Best Cordless Chainsaw 2025

Alright, let’s cut right to the chase for 2025: the best cordless chainsaw is the DEWALT 60V MAX Flexvolt 16-inch Chainsaw. Why? Because it delivers gas-like power with the convenience of battery operation, offering a potent combination of cutting performance, extended runtime, and the kind of robust build quality you expect from a brand synonymous with jobsite grit.

Forget the fumes, the pull cords, and the constant maintenance.

This machine is designed to make your yard work or light-duty tree felling as efficient as possible. It’s not just about raw power, though.

It’s about the seamless experience, the reduced fatigue, and the sheer satisfaction of tackling demanding tasks with a tool that feels like an extension of your own capability.

We’re talking about a significant leap forward in battery technology, offering the torque and speed needed to slice through even substantial limbs without bogging down.

If you’re serious about taking control of your property maintenance without the traditional hassles, this is the one to put at the top of your list.

Here’s a quick rundown of the top contenders for 2025, each with its own strengths:

• DEWALT 60V MAX Flexvolt 16-inch Chainsaw

  • Key Features: 60V MAX Flexvolt battery system, 16-inch Oregon bar and chain, brushless motor, auto-oiling, tool-free chain tensioning.
  • Average Price: Around $300-$350 tool only. $400-$500 kit with battery/charger.
  • Pros: Exceptional power rivaling gas models, long runtime with Flexvolt batteries, durable construction, excellent for heavy-duty tasks, part of a versatile 60V system.
  • Cons: Higher price point, can be heavy for extended use, batteries are expensive if purchased separately.

• Greenworks Pro 80V 18-inch Brushless Chainsaw

  • Key Features: 80V Li-ion system, 18-inch bar, brushless motor, digital controlled brushless motor, metal bucking spikes, auto-oiler.
  • Average Price: Around $300-$350 kit.
  • Pros: Impressive cutting power and speed, good for larger trees, long bar for increased reach, relatively quiet operation compared to gas.
  • Cons: 80V battery system is not as common as 40V or 60V, battery can be bulky.

• EGO Power+ CS1804 56V 18-inch Chainsaw

  • Key Features: 56V ARC Lithium battery, 18-inch bar, brushless motor, chain kickback brake, automatic lubrication, tool-free chain tensioning.
  • Average Price: Around $350-$400 kit.
  • Pros: Outstanding runtime, excellent torque, rapid charging, weather-resistant construction, large bar for significant jobs.
  • Cons: Slightly heavier than some competitors, higher initial cost.

• Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 18-inch Chainsaw

  • Key Features: 40V HP High Performance system, 18-inch bar, brushless motor, side-access chain tensioning, automatic oiler, metal bucking spikes.
  • Average Price: Around $280-$350 kit.
  • Pros: Strong performance for its voltage class, part of a vast Ryobi 40V ecosystem, good value, larger bar for versatility.
  • Cons: May not match 60V/80V models in sheer power for very large tasks, chain tensioning requires a tool.

• Milwaukee M18 FUEL 16-inch Chainsaw

  • Key Features: M18 FUEL system requires High Output battery, 16-inch Oregon bar, POWERSTATE brushless motor, REDLINK PLUS intelligence, variable speed trigger.
  • Average Price: Around $280-$320 tool only. $450-$550 kit.
  • Pros: Incredible power and speed for an 18V system especially with HO batteries, excellent build quality, part of a massive M18 ecosystem for professionals.
  • Cons: Requires Milwaukee’s higher-capacity “High Output” batteries for optimal performance, which are expensive.

• Worx WG385 40V 2x20V 16-inch Chainsaw

  • Key Features: Uses two 20V batteries for 40V power, 16-inch bar, auto-tension and auto-lubrication systems, brushless motor.
  • Average Price: Around $200-$250 kit.
  • Pros: Affordable option, utilizes common 20V Worx batteries, decent power for homeowner tasks, easy chain tensioning.
  • Cons: Less powerful than higher-voltage models, runtime can be shorter depending on battery capacity, chain speed isn’t top-tier.

