Echo CS-355T Chainsaw Review: The Best Choice for Arborists

October 7, 2024
0 comment
Edward Smith

The Echo CS-355T is a compact, powerful chainsaw specifically designed for professional arborists. Its lightweight build, combined with excellent balance, makes it ideal for tree care tasks like pruning and climbing. This chainsaw offers high performance with its 35.8cc engine, providing enough torque for cutting medium-sized limbs efficiently.

Echo CS-355T chainsaw with 14-inch bar, showcasing its compact, lightweight design for professional tree care.

See price on Amazon

It’s equipped with features like anti-vibration technology and an automatic oiler, enhancing both comfort and longevity during use. Whether for professionals or homeowners, the CS-355T stands out for its precision, ease of use, and durability in demanding conditions.

Echo CS-355T Design and Build

The Echo CS-355T is a top-handle chainsaw, which is crucial for arborists who often need to operate the saw while climbing. The saw weighs just 8 pounds, making it extremely lightweight and ideal for maneuvering in tight spaces. Despite its compact size, Echo has designed it to deliver significant power without compromising control.

Echo CS-355T chainsaw placed on a tree stump, highlighting its lightweight design and professional usability.

Echo CS-355T Specifications:

Brand: EchoSari
Power Source: Manual
Horsepower: 5.3 HP
Item Weight: 50 pounds
Chain Length: 16 inches
Ergonomics: Comfortable grip designed for multiple positions.
Anti-Vibration Handle: Reduces fatigue over long jobs.

The saw is built to be ergonomic, with a handle that reduces wrist strain and provides a natural grip. Arborists often need to operate the saw at awkward angles, and the design allows for comfortable use in various positions. Additionally, the anti-vibration technology significantly reduces operator fatigue, a key factor when working for extended periods.

Echo CS-355T Engine and Power

At the heart of the Echo CS-355T is a 35.8cc two-stroke engine, providing ample power for a range of tasks. The engine delivers higher torque, which means it can handle tough jobs like cutting through thick limbs or tackling hardwood species. The saw is designed for quick and smooth operation, ensuring that even large tasks are completed efficiently.

Arborist using Echo CS-355T chainsaw while climbing, emphasizing its portability and top-handle design for tree care.

One of the standout features is the clutch-driven oiler, which automatically adjusts oil flow based on the workload. This helps prolong the life of the chain and bar while also improving cutting performance.

CS-355T Engine Specs:

Engine Displacement: 35.8cc.
Fuel Capacity: 11.2 fl. oz.
Oil Capacity: 8.2 fl. oz.
Starting System: Spring Assist for quick ignition.

Echo CS-355T Cutting Performance

Equipped with a 14-inch bar, the Echo CS-355T excels in cutting small to medium-sized branches and logs. It’s capable of handling a range of arborist duties, from pruning to light tree felling. For those who need more reach or cutting power, the saw is compatible with a 16-inch bar as well, offering some flexibility depending on your needs.

Echo CS-355T chainsaw in use, cutting through a tree branch, highlighting its compact power and precision for arborist tasks

The chainsaw also features a dual-post chain brake handle, enhancing user safety by providing more control during operation. In terms of cutting speed and precision, users report that the CS-355T is fast, powerful, and provides a clean cut every time.

Cutting Specs:

Bar Length: 14 inches (compatible with 16 inches).
Chain Tensioning: Standard side-access.
Sprocket Type: Spur.

Echo CS-355T Durability and Maintenance

Built to last, the Echo CS-355T is designed with durability in mind. The heavy-duty air filter system ensures that the engine runs cleaner and longer, reducing maintenance requirements and extending the chainsaw’s overall lifespan. The air filter is easy to access and clean, which simplifies routine maintenance.

Close-up of Echo CS-355T chainsaw, showing the internal mechanics and chain adjustment system for maintenance and durability.

In addition to the air filter, the automatic oiler reduces wear and tear on the chain and bar by ensuring consistent lubrication. This not only improves cutting efficiency but also minimizes the chances of overheating during prolonged use.

