There’s a familiar story that plays out in my yard every spring, and I’m willing to bet it happens in yours, too. After a long winter, or a particularly nasty storm, the property looks like a battlefield. Fallen branches litter the lawn, overgrown bushes choke the flowerbeds, and that one pesky tree that’s been leaning a bit too much finally looks menacing. For years, my solution was a hulking, gas-powered chainsaw—a beast that required a precise fuel mix, a dozen yanks on a stubborn pull-cord, and filled the peaceful neighborhood with noise and fumes. More often than not, for smaller jobs, the sheer hassle of starting it meant I’d reach for a handsaw, turning a 10-minute task into a 45-minute sweaty workout. This frustration is the silent tax of property ownership, a barrier between the yard we have and the tidy sanctuary we want. The search for a better way—a quieter, simpler, and more accessible tool—is what leads many of us down the path to battery power.
- [FAST, CLEAN CUTS] This cordless 20V PowerShare chain saw is as fast and powerful as anything in its class. And with no gas and no cord, there’s much less muss and fuss. Please fill the oil tank...
- [AUTO-CHAIN TENSION] The automatic, tool-free chain tension system ensures you’ll always have the correct tension for the job at hand
What to Consider Before Buying a Cordless Chainsaw
A cordless chainsaw is more than just a cutting tool; it’s a key solution for reclaiming your time and energy in yard maintenance. It eliminates the most significant pain points of traditional gas models: the complex starting procedure, the constant need for fuel, the deafening noise, and the noxious emissions. The main benefits are profound: instant, push-button starting, quiet operation that won’t disturb your neighbors, freedom from a power cord, and significantly reduced maintenance. You simply slide in a battery, add some bar and chain oil, and you’re ready to tackle pruning, limbing, storm cleanup, and even felling small trees with an ease that gas saws can’t match.
The ideal customer for this type of product is the homeowner, the gardener, the DIY enthusiast, or anyone who feels intimidated by the raw, vibrating power of a large gas chainsaw. It’s for the person who needs to clear a fallen 6-inch diameter limb, not a 3-foot oak trunk. It’s perfect for those with limited storage space or who value low maintenance. Conversely, this might not be the right tool for professional loggers, arborists who work all day, or landowners who need to clear acres of dense forest. For those heavy-duty, continuous-use scenarios, the runtime limitations of a battery and the raw power of a gas engine still hold an advantage. Those users might consider a professional-grade gas saw or a high-voltage (60V+) battery system.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Bar Length & Weight: The bar length (10 inches on this model) dictates the maximum diameter of wood you can cut in a single pass. For general yard work, a 10-12 inch bar is a versatile sweet spot. Equally important is the weight. At just 6.2 pounds, the WORX WG322 is designed for maneuverability and reduced fatigue, allowing you to work longer and make more precise cuts without straining your back and arms.
- Power & Performance: In the battery world, voltage (V) is a key indicator of power. A 20V system like this is excellent for light-to-medium duty tasks. Chain speed, measured in feet per second (ft/s), determines how quickly the saw cuts. The WG322’s 12.5 ft/s is respectable for its class, providing smooth, clean cuts on branches and small logs without the aggressive kickback of more powerful saws.
- Materials & Durability: Look for a combination of high-impact plastic for the body to keep weight down, and a high-quality steel bar and chain for cutting performance. While some users have noted concerns about the durability of plastic components on battery-powered tools, modern polymers are incredibly tough. A key durability feature here is the automatic lubrication system, which is vital for extending the life of the bar and chain.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: This is where models like the WORX WG322 truly shine. Features like a tool-free, automatic chain tensioning system and an automatic oiler remove the two most common and frustrating maintenance tasks associated with chainsaws. Long-term care is minimal: keep the chain sharp, the oil reservoir full, and the battery charged.
Keeping these factors in mind, the WORX WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw Auto-Tension stands out as a particularly user-friendly and capable option in its category. You can explore its detailed specifications and features here.
While the WORX WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw Auto-Tension is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
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- 16 INCH BAR: 120 Mark III Chainsaw with 3/8 Pitch, .050 Gauage is built for the homeowner who needs a lightweight and efficient cutting tool
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First Impressions: Lightweight Power Right Out of the Box
Unboxing the WORX WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw Auto-Tension, the first thing that struck me was its weight, or lack thereof. At a mere 6.2 pounds, it felt more like a large power drill than a chainsaw. This is a tool designed for accessibility, not intimidation. The assembly was refreshingly simple. Unlike traditional saws that require special tools (a “scrench”) to adjust the bar and chain, the WG322 lives up to its tool-free promise. A single, large dial on the side of the body loosens the cover and controls the chain tension. We had the bar and chain mounted and properly tensioned in under two minutes, without once glancing at the manual. The build quality feels solid for its intended use; the handle is ergonomic, the safety guards are robust, and the overall balance of the tool with the 20V battery clicked in place is excellent. It feels nimble and ready for action, a stark contrast to the cumbersome, heavy gas saws I’m used to wrestling with.
What We Like
- Extremely lightweight and easy to handle, reducing user fatigue.