• CRAFTSMAN V60 16-inch Brushless Chainsaw

  • Key Features: 60V MAX battery, 16-inch low kickback bar and chain, brushless motor, auto-oiling, tool-free chain tensioning.
  • Average Price: Around $250-$300 kit.
  • Pros: Strong performance for the price, 60V power delivers good cutting capability, part of the V60 system, good for general yard work.
  • Cons: Battery life can be variable, not as robust as some professional-grade options, some users report minor oil leaks.

The Cordless Revolution: Why 2025 is the Year to Cut the Cord

Look, if you’re still wrestling with a gas chainsaw, dealing with finicky pull starts, noxious fumes, and the constant maintenance of fuel mixtures and spark plugs, it’s time for an intervention.

2025 is the year the cordless chainsaw truly comes into its own.

We’re past the early adopter phase where battery-powered tools were seen as underpowered toys.

Today’s top cordless chainsaws, like the DEWALT 60V MAX Flexvolt 16-inch Chainsaw, are delivering gas-like performance, sometimes even exceeding it in terms of instantaneous torque and user experience.

• No More Gas Hassles: This is the big one. No more trips to the gas station for special fuel, no more mixing oil, no more spilled gasoline. Just charge a battery, pop it in, and you’re ready to go.
• Reduced Noise and Emissions: Your neighbors will thank you, and your lungs will too. Cordless chainsaws are significantly quieter than their gas counterparts and produce zero emissions during operation.
• Instant Start and Less Maintenance: Forget the infuriating pull-start rituals. Cordless models fire up with the press of a button. Maintenance is minimal – mainly keeping the chain sharp and the oil reservoir full.
• Lighter Weight and Better Balance: While high-voltage batteries add some heft, the overall balance and ergonomic design of modern cordless chainsaws often make them feel lighter and easier to maneuver, reducing fatigue during longer jobs.

Decoding Power and Performance: Voltage vs. Bar Length vs. Brushless

When you’re sifting through the options for a cordless chainsaw, it’s easy to get bogged down in the specs.

Let’s break down what truly matters for performance. It’s not just about the biggest number. it’s about the synergy of components.

• Voltage V: The Raw Potential

  • This is often the first number you see: 18V, 40V, 56V, 60V, 80V. Higher voltage generally translates to more potential power and torque. Think of it as the ‘muscle’ the motor can draw upon.
  • 18V/20V MAX: Good for lighter tasks like pruning small branches, clearing brush, or occasional firewood cutting. Excellent for portability and often uses batteries from existing tool lines. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 16-inch Chainsaw is a prime example of an 18V system punching well above its weight, especially with High Output batteries.
  • 40V/56V/60V: This is the sweet spot for most homeowners and even many prosumers. These chainsaws offer a significant jump in power, capable of tackling larger limbs 10-16 inches in diameter and moderate tree felling. The EGO Power+ CS1804 56V 18-inch Chainsaw and DEWALT 60V MAX Flexvolt 16-inch Chainsaw exemplify this category.
  • 80V: Currently the top tier in consumer-grade cordless chainsaws, offering power that truly rivals many mid-range gas models. Ideal for frequent, heavy-duty cutting, larger diameter logs, and extensive property maintenance. The Greenworks Pro 80V 18-inch Brushless Chainsaw is a beast in this category.

• Bar Length: What You Can Cut

  • The bar length dictates the maximum diameter of wood you can comfortably cut in a single pass.
  • 10-14 inches: Best for pruning, limbing, and light-duty cleanup. Easy to maneuver and lighter.
  • 16-18 inches: The most versatile range for homeowners. Capable of handling significant firewood, felling small to medium trees, and clearing storm debris. The majority of our top picks fall into this category.
  • 20+ inches: Rare in cordless models, primarily found in gas chainsaws, designed for very large felling and bucking.

