Best Electric Chainsaw For 2021 (Ultimate Buying Guide)

The world we live in is centered around only one rule, the law of equivalent exchange. In order to gain something, you must give something. For instance, look at chainsaws, if you are using a gas-powered chainsaw, you get outstanding cutting power but along with the cost of putting the environment at risk.

On the other hand, with battery-powered chainsaws, you are not harming anything, yet the price you are paying is power. Now the question is which quality saws are you willing to give away. It seems like we are between a rock and a hard place. In such situations, the best thing we can do is find the proper balance between all the features. Besides, we included well-researched buying guides at the end of the chainsaw list.

The same thing happens for electrical chainsaws as well. To gain a feature, you may have to give up another. Now, finding the proper balance and choosing the greatest among them is a task, which can drain out even expert researchers. This is when we burst in and present you with our review of the best electric chainsaw. The balance you need is here!

Who Makes the Best Electric Cordless Chainsaw? Well, it is not an easy question to answer, but if you ask us to choose, then we will suggest you either go for Greenworks or DEWALT. Their cordless chainsaws come with excellent battery backup, power, and cutting angle.

Top 15 Best Electric Chainsaw Reviews

Here, we bring you the list of our top picks that we’ve put together after quite the deliberation.

1. Remington RM1425 14-Inch Lightweight Corded Electric Chainsaw

The first thing you’ll appreciate is the handguard protection, which saves your hand from damage. You can then concentrate fully on your work. Also, the push-button oiler releases oil to lubricate the sweet-spot between the wood and the saw chain.

Furthermore, it is comfortable due to its lightweight and build quality. The external tension adjuster maintains the required tension of the chain. If you’re looking for a budget-chainsaw, then you should know this is the best electric chainsaws under $100.

You only have to squeeze the trigger to let it start. If there are any issues, let go of the trigger, and it will stop functioning. Moreover, no gasoline is necessary, making your work simpler. Adding all the features it is best saw for your cutting work in the list if you just have an outdoor power equipment.

2. Oregon CS1500 – Best 18-Inch Electric Chainsaw

You will be amazed to know that its PowerSharp chain sharpens itself within three seconds if you just pull the red trigger.

Furthermore, its activation does not require the mixing of gas and oil, simplifying your job. With little to no noise, it ensures a peaceful environment. The handle is rubberized, allowing you to hold it comfortably for a long time.

The 18-inch chain bar and the powerful motor helps you cut or trim thick trees without much trouble. As soon as you squeeze the handle, the gadget starts functioning. Besides, by turning the red knob, you can fix the tension adjustment of the chain.

3. WORX WG303.1 – Best Corded Electric Chainsaw

The automatic oiling system keeps lubricating the surface to reduce friction and continue smooth running chain through 16 inch guide bar.

Moreover, you can have a quick glimpse at the chain lubrication system and the level of oil through the reservoir window. The reservoir can contain about 200 ml of oil. However, you do not have to worry about using gasoline as it only needs a proper electricity supply.

The low kickback bar and chain brake ensure your safety by stopping the chain whenever anything thick hits the chains. Its auto chain tensioning system maintains an appropriate tension.

4. Greenworks 16-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw

The continuous dispersal of oil by the automatic oiling system reduces the friction between the chain and the bar and increases cutting capability. Even if the oil level drops, you are always aware of it. The transparent window of the reservoir gives a lucid view of its content.

By producing the least noise and causing minimal vibration, this proves itself as an eco-friendly machine. Its safeguard is tightly placed to ensure adequate distance between your hand and the chain bar.

5. Makita Electric Chain Saw 16 inch

Holding it for such a long time would never have been easy without the rubberized handle and its ergonomic shape.

The safeguard blocks the way between your hands and the chain bar, preventing any accidental contact. If there is any unexpected or unrequired contact with the chain guide bar, the safety chain brake immediately stops its movement.

Furthermore, the motor has all the power to perform different tasks as demanded by your yard. The built-in current limiter reduces power supply to the engine, protecting it from overcharging nuisance.

6. BLACK+DECKER 40V Max Cordless Chainsaw

However, this chainsaw requires no additional tools except the rotation of its orange knob. Due to its position right at the front, you can quickly tighten it by chain tension system.

Moreover, its electric motor provides more power than expected. You can use it for cutting, felling, and trimming trees from different angles due to convenience in handling. The rubberized handle makes the task effortless.

As soon as you hold the handle, the gadget starts operating. The safeguard and chain brake blocks any sudden contact between the chain and your hand. Additionally, for proper chain maintenance, there is a continuous release of oil that lubricates the surface.

