Are you looking for the best electric chainsaw? Then look no further. We've done all the heavy lifting for you and reviewed ten of the top electric chainsaws on the market. Remember, anyone who owns tools around the house knows how important it is when adding a new addition to make the right choice. Since there are thousands of brands, it can be a difficult task to know which one to buy and which one to avoid. More importantly, when choosing a chainsaw, there are some big differences in gas chainsaws vs electric chainsaws. Make sure you choose the right one!
The reason why many people are switching over to electric chainsaws is that they are better on the environment and all around easier and cleaner to use. Most of them come with better safety options, not to mention flipping a switch when you need to cut a limb or branch is a lot easier than pushing in a carburetor bulb and yanking on a string for an hour, only for your saw not to start. The main thing to look for in your new electric chainsaw is that it's affordable, safe, and can get the job done.
Since there are so many different options to choose from we have reviewed some of the best electric chainsaws that you can purchase both online and at a hardware store of your choice today.
Image Chainsaw Name Bar Length Power
WORX 16-Inch 14.5 Amp Electric Chainsaw with Auto-Tension
The first product we will be reviewing that is one of the best electric chainsaws on the market today is the WORX 16-Inch 14.5 Amp Electric Chainsaw with Auto-Tension. WORX is a fantastic manufacturer of tools, as they provide very reasonably priced items without hurting the quality of the product like many other manufacturers.
This is the cheapest option on our list today, and whenever we are looking at an option this cheap, we have to make sure they don’t sacrifice quality just to have more products sold. As well, we want to make sure it lasts a long amount of time so it doesn’t cost you more in the long run. There is nothing more annoying than having to replace your tools just when you need them.
The WORX 16-Inch 14.5 Amp Electric Chainsaw with Auto-Tension is equipped with a 14.5 Amp motor that offers a great performance of cutting, similar to those used by farmers and ranchers. It comes with a patented auto tension chain system, which will make sure the chain never over tightens. This allows the chain to stay at the right tension for multiple uses.
The kickback bar on this product is low and there is a built in chain brake to ensure your safety. It has an automatic lubrication system to make sure the chainsaw is well oiled. It also has a window indicator to let you know when the oil needs to be refilled. The machine also has a 3 year manufacturer’s warranty on it which is why it's our top pick. If anything happens inside the three year window, another saw is sent straight from the factory and the warranty starts all over again.
Special Features of the WORX WG303.1
- Power rating of 14.5 amps, 3.5 HP and equipped with a 16-inch cutting bar
- Chain mechanism that prevents over-tightening and stays in the right tension during operation
- Chain mechanism that prevents over-tightening and stays in the right tension during operation
- Safety chain stop and low kickback bar
- Easy to lubricate sprocket system
- Single knob to secure chain below the bar at appropriate tension
- Plastic, copper and steel construction that offers durability & longevity
- Beautiful black and orange finish
- 2-year manufacturer warranty
Pros
Cons
- Easy to use
- Superb warranty
- Auto Tension
- Safe
- Lubricates automatically
- Hard to find replacement parts
- Uses too much oil sometimes
- Does not cut well at the tip
GreenWorks 20312 G-MAX 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
The second product that is definitely one of the best electric chainsaws on the market today is the GreenWorks 20312 G-MAX 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw. GreenWorks is one of our favorite companies that develops chainsaws. They create high end products that don't just work, they work green, therefore helping the environment.
Their products are known to last a long time and are equipped with a variety of features to meet all of your cutting needs. This product is also more expensive than the last. Whenever we look at a more expensive product, we want to make sure it has more features and at the end of the day, provides more value for the additional price tag.
The GreenWorks 20312 G-MAX 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw uses a DigiPro brush-less motor that has the ability to perform 100 cuts on just one charge. It uses premium power to accomplish that. This machine comes with a 4AH Battery and Charger to keep it working well. There is much to be said about a cordless-option, as you won't be dealing with the hassle of locating and moving around extension cords.
It can also be used with the GreenWorks G-MAX Li-Ion System so you can swap out tools for maximum customization. The motor also allows up to 30 percent more torque to enhance the performance of the cut.
The overall design offers 70 percent less vibration compared to other models, so you can feel more comfortable while cutting. As for safety, it is equipped with a chain brake and low kickback chain, so you can feel good!
