If you’re a lumberjack, commercial landscaper, or have serious acreage, you need to invest in the best chainsaw for the money that’s going to withstand the demands of the job. Here at Carl’s Mower & Saw we carry the full line of two of the leading chainsaw brands: Husqvarna® and Stihl®.

But for pro users like you, let’s compare the Husqvarna 550 XP vs the Stihl 261 CM to help you decide which saw will stand up to your job. If you want the full breakdown between the Husqvarna 550XP and the Stihl 261 C-M, Josh dives into the details in this video.

Read on for a brief review of each saw.

Husqvarna 550 XP Review

Easy to start? Yep, you can expect the Husqvarna 550 XP to start within 2 to 3 pulls after you’ve pumped the primer. Plus, if you have to shut down and restart, a simple pull will get you back on track. 

The Pros?

  • AutoTune Feature. Forget about manually adjusting for various fuels, altitudes, humidity, temperature and clogged air filters. The AutoTune feature automatically adjusts ignition and carburetion for optimal power and performance.
  • Air Injection Motor Protection. One of the things we love about the Husqvarna 550XP is it’s patented Air Injection® design which keeps debris and dirt away from the engine so only pre-filtered air is pushed through the air filter and into the engine, helping to ensure a long engine life.
  • Fuel Efficient. Thanks to X-Torq®, you can rely on spending less to fuel this chainsaw. You’ll end up saving money over the long run with its efficient use of fuel, making it one of the best chainsaws for the money. Plus, the Husqvarna 550 XP has a Visible Fuel Level and an easy Flip-Up Fuel cap to help you monitor fuel consumption and efficiently refuel.
  • Environmentally Friendly. No matter where you are, the Husqvarna 550 XP will always be in compliance with environmental regulations.
  • Superior Limbing Performance. Whether working at a mill, as a landscaper or as an experienced homeowner, the RevBoost™: Rapid acceleration and higher chain speed.

The Con?

Because of the design, it can be harder to install the chain and replace the sprockets on this saw than it is on Stihl’s 261 C-M. 

Stihl 261 C-M Review

Interested in the Stihl 261 C-M? This multifunctional saw comes with plenty of perks. Stihl is known for its powerful chainsaw manufacturing, but they never sacrifice on important commercial features like fuel efficiency or power. 

The Pros?

  • STIHL M-Tronic™ Engine Management System. An innate microprocessor adjusts for conditions of all kinds to make for a superior sawing experience. That means you’ll get slick, effortless cuts regardless if you’re in humid or dry conditions and no matter your elevation level.
  • Decompression Valve means no yanking! The decompression valve temporarily reduces the compression in the combustion chamber during cranking and helps reduce the effort needed to pull the starter rope.
  • Eco Conscious. The emissions from the Stihl 261 C-M are low. You’ll meet environmental regulations all across the US.
  • Side Access Chain Tensioner. Grab a bar wrench and adjust the chain tension in a matter of moments.
  • Powerful, Yet Fuel Efficient Engine. The Stihl 261 C-M has a powerful 4hp engine and has been reported to have more low-end torque than the Husqvarna 550 XP. Plus, the STIHL M-Tronic continuously monitors the operating conditions of your chainsaw calculating engine speed to continuously meter fuel. You save on fuel costs while experiencing optimum engine performance.

The Con?

The Stihl 216 C-M comes with a 1-year warranty compared to Husqvarna’s 550 XP 2-year warranty.

Is There A Winner?

We hate to draw a tie, but both the Husqvarna 550 XP and the Stihl 261 C-M are great chainsaws. When it comes to power, the Stihl 261 C-M may have the advantage. It’s also been reported that the Stihl 261 C-M lasts a bit longer (that’s not to say the Husqvarna 550 XP lacks in longevity, it boils down to how it’s maintained).

If you’re looking for more power and a slightly cheaper chainsaw, pick the Stihl 261 C-M.

If you’re looking for slightly better fuel efficiency and lower exhaust emissions, the Husqvarna 550 XP might be right for you.

HOWEVER, the most important factor in your decision making depends on your local dealer. Local dealers go above and beyond to serve their customers. If your dealer specializes in a Husqvarna over Stihl, you’re better off choosing the Husqvarna (or vice versa). As an equipment owner, you need to be able to depend on your dealer to help protect your investment.

For in-depth reviews on the equipment we carry, checkout our YouTube channel. 

Carl’s Mower and Saw has been powering the outdoors since 1990. We specialize in equipment sales, service, rentals and parts. When it comes to outdoor power equipment we’ll get you what you need so you can power on!  Have questions? Give us a call at 360-384-0799, or email us at info@carlsmower.com.