Husqvarna 450 vs Husqvarna 450 Rancher: Which One’s Best?
-
- Last updated:
| Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
The Winner
 |
 |
Husqvarna 450 Rancher |
|
CHECK PRICE |
The Runner-up
 |
 |
Husqvarna 450 |
|
CHECK PRICE |
Review Summary
As you would assume, the Husqvarna 450 and Husqvarna 450 Rancher are incredibly similar. They are so similar that the specs listed on Husqvarna’s website are identical. Despite their similar appearances, there are differences between the two saws. They allow the Husqvarna 450 Rancher to be the better option of the two.
The Husqvarna 450 features a 3.2-HP X-Torq engine with Smart Start technology. The technology combines with a Choke/Stop control, which minimizes engine flooding. This option is the cheaper of the two, making it better for those on a budget, but the amount saved is not that much.
In contrast, the Husqvarna 450 Rancher comes with Smart Start technology and a Start/Stop switch. This switch makes the saw more comfortable to use and start, eliminating much of the trouble associated with gas-powered saws. This saw also comes with a more comfortable grip. These factors make the Rancher stand out as the best between these options, making it ideal for all residential users.
Of course, the differences between the Husqvarna 450 and 450 Rancher are more nuanced than the previous paragraphs suggest. To learn about these two saws in great detail, read on.
At a Glance
Let’s look at the key points of each product.
- 2-HP X-Torq engine
- Smart Start technology
- Combined Choke/Stop control
- Centrifugal air cleaning system
- Quick release air filter
- CARB compliant
- 2-HP X-Torq engine
- Smart Start technology
- Combined Start/Stop switch
- Centrifugal air cleaning system
- Quick release air filter
- CARB compliant
Overview of Husqvarna 450
The Husqvarna 450 is an ultra-lightweight chain saw. Though not intended for commercial use, this chain saw satisfies most residential needs. From chopping up branches for firewood to trimming up the bushes, the Husqvarna 450 offers versatile service around the home.
Featuring a 3.2-HP X-Torq engine with Smart Start Technology, this chain saw is powerful and easy to use. This technology removes a lot of the hassle commonly associated with starting a gas-powered chain saw. The Smart Start technology is paired with a combined choke/stop control that minimizes engine flooding.
Husqvarna made sure that cleaning and maintaining the 450 is easy as well. It includes a centrifugal air cleaning system that removes debris before reaching the air filter. This minimizes the number of times you need to change the filter and expands the chain saw’s life. When you need to change the air filter, the saw features a quick-release air filter that creates a comfortable cleaning experience.
The main drawback of the Husqvarna 450, in comparison to the Rancher, is that it does not come with a combined start/stop switch. This makes the Husqvarna 450 less user-friendly and accessible than the Husqvarna 450 Rancher.
- Choke control minimizes engine flooding
- More affordable
- Does not include a combined Start/Stop switch
- Less comfortable for extended use
Overview of Husqvarna 450 Rancher
At first glance, the Husqvarna 450 Rancher is identical to the 450. Like the 450, the Rancher includes a centrifugal cleaning system, quick-release air filter, and fill-up tank cap. More so, they have the same horsepower, engine sizes, weight, and CARB compliance approval. As the high price point shows, though, there are some subtle differences between the two.
The Husqvarna 450 Rancher was added to the line for its incredible ease of use and intuitive design. This model is incredibly helpful for someone who finds starting chain saws difficult. This saw features Smart Start Technology and a combined Start/Stop switch.
This switch takes the hassle out of starting your gas-powered chain saw by making it as easy as the push of a button. When you turn the saw off, the switch automatically returns to the default start position. This also makes the feature safer.
The Husqvarna 450 Rancher comes with an economic handle that is highly comfortable, too. This handle provides the user with a cutting experience that isn’t annoying, painful, or tiresome. As a result, the Rancher is equipped for more prolonged use.
Due to the Rancher’s more convenient user experience, this saw is more expensive than the Husqvarna 450, though not by a lot.
- Start/Stop switch makes starting the saw easy and convenient
- Economic handle makes the saw more comfortable to use for extended amounts of time
- More expensive
What Are the Differences Between Them?
Performance
Edge: Neither
The Husqvarna 450 and Husqvarna 450 Rancher include almost all of the same specs. Both have a 450 cc, 3.2-HP engine that works great for all residential uses. Neither of these saws is suitable for professional use, but they are incredibly powerful for personal use.
