It’s fun and money-saving to do all the cutting tasks around the house on your own. But that is only true when your tool kit works great, therein, a reliable chainsaw is a must!
If you want to buy a new one, this article comes in handy. Below are the nine most reliable chainsaws for home use according to our testers' reports. Read on!
Here are the most reliable chainsaws for home use you can buy in 2021:
- Powerful (Gas Powered Chainsaw): SALEM MASTER 6220H
- Fuel-Efficient (Gas Powered Chainsaw): Poulan Pro PR4218
- Easy To Start (Gas Powered Chainsaw): Husqvarna 18 Inch 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
- Lightweight (Corded Electric Chainsaw): BLACK+DECKER CS1518
- Best For Thick Branches (Corded Electric Chainsaw): WORX WG304.2
- Best For Heavy Continuous Cutting (Corded Electric Chainsaw): Makita-UC4051A
- Best For Firewood (Battery Powered Chainsaw): Greenworks GCS80420
- Best For Seniors (Battery Powered Chainsaw): Oregon Cordless 16-inch Self-Sharpening Chainsaw
- Silent (Battery Powered Chainsaw): WORX WG384
| 9 Most Reliable Chainsaws For Home Use | ||
|---|---|---|
Powerful | SALEM MASTER 6220H
| |
Fuel-Efficient | Poulan Pro PR4218
| |
Easy To Start | Husqvarna 18 Inch 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
| |
Lightweight | BLACK+DECKER CS1518
| |
Best For Thick Branches | WORX WG304.2
| |
Best For Heavy Continuous Cutting | Makita-UC4051A
| |
Best For Firewood | Greenworks GCS80420
| |
Best For Seniors | Oregon Cordless 16-inch Self-Sharpening Chainsaw
| |
Silent | WORX WG384
| |
Powerful (Gas Powered Chainsaw): SALEM MASTER 6220H
- Able to fell trees and cut firewood – feature a 62cc 3.4HP motor
- Safe to use - a safety switch, quick stop chain brake, high-quality low-kickback chain, and automatic oil supply system
- Easy to maintain or replace - quick-release air filter
- A bit hard to start it
SALEM MASTER 6220H features a 62cc 3.4HP motor – which is also the most powerful out of the models we tested. It delivers up to 8,500 RPM that can easily and quickly fell trees and cut firewood.
Regardless, this chainsaw is highly safe, very reliable, and simple to use.
It has a safety switch, quick stop chain brake, and an automatic oil supply system to enhance your safety.
The high-quality low-kickback chain is another highlighted feature as it’s hard-wearing, long-lasting, and reduces the risks of chain drops.
We also like its air filter; the added quick-release makes it a lot easier to maintain and replace when in need.
And lastly, the low price makes it strong competition in its field.
| SALEM MASTER 6220H Specifications | |
|---|---|
Horsepower | 3.4 |
Bar/Chain Length | 20-inch |
Highlight Features | 62cc 3.4HP motor a safety switch, quick stop chain brake, high-quality low-kickback chain, and automatic oil supply system quick-release air filter |
SALEM MASTER 6220H is durable and powerful enough to stay strong and work hard for years.
Fuel-Efficient (Gas Powered Chainsaw): Poulan Pro PR4218
- Fuel-efficient & eco-friendly - patented OxyPower technology
- No compromise of power output - SuperClean Air Filter System
- Heavy
When it comes to a mighty, fuel-efficient gas chainsaw, we’ve always trusted Poulan Pro PR4218 more than others.
It’s the one and sole model equipped with patented OxyPower technology that, according to the manufacturer, consumes 20% lower fuel and emits 70% less fume.
It did work as advertised during our tests!
The SuperClean Air Filter System helps optimize the fuel consumption without compromising the power output. So, when looking at similar counterparts at a slight increase in engine power and usually costs double the price, we saw no noticeable difference.
| Poulan Pro PR4218 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 13.25 Pounds |
Horsepower | 2.1 HP |
Bar/Chain Length | 18 in. |
Highlight Features | patented OxyPower technology SuperClean Air Filter System purge bulb and spring-assist pull cord |
When compared to those counterparts at the same HP of motor design, Poulan Pro PR4218 lasted much longer to keep our work more consistent. So, if you’re in need of a fuel-efficient chainsaw for home use, pick it!
