In that past, chainsaws were the tools specifically used by loggers and farmers. However, homeowners can now use them for a lot of DIY jobs, such as cutting firewood or making fences.
There are many good chainsaws out there, but the best chainsaw for the money is the one that fits your needs the most.
That’s why we are here today to help you choose the perfect chainsaw to use at home.
Here are the best chainsaws for the money you can buy in 2024:
- Best Overall (Best Cordless Electric Chainsaw for The Money): BLACK+DECKER LCS1020B
- Budget-Friendly Option (Best Cordless Electric Chainsaw for The Money): Greenworks 20262
- Long Runtime (Best Cordless Electric Chainsaw for The Money): DEWALT DCCS670B FLEXVOLT
- Best Overall (Best Corded Electric Chainsaw for The Money): Makita Chain Saw
- Best for Beginners (Best Corded Electric Chainsaw for The Money): WORX WG304.1
- Best Overall (Best Rear Handle Gas Chainsaw for The Money): Husqvarna 24 Inch 460 Rancher
- Budget-Friendly (Best Rear Handle Gas Chainsaw for The Money): Remington 41AY4214983 RM4214CS
- Best Overall (Best Top Handle Gas Chainsaw for The Money): Husqvarna 966997203 T435
- Best Anti-Vibrating (Best Top Handle Gas Chainsaw for The Money): Hitachi CS33EB16
| 9 Best Chainsaws For The Money | ||
|---|---|---|
Best Overall | BLACK+DECKER LCS1020B
| |
Budget-Friendly Option | Greenworks 20262
| |
Long Runtime | DEWALT DCCS670B FLEXVOLT
| |
Best Overall | Makita Chain Saw
| |
Best for Beginners | WORX WG304.1
| |
Best Overall | Husqvarna 24 Inch 460 Rancher
| |
Budget-Friendly | Remington 41AY4214983 RM4214CS
| |
Best Overall | Husqvarna 966997203 T435
| |
Best Anti-Vibrating | Hitachi CS33EB16
| |
Best Overall (Best Cordless Electric Chainsaw for The Money): BLACK+DECKER LCS1020B
- Ideal for women and novices – lightweight & easy to use
- Allow for quick adjustments & able to cut through fallen branches or small trees - tool-free blade tension system
- Deliver faster and smoother cuts - 10” low kickback bar and chain
- People who don’t like to manual the chain oil could feel inconvenient
BLACK+DECKER LCS1020B is a good light-duty chainsaw for novice or women.
It is lightweight, easy to use, and the batteries can last up to 2 days of heavy use. Using a tool-free blade tension system, the chainsaw is not only quick to adjust but also able to cut through fallen branches or small trees like a breeze.
The 10” low kickback bar and chain is another big plus as it delivers faster and smoother cuts than other counterparts at the same price point.
We also like its oiling system where you can easily add lubricating oil in for the chain and bar.
| BLACK+DECKER LCS1020B Specifications | |
|---|---|
Voltage | 20V |
Max. length | 10” |
Rear/top handles | no |
Weight | 7.59 pounds |
Highlight features | Lightweight & easy to use |
Lightweight, featuring adjustable tool-free blade tension system, and 10” low kickback bar and chain, that combination really made this model the best overall cordless electric chainsaw for us.
Budget-Friendly Option (Best Cordless Electric Chainsaw for The Money): Greenworks 20262
- Able to trim limps at different angles - wrap-around handle and 3/8” chain pitch
- Easy to use & high cutting performance - tool-free chain tension and 12” steel chain and bar
- The battery is long-lasting and compatible with other Greenworks garden tools - G-MAX 40V Lithium-Ion Battery
- No problem with applying lubricating oil to the chainsaw’s chain and bar - an automatic oiler
- The directions were a little daunting
- Its chain gets loose fast
- The safety switch is a bit annoying
Pricing is one of the most popular things stopping many people from equipping their arsenal a chainsaw, however, this one is an exception.
It is priced nearly just ½ of the other contenders we’ve tested with no compromise of performance. It allows you to easily trim at different angles, all thanks to the wrap-around handle and 3/8” chain pitch.
For extra ease of use as well as higher cutting performance, it features tool-free chain tension and 12” steel chain and bar.
But what truly impressed us the most is its G-MAX 40V Lithium-Ion Battery. Unlike others, it avoids memory loss after charging to last longer and you can use it with other garden tools of Greenworks. Ah, a huge plus is it is built with an automatic oiler.
| Greenworks 20262 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Voltage | 40V |
Max. length | 12” |
Rear/top handles | Yes |
Weight | 6 lbs. |
Highlight features | Wrap-around handle and 3/8” chain pitch |
Looking for a simple chainsaw for small handyman projects but don’t want it to cost an arm and a leg? Try this!
Long Runtime (Best Cordless Electric Chainsaw for The Money): DEWALT DCCS670B FLEXVOLT
- Versatile enough for both indoor and outdoor cutting tasks - a 16” low kickback Oregon bar and chain
- Give the longest runtime – up to 3 amp-hours or 70 cuts/charge
- High values – the battery has two voltages
- Heavy
- Expensive
The final option in this category, which is also the most powerful cordless electric chainsaw - DEWALT DCCS670B FLEXVOLT.
It features a 16” low kickback Oregon bar and chain, which is versatile enough for not only indoor but also outdoor cutting projects. While there are two purchase options provided for this product, we find the one included a 60V battery is better for two main reasons.
First, it is very powerful. When fully charged, the battery can last up to 3 amp-hours or 70 cuts (on a six-inch by six-inch pine wood) and considering its exceptional quality, the extra cost is well-worth.
Secondly, it has two voltages – 20V, 60V, and 120V (with no workload), meaning that you can use it for at least two other DEWALT tools.
| DEWALT DCCS670B FLEXVOLT Specifications | |
|---|---|
Voltage | 60V |
Max. length | 16” |
Weight | 9.4 pounds |
Highlight features | A 16” low kickback Oregon bar and chain |
Specifically designed for pros, the DEWALT DCCS670B FLEXVOLT highlights not only the most powerful battery and ultra-long bar and chain but also the longest runtime for outdoor projects.
Best Overall (Best Corded Electric Chainsaw for The Money): Makita Chain Saw
- Reliable and trusted – backed by 30-day money-back guarantee & a 1-year warranty
- Give higher productivity, able to handle heavy-duty cutting tasks – a huge metal spike bar & electric chain brake
- Keep the chainsaw and motor last longer - a built-in current limiter
- A bit pricey
On top of our best corded electric chainsaw list is the Makita UC4051A.
We picked it not only because of its globally well-known manufacturer or its super-good warranty (30-day money-back guarantee & a 1-year warranty) but also its truly great quality.
It has a 16” chain and bar, a big trigger switch with soft start, and comfortable rubberized grip handles.
Therein, the bar highlights decently huge metal spikes. It combined with the electric chain brake to increase the overall productivity, making it able to handle heavy-duty tasks for efficient and fast cutting (up to 2,900 FPM).
Keeping the motor from getting burnout is a built-in current limiter. The way it works is whenever detecting the chainsaw is overloaded, this feature will limit the power. Very efficient!
| Makita Chain Saw Specifications | |
|---|---|
Motor (Amps) | 14.5 |
Max. length | 16” |
Rear/top handles | yes |
Weight | 14 pounds |
Highlight features | Backed by 30-day money-back guarantee & a 1-year warranty |
When considering virtually any aspects, Makita UC4051A is the best overall performer.
Best for Beginners (Best Corded Electric Chainsaw for The Money): WORX WG304.1
- Dependable – backed by a 3-year warranty
- Keep precise tension during the operation, prevent over-tightening, and secure the bar and chain - patented auto-tension system
- Versatile - extended 18” bar length
- The mechanism for loosening the chain also holds the bar on
- Unclear manuals
- The handguard is too close to the handle
Introducing to you the WORX WG304.1, which is also our recommendation for beginners.
