Best Battery Powered Chainsaws: Our Top Picks for Cordless Chainsaws in 2023

There are a lot of battery powered chainsaws on the market these days. How do you know which one is the best for your needs? We’ve tested several top models to identify our top picks for the best battery chainsaw and provide product reviews to help you make an informed decision. We will also discuss factors you should consider when purchasing an electric chainsaw.

Our Top Picks for Best Cordless Chainsaws

1. Best Overall: EGO Power+ CS1804 18-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Chain Saw
2. Runner Up: Makita XCU04PT LXT Cordless 16″ Chain Saw Kit
3. Best for Firewood: Greenworks Pro 80V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
4. Best Light Duty Saw: Husqvarna 14 Inch 120i Cordless Battery Powered Chainsaw
5. Best Budget Option: SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 14″ Lightweight Chainsaw
6. Best Small Chainsaw: BLACK+DECKER LCS1020 20V Max 10″ Chainsaw
7. Best Starter Chainsaw: WORX WG322 20V Power Share 10″ Cordless Chainsaw

EGO Power+ CS1804 18-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Chain Saw 5.0Ah Battery and Charger

The EGO Power+ CS-1804 18-Inches Cordless Chainsaw has a powerful 5.0 Ah lithium-ion battery pack and charger. It’s great for cutting through thick tree trunks and limbs. You’ll never run out of juice thanks to its high-capacity battery.

It is very well-made and weighs 22.5 lbs. It’s perfect for trimming larger trees and branches and cutting firewood, and you can also take it on camping trips and hunting adventures. EGO’s auto-tensioning system tightens the chain by twisting the side dial.

With a brushless motor, this chainsaw runs quietly and efficiently, yet its powerful performance is similar to a 42CC gas-powered chainsaw. Its light weight makes it easy to maneuver and control. Plus, it’s super fast and cuts cleanly through the wood. It cuts better through softwoods like pine versus hardwoods, but that’s the case for most electric chain saws. The all-metal bucking spikes allow you to plunge the saw blade deep into wood.

You don’t have to worry about running out of power since the battery lasts longer than most rechargeable batteries. The 5.0 Ah 56V ARC Lithium Battery gets up to 300 cuts on 4×4 lumber on a single charge. It’s rechargeable and recharges to full strength in about 1 hour using the charging station.

It’s compatible with all EGO Power+ products. A 3-year warranty backs it, but you will need to register it to get the warranty.

Our Verdict

The EGO Power CS-1804 is a powerful, well-made chainsaw perfect for cutting through thick tree trunks, thicker logs, and limbs. We rated it best because it has excellent power for a battery chainsaw with a high-capacity 5.0 Ah lithium-ion battery pack and charger.

It has a brushless electric motor that runs quietly and efficiently. With its relatively lightweight for a large 18″ chainsaw, it’s easy to maneuver and control. Its high performance is comparable to professional saws.

The batteries won’t last long under continuous use with any battery-powered chainsaw. This model uses a 56V 5.0 lithium battery, but you’ll need an extra EGO 56V 5.0 Ah battery on standby for big projects.

Makita XCU04PT LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 16″ Chain Saw Kit (5.0Ah)

The Makita XCU04PT 16-inch battery powered chainsaw is excellent for a powerful and durable saw. It features a brushless motor that delivers high power efficiency and a variable speed trigger for improved cutting performance.

With the Makita-built outer rotor BL Brushless powerful motor direct-drive system, you get high power efficiency equivalent to a 32cc gas engine chainsaw. The variable speed trigger and high chained speed (0-3, 940 FPM) offer improved cutting performance.

This saw has a “tool-less” chain adjustment for your convenience while operating and maintaining it. The chain pitch is 3/8 of an inch. There is also a built-in lock-off lever to help prevent the chain from accidentally engaging. Lastly, the large oil filling port with a view window allows you to quickly add and check the bar oil level as needed.

The saw has a LED light and an on/off switch that also features an auto power-off function. If you haven’t used the saw in a while, it will automatically shut off to preserve battery life.

The 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries provide power and performance, while the low noise and zero emissions create a comfortable operator experience. The additional features include Extreme Protection Technology (XPT), engineered to increase resistance against dust and water in harsh job site conditions.

