Best Electric Chainsaw – Expert’s Reviews to Help You Pick the Ideal Saw
Do you want an electric chainsaw for home use? My in-depth reviews will help you identify and choose the best electric chainsaw that meets your specifications. However, before we get into the assessments, allow me to tell you something about myself. Primarily, my name is Ronnie Collins, and I have been passionate about gardening and woodworking.
My love for these activities made me pursue an MS in Botany at the University of Maryland. Upon completing my studies, I started working at a gardening company immediately, thus, getting an opportunity to put the knowledge and skills I had acquired into practice. Now, given my background, I have learned so much about dedicated equipment such as lawnmowers, garden hoses, and so forth. Most importantly, I know all about chainsaws, in essence, fuel and electric chainsaws.
Today, I will focus on the latter. So, what exactly are electric chainsaws? These are a type of chainsaw that can be connected to electrical sockets or a rechargeable battery for power. They differ from gas-powered chainsaws in four ways. First, they are quieter and thus more suitable for backyard gardening. Second, they are much lighter because they do not have a gasoline engine attached to them.
Third, they are easier to power on as you only need to press a button as opposed to pulling a string. Fourth, they are easier to maintain, as you will only need to unplug and store yours in a dry place, no need for emptying the fuel tank or cleaning filters. However, even with that said, if you want to cut massive logs, go for gas-powered chainsaws since they have more power.
If you buy a cordless electric chainsaw, you will need to recharge it from time to time. Today, most of these saws use lithium-ion batteries with recharge durations of between 30 minutes and five hours. All said electric chainsaws are suitable if you are working in your backyard.
Reviews of 10 Best Electric Chainsaws
Contents
Below are my reviews of the ten best electric chainsaws in the market. Each evaluation consists of an item description, information on main features, and a table of the product’s pros and cons. That said, here are the chainsaws covered.
1. WORX WG304.1 Chainsaw: Best Budget-Friendly Buy
Specifications:
- Bar length: 18″
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Item Weight: 11.3 Pounds
- Safety: Low kickback bar, built-in chain brake
- Feature: Patented auto-tension chain system
The WORX is a lightweight electric chainsaw that is quite easy to maneuver, making it an excellent saw for cutting trees around your backyard. It comes with a patented automatic tensioning system that bars the tool from over-tightening. This system has one big knob that helps secure the chain and the bar while also automatically keeping the necessary tension whenever you use the saw. Moreover, the auto-tension mechanism lengthens the life of the chain and the bar by hindering over-tightening.
It has several metal dogs at the base of the bar that provides better stability when using the saw. The WORX offers a 4.0 horsepower and even higher, which makes it perfect for tough jobs around your garden. It has a 6.75-ounce oil tank with a level indicator. When it comes to safety, this electric chainsaw shines.
There is also a chain brake for safety, and it’s designed to keep you away from harm if there is a kickback. Also, the chain brake halts the chain fast whenever there is unwanted contact. If there is a need, the bar can be extended by up to 18 inches to ensure better usability and reachability is attained. To prevent any wear of metal parts, there is a built-in oiler that helps you to keep the bar and the chain lubricated and always ready for use. Also, there is a sprocket that can be lubricated at the top of the bar to increase the longevity of the tool.
What’s included:
- WORX WG304.1 Chain Saw; one scabbard; one quart of chain oil; operating instructions
The product measures 20.6 by 14.6 by 8.1 inches and weighs 11.3 pounds. When I opened the packaging, I confirmed the presence of the listed items, in essence, the electric chainsaw, user guide, a casing, and a bottle of chain oil. Here are some essential instructions for using the chainsaw:
- Take the oil cap off and return it right after using the saw. It will reduce pressure when oiling.
- Always cool the WORX before storing it.
- Get the oil out before storing the device.
- Clean the sprocket and parts around it.
- Utilize the right amount of oil for your activity.
- Other WORX electric chainsaw key features a fifteen Amp motor output, an eighteen-inch bar, and a 200ml oil reservoir.
