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The Best Electric Chainsaw

Last updated on August 5, 2023

We looked at the top 9 Electric Chainsaws and dug through the reviews from 118 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best Electric Chainsaws.

Best Electric Chainsaw

Our Review Process

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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.

Our Picks For The Top Electric Chainsaws

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Our Take
Pros
Cons
  The Best Overall

Makita Electric Chain Saw

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Makita

Electric Chain Saw

With 14.5 Amps of power, the Makita Electric Chain Saw can tackle small and midsized logs fairly easily, although it may struggle a little with much larger logs. Rubberized coating helps keep your hands comfortable while you work, and the design keeps the weight balanced to provide stability. You'll get peace of mind with the polycarbonate build an...

Overall Take

With 14.5 Amps of power, the Makita Electric Chain Saw can tackle small and midsized logs fairly easily, although it may struggle a little with much larger logs. Rubberized coating helps keep your hands comfortable while you work, and the design keeps the weight balanced to provide stability. You'll get... Read More

Pros
" The design is pretty conventional, and it doesn’t contain any impressive elements. However, apart from the fact that it’s more or less a standard design, it is definitely well-made and was thought through. In other words, many manufacturers oversee certain..."
Cons
"The main downside of using a corded chainsaw is the cord itself. It can be a real pain – Firstly, it restricts you to working within a certain distance of your power outlets (unless you want to string extension cords..."

Worx 18-Inch 4 15.0 Amp Chain Saw

Worx

18-Inch 4 15.0 Amp Chain Saw

You'll get power that rivals some gas-powered chainsaws with the 15-Amp Worx 18-Inch 4 15.0 Amp Chain Saw. A three-year warranty gives you peace of mind, and no assembly required means that you can use it right out of the box. Its 11-pound build means you won't have to worry about fatigue when working on bigger jobs.

Overall Take

You'll get power that rivals some gas-powered chainsaws with the 15-Amp Worx 18-Inch 4 15.0 Amp Chain Saw. A three-year warranty gives you peace of mind, and no assembly required means that you can use it right out of the box. Its 11-pound build means you won't have to worry... Read More

Pros
" This 18-inch saw performs as well as some light-duty gas models. It's well-suited for light work, with fast cutting. Among other pluses are a chain brake, tool-free adjustment, and a durable blade cover."
Cons
"Since it is designed for the kind of big jobs that often happen at the edge of properties, we wish the cord did not limit how far users can go from a power source."

Ryobi 14 Inch 40-Volt Brushless Chainsaw

Ryobi

14 Inch 40-Volt Brushless Chainsaw

If you're looking for a battery-powered chainsaw, you can't go wrong with the Ryobi 14 Inch 40-Volt Brushless Chainsaw. You won't get the power of a gas-powered model, but it's perfect for tackling smaller jobs. At only 8.4 pounds, its lightweight build will make it easy to use for hours.

Overall Take

If you're looking for a battery-powered chainsaw, you can't go wrong with the Ryobi 14 Inch 40-Volt Brushless Chainsaw. You won't get the power of a gas-powered model, but it's perfect for tackling smaller jobs. At only 8.4 pounds, its lightweight build will make it easy to use for hours.

Pros
" There is a compromise here in that the chains aren’t quite as strong as the 0.05” gauge but because they are lighter they do help to improve speed, thereby improving cutting performance. Which brings us on to the chain speed...."
  The Best Value

Worx Electric Chainsaw

Worx

Electric Chainsaw

With a chain that moves at 12 miles per second, the Worx Electric Chainsaw provides plenty of speed and efficiency . It weighs only 11 pounds, also making it easy to hold and maneuver for an extended period of time. Auto-tension and chain-tightening systems keep your chainsaw in peak operating condition with every use.

Overall Take

With a chain that moves at 12 miles per second, the Worx Electric Chainsaw provides plenty of speed and efficiency . It weighs only 11 pounds, also making it easy to hold and maneuver for an extended period of time. Auto-tension and chain-tightening systems keep your chainsaw in peak operating... Read More

Pros
" One advantage to corded chainsaws is the additional power over a battery-powered model. The 14.5 amps produced by this unit offers enough cutting power for even very thick limbs. Cuts through trunks of moderate thickness. Works for commercial or ranch..."
Cons
"You'll need to work within 100 feet of an outlet--and own a generator for use when the power is out. One caveat: There's no vibration dampening. We advise hearing protection and other protective gear for the operator."
Don't just take for granted what one reviewer says. Along with our own experts, DWYM analyzes the top expert reviews of the leading products and generates a score you can actually trust.
16

Products Considered

We identified the majority of the electric chainsaws available to purchase.
9

Products Analyzed

We then selected the leading and most popular products for our team to review.

