Battery-powered chainsaws have officially caught up to gas models. In independent testing by Consumer Reports and Pro Tool Reviews, the best cordless chainsaws now match or surpass gas saws in cutting speed and overall performance. That shift changes everything for homeowners who want serious cutting power without the noise, fumes, and maintenance headaches of gas engines.
We researched the top electric chainsaws available, compared cutting performance data from independent labs, and verified real-world user feedback. Every product listed here is currently available for purchase, and every specification has been verified against manufacturer data and independent test results.
Table of Contents
Why Electric Chainsaws Have Become the Better Choice
The advantages of electric chainsaws extend far beyond convenience. Modern brushless motors and high-capacity lithium-ion batteries have eliminated the performance gap that once made gas saws the only serious option for heavy cutting work.
- Push-button start eliminates the pull-cord frustration that plagues cold gas engines
- Quiet operation at 80-85 dB versus 100+ dB for gas saws
- Zero emissions and no gasoline fumes during operation
- Minimal maintenance with no carburetor tuning, spark plug replacement, or fuel system winterization
- Comparable power to 40-55cc gas engines in premium models
1. EGO Power+ CS2005 20-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Best Overall Performance
Price approximately $499 with battery and charger
The EGO CS2005 earned the top spot because it delivered the fastest cutting times in TechGearLab testing, completing cuts through 4×4 lumber in 3.45 seconds and outperforming every gas chainsaw in their test lineup. Consumer Reports rates it among the highest for cutting speed through large beams, and Pro Tool Reviews confirmed excellent cutting power with zero ramp-up time.
This saw produces power equivalent to a 55cc gas engine, which places it firmly in farm and ranch territory. The 20-inch bar handles large trees and stumps that would overwhelm smaller electric saws. EGO claims up to 230 cuts on 4×4 lumber and 135 cuts on 6×6 with the included 6.0Ah battery, though real-world results vary based on wood hardness.
What Sets This Saw Apart
- 20-inch bar and full chisel tooth chain designed for large diameter cuts
- Digital display shows speed modes and battery status at a glance
- Omnidirectional auto chain brake sensor activates from multiple tool orientations
- LED work light illuminates cuts in low-light conditions
- IPX4 weather-resistant construction handles rain and dust
What You Should Know Before You Buy
At 19.4 pounds with the battery installed, this is the heaviest chainsaw in our roundup. Extended overhead cutting or long work sessions will be more fatiguing than with lighter models. The chain tensioning requires tools rather than the tool-free systems found on some competitors. The premium price reflects the premium performance, so budget-conscious buyers should consider the Ryobi or Worx alternatives.
Best for landowners with large properties, anyone who regularly fells trees, or users who demand the absolute fastest cutting speed available in a battery chainsaw. The 5-year tool warranty and 3-year battery warranty provide long-term peace of mind.
2. Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Best All-Around Choice for Most Homeowners
Price approximately $480 with battery and charger
Husqvarna has manufactured chainsaws for over 60 years, and that expertise shows in the Power Axe 350i. TechGearLab awarded it high scores for both performance and ease of use. Popular Mechanics praised its cutting capability, extended runtime, and excellent balance. The saw feels natural in your hands, and the controls are intuitive even for first-time users.
What impressed us most was the near-instant throttle response. When you pull the trigger, the chain reaches full speed almost immediately with virtually zero wind-up time. The 40V 7.5Ah battery delivers exceptional runtime that nearly doubles what some competitors offer, and the saw maintains full power until the battery dies rather than fading gradually.
Features That Make Daily Use Easier
- 18-inch bar with premium X-Cut chain that stays sharp longer than standard chains
- Boost Mode delivers 25% more power at the push of a button for tough cuts
- Tool-less chain tensioning system for quick adjustments without a wrench
- Chain brake indicator light shows when the brake is engaged
- Quieter than most electric saws at approximately 82 dB
Tradeoffs to Consider
The large 7.5Ah battery takes over two hours to fully charge, which can be frustrating if you run out of power mid-project. Some users report the chain tensioner can get gummed up with sawdust and debris over time, requiring cleaning. The premium price places it above budget options, though the build quality justifies the cost for frequent users.
