Best Battery Chainsaw: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

After countless hours of felling, limbing, and bucking in our workshop and yard, we’ve found that the freedom of a battery-powered chainsaw is a game-changer for homeowners. Gone are the days of wrestling with pull-cords and mixing fuel. For its outstanding balance of power, maneuverability, and user-friendly design, we’ve crowned the Greenworks 40V 12″ Cordless Compact Chainsaw 2.0Ah as our top pick. It’s remarkably lightweight, making it perfect for storm clean-up and pruning, yet it packs enough punch to handle logs up to 8 inches. Its tool-less tensioning and reliable battery system make it the ideal all-rounder for most household tasks.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Battery Chainsaw

#1 Greenworks 40V 12″ Cordless Compact Chainsaw 2.0Ah – Ideal for: General Homeowner Use

From the moment we unboxed the Greenworks 40V 12″ Cordless Compact Chainsaw 2.0Ah, we were struck by its lightweight and approachable design. This isn’t a lumberjack’s saw, and it doesn’t pretend to be. Instead, it’s a fantastically capable tool for the average homeowner. We put it to work clearing fallen branches after a storm and trimming overgrown limbs, and it performed admirably. It sliced through 4- to 6-inch branches with ease, and we even pushed it to its limits on an 8-inch log, which it handled with persistence. The tool-less chain tensioning is a standout feature, allowing for quick adjustments on the fly without fumbling for a wrench. The 40V battery provided about an hour of intermittent cutting, which was more than enough for most of our cleanup tasks. This sentiment was echoed by many users who were impressed by the battery life during hours-long projects. While it cuts a bit slower than a gas-powered saw, the trade-off for no fumes, minimal noise, and push-button starting is one we’ll take any day. Our experience was confirmed by several users who noted its surprising power for such a compact unit, making it perfect for trail maintenance or yard work.

#2 Oregon CS1500 15 Amp Self-Sharpening Chainsaw – Perfect for: Heavy-Duty Work Near an Outlet

For those who need relentless power without the hassle of gas, the corded Oregon CS1500 15 Amp Self-Sharpening Chainsaw is a beast. The moment we plugged it in and pulled the trigger, we felt the raw strength of its 15-amp motor. We tested it on a 14-inch oak log, and it chewed through it without a hint of bogging down, a performance that many users found comparable to gas saws for homeowner needs. The star of the show, however, is the PowerSharp self-sharpening system. After an hour of cutting, we intentionally dulled the chain on some gritty wood. A simple pull of the red lever for 3-5 seconds, and it was back to cutting like new. This is an incredible time-saver that eliminates a major point of frustration for many chainsaw users. The 18-inch bar provides excellent capacity, and the tool-less tensioner worked flawlessly during our tests. The biggest limitation is, of course, the cord. Dragging an extension cord around the yard can be cumbersome and requires constant awareness. However, for those working in a confined area or processing a wood pile near the house, the trade-off for unlimited runtime and instant power is well worth it.

#3 WORX WG322 10″ Cordless Chainsaw Auto-Tension – Suits: Light Pruning and Limb Trimming

When it comes to quick, grab-and-go cutting tasks, the WORX WG322 10″ Cordless Chainsaw Auto-Tension is a fantastic companion. Weighing in at just over 6 pounds, this saw is incredibly easy to maneuver, making it perfect for trimming hard-to-reach branches or for users who are intimidated by larger, heavier saws. We found it to be the perfect tool for limbing small trees and cutting up branches up to 4 inches in diameter. The automatic chain tensioning system is a real highlight; we never had to stop and make manual adjustments, as the saw kept the chain perfectly taut throughout our testing. A sentiment shared by many users is how empowering this tool can be, particularly for those who have never used a chainsaw before. The 20V Power Share battery provides enough juice for about 20-30 minutes of solid work, which is ample for most small-scale pruning jobs. It’s not designed for felling trees, and it does struggle with thicker hardwoods. However, for its intended purpose—light-duty yard maintenance—its convenience and ease of use are hard to beat. Just be aware that some users have noted compatibility issues between different generations of WORX chargers and batteries, so it’s best to stick with the included components.

