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Electric chainsaws come in corded or battery-powered models to help DIYers carve firewood, lop small branches, cut down dying trees, and even perform lighter construction tasks. While most professionals still use gas chainsaws, electric models are quickly gaining in popularity and tend to be preferred by serious DIYers due to their reduced noise level, low maintenance, relative eco-friendliness, and ease of use.
To help you select the right model, our team looked at some of the best electric chainsaws on the market today. Here are our top picks.
Top 8 Electric Chainsaws*
*Links below direct to retailer product pages
- Best Overall: Milwaukee 16-Inch Chainsaw Kit
- Best for Small Projects: DEWALT 20-Volt MAX XR 12-Inch Chainsaw Kit
- Best Corded Model: Oregon CS1500 18-Inch Corded Electric Chainsaw
- Best Lightweight Model: Greenworks 12-Inch, 40-Volt Cordless Chainsaw
- Best Budget Pick: WEN 16-Inch Electric Chainsaw
- Best Design: Makita XCU03PT1 Cordless Chain Saw Kit
- Fastest Charging: SKIL PWR CORE 40 Lightweight Chainsaw Kit
- Best for Small Tasks: BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Cordless Chainsaw
Compare Top Electric Chainsaws
| Product | Retail Link | Power | Weight | Bar Length | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee 20V Chainsaw | Check Amazon | 20V battery | 13.9 lbs | 16 in. | 5-year |
| DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw | Check Amazon | 20V battery | 8.8 lbs | 12 in. | 3-year |
| Oregon CS1500 Corded Chainsaw | Check Amazon | Corded | 12.6 lbs | 18 in. | 2-year |
| Greenworks 40-Volt Chainsaw | Check Amazon | 40V battery | 6 lbs | 12 in. | 4-year |
| WEN 16-Inch Electric Chainsaw | Check Amazon | Corded | 10 lbs | 16 in. | 2-year |
| Makita XCU03PT1 18V Chainsaw | Check Amazon | 18V battery | 22 lbs | 14 in. | 2-year |
| SKIL PWR CORE 40V Chainsaw | Check Amazon | 40V battery | 12 lbs | 14 in. | 5-year |
| BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Chainsaw | Check Amazon | 20V battery | 8 lbs | 10 in. | 2-year |
| Product | Retail Link | Power | Weight | Bar Length | Warranty |
Best Overall
Milwaukee 16-Inch Chainsaw Kit
- $552.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Protected by a five-year material and workmanship warranty
✔ Comes with overload protection
✔ Provides up to 150 cuts on a single charge
✘ Is the most expensive electric chainsaw in this review
✘ Weighs almost 14 pounds
Key Features
- 20-volt battery
- 13.9 pounds
- 16-inch bar
- Five-year material and workmanship warranty
What Customers Are Saying
Many positive reviews raved about the chainsaw’s runtime, which customers said was long enough to get them through simple tasks like downing a tree or clearing limbs. Other customers liked how the battery was compatible with other Milwaukee tools. Negative reviews focused on the product’s chain, which some customers said was flimsy and prone to falling off during use.
Best for Small Projects
DEWALT 20-Volt MAX XR 12-Inch Chainsaw Kit
- $239.99
- $279
- 14% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Houses a brushless motor that maximizes runtime
✔ Includes tool-free chain tensioning and a bar-tightening knob
✔ Has a wireless, 8.8-pound frame
✘ Its battery power limits the chainsaw to small projects
✘ Only comes with one battery
Key Features
- 20-volt battery
- 8.8 pounds
- 12-inch bar
- Three-year limited warranty
What Customers Are Saying
Positive reviews centered around the chainsaw’s effectiveness at executing simple projects like trimming limbs and cutting down small trees. Other satisfied customers complimented the chainsaw’s battery life, with many saying it lasted multiple hours on one charge. Negative reviews focused on the chainsaw’s oil cap, which many customers said broke after minimal use.
Best Corded Model
Oregon CS1500 18-Inch Corded Electric Chainsaw
- $97.74
- $114.99
- 15% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Includes a chain brake for added safety
✔ Comes pre-assembled
✔ Equipped with a built-in PowerSharp chain sharpening system
✘ Its small power cord requires an extension cord to increase mobility
✘ Many customers experienced the tool’s chain repeatedly coming loose during operation
Key Features
- Corded electric
- 12.6 pounds
- 18-inch bar
- Two-year limited warranty
What Customers Are Saying
Many customers liked this Oregon chainsaw’s quiet and powerful performance, stating that its high efficiency came at a fair price. Negative reviews targeted the product’s chain, which many said dulled quickly.
