A chainsaw is a powerful tool for cutting firewood, felling small trees, pruning branches and clearing storm debris. From cordless electric saws for light yard work to powerful gas models for heavy cutting, the right saw depends on your needs. Choosing well means balancing power, bar length and ease of use with safety. Below is a buying guide followed by ten of the best chainsaws available. Always follow safety guidelines and wear proper protective gear.
What to Look for in a Chainsaw
Chainsaws vary in power source, bar length and features. Match the saw to your tasks.
- Power source: Gas saws offer the most power for heavy work; battery and corded electric saws are quieter and easier to maintain.
- Bar length: Longer bars cut larger logs, but shorter bars are lighter and safer for pruning and small jobs.
- Weight and handling: A lighter, well-balanced saw is easier and safer to control for longer periods.
- Safety features: Look for a chain brake, low-kickback chain and a secure handle.
- Maintenance: Tool-free chain tensioning and automatic oiling simplify upkeep.
- Runtime or fuel: For battery saws, check runtime; for gas, consider tank size and fuel type.
The following is a list of ten of the best chainsaws, from cordless yard saws to powerful gas models.
1. EGO Power+ 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
A powerful battery chainsaw that rivals gas for yard work, with quiet operation. It is a top cordless choice.
- Gas-like cordless power
- Quiet, low maintenance
- Tool-free tensioning
2. Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
A powerful gas saw built for firewood and felling, with a durable engine. It is a favorite for heavy tasks.
- Strong gas performance
- Durable engine
- Great for firewood/felling
3. STIHL MS 170 Gas Chainsaw
A lightweight, reliable gas saw ideal for pruning and small cutting jobs. It is easy to handle for homeowners.
- Lightweight and reliable
- Great for small jobs
- Trusted brand
4. DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Chainsaw
A convenient battery chainsaw for pruning and light cutting with tool-free tensioning. It suits quick yard tasks.
- Battery convenience
- Tool-free chain tension
- Good for light cutting
5. Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
An affordable cordless saw with solid power for yard maintenance. It offers great value and quiet operation.
- Good cordless power
- Quiet and low-maintenance
- Great value
6. Makita 18V X2 Cordless Chainsaw
A capable battery chainsaw that runs on two 18V batteries for extra power. It is smooth and low-vibration.
- Dual-battery power
- Low vibration
- Tool-free adjustments
7. Craftsman S165 Gas Chainsaw
A dependable mid-size gas saw for firewood and general cutting. It offers solid power at a reasonable price.
- Solid gas power
- Good for firewood
- Easy starting
8. Oregon CS1500 Corded Electric Chainsaw
A corded electric saw with self-sharpening chain technology and steady power. It is great for stationary cutting.
- Self-sharpening chain
- Unlimited corded runtime
- Low maintenance
9. Worx WG303.1 Corded Chainsaw
An affordable corded saw with auto-tensioning and a chain brake. It is a practical pick for occasional use.
- Auto chain tensioning
- Built-in chain brake
- Budget-friendly
10. Poulan Pro Gas Chainsaw
A value gas chainsaw for homeowners tackling firewood and cleanup. It offers dependable power for the price.
- Dependable gas power
- Good for cleanup
- Great value
Frequently Asked Questions
Gas or battery chainsaw?
Gas saws deliver the most power for heavy cutting and felling, while battery saws are quieter, lighter and lower-maintenance for yard work and pruning.
What bar length do I need?
Match the bar to your tasks — 10–14 inches for pruning, 16–18 inches for firewood, and 20 inches or more for felling larger trees.
Are chainsaws safe to use?
With proper training, protective gear and safety features like a chain brake and low-kickback chain, chainsaws can be used safely. Always follow the manual.
How do I maintain a chainsaw?
Keep the chain sharp and tensioned, maintain the bar oil, and clean the saw after use. Gas saws also need fuel and air-filter maintenance.
Final Thoughts
The right chainsaw makes cutting, pruning and firewood work faster and safer. Powerful gas saws like the Husqvarna 455 Rancher handle heavy tasks, while cordless models such as the EGO Power+ offer quiet, low-maintenance yard work. Consider power source, bar length and safety features, and choose the chainsaw that fits your jobs.
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