• Brushless Motors: The Efficiency Edge

  • If a chainsaw doesn’t explicitly state it has a “brushless motor,” assume it has a brushed motor, which is less efficient.
  • Brushless motors are the game-changer in cordless tools. They operate without physical carbon brushes, reducing friction and heat. This translates to:
    • More Power and Torque: The motor can deliver more energy to the chain.
    • Longer Runtime: Less energy is wasted as heat, so the battery lasts longer.
    • Increased Durability: Fewer moving parts mean less wear and tear, leading to a longer tool lifespan.
  • Almost all top-tier cordless chainsaws in 2025 will feature a brushless motor. It’s a non-negotiable feature for serious performance.

• Chain Speed: Often measured in feet per minute FPM or meters per second m/s. Higher chain speed generally means faster, cleaner cuts. Look for models with chain speeds above 3,500 FPM for efficient cutting.

Battery Systems and Runtime: The Unsung Heroes

The battery is the heart of your cordless chainsaw.

Understanding battery types, capacities, and charging habits is crucial for an uninterrupted workflow.

This isn’t just about how long it lasts, but how efficiently it allows you to get work done.

• Lithium-Ion Li-ion: This is the standard. All modern cordless chainsaws use Li-ion batteries due to their high energy density, consistent power delivery, and minimal self-discharge.

• Amp-Hours Ah: The Capacity Indicator

  • This number e.g., 2.5 Ah, 4.0 Ah, 5.0 Ah, 7.5 Ah, 12.0 Ah indicates the battery’s capacity – essentially, how much “fuel” it holds.
  • Higher Ah means longer runtime. A 5.0 Ah battery will generally offer twice the runtime of a 2.5 Ah battery at the same voltage.
  • For chainsaws, you want a higher Ah battery, typically 4.0 Ah or more, especially for more demanding tasks. Many top models bundle with 5.0 Ah or even 7.5 Ah batteries.

• Battery Chemistry Innovations e.g., ARC Lithium, Flexvolt, High Output

  • Brands are constantly innovating battery chemistry and packaging.
  • EGO’s ARC Lithium: Designed to dissipate heat more effectively, preventing performance degradation in demanding use.
  • DEWALT’s Flexvolt: A clever system where a single battery can automatically switch between 60V MAX and 20V MAX depending on the tool, offering incredible versatility across their tool lines.
  • Milwaukee’s High Output HO: These M18 batteries are specifically designed to deliver more power and run cooler than standard M18 batteries, unlocking the full potential of their FUEL tools like the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 16-inch Chainsaw.
  • Impact on Performance: These innovations aren’t just marketing hype. They genuinely contribute to sustained power output, longer runtimes under load, and extended battery life.

• Charging Times: Fast chargers are a huge bonus. While a full charge can take 60-90 minutes for larger batteries, some rapid chargers can get you to 80% in under 30 minutes, minimizing downtime. Consider investing in a second battery if you plan on extended cutting sessions. it’s often more practical than waiting for a charge cycle.

• Battery Swapping and System Compatibility:

  • One of the unsung heroes of cordless tools is battery compatibility across a manufacturer’s line. If you already own other tools from Ryobi 40V, DEWALT 60V, or EGO 56V, buying a chainsaw that uses the same battery system can save you significant money on batteries and chargers.
  • This also means you can swap batteries between tools, extending your overall working time. This ecosystem benefit is a major selling point for brands like Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 18-inch Chainsaw and CRAFTSMAN V60 16-inch Brushless Chainsaw.

Essential Features: Safety, Convenience, and Durability

Beyond raw power, the best cordless chainsaws in 2025 incorporate features that enhance safety, simplify operation, and ensure the tool stands up to real-world use. Don’t overlook these details.

They make a significant difference in your cutting experience.

• Safety Features Non-Negotiable:

  • Chain Brake: This is paramount. A chain brake is a lever usually on the front handle that, when pushed forward manually or by inertia during kickback, instantly stops the chain. Always ensure your chainsaw has a robust, responsive chain brake.
  • Low Kickback Chain and Bar: Designed to reduce the likelihood of kickback, where the chain can unexpectedly lurch upwards and backward towards the user. While no chain is “kickback-proof,” low kickback components significantly mitigate the risk.
  • Hand Guard: Protects your hand from debris and the chain itself if it were to derail.
  • Trigger Lockout: Prevents accidental starting of the chainsaw. You typically need to depress a button or lever before squeezing the main trigger.

