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We perform the most extensive side-by-side tests on the top 19 gas, electric, and battery-powered chainsaws from Ego, Echo, Husqvarna, Stihl, and more to find the best
Credit: Chris McNamara
By Chris McNamara ⋅ Founder and Editor-in-Chief ⋅ Updated June 15, 2026
The right chainsaw is the perfect size to tame your backyard—without taking longer to start or maintain than the job itself.
After thousands of hours of testing, we recommend the EGO Power+ CS1201 as the best for most homeowners' needs and the saw we would keep if we could only have one. Nothing else combines this much power and ease of use in such a compact, lightweight package.
If you need to cut larger trees, the Ego Power+ CS1815 is what most people should get. Compared to the battery and gas 20" models in our tests, it is lighter, less expensive, and likely offers all the cutting power you need.
We were shocked by how effective the SeeSii M6 Lite was. It weighs under three pounds and is much better at handling small limbing projects than the big saws. And it comes at a fraction of the cost.
Our experts selected and tested 19 top chainsaws — a mix of gas and electric models — in head-to-head trials. We evaluated cutting speed, ease of cutting small branches, and real-world performance through timed cuts and actual tree work at a professional wood yard and a few ranches.
Editor's Note: On June 15, 2026, we added two new models to our lineup and completely changed our ranking to favor the lighter saws most homeowners prefer.
Quick Picks
Here's a quick list of our favorite Chainsaw recommendations.
In nearly a decade of testing, the EGO Power+ CS1201 is hands-down the best 12-inch chainsaw we've ever used — and the clear choice for most homeowners. Most 12-inch chainsaws have noticeably less power than their larger 18- and 20-inch counterparts. The EGO CS1201 is a clear exception — it blew us away with its performance. We even cut through a 20-inch tree with it, something we've never accomplished with any other 12-inch saw. All this while weighing less than 9 pounds. If you mostly deal with smaller trees and branches, this is likely the only saw you'll need — it still has enough power for the occasional bigger job.
While this has a high chainspeed, it does take a little while to get up to speed. It is not a big deal, but it doesn't have instant power like many of the bigger saws. We also found the chain tensioning a little trickier than the CS1815. It's not a big deal, but it has a learning curve. While we love its lightweight design, it still does not belong in the same featherweight league as true one-handed saws like the SeeSii M6 Lite.
No other saw offers cutting power, ease of use, and value like the Ego Power+ CS1815. It delivers impressive performance for an 18-inch-battery chainsaw, handling logs up to 30 inches in diameter with good speed and control. The saw feels well-balanced in hand, making it less tiring to use over longer sessions compared to heavier models. Its tool-free chain-tensioning system is fast and simple, allowing quick bar-and-chain changes. The digital display makes it easy to monitor battery life without flipping the saw over, and the built-in work lights are a thoughtful addition for low-light conditions. Battery runtime is solid, especially when using Eco mode for lighter pruning and limbing work. For most homeowners who need serious cutting capability without stepping up to a professional-grade saw, the CS1815 provides an excellent combination of power, convenience, and everyday usability that feels well thought out and refined.
Now for some drawbacks: It is heavier than the previous CS1800, largely due to the larger 6.0 Ah battery and a more substantial body. This added weight can make it feel less agile during extended use or when working overhead. It is also more expensive than the CS1800, which may push some buyers toward the older model or smaller saws. While it performs very well, it is not the fastest in its class and falls short of the more powerful CS2005 in raw cutting speed. The bar oil reservoir is convenient but tends to collect sawdust along the edges if not cleaned carefully before refilling. It's also not one of the quietest electric chainsaws, producing a noticeable high-pitched whine. That said, at the end of the day, the CS1815 is still likely the best electric chainsaw in the 18- to 20-inch range for most homeowners.
The CS 1815 is ready to rip. The placement of the chain tensioning and the bar removal dial makes switching out or cleaning the bar about as fast and easy as it gets. Credit: Chris McNamara
Using the CS 1815 to clear a dead tree that was blocking access to our friends' ranch property in the Sierra Nevada. This saw excels at logs of this size and even a bit bigger. Credit: Chris McNamara
The Cheyne tensioning tool on the CS1815 is both super intuitive and super effective. Credit: Chris McNamara
"One improvement over the older 18-inch EGO is a much lower-profile bar adjustment disc. It's slightly slower to tension but easier to use overall, with fewer issues getting the bar to seat properly. Credit: Chris McNamara
The CS1815 has some serious bucking spikes and an easy-to-read bar oil reservoir. Credit: Chris McNamara
The battery attachment isn't the sleekest design â€" many competing brands use square batteries that blend seamlessly into the tool. That said, it's fast and intuitive to swap. It does look a bit bulky or silly when paired with a small 2.5Ah battery. Credit: Chris McNamara
The SeeSii M6 Lite is the best small saw we tested for one-handed operation. It is ideal for smaller backyard projects where you primarily cut trees and branches with diameters under 4 inches. Our testers noted they were “surprised how much more efficient it was than a standard chainsaw when cutting up branches. Being able to operate it with one hand really makes a difference, since you don't constantly have to put the saw down and move what you just cut.” Unlike some other 6-inch chainsaws, it never stopped on us, even in our marathon cutting capacity test and in our 4 x 4 cutting test. It comes with a handy carrying case loaded with accessories: an extra chain, a sharpening file, gloves, an oil bottle, and safety glasses.
