When battery chainsaws were first invented, they weren’t the most popular tools, and understandably so. Their poor runtime and deficiency in power made them unsuitable for most cutting applications.
But battery technology has come a long way since. We now have cordless chainsaws that can produce a decent amount of power to get by any cutting task. And while they can’t last longer than gas-powered models, they have improved runtimes.
If you’re in the market for one, here’s a detailed overview of the best battery powered chainsaws.
The 6 Best Cordless Chainsaw Reviews
1. DEWALT DCCS620P1 Chainsaw Kit
Have you been searching for the best battery chainsaw on the market? If you have, the Dewalt DCCS620P1 Chainsaw Kit is your best bet. It’s reasonably priced, yet it offers many of the features you’d want in a cordless saw.
One of its key highlights is its lightweight profile. The fact that it’s cordless and has a bar length of just 12 inches, helps to keep its weight to a minimum. It weighs a measly 8.8 pounds, which makes for easy portability.
Most cordless saws rely on lithium-ion batteries, and this one is no different. It’s powered by a 20V Max 5Ah lithium-ion battery. Factor in the advanced brushless motor onboard, and you should be able to make up to 90 cuts on a 4 by 4 pressure-treated wood.
While it offers a decent runtime, this chainsaw cannot handle very big limbs or trees. It's designed for felling small trees that are no more than 10 inches in diameter.
Anytime you’re using a chainsaw, you’ll want to ensure that the chain is tensioned properly. Thankfully, this won’t be an issue with Dewalt, which boasts a tool-free chain tensioning.
Another thing you’ll love is that the chainsaw comes with everything you need to start your cutting project. Included in the package are a charger, battery, and hard bar cover.
Pros
Cons
The Black & Decker LCS1020B is one of the most affordable cordless models around. This makes it affordable even for those working with a shoestring budget.
This cordless electric chainsaw is not only cheap, but it’s also among the smallest in our reviews. Depending on the way you look at it, this can be a positive or negative aspect.
On one hand, you’ll be able to use it even in tight spaces, especially considering that it has a bar length of 10 inches. On the other hand, this results in a small cutting depth, making it only suited for light-duty jobs, such as pruning dead branches or cutting fallen branches.
What this battery-powered chainsaw lacks in cutting capacity, it makes up for in its user-friendliness. For one, it has an automatic oiling system. This element provides a steady supply of bar oil, ensuring that the bar and chain are well-lubricated.
The wraparound handle is another feature that contributes to this chainsaw’s ease of use. It makes it easier to cut, whether you’re slicing stock vertically or horizontally. Lastly, this saw has a tool-free chain tensioner.
You also won’t have to worry too much about safety. This is because the chainsaw is fitted with a low kickback chain and bar.
Pros
Cons
If you’re a professional, then the thought of using a cordless chainsaw is far-fetched. But what if we told you that some battery chainsaws are powerful enough to use for heavy-duty cutting? Such is the case for the CS48L441 Cordless Chainsaw by Greenworks.
This chainsaw offers almost the same cutting performance but without the drawbacks associated with gas-powered models. First off, it’s light and compact, making it fit for overhead cutting.
Secondly, it packs a punch in the two 24V 4Ah batteries that it has onboard. According to Greenworks, this gives you enough battery life to make 150 cuts before having to recharge either battery.
And if you happen to own any other cordless tools by this brand, you can use the same battery to power them too; be it string trimmers or lawnmowers.
Another thing you’ll love is that this chainsaw won’t slow you down. It boasts a bar length of 16 inches which translates to a generous cutting depth. Speaking of, the bar has a chain brake to maximize users’ safety.
More importantly, this chainsaw registers chain speed of up to 3,940 FPM. This means you can get your cutting jobs done in a short amount of time.
The fact that this chainsaw employs a brushless motor is the icing on the cake. For one, this means that your tool will never lose its efficiency in the middle of a job.
Secondly, a brushless motor runs cooler and barely produces any noise. And since it doesn’t have any brushes, the motor is likely to last longer.
