Echo 590 vs Husqvarna 455 – What’s The Better Chainsaw?

We have compiled a review of two chainsaws, the Echo 590 and the Husqvarna 455.

These machines are similar, but with some important differences. Take your time to consider each of them and check out the added links to learn more about each of these chainsaws.

What are the Main Features of the Echo 590 and Husqvarna 455 Chainsaws

The 590 is designed for farm and range work which it handles brilliantly. Since the 590 has a magnesium crank case, the durability is excellent.

Due to the combination of its compact size and power, this chainsaw really packs a punch. This chainsaw works the most effectively when using the optimal 20” blade.

The 455 is a powerful, lightweight machine that is durable and easy to maintain. The 20” blade is the optimal blade to use and works well on most projects. Hardwood cutting is no problem for this machine. The added benefit of the shock absorbing springs makes it a very capable machine.

Quick Facts Comparison Table

SPECS	Echo 590	Husqvarna 455
Weight	13.3lbs	13.2 lbs
Noise Output	112.2 dB(A)	114 dB (A)
Fuel Capacity	21.8	14.8
Engine Displacement	59.8	55.5
Engine Power	3.0 kW	2.6 kW
Blade Guide	18”, 20”	20”-24”

What Are the Differences between the Echo 590 and the Husqvarna 455

The 590 has a low noise emission which makes it a good contender for home, farm or range use. The 455 is a little louder, but again that may not be an issue for you. The 590 is cheaper and more compact, but it is slightly heavier than the 455.

The 455 has more blade size options which allows use in a variety of projects. This may or may not be relevant for your purpose.

Key Selling Points for Each Chainsaw

590

• Compact design for easier handling
• Powerful engine with high torque
• Easy starting mechanism
• Magnesium crank case
• Easy access to the air filter
• Cost effective

455

• Powerful engine
• Springs for added shock absorption
• Lightweight
• Hardcase available for protection when traveling

What is the Price Difference Between these Chainsaws?

The 590 is retailing for between $420 – $440 and the 455 costs about $530, making it more expensive than the 590. Due to the minor differences between the functionality of the machines, it is not clear whether the increased price is worth it. This will be up to you.

How Does the Handling and Efficiency Compare?

Owing to the anti-vibration technology of the 590, handling is smooth and easy. The handle on the 590 can seem less robust, but this is due to comfort levels and does not influence the durability of the machine.

A great feature of the 455 is the easy starter guide which makes set up and starting easier than ever. It is lightweight and beautifully designed making this machine quick and easy to handle.

The efficiency comparison between these two are minimal and both are very efficient machines. The added benefit of the autotune on the 455 makes it slightly more efficient than the 590.

Which One has More Power?

Differences in power are marginal. The 590 has a higher torque, but this can negatively influence the RPM output. The 455 has a good power-to-weight ratio which results in excellent performance.

If you are looking for a heavy-duty chainsaw, then the 455 is a superior contender.

Which One is more Durable?

As the 455 is designed for more heavy-duty projects, it is slightly more durable. Combining that with the plastic covering of the Echo, this reduces its durability slightly. The 590 has a laminated bar which is less durable than the standard bar of the 455.

What are Some of the Extra Features of these Chainsaws?

Features of the Echo 590 chainsaw include the following:

• Good oiling of the blade throughout use
• Easy starting and good idling
• Low noise emission
• Easy maintenance and refuelling

Features of the Husqvarna 455 chainsaw include:

• Easy maintenance and refuelling
• Hardcase available
• Interlocked throttle trigger for safety
• Durable

Pros and Cons of the Echo 590 and 455 Chainsaws

Echo 590 Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• KickGuard attachment for the tip of the bar
• Excellent weight to power balance
• Excellent torque
• Cheaper

Cons:

• KickGuard can reduce cutting ability
• Laminated bar which may be prone to breaking
• 1 ring piston design
• Heavier on fuel

Husqvarna 455 Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Quick start guide
• Good power to weight ratio
• Easy maintenance

Cons:

• Standard chain is difficult to sharpen
• Kickback chain doesn’t cut as well
• More expensive
• Small fuel capacity

What Possible Problems May you Experience?

With the 590, the laminated bar may affect its durability. Concerning the air filter, this can get blocked quickly, so it is important to continually ensure that the air filter is clean.

The 455 standard chain can be difficult to sharpen because of the kickback safety feature. Also, the fuel mixture for the 455 needs to be mixed correctly to avoid any problems with the machine.

Are there Similar Ones to Consider?

Before you make your final decision, we would recommend you look at three other options of chainsaws. Firstly the Stihl MS 271 which is more fuel efficient than the Echo 590.

The next one is the Husqvarna 460 which is a little more expensive than the Husqvarna 455, but is has fuel injection technology.

The last one is the Echo CS 620p which is on the higher price range, but is more of a professional chainsaw.

Which One Do We Recommend?

We would recommend the 590 for the typical homeowner or hobbyist. It is smaller and more versatile. The 455 has a higher price tag and other than the minor extras it doesn’t really warrant the extra price for the homeowner.

The 590 packs a punch that will easily cope with the projects that are needed on farms or ranges. Our recommendation, if you are looking for an effective chainsaw that is on the cheaper end, the 590 is the way to go.

Final Thoughts

Our belief is that this review will give you all the information you need to make the right decision. Enjoy selecting the right chainsaw for you!