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The 10 Best Chainsaws of 2024

These powerful tools make quick work of tree stumps, branches, and firewood

Husqvarna Chainsaw on a green background

The Spruce / Alli Waataja

Chainsaws aren't just for professional loggers. These powerful tools are useful for any homeowner or renter who likes to maintain their own property, has a lot of trees to care for, or often cuts firewood

When buying a chainsaw, you want to consider your needs and budget. Gas-powered chainsaws are the most powerful but are typically the hardest to start and maintain, as well as the most expensive. In spite of their hefty price tag, they are great for heavy-duty work such as felling big trees and cutting firewood.

If you don't want to deal with the maintenance attached to a gas model, consider battery-powered chainsaws. They require no electrical outlet or gas but are quieter and lighter, and some can be as powerful as gas models. However, you may need to stop mid-project to recharge a depleted battery. Dan Morris, chainsaw expert and owner of the website Fire and Saw, says, "Having a backup battery will give you more time, but you can't go all day with a battery chainsaw as you can with gas."

Corded electric models are the way to go for light-duty tasks around your home, like limbing branches or trimming shrubs. They are the most inexpensive of the three and can be used as long as you need to get your work done. Keep in mind that you'll need an extension cord and an outlet, so you can’t go too far out on your property.

Aside from the power source, you also want to consider the bar length. The shorter the bar length, the easier the chainsaw is to handle and the lighter the chainsaw overall. As a general rule, a chainsaw’s cutting capacity is 1 or 2 inches less than the bar’s length, meaning that a chainsaw with a 10-inch bar can safely cut through logs up to 8 inches in diameter unless the manufacturer states otherwise.

To help prepare you for your next project, we researched the top chainsaws available, evaluating each for power, size, safety features, reliability, ease of use and maintenance, and overall value.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall, Cordless

Husqvarna Power Axe 350i

Husqvarna Power Axe 350i With Battery Charger

Lowe's

What We Like
  • Powerful cutting action

  • Tool-less chain tension adjustment

  • Boost mode

  • Long battery runtime

What We Don't Like
  • Cannot add longer bars

Husqvarna has long been one of the top chainsaw brands, renowned for its powerful gas chainsaws. Now, Husqvarna is winning acclaim for its 40-volt battery-powered chainsaw that has just as much power as comparable gas models (if not more), which is unusual. We put this chainsaw to the test on a property with heavily overgrown trees and shrubs and were amazed at how easily and smoothly it cut through a tree stump and overgrown branches, all without much noise and no smelly fumes. 

We were even more impressed with its long battery runtime (it ran for hours without needing to be recharged), easy maneuverability, and light weight. It doesn't require a separate tool to tighten the chain (which is typically needed every few hours for longer jobs, to keep running safetly); there's an integrated lever and dial that makes the task quick and easy.

The chainsaw has an 18-inch bar (so it can cut through stumps or logs as thick as 16 to 17-inches)—although you cannot swap out other sizes—and includes one 40-volt, 7.5 amp-hour battery, plus a charger. One unique feature of this chainsaw is its "Boost" mode, which gives you a burst of 25 percent more power at the push of a button. Using the Boost mode will reduce your battery runtime, but the added kick can help you cut through tougher wood. The chainsaw has a brushless motor and cooling system that helps increase the motor's efficiency and improve the battery life. Like most of the picks on this list, it comes with an automatic oiler, to keep it running smoothly. While not an inexpensive purchase, it's easy to use and maintain.

Type: Cordless battery | Bar Length: 18 inch | Power: 40 volts | Weight: 7.72 pounds without battery and cutting equipment

Best Overall, Electric

Makita UC4051A Electric Chainsaw

Amazon Makita UC4051A 16-Inch Electric Chainsaw

Amazon

What We Like
  • Comfortable handle

  • Powerful performance

  • Tool-less chain tension adjustment

What We Don't Like
  • Relatively heavy

This corded electric chainsaw is surprisingly powerful for a model that doesn't have a gas motor; it cuts fast and hard and is easy to use. It features a 16-inch bar that is robust enough to cut through fairly large logs and limbs with ease, so if you have a fallen tree to tackle, this is the chainsaw to choose. No tool is required to adjust the chain tension, which means you’ll be able to save time if you’re working all afternoon on a project (you don’t have to stop every couple of hours to look for tools). You'll need to plug into an outdoor-rated extension cord that's no longer than 50 feet, however, as specified by the manufacturer.

