Ever felt the frustration of a sputtering gas engine when you’re in the middle of a project? Or maybe you’ve wrestled with the noise and fumes of a traditional chainsaw, wishing for a cleaner, quieter option? For many homeowners and DIYers, tackling tree trimming, firewood cutting, or even just clearing brush can be a real chore, and choosing the right tool can feel overwhelming. You want power and efficiency, but you also want something that’s easy to start, safe to use, and won’t leave you smelling like gasoline.
That’s where electric chainsaws shine. But with so many different models on the market, how do you pick the one that’s perfect for your needs? It can feel like navigating a jungle of battery voltages, bar lengths, and brand names. You want to avoid buying something too weak for your tasks or something that’s unnecessarily complicated.
In this post, we’re going to cut through the confusion. We’ll break down what makes a great electric chainsaw and guide you through the key features to consider. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to confidently choose an electric chainsaw that makes your outdoor chores a breeze, not a burden. Let’s dive in and find your perfect cutting companion!
Our Top 5 Electric Chainsaws Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Electric Chainsaws Detailed Reviews
1. Oregon 2400W Powerful Self-Sharpening Corded Electric Chainsaw with 18-Inch (45cm) Guide Bar
Rating: 8.8/10
Tackle your yard work with ease using the Oregon CS1500, a powerful 2400W corded electric chainsaw. This tool is designed for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, making your cutting jobs simpler and faster. Its 18-inch guide bar is ready for most tasks, and the integrated PowerSharp system means you’ll always have a sharp chain.
What We Like:
- It’s very powerful with a 15 Amp motor.
- The built-in PowerSharp system sharpens the chain in just 3-5 seconds.
- You can tension the chain without needing any tools.
- It has an automatic oiling system to keep the chain and bar well-lubricated.
- It starts up instantly when you plug it in.
- It’s lighter than gas chainsaws and makes less noise.
- No assembly is needed; it comes ready to go.
- It has a Chain Brake for added safety.
- It comes with a 3-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- Being corded means you’re limited by the length of your extension cord.
- It requires a power outlet, so you can’t use it far from electricity.
This Oregon chainsaw offers a great blend of power and convenience for homeowners. It’s a reliable choice for keeping your property tidy.
2. Seesii Mini Chainsaw Cordless 6-inch
Rating: 9.5/10
Tackle your yard work with ease using the Seesii Mini Chainsaw Cordless 6-inch. This lightweight, handheld electric saw is designed for convenience and power, making it a fantastic tool for trimming trees, cutting wood, and gardening tasks. Plus, it makes a great gift for the handy people in your life!
What We Like:
- It’s super light, weighing only 2.62 lbs, so you can use it with just one hand without getting tired.
- Comes with two batteries and a fast charger, so you can work for longer.
- The batteries have built-in protection to last longer.
- It arrives fully assembled and is easy to use, even for beginners.
- It cuts through wood quickly, slicing a 5.91-inch log in just 8 seconds.
- It’s a perfect gift for dads and husbands.
- You get lots of helpful accessories in the box, like extra chains, gloves, and tools, so you can start right away.
- The company offers great customer support that’s available 24/7.
What Could Be Improved:
- The guide plate colors are mixed between black and white, which might not be ideal for everyone.
The Seesii Mini Chainsaw is a powerful and user-friendly tool that makes yard maintenance a breeze. It’s a thoughtful gift that offers both practicality and convenience.
3. Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of wrestling with gas chainsaws? The Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw offers a powerful and easy way to handle your yard work. This chainsaw is designed for homeowners who need to clear branches, take down small trees, or clean up after a storm. It comes with everything you need to get started: a 4.0Ah battery and a charger.
What We Like:
- The 40V motor is strong and efficient, making quick work of tasks.
- Brushless technology means the motor lasts longer and gives you more power.
- A chain brake adds an important layer of safety.
- The automatic oiler keeps the bar and chain well-lubricated for smooth operation.
- Tool-less tensioning makes adjusting the chain super easy.
- It starts with just the push of a button.
- No gas, no fumes, and no messy maintenance like carburetors or spark plugs.
- It is lighter than many gas models, making it easier to handle.
What Could Be Improved:
- For very demanding, heavy-duty jobs, a more powerful gas chainsaw might be needed.
- The run time, while good, might not be enough for extremely large projects without a second battery.
This Greenworks chainsaw makes yard work much simpler and more enjoyable. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking for a reliable and user-friendly cordless cutting tool.
4. WEN 4017 Electric Chainsaw
Rating: 9.4/10
The WEN 4017 Electric Chainsaw, 16″ is a powerful and user-friendly tool for your outdoor projects. Its electric design means you don’t have to worry about gas and fumes, making it a cleaner choice for your yard work. This saw is built to handle a variety of cutting tasks, from trimming branches to felling smaller trees.
What We Like:
- The 12A motor provides good power, spinning the chain at a speedy 44 feet per second for efficient cutting.
- Its lightweight design helps reduce tiredness, so you can work longer without feeling worn out.
- The automatic oiling system keeps the chain lubricated, which helps the chainsaw last longer.
- Changing the chain is a breeze thanks to the tool-free system; it’s fast and simple.
- It runs on electricity, so there’s no need for gasoline, meaning no harmful emissions.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s electric, the cord can limit your reach, so you might need an extension cord.
