If you’re stuck between the STIHL 391 and the 362, here’s the truth: the 362 is lighter and smoother. It’s better if you cut all day. The 391 gives more raw power for less money.
I’ve used both saws. I cleared storm damage in Georgia. I cut firewood in snowy Michigan. The 391 feels strong in your hands. But the 362 wears me out less. That helps after hours of cutting.
I’ve done yard work and land cleanup for years. Each saw has a job it does best. Let’s go over what really matters. That way, you can pick the right saw for your work.
Table of Contents
STIHL 391 vs 362: Easy-to-Read Comparison
I’ve used both saws in all kinds of places—from frozen firewood runs in Michigan to storm cleanups in Georgia. They’re both great, but they do different jobs. Here’s how they compare.
Cutting Power: STIHL 391 vs 362
The MS 391 gives more raw power. It’s great for big cuts.
The MS 362 is faster and smoother. It’s great for longer or pro jobs.
Feature | STIHL MS 391 | STIHL MS 362 |
Engine Displacement | 64.1 cc | 59.0 cc |
Horsepower | 4.4 hp | 4.6 hp |
Torque Feel | Heavier push | Smooth and quick |
Max Bar Length | 25 in | 28 in |
The STIHL MS 391 cuts thick oak with less slowdown.
The STIHL MS 362 cuts faster and bounces back quicker. It feels sharper.
Rating:
STIHL MS 391: 9/10
STIHL MS 362: 9.5/10
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Weight and Balance: STIHL 391 vs 362
The STIHL MS 362 is lighter and feels more balanced.
The STIHL MS 391 gets heavy after a while.
Feature | STIHL MS 391 | STIHL MS 362 |
Powerhead Weight | 13.7 lbs | 12.3 lbs |
Balance Feel | Nose-heavy | Even and centered |
Fatigue Level | High | Low |
After 90 minutes of cutting, the 391 wears me out.
The 362 is easier on my arms and back.
Rating:
STIHL MS 391: 7/10
STIHL MS 362: 9/10
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Fuel and Runtime: STIHL 391 vs 362
Both saws have the same tank size.
The STIHL MS 362 burns fuel better, so run time is about the same.
Feature | STIHL MS 391 | STIHL MS 362 |
Fuel Tank Size | 20.3 oz | 20.3 oz |
Fuel Use | Average | Better (M-Tronic) |
Runtime | Long | Long |
Both run 40–50 minutes per tank.
The STIHL MS 362 smells cleaner and runs with less carbon.
Rating:
STIHL MS 391: 8.5/10
STIHL MS 362: 9/10
Starting System: STIHL 391 vs 362
Both start well.
But the STIHL MS 362 adjusts itself with M-Tronic, so it starts easier in heat or cold.
Feature | STIHL MS 391 | STIHL MS 362 |
Starting Pulls | 2–4 pulls | 1–2 pulls |
Auto Tuning | No | Yes (M-Tronic) |
Cold Start | Manual choke | Auto-adjusts |
The STIHL MS 362 runs smooth in cold Montana or hot Florida.
The STIHL MS 391 needs more effort if it’s been sitting.
Rating:
STIHL MS 391: 7.5/10
STIHL MS 362: 9/10
Handling and Vibration: STIHL 391 vs 362
The STIHL MS 362 feels smoother and easier to hold.
The STIHL MS 391 vibrates more and feels chunky.
Feature | STIHL MS 391 | STIHL MS 362 |
Anti-Vibe | Standard | Better |
Grip | Basic | Ergonomic |
Long Use | Hand buzz | Soft, easy feel |
After storm work, my hands were numb with the 391.
The 362 left them fine. Smoother throttle helps too.
Rating:
STIHL MS 391: 7/10
STIHL MS 362: 9.5/10
Durability and Build: STIHL 391 vs 362
Both are strong.
But the 362 is built for daily, hard use.
Feature | STIHL MS 391 | STIHL MS 362 |
Crankcase | Polymer | Magnesium |
Air Filter | Felt | HD2 |
Pro Use | Now and then | Every day |
The 391 holds up well, but I clean it more.
The 362 stays cooler and cleaner in dust.
Rating:
STIHL MS 391: 8/10
STIHL MS 362: 9.5/10
Maintenance: STIHL 391 vs 362
Both need care.
The STIHL MS 362 is faster to clean and adjusts itself.