The Makita XCU04PT chainsaw weighs 18.56lbs, making it easy to maneuver.

Our Verdict

Overall, we find the Makita 16 inch battery powered chainsaw is one of the best available. We rated the Makita XCU04PT as our runner-up option because the chainsaw performed well when cutting small to medium size trees, just not as well as the EGO Power+ CS1804. With any battery-operated electric tool, the batteries won’t last long under continuous use. This model uses two Makita 18V 5.0 Ah batteries, so you’ll need two extra batteries on standby.

Greenworks Pro 80V 18-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw, 2.0Ah Battery and Charger

Greenworks is making a difference in the power equipment industry by releasing its environmentally friendly Pro 80V li-ion Max system. Paired with our innovative digital brushless powerful motor, this is one of the most powerful cordless outdoor tools on the market that doesn’t produce any gas or fumes.

Eliminating gas-powered engines has never been easier due to features such as electric start, lightweight designs, and quieter motors. Whether a professional or heavy-duty user, you can now take on tough jobs regardless of terrain without worrying about messy upkeep as traditional gasoline-powered machines require.

The Greenworks lithium-ion technology & designs have made it possible for professionals to get their jobs done by simply snapping in a battery & pressing a button while delivering high-performance power & longer run time.

This 18” chain and bar are perfect for professional users. It features a brushless motor that provides 2x more torque and power, longer runtime, quiet operation, and extended motor life. The auto-oiling system delivers proper chain lubrication and increased productivity, while the easy-to-adjust tensioning allows easy bar and chain maintenance.

This powerful chainsaw can get up to 100 cuts on 4×4 lumber on a single charge! Plus, it’s easy to use with a push-button start, no gas or fumes, no carburetor, no spark plugs, and no pull cord starter rope.

The only downside to this saw is that it doesn’t come with an extra 2.0Ah battery (extra battery sold separately). The second battery allows you to continue working while one battery recharges.

We liked the extra features that come with it, including the automatic oiler and a rapid charger. We also loved that it was lightweight for its only 14.2 lbs. You don’t have to worry about carrying around a heavy chainsaw anymore.

The Greenworks PRO 80v 18-inch brushless electric chainsaw is a great value. It’s a high-quality product that performs well for a cordless electric chainsaw and comes with everything you need to start immediately.

Our Verdict

The Greenworks PRO 80v 18-inch brushless cordless chainsaw is a great value. We rated it best for firewood due to the long 18-inch bar and chain; however, we wouldn’t recommend clearing big trees because the 2.0Ah 80V battery gives out quicker than other models.

It’s a high-quality product that performs well for a cordless chainsaw and comes with everything you need to start immediately. We liked the extra features that come with it, including the automatic oiler and a rapid charger. We also loved that it was lightweight for its only 14.2 lbs.

Husqvarna 14 Inch 120i Cordless Battery Powered Chainsaw

The Husqvarna 120i is a lightweight, easy-to-use battery power chainsaw ideal for pruning branches and small trees. The power-conserving mode ensures you won’t run out of battery, and low noise levels let you work without disturbing the neighbors.

The 120i Cordless Battery Chainsaw is perfect for the casual homeowner who wants a light saw to prune branches and small projects. This battery-powered chainsaw has a guide bar and chain, making it easy to use.

The intuitive control keypad with savE mode allows the user to switch between maximum power and maximum runtime, depending on the job. The 40 Volt battery is conveniently compatible with other Husqvarna 40 Volt cordless tools.

Intertia-activated electric chain brake ensures safety while operating. The Husqvarna chainsaw comes with a bar cover. You will need to purchase bar and chain oil separately.

The automatic chain oiler provides a steady supply of bar and chain oil as you work. If the tension in the chain needs adjustment, it can quickly be done with the simple system included.

Our Verdict

The Husqvarna 14-inch 120i is a good-quality cordless chainsaw. We rated it as best for light-duty use because the chainsaw performed well when cutting small to medium size trees but struggled with larger pieces of wood. With any battery-operated electric tool, the batteries won’t last long under continuous use, so you’ll likely need a second battery charged and ready to go. This model uses a Husqvarna 40V lithium-ion battery.

SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 14″ Lightweight Chainsaw Kit with 2.5Ah Battery

The Skil electric chainsaw is an excellent option for those looking for a cordless chainsaw. It has a brushless motor provides efficient, high-performance power to cut through tough branches and stumps without the hassle and maintenance of gas chainsaws.

The auto-lubricating feature helps your chainsaw run smoothly by reducing friction. The long run time and battery life are thanks to the PWR CORE 40 lithium battery technology, which wraps each cell with cooling material.

This keeps the battery going for 25% longer and provides 2X the battery life. Additionally, the auto PWR JUMP feature charges the battery from 0-30% in just 15 minutes (based on a 2.5Ah battery).

The digital brushless motor on this battery-operated chainsaw provides efficient, high-performance power to cut through tough branches and stumps without the hassle and maintenance of gas chainsaws.

The saw also features a kickback brake that automatically stops the chain when kickback occurs so you can work confidently. Plus, the chain is easy to adjust with a convenient dial on the side of the tool.

Our Verdict

The SKIL PWR CORE brushless chainsaw is a great budget option. We rated it the best budget option due to its 40V cutting power, 2.5 Ah lithium battery, and under $200 price point. It’s a great electric chainsaw for the handy homeowner looking to prune small trees and limbs. It’s easy to handle for men and women at only 11.53 lbs.

BLACK+DECKER LCS1020 20V Max Lithium Ion Chainsaw, 10-Inch with 3.0Ah Battery

This cordless chainsaw is excellent for cutting through wood, brush, and small trees. It comes equipped with a 10-inch premium Oregon low kickback blade, making it ideal for trimming branches and shrubs.

The Black + Decker LCS1020 20V MAX lithium-ion chainsaw is compatible with 20V MAX outdoor and power tools. You’ll never have to worry about running out of juice during a job, thanks to its high capacity 3.0 Ah battery.

It’s lightweight at 8.5 lbs and compact, making it easier to carry around.

Thanks to its durable construction, you’ll enjoy using this chainsaw for years. Its premium quality components include a 10-inch premium Oregon bar and premium steel chain.

The battery is compatible with other 20V Blank + Decker power tools.

Our Verdict

The Black + Decker LCS1020 compact cordless chainsaw is a reliable small chainsaw handy around your house for yard work. We rated it the best small chain saw due to its 20V cutting power, 3.0 Ah lithium battery, and the fact that the battery is interchangeable with other 20V Black + Decker power tools. It’s a great small electric chainsaw for pruning small trees and shrubbery. It’s easy to handle for men and women at only 8.5 lbs.

WORX WG322 20V Power Share 10″ Cordless Chainsaw

The cordless Worx WG322 20V Power Share 10 is a nice entry-level cordless chainsaw. It’s fast, powerful, compact, lightweight, and has a 3-year limited warranty. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for an affordable cordless chainsaw.

It’s incredibly lightweight (6.2 lbs), making it easier to handle and maneuver. The automatic, tool-free tension system ensures you always have the correct tension. The same battery powers over 70+ 20V, 40V, and 80V lifestyle, gardening, and power tools in the Worx Power Share product line.

The automatic chain lubrication system keeps the chain running smoothly and extends the tool’s life. The oil level indicator lets you keep track of how much oil you have left.

With a 12.5-foot-per-second cutting rate, this chainsaw will easily cut through most branches and small logs. Combined with the auto-tension, automatic oil systems, and the overall lightweight design, this is one smooth saw experience.

Our Verdict

The Worx 20V is one of the best lightweight battery powered chainsaw is a nice small chainsaw that makes pruning small limbs and logs easy. We rated it the best starter chainsaw due to its 20V cutting power, auto-tension feature, and the fact that the battery is interchangeable with other Worx Power Share yard tools. At only 6.2 lbs, it’s effortless to use for smaller jobs.

Other Battery Chainsaws We Also Considered

We considered the DEWALT FLEXVOLT Chainsaw 60V 2Ah 16IN, but we found multiple complaints online about the oil leaking from the saw when not in use. The chainsaw had a 4.3 rating at the time of this writing which was lower than other battery chainsaws.

