Tackling yard work and small cutting projects no longer requires wrestling with a heavy, gas-guzzling chainsaw or being tethered to a long extension cord. The latest generation of battery-operated chainsaws offers impressive power in lightweight, user-friendly packages. These tools are perfect for everything from quick storm cleanup and pruning tree branches to cutting firewood for a backyard fire pit.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a weekend gardener, a cordless chainsaw can make your outdoor tasks significantly easier and more enjoyable. We’ve compiled a list of the top models that excel in power, portability, and ease of use. From compact mini-saws for one-handed trimming to more robust options for larger jobs, there’s a perfect battery-powered chainsaw to meet your needs.
The Best Battery-Powered Chainsaws for Your Projects
- CEEPUY Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 6 Inch Portable Electric Chainsaw
- SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 14” Lightweight Chainsaw Kit
- Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 8 inch & 6 inch Electric Chain Saw
- Mini Cordless Chainsaw Kit, Upgraded 6″ One-Hand Handheld Electric
- Cordless Mini chainsaw compatible with Dewalt Battery 20V MAX
- DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw Kit, 5-Ah Battery, 12-Inch
- Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw, 4.0Ah Battery
- BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Chain Saw Cordless, 10-Inch Battery Chainsaw
- EGO Power+ CS1600 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
CEEPUY Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 6 Inch Portable Electric Chainsaw
This CEEPUY mini chainsaw is designed for efficiency and ease. Its upgraded pure copper motor delivers high power, allowing it to cut through a 6-inch log in seconds. The automatic oiler ensures the chain stays lubricated for smoother operation and a longer lifespan, with a single oil fill often lasting for an entire day of use.
Weighing very little, this model is exceptionally portable and easy to control with one hand. Its slim body is ideal for accessing tight spaces and is comfortable for a wide range of users, making branch trimming from a ladder a stable and balanced task.
SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 14” Lightweight Chainsaw Kit
The SKIL PWR CORE 40 chainsaw is a robust option for those needing more cutting capacity. It features a digital brushless motor that provides efficient, high-performance power to handle tough branches and stumps without the maintenance required by gas models. According to the manufacturer, no other 40V chainsaw cuts faster.
This kit is a complete solution, including a 2.5Ah battery and an Auto PWR JUMP charger. The tool-free chain tensioning and auto-lubrication system make maintenance simple, letting you focus on the task at hand with minimal downtime.
Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 8 inch & 6 inch Electric Chain Saw
This versatile chainsaw kit offers a 2-in-1 solution, coming with both a 6-inch and an 8-inch guide bar and chain. This allows you to select the right size for different tasks, from detailed pruning to cutting slightly larger logs. The high-performance 1000W motor ensures fast and efficient cuts.
Powered by two 2000mAh rechargeable batteries, this saw provides ample runtime for most garden projects. It is also noted for its compatibility with Makita batteries, which is a significant advantage for those who already own tools from that platform.
Mini Cordless Chainsaw Kit, Upgraded 6″ One-Hand Handheld Electric
New Huing’s mini chainsaw is built for efficient operation, capable of cutting through a 5-inch log in approximately 10 seconds. Its 21V removable and rechargeable battery provides consistent, fade-free power, ensuring reliable performance from the first cut to the last.
The design prioritizes one-handed use, with a lightweight build and a soft anti-slip handle for comfort and control. This makes it an excellent choice for users who need a tool that won’t cause fatigue during extended pruning sessions.
Cordless Mini chainsaw compatible with Dewalt Battery 20V MAX
This chainsaw stands out with its tool-free installation and automatic chain tensioning, making it ready to use right out of the box. It is specifically designed for use with the popular Dewalt 20V MAX battery system, which is a major benefit for existing users of that brand.
Weighing only 3 pounds, it is perfectly suited for one-handed operation. The second-generation brushless motor offers high efficiency and a long operational life, while the integrated lubrication system helps achieve a fast chain speed of 32 FT/s for quick cutting.
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw Kit, 5-Ah Battery, 12-Inch
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR is a professional-grade cordless chainsaw built for demanding tasks. It features a high-efficiency brushless motor that maximizes runtime and extends the motor’s life, ensuring durability and power for construction and outdoor cutting applications.
Despite its power, the design remains compact and lightweight, offering maximum user control. The 12-inch low-kickback bar and chain provide a good balance between cutting capacity and maneuverability, making it a reliable tool for a variety of projects.
Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw, 4.0Ah Battery
The Greenworks 16-inch chainsaw is a powerful tool for homeowners facing substantial yard projects or storm clean-up. Its brushless motor is engineered to deliver more power and longer run-times while also extending the motor’s overall life.
Safety is a key focus with this model, as it includes a chain brake to reduce the risk of injury during operation. This feature, combined with its substantial 16-inch bar length, makes it a capable and safer choice for cutting larger branches and logs.
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Chain Saw Cordless, 10-Inch Battery Chainsaw
This BLACK+DECKER chainsaw is a solid, tool-only option for those who already own 20V MAX batteries. Its 10-inch bar and chain are designed for smooth and fast cuts, with an 8-inch cutting capacity that handles a wide range of pruning and cutting tasks.
