Best Chainsaw in 2022 – Reviews & Buyers Guide

Choosing the best chainsaw is not nearly as easy as you might think. There are a lot of little details that could make a big difference in the quality of your chainsaw. Not only do you have to choose between electric chainsaws or a gas chainsaw but you’ve also got to choose size, power, and more as well.

Technology has advanced significantly over the years. This means that chainsaws have also gotten better. The designs have improved and there are tons of different options out there. Lucky for you, we’ve dug through the options to try to bring you the very best choices available.

In this guide, we will share with you the best chainsaw options on the market. You will find a selection of both gas and electric chainsaws here and they will all have their own unique strengths to give you a variety to choose from.

How to Choose the Best Chainsaw

Before you can choose your chainsaw, there are some things you need to consider. These are the details that we used to pinpoint which chainsaws measured up and made it into this guide. It’s an important thing to notate and pay attention to.

Type of chainsaw

First of all, you need to figure out what type of chainsaw that you want. We’ve broken the types down into three main categories for you.

• Gas chainsaws
• Electric chainsaws
• Battery powered chainsaw

Let’s look at each of these.

Gas chainsaws

For a very long time, the gas chainsaw has been king. That’s just how most chainsaws were made for a long time. Gas saws are powerful, typically far more powerful than any other type of chainsaw.

Gas powered chainsaws obviously need gas to operate. These are best for heavy-duty chopping and cutting. They can be very helpful for sawing through large logs of any kind. You never have to worry about a cord or a charge and you always have more power.

These tend to be noisier because they are more powerful. You also have to do some maintenance with gas saws, like changing oil, spark plugs, and the air filter on occasion.

Electric chainsaws

The electric chainsaw can be corded or cordless. However, the cordless model falls into battery powered, which we placed in its own category here. The electric chainsaw can come in a lot of different varieties.

Some corded electric chainsaws can be fairly powerful, however, most of them still will not match the power of gas chainsaws by comparison. Electric chainsaws don’t need gas and they won’t need the same type of maintenance as a gas saw might.

Corded electric chainsaws tend to be much quieter to operate than gas powered chainsaws. You do have to be mindful that your reach is limited to your cord length, although you can use an extension cord. These are also much lighter to handle.

Battery powered chainsaw

Finally, you can also choose battery powered chainsaws. These are typically meant for light-duty use. They are 100% battery powered, which means you are reliant on a charged battery to get your work done.

On the other hand, you don’t have to worry about gas or a cord. These are fairly lightweight and fairly quiet to work with. They can be pretty convenient, especially if you need something easy to take with you or that’s easy to handle. For some users, there is certainly the ability to have too much power. There is also such a thing as too little power for others.

Power

Speaking of power, when you are looking at your chainsaw needs, you need to think about the power of the machine. What is it you need to do with your chainsaw? Do you need something that will be heavy-duty or are you just doing basic trimming around the house?

A gas powered chainsaw is the most powerful option always. On the same note, a battery powered is almost always the least powerful but it is more convenient and easy to handle.

Everyone has different needs when it comes to power so it’s up to you to determine your uses and what type of saw will best meet your power needs in the process.

Safety features

Regardless of whether you choose the best battery powered cordless chainsaw or end up with one of the gases and electric models out there, you still have to keep safety in mind. We will talk about what you can do to use a chainsaw safely later in this guide.

Here, we want to talk about the safety features that a chainsaw should have. The best chainsaws of 2022 should have significant safety features in play that won’t impede your ability to get the work done.

These power tools can be very dangerous if not used properly. Here are some of the things we encourage you to look for specifically.

• Reduced kickback or anti-kickback chain design
• Chain brake
• Reduced vibration
• Bucking spikes
• Automatic chain oiler
• Locking trigger
• Chain catch

These are just a few common elements. Some of the best chainsaws will also have things like a carrying case or perhaps the ability to adjust the chain without tools. These features also need to be reliable. Just having the feature is not enough if it does not work properly.

The Best Chainsaws on the Market

Now, let’s take a look at the top choices out there. We narrowed down the market to a few really great picks. Whether you need a reliable gas chainsaw or you’re more interested in battery powered saws, we’ve got something for everyone here.