#4 EGO Power+ CS1611 16″ Battery Chainsaw – Ideal for: Serious Yard Work

The EGO Power+ CS1611 16″ Battery Chainsaw is where cordless convenience truly begins to rival gas-powered performance. From the first cut, the power from the 56V brushless motor was immediately apparent. It sliced through 12-inch pine logs with a confidence that surprised us, feeling much closer to a small gas saw than many of its battery-powered peers. We spent an afternoon bucking up a fallen tree, and the saw never felt underpowered. The tool-free tensioning system is intuitive, though we found, as did some other users, that it’s crucial to check the tension frequently during heavy use to prevent the chain from derailing. The included 2.5Ah battery gave us around 100 cuts on 4×4 lumber before needing a recharge, which is impressive for the work it was doing. The saw is well-balanced and relatively quiet, making for a much more pleasant user experience than a noisy, vibrating gas engine. For homeowners with larger properties or more demanding cutting needs, the EGO Power+ CS1611 16″ Battery Chainsaw is a serious contender that proves battery power is ready for the big leagues.

#5 EGO Power+ 16” Battery Chainsaw – Perfect for: Extended Heavy-Duty Use

Building on the success of its siblings, the EGO Power+ 16” Battery Chainsaw (model CS1613) takes performance a step further with its included 4.0Ah battery. In our side-by-side testing, this model offered significantly longer runtime, allowing us to complete an entire large tree cleanup on a single charge. The power and cutting speed felt identical to the CS1611 model—which is to say, fantastic. It chews through hardwood like butter and makes quick work of felling medium-sized trees. We were particularly impressed with its balance; despite the larger battery, it doesn’t feel unwieldy. As one user noted, “I cut everything in the photo on one battery charge! And it wasn’t drained yet!” This mirrors our own experience perfectly. The convenience of not having to mix gas or deal with pull starts, combined with this level of sustained power, is a game-changer. The automatic oiler kept the chain well-lubricated, and the tool-free tensioning dial made on-the-go adjustments simple. If you have a lot of work to do and don’t want to be interrupted by frequent battery swaps, this is the kit to get.

#6 WORX WG323 10″ Cordless Pole Saw – Suits: Pruning High Branches

The WORX WG323 10″ Cordless Pole Saw is a testament to versatility. We used it to clear high, overhanging limbs from a driveway and were immediately impressed by its reach. Fully extended, it allowed us to safely cut branches nearly 12 feet off the ground without needing a ladder. The saw head itself is essentially the WG322 chainsaw, so it delivers the same reliable performance on branches up to about 8 inches in diameter. The transition from pole saw to handheld chainsaw is tool-free and takes less than a minute, which we found incredibly convenient for cutting up the trimmed branches once they were on the ground. As other users have mentioned, it does get a bit top-heavy when fully extended, requiring some strength to control precisely. However, the ability to tackle two jobs with one tool is a huge advantage. The 20V battery is sufficient for typical pruning sessions, and the automatic tensioning and oiling systems mean less time spent on maintenance and more time cutting. For homeowners with tall trees that need regular trimming, this 2-in-1 solution is an excellent value.

#7 WORX WG324 Cordless Chainsaw – Ideal for: Precision Pruning & Small-Scale Cutting

The WORX WG324 Cordless Chainsaw is more of a pruning saw than a traditional chainsaw, and it excels in its niche. This 5-inch mini saw is astonishingly lightweight at under 4 lbs, making one-handed operation not just possible, but comfortable. We found it indispensable for clearing dense brush, pruning fruit trees, and cutting up small limbs for a brush pile. It’s the perfect tool for jobs that are too big for loppers but too small to justify hauling out a full-sized chainsaw. The high chain speed of 22 ft/s allows it to zip through branches up to 3-4 inches thick with surprising speed. Safety is clearly a priority in the design, with an upper chain guard and a hand guard providing ample protection. One key difference we noted, which is important for users to be aware of, is that this model requires manual oiling. It comes with a small dropper bottle, and we found that applying a few drops every dozen cuts or so kept it running smoothly. As one user aptly put it, it’s “perfect for working on a steep slope with one hand.” For detailed trimming and cleanup, this little powerhouse is an amazing time-saver.

