Reviews You Can Rely On

Greenworks Pro 80V Review

This battery chainsaw has a battery that charges ultra-quick to keep you plugging away at your project
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Greenworks Pro 80V Review
Credit: Jason Peters
Price:  $400 List
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Manufacturer:   Greenworks
By Ross Patton ⋅ Senior Review Editor  ⋅  Mar 30, 2021
74
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#4 of 13
  • Saw Performance - 35% 8.5
  • Ease of Use - 30% 6.0
  • Battery - 25% 8.0
  • Noise - 5% 6.9
  • Weight - 5% 6.0

Our Verdict

If you're in the market for a professional-grade battery chainsaw, we recommend the Greenworks Pro 80V. This saw cuts like a dream, and it has a commendable runtime. Most of all, it has an insanely quick battery recharge time, meaning that you can spend less time watching the battery meter and more time getting your job done. The runtime and charge time, coupled with several features such as a long bar, metal bucking spikes, a conveniently located battery compartment, an upright oil tank, and an easy-to-use chain tensioning system, have made this version one of our favorites. Check out how it compares to the competition in our article on the best chainsaws.
REASONS TO BUY
Phenomenal charge time
Long bar
Metal bucking spikes
REASONS TO AVOID
Heavy
Noisy

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greenworks pro 80v
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Awards Top Pick Award
Best for Quick Battery Charging
Best Buy Award
Best Bang for the Buck
  Top Pick Award
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Bottom Line If you want a saw with a battery that charges in a matter of minutes, then this is the oneIf you want an easy-to-use cordless electric chainsaw with a long-lasting battery and a long bar this is the oneA battery-powered model with exceptional cutting performance and boost modeA decent battery-powered chainsaw that falls about in the middle of the pack for overall performanceIf 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%)
8.5
8.5
9.0
6.5
5.5
Ease of Use (30%)
6.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
7.0
Battery (25%)
8.0
8.0
7.0
7.0
4.0
Noise (5%)
6.9
6.6
7.6
6.3
7.9
Weight (5%)
6.0
6.2
6.3
6.4
9.4
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


greenworks pro 80v - the greenworks pro 80v possesses several of our favorite elements in...
The Greenworks Pro 80V possesses several of our favorite elements in a chainsaw, and it has a lighting-fast charge time.
Credit: Jason Peters

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.

greenworks pro 80v - the greenworks pro 80v made quick work of large pine logs at the job...
The Greenworks Pro 80V made quick work of large pine logs at the job site.
Credit: Jason Peters

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.

greenworks pro 80v - although the power button is in a convenient location, we don't see...
Although the power button is in a convenient location, we don't see much of a use for it.
Credit: Jason Peters

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.

greenworks pro 80v - battery compartments that are located on top of the saw body make it...
Battery compartments that are located on top of the saw body make it easy to attach and remove the power bank.
Credit: Jason Peters

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.

greenworks pro 80v - the greenworks pro 80v is heavy, but in some instances, the added...
The Greenworks Pro 80V is heavy, but in some instances, the added weight can help you cut.
Credit: Jason Peters

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.

greenworks pro 80v - although this battery is massive, it charges in 30 minutes.
Although this battery is massive, it charges in 30 minutes.
Credit: Jason Peters

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.

greenworks pro 80v - the m18 fuel is one of our favorites due to its fast wind-up time...
The M18 Fuel is one of our favorites due to its fast wind-up time and solid performance across many metrics.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman

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.

Ross Patton
 

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