1. Best Overall: Oregon CS1500 Electric Saws

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First up is our best overall pick. Oregon corded electric chainsaw is a powerful chainsaw that doesn’t require gas. While electric models are not as powerful as gas powered, it certainly puts out some power. These electric power tools are 15 amps. It’s also got an 18-inch blade so it gives you quite a bit of versatility.

They definitely added some great safety features here. the chain tension is tool free, the motor has an instant start, you’ve got an automatic chain oiler, a cord hook, a chain brake, and more. This saw even has a self-sharpening system on the chain so you have less downtime for dull blades.

Not only is this powerful but it’s really very easy to work with. It’s built for convenience and simplicity. This also has all of the benefits of electric saws. No emissions or gas, no pull cord, and it’s relatively quiet, even when it is cutting. This electric model is certainly one for the books and it has enough power to do quite a bit of work.

Specs:

Type:	Electric
Power:	15 amps
Blade:	18 inches
Tension:	Tool less

Key Features (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest)

• Power: 9
• Versatility: 10
• Safety: 10
• Easy to use: 10

Why We Like It: This electric saw really delivers, making it the best electric chainsaw in our opinion. It’s versatile so you can use it for large tree limbs, small trees, pruning trees, and more. As far as electric motors go, this one delivers. Also, did we mention the built-in chainsaw sharpener?

2. Budget Pick: Sun Joe SWJ698E Lightweight Chainsaw

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If you’re looking for a light duty power tool that isn’t going to cost a lot, this might be a good choice. Sun Joe is another electric saw. This is more of a mid range chainsaw with 12 inches of the blade and 9 amps of power. It has important safety elements, including chain brakes. The side mounted chain tensioner makes adjustments very easy.

In terms of the best chainsaws, this one wins in several small ways. It’s lightweight and very easy to use and you don’t have to worry about fuel consumption. It’s powerful enough for most simple needs and can be versatile for home or DIY use.

The blade has an automatic lubrication system. The safety features also include a safety switch so you can’t start up the saw by accident. It’s really easy to work with considering it’s a budget pick. Finally, this saw doesn’t come with a case but it does have a sleeve that covers the blade for some added safety usage.

Specs:

Type:	Electric
Power:	9 amps
Blade:	12 inches
Tension:	Tool less

Key Features (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest)

• Power: 8
• Versatility: 10
• Safety: 10
• Easy to use: 10

Why We Like It: Most chainsaws are all about power but sometimes simplicity is nice. How much power you need varies but for simple things at home, this best chainsaw delivers. It’s affordable and reliable with safety for all of the most important elements.

3. Best Value: Black + Decker Cordless Chainsaw

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If you’re looking for a really great value for the money, check out this Black + Decker best battery powered model. We’ve shared the kit that comes with a chainsaw, cover, and battery/charger but there are other options available. You can even buy the tool only if you really want to. It’s lightweight and it’s so simple to work with. The battery life is pretty reliable as well.

This cordless chainsaw is just as useful as many of its gas counterparts. While it isn’t as powerful, it still will get the job done well for most at-home uses. And the best part is, you don’t have to worry about gas or a cord. It’s lightweight so you can maneuver easily for just about anything you need.

The Black + Decker cordless chainsaw has all of the same safety features as any gas powered saw as well. The biggest difference is that gas is far more powerful. This saw has a 10-inch blade, a comfortable wraparound handle, and that awesome tool-free tension adjustment that everyone loves.

Specs:

Type:	Cordless
Power:	Battery 20V
Blade:	10 inches
Tension:	Tool less

Key Features (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest)

• Power: 8
• Versatility: 10
• Safety: 10
• Easy to use: 10

Why We Like It: While it might not compare to gas powered saws, this little battery best chainsaw will definitely be reliable for light use. It’s simple, it’s comfortable, and it’s really quite convenient to work with. You just have to know its limitations and use it in the right way.

4. Makita Chainsaw XCU04PT Cordless Kit

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If you’re looking for professional chainsaws in battery powered models Makita might be a good choice. Remember it’s still not a gas model but considering that it is battery operated, it still has a lot to offer. This comes in a complete kit with two batteries and a dual battery charger as well.

This saw is a bit more powerful and it sports a bar length of 16 inches. This gives you just a bit more versatility to work with. This chainsaw has an interesting design. The brushless motor is really pretty cool and it also has a direct drive so you get more power with less battery use. Makita compares it to 32cc gas powered models.