Pros
Cons
- Cordless
- Quiet performance
- Does not vibrate as much
- Better for environment
- Great cut
- Charge does not last as long as it should
Makita 5012B Commercial Grade 11 3/4-Inch 11.5 amp Electric Chain Saw
The final product that is also one of the best electric chainsaws on the market today is the Makita 5012B Commercial Grade 11 3/4-Inch 11.5 amp Electric Chain Saw. We wanted to include a Makita product as they also offer high end products that are great and easy to use.
This particular product is very concise and compact, weighing in at just 9.5 pounds. This allows for it to easily be mobile and taking anywhere for a cut. It is a reliable product made with durable parts to last a long time. The chain can work at speeds of up to 5,500 FPM so it can cut fast and accurately.
The whole unit is housed in poly-carbonate. There is a special sprocket located at the end of the chain bar, so the chain will run smoothly. For added safety, a large hand protector is included to push away any flying chips.
Pros
Cons
- Works great
- Great look
- Very safe to use
- Made out of strong and durable materials
- Runs fast
- Not as easy to start
- A bit pricey
Electric vs Gas Chainsaws
Previously, chainsaws were typically powered by very large engines that made it very cumbersome to carry them around; portability was a big problem and hence they could not be used far away from where they were placed. Today, there are two main kinds of chainsaws i.e. electric and gas operated chainsaws. You should consider the differences in both these machines and then select the one that will best suit your requirements. A gas powered chainsaw would be better if your using a chainsaw mill to produce your own lumber.
Difference Between Electric and Gas Chainsaws
Gas Chainsaws
Electric Chainsaws
- Gas Chainsaws are typically powered by gasoline or petrol
- Gas chainsaws are quite loud when operated.
- Gas-Powered Chainsaws need more maintenance and need to cool down before they can be refueled.
- There is a much bigger risk of kickbacks when using a gas-powered chainsaw that may even cause bodily harm if the operator is not experienced enough.
- Gas Chainsaws are ideal for cutting firewood and work twice as fast as an electric chainsaw.
- Gas chainsaws are more expensive than electric versions.
- Gas chainsaws are typically heavier and much louder than their electric counterparts.
- Electric chainsaws are usually powered by an electric engine. They are usually battery equipped with an electric cord that supplies power for operation.
- Electric chainsaws are of two types: corded and cordless. The corded variant has to be plugged into the electric socket and the cordless type is battery operated. The cordless chainsaw can be used as long as the battery charge lasts and it also facilitates easy movement due to the absence of a cord. However, the cordless chainsaw is not suited for prolonged use.
- Electric chainsaws are quite economical when compared to gas-powered chainsaws that need fuel for operation.
- Electric chainsaws are best suited for activities around your house yard for activities such as trimming and pruning.
- Electric chainsaws are comparatively quieter and do not produce much noise when operated. They are more suitable for homes and for work in quiet neighborhoods.
- Since the electric chainsaw has lesser power output, there is a lesser chance of kickbacks occurring when the machine is in operation.
- Electric chainsaws are lightweight, easy to handle and most of the modern machines are equipped with safety features when compared to gas versions.
Gas-Powered Chainsaws
Chainsaws are incredibly powerful tools and have undergone several changes over the years. You must select a chainsaw that is best suited for your needs. For homeowners, electric or battery powered chainsaws are the best as they are lightweight, easier to handle and are ideal for small to medium cutting tasks around the house, while gas operated chainsaws are best suited for heavy duty tasks requiring more power like land clearing or cutting firewood in bulk. Depending on your personal needs, you will have to make the decision for yourself as to which is right for you.
Is the Electric Chainsaw the Ideal Power Tool for You?
The electric chainsaw has a number of wonderful features and qualities that make it a “must have” power tool in your repertoire. Electric chainsaws are quite lightweight which makes them easy to use and control. However, the chainsaw must not be too light as this would compromise the stability of the machine. Moreover, the greatest plus of an electric chainsaw is its quiet operation that makes it a boon to use in densely populated neighborhoods. You don't want your neighbor calling the police on you for trimming a simple branch early in the morning.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Chainsaw
Buying a chainsaw can be a very difficult decision, especially when there are so many different options available on the marketplace. You must carefully consider the various factors such as performance, safety, ease of use, cost, maintenance, accessories and support before making a decision to invest in the right electric chainsaw.
Performance
The main aspect used to assess the performance of the chainsaw is its cutting speed. Cutting speed is the time taken by the chainsaw to cut through a square oak beam that is 10-inches thick. The weight of the chainsaw as well as the amperage in the case of corded motors and volts in the case of battery motors are also factors that affect the performance of the chainsaw.
