Stihl 391 vs 362 Detailed Guide: Which Saw Excels?

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.

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