9 Most Powerful Chainsaws of 2024

Are you on the hunt for the most powerful chainsaws? If so, you are not alone.

We have checked out customers’ reviews, compared a long list of products, and narrowed our top pick of the best models down to the best top nine, based on the overall efficiency, built quality, and cost.

Here are the most powerful chainsaws you can buy in 2024:

• Best Overall: Husqvarna 20 Inch 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
• Most Fuel-Efficient: Poulan Pro Gas Chainsaw PR5020
• User-Friendly: Remington RM4618 Outlaw Gas-Powered Chainsaw
• Best Overall: WORX WG304.1 Chainsaw
• Best For Small Acreage Homes: BLACK+DECKER Electric Chainsaw CS1518
• Best For Professional Arborists: Makita UC4051A 16-inch Electric Chain Saw
• Best Overall: Greenworks Cordless Chainsaw 20312
• Best For Smaller Tasks: BLACK+DECKER Cordless Chainsaw LCS1240B
• Most Durable: Makita XCU02PTX1 Lithium-Ion Cordless Chainsaw

Gas-Powered

Best Overall: Husqvarna 20 Inch 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw

Husqvarna 20 Inch 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw

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First on our list of the best gas-powered chainsaw is the Husqvarna 20 Inch 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw. Though relying on a gas engine, this machine uses minimal fuel and releases the smallest possible amount of emission, while at the same ensuring second-to-none performance.

Though most users are not satisfied with the small-sized fuel tank, they are attracted by its versatility created by the 55.5cc gas engine and 20-inch guide bar and chain. You can use it for some lighter jobs including trimming/pruning or other tougher applications such as cutting down and slicing through limbs or bigger wood chunks.

Most Fuel-Efficient: Poulan Pro Gas Chainsaw PR5020

Poulan Pro Gas Chainsaw PR5020

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When it comes to a powerful yet affordable chainsaw for bucking trunks, felling trees, and cutting firewood, the Poulan Pro Gas Chainsaw PR5020 is such a perfect choice.

The most outstanding feature of this unit by Poulan Pro is the OxyPower engine technology which is designed to reduce emissions while still promising way lower fuel consumption. You can expect 70% fewer emissions and 20% lower fuel consumption. It means that not only will you have a more powerful engine delivering more than enough power for virtually any applications but you will also save way more money in the long run.

Another great part is the filtering system guaranteeing longer-life air filter and smaller fuel consumption - without compromising power. If this chainsaw came with an adjustable flow oiler for more precise oiling, though, there would be almost nothing to complain.

User-Friendly: Remington RM4618 Outlaw Gas-Powered Chainsaw

Remington RM4618 Outlaw Gas-Powered Chainsaw

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What makes this 46cc full crank 2-stroke gas engine with the premium 18-in bar and low-kickback chain perfect for most landowners & homeowners is that it’s a powerful, heavy-duty unit that’s lightweight, comfortable to use, and easy to store & maintain.

Aside from power, easy maintenance, and maneuverability, the best part of this machine is that it’s fully packed with the Quickstart Technology for easier, smoother, & quicker pull starts and the top-of-the-line adjustable flow oiler for the most proper amount of chain lubrication for smooth & safe saw cuts together with a 5-point anti-vibration system and a cushioned full wrap handle for taking all of the fatigue out of operating & maneuvering this tool.

What seems to be a matter is the guard design resulting in properly-tensioned chains falling off when they jump off.

Electric-Powered

Best Overall: WORX WG304.1 Chainsaw

WORX WG304.1 Chainsaw

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For your everyday garden tasks, this chainsaw by WORX can do the job just perfectly as our top pick for the best electric-powered chainsaws.

Besides the attractive lightweight design, this versatile tool attracts homeowners’ attention for its powerful 15.0 Amp motor producing anywhere from 4.0 peak HP. The reliable gas-like power integrated with the patented tool-free chain replacement gives you the greatest possible cutting capabilities.

While the exclusive auto-tensioning system alleviates any headaches or tiredness of having to keep the bar and chain blade tight and secure throughout the cutting process, the 18-in bar length can nicely deal with basic limb works and tree trimming, bush clearing, and firewood splitting as well as add optimal stability during cutting.

The only downside is the potential oil leakage. To avoid it, make sure to remove all the oil from saw before storing it.

Best For Small Acreage Homes: BLACK+DECKER Electric Chainsaw CS1518

BLACK+DECKER Electric Chainsaw CS1518

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The BLACK+DECKER Electric Chainsaw CS1518 packs everything required for sturdy operation and safety during use without sacrificing power.

The motor contains an automatic oiling system that generates precise bar and chain lubrication on demand and the tool-less chain tensioning that provides homeowners with full adjustment control. Not to mention the chain break feature that can make the chain stop whenever improper contacts are made.

The only minor issue with the BLACK+DECKER Electric Chainsaw CS1518 is the lack of a cord cage that prevents this unit from being pulled out of its extension cord plug.

Best For Professional Arborists: Makita UC4051A 16-inch Electric Chain Saw

Makita UC4051A 16-inch Electric Chain Saw

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The Makita UC4051A 16" Electric Chainsaw is a heavy-duty unit built for quick and efficient cutting with the seamless operation and ease of maintenance.

Powered by the main socket via a power cord and with a chain speed of 2,900 FPM, it will deliver faster and smoother cutting performance for professional-grade limb works and trimming. So if you are a professional arborist, you will realize how essential it is. Its built-in current limiter specially engineered to protect its motor from being burned out and an electric chain brake for optimal productivity are its topmost features.

