getting away from stihl is like going through a nasty divorce. You don't wanna let go, but you don't wanna keep getting mistreated by an obviously different woman than the one you first met and fell in love with. Stihl ain't the equipment I first met.
One only get's the top quality with Stihl saws when buying their larger saws. Made in Germany quality. I own 5 Stihls, 3 Echo's and love everyone of them. Like one Commenter said, it's like comparing Chevy's and Fords. But my favorite "go to saw" would have to be the Echo CS-5000. Mabey a little on the Hot Saw Circuit but a Powerhouse in your presence. Cut with other Stihl lovers and they spent more time watching the Echo 5000 cut than their Stihl Farm Boss's. Nothing internal but minor carb, exhaust, timing mods. Get ya Sum!
I have a GT-200R Echo trimmer I bawt in 06 it's 100% unmalested used every yr from spring till fall I don't abuse it. It shows plenty of wear. the original spark plug is still in it. Air cleaner + fuel lines,primer bulb still original. I found an identicle 1 in the trash last fall fixed it with Loctite Super Glue just recently sold it for $50. If I had to buy a new trimmer I'd certainly buy Echo with out a doubt.
Echo makes great trimmers (have 3) that are all poor at bucking logs, for which my Stihl saw is much better. My point is a good trimmer brand is not necessarily a good (or bad) saw brand.
I have been considering an Echo saw as well but have decided on another Stihl based on my experience and recommendation of a friend who was a Stihl repair tech.
This video comparison is worthless. I have no doubt both are great saws but the bar lengths need to be equal.
I just purchased an Echo 501P. I wanted another 50cc saw, but didn't want auto-tune. I had been running Huskies, but everything up to the 372XP is now auto-tune, and they're now selling a 70cc auto-tune saw which I believe is going to eventually replace the 372XP. I think I've found my new orange saw as long as Echo keeps it simple and doesn't try to get fancy like the other two. My pocketbook also thanked me.
Great saw, tune it good and open up the muff a little, these saws gain a lot as they break in
Problem is, you are still comparing an old saw to a new saw.
it was totally rebuilt. didn't you listen to what he said? explain what's wrong...
The Echo was brand new and not broke in yet either, I've read several statements from owners that they really pick up after a couple of tanks of gas are run through them.
Stihl hands down. Using them for 35 years, never let me down.
I purchase old STIHL saws and rebuild them with Chinese Farmertec parts, it's become a self funding hobby. Echo and STIHL, cc for cc & bar length for bar length they should cut about the same. A shorter bar than the log will cut slower than a longer bar, because some chips get dragged around a second pass and these bog the saw down. I put a 42" bar on one of my MS660's to cut 30-40" logs and am amazed at how much better it cuts than the 30" bar I had previously. STIHL saws often need opening up to release there full potential, because of emission standards they often restrict the exhaust and thus lower the power.
That is very cool and good to know!
The Echo's seem to hold up well BUT, I'd not toss them about. Lots of plastic parts but Sthil has lots of plastic too. Fact is unless it's an accident I don't treat any saw rough. Years ago I dropped a tethered Poulan 2150. I'd accidentally cut the wrong limb so limb took saw with it. The Poulan hit on the nose of the bar, bounced in the air landed upright still idling. Replaced the bent bar finished the tree. Old plastic was tough. New plastic maybe with quality saws. Cheap stuff plastic looks like butter dish stuff.
i have a echo 750 evl, made in 79 i think. for 25 bucks it runs great, and a lot of power. not a lot of speed, but it will out last me.
the best saw is the one you got and does the job.
Beware, the choke knob sticks out from the body and could get snagged and broken. The Stihl is hidden for this reason.
Never had that problem-thanks for the heads up.
Almost had this happen on a poulan pro chainsaw. The choke that sticks out like that got caught on something and i left it like that without noticing. Now the choke lever is bent down but still works, just not as easy to pull out anymore
matclue4 lol poulan is home depot garbage. And as for yhe chokes Dolmar doesn't have one for a reason. They auto prime and choke 1 pull they always start up even when cold.
whats worse an echo that wont start or a stihl that wont stop.
Glenn Lurman an echo that won't start lol. A stihl that won't stop all you have to do is choke it out.
