Greenworks Pro 80V Review
Our Verdict
Compare to Similar Products
This Product Greenworks Pro 80V | |||||
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Awards | Best for Quick Battery Charging | Best Bang for the Buck | Best 20V Model | ||
Price | $400 List $337.69 at Amazon | $399 List $385.00 at Amazon | $480 List $379.00 at Amazon | $299 List Check Price at Amazon | $130 List $116.31 at Amazon |
Overall Score | |||||
Star Rating | |||||
Bottom Line | If you want a saw with a battery that charges in a matter of minutes, then this is the one | If you want an easy-to-use cordless electric chainsaw with a long-lasting battery and a long bar this is the one | A battery-powered model with exceptional cutting performance and boost mode | A decent battery-powered chainsaw that falls about in the middle of the pack for overall performance | If you're in the market for a 20 volt model, this saw does the trick for quick and small jobs |
Rating Categories | Greenworks Pro 80V | Ego Power+ CS1800 | Husqvarna Power Axe... | Ego Power+ CS1613 | Worx WG322 |
Saw Performance (35%) | |||||
Ease of Use (30%) | |||||
Battery (25%) | |||||
Noise (5%) | |||||
Weight (5%) | |||||
Specs | Greenworks Pro 80V | Ego Power+ CS1800 | Husqvarna Power Axe... | Ego Power+ CS1613 | Worx WG322 |
Model Number | GCS80420 | CS1800 | 350i | CS1613 | WG322 |
Bar Length | 18 inches | 18 inches | 18 inches | 16 inches | 10 inches |
Measured Average Cutting Time | 5.32 seconds | 5.876 seconds | 7.07 seconds | 7.21 seconds | 38.382 seconds |
Measured Battery Charge Time | .5 hr | 1.5 hr | 2.75 hr | .8 hr | 3 hr |
Measured Weight | 15 lbs, 2 oz | 14 lbs, 11 oz | 14 lbs, 6 oz | 14 lbs, 3 oz | 6 lbs, 10 oz |
Measured Battery Weight | 3 lbs, 8 oz | 4 lbs, 13 oz | 4 lbs, 2 oz | 4 lbs, 12 oz | 1 lbs, 10 oz |
Measured Body Dimesions | 14x9x7.5 inches | 16x9x8 inches | 18.5 x 8 x 6 inches | 17 x 8 x 6.5 inches | 13x8x7.5 inches |
Included Battery Size | 2 Ah | 5 Ah | 7.7Ah | 4Ah | 2 Ah |
Nominal Voltage | 80V | 56V | 36V | 56V | 20V |
Measured Runtime | 27 minutes | 60 minutes | 51 minutes | 25 minutes | 22 minutes |
Measured Run Time Eco Mode | n/a | n/a | 67 mins | n/a | n/a |
Measured Wind Up Time | 1.15 seconds | 1.25 seconds | .25 seconds | .5 seconds | 2 seconds |
Measured Decibel Reading at 48in | 86.8 dBa | 88.8 dBa | 82.1 dBa | 90.6 dBa | 80.0 dBa |
Control Type | Electronic button, side safety, and brake | Side safety w/ chain brake | Electronic button, palm safety, and chain brake | side safety w/ chain brake | Thumb safety |
Chain Replacement and Tensioning Type | Tool free | Tool Free | Tool free | Tool free | Tool free |
Metal Bucking Spikes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Oil Conservation | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 |
Bar & Chain Tank Location and Type | Top | Side, Screen | Side | Side, Screen | Top |
Our Analysis and Test Results
Founded in 2017, Greenworks is a brand that exclusively specializes in lithium-ion power tools. They have been on the cutting edge of battery technology since day one, which is clearly evident with their release of the Pro 18V. This 18-inch model winds up quickly, has a solid battery life, and great cutting performance. Where the Greenworks Pro 18V truly shines is its incredibly fast battery charge time.
Performance Comparison
Saw Performance
We weighted saw performance at 35% of our total score. For this first metric, we purchased a pile of Douglas Fir 4x4s from the lumber yard that we stacked on a sawbuck to create a repeatable test using the same type and size of dimensions of wood for each saw. We timed five cuts per model in order to get an average cutting speed for each one. The Greenworks Pro 80V showed fantastic results during this assessment — we measured an average time of 5.3 seconds per cut.
