What is the ECHO CS400 like and should you get one?
If you are looking for a chainsaw that is dependable, easy to use, and powerful, the CS-400 gas/oil mix chainsaw is your machine.
Sporting a 2-stroke engine and i-30 starting system, fast idle/choke and trigger release, as well as a superior filtration system for smooth cutting, the CS-400 makes quick work of virtually any sawing job.
Adjust the 18-inch bar to the size needed and rely on the automatic oiler to match all cutting conditions. Use the side-access chain tensioner for working access and enjoy the comfort of a virtually vibration-free rubber grip.
ECHO CS-400 Gas Chainsaw
 | ECHO CS-400 |
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 | ECHO CS-355T |
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At 10.1 dry weight when fully assembled, the CS-400 is easy to use for an extended period.
Its 36-inch cutting capacity lets the operator make quick work of branches and logs. The engine, with 2.7 horsepower, is more than powerful enough to handle just about any wood, including wetter wood.
The CS-400 minimizes stress on the operator with a vibration-absorbing rubber grip and plastic handle.
It features the latest in safety equipment via a dual-post chain brake and a replaceable metal bumper brake.
Each ensures the machine will stop immediately when the brakes are engaged, preventing injuries and improving overall control.
Anyone looking at the CS-400 should also consider purchasing the Echo 18-inch bar and chain combo pack.
The bar is lightweight, thanks to a streamlined contour. The chain features chamfer chisel cutters for low vibration and almost no kickback.
These features ensure that even tough jobs will be handled with ease, quickly, and in comfort.
In addition to ease of use, using genuine Echo replacement parts guarantees that when the originals need replacement, this kit can fill the gap with no delay or placement issues.
Echo’s battery chainsaw is a good option for those who want the benefits of not using gas.
ECHO CS 400 Specs
The CS-400 weighs 10.1 pounds dry weight, has an 18-inch adjustable bar, and can cut to 36 inches.
It is powered by a 40.2 cc 2-stroke engine that boasts 2.3 ft-lbs in torque and 2.7 maximum horsepower. The machine has a fuel capacity of 13.9 fluid ounces.
In addition, a spring assist makes startup easy, and the Quick-Adjust tool-less chain tensioning system allows on-the-fly adjustments.
The anti-vibration handle ensures comfort, and the dual-post chain and replaceable metal bumper brakes provide optimum safety.
The CS-400 has a limited 5-year consumer warranty (double-check with each retailer) and comes with a good chainsaw case.
CS400 Features And Benefits
The CS-400 has a number of very beneficial features:
- A digital ignition system helps with a seamless startup
- Helping the startup process are an integrated fast idle/choke feature, purge bulb
- Trigger release to allow for easier and faster starting
- The 2-stroke, professional-grade engine has an automatic adjustable oiler
- G-force automotive-style air filter with pre-cleaner and easy-access cover
The bar is 18 inches, and the saw comes with a robust chain that features unique chamfer chisel cutters.
These deliver exceptionally low vibration and kickback that increase performance and durability, improve safety and ensure comfort. The Echo CS-400 18-inch chainsaw uses an oil and gas mix.
This chainsaw has a limited 5-year warranty for consumer use and a 1-year warranty for commercial use.
ECHO CS-400 Price
The ECHO CS400 is very reasonably priced for such a quality chainsaw.
Compare prices here to find the best deal on the day:
- On Amazon here – also see comparable models
- At ECHO Tools here – cheapest at time of writing
- On eBay here – also find second hand and parts for the CS400
Add to that the extra 18” bar and chain for about $50, and you can walk away with a chainsaw that will be up to almost any job and provide years of service for less than $500.
The price for the chainsaw or extra 18” bar and chain does not include sales tax.
ECHO CS 400 Review
The predominant word with the Echo 40.2cc Chain Saw with i-30 Starter and 18-inch bar is ‘dependable.’
It is more powerful than many of its contemporaries and can make quick work of branches, tree trunks, logs, and brush.
The operation of the machine is also seamless. It is well balanced and has enough power to handle a larger bar.
The startup is quick and easy, regardless of whether the machine is hot or cold. The spring-assisted start and dual ignition make it easy for just about anyone to get the chainsaw started.
ECHO CS400 Alternatives
Here are 3 of our favorite alternatives to the CS400, but ECHO is also well known for their top handle chainsaws.
1. Echo 30cc Gas Chainsaw (here on Amazon)
Echo has a 30.5cc gas chainsaw with a 14-inch bar.
Its engine is 2 stroke and the chainsaw has a gas tank capacity of 8.5 ounces. The overall weight is 6.42 lbs. This chainsaw is ideal for smaller cutting jobs, including cutting wood for a fireplace or woodstove. It has less power than the Echo CS-400.
The ECHO CS-2511 T is another great lightweight chainsaw.
2. Husqvarna 435e II Gas Chainsaw (here on Amazon)
This machine weighs 9.2 lbs and provides 2.2 horsepower.
It is a nice ‘split the difference between the Echo CS400 and the chainsaw above.
It also comes with the Husqvarna reputation for dependability and toughness, which is an industry-standard. This Husqvarna is on par with the CS-400.
Complete Husky 435 review here.
3. Husqvarna 460 Rancher Chainsaw (here on Amazon)
For those looking for a larger model, Husqvarna has the 24-inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw.
This monster runs off a 60.2cc 2-cycle engine with an air injection system as well as an adjustable oil pump. It is expandable to 28 inches and engineered to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
This chainsaw is more powerful than the CS-400. If you have an extremely large job that includes logs greater than 20”, the 460 Rancher is the best way to go.
Complete Husky 460 Rancher review here.
CS400 FAQs
How many cc’s is an Echo CS-400 chainsaw?
The Echo CS-400 chainsaw is 40.2cc.
This is a mid-powered chainsaw that isn’t best for processing a ton of firewood but is great for lighter work.
What size bar is on an Echo CS-400 chainsaw?
The bar on the Echo CS-400 chainsaw is 18-inches.
It can cut up to 36 inches in diameter. An 18 inch bar is good for a wide range of tasks from pruning to dropping mid-sized trees.
Can you put a 14-inch bar on an Echo CS-400 chainsaw?
The Echo CS-400 works with a 16-inch or an 18-inch bar.
It is not meant to operate with a 14-inch bar.
Where can I get CS-400 parts?
You can order genuine Echo parts from an authorized Echo dealer.
Instructions on ordering parts are in the Use and Care Manual that comes with the chainsaw.
Other spots to look for CS400 parts:
Are there any CS-400 problems?
While this is a subjective problem, the Echo CS-400 chainsaw has a reputation for being exceptionally loud.
People also complain that the saw isn’t powerful enough for what they wanted it to do – that’s not a problem with the CS400, but just choosing the wrong chainsaw.
Is The ECHO CS 400 Good?
Whether you intend to use the 40.2cc Echo CS-400 chainsaw to address a fallen tree or for more regular cutting work, it is hard to find a more dependable chainsaw with as many features for a lower price.
Add to that easy starting features and safety precautions, and the CS-400 is one of a kind.
This chainsaw is durable enough to be used daily in a commercial capacity and will provide more than enough power and reach for the average consumer.
There simply is not a similar chainsaw on the market that can deliver this much power, safety, and reliability for this price.
For more on ECHO, see this post on who makes ECHO chainsaws!
