Echo CS 400 vs Stihl MS250: Honest Review

When looking at Echo CS 400 vs Stihl MS250, both saws stand out in the mid-size range. The Echo is lighter and easier to start, while the Stihl packs more raw power for hardwoods.

I’ve used both around my property, and each has its place depending on the job. Based on real use, I’ll break down the strengths and trade-offs so you can choose with confidence.

Is the Echo CS-400 Good?

Yes, the Echo CS-400 is a very good chainsaw if you want something light, simple, and easy to use. I picked one up for the farm, and it has become one of my favorite tools.

It runs on a 40.2 cc 2-stroke engine, which is strong enough for jobs like cutting firewood, trimming limbs, or clearing the edges of fields. At just 10.1 pounds for the powerhead, it feels easier to hold than bigger saws like my Stihl MS250.

The best part is the starting system. The i-30™ starter makes it quick and smooth. I don’t have to pull hard or many times, which is great when I’m out in the field and need to get work done fast.

I also chose this saw because of its strong reputation. The Echo CS-400 has been around for years and is known for being tough and reliable. Even though Echo has now replaced it with the CS-4010, I still found mine at a big-box store here in the U.S. If you want one, grab it soon while they’re still on shelves.

What I Like

• Lightweight feel: I can cut brush and small trees without getting worn out. The balance makes longer jobs easier.
• Easy starting: The i-30™ system works. Most of the time, it starts in one or two pulls.
• Strong for its size: The 40.2 cc engine handles everyday cutting, even hardwood like oak and hickory.
• Great warranty: The 5-year consumer warranty gives me peace of mind. For a saw in this price range, that’s rare.
• Easy to buy: I found mine at Home Depot. It’s nice to have parts and extras easy to find in the U.S.

What Could Be Better

• More plastic parts: The handle and body are plastic. It hasn’t failed me, but metal would feel sturdier.
• Bar size choice: It comes with an 18-inch bar. I prefer a 16-inch for quicker cuts and better control. You can swap, but it would be nice to choose at purchase.
• Discontinued model: Since it’s replaced by the CS-4010, parts may get harder to find later.

Recommendation

I recommend the Echo CS-400 if you want a dependable, mid-size chainsaw that’s easy to start and light to carry.

Choose this saw if:

• You need a chainsaw for firewood, storm cleanup, or yard work.
• You want quick, easy starts without hassle.
• You prefer a light saw that won’t tire you out.
• You value a long warranty.
• You like shopping at Home Depot or other big-box stores for parts and support.

Look at other options if:

• You cut every day and need pro-level power.
• You want the newest design and features.
• You prefer a saw built with more metal.

For me, the Echo CS-400 is a smart balance of size, strength, and comfort. It isn’t the most powerful saw, but it handles medium work with ease. On the farm here in the U.S., it’s been a reliable choice that makes cutting jobs simple and stress-free.

Is the Stihl MS250 Good?

Yes, the Stihl MS250 is a strong and dependable chainsaw. If you cut hardwood often or need a saw that feels rugged in your hands, this one stands out. I’ve used mine on the farm for jobs like bucking oak logs and clearing storm damage, and it has the muscle to get through without slowing down.

The 45.4 cc 2-stroke engine gives it more punch than lighter saws. You notice that extra power when cutting hardwood or bigger rounds. At 10.1 lbs for the powerhead, it weighs about the same as the Echo CS-400, but the power-to-weight ratio feels different.

Starting is reliable, though it sometimes takes more pulls compared to the Echo. Once it’s running, it stays smooth and steady. The build feels solid, with less plastic and a sturdier frame, which gives me confidence when tackling heavy jobs.

One thing to keep in mind is that Stihl saws are only sold through authorized dealers in the U.S. That means you can’t just grab one at Home Depot. But the upside is that you get dealer support and service, which is valuable if you use the saw often.

What I Like

• Stronger cutting power: The 45.4 cc engine chews through hardwood. When I cut oak or hickory, it feels like the saw has plenty of reserve.
• Rugged build: The MS250 feels more solid than many saws in this size. The mix of metal and heavy-duty parts gives it a pro-level vibe.
• Dealer support: Buying from a Stihl dealer means I get setup help, parts, and advice. That’s not something you get at a big-box store.
• Balanced weight: Even with the extra power, it doesn’t feel much heavier than the Echo CS-400. For me, that balance makes longer jobs easier.

What Could Be Better

• Shorter warranty: Stihl only offers a 1-year consumer warranty, which feels small compared to Echo’s 5 years. I’d like more peace of mind.
• Harder starting: It starts fine, but I notice it takes more effort, especially when cold. A simpler starting system would help.
• Dealer-only buying: For some, not being able to buy it at a big-box store is a hassle. In rural areas, the nearest dealer might be a long drive.

Recommendation

I recommend the Stihl MS250 if you want a chainsaw that’s rugged, powerful, and built for tougher jobs.

Choose the MS250 if:

• You regularly cut hardwood or larger logs.
• You want a saw that feels rugged and durable.
• You like the idea of dealer support and expert service.
• You don’t mind pulling a bit harder to start it.

Look at other options if:

• You want a longer warranty.
• You prefer quick, easy starting every time.
• You’d rather buy from a big-box retailer than a dealer.

For me, the Stihl MS250 is the saw I grab when I know the work will be harder. On the farm here in the U.S., it gives me the cutting strength I need for oak, hickory, and storm cleanup. It’s not the lightest starter, but once it’s running, it feels like a saw that’s ready for anything.

Details Comparison: Echo CS 400 vs Stihl MS250

I’ve had the chance to run both the Echo CS 400 and the Stihl MS250. From cutting up storm-fallen trees in the yard to splitting logs for the fireplace, these saws have been part of my weekend jobs. They’re both solid mid-range saws, but they shine in different ways. Here’s how they compare based on what I’ve experienced.