Maintenance Features:

Heavy-duty Air Filter: Prolongs engine life.
Automatic Oiler: Adjusts lubrication based on workload.
Chain Brake: Increases safety and prolongs the saw’s lifespan.

Ease of Use

For arborists, ease of use is critical, and Echo has designed the CS-355T with this in mind. The chainsaw features a spring-assist starting system, which drastically reduces the effort needed to start the engine. This can be a significant advantage, particularly in cold weather or after the saw has been sitting idle for a while.

Arborist using Echo CS-355T chainsaw to cut a tree branch, demonstrating its power and efficiency in professional tree care.

The vibration reduction technology also plays a significant role in operator comfort. After hours of cutting, chainsaw vibrations can lead to fatigue and even injury. By minimizing vibrations, Echo has made the CS-355T a more comfortable saw to use over extended periods.

User-Friendly Features:

Spring-Assist Starting System: Easy to start in all conditions.
Vibration Reduction: Lessens operator fatigue.
Lanyard Ring: For safe operation while climbing.

Another feature that enhances usability is the swing-out lanyard ring, which allows users to secure the saw when working at heights, providing an additional layer of safety.

Pros and Cons

Compact and Lightweight: Perfect for arborists or anyone needing to maneuver in tight spaces.
Powerful Engine: Despite its small size, the 35.8cc engine provides enough power for most tasks.
Ergonomic Design: Reduces strain and enhances control during operation.
Vibration Reduction: Decreases operator fatigue during long jobs.
Automatic Oiler: Helps maintain the chain and bar without user intervention.

Not for Large Trees: The 14-inch bar is ideal for small to medium tasks, but this chainsaw is not built for felling large trees.
Limited Availability: Not available in California or Canada due to emissions regulations.
Price: At around $398.99, it’s an investment, particularly for casual users.

Who Should Buy the Echo CS-355T?

The Echo CS-355T is ideal for:

Arborists: Its lightweight, top-handle design makes it a go-to for tree care professionals who need to use a chainsaw while climbing.
Landscapers and Homeowners: Those needing a reliable, powerful saw for trimming, pruning, and cutting small to medium trees.
DIY Enthusiasts: Users looking for a chainsaw that balances power with ease of use.

Final Verdict

The Echo CS-355T chainsaw offers a fantastic balance of power, performance, and ergonomics, making it a top choice for arborists and landscapers. Its lightweight design and vibration reduction technology significantly reduce operator fatigue, while the powerful 35.8cc engine delivers ample power for most tree care tasks. Although it may not be suitable for large-scale logging, the CS-355T excels in precision work, making it an excellent investment for anyone in need of a versatile, high-quality top-handle chainsaw.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the engine size of the Echo CS-355T?
The chainsaw has a 35.8cc two-stroke engine.
How much does the Echo CS-355T weigh?
It weighs approximately 50 pounds.
What bar length is included?
The chainsaw comes with a 14-inch bar but supports up to 16 inches.
Is the Echo CS-355T suitable for professional use?
Yes, it is designed for professional arborists and tree care.
Does it have an anti-vibration feature?
Yes, it includes anti-vibration technology for reduced fatigue.
What kind of fuel does it use?
It runs on a gas-oil mix.
How is the chain lubricated?
It has an automatic oiler that adjusts based on workload.
Is it easy to start?
Yes, the chainsaw features a spring-assist system for easy starting.

We trust this review has helped you understand the key features and benefits of the Echo CS-355T chainsaw. Have experience with this model or any tips to share? Join the conversation below! Your feedback can guide others in choosing the right tool for their tree care needs. Also, feel free to share this review with those looking for a reliable, high-performance chainsaw.

Edward Smith

Forestry Author

Woodworking is about more than crafting; it's a harmonious connection with nature, mastering tools, and preserving our environment. I'm here to share my knowledge and experiences with you, forging a future where we can embrace wood's beauty and utility while safeguarding our forests' health and diversity.