If you’re searching for a chainsaw, you might not find out which model may be the correct one for you personally. There’s a lot of options available now, including gas-driven, corded-electric, and battery-driven chainsaws. Not merely do you have to choose what kind of power the machine uses, but you also have to look at the blade size, ease-of-use, and the amount of maintenance required.
Even if you are an experienced pro when it comes to chainsaws, a lot of things have changed in recent years, so you may want to brush up on your chainsaw knowledge. And, if you’re brand new, you’re in fortune, because we’ve assembled evaluations of the best chainsaws on the market today, walking you through what’s great and what’s not-so-sizzling about each model.
We’ve also included a buyer’s guide to being able to gain an in-depth knowledge of chainsaws. If you discover the correct model for you personally, then you have to know what types of things you ought to be watching when shopping.
10 Best Chainsaws 2021
1. Husqvarna 460 Chainsaw – Best Overall
Amazon.com
- Comes with 3 WoodlandPRO replacement Chains
- Combined choke/stop control, great for easier starting and reducing the risk of engine flooding
But, there’s even more to a chainsaw than simply power, and the Husqvarna chainsaw delivers in these areas as well. This model possesses an inertia-activated chain brake, which stops the device in the event that you drop it, which eventually prevents a whole lot of accidents. In addition, it comes with “Smart Start” technology, which calls for the pain out of getting your chainsaw started. It is a bit weighty, but that’s what you should expect out of a monster chainsaw like this one.
If you’re looking for a powerful chainsaw built to last you a lifetime that also starts quickly and easily each time, you don’t need to read any further. You’ve found your model. Husqvarna chainsaw is one of the best chainsaw available in the market.
2. Makita XCU03PT1 Chainsaw
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- 2 Free Batteries with qualifying X2 kits for a limited time (4 batteries included)
- Variable speed trigger and high chain speed (0-3, 940 FPM) For improved cutting performance
- "Tool-less" chain adjustment for convenient operation and maintenance. Chain pitch : 3/8 inch
- Built-in lock-off lever helps prevent the chain from accidentally engaging
- Built-in L. E. D. On/off switch with auto power-off function; automatically shuts the saw off when operation is delayed for extended Battery life
This saw runs on two 18-volt electric batteries that are standardized over the Makita electric tool line, and therefore you might already own an electric battery you could charge and increase extend this tool’s operating time. As is normal, by getting the battery power, you’re obtaining four batteries, that ought to last you through many projects.
This electric chainsaw isn’t an industrial-grade tool, nonetheless, it is certain to get you through most residential projects. The main one downside is normally that it comes with an overzealous basic safety off change, which powers these devices off after a few moments, meaning that when you have to establish it down to alter the wooden you’re cutting, you’re likely to have to transform it back on.
3. WORX WG304.1 Chainsaw – COST EFFECTIVE
Free shipping
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- 15.0 Amp motor output delivers a more powerful cutting performance to the extended, 18-inch bar
- Patented auto-tension chain system prevents over-tightening; stays at the right tension for hundreds of uses
- Low kickback bar and built-in chain brake for added safety
- Automatic oil lubrication and built-in oil reservoir with window level indicator
- Comes fully assembled right out of the box, and includes 3-year manufacturer’s warranty
The look merely requires you to pour oil in a reservoir, and it automatically applies oil as needed, but nonetheless, area of the upside to owning electric tools is that they’re low-maintenance, which isn’t. This model will include an automatically-tensioning chain program, taking a few of the guesswork out of your entire day, and has good protection features that will assist prevent accidents.
Overall, if you want a chainsaw that gets the job done, don’t mind occasionally oiling, and will have ready access to an electric outlet, you’ll get really good value out of this Worx chainsaw.
4. BLACK+DECKER LCS1240B Chainsaw
3 used from $95.66
Free shipping
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- 40-volt, 12-in cordless electric chainsaw is ideal for cutting small trees and removing limbs up to 12-in thick
- 40-volt MAX Li-ion battery holds a charge up to 18 months, so it's always ready to start work (battery and charger sold separately)
- Low-kickback bar and chain protects you from kickback force and frequency and provides smooth and fast cuts
- Lightweight 8.3-lb design offers easy maneuverability and less fatigue, and the full wrap-around handle provides additional comfort during extended periods of use
The good news is that it’s electric, so it is very quiet, and since it uses batteries, you have the mobility of a gas chainsaw. Like the previous model, you still have to oil this one, which is a bit of a pain for an electric model.
The batteries for this unit are very expensive, so if you need to get enough that you could change them out and keep slicing, expect to spend big money. General, this is an excellent chainsaw for those who have a whole lot of lightweight function to achieve that won’t take enough time. Otherwise, you can find more worth out of a different model. If you’re on the search for a light-weight model, you might be thinking about reading our “Top 5 Lightweight” chainsaw picks guidebook found here.
