For homeowners who are after a quick rundown of the main excellent features of the most reliable chainsaws, here’s our compilation of the most outstanding ones so that you can see at a glance what they’ve got to offer.
Here are the most reliable chainsaws you can buy in 2020:
- Best For Light Duty: Remington RM4216 Gas Powered Chainsaw
- Lightweight: Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
- Powerful: COOCHEER Powerful Gas Chainsaw
- Best Overall: Greenworks Corded Electric Chainsaw 20222
- Most Powerful: BLACK+DECKER Electric Chainsaw CS1518
- Most Lightweight: Sun Joe SWJ599E Tree Limb Master Electric Handheld Chainsaw
- Best Overall: DEWALT DCCS620B Cordless Chainsaw
- Best For Medium-Sized Jobs: BLACK+DECKER Cordless Chainsaw LCS1240
- Most Powerful: EGO Power+ CS1403 Cordless Chain Saw
| Top 9 Most Reliable Chainsaws | ||
|---|---|---|
Best For Light Duty | Remington RM4216 Gas Powered Chainsaw | Read Our Review |
Lightweight | Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw | Read Our Review |
Powerful | COOCHEER Powerful Gas Chainsaw | Read Our Review |
Best Overall | Greenworks Corded Electric Chainsaw 20222 | Read Our Review |
Most Powerful | BLACK+DECKER Electric Chainsaw CS1518 | Read Our Review |
Most Lightweight | Sun Joe SWJ599E Tree Limb Master Electric Handheld Chainsaw | Read Our Review |
Best Overall | DEWALT DCCS620B Cordless Chainsaw | Read Our Review |
Best For Medium-Sized Jobs | BLACK+DECKER Cordless Chainsaw LCS1240 | Read Our Review |
Most Powerful | EGO Power+ CS1403 Cordless Chain Saw | Read Our Review |
Gas-Powered
Best For Light Duty: Remington RM4216 Gas Powered Chainsaw
- Easy to use
- Reliable
- Perfect for the suburban homeowner
- Tool-free access to filter and spark plug
- Operate with a very low amount of vibration
- Might leak excess oil when in storage
When it comes to the best machine for minor tree trimming, it’s hard to find a better choice than the Remington RM4216 Rebel Gas-powered Chainsaw which combines solid construction with excellent cutting performance.
Users’ feedback suggests it can cut logs with a diameter no greater than 12 inches without any problem.
Though it is not the lightest chainsaw to handle around, the 5-point anti-vibration system, ergonomic design, and cushion wrap handle make it easier to operate and maneuver.
The most common reported complaint about this model by Remington is the oil leakage when you put your chainsaw away in storage for such a long time. However, but this problem happens to a large number of chainsaws that need oil to run. To avoid it, all you have to do is to drain all the oil and properly clean your chainsaw right after using it.
| Remington RM4216 Gas Powered Chainsaw Specifications | |
|---|---|
Engine | 2-cycle gas-powered engine |
Bar/Chain Length | 16 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | 12 inches |
Oil Tank Capacity | 42cc |
Weight | 22 pounds |
Highlight Features | A 5-point anti-vibration system and cushion wrap handle Low-kickback 16-inch bar and chain Die-cast chassis & pro-grade components An adjustable automatic oiler |
Remington RM4216 Gas Powered Chainsaw is a great entry-level gas-powered chainsaw specially designed for those looking for an occasional light-duty machine.
Lightweight: Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
- Ultra-lightweight
- Able to handle large trees
- Safe to use
- Great value for the price
- Built for longevity
- Powerful, rugged, and dependable
- The fuel tank could be bigger
This upper-tier chainsaw by Husqvarna is a dependable big machine to cut up trees. Though the manufacturer doesn’t advise going with a bar any larger than 20 inches, many customers reported fitting their chainsaw with a 24-in bar for more demanding landowner jobs
When the properly-cared 3.49 horsepower motor is pushed to its max, it can achieve 9000 rpm. Moreover, the Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw is easy to start and its simple yet effective side-mounted chain tensioning system helps quickly adjust the chain while operating.
The only downside is the small fuel tank making it hard to work as a commercial machine. However, the application of the Husqvarna’s own X-Torq® technology helps reduce not only fuel consumption (by approximately 20%) but also harmful exhaust emission release (by up to 75%).
| Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw Specifications | |
|---|---|
Engine | 2-cycle gas-powered engine |
Bar/Chain Length | 20 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | 20 inches |
Oil Tank Capacity | 55.5cc |
Weight | 12.8 pounds |
Highlight Features | Automatic chain oiler 2.6-ounce bottle of pre-mix fuel Simple Side-mounted chain tensioning system The quick-release air filter X-torque; Intertie activated chain brake 3.49 horsepower motor |
Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw is an excellent unit for homeowners and landowners who require a lightweight chainsaw without compromising high power.