The last feature that qualifies this to be a professional-grade chainsaw entails the automatic oiling system. This delivers a constant supply of chain oil to keep the moving parts lubricated. The saw even has an oil level indicator, helping you keep track of the tool’s oil consumption.
Pros
Cons
Have you been looking to buy the best battery-powered pole chainsaw? If so, you’ll love the Sun Joe SWJ806E model.
This chainsaw has a stunning 2-in-1 design that makes it highly versatile. On one hand, it’s a pole chainsaw with an 8.6 ft.- long telescoping handle, giving you a 15. ft-overhead reach. This enables chainsaw users to access and cut high branches without climbing up a ladder.
On the other hand, it can be used as a handheld chainsaw, making it one of the lightest and most compact chainsaws of the batch.
The Sun Joe chainsaw comes equipped with an 8-inch bar and chain from the Oregon brand. This blade is powered by a 7.5-amp motor, resulting in a decent cutting capacity. To be more specific, the saw can tackle limbs that are up to 7.5 inches thick.
Are you worried about lubricating the chain and bar? You don’t have to as the manufacturer has incorporated an auto-oiler mechanism. This ensures that the bar and chain are always lubricated when engaged.
And if you’re hesitant to invest in this chainsaw, you can rest easy knowing that it’s backed by a 2-year warranty.
Pros
Cons
There are times when you don’t need a full-sized chainsaw. For instance, if you’re planning to cut in very tight spots or undertake light-duty tasks like pruning branches, then a smaller saw is ideal.
On that note, this tool by BEI & HONG is one of the best mini cordless chainsaws available. As you might have guessed, this saw has a pretty short bar. The bar is just 6 inches long, which means it can only cut a couple of inches.
But what this saw lacks in cutting depth it makes up for in its efficiency. According to the manufacturer, it can slice through logs up to 6 inches in diameter in just 4 seconds!
Plus, it’s one of the few battery chainsaws that comes with a battery pack. Included in the package are two 21V 3000mAh lithium-ion batteries.
These offer a decent battery life of 60 to 90 minutes per charge. Even better, these same batteries boast protection against self-overload and temperature.
Using a chainsaw comes with a certain level of risk. Thankfully, this mini chainsaw has several safety features.
The first is a switch lock, which is designed to prevent the unintended engagement of the power switch. This saw also boasts an anti-slip handle, helping you to get a firm grip on your power tool.
Pros
Cons
For chainsaw users whose priority is speed, the Worx Nitro Share Pro is the ideal power tool. power equipment.
The chainsaw comes equipped with a high-speed bar and chain. Better yet, the bar is 16 inches long, resulting in a higher cutting capacity than what other battery chainsaws offer.
Now, you may have noticed that this chainsaw is on the higher side of the price spectrum. But that’s only because it offers high-end features. Apart from the 16-inch bar, you also get a brushless motor.
According to Worx, this motor provides a longer runtime by up to 50%. It’s also 25% more powerful and offers better durability than brushed motors.
Worx intelligent batteries are another feature that makes this chainsaw stand out. They provide one of the best runtimes, allowing you to work for an extended period. To top it all off, these batteries can be used in any Worx 20V and 40V outdoor power equipment.
The Nitro Share Pro is designed with safety and ease of use in mind. For starters, the chain tensioner doesn’t require any sophisticated procedures or tools to adjust. Making adjustments is a simple one-step, tool-free process.
Secondly, this chainsaw prides itself on having automatic chain lubrication. This minimizes the amount of work you have to do on your part while increasing the chainsaw’s life. And to enhance the operator’s safety, the manufacturer has incorporated a chain brake guard.
Pros
Cons
Battery vs Gas Powered Chainsaws
Have you been wondering how you’ll benefit from purchasing a cordless chainsaw instead of a gas-powered one? Well, here are some of the perks you stand to gain and some disadvantages.
Pros
Convenience
One of the biggest advantages of investing in a battery-powered chainsaw entails the convenience it offers.
For one, it’s more compact than a gas-powered chainsaw, making it ideal for use in tight spaces. Secondly, it does not have cables like its corded counterpart. This makes it easier to wield while also minimizing the risk of tripping over these cables.
