If you’re stuck between the Craftsman S160 and S1600, you’re not alone. I faced the same choice last fall. At first, they looked the same. The specs matched too.
But after real use in my yard, I found key differences. Some don’t show up on paper. One had startup issues. The other felt better in my hands.
In this article, I’ll break it down in simple terms. That way, you can choose the one that works when you need it.
Table of Contents
Craftsman S160 vs S1600: Detailed Comparison
I used both saws for storm cleanup and cutting firewood. At first, they seemed almost the same. But small things made a big difference. Here’s how they compare in real use.
Engine Type & Power: Craftsman S160 vs S1600
Both saws use a 42cc 2-cycle engine. They’re strong enough for small and mid-size jobs. But how they run over time is where they split.
| Feature | S160 | S1600 |
| Engine Size | 42cc 2-cycle full-crank | 42cc 2-cycle full-crank |
| Starting | Fast at first, then tricky | Starts better, stays smooth |
| Power Delivery | Strong but rough at idle | Smooth and steady |
The S160 worked well at first. But after a few weeks, it got hard to start. The S1600 stayed reliable. I didn’t expect much from the name change—but it mattered.
Rating
S160: 6.5/10
S1600: 8/10
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Chain & Bar Setup: Craftsman S160 vs S1600
Both saws use a 16-inch bar with a 56-link chain. That’s great for limbs and small logs, but not big trees.
| Feature | S160 | S1600 |
| Bar Length | 16 inches | 16 inches |
| Chain Specs | 3/8″ LP, 0.050″, 56 DL | 3/8″ LP, 0.050″, 56 DL |
| Chain Tensioning | Manual, needs tools | Tool-free (but easy to lose) |
The S1600’s tool-free setup sounds great—until you misplace the tool. The S160’s manual setup took more time, but it worked when I needed it.
Rating
S160: 7/10
S1600: 6.5/10
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Build & Comfort: Craftsman S160 vs S1600
Both are called “lightweight,” but they don’t feel the same.
| Feature | S160 | S1600 |
| Handle Type | Cushioned aluminum | Basic anti-vibe grip |
| Weight (approx.) | ~12 lbs | 12.2 lbs |
| Vibration Dampening | 3-point system | 3-point system |
The S160 felt better during long jobs. The aluminum handle gave a solid grip. The S1600 wasn’t bad—it just didn’t feel as strong.
Rating
S160: 7.5/10
S1600: 6.5/10
Fuel Mix Confusion: Craftsman S160 vs S1600
This part caught me off guard. Both have the same engine, but the fuel mix listed is not the same.
| Feature | S160 | S1600 |
| Fuel Mix Ratio | 40:1 | 50:1 |
| Oil Compatibility | 2-stroke | 2-stroke |
| Clarity in Manual | Not clear | Also vague |
I used 40:1 in both. But if a first-time buyer followed the label, it might hurt the engine. That’s a big problem.
Rating
S160: 5.5/10
S1600: 5.5/10
Reliability: Craftsman S160 vs S1600
This is where the gap really shows.
| Feature | S160 | S1600 |
| Long-Term Use | Got worse fast | Stayed stable |
| Pull Cord Durability | Broke early | Lasted longer |
| Overall Dependability | Poor after 3 months | Held up better |
The S160 failed after a few months. It wouldn’t start, and the cord snapped. The S1600 kept going strong into the next season.
Rating
S160: 4.5/10
S1600: 7/10
Value for Money: Craftsman S160 vs S1600
They’re both budget picks—but one gives you more use for the money.
| Feature | S160 | S1600 |
| Price Range | $170–$199 | $170–$199 |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
| Replacement Risk | Higher | Lower |
The S160 might be fine for light work. But mine didn’t last. The S1600 gave me more use for the same price.
Rating
S160: 5/10
S1600: 6.5/10
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Why I No Longer Use the S1600 for Yard Work
The Craftsman S160 vs S1600 debate really comes down to one thing—how often it works when you need it. I bought the S1600 during a spring sale at my local hardware store. It sat next to the S160 and looked almost the same. Since it was a few bucks cheaper, I picked it.
At first, it did fine. I used it to clear brush and trim limbs after a storm. But by the fourth weekend, the pull cord snapped while I was mid-job. No warning. It just broke. That was the first red flag.
Getting a new cord was a pain. I called support twice, and it still took over a week to arrive. I had to borrow my neighbor’s saw just to finish the job.
The S160? Totally different. I’ve used it harder—cutting wet oak, dry pine, even a small maple stump. It kept going. It starts without trouble, and the aluminum handle feels stronger. That helps, especially with gloves on.
I live in the Southeast, where summer storms and thick growth are common. The S160 handled all that better than I thought a budget saw could.
For me, it’s not just about price or specs. It’s about how much hassle you’re willing to put up with. If you’re doing weekend cleanup or storm work, you need something that works every time. The S160 wins that match—no doubt.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
Use a 40:1 fuel mix.
Even though Craftsman shows both 40:1 and 50:1 in different spots, I’ve had better luck using 40:1 for both saws. It keeps the engine smooth and avoids wear.
Keep the chain sharp, clean, and oiled.
I check mine before each job. A dry or dull chain makes the saw work harder. That shortens engine life—especially on budget models.
Drain the gas tank before winter.
Old fuel can clog the carb. That means trouble when you try to start it in spring. Emptying the tank now saves you time later.
Don’t lose the chain tool (especially on the S1600).
It’s small and easy to misplace. I clip mine to a magnet in the garage so I can always find it.
Wear gloves.
Both saws shake a bit. Good gloves help with grip and cut down on hand fatigue. That matters when working long hours in hot, sticky summer weather.
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Final Thoughts on Craftsman S160 vs S1600
If you’re stuck choosing between the Craftsman S160 and S1600, here’s my simple advice—go with the S160. They may look the same in the store, but once you start using them, the differences show fast.
The S160 held up better. It felt solid in my hands and handled tough jobs without giving up. I’ve used it on soaked firewood and thick brush here in the South, and it kept going. The S1600 gave me issues early on. The broken cord and hard-to-find parts just made things worse.
You’re not just buying a tool—you’re buying peace of mind on a busy weekend. After a storm or during cleanup, you need something that starts and works. For the same price, the S160 gave me more hours, less stress, and fewer problems.
It’s not perfect. But if you want a saw that just works when it counts, the S160 is the better pick—no question.
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FAQs: Craftsman S160 vs S1600
What’s the main difference between the Craftsman S160 and S1600?
The S160 is more reliable over time. The S1600 starts easier but may not last as long.
Is the Craftsman S1600 easier to start than the S160?
Yes. The S1600 starts smooth at first. But over time, it may lose that edge.
Which chainsaw is better for storm cleanup—S160 or S1600?
The S160 is better for big jobs. It’s tougher and starts more often without fuss.
Why do the S160 and S1600 have different fuel mix ratios?
Craftsman lists 40:1 for the S160 and 50:1 for the S1600, even though they have the same engine. I use 40:1 for both—it’s safer.
Which one gives better value for money?
The S160 gives more for your money. It lasts longer and needs fewer repairs. Both cost about the same.