View All Product Rankings

118

Expert Reviews Included

In addition to our expert reviews, we also incorporate feedback and analysis of some of the most respected sources including: CA Best Reviews Guide, Whack Your Weeds, Consumer Expert Reviews, Consumer Reports, BestReviews.

25,489

User Opinions Analyzed

We also incorporate user reviews from the leading retailers including

Our experts reviewed the top 9 Electric Chainsaws and also dug through the reviews from 118 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best of the best Electric Chainsaws.

DWYM is your trusted roduct review source. Our team reviews thousands of product reviews from the trusted top experts and combines them into one easy-to-understand score. Learn more.

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The Best Bang For Your Buck

Worx Electric Chainsaw

Our Expert Score

9.1
21 expert reviews

User Summarized Score

8.4
2,458 user reviews

Our Take

With a chain that moves at 12 miles per second, the Worx Electric Chainsaw provides plenty of speed and efficiency . It weighs only 11 pounds, also making it easy to hold and maneuver for an extended period of time. Auto-tension and chain-tightening systems keep your chainsaw in peak operating condition with every use.

What other experts liked

One advantage to corded chainsaws is the additional power over a battery-powered model. The 14.5 amps produced by this unit offers enough cutting power for even very thick limbs. Cuts through trunks of moderate thickness. Works for commercial or ranch work. Compact and portable enough for trimming overgrown or dangerous...
- BestReviews
This plug-in electric saw was faster and better-balanced than its larger 18-inch sibling, the Worx WG304.1. Indeed, cutting speed was on a par with the fastest light-duty gas saws we tested. Other pluses include a chain brake, tool-free chain adjustment, and a durable bar cover for safe storage.
- Consumer Reports
It has a lengthy 16-inch guide bar, which is great for larger cutting jobs.
- Top Ten Reviews
July 13, 2018 | Full review
The first thing you’ll notice when you hold it in your hands is that it feels comfortable; designed to be ergonomic and easy to hold for long periods of time. Let’s face it, chainsaws are one of the most dangerous tools you can buy so comfort is extremely important. Not...
- Chainsaw Journal
October 7, 2018 | Full review
The power output is one of the brightest points of this machine. Even though it’s an electric unit, it still offers a great deal of consistent power output. Furthermore, it’s significantly less noisy than a vast majority of its gas-powered competitors. Therefore, if you’re looking for low levels of noise,...
- Tool Nerds
December 20, 2018 | Full review
This electric chainsaw features a 16-inch chain that makes it perfect for moderate-sized projects, with the added benefit of a 14.5 sized amp motor. Something that translates to consistency and durability when it comes to getting projects done. The chain moves at 12 minutes per second, making it a fairly...
- Jen Reviews
This chainsaw from WORX has an added safety feature in the form of the built-in chain brake and the low kickback bar. The saw has an automatic oil lubrication system that reduces the amount of required maintenance.
- The Consumer Guide
February 23, 2019 | Full review
Lightweight, yet more robust than smaller electric chainsaws, this sturdy saw features an 16-inch bar length that handles nicely for basic limb work and trimming, clearing bush, and cutting firewood, and their patented automatic chain tensioner alleviates any headaches of having to keep the chain blade is secure and...
- Best of Machinery
February 21, 2019 | Full review
This is a chainsaw that delivers a high cutting performance which is similar to gas saws. It is an ideal tool for farmers, homeowners, and even ranchers. It has a 14-amp motor that provides enough power to saw through tree branches and roots. This robust and light electric saw comes...
- The Z9
January 23, 2019 | Full review
It is powered by electricity and therefore does not release noxious emissions hence a friendly addition to any yard. The automatic oiler keeps the chainsaw lubricated continuously for heavy cutting jobs. Moreover, you no longer have to deal with headaches; the blade remains tight and secure even after a heavy...
- Top Ten Review Pro
Quieter and less hassle than gas chainsaw.
- Car Bibles
There is a large knob for the auto-tensioning and it helps to ensure that the chain always maintains proper tension. And it is one of the key features that make this one of the best corded electric chainsaws out there as it also extended the life of the chain and...
- Wood Working Toolkit
Coming in under $100 the saw represents excellent value for money, offering features and performance you would expect to find in a much more expensive product. Given its solid construction and excellent track record you will probably find this machine far outlives its warranty and in my mind that represents...
- Sawed Fish
The built-in oiler keeps bar and chain lubricated. It has an oil level indicator to keep track of auto lubrication.
- Yard Care Life
This tensioning system is great as it eliminates the trouble of having to adjust the chain slugness every now and then. It also extends chain and bar life as over and under-tensioning of the bar is alleviated. Similarly, metal dogs built-in at the base of the bar stabilizes it during...
- Pick Best Chainsaw
A nice feature of this chainsaw is its auto tension chain system. This system keeps the chain tightened to the correct extremity regardless of which type of wood its cutting. Having this feature keeps it from stripping, breaking, or falling off at inopportune times. It also helps to make it...
- ConsumerExpert.org
It is less expensive. For budget shoppers with smaller cutting projects, this is probably the best electric chainsaw for your needs.
- Review Ambition
January 3, 2019 | Full review
Its interactive design made it best portable hand carry machine with lighter in weight. As this wood eater machine is electric so it does not have any harmful emission like smoke.
- Tech Rater
January 22, 2019 | Full review
Usually, with a conventional chainsaw, I need to use the screwdriver to adjust the screw to adjust the tension of the bar. However, I don’t need any tool to adjust the tension because there is an oversized adjustment knob located on the size of the chainsaw, making tension adjustment easier...
- Luxury Home Stuff