- Innovative tool-free auto-tensioning system simplifies maintenance.
- Automatic chain oiler with a clear view window extends tool life.
- Surprisingly capable cutting power for a 20V system.
- Part of the versatile WORX Power Share battery platform.
What We Didn’t Like
- Included 20V battery can have a limited runtime for extensive jobs.
- Some users report potential incompatibility with older WORX batteries/chargers.
Deep Dive: Analyzing the WORX WG322’s Real-World Performance
A tool can look good on paper, but the real test is in the yard, covered in sawdust. We put the WORX WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw Auto-Tension through a series of typical homeowner tasks, from delicate pruning to cleaning up after a storm, to see if its performance matched its promising features.
The Power of Simplicity: Handling and Ergonomics
The single greatest asset of this chainsaw is its incredible ease of use, which begins with its weight. At just 6.2 pounds, we found ourselves using it for tasks where a larger saw would be overkill and a handsaw would be drudgery. Trimming high branches, clearing thick brush, and even making multiple cuts in a row was accomplished with minimal strain on the arms, shoulders, and back. This sentiment is strongly echoed by users. One 68-year-old female user noted she could “run this for hours” for pruning, while a 62-year-old woman, new to chainsaws, found it “not intimidating” and “fantastic” for dropping several small trees on her first day. This accessibility is a game-changer. It empowers people who might otherwise have to wait for help to manage their own property. The grip is comfortable, the trigger is responsive, and the front hand guard doubles as a chain brake for safety. The tool feels balanced, allowing for precise control whether you’re making a horizontal cut to buck a log or an angled cut to prune a limb.
Slicing Through Expectations: On-the-Job Cutting Power
Let’s be clear: this is not a lumberjack’s saw. But for its intended purpose, it’s a little monster. We started with some light pruning on an overgrown lemon tree, and the WG322 zipped through 2-3 inch branches without hesitation. We then moved on to some fallen oak limbs from a recent storm, ranging from 4 to 6 inches in diameter. The saw bit in and cut smoothly, letting the 12.5 ft/s chain speed do the work. The key is not to force it; apply gentle pressure and let the tool glide through the wood. The biggest test was a 7-inch diameter pine that needed to be removed. The 10-inch bar had enough capacity, and with a proper wedge cut, the saw felled the tree cleanly. This confirms what many users have discovered: it punches well above its weight class, easily handling wood up to 8 inches in diameter. Some users did report issues with the chain coming off during angled cuts on smaller saplings. During our tests, we found this can happen with any chainsaw if the tension isn’t checked regularly, especially during the break-in period of a new chain. By following the manual and ensuring the auto-tensioner was snug before starting a series of complex cuts, we avoided this issue entirely. For homeowners needing to manage storm damage and overgrown trees, the cutting performance of the WORX WG322 offers a perfect blend of power and control.
The “Auto” Advantage: Tensioning and Oiling Systems
Perhaps the most brilliant features of the WORX WG322 are its automatic systems, which eliminate the biggest hassles for chainsaw novices. The patented Auto-Tension system is genuinely revolutionary. A single, large, oversized dial on the side of the saw is all you need. Turn it one way to release the bar for cleaning or chain replacement, and turn it the other way to tighten. As you tighten it, an internal mechanism ensures the chain is set to the perfect tension—not too tight to cause binding, and not too loose to risk throwing the chain. We found this system to be flawless and incredibly intuitive. One user, who had experience with gas saws, noted that after the chain came loose initially, he followed the manual’s instructions to back the knob off and re-tighten, and it was “perfect” afterward. This small detail is crucial and highlights the system’s effectiveness when used correctly. Complementing this is the automatic chain lubricator. A small reservoir, which you must fill with bar and chain oil (sold separately), keeps the bar and chain properly oiled during operation. This is critical for reducing friction, ensuring smooth cuts, and prolonging the life of the tool. A clear, easy-to-read oil level indicator on the side lets you know when it’s time for a top-up. These two “auto” features transform the chainsaw experience from a chore of constant adjustment to a simple, “point-and-cut” operation.
Battery Life and the Power Share Ecosystem
The heart of any cordless tool is its battery, and this is the area where user experiences with the WORX WG322 are most varied. Our model came with a standard 20V 2.0Ah Power Share battery. In our tests, this provided roughly 25-35 minutes of intermittent cutting—plenty of time to chop up a significant pile of branches or fell a small tree. We were able to make over 30 cuts through 4-inch pine logs on a single charge. However, for a full afternoon of heavy yard clearing, one battery is simply not enough. Many users agreed, with some expressing disappointment in the longevity and recommending the purchase of a second battery. One particularly satisfied user, who worked for 3-4 hours, noted she never ran the battery down completely, suggesting that use-case (pruning vs. continuous bucking) dramatically impacts runtime. The true value here lies in the WORX Power Share ecosystem. If you already own other WORX 20V tools, you can swap batteries. However, a critical point raised by several users is a potential incompatibility between the charger included with this saw and older WORX batteries, or vice-versa. It seems WORX may have updated their connection design. If you’re buying this specifically to share batteries and chargers with an existing collection, it’s wise to double-check compatibility upon arrival.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, the user feedback for the WORX WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw Auto-Tension is overwhelmingly positive, with praise centering on its lightweight design and ease of use. One user summarized it perfectly: “No more yanking the rope on a gas saw… No noise. Instant start. And it is so lightweight.” Another, a 68-year-old woman, hailed it as the “perfect chainsaw” for clearing winter storm damage. This theme of empowerment and accessibility is constant.
