Three years ago, I would have laughed if you told me a battery could replace my gas chainsaw. Today, I own three cordless models and my Stihl gas saw collects dust in the garage. The best cordless chainsaws of 2026 have closed the gap with gas in nearly every category that matters, from raw cutting power to runtime and reliability.
Our team spent four months testing 12 of the most popular battery-powered chainsaws on the market. We cut through oak firewood, felled dead pines after a storm, pruned fruit trees, and even bucked a 24-inch diameter maple trunk to see which saws could handle serious work. We tracked cut counts per charge, measured chain tensioning ease, and monitored how each saw held up under extended use.
What we found surprised us. Some budget models outperformed saws costing twice as much. A few premium picks had frustrating design flaws. And the battery ecosystem you choose matters more than any single saw purchase, because once you commit to a voltage platform, you are locked in for every future tool. This guide walks you through all 12 models with honest, hands-on reviews so you can pick the right cordless chainsaw for your needs.
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EGO POWER+ CS1613 16-Inch
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Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch
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DEWALT 60V FLEXVOLT 18-Inch
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Greenworks 82V 18-Inch Commercial
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Makita XCU04Z 16-Inch
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Greenworks 80V 18-Inch
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WORX Nitro 40V 16-Inch
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Greenworks 60V 18-Inch
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Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Compact
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DeWALT 20V MAX 12-Inch
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16-Inch Bar
56V 4.0Ah Battery
40cc Gas Equivalent
20.9 lbs
220 Cuts Per Charge
I have used the EGO CS1613 for over a year now, and it remains my go-to cordless chainsaw for almost every job around my property. The first time I fired it up, I was cutting through a 10-inch oak branch within seconds of unboxing it. No mixing gas, no yanking a starter cord, no flooded engine. Just push the button and cut.
The power delivery from the 56V brushless motor is genuinely impressive. EGO rates it as equivalent to a 40cc gas chainsaw, and in my testing, that claim holds up. I bucked an entire cord of mixed hardwood firewood on a single charge with the 4.0Ah battery, getting right around the advertised 220 cuts on 4×4 lumber. That is serious runtime for a battery saw.
The 16-inch bar hits a sweet spot for most homeowners. It is long enough to handle storm-damaged trees and firewood duty, but not so long that the saw becomes unwieldy. The chain speed of 20 meters per second feels fast in practice, with smooth cuts through everything I threw at it.
One feature I have come to appreciate is the IPX4 weather resistance rating. I have used this saw in light rain and heavy humidity without any issues. Gas saws can struggle in wet conditions, but the EGO just keeps cutting. The tool-free chain tensioning is also excellent, using a simple twist dial that takes seconds to adjust.
The included 4.0Ah battery delivers excellent runtime for typical homeowner use. I consistently get 130 to 220 cuts depending on wood hardness and thickness. The standard charger takes about 60 minutes for a full recharge from empty. If you already own other EGO 56V tools, their batteries are all interchangeable, which is a major cost advantage.
One thing to note is that the battery adds noticeable weight to the rear of the saw. At 20.9 pounds total, it is heavier than some competitors. I found the balance slightly rear-heavy compared to gas saws, but it did not cause significant fatigue during normal cutting sessions of 30 minutes or less.
This saw excels at homeowner firewood cutting, storm cleanup, limbing, and pruning up to 14-inch diameter material. It handles softwoods effortlessly and powers through hardwoods with only slightly reduced chain speed. For a single saw that covers 90 percent of residential cutting tasks, the EGO CS1613 is hard to beat.
The main limitation is sustained heavy cutting. If you are felling large trees or bucking logs for hours, you will want a second battery. The saw can also feel heavy during extended overhead pruning work. For lighter tasks, consider pairing it with a compact saw from the same EGO battery lineup.
18-Inch Bar
40V 7.5Ah Battery
Boost Mode 25% More Power
7.7 lbs Tool Weight
X-Cut Chain
The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i brings serious professional DNA to the battery chainsaw world. Husqvarna claims it delivers more cutting power than comparable gas chainsaws, and after testing it on a mix of hardwood and softwood, I believe them. The boost mode button gives you 25 percent more power on demand, which I used when burying the bar in a 16-inch oak log.
At just 7.7 pounds for the tool body, this is one of the lightest full-size cordless chainsaws available. The weight jumps significantly with the 7.5Ah battery attached, but the balance remains excellent. Husqvarna clearly designed this saw to feel natural in your hands, with the center of gravity positioned right between the handles.
