Imagine standing in front of a wall of chainsaws, each one promising to be the best. It’s enough to make anyone’s head spin! Choosing the right chainsaw isn’t just about picking the shiniest one; it’s about finding a tool that’s safe, powerful, and perfect for the job you need it to do.
Many people find it tough to figure out what makes one chainsaw better than another. You worry about getting one that’s too weak for tough wood, too heavy to handle, or even unsafe. These worries can stop you from starting that project you’ve been dreaming about, whether it’s clearing fallen branches or building something amazing.
But don’t worry! By the time you finish reading this, you’ll understand what makes a chainsaw “rated” and why that matters. We’ll break down what to look for, so you can choose a chainsaw with confidence. Get ready to power through your projects with the right tool in hand!
Our Top 5 Rated Chainsaws Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rated 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 saw is designed for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, offering a convenient and efficient way to handle trimming and cutting tasks. Its 18-inch guide bar is ready for various jobs, and the integrated PowerSharp system makes chain maintenance a breeze.
What We Like:
- Powerful performance: A 15-amp motor delivers strong cutting power.
- Self-sharpening system: The built-in PowerSharp system sharpens the chain in just 3-5 seconds, minimizing downtime.
- Easy tensioning: Adjust the chain tension quickly and easily without tools.
- Automatic lubrication: The oiling system keeps the bar and chain lubricated, extending their life.
- Instant startup: This corded electric saw starts up immediately when you need it.
- Low noise: It operates much quieter than gas-powered chainsaws.
- No assembly required: The chainsaw comes pre-assembled and ready to go.
- Safety features: Includes a chain brake for added safety.
- Lightweight design: Makes it easier to handle and maneuver.
- 3-Year Warranty: Oregon backs this chainsaw with a solid warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- Corded limitation: Being corded means you are limited by the length of your extension cord and need access to an outlet.
- Not for heavy-duty professional use: While powerful for home use, it might not be the best choice for demanding professional logging.
The Oregon CS1500 is a fantastic choice for homeowners looking for a reliable and easy-to-use electric chainsaw. Its self-sharpening feature and user-friendly design make it a standout option for keeping your property tidy.
2. EGO POWER+ Chain Saw
Rating: 9.1/10
The EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16” Battery Powered Chainsaw, Electric Cordless, Includes 56V 4.0Ah Battery and Charger – CS1613 offers a powerful and convenient way to tackle your cutting tasks. It’s designed to give you the muscle of a gas chainsaw without the hassle of fuel and fumes.
What We Like:
- 40CC GAS EQUIVALENT POWER: It delivers strong cutting power, like a gas saw, with chain speeds up to 20 m/s for quick and clean cuts.
- LONG RUNTIME: You can get up to 130 cuts on a 4×4 with the included battery, and it works with all EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries for even more power.
- EFFICIENT CUTTING: The 16-inch bar and chain are great for cutting through different types of wood, branches, and more.
- EASY CHAIN ADJUSTMENT: Tool-free chain tensioning means you can tighten the chain easily with a simple dial, no extra tools needed.
- DURABLE AND WEATHER-RESISTANT: The IPX4-rated construction protects it from the weather, making it reliable in various conditions. It also has a low-profile dial for flush cutting.
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful, battery life can vary depending on the intensity of the work.
- For very demanding, extended professional use, a gas saw might still be preferred by some users.
Overall, this EGO chainsaw is a fantastic option for homeowners and DIYers looking for a powerful, user-friendly, and eco-friendly cutting tool.
3. NoCry ANSI Z89.1 Rated Arborist Helmet — Chainsaw Helmet with Face Shield and Ear Muffs — Adjustable Hard Hat with Adaptive Ventilation; Impact-Resistant Mesh Face Shield for Forestry with Side Guards
Rating: 8.7/10
When you’re working with chainsaws or in forestry, safety is key. The NoCry ANSI Z89.1 Rated Arborist Helmet is designed to protect your head, face, and ears from all sorts of hazards. It’s built tough to handle demanding jobs and keep you comfortable while you work.