Tips for Selecting the Best Electric Chainsaw

An electric chainsaw is a powerful tool that lets homeowners quickly remove small to medium size trees from their property. They’re great for cutting firewood for chimneys and outdoor firepits. They’re lightweight, portable, and don’t emit harmful fumes.

However, several factors must be considered when purchasing an electric chainsaw, including the power source, size, weight, and safety features.

Corded vs. Cordless Electric Chain Saws

The most crucial factor to consider when looking for an electric chainsaw is whether you prefer a corded or cordless model. Gauge the size of your property and how you plan on using the saw before making a final choice. For example, If you’re cutting trees in the woods, you will need battery power. A corded model should work fine if you’re cutting firewood close to your home.

Electric chainsaws come in two main types; corded or cordless. Both have advantages and disadvantages, but cordless electric chain saws are more popular for their versatility and portability, especially if you have a large property or don’t want to hassle with long extension cords.

Corded electric chainsaws are typically lighter than cordless electric models. They have a limited range (limited to your extension cord length) and tend to be less powerful. You should also pay close attention to the bar length. Some corded chainsaws come with shorter bars than those found on cordless models. If you plan to cut large logs, you’ll need a long bar.

 A corded chainsaw is probably the most common type of chainsaw available today. They are great for general DIY tasks, including tree removal, limb pruning, and firewood collection.

Cordless electric chainsaws tend to be quieter than their corded counterpart. Cordless electric chainsaws feature a battery pack that lasts up to 1 to 2 hours of continuous operation. To charge the battery, you place them on a charging station plugging it into any standard household outlet.

If you’re planning to cut firewood, you’ll need a saw that cuts fast and smoothly. We recommend a cordless chainsaw with a 5.0 Ah battery capable of up to 90 cuts per battery charge.

With smaller 2.0 Ah battery packs, you’ll exhaust the battery quickly in as little as 30 cuts per charge. If you plan to use your chainsaw for long periods, consider buying multiple batteries so you have one on standby ready to use.

Electric vs. Gas-Powered Chainsaws

Be aware that electric chainsaws may not be as loud as gas-powered models. But you still need to follow basic safety precautions, including wearing proper PPE. Maintaining your chainsaw by keeping it well-lubricated and sharpened is essential.

For homeowners who only occasionally cut down trees, cordless electric chainsaws are a better choice. These saws are easy to store and transport. Plus, they’re usually cheaper than gas-powered chainsaws.

Cordless electric chainsaws are quieter and require less maintenance than gas-powered chainsaws. However, they only have a shorter use time compared to gas-powered models. If you’re planning to cut large trees or branches, you should invest in a gas chainsaw.

Consider How Much the Chainsaw Weighs

The weight of an electric chainsaw refers to the weight of the chainsaw’s full assembly. Heavyweight electric chainsaws are made using thicker steel and stronger components. Lightweight electric chainsaws are made of thinner metal and have more plastic parts.

Some models weigh significantly more than others due to the added weight of the battery. Consider how heavy of chainsaws you can hold for extended periods when deciding which model to buy.

Corded electric chainsaws typically weigh 2 pounds or less. They tend to be lighter than cordless models, although not necessarily easier to handle. You’ll find that larger diameter bars work well for felling trees and chopping logs.

The Chainsaw Bar Size

A chainsaw’s size refers to the length of the bar that holds the chain. Larger sizes are better suited for heavier-duty tasks, whereas smaller sizes are ideal for light-duty applications.

 Larger electric saws have a more powerful motor than smaller ones, making them ideal for cutting down trees and harvesting firewood. However, they’re heavy and inconvenient for doing light chores like trimming thick branches and pruning bushes.

The most popular electric chainsaws have a 14 or 15-inch bar because it’s great for both large and small jobs. These sizes are comfortable to hold and maneuver and big enough to tackle most jobs.

The Battery Quality

Cordless models usually have a battery pack so you won’t need additional equipment. Much of their power rating is based on the battery’s voltage, not the amp-hour rating. Amp hour ratings have more to do with how much current the battery can deliver than how powerful the saw is.

