Chainsaws are powerful tools that make cutting through wood quick and easy. They are widely used by homeowners, landscapers, and loggers for tasks such as felling trees, trimming branches, and cutting firewood. A good chainsaw can save time and effort on challenging cutting jobs. There are two main types of chainsaws: electric and gas-powered.
Electric models are quieter and more suitable for small jobs around the house, whereas gas chainsaws offer more power for larger projects but tend to be louder and require more maintenance. Additionally, battery-powered chainsaws are gaining popularity as a convenient cordless option.
When selecting a chainsaw, important factors to consider include bar length, power, weight, and safety features. The bar length determines the size of the wood you can cut, while more power helps tackle harder woods but may increase the weight of the saw. Safety is crucial, so look for features like chain brakes and low-kickback chains. We tested 12 top chainsaws to identify the best options for various needs and budgets.
Best Chainsaws (2025)
| Chainsaw | Best For | Power Source | Bar Length | Pros | Cons | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Husqvarna 450 Rancher | Heavy-duty jobs | Gas-powered | 20 inches | Easy start, strong 3.2-HP engine, vibration reduction technology | Heavier, requires fuel mixing, louder operation | $$$ |
| Husqvarna 445 | Frequent use | Gas-powered | 18 inches | Easy start, powerful 50-cc engine, reduced emissions | Maintenance-heavy, loud operation | $$$ |
| Husqvarna Power Axe 350i | Homeowners and light jobs | Battery-powered | 18 inches | Lightweight, quiet, easy to handle | Limited battery life, higher price | $$$$ |
| Husqvarna 130 | Homeowners | Gas-powered | 16 inches | Easy to start, effective vibration reduction, affordable | Not for heavy-duty tasks, requires fuel mixing | $$ |
| DEWALT 20V MAX XR | Yard work and small jobs | Battery-powered | 12 inches | Lightweight, no gas needed, powerful brushless motor | Limited runtime, not ideal for large trees | $$ |
| Husqvarna 120 Mark III | Occasional use | Gas-powered | 14 inches | Lightweight, efficient X-Torq engine, low vibration | Not powerful enough for heavy-duty tasks | $$ |
| Greenworks Pro 80V | Eco-friendly performance | Battery-powered | 18 inches | Powerful, quiet, no fumes | Higher cost, heavier than some gas models | $$$$ |
| Oregon CS1500 | Home use | Electric (corded) | 18 inches | Self-sharpening system, instant start, low noise | Cord length limitation, requires power outlet | $$ |
| GreenWorks 40V | Light yard work | Battery-powered | 16 inches | Quiet, easy maintenance, low kickback | Limited runtime, heavier than some alternatives | $$ |
| NEO-TEC 12″ Top Handle | Small jobs, pruning | Gas-powered | 12 inches | Lightweight, easy handling, fuel-efficient | Flimsy feel, tricky to start, limited power | $ |
Buying Guide Highlights
- Power Source: Choose between gas (more power), electric (quieter, corded), and battery-powered (cordless convenience).
- Bar Length: Select based on the size of the wood:
- 10–14 inches: Small trees, pruning.
- 16–20 inches: Medium trees, firewood.
- 20+ inches: Large trees, professional use.
- Key Features: Focus on safety (chain brake, low kickback), ease of maintenance, and weight for comfort.
Best Chainsaws
We’ve rounded up the top chainsaws on the market. Our list includes models for homeowners and pros alike. You’ll find options for every budget and need.
Husqvarna 450 Rancher
We think the Husqvarna 450 Rancher is a top choice for those who need a powerful and reliable gas chainsaw.
Pros
- Easy to start and handle
- Strong 3.2-HP engine
- Vibration reduction technology
Cons
- Heavier than electric models
- Requires fuel mixing
- Louder operation
We recently tried out the Husqvarna 450 Rancher chainsaw. It’s a beast for heavy-duty jobs. The 20-inch bar cuts through thick logs with ease. We were impressed by how quickly it started up. The Smart Start system works great.
The saw feels sturdy in our hands. It has good balance despite its size. We like the ergonomic handle design. It helps reduce fatigue during long cutting sessions. The LowVib tech also makes a big difference. We noticed less shaking compared to other gas saws we’ve used.