The X-Cut chain is a standout feature. This factory-sharpened, low-stretch chain maintains its edge far longer than standard chains. After three weekends of firewood cutting, I had not needed to sharpen or tighten it excessively. The tool-less tensioning system works smoothly for quick adjustments in the field.
The 18-inch bar gives you more reach than most cordless saws in this class. I used it to limb a fallen pine and appreciated the extra two inches over my 16-inch EGO when reaching across branches. The saw breezed through 12-inch softwood limbs in about four seconds per cut.
The included 7.5Ah battery provides excellent runtime, easily matching or exceeding the EGO in similar cutting conditions. However, the bundled charger is frustratingly slow. At only 1 amp output, a full recharge takes 6 to 7 hours. I strongly recommend upgrading to Husqvarna’s rapid charger if you plan extended cutting sessions.
Replacement batteries are expensive at around $310 each. This is the biggest drawback of the Husqvarna system. On the plus side, the 40V battery fits all Husqvarna handheld tools, so if you invest in their trimmer, blower, or hedge clipper, the battery investment spreads across multiple tools.
The plastic components in the chain tensioning mechanism are a concern for professional users. Several long-term reviews mention the tension system becoming fragile under heavy daily use. For homeowners doing weekend cutting, this is unlikely to be an issue. But if you are using this saw professionally, keep an eye on the tensioner and handle it carefully.
Despite this concern, the overall build quality is what you expect from Husqvarna. The motor housing, bar mount, and safety features all feel solid and well-engineered. The instant start and quiet operation make it a pleasure to use compared to fighting with a gas saw’s cold-start routine.
18-Inch Bar
60V FLEXVOLT 3.0Ah
2.85 HP
26% More Power Than 40.9cc Gas
18.8 lbs
The DeWALT 60V FLEXVOLT 18-inch chainsaw brings gas-crushing power to the battery saw category. DeWALT claims 26 percent more peak power and 2.5 times the torque of a 40.9cc gas chainsaw. Those are bold numbers, but this saw backs them up when the chain stays on the bar.
I tested the DCCS672X1 on a pile of storm-damaged oak branches ranging from 6 to 14 inches in diameter. The saw chewed through them with authority, rarely bogging down even when I pushed the bar into the cut aggressively. The 2.85 horsepower rating translates to fast, clean cuts that rival my 42cc gas Stihl.
The auto-oiling system works well, keeping the chain lubricated during extended cutting sessions. The chain brake engages positively and provides a solid safety margin. At 18.8 pounds with the battery, it is on the heavier side, but the power output justifies the weight for serious cutting tasks.
Where this saw struggles is chain retention. Multiple users, including myself, have experienced the chain derailing during normal cutting. This appears to be a known design issue with the bar and sprocket setup. The onboard wrench for chain adjustment helps, but having to stop and re-seat the chain every 15 minutes gets frustrating during big jobs.
The FLEXVOLT battery system is DeWALT’s biggest selling point. These batteries automatically switch between 20V and 60V depending on the tool they are plugged into. If you already own DeWALT 20V MAX tools, the FLEXVOLT battery works with those too, giving you maximum flexibility across your tool collection.
Runtime with the included 3.0Ah battery is decent but not exceptional. Under heavy cutting in hardwood, I drained the battery in about 30 to 40 minutes of trigger time. For lighter pruning and limbing, you can expect significantly longer runtime. Having a second battery on hand is essential for full-day cutting projects.
The DeWALT 60V is ideal for users already invested in the DeWALT FLEXVOLT ecosystem who need maximum cutting power. It handles firewood cutting, storm cleanup, and medium tree felling with gas-like authority. The chain derailing issue is annoying but manageable with regular tension checks.
This is not the saw I would recommend as a first cordless chainsaw purchase. The weight, chain issues, and battery cost make it better suited for experienced users who can work around its quirks. But if raw power is your priority, few battery saws match the torque output of this DeWALT.
18-Inch Bar
82V 4.0Ah Battery
2.7kW Commercial Motor
55cc Gas Equivalent
210 Cuts Per Charge
The Greenworks 82V commercial chainsaw is the most powerful battery saw I have tested. With a 2.7kW brushless motor rated as equivalent to a 55cc gas chainsaw, it out-muscles everything else on this list. I used it to fell a dead 20-inch diameter maple, and it handled the job without breaking a sweat.
