Electric chainsaws have numerous benefits and are essential in any woodworker’s tool shed. But a wrong purchase can leave you with a saw that isn’t safe, effective, or durable. These subpar models can be a waste of money, especially when you’re in a budget. To help you arrive at the right product, our team of experts reviewed several products to find the best electric chainsaw for you.
Reviews of the Top Electric Chainsaws
1. Greenworks G-MAX 40V Cordless Chainsaw
The Greenworks G-MAX 40V Chainsaw model is a wireless electric chainsaw with impressive power output source and run-time. Our team of experts’ top picks because they were impressed with its brushless motor for its exceptional cutting performance and automatic oiler.
This unit weighs approximately 14 lbs with the batteries installed and the oil filled up. Besides delivering more torque and less vibration than other brands, this lightweight electrical chainsaw has a 40-volt rating, powerful enough to see through 4 inch wood pieces for up to 40 minutes run time.
This electric chainsaw comes with a 2Ah (amp hour) rating battery and charger. The batteries source are capable of powering up to 55 different Greenworks tools. The chainsaw Greenworks also has an electronic chain brake and low kickback for user welfare. It has an automatic oiler that keeps the bar and chain lubricated.
What We Like
- 16 inch bar and chain
- Automatic oiler
- It’s a battery powered cordless chainsaw
- Chain brake and low kickback
- Battery can work with other power tools
What We Don't Like
- The chain may come off
- Overload may shut off the saw mid-work
2. Oregon CS1500 18 in. Self-Sharpening Corded Chainsaw
Our team of experts loved the Oregon CS1500 Chainsaw because of its stunning self-sharpening ability. This model takes less than 3 seconds with the lightweight electric chainsaw on-board sharpener.
It also has an instant start capability, which is quite different from what you have with many gas-powered chainsaws like Ego CS1804. With the cutting firewood equipment attached the dry weight of this compact saw is 12 lbs. And unlike the gas-powered model tools, it is also silent, with the loudest noise coming from the saw’s impact on wood.
Another benefit we found on this corded electric chain saw design is its built-in Lubri-Tec oiler method which is the best type of oiler you can get. The automatic oiler keeps the shackles of this power tool less friction-free for longer. cut capability just like Ego CS1804. Finally, the corded electric saw has a shackles brake source trigger for user welfare that makes it the electric chainsaw just like Ego CS1804.
What We Like
- 18 inch bar for more efficient cuts
- Light duty chainsaw at only 12 pounds
- You don’t need to lubricate the bar
- Chain brake for user safety
- Instant start feature
What We Don't Like
- Needs an extension cord
- It is not a battery powered chainsaw
3. Greenworks PRO 80V 18 inch Cordless Chainsaw
The 18-inch wireless lightweight electric chainsaw model by Greenworkds is great choice for large projects like Ego CS1804. The electric chainsaw has a 45 cc gas chainsaw’s performance equivalent, making it one of the most powerful wireless chainsaws on this list. If using a 2.0Ah battery, the product weighs 10 lbs.
Our team was impressed because the Greenworks PRO 80V has everything from steel bucking spikes to a durable metal wrap around handle, hand guards and even an electronic brake like Ego CS1804. We also loved its quick charge, as we could get up to 150 cuts of firewood/trees and branches on a single charge in 30-minutes like Ego CS1804.
The only downside of PRO 80 Volts is that the charger and battery (amp hour) aren’t included in this 18-inch electric chainsaw. However, the chainsaw is compatible with most other Greenworks and Lithium Ion batteries like Ego CS1804.
What We Like
- Metal bucking spikes
- Cuts as efficiently as gas powered saws
- Short battery charge time
- The saw weighs just 10 pounds
- Saw safety-oriented features like emergency brake and instant start button
What We Don't Like
- Battery not included
- The saw chain becomes loose during use
4. WEN 4017 Electric Chainsaw
The WEN 4017 Corded Electric Chainsaw is a lightweight electrical chainsaw has a 16 inch guide bar and a powerful machine source that can spin up to 44 feet per second like Makita 16 inches 36-Volt LXT and Worx WG303 16 inch. It also has a lightweight and light duty feature, making it easier to cut and operate. And it’s only 10 lbs without the fuel, so anyone can carry it in the yard and use it for long periods. Our experts especially loved the bar and chain oil feature as it prolongs the saw’s lifespan whether or not you remember to oil the guide bar that has an oil cap.
The corded chain saw design also has other perks like a handguard, tool-free chain tensioning, and cord wrangler for ease of use and cut like Makita 16 inches 36-Volt LXT and Worx WG303 16 inch. We were particularly glad to discover a two-year warranty on this product. Also, considering how little-maintenance this electric chainsaw is, you might not need it.