Powerful: COOCHEER Powerful Gas Chainsaw
- Reduce fuel consumption up to 20%
- Use high-quality imported chain with good wear resistance
- Able to bear high temperature
- Balanced, maneuverable, and comfortable to operate
- Secure to use
- Heavy
Last on our list of the best gas-powered chainsaw is the COOCHEER Powerful Gas Chainsaw which delivers enough power to cut through even the largest trees without much of an issue.
The selling point is the well-balanced 20-inch bar and low-kickback chain which can cut super fast. The manufacturer recommends that for the most impressive results, you should use your saw to cut logs with a diameter from 27 to 33 inches. Also, the anti-vibration system allows for a minimal kickback when it cuts through thicker wood.
While some users who don’t use heavy machinery like this on a daily basis will find that the COOCHEER Powerful Gas Chainsaw is on the weighty side, experienced users are well acquainted with its average weight.
| COOCHEER Powerful Gas Chainsaw Specifications | |
|---|---|
Engine | 2-cycle gas-powered engine |
Bar/Chain Length | 20 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | 20 inches |
Oil Tank Capacity | 58cc |
Weight | 15.43 pounds |
Highlight Features | 20-inch bar and low-kickback chain Super air filter system and automatic chain oiler Ergonomic design with slip-free handle Engine speed of up to 8500 rpm |
COOCHEER Powerful Gas Chainsaw is built for landowners and homeowners who regularly cut and have a lot of jobs at a time.
Corded-Electric
Best Overall: Greenworks Corded Electric Chainsaw 20222
- Start within seconds for ease of use
- Constant, reliable power time after time
- Smooth operation and less noise
- Comfortable grip
- Compact & lightweight design
- The cord might restrict you to work outdoors
The Greenworks Corded Electric Chainsaw 20222 is our top pick of the best corded electric chainsaw. Considering a lot of phenomenal features this corded machine packs and its economic rate, this one is just about perfect.
The GreenWorks 20222 is operated by a heavy-duty 10.5-Amp electric motor which needs just a few seconds to reach the desired operation. Whatever tough tasks you have to deal with, the 14-in bar makes it possible to complete in such a short period.
While the 14-in bar makes it a breeze to finish the clean-up job, the cord might restrict outdoor performance.
| Greenworks Corded Electric Chainsaw 20222 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Motor | 10.5 Amp |
Bar/Chain Length | 14 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | 12 inches |
Oil Tank Capacity | |
Weight | 8 pounds |
Highlight Features | Tool-less chain tensioning Translucent oil tank Instant electric start; |
Greenworks Corded Electric Chainsaw 20222 is a blend of ease of use, comfort, and powerful performance that every single user desires.
Most Powerful: BLACK+DECKER Electric Chainsaw CS1518
- Quiet, smooth, and powerful
- User-friendly and safe to use
- Able to cut through all types of material
- Come with a two-year limited warranty
- Some reports about motor burning if used continuously
BLACK+DECKER has long been famous for innovative engineering and exceptional workmanship, and this Electric Chainsaw CS1518 is not an exception.
Buying this quieter and way more efficient chainsaw is an excellent way to fully take advantage of the manufacturer’s years of experience. Though there are some reports about motor burning if continuously used, the CS1518 is still outstanding when compared to other gas-engine variants.
The 15-Amp motor allows homeowners to effortlessly cut tree branches up to 19 inches in diameter while the weight on the lighter side makes it well-balanced, thus limiting fatigue on your arms and shoulders in whichever application.
| BLACK+DECKER Electric Chainsaw CS1518 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Motor | 15 Amp |
Bar/Chain Length | 18 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | 19 inches |
Oil Tank Capacity | |
Weight | 12 pounds |
Highlight Features | 18" Oregon low-kickback bar and chain Tool-free chain tensioning Automatic oiling system Chain break feature for safety during use An ergonomic design A kickback guard |
Whether it is lower or higher-level jobs, the BLACK+DECKER Electric Chainsaw CS1518 will never disappoint you.
Most Lightweight: Sun Joe SWJ599E Tree Limb Master Electric Handheld Chainsaw
- Lightweight
- Ideal for trimming and pruning limbs and branches
- Deliver enough power for continuous cutting
- Easy to use and maintain
- Chain might come off easily
Rather than an eco-friendly way to maintain our properties, the Sun Joe Tree Limb Master SWJ699E is a cut above the competition. And at only 7.7 lbs, the Sun Joe SWJ699E is designed for optimal maneuverability around your gardens/yards, without gas required.
This 9-amp electric chainsaw with a 14-in cutting bar is powerful enough to make light work of tree limbs and seamlessly cuts through brush, branches, and wood up to 13.5 inches in thickness.
