Chain Saw Review: Our Top 5 Picks Revealed Now

Ever watched a lumberjack expertly fell a giant tree? That powerful machine they use, the chainsaw, is amazing. It can cut through thick wood in seconds! But have you ever thought about how much goes into choosing one of these tools? It’s not as simple as picking the shiniest one on the shelf.

Picking the wrong chainsaw can be frustrating. You might get one that’s too weak for your big logs, or maybe one that’s too heavy for you to handle safely. Many people feel lost when looking at different engine sizes and bar lengths. Understanding these differences is key to getting a tool that works for *you* and keeps you safe while you work.

This guide will cut through the confusion. We will break down everything you need to know about chainsaws. You will learn about gas versus electric, how to pick the perfect size, and essential safety tips. By the end, you will feel confident choosing the right chainsaw for your projects, big or small.

Top Chain Saw Recommendations

No. 1
CRAFTSMAN Electric Chainsaw, 16 Inch, 12 Amp Corded Chain Saw Electric, Ergonomic, Powerful Motor (CMECS600)
  • POWERFUL MOTOR: 12-Amp motor of corded electric chainsaw helps with tough cuts
  • LOW KICKBACK: This electric chainsaw features a 16-inch low kickback bar and chain
  • AUTO-OILING: Built-in oil window and no priming required
  • TOOL-FREE CHAIN TENSIONING: Easy to adjust chain for ideal cutting performance
  • 3 Year Limited Warranty, refer to "Warranty & Support" section below for full details
No. 2
Husqvarna 130 Gas Powered Chainsaw, 38-cc 2-HP, 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, 16 Inch Chainsaw with Automatic Oiler, For Wood Cutting and Tree Pruning
  • Husqvarna 130 16 inch chainsaw is easy to start and easy to handle, making it a valuable tool for a variety of home and garden tasks—recommended for use with bar lengths between 14 inches (min) and 16 inches (max)
  • Effortless Start-Up: A fuel pump and combined choke/stop control allow for easier starting and reduce the risk of engine flooding, while the gas chainsaw 16 inch blade has an inertia-activated chain brake to reduce the likelihood of injury due to kickback
  • Superior Performance: Gas powered chainsaw delivers superior performance with an efficient 38-cc, 2-HP X-Torq engine that reduces emissions (up to 60%) and increases fuel efficiency (up to 20%)
  • Air Injection Technology: Chainsaws equipped with a centrifugal air cleaning system that expels larger dust and debris particles before they reach the air filter for improved engine life
  • Easy Handling: This cordless chainsaw features LowVib technology that uses dampeners to reduce vibrations and minimize operator fatigue for easier handling of recommended 14 to 16-inch chainsaw bars
No. 3
Seesii Mini Chainsaw, 6-inch Mini Chainsaw Cordless, Handheld Electric Power Chain Saw with 2 Batteries, for Tree Trimming Wood Cutting, Best Gifts for Father, Dad, Husband, Men
  • POWERFUL & SMOOTH CUTTING: SEESII mini chainsaw is equipped with a powerful 900W motor and a precision-hardened chain, achieving chain speeds up to 30ft/s. Cut effortlessly through wood up to 15cm thick in just 7 seconds, as smoothly as a hot knife through butter. Even thicker pieces of wood that other chainsaws struggle with are easily cut. Compared to traditional motors, it offers 30% higher cutting efficiency and doubles the lifespan, saving you the cost of frequent machine replacements.
  • ONE-HANDED OPERATION, WOMEN FRIENDLY: This mini chainsaw cordless weighs only 2.7 pounds, just 23% of the weight of a bulky, large gasoline chainsaw, making it especially suitable for women, the elderly, and arthritis sufferers, preventing fatigue even during long working hours. It's also ideal for DIY beginners, as it's fully assembled; simply insert a fully charged battery to start cutting. The ergonomic design ensures optimal grip, providing both efficiency and a comfortable user experience.
  • LONG-LIFE BATTERY: SEESII pruning saw is equipped with two powerful 21V 2000 mAh batteries, providing up to 80-100 minutes of continuous operation, enough to cut over 100 pieces of wood consecutively. You can cut without worrying about interruptions, even in the field! Suitable for garden pruning, timber cutting, branch trimming, and shrub trimming. Furthermore, higher quality cells and overload and temperature protection features can significantly extend battery life.