While we love this saw for smaller projects, it is not ideal for trees much bigger than 4 inches. Our tester said, “The batteries seemed to last forever when cutting 1-2 inch branches, but one larger tree nearly drained an entire battery.” We were also surprised at how long it takes to charge the batteries. Once you drain both batteries, you need to wait for hours before you can use them again. There is no automatic oiling, so you have to add chain oil manually. All that said, we were pleasantly surprised at how well this saw performed for small projects. For many people, it may be all they need and is a giant upgrade from even the premier handsaws and folding saws we tested.
Want a little more power? The SeeSii M8 Boost is an excellent upgrade. It offers significantly more cutting power for larger branches while remaining usable with one hand. The much-improved tool-free chain tensioning system and automatic bar oiler make maintenance far more convenient. Although it is heavier and more expensive than the M6 Lite, the added capability and ease of use are likely worth it for many homeowners.
While much slower than the bigger saws, the SeeSii impressed us with solid cutting performance on four-inch diameter and smaller wood. Credit: Chris McNamara
Electric chainsaws were previously unable to compete with the cutting performance of gas chainsaws. Thanks to the EGO Power+ CS2005, those days are officially over. It is the fastest battery chainsaw we've tested and is now faster than the 20" gas chainsaws in our lineup. It blew away the competition in our standardized, 4 x 4 cutting time test, with a blazing 3.5-second cutting time, beating the next best by 1.5 seconds (a gas saw), and leaving the average 15.4-second cutting time in the dust. It also has no wind-up time. In addition, if you consider messing with a choke or pulling the handle 20 times on a cold day, as you have to with a gas chainsaw, then the Ego truly blows away the gas competition in the speed department. Our testers had the same comment again and again, “it feels like you're cutting through butter.” It also features a handy display that indicates the remaining battery life and the current mode, which can be set to Eco, Medium, or Boost.
The biggest downside of the CS2005 is its weight. It's about the same as a 20-inch gas saw but 4–5 pounds heavier than most 18-inch battery models in our tests. You feel it immediately when you pick it up. Even with multiple saws available, we still found ourselves reaching for the lighter Husqvarna Power Axe 350i and Ego Power+ CS1815 for most medium-sized trees, and much lighter models for smaller jobs. If weight is a major concern, the Husqvarna 350i delivers the most cutting power at 14.6 lbs, while the Ego CS1815 remains the best value overall — lighter, less expensive than the CS2005, and enough saw for most homeowners. The hefty 6.3-pound 6.0 Ah battery is a big contributor to the weight. You can lighten the saw by using a 5.0 Ah or 2.5 Ah battery, though runtime and cutting speed will decrease. Note that the CS2005 uses a traditional tool-based chain tensioner (stored under the saw). Most experienced gas saw users prefer this method, but if you're used to tool-less tensioning on other battery saws, it may feel more involved at first.
Does this model replace the need for a gas-powered chainsaw? Not quite yet. If you're cutting for hours on end, a gas saw is still a better choice. You'd need multiple batteries and frequent charging breaks to keep going. We also found the saw needed cooling breaks when cutting back-to-back 20-inch+ trees. That said, this latest EGO model has significantly narrowed the gap between gas and battery-powered saws. For many homeowners, it may finally replace their gas saw.
We performed both our standard 4x4 test for standardized time and real-world tests during our regular trail clearing and wood collecting. Credit: Chris McNamara
Gas saws still have the best cut capacity. If you're in the market for one, the Echo CS 590 Timber Wolf is our favorite. The 59.8cc two-cycle engine delivers incredible power for a handheld power tool. The Timber Wolf used to be the clear champion in our wood-cutting time trials, but it is now second to the Ego CS2005. That said, when a local tree service left us a mountain of 20-25-inch trees, we found out why gas saws still have a place. Within a half hour of cutting, we had burned out the motor on one corded electric saw and depleted the batteries on two others. The Echo was the only saw used for hours of constant cutting. The battery saws would have taken days to get through those massive logs.
