Today we are comparing two models from STIHL: the MS 400 and the MS 462.
An overview of the Stihl MS 400 and MS 462 chainsaws
The Stihl MS 400 and the Stihl MS 462 are both high-quality petrol chainsaws that were developed for professional use in forestry.
The MS 400 is particularly light thanks to the magnesium piston developed by STIHL, while the MS 462 has carburettor and grip heating for winter use.
Comparison table: technical data
| property | Stihl MS 400 | Stihl MS 462 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | €1,587.00 | €1,815.00 |
| Displacement | 66.8 cm³ | 72.2 cm³ |
| rail length | 40-45 cm | 40-50 cm |
| Performance | 4/5.4 kW/hp | 4.4/6 kW/hp |
| weight | 5.8 kg | 6.1 kg |
| power-to-weight ratio | 1.45 kg/kW | 1.4 kg/kW |
| System weight | 6.97 / 7.13 kg | 7.27 / 7.37 / 7.43 kg |
| Sound pressure level | 107 dB(A) | 108 dB(A) |
| Sound power level | 118 dB(A) | 119 dB(A) |
| Vibration value left/right | 3.5/3.5 m/s² | 4.8/3.6 m/s² |
| CO2 | 656 g/kWh | 697 g/kWh |
| Saw chain pitch | 3/8″ | 3/8″ |
Design and optics Stihl MS 400 vs MS 462
Both models have a robust and professional look, although the exact layout of features may vary between models.
Cutting times – which one is faster?
The exact cutting times depend heavily on the environmental conditions and the material to be cut, but in general the Stihl MS 462 offers a higher sawing performance with its larger cubic capacity and higher power.
Displacement
The Stihl MS 462 has a larger displacement of 72.2 cm³ than the MS 400 with 66.8 cm³, which results in higher performance.
Rail length
The Stihl MS 462 offers a slightly longer bar length (40-50 cm) compared to the MS 400 (40-45 cm), which can be an advantage for larger jobs.
Performance
Both models offer high performance, whereby the Stihl MS 462 with 4.4/6 kW/hp is slightly more powerful than the MS 400 with 4/5.4 kW/hp.
Weight
Although both saws are quite light, the Stihl MS 400 is slightly lighter at 5.8 kg than the MS 462 at 6.1 kg.
Noise emissions
The noise emissions are comparable for both models, with the MS 462 being slightly louder in terms of both the sound pressure level (108 dB(A)) and the sound power level (119 dB(A)).
vibrations
The Stihl MS 400 has slightly lower vibration values (3.5/3.5 m/s²) compared to the MS 462 (4.8/3.6 m/s²), resulting in more comfort during use can lead.
Differences Stihl MS 400 and MS 462
A significant difference between the two models is the presence of a handle and carburetor heater in the MS 462, which was specially developed for use in cold winters. Another difference is the magnesium piston in the MS 400, developed by STIHL, which makes this saw particularly light.
Similarities Stihl MS 400 and MS 462
Both models are equipped with advanced STIHL M-Tronic technology, which ensures easy starting and optimum engine performance. They also have a long-term air filter system consisting of a pre-separation and an HD2 filter. Both models use the same saw chain pitch of 3/8″.
Conclusion for comparison: Stihl MS 400 or MS 462?
The choice between the Stihl MS 400 and the MS 462 ultimately depends on your specific requirements. If weight is a concern, the MS 400 might be a better choice thanks to its magnesium piston and lighter weight. However, if you are working in cold climates or require increased horsepower and rail length, the MS 462 might be a better choice due to its grip and carburetor heating and larger displacement and power. In any case, with both models you get a powerful, high-quality chainsaw that was developed for professional use in forestry.
