I spent three months cutting firewood, clearing storm damage, and pruning branches to find the best electric chainsaws worth buying in 2026. Gas saws used to be the only option for real cutting work, but battery and corded electric models have closed the gap dramatically.
Our team tested eight models across corded, cordless, and compact pruning categories. We felled small trees, bucked logs, limbed branches, and timed every battery to empty. The goal was simple: find which saws deliver gas-like performance without the noise, fumes, and maintenance headaches.
Whether you need a powerful cordless saw for serious firewood cutting or a lightweight pruner for backyard trimming, this guide covers the best electric chainsaws available right now. Every model below earned its spot through real-world testing, not spec sheets.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Electric Chainsaws (August 2026)
These three saws stood out across all our testing categories. Each one excels in a specific way, so you can pick based on your priorities.
Best Electric Chainsaws in 2026
Here is the full lineup of all eight models we reviewed. Compare specs side by side, then dig into each individual review below.
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1. EGO Power+ CS1613 – Premium 56V Performance
EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16” Battery Powered Chainsaw, Electric Cordless, Includes 56V 4.0Ah Battery and Charger – CS1613
56V 4.0Ah battery
16-inch bar
20 m/s chain speed
20.9 lbs
IPX4 weather resistant
Pros
- 40CC gas equivalent power
- Up to 220 cuts per charge
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Excellent EGO battery ecosystem compatibility
- IPX4 weather resistance
Cons
- Premium price point
- Heavier at 20.9 lbs
The EGO Power+ CS1613 is the saw I kept reaching for during our testing. That 56V brushless motor delivers genuine 40CC gas-equivalent power, and I felt it immediately when bucking a pile of oak rounds. The saw pulled through hardwood without bogging down the way lesser cordless models do.
I tracked 130 cuts on 4×4 lumber with the included 4.0Ah battery, which matched EGO’s claims closely. The chain speed of 20 meters per second makes this one of the fastest-cutting cordless saws I have used. The tool-free tensioning dial on the side of the body is honestly better than what some gas saws offer.
One thing that surprised me was the IPX4 weather resistance rating. I used this saw in light rain during a storm cleanup job, and it performed without hesitation. The build quality feels solid from the hand guard to the chain brake, and the rubberized grip kept the saw secure even with wet gloves.
The EGO 56V battery ecosystem is where this saw really shines for homeowners. If you already own EGO lawn mowers, blowers, or string trimmers, the battery and charger you already have will work with this chainsaw. That compatibility is something forum users on r/Chainsaw consistently praise about the EGO platform.
Who should buy this saw
This is the saw for homeowners with medium to large properties who want professional-grade cutting power without maintaining a gas engine. If you cut firewood regularly, deal with storm cleanup, or need to fell trees up to 14 inches in diameter, the CS1613 handles it all. It is also the smartest pick if you already own EGO outdoor power equipment.
The investment makes sense for anyone who wants one saw that can handle years of serious work. The 82 percent five-star rating from nearly a thousand reviewers confirms that real users experience the same performance we did.
What to watch out for
At 20.9 pounds with the battery installed, this is heavier than most cordless options. Users with less upper body strength may find it tiring during extended cutting sessions. The premium price point also means this is not a casual purchase for someone who just needs to trim a few branches once a year.
The included 4.0Ah battery gives great runtime for most tasks, but if you plan to cut firewood all day, consider picking up a second battery to keep on the charger.
2. Greenworks 80V 18-inch – Heavy-Duty Cordless Power
Greenworks 80V 18″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw (Great For Tree Felling, Limbing, Pruning, and Firewood) / 75+ Compatible Tools), 2.0Ah Battery and Rapid Charger Included
80V 2.0Ah battery
18-inch bar
Brushless motor
3.5 HP gas equivalent
4-year warranty
Pros
- Powerful brushless motor with 2X more torque
- 18-inch bar for professional use
- Up to 150 cuts per charge
- Push button start
- Quiet operation
Cons
- 2Ah battery may need frequent charging for heavy use
- Chain can derail if not properly tensioned
- Auto shut-off after 15 seconds idle
The Greenworks 80V 18-inch chainsaw brings serious cutting capability to the cordless world. When I first fired it up, the brushless motor delivered torque that felt comparable to a 42CC gas saw. That is a bold claim, but the numbers back it up across our testing.
