Greenworks 16-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw

Last updated: April 9, 2019

Greenworks 16-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw

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We looked at the top Electric Chainsaws and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Electric Chainsaw you should buy.

Overall Take

In our analysis of 118 expert reviews, the Greenworks 16-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw placed 8th when we looked at the top 9 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

We are taking our Lithium-Ion technology to the next level and giving you the gas comparable alternative chainsaw solution you have been looking for with up to 30% more torque and up to 70% less vibration than gas powered chainsaws. GreenWorks NEW G-MAX 16-inch DigiPro Chainsaw is powered with our innovative brushless technology allowing for longer life, greater efficiency and less noise with more torque–making this the first battery powered chainsaw that can replace your gas. The perfect chainsaw for users of all experience, whether it is your first time or a veteran this chainsaw features a heavy duty Oregon bar and chain, .0375 chain pitch, chain brake, metal bucking spikes and an automatic oiler to make this easy to use while providing the high performance needed to get your yard work done quickly and efficiently. Once you have tried our NEW DigiPro Chainsaw you will not want to go back to mixing gas and oil. Our NEW DigiPro Brushless System will offer gas comparable performance lawn tools for the serious lawn care enthusiast.

Expert Reviews

Expert Summarized Score

8.0
17 expert reviews

User Summarized Score

8.6
1,139 user reviews

What experts liked

A cordless model w/ long battery life. Capable of handling up to 100 cuts or several hours of use. Lightweight.
- BestReviews
One big deal about the GreenWorks 40V Chainsaw (model 20312) is that it uses a brushless motor. That means it’s an electronically commutated system that doesn’t lose efficiency due to the contact of brushes on the commutator (the rotating part) of the motor. Brushless motors run cooler as a result, and they’re typically quieter and produce less vibrations that can damage other electronic components over time. And, since there are no brushes, the motor has a longer life as well and virtually no maintenance needs over the lifetime of the tool.
- Pro Tool Reviews
April 7, 2017 | Full review
The 40-Volt G-Max series this saw belongs to has years of innovative technology behind its creation and is considered one of the best in the market. The battery is considered a quick charge, and the battery in this particular model gets up to 150 4×4 inch cuts complete before needing to be recharged. You also have an onboard battery life indicator, so you know exactly how much time you have left to work.
- Backyard Boss
For newer users doing light cutting, the 20312’s lightweight nature is preferable, and definitely not something users will regret. One of the nicest things about the saw is the fact that it’s quiet. Seriously. It’s actually quiet. And not just “quiet for a saw” – you can cut wood without ear protection, which is stunning.
- Power Tools Rater
No emission, no fuel needed and quiet operation.
- Power Tools Ninja
This chain saw from GreenWorks comes with a battery that is compatible with other GreenWorks 40V Li-Ion tools. The motor on the saw is designed to deliver up to 30% more torque for better cutting performance and use in a wide range of sawing applications.
- The Consumer Guide
February 23, 2019 | Full review
The GreenWorks 20312 is a heavy duty worker as well as looking good. The cutting efficiency is very high (comparable to gas based models) and vibrations are reduced by as much as 70%.​ Ultimately this is a much less physical chainsaw to use than a comparable gasoline model.
- Outdoor Ideas
This model delivers smooth, clean cuts, a long chain life, and a new attitude about battery-powered, cordless chainsaws. Featuring brushless motor technology that extends the efficiency and life of the motor, external chain tensioning, an automatic oiling system, and up to 70% less vibration with its ion-lithium technology.
- Best of Machinery
February 21, 2019 | Full review
The 20312 offers the same flexibility in that users do not have to be close to a power source. This would therefore make it useful for taking on camping trips to cut some firewood, for example.
- Sawed Fish
Battery-powered chainsaws give its users freedom to move around venture farther away than previous iterations of the electric chainsaws fitted with cords.
- Electric Chainsaw
These chainsaws are extremely easy to start. They are reasonably easy to handle and light in weight and there are no cords to worry about since the saws aren’t corded.
- All Saws
No pull cords, no maintenance, and no gas required.
- Yard Care Life
It has a brushless motor, which means it requires almost no maintenance and it is virtually silent and without any vibration. Brushless motors will typically last a lot longer than a standard electric motor which is great to see in this model. This motor provides 30% more torque, and it will do 100 cuts on a single charge. With its design features, a low kickback chain bar as well as a chain brake for added safety when cutting a stubborn tree limb.
- The Pro Cutter
The bar is also not too long to make it hard to control. It is stable and easy to maneuver, especially for arborists. Just like typical chainsaws, the Greenworks 20312 also features safety features that prevent it from harming you.
- Pick Best Chainsaw
Designed with self-lubricating mechanism, this is one of the most quiet chainsaws on the market. In addition to this, it vibrates very little during use.
- ConsumerExpert.org
It uses the most impressive 16-inch steel bar and chain, handguard, trigger, chain brake, and many other silent safety features. This intelligent chainsaw goes inactive if no activity is detected within few minutes. In my personal view, this device is the best chainsaw under short budget.
- Tech Rater
January 22, 2019 | Full review

What experts didn't like

Somewhat pricey. A few reports of quality control issues and of "lemons." Not quite as powerful as corded models.
- BestReviews
Oil may drain out when in storage and this saw may not work reliably after a few years of regular use.
- Backyard Boss
Tension knob is plastic and may wear down after continued use. Also, battery will deplete quickly when cutting large or hard pieces of timber.
- Power Tools Ninja
This extra performance comes at a cost - not just in dollars (usually over double the price of our first choice), but also in weight - at 10.3lb this chainsaw is around 50% heavier than the LCS1020.
- Outdoor Ideas
Oil leakage when in storage and care needed to ensure proper chain tension maintained at all times.
- Sawed Fish
This product is still considered a lightweight compared to the more industrial gas-powered chainsaw. This limits the GreenWorks in some ways, to less intensive woodcutting work.
- Electric Chainsaw
They require quality care for the chain tension to be maintained and the oil leaks when the saws stored.
- All Saws
The chain oiling system has a poorly-designed plastic micro-oiling pump and too much bar oil leakage for our liking.
- Yard Care Life
Thin blade increases sharpening frequency.
- Pick Best Chainsaw
Attractive for kids due to glowing colours.
- Tech Rater
January 22, 2019 | Full review

Overview

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.

Buying Advice

  • 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.