It has a thick bar, a chain guide on the underbelly that keeps everything in line, and gnarly bucking spikes. This model needs no priming — close the decompression valve, engage the choke, and pull the cord to start it. We appreciate being able to clean the air filter without tools and being able to see the fuel level in the semi-translucent gas tank. While you might see this model used by your local professional tree crew, it's also at home in your garage for firewood and property upkeep projects.
The Echo CS 590 Timber Wolf is not for everyone. If you live in suburbia and want to prune some trees in your backyard once or twice a season, a corded electric or battery-powered model will keep more money in your wallet and fumes out of your lungs. The extra-large motor and its increased power come at a cost and weight. At almost 20 pounds, the Timber Wolf is substantially heavier than most other chainsaws in our review. You'll have to pay for this level of quality and performance; this saw is on the pricier end of the spectrum. Our second-place finisher for gas was the Husqvarna 450R, which also performed well. It weighs around 4 pounds less, but just be warned — it's also the loudest saw we tested.
For all-day cutting, few electric saws can match the performance of gas-powered saws. And the Echo 590 was our favorite gas saw in this size. Credit: Chris McNamara
The Makita UC4051A is our top model for people who don't mind using an extension cord. This model did a better job cutting than any other corded version in our review, and it also tied some of the best gas-powered models during our lumber-cutting evaluation (but is well behind the CS2005). Our team loved the clever system that helps prevent the power cord from being disconnected while in use, which can be both annoying and dangerous. Regarding tool-free chain tensioning systems, the Makita is our favorite. There is a fold-out lever that tightens the bar and an intuitive wheel that adjusts the chain tension. This model also has an adjustable bar-and-chain oil pump flow. This is helpful, as oil's viscosity can vary with air temperature and from brand to brand.
We found very little to complain about with the Makita UC4051A, but we noticed the cord near the top of the rear handle. Ideally, the power cord meets the saw body at the bottom, so it is farther from your hand while making cuts. The oil tank cap is close to the chain brake, making it difficult to access and top off. Despite these two minor design flaws, this chainsaw is our recommendation if you're shopping for a corded electric model.
For the person who needs a chainsaw, is near a power source, and is on a tight budget, we recommend the Oregon CS1500. This corded electric model checks all the boxes for simple tasks. It cuts well, its controls are intuitive, and it's not that noisy. Oregon's power source is external, unlike battery-powered and gas-powered models, making the saw substantially lighter than electric and gas models with similar cutting performance. The CS1500 has a chain sharpener on board—just press the red lever, and a grinding stone will tune up the chain while it spins. Our favorite thing about the CS1500 is the price tag. This saw is a small fraction of the price of the top-tier models.
The first thing we noticed while testing the Oregon CS1500 is that its bar seems thin and flimsy. If you have a big job, a burlier model is likely warranted. This model is also unusually wide and somewhat awkward to wield. As with all corded-electric chainsaws, the power cord is not ideal. Although we appreciate the price reduction and like not having to worry about batteries or gas, a power cord is not an option for most chainsaw projects. That said, the Oregon CS1500 is a great budget-friendly corded electric chainsaw.
The Oregon CS1500 impressed in our tests as a budget-friendly corded electric chainsaw that offers good value for the price. However, it did not have the highest overall performance. Credit: Ross Patton
If you're looking for maximum convenience on smaller jobs, there's an even better option than a mini chainsaw: the Anttctig Electric Pruning Shears. These rechargeable shears quickly and cleanly cut branches up to about 2 inches in diameter. Like the smallest chainsaws, they leave your other hand free to toss material as you go. They particularly shine where chainsaws often struggle — on smaller, flexible, or flimsy branches that can cause a chain to derail or bind. They require far less maintenance than any chainsaw: no bar oil, no chain tensioning, and no need to worry about a spinning chain. They're lightweight, quiet, and easy enough for anyone to use, making them ideal for quick pruning, garden cleanup, and light property maintenance. For the majority of homeowners who mostly deal with branches under 2 inches, these shears can replace both a small chainsaw and manual loppers for many tasks.
Despite their strengths, these shears have clear limitations. They are not nearly as powerful as even a small chainsaw and struggle significantly with hardwoods. While the manufacturer claims they can cut branches up to 2.36", in reality, 2 inches is the practical maximum — and even that is only at the very tips of the jaws when fully open, which is often not usable in real-world situations. Overall, they are excellent for light work but fall short if you regularly encounter thicker or harder branches.
