Tired of the noise, fumes, and frustrating pull-starts of a gas chainsaw? The modern solution is a battery-powered chainsaw, offering instant start-up, quiet operation, and zero direct emissions. Whether you’re a homeowner tackling seasonal yard cleanup or a professional needing a reliable backup tool, cordless chainsaws provide impressive power and unparalleled convenience. You can say goodbye to mixing fuel and wrestling with cords for good.
With so many models on the market, choosing the right one for your needs can be a challenge. This roundup cuts through the noise to bring you a selection of the best battery-powered chainsaws available. We’ve considered power, battery life, bar length, and special features to help you find the perfect tool for smooth and efficient cutting, from light pruning to felling small trees.
Our Top Picks for Battery-Powered Chainsaws
- EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16” Battery Powered Chainsaw
- CEEPUY Mini Chainsaw Cordless,6 Inch Portable Electric Chainsaw
- Worx WG323 20V Power Share 10″ Cordless Pole/Chain Saw
- SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 14” Lightweight Chainsaw Kit
- Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 8 inch & 6 inch Electric Chain Saw
- EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16″ Battery Powered Chainsaw
- Worx WG322 20V Power Share 10″ Cordless Chainsaw with Auto-Tension
- RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless 10 in. Cordless Battery Chainsaw
- Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16” Battery Powered Chainsaw
For those seeking gas-level performance without the hassle, the EGO POWER+ CS1613 is a top contender. Its high-efficiency brushless motor delivers power equivalent to a 40cc gas engine, achieving chain speeds up to 20 m/s for clean and efficient cuts through hardwood, softwood, and branches. This makes it a robust tool for a variety of demanding yard tasks.
Runtime is a key strength, with the ability to deliver up to 220 cuts on a single charge of the included 56V 4.0Ah battery. The 16-inch bar and chain are designed for effective cutting, and its compatibility with the entire EGO 56V ARC Lithium battery ecosystem offers great flexibility for users who own other tools from the brand.
CEEPUY Mini Chainsaw Cordless,6 Inch Portable Electric Chainsaw
Ideal for light-duty work and precise trimming, the CEEPUY mini chainsaw is a portable and user-friendly option. Its 880-watt pure copper motor provides surprising power, allowing it to cut through a 6-inch log in as little as 8 seconds. The automatic oiling system ensures the chain stays lubricated for smoother operation and reduced wear, all while being compatible with standard chain oils.
Weighing in with a lightweight and slim body, this chainsaw is easy to control with one hand, making it accessible for a wide range of users, including the elderly and women. Its compact design is perfect for accessing narrow areas and trimming hard-to-reach branches from a ladder without the strain of a heavier tool.
Worx WG323 20V Power Share 10″ Cordless Pole/Chain Saw
Turn your chainsaw into an extended-reach tool with the Worx WG323. This versatile cordless pole saw can be attached in minutes without tools, giving you up to 12 feet of reach to safely trim high branches before they become a problem. Despite its extended capability, it remains relatively lightweight at only 10 pounds.
It delivers fast, clean cuts with the convenience of a cordless, gas-free design. A major benefit is its place in the Worx Power Share ecosystem; the same 20V battery can power over 75 other tools, making it an excellent choice for those already invested in the system or looking to build a versatile tool collection.
SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 14” Lightweight Chainsaw Kit
The SKIL PWR CORE 40 chainsaw is built for powerful and efficient performance. It features a digital brushless motor that provides high-performance cutting power to handle tough branches and stumps, all without the maintenance required by a gas model. SKIL claims that no other 40V chainsaw cuts faster, positioning it as a leader in its class.
This kit is ready to go right out of the box, including a 2.5Ah battery and an Auto PWR JUMP charger. User-friendly features like tool-free chain tensioning and automatic lubrication make maintenance simple, allowing you to focus on the task at hand with minimal interruption.
Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 8 inch & 6 inch Electric Chain Saw
This versatile cordless chainsaw offers a 2-in-1 solution by including both a 6-inch and an 8-inch guide bar. This allows you to select the right size for different tasks, from detailed pruning to cutting slightly larger branches. The 1000W pure copper motor delivers a fast cutting speed of 26ft/s, making quick work of most yard debris.
Convenience is key with the two included 2000mAh rechargeable batteries, providing ample runtime for typical gardening sessions. It is also noted for its compatibility with Makita batteries, which is a significant advantage for users who already own batteries from that platform.
EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16″ Battery Powered Chainsaw
Another powerful option from EGO, the CS1604 model delivers performance equivalent to a 35cc gas chainsaw. Its high-efficiency brushless motor provides clean and efficient cuts with a runtime that can reach up to 250 cuts on a 4×4 wood post using the included 5.0Ah battery.
Like its sibling, it features a 16-inch bar and chain optimized for cutting through various types of wood. Being part of the EGO 56V system means you can use any battery from the ARC Lithium lineup, offering great flexibility and extended runtime for larger projects.
Worx WG322 20V Power Share 10″ Cordless Chainsaw with Auto-Tension
The Worx WG322 is a compact and capable chainsaw designed for everyday yard work. It provides fast, clean cuts without the mess of gas or the restriction of a power cord. The tool-free auto-tension system is a standout feature, ensuring the chain is always at the correct tension for optimal performance and safety.
This model is a core part of the Worx Power Share family. The ability to share the same 20V battery across a vast range of tools makes it an incredibly cost-effective and convenient choice for the home gardener who values a unified power system.
RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless 10 in. Cordless Battery Chainsaw
For those already using the RYOBI ONE+ system, this tool-only chainsaw is a perfect addition. It is equipped with a High Performance brushless motor that provides increased power and efficiency for its size, all while extending the tool’s overall lifespan. The 10-inch bar is well-suited for light pruning and small cutting jobs.
As a tool-only product, it offers great value by allowing you to use the 18V batteries you already own. This makes it an economical and effective solution for occasional use, keeping your property tidy without a major new investment.
Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Greenworks is a respected name in the cordless outdoor power equipment space, and their 40V 16-inch chainsaw is a solid option for general-purpose cutting. This model is designed to handle a variety of tasks, from trimming branches to felling small trees, offering a good balance of power and maneuverability.
As part of the Greenworks 40V ecosystem, users can benefit from a range of compatible batteries and chargers. This chainsaw is built to provide a reliable, gas-free cutting experience, making it a strong contender for homeowners looking for a capable and environmentally friendly tool.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Battery Powered Chain Saw for Smooth Cutting
So, you’re thinking about getting a battery-powered chain saw. That’s a solid move. I’ve used a bunch of them over the years, and the freedom from cords and gas is a game-changer. But not all cordless saws are created equal. To find the right one for smooth cutting, you need to look at a few key things.
First up is the battery system. This is probably the most important decision. If you already own other power tools from a brand like DeWalt, Makita, or Milwaukee, it makes a ton of sense to stick with that same battery platform. The batteries are expensive, so being able to share them across your tools is a huge cost saver and convenience. Pay attention to the voltage (like 18V, 20V, or 40V) and the Amp-hour (Ah) rating. A higher Ah means longer run time. For anything more than light pruning, I’d suggest looking at a minimum of a 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah battery.
Next, consider the bar length. This determines the size of wood you can cut through in a single pass. For most homeowners, a bar in the 12-inch to 16-inch range is perfect. It’s great for cutting up fallen branches, pruning trees, and even bucking smaller logs for firewood. A longer bar isn’t always better; it requires more power from the motor and battery, which can drain your battery faster. A shorter bar is often more maneuverable and plenty powerful for smooth cuts on typical jobs.
Then there’s the chain itself. Look for features that reduce kickback, like a low-kickback chain and a built-in chain brake. These are crucial safety features, especially if you’re new to using a chain saw. Some models come with an automatic oiler that lubricates the chain as you cut, which is essential for a smooth operation and long bar and chain life. A tool-less chain tensioning system is also a nice feature, allowing you to quickly tighten the chain without fumbling for a wrench.
Finally, think about the weight and ergonomics. A lighter saw is much less tiring to use, especially for overhead work. Check the grip and the overall balance. A well-balanced saw feels like an extension of your arm, not a heavy weight you’re fighting against. By focusing on your battery ecosystem, the right bar length for your needs, key safety features, and a comfortable design, you’ll be well on your way to picking one of the best battery powered chain saws for smooth cutting in your own yard.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the battery last on a single charge?
This is the million-dollar question, and the answer is, “it depends.” It depends on the battery’s Amp-hour (Ah) capacity, the power demands of the saw, and what you’re cutting. A small 2.0Ah battery on a high-power saw might only last 10-15 minutes of continuous cutting through dense wood. However, a larger 5.0Ah or 8.0Ah battery on an efficient model could easily handle 30-60 minutes of mixed cutting, which is often plenty for a typical yard work session. For longer jobs, having a second battery on the charger is my best advice.
Can a battery-powered chain saw really match a gas model?
For most homeowners and even many pros, yes, absolutely. Modern brushless motor technology has closed the power gap significantly. While a top-end gas saw will still win in raw power and all-day runtime for professional lumberjacks, a good battery model has more than enough power for cutting firewood, felling small trees, and storm cleanup. The instant torque of an electric motor provides smooth and consistent power. The trade-off is runtime, but the convenience of zero fumes, minimal noise, and almost no maintenance is a fair swap for many of us.
Are these saws safe for a beginner?
They can be safer than gas models in some ways, but a chain saw is always a powerful tool that demands respect. Their lighter weight can make them easier to control. Many have excellent safety features like instant braking and low-kickback chains. However, the quiet operation can be deceptive; it’s still a very sharp, fast-moving chain. I strongly recommend that any first-time user, regardless of the power source, reads the manual thoroughly, wears all the necessary safety gear (gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, and chainsaw chaps), and perhaps even watches some tutorial videos before making the first cut.
What maintenance do they require?
This is one of their biggest advantages. You completely avoid the maintenance headaches of gas engines: no spark plugs, air filters, or fuel mixtures to worry about. The primary maintenance is the same as any chain saw: keeping the chain sharp and properly tensioned, and making sure the bar’s oil reservoir is filled. A sharp chain is the secret to smooth cutting. Dull chains require more force, drain the battery faster, and produce rough, uneven cuts. I clean the bar groove and check the chain tension every time I use my saw.
Is the oil for the bar and chain included, or do I buy it separately?
You will almost always need to buy bar and chain oil separately. It’s rare for a new saw to come with a bottle of oil. It’s a specific type of lubricant that’s tackier than regular motor oil, designed to stick to the chain at high speeds. Never run your saw without bar and chain oil, as it will quickly ruin both the bar and the chain. Using one of the best battery powered chain saws for smooth cutting with a dry chain is a surefire way to damage your tool and get poor results.