There are many good reasons making us finally come up to this decision, such as its too-good-to-be-true price point, lightness, and extra safety compared to the gas-powered, and more. What we love the most about it is the patented auto-tension system.
It keeps appropriate tension while the motor is operating, prevents over-tightening, and secures the bar and chain. Built as a corded chainsaw, its motor delivers gas-like power.
One thing making it superior to the Makita above is extended 18” bar length, equivalent to more usability and versatility.
It is also backed by a 3-year warranty. For the price, what else to ask?
| WORX WG304.1 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Motor (Amps) | 15.0 |
Max. length | 18” |
Rear/top handles | yes |
Weight | 11.3 pounds |
Highlight features | Backed by a 3-year warranty |
With the WG304.1, WORX has created an exceptionally lightweight, versatile, easy-to-use, and affordable chainsaw that is sure to be adored by those beginners who never own one before.
Best Overall (Best Rear Handle Gas Chainsaw for The Money): Husqvarna 24 Inch 460 Rancher
- Give more powerful and faster cuts - a 60.3cc motor, 2 cycle engine, and extended 24” bar and chain
- Simple to maintain - centrifugal air cleaning system and a quick-release air filter
- Reduce emissions & limit fuel consumption - x-torque
- Very expensive
- A bit heavy
Price aside, Husqvarna 24 Inch 460 Rancher is a worth-trying option for pros or anyone who starts getting tired of their feeble 2HP chainsaw.
This one, by featuring a 60.3cc (nearly 4HP) motor, is able to cut through big stuff like butter in just 2/3 the time that others usually take. The extended 24” bar and chain, on the other hand, comes in handy for cutting giants lumber from logs.
If your biggest concern is a complicated maintenance process, luckily, this isn’t a thing.
It highlights a centrifugal air cleaning system and a quick-release air filter, which not just improves the engine life but also minimizes the tool cleanings.
Besides, it is extremely safe to use with the added chainsaw helmet, gloves, and chaps. There also comes an x-torque for emission reduction and fuel consumption cutoff.
| Husqvarna 24 Inch 460 Rancher Specifications | |
|---|---|
Engine type | 2 cycle engine |
Engine | 60. 3cc 24 inch engine |
Max. length | 24” |
Rear/top handles | yes |
Weight | 21 pounds |
Highlight features | A 60.3cc motor, 2 cycle engine, and extended 24” bar and chain |
Overall, if your budget is loose, this is one of the best values in the rear handle gas chainsaw to invest.
Budget-Friendly (Best Rear Handle Gas Chainsaw for The Money): Remington 41AY4214983 RM4214CS
- Give top-notch power & smooth cuts through even the toughest wood - a premium low-kickback chain, 14-Inch bar, and 42cc full crank 2 cycle engine
- Able to start the chainsaw right away - quickstart technology
- Provide extra comfort, maneuverability, and balance - ergonomically-designed handle & 3-point anti-vibration system
- Only provide a 2-year limited warranty
If you know that you like a powerful rear handle gas chainsaw but you don’t want to spend a fortune for it, the Remington 41AY4214983 RM4214CS is a great affordable alternative.
It features a premium low-kickback chain, 14-Inch bar, and 42cc full crank 2 cycle engine that gives top-notch power with smoother cuts through even the hardest wood. Making it different from other rear handle gas-powered chainsaws is the quickstart technology application.
Thanks to it, you can easily operate the tool immediately.
The ergonomically-designed handle combined with a 3-point anti-vibration system, on the other hand, is a big bonus to add to the product extra comfort, maneuverability, and balance.
Besides, the elderly, women or weak-armed people will love it as the tool only weighs around 13 pounds.
| Remington 41AY4214983 RM4214CS Specifications | |
|---|---|
Engine type | 2-Cycle Gas Powered |
Engine | 42cc full crank |
Max. length | 14” |
Rear/top handles | yes |
Weight | 13.40 lbs |
Highlight features | A premium low-kickback chain, 14-Inch bar, and 42cc full crank 2 cycle engine |
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly rear handle gas chainsaw with no compromise of performance, the Remington 41AY4214983 RM4214CS is our favorite model.
Best Overall (Best Top Handle Gas Chainsaw for The Money): Husqvarna 966997203 T435
- Give the guide bar tip higher-visibility - improved design combined with chain break window
- Provide longer-lasting durability and a superior cutting experience - new Husqvarna x-force bar and x-force chain
- Eco-friendly – meet the world´s most stringent environmental regulations
- Easy to handle & not feel fatigued – lightweight, only 7.5 pounds
- Not ideal for big trees
- A bit high-priced
Whenever being asked about the best overall top-handle gas chainsaw, the first one popped into our mind is Husqvarna 966997203 T435.
The improved design combined with a chain break window gives its guide bar tip higher visibility, and it comes with a new Husqvarna x-force bar and x-force chain that provides longer-lasting durability and superior cutting experience.
Although powered by gas, it doesn’t emit smoke or eat up as much fuel as other lower-end designs. And it doesn’t cause your arms to feel fatigued either, all thanks to the anti-vibration system.
| Husqvarna 966997203 T435 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Engine type | x-torque engine |
Engine | 35.2 см³ engine |
Max. length | 14 in |
Rear/top handles | yes |
Weight | 7.5 pounds |
Highlight features | The improved design combined with chain break window |
Husqvarna 966997203 T435 is our pick for anyone looking for the best overall top handle gas chainsaw in the market.
Best Anti-Vibrating (Best Top Handle Gas Chainsaw for The Money): Hitachi CS33EB16
- Give you top-notch smooth cutting performance - 5-point anti-vibration system
- Decent cutting performance - 16
- Drip oil
Hitachi CS33EB16 is flat out one of the most popular top handle gas chainsaws in large part because it’s so affordable. The price is currently around $180, and Hitachi provides this product with a 1-year rental warranty, 2-year commercial warranty, and 7-year consumer warranty.
But on top of being affordable, it’s also appreciated for top-notch smooth cutting performance, which is a big thank you to the added 5-point anti-vibration system.
You’ll besides benefit from its 16" Oregon bar and chain, PureFire low emission 2-stroke engine technology, and 32.2cc, 1.6 hp commercial-grade engine. This flawless combination offers not only decent cutting performance but also reliability.
For higher safety levels, it is added with an inertia activated chain brake which will stop the chain rotation right when detecting trouble.
| Hitachi CS33EB16 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Engine type | 2-Stroke Gas-Powered |
Engine | 32.2cc 1.6 hp commercial-grade engine |
Max. length | 16” |
Rear/top handles | yes |
Weight | 12.1 pounds |
Highlight features | 5-point anti-vibration system |
Highlighting a 5-point anti-vibration system, the Hitachi CS33EB16 is our budget-friendly option for those people who want to minimize as much arm fatigue as possible while using their chainsaw.
Chainsaw safety tips to protect you from injury
Before getting a chainsaw, it’s crucial that you know how to stay safe:
Put on protective clothing, wear protective glasses, and hearing protection.
Pick the right size of chainsaw for the job.
Clean the log and remove all debris around the site before cutting the log.
Use and maintain the chainsaw properly by following manuals.
Bystanders must be at a safe distance from the cutting area.
How To Choose The Best Chainsaw For The Money?
Guide Bar Length
The guide bar length is the distance between the tip of the chain and where it enters the housing. This indicator represents the cutting area and the largest wood size the chainsaw can cut in one pass. For example, a guide bar 16 inches long can cut up to 32 inches of wood size.
It’s worth noting that you can still cut a large piece of wood with a smaller chainsaw, but you will do in 2 passes instead of 1. For safety, you should choose a bar length that’s 2 inches longer than the wood size you will cut.
All in all, if you are a homeowner with light cutting jobs, you can consider getting under a 14-inch guide bar. For medium-duty, you should opt for 16-20 inches; and for heavy-duty, you need 22-36 inches.
Power Size
The choice of power size relies on the cutting jobs you will perform. Below is a table of tasks and corresponding power sizes recommended for you.
Task | Gas chainsaw (cc) | Electric chainsaw |
Trimming | 30 | Small |
Pruning | 30 | Small |
Felling mall tree | 30-40 | Medium to large |
Felling moderate tree | >45 | Medium to large |
Limbing | 30 | Medium to large |
Light firewood (<10 inches) | 35-45 | Large |
Medium firewood | 40-50 | Large |
Large logs | >50 | Not recommended |
Engine Power Type
When it comes to the type of engine power, you will face two options: electric and gas power.
Gas | Electric | |
Highlight features | Run by gasoline | Run by battery (cordless) or corded |
Pros | Powerful Great bar oiling system Mobility Versatility Fast cutting speed | Easy, fast start Quieter Low maintenance Lower operation cost Lighter, safer Environmentally friendly |
Cons | Pollution Heavy Noisy High maintenance | Less power Risk of electric shock |
Best for | Heavy-duty, large wood sizes | Indoor uses, light-medium duty |
Which Brands Make The Best Chainsaw For The Money?
Hitachi
Founded in 1910, Hitachi has delivered high-quality products to users around the world for the past 100 years. With this brand, you will get chainsaws with not just the quality but also innovation and efficiency.
Husqvarna
With a history of 325 years in the business, this brand has claimed itself the largest manufacturer of outdoor products in the world. It’s best known for its safety, reliability, and great performance.
Remington
Since 1921, Remington has been a trusted manufacturer of gas and electrical tools. Here, you will find products with innovative designs and outstanding power.
WORX
With its experience, WORX takes pride in only offering the best products with faster working speed, ease of use, and greater efficiency.
Makita
This brand was established a century ago and it has since specialized in supplying electrical tools. With a dedicated, strong Research and Development department, it delivers quality and durability.
DEWALT
Over that past 98 years, DeWALT has earned a reputation in wood machines. If you are a beginner, it makes sense to go with a renowned brand with reliable products like this one.
Greenworks
This is a leading brand in terms of electrical power tools. It takes pride in products with the best technology and a lot of features, aiming at addressing your problems with electrical tools.
BLACK+DECKER
Since its foundation years ago, this brand hasn’t stopped offering the best products in the market for you. It’s trusted for quality, values, and ingenuity.
FAQs
Are chainsaws dangerous?
Yes, they are. Some possible causes include cutting yourself, eye injuries, kick-back, back injuries, head injuries, and crushing under a falling tree.
Are battery chainsaws as good as gas?
Not really regarding power. Battery chainsaws are more portable than gas chainsaws but they are not as powerful and can’t cut large trees.
Is gas or electric chainsaw better?
The choice between these two types of chainsaw comes down to your own preference because each type has its own advantages and disadvantages.
A gas chainsaw is portable, powerful, versatile, and cuts fast. However, it’s heavy, noisy, bad for the environment, and requires high maintenance.
On the other hand, an electric chainsaw is easier to use, quieter, cheaper, lighter, safer for the environment, and requires low maintenance. But it’s less powerful and can’t be used in rainy weather or humidity.
Why does my chainsaw chain dull so quickly?
There are a few possible causes you should look into. Overall, when a chainsaw dulls quickly, it’s most likely because you are using it wrong.
Putting a steep angle on the cutters
The rakes are too far down
Cutting dirty wood
The tip of the bar touching the ground
Should a chainsaw smoke?
No, it shouldn’t. Smoking is the result of overheating, too much oil in the fuel mix, or lack of lubrication.
Conclusion
Overall, we hope that through this guide, you will be able to pick the right chainsaw for you. Remember that the best chainsaw for the money is the one you can make use of the most, so consider your needs thoroughly before making the final decision. Good luck!
Harry RamosI’m Harry Ramos, who's crazy about all things green. I’m here to share some experience in my gardening adventure and how to choose the best products for your garden. Let's dig in, get our hands dirty, and celebrate the simple, earthy pleasures of the garden together!
