Echo CS-501P
#4 in GasFull review
A light professional grade saw for serious firewood cutters who want pro build quality and a long warranty.
Amazon $569$569
The Echo CS-501P is the better chainsaw overall, rated 3.5 to 2.9. The Echo CS-501P leads on warranty and power. The STIHL MS 250 wins on value. The STIHL MS 250 costs $139.01 less ($429.99 vs $569).
STIHL MS 250
#19 in GasFull review
A light, well proven firewood saw for homeowners who cut in cold winters.
STIHL $429.99$429.99
Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Echo CS-501P for warranty (5-year warranty vs 1-year warranty) and power (50.2 cc engine vs 45.4 cc engine).
- Choose the STIHL MS 250 for value ($23.89 per inch of bar ($429.99, 18 in bar) vs $31.61 per inch of bar ($569, 18 in bar)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every gas chainsaw; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Echo CS-501P | STIHL MS 250 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.5/5 | 2.9/5 |
| Value 30% | 10 $31.61 per inch of bar ($569, 18 in bar) | 36 $23.89 per inch of bar ($429.99, 18 in bar) |
| Power 25% | 61 50.2 cc engine | 42 45.4 cc engine |
| Weight 15% | 77 10.6 lb | 84 10.1 lb (powerhead) |
| Bar 10% | 75 18 in bar | 75 18 in bar |
| Warranty 20% | 100 5-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Echo CS-501P | STIHL MS 250 | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Bar length | 18 in | 18 in |
| Chain pitch | - | .325 in (RM3) |
| Automatic oiler | Yes | - |
| Tool-free chain tension | - | No |
| Power | ||
| Engine or battery | 50.2 cc | 45.4 cc, 3 hp |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 10.6 lb | 10.1 lb (powerhead) |
| Anti-vibration | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 5 years | 1 year |