The Anttctig shears easily cut through this hardwood brush in a way that is faster and easier than with even the single-handed chainsaws. Credit: Chris McNamara
Product Comparison Table
The Husqvarna 450R slices through smaller diameter logs in a couple of seconds. Credit: Ross Patton
How We Tested
We weighed and measured each chainsaw to double-check the accuracy of the manufacturer's technical specifications. We measured noise levels and assessed the various power sources for the different types of saws, including their strengths and weaknesses. Most importantly, we conducted side-by-side cutting evaluations and running time trials using a specific wood size and type. We use both a standardized 4 x 4 test and real-world tests in which we cut trees of various diameters. For more info on our chainsaw test process, see our complete How We Test article.
Just a few of our many side-by-side tests. Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Why Trust GearLab
This review is led by GearLab's founder, Chris McNamara, who spends months each year clearing downed-tree trails and cutting firewood to heat this home. Chris has bought and tested over 50 saws to date.
He is joined by our resident chainsaw aficionado Ross Patton. Ross grew up around chainsaws, trailing and learning from his father, who cut dozens of ski runs all over the West. Later in life, while attending the University of Nevada, Reno, he not only completed a Bachelor of Environmental Science and honed his skills in developing objective testing models, but he also spent summers working for the largest tree service in Northern Nevada. Ross has used all types and sizes of chainsaws, ranging from battery-powered top-handle climbing models to behemoth 2-cycle monsters with bars up to 60 inches in length. Between his science-based education and professional experience, you can bet that he has compiled a comparative analysis you can trust.
Our testing of chainsaws included a side-by-side timed test to see how fast they could go through the same 4 x 4s and decibel readings, in addition to many other tests. Credit: Ross Patton
Analysis and Test Results
We analyzed the saws head-to-head on each metric to determine which models are best for specific applications.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
The most affordable models are often the only ones most homeowners need — the lightweight, one-handed saws. The SeeSii M6 Lite is frequently available below its $50 list price and comes with two batteries, extra chains, gloves, and safety glasses. No premium saw includes this many accessories right out of the box. Truth be told, this is still the saw we reach for most around the house. We deal with 2- to 5-inch branches far more often than bigger trees, and the M6 Lite makes those everyday jobs quick and effortless.
The SeeSii M8 Boost is a strong upgrade from the M6 Lite. It delivers significantly more cutting power along with much easier tool-free chain tensioning and automatic bar oiling. However, it is noticeably heavier and less maneuverable.
If you can plug in near your work area, the Oregon CS1500 is the best value for cutting medium-sized logs. There are no batteries to charge or gas to mix — just plug it in with a good extension cord, add bar oil, and start cutting.
The best value 12-inch saw is also one of the top performers in this review: the Ego Power+ CS1201. It's not cheap compared to handheld models, but it offers real cutting power and may be all most homeowners need — saving you hundreds of dollars over larger gas or electric saws.
Keep in mind that with battery-powered saws, the batteries are usually the most expensive. If you're already invested in a particular tool ecosystem, buying just the bare tool can be the best value. Also consider the long-term cost of replacement batteries. Brands like EGO offer many affordable generic options, while other systems are much more expensive and have limited generics available.
The batteries varied widely in both cost, performance, and charging time. Credit: Jenna Ammerman
The Husqvarna delivered incredible performance for the money. Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Saw Performance
The largest portion of our score is based on cutting performance compared to other models. To gather objective data, we timed how long each saw took to cut through a stack of Douglas fir 4x4s. We performed five cuts per saw, calculated the average, and removed outliers.
After the controlled tests, we used each saw extensively under real-world conditions at both commercial wood yards and private properties. We evaluated them while bucking firewood, limbing branches, and felling dead trees to assess overall performance and usability.
The EGO Power+ CS2005 blew away the competition. It was 1.5 seconds faster than the next-fastest battery saw and double the speed of the next-fastest battery saw. It felt like cutting through soft butter. Right b
In our tests, the 20" EGO chainsaw achieved a cutting speed that ranked among the fastest chainsaws we've evaluated. Credit: Ross Patton
The champion gas model of this evaluation was the Echo CS 590 Timber Wolf. This model was the only gas model in our review to break below the five-second barrier in our controlled test, with an average cut time of 4.9 seconds. Subjectively, the Timber Wolf feels noticeably better at cutting through larger logs than the others. With a long bar, a 59.8 cc cylinder, and weighing close to 20 pounds, you can practically set this machine on a log, pull the throttle, and watch it do the work.