• Convenience Features Quality of Life Upgrades:

  • Automatic Chain Oiler: Absolutely essential. This system automatically lubricates the bar and chain as you cut, reducing friction, heat, and wear, and extending the life of your components. Look for transparent oil reservoirs so you can easily monitor levels.
  • Tool-Free Chain Tensioning: A massive time-saver. Instead of needing a wrench or screwdriver, you can adjust chain tension with a simple dial or lever. This makes on-the-fly adjustments quick and easy, ensuring optimal performance and safety. The DEWALT 60V MAX Flexvolt 16-inch Chainsaw and EGO Power+ CS1804 56V 18-inch Chainsaw excel here.
  • Metal Bucking Spikes Dogs: These sharp, metal teeth located at the base of the bar help you pivot the saw into the wood, providing leverage and making cutting much easier, especially for larger logs. They greatly improve control and reduce effort.
  • LED Lights: Some models include an LED light, which can be surprisingly useful in low-light conditions or when working in dense canopy.

• Durability and Build Quality:

  • Metal vs. Plastic Components: While modern plastics are incredibly strong, areas like the gear casing or bucking spikes benefit from metal construction for enhanced durability and heat dissipation.
  • Weather Resistance: If you anticipate working in various conditions, look for models with good sealing against dust and moisture.
  • Brand Reputation and Warranty: Research brands known for robust tools and good customer service. A solid warranty e.g., 3-5 years indicates manufacturer confidence in their product.

Applications and Best Use Cases for Cordless Chainsaws

While cordless chainsaws have made incredible strides, it’s still important to match the tool to the task.

Knowing where they shine and where a gas model might still be preferred helps you make the smartest investment.

• Ideal for Homeowners:

  • Yard Cleanup: Pruning errant branches, trimming shrubs, and clearing storm debris after a windy day.
  • Firewood Processing Light to Moderate: Bucking small to medium logs for a fire pit or wood stove. A 16-inch or 18-inch model with a high-capacity battery can handle a decent amount of firewood.
  • Limbing and Felling Small Trees: For trees up to 10-14 inches in diameter, a powerful cordless chainsaw is often more convenient than a gas model. The Greenworks Pro 80V 18-inch Brushless Chainsaw or DEWALT 60V MAX Flexvolt 16-inch Chainsaw are excellent for this.
  • Quiet Operation in Residential Areas: Your neighbors will appreciate the reduced noise compared to a screaming gas saw.

• Suitable for Professionals Specific Niche Use:

  • Arborists Top Handles: While this guide focuses on rear-handle models, cordless top-handle chainsaws are becoming increasingly popular for tree care professionals due to their lighter weight, instant start, and no-fume operation when working aloft.
  • Utility Line Workers: Again, the lack of fumes and instant start are critical for safety and efficiency in confined spaces or remote locations.
  • Light Commercial Landscaping: For crews doing routine pruning, clearing, and occasional limbing, a fleet of cordless chainsaws can be a highly efficient and less fatiguing option.

• When a Gas Chainsaw Might Still Be Preferred:

  • Heavy-Duty Felling: If you’re routinely felling large, mature trees 20+ inches in diameter, a powerful gas chainsaw will likely offer more sustained power and longer runtime for truly marathon sessions.
  • Milling: For breaking down very large logs into slabs, the sheer power and torque of a large gas saw are still generally unmatched.
  • Remote Work Without Charging Access: If you’re deep in the wilderness for days without access to electricity, extra cans of mixed fuel are easier to carry than multiple heavy batteries and a charger.

Maintenance and Care: Keep Your Cordless Chainsaw Running Like New

Even without the complexities of a gas engine, your cordless chainsaw still needs a bit of TLC to perform optimally and safely for years to come.

Neglecting maintenance isn’t just about poor performance. it can be a safety hazard.