Also, a built-in safety switch saves you from accidental starting.
The only issue we have with the Sun Joe SWJ599E Tree Limb Master Electric Handheld Chainsaw is that the chain might come off easily.
| Sun Joe SWJ599E Tree Limb Master Electric Handheld Chainsaw Specifications | |
|---|---|
Motor | 9 Amp |
Bar/Chain Length | 14 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | 13.5 inches |
Weight | 7.7 pounds |
Highlight Features | Safety switch Auto-oiler Self-lubricating bar and chain 4 fl oz oil tank capacity Protective hand-guard with kickback brake function |
If you are looking for a lightweight chainsaw occasionally, the Sun Joe SWJ599E Tree Limb Master Electric Handheld Chainsaw is enough to turn your head.
Battery-Powered Chainsaws
Best Overall: DEWALT DCCS620B Cordless Chainsaw
- Compact and lightweight design
- Great for construction and outdoor cutting applications
- Provide good clamping force & reliability
- Deliver smooth cuts and extreme runtime
- No additional tools needed for chain adjustments
- Require less maintenance
- The potential of oil leakage
If you’ve got tired of the cold starts, carburetor issues, harmful fumes released, and time-consuming maintenance involved with any gas-engine chainsaws, the DEWALT DCCS620B Cordless Chainsaw which comes with the gas-free operation is worth a whole lot.
While the lightweight design is built to be a seamless fit in users’ hands for their optimal control, this cordless device itself can perform excellently in the most challenging construction and outdoor cutting applications such as tree limb management, beam cutting, and demolition work.
What users are not happy with the DCCS620B is the oil leakage when you store your chainsaw with a fully-filled tank. To avoid it, make sure to empty the tank reservoir before storage.
| DEWALT DCCS620B Cordless Chainsaw Specifications | |
|---|---|
Motor | 4Amp 20 Volts MAX Lithium-Ion Battery |
Bar/Chain Length | 12 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | N/A |
Chain Speed | 25.2 ft/s |
Cuts per charge | 90 |
Weight | 7.8 lbs |
Highlight Features | Low kickback 12" Oregon Bar and chain High-efficient brushless motor Tool-free chain tensioning and Bar tightening knob |
DEWALT DCCS620B Cordless Chainsaw delivers a fantastic performance of the gas-engine machine with the benefits of a cordless unit.
Best For Medium-Sized Jobs: BLACK+DECKER Cordless Chainsaw LCS1240
- Longer runtime and overall life
- Great for pruning branches and cutting fallen limbs
- Easy and quick to adjust the chain
- Comfortable to use in different orientations
- Provides fast and smooth cuts
- Additional batteries needed for larger jobs
The BLACK+DECKER Cordless Chainsaw LCS1240 has been perfectly designed for some lower-demand tasks like a lumberjack.
The most notable feature of this fine performer is its side-loading 40 Volts MAX Lithium Ion Battery that powers the chainsaw without the 2-cycle fuel required. Though the Oregon 12″ bar and chain still needs oil to keep lubricated, what drives the saw when it cuts is the 2-Amp battery and electric motor.
The only issue for most users is the long charge time (up to 120 minutes) and less powerful performance for larger jobs.
| BLACK+DECKER Cordless Chainsaw LCS1240 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| #product_specs_8 |
BLACK+DECKER Cordless Chainsaw LCS1240 provides more than what not only professionals but also homeowners who only want a machine for maintenance around their houses need.
Most Powerful: EGO Power+ CS1403 Cordless Chain Saw
- Hi-efficiency brushless motor with 6300RPM
- Weather-resistant construction
- Easy to control
- Safe to use
- Compatible with all EGO POWER+ ARC Lithium™ batteries (available separately) to deliver Power Beyond Belief™
- Come with a 5-year warranty
- Heavy
Last on our list of the most reliable chainsaws is the EGO Power+ CS1403 Cordless Chainsaw - which truly ensures Power Beyond Belief.
With only 40 minutes waiting to be fully charged, the industry-leading EGO POWER+ 2Amp 56V battery which is supported by the most advanced Arc-Lithium technology can operate your device at the highest power potential. The speed chain of up to 6800 RPM should be highly appreciated in battery-powered equipment like this.
The only minor downside is that the EGO Power+ CS1403 Cordless Chainsaw is quite heavy making it tiring to use for hours.
| EGO Power+ CS1403 Cordless Chain Saw Specifications | |
|---|---|
Motor | 2 Amp 56 Volt MAX Lithium Ion Battery |
Bar/Chain Length | 14 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | 14 inches |
Chain Speed | 6800 RPM |
Cuts per charge | 100 |
Weight | 13.4 pounds |
Highlight Features | 14-inch Oregon bar and chain Chain kickback brake Double guard bar and narrow-kerf sprocket nose 40 min charge time |
EGO Power+ CS1403 Cordless Chainsaw is a go-to option for those looking for a chainsaw that promises the performance of a gas engine without fumes, noisy operation, and fuss.
