Stihl 311 vs Stihl 391 – What’s The Better Chainsaw?


The Stihl 391 chainsaw was introduced more or less to be the more powerful big brother of the Stihl 311. Yet, they resemble each other in many ways – much like actual, human brothers tend to do.

This close resemblance can make it harder for the consumer to make a sound purchasing decision though. But make no mistake about it, these two machines are different in key ways and making the right choice matters.

You don’t want to be out in the field only to find that your chainsaw isn’t powerful enough for the job. Likewise, you don’t want to be in the yard only to find that the chainsaw you just bought kicks back too much for you to use.

To help you out, we tested these two chainsaws and recorded what we found in our side-by-side comparison.

Stihl 311 Vs Stihl 391 Overview

The tale of the Stihl 311 vs the Stihl 391 boils down to minute differences.

In fact, there is more that these chainsaws have in common than what separates them. Both have features that have become Stihl trademarks.

However, when we tested these two chainsaws, we found that we could simply do a bit more with the Stihl 391. We have tested the Stihl 311 before and we found that what was true before still holds true in this comparison – that it is just a bit limiting.

Quick Facts

 

Stihl 311

Stihl 391

Weight

13.6lbs

13.6lbs

Max RPMs

NA

NA

Horsepower

4.2

4.4

Chain Type

Oilomatic ⅜” RS3

Oilomatic ⅜” RS3

Bar Length

16” (recommended)

20”

 

Key Differences Between the Stihl 311 and the Stihl 391

The table above pretty much says it all. The Stihl 311 and the Stihl 391 are almost identical when it comes to key specs.

However, we found that the Stihl 391 was more capable with a 20” bar.

While the Stihl 311 can be outfitted with a 20” bar, we see why Stihl recommends a 16” one – with a 20” bar, the Stihl 311 just feels less stable and wieldy in the hands.

Stihl 311 Key Features

  • Side Chain Tensioner – The tension of the chain can be adjusted with a bar wrench from the side of the machine.
  • Air Filtration – The filter actually ejects heavier debris from reaching the finer filter which extends the life of the filter and the engine.
  • Anti-Vibration System – The Stihl MS 311 features the company’s anti-vibration system that they use on a lot of their outdoor equipment.
  • Decompression Valve – The decompression valve makes it easier to start up the chainsaw.

Stihl 311 Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Good fuel tank capacity
  • Easy to start up
  • Doesn’t kick back too much
  • Great for firewood
  • Built well

Cons:

  • Tends to overheat
  • Some compression issues

Stihl 391 Key Features

  • Reduced Emissions Motor – The Stihl 391 features Stihl’s low emission technology which meets strict exhaust standards.
  • Pre-Separation Air Filter – This feature, also present on the Stihl 311, uses centrifugal force to keep large debris from getting to the air filter.
  • Compensating Carburetor – This feature automatically adjusts the air/fuel ratio when the air filter gets too dirty.
  • Anti-Vibration System – The Stihl 391 also features the anti-vibration system that makes it more comfortable to operate and easier to manage.

Stihl 391 Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Steady with a 20” bar
  • Good with 25” bars too
  • Great for clearing storm debris
  • Weight feel like even less when you’re in a log
  • Good fuel efficiency

Cons:

  • It can flood easily
  • Struggles a bit with white oak

Price Comparison

The Stihl 311 goes for $600 from the manufacturer and the Stihl 391 will cost about $100 more.

Weight & Handling Comparison

Not only do these chainsaws weigh the same amount; they have the same fuel tank size as well.

However, the 20” bar of the Stihl 391 certainly adds a bit more weight; but once you’re in a log, you can’t even feel the extra weight.

They both handle very well but if you’re looking for the overall easiest chainsaw to work with, the Stihl 311 would probably be better for you.

Power Comparison

The Stihl 311 sports a 4.2 horsepower engine while there are 4.4 ponies backing up the Stihl 391.

Power Source

Both the Stihl 311 and the Stihl 391 chainsaws have gas-powered motors. Also, they have the same fuel tank capacity: 20.3 ounces.

What Attachments Do They Come With?

Neither of these chainsaws come with attachments. However, there are a number of Stihl accessories you can get with them like chain lubricant, ear protection and hanger hooks.

Efficiency Comparison

This one was a bit tough to gauge but overall, we found that the Stihl 391 was actually more efficient. The SmartCarb compensating carburetor feature is probably what puts it over the top.

Instead of drawing from the dirty side of the air box, the Stihl 391 begins to draw air from the clean side of the filter so that more air is available in the carburetor.

How Big A Bar Can You Put on the Stihl 311?

The biggest bar you can put on the Stihl 311 is 20” although some consumers have said that they use a 25” bar with no problem.

How Big A Bar Can You Put on the Stihl 391?

Stihl recommends a max length of 20” but again, consumers have reported that larger bars work fine as well.

Stihl 311 Common Problems

There have been consumers that complained about low pressure due to a blown crankcase.

Stihl 391 Common Problems

With the Stihl 391, there have been complaints about flooding. There have also been some users who say that it doesn’t adjust to high altitudes very well.

What Does MS Stand for in Stihl Chainsaws?

Being a company with German roots, it’s no surprise that “MS” stands for “motorsage” which is the German word for chainsaw.

Who Should Buy Each One?

The Stihl 311 would be good for anyone who wants a chainsaw that is easy to handle and won’t kick back. The Stihl 391 would be a good choice for people who prefer to work with a bigger bar.

What Are They Best for?

We found that the Stihl 311 was perfect for cutting wood – not so powerful that it kicks back but powerful enough to cut a lot of wood in very short order. The Stihl 391 is better for field work like felling trees and clearing debris after a storm.

Other Chainsaws to Consider

Husqvarna 440 18 Inch 40.9cc 2.4HP 2 Cycle Gas Chainsaw

At first, we thought that this compact chainsaw wouldn’t be good for much. However, the 18” bar and high RPM’s make this a capable chainsaw for light field work.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Doesn’t vibrate much

Cons:

  • Carburetor clogs easily

Overall Score: 94/100

Check Out More Reviews Here:

Shop_Now

Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

This is a battery-powered chainsaw that has a 16” bar and plenty of torque. We were very surprised and pleased at the power of this cordless, electric chainsaw that would also be suitable for light field work.

Pros:

  • No emissions
  • Automatic chain oiler

Cons:

  • Chain comes off easily

Overall Score: 91/100

Check Out More Reviews Here:

Shop_Now

Husqvarna 445

The Husqvarna 445 bears an 18” bar and is outfitted with a 2.8 HP engine. It does really well with soft woods but struggles to cut oak logs that are more than about 9” in diameter.

Pros:

  • Comfortable handle
  • Easy to start

Cons:

  • A bit heavy

Overall Score: 93/100

Check Out More Reviews Here:

Shop_Now

Final Assessment

Not only was the Stihl 391 the more capable chainsaw; it had fewer issues as well. If you have the extra $100, we recommend going for the Stihl 391.