For smoother and heavy continuous cutting performance, it comes with an automatic chain oiler and ergonomic rubberized grip handles. However, users complain about having to manage a little about the corded design limiting their mobility.

Battery-Powered

Best Overall: Greenworks Cordless Chainsaw 20312

Greenworks Cordless Chainsaw 20312

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The 16-inch 40V cordless chainsaw by Greenworks is a cut above the rest.

As a cordless, battery-operated device, this chainsaw not only is convenient to use and maneuver but also delivers smoother, cleaner cuts, and longer chain life. Featuring the innovative brushless motor technology that can extend the efficiency and motor’s life, the electronic chain brake, and an automatic oiler allowing up to 30% more torque for the greatest possible cutting performance and 70% less vibration for user’s comfort while working with its Greenworks G-MAX 40V ion-lithium technology.

However, as this machine’s battery does not last for such a long time, those who want to use it heavily might have to recharge it frequently.

Best For Smaller Tasks: BLACK+DECKER Cordless Chainsaw LCS1240B

BLACK+DECKER Cordless Chainsaw LCS1240B

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If you are a casual suburban lumberjack, the 40V MAX cordless chainsaw with the premium 12-in bar and low-kickback chain are all you really need. Normally, the branches in suburb life are not thick enough to demand a bigger or more powerful chainsaw.

The bar at that length can make the BLACK+DECKER Cordless Chainsaw LCS1240B an excellent tool for cutting down smaller trees and splitting small to medium-sized limbs. However, the 40V MAX* 2.0Ah Battery is still capable of providing averagely more than 60 4x4 pine lumber cuts per single charge.

Were not for the short battery life, the BLACK+DECKER Cordless Chainsaw LCS1240B could cut through a lot more thicker logs of wood.

Most Durable: Makita XCU02PTX1 Lithium-Ion Cordless Chainsaw

Makita XCU02PTX1 Lithium-Ion Cordless Chainsaw

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Another well-deserved place in our list of the most powerful chainsaw is the Makita XCU02PTX1 Lithium-Ion Cordless Chainsaw which can produce outstanding results day in, day out.

Besides 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion batteries designed for hassle-free cutting, this lightweight top handle chainsaw is also packed with features ensuring optimal performance and enjoyable users’ experience.

While the brushless motor system produces powerful gas-like performance and the chain speed of 1,650 FPM allowing faster cutting, the lock-off lever automatically prevents the blade from accidentally engaging and the 12-in guide bar increases capacity.

The only minor issue with this model is the low-quality charger.

How To Choose The Most Powerful Chainsaws?

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Gas vs. Electric vs. Battery-Powered Chainsaw

• When compared to a gas-engine chainsaw, electric and battery-powered models have low operating costs and produce zero noxious emissions. Whether you are a beginner or a veteran, expect to operate your electric/battery-powered chainsaw within seconds. No need to deal with pull cords and gas & oil mixing as well as the mess and the harmful fumes.
• However, gas-engine chainsaws can deliver way more power than any other variant. Their chain is not only tougher but also spins faster, thus ensuring quicker cuts through wood.

Electric vs. Battery-Powered Chainsaw

• Electric chainsaws can be either corded or cordless battery-powered. User’s mobility is the biggest factor that differentiates these two types from each other.
• If you prefer the unit with a power cord connecting it to the mains socket, don’t expect to move around a lot. However, it is a bit more powerful, and you do not have to worry about running out of power. Meanwhile, the cordless battery-operated chainsaws are really portable and allow users to go virtually anywhere they want.

Blade/Bar Length

When shopping for a chainsaw, blade/bar length which determines the thickness of a wood piece your machine can cut is one of the most important features to consider.

That way, it affects the types of woodcutting projects you can perform, from firewood slicing up and tree taking down trees to branch cutting down.

To choose the proper blade length for your yard projects without compromising your safety, a rule of thumb is to use a model with the blade at least 2 inches longer than the branches you want to cut.

The most popular chainsaws’ lengths are:

• 12 to 14 inches - associated with branch trimming and pruning tasks

• 16 to 18 inches - meant for small tree felling and firewood cutting up

• 20 to 24 inches - considered as professional-grade - built for larger tree felling and thicker log slicing

Which Brands Make The Most Powerful Chainsaws?

BLACK+DECKER

• BLACK+DECKER is a global leading manufacturer of chainsaws and has gained its strong reputation for innovating and designing high-quality power tools since 1910. Developing from a small machine store to a famous manufacturing powerhouse, this Maryland-headquartered company offers users of all levels a broad collection of excellent products used in and around their homes.

Husqvarna

• Since their earliest days in 1689, Husqvarna has been remaining steadfastly focused on respect for nature, customer needs, and increased usability. When you have yard projects to get done, the ergonomic products with fewer emissions and greater energy efficiency by this Swedish manufacturer can do them efficiently and reliably.

Poulan Pro

• With more than 70 years in the power tool industry, this American brand established by veteran lumberjack Claude Poulan, Poulan Pro has set a higher standard for the design of innovative home products and outdoor garden care equipment.
• No matter which product you choose - blowers, hedge trimmers, lawn mowers, tillers, pole saws, and chainsaws, you will learn more about how Poulan Pro has earned their reputation for excellent quality, ingenuity, and value.

FAQs

Conclusion

Looking for a machine that is not only great for all of your limb jobs and garden projects but also fits within your budget but not knowing where to start? Then, you’ve arrived at the right page. In this article, I will show you how to find the most powerful chainsaw.