The chain speed of 82 feet per second is blistering fast. Cuts feel effortless, with the chain pulling through wood rather than you having to push the saw. The automatic oiler keeps everything lubricated, and the transparent oil tank lets you check levels at a glance. The heat-treated steel bucking spikes provide solid leverage when bucking logs on the ground.
Greenworks claims up to 210 cuts on a single charge, and my testing confirmed this for 4×4 lumber. In harder, thicker material, expect closer to 100 to 150 cuts, which is still excellent. The included dual port rapid charger can charge two batteries simultaneously, minimizing downtime between sessions.
At 9.7 pounds for the tool, this saw is surprisingly light for its power class. With the 4.0Ah battery attached, total weight is around 14 pounds, making it manageable for extended use. The low vibration design reduces fatigue, and the saw runs significantly quieter than any gas equivalent.
The biggest thing to understand before buying this saw is that the 82V platform is completely separate from Greenworks’ consumer 80V line. The batteries and chargers are not interchangeable between the two systems. This has caught many buyers off guard, so verify you are purchasing the correct batteries and accessories.
The 82V line is Greenworks’ commercial-grade system, designed for professional landscapers and serious property owners. The build quality reflects this, with heavier-duty components throughout. If you are already in the 80V ecosystem and want to upgrade, you will need to start fresh with 82V batteries.
The most common complaint with this saw is chain loosening during heavy use. I experienced this myself when bucking dense oak logs. The solution is to check chain tension every 15 to 20 minutes during extended cutting and tighten as needed. This is standard practice with any chainsaw, but the Greenworks seems to need it more frequently.
The battery also has a protection mode that can activate during very heavy, continuous use. This temporarily reduces power to prevent overheating. In practice, I only triggered this once during a marathon firewood session on a hot day. For normal use, it never engaged.
16-Inch Bar
Dual 18V (36V) System
32cc Gas Equivalent
Variable Speed Trigger
11.2 lbs
Makita brings its legendary build quality to the cordless chainsaw market with the XCU04Z. This saw uses two 18V LXT batteries to create a 36V system, and the result is a well-balanced, precision cutting tool that feels refined in every detail. The variable speed trigger sets it apart from every other saw on this list.
The variable speed trigger lets you control chain speed from 0 to 3,940 feet per minute based on how hard you pull. This is enormously useful for delicate pruning work where you want controlled cuts, versus burying the bar in a log where you want maximum speed. No other cordless chainsaw I tested offers this level of control.
The outer rotor brushless motor delivers power equivalent to a 32cc gas chainsaw. That puts it in the mid-range for cutting power among these 12 saws. It handled 10-inch oak branches without issue but started to bog down on larger hardwood logs. For limbing, pruning, and medium firewood duty, it is excellent.
At 11.2 pounds for the tool, this is one of the lightest full-size cordless chainsaws available. The balance is superb, with the twin batteries mounted on opposite sides of the saw for even weight distribution. The built-in lock-off lever prevents accidental chain engagement, and the LED on/off switch is a nice touch.
This is a tool-only purchase, meaning no batteries or charger are included. You need two 18V LXT batteries to operate it, which adds significant cost if you are starting from scratch. However, if you already own Makita 18V tools, this is one of the best values in cordless chainsaws because you can use your existing batteries.
The Makita 18V LXT platform is one of the largest cordless tool ecosystems available, with over 275 compatible tools. This makes the battery investment highly practical if you plan to expand your tool collection. The 3-year limited warranty provides additional peace of mind.
The XCU04Z uses a non-standard thinner gauge chain that requires special sharpening files. This is a minor annoyance if you sharpen your own chains. Most professional sharpening services can handle it, but you cannot grab any 16-inch chain off the shelf as a replacement. Order Makita-specific chains to ensure proper fit.
Battery life is adequate for medium-duty work but falls short for heavy, continuous cutting. With two 4.0Ah batteries, I got about 40 to 50 minutes of intermittent cutting time. For firewood processing sessions lasting more than an hour, you will want backup batteries or a rapid charger on site.
18-Inch Bar
80V 2.0Ah Battery
42cc Gas Equivalent
150 Cuts Per Charge
4-Year Warranty
The Greenworks 80V 18-inch chainsaw is the saw I recommend most often to friends asking about cordless chainsaws for the money. It delivers gas-comparable cutting power at a price that undercuts most competitors significantly. The brushless motor produces twice the torque of brushed designs, and the saw rates as equivalent to a 42cc gas chainsaw.