What We Like
- Less maintenance than a gas powered saw
- Extension cord wrangler for corded support
- 16 inch chainsaw
- On-board oil reservoir for automatic oiling
- Handguard and extension cord wrangler
What We Don't Like
- It’s not powered so you need an extension cord
- Not suited for heavy tasks
5. Worx WG322 20V Power Share Chainsaw
The Worx WG322 Power Share Chainsaw is one of the best electric chainsaws we’ve seen in a while. It has a powerful 20 Volt machine source that can make fast, clean cuts better than many gas varieties. The cordless chainsaw also has a chain tensioning that ensures the best possible performance. This electric chainsaw only weighs 6.2 lbs with the batteries attached, so it’s much easier to handle when cutting trees and firewood.
You can use its 2Ah (amp hour) battery with any Worx power tools. This cordless chainsaw also comes with a 10 inch bar and chain sheath for extra protection during storage. The saw only weighs about 6.2 lbs which makes it one of the lightest electric chainsaws around. It comes also with a year warranty. Unfortunately, this also means you’ll have to watch out for the rebound when sawing.
What We Like
- Automatic chain tensioner
- 20V brush motor
- Powerful 2ah (amp hour ) battery
- Easy to use 10 inch chainsaw
- Battery indicator and bar sheath
What We Don't Like
- Chain and bar could be longer
- Kickback could be a problem for inexperienced users
We also recommend chainsaws made by Black Max for their easy-to-use features.
6. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Chainsaw has a 12-inch bar and a powerful 5Ah (amp hour) battery, more powerful than most of the items on this list that is why it one of the top 10 chainsaw in the market.
Its brushless motor is powerful enough to cut through most wood types, making the electric 12-inch chainsaw suitable for construction and outdoor cutting jobs. The Dewalt 20 volt only weighs 9 lbs with batteries attached on it. It is a massive and light duty saw with little maintenance.
We found other features, like a tool-free chain tensioner and hand guards, bar tightening knob, and an automatic oil change. Our team loves how DEWALT made this cordless chainsaws lightweight and with low kickback. Features like a powerful machine and auto chain oil also extend the lifespan of the tool.
What We Like
- Long-lasting battery life.
- 12 inch chainsaw
- Massive duty saw with low maintenance
- Chain tensioning and hand guards
- Easy to use
What We Don't Like
- No on-board sharpener
- Weaker than some gas powered chainsaws
7. Sun Joe SWJ599E Chainsaw
The Sun Joe SWJ599E Corded Chain Saw has a 14 inch chain and bar, with a powerful 9V machine. The 14 inch power equipment tool is perfect for cutting through branches and bushes up to 13.5 inches in thickness.
It is also ideal for light trimming and pruning like Stihl GTA 26V. And at just over 7 lbs, theSWJ599E is designed for maximum maneuverability within the yard or garden, without the need for gas. It has all the classic features you get from the best chainsaws, like a cord wrangler, instant start, and chain oil lubrication just like .
The Sun Joe 14 inch chainsaw also has welfare-oriented features like a switch, plastic blade cover, handguard, and rebound brake. The tool weighs a little over 7 lbs, and our team found it easy to use to cut firewood/trees because of it’s wrap around handle.
What We Like
- Safety features like kick back brake and switch
- Best for light duty work
- An electric saw with a powerful motor
- 14 inch-long bar
- It is a light power tool
What We Don't Like
- Not a cordless electric chainsaw
- The tensioning system is fragile
8. TACKLIFE Electric Chainsaw
The TACKLIFE 18” Electric Chainsaw is a good choice for people looking for high-powered saws. The 15A machine on this electric saw rivals most gas-powered ones. It also has a large capacity 190 ml oil reservoir with an oil cap that’s quickly released and tightened and an mechanical oiler with this features a bar and chain lubrication system that keeps the chain lubed. Some of our favorite features include cutting efficiency, low recoil, and a tool-free chain.
It also has two switches, manual brakes, and a cutting speed of up to 43 feet per second. The tool weighs 13 lbs, which is heavier than many of the top electric chainsaws but still light enough to handle when you cut trees.
(For other chainsaw with same bar length, you can also check our detailed review of Tanaka TCS51EAP here)
What We Like
- Tool less chain tension system
- 18 inch bar
- Auto oiling system
- Premium safety features
- Cuts like a gas engine chainsaw
What We Don't Like
- Not a cordless chainsaw
- Lacks a compact design
9. CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 16 Inch Electric Chainsaw
We love the CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 16 Inch Electric Chainsaw kit because it weighs only 6 lbs. It’s difficult to find such a balance of performance and size on electric chainsaws. Unfortunately, this CRAFTSMAN chainsaw was created as a 16 inch chainsaw just like Makita (16″) 36-Volt LXT and Worx WG303. This means you can’t stray too far from a cord socket.