Best Lightweight Model
Greenworks 12-inch, 40-Volt Cordless Chainsaw
- $159.99
- $179.99
- 11% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Comes with a battery and charger
✔ Equipped with an ergonomic handle for multi-positional cutting
✔ Has an automatic oiler
✘ Doesn’t include a brushless motor to adapt to specific loads
✘ Some customers complained about the chainsaw’s weak cutting power
Key Features
- 40-volt battery
- 6 pounds
- 12-inch bar
- Four-year limited warranty
What Customers Are Saying
Positive reviews focused on the product’s lightweight and effective design that produced little noise during use. Negative reviews centered around the chainsaw’s slender frame that some customers saw break after minimal use.
Best Value
WEN 16-Inch Electric Chainsaw
- $54.99
- $79.99
- 31% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Is the most affordable chainsaw in this review
✔ Delivers a chain rotation of up to 44 feet per second
✔ Is protected under a two-year warranty
✘ Requires an extension cord
✘ Doesn’t arrive pre-assembled
Key Features
- Corded electric
- 10 pounds
- 16-inch bar
- Two-year limited warranty
What Customers Are Saying
Many positive reviews centered around the chainsaw’s design, which customers found simple to control and assemble. Additional positive reviews noted the chainsaw’s effectiveness in dealing with small projects like lopping limbs or cutting down small trees. Negative reviews focused on the chainsaw’s automatic oiler, which many customers said didn’t work properly.
Best Design
Makita XCU03PT1 Cordless Chain Saw Kit
- $389
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Features variable speed control
✔ Has a low noise level of 100 A-weighted decibels (dBA)
✔ Is engineered for improved dust and water resistance
✘ Has a lower voltage than some other high-end models
✘ Has a relatively high price point
Key Features
- 18-volt battery
- 22 pounds
- 14-inch bar
- Two-year limited warranty
What Customers Are Saying
Our team finds that customers who like this chainsaw say it’s easily maneuverable and lightweight. Others are impressed with its capable power for its compact size, and many reviewers like that it’s durable and well-built. However, some customers feel this chainsaw runs out of battery quickly, and others feel that the on/off button is inconveniently placed.
Fastest Charging
SKIL PWR CORE 40 Lightweight Chainsaw Kit
- $149
- $199
- 25% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Uses intelligent power management to keep the machine running safely and optimize battery life
✔ Comes with an auto-lubricating chain
✔ Has an anti-kickback brake for additional safety
✘ Has a shorter battery life than some other models
✘ Isn’t the best option for especially thick branches or heavy-duty projects
Key Features
- 40-volt battery
- 12 pounds
- 14-inch bar
- Five-year limited warranty
What Customers Are Saying
Customers who are impressed with this chainsaw like that it’s lightweight and easy to handle. Others like that it’s durable and long-lasting. On the other hand, some customers find this saw’s battery life to be lacking, and others say it has issues with leaking bar oil.
Best Budget Model
BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Cordless Chainsaw
- $99.99
- $105.99
- 6% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Weighs less than 8 pounds
✔ Has an automatic oiler
✔ Includes a low-kickback bar and chain
✘ Is not designed for large tasks
✘ Has a limited battery life
Key Features
- 20-volt battery
- 8 pounds
- 10-inch bar
- Two-year limited warranty
What Customers Are Saying
Our research shows that customers who are impressed with this chainsaw often comment on its long-lasting battery, light weight, and sturdy design. However, we also see some customers who feel that sharpening this saw is challenging, and others say they have issues with the automatic oiler not working properly.
Buying Guide To Electric Chainsaws
An electric chainsaw is a great choice for homeowners who want a powerful tool that doesn’t require a pull cord or gasoline. Read this buying guide to learn about important factors to consider before purchasing an electric chainsaw.
Power Source
Electric chainsaws are available in both corded and cordless models. Mobility is the main factor to consider when deciding between the two, as a cordless electric chainsaw removes the limitations set by a cord’s length and eliminates the risk of cutting the cord during use. However, cordless chainsaws possess less cutting power than their corded counterparts, making them less effective at heavy-duty cutting jobs.
Size
The size of a chainsaw is typically determined by the length of its bar or the piece of the chainsaw that supports the chain. Chainsaws with long bars may be a good choice for customers who need to cut down large trees or bulky branches. Chainsaws with shorter bars can only cut through small tree branches, but they’re lighter and more manageable than ones with long bars.
