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Best 4 stroke Chainsaw Review and Guide

If you’re looking for a 4-stroke chainsaw, keep a few things in mind. First, you’ll want to choose the right size saw for the job. A smaller saw is easier to handle but may not have enough power for larger tasks. Second, consider the essential features – like an automatic oiler or a decompression valve. And finally, be sure to read the reviews to see what others think of the 4 stroke chainsaw before you buy it.

What is four-stroke and what does 4-stroke do?

A 4-stroke engine is more efficient because it completes four cycles – Intake, Compression, Power, and Exhaust – compared to just two in a 2-stroke engine. This design means less wear and tear on the engine, and you’ll get better fuel economy. Four-stroke are also typically quieter than 2-strokes.

Difference between 4 stroke vs 2 stroke chainsaws?

Two-stroke & 2 Cycle chainsaws are generally more powerful than 4 stroke engines, so they’re better suited for larger tasks. 4 stroke chainsaws are more fuel-efficient and typically quieter, so they’re a good choice for smaller jobs.

The same number of parts are used in either a 4-stroke engine or a 2-stroke one, but the way they’re arranged makes them different. In a 4-stroke engine, one complete rotation of the cylinders pushes out once through each power stroke compared to only half in a 2-stroke one.

4 stroke vs 2 stroke chainsaw

4 stroke (4 Cycle) good points:

  • More fuel-efficient
  • Typically, quieter
  • More torque at lower speeds

4 stroke bad points:

  • Can only be used in a fixed position
  • Slightly heavier

2 stroke (2 Cycle) good points:

  • More powerful
  • Can be used in any position
  • lighter weight

2 stroke bad points:

  • less fuel-efficient
  • generally louder

Are Four cycle and four-stroke chainsaws the same?

A 4-cycle engine refers to a four-stroke engine. Four-stroke engines have been in use for many years and have been used in automobiles, motorcycles, airplanes, lawnmowers, chainsaws, etc. In the simplest terms possible, a 4 cycle engine is an internal combustion type of engine with four strokes, including air intake, compression, power (which is also known as combustion), and exhaust.

Advantages of 4 Cycle Chainsaws

A 4 stroke Chainsaw may be less potent than a two-cycle chainsaw, but it does have a lot more torque at a lower speed.

  • Quieter
  • Slower revving
  • Lower fuel consumption
  • Clean, flexible power
  • Fewer emissions
  • More torque at a lower speed

Disadvantages of 4 stroke Chainsaw

Of course, a four-stroke engine will be less potent than a two-stroke engine, depending on the engine size. If you have a 26cc stroke engine, it will be more powerful than a 26cc 4 stroke engine. Its sizeable four-stroke engine can seem can bulky and clunky and a bit different from using. There’s no need to mention that you will find this more difficult to use in tight spaces or in areas where your ease of use is limited.

  • Dirty
  • Higher emissions
  • Not fuel-efficient
  • Narrow power band

With so many 4-stroke chainsaws on the market, it’s easy to find one right for you. Just remember to do your research and choose the saw that best meets your needs.

Features of 4 cycle vs 2 cycle Chainsaw

The popular choice for petrol handheld tools is the two-stroke engine. The two-stroke principle allows the inner mechanical parts to be well-lubricated without the requirement of separate oil sumps. So, you can use all the angels without worrying about potential engine seizures.

This engine tends to feature heavily on the saw where the high revs must balance speed and power. To ensure plenty of torque and power without the added weight of a separate oil sump. Hence, the Stihl four mix technology uses the four-stroke rotation principle while lubricating all internal parts via a two-stroke fuel mix.

The other feature of the four-stroke chainsaw is fuel efficiency, the fact that it features an inbuilt decompressor making it easy to start the values are easy to get and adjust when required. The value adjustment must be made if you notice a drop in engine power or if compression increases when trying to pull over the tool.

If you are not sure, it works asking your Stihl dealer to check the value settings. However, it’s also essential to consider when your machine goes in for service. If left without the correct adjustment, it leads to expensive, long-term damage, easily avoided.

Our experts recommend using Stihl Hp ultra-fully synthetic or Hp Super semi-synthetic two-stroke oil. Due to these oils’ low ash content, less carbon builds up around piston and valve seats. Ash build-up can easily cause running problems over time, so the oil you use is incredibly essential.

Best 4 Cycle/Stroke Chainsaws

Makita XCU03PT1 High Power Efficiency Gas-powered Chain Saw

TOP PICK
Makita XCU03PT1  High Power Efficiency Gas-powered Chain Saw
9.4/10 Our Score

Specifications:

  • Item Dimensions: 10.63 x 22.24 x 10.59 in
  • Power Source: Battery Powered
  • Batteries: 4 Lithium ion batteries

The Makita 4 stroke chainsaw is an excellent option for a powerful and fuel-efficient saw. An 18V LXT lithium-ion battery powers this chainsaw, and it comes with four 5.0Ah batteries, so you can work for longer without having to stop recharging.

The XCU03PT1 has a brushless motor that delivers up to 70% more run time than previous models, and it features an automatic chain oiler that provides constant lubrication for optimal performance. It also has a built-in LED light that makes it easy to see what you’re doing in low-light conditions.

The soft-start feature ensures smooth starts every time, and the full metal jacket provides added durability.
Performance of Makita-4 Engine

The Makita-4 Mix engine power a range of petrol tools, including brush cutters, hedge trimmers, backpack blowers, kombi engines, and pole pruners. The technology was developed to give torque and power at lower Revolutions per minute (RPM).

With the bonus of being extremely efficient due to the low scavenging loss. Moreover, it combines all the features of two different engine principles. Two-stroke and 4 stroke chainsaws both adopt the mutually described suck, bang, and blow principle, squeeze, or if you are technically minded compression, induction, exhaust, and ignition. The amount of movement of the piston before combustion determines its four-stroke vs two-stroke.

Features of Makita XCU03PT1

  • Powered by an 18V LXT lithium-ion battery
  • Features a brushless motor for longer run time
  • It comes with four 5.0Ah batteries
  • Automatic chain oiler provides constant lubrication
  • Built-in LED light makes it easy to see what you’re doing in low-light conditions
  • The soft-start feature ensures smooth starts every time
  • The full metal jacket provides added durability

Pros

  • Powers through tough cuts
  • Powers through tough cuts
  • It doesn’t smell like gas and oil
  • Low-maintenance
  • Long run time

Cons

  • Only fit the recommended chain
  • A bit pricey

Conclusion

According to our expert, the best four-stroke chainsaw is the Makita 4-stroke chainsaw. It is equipped with a 10-inch long chain and bar, and it features an extendable pole that gives a reach of up to 157 inches for overhanging tree branches. It can also be used to cut from various angles for smooth cutting.

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