7. Greenworks 20222 – Best Small Electric Chainsaw

This reduces friction, enhancing its durability, and continuing efficient performance.

Furthermore, you can have a low noise level workday in the yard. The lock switch prevents its sudden start, as it gets activated with a slight pull on the trigger. Due to the instant activation, you do not have to waste a second.

For tightening the chain, you do not need any tool. By rotating the knob, you can effortlessly fix it. The transparent window lets you peek through it to know about the oil tank. Its lightweight and rubberized handle always keeps you safe.

8. BLACK+DECKER 18-Inch Electric Chainsaw

Its hand guard is of perfect structure and size, assuring a significant gap between your hands and the chain bar.In case of an emergency, the chain brake feature can stop the chain’s rotation.

In the middle of your work, there is no need to look for tools to adjust the chain. By turning the orange knob, you can tighten it. The auto-oiler keeps the bar and chain lubricated the whole time for the product to function at an optimum level.

Additionally, it starts and stops as you squeeze the trigger and remove your hands, respectively. Due to its powerful motor and long chain-bar, it can handle any thick and rough trees in deep woods with an extension cord.

9. DEWALT DCCS670X1 60V MAX Lithium-Ion Brushless 16” Cordless Chainsaw

The auto-oiler accelerates its chain speed rate by continuously adding oil from chain oil reservoir to lubricate the chain and bar.

Moreover, this lubrication reduces the chance of faster wearing out and also ensures a peaceful working environment. By turning the knob, you can tighten the chain simply.

With a slight pull on the trigger, it activates and stops with the touch of your hands. As user comfort is a serious concern, the handle is of perfect shape and also rubberized. Moreover, the safeguard keeps your hands safe from the chain.

10. Earthwise CS33016 16-Inch 12-Amp Corded Electric Chainsaw, Green

It can cut trees of various sizes and shapes.Working from different angles is more accessible due to its configuration and guide bar, which results an outstanding finish.

Furthermore, it becomes tough to manage the chain adjustments every time; therefore, you can just rotate the knob to tighten the chain without the help of any tool. The rubberized handle ensures that you can hold it comfortably for an extended period.

The management becomes effortless due to the auto chain oiler system. The bar and chain always remain lubricated for effective operation. It is regarded as the best electric chainsaw for the money as all its features make it an excellent budget-friendly product.

11. Sun Joe SWJ701E 18-inch 14.0 Amp Electric Chain Saw

With comfortable turning and the ability to hold various angles, your work becomes simple.Also, the 14 AMP motor gives you an incredible kick.

You can hold it for a long time, being supported by the ergonomic handle. A comfortable grip and its weight of about 9.7 pounds make tree branches cutting jobs effortlessly. Without the need to mix gas and oil, it functions tidily and excellently.

As you hold the handle, the gadget turns on; therefore, the switch lock protects you from its sudden activation. The oil-reservoir keeps you updated on the oil-level. Moreover, you can instantly adjust its chain tensioner without any tools.

12. Earthwise CS30116 16-Inch 12-Amp Corded Electric Chain Saw

Due to its 12 Amp motor and long chain-bar, it provides outstanding chain speed service. Besides adding extension cords with the saw will bring greater facilities.

Additionally, the auto-oiler releases oil to lubricate the surfaces, confirming the proper sharpness of the chain. You can check the oil tank through the transparent window. The rubberized handle maintains a comfortable grip.

For preventing the accidental start of the machine, switch lock is an essential inclusion. The handguard helps to keep a distance between your hand and the chain. Adjustment of the chain tension can be made by the tool-less system.

13. ECHO 16 In Cordless Chainsaw – Best Rated Electric Chainsaw

Its powerful motor keeps it active for a very long time. Moreover, it vibrates less, keeping your hands steady and produces the least noise, providing a peaceful working environment. As you hold the handle and press the trigger, the device starts functioning; vice versa happens as you remove hands.

The chain brake pops in if there are any issues. Due to the rubberized handle, your fingers can have a comfortable grasp. For enhancing the performance, the auto-oiler keeps dispersing oil to lubricate the surfaces and the guide bar.

14. Sun Joe SWJ599E 14-inch Master Electric Handheld Chainsaw

Its long chain bar allows smooth and faster slicing of trees.The shape of the handle is suitable for your firm and comfortable grip.

This best cheap electric chainsaw is extremely simple to use as you only have to press the trigger, and it starts automatically. As it is below the handle, you do not have to search for it. As you remove your hands, it stops functioning.

Additionally, the safety switch ensures that the device does not start even if you press the trigger accidentally. Due to its powerful motor, you can perform varied tasks. An orderly operation goes on without any gas or tune-ups.