We found a lot of power in the Echo CS 590's 59.8cc two-cycle motor. Credit: Ross Patton
In addition to timing one cut through 4x4s, we went to the real world and cut up pine trees, so that we could measure how many 9-inch pine trees you could cut per minute:
We also measured the windup time for the saw to reach peak RPMs. If a saw takes more than 0.5 seconds, you notice the lag, which affects your flow when you start and stop the saw frequently.
Taking into account cutting time, windup time, and other factors, we calculated our overall saw performance score.
The Husqvarna 450R, another gas-powered saw, was not far behind the Timber Wolf in the gas-powered division with an average cut time of 6.8 seconds. This model had no problem slicing through our testing lumber and performed well for other tasks around our site. The wind-up time for both of these models is practically non-existent. Once the engine is warmed up, when you squeeze the throttle, the chain spins at full RPM in an instant.
The Husqvarna 450R stands out as one of the top gas-powered models we've evaluated, delivering a powerful and user-friendly experience. Credit: Ross Patton
The best 18-inch cordless electric models are the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i and Ego Power+ CS1815. Their average time in our cutting assessment was 5.1 seconds in their boost modes. These cuts quickly, handles well, and winds up in about a quarter of a second.
The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i was an immediate hit with our testing team. Credit: Ross Patton
The Makita UC4051A 9s, and the Greenworks Pro 80V also scored quite well in this metric. The 18-inch Ego showed an average cut time of 5.9 seconds with a wind-up time of 1.25 seconds. The Greenworks was slightly quicker to wind up at 1.15 seconds and slightly faster to cut, with an average time of 5.3 seconds. The corded Makita reached full RPMs in only half a second, resulting in an average cut time of 5.7 seconds.
The Makita UC4051A, a corded chainsaw, performed as well as the best battery-powered models during this evaluation. Credit: Ross Patton
For those shopping for a budget-friendly chainsaw, we were very impressed by the Oregon CS1500, considering its price. This plug-in electric model has an average cut time of 7.8 seconds and winds up in half a second. We are confident that this model will handle most tasks around the backyard if you are close enough to a power source.
The Oregon CS1500 offers exceptional value, combining affordability with strong performance. Credit: Ross Patton
The SeeSii Mini Cordless came out on top for the inexpensive handheld models. Its time isn't all that impressive compared to the big saws, but you typically won't be using this saw for big projects. Note that, due to the limited bar lengths on the handheld models, we cut four individual 4 x 4s instead of timing them all at once.
We modified the 4 x 4 test for the smaller saws. They all got through four 4 x 4's, but it took time. Credit: Chris McNamara
Cut Capacity
Almost as important as cutting speed is how much cutting you can get done per battery or gas fill. Below is a select group from our lineup and how long each one lasted before needing to be refueled or to get a new battery. Not surprisingly, the gas models did the best. We were surprised by how little cutting time some of the battery models had. For example, the Dewalt 60V Flexvolt 18 was impressively fast at cutting, but ran for only 3.5 minutes before needing a new battery.
Measured Cutting Runtime (minutes)
Product
Minutes
Echo CS 590
29
Husqvarna 450R
23
Stihl MS 180 C-BE
19
Husqvarna Power Axe 350i
10.25
EGO Power+ CS1800
9.55
Saker Mini Portable
7.56
EGO Power+ CS2005
6.25
Ego Power+ CS1201
6.25
SeeSii Mini Cordless
5.75
Dewalt 60V Flexvolt 18
3.5
While the Dewalt 60V Flexvolt 18 cuts fast, it only lasts 3.5 minutes before needing a new battery. Credit: Chris McNamara
Of course, just running for a long time is only impressive relative to the amount of work it gets done. Below, we show how many 9-inch pine disks each saw was able to cut per battery. You quickly see how much work the bigger saws with bigger batteries get done. You also see that while the CS2005 battery only lasted a bit over 6 minutes, in that time, it got as much done as the PowerAxe 350i
9 inch disks cut per battery
Product
Total disks
EGO Power+ CS2005
74.5
Husqvarna Power Axe 350i
74.4
EGO Power+ CS1800
70.6
Ego Power+ CS1201
32.1
Dewalt 60V Flexvolt 18
27.9
SeeSii Mini Cordless
7.1
Saker Mini Portable
5.9
Tietoc Mini Cordless
5.5
Gas-powered models require a gas can of fuel, and 50:1 two-cycle oil must be mixed to the correct ratio for the engine to run properly. Cordless versions have heavy, often expensive batteries that need to be charged, and corded chainsaws require an extension cord and a nearby power source. It is imperative to consider the location of your project and its proximity to either a power outlet or a generator for the battery-powered and corded models, or to a gas station for the 2-cycle saws. For a more in-depth discussion of the differences between the three types of chainsaws, please read through our article on choosing the right chainsaw for you.