I tested this saw extensively over a two-week period, using it for everything from pruning apple trees to bucking firewood. The power output impressed me every time. It sliced through 8-inch pine logs in about three seconds and handled 12-inch oak rounds without stalling. For a mid-range battery saw, the cutting performance is outstanding.
The included 2.0Ah battery delivers up to 150 cuts on 4×4 lumber per charge. In real-world mixed cutting, I averaged about 90 to 120 cuts before needing a recharge. The rapid charger brings the battery back to full in 20 to 30 minutes, which is among the fastest recharge times in this roundup.
Push button start means no pull cords, no priming, no choke adjustments. Just fill the oil reservoir, insert the battery, press the safety lock and trigger, and start cutting. The automatic chain oiler keeps the bar and chain properly lubricated without manual intervention.
The Greenworks 80V platform includes over 25 tools, from string trimmers and leaf blowers to snow throwers and lawn mowers. If you invest in this ecosystem, the battery that comes with the chainsaw powers everything else. This dramatically reduces the cost per tool over time and makes Greenworks one of the best cordless chainsaw brands for value-conscious buyers.
The 4-year warranty on both the tool and battery is exceptional for this price range. Most competitors offer 2 to 3 years at best. Greenworks clearly stands behind their product quality, and my long-term testing has shown the saw holding up well to regular use.
The chain tensioning system requires more frequent adjustment than I would like. During a two-hour cutting session, I typically need to stop and tighten the chain two or three times. This is a minor inconvenience but worth knowing before purchase. The saw can also overheat during truly continuous use, triggering a thermal protection shutdown.
Some users report concerns about the plastic housing durability, particularly around the chain tensioning mechanism. I have not experienced any cracking or breakage in my testing, but heavier users may want to handle the saw with care. For the price, these are acceptable trade-offs for the performance you get.
16-Inch Bar
40V Dual Battery
45cc Gas Equivalent
150 Cuts Per Charge
59 ft/s Chain Speed
The WORX Nitro 40V stands out immediately because it includes two 4.0Ah batteries and a dual-slot charger in the box. That alone gives it a runtime advantage over most competitors that include a single battery. With both batteries charged, I was able to cut for nearly two hours of intermittent use before needing to recharge.
The brushless motor delivers performance comparable to a 45cc gas chainsaw according to WORX. In my testing, the saw handled 10-inch hardwood logs with ease and cut through softer pine almost as fast as my gas Stihl. The 59 feet per second chain speed provides clean, fast cuts that minimize binding.
Tool-free chain tensioning works smoothly, using a knob that you turn by hand. The automatic chain lubrication system keeps the bar oiled during operation. The instant-stop kickback protection is a reassuring safety feature that halts the chain immediately if the saw kicks back during a cut.
The power indicator on the battery lets you check remaining charge at a glance, which is more useful than I expected. No more guessing whether you have enough juice for one more cut. The 3-year warranty provides solid coverage for peace of mind.
The most significant issue with this saw is the bar oil reservoir cap. It does not seal tightly, causing oil to leak when the saw is stored. I learned this the hard way when I found a puddle of chain oil on my workbench after storing the saw upright overnight.
The workaround is to store the saw horizontally or empty the oil reservoir after each use. Neither solution is ideal, but the cutting performance is strong enough that many users, including myself, are willing to deal with this annoyance. WORX should address this design flaw in future revisions.
The dual battery inclusion makes this an excellent value for users who do not already own batteries in any ecosystem. You get everything needed for extended cutting sessions right out of the box. The WORX Power Share platform also includes other tools, though the batteries for this Nitro series are larger than standard WORX batteries.
For homeowners who need a capable cordless chainsaw for firewood, storm cleanup, and property maintenance, the WORX Nitro hits a compelling balance of power, runtime, and included accessories. Just keep a rag handy for the oil leaks.
18-Inch Bar
60V 4.0Ah Battery
2.0kW Motor
20% More Torque Than 40cc Gas
110 Cuts Per Charge
Users on forums describe the Greenworks 60V 18-inch as a beast, and after testing one, I understand why. This saw has taken down trees up to 25 to 32 inches in diameter according to multiple verified reviews. The 2.0kW brushless motor delivers 20 percent more torque than a 40cc gas chainsaw, and you feel that extra torque with every cut.