This Makita features an ergonomic, rubberized handle that helps reduce vibrations to your hands. It has an automatic oiler to keep the chain running smoothly, and there's a large window that lets you easily see when the bar oil is running low, so you can buy some ahead of it being empty. You'll appreciate how easy it is to use this chainsaw and will especially love not dealing with a higher-maintenance gas engine, and you'll still get plenty of power.

However, the chainsaw weighs just over 12 pounds, which is the second heaviest option on our list after our best heavy-duty pick, the Husqvarna 20 Inch 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw, so keep that in mind pending the types of projects you want to tackle—and how long it takes to accomplish them.

Type: Corded electric | Bar Length: 16 inch | Power: 14.5 amp | Weight: 12.3 pounds

Best Overall, Gas

Echo 16-Inch Gas Chainsaw

ECHO CS-310-16 16-Inch Gas Chainsaw

ECHO

What We Like
  • CARB compliant

  • Powerful performance

  • Fairly lightweight

What We Don't Like
  • Requires mixing gas and oil

  • Can be harder to start in cold weather

If power is what you're after, you'll love this gas chainsaw from Echo, which can fell a tree with a trunk up to 28 inches in diameter (the biggest on our list) as long as you use the proper techniques. Though gas-powered chainsaws can be hard to start, this one is easy to fire up, thanks to its digital ignition that greatly reduces annoying yanks of the start cord. Like all gas models, you should expect to pull the cord more in cold weather though. 

Once it's fired up, this tool doesn't blink when it's time to slice through imposing pieces of wood with its 16-inch bar and chain powered by its 30.5 cc engine. While it's not as environmentally friendly as an electric chainsaw, this model is CARB Compliant, meaning that it meets the very rigorous standards of the California Air Resource Board for reduced emissions.

This poweful chainsaw features an automatic oiler, heavy-duty air filter, side-access chain tensioner (you’ll have to use separate tools to adjust the chain, unlike our best overall, electric and best overall, battery options), and an air pre-cleaner, which all help to reduce the required maintenance. Like most gas chainsaws, you'll need to fill the fuel tank with a 50:1 ratio of gas to oil and periodically replace the air filter (about once a year) and spark plugs. At 8.8 pounds (without the bar and chain in place), it's quite lightweight for an oil chainsaw, and if you desire, you can replace the 16-inch bar with a 14-inch or 12-inch bar and chain instead. 

Type: Gas | Bar Length: 16 inch | Power: 30.5 cc | Weight: 8.8 pounds

Best Heavy-Duty

Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw

Husqvarna 20-Inch 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw

Walmart

What We Like
  • Very powerful

  • Reliable performance

  • Can handle bars up to 24 inches or down to 13 inches

What We Don't Like
  • Somewhat heavy

If you’re looking for a rugged chainsaw that can handle a lot of use and abuse, the Husqvarna 455 Rancher is a tried-and-true option that’s hard to beat when it comes to power and reliability. This gas-powered beast has a large 20-inch bar, although it can handle bars up to 24 inches in length or go down as low as a 13-inch bar if you prefer to swap the included bar with a different size. The impressive two-stroke, 55.5-cc engine can rev up to 9,000 rpm, chewing smoothly through logs, tree trunks, or shrubs with ease. You can cut through wood up to 36 inches in diameter (but make sure you follow safety protocols and contact a professional if needed).

This Husqvarna is a low-vibration model with an engine designed to increase fuel efficiency while reducing emissions; the chainsaw is CARB compliant. It has an air-cleaning system that can help air filters last longer, a side-mounted chain tensioner for easy adjustments (that you do yourself), and an ergonomic handle.

Like most gas chainsaws, you'll have to yank the start cord a few extra times if the temperatures are chilly (although the Smart Start system helps) and you do need to mix gas and oil in a 50:1 ratio (like the other gas models on our list), and the spark plugs and air filter will need regular maintenance. Still, this is a very easy chainsaw to use, considering the length of its bar. Just keep in mind that at a bit over 13 pounds (without gas), it is somewhat heavy and the heaviest option on our list. 