Power
The power of a chainsaw is measured in amperes or amps. The number of provided amps you need in a chainsaw is determined by your intended use. If you need a heavy-duty electric chainsaw that can cut dense wood without slowing down, you’ll want to purchase an electric model with around 15 amps. Conversely, an 8- or 10-amp model should do the job if you need a chainsaw for cutting small limbs.
Note: A battery-powered chainsaw’s power output is measured in volts. The battery’s ampere-hour rating is important for understanding the length of time a chainsaw can run at a particular power output. For example, a 2Ah battery pack can power the same 20-volt tool for longer than a 1Ah battery pack.
Safety Features
When operating a powerful tool like an electric chainsaw, taking advantage of safety features can help prevent dangerous and life-threatening accidents. For example, some electric chainsaws include a chain brake on the handle that’s used to stop the chain’s rotation in emergencies. Some models even come with a safety switch to prevent accidental starting.
How To Stay Safe While Using a Chainsaw
Using any type of chainsaw can be dangerous if you don’t take the proper precautions. Take note of the following tips to ensure you stay safe while using these power tools.
Wear Proper Safety Gear
When using a chainsaw, it’s essential to wear safety glasses or a helmet to protect your eyes and face, plus hearing protection to guard your ears. Additionally, wear long sleeves, pants, and gloves to protect your skin.
Look for Safety Features
Most modern chainsaws offer a variety of safety features that offer peace of mind regardless of your experience level. Some of the most important features to look for include a blade guard for when the chainsaw isn’t in use, manual chain brakes, a low-kickback chain, and an adjustment knob to manage chain tightness.
Inspect the Tool Before Turning It On
Before using a chainsaw, examine it thoroughly to ensure it’s not damaged and doesn’t have any loose parts that could become safety hazards.
Use the Tool Properly
If you’ve never used a chainsaw before, watch videos such as the one below to see how to use it properly.
Additionally, never use a chainsaw for anything other than its intended purpose. Keep the tool away from children and pets even when it’s not turned on.
Be Prepared for Kickback
When kickback occurs, ensure that the chainsaw’s nose is kept away from your body. Additionally, ensure the chain is properly sharpened and tensioned before use. This will help reduce kickbacks and minimize accident risk.
Electric Chainsaw FAQs
Are electric chainsaws more dangerous than gas-powered models?
Both electric- and gas-powered chainsaws present the same hazard during use, as both models utilize a sharp, spinning chain to cut down trees, firewood, and other items. While electric chainsaws may seem safer than their powerful gas counterparts, their lightweight and mobile nature makes them prone to mishandling.
When operating an electric- or gas-powered chainsaw, take extra precautions to ensure your safety, like wearing safety glasses and close-toed shoes and reading the owner’s manual to learn proper handling.
Why is my electric chainsaw not cutting?
A chainsaw that isn’t cutting can be caused by a number of issues, including a dull chain, an improperly adjusted chain, or a bent chain bar. Before use, conduct regular maintenance on your chainsaw to prevent your tool from breaking down.
How do you start an electric chainsaw?
Unlike a gas-powered chainsaw that requires users to crank a pull cord to start the engine, electric chainsaws start once they’re connected to a battery or electrical source and a switch is flipped.
What are the best chainsaw brands?
There are dozens of brands that make electric chainsaws, but purchasing one from a well-recognized company can help ensure you’re getting a quality product. Some of the most trusted brands for chainsaws include the following:
- BLACK+DECKER
- DEWALT
- Makita
- Echo
- EGO POWER
- Greenworks Pro
- Husqvarna
- Milwaukee
- Oregon
- Ryobi
- Worx
- SKIL
- Stihl
How long does the average battery chainsaw last?
The average time a battery chainsaw lasts before needing a charge is 20–30 minutes. However, that time will change based on the unit’s make and model, the hardness of the wood being cut, whether you run the machine continuously, and the chainsaw’s battery size.
Do you have to sharpen a chainsaw?
Keeping a chainsaw sharp will help it last longer and ensure it runs safely. For step-by-step instructions on how to sharpen a chainsaw, check out the video below.
How We Selected the Best Electric Chainsaws
To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of chainsaws with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: Through our years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published numerous tool reviews, from cordless drills and impact drivers to tape measures and laser levels.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
Questions or Comments?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.