The Best Electric Chainsaw

Buying Guide

Chainsaws can be both noisy and gas-consuming, but there’s an alternative on the market. Both battery-powered and electric chainsaws give you the tool you need to tackle big jobs without the issues that come with gas-powered chainsaws.

Traditionally, electric chainsaws have lacked the cutting power of their gas counterparts, but improvements in design have narrowed the gap considerably. You still may not be able to take down larger trees with it, but it will do typical yard-related jobs easily. You will get more power from a corded than a battery-powered chainsaw, though, so take an honest look at the types of jobs you’ll be doing before you start shopping.

Why go with an electric chainsaw? There are many benefits. One is simply that you won’t have to worry about all the things that typically come with these tools. With a gas-powered chainsaw, you have to make sure you have enough fuel on hand before you start working. You’ll also deal with pollutants like exhaust, which is bad for the environment along with whatever it’s doing to your lungs. Additionally, electric chainsaws are generally much quieter than their gas-powered counterparts.

In addition to still falling behind when it comes to power, electric-powered chainsaws bring the annoyance of the cord. It limits your reach, which can be tough for an item that’s popular for use far away from power sources. You’ll also have to work around the cord, which can become a tripping hazard, in addition to snagging on objects. Battery-powered chainsaws remove the cord from the equation, but they’re limited by battery life, often fading in power as the battery depletes.

Some of today’s electric chainsaws also build in features that cut down on maintenance. A self-sharpening system will keep every cut as efficient as possible. Some newer electric chainsaws also have automatic chain tightening and lubrication, saving you the inconvenience of having to take care of those things manually.

If you buy a chainsaw, it’s also important to consider safety. Eye protection rated as safe for use with chainsaws is a must since debris is one of the biggest risks you’ll face. You should also wear gloves and work boots, as well as clothes that fit tightly enough to prevent getting in the way while you’re working.

• Effective cutting depends in large part on the power put out by the motor. The Worx 18-Inch 4 15.0 Amp Chain Saw has a 15-Amp motor, while the Makita Electric Chain Saw and Worx Electric Chainsaw put out 14.5 Amps each.
• Another feature that helps with cutting power is the bar. The Worx 18-Inch 4 15.0 Amp Chain Saw has an 18-inch bar that, when combined with its 15-Amp motor, can tackle both small and midsized logs with ease.
• You’ll find the chain plays a role in how powerful a chainsaw is. The Worx Electric Chainsaw has a chain that moves at 12 miles per second to help you speed through those large jobs.
• Kickback is another common problem among chainsaws of all types. The Makita Electric Chain Saw cuts down on that as much as possible.
• The Ryobi 14 Inch 40-Volt Brushless Chainsaw is battery-powered, which eliminates the need to deal with a cord. However, it doesn’t have the power of a corded model, plus you’ll find its battery life is poor, which will force you to keep your work sessions short.
• You’ll probably put your chainsaw through some tough working conditions, so it’s important to choose a chainsaw with a build that’s up to the job. The Makita Electric Chain Saw is made from polycarbonate to provide durability without adding weight.
• If you’re concerned about warranty, consider the Worx 18-Inch 4 15.0 Amp Chain Saw, which has a three-year warranty. The Makita Electric Chain Saw comes with a one-year warranty.
• Assembly can take time, so it may be a relief when you unbox the Worx 18-Inch 4 15.0 Amp Chain Saw and find it’s fully assembled.
• When you’re working with a chainsaw for a while, every pound matters. A lightweight design will help you reduce the risk of fatigue. Battery-powered chainsaws usually excel in this area, and the Ryobi 14 Inch 40-Volt Brushless Chainsaw is no different. It weighs only 8.4 pounds. But newer corded chainsaws hold their own in this area. The Worx Electric Chainsaw and Worx 18-Inch 4 15.0 Amp Chain Saw are only 11 pounds each, with the Makita Electric Chain Saw weighing slightly more, at 12.3 pounds.
• Another factor that can help when you’re working for a while is a comfortable hand grip. The Makita Electric Chain Saw features rubberized coating to keep your hands comfortable while you work. The handle is ergonomic, as well. The Worx Electric Chainsaw also features an ergonomic design. With the Ryobi 14 Inch 40-Volt Brushless Chainsaw, you get a wraparound handle design to keep you comfortable and in control.
• A chainsaw can quickly become unsafe if it isn’t built with balance in mind. The Makita Electric Chain Saw distributes the weight throughout the tool to provide stability while you’re working.
• Even if you have plenty of extra time to sharpen your chain between uses, you may forget to do so. The self-sharpening system in the Worx 18-Inch 4 15.0 Amp Chain Saw will take care of it for you.
• The Worx 18-Inch 4 15.0 Amp Chain Saw and Worx Electric Chainsaw both have auto-tension and chain-tightening systems to keep your chain lasting as long as possible. You’ll also get an automatic oiling system to keep both your bar and chain lubricated with the Worx 18-Inch 4 15.0 Amp Chain Saw, Worx Electric Chainsaw and Ryobi 14 Inch 40-Volt Brushless Chainsaw.
• Safety is always a top concern with a chainsaw. The Makita Electric Chain Saw is built with a hand protector that keeps flying debris at bay. It’s also double-insulted for safety. The Worx 18-Inch 4 15.0 Amp Chain Saw keeps you safe through the use of a built-in chain brake and a kickback bar that’s placed lower than usual.