What We Like:
- The ABS shell and six-point suspension offer great impact protection.
- The steel mesh visor and side guards shield your face from debris without fogging.
- Adjustable vents let you control airflow for comfort in hot weather.
- The lightweight design prevents neck strain during long workdays.
- A ratchet knob and chin strap ensure a secure, custom fit that stays put.
- Built-in ear muffs provide 22dB noise reduction for focus on loud jobs.
- Ear muffs flip up when not in use for convenience.
- Headlamp strap holders and reflective details improve visibility in low light.
- Comes with a limited lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the mesh visor is great, some users might prefer a clear face shield option for certain tasks.
- The ear muff noise reduction is good for many jobs, but might not be enough for extremely loud, prolonged noise exposure.
This helmet offers robust protection and smart features for anyone working in demanding outdoor environments. It’s a solid choice for keeping safe and comfortable on the job.
4. EGO POWER+ Chain Saw
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of the hassle of gas-powered chainsaws? The EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 12″ Battery Powered Chainsaw, Electric Cordless, Includes 56V 2.5Ah Battery and Charger – CS1201 offers a powerful and convenient alternative for your outdoor tasks. This electric chainsaw packs a punch, giving you the performance you need without the fumes or pull-cord struggles.
What We Like:
- 30CC Gas Equivalent Power: Its high-efficiency brushless motor delivers impressive cutting power, matching a 30cc gas chainsaw. You’ll get chain speeds up to 20 m/s for fast, clean cuts.
- Impressive Cut Capacity: Get up to 130 cuts on a 4×4 with the included 2.5Ah battery. It’s designed to work with various EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries.
- Perfect Size for Light Jobs: The 12-inch bar and chain are ideal for trimming branches, clearing brush, and other light-duty tasks.
- Easy to Handle: Weighing only 8.4 lbs with the battery, this saw is lightweight and easy to maneuver. This means less fatigue during use.
- Tool-Free Adjustments: Tensioning the chain is a breeze with the tool-free system. You can quickly make adjustments without needing extra tools.
What Could Be Improved:
- Battery Life for Heavy Tasks: While great for many jobs, the included 2.5Ah battery might not be sufficient for extended or very demanding tasks. Consider a larger capacity battery for those situations.
- Bar Length Limitation: The 12-inch bar is perfect for smaller jobs, but it’s not designed for felling large trees or tackling bigger logs.
Overall, the EGO POWER+ 12″ Chainsaw is a fantastic option for homeowners seeking a powerful, lightweight, and easy-to-use electric chainsaw. It simplifies yard work and lets you focus on the task at hand.
5. Husqvarna 120 Mark III Gas Chainsaw
Rating: 8.7/10
The Husqvarna 120 Mark III Gas Chainsaw is a fantastic tool for homeowners. It’s designed to make cutting wood and trimming trees easier. This chainsaw packs a punch with its powerful engine but stays light enough for comfortable use. You can tackle various yard projects with confidence thanks to its smart safety features and efficient design.
What We Like:
- The 16-inch bar is great for most homeowner tasks.
- Its 38-cc X-Torq engine gives you strong power for tough jobs.
- The inertia-activated chain brake adds an extra layer of safety.
- LowVib technology makes it much more comfortable to use for longer periods by reducing vibrations.
- Separate choke and stop switch controls prevent the engine from flooding.
- Air Injection technology helps keep the engine clean and working well for a longer time.
What Could Be Improved:
- While good for homeowners, it might not be powerful enough for professional logging.
- The 2-cycle engine requires mixing gas and oil, which some users find inconvenient.
This chainsaw offers a great balance of power, safety, and user comfort. It’s a reliable choice for keeping your property in top shape.
Choosing the Right Chainsaw: Your Expert Guide
Selecting a chainsaw can seem tough. But don’t worry, this guide will help you find the perfect one. We’ll cover what to look for, what makes a chainsaw good, and how different types work.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a chainsaw, a few important features stand out.
- Engine Size (CCs): This tells you how powerful the chainsaw is. More CCs mean more power for cutting bigger trees. For light jobs like trimming branches, a smaller engine is fine. For felling large trees, you need a big engine.