The type of chainsaw you purchase will depend on your individual needs. Credit: Ross Patton
Battery-Powered
Cordless electric chainsaws are in their infancy compared to 2-cycle and even corded electric models. However, with the advancements in lithium-ion battery technology in the last decade, they aren't just holding their own against corded and gasoline models—in many ways, they are outperforming them.
Battery-powered models are a fantastic alternative to gas-powered versions for many people. Credit: Ross Patton
For many smaller projects, a fully charged battery can often provide more power than you need without the priming, pulling, and fumes associated with a 2-stroke model. Of course, battery performance declines in cold temperatures, and our runtimes were at 60 degrees F. We didn't consider cold-weather performance degradation a big deal, unlike with other battery-operated products like electric scooters, which experience dramatic range decreases in freezing temperatures. That said, nothing is worse than a gas chainsaw that won't start at all in cold temperatures.
Gas-Powered
The most widely used and popular chainsaws are 2-cycle models. With the freedom from an electric power source, they are the hands-down favorite for loggers and commercial tree services. They only take a few pulls to start as long as they're properly tuned and maintained. To evaluate this metric, we timed how long each model ran at full throttle with a full tank of gas under no load, stopping every 10 minutes to let the motor cool and double-check bar & chain oil levels.
The chainsaws were securely fastened with metal straps during testing to ensure accurate runtime measurements. It's important to note that this method should not be replicated at home for safety reasons. Credit: Ross Patton
When it comes to runtime, the gas-powered models finish right in the middle of the pack compared to the battery-powered versions. With its smaller engine and shorter bar, the 32cc Stihl MS 180 C-BE ran for 19 minutes. As one might predict, the 50cc Husqvarna 450R with the longer bar ran out of fuel faster, with a runtime of 23 minutes. Surprisingly, the Echo CS 590 lasted for 29 minutes despite its 59.88 cc engine.
A 2-cycle model and the corresponding extra steps to getting it to go. Credit: Ross Patton
Where the 2-cycle models make up for their less-than-impressive runtimes is their time to refuel. Mixing a gallon of gas takes a minute or two, which lasts for several chainsaw top-offs. If your gas can is mixed and nearby, this chainsaw takes under a minute to refuel and return to cutting. Considering that battery charging times can range from 30 minutes to 3 hours, gas-powered tools are most certainly the way for those who want to get their projects done as quickly as possible.
Corded Electric
This type of chainsaw is the least popular type among professionals but may be the perfect choice for a certain type of DIYer. They don't have an unlimited runtime because you have to stop every so often to check and top off the bar & chain oil. Also, models such as the Makita UC4051A are equipped with mechanisms that stop the saw when it is overheating or overloading, which requires a cool-down period.
Three ways to power a chainsaw: battery, corded electric and gas. Credit: Ross Patton
The huge limiting factor for this type of chainsaw is the cord. The cord needs to be a certain gauge and long enough to get to your workspace, not to mention these types of cords can get expensive. Even with the proper cord, it must go into an outlet with a strong amperage protected by a GFCI. Drawbacks aside, if you already own the power cord and you know you're going to be working close enough to an outlet, it is nice to be free from huffing 2-stroke fumes or waiting for batteries to charge. However, considering most chainsaw projects take place much further than 100 feet from an outlet, we docked points from corded models for the Power Performance section of the review.
Despite using 100-foot extension cords, Corded electric models encountered limitations in reaching certain parts of the testing area. Credit: Ross Patton
We then take all the cut data to establish an overall cut capacity score.
Ease of Use
Our ease-of-use metric measures how quickly and easily the chainsaw can go from your garage shelf to getting your project done.
Our favorite cordless electric models for this metric are the SeeSii M6 Lite, SeeSii M8 Boost, Ego Power+ CS1201, Ego Power+ CS2005 and the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i.
The SeeSii models are as intuitive as using a drill and about the same weight. You click on the battery, hold down a safety button with your thumb, and start cutting. No chainsaw brakes or elaborate startup procedure.
The CS2005 has an intuitive screen that lets you know if you are in eco, medium or boost modes. It also shows the battery level and high-beam status. Its chains tensioning system is like the gas saws, which require a tool.
The informative LCD keeps you in control. It clearly shows the battery level and lets you know the selected power mode (eco, medium, or turbo). It even indicates if the built-in high beams are activated. Credit: Chris McNamara
The Power Axe has an on/off button, a chain brake, and a grip safety. We found the grip safety to be intuitive and easy to use. This model also has a “boost mode” button next to the on/off switch when you need that extra power. But remember, when using boost mode, you are draining the battery faster than when this feature is not engaged.
