When tackling yard work, a reliable chainsaw is essential, but the noise, fumes, and maintenance of a gas model can be a hassle. Battery-operated chainsaws offer a powerful and convenient alternative, providing the performance you need without the cord. Whether you’re pruning branches, cutting firewood, or clearing storm debris, the right cordless chainsaw can make the job significantly easier and more enjoyable.
Choosing the best model depends on your specific needs, from lightweight mini-saws for quick trimming to robust options capable of felling small trees. This roundup focuses on power, battery life, and user-friendly features to help you find a chainsaw that delivers both the performance and the portability you’re looking for. We’ve compiled a list of top contenders that balance cutting speed, runtime, and ease of use for any task.
The Best Battery-Powered Chainsaws for Your Projects
- SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 14” Lightweight Chainsaw Kit
- CEEPUY Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 6 Inch Portable Electric Chainsaw
- EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16″ Battery Powered Chainsaw, Electric Cordless
- SKIL PWR CORE 20 Brushless 20V 12” Handheld Lightweight Chainsaw Kit
- Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 8 inch & 6 inch Electric Chain Saw
- DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw, 12-Inch, Tool Only
- Greenworks 24V 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
- EGO Power+ CS1600 16-Inch 56V Cordless Chainsaw
SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 14” Lightweight Chainsaw Kit
For those seeking a balance of power and convenience, the SKIL PWR CORE 40 stands out. Its digital brushless motor is engineered for high-performance cutting, allowing it to power through tough branches and stumps with impressive speed. SKIL claims that no other 40V chainsaw on the market cuts faster, making it a strong contender for demanding yard work.
This kit is designed for ease of use, featuring tool-free chain tensioning and an automatic lubrication system to maintain optimal performance. The included PWR CORE 40 2.5Ah battery and Auto PWR JUMP charger ensure you have the power needed to complete your projects without interruption, all while avoiding the maintenance headaches of a gas-powered model.
CEEPUY Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 6 Inch Portable Electric Chainsaw
Ideal for smaller jobs and precise trimming, the CEEPUY Mini Chainsaw is a lightweight and user-friendly option. Its upgraded pure copper motor delivers high efficiency, capable of cutting through a 6-inch log in about 8 seconds. The compact, slim body is easy to control with one hand, making it a great fit for a wide range of users, including those who find larger saws cumbersome.
This chainsaw includes thoughtful features like an automatic oiling system that reduces wear for smoother operation and a security lock for safe use. Its portability allows you to easily access narrow areas and trim hard-to-reach branches from a ladder without the strain of a heavier tool.
EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16″ Battery Powered Chainsaw, Electric Cordless
If you need power that rivals gas equipment, the EGO POWER+ CS1604 is a top choice. It features a high-efficiency brushless motor that delivers performance equivalent to a 35cc gas engine, making it suitable for more intensive tasks like felling small trees and processing firewood. The 16-inch bar and chain are designed for efficient cutting through both hardwood and softwood.
Runtime is a key advantage with this model. With the included 56V 5.0Ah ARC Lithium battery, it can deliver up to 250 cuts on a single charge. This makes it a reliable tool for larger properties or extended cutting sessions without needing to recharge frequently.
SKIL PWR CORE 20 Brushless 20V 12” Handheld Lightweight Chainsaw Kit
For users already invested in the 20V tool ecosystem or those with moderate cutting needs, this SKIL chainsaw offers a compelling package. The digital brushless motor provides efficient, high-performance power for a variety of yard tasks without the noise and fuss of gas. The 12-inch bar is well-suited for pruning and cutting smaller logs.
This kit shines with its PWR CORE 20 4.0Ah battery, which is engineered for 25% longer run time and double the overall battery life compared to standard options. Combined with tool-free chain tensioning and auto-lubrication, it’s a low-maintenance tool ready for action right out of the box.
Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 8 inch & 6 inch Electric Chain Saw
Versatility is the hallmark of this mini chainsaw, which comes with both a 6-inch and an 8-inch guide bar. This 2-in-1 design allows you to select the right tool for the job, whether it’s detailed pruning or cutting slightly larger branches. The 1000W pure copper motor ensures fast and efficient cuts, handling a 6-inch branch in seconds.
This model includes two 2000mAh rechargeable batteries, providing about 30 minutes of work time per battery. It’s also noted for its compatibility with Makita batteries, offering flexibility for users who may already own batteries from that platform. Its cordless, lightweight design makes garden maintenance much simpler.
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw, 12-Inch, Tool Only
Built with the durability professionals and serious DIYers expect from the DEWALT brand, this 20V MAX XR chainsaw is a robust tool-only option. It is designed for users who may already own DEWALT’s 20V battery system, allowing for seamless integration into an existing collection of power tools. The 12-inch Oregon low-kickback bar and chain provide a good balance of cutting capacity and control.
The brushless motor maximizes efficiency and runtime from the battery, while the tool-free chain tensioning system allows for quick adjustments in the field. Its compact design is well-suited for a variety of pruning and cutting tasks around the yard.
Greenworks 24V 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
The Greenworks 24V chainsaw is part of a versatile cordless tool system, making it an excellent choice for homeowners with other Greenworks 24V tools. Its 12-inch bar is ideal for light to medium-duty tasks such as trimming branches, cutting small trees, and managing storm debris. The design focuses on user comfort and straightforward operation.