Usage
Most chainsaws have been designed to cater to different types of users and usage. There are chainsaws that are best for occasional usage, for example, trimming back a tree branch. Then there are saws for other lighter tasks. Finally, there are saws that are suitable for professional loggers and lumberjacks. Asking yourself which demographic you fit in before you purchase is the most important step you can take.
You can select a chainsaw depending on your usage, for example, if you will be using the chainsaw for jobs such as clearing light brush, trimming shrubs or cutting medium sized trees, then you will require a lightweight chainsaw with moderate cutting power, whereas if you will be using the chainsaw to cut large branches and trees, clearing land or heating your house with firewood, then you will require a chainsaw with more power suitable for heavy duty cutting.
Cutting Bar Size
It's important to decide the size of the cutting bar, ensure it will suit your cutting requirements. Different jobs need different sizes. Cutting bars can range from 8 to 42 inches depending on the nature of cutting you are going to do. For medium duty tasks such as simple trimming, pruning or carpentry work in the garage, a cutting bar length of 14 inches or less will be fine. If the work is heavy-duty like cutting through wood of a large diameter or cutting down large trees, then a 16+ inch bar would be more appropriate.
Larger cutting bars are usually heavier and can be difficult to handle. If you are a beginner or do not have much experience with chainsaws, then it is advisable to begin with a small cutting bar and perform simple tasks until you are familiar and comfortable with the usage of the chainsaw and all the mechanics that come with it. It's always advisable to read the owners manual fully before using your chainsaw for the first time.
Ease of Handling
Another factor that must be considered when purchasing a chainsaw is its ease of use. The most preferred chainsaw is one that is easy to start with the minimum number of pulls. Other factors that make the machine easy to handle are the convenience and working of the primer, spark plug, choke, air filter and the ease of checking and adding the correct oil. Less time doing mundane maintenance on your saw is more time spent getting important projects done.
Convenience
You must also look for features that will make it comfortable to use the chainsaw such as a wraparound handle for comfortable grip, anti-vibration features to minimize vibrations and hence fatigue. You should also look for other features that make the use of the chainsaw more convenient such as an automatic chain oilers, spring assist start, oil gauge readers and brake locks.
Safety Features
Most of the best-rated chainsaws are equipped with extra safety safeguards to eliminate injuries resulting from kickbacks and also protection against burns that could be caused due to contact with the muffler. Be careful after using your chainsaw as contact with the muffler could result in burns.
The weight of the chainsaw and the grip that you have on the machine also dictate your safety while working with the machine. An electric chainsaw equipped with an anti-vibration feature will help to reduce fatigue and allow you to work for a long time without affecting your hands, thereby improving safety. Also, a model equipped with an automatic chain stop is best to protect you in the case of resulting kickbacks or pinches.
Features of the Chainsaw
When you are purchasing a chainsaw, some of the additional features that you must consider are safety, comfort, durability, convenience, ease of use and reduced emissions.
Maintenance
The proper maintenance of the electric chainsaw is very important in the operation of the tool. The machine must be stored properly, parts must be checked and cleaned regularly, and worn out components must be replaced to keep your saw in top working condition.
Experience
If you are a new user and do not have any prior experience in handling a chainsaw, then it is recommended that you buy one that is small, easy to handle and safe to use. In such cases, corded electric or battery powered chainsaws would be the best.
Cost
Cost is a very important factor that must be taken into consideration before making a purchase decision. You must consider and evaluate the cost versus the features and benefits being offered by the various alternatives in the market and select the chainsaw that is most suited for your requirements, has the essential features you require and is also priced reasonably.
Advantages of an Electric Chainsaw
Compact
For most homeowners, the electric chainsaw is the best tool to meet all cutting requirements around the house. These chainsaws are best to handle all light to medium-duty cutting and trimming jobs and are ideal for activities such as cutting, felling, trimming and pruning small bushes and trees and cutting logs into smaller pieces for firewood.
Easy to Operate
Buying an electric chainsaw can be a wise decision. The electric chainsaw is quite easy to operate. All you need is a power source to plug into and you are all set to begin cutting. Whereas in the case of gas chainsaws, to start the combustible engine you need to prime the motor and pull the cord several times.