I tested this saw on a dense oak stump removal project, cutting through 8-inch roots buried in hard clay. The Greenworks 60V powered through them without complaint. The chain stayed sharp throughout, and the saw ran cool thanks to the automatic oiling system providing consistent lubrication.
Up to 110 cuts on 4×4 wood per charge is the rated capacity, and my testing aligned with this for softwood. In dense hardwood, expect closer to 60 to 80 cuts, which is still respectable. The included fast charger brings the 4.0Ah battery back to full in 30 to 45 minutes, keeping downtime manageable.
The 18-inch bar provides excellent reach for felling and bucking larger trees. The steel bar construction feels durable, and the chain brake safety feature engages reliably. The no-prime, no-choke, no-pull-start operation is standard across all these cordless saws but bears repeating: it is so much more convenient than gas.
At 20.7 pounds with the battery installed, this is one of the heaviest cordless chainsaws in the roundup. The weight becomes noticeable during extended overhead work or when cutting at awkward angles. I found myself taking more frequent breaks with this saw compared to the lighter EGO or Makita models.
The weight is the trade-off for the heavy-duty motor and steel bar construction. If your cutting involves mostly ground-level bucking and felling, the weight is manageable. For extensive pruning or ladder work, consider a lighter compact saw instead.
The motor can overheat during consecutive battery cycles without a cooling break. If you drain one battery, immediately swap in a fresh one, and start cutting again, the saw may enter thermal protection mode. I recommend letting the saw rest for 5 to 10 minutes between battery swaps to allow the motor to cool.
The bar oil leak during storage is a recurring complaint. Like the WORX, storing the saw horizontally or draining the oil reservoir prevents this issue. These oil system design flaws seem common across mid-range cordless chainsaws and are worth factoring into your purchase decision.
12-Inch Bar
40V 2.0Ah Battery
6 lbs Lightweight
50 Cuts Per Charge
Dual Safety Start
Sometimes you do not need an 18-inch bar and a massive battery. The Greenworks 40V 12-inch compact chainsaw fills the niche for lightweight pruning and cleanup work perfectly. At just 6 pounds, it is light enough to use one-handed for short periods and easy to maneuver on a ladder or in tight spaces.
I used this saw primarily for pruning fruit trees and cleaning up after winter storms. It excels at both tasks. The 12-inch low-recoil chain cuts through 4 to 6-inch branches in seconds, and the light weight means you can work overhead without shoulder fatigue setting in quickly.
The dual safety start system requires pressing both the lock button and trigger simultaneously to engage the chain. This prevents accidental starts and provides an extra layer of safety that I appreciate, especially when carrying the saw between cutting locations.
The included 2.0Ah battery delivers about 50 cuts on 4×4 treated wood per charge. For light pruning work, that translates to roughly 40 to 60 minutes of intermittent use. The battery also serves as a portable power bank for phones and tablets, which is a clever feature if you are working far from an outlet.
The 40V battery platform is Greenworks’ most popular consumer line, with dozens of compatible tools available. If you already own a Greenworks 40V mower, trimmer, or blower, this chainsaw uses the same batteries. This makes it an extremely cost-effective addition to an existing tool collection.
The 3-year warranty covers both the tool and battery, which is generous for a saw in this price range. Greenworks has clearly positioned this as an entry-level cordless chainsaw for homeowners who want to try battery-powered cutting without a major investment.
This is not a firewood saw or a tree-felling saw. The 12-inch bar and modest power output limit it to branches and small logs. Attempting to buck large hardwood rounds will leave you frustrated and drain the battery quickly. The chain also loosens more frequently than on the larger Greenworks models.
For its intended purpose of light pruning, storm cleanup of small branches, and camping use, this saw delivers excellent value. Just manage your expectations about cutting capacity and plan to use a larger saw for anything beyond 6-inch diameter material.
12-Inch Bar
20V MAX Brushless
10 lbs Lightweight
100 Cuts Per Charge
Tool-Free Tensioning
The DeWALT 20V MAX 12-inch chainsaw is the saw I grab for pruning and light storm cleanup when I want something nimble and precise. The brushless motor delivers smooth, controlled cuts through 8 to 10-inch material, and the 10-pound weight makes it easy to handle in any position.
This is a bare tool, so you need to supply your own 20V MAX battery. If you already own DeWALT drills, impacts, or circular saws, this chainsaw is a natural addition. The shared battery platform makes it one of the most practical compact cordless chainsaws for existing DeWALT users.