The constructive criticism is just as consistent and valuable. The most common complaint is the limited battery life of the standard included battery, with many users wisely suggesting that “you will be ordering another battery for backup.” A few users also mentioned durability concerns, with one noting a piece of the plastic cover broke on one of the first few cuts. Finally, the confusion over battery and charger compatibility with older WORX tools is a notable frustration for those already invested in the brand’s ecosystem.
How Does the WORX WG322 Compare to the Alternatives?
The WORX WG322 carves out a specific niche, but it’s not the only battery-powered cutting tool on the block. Here’s how it stacks up against some popular alternatives.
1. WORX WG324 5″ Mini Cordless Chainsaw
- PORTABLE, POWERFUL CUTTING: Weighing just 3.9 lbs. (w/ battery), this mini chainsaw cordless is rugged enough to chew through branches, but light enough to operate with one hand. Slim & compact for...
- SAME BATTERY, EXPANDABLE POWER: This cordless chainsaw runs on state-of-the-art Power Share batteries. Can conveniently be used with over 140+ 20V, 40V, and 80V lifestyle, garden, and power tools in...
As the WG322’s smaller sibling, the WG324 is built for a different purpose. With its 5-inch bar and even lighter 3.9 lb frame, it’s an ultra-compact pruning specialist. It boasts a faster chain speed (22 ft/s) for quick, clean cuts on small branches and is ideal for intricate work within bushes or fruit trees where the WG322’s 10-inch bar might be cumbersome. However, its cutting capacity is significantly limited. If your primary need is light pruning and trimming small-diameter limbs, the WG324 is a superb, one-handed solution. If you need to handle anything larger than 4 inches or clean up storm debris, the WORX WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw Auto-Tension is the far more versatile and capable choice.
2. New Huing Mini Cordless Chainsaw Kit
- EFFICIENT OPERATION: Only takes about 10 seconds to cut a log with a diameter of 5" (the specific value varies with the actual size and hardness of the wood).
- LARGE CAPACITY BATTERY PACK: 21V removable and rechargeable battery delivers fade-free power with no memory loss after charging.
The New Huing represents the wide market of budget-friendly mini chainsaws. Its main draw is value; these kits often include two batteries, a case, and accessories for a very competitive price. With a 6-inch bar, it offers slightly more cutting capacity than the WG324 but still falls short of the WG322. While functional for small jobs, it lacks the sophisticated features that make the WORX saw so user-friendly, most notably the tool-free auto-tensioning and automatic oiling systems. A user might prefer the New Huing if budget is the absolute top priority and they are willing to manually adjust the chain and manage a more basic tool. The WORX WG322 is for those who prioritize convenience, reliability, and advanced features.
3. WEMARS 6-Inch Mini Chainsaw with 2 Batteries
- ✁ Multiple Safety Protection - Our battery chainsaw has multiple safety measures to ensure safe and reliable use. Security Lock to prevent accidental start to protect your families. A 100°...
- ✁ Ready to Use - You can put it into work immediately after receiving this mini cordless chainsaw and just installing the battery, very convenient. We equip you with an extra chain and installation...
Similar to the New Huing, the WEMARS saw competes on price and the inclusion of a second battery. It’s a handheld, one-handed tool explicitly marketed for cutting fresh wood under 3 inches in diameter. This positions it strictly as a powered pruner or a replacement for manual loppers. It cannot handle the general-purpose cleanup, limbing, and log-cutting tasks that the WORX WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw Auto-Tension is designed for. Someone maintaining a small garden with thin-branched shrubs might find the WEMARS sufficient. However, for any homeowner with mature trees, storm cleanup needs, or firewood to process, the WG322 is in a completely different, more powerful league.
Our Final Verdict: Is the WORX WG322 Worth It?
After extensive testing and analysis of user feedback, our verdict is clear: the WORX WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw Auto-Tension is an outstanding tool for its target audience. It is not designed to compete with 18-inch gas saws, and it shouldn’t be judged as such. Instead, it is arguably one of the best chainsaws available for homeowners, seniors, and anyone new to powered cutting tools. Its greatest strengths are its incredibly lightweight design, which makes it accessible to nearly everyone, and its brilliant auto-tensioning and auto-oiling systems, which remove the most intimidating aspects of chainsaw maintenance. It has more than enough power for common yard tasks like pruning, felling small trees, and clearing storm debris up to 8 inches in diameter. The only significant drawback is the runtime of the included battery, a problem easily solved by purchasing a spare or a higher-capacity battery from the Power Share line. For the user tired of the noise, fumes, and frustration of gas, this saw is a breath of fresh air.
If you’ve decided the WORX WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw Auto-Tension is the right fit for your yard, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API