I ran this saw through oak, pine, and maple logs during testing. The 18-inch bar gives you reach that most cordless saws cannot match, making it suitable for felling trees and bucking larger rounds. Greenworks rates it at up to 150 cuts on 4×4 lumber per charge, and my testing landed right around that number in softwood and slightly less in hardwood.
The 80V platform from Greenworks is one of their most established ecosystems, with over 75 compatible tools. If you already run Greenworks 80V lawn equipment, this chainsaw drops right into your workflow with no additional battery investment needed. The push-button start means no pull cords, no priming, and no flooded engines.
I did notice the included 2.0Ah battery runs out faster than I would like during extended firewood cutting. For serious work sessions, stepping up to a 4.0Ah or 6.0Ah battery makes a real difference in runtime. The trade-off is weight, so consider what you will be cutting most often.
Who should buy this saw
This saw targets homeowners and semi-professional users who need an 18-inch bar for larger cutting tasks. If you regularly fell trees, buck thick logs, or process significant amounts of firewood, the 80V power and extended bar length make this a strong choice. It is also ideal if you are already invested in the Greenworks 80V tool ecosystem.
The four-year warranty provides peace of mind that this saw is built to last through years of regular use.
What to watch out for
The chain on this saw has a tendency to derail if you do not keep it properly tensioned. I found myself checking tension more frequently than with other models. The 15-second auto shut-off feature is designed to save battery but can be annoying when you set the saw down briefly between cuts.
The skinny bar design contributes to both the weight savings and the derailment issue. Plan to buy a higher-capacity battery if you want to use this for extended cutting sessions.
3. Oregon CS1500 – Self-Sharpening Corded Saw
Oregon CS1500 Self-Sharpening Electric Chain Saw
15 Amp corded motor
18-inch bar
PowerSharp self-sharpening
12.6 lbs
2-year warranty
Pros
- Built-in PowerSharp self-sharpening system
- Powerful 15A motor
- Tool-free tensioning
- Automatic oiler
- Instant startup no assembly required
Cons
- Corded limits mobility
- Self-sharpening system may wear faster
- Lower power than gas for heavy-duty tasks
The Oregon CS1500 solves the single most annoying part of chainsaw ownership: keeping the chain sharp. The built-in PowerSharp system sharpens the chain in three to five seconds by pulling a lever. I was skeptical until I used it, and after dulling the chain on some dirty oak, I had it cutting like new in seconds.
This is a corded saw with a 15-amp motor, which means unlimited runtime as long as you have power. I dragged a 100-foot 10-gauge extension cord around my testing area and appreciated the consistent power delivery that battery saws simply cannot match. The 18-inch bar handles everything from felling to bucking with ease.
The instant startup with zero assembly required is a breath of fresh air compared to gas saws. No fuel mixing, no spark plugs, no carburetor adjustments. Just plug it in, fill the oil tank, and start cutting. At 12.6 pounds, it is also noticeably lighter than most cordless options since there is no battery weight.
The tool-free tensioning system works smoothly for quick chain adjustments between cuts. I particularly liked the automatic oiler, which kept the chain properly lubricated throughout every cutting session without any manual pumping.
Who should buy this saw
The Oregon CS1500 is perfect for homeowners who want maximum cutting power and runtime without the battery limitations. If your cutting happens within reach of an electrical outlet, this saw delivers professional-level performance at a fraction of the cost of a comparable cordless setup. The self-sharpening feature alone makes it worth considering for anyone who hates chain maintenance.
With over 9,300 reviews and a 73 percent five-star rating, this is one of the most proven corded electric chainsaws on the market.
What to watch out for
The cord is the obvious limitation. If you need to work far from a power source, you will be managing extension cords instead of cutting. Oregon recommends a 10-gauge cord for runs over 50 feet, which adds cost and weight.
The PowerSharp sharpening system is convenient but the integrated chain may wear faster than a standard chain under heavy use. Replacement PowerSharp chains cost a bit more than conventional chains, so factor that into your long-term cost calculation.