In addition, this 16 inch tool isn’t amp hour battery powered just like Worx WG303. However, it still delivers a stellar performance with its 12 amp machine and tool less chain tensioning system. The 16 inch chain can cut wood of up to 14 inches, making it powerful for many heavy duty workload jobs like Makita (16″) 36-Volt LXT and Worx WG303.
What We Like
- 16 inch-long bar and chain
- One of the most balanced high powered saws
- Safety features like emergency brake and chain bar cover
- Tool less chain tension system
- Best for both solid and light duty tasks
What We Don't Like
- The saw is not battery powered
- Tension adjustment is made of plastic
10. KIMO 20V Cordless Chainsaw
The KIMO 20V Cordless Chainsaw offers one of the smallest guide bar we’ve ever seen on electric chainsaws. It is most suited for light cutting or whatever jobs around with a small 4Ah (amp hour) li-ion battery and a robust brushless motor. The electric saw is also equipped with a tool free chain tensioning system and automatic oil lubrication.
We were especially fond of its compact size and light weight of 6 pounds which is suitable to cut small trees. Some of the other cordless electric chainsaw offers include a protective cover, widened baffle, ergonomic grip, and emergency brake. Unfortunately, we found that the electric saw doesn’t come with oil. You will need to buy some with your purchase.
For a power tool that provides extended reach and usability, the top-performing pole saw we reviewed is an excellent choice.
What We Like
- One of the most compact electric models on the market
- Great choice for cutting woodlogs and other easy duty tasks
- Chain speed of up to 15 feet per second
- Safety chainsaw features like a baffle and emergency brake
- Ergonomic front handle
What We Don't Like
- The saw is not suitable for heavy workload projects
- Oil not included
Electric Chainsaws Buyer’s Guide
Power
Our experts deem power one of the most important factors to consider during our chainsaw reviews of the best powered chainsaws. Electric saws are rated according to the voltage on the motor. So 80 volt electric chainsaws have more power than 40 volt ones.
The power you need depends on the weight of tasks you want to accomplish whether small or large cutting and trimming requirements. If you’re looking for electric models chainsaw for cutting firewood and trees, you need a different power rating than someone looking to trimming and pruning edges. Generally, the thicker the wood, the more power you’ll need in your chain saw.
The power also easily determines performance metrics like cutting speed, amp hour battery life, how much rebound you experience, and how much oil the electric saw will need. When buying cordless models with plenty of power, it helps to keep these in mind.
Size and Weight
The best electric chainsaws are very light weight, weighing between 5 and 10 pounds, half the weight of a gas powered chainsaw. They also tend to have compact sizes. This is true for all model features, including those used in cutting firewood and other heavy workload jobs.
The size and weight don’t matter to most people as power output is a much more pressing concern. However, note that the heavier a saw is, the more control you may need in cutting firewood. Advanced models have anti rebound mechanisms and safety features, but they still require expert handling.
The saw battery also tends to contribute to the weight. If you want a light electric saw, it’s best to buy cordless tools.
Chainsaw Motor
The motor contributes the most to your chainsaw’s cutting power. You can judge the cutting power by how many rotations per second the shackles rotates. The most powerful gas engine choice can achieve and run up to 50 feet per second, which is a lot considering you’re working with an electric saw. Cutting power is also directly related to the motor’s rating, as we’ve already discussed.
One thing our team loves about cutting with cordless electric chainsaws is their switches. You can start and run the saw almost instantly and get to your jobs easily. They also have emergency brakes trigger and kill switches that shut off the gas engine and stop cutting. This feature will come in handy in emergencies.
Automatic Oiling
Regular gas or electric-powered chainsaws need to be oiled properly. They rotate several times during cutting, and the friction can damage your tool and reduce performance. Fueling takes care of that.
During our chainsaw reviews, we found that the best-powered chainsaw usually has an automatic oiling mechanism just like in many Husqvarna power tool models. Once you fill the oil reservoir, you can get cutting without worrying about the chain oil. The system oils make the saw smoothly work as you get your jobs done, keeping it in top shape.
With an automated bar and chain you only have to worry about charging your cordless chainsaws battery, and you’re good to go.
Bar Length
There’s no top electric chainsaw bar length. Some chainsaws come in 16 inch bars while there are some that can have long 18 inch bars. You only need to worry about the bar length when considering your workload jobs. Larger projects will obviously need longer bars than smaller ones.
Also, the longer the bar length, the more power the saw will need. It takes power to drive a chain around a lengthy bar. You’ll also need the power to cut through the log of wood. This is part of the reason why you’ll find smaller bars on a cordless chainsaw. They run on battery, and you’ll need all the power you can get for the actual work.
If your cutting hard-to-reach places, here are the most reliable electric pole saw to consider.