- Bar Length: The bar is the metal piece that holds the chain. Longer bars cut through thicker wood. Shorter bars are easier to handle for smaller tasks. Match the bar length to the size of the wood you’ll be cutting.
- Chain Brake: This is a safety feature. It stops the chain quickly if the saw kicks back. Always look for a good chain brake.
- Anti-Vibration System: Chainsaws can shake a lot. This system reduces the shaking you feel. Less shaking means you can work longer without getting tired.
- Automatic Oiler: This system keeps the chain lubricated. A well-oiled chain cuts better and lasts longer.
2. Important Materials
The stuff a chainsaw is made of matters for how long it lasts and how well it works.
- Engine: Most good chainsaws have metal engines. These are strong and can handle tough work.
- Bar: The bar is usually made of hardened steel. This makes it tough and resistant to wear.
- Chain: The chain has sharp teeth made of strong metal. They need to stay sharp and tough to cut wood.
- Handle: Handles are often made of strong plastic or rubber. This makes them comfortable to hold and helps absorb vibrations.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a chainsaw better, while others can make it less good.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often make reliable chainsaws. They have a history of making good products.
- Build Quality: A well-built chainsaw feels solid. Its parts fit together tightly. This means it will last longer.
- Engine Performance: A strong, smooth-running engine means efficient cutting. It won’t bog down easily.
- Safety Features: Good safety features like a chain brake and anti-kickback design make the saw safer to use.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Cheap Plastic Parts: If parts feel flimsy or made of cheap plastic, the chainsaw might not last long.
- Poor Engine Design: An engine that overheats or struggles to start is a sign of lower quality.
- Lack of Maintenance Features: If it’s hard to access parts for cleaning or maintenance, it can be a hassle.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the chainsaw greatly affects your experience.
- Homeowners: If you just need to trim branches or cut small firewood, a lighter electric or smaller gas chainsaw is perfect. They are easy to handle and start.
- Professional Loggers: These users need powerful gas chainsaws with long bars. They cut down large trees and process a lot of wood. Durability and power are key.
- Arborists: Tree care professionals need chainsaws that are powerful but also maneuverable. They often use lighter, more compact gas chainsaws or battery-powered ones for working in trees.
- Occasional Users: For someone who uses a chainsaw only a few times a year, a more affordable gas or electric model might be suitable. Ease of use and maintenance are important.
Chainsaw FAQs
Q: What is the most important safety feature on a chainsaw?
A: The most important safety feature is the chain brake. It stops the chain very quickly to prevent injuries.
Q: Should I get a gas or electric chainsaw?
A: Gas chainsaws are more powerful and good for big jobs. Electric chainsaws are lighter and easier to use for smaller tasks, but you need a power cord or battery.
Q: How do I know what bar length I need?
A: Choose a bar length that is about two inches longer than the widest part of the wood you plan to cut.
Q: What does “CCs” mean on a chainsaw?
A: CCs stand for cubic centimeters. It tells you the size and power of the chainsaw’s engine. More CCs mean more power.
Q: Is anti-vibration important?
A: Yes, anti-vibration systems make the chainsaw easier to use for longer periods. They reduce the shaking you feel in your hands and arms.
Q: How often should I sharpen the chainsaw chain?
A: You should sharpen the chain when it starts to cut slowly or makes dusty chips instead of clean wood chips.
Q: What is a “kickback” on a chainsaw?
A: Kickback happens when the tip of the guide bar hits something and the saw jumps up suddenly. A chain brake helps stop this.
Q: Can I use any chainsaw for felling trees?
A: No. Felling large trees requires a powerful gas chainsaw with a long bar and experienced handling. Smaller chainsaws are not safe for this.
Q: How do I maintain my chainsaw?
A: Keep the chain sharp, clean the air filter, check the oil level, and ensure the chain brake works properly.
Q: Are battery-powered chainsaws good?
A: Battery-powered chainsaws are great for light to medium jobs. They are quiet and easy to start, but their power and run time depend on the battery.
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!