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Best Electric Chainsaw
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Best Cordless Chainsaw
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Best Light Duty Chainsaw
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With all the electric chainsaws on the market, deciding which is best for you can be tough. To save you time and effort, we’ve compared some of the best electric chainsaws so that you don’t have to. In addition, we will provide reviews to help you make a decision. Lastly, this guide will also discuss other factors you should consider when purchasing an electric chainsaw.
Our Top Picks for Best Electric Chainsaws
- Best Electric Chainsaw: Makita-UC4051A 16-inch Electric Chainsaw
- Best Battery Powered Chainsaw: EGO Power+ CS1804 18″ 56V Battery Powered Chainsaw
- Best Heavy-Duty Cordless Chainsaw: Makita XCU04PT LXT Cordless 16″ Chainsaw
- Best Chainsaw for Firewood: Greenworks Pro 80V 18″ Cordless Chain Saw
- Best Light Duty Electric Chainsaw: Oregon CS1500 18″ 15A Corded Electric Chainsaw
- Best Starter Chainsaw: WORX WG322 20V Power Share 10″ Cordless Chain Saw
- Best Budget Chainsaw: Greenworks 10.5 Amp 14″ Corded Chainsaw 2022
Makita-UC4051A 16″ Electric Chain Saw
This electric chainsaw is lightweight, powerful, and reliable. It has a 16-inch bar length, making it ideal for large and small jobs.
With its ergonomically designed handle, comfortable grip, and soft start system, this chainsaw makes it easier to cut through wood. You’ll find a large trigger switch with a soft start feature, allowing you to quickly and smoothly start. This chainsaw weighs 12 lbs, typical for a heavy-duty saw with cutting power similar to 42cc gas chainsaws.
Additional features include an automatic chain lubricator for heavy continuous cutting, a large oil reservoir with a view window that allows the user to check the oil levels quickly, and an electric chain braking mechanism for added safety.
Our Verdict
The chainsaw is our pick for the best electric chainsaw because it offers superior cutting performance and excellent value for its price point. The 120-volt corded chainsaw offers continuous cutting power without stopping to charge or replace batteries.
It offers a comfortable handle, a large trigger switch with a soft start function, and a built-in current limiter that protects the motor from burnout when overheated. Those features made it easier to operate and maintain than any other models we tested.
The Makita UC4051A is powered by a corded-electric motor that delivers a chain speed of 2,900 FPM, which makes it ideal for cutting through wood and brush. You’ll find a large oil reservoir with a clear window that lets you easily monitor the bar oil level.
Makita offers a 1-year warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
EGO Power+ CS1804 18-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Chain Saw 5.0Ah Battery and Charger
With a 5.0 Ah lithium-ion battery pack and charger, the EGO Power+ CS-1804 18-Inches Cordless Chainsaw will quickly work any tree trunk up to 30 inches in diameter. Thanks to its high-capacity battery, you’ll have plenty of cutting power without worrying about recharging.
This tool is exceptionally well-made, weighing in at 22.5 pounds. It’s the perfect size for cutting down larger trees, trimming small branches, and cutting firewood. You can also take it on camping trips and hunting adventures, making it a versatile tool in your arsenal.
This chainsaw has a brushless motor, which will run quietly and efficiently. For a heavy-duty battery-powered electric chainsaw, it’s lightweight and easy to maneuver. Not to mention, it’s swift and cuts through wood cleanly. Most electric chain saws cut better through softwoods like pine than hardwoods, but this one can handle everything.
With the 5.0 Ah 56V ARC Lithium Battery, you’ll be able to make up to 300 cuts on 4″ wood without worrying about the battery dying out. When you run low on battery power, it only takes about an hour to charge it back up fully using the charging station.
This product is compatible with all EGO Power+ products. It has a 3-year warranty, but you must register it to activate it.
Our Verdict
The EGO Power+ CS-1804 is a powerful, high-quality chainsaw that can easily cut through thick tree trunks, logs, and limbs. We rated it the best battery powered chainsaw. It has a lot of power for a battery chainsaw with its high-capacity 5.0 Ah lithium-ion battery pack and charger. The power output is comparable to a 42CC gas-powered chain saw.
Its brushless motor runs quietly and efficiently, while its lightweight design for an 18″ saw makes it easy to maneuver and control, capable of cutting logs up to 30 inches in diameter.
Additionally, the EGO Power+ CS-1804 battery-powered chainsaw has power equivalent to a 42CC gas-powered chainsaw, allowing long-lasting power even under continuous use. While the 56V 5.0 lithium battery is powerful, you’ll likely want an extra EGO 56V 5.0 Ah battery standing by for big projects.