Fuel efficiency is a plus with this model. The X-Torq engine sips gas while still delivering plenty of power. We found it easy to maintain too. The air injection system keeps the filter cleaner for longer. This means less time spent on upkeep and more time cutting.
Husqvarna 445 Gas Chainsaw
We highly recommend this powerful and efficient chainsaw for its ease of use and reliable performance.
Pros
- Easy to start and handle
- Powerful 50-cc engine
- Reduced emissions and fuel consumption
Cons
- Heavier than some models
- Requires regular maintenance
- Can be loud during operation
We recently put the Husqvarna 445 Gas Chainsaw to the test. It impressed us right away. The Smart Start system made firing it up a breeze. We didn’t have to struggle with multiple pulls to get it going.
The 18-inch bar handled tough oak and maple with ease. We felt confident tackling larger trees thanks to the robust 2.8-HP engine. The X-Torq technology lived up to its claims. We noticed less fuel consumption compared to older models we’ve used.
Comfort was a key feature during our long cutting sessions. The LowVib system reduced fatigue in our hands and arms. The ergonomic front handle gave us better control. We appreciated the automatic oiler which kept the chain running smoothly.
Safety is always a top concern with chainsaws. The inertia-activated chain brake gave us peace of mind. It quickly stopped the chain when needed. The air injection system kept the filter cleaner for longer periods. This meant less downtime for maintenance.
We found the Husqvarna 445 to be a reliable workhorse for both occasional and frequent use. Its mix of power and user-friendly features make it a solid choice for homeowners and professionals alike.
Husqvarna Power Axe 350i
We highly recommend this chainsaw for its power and ease of use.
Pros
- Powerful cutting performance
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Limited battery life for large jobs
- Higher price point
- Slower charging time
We recently tested the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i cordless chainsaw. It’s a game-changer for yard work. This 18-inch saw cuts through branches and small trees with ease. It’s much quieter than gas models. We love how light it feels in our hands.
The brushless motor packs a punch. We were able to tackle tough cuts without bogging down. The boost mode came in handy for thicker logs. It gave us extra power when we needed it most. The chain tensioning system is a breeze to use. No tools needed!
Battery life is good for most jobs. We got about 30 minutes of heavy use per charge. For bigger projects you might want a spare battery. Charging takes a while so plan ahead. Despite this the cordless design is so handy. No more mixing gas or fighting to start a cold engine. We think it’s worth the trade-off for most homeowners.
Husqvarna 130 Gas Chainsaw
We highly recommend this powerful and user-friendly chainsaw for homeowners tackling tree care tasks.
Pros
- Easy to start and handle
- Powerful 2-HP engine
- Effective vibration reduction
Cons
- Not for professional use
- Requires gas and oil mix
- Heavier than electric models
The Husqvarna 130 Gas Chainsaw is a great tool for home use. We found it simple to start thanks to its fuel pump and choke control. The 16-inch bar length works well for most yard tasks.
This saw packs a punch with its 2-HP engine. We cut through small trees and thick branches with ease. The X-Torq engine design also uses less fuel which is a nice bonus.
We like how the LowVib system cuts down on shaking. It made long jobs much more comfortable. The air cleaning system is another plus. It kept the filter cleaner so we didn’t have to stop as often.
DEWALT Cordless Chainsaw
This versatile chainsaw is a great choice for both construction and yard work.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Powerful brushless motor
- No gas or fumes
Cons
- Limited runtime on a single charge
- Not ideal for large trees
- Requires regular battery charging
We found the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw to be a solid performer for most cutting tasks. Its 12-inch bar and chain make quick work of branches and small logs. The cordless design frees you from the hassle of gas and oil mixing.
At just 9 pounds with the battery, this saw is a breeze to maneuver. We had no trouble reaching overhead branches or working in tight spaces. The brushless motor packs a punch, cutting through 4×4 lumber with ease.
Battery life is decent but not endless. We got about 90 cuts on a single charge. For bigger jobs, you’ll want a spare battery on hand. The tool-free chain tensioning is a nice touch. It makes adjustments quick and simple.