One other area where its convenience shines is in the portability sector. On average, a battery-powered chainsaw’s weight is 11 pounds. Even if you end up with heavier battery-powered chainsaws, chances are that they won't weigh more than 14 pounds. This makes it incredibly easy to carry from one location to another.
Easier to Start
Compared to other saws like the gas-powered models, battery chainsaws are the easiest to start. All you have to do is pop in the battery, press the on/off switch and you’re good to go.
If you were starting a gas-powered chainsaw, you’d have to take numerous steps to get it up and running. These steps include stabilizing the saw, engaging the chain brake, opening the choke, priming the fuel, and pulling on the starting cord with all the strength you’ve got.
Safer
Given how powerful chainsaws are, using these power tools inherently carries risk. However, using a battery-powered chainsaw is slightly safer than using a gas-powered one.
This is particularly the case when you’re performing overhead cuts. If you’re high up on your ladder and wish to communicate with your partner on the ground, you’ll have to turn off the saw.
Now imagine the amount of effort you’ll have to put in to get your saw running again from that elevated height. And remember this poses a safety hazard too.
With a battery chainsaw, you’d simply press the on-switch to resume cutting.
These electric chainsaws are also deemed safer because of their lower noise levels. With this type, close to 100% of the noise output ceases once you release the on-switch trigger.
By comparison, gas-powered chainsaws generate noise throughout the cutting process. They’ve been found to produce noise that reaches up to 120 dB. And while you may not think much of it, prolonged exposure to high noise levels can lead to tinnitus.
When you invest in a cordless chainsaw, you’ll also never have to worry about the emission of toxic gas fumes. Since this power tool relies on batteries, it doesn’t produce any gas emissions. Such emissions can not only be harmful to the environment but also pose a fire hazard.
Less Engine Maintenance
Gas chainsaws have a reputation for being costly to maintain.
This cost can double or even triple if you forget to drain fuel from your machine during the winter season. And even if you’re cautious enough to winterize your equipment, a gas chainsaw has more parts that are prone to wearing out.
Besides, transporting, mixing, draining, and storing fuel can be a pretty intimidating job for the average consumer.
If you prefer to do very little maintenance on your chainsaw, then opt for the best battery-powered chainsaw instead.
Limitations
Poor Runtime
The hard truth is that a gas chainsaw has the upper hand when it comes to runtime. Once you fill its fuel tank to capacity, you can expect it to run for up to 4 hours non-stop. This gives you ample time to make several cuts before having to refill.
Unfortunately, a battery-powered chainsaw can’t last that long on a single charge. So if you’re planning to work for an extended period, you’d have to invest in several battery packs.
This ensures that you always have a spare battery to use once the current one runs low on charge. But even then, there’s no guarantee that the batteries will last as long.
High Upfront Costs
Before you purchase that battery chainsaw that you’ve been eyeing, you’ll also need to consider that it has a higher upfront cost.
This stems from the fact that producing this saw’s motor, battery, charger, and circuitry is expensive. In fact, it’s more costly than producing a combustion engine.
Power Limitations
Another factor you’ll have to embrace is that battery-powered chainsaws aren’t all that powerful. Most of them are best utilized in felling small trees.
If you’re looking to undertake heavy-duty cutting projects, go for gas saws that offer more power.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Cordless Chainsaw
There are two ways you can go about purchasing the best cordless chainsaw.
The first is to buy a tool that would be compatible with a cordless battery platform. The second way involves purchasing a standalone unit then looking for a compatible battery and charging kit. Whichever route you choose, here are some features you should keep in mind:
Intended Use
The first thing you should take into account is the intended application of the saw.
Are you looking for a simple chainsaw that you can use for light-duty tasks? Then one that has a short bar length will suffice.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a chainsaw that you can carry to the field, then choose the lightest one that you can find.
Chain Bar Length
Once you’ve determined how you’ll use your chainsaw, the next thing you should consider is the bar length.
The bar is simply the metallic element that guides the chain’s movement. This is what determines a chainsaw’s cutting depth and performance.