Makita XCU04PT LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 16″ Chain Saw Kit (5.0Ah)
The Makita XCU04PT is a 16-inch, battery-powered chain saw with a brushless motor for high power efficiency and variable speed trigger.
The Makita outer rotor BL Brushless powerful motor direct-drive system is high-powered and efficient, equivalent to a 32cc gas chain saw. The variable speed trigger and high chained speed (0-3, 940 FPM) offer improved cutting performance.
For your ease, this saw has a toolless chain adjustment. The chain pitch is 3/8 inch, and there is also a lock-off lever included helping avoid the likelihood of the chain engaging accidentally. With its large oil filling port consisting of a view window, you can add oil or rapidly check the level as needed.
The saw has an LED light and an on/off switch for cutting in low or dark light. If you haven’t used it in a while, the auto power-off function will preserve battery life by shutting off the device.
The 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries deliver power and performance while the operator experiences low noise and zero emissions. Additional features include Extreme Protection Technology (XPT), which increases resistance to dust and water in harsh job site conditions.
The Makita XCU0PT chainsaw is lightweight at 18.56lbs, so you can easily handle it. It’s essentially a cordless version of the corded Makita UC4051A found above.
Our Verdict
The Makita battery-powered chainsaw is an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a heavy-duty battery-powered chainsaw. The Makita XCU04PT performed well across all of our tests and was only edged out by the EGO Power+ CS1804.
As with any electric tool that runs on batteries, you can expect them to run low after continuous use. This model uses two Makita 18V 5.0 Ah batteries, so you’ll need at least two extra charged batteries on hand when using this chainsaw.
Greenworks Pro 80V 18-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw, 2.0Ah Battery and Charger
Greenworks is paving the way for a greener future in the power equipment industry with the release of its environmentally friendly Pro 80V li-ion Max system. With an innovative digital brushless motor, this powerful cordless outdoor tool doesn’t produce any gas or fumes, making it one of the most sustainable options on the market.
With electric start, lightweight designs, and quieter motors, eliminating gas-powered engines has never been easier. Take on tough jobs regardless of terrain like a professional with ease knowing there won’t be any messy upkeep as traditional gasoline-powered machines require.
Greenworks lithium-ion technology and design enable professionals to do their jobs efficiently by snapping in a battery and pressing a button. This delivers high-performance power with a longer run time than most products on the market.
This 18-inch chain and bar are perfect for professional users. It features a brushless motor that provides 2x more torque and power, longer runtime, quiet operation, extended motor life, an auto-oiling system for proper chain lubrication, and easy-to-adjust tensioning.
The cutting output on this chainsaw is up to 100 cuts on 4×4 lumber, which is significantly less than the EGO and Makita models above. However, the chainsaw is easy to use. You don’t have to worry about gas or fumes, either. Plus, there are no spark plugs or pull cord starter ropes to maintain.
The only downside to this chain saw is that the battery capacity at 2.0Ah is lower than the EGO and Makita models listed above. Otherwise, we liked the additional features that come with it, including the automatic chain oiler and a rapid charger. We also loved how lightweight it was—only 14.2 lbs.
The Greenworks PRO 80v 18-inch brushless electric chainsaw is a fantastic deal. It’s a top-quality product that outperforms other battery chainsaws and comes with all the extras you need to start immediately.
Our Verdict
The Greenworks PRO 80v 18-inch brushless cordless chainsaw is excellent for your money. We rated it the best chainsaw 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 high-quality, performs well for a cordless chainsaw, and comes with everything you need to start immediately. Additionally, it has extra features that come with it, including the automatic oiler and rapid charger, both of which are fantastic additions! We also loved that it was lightweight at only 14.2 lbs given its size.
You can pick up an extra Greenworks PRO 80V 2.0Ah Lithium-Ion Battery (Genuine Greenworks Battery) if you have a lot of wood to cut.
Oregon CS1500 18-inch 15 Amp Corded Electric Chainsaw
This Oregon electric chainsaw is an excellent choice if you’re looking for powerful performance, a built-in self-sharpening system, low noise, instant start, automatic lubrication, and more. It’s lightweight and ergonomically designed, making it comfortable to hold and operate. You’ll enjoy using it every time you head out to do yard work.
The Oregon CS1500 18-inch corded electric chainsaw has a built-in self-sharpening system that lets you sharpen your chain in 3 to 5 seconds. It’s perfect for homeowners and DIYers who don’t mind doing a little maintenance.