Husqvarna 120 Mark III Gas Saw
We think this chainsaw is a great choice for homeowners who need a reliable tool for occasional use.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Efficient X-TORQ engine
- Low vibration for comfort
Cons
- May not be powerful enough for heavy-duty tasks
- Requires gas and oil mixture
- Louder than electric models
We recently tried out the Husqvarna 120 Mark III gas chainsaw. It’s a solid choice for homeowners who need to tackle tree pruning or storm cleanup. The 14-inch bar is just right for most jobs around the yard.
The X-TORQ engine impressed us with its power and fuel efficiency. We noticed it used less gas than older models we’ve tried. It also started up easily, which was a nice surprise for a gas saw.
We liked how light this chainsaw felt in our hands. The LowVib feature really works. Our arms didn’t get tired even after an hour of use. The automatic oiler kept the chain running smoothly too.
One thing to note is that this saw might not be ideal for bigger jobs. If you need to fell large trees often, you may want a more powerful model. But for most home tasks, it’s more than enough.
Overall, we found the Husqvarna 120 Mark III to be a reliable and user-friendly chainsaw. It’s a good fit for homeowners who need a capable saw for occasional use.
Greenworks Pro 80V Chainsaw
We highly recommend this powerful cordless chainsaw for its impressive performance and eco-friendly design.
Pros
- Powerful 80V battery system
- Quiet operation
- No gas or fumes
Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- Limited runtime per charge
- Heavier than some gas models
We tested the Greenworks Pro 80V Chainsaw and were blown away by its power. It cuts through thick branches like butter. The 18-inch bar and chain make quick work of medium to large trees.
This saw starts with a simple push of a button. No more yanking on pull cords or mixing fuel. The brushless motor runs quietly. It’s a joy to use without the noise and fumes of gas models.
We got about 150 cuts on 4×4 lumber with one charge. That’s plenty for most yard work. The automatic oiler keeps the chain lubed. Tensioning is easy with the tool-free system.
The saw feels solid and well-built. At 10.8 pounds, it’s a bit heavier than some gas models. But the weight is balanced and it’s comfy to use.
We love the eco-friendly aspect. No more trips to the gas station or worrying about proper fuel storage. Just snap in a charged battery and you’re ready to go.
The 2Ah battery and charger are included. You can buy extra batteries for longer jobs. The saw is part of Greenworks’ 80V system with over 75 compatible tools.
Oregon Electric Chainsaw
The Oregon CS1500 is a top choice for homeowners who need a powerful yet user-friendly electric chainsaw.
Pros
- Self-sharpening system
- Tool-less chain tensioning
- Instant start and low noise
Cons
- Limited by cord length
- Not suitable for heavy-duty jobs
- Requires access to power outlet
We found the Oregon CS1500 to be a game-changer for yard work. Its 15-amp motor packs a punch. We cut through 8-inch branches with ease. The 18-inch bar gave us plenty of reach for trimming tall limbs.
The self-sharpening feature is a standout. We sharpened the chain in seconds with a simple lever pull. No more trips to the hardware store or fumbling with files. The tool-less tensioning was also a breeze. We adjusted the chain quickly without any extra tools.
We loved how quiet this saw is compared to gas models. Our neighbors didn’t even notice we were working. The instant start was a huge plus too. No more fighting with pull cords or mixing fuel. We just plugged it in and got to work.
GreenWorks 40V Cordless Chainsaw
We recommend this chainsaw for homeowners who want a powerful and eco-friendly option for yard work.
Pros
- Quiet and fume-free operation
- Easy to start and maintain
- Impressive cutting power for a battery-powered saw
Cons
- Limited runtime on a single charge
- Not ideal for heavy-duty professional use
- Heavier than some gas-powered models
We’ve put the GreenWorks 40V Cordless Chainsaw through its paces. It’s a game-changer for homeowners tired of gas-powered tools. The 16-inch bar tackles most backyard jobs with ease. We cut through 12-inch logs without breaking a sweat.
Starting this saw is a breeze. No more yanking on pull cords or mixing fuel. Just push a button and you’re ready to go. The brushless motor runs quietly and smoothly. It’s a joy to use compared to noisy gas saws.