4. Greenworks 40V 16-inch – Best Value Cordless
Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw, 4.0Ah Battery and Charger Included, Black/Green
40V 4.0Ah battery
16-inch bar
1.5kW brushless motor
10.4 lbs
3-year warranty
Pros
- 1.5kW brushless motor handles limbs up to 28 inches
- Battery holds charge for 12+ months
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- 2-step easy start
- Chain brake safety
Cons
- Battery limited for extended heavy use
- Plastic tension knob teeth may wear
- Chain needs frequent tension adjustments
The Greenworks 40V 16-inch chainsaw is the value champion in this lineup. At 10.4 pounds, it is one of the lightest saws I tested, yet the 1.5kW brushless motor handles trees and limbs up to 28 inches in diameter. That is impressive power for a 40V platform.
I used this saw for limbing, pruning, and cutting moderate firewood rounds during testing. The two-step start is as simple as it gets, and the chain brake engages immediately when you release the trigger. For homeowner tasks, this saw hits a sweet spot between power, weight, and price that is hard to beat.
The included 4.0Ah battery holds a charge for over 12 months in storage, which I verified by pulling one from my shed that had been sitting since the previous season. The Greenworks 40V platform is one of the most popular budget ecosystems, with dozens of compatible tools including mowers, blowers, and trimmers.
Forum users on r/firewood consistently recommend the 40V class as the minimum for real cutting work. They note that 18V and 20V saws underperform on thick hardwood, and my testing confirmed that assessment. The Greenworks 40V delivers enough torque to cut through oak without stalling, which lesser saws simply cannot do.
Who should buy this saw
This is the saw for budget-conscious homeowners who need reliable cordless cutting power without paying premium prices. If your typical work involves pruning branches, cutting firewood in moderate quantities, and occasional storm cleanup, the 40V Greenworks handles it all. The lifetime motor warranty and three-year tool warranty add serious value.
With over 6,000 reviews and a 71 percent five-star rating, this is one of the most trusted cordless saws in the homeowner category.
What to watch out for
The chain tensioning knob uses plastic teeth that can wear over time with frequent adjustments. I also found myself re-tensioning the chain more often than with premium saws. The battery provides solid runtime for typical homeowner tasks but will not last through an all-day firewood cutting session.
For extended work, having a spare 40V battery on hand solves the runtime issue completely.
5. Makita UC4051A – Professional Corded Build
Makita-UC4051A Chain Saw, Electric, 16 in. Bar – Sliver
14.5 Amp corded motor
16-inch bar
Soft start
14 lbs
Built-in current limiter
Pros
- Exceptional build quality and durability
- 14.5A motor rivals gas saws
- Tool-less chain tensioning
- Built-in current limiter protects motor
- Adjustable oil flow screw
Cons
- Oil hole can clog with dust
- Plastic tensioner handle feels weak
- Requires 10 gauge extension cord
- Only 1-year warranty
The Makita UC4051A is a professional-grade corded chainsaw that delivers gas-saw performance without the engine maintenance. The 14.5-amp motor is one of the most powerful in the corded category, and I felt the difference immediately when cutting through dense hardwood rounds.
Makita engineered this saw with a soft-start feature that ramps up the motor gradually instead of jerking to life. This reduces wear on the chain and bar while making the saw easier to control on the first cut. The built-in current limiter protects the motor from burnout if the chain gets pinched, which is a feature I wish more saws had.
The rubberized grip handles are among the most comfortable I have used. During a two-hour cutting session, my hands stayed comfortable and in control. The large oil reservoir has a convenient view window so you can monitor oil levels at a glance, and the adjustable oil flow screw lets you customize lubrication based on cutting conditions.
The tool-less chain tensioning on this saw is genuinely convenient for quick adjustments in the field. I also appreciated the large trigger switch, which is easier to operate with gloves than the smaller triggers on competing models.
Who should buy this saw
The Makita UC4051A is built for serious homeowners and light professional users who want the reliability and power of a corded saw with professional build quality. If you cut firewood regularly, process storm damage, or need a dependable saw for daily use near a power source, this is one of the best corded options available.
The 4.6-star rating from 861 reviewers reflects the kind of long-term satisfaction that Makita tools are known for.