With its automatic lubrication system, you can keep your chain lubricated for less frictional wear, extending the life of your chain. It’s also quiet, making less noise than a gas-powered chainsaw.
The Oregon CS1500 18-inch chainsaw is an excellent option if you’re looking for power, convenience, and reliability. It’s also UL certified and comes with a two-year warranty.
This corded electric chainsaw is powerful enough to handle any job at hand. It’s built with a lightweight design that allows you to maneuver easily through tight spaces. Since it comes pre-assembled, you don’t have to worry about assembling anything.
Our Verdict
Oregon CS1500 electric chainsaw is our pick for the best light-duty electric chainsaw. It’s powerful enough to handle cutting down small to medium size trees, trimming small branches, pruning shrubs, and clearing brush. Thanks to its built-in self-sharpening system, you’ll never have to worry about replacing the chain or sharpening your saw again. It’s lightweight, ergonomically designed, and comes with a 2-year warranty.
We found it to be quiet, making it great for residential applications. The corded electric chainsaw is lightweight and never needs a battery. Just plug it in and start cutting.
WORX WG322 20V Power Share 10″ Cordless Chainsaw
The Worx WG322 20V Power Share 10 is an excellent starter cordless chainsaw. Its speed, power, 3-year warranty, and compact design make it perfect if you’re looking for an economical cordless chainsaw.
The Worx Power Share product line contains over 70+ 20V, 40V, and 80V power tools powered by the same battery, making it highly convenient. It’s lightweight (6.2 lbs) for easy handling, has an automatic tension system for correct tension every time without extra effort on your part, and comes with an automatic chain lubrication system to extend the life of your tool. The oil level indicator lets you track how much oil you have left, so you’re never caught off guard.
This chainsaw has a cutting rate of 12.5 feet per second, so it can easily cut through most branches and small logs. The auto-tension and automatic oiling system make for a smooth saw experience, while the lightweight design makes it easy to use.
Our Verdict
The Worx electric chainsaw is a top-rated, lightweight battery-powered chainsaw that makes pruning small limbs and logs easy. Its 20V cutting power, auto-tension feature, and the fact that the battery is interchangeable with other Worx Power Share tools make it effortless to use for small cutting jobs.
Greenworks 10.5 Amp 14-Inch Corded Chainsaw
The Greenworks 10.5 Amp 14-inch Corded Chainsaw is an incredible electric chainsaw for those looking for affordable cutting power. It’s powerful enough to cut through branches and brush, making it ideal for trimming trees and shrubs.
Greenworks provides both corded and cordless tools, so you can choose the system that best suits your needs. The company leads in innovation, and its corded Lawn system offers a variety of tools to get all your yard work done quickly and efficiently. For example, the 10.5 amp electric motor starts within seconds for ease of use and reliable power.
The 14-Inch bar is perfect for those quick clean-up jobs. The toolless chain tensioning makes adjusting easy, so you can get back to work quickly. The wrap-around handle provides comfort while clearing debris.
The translucent oil tank lets you see when it’s time to add more oil. The auto-oiler consistently lubricates the chain to preserve its peak performance without any extra hassle on your part.
Our Verdict
The Greenworks 10.5 Amp corded chainsaw is a very affordable light-duty chainsaw that is effective for trimming tree branches and clearing brush. We wouldn’t recommend cutting down trees more than 9 to 10 inches in diameter. Cutting larger diameter trees with this particular chainsaw can be done but will require cutting from multiple attack points.
Tips for Selecting the Best Electric Chainsaw
Homeowners who want to quickly remove small and medium-sized trees from their property should invest in an electric chainsaw. Electric chainsaws are lightweight, portable, don’t emit harmful fumes, and can be used to cut firewood for chimneys or outdoor firepits. When purchasing an electric chainsaw, customers must consider the product’s power source, size, weight, and safety features.
Power Source: Corded vs. Cordless Electric Chain Saws
The size of your estate and how you plan to use the saw should be assessed before selecting an electric chainsaw. For example, if cutting down trees located in woods, then you will need a battery-powered model. On the other hand, If you only plan on chopping firewood close to your home, then a corded model works just as well.
Electric chainsaws come either corded or cordless, both with advantages and disadvantages. Cordless electric saws are more versatile and portable, making them especially ideal if you have a large property or don’t want to deal with lengthy extension cords.
Corded electric chainsaws are an excellent choice for small projects around the house, such as tree removal and pruning. They are typically lighter than cordless models due to not having a battery, limiting their range (it is only as long as your extension cord).
Another thing to note about corded chainsaws is that they come with shorter bars than those found on cordless models. So if you plan to cut large logs, get one with a longer bar.