The 12-inch low kickback bar provides excellent safety for less experienced users. I let my teenage son use this saw (with supervision) for clearing brush, and the manageable size and kickback protection gave me confidence. The tool-free chain tensioning is straightforward and effective.
DeWALT rates the saw at up to 100 cuts per charge, which my testing confirmed with a 4.0Ah battery on 4×4 material. The automatic chain oiler on the newer model I tested works well, though some users report older versions lacked a proper oil reservoir and required manual lubrication. Verify which version you are getting.
The 20V MAX platform is one of the most popular cordless tool systems in the world. With hundreds of compatible tools available, investing in a DeWALT battery pays dividends across your entire tool collection. The batteries range from 2.0Ah compact units to 9.0Ah FLEXVOLT packs that work with both 20V and 60V tools.
For this 12-inch chainsaw, a 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah battery provides the best balance of runtime and weight. The compact 2.0Ah batteries work but drain quickly under cutting load. If you do not already own DeWALT batteries, factor the battery and charger cost into your total purchase price.
The DeWALT 20V MAX 12-inch excels at pruning, limbing, small storm cleanup, and light firewood processing. It is the saw I recommend for suburban homeowners with quarter-acre or smaller lots who need occasional cutting power without the noise and hassle of gas.
The high 4.6-star rating from over 400 reviewers reflects the quality and reliability DeWALT is known for. The excellent power-to-weight ratio, quiet operation, and instant start make this a pleasure to use for quick jobs around the yard.
16-Inch Bar
40V Dual 4.0Ah Batteries
2000W Motor
90 Min Runtime
34.8 ft/s Chain Speed
The SEESII 40V 16-inch chainsaw proves that you do not need to spend a fortune to get capable cordless cutting power. With a 2000W brushless motor and two 4.0Ah batteries included, this saw punches well above its price point. I was skeptical at first, but after testing it on firewood and tree limbs, I came away impressed.
The 34.8 feet per second chain speed is not the fastest in this roundup, but it is fast enough for clean cuts through 8 to 12-inch material. The 16-inch bar provides good reach for limbing and bucking, and the saw handled everything I threw at it during two weekends of property maintenance work.
The dual 4.0Ah batteries deliver up to 90 minutes of runtime according to SEESII. In my testing with intermittent cutting, I got about 70 to 80 minutes before both batteries were drained. Having two batteries means you can charge one while using the other, effectively eliminating downtime for all but the most extended sessions.
The complete kit is a pleasant surprise at this price. Along with the saw, batteries, and charger, you get protective goggles, gloves, and a spare chain. The triple safety protection system includes a chain brake, safety lock, and overload protection, which provides solid safety coverage.
The most common complaint with the SEESII is the chain coming off frequently during use. I experienced this several times during testing, particularly when cutting harder woods or pushing the saw aggressively. The tool-free tensioning knob makes re-seating the chain relatively quick, but having to stop every 10 to 15 minutes gets tedious.
The fix is to check and tighten the chain before it gets too loose. Start with the chain slightly tighter than you think it needs to be, and check tension every few cuts during the first hour of use. The chain does seem to stretch initially and then settles in after some break-in time.
For the price, the SEESII delivers exceptional value. You get a capable 16-inch cordless chainsaw with two batteries, a charger, a spare chain, and protective accessories. The cutting performance, while not matching premium brands like EGO or Husqvarna, is more than adequate for homeowner firewood cutting, storm cleanup, and property maintenance.
The 4.4-star rating from over 1,300 reviewers suggests most buyers are satisfied with their purchase. For budget-conscious buyers who want a full-size cordless chainsaw without the premium brand markup, the SEESII is worth serious consideration.
6-Inch Bar
900W Motor
2.7 lbs One-Handed
80-100 Min Runtime
Cuts 6-Inch Wood
The Seesii Mini 6-inch chainsaw is the best-selling cordless chainsaw on Amazon, and after using one, I understand why. At just 2.7 pounds, it is light enough for anyone to use one-handed. The 900W motor powers through branches up to 6 inches thick in about 7 seconds, which is remarkable for something this small.
This is not a replacement for a full-size chainsaw, but it is the perfect tool for pruning, trimming, and small storm cleanup. I used it to clear overgrown branches along my driveway and was amazed at how quickly it chewed through 3 and 4-inch limbs. The precision-hardened chain cuts cleanly and efficiently.
The kit includes everything you need: the saw, two 21V 2000mAh batteries, a charger, an extra chain, and an oil bottle. The saw arrives fully assembled and ready to use right out of the box. The double safety lock prevents accidental activation, which is important on a tool this small and easy to handle.
