The best gas and electric models for your yard needs.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Best-Chainsaws-of-2024-tout-6425ec4a0e5d4da18edd582de0efe5c9.jpg "The Ego Power+ battery powered chainsaw on a light background")
Better Homes & Gardens / Marcus Millan
Chainsaws are heavy-duty and versatile tools that can be used to tackle a wide range of outdoor tasks. Investing in a chainsaw can be a wise purchase, especially if you have a large yard, many trees on your property, or burn firewood all winter.
The tool can be used to safely prune dead branches, cut firewood, or reduce back shrubbery. However, choosing the best option for your home depends on a few factors, like the power source, bar length, and more.
To find the best chainsaws on the market, we extensively researched highly rated gas and electric chainsaws. We also spoke with certified arborist and tree expert Brian Rombough, as well as Chad Bishop, senior product manager at Cat Outdoor Power Equipment, for their expert insights and opinions.
What We Researched
We evaluated several chainsaws on their safety features, power source, bar length, and maintenance requirements.
Best Overall: Makita UC4051A 16-Inch Electric Chainsaw
Why You Should Get It
It has an automatic oiler and a large oil reservoir.
Keep in Mind
You’ll need to purchase an extension cord to use with this tool.
Overall, our top pick is the Makita UC 4051A Electric Chainsaw. We like that this 12-pound pick is an electric model, so you’ll never have to worry about it being charged when you need it.
While there is no need to charge batteries, you will need a heavy-duty, outdoor-safe extension cord (sold separately) that is long enough to reach wherever you need to be. Although you will be tethered to a power source, the capacity of this chainsaw is unparalleled and as robust as many gas-powered tools.
The 16-inch bar is big and strong enough to cut through significant branches, tree limbs, and shrubs. Besides being relatively lightweight, this chainsaw boasts an ergonomic rubberized grip handle and a large trigger switch. Once deployed, the start is smooth—forget the days of pulling a cord and receiving a significant kickback from your chainsaw.
There’s a current limiter when in use, which helps prevent the motor from overheating. If you’re planning heavy continuous cutting, you’ll appreciate the automatic chain oiler, essentially doing the oiling work for you. There’s a large oil reservoir on this machine, and thanks to an easy-to-see window, it’s simple to view the oil levels at a glance.
In addition to all these features, the machine has a one-year warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee. While there are some limitations to a corded device, the unlimited electricity and robust power make this a top-notch choice for backyard work.
Product Details: Type: Corded electric | Bar Length: 16 inches | Weight: 12.3 pounds
Best Budget: WEN 4017 16-Inch Electric Chainsaw
Why You Should Get It
The chainsaw weighs just 10 pounds.
Keep in Mind
Oil must be purchased separately and poured into the tool.
Seasonal yard cleanup or an occasional downed branch will be easy work for the WEN 4017 Electric Chainsaw. Weighing in at just 10 pounds, we like that the corded electric tool is easy to move around, and because it is fairly lightweight, you won’t fatigue too quickly while working.
Like any corded electric chainsaw, this one will require a heavy-duty extension cord. However, this pick boasts a “cable strain relief notch” built into the base and helps keep the extension cord secure.
The auto-oiling system maintains the chain’s lubrication and eliminates additional work for you—though you will need to purchase oil and maintain oil levels within the tool. For limited use or the desire to add a chainsaw to a homeowner’s arsenal of tools, this is a great pick that can handle most backyard tasks on a budget.
Product Details: Type: Corded electric | Bar Length: 16 inches | Weight: 10 pounds
Best Splurge: Dewalt Flexvolt 60V Max Brushless Chainsaw Kit
Why You Should Get It
This model includes a chain brake to prevent kickback.
Keep in Mind
It’s best suited for light-duty tasks around your home or garden.
Not only is the Dewalt 60V Brushless Battery Powered Chainsaw Kit quieter than its gas-powered counterparts, but it’s less heavy and doesn’t require the loud, forceful pull start.
This chainsaw is powered by one 20V/60V MAX battery, which is included, and a charger. The battery is compatible with other Dewalt battery-powered tools, so you may already own a backup battery depending on your tools.
The tool’s base has a chain brake to prevent that uncomfortable kickback, and the grip bar goes all the way around the device, so it’s easy to hold securely, no matter the angle. While there’s no official charging time listed, the brand does claim the chainsaw can make up to 70 cuts with a single charge.