User convenience is highlighted by the tool-free chain tensioning system, which allows for fast and easy adjustments without needing additional tools. This makes maintenance straightforward and helps keep the chainsaw in optimal cutting condition.
EGO Power+ CS1600 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
The EGO Power+ CS1600 is a well-regarded name in the cordless outdoor power equipment market. This 16-inch chainsaw is designed to deliver gas-like performance without the fumes, noise, or maintenance. It is part of the 56V ARC Lithium platform, known for its high power output.
It features a robust brushless motor for increased efficiency and runtime. The tool is built with user safety and convenience in mind, often including features like a chain brake and tool-free chain tensioning, making it a top contender for serious yard work.
Buying Guide: How to Pick Your Battery Operated Chainsaw for Lightweight Cutting
When I started looking for a battery powered chainsaw, I was quickly overwhelmed by the options. It’s not as simple as just picking the one with the longest bar. After testing and researching, I’ve found that a few key factors really make the difference between a tool that sits in your shed and one you’ll use all the time for your lightweight cutting tasks.
First, consider the battery ecosystem. This is probably the most important long-term 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 brand for your chainsaw. You’ll be able to share batteries, which saves you a significant amount of money and ensures you always have a charged power source ready to go. Starting from scratch? Look at the brand’s overall lineup of outdoor tools to see if you might want to expand your collection later with a leaf blower or string trimmer that uses the same battery.
Next, think about the guide bar length. For the kind of work these tools are built for—pruning branches, cutting up small fallen trees, and general yard cleanup—a bar between 10 and 14 inches is the sweet spot. A shorter bar makes the saw lighter and easier to control, especially when you’re working overhead. It also keeps the saw compact for storage. A longer bar might seem more powerful, but on a battery-powered model, it can strain the motor and drain your battery faster if you’re not actually cutting large-diameter wood.
Don’t ignore the weight and ergonomics. One of the biggest advantages of a battery operated chainsaw is its portability and ease of use. A heavy saw will tire out your arms quickly. Look for a model that feels balanced in your hands. Features like a wrap-around handle give you better control in different cutting positions, and a soft-grip material can reduce vibration and fatigue. Remember, you’re likely to be holding this tool at odd angles, so comfort is key.
Finally, pay attention to the chain speed and safety features. A higher chain speed (measured in feet per second) generally means a faster, cleaner cut. Look for features like a chain brake that stops the chain instantly if kickback occurs, and a low-kickback chain design for safer operation. A tool-less chain tensioning system is also a huge plus, allowing you to quickly tighten the chain without fumbling for a wrench. For your projects involving lightweight cutting, choosing one of the 9 best battery operated chainsaws for lightweight cutting means finding a balance of these features that fits your specific needs and makes yard work feel less like a chore.
FAQ
How long does the battery last on a single charge?
This is the question I get asked the most, and the answer is: it depends. The battery life varies based on the battery’s voltage and amp-hour (Ah) rating, the type of wood you’re cutting, and how continuously you’re using the saw. For light-duty tasks like pruning and cutting small branches, you can expect anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour of actual cutting time on a single charge with a mid-range battery. Having a spare battery is my best advice, so you can always have one charging while you use the other.
Can a battery-powered chainsaw cut down a whole tree?
It’s possible, but I wouldn’t recommend it for anything more than a small, thin tree. These saws are fantastic for their intended purpose—lightweight cutting and yard maintenance. If you’re looking to fell a large, mature tree or frequently process firewood from full-sized logs, you’re better off with a gas-powered model. For everything else, a modern battery chainsaw has more than enough power.
Are these chainsaws safe for a beginner to use?
Yes, generally they are safer than their gas counterparts for a few reasons. They are lighter, easier to start (just press a button), and produce less vibration, which helps with control. They are also much quieter and don’t emit fumes. However, any chainsaw is a dangerous tool if not respected. Always, always wear safety gear like gloves, eye protection, and sturdy pants. Read the manual thoroughly and understand how to use the chain brake and other safety features before you make your first cut.
What maintenance is required?
Maintenance is one of the biggest benefits of going battery-electric. There’s no engine to maintain, so you never have to change spark plugs, air filters, or deal with old gas. Your primary maintenance tasks are keeping the chain sharp, ensuring it’s properly tensioned, and making sure the bar groove is clean. You also need to keep the chain lubricated with bar and chain oil; most models have a reservoir for this that you’ll need to fill regularly. It’s a fraction of the upkeep of a gas saw.
Do I need to buy the battery and charger separately?
This varies by brand and package. Many chainsaws are sold as a “bare tool,” meaning you get just the saw and have to provide a compatible battery and charger separately. This is great if you’re already invested in a tool ecosystem. Other kits include one battery and a charger, which is the better value if you’re starting from zero. Always double-check the product description before you buy to know exactly what you’re getting. When selecting from the 9 best battery operated chainsaws for lightweight cutting, paying attention to the kit contents can save you from an unexpected extra purchase.