Type: Gas | Bar Length: 20 inch | Power: 55.5 cc | Weight: 13.2 pounds

Best Budget, Gas

Ryobi 14-Inch Gas Chainsaw

Ryobi RY3714 14-Inch Gas Chainsaw

Ryobi

What We Like
  • Compact shape

  • Anti-vibration handle

  • CARB compliant

What We Don't Like
  • Requires tool for adjusting chain tension

Designed for use around the yard, this chainsaw from Ryobi has a 14-inch bar and a maximum cut diameter of 24 inches. Its 37 cc engine (a little bigger than our best overall, the Echo model but smaller than our best heavy duty, the Husqvarna) has plenty of power for trimming branches or cutting firewood. It has a comfortable anti-vibration handle, and a compact shape, and at 10 pounds, it's reasonably lightweight (middle of the pack when just looking at all of the gas models on this list). It is a gas model, though, so be prepared to yank the start cord quite a few times, especially when the chainsaw is cold or temperatures drop below 50 degrees.

The chain tension adjustment does require the use of the included tool, but it's easy to access on the side of the chainsaw. The chainsaw has an adjustable automatic oiler, but you'll need to purchase the bar oil separately (like most chainsaws on this list).

When filling the fuel tank, you'll need to mix gas and oil in a 50:1 ratio, and like the other gas models on this list, you'll need to periodically change the spark plugs and air filter. This chainsaw is CARB compliant, but, of course, will still produce some fumes compared to a battery or corded model. While its bar and engine size is not suited for the toughest jobs, this is a great chainsaw for the average homeowner who handles moderate tasks.

Type: Gas | Bar Length: 14 inch | Power: 37 cc | Weight: 10 pounds

Best Budget, Electric

WEN Electric Chainsaw

Amazon WEN 4017 Electric Chainsaw

Amazon

What We Like
  • Compact lightweight

  • Easy to use

  • Tool-less chain tension adjustment

What We Don't Like
  • Not the best option for heavy-duty tasks

This 12-amp, 16-inch corded chainsaw from Wen is a great choice to tackle lightweight tasks around your property, such as trimming branches or cutting firewood on logs up to 14 inches in diameter. You'll need an outdoor-rated extension cord no longer than 100 feet, but once you have that in place, you'll be pleased with how easy it is to use. 

The chainsaw has an automatic oiler and requires no tool for adjusting the chain tension; that's a nice feature in such an inexpensive chainsaw, although you'll need to buy chain oil separately, as you would for most chainsaws on this list.

While designed to reduce vibrations, its handle is not especially ergonomic or padded, but the weight of the tool—only 10 pounds—as well as its compact shape, make it easy to wield without fatigue or discomfort. And, of course, since it’s an electric model, you’ll have no smelly fumes to deal with or much maintenance beyond the occasional sharpening of the chain (which typically happens after four to six hours of use). 

Type: Corded electric | Bar Length: 16 inch | Power: 12 amps | Weight: 10 pounds

Best Budget, Cordless

Ego Power+ 56V Cordless Chainsaw

Ego Power+ CS1611 56V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

Lowe's

What We Like
  • Long battery runtime

  • Tool-less chain tension adjustment

  • Metal bucking spikes

What We Don't Like
  • Somewhat heavy

Cordless chainsaws can be expensive, especially if you have to purchase the battery and charger separately, but this sturdy chainsaw from Ego includes the 56-volt, 2.5 amp-hour battery plus a charger. And we have no qualms about power, which as we addressed above, is sometimes an issue with battery-powered models—Ego claims it has the same power as a 40 cc gas chainsaw. (For context, that’s more power than our best budget, gas and best overall, gas picks!)

The 16-inch bar and chain make quick work of any backyard maintenance. With a fully charged battery, you can expect up to 130 cuts before running out of juice, and once that happens, it's only 50 minutes on the charger before it’s fully charged and you're back in business. The chainsaw requires no tools to adjust the chain tension, and it has an automatic oiler, although you'll need to purchase the bar oil separately.

There are metal bucking spikes to help secure logs as you cut them, and the chainsaw is designed so it can be used nearly flush to the ground, meaning you can fell a small tree without leaving an unsightly stump. Its brushless motor doesn't require excessive maintenance and is designed to increase runtime and efficiency. The only downside to this chainsaw is that at almost 12 pounds with the battery in place, it's relatively heavy.