The Power Axe 350i is one of the easier and more intuitive models to use. Credit: Ross Patton
The 350i uses a tool-free chain tensioning system. To loosen or tighten the bar on this model, a lever folds out of a large plastic wheel that encases the primary nut. Just to the left of the large wheel is a dial that adjusts the tension. You loosen the main nut, adjust the dial, and tighten it back down.
The chain tensioning on the Power Axe is about as easy as it gets. Credit: Ross Patton
The CS1815 is incredibly easy to turn on. Simply disengage the chain brake, press the thumb safety, and pull the trigger. This model also includes metal bucking spikes and an LED light to illuminate your work area.
Bucking spikes, sometimes called “dogs,” are sharp points on one or both sides of the chain that aid in leverage when cutting.
The chain-tensioning system on the CS1815 is very simple to use. Spinning the wheel in one direction tightens the chain; spinning it the opposite way locks the bar to the saw body. This model has a battery compartment on the underside of the device, which is more difficult to use than models with a compartment on the top.
Bar oil is critical for chainsaw operation. Without oil, there is nothing to reduce the friction caused by the chain spinning on the bar, which can severely damage the machine.
The Stihl MS 180 C-BE is the easiest to use for gas-powered models. It has metal bucking spikes, a thumb safety on the grip, and a tool-free chain tensioning system that is a no-brainer to operate. This model is advantageous against the other gas-powered models in our review because it employs Stihl's trademark Easy2Start system. Through clever engineering, they've discovered how to gently pull the start cord and then have it release all of the energy into an automatic quick crank when the cord is near the end of the line.
The Stihl MS 180 C-BE has a thumb safety lever that ensures the throttle can't be squeezed unless you're properly holding the handle. Credit: Ross Patton
The chain tensioning system on this model is basically self-explanatory. Credit: Ross Patton
Metal bucking spikes are always a plus. Credit: Ross Patton
To tension or change the chain on the Echo CS 590 and the Husqvarna 450R, use the included screwdriver/wrench tool, commonly called a “scrench.” Many loggers prefer a scrench to a tool-free system because there are fewer parts to break, and they leave less room for error. It may take an extra minute or two to learn and operate this system, but we've found that under heavy-duty use, saws that use a scrench tend to loosen less often than tool-free systems and may save time in the long run. The CS 590 and 450R ranked behind the Stihl MS 180 C-BE on this metric because the longer saw cords are harder to pull.
Many chainsaws come with an included tools for tightening or changing the chain and making micro-adjustments. Credit: Ross Patton
The Echo CS 590 Timber Wolf has an integrated guide on the saw's base that keeps the chain in line and makes chain changes easier than on many other models. This model also has big, gnarly bucking spikes that dig into the bark and an air filter cover that can be removed without using tools.
The chain guide on the underside of the Echo CS 590 keeps the chain lined up while in operation and when you're changing it out. Credit: Ross Patton
The Timber Wolf has some of the biggest and sharpest bucking spikes that we've ever seen on a consumer chainsaw. Credit: Ross Patton
The 590's air filter cover can be removed without the use of tools. Credit: Ross Patton
One very smart feature on the Husqvarna 450R is the automatic kill switch return. To stop the motor, you have to hold the switch down for a second or two, and it is spring-loaded to return to the run position. This serves two purposes: You don't have to worry about resetting the switch when it's time to start the saw again, and if you ever accidentally bump it while cutting, the engine won't die unexpectedly.
For ease of use, the Husqvarna 450R incorporates a self-returning stop lever that automatically resets to the run position. Credit: Ross Patton
Corded Electric
Our top-scoring models for this sub-category of chainsaws are the Makita UC4051A and the Oregon CS1500. There are no electronic buttons to push, cords to pull, or chokes to set—just a side safety and the throttle. Both models have tool-free chain tensioning systems that are easy to use. Our team noticed that the Makita's oil tank is somewhat awkward, but the Oregon's is more accessible and easier to fill.
The Oregon CS1500 features a straightforward starting process. Disengage the chain brake, then press the safety switch and pull the trigger to begin cutting. Credit: Ross Patton
Noise
For the remaining 5% of our total score, we measured the noise each chainsaw emitted using a sound pressure level meter at a distance of 48 inches while the machines were at full throttle. We also used a panel of judges stationed 50 feet away to let us know if any saws were especially annoying or emitted an offensive pitch—a survey designed to gauge how much these tools might bother your family, roommates, or neighbors.