My buddy just purchased a MS 362 with an 18 inch bar for a tad bit under 800 bucks. I have an Echo CS590 with a 20 inch bar, now I’ve had this Echo for 3 years, I am running right there beside his 800 dollar saw. Stihl is alright but for almost 500 dollars less Echo is your saw. I also own a smaller stihl and husqvarna. I just like the power of the Echo.
With the opinions like below its no wonder Stihl manages to sell low powered, heavy , low quality saws like the one in this vid
When I went looking for a 14" chainsaw, I read tree arborist's websites. They nearly ALL said Echo. I have used and over used my Echo 310 for 7 years now. SuweeeeeT saw! I will be looking for a Timberwolf. 5 year homeowner warranty!
Get yourself a CS400, muff modd and tune then they rip and are light. Nothing wrong with the CS590 either but it's a heavier than a CS400
I use Stihl and Echo chainsaws they both do what their meant to do Echo cost less but don't last as long as Stihl. I like both brands and they are both far better than the cheep home use stuff. thanks for the video
After working with a tree service for years that runs both echo and stihl saws. They perform about the same when supplied with the same bar and chains. I've found that the stihls always start easier, but I mean by a pull compared to 2 or 3, and run a little better in the cold. The echo chain retention system seems to get loose very quickly compared to stihl. Neither saw has let us down yet though.
its not the chain tensioning system that lets the chain get loose as the bar nuts hold the bar tight to the saw body. Its the chains getting hot and expanding or the links are wearing from either dirt or not enough chain oil flow
@@stevespeak6789 either way my echos loosen up before the stihls
Oh wow.... Speechless.
Except! Send me that saw and I'll run a review worth while!
+Mow's Lawn & Iron Haha- I need it!
An honest comparison would be great
I bought the echo 590 about a year and a half ago! I love mine so far! Made in Illinois USA ! So far it is awsome! I cannot compare to sthil This saw is a upgrade to my 30 some year old Jonshreds 450 that still has been indestructable! Time will tell
Well, I don't think you purposefully tried to skew the results, I just think it wasn't a fair comparison. I know that you have a lot more knowledge of chainsaws, and wood cutting. Maybe you should just try to get Stihl to send you a new saw for testing , and do a part 2. I'm looking forward to seeing it.
Thanks, Leo
Leo Brand new saws cut slower than ones that are broken in, if the Stihl saw was brand new it would have cut even slower, that fact is that the only Stihl saws that are good is their pro models like a MS261 or a ms 362 but they cost a LOT more than Echo saws which perform just as good.
oliverm5sc stihls will last a life time tho. They are all metal echo is Japanese plastic. you're lucky if it last 2years.
Well than someone should tell my 20 year old echo chainsaw it needs to break. I own Huskys, Stihls, Dolmars, and Echo's for some reason I always go for the echo. I think mostly because they are easier to start and have a real world power band. My buddy bought a Echo cs500p it's always the saw that gets picked up first.. Not opions just observations on my part. Every saw I have works well for what it was bought to do. If I could only have 1 saw it would probably be the timberwolf or the cs620p. The cs 8000 is OK but falls behind in performance. Hasn't stopped me from running 30-40 cords through mine. It always starts....which makes it cut a whole lot faster than one that doesn't.
I have used and worked on both brands, I would choose stihl over echo for a chainsaw and all of my other equipment is echo from trimmers to blowers but my personal saws are always Husqvarna!
+Murphy Small Engines On any brand out there- what is your favorite?
At my fire department we only run stihl except for one echo saw. (Just ran them last night). Personally we prefer stihl. Overall better quality, easy maintenance, and we can store them and not use them for a while and my worry about it. The echo is ok but overall we prefer stihl. Only thing our echo is used for is cutting roofs cause it has the angled bar
Good to know. Thanks😄👍
I have a echocs600p ran that against my buddies still 311 both with 20 inch bars and sharp chains . the echo is way faster and more fuel efficient I was impressed. My dad recently purchased a e ho cs620pw and it'll run circles around my 600p
In the past 5 years I have purchased Stihl, Husky and Echo. Future buys will only be Echo.
+lg okie Me too.
Same here
We work on smal engines. We recommend echo hands down. Stihl might make good commercial saw but their homeowner saws are junk
I went Echo and I will never come back. 10 years with these two saws and no complaints. I was looking at a 1979 Echo today...same parts pretty much as my 2009...and the same parts as the 2019 models I was looking at. Best value saw on the market. Better warranty too...and you know why...because they almost never have to honor it.
