STIHL MS 162
#8 in GasFull review
A small, light STIHL for pruning, limbing and storm cleanup around the house. Not a saw for a winter’s firewood.
STIHL $189.99$189.99
The STIHL MS 162 is the better chainsaw overall, rated 3.2 to 3.0. The STIHL MS 162 leads on value. The STIHL MS 162 costs $30 less ($189.99 vs $219.99).
STIHL MS 172 C-E
#14 in GasFull review
An easy starting light STIHL for homeowners who struggle with pull cords and cut only small wood.
STIHL $219.99$219.99
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 STIHL MS 162 for value ($11.87 per inch of bar ($189.99, 16 in bar) vs $13.75 per inch of bar ($219.99, 16 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 | STIHL MS 162 | STIHL MS 172 C-E |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 30% | 100 $11.87 per inch of bar ($189.99, 16 in bar) | 87 $13.75 per inch of bar ($219.99, 16 in bar) |
| Power 25% | 0 30.1 cc engine | 0 31.8 cc engine |
| Weight 15% | 87 9.9 lb (powerhead) | 80 10.4 lb (powerhead) |
| Bar 10% | 50 16 in bar | 50 16 in bar |
| Warranty 20% | 0 1-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| STIHL MS 162 | STIHL MS 172 C-E | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Bar length | 16 in | 16 in |
| Chain pitch | 3/8 in Picco (PMM3) | 3/8 in Picco (PMM3) |
| Tool-free chain tension | No | No |
| Power | ||
| Engine or battery | 30.1 cc, 1.6 hp | 31.8 cc, 1.9 hp |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 9.9 lb (powerhead) | 10.4 lb (powerhead) |
| Anti-vibration | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |