If you ever come to shopping for a chainsaw, you will realize it’s even tougher than solving a chemical equation. Not to mention picking the best chainsaw for the money is even harder.
For that reason, we’ve got here a compilation of chainsaws in types and budget ranges. If you are a confused chainsaw buyer, you are at the right place.
Here are what we bring:
The best cordless electric chainsaw for the money
- Best overall – BLACK+DECKER LCS1020 Lithium Ion Chainsaw
- Budget-friendly option – Greenworks 12-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw
- Long runtime – DEWALT DCCS670X1 Brushless 16″ Cordless Chainsaw
The best corded electric chainsaw for the money
- Best overall – Makita UC4051A 16″ Electric Chainsaw
- Best for beginners – WORX WG304.1 Chainsaw
- Best for demanding cuts – BLACK+DECKER CS1518 Electric Chainsaw
The best rear handle gas chainsaw for the money
- Best overall – Husqvarna 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
- Budget-friendly option – Remington RM4214 Rebel Gas Powered Chainsaw
- Versatile use – XtremepowerUS 2-stroke Chainsaw
The best top handle gas chainsaw for the money
- Best overall – Husqvarna T435 X-Torque Gas Powered Chain Saw
- Best for pruning – Tanaka TCS33EDTP Top Handle Chain Saw
- Best anti-vibration – Hitachi CS33EDTP 2-Stroke Chain Saw
The best cordless electric chainsaw for the money
Cordless chainsaws are not only portable, convenient, and flexible to carry around, but they also scatter a lot of torque for the bar to get to its full speed.
Let’s see what the best models of cordless electric chainsaw the market has.
Best overall – BLACK+DECKER LCS1020 Lithium Ion Chainsaw
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Low kickback
- Sturdy
- The scabbard is flimsy on the blade
Coming with a 20V MAX lithium battery, the chainsaw can last hours of work in years. With no memory effect in the battery, it does reduce the defects in the longevity of the entire unit, making it stay charged up to 5 times longer than the regular saw.
Another thing that proves it to be the best overall pick is it’s compatible with an array of 20V max outdoor and power tools.
The famous 10″ premium Oregon low kickback bar and chain add more efficiency to the machine making it an ideal cutting tool in most home-use situations.
Its compact footprint is also a huge plus for a general saw as it won’t strain your muscles as quickly as a heavy chainsaw.
| Voltage | 20V |
| Max. length (inches) | Bar length 10 inches |
| Rear/top handles | top |
| Weight (lb.) | 7.2 |
| Highlight features | The 20V MAX lithium battery gives the cordless saw more hours in the project while being light in weight and effective in cutting branches and limbs |
The chainsaw has all that needs from convenience, efficiency, to high-quality finish for a long-term lumberjack.
Budget-friendly option – Greenworks 12-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw
- Reasonable price
- High performance
- Easy to use
- Automatic oiler
- Too opaque bar oil window
We liked the high Performance of the G-MAX 40V Lithium-Ion Battery that whacks the branches like nothing. Besides that, you will like it when there is no memory loss after charging help to keep the gadget for a longer time.
Not only cheap, but this chainsaw also has an appreciated easy usage thanks to the robust 12-inch steel chain and bar with tool-free chain tensioning.
It can cut with the least kick back while the automatic oiler delivers oil to lubricate bar and chain guaranteeing no defect in the process.
| Voltage | 40V |
| Max. length (inches) | 26.4 |
| Rear/top handles | Rear |
| Weight (lb.) | 6 |
| Highlight features | 40V G-Max and 40V Lithium-Ion Batteries provides the toughness that is hard to find in this price range |
It’s not a dream to own such an elite chainsaw without spending an arm and a leg when GreenWorks G-MAX 40V Lithium-Ion 12-inch Chainsaw is here.
Long runtime – DEWALT DCCS670X1 Brushless 16″ Cordless Chainsaw
- 0AH battery has a long runtime
- Kickback protection from the chain brake
- Easy to use
- Light in weight
- Flimsy plastic bar oil cap
Users will also benefit from the low kickback 16″ Oregon Bar and Chain minimizing wood chips to hit backward.
We liked the tool-Free chain tensioning and bar tightening knob for easy and quick adjustment.
Like many saws, DEWALT equips this tool with auto-oiling for continuous lubrication.
In a lightweight and ergonomic design, you’ll be able to carry it around and live on acres of wood.
| Voltage | 60V |
| Max. length (inches) | 35 |
| Rear/top handles | Top |
| Weight (lb.) | 12.2 |
| Highlight features | 2 DEWALT 60V MAX lithium-ion batteries combined giving the longest working time for a lightweight and high-efficient power tool |
The maximum initial battery voltage makes the machine ideal for those who use it a ton in hours.
The best corded electric chainsaw for the money
Corded electric chainsaws are popular for its simple start operation. They are yet lightweight, less noisy, safer, and on the list of advantages, you can name. But what are the best you can pick?
Best overall – Makita UC4051A 16″ Electric Chain Saw
- Free-of-hassle start-ups
- Easy adjustments on the bar and chain
- Comfortable on hands
- Protective against overheating
- Oil leaking
You will love the body with a nice and sleek design which is important so that you don’t always get the body of the saw caught up in whatever you work in.
One point that proves the saw’s longevity is the thermal shutdown system. This built-in current limiter that will stop the gadget if it tries to bog itself back from the wood to prevent overheating.
The chain brake is another advantage, as well. As you can see, it’s got very positive locking positions. When you have the chain brake on, the motor will know it’s not time to start. That helps safeguard against the users having the chain brake accidentally on that gets overheating.
It’s reasonable to have a large oil reservoir to prolong the lubricate capacity. Not only that, you get the rubberized grip handles and large trigger switch with soft start for smooth start-ups to survive a long day in the wood.
| Motor (Amps) | 14.5 amp |
| Max. length (inches) | 19 7/8 |
| Rear/top handles | Top |
| Weight (lb.) | 12.3 |
| Highlight features | Good in every way with easy adjusting bar and chain, smooth start, and large oil volume |
This saw is all you need for a saw that functions well in all aspects.
Best for beginners – WORX WG304.1 Chainsaw
- Straightforward usage
- Smart kickback lock
- 3-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Large oil tank capacity
- Heavy
This WORX WG304.1 brings in the patented auto-tension chain system that smartly prevents you from tightening the knob too much.
Since kickback is the top concern when using a chainsaw, WORX has solved that with the low kickback bar and built-in chain brake for added safety.
Why do we claim this chainsaw provides a hassle-free working process?
Because it lubricates the bar automatically from the built-in oil reservoir with a window to check the oil level from outside, that is pretty convenient event for a long-time user.
We would like to note that this gadget is a heavy guy at 12 pounds when filled with oil. But it’s a good thing because there must be a lot of copper inside supporting the beefy 15.0-amp engine for the sake of your work.
| Motor (Amps) | 15.0 |
| Max. length (inches) | 20.6 |
| Rear/top handles | Rear |
| Weight (lb.) | 11.3 |
| Highlight features | A powerful engine to load from beginner to advanced work in a simple and easy mechanism |
There is nothing complicated about this saw as it comes to work right off the box with a bit of learning from the manual.
Best for demanding cuts – BLACK+DECKER CS1518 Electric Chainsaw
- Low kickback bar and chain
- Low vibration
- Powerful engine
- Lightweight
- Tightening the blade can be cumbersome
The Black&Decker CS1518’s got a lot of power for that heavy-duty task.
First of all is the powerful 15 Amp motor capable of producing the highest torque at the highest RPMs to handle demanding cuts?
You can expect an effective low kickback bar and chain from Oregon of premium quality in a low vibration unit that only weighs almost 12 pounds.
Again, the tool-free chain tensioning is what will assist you in better cutting efficiency as well as providing the safety you need for bulk work.
Not to mention its automatic oiling system eases your life down by continuously spew lube to the bar and let you check the oil level through a transparent window.
| Motor (Amps) | 15.0 |
| Max. length (inches) | 20.7 |
| Rear/top handles | Rear |
| Weight (lb.) | 11.99 |
| Highlight features | High-efficient engine for the smoothest cuts in heavy-grade project plus premium tool-free chain tensioning for easy adjustments |
The remarkable engine on this CS1518 model has the power you need to cut medium to large trees with ease.
Best rear handle gas chainsaws for the money
You will thank a comfortable handle of a chainsaw for giving such a pleasant gripping letting you finish your work without hurting your hands.
Best overall – Husqvarna 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
- Versatile
- Quite operate
- Cushion rear handle
- Simple to use
- Quite costly
With the optimized profile rigging with a rear handle wrapped under a cushion layer, the 460 Rancher gives you more power in the arms.
It yet comes with a 60.3cc engine operate at low vibration and noise rate while still rendering that power you need to cut through logs. The bar length is at 24 inches which is able to rip medium-sized woods.
There is one more feature that brags the price of the Husqvarna 460 Rancher, which is the X-torque engine. It applies the technology that helps this chainsaw consume less fuel than usual.
More than that, using the unit is not at all arduous if you spend some times to read the instruction. Once you get familiar with the Smart Start, your next use won’t show any struggle again.
Better than all, the famous Air Injection from Husqvarna keep you safe from larger dust and debris emitting from cutting.
| Engine type | Gas |
| Engine | 60.3cc |
| Max. length (inches) | 24” bar length |
| Weight (lb.) | 12.7 |
| Highlight features | The 60.3cc 2-Cycle engine operates at low noise and vibration while saving fuel, and yet easy to use |
You won’t regret investing in a Husqvarna power tool because they are excellent in every way.
Budget-friendly option – Remington RM4214 Rebel Gas Powered Chainsaw
- Lightweight
- Compact design
- Easy to maintain
- Budget-friendly
- Square grip handle may hurt
- Small oil reservoir
The saw is small because it costs small, but you can do a lot with several preemptive planning. We used to cut down several trees above 16 to 20-inch length, cutting firewood, and conduct some home furniture garage projects.
The gadget used the 42cc 2-cycle engine, which is quite powerful for a 14-inch chain saw. With that said, you don’t expect it to cut all the way through a 16-inch log without flipping it over and cut the second time.
This little guy uses the Anti-vibration system giving the steady-state in the cutting process. You can easily maneuver, keep balance, and operate.
| Engine type | Gas |
| Engine | 42cc |
| Max. length (inches) | 18.25 |
| Weight (lb.) | 15.7 |
| Highlight features | Powerful engine in a small profile making it easy to handle but the unit doesn’t cost an arm and a leg |
It’s no longer a dream to own a gas-powered chainsaw that works at a low price.
Versatile use – XtremepowerUS 2-stroke Chainsaw
- Fuel-efficient engine
- Easily adjustable
- Ergonomic design
- Available for many jobs
- Many parts are plastics
- It goes overheat in 30 minutes
You can do a lot of things with the 2-stroke engine from jobs around the garden to impromptu projects in your garage.
The Engine Clean Air-Intake System protects the machine’s inner parts from sawdust. Besides, it incorporates with the quick release air filter and automatic chain oiler helping you maintain the chainsaw in its best condition for a long time.
The side features can count the anti-vibration that gives more stability when holding the saw.
With this saw, you are able to handle various tasks like cutting logs, clearing land after a storm, or preparing firewood with little effort.
| Engine type | Gas |
| Engine | 2.4HP 45cc 2-stroke |
| Max. length (inches) | 24.1 |
| Weight (lb.) | 18.41 |
| Highlight features | High HP engine can do multiple types of woodwork while giving the comfort and convenience for users. |
There is no reason to say no to this saw if you are in need of one that is capable of achieving the home-use cutting ideas in your mind.
The best top handle gas chainsaw for the money
Best overall – Husqvarna T435 X-Torque Gas Powered Chain Saw
- Powerful X-torque engine
- Easy chain tensioning
- Quick access and release the air filter
- Fuel leaking
On this chainsaw, you can control the flow of oil with the adjustable oil pump which enables it to be used in different weather conditions and applications.
This particular saw is set up to run a low-profile 3/8 chain. Chain tensioning on this machine is convenient with the chain tensioning from the side that allows quick accessing using a tool.
The QuickStart is another advantage that comes with the kill switch on thumb operating. If you press and hold it, it’ll shut off. When you release, it auto returns right back to the odd position.
You’ll have an easy-to-open air filter which is a two-piece filter, quick release, and available in a few options.
| Engine type | Gas |
| Engine | 35.2cc |
| Max. length (inches) | 14-inch max bar length |
| Weight (lb.) | 7.5 |
| Highlight features | Quick-to-use chain tensioning, easy-to-access air filter, and adjustable oil pump |
Husqvarna chainsaw T435 model is up for all wood cutting work you assign efficiently in a general way.
Best for pruning – Tanaka TCS33EDTP Top Handle Chainsaw
- Effective lubrication
- Consume less fuel
- Sturdy build
- Beginner-friendly
- Slightly heavy
- Bar oil leaking
The Tanaka TCS33EDTP comes as advertised with the 32.2cc commercial grade pure fire engine that consumes fewer materials. It uses the innovative 2-stroke engine that keeps emissions at an ultra-low rate.
The notable feature needs mentioning is the gear-driven oiler making the lubrication more productive so that you don’t have to worry about losing efficiency in the middle of the work.
If intricate usage is your major concern, the half throttle choke and purge primer bulb on this model delivers ease of facilitation for beginners. Also, it supports starting up the machine smoothly.
| Engine type | Pure Fire |
| Engine | 32.2cc |
| Max. length (inches) | 11.2 |
| Weight (lb.) | 12.4 |
| Highlight features | Built in low profile for convenient holding and Pure fire engine to cut quick and easy when doing pruning |
All features included in this chainsaw are meant for pruning and hobby work.
Best anti-vibration – Hitachi CS33EDTP 2-Stroke Chain Saw
- Friendly to the environment
- Easy operate
- Reduce fatigue
- Tend to stall out
- The plastic loop looks cheap
Added to the sturdiness of the construction is the heavy-duty forged steel connecting rod incorporates with a chrome-plated cylinder. It scatters easy cuts for hobby work like pruning and shaping.
To reinforce the capability of excellent cutting performance and reliability, Hitachi equips the gear-driver oiler for continuous lubrication.
Not to mention half throttle choke and purge primer bulb supports easy climbing and first-time approach.
| Engine type | Gas |
| Engine | 32.2cc 2-Stroke |
| Max. length (inches) | 11.2 |
| Weight (lb.) | 12.4 |
| Highlight features | Give low emission while running effectively on a 2-stroke engine with the support an anti-vibration system |
No more worry about arm strain due to vibration with this Hitachi chainsaw.
Chainsaw safety tips to protect you from injury
There are more than 30,000 incidents regarding chainsaw each year in America. Needless to say, it’s crucial to keep yourself safe when working with such powerful tools.
Let’s talk about some chainsaw safety tips.
Don’t saw alone
Try to have somebody with you when using a chainsaw if possible.
In the event of injury, you are not all by yourself.
If you work in the wood, it’s best to set a safety flag by your car and don’t forget to let your family or friends know where you are and when you’ll return.
Keep your body guarded
Since most incidents involve hands, fingers, and knees, wearing work gloves and chaps will protect those vulnerable areas.
Want it or not, you should use a chainsaw helmet with a faceguard, earmuffs, and steel-toed boots. Avoid fitting clothing that can get caught in the teeth of the saw.
Stand steadily
Always hold the chainsaw with two hands and plant your feet firmly as you work. That will help you avoid injury if there’s a kickback.
Remember not to use the chainsaw when you’re on a ladder and don’t cut anything that is higher than your shoulder.
If a tree is on an incline, always work uphill from it.
Pick a proper chainsaw
A good rule of thumb is that the chainsaw guide bar should be 2 inches longer than the wood it’s cutting.
Look around
When felling a tree, beware of power lines, vehicles, people, and buildings in the area. You don’t want to hurt yourself, and the others, too.
How to choose the best chainsaw for the money (buying guide)
When choosing the best chainsaw for the money, it’s not only about sticking to the price. The chainsaw can be expensive, but it should be worth every of your penny.
So, what are the factors you need to note down?
Types of chainsaw
There are 4 types of chainsaw of the market: gas, cordless, electric, and pole saws. Each has its own advantages which you may have a look:
- Cordless: They are portable, powerful, battery-powered, easy to operate, and little maintenance. Those chainsaws are light and quite make them ideal for any job.
- Electric: The chainsaws need an outdoor outlet to power up. In many cases, you need an extra cord with the right amperage. However, those saws give you constant power that is great for the upkeep around the yard.
- Gas: Gas chainsaws are heavy-duty portable units that are effective in felling larger trees and a lot of cutting works. These gadgets are quite a challenge for beginners to use. They are also more bulky and noisier.
- Pole saws: These are lightweight chainsaws attached on the end of a long pole to give you an extended reach.
Bar length
The bar length you need should be no less than half the diameter of the branch or log you are cutting. If your wood is 32 inches in length, your bar length must be at least 16 inches.
Power
It is the voltage of the engine you need to pay attention to. The more powerful is on the chainsaw, the faster you will cut.
So, if you’re just tacking some yard work, you don’t need a big bull. But if you regularly handle preparing firewood, more power will come in handy.
Features
Modern chainsaws have many features equipped to help you get the job done more quickly.
- Tool-free chain tensioning allows you quickly adjust your saw by twisting the knob or lever.
- An anti-vibration system has springs installed between the handles and the motor. It reduces fatigue if you work for long hours.
- Automatic chain oiling system works steadily in distributing oil to lubricate your bar.
- Brushless technology shrinks down the chances of overheating by reducing friction.
With added features on the chainsaws, you will get the item that works well for your purpose.
Who makes the best chainsaw for the money?
DEWALT
Products from DEWALT have been standing on the market and winning their position on the top. With a team of well-educated engineers and dedicated staff, quality from DEWALT is no question.
HUSQVARNA
Known for producing high-priced power tools, but HUSQVARNA never lose their clients for that aspect. It’s because products by HUSQVARNA come with superior standard crafted with the highest-end technology. That means chainsaws from HUSQVARNA are no doubt worth every dollar you spent.
Remington
The brand aims to manufacture lines of products that fit every group of buyers. But that doesn’t mean they don’t focus on the quality. Over the years, Remington has delivered budget chainsaws and received tons of positive feedback for the product’s value and efficiency.
FAQs
Are chainsaws dangerous?
A: In short, any power tool has its state of causing injury. But only careless users meet the highest chance of getting hurt.
Chainsaws are only dangerous if you don’t handle it properly and follow the safety tips when using. Otherwise, the tools are helpful in every way.
** It’s important to keep the chainsaws from the reach of children.
Are battery chainsaws as good as gas?
A: It’s hard to compare because they both have advantages to speak. But if you are in higher demand for basic yard work, a cordless chainsaw is more suitable.
Gas-powered chainsaws can cut trees and branches, but they produce noise and emit fumes. They are yet hard to handle and bulkier.
So, it depends on your purpose of use to decide which one is better.
Is gas or electric chainsaw better?
A: Again. Gas chainsaws are more effective in handling heavy-duty jobs, but they are hard to use. Electric tools are lighter but don’t have that power you need to go to the wood.
Why does my chainsaw chain dull so quickly?
A: There are many reasons for a chainsaw to go dull fast. But according to our experience, perhaps you are bucking wood into its dirt. Or the material of the chain is likely of poor quality that can’t stand the heat of grinding.
Should a chainsaw smoke?
A: No. It should never overheat or begin smoking. You should check the oil level and the chain guide bar.
Have you found what you need?
At the end of the day, we hope you’ve got the best chainsaw for the money in your wishlist. Please apply our guide to shop wisely so you won’t regret it later.
Please share this article to the people you think they need it.
For more interesting things about chainsaws, please look forward to our future posts.
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I’m James J. Decker, a hobbyist and DIYs and also a big of home improvement and gardening tools. I immensely enjoy how these amazing products improve productivity and efficiency, and allow me to do jobs for which I would’ve otherwise needed professional help.
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