How To Choose The Most Reliable Chainsaws?
Gas, Electric, Or Battery
The source of power is the very first thing to keep in mind when shopping around for a chainsaw.
- Corded Electric
- Without a combustion engine, electric chainsaws are generally lighter, eco-friendlier, and more compact than gas-operated chainsaws, thus saving you from dealing with dirty exhaust fumes and a burden to carry. Also, as they need less maintenance, no need to worry about short-lifespan battery and complicated operation.
- However, expect to be restricted in terms of mobility since you obviously have to go with a cord. And though they are powerful, remember that they are not as powerful as a gas-engine tool.
- Cordless Battery
- A battery-operated chainsaw is a bit heavier than electric models but lighter than gas-engine ones. The biggest advantage over corded electric variants is the absence of cord ensuring unlimited mobility.
- In terms of power, cordless chainsaws can be comparable to corded electric units yet much cheaper than gas engines. One more thing to note: take time to wait for the batteries to be fully recharged and be limited by their life.
- Gas
- The most powerful models out there are gas-operated chainsaws that can work longer than battery machines and give you unlimited mobility. They can tackle heavier-duty tasks that both corded and cordless electric-powered tools can’t but they are heavier & more expensive and require more maintenance than electric & battery saws.
Bar Length
- The chainsaw bar’s size can range from 8 to 42 inches, and generally, it smoothly cuts twice its length. Decide the bar length depending on the job you have to deal with. The rougher tasks the more power needed, thus the larger saws you should buy. However, the longer the bar is the more difficult it is to control.
Reliability
- It’s better to purchase a chainsaw that is backed up with a long warranty and boasts easy-to-replace parts. Also, make sure to keep your tool well-maintained – regularly clean it and use premium oil to ensure a longer lifespan.
Safety
- Whether you are an expert or a newbie, your chainsaws should be ultra-safe to use. Safety features such as stop button, a chain catcher, kickback guard & an inertia chain brake, right-hand guard, side chain tensioning, and throttle lock.
Additional Features
- Add-ons such as tool-free tensioning, the location of handles, automatic oilers and anti-vibration systems can make your chainsaw much nicer and more comfortable to use. See what the model you are considering has to offer.
Which Brands Make The Most Reliable Chainsaws?
Snow Joe + Sun Joe
- Since 2004, Snow Joe + Sun Joe has been setting the standard for innovative outdoor tools that help keep our living area looking gorgeous 365 days a year. Whether in the falling snow or the shining sun, its expansive collection of excellent outdoor power tools, from trimmers, tillers, lawn mowers, and snow blowers, manual, battery-powered, or corded electric will efficiently and reliably simplify your yard routine.
GreenWorks
- All tools by this leader in innovation are engineered to be user-friendly, yet durable and reliable. Whether you want something economical without the hassle of fumes or the higher cost of operation with better performance, GreenWorks offers a wide variety of corded and cordless systems to make it quick and effortless to have your tough outdoor chores done.
BLACK+DECKER
- BLACK+DECKER was started in 1910 and it has an extended history of providing millions of customers with professional-grade home products, power tools, and outdoor yard care equipment used in and around our homes. Whatever tasks homeowners have, this master of innovation and design delivers more than enough power for the job at hand.
FAQs
How long should a reliable chainsaw last?
Depending on the fuel/oil mix, the quality of the materials used to manufacture your chainsaw; how hard you run it, and how well you look after it; it can last from 10 to 50 years.
Can electric chainsaw cut trees?
It’s not hard to find an electric chainsaw that can cut branches, trees, and logs, whether it is a moderate electric chainsaw with a 16 or 18 inch long cutting bar or a heavy-duty tool with a 20-inch-long cutting bar built for tougher jobs.
Are electric chainsaws more dangerous?
Lighter and more consistent with less power produced, electric chainsaws are way safer to use for not only experts but also beginners. You shouldn’t underestimate the power produced by these electric-powered models, though.
Do Electric chainsaws need oil?
Electric chainsaws don’t need fuel to operate but requires an oil lubricant for better performance.
Are electric chainsaws as good as gas?
While electric-powered chainsaws are designed for limb trimming, small log cutting, tree sprucing up, and other cutting jobs around your properties, gas-operated tools are for heavier-duty applications.
Conclusion
Any models in our list of the most reliable chainsaws above can make light work of the toughest garden jobs. Hope that it can make choosing the best model a less daunting task.