- For very thick or tough wood, you might find it doesn’t have the same brute force as a gas-powered chainsaw.
Overall, the WEN 4017 Electric Chainsaw is a fantastic option for homeowners looking for a reliable and easy-to-manage chainsaw. It makes yard work more efficient and less of a chore.
5. DEWALT 20V MAX 12 in. Cordless Chainsaw
Rating: 8.8/10
The DEWALT 20V MAX 12 in. Cordless Chainsaw (DCCS621B) is a powerful and convenient tool for all your outdoor cutting needs. This chainsaw is designed to make your work easier and more efficient. It’s perfect for trimming branches, cutting firewood, or even tackling some construction projects.
What We Like:
- The 12-inch low kickback bar and chain help you cut safely and easily through many types of wood.
- A high-efficiency brushless motor gives you long runtimes, letting you make up to 100 cuts on a single charge.
- Its lightweight design makes it easy to control and maneuver for precise cuts.
- You get gas-free operation, so no more dealing with messy gas, fumes, or hard starts.
- It offers the convenience of battery power.
What Could Be Improved:
- This is a “bare tool only” purchase, meaning you’ll need to buy a battery and charger separately if you don’t already own them.
- For very large or tough jobs, a gas-powered chainsaw might still offer more power.
This DEWALT chainsaw is a fantastic option for homeowners and DIYers looking for a reliable and user-friendly cutting tool. It brings the power and convenience you expect from DEWALT.
Your Electric Chainsaw Buying Adventure
Choosing the right electric chainsaw makes your yard work easier. This guide will help you find the best one for your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
- Motor Power: This tells you how strong the chainsaw is. More power means it can cut through thicker wood.
- Bar Length: This is the metal part that holds the chain. Longer bars cut bigger branches. Shorter bars are easier to handle.
- Chain Speed: A faster chain cuts wood more quickly.
- Battery Life (for cordless models): If you don’t want to be tied to an outlet, check how long the battery lasts.
- Weight: A lighter chainsaw is less tiring to use.
- Safety Features: Look for a chain brake. This stops the chain quickly if it kicks back.
2. Important Materials
Chainsaws are built tough. The best ones use strong materials.
- Bar: Often made of hardened steel. This makes it durable and resistant to wear.
- Chain: High-quality steel chains stay sharp longer.
- Casing: Durable plastics, sometimes reinforced with metal, protect the motor and other parts.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one chainsaw better than another?
- Motor Type: Brushless motors are generally more powerful and last longer than brushed motors. They also run cooler.
- Build Quality: A well-built chainsaw feels solid. Parts fit together nicely. Poorly made chainsaws can break easily.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands often make reliable products.
- Sharpness of the Chain: A sharp chain cuts smoothly. A dull chain makes the work harder and can be dangerous.
- Ease of Maintenance: Some chainsaws are easier to clean and sharpen. This is important for keeping your saw in good shape.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Who uses electric chainsaws and what do they do?
- Homeowners: Great for trimming branches, cutting firewood, and small tree removal. They are quieter than gas chainsaws.
- Gardeners: Perfect for pruning bushes and clearing garden debris.
- DIY Enthusiasts: Useful for various woodworking projects.
Electric chainsaws are user-friendly. They start easily with the push of a button. Corded models offer unlimited runtime but you are limited by the cord’s length. Cordless models give you freedom but you need to manage battery life.
Consider the size of your yard and the types of tasks you’ll be doing. For light pruning, a smaller, lighter saw is ideal. For larger jobs, you’ll need more power and a longer bar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are electric chainsaws good for cutting down trees?
A: For small trees or branches, yes. For large trees, a gas chainsaw is usually needed because it has more power.
Q: How do I choose the right bar length?
A: Match the bar length to the size of the wood you cut. For branches up to 6 inches thick, a 10-12 inch bar is good. For thicker wood, consider a 14-16 inch bar.
Q: What is a brushless motor?
A: A brushless motor is more efficient and lasts longer. It’s a sign of a higher-quality electric chainsaw.
Q: Do I need to mix gas and oil for an electric chainsaw?
A: No! Electric chainsaws run on electricity, either from a cord or a battery. This makes them much cleaner and easier to use.
Q: How often should I sharpen the chain?
A: Sharpen the chain when it starts to cut slowly or make sawdust instead of wood chips. Regular sharpening makes the saw work better.
Q: What safety gear should I wear?
A: Always wear safety glasses, sturdy gloves, and cut-resistant boots. A helmet with a face shield is also recommended for added protection.
Q: Can I use an electric chainsaw in the rain?
A: It’s best to avoid using electric tools in wet conditions. Water and electricity don’t mix well. Check your owner’s manual for specific advice.
Q: What’s the difference between corded and cordless electric chainsaws?
A: Corded models plug into an outlet, giving you unlimited power but limiting your reach. Cordless models use batteries, offering freedom of movement but requiring battery charging.
Q: How do I maintain my electric chainsaw?
A: Keep the chain sharp, the bar clean, and the air vents clear of debris. For cordless models, proper battery care is also important.
Q: Are electric chainsaws quiet?
A: Yes, they are much quieter than gas chainsaws. This makes them ideal for use in neighborhoods or areas where noise is a concern.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!