Best for homeowners who manage wooded properties and want the best balance of power, runtime, and usability. Compatible with all Husqvarna 40V tools if you want to expand your battery-powered equipment.
3. Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Best Value for Budget-Conscious Buyers
Price approximately $350 with battery and charger
The Ryobi 40V HP delivers near-premium performance at a significantly lower price than competitors. This saw actually outperforms Ryobi’s own 20-inch gas model according to their internal testing. The 40V HP technology combines a brushless motor with advanced electronics and high-performance lithium cells to produce power equivalent to a 38cc+ gas engine.
Ryobi claims up to 168 cuts per charge with the included 5.0Ah battery, and user reviews on Amazon and Home Depot largely support those numbers for typical softwood cutting. The included rapid charger brings a dead battery back to full in about 50 minutes, so you can alternate batteries during longer projects without significant downtime.
Why This Saw Punches Above Its Price
- 18-inch bar handles cuts up to 32 inches in diameter
- Premium full complement chain for faster cutting than standard chains
- Adjustable automatic oiler maintains proper chain lubrication
- Metal top handle upgraded from plastic in the second generation
- Chainsaw case included in the kit
- 5-year tool warranty and 3-year battery warranty
Where It Falls Short of Premium Models
The cutting speed does not quite match the EGO or Husqvarna in hardwood testing. Chain tensioning requires the included combination wrench rather than tool-free adjustment. The overall build quality feels slightly less refined than premium competitors, though it remains durable for typical homeowner use.
Best for homeowners who want serious cutting capability without paying premium prices. Especially attractive if you already own Ryobi 40V tools since the batteries are interchangeable across 90+ products.
4. Greenworks Pro 80V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Best for Hardwood and Heavy Residential Use
Price varies by battery configuration
The Greenworks Pro 80V brings the highest voltage in the consumer chainsaw class, and that extra voltage translates directly into torque. GearJunkie highlighted the Greenworks 80V system as a top performer for demanding residential work, and the higher torque makes a noticeable difference when cutting through dense hardwoods like oak or maple.
Greenworks claims performance equivalent to a 42cc gas engine, which lands in the middle of our roundup. The brushless motor produces approximately twice the torque of brushed motor designs while running quieter and lasting longer. Metal bucking spikes provide stability when making cuts into larger logs.
Specifications That Matter for Tough Jobs
- 18-inch bar with brushless motor technology
- 80V system provides maximum torque in consumer class
- Up to 150 cuts on 4×4 lumber per charge
- Available with multiple battery options from 2.0Ah to 4.0Ah
- Compatible with 75+ Greenworks 80V tools
Limitations You Should Understand
Battery runtime falls shorter than some competitors when using the smaller 2.0Ah battery included in base kits. The larger 4.0Ah battery adds weight and cost but significantly improves runtime. The overall weight runs higher than 40V competitors due to the larger battery system.
Best for users who frequently cut hardwoods and want maximum torque, or anyone already invested in the Greenworks 80V ecosystem who wants battery compatibility across their equipment.
5. DeWalt DCCS670X1 60V MAX 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Best for Contractors and Jobsite Use
Price varies by configuration
DeWalt built their reputation on jobsite durability, and the DCCS670X1 carries that legacy forward. Reviews consistently praise the rugged construction and ability to survive the abuse of professional work environments. The tool-free chain tensioning and combination bar retention knob allow quick adjustments without hunting for wrenches.
The standout feature is FLEXVOLT backward compatibility. The 60V MAX battery automatically steps down to work with any DeWalt 20V MAX tool, which means contractors who already own DeWalt cordless tools can use their existing batteries. DeWalt claims up to 70 cuts on 6×6 lumber per charge.
Features Built for Professional Environments
- 16-inch Oregon bar and chain trusted by professionals
- 60V FLEXVOLT battery works with 20V MAX tools
- Tool-free chain tensioning speeds up maintenance
- Auto-oiling system with quarter-turn oil cap for quick refills
- Chain brake for kickback protection
- Compatible with 225+ DeWalt 20V and 60V tools
Factors That May Affect Your Decision
The 16-inch bar limits cutting capacity compared to 18-20 inch competitors. This works fine for construction and storm cleanup but may feel inadequate for felling larger trees. Some users report the auto-oiler tends to over-lubricate, wasting oil and creating mess. Battery life runs moderate for continuous heavy cutting.