Feature | STIHL MS 391 | STIHL MS 362 |
Filter Access | Manual | Quick twist-off |
Tuning | Manual carb | Auto (M-Tronic) |
Chain Access | Standard | Standard |
The STIHL MS 391 is fine if you like to tinker.
But the STIHL MS 362 saves time and runs strong.
Rating:
STIHL MS 391: 8/10
STIHL MS 362: 9/10
Value: STIHL 391 vs 362
The STIHL MS 391 is cheaper.
The STIHL MS 362 costs more but gives more in return.
Feature | STIHL MS 391 | STIHL MS 362 |
MSRP | ~$729.99 | ~$939.99 |
Pro Features | Fewer | Many |
Long-Term Value | Good | Great |
For homeowners, the STIHL MS 391 is solid.
For regular or pro use, the STIHL MS 362 is worth it.
Rating:
STIHL MS 391: 8.5/10
STIHL MS 362: 9/10
Overall: STIHL 391 vs 362
Both are great saws.
The STIHL MS 391 is strong, solid, and budget-friendly.
The STIHL MS 362 is light, smart, and built to last.
Category | STIHL MS 391 | STIHL MS 362 |
Best For | Landowners | Pros, Heavy Use |
Strengths | Power, Price | Weight, Features |
Weaknesses | Heavier | Higher Price |
Want raw power without a big spend? Go with the 391.
Want the best all-day saw? Choose the 362.
Rating:
STIHL MS 391: 8.1/10
STIHL MS 362: 9.2/10
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Handle Comfort vs. Cutting Power: What Matters More to Me
I used to think cutting power was the most important thing. Back when I first started clearing trees in the Georgia heat, I always grabbed the STIHL 391. It felt strong, and I liked that. But over time, I learned something: comfort matters more than I thought.
On long days, when I’m jumping from one job to the next, comfort keeps me going. If I’m in a rush or just cutting a few logs for firewood, I still use the 391. It’s strong, easy to trust, and gets the job done fast.
But when I’m out in the woods for hours—trimming branches or bucking pine—the 362 is the one I grab. It’s lighter, smoother, and easier on my body. After using it for a while, I noticed I could cut longer without getting tired. That was a big change for me.
At first, I didn’t expect the 362 to stand out. It’s a little smaller, and the numbers don’t show a huge difference. But in real use, it made my work faster and easier. That’s why I think it’s worth the extra cost.
For people in the U.S. who deal with hot summers or cold winters, the 362’s M-Tronic system is a big help. It adjusts on its own and runs smooth in all kinds of weather.
Last fall, I used the 362 after a big storm. It handled limbs and mid-size trunks fast. My hands didn’t feel sore, and my back held up fine. When I hit a big, seasoned oak log, I grabbed the 391. It pushed through like a beast. Both saws have their strengths. But for long workdays, the 362 wins.
Tips for Better Results
- Let your saw warm up in cold weather. It helps it run smooth.
- Keep your chain sharp. Clean the bar groove often. A clean saw cuts better and safer.
- Use ethanol-free gas or add fuel stabilizer. It keeps your engine healthy in storage.
- Clean your air filter often. After a dusty job in Kansas, mine was packed tight.
- Always wear gloves, eye and ear protection. Don’t skip safety—it matters.
Final Thoughts on STIHL 391 vs 362
Here’s the bottom line:
The STIHL 391 gives raw power for less money. It’s a great choice for landowners or folks who cut firewood now and then.
The STIHL 362 costs more but gives you better comfort and smoother use. It’s the better pick if you work often or for long hours.
If you only cut once in a while, the 391 is a smart buy. But if you’re out there often—or just want a saw that feels better all day—the 362 is worth it.
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FAQs: STIHL 391 vs 362
Which chainsaw is better for heavy-duty cutting: STIHL 391 or 362?
The STIHL 391 offers more torque for thick wood, while the 362 cuts faster and stays cooler. Choose the 391 for power, or the 362 for all-day comfort.
Is the STIHL 362 worth the higher price compared to the 391?
Yes—if you cut often. The STIHL 362 is lighter, smoother, and better for long use. But the STIHL 391 is great for strong cuts on a tighter budget.
Which chainsaw is easier to start: STIHL 391 or 362?
The STIHL 362 starts faster with fewer pulls, thanks to its M-Tronic system. The 391 works well too but takes more effort in cold weather.