The similarity in terms of performance is essential to note. If you are purely looking for power from your chain saw, both products offer the same power, reliability, and force.
Design
Edge: Husqvarna 450 Rancher
The Husqvarna 450 Rancher stands out due to its design. Unlike the Husqvarna 450, the Rancher comes with a combined Start/Stop Switch and comfortable handle. These features enhance the usability of the saw, making the Rancher easier to use for long periods of time.
Still, the choke control of the Husqvarna 450 minimizes engine flooding, which is a helpful feature for beginners and experienced users alike. It won’t correct a mistake, though, making it less impressive than the Rancher.
The design is the leading determiner between the 450 and the Rancher. If you don’t know which one to get, opt for the Rancher due to its improved design.
Comfortability
Edge: Husqvarna 450 Rancher
As mentioned already, the Husqvarna 450 Rancher comes with a more economic grip. This grip makes the Rancher more comfortable than the 450, especially when used for long periods of time.
That is not to say that the 450 is not comfortable. Due to both models’ light weight, either choice is more comfortable than most chain saws on the market. The Husqvarna 450 Rancher is by far more comfortable, however.
The Rancher’s comfortability is due to the design, making it the primary determiner between the two options. This means that the design and comfortability are why you would select the Rancher over the 450.
Price
Edge: Husqvarna 450
The one way that the Husqvarna 450 beats the Rancher is in terms of price. Due to the fewer comfortability features, the 450 is less expensive than the Rancher. Although it is not cheaper by much, it is still less expensive.
In all honesty, the price should not impact the decision between the two very much. The price difference is so small that it doesn’t make that big of difference in your wallet. With the Rancher, you will pay just a few extra bucks for a product that is dramatically easier and more comfortable to use.
What the Users Say
In addition to our findings, we also wanted to see what other people said about the Husqvarna 450 and Rancher. We looked through the internet to see if their reviews matched our own. Here is what we gathered from other users:
Husqvarna 450
Benefits:
As we found from our own experiences, most users agree that the Husqvarna 450 is incredibly easy to use, powerful, and efficient for most residential cutting needs. Some reviews even waited several months and years before reviewing. They found that their 450 worked as well at three years as it did at three days. This tells us that not only is it powerful, but it is also highly durable and long-lasting.
Some users did note that new users should use caution when using this saw because of how powerful it is. Although it isn’t a drawback, it is good to keep in mind if you have never used a chain saw before.
Drawbacks:
Though most reviews of the 450 were positive, some users were more critical. Most notably, users found that the 450 gets tiresome after a while. We anticipated this complaint, so it doesn’t surprise us much.
Other users noted that the chain bar goes through lubrication quickly. This means that you will need to replace the lubricant more frequently than you would other models. Reviews also stated that the chains don’t stay sharp very long, requiring you to change the chain often, too.
Husqvarna 450 Rancher
Benefits:
Between the two, the Rancher has more positive reviews than the 450. Many users praised the Rancher for being lightweight, powerful, and easy to start. Some users even took the time to update their reviews several years after purchase. According to these reviews, the Rancher runs as smoothly as it did upon first purchase. This tells us that the Rancher is powerful and durable.
Another common praise of the Rancher is that it is comfortable and comes with low vibrations. The low vibrations were noted several times as some of the lightest vibrations they experienced on a chain saw.
Many people noted that the Husqvarna 450 Rancher is the best residential saw they’ve used.
Drawbacks:
Once again, the Husqvarna 450 Rancher has primarily positive reviews, but some users weren’t as pleased. Several people noted that the chain doesn’t stay sharp long, which tells us there is an issue with Husqvarna’s chains since this is an issue with the 450. Other users also mentioned that Husqvarna’s customer service is lacking.
Husqvarna 450 vs Husqvarna 450 Rancher – In Conclusion
Both the Husqvarna 450 and the Husqvarna 450 Rancher are leading chain saws with minimal differences. Due to these subtle differences, however, the Rancher is the best of the two options. It is wildly easier to use and more comfortable, allowing you to cut through more trees with minimal pain or discomfort.
If you are on a budget, then the Husqvarna 450 is the more affordable option. Still, it is only slightly less expensive than the Rancher. If you are willing to shell out for the 450, we recommend opting for the Rancher instead. It is only slightly more expensive, but it is much easier to use.