The rule of thumb here is that the bar length should always be 2 inches bigger than the diameter of the stock to be cut. Let’s say most of your projects involve cutting 14-inch diameter trunks. This means the ideal chainsaw should have a minimum bar length of 16 inches.
Weight & Maneuverability
It’s evident that battery chainsaws are lighter than gas-powered models. But there’ll be significant differences in the weights of chainsaws from different brands.
If you intend to use your cordless chainsaw for overhead cutting or carrying to the field, then look for one that’s reasonably light. However, if you’ll use your chainsaw mainly for yard tasks, then its weight doesn’t matter too much.
Battery Size
Seeing as batteries are the primary source of power, you’ll want to take this factor into account when purchasing your cordless chainsaw.
Specifically, we recommend investing in a battery-powered chainsaw equipped with lithium-ion batteries. Contrary to previous battery models that took up to 12 hours to recharge, lithium-ion varieties charge within one hour. They also generate more power and they’re lighter, which makes for easy portability.
With regards to size, pay attention to the battery’s voltage. Generally, the higher the voltage, the more powerful the chainsaw will be. For instance, a 40-volt chainsaw will give you more cutting power than an 18-volt chainsaw.
Motor Power
Cordless chainsaws come fitted with one of two types of motors: a brushless and a standard/ brushed motor.
If you’re looking for a stellar performance, opt for brushless motors. These motors are designed to reduce friction- a factor that leads to a longer runtime, and better cutting efficiency. That said, keep in mind that saws with brushless motors cost more than those with brushed motors.
Also important to note is that a cordless chainsaw’s cutting power is determined by its voltage. Most people assume that it’s measured using its amp-hour rating (Ah), which is wrong.
The Ah gives you an estimate of the chainsaw's battery life. For instance, a 6- or 8-Ah battery boasts a longer runtime than a 4-Ah battery.
Chain Tension
Although it’s often neglected, chain tension is another feature you should pay attention to.
Here’s the thing, the chain can lose its tight tension due to a mixture of different factors. Specifically, centrifugal forces and fluctuations in temperature can cause it to stretch a fair bit.
Brand new chains also have a tendency of stretching during the “breaking in” stage. When this happens, the stretchy chain fails to fit snugly on the guide bar. This can in turn compromise the saw’s cutting efficiency and even pose a safety hazard.
To combat this, manufacturers integrate a chain tensioning system into their saws. When buying your cordless chainsaw, examine how easy it is to employ this chain tension.
The best battery-powered chainsaw doesn't require any tools for this process. In fact, the tensioning mechanism is strategically located, making it easy to adjust.
Handles
Most battery-powered saws have two handles. One is located at the back while the other is located towards the front. The one at the front typically has a wraparound design, making it easier to guide your hand.
Given the risks that stem from using any chainsaw, you should ensure that the handles offer rubberized grips. This way, you’re able to get a firm hold on your power tool and make accurate cuts.
For the rear handle, check to see if it provides quick access to the power trigger and safety switch. This means you can turn off your power tool quickly in case you lose control.
Safety Features
Regardless of the type of chainsaw you’re using, the fact remains that this is a dangerous power tool.
Its design consists of a blade that remains exposed for the better part of the cutting process. Thus, there’s not much you can do to make it any safer.
However, there are a few tips you can apply to minimize the risk of injury. This is in regards to how you pick and use it.
In terms of tool selection, go for the best battery-powered saw that has the right amount of cutting power. Don’t pick one that’s too powerful, especially if you’ll be using the saw for light-duty cutting.
Remember that the more cutting power the battery chainsaw has, the harder it will be to regulate its blade’s movement.
In addition, look for cordless tools with safety features such as:
A blade guard
This is a must-have feature on every chainsaw. It covers part of the blade to prevent contact with your skin. This is useful both when the saw is running and when it’s being transported or stored.
Manual chain brakes
Another handy feature that’s integrated into a battery chainsaw is a chain brake. It could be a manual or electronic chain break, with the latter being easier to navigate.