Best for contractors, construction professionals, and serious DIYers already invested in the DeWalt 20V or 60V platform. The battery compatibility alone can save hundreds of dollars.
6. Milwaukee M18 FUEL 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Best for Milwaukee Tool Owners
Milwaukee’s POWERSTATE brushless motor delivers instant full-speed response the moment you pull the trigger. There is no gradual ramp-up or hesitation. The motor produces power equivalent to a 40cc gas engine, which handles most homeowner and professional cutting tasks without difficulty.
The M18 platform offers the largest battery-powered tool ecosystem in the industry with over 250 compatible tools. Users who already own Milwaukee M18 tools can use their existing batteries, and the high-output 12.0Ah battery provides exceptional runtime for extended cutting sessions.
Performance Features for Demanding Work
- 16-inch bar with POWERSTATE brushless motor
- Variable speed trigger for precise cutting control
- Dual-stud bar retention improves stability and chain tracking
- Automatic oiler maintains chain lubrication
- Onboard scrench storage keeps the tool accessible
- Compatible with 250+ M18 tools
Honest Assessment of Weaknesses
This ranks among the loudest electric chainsaws in testing, which partially negates the quiet advantage of battery power. Oil consumption runs higher than competitors, requiring more frequent refills. Premium pricing reflects Milwaukee’s professional-grade positioning but may exceed casual users’ budgets.
Best for professionals and serious DIYers who already own Milwaukee M18 tools. The ecosystem compatibility and instant throttle response justify the premium for users in that category.
7. Worx Nitro WG385 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Best Entry-Level Option for Occasional Use
Price approximately $280-350 with batteries
The Worx Nitro offers solid performance at the most accessible price point in our roundup. The kit includes two 20V batteries that work together through the Power Share PRO system to deliver 40V power, and those same batteries work with over 140 other Worx tools.
Worx claims up to 150 cuts on 4×4 lumber and chain speeds of 59 feet per second. User reviews suggest these numbers hold up reasonably well for softwoods, though hardwood cutting will reduce both speed and runtime. At 12.4 pounds without batteries, this is one of the lighter chainsaws in our roundup.
Features That Deliver Solid Value
- 16-inch bar with brushless motor
- 40V Power Share PRO system uses two 20V batteries
- Tool-free chain tensioning for quick adjustments
- Automatic chain lubrication
- Two batteries included in kit
- Compatible with 140+ Worx Power Share tools
Where Budget Pricing Shows Its Limits
The plastic tensioning knob feels less durable than metal alternatives on premium saws. There are no metal bucking spikes for stabilizing cuts. Cutting speed and power cannot match the premium models in our roundup, which becomes apparent in hardwoods and larger diameter cuts.
Best for budget-conscious homeowners who need a reliable chainsaw for occasional storm cleanup, light-to-medium cutting tasks, and general yard maintenance without spending premium prices.
Side-by-Side Specifications for Every Chainsaw in This Guide
This comparison table summarizes the key specifications for quick reference. Gas equivalent ratings are based on manufacturer claims and independent testing where available. Weights include batteries for accurate comparison of what you will actually carry.
| Model | Bar | Voltage | Gas Equiv. | Weight | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EGO CS2005 | 20″ | 56V | 55cc | 19.4 lbs | Max Performance |
| Husqvarna 350i | 18″ | 40V | ~45cc | ~13 lbs | Best All-Around |
| Ryobi 40V HP | 18″ | 40V | 38cc+ | 13.2 lbs | Best Value |
| Greenworks 80V | 18″ | 80V | 42cc | ~14 lbs | Hardwood Cutting |
| DeWalt 60V | 16″ | 60V | ~40cc | ~12 lbs | Contractors |
| Milwaukee M18 | 16″ | 18V | 40cc | ~12 lbs | Milwaukee Users |
| Worx Nitro | 16″ | 40V | ~35cc | 12.4 lbs | Budget Option |
How to Select the Right Electric Chainsaw for Your Needs
The best chainsaw for you depends on what you plan to cut, how often you will use it, and whether you already own compatible batteries. This guide breaks down the key factors that should influence your decision.