Type: Cordless battery | Bar Length: 16 inch | Power: 56 volts | Weight: 9 pounds

Best Mini

Milwaukee M18 Fuel Hatchet Chainsaw

Milwaukee 3004-20 M18 Fuel Hatchet 8-Inch Chainsaw

Amazon

What We Like
  • Easy to maneuver

  • Powerful performance for its size

  • Lightweight

What We Don't Like
  • Requires tool for adjusting chain tension

  • Battery not included

With its 8-inch bar and chain, compact size—the chainsaw is only 4 inches wide—and light weight, this mini chainsaw from Milwaukee is just the thing to keep shrubs and trees pruned year round. It can even handle branches and fallen limbs up to 7.5 inches in diameter, making it your most useful companion around your property. Note that this tool does not come with the required battery or charger; if you don't already own one for other tools in this system, you'll need to purchase a Milwaukee M18 battery separately.

Depending on the battery you choose, you can expect 100 or more cuts before needing to recharge. Like the other battery-operated chainsaws on this list (aside from our best pole saw), it has a brushless motor to further improve the tools efficiency and battery life. The chainsaw has variable speed control so you can have just the right amount of power you need and reaches full speed in just a second or so. It's designed for comfortable use without a lot of vibration, and it's very easy to maneuver right to the branch you want to prune.

Like our best budget, cordless pick, it has metal bucking spikes at the base of the chainsaw bar to help keep the branch you’re cutting from moving. While it does require a tool to adjust the chain tension, the tool is included and has a storage spot right on the chainsaw, so it will be handy when you need it. The chainsaw weighs less than 5 pounds without a battery, so with a battery it should still be no more than 6 to 8 pounds.

Type: Cordless battery | Bar Length: 8 inch | Power: 18 volts | Weight: 4.9 pounds

Best for Home Use

DEWALT 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

DEWALT DCCS620P1 20-Volt Max 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

Amazon

What We Like
  • Tool-less tension chain adjustments

  • Compact and lightweight

  • Comfortable handle

What We Don't Like
  • Only intended for smaller tasks

If you enjoy handling around-the-yard maintenance projects yourself, you'll love having this chainsaw in your collection of tools. The Dewalt DCCS620P1 20-Volt Max 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw is a reasonably sized and powerful chainsaw for use on branches, logs, or trees up to 10.5 inches in diameter. It has a 12-inch chain and bar, which is a great size for the majority of tasks carried out by homeowners.

Twelve inches is long enough to handle small-to-medium branches but still short enough so that it's easy to handle, even for someone who doesn't have a lot of experience using a chainsaw. The tool comes with a 20-volt, 5 amp-hour battery and charger, and it can carry out up to 90 cuts before needing to recharge (slightly less than the compatible battery for our best mini pick).

With the battery in place, the chainsaw weighs just about 9 pounds, so it's reasonably light, and its compact shape and comfortable handle make it easy to maneuver to the branch you want to trim. Plus, its brushless motor provides longer runtime with fewer maintenance requirements.

Type: Cordless battery | Bar Length: 12 inch | Power: 20 volts | Weight: 9 pounds with battery

Best Pole Saw

Ryobi 18-Volt Cordless Pole Saw

Ryobi P4361 ONE+ 18-Volt Cordless Pole Saw

Ryobi

What We Like
  • Full length of 9.5 feet

  • Can trim branches up to 6 inches thick

  • Includes some bar oil

What We Don't Like
  • Requires tool to adjust chain tension

  • Can require practice to use effectively

A pole saw is basically a small chainsaw mounted on an extension pole for use in trimming tree branches overhead. It lets you remain safely on the ground rather than attempting to reach branches from a ladder or by climbing the tree, which is not something we recommend you do. This handy cordless pole saw from Ryobi has an 8-inch bar and blade that can cut through branches up to 6 inches in diameter.

The tool is mounted on a 6.5-foot pole and includes an additional 3-foot extension for a total of 9.5 feet. That lets you reach even high branches easily, although it can be tricky to maneuver the tool overhead without practice. Still, you'll get the hang of it after a brief learning curve, and will appreciate how easy it is to keep your trees and tall shrubs looking their best.