I have been a echo technician for 10 years and all we do is get Stihl back never echo
Best comment in the video. And yes I’ve heard the same.
I just ran my 290 today it's 9 yrs old and came with a 20 In bar. I love it. Very rarely bogs, yours didn't seem like it revved as High as mine does tho. I have a small echo saw for limbing it works well also but for a bigger saws, I'll stick to my 290 and 441. Would be nice to see a timed cut with a 20in on the stihl. Good job tho.
+Meadow View Lawn Care LLC Yeah I needed a 20 inch bar to match it more evenly.
As a service tech. I'll take the Stihl any day.
Do you work on the echoes?
I am a certified technician for sthil and i will not work on echo because it to hard to get the parts and it not user friendly for repair
I grew up using Stihl saws, for most part good, remember all the commercials showing them dragging threw timber, water etc? Well you can’t drop 10 feet out of tree, the thing literally broke in half! And half of the time it would not start, so I got fed up and bought a Echo CS 450, absolutely love the saw, great power and cuts amazing! I cut and sell roughly 30 cords a year, and have fireplace in house, i will never buy anything else but Echo now
As with you more ad more are figuring out that Stihl quality and performance has went downhill and getting worse every year
We have ran Stihl for years - Saws / Weed Eaters / Blowers. The older Stihl was great. The new Stihl's we have had many problems not running good. We always run good premium gas No Ethanol. We bought an Echo saw a year ago Runs great! Bought the biggest Echo Weed Eater and that is a great machine.
Ii have the Echo0 PAS 225 weedeater, I also have the Echo 310 chainsaw. I have a Stihl ms250. Head up, the Echo Whooped the Stihl. Now the Stihl is a good saw, But the echo screams. Being the Echo has Shindawa DNA in its bones, i am not surprised its great equipment. I really like the PAS 225, It can rev up and destroy stuff, but it can also be feathered and has a nice throttle control that you can finesse around delicate stuff. The Stihl weedeaters i have used are balls out or idling. No real finesse in the Stihl weedeaters. They will last nearly forever, but a little jerky.
I know a Stihl is tough. I saw my brother throw one about 30 feet one time because he was so mad at it and nothing broke when it hit the ground. I have a 35 year old Echo with a 20 inch bar on it and quite possibly the same spark plug and has out cut many newer saws. People are amazed at how fast it cuts.
30 feet is a pretty good throw for a saw that weighs a ton.
I'm an ECHO owner, but have no horse in this race. Having said that, the fanboyism is strong when the same guys who brag about how bombproof and durable old abused Stihls are the same ones who say, "No fair! The Stihl is older!" 😂 Pick a struggle! You can't both brag about their superiority and make excuses as to why it just got outgunned by the ECHO.
Anybody in their right mind knows that Stihl, Husqvarana & ECHO all make great saws and that they perform within 10% of each other. One cuts faster, one starts easier, one takes neglect better and they're all priced in the same range (Timber Wolf, Farm Boss & Rancher).
They aren't your typical homeowner saw and they're not what the pros use day in and day out. They're know as "Prosumer" grade saws for non-professionals who need more than just your typical $100 14" plug in big box store chainsaw that's nothing more than a pruner on steroids.
I'd take any of either 3, but there's no denying that the ECHO is right up there with the other two big boys and being made in Japan is a BIG PLUS when it comes to reliability and durability. They've been around for almost 1/2 a century. Deal with it.
So keep your powder dry and don't get emotional over chainsaws.
When you start sponsoring comparison videos by providing equipment to the testers, then you can gripe. Personally, I would've love to have seen identical bar lengths & identical chains on both so that you're getting a real test where the cutting touches the wood.
But there's no getting around it...ECHOs run like bobcats on meth. It just is what it is. Test after test proves it. I notice that no one is making excuses as to why the ECHO went through those logs like Child Support goes through a tax return so spare us your indignation. 😂
I had a Stihl MS310 that I liked very much until it was stolen. Then I worked for a logger that ran Stihl MS660s, and a farmer who ran a Pioneer 62. I later bought an Echo CS590. I've cut 2 cord with the Echo so far, and it has been my favorite. Of course it can't cut what a Stihl MS660 can, but I don't cut anything that big for my wood stove anyways. The biggest advantage over both Stihls? My hands weren't numb from the vibration all Stihl saws have. I call Stihl the Harley of chainsaws. Both rattle themselves apart where you need to tighten everything up from time to time.
hahahah The harley of chainsaws Good point!