- Chain brake to improve item safety
- Automatic oiling to ensure constant lubrication
- Fully assembled in the packaging
- Three-year warranty
- Maintains the proper tension for many uses
- Suitable for suburban gardening and woodwork only
2. Greenworks: Best Electric Cordless Chainsaw for Usability
Specifications:
- Bar length: 16″
- Power Source: Battery Powered 40V
- Item Weight: 16.32 pounds
- Safety: Chain brake
- Feature: Brushless moto
Manufactured by Sunrise Global Marketing, the Greenworks is the best electric chainsaw cordless if you want an advanced and easy-to-use alternative to a gas-powered chainsaw. It is a 16-inch chainsaw that boasts of an effective brushless motor mechanism that helps to increase the longevity of the machine by eighty percent. Apart from that, this mechanism ensures that you get thirty percent more torque that enables you to carry out your gardening and backyard woodwork activities with much ease.
It is the best cordless electric chainsaw to use if you live in a residential area because it has less noise and low vibration. This capability is what makes this chainsaw a suitable alternative to any gas chainsaw for home use. Greenworks is right for users of all skill levels. Beginners can quickly get accustomed to using the tool in seconds. There is nothing complicated about managing the machine’s cords, oiling, and so forth.
It comes with a highly functional bar, chain, chain pitch, brakes, auto-oiler, and metal bucking spikes that make it run smoothly. The Greenworks chainsaw is an excellent tool when doing some work around your home or even clearing up after a catastrophe. It comes with a 40V 4Ah lithium-ion battery and is compatible with fourteen lawn tools to provide you with satisfactory garden work.
What’s included:
- Chainsaw, blade cover
Here are some instructions for using the Greenworks chainsaw:
- Have a good footing and a work area free from clutter before using the machine.
- Ensure that children, pets, and bystanders are not in the activity zone.
- Avoid heavy clothing as they may lead to fatigue.
- Keep the saw away from the rain.
- Greenworks electric chainsaw characteristics: brushless motor, chain brake, low kickback chain for better safety, and 40V lithium-ion system.
- Has a long runtime
- Has a high torque
- Has more power
- It is safe to use
- Has low vibration
- It leaks bar oil when the same is not removed
3. LiTHELi: Best Cordless Electric Chainsaw for Safety
Specifications:
- Bar length: 12″
- Power Source: Battery Powered 40V
- Item Weight: 13.27 pounds
- Safety: The chain brake
- Feature: Tool-less chain tensioning
Manufactured by LiTHELi, this electric chainsaw comes with industry-leading safety features that enable you to use it without running into security concerns. It comes with a comfortable front handlebar that allows you to control the machine without any hassle. I also want to point out its great chain-tensioning tool that allows for fast and on-the-spot maintenance.
When using the product, there is no need for manual oiling. The LiTHELi has an auto-chain oiler that dispenses oil to the chain, thus increasing the longevity of this part of the chainsaw. To know about the level of oil remaining, peek at the translucent oil-level meter and plan any long activities around your home.
I loved using this chainsaw as it has less noise compared to traditional gas-powered machines. It is quite straightforward to install the blade on the chain at the front and easy to tidy up after use. The LiTHELi starts immediately and has a safety switch that goes a long way in helping avoid unnecessary starts. To leverage this functionality, be sure to use the brake guide before pressing the brake button.
Perhaps its most notable feature is the super brushless motor. It ensures manageable noise, effective operation, and low costs of maintenance, longevity, and limited interference. When running, the chain attains a high speed of 11m per second. It weighs 11.7 pounds and has dimensions of 31.3 by 11 by 4.9 inches. Some of the things you can expect in the product’s packaging include a user guide, one lithium-ion battery, and a warranty. For better use, be sure to maintain the saw according to the manual provided.
What’s included:
- Chainsaw, blade cover
- Has less noise and is smooth to operate
- A single charge offers long-lasting power
- Has more torque and power
- It’s designed ergonomically
- Mechanical and electronic chain brakes enhance safety
- Its chainsaw is only 14 inches long
4. Oregon CS1500: Best Chainsaw Sharpener Electric
Specifications:
- Bar length: 18″
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Item Weight: 12.6 Pounds
- Safety: Low kickback
- Feature: Tool-less chain tensioning, Lubri-Tec Automatic Oiling System
The Oregon CS1500 is a self-sharpening electric chainsaw and is recognized for being the only and best electric corded chainsaw you can find today. I like this tool because it packs all the functionalities of a typical electric chainsaw, in essence, immediate start, low costs of maintenance, less noise, and silence between cuts. Nonetheless, it goes on to make everything worthwhile by integrating a highly effective chain-sharpening mechanism.