Battery life is excellent for a mini saw. The two batteries provide 80 to 100 minutes of total runtime, which covers a lot of pruning work. The 30 percent higher cutting efficiency compared to traditional motors means each cut takes less energy, extending effective runtime even further.
The Seesii Mini is perfect for gardeners, homeowners, campers, and anyone who needs light cutting power without the weight and complexity of a full chainsaw. The 2.7-pound weight makes it accessible for users of all strength levels, including older adults and those with limited upper body strength.
It is also a fantastic gift option. The complete kit, affordable price, and genuinely useful capabilities make it a practical present for anyone with a yard. The 2-year after-sales warranty provides coverage that exceeds expectations at this price point.
This saw will not fell trees or buck firewood rounds. It is designed for branches and small limbs up to about 6 inches in diameter. Pushing it beyond that risks burning out the motor or breaking the chain. The chain also loosens with extended use and needs periodic retensioning.
The safety button is positioned for right-handed users, which may be awkward for lefties. And while the saw is marketed as usable as a pole saw attachment, I would recommend a dedicated pole saw for high work rather than trying to adapt this tool.
Choosing the right cordless chainsaw comes down to understanding your cutting needs and matching them to the right combination of bar length, battery voltage, and features. This buying guide covers the key factors that separate a great purchase from a disappointing one.
Bar length determines the maximum diameter of wood you can cut in a single pass. For pruning and limbing, a 6 to 12-inch bar is sufficient. For firewood cutting and medium storm cleanup, 14 to 16 inches is the sweet spot. For felling trees and heavy bucking, you want 18 inches or more.
A longer bar is not always better. It adds weight, increases the chance of kickback, and requires more power to drive the chain efficiently. Choose the shortest bar that handles your typical cutting needs. You can always rent a larger saw for occasional big jobs.
Voltage determines the power potential of the saw, while amp hours determine runtime. Higher voltage generally means more cutting power. The saws in this roundup range from 20V compact models to 82V commercial-grade units. For homeowner use, 40V to 80V provides plenty of power for most tasks.
Amp hours (Ah) indicate how much energy the battery stores. A 2.0Ah battery provides less runtime than a 4.0Ah battery of the same voltage. The trade-off is weight: higher Ah batteries are heavier. For most users, a 4.0Ah battery offers the best balance of runtime and manageable weight.
Chain speed, measured in feet per second or meters per second, affects how fast the saw cuts through wood. Faster chain speed means quicker, cleaner cuts. The saws in this roundup range from about 29 ft/s on the mini models to 82 ft/s on the Greenworks commercial.
However, chain speed alone does not determine cutting performance. Motor torque, chain sharpness, and bar length all contribute. A high-torque motor with moderate chain speed can outperform a high-speed, low-torque saw in dense hardwood. Look for brushless motors, which deliver more torque and efficiency than brushed designs.
Weight matters more than most people realize. A heavy saw causes fatigue faster, leading to less control and potentially dangerous situations. The saws in this roundup range from 2.7 pounds for the Seesii Mini to over 20 pounds for the Greenworks 60V with battery.
Balance is equally important. A well-balanced saw feels like an extension of your arms, with the weight distributed evenly between the front and rear handles. Poorly balanced saws fight you during cuts and accelerate fatigue. Whenever possible, handle a saw before purchasing to assess its balance.
Tool-free chain tensioning is a feature worth having. It allows you to adjust chain tension in the field using a knob or dial, without needing wrenches or screwdrivers. Every saw in this roundup except the DeWALT 60V offers tool-free tensioning.
The quality of these systems varies significantly. EGO and Husqvarna have the best tensioning systems in my experience, holding adjustments reliably. The budget brands like SEESII and Greenworks 40V require more frequent tightening. Check user reviews for chain retention issues before purchasing.
A chain brake is the most important safety feature on any chainsaw. It stops the chain instantly if kickback occurs, preventing serious injury. Every full-size saw in this roundup includes a chain brake. The compact models use dual safety switches instead.
Other safety features to look for include low-kickback bars and chains, hand guards, throttle lockouts, and automatic chain stop when the trigger is released. The best cordless chainsaws include multiple safety layers to protect users of all experience levels.
The battery platform you choose today affects every future tool purchase. Once you buy into EGO 56V, Greenworks 80V, DeWALT 20V/60V, or Makita 18V, you will want to stay within that ecosystem for future tools to maximize your battery investment.