If you’re planning on using your saw for longer projects, consider buying a battery with a high amp-hour rating. On the other hand, if you only plan on cutting wood for short amounts of time, a lower amp-hour rating will suffice.

If you plan on doing lots of outdoor activities, a corded model is probably better suited for your needs. But a cordless model will serve you well if you want to cut through small branches.

How to Apply Bar Oil

Oiling your chainsaw is essential if you want to maximize its performance. Bar oil helps the chain run smoother and prevents it from overheating, which causes it to burn and wear out faster.

An automatic oiler is the easiest way to go. These devices automatically release oil onto the bar as needed, keeping it well-lubricated throughout the work session. You refill the reservoir whenever necessary.

If you prefer to oil your chainsaw manually, plenty of options are still available. A manual oiler is a simple device that uses a thumb-operated plunger to release oil onto the bar. Manual oilers are inexpensive and easy to find online. However, they require constant maintenance and should not be used for extended periods.

You can also pour oil directly onto the bar using a funnel. Pour enough oil onto the bar until it runs down the sides and drips off the end. Be careful not to let any excess oil drip onto the ground.

Regardless of whether you use an automatic oiling system or pour oil manually, check the oil level in the reservoir regularly. If the reservoir is low, add more oil.

Chainsaw Chain Tension

To keep your chainsaw chains from stretching, you should regularly adjust the tension on your chainsaw chain. Adjustments are necessary every couple of months, depending on how frequently you use your chainsaw.

You’ll find that adjusting the tension on your chainsaws is easier than you think. All you need to do is loosen the tension knob on the side of your chainsaw bar, twist it until the slack is gone, and then tighten it back up again.

Adjusting the tension on your chainsaw isn’t difficult at all. Most chainsaw bars have tool-free tensioning systems that make adjustments simple and quick. Some chainsaw models even include a built-in tensioner that makes adjustments even faster.

You may notice that your chainsaw chain seems loose after using it for a while. Don’t worry; it’s perfectly fine. Chainsaw chains stretch slightly during use, primarily when used outdoors. As long as your chainsaw chain is tight enough to cut through wood, you won’t have any problems.

The Chainsaws Safety Features

When operating a power tool like a chainsaw, taking advantage of safety features can help prevent serious injuries. For example, some chainsaws include a chain break feature that stops the chain’s rotation when activated. Other models include a safety switch that prevents accidental starting.

Safety should always be your number one priority when operating a chainsaw. Always wear protective gear, including gloves, goggles, hearing protection, and a face shield. Never use a chainsaw without proper training and experience.

Manual chain brakes mounted in front are great because they protect your hands from getting caught in the chain during operation. A clutch allows you to quickly disengage the chain once the trigger is released, preventing a free-spinning saw from catching you off guard.

Low-kickback chains are also available. These chains reduce kickback by allowing the chain to drop down rather than spin upwards. You may find low-kickback chains in cordless models, so you don’t have to worry about kicking the saw back at yourself.

Always use only the bar’s top and bottom portions when cutting logs. Cutting with the tip of the saw is an advanced technique for experienced saw users and even those who fall victim to kickbacks occasionally.

Never forget to wear protective gear when operating a chainsaw!

Battery Powered Chainsaw Warranty

Look for a saw that comes with a warranty. Many manufacturers provide warranties ranging from 1 year to 3 years. Warranties cover parts and labor costs related to repairs. Warranty coverage varies depending on the manufacturer. Look for a warranty that covers everything except normal wear and tear.

Why Trust Home Inspection Insider Selects Electric Chainsaws

Home Inspection Insider tests electric chainsaws by cutting trees and 4×4 posts. We look at cutting speeds, ease of use, safety features, noise levels, vibrations, maintenance requirements, and durability to find the best electric chainsaw. We also look at how well the chainsaw performs regarding quality, reliability, and owner satisfaction.

For the best overall performance, we suggest getting an electric chain saw that meets the following criteria:
• Has a variable-speed trigger
• Is lightweight
• Can handle thicker material
• Has a quiet engine
• Has a comfortable grip
• Has a wide chain that doesn’t bind up easily
• Comes with a charger
• Provides plenty of power
• Has a low price
• Has a high level of owner satisfaction

Battery Powered Chainsaw FAQs