Bar Length Determines What You Can Cut
The bar length sets the maximum diameter you can cut in a single pass. A general rule states that you can safely cut wood with a diameter approximately 2 inches less than your bar length. Here is how different bar lengths match different tasks.
- 10-14 inches handles pruning, limbing, and light cutting. Good for beginners and occasional use.
- 16 inches offers versatility for most homeowners. Handles small tree felling and moderate logs without excessive weight.
- 18 inches represents the sweet spot for serious homeowner use. Fells medium trees and bucks larger firewood efficiently.
- 20+ inches enters farm and ranch territory. Reserved for regularly felling larger trees and heavy-duty cutting.
Voltage Affects Power But Motor Design Matters More
Higher voltage generally means more power, but motor design and electronics play equally important roles. A well-designed 40V system can outperform a poorly designed 60V system. Here is the general landscape.
- 18-20V suits light-duty pruning and small branches only
- 36-40V handles general homeowner tasks adequately
- 56-60V matches 40-55cc gas saw performance
- 80V+ delivers maximum torque for hardwoods and professional use
Battery Ecosystem Can Save You Hundreds of Dollars
If you already own cordless tools, a chainsaw from the same brand lets you share batteries. This can reduce your purchase price by $100-200 since you can buy the tool-only version. The major ecosystems offer varying numbers of compatible tools.
- Milwaukee M18 offers 250+ compatible tools, the largest ecosystem
- DeWalt 20V/60V provides 225+ tools with unique FLEXVOLT backward compatibility
- Worx Power Share includes 140+ tools at budget-friendly prices
- Ryobi 40V features 90+ outdoor power equipment tools
- Greenworks 80V covers 75+ tools focused on outdoor equipment
- EGO 56V focuses on premium outdoor power equipment
- Husqvarna 40V offers a growing lineup from chainsaw experts
Essential Safety Practices for Electric Chainsaw Operation
Electric chainsaws eliminate some hazards of gas models but remain serious tools that demand respect. A spinning chain does not care whether gasoline or batteries provide its power. These practices protect you from injury.
- Protective equipment includes safety glasses, hearing protection, cut-resistant chaps, and steel-toed boots. Never cut without full protection.
- Proper stance means both hands on the saw, feet shoulder-width apart, and solid footing before every cut.
- Kickback zone awareness prevents the most dangerous chainsaw accidents. Never cut with the upper quadrant of the bar tip.
- Clear work area removes tripping hazards and ensures an escape path when felling trees.
- Regular inspection catches loose parts, dull chains, and improper tension before they cause problems.
Maintenance Tasks That Keep Your Chainsaw Reliable for Years
Electric chainsaws require far less maintenance than gas models, but they still need regular attention. These simple practices maximize performance and lifespan.
- Clean after every use by removing sawdust and debris. Pay attention to air vents and the oil reservoir area.
- Store in dry conditions away from dust and moisture. Use the included case or cover to protect the bar and chain.
- Battery care means avoiding complete discharge and storing at room temperature away from extreme heat or cold.
- Check oil levels frequently during use. Use manufacturer-recommended bar and chain oil only.
- Sharpen the chain regularly because dull chains work harder and increase kickback risk. Learn to sharpen yourself or use a professional service.
Our Final Recommendations Based on Your Situation
Every chainsaw in this guide offers genuine capability for the right user. Your best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and existing tool investments.
For most homeowners who want excellent all-around performance, the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i delivers the best combination of cutting speed, runtime, and ease of use.
For maximum cutting performance regardless of weight or price, the EGO CS2005 outperformed every chainsaw in independent testing.
For excellent capability at a lower price, the Ryobi 40V HP delivers outstanding value and includes a rapid charger and case.
For users who already own compatible tools, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL , DeWalt 60V, Greenworks 80V, or Worx Nitro let you leverage your existing battery investment.
Battery-powered chainsaws have definitively arrived. The best models now match or exceed gas performance while eliminating the noise, fumes, and maintenance that made gas saws frustrating for homeowners. Pick the saw that matches your needs, and enjoy the benefits of modern battery technology.
Last update on 2026-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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