The pole saw comes with an 18-volt, 1.3 amp-hour battery that can provide up to 16 cuts on a single charge. Once it runs out of juice, it takes less than 45 minutes to fully recharge. The chainsaw does require a tool to adjust the chain tension, but the tool is included and stores right on the chainsaw. It has an automatic oiler and includes a very small bottle of bar oil (unlike any other pick on this list!), but you'll want to purchase more to have enough on hand.

Type: Cordless battery | Bar Length: 8 inch | Power: 18 volts | Weight: 8 pounds

Final Verdict

Our best overall, cordless pick, the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i Battery Chainsaw has enough power to tackle fairly large trees and logs while being relatively lightweight, with a long battery runtime. It also has an 18-inch bar and chain, plus a “Boost” mode for extra power. We also love the Wen 4017 Electric Chainsaw, our best budget, electric pick. Although this corded tool requires an extension cord, we love that it is easy-to-use, and has a 16-inch bar and chain that can handle wood up to 14 inches in diameter.

What to Look for in a Chainsaw

Power Source

Gas chainsaws are the tool loggers use to fell the largest trees. Yamaguchi says, "Gas-powered chainsaws are the best way to tackle heavy-duty projects like overgrown trees and storm debris. Although battery-powered chainsaws have advanced by leaps and bounds, they still can’t compete with the power and speed of gas-powered chainsaws."

Gas chainsaws can be heavy, however, and some require multiple yanks of the start cord before they power up. Once on, though, the very high spin rate of the chain lets these chainsaws make fast, smooth cuts even through big trees or branches. Typically, you’ll need to mix oil with the gas when filling the fuel tank, and you’ll need to regularly carry out maintenance of the spark plugs and fuel filter. Note that due to the emissions from the gas engine, this type of chainsaw is heavily regulated or even prohibited in some areas. Gas chainsaws also tend to be noisier than the other types. Still, for the utmost in power and size, this is the tool of choice. We especially like the Echo CS-310-16 16-Inch Gas Chainsaw, which can handle trees up to 28 inches in diameter.

Battery chainsaws are more than sufficient for most people looking to fell small trees, cut up some firewood, prune branches, or carry out light construction tasks. Morris says, "Battery chainsaws are generally better for the average homeowner because they're easier to start, use, and maintain.” Plus, these chainsaws are relatively quiet, they don’t emit smelly fumes, and they allow you to work where you want without worrying about a power cord. However, you’ll need to keep an eye on your battery life while you work, otherwise, you risk running out of juice before you’re finished. The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Battery Chainsaw has a very long battery runtime, though, along with lots of power.

Corded electric chainsaws are not as popular as they once were, but are still a good choice for carrying out light tasks around the yard. In fact, McCall says, "For small or medium jobs around the house, my go-to is a corded, electric chainsaw, because it is lightweight, easy to handle, provides good coverage as the cord is 100 feet long, and I love the option of the power switch as opposed to a pull cord."

You’ll need to supply a suitably rated outdoor extension cord to power these tools (we like the Southwire Supreme Extension Cord), and of course, you’ll need to be within reach of an electrical outlet. Still, these are generally the lightest and the least expensive of the three options, and they are more than adequate for cutting through small branches, pruning, and shaping large shrubs or hedges. We especially like the Makita-UC4051A Chainsaw, which has a 16-inch bar and good power for handling trees and shrubs around your yard.

Bar Size and Weight

In terms of overall weight, the range for chainsaws is a wide one, with some weighing only 6 pounds or so and others weighing 20 pounds or more. As a general rule, gas chainsaws are the heaviest and corded electric chainsaws are the lightest, but the biggest factor in determining the tool’s weight is the size of the bar and chain. 

The chainsaw bar is also sometimes referred to as the blade and serves as the guide for the chain, which spins very rapidly around the bar to produce the tool’s cutting action. There are chainsaws with bars as short as 6 inches and behemoths with bars as long as 3 feet. Some chainsaws allow you to swap out the bar for one that’s an inch or two shorter or longer, as well. The Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw comes with a 20-inch bar and chain, but can also handle bars as short as 13 inches or as long as 24 inches.

Power

Electric motors are rated in amps. Light-duty corded electric chainsaws start at about 8 amps, but more robust models fall between 12 and 15 amps. Unless you have the most basic trimming tasks to complete, you’ll likely want to consider an electric chainsaw with amps at the higher end of this range.