Been a fan of Echo products for years! Thanks for showcasing the difference.
You're welcome, thanks for watching !
cool to see another echo fan they love guys like you ands me at tree talk i just joined it great place.just cant swear in there i got warned alreasdy haha they respect my echo casue they know 5 year warranty means 5 year warranty hah this video needs same bars, no good comparison but yeah echo dont break
I have stihl saws, but I saw that these echo saw was built by the Japanese and every thing I love is built by those guys down to the Nintendo.
Stihls number 1 selling saw is the one in this vid the MS290 which is gutless, heavy, built cheap and has way over rated HP. Should tell you something about people wearing Stihl shorts.
oliverm5sc the ms250 is the top selling saw not the 290
devkam13 the 250 (45cc 3.0hp) is a homeowner saw that is more gutless than the 290(55cc 3.7hp) Stihl classifies it in the "farm and ranch" category. Don't waste your time on either if you are going to use a saw for any extended period. Get a pro saw 241, 261, 362 in the end you will have a saw that will last most homeowners / firewood burners a lifetime and if you were to sell,if properly maintained would retain the majority of it's original value....
I love echo, echo is my first choice of equipment, I like stihl too, but the stihl chainsaws are a bear to start, constantly flooding, breaking your arm by how hard they are to pull, and the fact that they are extremely overpriced.
I bought the cs-550 and love it but in Australia its almost $1000 usd
I have gone with all Echo equipment. I also have the Echo Timberwolf CS590, it runs great! I know people love their Stiehl saws, but I've been out with people who are using Stiehl and they can be trying to start them while I'm walking to my truck and still be trying to get them to start after I've pulled mine out and already started it. There are some other reviews of Stihl vs Echo, with similar results as what you saw.
My local powersport store has Echo and Stihl equipment, they say that both are good, but hands down recommend the Echo.
I have read a lot of Stihl owner reviews online, a lot of problems starting them and the electronically controlled fuel mixture ones seem to burn down a lot, I will stick with an old fashioned carburetor and Echo.
This was a great comparison of an old, homeowner grade 56cc saw and a new pro grade 60cc saw. If you actually wanted it to be apples to apples you would have had a new ms362 to go against that echo.
lol. yea for 300 more
@@Rob-tl9md yeah , that's too much moolah.
Nice review. The log splitter at the end is interesting. Wallenstein makes a log splitter compatible with BCS two-wheeled tractors, but it runs off the PTO and has a dedicated hydraulic pump.
Rather have a stand alone wood splitter, don't want to wear out my $20,000 tractor splitting wood.
Stilh's are good saws, they have proved themselves to me and countless others. The truth is for the money ECHO is the best saw on the market.
That has been proven to me and countless others.
I just got through running an Echo for 2 solid days in Panama City Florida cleaning up after hurricane Michael. There was not a stihl in the crowd that could beat it.
I have the CS 300 is the best I ever used, my next upgrade is a timber Wolf for sure!
Well new chain on farm boss would make it far i have farm boss half that time with a 20in bar but its a new model i run same test 28 seconds so next run a far test thanks....
I have started the saw, and just let it idle for about 20 minutes. It got pretty hot, but it was easy to start. I think it was 4 or 5 pulls. I started it again today and did the same thing and it ran cooler. I think the chain tension was tight.
It could have been.
The nose of the bar had to grind through the log. Honestly think a right sized bar would have made the stihl run better. Also more teeth less wear. And I wonder longevity of the echo? Even a plastic knife will cut great once.
+Murphy Built Echo longevity is great. Here in AZ most all landscapers run Echo and Stihl equipment. Echo is every bit as good as Stihl
you been living under a rock? ECHO is a fuckin beast.
Ppl run echo cause it's cheaper. I've ran both and stihl seems better. Then again I wasn't restricted by cost. Even if you can make the argument that the quality is the same then you have to except they are using slave labor to keep cost down. Echo isn't doing this for free. They are making their money somewhere.
+Murphy Built yeah, like selling at box stores to make money, or maybe their profit margin isn't as high. Stihl Farms out to China and other countries for there slave labor.
+TheBigclow maybe some but I'm referring to supporting local shoppes local companies and locally made. Pick up a catalogue they mark which ones are USA made.