• Chain Sharpening and Replacement:

  • Sharp is Safe: A dull chain is inefficient, causes the saw to work harder, and significantly increases the risk of kickback. You’ll notice slower cuts, excessive sawdust instead of chips, and the need to apply more pressure.
  • Sharpening: You can sharpen the chain yourself with a round file matching the chain’s pitch or a dedicated chain sharpener. Many hardware stores also offer sharpening services.
  • Replacement: Eventually, even a well-sharpened chain will wear out. Keep a spare chain on hand, especially for larger jobs. Refer to your saw’s manual for the correct chain pitch and gauge.
  • Proper Tensioning: A chain that’s too loose can derail, which is dangerous. One that’s too tight causes excessive wear and friction. The chain should be snug against the bar but still able to be pulled freely by hand. Check tension frequently, especially during the first hour of use with a new chain, as it will stretch.

• Bar Maintenance:

  • Clean the Groove: Debris and sawdust can pack into the bar groove, impeding chain movement and oil flow. Use a bar cleaner tool or a thin flat-head screwdriver to clear it out regularly.
  • Flip the Bar: Periodically flip the guide bar to ensure even wear on both sides.
  • Check for Burrs: Over time, the edges of the bar can develop burrs. File these off with a flat file.
  • Lubrication: Ensure the automatic oiler is working correctly and that you are using dedicated bar and chain oil. Never use motor oil or other substitutes – they lack the proper tackiness and viscosity for chainsaw use.

• General Cleaning:

  • After Each Use: Disconnect the battery. Use a brush and compressed air to remove sawdust, sap, and debris from the motor housing, air vents, and around the chain/sprocket area.
  • Oil Reservoir: Keep the oil reservoir topped off with quality bar and chain oil.
  • Battery and Charger: Keep battery terminals clean and dry. Store batteries in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Do not leave batteries on the charger indefinitely, especially older models, though modern chargers are designed for trickle charging.

• Seasonal Storage:

  • For long-term storage, ensure the chain is clean, sharp, and properly oiled.
  • Empty the oil reservoir to prevent leaks.
  • Store the chainsaw in a dry, protected area.
  • Store batteries at a partial charge around 50-60% in a cool, dry place for optimal longevity.

Understanding the Investment: Costs and Value Beyond the Price Tag

When you look at the price tag of a top-tier cordless chainsaw, it might seem like a hefty investment.

However, considering the long-term value, convenience, and performance benefits, it’s often a smart financial decision that goes beyond the initial sticker price.

• Initial Cost: Tool Only vs. Kit

  • Tool Only: If you’re already invested in a brand’s battery platform e.g., Milwaukee M18 FUEL 16-inch Chainsaw if you have M18 batteries, buying the tool only is the most economical way to expand your arsenal. Prices typically range from $180-$350 for just the chainsaw.
  • Kit Tool + Battery + Charger: If you’re new to a battery system, you’ll need to buy a kit. These packages offer significant savings over buying components separately. Expect to pay anywhere from $250-$500 for a quality cordless chainsaw kit from brands like DEWALT 60V MAX Flexvolt 16-inch Chainsaw or EGO Power+ CS1804 56V 18-inch Chainsaw.

• Operating Costs: Where Cordless Shines

  • No Fuel Costs: This is the biggest saver. No more buying gasoline, oil, or mixing them. Electricity is significantly cheaper per “gallon equivalent” of energy.
  • Reduced Maintenance: Forget spark plugs, air filters, carburetor adjustments. Cordless chainsaws require far less routine maintenance, saving you time and potentially costly repairs.
  • Battery Longevity: While batteries are an upfront cost, modern Li-ion batteries are designed for hundreds of charge cycles. With proper care, a good battery can last for many years. When they do eventually degrade, replacement costs are a factor, but the overall cost per use still tends to favor cordless.