15. Greenworks 20332 18-Inch 14.5 Amp Corded Electric Chainsaw

Operating this best cheap electric chainsaw is simple; you just have to activate the safety button and press the trigger.

Additionally, the tension adjustment of the chain is easier. You only have to keep turning the chain tensioner knob until the chain receives the required chain tensioning. The auto-oiler always adds oil to lubricate the surface, ascending its efficiency.

For a quick glance at the amount of oil, the oil reservoir window is right in front of you. This best lightweight electric chainsaw results in a fantastic performance as you can cut from different angles. For a comfortable grip, the handle is rubberized.

Electric Chainsaw- Buying Guide

There are a few things you need to consider before purchasing power tools like an electric chainsaw. These are essential if you plan to have a product that can meet your demands. So before buying anything, make sure to have a look.

Power

Specific tasks require different levels of power. If you plan on cutting average-sized logs, then it is apparent that you would want a chainsaw that offers cutting power. On the other hand, if your task is not a professional one, then why not go for a low power chainsaw with additional features.

Therefore, we recommend that you first figure out what types of tasks you are going to complete with your electric chainsaw. Once you have done that, choose the power level according to it, because you don’t want to end up wasting money or competency.

Weight and User Comfort

User comfort is proportional to the weight of the saw body. A heavyweight chainsaw is much harder to maintain and maneuver, while a lightweight one is easy to carry and use.

However, as we mentioned before, there is always a catch. A light electric chainsaw, especially if it is cordless, may lack power and battery backup; however, if you have the strength to handle a heavy product, why give up these features.

If you are bulky or capable enough to use heavy chainsaws, then don’t hesitate to buy one. You may face some complications regarding fatigue, but the features you will get would be worth the purchase.

Nonetheless, for tasks like carving and shaping, you will need a light product. Thus, if you are looking for the best electric chainsaw for carving, then we believe it should be lightweight because it will give you better precision, flexibility, and maneuverability.

Safety

If you think chainsaws are scary, then you have one more thing coming at you. With ordinary chainsaws, you only have to worry about some aspects like kickbacks, speed, control, hearing protection and timely on/off issues.

However, with electrical chainsaws, there are a few more things that can put your safety into risk. For instance, shocks, voltage issues leading to imbalance power flow, and much more.

As such chainsaws use electricity as power, the risks are quite high, if it doesn’t come with safety features. Thus, make sure your product is certified for safe usage. The package should have a logo or sign, which will verify that it has been legally authorized.

Price

Like other products, chainsaws also come in a variety of prices. Well, as you can guess, the saws that are costly offer more features than the ones that are cheap. However, it doesn’t mean that you cannot find the right one at an affordable price point.

Go through our electric chainsaw reviews as it can help you choose a product that fits your budget and comes with enough features to fulfill your needs.

Size

A bulky chainsaw is hard to maneuver, whereas a small one is easy to handle. It is best not to work with big saws when your target area is tricky, narrow, or small. However, remember large chainsaws offer more storage space, battery size, and other features as well.

Parts and Maintenance

Maintaining an electric chainsaw is much easier than a gas-powered one. However, it doesn’t mean that you can go on for months without maintenance. You should conduct regular maintenance and clean up of your chainsaw as it will keep the product up to a point.

Some saws offer toolless parts replacement. They are handy if you prefer easy maintenance.

Kickback

When you turn on a chainsaw, you will immediately feel an impact right across your hands. This is known as a kickback. Now, chainsaws with more power have a more significant kickback than other ones. So, to have a safe experience, you should think about the kickback before using or even purchasing an electric chainsaw.

Electric Shock

Shocks can be hazardous even for the strongest of men. So, to remain safe from electric shocks, you should choose products that are safe to use and offer features, which reduce the chance of short circuits.

Chain Brake System

Some chainsaws offer extra safety features like chain or inertia brake systems. It stops your chainsaw with a press of a button or sometimes automatically when you start losing grip. Such features are advantageous to have a smooth, safe, and sound sawing experience.

Types of Electric Chainsaws

There are two types of electric chainsaws, and both of them have their advantages and disadvantages. Let us have a look.

Corded

Such chainsaws are extremely useful for working long hours. They will keep running if they are connected to a power source. Moreover, they are not very heavy and have more power than cordless chainsaws.

Nevertheless, a corded chainsaw can only work when it is connected to a power source. Thus, it will reduce your mobility, and you will only be able to work in a particular place near an electrical power outlet.

