Stihl MS 181 vs 211, Chainsaw Comparison

The Stihl 181 and 211 chainsaws are both gas-powered, and technically very similar chainsaws with a few areas where they stand alone.

The 181 has lower power than the 211 because it is designed for smaller tasks around the home while the 211 is mainly for larger tasks. They both come with a chain brake system to help prevent kickback accidents that can cause serious injury or death.

In this article, we will look at these two models individually as well as discuss what they have in common. We will also compare them on features such as weight, power, and price to help you make an informed decision about which model suits your needs best. 

The first thing that I want to mention before we get into the nitty-gritty of comparing these two saws is that for most homeowners there’s no need to spend money on a high-end chainsaw unless you’re using it every day or are doing professional work with it.

Any of these two chainsaws will be perfect for the average homeowner who just needs to occasionally cut some firewood or trim small trees.

STIHL MS 181 Chainsaw with 35 cm Cutting Length +...
Stihl chainsaw MS 211 - rod length 35 cm peak...
Name
STIHL MS 181 Chainsaw with 35 cm Cutting Length +...
Stihl chainsaw MS 211 - rod length 35 cm peak...
Power output
1.5/2.0 kW/bhp
1.7/2.3 kW/bhp
Power-to-weight ratio
2.9 kg/kW
2.5 kg/kW
Sound Levels
109.0 dB(A)
110.0 dB(A)
Chain tensioning
Side chain tension
Lateral chain tension
STIHL MS 181 Chainsaw with 35 cm Cutting Length +...
Name
STIHL MS 181 Chainsaw with 35 cm Cutting Length +...
Power output
1.5/2.0 kW/bhp
Power-to-weight ratio
2.9 kg/kW
Sound Levels
109.0 dB(A)
Chain tensioning
Side chain tension
Stihl chainsaw MS 211 - rod length 35 cm peak...
Name
Stihl chainsaw MS 211 - rod length 35 cm peak...
Power output
1.7/2.3 kW/bhp
Power-to-weight ratio
2.5 kg/kW
Sound Levels
110.0 dB(A)
Chain tensioning
Lateral chain tension

As you can see above, the two models are very similar in size and weight with only a few differences. Both the Stihl 181 and Stihl 211 weigh 4.3 kgs, so it depends on your preference here which one you’d rather work with for long periods of time.

Key Features of Stihl 181 Chainsaw

The STIHL 181 is an affordable saw for homeowners, small job sites or contractors that require high-quality power without all the bells and whistles. The fuel-efficient 1-4 channel 110cc STIHL 2-MIX engine provides excellent performance at lower noise levels with maximum power down to 4,000rpm.

Stihl 181 Chainsaw
  • Stihl MS 181 chainsaw
  • Stihl Rollomatic E Mini guide rail 35 cm / 14 inch with 1.3 mm groove width
  • Stihl Oilomatic saw chain 3/8 inch with 1.3 mm drive link thickness

At its peak torque level, the low-speed setting of 4,500rpm delivers a larger cutting force through the long funnel tube blowing system equipped on this chainsaw. The exhaust output is reduced by 20% because of the unique sliding throttle valve design for better contact between the hotter combustion gases and cooler wood sapping less heat from your product as it cuts.

The 181 features 1-in-4 channel technology, which creates the perfect environment for efficient, user-friendly cutting. It provides fuel savings of up to 20% compared to other similar STIHL 2-stroke engines without 1-in/4channel technology. The exhaust emissions are reduced by 50%. It has a lightweight, compact design with excellent balance and ergonomics.

Key Features of Stihl 211 Chainsaw

The STIHL 211 chainsaw is the ultimate companion for any professional user who demands power in all conditions.

STIHL’s 211 is designed to be the toughest saw in its class. Built for industrial jobs, this chainsaw can handle whatever you throw at it – from cutting hardwood and big hard-to-control logs to crosscutting dimensional lumber.

Equipped with a long-life air filtration system and anti-vibration design, this chainsaw includes a tool holder for quick access.

In order to ensure extended production periods where fewer fatigue sets in, STIHL created the 211 chainsaws with an effective anti-vibration system through dampening oscillations from the machine’s engine – making this one of the most comfortable options out there.

Final thoughts

The Stihl 181 is a consumer-friendly chainsaw with lower power output and a slightly smaller chain bar length. This saw is most appropriate for homeowners who do not need to cut through large trees or logs in their yards. Conversely, the 211 model has a slightly higher power output making it more suitable for a professional DIY-er to use when clearing land around your property or cutting firewood.

With this information, you can make an informed decision about which type of Stihl chainsaw would be best for you!

Last update on 2024-03-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API