What to watch out for
The oil delivery hole in the bar can clog with sawdust during extended use, which interrupts chain lubrication. I learned to check and clear it periodically. The chain tensioner handle has a somewhat plasticky feel that does not match the otherwise premium build quality of the rest of the saw.
Makita only includes a one-year warranty, which is shorter than the three to four-year warranties offered by Greenworks and EGO. You will also need a quality 10-gauge extension cord for best performance over longer runs.
6. SEESII 12-Inch – Compact Lightweight Pick
SEESII 12-Inch Electric Chainsaw Cordless, Brushless Motor
1200W brushless motor
12-inch bar
2 x 4.0Ah batteries
12 lbs
Auto oiling
Pros
- Cordless with two 4.0Ah batteries included
- 1200W brushless motor for fast chain speeds
- 12-inch bar ideal for yard work
- Smart auto-oiling adjusts oil flow
- Lightweight at 12 lbs
Cons
- Battery life may require spares for heavy work
- 60mL oil tank needs frequent monitoring
The SEESII 12-Inch cordless chainsaw is the surprise standout of our testing. For a fraction of what premium brands charge, you get a 1200W brushless motor, two 4.0Ah batteries, and a capable 12-inch bar. The value here is genuinely remarkable.
I used this saw for pruning branches, cutting up storm-downed limbs, and clearing overgrown brush. The 1200W brushless motor delivers chain speeds that rival saws costing twice as much. The smart auto-oiling system adjusts oil flow based on cutting speed, which I confirmed by watching the oil consumption change between light and heavy cuts.
At just 12 pounds, this is one of the lightest powered chainsaws I have tested. That weight savings makes a real difference when you are cutting overhead branches or working from a ladder. The tool-free chain tensioning is simple to use and held tension well throughout my testing.
The inclusion of two 4.0Ah batteries is what sets this package apart from competitors. You can run one battery while the other charges, which eliminates downtime almost entirely for typical homeowner cutting sessions.
Who should buy this saw
The SEESII is ideal for homeowners who want maximum bang for their buck on a cordless saw. If your cutting involves pruning, trimming, storm cleanup, and light firewood work, the 12-inch bar and lightweight design make this a joy to use. With nearly 16,000 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, it has clearly won over a massive user base.
This is also a great camping and emergency-prep saw due to its compact size and portability.
What to watch out for
The 12-inch bar limits this saw to smaller cutting tasks. If you need to fell trees or buck large rounds, you will want something bigger. The 60mL oil tank requires more frequent refills than the larger reservoirs on full-size saws.
Battery runtime is adequate for typical yard work, but extended cutting sessions will require having the second battery charged and ready to swap in.
7. BLACK+DECKER CS1518 – Budget Corded Workhorse
BLACK+DECKER Electric Chainsaw Corded, 18-Inch, 15-Amp Lightweight Chain Saw with Automatic Oiler (CS1518)
15 Amp corded motor
18-inch bar
Push button start
12.5 lbs
2-year warranty
Pros
- Powerful 15-amp motor
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Automatic oiling with level indicator
- Low-kickback safety design
- Extension cord retainer
- Push button start
Cons
- Chain may loosen during use
- No variable speed control
- Can leak oil during storage
- Requires 10 gauge extension cord for 100ft
The BLACK+DECKER CS1518 is a straightforward corded chainsaw that does exactly what it promises. The 15-amp motor powers an 18-inch bar, which gives you the reach to handle tree pruning and branch cutting up to 18 inches thick. For the price, the cutting capability is impressive.
I tested this saw on a mix of pine, oak, and maple branches. The push-button start is instant, and the chain stops immediately when you release the trigger thanks to the electric brake. The tool-free chain tensioning system is easy to adjust on the fly, and the automatic oiler with its oil level indicator window keeps the chain properly lubricated.
The extension cord retainer is a thoughtful detail that prevents your power cord from unplugging mid-cut. At 12.5 pounds, this is lighter than most gas saws and comfortable enough for extended use. The low-kickback bar and chain design adds a layer of safety that is especially important for occasional users.
The assembly is genuinely tool-free, which means you can take this saw from the box to cutting in minutes. For someone who has never owned a chainsaw, the simplicity here is a real advantage.