Gasoline engines are most commonly categorized in cc’s, but you’ll occasionally see them rated by horsepower. You’ll find chainsaws with anywhere from 25 cc to 80 cc or more in professional models. Horsepower varies, but a mid-range chainsaw may have around 4 horsepower, with heavy-duty models packing even more power. We like the Ryobi RY3714 14-Inch Gas Chainsaw, which has a 37 cc engine.

Battery-operated models skip the motor and engine ratings altogether. Instead, the power of these chainsaws is measured in volts. Many models are available with 18 to 40 volts, but a few stretch the power up to 80 volts or more. Our best budget, cordless pick, the Ego CS1611 Power+ 16-Inch Battery Chainsaw, comes with a 56-volt battery.

Care and Maintenance

Whatever type of chainsaw you choose, you’ll need to maintain it properly if you want it to run well and safely. 

  • After every use, once the chain has cooled down, you should wipe away any sawdust, tree sap, or other grime from the chain, bar, and body of the chainsaw before putting it away. 
  • Before starting your chainsaw, always check that the chain tension is properly adjusted so the chain is tight enough to not fall off the bar, but not so tight that it cannot spin properly. Some chainsaws have one or more small bolts that are turned to adjust the chain tension, and come with the appropriate tool for doing so, but many today, including the Dewalt 20-Volt MAX 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw, can be adjusted by hand. If you are using your chainsaw for a lengthy cutting session, stop periodically to check the chain tension and adjust it if necessary.
  • The chain also needs to be periodically resharpened. A dull chainsaw blade makes it harder to control the tool and thus increases the risk of injury. You can sharpen the chain yourself using a chainsaw sharpening kit or file, or have the task done professionally. As a very rough guideline, a chainsaw chain needs to be sharpened after every 4 to 6 hours of cutting, but that period can be shorter if cutting hardwoods or longer if cutting softer wood.
  • You’ll, of course, need to charge the battery of a cordless electric chainsaw as frequently as required to keep it running. Keeping an extra battery on hand lets you have one in use and one on the charger, doubling your battery runtime. 
  • Gas chainsaws do require more maintenance than electric models. Be prepared to change the air filter, tuneup the engine, and perform occasional oil changes to keep your chainsaw running at its best.

Safety Features

Knowing how to use your chainsaw safely is critical. Always familiarize yourself with a new chainsaw before powering it up, and follow all manufacturer’s safety guidelines. Don’t use a chainsaw if you are tired or ill. Wear fitted clothing, tie your hair back if it’s long, and take off any dangling jewelry before wielding a chainsaw. Always remain alert and cautious while your chainsaw is on. 

Morris says, "I recommend working with an experienced chainsaw user the first few times you use a chainsaw, especially if you're doing more than just pruning a few small branches. An experienced user can help you get started and teach you some proper chainsaw techniques. There are a lot of bad and dangerous ways to use a chainsaw, and proper use isn't always intuitive. Having someone point out what's safe and what's not is ideal for avoiding injuries." 

Plus, be sure to have the appropriate safety gear. “Chainsaw chaps or trousers are primary, while strong work boots, gloves, and safety glasses can also make the difference between a serious injury and a minor one,” says Morris.

Of course, manufacturers build many safety features right into their tools. These are some of the common safety features found on most chainsaws today (and on many of the picks in this list):

  • Trigger locks require the user to press them before the tool will power on. 
  • Anti-vibration systems reduce the considerable vibration that otherwise would affect your hands, wrists, and arms.
  • Kickback happens when the nose of the saw makes contact with the cutting surface and is sharply forced upward toward the user. Almost all chainsaws have a chain brake that instantly stops the chain’s spin should it experience kickback. Some chainsaws also have chains designed to reduce the likelihood of kickback and most have bars that are shaped to help prevent this potentially dangerous occurrence. Our best overall, cordless has a chainbreak, as well as a chain and bar designed for low kickback.
  • Most chainsaws have a shield that prevents a broken chain from flying back towards the user.
  • Bucking spikes are small plastic or metal—metal is best—spikes at the base of the chainsaw bar that dig into the branch or log being cut and help keep the chainsaw steady and secure as it works. Our best mini and best budget, cordless picks have these types of spikes. 
  • A sheath that fully covers the chainsaw chain when not in use not only helps ward off damage and dust, but also reduces the chance of accidental cuts or injuries should someone come into contact with the chainsaw while it’s stored.

