I have spent the last few weeks testing both the KAKEI 16 Inch and the KAKEI 18 Inch chainsaw chains on my property to see how they handle different cutting tasks. In this guide, you will learn how these two sizes compare in terms of cutting speed, handling, and durability. By the end, you will know exactly which chain fits your bar and your specific yard work needs.
16 in vs 18 in chain: At a Glance
| 16 in | 18 in chain | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Capacity | Best for logs up to 14 inches in diameter. | Handles larger logs up to 16 inches in diameter. |
| Maneuverability | Highly agile, lightweight, and easy to control. | Heavier and less agile in tight, cramped spaces. |
| Power Compatibility | Works well with light-to-medium gas and electric saws. | Requires mid-to-high power gas or strong battery saws. |
| Cutting Speed | Faster rotational speed due to less friction and drag. | Slightly slower due to increased drag along the bar. |
| Kickback Risk | Lower risk, making it safer for casual users. | Moderate risk, requiring more experienced handling and control. |
| Primary Application | Limbing, light firewood cutting, and general yard maintenance. | Medium tree felling, heavy bucking, and storm cleanup. |
| Maintenance Effort | Quicker to sharpen and tension with fewer drive links. | Requires more time to sharpen due to more cutters. |
Complete Comparison: 16 in vs 18 in chain
| KAKEI 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ | KAKEI 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ | |
|---|---|---|
| Product Image |  |  |
| Price | View On Amazon | View On Amazon |
| Category | Budget-Friendly Replacement Chain | Budget-Friendly Replacement Chain |
| Bar Length | 16 Inches | 18 Inches |
| Drive Links | 56 Drive Links (S56) | 62 Drive Links (S62) |
| Pitch & Gauge | 3/8″ LP Pitch, .050″ Gauge | 3/8″ LP Pitch, .050″ Gauge |
| Materials & Durability | German steel links with Japanese chrome-plated semi-chisel cutters | German steel links with Japanese chrome-plated semi-chisel cutters |
| Safety Certifications | ANSI B175.1-2012 & CSA Z62.3 Low Kickback standards met | ANSI B175.1-2012 & CSA Z62.3 Low Kickback standards met |
| Major Brand Compatibility | Craftsman, Poulan, Ryobi, Echo, Greenworks | Poulan, Kobalt, Echo, Ego, Greenworks |
| Best For | Fast cutting and high maneuverability in typical backyard chores | Handling thicker logs and broader cuts with larger residential chainsaws |
| Amazon Link | View On Amazon | View On Amazon |
| Overall Winner | Winner (Offers superior versatility and speed for residential property owners) | Runner-up (Excellent choice for heavier, high-capacity woodcutting tasks) |
KAKEI 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain (S56) Review
I put this 3-pack of KAKEI 16 Inch S56 chains through its paces on my mid-sized gas chainsaw, and the performance surprised me. These chains feature a 3/8″ LP pitch, a .050″ gauge, and 56 drive links, which is a highly common configuration for residential saws. KAKEI uses high-quality German steel to construct the links, which helps the chain retain its shape and tension during heavy use. The semi-chisel cutters are coated with Japanese chrome, making them highly resistant to dulling when hitting dirty wood. My tests showed that the low-kickback design made my cuts feel stable and controlled, even when tackling tough oak limbs.
Key Features
- 56 drive links with a standard 3/8″ LP pitch and .050″ gauge configuration.
- Built with durable German steel that undergoes specialized heating control for improved toughness.
- Features Japanese chrome-plated cutters for extended sharpness.
- Complies with ANSI B175.1-2012 and CSA Standard Z62.3 low-kickback safety requirements.
- Shipped in protective oil to resist corrosion during storage.
Pros
- Stays sharp longer than standard budget chains.
- Low-kickback design makes it highly predictable for beginners.
- Excellent value with three chains included in one pack.
- Fits a wide range of popular 16-inch models from Craftsman, Ryobi, and Echo.
Cons
- Semi-chisel design cuts slightly slower than full-chisel options in clean softwoods.
- Requires a brief break-in period where you must adjust tension after the first few cuts.
Best for
Homeowners who need a reliable, safe, and long-lasting chain for general yard cleanup, pruning, and cutting small firewood logs.
Expert Opinion: This 16-inch chain strikes a perfect balance between safety and cutting efficiency, making it the ideal choice for residential yard maintenance.
KAKEI 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain (S62) Review
When I stepped up to the KAKEI 18 Inch S62 chain, I noticed an immediate difference in reach and log capacity. This package includes three chains featuring a 3/8″ LP pitch, a .050″ gauge, and 62 drive links to fit longer guide bars. Like its smaller sibling, this chain utilizes German steel and hardened, quenched rivets to minimize stretch over hours of operation. The Japanese chrome-plated semi-chisel cutters hold their edge remarkably well, even when slicing through dry, dusty logs. It meets the strict ANSI B175.1-2012 standard for low kickback, which gave me peace of mind when operating a longer bar.
Key Features
- 62 drive links designed for 18-inch guide bars with a 3/8″ LP pitch and .050″ gauge.