I have ran saws since i was a kid the Echo for the money is hands down the winner. Stihl quality has slipped over the past few years I still think of them as KING but the Echo is a sweet running saw!
Agreed- Echos are good
Not even close to a fair comparison. The Stihl would likely have cut faster with a longer bar. Anytime the nose of the bar is buried in the wood it works the saw much harder. Power should be close on these two saws. The 590 is a de-tuned and downgraded version of the 600P. Great saw for the money.
also the way he ran the stihl made it take longer. if he would have made the initial top cut wider to slot the whole log,then dug the felling dogs in and rocked the saw through versus holding the saw he would have gotten through it faster and quicker. honestly that's a better job for a 271 farm boss anyway they are made to handle the work and high revs better than a 290
Totally agree, the short bar on the sthil has no time to clean out vs the echo is protruding thru the log a good 3 inches
@@michaelmagness1208
Also, they're comparing a pro saw to a farm saw. The farm saw is purposely dumbed down so it lasts longer and runs at a much lower rpm
You’d think if they took it in and had a new bar and chain on the stihl..they would have put the same length of bar as the echo...anyone can make any saw look better than the other if they want...they think everyone is stupid..
I personally love my stihls.. Run a ms250 for all around use and for me it does everything I need and the weight is light enough to work with all day but still heavy enough to feel like its made well... One thing I did notice was the size of the chips.. Seemed like the stihl was throwing fines where the echo was bigger... Are they both running an low kickback chain? I run the yellow chain on my stihl and can tell you the switch from the factory green to the yellow is enough to cut a cut time in half.. I guess the decision for someone is dealer support.. For me have been doing busniess with the dealer for 20 years(1.3 miles away) and he really knows the ins and outs of all the equipment.. Closest echo dealer is 20 miles away
I need to check into it- thanks for pointing that out.
Not to pee in anyone's porridge, but the MS-250 stihl is also a mediocre cash-cow. Similar displacement saws from Husqy/Dolmar/Redmax/Echo/Efco are pro-quality (read- durable), much better values, and will outperform it handily. Haven't found a dealer whose services I need. Stihl makes online parts sales difficult. I've some low-kickback OEM chains that I alternate with normal chains. They all work comparably IMHO. Some snobbery kicks in there.
+Jacques Blaque Great info. Thanks.
Did I mention that I am a certified echo technician? I'm also a highly qualified tree care professional that uses professional grade saws every day. I like where echo is going, but I've done my own comparisons. Putting the echo version of a professional saw against a non-professional grade saw is bad enough, but then choosing the biggest turd a company has ever made, just makes you look bad.
I've never heard of being echo certified
Really? lol wow
I’m pretty much an echo guy. Only way stihl is worth it is the pro models but I’ve found that pretty much all of echos equipment is built to the same level of longevity as stihl pro saws. Echo doesn’t really have all the bells and whistles and they have fewer big chainsaws, stihl has a better selection in this size range but echo’s are great and if you have an older one it is most likely gonna last you til they don’t make parts for it anymore and you finally break something that you can’t replace.
Thank you for commenting Julian!
Even tho the new Echo won, I Stihl love my 290
I cut lots of cedar posts with a 290. Great saw and with a sharp chain and properly set rakers it hauled ass.
It's a farm saw. It runs at a low rpm. It will last forever. They're comparing it to a pro saw. They're dirty snakes.
Are these the 2 top brands you can buy ?
Go with the Echo, you can actually understand their manuals. Stihl's are very hard to understand. And their cheaper saws are hard to start.
Echoes cheaper saws act no different.
Not true. All Echos, even the cheap ones, start easy unless there is something wrong with them.
I have a 7 year old entry level Stihl MS 170 and it ALWAYS starts right up 1-2 pulls. My MS 261 CM is the same way. No problem with the manual either. I still respect that Echo 590. Good saw.
Hi Stan when I bought my ms290 in 2003 it came with the 18' bar later I upgraded to the 20' bar and the chipper chain with the yellow label on the chain instead of the green one that came with it from the store. With the new chain and bar it runs great can't really tell that there's an extra 2' on it at all engine runs just as good if not better and cuts bigger logs with no effort at all. And I do hand file all my chains my self I really hate paying people to work on any thing I own. Have a good day Stan
Thanks Wes😄👍