Another thing I loved about this chainsaw is its reachability. With a 45cm (18mm) bar, you can cut big trees while maintaining a safe distance. Apart from that, there is a tool-less chain tensioning mechanism that can be easily turned on by rotating a red knob. It has an auto-oiler that is translucent to allow you to view the oil level, thus helping you plan your logging activities effectively.
It is one of the best corded electric chainsaws given its fairly manageable weight of 12.6 pounds and measurements of 18 by 37.5 by 10.5 inches. Many electric chainsaws review best suggest it for its self-sharpening ability. It comes with a warranty that covers various manufacturer defects.
What’s included:
- Self-Sharpening Electric Chain Saw
- It is silent in-between cuts
- It is easy to set up
- Has an industry-leading self-sharpening function
- Has an auto-oiler
- It is lightweight and balanced
- Works well only if the chain is properly lubed
5. DEWALT DCCS690M1 Brushless Chainsaw: Best for Variable Speed Trigger
Specifications:
- Bar length: 16″
- Power Source: Battery Powered 40V
- Item Weight: 18.7 pounds
- Safety: The chain brake
- Feature: LubriLink, LubriWell
DeWalt is a renowned manufacturer of garage tools, and the DCCS690M1 Brushless Chainsaw is an excellent addition to the company’s portfolio. This electric chainsaw comes with either a four- or six-Amp hour system. So, if you have heavy tasks ahead of you, it is best to go for the higher product as it will offer more power.
Its primary selling feature is the variable speed trigger. With this capability, I was able to set the speed with my finger and thus, attain greater control over the machine. Moreover, it enabled me to reduce vibrations while operating the saw. Like many other cordless chainsaws in the market, the DeWalt DCCS690M1 comes with a brushless motor that needs less maintenance from the user. Apart from that, it has an auto-oiler that ensures the saw’s chain is kept in excellent condition for a longer time. Also, there is a chain-tightening capability that makes it easy to operate the machine without the need for additional tools.
What’s included:
- DCCS690 chainsaw; 4 ah battery; Charger; Hard bar cover
- Chain brake to improve safety
- Auto-oiler system
- Tool-free tightening
- Low noise
- Many battery sizes are available
- Oil may cease to flow after extended use
6. Zombi ZCS12017: Best Price Electric Chainsaw for Home Use
Specifications:
- Bar length: 16″
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Item Weight: 2.2 pounds
- Safety: Safety lock button
- Feature: Tool-less chain tensioning, Steel bucking heavy-duty teeth
If you’re in search of a powerful tool for your DIY projects, then this electric chainsaw is right for the purpose. With 13AMP power, you can pretty much do any project with it at home. This machine comes with a very stylish design and can cut through most things. While it is not specially designed to perfect much tougher professional jobs, it can still be used for light-duty jobs that are within this machine’s limits.
Measuring 35 by 10 by 11 inches and weighing 2.2 pounds, this saw is quite light and one of the best electric chainsaws for home use. That means it is easy to move it from one place to another or carry it around while doing your cutting chores at home. It features a 15-inch chain and Oregon Bar that auto-lubricates itself.
The best thing about the Zombi ZCS12017 is that it does not need assembling. You, therefore, don’t need to have prior skills in putting together an electric chainsaw. All you need to use it is to connect it to a power source, and you are good to go. To use this tool, you don’t require gas. Just connect the double-insulated electric cord on the device to an extension cord and plug it to a power source to start cutting. It also comes with a toolless chain tensioner. So, you can tighten the chain without the help of an added tool.
This chainsaw is also designed to deliver comfort to the user. The molded handles are covered with a layer of rubber to make sure you have maximum comfort when using the tool. I loved that it didn’t leave my hand feeling sore after hours of use. Furthermore, I found that it had an excellent grip.
What’s included:
- Zombi ZCS12017 16-Inch 120-Volt 13-Amp Corded Electric Chainsaw with Oregon Bar & Chain
- Comfortable & lightweight
- Automatic lubrication
- Safety lock button
- No assembly needed
- Not ideal for big jobs
7. TECCPO Electric Chainsaw: Best Buy Electric Chainsaw in Design
Specifications:
- Bar length: 16″
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Item Weight: 10.52 pounds
- Safety: Mechanical brake and safety button
- Feature: Special wood chips removal system
If you are looking for a fast and safe chainsaw, then one of your top considerations should be the handy TECCPO electric chainsaw. With a 49ft/s chain speed, this tool is one of the quickest in the market. This tool comes in a lightweight 10.52 pounds body, which makes it easy to handle even during prolonged usage.