This chainsaw offers the convenience of a tool-free chain tensioning system for easy maintenance and adjustments. As a battery-powered tool, it provides instant start-up with no pull cords, fumes, or loud noise, making for a more pleasant and environmentally friendly cutting experience.
EGO Power+ CS1600 16-Inch 56V Cordless Chainsaw
For those who already own EGO batteries or prefer to purchase a tool separately, the CS1600 offers the same powerful performance as its kit counterpart. It features the same high-output brushless motor and 16-inch cutting bar, providing gas-level power for demanding cutting jobs. This tool-only option provides flexibility and can be a cost-effective choice for existing EGO platform users.
Compatible with the entire range of EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries, you can select the battery size that best matches your runtime needs. It retains all the performance features, including a high chain speed and robust construction, making it a capable tool for serious woodcutting tasks.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Battery Operated Chainsaw for Power and Performance
So, you’re thinking about getting a battery-powered chainsaw. It’s a solid choice for most yard work, offering a great mix of convenience and capability without the mess and noise of gas. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one for your needs? I’ve used a bunch, and here’s what I look for to get the best battery operated chainsaw for power and performance.
First up, and this is a big one, is the battery system. If you already own other tools from a brand like DeWalt, Makita, or Milwaukee, my advice is to stick with that brand. You’ll save a ton of money because you can use the batteries you already have. The battery’s voltage (like 20V or 40V) gives you a general idea of potential power, but the Amp-hour (Ah) rating tells you how long it will run. For bigger jobs, you’ll want a higher Ah rating.
Next, consider the bar length. This determines the maximum thickness of a log you can cut through in one pass. For light pruning and small branches, a 10- to 12-inch bar is perfect. For general yard cleanup, felling small trees, and cutting firewood, a 14- to 16-inch bar is the sweet spot. Anything longer than 16 inches starts to enter professional territory and will require a more powerful (and expensive) saw and battery to run effectively without straining the motor.
Don’t just glance at the bar; pay attention to the chain speed and cutting features. A tool-less chain tensioning system is a game-changer for quick adjustments on the fly. Look for an automatic oiler to keep the bar and chain lubricated, which is crucial for both performance and the lifespan of your saw. Safety features are non-negotiable. A chain brake that stops the chain instantly if kickback occurs and a low-kickback chain are essential for safe operation.
Finally, think about the ergonomics and build. Is it well-balanced? You don’t want a saw that feels front-heavy and tires out your arms after five minutes. Good anti-vibration dampening makes a huge difference in comfort during extended use. A transparent oil-level window lets you easily check the lubrication level before you start. By weighing these factors—battery compatibility, bar length, features, and comfort—you can confidently find a saw that delivers the power you need and the performance you expect.
FAQ
How does the power of a battery chainsaw compare to a gas model?
For many homeowners, the power is more than enough. Modern high-voltage battery chainsaws have closed the gap significantly. They deliver instant torque and can handle tasks like felling medium-sized trees, bucking firewood, and storm cleanup with ease. While a high-end gas saw will still win in raw, continuous power for professional logging, a top-tier battery model eliminates the hassle of fuel mixing, pull-starts, and much higher noise levels, making it a powerful and practical alternative for most property maintenance.
Can I use the same battery for my chainsaw and my other power tools?
This is one of the biggest advantages of going cordless. If you choose a chainsaw from a brand you already invest in, like Ryobi, DeWalt, or Makita, the answer is usually yes. Their battery platforms are designed to be interchangeable across a wide range of tools. This not only saves you money but also means you can have multiple charged batteries on hand for longer projects. Always double-check the compatibility list for your specific battery model to be sure.
What is the typical run time on a single charge?
Run time varies a lot based on the battery’s capacity (Ah) and what you’re cutting. A smaller 2.0Ah battery might give you 20-30 minutes of light pruning, while a large 5.0Ah or higher battery could power through an hour or more of sustained cutting on thicker wood. It’s important to remember that just like a phone battery, the run time is affected by workload. Pushing the saw hard with dense, thick logs will drain the battery faster than slicing through softwood branches.
Are battery-powered chainsaws safe for beginners?
They can be a great option for beginners, often safer than gas models in some aspects. They are quieter, so you can hear your surroundings better, and there’s no risk of a gas spill. They also start instantly with a trigger, so there’s no complex starting procedure. However, they are still very powerful and dangerous tools. All standard chainsaw safety rules absolutely apply: always wear protective gear (gloves, eye and ear protection, chaps), be aware of kickback, and never operate the saw above shoulder height.
How do I maintain my battery chainsaw?
Maintenance is wonderfully simple compared to a gas engine. The key tasks are keeping the chain sharp, ensuring the bar groove is clean, and maintaining the chain lubrication system. Always check the oil reservoir before use and fill it with the recommended bar and chain oil. Keep the battery contacts clean and store batteries in a cool, dry place. Beyond that, there are no spark plugs, air filters, or fuel lines to worry about, which is a major reason people make the switch.
What should I do if the chain keeps coming off the bar?
A frequently derailing chain is almost always a sign of improper tension. A chain that is too loose will easily jump off the bar. Make sure you’re tensioning the chain correctly according to the manual—it should be snug against the bar but still pull freely by hand. If you’ve correctly tensioned it and it still happens, the drive sprocket or the bar itself might be worn out and need replacement. Also, ensure you are using the correct chain pitch and gauge for your specific saw model.