5. Makita 16” Chainsaws
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- "Tool-less" blade and chain adjustments for convenient operation and easy maintenance
- Rubberized grip handles are ergonomically designed for comfort
- Large trigger switch with soft start for smooth start-ups
- Built-in current limiter helps protect motor from burnout by reducing power to motor when saw is overloaded
- Large oil reservoir with view window allows operator to check bar oil level
- power source type: Corded-electric
Although it has quite a few positive traits, this chainsaw is not without its downsides. The chain dulls very quickly, though it cuts well when sharp. It also came off the bar a few times, which is annoying when you’re looking to get the function done. Considering everything you get, it’s a fairly pricey option.
6. CRAFTSMAN 16-In. Chainsaw
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- EXTENDED RUN TIME: Brushless motor on this cordless chainsaw with high performance 60V 2.5 Ah battery pack for long runtime
- PRECISE CUTTING: Bubble level of battery chainsaw allows for precise and level cutting
- MINIMAL MAINTENANCE: Auto oiling with tool free tensioning for minimal maintenance of the battery powered chainsaw
- LOW KICKBACK: 16-inch low kickback bar and chain
- VERSATRACK COMPATIBLE: Use the integrated hook to hang this tool directly on the VERSATRACK Wall Organization System (sold separately)
The very first thing we noticed when picking right up this chainsaw is its immense weight. In comparison to similar rivals, this Craftsman chainsaw is quite heavy at almost 19 pounds. From the factory, there is no bar essential oil in the device! We did see this ahead of use, but in the event that you were to miss this and operate the saw without essential oil, you could very easily ruin a brand-fresh saw.
On most chainsaws, metallic spikes in leading called “bucking spikes” can grab onto the wood you’re cutting and prevent the saw from kicking back. Unfortunately, this model of Craftsamna chainsaw has opted for some weak plastic spikes instead that are just not as safe. We felt this was a major oversight that prevented this powerful saw from moving further up this list.
7. Sun Joe 14-Inch Chainsaw
Amazon.com
- Versatile: ideal for trimming and pruning limbs and branches
- Safety switch: protects against accidental starts
- Auto-oiler: automatic oiler with window to gauge Oil level lubricates the Bar and chain for continuous cutting
Now, the poor. The chain tightening screw takes a tool to adjust. Even worse, it loosens up as the chainsaw operates. You’ll need to be sure you maintain tightening it every short while. Even if you’re great about any of it, you’ll still reduce the chain occasionally. It’s also not really the most effective saw, therefore don’t expect it to lower through anything very solid. While this product is better than the low price would have you believe, it’s not the best choice on the market.
8. Oregon CS1500 Chainsaw
2 used from $70.14
Free shipping
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- Includes 18” guide bar and PowerSharp chain, which minimizes downtime by allowing you to sharpen your chain right on the saw in 3 seconds or less.
- Get to work right away with the instant start capability
- The chain stays oiled using the built-in Lubri-Tec oiling system which reduces chain friction and increases the saw’s run time
- No assembly required; comes pre-assembled
- Low noise, silent between cuts. Chain brake for added safety
When in use, this Oregon chainsaw chain just doesn’t want to stay on for more than a few minutes. This didn’t start until after the first few hours of usage though. Sadly, the bar also began to arrive loose around once. We pointed out that the screws that kept it in got wiggled out of place, enabling the bar to start out exhibiting some vertical motion. Apparently, it’s relative to a universal problem with this model. When present, these flaws make the noticed unsafe.
9. Remington 16-inches Chainsaw
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- RELIABLE ENGINE: 42cc 2-cycle gas powered engine with low-kickback 16-inch bar and chain tames medium to large-sized branches. Perfect for the suburban homeowner!
- COMFORTABLE OPERATION: Equipped with a 5-point anti-vibration system and cushion wrap handle for more balance and comfort while operating.
- QUICKSTART TECHNOLOGY: Make pull starts easier to rev up and get right to cutting.
- AUTOMATIC OILER: The adjustable automatic oiler keeps the chain in quality condition.
An automatic oiler is meant to keep the chain cool and lubricated. In our experience, this is one of the most faulty parts of this saw. The oiler got clogged and stopped lubricating the chain. Then, the saw overheated and shut off, emitting a burning smell. Although it’s very modestly priced, you’d be better served by purchasing a more reliable saw. This one cuts great when it’s working, and it does have some useful features. But with so many great possibilities, why settle?
10. Poulan 18 in. Chainsaws
Free shipping
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- 42cc, 2-stroke engine with 18" Bar
- Ideal for medium-duty storm clean-up, cutting firewood, and felling trees
- Includes: Carry Case, Extra Chain, Built-in Scrench, 2-Stroke Oil
- Power source type: Gas Powered
This saw features Easy Draw Start (EPS). Sadly, the string broke! it is a reasonably common problem with this Poulan chainsaw. The ultimate straw was that the chain held coming off. We found that it had broken the within of the cover as well. Overall, this is simply not a saw we’d recommend since there are far better ones offered for the price.