I found the TECCPO quite suitable for most of my yard and farm work. It has an inventive design and is relatively more straightforward than other tools I have used previously. The 15A power motor makes it powerful enough for most woodcutting jobs. I could also adjust the chain according to the demands of my chores without tools. You turn the dial to your preference. It, therefore, saves you not just time but also ensures you don’t hurt yourself trying to tighten the chain.
The oil tank comes with a transparent window that enables you to look at how much oil you have left and plan. It can hold up to 120ml of oil. In addition, this chainsaw has an automatic lubrication system, which makes your operations more comfortable and smoother (you don’t have to keep stopping or worry if the chain is lubricated enough).
In terms of safety, this chainsaw comes with dual protection. First, it comes with a mechanical brake that halts the machine at any time. It also includes a safety button that helps you prevent any accidental starts that may very well lead to injury. When you release the safety button or push back the brake, the chainsaw stops immediately. This electric saw also provides cord retention, which means that it doesn’t unplug accidentally while in use.
What’s included:
- TECCPO TACS01G Electric Chainsaw; Chain Bar; Chain; Blade Guard; User manual; Warranty Card
- Tool-free chain adjustment
- The wood chips removal mechanism
- Mechanical break & safety button for double protection
- High-power motor
- Designed for occasional use only
8. Earthwise CS33016 Electric Chain Saw: Simple to Maintain & Reliable
Specifications:
- Bar length: 16″
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Item Weight: 9.9 Pounds
- Safety: Protective cover
- Feature: Tool-less chain tensioning
Earthwise CS33016 is a corded electric saw that has the power to slice through medium-sized wood and branches quickly and smoothly. One of Earthwise’s Pro-Cut series, this machine is designed to perform most electric chainsaw basics effectively. It is green-corded, has an elegant design, and comes at a very reasonable price.
It features a 16-inch chain and bar as well as a 12 Amp motor. It also comes with a plastic bar as well as an overall appealing design. This machine is also lightweight (at about 9.9 pounds) and therefore easy to carry. It doesn’t cause any significant muscle fatigue after long usage. This chainsaw also features a handle that is molded with rubber to make it easy on your hands and give you a comfortable and steady grip.
The Earthwise electric saw has a bar and chain cover as well as a safety button for protection. It comes preassembled. So, you don’t have to be an experienced user to power it up.
I was pleased with this chainsaw’s easy-to-use features. To start using it, you’ll only need to plug it into an electric power outlet and add oil to the tank. This chainsaw lubricates the chain it’s own and comes with a level gauge that enables you to look at how much oil you have remaining. Given that its chain tensioning system doesn’t require tools, you can change the tension of the chain conveniently, and without having to take it apart. Since it is corded, it will only go as far as your extension cord can go. However, it does deliver a continuous and smooth operation.
What’s included:
- Chain Saw^Blade Cover^Operator’s Manual
- Affordable
- Light body
- Fully assembled on purchase
- Comes with a chain & bar cover
- Takes longer to cut through larger wood/trees
- A little noisy- but quieter than gas chainsaws
9. Oregon Cordless CS300-A6: Best Electric Battery Chainsaw in Quality
Specifications:
- Bar length: 16″
- Power Source: Battery Powered 40V
- Item Weight: 12 Pounds
- Safety: Protective cover
- Feature: Tool-less chain tensioning, PowerSharp system
For high performance and super-fast cutting power, the Oregon Cordless CS300-A6 Chainsaw is unmatched. An upgrade of the highly-rated Oregon CS250, this machine comes with more power and many wonderful features. It powers up immediately and can cut through most trees and wood.
The CS300 has a brushless motor, which is more efficient than brush motors. Unlike corded chainsaws, the Oregon CS300 does not restrict your movement. It comes with a 40.0Ah battery. How long the battery lasts will depend on the task you are doing. Heavy-duty work tends to consume more battery power. However, a single charge can cut 400 tree branches of 2-3 inches. The battery is fade-free, which means performance remains at optimal levels even as the cost goes down. A charge level indicator shows you how much charge is in the battery.
