Are you on the market looking for a high-quality chainsaw? Look no further than the Stihl MS 181 and the MS 231. These two models are among Stihl’s most popular options, and each offers unique features that make them stand out from the crowd. Stihl MS 181 Vs MS 231, Which one should you choose?
STIHL MS 181
The STIHL MS 181 chainsaw is the perfect addition to any homeowner’s garage. It’s lightweight and compact, but still packs a punch when it comes to cutting through thick logs. The MS 181 chainsaw is ideal for occasional wood-cutting tasks around the home, cutting firewood or felling small trees. It’s a lightweight and easy-to-manage chainsaw that is great for homeowners who want to maintain their property.
STIHL MS 231
STIHL MS 231 The STIHL MS 231 chainsaw is designed for firewood cutting, harvesting thin wood and trimming small trees. It’s also a good choice for landowners looking for a powerful tool to tackle tougher cutting jobs or those who need to work in tight spaces, like in urban areas or around their homes.
Stihl MS 181 Vs MS 231
| MS 181 | MS 231 | |
| Technical specifications | MS 181 | MS 231 |
| Displacement cm³ | 31,8 | 42,6 |
| Power output kW/bhp | 1,5/2 | 2/2,7 |
| Weight kg | 4,3 1) | 4,8 1) |
| Power-to-weight ratio kg/kW | 2,9 | 2,4 |
| Sound pressure level dB(A) | 100 2) | 103 2) |
| Sound power level dB(A) | 112 3) | 114 3) |
| Vibration level left/right m/s² | 3,5/3 4) | 3,9/3,9 4) |
| Saw chain pitch | 3/8″P | 3/8″P |
| STIHL Oilomatic saw chain type | Picco Micro Mini 3 (PMM3) | Picco Micro 3 (PM3) |
Engine Displacement
One of the main differences between these chainsaws is their engine displacement. The MS 181 features a 31cc engine, while the MS 231 has a slightly larger 36cc engine. This means that the 231 has slightly more power than the 181. A larger engine also has one other benefit: it will typically last longer than a smaller engine because it won’t be working as hard to get the same amount of work done.
Power output
Both models also have a purge primer bulb. The main differences between these two models are in their power output and weight. The STIHL MS 181 has an output of 1.5 kilowatts, while the STIHL MS 331 has an output of 1.8 kilowatts.
Weight
The STIHL MS 181 has a weight of 4.3 kg (9.5 lbs), while the STIHL MS 231 weighs 4.8 kg (10.6 lbs).
Power-to-weight ratio
In terms of power-to-weight ratio, the STIHL MS 231 has a better ratio due to its higher power output despite being only slightly heavier than the MS 181. The MS 181 has a power output of 2.0 kW (2.7 hp) and a power-to-weight ratio of 0.47 kW/kg, while the MS 231 has a power output of 2.5 kW (3.3 hp) and a power-to-weight ratio of 0.52 kW/kg.
Sound pressure level
The STIHL MS 181 has a sound pressure level of 104 dB(A) and the STIHL MS 231 has a sound pressure level of 114 dB(A)
Sound power level
The sound power level of the STIHL MS 181 chainsaw is 105 dB(A). The sound power level of the STIHL MS 231 chainsaw is 107 dB(A).
Vibration level left/right
The vibration level left/right is a measurement used to quantify the number of harmful vibrations that occur in a saw. The lower the number, the less vibration is produced. The STIHL MS 181 generates 3.5 m/s² and the STIHL MS 231 produces 3.9 m/s².
Saw chain pitch
The STIHL MS 181 and MS 231 both use a 3/8″ chainsaw pitch. The STIHL Oilomatic saw chain type used by both models is the Picco Micro 3 (PM3). This saw chain is designed to provide maximum performance and durability. It features a small-radius semi-chisel cutter that helps reduce kickback and vibration, and a narrow-kerf design for improved cutting efficiency.
STIHL Oilomatic saw chain type
The STIHL MS 181 and MS 231 chainsaws both use the same 3/8″ P Oilomatic saw chain type. This chain is designed for cutting hard and soft wood as well as green wood. It features a low-kickback design with narrow kerf and low vibration, making it ideal for precise cutting and trimming.
The chain is also equipped with a LubriTec oiling system to help reduce friction and extend its life of the chain. Both chainsaws are powered by a fuel-efficient, low-emission STIHL engine, which is designed for long-lasting performance and durability.
STIHL MS 181 vs MS 231|Which is better?
Both STIHL chainsaws have their own advantages and disadvantages, and which one is better depends on your specific needs and preferences. The STIHL MS 181 is a lightweight and compact chainsaw with a power output of 2.0 kW and a bar length of up to 18 inches. It is suitable for small-scale cutting jobs, such as pruning, limbing, and firewood cutting. The MS 181 comes with an Easy2Start system, which makes it easy to start and operate the saw.
On the other hand, the STIHL MS 231 is a more powerful chainsaw with a power output of 2.0 kW and a bar length of up to 16 inches. This chainsaw is suitable for medium-scale cutting jobs, such as felling small trees and cutting thick branches. The MS 231 also comes with an anti-vibration system, which provides a comfortable grip and reduces operator fatigue.
Both chainsaws have high-quality components and are manufactured with the same STIHL standards. However, the MS 231 has some advanced features such as toolless fuel and oil cap, a decompression valve, and a pre-separation air filtration system that may make it a better option for heavy-duty tasks.
In conclusion, if you need a chainsaw for small-scale jobs, the STIHL MS 181 is a great choice. However, if you require a chainsaw for medium-scale and some heavy-duty tasks, the STIHL MS 231 may be the better option.
The End
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a reliable chainsaw that can handle a variety of tasks, both the Stihl MS 181 and the MS 231 are excellent options. If you’re looking for a lightweight and maneuverable saw, the MS 181 may be the best option for you. But if you need a more powerful saw that can handle heavy-duty tasks with ease, the MS 231 is the way to go. Whichever model you choose, you can’t go wrong with Stihl’s reputation for quality and dependability.