When choosing a chainsaw, one of the main considerations is whether you need a professional-grade model or if a more basic homeowner-grade saw will suffice. ECHO chain saws fall somewhere in the middle, offering pro-level features at a price accessible to homeowners. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at ECHO chainsaws to help you decide if they can stand up to professional use.
What makes a chainsaw “professional-grade”?
Professional chainsaws are designed for heavy-duty use, day in and day out. They need to be rugged, powerful, and reliable enough to get the job done efficiently when used by loggers, arborists, and other workers who rely on them. Some key features of pro-level chainsaws include:
- Powerful engines – Professional chainsaws typically have 45cc to 90cc displacement engines that deliver robust torque and fast cutting speeds.
- All-metal construction – The exterior housing and interior components are durable metal to withstand constant heavy use and impacts.
- Advanced anti-vibration – Extra damping elements and isolated engine mounts reduce vibration for easier control and less operator fatigue.
- Large fuel tanks – Let workers cut longer between refueling for increased productivity.
- Tool-less access – Hand screws allow easy cleaning, maintenance, and repairs in the field.
- Heavy-duty air filters – Prevent debris from entering the engine and lengthen intervals between cleanings.
- Automatic oiling – Maintains proper chain lubrication without monitoring.
- Wrap-around handles – Provide a secure grip from many angles.
- Chain brake – Stops the chain instantly if kickback occurs for safety.
- Spiked bumper – Aids in stabilization when boring cuts.
While homeowner saws may have some of these features, pro models bring it all together into a complete heavy-duty package designed for full-time professional users.
ECHO chainsaw product line overview
ECHO produces a wide range of chainsaws, from small electric and battery-powered models up to high-performance professional grade gas saws. Their pro-level models fall into three main series:
ECHO CS-490
The CS-490 series consists of 50cc and 60cc class saws designed for demanding commercial use. Key features include:
- 50.2cc or 59.8cc 2-stroke engines putting out 3.9HP or 4.9HP
- GripHeat handles – Reduces fatigue by keeping hands warm
- Tool-less access to components
- 18-24 inch bar length capacity
- Automatic oil pump
- Pro-Fire electronic ignition
- Decompression valve for easy starts
- Air pre-cleaner extends filter life
- Anti-vibration handles
- Magnesium crankcase – Lightweight and durable
The CS-490 saws weigh 12-13 pounds depending on bar length and pack plenty of power while remaining relatively lightweight for their class.
ECHO CS-620P
The CS-620P series steps up to high-performance 60cc professional models. Features include:
- 59.8cc engine outputting 4.9HP
- Tool-less decompression valve access
- Intake temperature regulation for consistent power
- 18-25 inch bar capacity
- GripHeat heated handles
- Captive bar nuts won’t loosen
- Automatic oiler
- Spring anti-vibration
- Magnesium crankcase
- Air injection pre-cleaner
The CS-620P chainsaws deliver robust power for taking on the toughest jobs while weighing only 12.6 pounds.
ECHO CS-8000P
The CS-8000P series represents ECHO’s most powerful pro-level chainsaws. Key features include:
- 79.9cc engine pumping out 6.6HP
- Tool-less access to all maintenance points
- Decompression valve for easy starts
- 18-36 inch bar capacity
- Heated handles standard
- Captive nuts on bar
- Isolated engine mounts
- Heavy-duty air filter
- Magnesium crankcase
Despite their robust power, the CS-8000P saws weigh just 13 pounds for maneuverability in tight work spaces.
How ECHO chainsaws compare to other professional models
To help put ECHO’s pro-level saws into context, here is how they stack up against two of the leading professional chainsaw brands, Stihl and Husqvarna:
Power
ECHO’s top models like the 79cc CS-8000P compete directly with pro-grade Stihl and Husqvarna saws in the 70cc-80cc range in terms of engine power and displacement:
| Model | Engine Size | Horsepower |
|---|---|---|
| ECHO CS-8000P | 79.9cc | 6.6HP |
| Stihl MS880 | 79.9cc | 6.6HP |
| Husqvarna 592XP | 81cc | 6.3HP |
ECHO’s smaller professional models like the CS-490 and CS-620P also align with comparable Stihl and Husqvarna products in the 50cc-60cc segment for displacement and horsepower.
