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Stihl MS 251 vs MS 261: which for what use?

M
Max
5 minMay 27, 2026
Stihl MS 251 vs MS 261: which for what use?

Quick comparison

MS 251MS 261
Power2.2 kW3.0 kW
CarbManualM-Tronic auto
Price 2026450-500€750-850€

MS 251 for occasional firewood (<10 stères/year), budget-tight users. MS 261 for regular intensive use, pro-light, 15+ stères/year.

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Source: Official workshop manuals

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