- Manufactured using heat-controlled German steel for enhanced tensile strength.
- Rotary-ground Japanese chrome cutters provide excellent durability and sharpness.
- Certified to meet ANSI B175.1-2012 safety standards for low kickback.
- Pre-treated with protective oil to prevent rust during shipping.
Pros
- Longer reach allows you to cut larger logs without rotating them.
- Exceptional edge retention when cutting through dirty or frozen wood.
- Hardened rivets significantly reduce the need for constant tension adjustments.
- Generous three-pack ensures you always have a sharp spare on hand.
Cons
- Extra length requires more engine power, which can bog down small electric saws.
- Takes slightly longer to hand-sharpen due to having more cutters.
Best for
Landowners and DIYers who regularly fell medium-sized trees or buck larger logs and own an 18-inch compatible chainsaw.
Expert Opinion: The 18-inch version provides the extra length needed for serious bucking work while maintaining the safety features essential for non-professional users.
16 in vs 18 in chain: Key Differences That Matter
Performance Comparison
The 16-inch chain spins faster because it has fewer drive links (56 vs 62). This smaller loop creates less drag on your chainsaw motor. Your saw can maintain high RPMs easier with the shorter chain, resulting in quick, clean cuts on branches and small logs. The 18-inch chain offers more cutting capacity but puts a heavier load on your chainsaw engine. If you use a low-voltage battery saw or a small gas engine, the 18-inch option might cause the motor to bog down during deep cuts.
Price/Value Analysis
Both options come in a cost-effective three-pack. The price difference between the S56 and S62 packs is minimal, usually just a couple of dollars. You get excellent value with either set since KAKEI uses the same high-grade German steel and Japanese chrome plating for both sizes. The 18-inch package technically gives you more metal for your money, but you should only buy the size that matches your guide bar.
Build Quality Comparison
In my testing, both chains showed identical manufacturing standards. KAKEI uses the same heat-treatment process on the German steel chassis for both lengths. The rivets on both the 16-inch and 18-inch chains are hardened and quenched to resist stretching. The Japanese chrome plating on the cutters is uniform across both models, ensuring equal resistance to dulling and wear.
User Experience Differences
Using the 16-inch chain feels nimble and highly controllable. It makes the chainsaw feel balanced and lightweight, which reduces user fatigue during long pruning sessions. The 18-inch chain shifts the balance of the saw slightly forward. This extra reach is helpful because you do not have to bend down as far when bucking logs on the ground, saving your back over a long day of work.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the KAKEI 16 Inch S56 chain if you own a compact gas chainsaw or a battery-powered model. This size is ideal for homeowners who primarily prune backyard trees, clear light brush, and cut small firewood logs under 12 inches in diameter. The lighter weight and faster chain speed make it easier to handle for long periods. You must ensure your guide bar matches the 56 drive link specification before purchasing.
Choose the KAKEI 18 Inch S62 chain if you need to cut larger logs up to 15 inches in diameter. This longer chain is perfect for property owners who need to clear fallen trees or prepare large amounts of firewood. You will need a slightly more powerful gas chainsaw or a high-voltage battery saw to pull this chain efficiently through thick wood without stalling. Always check your guide bar to verify it requires a 62 drive link chain.
Your choice between these two sizes ultimately depends on your chainsaw bar and the engine power of your power head. Do not try to fit an 18-inch chain on a 16-inch bar, as it will not fit. If you have the option to swap both your bar and chain, the 16-inch setup offers better speed and maneuverability for general yard maintenance. The 18-inch setup excels when raw cutting capacity is your top priority for tackling thicker trunks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if my chainsaw takes a 16 in vs 18 in chain?
A: Check the stamped markings on your chainsaw guide bar. It will list the length, pitch, gauge, and drive link count. You cannot swap these sizes without changing the guide bar itself.
Q: What are the main performance differences in a 16 in vs 18 in chain comparison?
A: The 16-inch chain spins faster and places less strain on your motor. The 18-inch chain offers a longer cutting reach but requires a more powerful engine to prevent stalling.
Q: Can I put an 18-inch chain on a 16-inch guide bar?
A: No, you cannot. An 18-inch chain has 62 drive links, while a 16-inch bar requires 56 drive links. The chain will be far too loose and will fly off the bar, creating a major safety hazard.
Q: Does the 18-inch chain dull faster than the 16-inch chain?
A: No, it actually dulls slightly slower. Because the 18-inch chain has 62 cutters compared to the 16-inch chain’s 56 cutters, each individual tooth does less work per rotation, spreading the wear across more cutters.
Q: Are these KAKEI chains suitable for battery-powered chainsaws?
A: Yes, they are. Both models use a 3/8″ LP (Low Profile) pitch and a .050″ gauge, which is the standard thin-kerf design that works perfectly on modern electric and battery-powered chainsaws.
Q: How do I prevent my new KAKEI chain from stretching?
A: Soak the chain in bar oil before installation. Run the chainsaw at half throttle for a minute without cutting, then stop the saw and adjust the tension before making your first cut.
As an Amazon Associate, We earn from qualifying purchases