Battery life is good for most tasks around the yard. We got about an hour of continuous cutting time. For bigger jobs, you might want a spare battery. The automatic oiler keeps the chain running smoothly. We love not having to manually oil the chain.
The tool-less chain tensioning system is handy. It’s easy to adjust the chain on the fly. The saw feels well-balanced and comfortable to use. At 10.4 pounds, it’s not the lightest option. But it’s manageable for most users.
We appreciate the safety features. The chain brake works well. It stops the chain quickly if needed. The low kickback bar and chain add another layer of safety.
This saw isn’t meant for professional loggers. But for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, it’s a solid choice. It has enough power for storm cleanup and pruning large branches. The lack of fumes and easy maintenance make it a pleasure to use.
NEO-TEC 12″ Top Handle Saw
We recommend this lightweight chainsaw for occasional use and smaller jobs.
Pros
- Easy to handle with one hand
- Comfortable wrap-around handle
- Fuel-efficient engine
Cons
- May feel flimsy to some users
- Can be tricky to start at first
- Limited to smaller cutting tasks
We recently tested the NEO-TEC 12″ Top Handle Chainsaw. At just 8 pounds it’s a breeze to maneuver. The wrap-around handle felt comfy in our grip. This made long cutting sessions less tiring.
The 25.4cc engine packs a punch for its size. We were impressed by how fuel-efficient it was during our test runs. It tackled smaller branches and logs with ease. But don’t expect it to fell large trees.
Starting took some practice. Once we got the hang of it things went smoother. The choke button felt a bit cheap. We worry it might not hold up over time. For light yard work and pruning this saw does the job. Professional arborists might want something more robust.
Buying Guide
Choosing the best chainsaw can be tricky. We’ll help you pick the right one for your needs.
Power Source
Chainsaws come in three main types:
- Gas-powered
- Electric (corded)
- Battery-powered
Gas saws are strong but noisy. Electric ones are quieter but need a cord. Battery saws are portable and easy to use.
Bar Length
The bar is the metal part that holds the chain. Longer bars can cut bigger logs. Here’s a quick guide:
| Bar Length | Best For |
|---|---|
| 10-14 inches | Small trees, pruning |
| 16-20 inches | Medium trees, firewood |
| 20+ inches | Large trees, professional use |
Safety Features
Look for these key safety features:
- Chain brake
- Low-kickback chain
- Anti-vibration system
- Chain catcher
Weight and Comfort
A lighter saw is easier to use for long periods. Hold different models to find one that feels good in your hands.
Maintenance Needs
Some saws need more upkeep than others. Think about how much time you want to spend on maintenance.
By keeping these points in mind, you’ll find a chainsaw that fits your needs perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right chainsaw can be tricky. We’ll answer some common questions to help you pick the best one for your needs.
What are the best gas chainsaws for cutting trees?
For felling trees, we recommend the STIHL MS 362 or Husqvarna 455 Rancher. These saws have enough power to tackle big jobs. They’re also tough and reliable for frequent use.
Which chainsaw is preferable for home use?
Electric chainsaws work well for most home tasks. We like the WORX WG303.1 or BLACK+DECKER CS1518. They’re quiet and easy to use. Plus there’s no gas to mix or fumes to worry about.
What is the best chainsaw to purchase for firewood processing?
For firewood, a mid-sized gas saw is ideal. The Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf or Husqvarna 450 are great choices. They can handle logs of various sizes without being too heavy.
Which chainsaw model offers the best value for money?
The Poulan Pro PR5020 gives you a lot for your money. It’s powerful enough for most jobs but won’t break the bank. The Remington RM4618 is another good budget option.
How do I select the best chainsaw for farm work?
Farm work needs a tough saw. We suggest the STIHL MS 271 Farm Boss or Husqvarna 460 Rancher. These can handle a range of tasks from clearing brush to cutting large logs.
Between STIHL and Husqvarna chainsaws, which is considered superior?
Both STIHL and Husqvarna make top-quality saws. STIHL is known for durability. Husqvarna often has more features. The best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.
