Echo CS 590 vs Husqvarna 460: Which One’s Best?

Rating	Image	Product	Details
The Winner		Echo CS 590	Great value Easy to start All-day performer	CHECK PRICE
The Runner-up		Husqvarna 460	Easy on the user Runs and runs and runs Large hardwood trees not a problem	CHECK PRICE

The Echo CS-590 and the Husqvarna 460 are technically homeowner chainsaws but are designed for more than cutting a few lengths of firewood. They are also professional grade chainsaws. They both come from well-respected brands, have similar attributes and features, and are available for roughly the same price, but the Echo CS-590 costs slightly less than the Husqvarna Rancher.

Although the two models have roughly the same engine size and idling speed, the Echo has a higher maximum speed and a longer maximum bar length. This should, in theory, make it better for tearing through thicker pieces of wood. However, both saws perform to the best of their abilities with a 20-inch bar installed. In terms of comfort and ergonomics, they weigh the same, which means that they should be equally comfortable.

While the two chainsaw models are very similar in most respects, there are some differences. Below, we’ll discuss the specifications of each model and highlight their main features. This will enable you to choose the right model for your project.

At a Glance

Let’s look at the key points of these two “prosumer” chainsaws.

Echo CS-590 Overview

The Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf is powerful, has great features, and is easily capable of intense use at home. Both of these saws are expensive, but they have the specifications and the features to justify the price.

The 2-stroke engine is of professional quality and built to last. The fuel tank is translucent so that you can see when it needs refilling and how much juice you have left. It holds 0.17 gallons of fuel, which is around 50% more than the Husqvarna, but the oil tank holds around 10% less than its competitor, approximately 10.1 fluid ounces.

There’s a Pre-Cleaner system called the Go-Force Air Pre-Cleaner, which cleans dirt and debris from the powerhead, eliminating the need to clean the powerhead as often manually. There’s also a large filter that is easy to access and clean. Chainsaws are not easy to keep clean, but if you allow sawdust and debris to build up, it can quickly degrade the quality of the saw and eventually require a replacement.

It’s worth noting that the Echo CS-590 is a slightly cheaper and slightly lighter-weight version of the company’s 600. The only real difference is that the 590 uses plastic in some areas, whereas the 600 uses metal. It may reduce durability a little, but it also makes the 590 lighter, easier to handle, and roughly on par with the Husqvarna in this respect, but it is marginally heavier than its counterpart.

Also, the Echo Timber Wolf comes with an impressive 5-year warranty.

Husqvarna 460 Overview

Like the Echo, the Husqvarna 460 is designed for heavy-duty home use. It lacks the features and top-end power for commercial use, but it will easily rip through firewood. It has some beneficial features but a relatively high price tag to match. In terms of numbers, it has a 60.2cc engine but only a 0.11-gallon fuel tank. However, it does have an 11-fluid-ounce oil tank, which is slightly larger than the Echo.

Husqvarna has incorporated a few additional features, like Echo. The 460 has an anti-vibration system that makes it easier to use over a long period. It also has low exhaust emissions, thanks to the X-Torq engine, and its air quality is good enough to pass muster with any local authority and emission regulations.

In terms of the warranty, Husqvarna only offers a 2-year warranty as standard, but it is possible to buy extensions. You may also find offers that include longer than standard warranty deals.

What Are the Differences Between Them?

Performance

Edge: Echo CS-590

At 27 inches, the Echo CS-590 is slightly longer. It has a lower idling speed but quite a bit more in maximum speed and is rated at 13,000 RPM compared to the 460’s 9,000 RPM. This means it should be better equipped to tear through thick hardwood, but you will likely not feel the difference during all but the most intense use.

Price

Edge: Echo CS-590

Although the two models fall into the same price bracket, the Echo CS-590 generally costs slightly less than the Husqvarna. It also comes with a 5-year warranty, which is better than the 2-year warranty included with the 460. Temporary offers and other deals may be available and may change this result.

Fuel Tank

Edge: Echo CS-590

The Echo CS-590 has a 0.17-gallon tank, which compares favorably to the Husqvarna’s 0.11-gallon tank. If you only use the saw for half an hour at a time, it won’t make much difference, but if you run it for hours on end, the Echo’s ability to hold 50% more fuel will require fewer breaks to load up the tank.

Design

Edge: Husqvarna 460

Again, the two models are virtually inseparable when it comes to design. They even look quite similar. However, the Husqvarna is marginally lighter. Over the space of an hour, you may not notice the difference, but after several hours of intense sawing, you will appreciate the marginal difference. Also, the CS-590 is a CS-600 made with plastic instead of metal components.

What the Users Say

We’ve compared reviews and opinions from a host of other users. We’ve checked discussions on forums and read online reviews, and we have included details of our research so that you can get an idea of what users think about the Echo and the Husqvarna and which comes out on top.

The Echo CS-590 has proven popular for its power and cutting performance. Customers praised its ability to handle just about any task, but some users struggled to get the saw started. In particular, some owners reported that it was difficult to start after being left unused for a few months. Many customers pointed to the 5-year consumer warranty (1-year for commercial buyers) as a good reason to purchase this model.

The Husqvarna 460 enjoyed similarly positive reviews. It receives excellent reviews for its easy and consistent starting. It is praised as being powerful, but a few buyers criticized it for being too heavy.

• See Also: Brushless vs Brushed Drill: Which is Best for Your Needs?

Conclusion

The Echo CS 590 wins this contest based purely on one number: the current price. The two chainsaws are nearly identical, where it matters the most: performance in the field. The Husqvarna is a little easier on the user regarding weight and probably more durable, while the Echo is easier to start and has a better warranty. Both are very good chainsaws that have loyal customers. In this case, the price wins out, and the price is high enough that we’d suggest doing a little shopping around. It’s possible that you can put together a discount package that tips the scale the other way, too.

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