Product Details: Type: Battery powered | Bar Length: 16 inches | Weight: 13.2 pounds
Best Electric: WORX WG303.1 16-Inch Electric Chainsaw
Why You Should Get It
It can be used to cut vertically or horizontally.
Keep in Mind
The oil tank has a capacity of 6.75 ounces, so you may need to refill it frequently during larger projects.
The benefit of having an electric chainsaw, like the WORX WG303.1, is that you can run the chainsaw for as long as you need. Plus, this 16-inch chainsaw weighs in at just 11 pounds, so it’s a relatively lightweight option.
This chainsaw allows you multiple ways to grip the tool. It’s comfortable cutting vertically or horizontally. Plus, the hold prevents hand fatigue, which is helpful since you’ll never run out of power.
A quick-stop chain brake helps prevent accidental cutting, and the easy-to-read oil level indicator provides easy access when refilling the chainsaw’s oil. Just note that the oil tank has a 6.75-ounce capacity, so you may need to refill it frequently during larger projects.
Product Details: Type: Corded electric | Bar Length: 16 inches | Weight: 11 pounds
Best Battery Powered: Ego Power+ CS1604 16-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-ion Cordless Chainsaw
Why You Should Get It
It’s quiet, easy to use, and doesn’t lack power.
Keep in Mind
At 18 pounds, this pick is heavy.
The Ego Power+ battery-powered chainsaw is a true heavy-duty workhorse. This chainsaw is powered by a 56-volt ARC lithium battery and is quieter, easier to start, and less odorous than its gas-powered counterparts.
A full charge takes about 40 minutes and lasts up to 300 cuts. Strong enough for branches, softwood, and hardwood, this powerhouse is ready to work. While you won’t miss the pull cord on a gas-powered machine, note that this 18-pound pick is heavier than many other chainsaws we recommend.
Product Details: Type: Cordless battery powered | Bar Length:16 inches | Weight: 18 pounds
Best Gas: Husqvarna 20-Inch 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
Why You Should Get It
The 20-inch bar length is the largest on our list.
Keep in Mind
It’s more expensive than other options.
Overall, our favorite gas model is the Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Powered Chainsaw, which has the longest bar on our list. Although it’s more expensive than some other options on our list, the 20-inch bar means this tool is sufficient for professional-grade tree cutting and land clearing.
The tool weighs in at just over 13 pounds, but you’ll need to account for a bit more when there’s a full gas tank. There’s a 3.5 horsepower engine, so it’s ready to work at an impressive level.
The machine is crafted to reduce fumes and emissions and increase efficiency. Another nice feature is the air-injection technology—it purposely ejects larger dust and debris particles before they reach the air filter and impact the engine’s effectiveness.
Product Details: Type: Gas | Bar Length: 20 inches | Weight: 13.2 pounds
Best Mini: Saker Mini Electric Chain Saw
Why You Should Get It
It’s efficient and easy to use in hard-to-reach areas.
Keep in Mind
The batteries will need to be recharged.
Lightweight and portable, the Saker Mini Electric Chain Saw is just right for light yard work as well as home, camping, or outdoor projects. The battery-powered chainsaw weighs just over 5 pounds and is fully rechargeable. Plus, a safety lock and trigger start help prevent accidents.
This mini chainsaw comes with a chain, charger, wrench, and screwdriver. Two batteries are also included, and it has a total run time of about one hour. This pick can make clean, precise cuts with minimal noise or hassle, so we think it’s an excellent choice for someone whose yard needs a lot of light pruning.
The small size also means this gadget is great to take camping or on an RV trip to cut your firewood. Just note the batteries will need to be recharged from time to time, so you’ll have to make sure they’re ready to use if you won’t have access to an outlet.
Product Details: Type: Battery powered | Bar Length: 4 inches | Weight: 5.2 pounds
Best for Pruning: BLACK+DECKER LP1000 Alligator Electric Lopper
Why You Should Get It
It has metal guards for added safety.
Keep in Mind
The 6-inch bar can only cut tree limbs up to 4 inches thick.
The Black+Decker Alligator Electric Outdoor Lopper is a great option for pruning. Fashioned almost like oversized scissors, the device has clamping jaws that grab, hold, and cut tree branches in one easy movement.