Weight
When it comes to weight, ECHO’s pro chainsaws are right in line with the big name brands:
| Model | Powerhead Weight |
|---|---|
| ECHO CS-8000P | 13lbs |
| Stihl MS880 | 13.9lbs |
| Husqvarna 592XP | 13.2lbs |
The lightweight magnesium crankcases help keep ECHO’s pro saws competitively trimmed down for their power.
Features
ECHO’s pro-level chainsaws incorporate most of the same features as equivalent models from Stihl and Husqvarna to meet the demands of daily professional use:
- Tool-less access to components for maintenance
- Heavy-duty air filtration
- Automatic chain oiling
- anti-vibration systems
- Decompression valves for easy starting
- Durable metal construction
- Rubberized wrap handles for comfort
- Chain brakes for safety
- Built-in winter grip heating on higher-end models
When it comes to pro-level engineering and design, ECHO chainsaws incorporate most of the same technologies as the leading brands.
Pros of ECHO chainsaws
Here are some of the reasons to consider an ECHO if you need a professional-grade chainsaw:
Powerful performance
Top ECHO models like the 79cc CS-8000P deliver best-in-class power on par with Stihl and Husqvarna’s leading pro saws. The engines provide robust torque for fast cutting through thick, hardwood logs.
Competitive pricing
ECHO chainsaws are generally priced lower than comparable models from the more “premium” brands. You can get pro-level features and performance at a more accessible price point.
Lightweight design
Magnesium crankcases help keep the weight down on ECHO’s pro models for greater control and less fatigue during extended use. The saws provide an optimal power-to-weight ratio.
Smooth operation
ECHO’s pro-level saws feature anti-vibration handles and isolated engine mounts to absorb vibrations for smooth, low-fatigue operation. This allows you to work comfortably for longer periods.
Reliable starting
Decompression valves allow the engine to be turned over with less pull force for easier starts. Once running, the digital ignition systems provide consistent performance.
Heated handles
Most ECHO pro models come standard with grip heating elements to keep hands warm while working in cold conditions. This extends comfortable working time in frigid temps.
5 year consumer warranty
ECHO offers one of the longest consumer warranties in the chainsaw industry at 5 years. This provides peace of mind that they stand behind the durability of their pro models.
Potential drawbacks
ECHO chainsaws still lag behind Stihl and Husqvarna saws in a couple areas:
Dealer network
ECHO has fewer authorized servicing dealers across the country than brands like Stihl and Husqvarna. This may limit your repair options if you need maintenance work done under warranty. However, their dealer network is improving.
Resale value
While ECHO saws provide excellent value when purchased new, they tend to have lower resale prices on the used market than Stihl and Husqvarna models. The more premium branding of those manufacturers carries greater value at resale for some buyers.
Aftermarket customization
There are fewer aftermarket accessories and customization options made specifically for ECHO chainsaws compared to the leading brands. But you can still outfit an ECHO saw with universal aftermarket parts.
ECHO chainsaw prices
Here is a sampling of MSRP pricing on ECHO’s professional-grade gasoline chainsaw models:
| Model | MSRP |
|---|---|
| CS-490 | $429 – $469 |
| CS-620P | $519 – $559 |
| CS-8000P | $1029 – $1129 |
Pricing varies based on specific configurations and bar lengths. As you can see, ECHO pro saws are generally priced below comparable models from Stihl that can cost $150 – $300 more.
Conclusion
ECHO’s professional-grade chainsaw models offer commercial power and performance at a more accessible price point for homeowners or value-conscious professionals. Models like the CS-8000P can handle even the toughest jobs for extended periods.
While they may lack some of the premium brand equity and dealer network of Stihl and Husqvarna, ECHO pro saws incorporate robust power and most heavy-duty features needed to tackle the demands of daily professional use. For anyone looking for pro-level capability without the premium price tags, ECHO remains a compelling option worth considering.