Stihl 500i vs Stihl MS 661 – What’s The Better Chainsaw?

Choosing the right chainsaw matters whether you need one for bucking large-diameter trees or one for cutting the time it takes you to stock firewood in half.

You need the right amount of power and the right features to match your level of experience and need.

In the following comparison article, we aren’t really looking at saws for the inexperienced or ones that would fit well for small household chores.

No, today we are looking at a couple of behemoths – both of which are professional grade.

Today we will be comparing the Stihl 500i against the Stihl MS 661.

Why? Because even at this level of power and engine output, you have to be very careful about which model you choose to get the most bang for your buck.

Stihl MS 661 Vs Stihl 500i Overview

Stihl is known for making no-nonsense chainsaws that may be light on periphery features but heavy on power.

The Stihl MS 661 and the 500i models are high-end, high-power saws that also provide a number of helpful features.

In general though, where these two chainsaws differ the most is in engine output. You will find that the Stihl MS 661 is more powerful; but has fewer features than the 500i.

Quick Facts

	Stihl MS 661	Stihl 500i
Engine Power	7.2 HP	6.7 HP
Max RPMs	NA	NA
Weight	16.5lbs	13.9lbs

Key Differences Between the Stihl MS 661 and the Stihl 500i

One of the things we noticed about these two saws was their weight.

With a full tank of gas, both the Stihl MS 661 and the 500i are substantial in terms of weight.

Of course, the weight will vary depending on the size of the bar you slap on but with a full tank and the 25” bar we used on both of these saws, they were heavy.

However, the Stihl MS 661 was noticeably heavier which made a difference in how we approached its application.

For those who work up in trees from time to time, the lighter 500i may be the smarter choice.

Stihl MS 661 Key Features

• HD2 Air Filter – The air filter on the Stihl MS 661 can actually be rinsed and reused.
• Adjustable Oiler – You can adjust lubricant levels for both the guide bar and the chain depending on how you’re using the saw.
• Decompression Valve – The decompression valve removes air from the carburetor for easier starting.
• Cap Retainers – The fuel and oil caps both have tethering straps so you don’t have to worry about dropping or losing the caps during refills.

Stihl 271 Pros & Cons

Pros:

• More powerful engine
• Great for commercial work
• Can easily run 32” bars
• Doesn’t choke down with smaller bars
• Light enough for delimbing

Cons:

• A bit heavy
• Engine revs when you let off the throttle

Check Out More Reviews Here:

Stihl 500i Key Features

• Easy Starting – The Stihl 500i was designed to start up easily and reduce the chances of flooding the engine.
• Bumper Spike Design – The bumper spike feature allows for smoother cutting through dense woods.
• Captive Bar Nuts – The captive bar nuts are superior to loose nuts as they provide a secure connection between integral parts.
• Electronic Fuel Injection – Electronic fuel injection gives you power where you need it most. It allows for rapid acceleration in any conditions.

Stihl 500i Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Onboard diagnostic software
• Easy maintenance
• Side-access chain tensioner
• Lighter than the Stihl MS 661
• Very easy to start

Cons:

• Less overall power than the Stihl MS 661
• Lack of customer suppor

Check Out More Reviews Here:

Price Comparison

The Stihl MS 661 typically sells for about $1500 while the Stihl 500i will cost around $1600-$2000.

Weight & Handling Comparison

We were very impressed with how the 500i accelerated quickly even in cold conditions.

It was also the lighter of the two chainsaws which made it a bit more manageable on the ground and on a tree.

Power Comparison

Without a doubt, the Stihl MS 661 was the more powerful and capable chainsaw.

Making cooking from knotted redwood was no problem for this chainsaw and even felling oak trees was fast and easy.

Power Source

The Stihl MS 661 is a gas-powered chainsaw with a 28.7 ounce gas tank. The Stihl 500i is also a gas-powered saw with a 26.5 ounce gas tank.

Available Attachments

While you can pick up accessories like carrying cases and fling guides for both the Stihl MS 661 and the 500i, there are no attachments sold by Stihl.

Efficiency Comparison

It was no surprise that during our testing, the Stihl MS 661 burned through more fuel at higher RPMs. It has a larger gas tank though so refilling frequency was pretty much the same as with the 500i.

How Big A Bar Can You Put on the Stihl MS 661?

The Stihl MS 661 is a beast and it can take a bar up to 36 inches.

How Big A Bar Can you Put on the Stihl 500i?

The Stihl 5001 can also take a 36” bar but Stihl recommends using a 25” bar.

Stihl MS 661 Common Problems

One of the most common problems with the Stihl MS 661 is that it seems to die when it is hung from a lanyard.

Stihl 500i Common Problems

It seems that a lot of customers have complained about excessive noise. A couple possible reasons for the loud noise are broken ball bearings and/or clutch.

Are These Professional Saws?

Absolutely. At the end of the day, both the Stihl MS 661 and the Stihl 500i provide professional, commercial-grade power.

Who Should Buy Each One?

The Stihl MS 661 would be the choice if you need power above all else. If you aren’t felling large-diameter hardwood trees, the 500i would be a good option for all other applications.

What Are They Best for?

Both of these saws are great for delimbing trees, storm cleanup and bucking. However, the lightweight 500i may be better for working in trees.

Other Chainsaws to Consider

Stihl MS 311

The MS 311 features a 4.2 HP 59cc engine. Our first impression was that this saw vibrates quite a bit which affected its handling. Still, with a 16” bar, it performs well for most residential applications.

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Easy to start

Cons:

• Vibrates a lot

Overall Score: 93/100

Check Out More Reviews Here:

Husqvarna 455 Rancher

We were immediately impressed with how smoothly this saw cuts. It has an X-Torq engine and low vibration technology so it is easy to handle and provides good low-end torque for large diameter logs.

Pros:

• Air injection filter
• Durable crankshaft

Cons:

• Poor-quality coil spring

Overall Score: 92/100

Check Out More Reviews Here:

Milwaukee Electric Tools 2727-21HD

We were a bit concerned with the power output of this saw as it is a battery-powered saw. However, the power was consistent and didn’t drop off as the battery drained. It has a 16” bar but weighs 21 pounds with the battery loaded.

Pros:

• Steady power
• Good for light work

Cons:

• Heavy

Overall Score: 93/100

Check Out More Reviews Here:

Final Assessment

We were very impressed with both of these saws. In the end though, it came down to pure power and capability for us.

The Stihl MS 661 simply made it easier to cut through thicker, burlier wood. While the Stihl 500i may be more nimble, we like the Stihl MS 661 more because it can keep up with you no matter what kind of cutting you are doing.