Easy To Start (Gas Powered Chainsaw): Husqvarna 18 Inch 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
- Able to start after 2-3 pulls - combined choke/stop control and Smart Start technology
- Less fatigue during use – LowVib system
- Fewer emissions – X-Torq engine
- The chain oil and bar aren’t included in the package
- Wish the chain was a bit longer
Some really good workhorses can be a nuisance to start in the cold, but when it comes to the Husqvarna 18 Inch 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw, that’s a different story.
It is equipped with Smart Start Technology, which is actually a decompression valve. Before starting the machine, just push this valve to release the pressure and it will quickly start in just 1-2 pulls. For easier starting, it also features combined choke/stop control.
Husqvarna 18 Inch 455 Rancher is a muscular gas chainsaw that offers 3.49 horsepower to cut through dead trees or large wood chunks like a champ.
But it doesn't vibrate like crazy nor emits much smoke as some models we tested. Using it, you can rest assured to receive extra power without hurting your hands or nature.
| Husqvarna 18 Inch 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 13.2 Pounds |
Horsepower | 3.49 HP |
Bar/Chain Length | 18 Inches |
Highlight Features | combined choke/stop control and Smart Start technology LowVib system X-Torq engine |
Built with Smart Start technology and combined choke/stop control, the Husqvarna 18 Inch 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw is very easy to start, especially for winter use
Lightweight (Corded Electric Chainsaw): BLACK+DECKER CS1518
- Manageable and easy to maneuver – the feather-like 12-pound weight
- Safe and protective - low kickback bar and chain & guide bar scabbard
- Prevent accidental unplugging - extension cord retainer
- Unable to store it vertically (because the oil in the reservoir will run out)
- A bit struggling to get the bar lined up properly
The durable BLACK+DECKER CS1518 weighs 12 pounds and is one of the lightest corded electric chainsaws on the market these days for painless, more manageable use than heavier ones.
Regardless of the weight, it is a powerful chainsaw that can provide clean cuts through firewood, branches, and trees up to 18” in diameter. The added low kickback bar and chain, on the other hand, make this unit a safer option.
Our testers also gave positive reviews on its tool-free chain tensioning system that helps adjust the chain faster and more easily.
We pretty liked the guide bar scabbard and the extension cord retainer for extra safety and hassle-free.
| BLACK+DECKER CS1518 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 12 Pounds |
Motor | 15 Ah motor |
Bar/Chain Length | 18-Inch |
Highlight Features | the feather-like 12-pound weight low kickback bar and chain & guide bar scabbard extension cord retainer |
At 12 pounds of weight, the BLACK+DECKER CS1518 is lightweight enough for longer use with less fatigue or for people who want extra manageability.
Best For Thick Branches (Corded Electric Chainsaw): WORX WG304.2
- Perfect for cutting thick branches – an 18” bar length and a high-performance 15.0-amp motor
- Easy to grab & Comfortable handling - rubberized, over-mold full-wrap handle
- No kickbacks - metal spike bumper
- Very loud
WORX WG304.2 features an extended bar length and a high-performance 15.0-amp motor that can make high-demanding cuts in large trees (up to 18” if they're still standing and 36” if already fallen) and as powerfully as gas-powered models.
However, it doesn’t hurt, numb, or blister your hands during long use because the handle is rubbery lined to bring extra comfort, vibration-dampening capability, and control.
The full-wrap design of this handle also allows you to easily grab it from any angle for both horizontal and vertical cuts.
It prevents kickbacks pretty well during heavy cutting and also can immediately shut down for accidental cutting reduction.
| WORX WG304.2 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 11.2 lbs. |
Motor | 15.0 Amp motor |
Bar/Chain Length | 18-Inch |
Highlight Features | an 18” bar length and a high-performance 15.0-amp motor rubberized, over-mold full-wrap handle metal spike bumper |
When it comes to choosing the most reliable corded electric chainsaw for thick branches, the WORX WG304.2 is always our solid pick
Best For Heavy Continuous Cutting (Corded Electric Chainsaw): Makita-UC4051A
- Afford heavy continuous cutting - an automatic chain oiler & built-in current limiter of the motor
- Deliver longer runtime – ultra-large oil reservoir
- Smooth start-ups - large trigger switch
- Expensive
Of all the corded electric chainsaws in our testing, we like Makita-UC4051A the most.
It gives a more noticeably solid hand-feel, smoother start-ups, more powerful performance, and is very easy to start from the first pull every time.
Above all, it is a rare option that can handle heavy continuous cutting with no signs of burnouts or overloading.
That all thanks to the built-in current limiter of its motor, which will automatically reduce the power when the saw is overloaded. Besides, it has an automatic chain oiler, so you don't have to stop and manually oil the chain as seen in lower-end chainsaws.