You can use the saw in cutting small and medium trees, bucking logs, and prune. You can still use it to cut larger trees occasionally. On testing this chainsaw, I found that it could easily cut trees of up to 10 inches in diameter. However, it is indicated that it could go up to 15 inches.
This Oregon saw is also less noisy than gas saws (though you should still wear hearing protection if you intend to use it for prolonged periods) and has low front and rear handle vibrations. It is, therefore, more pleasant to use and more comfortable to operate. It also has less fatigue.
This saw has a 16-inch bar plus chain. The guide bar has a narrow nose, which holds low-profile chains and reduces kickback. You will also find a self-sharpening mechanism, which saves you the time, hassle, and sometimes money for having your saw sharpened. For safety, this saw has a chain brake, chain catcher, safe starter, and handguards (front and rear).
What’s included:
- Chainsaw, blade cover
- Efficient brushless motor
- In-built chain sharpening system
- Fast cutting power
- Has no emissions
- Costly
- Longer charging time
10. Scotts CS34016S Corded Electric Chainsaw: Powerful & Affordable
Specifications:
- Bar length: 16″
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Item Weight: 10 pounds
- Safety: Blade cover
- Feature: Tool-less chain tensioning
Scott’s corded electric chainsaw is the best-rated electric chainsaw that delivers both power and precision. It is easy to use and ideal for light and medium cutting. It is powered up with electricity through a cord connected to a power outlet. Thus, it doesn’t produce fumes or mess, and it is a great eco-friendly option.
Though it is not as powerful as a gas chainsaw, it does come close. It features a 13 Amp motor and a quality 16-inch bar and chain. The chain is super sharp when new and can cut for a long time without sharpening. The motor, although powerful, doesn’t make much noise. You can cut 5-8 inches of wood with no problem. This saw is also quite stable and stays in place during operation.
It also has a window on the oil tank to help you monitor the oil levels and an automatic oiling mechanism. To start using this equipment, connect the cord on the machine of an extension cord. You can adjust the tension of the chain by simply by turning the tensioning wheel. There is a handguard near the front handle that protects your hand from the chain during operation.
What’s included:
- Chainsaw, blade cover
- Comfortable rubber handle
- Oil level window
- Ready to use on a purchase
- Doesn’t have a chain break
Conclusion – Which Electric Chainsaw Is Best for You?
From this best electric chainsaw review, you can choose a saw that works best for your needs and budget. Remember, a good chainsaw should perform the job right and have your safety in mind. All the models I have reviewed are safe to use and undertake light to medium cutting tasks (some may do heavy but occasionally). They are also from reputable brands and are well-reviewed by users.
If you need an electric chainsaw that can perform all basic features effectively, then the less expensive varieties like Scotts, Earthwise, TECCPO, and WORX are perfect. For added quality, durability, and performance, you could go for more costly chainsaws like Greenworks and Oregon.
So, are electric chainsaws as good as gas? The answer depends on what you are looking for. For frequent, heavy-duty use, gas chainsaws tend to outshine electric ones. However, gas chainsaws are heavy, noisy, and messy. They are, therefore, best suited for professionals and people who have a bit of experience. Electric chainsaws, on the other hand, are usually light, much quieter, and produce no fumes. They are eco-friendlier and easier to use and carry. You also don’t need much experience to handle an electric chainsaw, especially if it comes pre-assembled like the ones I have mentioned here.
Remember, even though these machines come with some safety features, you also need to take care. Ensure you have protective clothing, including a helmet, ear protectors, work gloves, goggles, and chaps. Ensure you choose the best chaps for an electric chainsaw to protect your legs in case of an accident. Most importantly, work in a well-lit and clean area- cluttered and dark areas increase the likelihood of accidents.
A chainsaw sharpener will come in handy for you if your chain is dull or saws a tree poorly.
Have you tried an electric chainsaw and would like to share your experience? Which chainsaw do you prefer from this list? Share which chainsaw you think is worth investing in.
Ronnie Collins
I’m Ronnie Collins. I’ve been passionate about gardening and woodworking all my life and even earned an MS degree in Botany from the University of Maryland. I’ve been working at a gardening company for a while, so I know the ropes about a whole lot of dedicated equipment such as the table saw, track saw, lawnmowers, chainsaws, garden hoses, and much more.