• Hidden Value: Time and Convenience

  • Instant Start: No more frustrating pull-start struggles. This alone saves immense time and reduces frustration.
  • Less Fatigue: Lighter weight and better balance, combined with less vibration, mean you can work longer with less strain.
  • Environmental Impact: While not a direct cost, the zero emissions and reduced noise footprint are a significant benefit to your immediate environment and the planet.
  • Versatility: Being part of a larger battery ecosystem means you can power other tools – blowers, trimmers, mowers – with the same batteries, simplifying your entire yard care routine.

• Resale Value: Quality cordless tools from reputable brands tend to hold their value reasonably well, especially if the battery system remains current.

When you weigh the initial investment against the ongoing savings in fuel, maintenance, and the invaluable convenience of instant, quiet power, a top-tier cordless chainsaw quickly becomes a smart, long-term asset for any homeowner or prosumer.

The Future is Cordless: What to Expect in Chainsaw Tech

The trajectory of cordless tool technology is clear: more power, longer runtimes, and smarter features.

Chainsaws are at the forefront of this evolution, and 2025 is just a waypoint.

Here’s a glimpse into what’s on the horizon and why continuous innovation makes investing in a modern cordless model a safe bet.

• Higher Voltage Systems: We’ve seen the jump from 18V to 40V, then 56V, 60V, and 80V. It’s plausible that even higher voltage systems e.g., 100V+ could emerge, delivering power closer to professional-grade gas chainsaws for the most demanding tasks.
• Next-Gen Battery Chemistry: Beyond just higher Amp-hours, expect advancements in battery cell technology. This could mean:
  • Increased Energy Density: More power and runtime in a smaller, lighter package.
  • Faster Charging: Even quicker turnaround times, potentially full charges in 15-30 minutes.
  • Improved Thermal Management: Better heat dissipation means batteries perform optimally under heavy load for longer, and their overall lifespan is extended.
• Smarter Chainsaws with Connectivity:
  • Integrated Diagnostics: Tools that can communicate their status battery level, motor temperature, chain tension recommendation to your smartphone.
  • Usage Tracking: Log runtime, number of cuts, or even identify optimal cutting techniques.
  • Predictive Maintenance: Alerts for when the chain needs sharpening or the motor needs servicing based on actual usage patterns.
• Enhanced Ergonomics and Safety:
  • Vibration Reduction: Continued advancements in anti-vibration systems to reduce operator fatigue.
  • Balance Optimization: Even better weight distribution to make saws feel lighter and more controllable.
  • Advanced Kickback Prevention: More sophisticated electronic or mechanical systems that react even faster to kickback events, potentially incorporating AI or sensor data.
• Specialized Cordless Chainsaws: We might see a wider array of specialized cordless models, like more robust top-handle chainsaws for arborists, or even lightweight pole saws with higher power for specialized tasks.

The future of chainsaws is unequivocally battery-powered.

As technology continues to miniaturize, optimize, and electrify, the argument for gas-powered saws will become increasingly niche.

Investing in a top-tier cordless chainsaw in 2025 means buying into a platform that will continue to evolve and deliver even greater performance and convenience in the years to come.

Choosing Your Champion: Deciding Between Top Models

So, you’ve got the lowdown on voltage, bar length, features, and future tech. Now, how do you pick your best cordless chainsaw from the top contenders? It really boils down to your specific needs, existing tool investments, and the type of work you’ll be doing.

• For the Power Hungry & Pros:

  • DEWALT 60V MAX Flexvolt 16-inch Chainsaw: This is your go-to if you need serious power that directly competes with gas. It’s built like a tank, offers fantastic runtime with the Flexvolt batteries, and is part of a robust 60V system. Ideal for extensive property maintenance, larger firewood, and occasional felling.
  • Greenworks Pro 80V 18-inch Brushless Chainsaw: If raw power and the longest bar length are your absolute priorities, and you don’t mind investing in a new 80V battery system, the Greenworks Pro is a beast. Great for bigger jobs.
  • EGO Power+ CS1804 56V 18-inch Chainsaw: EGO consistently impresses with its battery performance and runtime. If you want a long-lasting, powerful saw with excellent balance and rapid charging, and potentially other EGO tools, this is a phenomenal choice.