Weighing in at 6.5 pounds, the tool is lightweight compared to many other chainsaws, and it has metal guards for added safety. While the bar is 6 inches long, the device can only cut through tree limbs up to 4 inches thick.
It’s not great for huge limbs and taking down major trees, but if you have a yard full of unruly scrubs, the ability to grab, hold, and cut those branches will prove super helpful. Since it’s corded, the power is unlimited, at least as far as your heavy-duty extension cord can reach.
Product Details: Type: Corded electric | Bar Length: 6 inches | Weight: 6.5 pounds
The Bottom Line
Our top pick, the Makita UC 4051A, is a mid-priced tool that is easy to use, low maintenance, and provides tons of heavy-duty power. We also like that it features an automatic oiler and a large oil reservoir.
What to Know About Chainsaws Before Shopping
Safety Features
When using a chainsaw, you’ll want to ensure that it features several safety elements, like a chain lock, chain catcher, and hand guard. According to Rombough, the most critical safety feature on the saw is the front hand guard/chain brake, which protects your hands and quickly turns off the machine.
Power Source
When choosing the best chainsaw, you’ll want to consider the power source. The three main types of power sources are gas, battery, and corded electric.
- Gas: Gas-powered chainsaws are powerful options that are great for heavy-duty projects. You’ll want to keep in mind, however, that the tanks will need to be filled with fuel between uses.
- Battery: If you prefer a portable option, it’s worth considering a battery-powered chainsaw. Many options come with several batteries, though keep in mind that they’ll need to be recharged.
- Corded Electric: Corded electric chainsaws are great options as you’ll never have to worry about filling a tank or recharging batteries before each use. However, these picks can only be used near an outlet, so you may not have as much flexibility.
Bar Length
The bar length will dictate what size branches or trees you can cut. “For most homeowners, the bar that comes with the chainsaw will be sufficient for most tasks that the saw can handle. For professional use, larger diameter wood requires a larger bar (and a more powerful saw as well),” says Rombough.
Maintenance Requirements
Chainsaw care should always include the following:
- A maintenance check should always be completed before using a chainsaw to check the chain’s safety and tension. The check should also include confirming the oil level and adding oil if needed. The chainsaw’s brake should also be checked by starting the chainsaw and then engaging the brake.
- Verify that the lubrication system of the chainsaw works to ensure oil is fed to the chain and the system is operating correctly.
- To maintain your chainsaw, you’ll want to regularly clean and inspect the air, oil, and fuel filters. A clogged or dirty filter will impact how your chainsaw runs.
- For gas-powered chainsaws, be sure to empty the gas tank if you don’t plan to use the chainsaw for two months or longer.
Your Questions, Answered
When should you choose an electric chainsaw over a gas model?
Whether you select an electric or gas chainsaw depends on what you plan to use the tool for and how much care you are prepared to give the chainsaw.
According to Rombough, electric chainsaws have come a long way regarding power and capability. Bonus: You won’t need to keep a gas can on hand. With electric chainsaws, what you will need to keep on hand is an extension cord (for corded models), or remember to charge your battery before using the electric chainsaw (for battery-operated models).
Cutting larger-diameter logs tends to be easier with gas chainsaws because they’re more powerful and don’t tend to bog down as easily.
What should you expect to pay for a chainsaw?
Chainsaws can range in price from under $100 to well over $500 for a professional-grade machine. Our best budget pick, the WEN 4017 Electric Chainsaw, is under $100, while our best splurge pick, the Dewalt 60V Brushless Battery Powered Chainsaw Kit, is over $300.
It’s also worth considering safety gear, which makes for an additional cost. “Never use a chainsaw without a proper helmet, ear protection, eye protection, gloves, and chaps. These should all be chainsaw-specific protective gear,” says Rombough.
Who We Are
Maya Polton is an experienced freelance writer for Better Homes & Gardens who has written for various publications. She researched readily available, relatively affordable, highly rated, and well-made options to find the best chainsaws.
She spoke to Brian Rombough, a licensed tree expert, International Society of Arboriculture certified arborist, and owner/operator of American Tree Experts in New Jersey, and Chad Bishop, senior product manager at Cat Outdoor Power Equipment.
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