What other experts didn't like

Some users report that this model uses oil more quickly than might be expected.
- BestReviews
You'll need to work within 100 feet of an outlet--and own a generator for use when the power is out. One caveat: There's no vibration dampening. We advise hearing protection and other protective gear for the operator.
- Consumer Reports
It cannot deliver the power and speed offered by gas-powered chainsaws.
- Top Ten Reviews
July 13, 2018 | Full review
This WORX chainsaw isn’t designed for heavy-duty cutting.
- Chainsaw Journal
October 7, 2018 | Full review
The chain adjuster knob is somewhat too big and will loosen itself by rolling against the wood in tight areas. Make sure you pay attention to the knob when doing these cuts, because a sudden readjustment of the chain may cause some issues. Some people complained about it using too...
- Tool Nerds
December 20, 2018 | Full review
The assembly of the chain bar may prove to be difficult hence advisable to read the user manual well before attempt.
- The Z9
January 23, 2019 | Full review
Might utilize a lot of bar oil.
- Car Bibles
Uses a lot of bar oil.
- Wood Working Toolkit
In terms of the few negatives, some consumers thought the saw was too heavy for them and others mentioned that it uses quite a lot of bar chain oil. A number of negative reviews centered on the saw leaking oil and chain tension not being quite right.
- Sawed Fish
Corded chainsaws are limited by how far away they can operate from electricity. Plus, it doesn’t cut well at tip because of its special no-kick tip.
- Yard Care Life
Auto-oiler uses a lot of oil and it is not suitable for detailed carving with the tip.
- Pick Best Chainsaw
Replacement parts are hard to find. Another oil guzzler (this seems to be a problem with WORX).
- Review Ambition
January 3, 2019 | Full review
Failed sometime against heavy stalks.
- Tech Rater
January 22, 2019 | Full review
After using the saw, there is some oil left in the oil reservoir, I put the chainsaw in a horizontal position in my garage. The day after, I saw that there is a big puddle of oil coming out from the chainsaw.
- Luxury Home Stuff

What to Look For

  • 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.

Electric Chainsaw Rankings

1. Makita Electric Chain Saw

Overall Score: 9.2
Reviews Included: 21

2. Worx 18-Inch 4 15.0 Amp Chain Saw

Overall Score: 9.1
Reviews Included: 20

3. Ryobi 14 Inch 40-Volt Brushless Chainsaw

Overall Score: 8.8
Reviews Included: 8

4. Worx Electric Chainsaw

Overall Score: 8.8
Reviews Included: 24

5. Black + Decker 40-volt Cordless Chainsaw

Overall Score: 8.7
Reviews Included: 21

6. Poulan 14 in. 9-Amp Corded Electric Chainsaw

Overall Score: 8.6
Reviews Included: 6

7. Oregon Self-Sharpening Electric Chainsaw

Overall Score: 8.6
Reviews Included: 12

8. Greenworks 16-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw

Overall Score: 8.2
Reviews Included: 20

9. Earthwise 16-Inch 12-Amp Corded Electric Chain Saw

Overall Score: 8.1
Reviews Included: 15

More to Explore

Before chainsaws were powered by gas, electricity and batteries, there were manual chainsaws. Lumberjacks used specially-designed metal saws to cut lumber, making it a grueling job. In the late 1920s, several electric chainsaws came along, the first being from STIHL, which had a power output of only 2.2 kilowatts and required two men to operate. Dolmar came out with a competing chainsaw in 1927, introducing a model that was powered by gas. STIHL continued to be a pioneer in the industry, introducing the first chainsaw that could be operated by only one person. Over time, manufacturers worked hard to make chainsaws lighter and more powerful, eventually even evolving to the corded and battery-powered options available today.

More to explore