• For the Ecosystem Enthusiast & Serious DIYer:

  • Milwaukee M18 FUEL 16-inch Chainsaw: If you’re already deeply invested in the Milwaukee M18 system and have High Output batteries, this saw leverages that investment brilliantly. It punches well above its voltage class and is a workhorse for professionals and serious DIYers.
  • Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 18-inch Chainsaw: Ryobi’s 40V system is massive and offers incredible value. If you already own Ryobi 40V tools, this chainsaw is a no-brainer. It delivers solid performance for most homeowner tasks and has a very extensive tool line.
  • CRAFTSMAN V60 16-inch Brushless Chainsaw: A strong contender if you’re looking for 60V power at a slightly more accessible price point, especially if you’re building out a CRAFTSMAN V60 collection. Good for general yard work and moderate cutting.

• For the Budget-Conscious & Light-Duty User:

  • Worx WG385 40V 2x20V 16-inch Chainsaw: If affordability is key and your tasks are primarily light pruning, limbing, and occasional firewood, this Worx model offers decent performance by combining two 20V batteries, making it accessible if you’re already in the Worx 20V ecosystem.

The Bottom Line: Don’t just pick the one with the highest voltage. Consider the total package: the bar length that matches your typical cutting needs, the overall balance and ergonomics for user comfort, the efficiency of the brushless motor, the capacity and charge time of the battery, and whether it fits into an existing battery ecosystem you already own. For 2025, the versatility and robust power of the DEWALT 60V MAX Flexvolt 16-inch Chainsaw make it the top choice for the majority of users seeking to finally cut the cord.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cordless chainsaw for 2025?

For 2025, the DEWALT 60V MAX Flexvolt 16-inch Chainsaw is widely considered the best overall due to its gas-like power, excellent runtime, and durable construction, making it highly versatile for various tasks.

Are cordless chainsaws as powerful as gas chainsaws?

Modern high-voltage cordless chainsaws 60V, 80V can rival or even exceed the performance of many mid-range gas chainsaws for typical homeowner and light professional tasks, offering comparable cutting speed and torque without the hassle of fuel.

How long does a cordless chainsaw battery last on a single charge?

Battery runtime varies significantly based on voltage, Amp-hour Ah capacity, and the type of wood being cut.

A 5.0 Ah battery on a 60V chainsaw might offer 30-60 minutes of continuous cutting or hundreds of smaller cuts.

What voltage is best for a cordless chainsaw?

For most homeowners, 40V to 60V systems offer the best balance of power, runtime, and weight.

For more demanding tasks, 80V systems like the Greenworks Pro 80V 18-inch Brushless Chainsaw provide superior power.

What bar length should I choose for a cordless chainsaw?

A 16-inch or 18-inch bar is ideal for most homeowner needs, capable of handling firewood, limbing, and felling small to medium trees.

Shorter bars 10-14 inches are better for pruning and light cleanup.

Do cordless chainsaws require oil?

Yes, all chainsaws, including cordless ones, require bar and chain oil to lubricate the bar and chain during operation.

Most modern cordless chainsaws have an automatic oiling system.

How do I sharpen a cordless chainsaw chain?

You can sharpen a cordless chainsaw chain using a round file that matches the chain’s pitch, or with a dedicated electric chain sharpener.

Always refer to your chainsaw’s manual for the correct file size and sharpening angles.

Is tool-free chain tensioning important?

Yes, tool-free chain tensioning is a highly convenient feature that allows for quick and easy adjustments to chain tightness without needing additional tools, saving time and ensuring optimal chain performance and safety.

What safety features should I look for in a cordless chainsaw?

Essential safety features include a chain brake, a low kickback chain and bar, a hand guard, and a trigger lockout to prevent accidental starting.

How long do cordless chainsaw batteries typically last lifespan?

With proper care, a quality Lithium-Ion battery can last for 3 to 5 years or more, often rated for several hundred charge cycles.

Avoiding extreme temperatures and storing at a partial charge helps extend their life.

Can I use a cordless chainsaw for felling trees?