#8 Milwaukee M18 FUEL 16 in. Chainsaw Tool Only – Perfect for: Professionals & Milwaukee Tool Users

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 16 in. Chainsaw Tool Only is a professional-grade tool that delivers uncompromising power. We paired it with a 12.0Ah High Output battery and were blown away by its performance. This saw doesn’t just compete with gas models; in many cases, it outperforms them in cutting speed. It powered through a 18-inch diameter oak log without hesitation, maintaining full RPM under heavy load where other battery saws might bog down. The variable speed trigger provides excellent control for starting precise cuts. This saw is built tough, designed for the job site, and feels incredibly solid in hand. It’s a battery hog, and as we and other users have confirmed, you absolutely need to use Milwaukee’s High Output (HO) batteries to get the performance it’s capable of; standard M18 batteries will overheat quickly. This is a “tool only” offering, making it a fantastic, cost-effective choice for professionals and homeowners already invested in the M18 ecosystem. While some users have noted it tends to leak bar oil, this is a common issue with powerful chainsaws, and its sheer cutting capability makes it a minor inconvenience.

#9 Greenworks 40V 8-Inch Polesaw 2.0Ah – Suits: Dedicated High-Reach Trimming

For those who primarily need to trim high branches and want a dedicated tool for the job, the Greenworks 40V 8-Inch Polesaw 2.0Ah is an excellent choice. We assembled the 3-piece aluminum shaft to its full 9-foot length, giving us a comfortable working reach of about 11 feet. It felt surprisingly manageable and well-balanced for its length. We used it to clear limbs away from power lines and a roof, and its 8-inch bar sliced through 4- to 6-inch branches cleanly and efficiently. The automatic oiler kept the chain running smoothly, and the chain tensioning system was easy to adjust. The 40V battery platform provides ample power and runtime for most residential pruning tasks; we worked for nearly an hour and still had charge left. One user highlighted its value for working in overgrown areas, as the long pole provides a safe distance from thorns and falling limbs. While it’s not as versatile as a 2-in-1 model, its dedicated design makes it more rigid and often easier to control for overhead work than convertible units. If high-reach pruning is your main goal, this is a solid, reliable performer.

#10 CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 16-Inch Electric Chainsaw – Ideal for: Budget Corded Power

The CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 16-Inch Electric Chainsaw proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a powerful and effective cutting tool. As a corded model, it delivers consistent power from its 12-amp motor without any concerns about battery life. We put it through its paces on a variety of tasks, from bucking up firewood to taking down a small, 10-inch diameter tree. It handled everything we threw at it with impressive force, sawing through logs “like butter,” a sentiment shared by numerous satisfied users. The 16-inch bar provides great capacity for a saw in this price range. We found the tool-free chain tensioning system to be effective and easy to use, and the automatic oiler did a good job of keeping the chain lubricated. The main challenge, as with any corded saw, is managing the extension cord. However, for those with smaller yards or who primarily work near an outlet, this is a minor issue. For the price, the power and reliability of this Craftsman saw are exceptional, making it a fantastic value for homeowners who need a capable saw for occasional heavy use.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Bar Length: The bar length determines the maximum cutting diameter. A 10-12 inch bar is great for pruning and small limbs. A 14-16 inch bar can handle felling small trees and cutting larger logs. Choose a length that’s slightly longer than the diameter of the wood you’ll typically be cutting.
• Battery System (Voltage & Amp-Hours): Voltage (V) is a measure of power, while Amp-hours (Ah) measure runtime. A 40V or 56V saw will generally be more powerful than a 20V model. A higher Ah battery (e.g., 4.0Ah vs 2.0Ah) will last longer on a single charge. If you already own battery-powered tools, consider a saw from the same brand to share batteries.
• Weight and Ergonomics: A lightweight, well-balanced saw will be more comfortable and safer to use for extended periods. Consider how you’ll be using the saw—a heavier, more powerful saw might be fine for bucking logs, but a lighter model is better for limbing and pruning.
• Convenience Features: Look for features like tool-less chain tensioning, which allows you to make adjustments without extra tools, and an automatic oiler, which keeps the bar and chain lubricated for smooth operation and longer life.