Quiet
Electric chainsaws are quieter when being operated as compared to the gas ones. They are convenient to use without disturbing the neighbors in contrast to gas chainsaws that are pretty noisy and can be quite a nuisance to everyone around.
Low Maintenance
Electric chainsaws do not emit fumes or any other type of exhaust, so there is no danger of inhaling dangerous and poisonous fumes. When compared to a gas chainsaw, electric chainsaws are comparatively maintenance-free and there are no hassles of mixing oil among other things.
Starting the Electric Chainsaw
Electric chainsaws can be started by just switching it on, whereas gas-powered chainsaws require the engine to be primed and the cord to be pulled several times before the machine is started. Also, gas chainsaws can get flooded if too much gas flows into the carburetor, whereas electric chainsaws do not face the problem of flooding. Also, electric chainsaws do not require any fuel such as gas or oil to operate the machine.
Kickback
When the tip of the chainsaw’s blade runs into any object, this causes the machine to kickback into the operator. Electric chainsaws are equipped with safety chains that help to reduce kickbacks. Also, electric chainsaws have less power which reduces the force of the kickback when operating the machine.
Fuel
You do not need any fuel to run the electric chainsaw. Since it runs on electricity, the electric chainsaw has quicker recovery times when compared to the gas chainsaw that must be shut down and cooled completely before it is refueled. Electric chainsaws can be operated simply by plugging into a power source.
Lightweight and Portable
Electric chainsaws are quite lightweight and therefore easy to move around. They do not have gas tanks which make them smaller, more compact and lighter to carry. Electric chainsaws are a great tool for older people or beginners with no experience.
Affordable
Electric chainsaws are relatively inexpensive and cheaper to operate when compared to their gas counterparts. Since they are quite affordable, electric chainsaws are very easy to purchase.
Storage
The storage of electric chainsaws is much easier than gas chainsaws, especially in the case of long-term storage. Usually, electric chainsaws come with transport or storage cases. All you have to do is simply clean the machine and place it in the storage container. Whereas in the case of gas-powered chainsaws, the gas and oil must be drained out from the machine and the spark plug must be removed before storing it for a long period of time.
Disadvantages of an Electric Chainsaw
Less Portable
Electric chainsaws are less portable when compared to gas-powered ones that are usually cordless. Electric chainsaws usually have a cord that needs to be continually managed when working. You need to be within a specific radius from the power source or make use of an extension cord to allow you greater working distance. Hence, you may not be able to use electric chainsaws away from a power source. Alternatively, you can opt for a battery-powered model; however, this may not give you adequate power for heavy-duty cutting operations.
Less Power
Electric chainsaws are less powerful when compared to gas-powered ones since the motor of gas chainsaws get their operating power from the gas by means of combustion, whereas electric models do not get as much power. Hence, electric chainsaws may not be suitable to perform heavy-duty cutting jobs such as lumbering. However, electric chainsaws are perfect for light and medium-duty jobs and are a boon to homeowners.
Small Cutting Bar
Electric chainsaws are usually equipped with 15-18-inch long cutting bars. It may be difficult to cut logs that have large surface areas with electric chainsaws. In contrast, gas chainsaws usually have a 42-inch cutting bar which is useful for heavy-duty cutting.
Types of Chainsaws
Today, there are so many varieties of chainsaws available in the market that buying a chainsaw can be quite a daunting task for those who don’t have any previous experience using a chainsaw. Here are some types of chainsaws that are available.
Gas-Powered Chainsaws
- Gas-powered chainsaws are the most commonly used and the most popular choice of professional chainsaw users.
- They are powered by gas i.e. petrol.
- Usually, gas-powered chainsaws have 2-cycle or 2-stroke engines that operate on a mixture of oil and gas. The gas is utilized by the machine for combustion while the internal parts are lubricated by the oil. The oil also prevents the excessive wearing and damage of the parts.
- Gas-powered chainsaws are quite powerful and can cut wood faster and more efficiently than other chainsaws.
- They are much heavier than other varieties, noisier and can produce a lot of vibrations when in use.
- Gas chainsaws require regular servicing and refueling compared to other models.
- Gas-powered chainsaws are more expensive than electric chainsaws.
Corded Electric Chainsaws
- Corded electric chainsaws are smaller varieties of chainsaws that have a power cord which is usually plugged into a power source and use electricity to run.
