When it comes to professional-grade chainsaws, two giants stand tall in the timber world: the Husqvarna 592 XP and the Stihl MS 881. These machines are built for heavy-duty work, tackling massive felling jobs and processing large hardwoods with ease. But how do they compare head-to-head? If you’re in the market for an elite-level saw or just curious about which model dominates, this in-depth comparison will give you the information you need.
Engine Power and Performance
At the heart of any chainsaw is the engine, and both the 592 XP and the MS 881 deliver serious power.
- Husqvarna 592 XP is equipped with a 92.7cc X-Torq® engine that produces around 7.6 horsepower. This model is designed with performance and fuel efficiency in mind, offering excellent torque even at lower RPMs.
- Stihl MS 881, on the other hand, is the most powerful chainsaw in the Stihl lineup, boasting a 121.6cc engine that delivers 8.6 horsepower. This saw is specifically designed for the most demanding professional use and handles the largest bars and chains.
Winner: Stihl MS 881
In raw power, the MS 881 comes out ahead. It’s a beast built for massive tasks, while the 592 XP leans slightly more toward a balance of power and agility.
Weight and Ergonomics
Power means little if the tool is too heavy or uncomfortable to use for extended periods.
- The Husqvarna 592 XP weighs about 16.3 lbs (7.4 kg) without the bar and chain. Thanks to its advanced anti-vibration system and ergonomic design, it feels well-balanced and easy to maneuver, even during long workdays.
- The Stihl MS 881 is heavier, coming in at 21.8 lbs (9.9 kg) dry weight. While Stihl has implemented some ergonomic features, its weight can take a toll over time, especially if you’re not doing continuous full-bar cuts.
Winner: Husqvarna 592 XP
The 592 XP offers a better weight-to-power ratio and more manageable ergonomics, making it a favorite among professionals who prioritize endurance and comfort.
Cutting Performance and Bar Length
When it comes to actual cutting capability, both saws can handle serious work, but with a few key differences.
- The Stihl MS 881 supports bars up to 41 inches, making it the go-to for logging massive trees and milling wide boards. The chain speed isn’t the fastest, but the torque is unmatched.
- The Husqvarna 592 XP supports bars up to 36 inches. However, with its high chain speed (up to 12,000 RPM), it cuts fast and clean, especially in hardwood.
Winner: It depends on your job.
If you need a saw for the biggest jobs with maximum bar reach, the MS 881 wins. But for speed and precision on large—yet not giant—logs, the 592 XP shines.
Fuel Efficiency and Emissions
Modern chainsaws must balance power with environmental considerations.
- Husqvarna’s X-Torq® technology reduces fuel consumption by up to 20% and emissions by up to 60%. This makes the 592 XP one of the most eco-friendly high-power saws available.
- The MS 881 meets EPA and EU emissions standards, but its much larger engine naturally consumes more fuel than the 592 XP. Stihl includes decompression valves and HD2 filters for better fuel handling and engine protection.
Winner: Husqvarna 592 XP
When it comes to efficiency and emissions, Husqvarna has the edge due to its advanced engine design and lower fuel usage.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Nobody wants to spend hours tuning and repairing their saw. Both brands have addressed this in different ways.
- The 592 XP features Husqvarna’s AutoTune 3.0, which automatically adjusts the engine based on altitude, temperature, and fuel quality. It also includes a quick-release air filter, flip-up tank caps, and a magnesium crankcase for durability and easy maintenance.
- The MS 881 uses a more traditional carburetor setup, which some professionals prefer for its reliability in remote settings. However, it lacks the same level of smart technology found in the Husqvarna model. Stihl’s HD2 air filter offers excellent dust resistance, and the ElastoStart system helps reduce starting strain.
Winner: Husqvarna 592 XP
Thanks to its smart tuning and maintenance-friendly design, the 592 XP offers more convenience and adaptability in changing conditions.
Price and Value
Both models represent a serious investment, so price and value matter.
- The Husqvarna 592 XP typically retails between $1,400–$1,600, depending on bar length and regional availability.
- The Stihl MS 881 is generally priced slightly higher, usually between $1,700–$2,000.
While the MS 881 offers unmatched brute power, the 592 XP provides a balance of performance, weight, and cutting speed—often at a lower cost.
Winner: Husqvarna 592 XP
For most users, the 592 XP offers better overall value unless your work specifically demands the highest engine output and longest bar possible.
Durability and Build Quality
Both brands are known for their rugged reliability.
- Stihl chainsaws have a reputation for long-lasting performance in harsh conditions, especially when properly maintained. The MS 881 is built to withstand extreme use, and every component reflects that.
- Husqvarna’s 592 XP is equally tough, with a forged three-piece crankshaft, die-cast magnesium parts, and a high-output oil pump for bar and chain longevity.
Winner: Tie
Both saws are built to endure extreme work environments and offer outstanding reliability.
Ideal Use Cases
- Choose the Stihl MS 881 if you’re in forestry, logging giant trees, or milling oversized hardwood slabs. It’s ideal for professionals who need maximum displacement and bar length.
- Choose the Husqvarna 592 XP if you’re in tree service, firewood production, or general forestry work that requires speed, maneuverability, and efficient fuel use. It’s better suited for those who need a saw that performs under varied conditions without wearing you down.
Final Verdict
Husqvarna 592 XP vs. Stihl MS 881—which one is better?
The answer depends on your specific needs:
- For raw power and largest tree felling, the Stihl MS 881 is the champion.
- For speed, efficiency, comfort, and smart features, the Husqvarna 592 XP takes the lead.
If you’re a logging professional handling massive timber every day, the MS 881 might be worth the investment. But for most high-output cutting jobs, the Husqvarna 592 XP delivers exceptional performance with less weight and better tech integration.
No matter which you choose, you’ll be getting a top-tier chainsaw built for the toughest tasks. It’s not just about which one is better—it’s about which one is better for you.