Cordless electric chainsaws offer many benefits over their corded counterparts. Firstly, they tend to be much quieter. Cordless electric chainsaws also feature a battery pack that lasts 30 minutes to 1 hour of continuous use. Place the battery on the charging station and plug it into any standard household outlet.
If you’re looking for a saw that can handle firewood, we recommend opting for a cordless chainsaw with a 5 Ah battery – this should give you up to 300 cuts per charge, depending on the model.
If you purchase a chainsaw with a 2.0 Ah battery pack, know that you’ll only be able to use it for up to 90 cuts before recharging the battery. If you think you’ll need to use your chainsaw for extended periods, buy multiple batteries always to have one ready to go.
Electric vs. Gas-Powered Chainsaws
Although electric chainsaws typically aren’t as loud as gas-powered models, you should still adhere to basic safety standards by wearing the proper PPE. Neglecting your chainsaw by failing to keep it lubricated and sharpened will render it useless. If you only cut down trees every once in a while, invest in an electric chainsaw; they’re cheaper and easier to store than their gas-powered counterparts.
Electric chainsaws might need less upkeep and create less noise than gas-powered models. Cordless electric chainsaws only function for a shorter amount of time. If you want to cut down sizeable trees or limbs, purchase a gas chainsaw instead.
Consider How Much the Chainsaw Weighs
The weight of an electric chainsaw is the difference between its full assembly and just the bare basics. Heavyweight models are composed of thicker steel with stronger pieces all-around, while lightweight models have more plastic components and thinner metal overall.
However, some weigh significantly more than others due to bigger batteries. When deciding which model to buy, consider how long you can hold a heavyweight chainsaw for extended periods.
While corded electric chainsaws typically weigh 8 pounds or less, they may not be easier to handle than their cordless counterparts. Nevertheless, you’ll find that longer bars are handy for cutting trees and chopping logs.
The Chainsaw Bar Size
The size of a chainsaw’s bar length indicates the amount of cutting power it can handle. Heavier-duty tasks need larger sizes, while light-duty applications are suited for smaller ones.
Larger electric saws have more horsepower than smaller ones, making them great for taking down trees or harvesting firewood. Although powerful, their weight makes them difficult to use for more straightforward tasks like trimming branches and pruning bushes.
If you’re trying to decide on an electric chainsaw, consider getting one with a 14 or 16-inch bar. This size is versatile enough for big and small jobs and easy to handle.
The Battery Quality
When choosing a cordless chainsaw model, think about the battery pack. Instead of looking at the voltage for power ratings, look at the amp-hour rating. This will give you a better indication of how much current the battery can deliver to the saw rather than just how powerful the saw is in general.
Depending on your needs and projects that require long or short-cutting times, buy a saw with a battery with as high an amp-hour rating as you can afford.
A corded model will serve you better if you frequently do outdoor activities close to a power source. However, a cordless model will work better if you only want to cut larger trees occasionally or looking to work in remote areas; don’t forget to pack extra batteries or invest in a portable power station.
How to Apply Bar Oil
To keep your chainsaw running smoothly, you need to oil it regularly. Bar oil helps the chain run more smoothly and prevents it from overheating, which causes it to burn and wear out faster.
The easiest way is to invest in a chainsaw with an automatic oiler, which releases oil onto the bar as needed, keeping it well-lubricated throughout the work session. You refill the reservoir whenever necessary.
You can still find a manual chainsaw oiler if you prefer to oil your chainsaw without a power source. A manual oiler has a thumb-operated plunger that releases oil onto the bar. You can buy them cheaply and easily online, but they need constant upkeep and shouldn’t be used for long periods.
To add oil to your chainsaw, you can pour it directly onto the bar using a funnel. Pour enough oil to run down the sides and drip off the end. Be careful not to let any excess oil leak onto the ground.
Similarly, whether you use an automatic system or pour oil manually, checking regularly is key for maintaining levels; if low, add more accordingly.
Chainsaw Chain Tension
You should adjust the tension of your chainsaw chain to keep it from stretching, depending on how often you use it. It’s simpler than you might think: loosen the tension knob on your chainsaw bar, twist until the slack is gone, and tighten again.
It’s not tough to adjust the strain on your chainsaw. Most chainsaw bars have tool-free tensioning systems that make alterations effortless and quick. Some types of chainsaws even have a built-in tightener, which makes readjustments even more rapid.
You may notice that your chainsaw chain seems lax after you’ve used it for a while. Chainsaw chains elongate very slightly during operation. Provided your chainsaw chain is tight enough to cut through wood, you won’t have any issues. A loose chain can jump the bar.
