Stihl or Echo. The Poulan Pro previously mentioned is also a decent saw, but lots of complaints about the new model(s) of its carb being set too lean and causing startup problems. Complaints about its chain wearing out very quickly and not being very aggressive to begin with.
Haven't had carb issues, but it does run a little nicer on alcohol free gas, especially after sitting awhile. You're right about the chain, but that could be considered a safety feature(might be why it's like that). Seems highly resistant to kickback. Of course the downside is a slower cut.
I got my poulan cause I could walk to walmart and buy it in person. The yard rapage I previously mentioned also broke my jeep windshield, so my choices were limited. If I had time, I may have ended up with a stihl or husq, cause I like quality tools, but at 2*+ the price, I'm not sure that would have been the best decision.
Dunno... I think poulans are better than their internet reputation, but they're certainly no stihl. They're worth consideration, especially for an average suburban homeowner. If you're only cutting the occasional fallen limb on a 1ac property, a pro or prosumer saw is overkill imo. A chainsaw might be overkill anyway. Hard to beat quality hand tools. No worries about fuel, and they always start. Plus is you get a bit of exercise on top of it, and aren't pointlessly moving equipment around as in a gym.