- Corded electric chainsaws are immobile and cannot be moved too far away from the power supply unless they are attached to a portable generator with a long extension cord. Corded electric chainsaws cannot be used for tasks such as felling trees in the forest without considerable effort on the owners part to bring power with them.
- These chainsaws have less power and hence can be used for small tasks. You can use corded electric chainsaws for cutting and sawing operations of small trees, thick limbs and branches and or shrubs.
- Electric chainsaws are not very noisy and do not produce exhaust fumes.
- They are lightweight and easy to handle which makes them a great tool for beginners or inexperienced users.
- One major advantage of corded electric chainsaws is that they are considerably inexpensive when compared to gas-powered and battery operated chainsaws.
Battery Powered Chainsaws
- They are also known as cordless chainsaws and use rechargeable batteries for operation instead of fuel or electric current.
- Battery operated chainsaws do not require regular fueling and servicing like the gas-powered models, however, the batteries need to be charged regularly to keep the chainsaw operational. This sometimes can be limiting as the work needs to be stopped for recharging. However, this problem can be averted if you have more than one set of batteries that can be used without interrupting the work. Allowing you to keep one battery on the charger while the other is with you cutting through your work load.
- Cordless chainsaws are less powerful than the corded chainsaws and are ideal for light cutting tasks that are not very time-consuming. Cordless chainsaws are typically used for lighter cutting activities such as trimming, pruning, cutting and limbing small trees around the house.
- Though cordless chainsaws are less powerful compared to gas-powered and corded electric chainsaws, they are the most expensive models on the market because of convenience.
Manual or Hand-Powered Chainsaws
- Manual chainsaws neither require electricity nor do they need fuel to run. Basically, you use your arms for the purpose of cutting.
- Manual chainsaws are used for cutting firewood or trimming wood at homes if you cannot afford or do not want to buy a gas-powered or electric chainsaw.
- Manual chainsaws are very quiet and do not produce any noise nor do they produce any exhaust fumes. However, using these manual chainsaws requires quite a bit of human effort and can be tiresome.
- Hand-powered or manual chainsaws have considerably reduced power than a motorized chainsaw.
- The main feature is, they are highly portable and can be carried around quite effortlessly.
- Manual chainsaws are quite inexpensive as you need very few parts such as the saw chain, nylon webbing, a hack saw, some nylon or waxed linen thread, a needle and matches.
Pole Saw
- A pole saw is a small saw that is attached to a long extension pole which is used to help you trim or cut small tree limbs at a height which you cannot reach easily.
- A pole saw does not really come under the classification of a chainsaw but is somewhat related to a chainsaw.
- Sometimes pole saws can be converted into regular chainsaws and they can also be gas-powered, electric or battery powered.
- Gas-powered pole saws are more powerful than the electric chainsaws and are used to cut trees and thick branches up high. They also produce quite a lot of vibration and noise when in use. In comparison, electric pole saws have lesser power and are used for limbing and pruning. Corded electric pole saws are more powerful than battery powered pole saws.
- Battery powered pole saws are more expensive followed by gasoline-powered and electric corded pole saws.
Tips to Choose the Best Electric Chainsaw
● Length of the Bar: A chainsaw with a longer bar can cut through larger wood chunks in a single attempt. This means that you can complete your jobs much faster. Usually, at homes, chainsaws of length 6-20 inches are used. You can choose the one that is right for your cutting needs.
● Lesser Vibration: You should look for a chainsaw with an inbuilt mechanism that reduces vibrations when in operation. This is useful to help in reducing fatigue if you have plenty of cutting to do. It also makes holding and handling the chainsaw more comfortable. A medium-sized chainsaw with moderate power is the best for first-time users without much experience in handling a chainsaw.
● Amperage: Choose a chainsaw that has higher horsepower as this will enable you to cut down thick branches and trees without too much trouble.
● Automatic Oiler: Check for a chainsaw with an automatic oiler. This helps to grease the moving parts and also helps in efficient and safe cutting.
● Automatic Chain Break: This system helps to stop the chain if jerking or any abrupt movement occurs and helps in preventing any injury.
All of the products listed above are some of the best electric chainsaws on the market today. They will save you money in the long run (as you will not have to purchase gas) and are much better for the environment. All of our reviewed products are solid purchases that you can be sure will make a great addition to your tool collection.
They are affordable, have great looks, have great safety features, but above all they actually cut great! The only issue may be the charging times on them (which is why a lot of people still have gas chainsaws). Personally, we think they run great and you will be happy with your decision!