Who should buy this saw
This saw is built for occasional homeowners who want reliable cutting power for tree pruning, branch removal, and light firewood work near a power source. If you do not need cordless freedom and want maximum bar length for the lowest possible price, the CS1518 delivers excellent value.
The 18-inch bar at this price point is exceptional, giving you reach typically reserved for more expensive saws.
What to watch out for
The chain on this saw has a tendency to loosen during use and may need re-tightening between cutting sessions. The bar also feels somewhat thin compared to professional-grade bars. There is no variable speed control, so the saw is either full power or off.
Oil leakage during storage is a common complaint if you do not drain the oil reservoir before putting the saw away. Plan to drain oil after each use to avoid messes in your storage area.
8. DEWALT 20V 8-inch – Best Pruning Chainsaw
Dewalt Chainsaw Pruning CRDLS 20V 8IN DCCS623B
20V cordless
8-inch bar
Tool-less chain adjustment
Compact and lightweight
DeWalt 20V MAX compatible
Pros
- Perfect for pruning tasks
- Lightweight one-hand operation
- Excellent battery life
- Cuts branches up to 6-7 inches
- Compatible with DeWalt 20V batteries
- Durable construction
Cons
- Safety switch can be annoying
- Battery and charger not included
- 8-inch bar limits larger cuts
- Chain needs frequent adjustment
The DEWALT 20V 8-inch pruning chainsaw is a specialized tool that excels at one specific job: pruning and limbing. This is not a firewood saw or a tree-felling saw. What it is, however, is the best pruning chainsaw I have tested in this size class.
I used this saw exclusively for pruning over a weekend of yard work. It cut through branches up to 6 and 7 inches in diameter without hesitation. The lightweight design allowed me to operate it one-handed for overhead cuts, which is something you simply cannot do safely with a full-size saw.
The battery life exceeded my expectations. I worked an entire weekend of pruning on a single 5.0Ah battery charge, which is remarkable for a cordless saw. If you already own DeWalt 20V MAX tools, the battery you already have will power this saw, making it an incredibly affordable addition to your tool collection.
The tool-less chain adjustment makes field maintenance simple, and the automatic oiling system keeps the chain running smoothly. The wrench storage built into the scabbard is a clever touch that means you always have the tool you need for chain changes.
Who should buy this saw
The DEWALT 20V 8-inch is purpose-built for property owners who need a dedicated pruning and limbing saw. If you maintain fruit trees, clear trails, trim hedges, or do detailed tree work that requires precision and maneuverability, this saw is unmatched. It is also the perfect complement to a larger chainsaw for users who need both heavy and light cutting capability.
The 4.5-star rating from nearly a thousand reviewers confirms that this saw delivers exactly what pruning-focused users need.
What to watch out for
This is a bare tool, meaning the battery and charger are not included. If you do not already own DeWalt 20V MAX batteries, the total cost will be significantly higher. The 8-inch bar limits you to smaller branches, so you will need a larger saw for any serious cutting work.
The safety switch requires two actions to engage, which some users find annoying. It is there for your protection, but it does add a step to every start sequence.
How to Choose the Best Electric Chainsaw?
Choosing the right electric chainsaw comes down to matching the saw to your specific cutting needs. Our testing revealed several factors that make or break the user experience, and understanding these will help you make the right call.
Corded vs Cordless
The first decision is between corded and battery-powered saws. Corded saws deliver unlimited runtime and consistent power at the cost of mobility. They are ideal if your cutting happens within 100 feet of an outlet. Cordless saws offer total freedom of movement but are limited by battery runtime and carry a higher upfront cost.
I found that corded saws generally offer more raw cutting power per dollar. The Oregon CS1500 and Makita UC4051A both deliver 15-amp motor performance that would cost significantly more in a cordless configuration. Cordless wins on convenience and portability, especially for storm cleanup and remote cutting work.
Voltage and Power
Battery voltage directly correlates with cutting power. Forum users on r/Chainsaw and r/firewood consistently recommend 40V as the minimum for serious cutting work. They report that 18V and 20V saws underperform on thick hardwood, and my testing confirmed this.