The Worx WG322 and the handheld models all scored best here. With top readings of 70-80 decibels and no reports of additional terrible sounds, these models are the way to go if you're concerned about keeping things quiet. Shockingly, the super high-performance Husqvarna Power Axe 250i emitted only 82.1 dBa at a distance of 48 inches, making it a fantastic choice for those who need to run their chainsaw in an urban or suburban environment.
The Greenworks Pro 80V and Ego Power+ CS1815 are more likely to cause headaches in the upper 80s with decibel readings. The corded electric Makita UC4051A is whiny, annoying, and loud at 94.1 decibels. The slightly less powerful but largely more affordable Oregon CS1500 only emits 86.6 decibels. At 92.3 decibels, the Echo CS 590 is relatively quiet for a gas-powered machine. Finishing dead last in our noise assessment was the Husqvarna 450R. With its 50cc 2-cycle engine, this model produced 106.5 decibels and had a pitch that could annoy every neighbor on the block.
Sound testing the chainsaws with a decibel meter. Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Weight/Cutting Small Limbs
While most people prefer a lighter saw, weight can help you when cutting through big logs. Generally, heavier saws cut faster, and lighter saws are much easier to maneuver. Weight really matters if you are climbing or holding the saw above your waist.
If you are mostly cutting smaller limbs, you almost always want a much lighter saw.
The inexpensive models you can hold with one hand all scored great here. But most of the top models for cutting performance are going to be heavier. The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i had the best weight-to-performance ratio for those who want to cut larger logs but keep the saw as light as possible. Our top-scoring model, the CS2005, is also one of the heaviest.
How to Choose A Chainsaw
Before deciding which type of chainsaw to purchase, there are a few key factors to consider. Below are some key questions summarizing the main points from our complete buying advice article.
Most people with small home projects should get a battery-powered chainsaw. They are easy to maintain, start, and run and usually offer more than enough power. A corded electric chainsaw is usually much more affordable, but you must manage a long extension cord. We tested our corded models with a 100-foot extension cord, which was a pain to coil and still was not long enough for much of our test area. Finally, gas chainsaws are ideal for larger trees and more work. If you plan to cut all day, gas is generally the way to go. However, gas chainsaws take much more maintenance and are often tricky to start on colder days. They are also illegal to purchase in more and more areas and make a lot of noise.
While most people are best served by battery chainsaws, choosing which battery system to use can be tricky. Batteries are often nearly half the cost of each battery-yard tool. So ideally, you only buy a few batteries that you can use across many tools, but how do you figure out which system to go with? In a perfect world, you would project what are all the different tools that you will use over the next five years, and then by the battery system that usually has either the absolute best tools or offers the best value since it's hard for most of us to see that far into the future, we recommend thinking about the one or two tools that you will use the most and optimizing for that. For example, we mainly use a chainsaw and a leaf blower, so we usually prioritize brands that consistently have the highest ratings in those two categories.
The chainsaw's bar, or the blade, is the metal track guiding the chain. When a model is advertised as an “18-inch model,” it means that it has an 18-inch bar. Its length determines the deepest cut you can make in one go. The bar should be a few inches longer than the thickest wood you'll regularly handle. Aim for a 16-inch or 18-inch bar if you primarily cut 12-inch logs. Cutting thicker logs with a shorter bar is possible but requires multiple passes, which wastes time and can jam the saw. Smaller, lighter bars (10-14 inches) are easier to handle, making them perfect for trimming branches. 4-6-inch bars can usually be used with one hand, freeing up the other hand to handle the wood. When felling large trees, opt for the most powerful electric chainsaw you can comfortably control, paired with a longer bar for maximum cutting efficiency. Our tests revealed a significant difference in cutting speed between 18-inch bars and their 14/16-inch counterparts. Smaller bars are generally quicker to sharpen.
If you're unfamiliar with the various types of consumer chainsaws available today, we recommend reading our article on how to choose the right chainsaw.
Following rigorous testing, these chainsaws have emerged as top performers in both our battery and gas categories. Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Conclusion
Here at GearLab, we take pride in purchasing every product that we test at full price and from the same retailers as our readers. We aim to leave the bias at home and let the testing data speak for itself. Since diving into power tools four years ago, the chainsaw category has become one of our favorites. After reading this article, we hope you can purchase the perfect model for your individual needs and budget.
Chainsaws make quite a mess. One of the best tools we've found for cleaning up sawdust is a powerful leaf blower. You might also like our tests of other top-rated power saws, like miter saws and circular saws, to help you find the right tools for all your projects.