Yes, powerful cordless chainsaws e.g., 60V or 80V with 16-18 inch bars are capable of felling small to medium-sized trees, typically up to 12-16 inches in diameter, depending on the saw’s power and the operator’s skill.

Are cordless chainsaws good for cutting firewood?

Absolutely.

Cordless chainsaws are excellent for bucking firewood, especially for smaller to medium-sized logs, offering efficiency and ease of use without the fumes or noise of gas models.

What is a brushless motor in a chainsaw?

A brushless motor is more efficient and durable than a brushed motor.

It uses magnets and electronics instead of carbon brushes, resulting in more power, longer runtime per charge, and a longer tool lifespan.

How much do cordless chainsaws typically weigh?

Cordless chainsaws vary in weight, generally ranging from 8 to 15 pounds including battery, making them often lighter and better balanced than comparable gas models, reducing operator fatigue.

What are the main benefits of switching to a cordless chainsaw?

The main benefits include instant start, no fuel mixing, reduced noise, zero emissions, less maintenance, lighter weight, and the convenience of battery power.

Are replacement chains easy to find for cordless chainsaws?

Yes, replacement chains for popular models and bar lengths are readily available from hardware stores, online retailers, and direct from manufacturers.

Always ensure you match the pitch, gauge, and drive link count.

Can I use my other brand’s batteries with a different brand’s chainsaw?

No, generally, battery systems are proprietary to specific brands e.g., a DEWALT battery won’t fit an EGO chainsaw. However, many brands offer extensive ecosystems where their batteries work across various tools within their line.

How important is chain speed for cutting performance?

Chain speed is very important, as higher speeds measured in FPM or m/s translate to faster, smoother, and more efficient cuts.

Look for models with high chain speeds for optimal performance.

What is the average charging time for a cordless chainsaw battery?

Charging times vary from 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the battery’s Amp-hour capacity and the charger’s output. Fast chargers can significantly reduce downtime.

Do cordless chainsaws produce less vibration?

Yes, cordless chainsaws generally produce less vibration compared to gas chainsaws, which contributes to reduced operator fatigue during extended use.

What is the difference between a rear-handle and top-handle cordless chainsaw?

This guide focuses on rear-handle chainsaws, which are designed for two-handed use on the ground.

Top-handle chainsaws are typically used by arborists for working aloft with one hand, offering different ergonomics and balance.

Is it okay to store a cordless chainsaw with the battery attached?

It’s generally recommended to remove the battery from the chainsaw when storing it, especially for long periods, to prevent accidental discharge or potential safety issues.

How often should I check the chain tension?

You should check chain tension frequently, especially before each use and every 10-15 minutes during operation, as the chain can stretch, particularly when new.

What kind of oil should I use for my cordless chainsaw?

Always use dedicated bar and chain oil.

It’s specifically formulated with proper viscosity and tackiness to adhere to the chain and lubricate effectively, unlike motor oils or other lubricants.

Are cordless chainsaws good for limbing branches off felled trees?

Yes, cordless chainsaws are excellent for limbing due to their lighter weight, maneuverability, and instant start/stop, making it easy to move between cuts.

What is the average lifespan of a cordless chainsaw itself?

With proper maintenance and care, a high-quality cordless chainsaw can last 5 to 10 years or even longer, as the brushless motors are quite durable.

Can cordless chainsaws be used in the rain?

Most cordless chainsaws are designed to be weather-resistant, but they are not typically waterproof. Avoid using them in heavy rain or submerging them. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations.

What is a transparent oil reservoir?

A transparent oil reservoir is a clear or translucent window on the chainsaw that allows you to easily see the oil level, so you know when to refill it without guessing.

How do I know if my chain is dull?

Signs of a dull chain include requiring more pressure to cut, producing fine sawdust instead of wood chips, creating smoke even with proper oiling, and the saw bouncing or grabbing instead of smoothly cutting.

Is a cordless chainsaw a good investment for a new homeowner?

Yes, a cordless chainsaw is an excellent investment for a new homeowner, offering a convenient, powerful, and relatively low-maintenance solution for common yard work and property maintenance tasks.