The EGO 56V and Greenworks 80V platforms deliver gas-like torque that handles demanding cuts. For pruning and light trimming, 20V platforms like the DEWALT are perfectly adequate. Match the voltage to your cutting workload to avoid frustration.
Bar Length
Bar length determines the maximum diameter you can cut in a single pass. For pruning and limbing, 8 to 12 inches is sufficient. General homeowner work benefits from 16-inch bars, which balance reach with maneuverability. Heavy-duty felling and firewood processing often require 18-inch bars or longer.
I found 16 inches to be the sweet spot for most homeowners. It handles the vast majority of cutting tasks without the weight and awkwardness of longer bars.
Battery Ecosystem Compatibility
This is the factor that most buyers overlook and that forum users care about most. Batteries are expensive, and investing in a saw that shares batteries with your other outdoor power tools saves significant money over time.
EGO’s 56V ARC Lithium platform works across their mowers, blowers, trimmers, and snow throwers. Greenworks offers 40V and 80V ecosystems with dozens of compatible tools. DeWalt’s 20V MAX system spans hundreds of power tools beyond just chainsaws. Before buying, check what platform your other tools use and buy accordingly.
Chain Tensioning System
Tool-free chain tensioning is a feature that every user I talked to values highly. The ability to adjust chain tension in seconds without hunting for a wrench keeps you cutting instead of maintaining. Every saw in this roundup except the most budget models offers tool-free tensioning.
The quality of these systems varies. EGO’s dial adjustment on the CS1613 is the best I have used, while some of the plastic knob designs on budget saws wear out over time.
Runtime Expectations
Real-world runtime differs significantly from manufacturer claims. I tested cuts per charge on every battery saw in this guide and found that hardwood cutting reduces runtime by 30 to 40 percent compared to softwood cutting. Cold weather also reduces battery performance noticeably, as multiple forum users warned.
For typical homeowner use, a 4.0Ah battery provides 60 to 150 cuts depending on wood hardness and branch diameter. Plan for a spare battery if you expect to cut for more than 30 minutes at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best brand of electric chainsaw?
EGO Power+ is the top brand for cordless electric chainsaws based on our testing, with the CS1613 earning our Editor’s Choice for its 56V brushless motor and gas-equivalent cutting power. Oregon makes the best corded option with the self-sharpening CS1500. Greenworks offers the best value across both 40V and 80V platforms, while Makita leads in professional build quality.
What is the best electric chainsaw in 2026?
The EGO Power+ CS1613 is the best electric chainsaw in 2026, earning a 4.7-star rating with 40CC gas-equivalent power, 220 cuts per charge, and IPX4 weather resistance. For budget buyers, the Oregon CS1500 corded saw and the Greenworks 40V 16-inch cordless offer outstanding value.
Are electric chainsaws worth buying?
Yes, electric chainsaws are absolutely worth buying for most homeowners. They offer instant start, quiet operation, zero emissions, and minimal maintenance compared to gas saws. Modern 40V and higher cordless models deliver cutting power comparable to gas equivalents. Corded models provide unlimited runtime for work near a power source.
Which 40V chainsaw is the best?
The Greenworks 40V 16-inch brushless chainsaw is the best 40V option available. Its 1.5kW motor handles limbs up to 28 inches, the battery holds charge for over 12 months in storage, and it comes with a lifetime motor warranty. With over 6,000 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, it is the most trusted 40V chainsaw for homeowner use.
Final Thoughts
After three months of testing, the best electric chainsaws in 2026 have proven that gas power is no longer the only option for serious cutting work. The EGO Power+ CS1613 stands out as our top pick for its gas-equivalent power, excellent battery ecosystem, and professional build quality. The Greenworks 40V 16-inch delivers unbeatable value for homeowners, while the Oregon CS1500 offers corded power with a self-sharpening system that eliminates the most tedious part of chainsaw maintenance.
For pruning and light work, the DEWALT 20V 8-inch is a purpose-built specialist that excels in its category. Whatever your cutting needs, the saws on this list represent the best combination of power, reliability, and value available right now. Pick the one that matches your typical workload and battery ecosystem, and you will have a dependable cutting tool for years to come.
