Husqvarna T540i XP vs Stihl MSA 220 TC-O
A professional head-to-head for quiet battery climbing — published specs side by side for reference, no paid placement and no winner declared.
Specs verified against the manufacturer spec sheet on — husqvarna.com.
Specs verified against the manufacturer spec sheet on — stihlusa.com.
Husqvarna T540i XP
The Husqvarna T540i XP is a professional top-handle battery-powered chainsaw, designed for trained arborists pruning and limbing from the tree, with a 40-volt battery system making 2.4 hp and a 12-inch bar. It weighs 5.5 lb (2.5 kg).
Stihl MSA 220 TC-O
The Stihl MSA 220 TC-O is a professional top-handle battery-powered chainsaw, designed for trained arborists pruning and limbing from the tree, with a 36-volt battery system and a 14-inch bar. It weighs 6 lb (2.7 kg).
Best suited for
Each model's factual fit, from its duty class and key specs — no winner declared.
- Husqvarna T540i XP Arborist (top-handle) trained climbers pruning and limbing aloft on a rope and harness (12-in bar)
- Stihl MSA 220 TC-O Arborist (top-handle) trained climbers pruning and limbing aloft on a rope and harness (14-in bar)
Job fit
| Climbing & pruning | Quiet cordless top-handle saws for canopy work where noise and emissions matter (residential, near the public). |
|---|---|
| Runtime | Runtime is pack-limited; carry spares for a full climb. |
| Felling / bucking | Light-duty only — step up to gas or a large battery rear-handle saw for trunks. |
Power-to-weight & key specs
| Metric | Husqvarna T540i XP | Stihl MSA 220 TC-O |
|---|---|---|
| Power-to-weight | 0.96 hp/kg | not specified by manufacturer |
| Bar length | 12-in bar | 14-in bar |
| Weight | 5.5 lb | 6.0 lb |
| Battery platform | Husqvarna BLi | Stihl AP |
Full spec head-to-head
| Spec | Husqvarna T540i XP | Stihl MSA 220 TC-O |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | ||
| Engine Power | 2.41 hp | — |
| Power | 1.8 kW | 1.7 kW |
| Battery & Electric | ||
| Battery System | — | AP |
| Max Voltage | — | 40 V |
| Power Consumption | — | 2.1 kW |
| Recommended Battery | — | AP 300 S |
| Voltage | 40 V | 36 V |
| Bar & Chain | ||
| Chain Gauge | 0.043 in | 0.043 / 0.050 in |
| Chain Pitch | .325" LP | 3/8" |
| Guide Bar Length | 11.81 in (300 mm) | 14.02 in (356 mm) |
| Oil Capacity | 6.72 fl oz (198.73 mL) | 3.6 fl oz (106.47 mL) |
| Oiler | Adjustable flow | — |
| Dimensions & Weight | ||
| Length | — | 12.4 in (315 mm) |
| System Weight | — | 7.45 lb (3.38 kg) |
| Weight | 5.51 lb (2.5 kg) | 6 lb (2.72 kg) |
| General | ||
| Power Source | battery | battery |
| Sound Power Level | 103 dB(A) | — |
| Sound Pressure | 92 dB(A) | — |
| Vibration Level | 2.1 m/s² | — |
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Alternatives
- Husqvarna T535i XP — 40 V
- Greenworks 40V 12" Battery w/ 2.0 Ah Battery & Charger — 40 V
- Stihl MSA 190 T — 36 V
- Stihl MSA 80 C-B — 36 V
Independent reference database. Specs are compiled from manufacturer sources and normalized for comparison; verify with the manufacturer or dealer before purchase.
Frequently asked questions
How do the Husqvarna T540i XP and Stihl MSA 220 TC-O compare?
SawFacts presents their published specifications side by side as a neutral reference — it does not crown a winner. Compare the spec table and choose what fits your job and budget.
Are these top-handle saws suitable for homeowners?
No — top-handle saws are for trained climbers working aloft on a rope and harness. Use a rear-handle saw on the ground.
Are these specifications reliable?
Specs are compiled from manufacturer sources and normalized for comparison. Verify critical numbers with the manufacturer before purchase.