In most models, you’ll find it mounted in front of the grip. This strategic positioning enables you to engage it quickly in case the chainsaw kicks back.
Clutches
These are meant to disable the chain once the trigger is released. Doing this keeps a spinning chain from catching the operator off-guard.
Metal bucking spikes
While they weren't featured in any of the products we review, metal bucking spikes are another feature that enhances users' safety. They're designed to stabilize your saw against a tree.
Extra Features
The best battery-powered chainsaw kit contains unique features such as:
Variable speed trigger
A low-priced battery chainsaw will likely offer just a one-speed setting. But you may find higher-priced models that offer variable speed.
Such saws have a pressure-sensitive trigger that lets you control the chain speed. This gives you the freedom to adjust speed depending on the cuts you’re making.
Anti-vibration
A battery-powered chainsaw has a lower noise and vibration level than its gas-powered counterparts.
However, they also vibrate to a small extent. If you’re planning to use this tool for long hours, consider getting one with an anti-vibration system.
Battery gauge
Considering that battery chainsaws don't last as long as their gas-powered models, it would be nice if your power tool came with a gauge. This feature makes it easier to keep track of battery usage so that you can recharge in time.
Extra batteries
As we mentioned earlier, the biggest limitation of a battery chainsaw is its runtime. Manufacturers understand this which is why they offer extra battery packs.
This allows you to swap your battery with one that’s fully charged; hence work for as long as you need to.
Maintenance
The best battery chainsaw is also very easy to maintain
On that note, the oiling system is one of the most crucial tasks in maintaining your saw. Lubricating ensures that the chain doesn’t wear out ahead of time. It also prevents the bar from burning- which can happen due to the friction generated by the rotating chain.
So how often should you add chain oil to your cordless chainsaw? Well, an easy approach is to top it off each time you have to charge the battery.
Alternatively, invest in a battery chainsaw that has an automatic oiler. This system will provide a constant supply of oil to the saw’s moving parts.
Safety Gear When Using a Battery Operated Chainsaw
As we mentioned earlier, cordless power tools have a lower risk of injury compared to those that use gas power. Still, you’ll want to ensure that you have the right safety gear to maximize your safety. So consider getting:
Hard Hat or Chainsaw Helmet
When buying this safety helmet, go for one that has a face shield, ear, and eye protection. This way, you’ll be fully shielded from any flying debris.
Heavy Gloves
These gloves are specially made of Kevlar fibers that offer excellent resistance against cuts and punctures.
Chainsaw Chaps
Like chainsaw gloves, chaps are also made of cut retardant materials that kind of jam the chainsaw so that it doesn’t come into contact with your skin.
Chainsaw Boots
These work boots are meant to protect your feet from potential cuts and falling debris.
FAQs
How long do battery-powered chainsaws last?
On average, you can expect a battery saw to last anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes on a single charge. In fact, the best battery chainsaws last for up to 1 1/2 hours.
But if you’re planning to use these power tools for long hours at a time, then consider buying one that has an extra battery pack or two. It would also be nice if the saw has a handy battery level indicator to help you track its power usage.
Are battery-powered chainsaws worth it?
Yes, cordless chainsaws are worth it. They offer several advantages over gas and corded electric saws.
For one, they have compact designs, which make them very easy to carry around. Secondly, they’re very easy to use. Unlike gas-powered saws, they don’t require any mixing of fuel and oil, priming, or choking.
Conclusion
Have you been searching for the best battery powered chainsaws? Well, one that comes highly recommended is the DEWALT DCCS620P1 Chainsaw Kit.
What we like about this chainsaw is that it strikes a good balance between price and features. It’s an affordable tool and yet it offers many of the perks you’d expect from the best cordless chainsaws.
For instance, it’s incredibly light, weighing just 9 pounds with the battery included. This makes it very easy to carry and fit for overhead cutting.
The chainsaw has a 12-inch bar, which should be sufficient for most light-duty cutting jobs. And it’s powered by a 5-Ah battery. While it doesn’t have the best Ah-rating, it uses a brushless motor that provides enough battery power to make 90 cuts on a single charge.