The Chainsaws Safety Features
Always prioritize safety first when working with a chainsaw by, for example, utilizing the included electric chain brake feature that stops the chain’s rotation upon activation. Models also have a safety switch to prevent accidental starting. Furthermore, wear gloves, goggles, hearing protection, and a face shield while operating the saw. Always remember to never use a chainsaw without proper training and experience.
Manual chain brakes mounted in front are ideal because they safeguard your hands from getting tangled in the chain while the saw is running. A clutch lets you disengage the chain rapidly once the trigger is released, preventing a free-spinning saw from surprising you.
Another option available is a low kickback chain; these reduce kickbacks by allowing them to drop down instead of spin upwards. You may be able to find cordless models that have low-kickback chains so that you don’t need to stress over kicking the saw back at yourself.
Safety is critical when handling a saw. Only cut logs from the top and bottom – avoid the tip of the saw unless you’re experienced. And never forget to wear gloves, goggles, and other safety gear!
Electric Chainsaw Warranty
Find a saw that has a warranty from the manufacturer. These warranties often cover 1-3 years and repair costs related to labor and parts. It’s important to find a warranty covering everything except everyday wear and tear.
Why Trust Home Inspection Insider Selects Electric Chainsaws
Home Inspection Insider not only cuts trees and 4×4 posts to test electric chainsaws but also looks at cutting speeds, ease of use, safety features, noise levels, vibrations, and maintenance requirements. To find the best electric chainsaw for our readers, we looked at how well the chainsaw performs, including quality, reliability, and owner satisfaction.
Home inspection insiders recommend electric chainsaws for homeowners because they provide excellent value for the money. These types of chainsaws are ideal for homeowners who are new to using a chainsaw. You’ll find that they are easier to operate, quieter, lighter-weight, and less expensive than gas-powered models. Plus, they come with a charger, making it convenient to charge them at any time.
Electric chainsaws are ideal for cutting through thick branches and logs. They are also great for trimming trees and shrubs. However, if you plan on doing heavy-duty work, you may consider investing in a gas-powered model instead. Gas-powered chainsaws are heavier, louder, and more powerful than electric ones. But they are still worth the investment if you plan on doing serious tree chopping.
Electric Chainsaw FAQs
Which is the best electric chainsaw?
Our pick for the best electric chainsaw is the Makita UC4051A 16-Inch corded chainsaw. The toolless chain tensioning makes adjusting easy so that you can get back to work quickly. The wrap-around handle provides comfort while clearing debris, and the translucent oil tank lets you see when it’s time to add more oil.
Is it worth buying an electric chainsaw?
Electric chainsaws are worth buying because they are easier to operate, quieter, lighter weight, and less expensive than gas-powered models. Depending on the model, electric chainsaws can do almost everything a gas-powered chainsaw can do. However, if you plan on serious tree cutting, you may consider investing in a gas-powered model instead.
Is an electric chainsaw powerful enough?
Electric chainsaws are powerful enough for most homeowner needs, such as cutting through small trees, thick branches, and logs, trimming tree limbs, and brush removal. If you plan on doing heavy-duty work, you may consider investing in a gas-engine chainsaw instead. Gas-powered chainsaws are heavier, louder, and more powerful than electric ones.
Is a corded or cordless electric chainsaw better?
A corded electric chainsaw is a good choice if you need a chainsaw for quick clean-up jobs around the house. Cordless electric chainsaws are more expensive, but they offer the freedom to move around without worrying about cords. Choose the system that best suits your needs.
What are the disadvantages of an electric chainsaw?
An electric chainsaw’s disadvantages include that most models aren’t as powerful as gas-powered models and require a power source (either a battery or an outlet). Also, cheap electric chainsaws may not be the best for thick branches or trees. If you plan on doing heavy-duty work, you may consider investing in a 5.0Ah battery-operated or gas-engine chainsaw model instead.
Can you cut down a tree with an electric chainsaw?
Yes, you can cut down a tree with an electric chainsaw, but it may take longer than a gas-powered model. Also, cheap electric chainsaws may not be the best for thick branches or trees. If you plan on cutting large trees, you should consider investing in a 5.0Ah battery-powered chainsaw or gas-powered model instead.
How long do batteries last on an electric chainsaw?
How long a chainsaw battery lasts depends on the battery size, the chainsaw model, and the thickness of the wood being cut. Some smaller 2.0 Ah batteries may only last for 30 minutes of continuous use, while larger 5.0Ah batteries can last up to 2 hours. We recommend having additional fully charged batteries on standby and ready to use.