Chain Adjustment and Handle
The best-powered chainsaw will have an ergonomic handle for easy use whether in the forest or around the yard. Some even feature what’s called a triangle grip. The triangle grip is designed to make the saw easier to use by providing multiple points to support your grip easily while others may have an easy wrap around grip style. Most chainsaws require both hands to hold, and you need one with a wide grip.
The chain adjustment is also essential. It allows you to modify easily the tension on your chainsaw, a critical feature for when you’re performing various tasks. Jobs around the house and heavy task projects require different tension levels. Most electric saws have a simple adjustment knob on the side where you can easily reach it. Unfortunately, some brands have plastic adjustment knobs that break off after some time. Be sure to buy a durable model.
Looking for a promising tool in cutting hard-to-reach trees and branches? Here are the best electric pole saw we recommend.
Noise
Chainsaws are notorious for being noisy and loud. Some gas powered models can be as loud as 120 decibels [1], so workers need headphones to use them. Electric models are much quieter. They don’t have the combustion motor that is responsible for most of the noise.
However, it’s still a chainsaw, so you can’t expect whisper-level sounds. The operating noise will be perceptible but very bearable. You’ll experience the most noise as you saw through logs of wood and tree.
It’s important to note that some chainsaws including the top-performing Stihl chainsaws can be louder than others. Manufacturers take special care to reduce their saw’s noise as much as possible.
Price and Warranty
Most electric saws are affordable and cost between $150 and $400. The price often depends on factors like material quality, bar size, battery amp capacity, if it comes corded and cordless, and of course, brand name. Popular brands like DEWALT and Greenworks may cost more than lesser-known ones.
The material quality of the tools are also an important factor it should be one of the best. Earlier, we discussed how some adjustment knobs are made of plastic. Cheap parts like these will lower the cost of the saw. Extra model features can also affect a chainsaw’s price. Emergency brakes, bar covers, and ergonomic handles will cost more.
Most manufacturers offer some kind of warranty on their chainsaw. The warranty duration depends on the manufacturer like 1-5 years warranty. Some offer as much as 5 years warranty while others only offer 12 months.
If you are still considering other brands, we have the top Echo chainsaw offering manufacturer warranty, as well.
Safety Features
There are many features and tip on electric saws that make their use easier and safer when cutting tree. One of the major tip is the rebound guard and brake. They often work hand in hand. While sawing, if your wrist pushes the guard forward, the emergency brake will activate and stop the chainsaw. This is so that you don’t accidentally hurt yourself.
There are also other features, like a throttle lock and a switch. The switch ensures that the saw doesn’t come on accidentally. The throttle lock also prevents accidental advances. It will only work when you press the lock while gripping the handle. Some chainsaws also comes with instant on and off switches.
Another safety feature that most saws don’t have is the bar sheath. It keeps the bar covered when it’s not in use, preventing accidental contacts and unfortunate accidents.
Perhaps the simple and biggest safety feature of all is the one you implement and rated yourself. Though be sure to use equipment like goggles, gloves, and noise-canceling headphones while working.
Accessories
Unfortunately, electric chainsaws don’t come with many accessories. All you get is the saw itself, a battery and charger if it’s a cordless variety and the owner’s manual. Though some saws, like the Greenworks PRO 80V, don’t even come with a battery. Though this may not be such a bad thing since they work with any Greenworks battery. The problem arises when you don’t have any other Greenworks tools.
A handful of electric saws have a bar sheath for protecting the chain and user when not in use. These are usually made of high-grade plastic and are quite durable.
Most chainsaw accessories are readily available online even the best chainsaw files. Replacement parts like the chain, handle, or other parts can be found on the manufacturer’s website. One tip is you can also find them on popular eCommerce stores like Amazon.
FAQ
Are electric chainsaws any good?
Electric chainsaws offer many benefits over gas engine saws. Though they require less maintenance, you just have to lubricate the bar, produce less noise, tool free tensioning, and much quieter. Many electric saws are also capable of cutting wood and tree up to 15 inches.
What should I look for when buying an electric chainsaw?
When buying an electric chainsaw, one tip is you should look and consider for a combination of power, corded and cordless factor, safety features, and durability to have the best battery powered chainsaw. Depending on the intended use like cutting tree, pruning and trimming yard, you should also keep an eye out and consider for the bar length.
Our Top Pick For an Electric Chainsaw:
Greenworks G-MAX 40V Cordless Chainsaw
After rigorous tests, our experts deem Greenworks G-MAX 40V as the best electric chainsaw on the market. It is light enough to handle yet powerful enough for most tasks. It is also affordable while sporting premium features like an emergency brake, automatic oiling, and a large-capacity battery.
Looking for another affordable option? Check out the Blue Max model.
As part of maintaining this power tool, sharpening it is important. Thus, here is the chainsaw file size chart guide for you. Read next!
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