Engine Power: Echo CS 400 vs Stihl MS250

The Echo CS 400 comes with a 40.2 cc engine. It’s smooth and steady but not the fastest when tackling thick hardwood. The Stihl MS250 packs a 45.4 cc engine, and you can feel the extra punch right away, especially in oak or hickory.

When I cut through maple logs last winter, the MS250 finished the job faster with less bogging down. The Echo handled it, but I had to give it more time.

• Echo CS 400 rating: 7.5/10
• Stihl MS250 rating: 9/10

Weight and Balance: Echo CS 400 vs Stihl MS250

The Echo CS 400 is lighter, around 10.1 lbs with the bar and chain, which makes it easier for longer cutting sessions. The Stihl MS250 weighs 10.1 lbs for the powerhead alone, so once you add the bar and chain, it feels a bit heavier.

On days when I had a lot of trimming to do, the Echo felt easier on my arms. But for bigger cuts, the weight of the Stihl actually helped keep the bar steady through the log.

• Echo CS 400 rating: 8.5/10
• Stihl MS250 rating: 8/10

Starting System: Echo CS 400 vs Stihl MS250

The Echo has a reputation for easy starts, and I’ve found that true. Even after sitting for weeks, a couple of pulls usually got it running. The Stihl MS250 starts fine, but it sometimes takes a bit more effort, especially in cold weather.

One fall morning, I pulled the Echo twice and was cutting in seconds. The Stihl took a few more pulls, but once warmed up, it kept going strong.

• Echo CS 400 rating: 9/10
• Stihl MS250 rating: 8/10

Build Quality: Echo CS 400 vs Stihl MS250

The Stihl MS250 feels more rugged in hand. It has that sturdy build, with heavier parts that make it seem like it can take a beating. The Echo is well-built too, but it leans on plastic in a few places, which makes it feel less tough.

I’ve dropped both on rough ground. The Stihl barely scratched, while the Echo showed some dings.

• Echo CS 400 rating: 8/10
• Stihl MS250 rating: 9/10

Dealer Support and Warranty: Echo CS 400 vs Stihl MS250

The Echo comes with a 5-year consumer warranty, which is impressive. It’s also easy to find parts online or at local hardware stores in the U.S. The Stihl MS250 has only a 1-year warranty, and you can only buy from authorized dealers.

In the U.S., dealer support is great for Stihl. The staff at my local shop gave me solid advice and even sharpened my chain. But if you like online shopping, Echo makes it easier.

• Echo CS 400 rating: 9/10
• Stihl MS250 rating: 7.5/10

Performance: Echo CS 400 vs Stihl MS250

When it comes to real cutting power, the Stihl MS250 pulls ahead. It chews through hardwood faster and doesn’t stall as easily. The Echo CS 400 is no slouch—it’s reliable for medium jobs and softwoods—but it can’t match the Stihl in raw strength.

After using both side by side, I reach for the Stihl when I know I’ll be working on big logs. For lighter chores, the Echo is my pick because it’s easier to handle.

• Echo CS 400 rating: 8/10
• Stihl MS250 rating: 9/10

Ease of Use: Echo CS 400 vs Stihl MS250

The Echo is lighter, easier to start, and feels simpler for beginners. The Stihl requires more effort, but it rewards that effort with serious performance.

I lent the Echo to a neighbor who had never used a chainsaw before, and he managed fine. The Stihl would’ve been harder for him to get going.

• Echo CS 400 rating: 9/10
• Stihl MS250 rating: 8/10

Value for Money: Echo CS 400 vs Stihl MS250

The Echo CS 400 usually comes in at a lower price point, and with the 5-year warranty, it’s a solid deal. The Stihl MS250 costs more, and the warranty is shorter, but you’re paying for extra power and a sturdier build.

For the average U.S. homeowner who just needs a saw for yard work, the Echo may be the better value. But for those cutting hardwood or using a saw often, the Stihl earns its keep.

• Echo CS 400 rating: 9/10
• Stihl MS250 rating: 8/10

Overall: Echo CS 400 vs Stihl MS250

Both saws do their job well, but in different ways. The Echo CS 400 is lighter, easier, and a better value for casual users. The Stihl MS250 is stronger, tougher, and better for heavy use.

If I had to keep only one, I’d pick the Stihl because I cut a lot of hardwood. But if I were advising a friend who just needs a reliable saw for firewood and storm cleanup, I’d suggest the Echo.

• Echo CS 400 overall rating: 8.5/10
• Stihl MS250 overall rating: 8.5/10

FAQs for Echo CS 400 vs Stihl MS250

What are the main differences between Echo CS 400 vs Stihl MS250?

The Echo CS 400 is lighter and easier to start, while the Stihl MS250 has more power and a tougher build for hardwood cutting.

Which is better for homeowners in the USA?

The Echo CS 400 is better for casual U.S. homeowners who need easy use and a long warranty. The Stihl MS250 suits heavy cutting and hardwood tasks.

Is the Echo CS 400 more reliable than the Stihl MS250?

Both are reliable, but the Echo starts easier after storage. The Stihl feels stronger over time with its rugged build.

Which chainsaw lasts longer, Echo CS 400 or Stihl MS250?

The Stihl MS250 has a sturdier frame and may last longer with heavy use. The Echo lasts well too, thanks to its 5-year consumer warranty.

Is the Echo CS 400 vs Stihl MS250 worth the price difference?

Yes, both are worth it. Echo is more budget-friendly, while Stihl gives more power and toughness for those who cut hardwood often.