This leads to shorter yet more effective working times!
| Makita-UC4051A Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 14 Pounds |
Motor | 14 1/2 amp motor |
Bar/Chain Length | 16 in. |
Highlight Features | an automatic chain oiler & built-in current limiter of the motor ultra-large oil reservoir large trigger switch |
If you have a loose budget and want to invest in a new corded electric chainsaw that can handle heavy continuous cutting like a champ, the Makita-UC4051A is a worthwhile upgrade.
Best For Firewood (Battery Powered Chainsaw): Greenworks GCS80420
- Sharp and strong enough to cut through a 4”x4” firewood – a cutting-edge digital brushless motor & 80V Greenworks 2.0Ah battery pack
- Backed by a limited 4-year tool and battery warranty
- Wish the oil reservoir was more enclosure
Greenworks GCS80420 is engineered with a cutting-edge digital brushless motor to deliver maximum performance equivalent to a 42cc gas-powered chainsaw.
There’s no job that this saw can’t handle!
The 18” chain length allows this saw to cut cleanly through a 34” diameter limb while the long-lasting 80V Greenworks battery pack can offer up to 150 cuts on 4x4” firewood per charge. Besides, it is interchangeable amongst Greenworks battery-power tools.
You’ll also benefit from the included rapid charger that takes only around 30-40 minutes to have the battery fully charged.
| Greenworks GCS80420 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 2.05 Pounds |
Voltage | 80V |
Bar/Chain Length | 18 inches |
Charge Time | 30 minutes |
Runtime | 30-40 minutes |
Highlight Features | a cutting-edge digital brushless motor & 80V Greenworks 2.0Ah battery pack the limited 4-year tool and battery warranty |
Though it’s not the cheapest model we tested, we positively adore the powerful motor and high-quality chain of Greenworks GCS80420. For firewood, it’s a shining contender!
Best For Seniors (Battery Powered Chainsaw): Oregon Cordless 16-inch Self-Sharpening Chainsaw
- Easy to sharpen the blade - PowerSharp Sharpening System
- Quick to tension the chain - Tool-less Chain Tensioning System
- Offer consistent performance & safe - 4.0Ah battery & the brushless motor & Lubri-Tec oiling system
- A bit heavy
- The instructions could be a little clearer
Oregon Cordless 16-inch Self-Sharpening Chainsaw features a pulling trigger that, compared to pull cords, is much easier to start.
The 4.0Ah battery combined with the brushless motor allows it to work constantly for a long time and offer up to 400 cuts per charge.
During operation, its integrated Lubri-Tec oiling system will keep the chain well-lubricated for smooth cutting performance. If the chain gets dull, don’t worry, this saw can re-sharpen it within seconds, thanks to the PowerSharp Sharpening System.
It is also built with Tool-less Chain Tensioning System to quickly tension the chain.
| Oregon Cordless 16-inch Self-Sharpening Chainsaw Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 12 Pounds |
Voltage | 40V |
Bar/Chain Length | 16-inch |
Charge Time | 30 minutes |
Runtime | 30-45 minutes |
Highlight Features | PowerSharp Sharpening System Tool-less Chain Tensioning System 4.0Ah battery & the brushless motor Lubri-Tec oiling system |
For seniors who want a reliable and easy-to-use chainsaw for light-duty cutting tasks around the house, we highly recommend the Oregon Cordless 16-inch Self-Sharpening Chainsaw.
Silent (Battery Powered Chainsaw): WORX WG384
- Work quietly
- Able to double the power – come with two 20V PowerShare batteries
- Easy to know how much charge is left - battery level indicator
- Not for heavy-duty cutting tasks
Amongst the most powerful 14” battery-powered chainsaws, WORX WG384 is the quietest we tested, which is ideal if you live with babies, seniors, or hard neighbors.
The saw can fall a 20’ tall dandelion with a 15”-16” diameter, cut 1.5"-6" diameter branches, or trim toenails on small rodents.
We appreciate that it comes with two 20V PowerShare batteries to double the power and runtime. Plus, these batteries can be interchanged with other WORX 20V or 40V battery-powered tools.
The added battery level indicator comes in handy. It lets you know how much juice is left and when to charge them so that you can track your work better.
| WORX WG384 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 10.4 Pounds |
Voltage | 40V |
Bar/Chain Length | 14” |
Runtime | 1 hour |
Highlight Features | Include two 20V PowerShare batteries battery level indicator |
For those who are looking for the quietest and most reliable power-battery chainsaw for home use, don’t overlook the WORX WG384
How To Choose The Most Reliable Chainsaw For Home Use?