Automatic Oiling

For maximum performance and maximum safety, you need to oil your chainsaw blade regularly. If you fail to do that, the blade may become dull more quickly, but the friction heat can also cause the nose of the saw to warp.

Today, most chainsaws have an automatic oiler that saves the operator time while ensuring that the saw remains in optimal working condition. There are two types of automatic oilers that help make this process a little easier. A fixed-flow oiler will distribute a consistent, steady flow of oil onto the chain. An adjustable flow oiling system means that the operator can adjust the setting of the oiler to release more or less oil. This adjustable system might be good when placing more significant strain on the saw, such as cutting harder woods.

Whichever type of automatic oiler you opt for, become familiar with the size of the oil reservoir, and pay close attention to the oil level. Many models of chainsaws have a small window on the side that lets you easily keep an eye on your oil supply.

FAQ
  • What size chainsaw do I need?

    When choosing the right size chainsaw, consider how you’ll use it. Morris advises, "A 12-, 14-, or 16-inch bar is best for pruning and cutting up large branches. Most battery saws come with a bar this size. For home firewood duties, an 18- or 20-inch bar is best. There are one or two battery chainsaw brands with chainsaws suitable for an 18-inch bar, but gas saws pull these better. Larger bars, 24-inch bars and above, are designed for cutting thicker-width logs, felling trees, and milling."

    For the typical homeowner just looking to prune small-to-medium branches from backyard trees, a bar length of 12 inches or less is all that’s required. Heavy-duty chainsaws for construction projects or felling large trees might need a bar that’s over 20 inches, but these heavy, powerful chainsaws should only be wielded by someone with considerable experience. If you have never used a chainsaw before, gain experience with a smaller model until you are completely comfortable safely handling it before even considering a heavy-duty tool. Chainsaws with bars that are 30 inches or more should only be used by professionals with the knowledge and experience required to use these dangerous tools.

  • What does bar length mean on a chainsaw?

    "A chainsaw bar, also known as the guide bar, is the metal piece that supports the chain.,” Yamaguchi says. The chain is what actually makes the cuts as it spins around the bar at high speeds. “A chainsaw with a longer bar can cut thicker branches but is also heavier and more challenging to maneuver,” he adds. 

    Chainsaw bar lengths range from 6-inch bars—that are useful for pruning branches (most of the picks on this list have this option)—to 72-inch beasts used by professional arborists and loggers to fell large trees. Pick a chainsaw with a bar two inches longer than the average thickness you will cut, advises Yamaguchi. For example, if your average log is 12 inches thick, you’ll want a chain bar length that’s 14 inches long.

    The longest bars are found on gas chainsaws, as these are the tools most often used by professionals who require the utmost in power. Electric chainsaws have bars that are 18 inches or less, with most being in the 10-inch to 14-inch range.

  • Is a gas chainsaw better than an electric chainsaw?

    The most powerful gas chainsaw has cutting abilities far beyond those of the most powerful electric chainsaw, but remember that other than professionals who cut trees for a living, few chainsaw users require that amount of power. Still, gas chainsaws can be useful for those who have a heavily wooded property, need to clean up after a storm, or routinely handle heavy-duty landscaping tasks.

    The average homeowner who just wants to maintain a yard or cut firewood for the winter is generally well-served by an electric chainsaw, whether corded or battery-powered. "If you only need a chainsaw for small tasks, a battery-powered one could work just fine. Also, in response to environmental concerns, policymakers often regulate or ban gas-powered outdoor tools. So be sure to check state and local policies before purchasing a gas chainsaw," Yamaguchi says.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by Michelle Ullman, a commerce writer for The Spruce since 2020 covering tools, home improvement, and landscaping supplies. She has extensive experience writing about all things related to the home, as well as carrying out various DIY projects, including landscaping, painting, installing flooring, wallpapering, furniture makeovers, and simple repairs. She considered dozens of chainsaws for this roundup, evaluating each for power, safety features, size, ease of use, type, versatility, and overall value. 

Our Experts:

The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Carb EPA Comparisons, California Air Resources Board.

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