Which chainsaw is best?
Whether landscaping, removing trees and bushes or cutting firewood, a chainsaw is handy. Still, there are numerous things to consider before choosing one. For example, you’ll want to decide between gas and electric, determine how much power you need and find a saw that’s comfortable to use.
What to consider before buying a chainsaw
Types of chainsaws
Gas chainsaws: These are heavy and generally require the most maintenance. Additionally, gas saws produce more noise, vibration and emissions than other chainsaws. Still, they are more powerful than corded and battery-powered saws and offer plenty of mobility.
Corded-electric chainsaws: These are quiet and lightweight. Corded saws are easy to maintain and usually the most affordable. Still, you have to use an extension cord, meaning they lack the mobility offered by gas and battery-powered saws.
Battery-powered chainsaws: Battery-powered saws produce little vibration or noise. They’re mobile and lighter than gas-powered saws. They tend to be the least powerful and can be inconvenient for large jobs since the battery may die.
Chainsaw power
Gas chainsaws usually have a 30 to 60 cc engine. Those with 30 to 40 cc engines are more than enough for most people, as they’re ideal for yard maintenance and easier to handle than larger gas saws. Chainsaws with 40 to 60 cc engines are suitable for those with farms and those who use their chainsaw for commercial landscaping jobs.
Electric chainsaws usually have 20 to 60 volts of power. For small jobs, 20-volt chainsaws are ideal. Saws with 40 volts are suitable for most people who use them for general maintenance, whereas 60-volt saws are an excellent choice for contractors.
Chainsaw comfort
Many saws have cushioned comfort grips that make using them for long periods easier. The shape and the size of the saw’s handles can impact how comfortable it is to use as well. Generally, electric and battery-powered saws are more comfortable to use than gas-powered ones, although they aren’t ideal for every job.
Chainsaw FAQ
What size chainsaw do I need to cut firewood?
A. A 14- to 16-inch chainsaw is ideal for cutting firewood. These saws can cut through small- and medium-sized trees easily.
Are brushless motors better than brush motors?
A. Brushless motors are generally better for cordless chainsaws, as they let the saw run longer on a single charge.
How often do I need to sharpen my chainsaw?
A. It depends on the type of wood you’re cutting, although the chain generally needs to be sharpened after five to 10 hours of use.
Best chainsaw
Top gas chainsaws
Husqvarna 120 II 16-Inch Gas Chainsaw
What you need to know: This is small and easy to maneuver but powerful enough to handle most jobs.
What you’ll love: It produces fewer emissions than most gas chainsaws. It’s designed to reduce vibration. Most people felt it was simple to start.
What you should consider: Some people had issues with the fuel tank vent.
Poulan Pro 20-Inch 50cc Two-Cycle Gas Chainsaw
What you need to know: It’s relatively affordable but ideal for most jobs.
What you’ll love: It consumes less fuel than most gas chainsaws. It’s easy to start, although you’ll want to read the user manual to understand how to do it. Additionally, it includes a hard case to keep it safe.
What you should consider: It’s easy to flood the engine.
Top corded-electric chainsaws
WORX 8-Amp 14-Inch Electric Chainsaw
What you need to know: It’s affordable and ideal for small jobs.
What you’ll love: It weighs less than 8 pounds and is simple to maneuver. The auto-tension chain system makes it easy to keep your chain as tight as you need it. Assembly is straightforward.
What you should consider: It is prone to leaking oil.
WEN 12-Amp 16-Inch Electric Chainsaw
What you need to know: It’s lightweight but durable.
What you’ll love: The auto-oiling system keeps it lubricated. It’s quiet and easy to use. You can add tension to the chain without tools.
What you should consider: It isn’t ideal for extended use, as it may overheat.
Top battery-powered chainsaws
BLACK+DECKER 20-Volt Max Cordless Chainsaw Kit
What you need to know: This is lightweight and features a comfortable handle.
What you’ll love: It runs for around 45 minutes on a full charge. It’s quiet and simple to assemble. It’s easy to tell when you need to add oil.
What you should consider: The chain has to be lubricated manually.
DeWalt 20-Volt Max XR Chainsaw
What you need to know: It’s durable, lightweight and easy to start.
What you’ll love: Adjusting the chain is simple, and the battery lasts a while. It uses the same battery as many other DeWalt tools.
What you should consider: The battery isn’t included.
Greenworks 40-Volt 16-Inch Chainsaw
What you need to know: The battery lasts a while, and it’s easy to tell when you need to add oil.
What you’ll love: The kickback chain makes it safer than many other models. It’s simple to start and comfortable to hold. It lubricates the chain automatically.
What you should consider: It’s expensive compared to other battery-powered saws.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