For the second half of the saw performance metric, we took the saws to a tree service job site to let the local crew get a feel for each model and provide us with some professional feedback. All agreed that the Greenworks Pro 80V performed similar to a two-stroke chainsaw, and the boys were impressed with the fact that an electric version could power an 18-inch chain. This model is less prone to binding and stalling than most of the other models that we've tested.
Ease of Use
For the ease of use metric we combined quantitative and qualitative analysis, this section accounts for 30% of our total score. We weighed and measured each saw in the lab before using our team of power tool specialists to note any details that help the user operate the device or tend to make it more of a pain. After carefully analyzing the Greenworks Pro 80V, we determined that this model deserves a 6 out of 10 for this metric.
The Pro 80V has several attractive features. We love that the bar & chain oil tank is oriented in an upright position with the cap on top. Most old-school chainsaws have the cap located horizontally near the bottom of the saw which makes it fairly awkward to fill and deal with. The tool-free chain tensioning system on this model is very elementary and requires little to no practice or training. Lastly, we are always fans of metal bucking spikes. This element aids immeasurable aids in cutting compared to plastic spikes or a complete lack of spikes.
One drawback we discovered is the redundant power button. The Pro 80V is already equipped with a thumb safety, a chain brake, and a throttle, so another button to push before the saw is operable can become annoying as it detracts from productivity.
This model did score some extra points for the location of its battery compartment. We have found that batteries that load into the top of the saw body are easier to use than those whose compartments are located on the sides or underneath the device.
The Greenworks Pro 80V is one of the heaviest saws that we've gotten our hands on. Tipping the scale at more than 15 pounds, be prepared to use a little extra gusto while wielding this model. Although it's not the ideal chainsaw for pruning a small tree, we should mention that the weight can aid in performance and reduce effort while handling jobs like bucking logs down to firewood size.
Battery
The battery metric comprises 25% of our total score. For this portion of our assessment, we began by fully charging each battery regardless of how much juice it came with from the factory. We then constructed a bench that allowed us to clip the throttle on each saw and time how long they could run with a chain installed, under no load. We were cautious about bar oil levels and stopped each device every 15 minutes to top the tanks off. Once the batteries were dead, we measured the charge time with the old trusty stopwatch.
The Greenworks Pro 80V ran for a commendable 27 minutes. Keep in mind, this is running nonstop. Realistically it will run for a solid couple of hours of making cuts. Although this isn't the longest-lasting battery we've tested, we'd still recommend this model for professional and heavy-duty use.
The main reason we gave the Greenworks Pro 80V an 8 out of 10 for this metric is its charge time. At a mere 30 minutes, you will barely have time to rest and eat a snack before it's time to get back to work. If you purchase two batteries to alternate between, this machine could be running all day.
Noise
One of the greatest benefits of going with a battery chainsaw is the reduction of noise when compared to two-stroke versions. For those with neighbors close by, it's nice to know that you aren't bothering anyone during their free time. Unfortunately, the Greenworks Pro 80V did not score very well for this metric. Earning a 6 out of 10, this model produces 86.8 decibels of noise from a few feet away. If volume levels are a concern for you, it'd be wise to go with a different model.
Weight
Depending on the size and type of project you're looking to tackle with your shiny new chainsaw, weight can play an important role. While heavier saws can certainly wear your arms out faster than lighter versions, the weight can also assist with certain tasks, such as bucking firewood. Weighing in at 15 pounds, 2 ounces with the massive 80V battery and a topped-off oil reservoir, the Greenworks Pro is on the heavier side but is not what we would consider too heavy for most people.
Should You Buy The Greenworks Pro 80V?
This is one of our favorite battery chainsaws in our tests. We are always fans of metal bucking spikes and chain brakes, as these features aid in both safety and performance. It cuts well, has a commendable battery life, and has a ridiculously fast charge time. If you want a professional-grade saw but are sick of mixing gas and sucking fumes, this model is a fantastic choice.
What Other Chainsaw Should You Consider?
If you're less concerned with battery recharge times and more concerned with raw cutting performance, the EGO Power+ CS2005 slices through wood like nothing and boasts a 20" bar while still retaining the benefits of a battery-powered tool. For those who are searching for a gas-powered chainsaw, you can't go wrong with Echo CS 590 for heavy duty use. If you don't want to spend an arm and a leg on a chainsaw and don't mind dragging an extension cord around with you, the Oregon CS1500 is more than suitable for most backyard homeowner projects.