
Stihl MS 170 vs MS 151 TC: A Comprehensive Comparison
Is the lightweight advantage of the MS 151 TC enough to outshine the powerhouse performance of the MS 170 in your backyard battles?
Choosing the right chainsaw can be a daunting task, especially with so many options on the market. Stihl has a reputation for high-quality tools, and in this article, we will dive into a detailed comparison of the Stihl MS 170 and MS 151 TC chainsaws. This article provides a thorough comparison of the Stihl MS 170 and MS 151 TC chainsaws, evaluating their specifications and performance to help users make an informed choice. You can also check out our Stihl MS 170 chainsaw review for more details.
Best Value

This chainsaw excels in performance and usability, making it ideal for garden and tree maintenance. Its lightweight design allows for extended use without fatigue, while its durable construction ensures reliability.
Professional Choice

The MS 151 TC stands out with its exceptional lightweight design and advanced starting technology, perfect for professional use. It delivers high precision with excellent control, making it a top choice for tree care specialists.
Stihl MS 170
Stihl MS 151
Stihl MS 170
Stihl MS 151
Stihl MS 170
Stihl MS 151
Ultimate Chainsaw Showdown: Stihl MS 170 vs. MS 171 for Homeowners
Overview of the Stihl MS 170 Chainsaw
The Stihl MS 170 is a small yet efficient petrol chainsaw that stands out for its user-friendly design and reliability. It possesses a displacement of 30 cm³ and a power output of 1200 W, making it suitable for a range of light to moderate cutting tasks. This chainsaw is particularly recommended for maintaining trees, clearing forests, or cutting firewood, with the capability to fell trees up to 30 cm in diameter.
Key Specifications
The MS 170 is lightweight, making it easy to handle, especially for beginners. Its design incorporates an anti-vibration system, which helps to minimize fatigue during extended use, enhancing user comfort. Additionally, the chainsaw features a user-friendly starting mechanism, ensuring seamless ignition even for those unfamiliar with such equipment.
Pros
Cons
In summary, the Stihl MS 170 is an ideal choice for light-duty tasks and is particularly suited for those who prioritize ease of use and comfort during operation.
Overview of the Stihl MS 151 TC Chainsaw
The Stihl MS 151 TC is renowned as one of the lightest chainsaws on the market, making it an excellent option for tree care and maintenance tasks. Featuring a displacement of 23.6 cm³ and delivering 1.5 kW of power, this chainsaw is designed for precision and efficiency in smaller applications.
Key Specifications
Lightweight Design
One of the standout features of the MS 151 TC is its remarkably lightweight design. At just 1.5 kg, it reduces user fatigue during prolonged usage, making it ideal for professionals involved in tree care tasks.
Performance and Features
Equipped with an advanced manual fuel pump, the MS 151 TC ensures smooth starts even in challenging conditions. Its high-performance 1/4 inch-PM3 chain delivers refined cutting precision, essential for delicate trimming and pruning. The chainsaw also boasts an effective vibration dampening system, enhancing user comfort and control.
Professional Application
This model is built for trained users and excels in precision tasks. While not suited for heavy-duty jobs, its efficiency makes it a favored choice among arborists and landscaping professionals.
In summary, the Stihl MS 151 TC combines lightweight agility, advanced starting features, and a powerful motor, positioning it as a top contender for professional tree care tasks.
Comparative Analysis: Performance and Efficiency
When it comes to performance and efficiency, both the Stihl MS 170 and MS 151 TC chainsaws offer unique advantages tailored to different applications.
Cutting Efficiency
Ease of Use
Overall User Experience
In summary, while the MS 170 offers a solid all-around performance for general users, the MS 151 TC is tailored for professionals seeking high accuracy and control in their cutting tasks. Each chainsaw performs optimally within its designated scope, making them both valuable options based on user needs.
Feature Comparison
Cost, Value, and Customer Feedback
When evaluating the Stihl MS 170 and MS 151 TC chainsaws, price and customer feedback play significant roles in determining their value for potential buyers.
Pricing Overview
Value for Money
Customer Feedback
In summary, both chainsaws have established a solid reputation among users, each excelling in their respective niches while presenting distinct advantages dependent on user needs and budget limitations.
Final Verdict
After thorough examination, the Stihl MS 151 TC emerges as the superior choice for professionals requiring precision and ease in tree care, thanks to its lightweight design and advanced features. Conversely, the Stihl MS 170 is best for casual users needing a reliable chainsaw for light to moderate tasks. Which model aligns best with your cutting needs?


I’ve been using the MS 170 for a couple of months now and honestly, it’s a beast for its size! Perfect for my backyard projects and super user-friendly. I don’t have experience with the MS 151 TC, but it sounds interesting, especially for more detailed work… I wonder if it’s worth the switch? 🤔
Thanks for your input, Tommy! The MS 151 TC is indeed lighter, which can help reduce fatigue during extended use.
Totally agree! The MS 170 is such a solid choice for homeowners. I hear the MS 151 TC is lighter though, which could be better for long use!
If you’re doing heavy cutting, stick with the MS 170. I’ve seen the 151 TC struggle a bit with big logs.
Just bought the MS 151 TC based on my needs of cutting branches rather than full logs. It’s super light and easy to handle, but I feel it might lack power for bigger jobs. Anyone think it can handle heavier stuff? 🤷♀️
It really depends on what you’re cutting. The 151 TC is great for smaller jobs, but I wouldn’t push it too hard. But for limbs and smaller trees, it’s perfect!
Exactly, Jenny! It’s designed more for precision and light work, not really heavy-duty cutting.
The specs look interesting, but honestly, all this means nothing without user experience. Anyone here actually used both? What about reliability? 🤔
Thanks for sharing your experience, Liam! Reliability is high for both, especially for homeowners.
I’ve used both! The MS 170 feels more rugged, while the 151 TC is definitely more… dainty? 😂 But both are great in their own right just… different!
I’m gonna throw it out there… the MS 170 won’t let you down if you’re a casual user. I’ve had mine for years, and still purrs like a kitten! 😂
Billy_Bob’s experience speaks volumes! Glad to hear it’s holding up well! Reliability is a key reason many choose the MS 170.
Wow, years? I’m impressed! I just got mine and I hope it’s just as reliable! What kind of cuts do you use it for?