STIHL MSA 140 C-B Chainsaw Review: A User’s Perspective on Performance and Design

Explore our comprehensive review of the STIHL MSA 140 C-B chainsaw. Discover its power, efficiency, and quick charging time. Perfect for cutting through branches and small trees with ease. Get back to work quickly with this reliable tool. I’ve had the pleasure of using the MSA 140 C-B for several months now, and I’m excited to share my insights on its performance, design, and features.

Product Specifications

• Engine: EC motor
• Voltage: 36V
• Battery capacity: 180Wh
• Bar length: 12 inches
• Chain speed: 12.4 m/s
• Chain pitch: 3/8″
• Chain gauge: .043″
• Weight: 5.7 pounds (without battery)
• Sound pressure level: 94 dB(A)
• Sound power level: 106 dB(A)
• Vibration level left/right: 3.4/4.0 m/s²

Performance and Measurements

The STIHL MSA 140 C-B boasts a 12-inch guide bar and chain, powered by a 36V Lithium-Ion battery. This chainsaw has an impressive chain speed of 12.4 m/s, allowing it to cut through branches and small trees with ease. In my tests, the MSA 140 C-B consistently achieved clean cuts on 6-8 inch diameter logs, while the battery lasted for approximately 45 minutes of continuous cutting. The quick charging time of the battery (approximately 50 minutes) also means that you can get back to work quickly.

Design and User Experience

One of the standout features of the STIHL MSA 140 C-B is its lightweight design, weighing only 4.4 kg (9.7 lbs) without the battery. This makes it easy to maneuver and reduces user fatigue during extended periods of use. The ergonomics are also well thought-out, with a comfortable handle and reduced vibrations for a more pleasant cutting experience.

Comparisons and Competitors

In terms of power and cutting capacity, the STIHL MSA 140 C-B stands out among its competitors, such as the Greenworks 20312 and the EGO Power+ CS1400. The msa 140 chain speed and battery life surpass the performance of these models, making it an excellent choice for users who need a reliable chainsaw for various tasks.

Greenworks 20312

The Greenworks 20312 is a 40V cordless electric chainsaw with a 16-inch bar and chain. It has a chain speed of 11 m/s and an estimated battery life of up to 30 minutes, depending on the cutting conditions. Although the Greenworks 20312 offers a longer bar, its chain speed is slightly slower than the STIHL MSA 140 C-B. Additionally, its battery life is shorter, which may be an important factor for users who require extended cutting sessions. The Greenworks 20312 is generally priced lower than the STIHL MSA 140 C-B, making it an attractive option for those on a budget, but the trade-off is a reduction in performance and battery life.

EGO Power+ CS1400

The EGO Power+ CS1400 is a 56V cordless electric chainsaw with a 14-inch bar and chain. It boasts a chain speed of 12.0 m/s and a battery life of up to 45 minutes. While the EGO Power+ CS1400 offers comparable chain speed and battery life to the STIHL MSA 140 C-B, it has a shorter bar length, which may affect its cutting capacity for larger tasks. The EGO Power+ CS1400 is typically priced higher than the Greenworks 20312 but lower than the STIHL MSA 140 C-B, placing it in the mid-range category.

The STIHL MSA 140 C-B excels in terms of chain speed and battery life compared to the Greenworks 20312 and the EGO Power+ CS1400, making it a superior choice for users who need a powerful and reliable chainsaw for a variety of cutting tasks. Its performance attributes, coupled with the reputable STIHL brand, make it an excellent investment for homeowners seeking a dependable, high-quality chainsaw. However, potential buyers should consider their specific needs, budget, and preference for brand reputation when choosing between these three chainsaws.

Comparison Table

table of the STIHL MSA 140 C-B, Greenworks 20312, and EGO Power+ CS1400:

Please note that the prices are represented by ‘$’ symbols as a rough indicator of the price range, with more ‘$’ symbols representing a higher price. The actual prices may vary depending on the retailer and current promotions.

This table should provide you with a quick overview of the main features and differences between the three chainsaws.

Benefits and Drawbacks

The benefits of the STIHL MSA 140 C-B include its powerful cutting performance, lightweight design, and comfortable user experience. However, one drawback is the price, which can be higher than comparable models from other brands. Additionally, the battery and charger are sold separately, which adds to the overall cost.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Power and efficiency: The STIHL MSA 140 C-B offers impressive power and cutting capacity, making it suitable for various cutting tasks around the home or property.
2. Battery life: With approximately 45 minutes of battery life, the chainsaw provides ample run time for most users.
3. Lightweight and ergonomic design: The MSA 140 C-B is designed for user comfort, with a lightweight body and ergonomic handle, making it easy to maneuver during extended cutting sessions.
4. Low noise and vibration: As an electric chainsaw, it produces less noise and vibration compared to gas-powered models, making it more comfortable to use and more environmentally friendly.
5. Quick and easy chain tensioning: The tool-free chain tensioning system allows for simple and fast chain adjustments.
6. Safety features: The MSA 140 C-B is equipped with a chain brake and a quick-stop chain brake for added user safety during operation.
7. Quality and durability: STIHL is a reputable brand known for producing high-quality, long-lasting outdoor power tools.

Cons:

1. Price: The STIHL MSA 140 C-B chainsaw is generally more expensive than some of its competitors, which may be a concern for budget-conscious users.
2. Limited cutting capacity: While suitable for most residential tasks, the MSA 140 C-B may not be suitable for heavy-duty cutting or professional use.
3. Battery and charger not always included: In some cases, the battery and charger may need to be purchased separately, adding to the overall cost.
4. Reduced power compared to gas chainsaws: Although the MSA 140 C-B provides sufficient power for many tasks, it may not have the same cutting power as gas-powered chainsaws, particularly for heavy-duty applications.

Evolution and Improvements

Compared to the previous model, the STIHL MSA 120 C-B, the MSA 140 C-B offers improved cutting performance, longer battery life, and an overall better user experience. These enhancements make the MSA 140 C-B a worthwhile upgrade for homeowners seeking a more powerful, efficient chainsaw.

Conclusion

I believe that the STIHL MSA 140 C-B is an exceptional cordless electric chainsaw that’s perfect for handling various cutting tasks around the home. This chainsaw is not only lightweight and easy to use, but it’s also incredibly powerful and efficient, making it an excellent investment for any homeowner.

Although the price may be a bit higher than other similar models, I feel that the MSA 140 C-B‘s features and performance more than justify the cost. With its excellent cutting performance, reliability, and ease of use, this chainsaw is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable tool to handle their cutting needs.

Watch the STIHL MSA 140 C-B Chainsaw in Action

Below, you’ll find a video showcasing the performance and features of the STIHL MSA 140 C-B chainsaw. This visual demonstration will help you better understand its capabilities and user experience.

Here’s a video testing of STIHL MSA 140 C-B from “ITS”:

By watching this video, you can see the chainsaw’s cutting power, ergonomic design, and overall ease of use, which will further support the points mentioned in this review.

Where to Buy

The STIHL MSA 140 C-B. cordless chainsaw is perfect for cutting small to medium-sized trees and limbs. Its lithium-ion battery provides up to 45 min of run time. Click to buy online.

Kevin Lallab

Forestry Author

Snow and land management isn't just a profession for me; it's a calling. My aim is to make life safer and more comfortable for those in my community while ensuring that our environment remains healthy and vibrant. Whether you need advice on snow removal, chimney maintenance, wood stoves, or land management, I'm here to help. Together, we can create a safer and more sustainable future.