If you’re stuck choosing between the Stihl 462 and the 500i, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too—standing in the shop, not sure which saw to buy.
The 462 is lighter. It’s easier on your arms.
The 500i is stronger. It cuts faster, especially in thick hardwood.
I’ve used both saws. I’ve worked storm cleanups and cut firewood for years.
Each saw has its time to shine.
With hands-on work in forestry and land care, I’ve learned what really matters.
Let’s break it down. That way, you can pick the saw that fits your work—without second-guessing.
Table of Contents
Stihl 462 vs 500i: Easy-to-Read Comparison
I’ve used both saws on big jobs. From storm-downed oaks to thick pine and firewood, I’ve put them to the test. After many long days, the differences became clear.
Cutting Power: Stihl 462 vs 500i
The 500i has more power. It feels faster and more aggressive.
The 462 is still strong but feels smoother.
| Feature | Stihl 462 | Stihl 500i |
| Displacement | 72.2 cc | 79.2 cc |
| Max Power | 6.0 hp | 6.7 hp |
| Cut Speed | Smooth, strong | Faster, stronger |
I used the 500i on a 30-inch maple. It didn’t slow down.
The 462 got the job done, but I had to go easier.
Rating
- Stihl 462: 8/10
- Stihl 500i: 9.5/10
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Weight and Balance: Stihl 462 vs 500i
The 462 wins here. It’s light and easy to move.
Great for limbing and long days.
| Feature | Stihl 462 | Stihl 500i |
| Dry Weight | 13.2 lbs | 13.9 lbs |
| Feel in Hand | Very balanced | A bit nose-heavy |
| Fatigue | Less over time | More tiring |
After a long day, I felt less worn out using the 462.
Rating
- Stihl 462: 9.5/10
- Stihl 500i: 8/10
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Fuel Use: Stihl 462 vs 500i
The 462 uses less gas. It’s great for light to mid jobs.
The 500i uses more fuel but works faster.
| Feature | Stihl 462 | Stihl 500i |
| Tank Size | 24.3 oz | 26.5 oz |
| Run Time | Longer on light work | Shorter under load |
| Fuel Use | Very good | High under stress |
On spring cleanups, the 462 needed fewer refills.
Rating
- Stihl 462: 9/10
- Stihl 500i: 7.5/10
Starting and Ease of Use: Stihl 462 vs 500i
The 500i is simple. No choke. Just pull and go.
The 462 still starts well, but needs a bit more time.
| Feature | Stihl 462 | Stihl 500i |
| Start Style | Pull with decompression | Electronic fuel injection |
| Cold Start | Quick | Very fast |
| Warm Restart | Smooth | Instant |
One cold day, the 500i started with one pull. That impressed me.
Rating
- Stihl 462: 8.5/10
- Stihl 500i: 9.5/10
Maintenance and Repairs: Stihl 462 vs 500i
Both are built to last.
But the 462 is easier to fix yourself.
| Feature | Stihl 462 | Stihl 500i |
| Tech Simplicity | Easy to work on | High-tech EFI system |
| Air Filter | Twist-off access | Twist-off access |
| Long-Term Fixes | DIY friendly | May need dealer tools |
Both saws are tough, but the 462 is easier for home repair.
Rating
- Stihl 462: 9/10
- Stihl 500i: 8/10
Value for the Price: Stihl 462 vs 500i
Both are pricey, but worth it.
The 462 is a great all-around buy.
The 500i is best for big, fast cuts.
| Feature | Stihl 462 | Stihl 500i |
| Price (Avg) | Around $1,350 | Around $1,500 |
| Best Use | Firewood, cleanup | Big trees, pro work |
| Power vs Cost | Strong value | High power, high cost |
If I could only buy one for everyday use, I’d go with the 462.
For big hardwood all week? The 500i is king.
Rating
- Stihl 462: 9/10
- Stihl 500i: 8.5/10
Overall: Stihl 462 vs 500i
Both are great saws.
The 462 is lighter, easier to use, and better for long days.
The 500i is stronger and faster for big cuts.
| Feature | Stihl 462 | Stihl 500i |
| Best For | Firewood, full-day use | Big trees, pro speed |
| Strength | Light, easy, great value | Fast, powerful, tech-driven |
| Downside | Less torque | Heavier, uses more gas |
I use both. For most jobs, I grab the 462.
For the biggest trees? The 500i takes the win.
Overall Rating:
- Stihl 462: 9/10
- Stihl 500i: 9/10
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How I Choose Between Light Balance and Raw Power in Chainsaws
When I’m working in the woods or cleaning up after a storm, the choice between the Stihl 462 and 500i depends on the job.
If I’m climbing or limbing trees all day, I pick the 462. It’s light, easy to move, and doesn’t wear me out.
But if I’m cutting thick hardwood or big rounds? That’s when the 500i shines. Its power and quick throttle feel amazing.
One thing that really stood out? The 500i’s electronic fuel injection. No choke. No guesswork. Just pull and cut.
On cold Midwest mornings, that’s a game-changer.
Still, when I need a simple saw I can fix in the field, I trust the 462. It’s like an old friend that just works.
Pros of the Stihl 462
- Light in the hands — perfect for long days
- Burns less gas — saves money over time
- Simple to fix without fancy tools
Cons of the Stihl 462
- Slower in thick hardwood
- Manual start feels a bit old in 2025
Pros of the Stihl 500i
- Big power and fast response
- Starts quick — even in cold weather
- Great for pro tree work or big trees
Cons of the Stihl 500i
- Costs more upfront
- A bit heavier and harder to fix
Tips for Getting the Best Cuts
- Use clean, high-octane fuel — both saws run better
- Match the bar to the job — a 25″ bar cuts oak fast, but it’s too much for small jobs
- Keep the chain sharp and tight — it makes every cut smoother
- Store your saw indoors — helps the 500i’s electronics last longer
Final Thoughts: 462 vs 500i
It all comes down to what kind of work you do.
Want a saw that’s light, uses less fuel, and is easy to fix? Go with the 462. That’s the one I toss in the truck for most jobs.
Need raw power and fast starts for big trees? The 500i is the saw for you.
If I had to pick one saw for all seasons, I’d choose the 462.
But when it’s time to drop big hardwood?
The 500i still makes me smile every time I pull the cord.
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FAQs: Stihl 462 vs 500i
Which is better for everyday use: the Stihl 462 vs 500i?
The Stihl 462 is better for daily use. It’s lighter, easier to handle, and uses less fuel—great for long workdays or cutting firewood.
Does the Stihl 500i cut faster than the 462?
Yes, the 500i cuts faster. It has more power and better throttle response, making it ideal for big logs and tough hardwood.
Is the Stihl 462 easier to maintain than the 500i?
Yes, the 462 is easier to maintain. It uses a traditional carb system that’s simple to clean and repair, even without dealer tools.
How does fuel use compare: Stihl 462 vs 500i?
The 462 uses less fuel over time. The 500i burns more but works faster, so it balances out on heavy jobs.
Which chainsaw is easier to start in cold weather?
The 500i starts easier. Its fuel injection system makes cold starts quick—just pull and go, no choke needed.