This offers variable speed options that range from 0-3 so you can slow it down or speed it up. The highest speed reaches about 940 FPM. This has all of those important safety elements as well, including tool-less chain adjustment, locking lever, automatic shut-off, and more.

Specs:

Type:	Battery
Power:	Battery 18V
Blade:	16 inches
Tension:	Tool less

Key Features (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest)

• Power: 8
• Versatility: 10
• Safety: 10
• Easy to use: 10

Why We Like It: As far as chainsaw brands go, Makita is certainly one you can depend on. For battery powered saws, this is easy to work with and definitely has some friendly features. It will work well on the go and is best for light duty and maybe some medium duty as well.

5. Husqvarna 460R Gas Chainsaw

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We certainly didn’t forget about gas models! This option from Husqvarna is a pretty great choice The bar and chain length is 24 inches so you can count on these to be heavy duty chainsaws in all of the best ways. This best gas chainsaw is powerful and large. At the same time, it’s not extremely heavy considering the capability. It is about 14 pounds.

This best gas chainsaw is easy to start and won’t take multiple pulls to get running. Compared to other gas counterparts, it really stands out here. Gas powered saws can sometimes be hard to start and unwieldy as well.

When it comes to power, the 3.62 HP X Torq engine has a lot to offer for a gas powered chainsaw. In addition, you’ve got an automatic oiler, side mounted tension adjustments, reduced vibration. The quick release air filter should also do a lot to make your maintenance far easier to handle.

You’ve got power and you’ve got simplicity in these gas chainsaws.

Specs:

Type:	Gas
Power:	3.62 HP
Blade:	24 inches
Tension:	Tool less

Key Features (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest)

• Power: 10
• Versatility: 10
• Safety: 10
• Easy to use: 9

Why We Like It: When you’re looking for power, these best chainsaws will give you exactly that! It’s a gas model and it is large and in charge. It can do all of the things. While it does require some maintenance, this particular saw is designed to make that as simple as possible.

6. Craftsman 41AY4216791 42cc Gas Chainsaw

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Last but not least, take a look at this Craftsman gas option. It’s powerful but it is also more compact so you get the best of both worlds. The power gives you a ton of versatility and the compact size makes it easier to handle and easier to work with. It’s even lightweight which can be exceptionally hard with gas models.

This chainsaw has a 16-inch bar length and a 42cc engine. It even has this really awesome centrifugal air cleaning system that not all gas options have on them. It just prolongs maintenance and makes it a bit easier as well.

This chainsaw has easy-start technology. This chainsaw also sports an inertia activated chain brake so you are safe when the chainsaw is lowered vertically. It’s designed to be ergonomic and comfortable but still, gives you all of the power you could need for most uses. Natural bar oil processes are an appreciated feature as well.

Specs:

Type:	Gas
Power:	42 cc
Blade:	16 inches
Tension:	Tool less

Key Features (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest)

• Power: 10
• Versatility: 10
• Safety: 10
• Easy to use: 10

Why We Like It: We love that Craftsman took the power of gas and combined it with the weight of non-gas models. It’s a unique design that makes it pretty incredible overall. It’s useful, versatile, and reliable.

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Buyer’s Guide

Now that you’ve seen the greatest options to choose your new chainsaw, let’s talk a little bit about some things that might affect your buying decision. Most of these things are really just informational. They are things to consider or be aware of as you make your decision for a chainsaw.

Length of Bar/Chain

You see that there are several different measurements in this guide for the length of the bar on each chainsaw. You also can find that number in our specs listing on each model. There is not necessarily a right or wrong answer when it comes to the bar.

However, there are some things that you might need a longer bar so it’s important to be aware of this. If you’re not familiar with the bar, it is like the blade. This is the extended arm that holds the chain so it’s the length of your “blade” in essence.

The general guidelines for choosing your length of the bar depend on how heavy duty your projects are. For larger or heavy-duty projects, you probably want a bar that is longer than 20 inches. Probably the most common is 22-26 inches. However, you can find chainsaws with bars as long as 48 inches.

General use typically falls into the range of 16-20 inches. This gives you a good amount of versatility. It’s long enough to do quite a bit and short enough not to be terribly hard to handle. That’s why it’s a good range for general use because you can do just about any of the general things.