Anti-Vibration
Vibration makes sawing less controllable and more fatiguing. To minimize it, you should choose a chainsaw built with metal springs or rubber bushings between the handle and the chain, bar, and engine.
Reduced-Kickback Chain
Kickback is a common issue that happens when the saw chain takes a too-large bite, and it’s very dangerous.
To avoid that, you should look for features that can limit the cutting area, such as a chainsaw bar with a narrow nose or tip, a less aggressive cutting profile, or extra guard links.
Tool-Free Chain Adjuster
Properly adjusting a saw chain is a concern for both convenience and safety. A tool-free chain adjuster allows you to do that faster and more easily with no need for a screwdriver or wrench.
Bucking Spikes
This is a simple feature but can enhance your safety a lot when using a chainsaw. It is near the base of the bar. When cutting logs on a log stand or a sawbuck, it lets you pivot the chain and bar downward.
For the best performance, choose metal spikes.
Automatic Chain Oiler
When the saw bar and chain are well-oiled, they prevent wearing out and overheating better during use, therefore, they last longer.
An automatic chain oiler keeps your cutting process going on with no need to stop and manually pump oil to these components, which allows you to firmly hold the chainsaw.
Sheath Or Protection Case
This feature keeps the chainsaw being stored safely when not in use or during transport.
Trigger Lockout
This feature avoids the risks of turning on the chainsaw accidentally. Before the throttle trigger engages, you must press the palm switch.
Chain Catcher
Chain catcher helps prevent a thrown chain (mainly caused by improper maintenance and tensioning or too-loose chain) from flying back toward you during use.
Chain Brake
The way these features work is when the chainsaw kicks back or when the front handguard is pushed forward, it stops the chain nearly instantly.
Which Brands Make The Most Reliable Chainsaw For Home Use?
Husqvarna
Husqvarna is a well-known Swedish brand and also the leading manufacturer of outdoor power products, with over 330 years of experience. They own a lot of registered patents, such as OxyPower technology and SuperClean Air Filter System.
BLACK+DECKER
In terms of well-known American manufacturers of power tools, BLACK+DECKER is a proud name (founded in 1910). They provide various chainsaw lines for home use that are custom-made for different needs. But in general, they are very lightweight, easy to use, and reliable.
Makita
This power tool manufacturer is from Japan and also a long-standing company (since 1915). Their chainsaw lines are vast, spreading from gas-powered to electric-powered. But the corded electric models are their most successful with incredible engine power and safety.
FAQs
Are Stihl or Husqvarna chainsaws better?
In terms of efficiency, cutting performance, vibration-absorption technology and safety features, Husqvarna is superior to Stihl.
As for engine power, Stihl edges out Husqvarna.
Do I need a chainsaw sharpener?
Yes, you do. All chainsaws require a sharp saw chain to work efficiently and safely.
How to maintain a chainsaw?
Here are what you should do to maintain a chainsaw:
- Check the chain oiler, oil level, and bar before each use
- Clean dirt and debris off the chainsaw after each use
- Sharpen or replace the chain when it gets blunt
How much does a chainsaw cost?
If you’re on a tight budget and intend to use the chainsaw for firewood cutting, choose one between $200-$400.
If you can afford more for a stronger, more powerful chainsaw to handle heavy-duty cutting tasks in longer periods of time, choose one between $450-$600.
How long should a chainsaw warm-up?
It is recommended to warm up a chainsaw 30 seconds with a couple of revs.
How can I tell when my chainsaw chain is worn out?
Some recognizable signs of worn-out chainsaw chains are:
- Missing tops of the chain teeth (commonly caused by hits on dirt or rocks)
- The tool pulls in one direction, resulting in a crooked finish
Are there any American-made chainsaws?
Yes, there are. For example, Poulan Pro, Husqvarna, Echo, Stihl, etc.
Which is better: gas or electric chainsaw?
Gas chainsaws are better for heavy-duty cutting tasks or various cutting tasks in a wooded area because it’s mobile and durable.
Electric chainsaws are better for light handling, light-duty to medium-duty cutting tasks with no smoke emissions. But take note of the power cord hassles.
Conclusion
Your chainsaw choice decides your future safety when using it, so you want to be a wise and knowledgeable buyer. Make sure it is the most reliable chainsaw for home use and also meets your budget.
We hope this information has been helpful in your purchase and thanks for reading!