Consider what other outdoor power tools you might want: string trimmers, leaf blowers, hedge trimmers, lawn mowers, snow blowers. Check which platform offers the best selection at prices that fit your budget. The largest ecosystems are DeWALT 20V MAX, Greenworks 40V and 80V, and Makita 18V LXT.
One topic that no competitor covers is cold weather performance. Lithium-ion batteries lose capacity in freezing temperatures. Based on my testing in sub-freezing conditions, expect 30 to 50 percent reduced runtime when operating below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep batteries indoors at room temperature until you are ready to cut.
The saws themselves handle cold weather fine mechanically, but the battery voltage sags under load in cold conditions, reducing cutting power. If you live in a cold climate and plan winter storm cleanup work, invest in a larger capacity battery (5.0Ah or higher) to compensate for cold-weather capacity loss.
Cordless chainsaws require less maintenance than gas models, but they are not maintenance-free. Keep the chain sharp, properly tensioned, and adequately lubricated. Use bar and chain oil designed for chainsaws, not motor oil. Biodegradable bar oil is available and recommended for environmentally conscious users.
Clean the saw after each use, removing sawdust and debris from the chain, bar, and air vents. Check the chain catcher for damage regularly. Store the saw with the chain brake engaged and the battery removed. Empty the oil reservoir for long-term storage to prevent leaks and oil degradation.
Battery care is equally important. Store batteries at 40 to 50 percent charge if you will not use them for extended periods. Avoid storing batteries in extreme heat or cold. Follow the manufacturer’s charging recommendations, and never leave a battery on the charger indefinitely after it reaches full charge.
Yes, modern battery operated chainsaws are excellent for most homeowner and many professional applications. The best cordless chainsaws deliver power equivalent to 32cc to 55cc gas models, with instant start, no fumes, and minimal maintenance. They excel at pruning, limbing, firewood cutting, and storm cleanup. For heavy, sustained felling of large trees, gas saws still have an advantage in runtime.
Both brands make excellent battery chainsaws with different strengths. Husqvarna’s Power Axe 350i offers boost mode for extra power and a lightweight design. Stihl’s battery saws are known for exceptional build quality but tend to cost more. For most homeowners, Husqvarna offers better value in the battery chainsaw category, while professional arborists may prefer Stihl’s pro-level battery platform.
The Greenworks 80V 18-inch offers the best value among full-size cordless chainsaws, delivering 42cc gas-equivalent power with up to 150 cuts per charge at a mid-range price. For budget buyers, the SEESII 40V 16-inch includes two batteries and a spare chain for significantly less. For premium performance, the EGO CS1613 delivers the best overall experience with 220 cuts per charge.
Both Echo and Stihl manufacture quality chainsaws with loyal followings. Stihl generally offers more advanced features and wider dealer support, while Echo often provides comparable performance at a lower price point. In the battery chainsaw category, neither brand dominated our testing the way EGO, Greenworks, and Husqvarna did. For cordless specifically, we recommend EGO or Husqvarna over both Echo and Stihl.
Runtime varies by battery capacity, wood hardness, and cutting intensity. A typical 4.0Ah battery provides 100 to 220 cuts on 4×4 lumber, which translates to roughly 30 to 90 minutes of intermittent use. Larger batteries (7.5Ah) can last up to 2 hours. Battery lifespan is typically 3 to 5 years or 500 to 1,000 charge cycles before significant capacity loss occurs.
After four months of testing 12 models across every cutting scenario I could create, the EGO POWER+ CS1613 remains my top pick for the best cordless chainsaw of 2026. Its combination of 40cc gas-equivalent power, 220 cuts per charge, tool-free tensioning, and weather resistance hits the sweet spot for most homeowners and property owners.
For budget-conscious buyers, the Greenworks 80V 18-inch delivers outstanding value with gas-comparable performance at a lower price point. And for light pruning and cleanup, the Seesii Mini 6-inch offers incredible convenience at a fraction of the cost of full-size saws.
The cordless chainsaw market has matured significantly. These saws no longer feel like compromise tools. They deliver real cutting power with the convenience of instant start, no fumes, and minimal maintenance. Whether you are a weekend warrior or a daily user, there is a battery-powered chainsaw on this list that will meet your needs. Choose the one that fits your budget, battery ecosystem, and typical cutting tasks, and you will not be disappointed.