If you just want something for light duty that makes it convenient, you can stick with something more like 12-14 inches instead. These are compact and will handle things like pruning, small trees, and just basic use.

Comfort

Comfort is a major factor when it comes to handling a chainsaw. A saw that is not comfortable to handle is really not safe to work with. If you can’t lift it, move it, grip it, and not feel awkward or exerted in the process, it’s probably not a great option.

Granted, we know that heavy-duty chainsaws are going to be heavier. You’ve got to be prepared for this. However, they should still be designed to handle them comfortably. This means having a good way to grip the chainsaw safely and be able to support it without hurting yourself.

As far as comfort, you can look at a lot of things. Check out the handle and imagine it in your hands. Look at the power trigger and whether you feel like it makes sense for your hold. Check out the weight of the saw and just make sure it won’t be so heavy that you can’t handle it.

All of these details matter.

Noise & Vibration

Alright, this is a touchier topic on the chainsaw front. Here’s the thing. These types of saws are definitely going to have some vibration and some noise. You can’t avoid those details. But just because there is noise and vibration doesn’t mean they have to be miserable.

If you’re looking for something that won’t be as loud, you should look at electric or battery models. Gas models are always much noisier. Of course, they are also much more powerful. Some saws are designed to run quietly and then are more noisy while you cut.

Be prepared for some noise but there are models that are quieter than others. Always use ear protection for your safety.

Vibration is another matter. If the saw vibrates heavily, this can make it much harder to control while you use it. Again, gas options are more powerful and will likely have higher vibration tendencies.

However, the vibration could be a safety issue so most saws have anti-vibration elements built into them.

Safety Equipment

Alright – let’s talk a little bit more about safety. When it comes to safety, your saw should have some elements built into it to help keep you safe. We took a brief look at those basic features earlier in this guide.

Now, we just want to talk to you about safety and how you can prepare for safety that isn’t just reliant on the saw and its features.

Here are some of the basic safety equipment items you should plan to be using.

• Safety goggles
• Work gloves
• Ear protection
• Head protection

These are just the basics. Not every single job you do will require head protection but we wanted to call attention to it anyway. It’s very important that you remember safety is your responsibility.

You’re talking about a lot of cutting power. And these types of saws are made for rough cutting. This means there can be flying wood all over the place. Keep in mind the noise that we talked about earlier as well.

Protect yourself from these elements to avoid injuries from flying wood and loud saws. Protecting yourself from getting cut by the saw comes with learning safe use and taking advantage of the safety elements

Miscellaneous Features

Finally, chainsaws can have a lot of different miscellaneous features. Some of them will have more options than others. You might be looking for something specific and you should be aware that you won’t necessarily find every single feature on every single model.

Variable speed is a great example. Not every saw has this and it is most common on the gas models that are incredibly powerful. Other things are sometimes common and sometimes not. Many of those features are even considered to be better for safety but not necessarily required for safety.

Here is a quick overview of some of these things.

• Bar Oiling: It’s common to find saws that automatically oil the chain. With that in mind, it doesn’t mean that you will never need to oil the saw too. This leads to a well-lubricated chain so that it runs more smoothly overall.
• Spare Batteries: If your saw uses a battery, it can be really great if you can choose to get an extra battery. We prefer packages that come with 1-2 batteries but some of these units actually make you purchase even a single battery separately.
• Easy-start: Don’t take easy starting for granted. A saw that takes multiple tries to start can be very annoying. If you can find something that won’t require multiple pulls or a lot of priming, this is ideal.
• Variable Speeds: Some chainsaws will give you a bit of control over the speed. This is more common with models that are more powerful. It varies. This is not always common but it’s neat if you do find it.

Conclusion

We hope that this guide to the best chainsaw on the market is helpful for you. There are so many options to choose from, particularly when you consider gas, electric, and cordless markets. We did our best to bring you a variety of choices and fill in options from every category!

What do you plan to use your chainsaw for? Which option will handle that best?

Expert Tip

If you’re looking for something that will cover your needs at home, you can stick to a bar that measures between 16-20 inches. In this case, an electric option might also be the most feasible.

Did You Know?

Chainsaws are built with a lot of their own safety elements. Things like reduced vibration, tool-less tension adjustments, and even safety triggers can do a lot to keep you safe when you are working. Just be sure to check out the saw to know what it does or does not have for your benefit.

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