Craftsman S205

This one is the value tier's best-kept secret: a full-crank 46cc engine — smoother and more durable than the half-crank designs common at this price — with a 20-inch bar, built by MTD on proven bones. Pro Tool Reviews and OPE Reviews both came away surprisingly positive, and Walmart routinely sells it in the $130-170 range.

Yes, it's the single best upgrade: the factory low-kickback chain cuts noticeably slowly, and a standard 3/8/.050 replacement loop transforms the saw. The low-kickback chain is fine while you're learning; once you're comfortable, the swap costs about $20.

Easier than the price suggests — the Easy Start pull system noticeably reduces cord effort, which is a real differentiator in the value gas tier. Standard two-stroke care still applies: fresh mixed fuel (ethanol-free if possible) and a proper choke sequence keep it dependable.

That's the weak spot: there's a 2-year consumer warranty but no dealer service network behind it — you're dealing with big-box return processes or mail-in service rather than a local shop. Practically, S205 owners plan on DIY maintenance; the MTD-built design is simple and parts are available.

It's an occasional-duty design — storm prep, cleanup, and a modest woodpile, not firewood by the cord. The full-crank engine gives it more staying power than most price peers, but the basic anti-vibration and 16.4 lb ready-to-cut weight will wear on you during long sessions. Cut a few weekends a year and it's a genuine bargain; cut every weekend and buy an Echo CS-4920 or CS-590.