Understanding Brushless vs. Brushed Motors

Many modern battery chainsaws feature brushless motors, and for good reason. A traditional brushed motor uses physical carbon brushes to transfer power, creating friction, heat, and wear over time. A brushless motor, on the other hand, uses electronics and magnets to spin the motor. This results in a more efficient system that can adjust its power output based on the load. For you, this means a brushless chainsaw will typically offer longer battery life, more power, and a significantly longer overall tool lifespan compared to an older brushed model.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Underbuying Power: Don’t buy a small 10-inch saw if you plan on felling 12-inch trees. It’s frustrating and unsafe. Be realistic about your needs and choose a saw with adequate power and bar length.
• Ignoring Safety Gear: A battery chainsaw is not a toy. Always use proper personal protective equipment (PPE), including eye protection, gloves, and chaps.
• Forgetting Bar and Chain Oil: All chainsaws require bar and chain oil to function correctly. Running a saw without oil will quickly damage the bar and chain. Make sure the reservoir is full before you start cutting.
• Not Checking Chain Tension: A loose chain can come off the bar, which is a major safety hazard. A chain that’s too tight puts unnecessary strain on the motor. Check the tension before each use and periodically during long jobs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a battery-powered chainsaw last on a single charge?

Runtime varies significantly based on the battery’s voltage (V) and amp-hours (Ah), the type and thickness of the wood, and how continuously you’re cutting. For light pruning with a 20V, 2.0Ah battery, you might get 20-40 minutes. For heavy cutting with a 56V, 4.0Ah battery, you could get over an hour of intermittent use or make 150+ cuts on 4×4 lumber.

Are battery chainsaws powerful enough to cut down a tree?

Absolutely, provided you choose the right one. High-voltage models (40V, 56V, or higher) with a 14-inch or longer bar have ample power to fell small to medium-sized trees, often up to 12-16 inches in diameter. They are more than capable for most residential tree-felling tasks.

What is the best voltage for a battery chainsaw (e.g., 40V vs 80V)?

There’s no single “best” voltage; it depends on your needs. 20V saws are lightweight and great for light pruning. 40V offers an excellent balance of power and weight for general homeowner use. 56V, 80V, and professional systems (like Milwaukee’s M18) deliver power that rivals gas saws and are suited for heavy-duty work and felling larger trees.

How do brushless motors improve battery chainsaw performance?

Brushless motors are more efficient, powerful, and durable than older brushed motors. They generate less heat and friction, allowing more of the battery’s energy to go directly into cutting power. This results in longer runtimes, higher torque for tackling tough wood, and a longer overall lifespan for the chainsaw.

Can I use batteries from other power tools with my chainsaw?

Generally, you can only use batteries from the same brand and the same voltage platform. For example, any EGO 56V battery will work with an EGO 56V chainsaw. This is a huge benefit if you are already invested in a brand’s ecosystem, as you can often buy the “tool only” version of the chainsaw at a lower cost.

What is the average charging time for a chainsaw battery?

Charging time depends on the battery’s capacity (Ah) and the charger’s output. A standard charger might take 90-120 minutes to fully charge a 4.0Ah battery. Many brands also offer rapid chargers that can cut this time in half, often charging a battery in 30-60 minutes.

Are battery chainsaws quieter than gas models?

Yes, significantly quieter. While a battery chainsaw is not silent, it only makes noise when the trigger is pulled. It produces a whirring sound rather than the constant, loud roar of a two-stroke gas engine. This makes them much more pleasant to use and less disruptive to neighbors.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and evaluation, we confidently stand by our top pick, the Greenworks 40V 12″ Cordless Compact Chainsaw 2.0Ah. It hits the sweet spot for the vast majority of homeowners. It provides the freedom of cordless operation without the intimidating weight or complexity of a professional-grade saw. During our tests, its performance in storm cleanup and everyday pruning was flawless. Features like the tool-less chain tensioning and automatic oiler make maintenance simple, even for beginners. While more powerful options exist for felling large trees, the Greenworks saw offers the perfect blend of user-friendly design, sufficient power, and reliable battery life to tackle the tasks that pop up most often in the average yard. It’s a dependable, convenient, and capable tool that makes yard work less of a chore.

Last update on 2025-10-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API