Cordless

These types of chainsaws are fantastic for outdoor works. You won’t require a power source or extension cord; thus, you will be able to use these power tools anywhere and everywhere. Additionally, you don’t have to stop working even if there is a power outage.

Nonetheless, they often lack power due to the battery system. Your product will also weigh more because of the integrated battery. The lithium battery weight makes it hard to carry around such chainsaws.

However, most cordless chainsaws come with chargeable batteries; hence, even if the battery runs out, you can charge them up using an electrical power cord.

Therefore, the best inverter electric chainsaw is the perfect option for them for people who require longer working hours and portability as well.

Advantage of Having an Electric Chainsaw

There are certain advantages to having an electrical chainsaw. These features make them a preferable choice for most DIY enthusiasts and homeowners.

Lightweight

An electrical chainsaw is much lighter than their gasoline counterparts because they don’t come along with a gas tank. Additionally, chainsaws with gas engines are quite bulky compared to electrical ones. Thus, such products are beneficial for aged people.

Ease of Operation

Unlike other chainsaws, a battery chainsaw one is extremely easy to use. You do not need a lot of strength, either a lot of experience to use them, some electric chainsaws startup with just a press of a button.

On top of that, this chainsaw type is less prone to kickbacks and have more precision.

Fuel

These days fuel can be costly. Therefore, maintaining gas chainsaws is not as easy as it looks. You not only need to worry about the gasoline money but also the expense of regular transportation to the petrol station.

However, this is not a problem in electric chainsaws as they run on electricity or depends on battery life (battery designed models).

Compact

As we have mentioned before, an electric chainsaw is much more compact than a gas chainsaw because it does not come with a gas tank. So, it is more comfortable to maneuver such chainsaws in places where it is hard to work.

Quiet

An electric chainsaw compared to a gasoline-powered one produces a lot less noise while working. They are not extremely quiet but enough to make your work experience pleasant.

Rest assured, you can work confidently knowing that it won’t wake up your neighbors or people living across your house.

Environment-Friendly

As you already know, an electric chainsaw uses electricity as its primary power source. You don’t need fuel or gas to work with such gas models; therefore, no chance of releasing carbon dioxide or other harmful gases in the environment.

So, not having to use fuel for power is an excellent feature for people who are concerned about the environment and its health.

Storage

Last but not least, an electric chainsaw comes with a storage box for storing handy tools and hardware. If you are a DIY enthusiast who works in different places or a professional who travels from one place to another, this feature can be a lifesaver for you.

It will allow you to keep all the necessary equipment in the box; thus, allowing you to be more productive and efficient.

FAQ

Why would I want an electric chainsaw?

An electric chainsaw compared to its gas counterpart has some unique advantages that make it preferable to many people.

It sometimes lacks power but is quieter, more compact, lighter, more comfortable to work with, and environment-friendly.

Do electric chainsaws require oil?

Yes and no at the same time. If you think they need oil or fuel to run, then the answer is no. However, to keep the chain bar from rusting or corrosion, you will need to use oil on it regularly.

Oiling the bar and other parts keeps the chainsaw smooth, which ensures longevity and convenience.

Which electric chainsaws help in cutting down timber?

To cut timber, you will need an electric chainsaw that has a long steel bar of at least 24-inches. So, keep in mind that products with smaller bars are for trimming and carving whereas, with longer ones, you can cut down timber or medium-sized logs.

What are the main factors to consider while buying an electric chainsaw?

The few main things you need to consider is power, length of the power cord, battery backup (if cordless), weight, bar length, price, and user comfort. The rest of the factors are not as essential as these ones.

What size chainsaw should I buy?

It depends on the area you are working in and your upcoming tasks. If you plan to cut down timber or logs, buy a big chainsaw. On the other hand, if you plan to work in tricky places, you should purchase something compact and lightweight.

How often should I change the chain of an electric chainsaw?

It will depend on how you are maintaining the product, how often you are doing it, and how much you are using it. If your chainsaw is going through regular maintenance, then chances are you won’t need to change the chain for months or even years.

However, if you notice scorch marks, uneven cuts, or smoke coming out of the chainsaw, then you should replace the chain as quickly as possible.

Final Verdict

The task of choosing an electric chainsaw is often more difficult than using the product itself. There are many small things that you have to consider before your buying decision to get something good.

Starting from power to corded or cordless, a lot of things vary while selecting the best electric chainsaw. Therefore, it’s good to research a little bit, especially when you are buying electronic equipment.

So, if you don’t want to end up with a cheap knockoff, go through our review of electrical chainsaws as it will help you get a thorough understanding.

We hope our article was useful to you. Thanks, and happy shopping!