  • SAFETY FIRST: The double safety lock of the electic chainsaw prevents accidental activation, and the chain guard effectively prevents debris from flying everywhere. The low-recoil design enhances stability and ensures your safe operation. Its low operating noise ensures it won't disturb neighbors or family members, even when working in the early morning or evening. The perfect combination of powerful performance and thoughtful design makes this chainsaw the ideal assistant for your daily work.
  • OTHERS GIVE YOU CARDBOARD BOXES, SEESII GIVES YOU ARMOR: plastic boxes are easier to carry and store than cardboard boxes, protecting your chainsaw and making it easy to organize accessories. The package includes everything you need: 2 batteries, 1 suitcase, 2 chains (one pre-installed), 2 chainsaw files, 1 oil bottle(oil not included), 1 pair of gloves, 1 charger, 1 nut driver, and 1 screwdriver. With these essentials, you can start working right away without any extra cost or wasted time.
No. 4
20 Inch Gas Chainsaw, 62CC Professional Chainsaw with 2-Stroke Engine, Ergonomic Non-Slip Handle & Dual Fuel Tanks for Wood Cutting, Tree Trimming, Land Clearing
  • Powerful Engine for Smooth Cutting: Cut with Confidence Equipped with a 62cc engine delivering 3.5HP power and reaching speeds up to 12,000 RPM, this gasoline chainsaw provides a robust and smooth cutting experience for splitting firewood, trimming branches, and handling small trees. Whether pruning or felling, it effortlessly tackles all types of wood.
  • Lightweight Design: Weighing only 14 lbs, this gas-powered small chainsaw perfectly balances exceptional portability with reliable cutting power. It lets you work longer with greater comfort and minimal arm strain.
  • Comfort & Stability: Our Gas Chainsaw equipped with a built-in shock absorber, it not only does this shock-absorbing design enhance your comfort, but it also effectively minimizes vibrations, letting you work for longer without fatigue. It also can extend the chainsaw’s lifespan by reducing wear and tear.
  • One Pull Instant Ignition: Our easy-start system delivers immediate, rock-solid ignition in ANY weather (rain, cold, humidity). Ditch tiring pull-cord struggles: spend less energy starting, more time on your cutting/landscaping job.
  • High-Strength Steel Bar & Chain: Made of high-strength steel, fast cutting, and strong wear resistance. It reduces sawdust splatter for safer work, easily handles 27"-33" woods, ideal for trimming and felling.
No. 5
VEVOR Gas Chainsaw 52CC 2-Cycle Gasoline Powered Chainsaw 18 Inch Handheld Cordless Petrol Chain Saws For Forest, Wood, Garden and Farm Cutting Use
  • High-Strength Steel: Cut trees quickly with our gas chainsaw, thanks to its high-strength steel chain and bar. The 18" bar reduces sawdust splatter, keeping your work area cleaner and safer. This chainsaw is designed to boost your efficiency and comfort on the job. If you encounter startup issues, please don’t hesitate to contact our customer service for assistance.
  • Powerful Performance: Featuring a 52CC engine, our gas powered chainsaw cuts through wood smoothly without any stalls. With 2.55HP power, 1.9KW/8500 RPM engine speed, and the max speed reaching up to 12000 RPM, you'll enjoy the ultimate sense of operation brought by strong power.
  • Comfortable and Stable: Enjoy a stable and comfortable cutting experience with the built-in shock absorber. It reduces vibrations, extends the life of your gasoline powered chain saw, and lowers maintenance costs, making your work more enjoyable.
  • Easy Cutting: Tackle both trimming and felling tasks with ease. The gasoline powered chain saw's cutting diameter reaches 16.93"/430 mm, making it versatile for all your outdoor cutting needs.
  • Durable Fuel Tank: Built with a tough outer shell, our top handle chainsaw's fuel tank withstands rough conditions and prevents leaks. With a 0.58 qt/550ml fuel tank and a 0.27 qt/260ml chain oil tank, you'll spend less time refueling and more time cutting.
No. 6
EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16” Battery Powered Chainsaw, Electric Cordless, Includes 56V 2.5Ah Battery and Charger – CS1611
  • 40CC gas equivalent
  • Up to 130 cuts on a 4x4 with the included 56V 2.5Ah ARC Lithium battery
  • 16-inch bar and chain
  • 20m/s chain speed
  • Tool-free chain tensioning system for quick, easy bar and chain adjustments
No. 7
VEVOR 25.4 CC 2-Cycle Top Handle Gas Powered Chainsaw 12 Inch Petrol Handheld Cordless Chain Saw for Tree Wood Cutting
  • High-Strength Steel: Cut trees quickly with our gas chainsaw, thanks to its high-strength steel chain and bar. The 12" bar reduces sawdust splatter, keeping your work area cleaner and safer. This chainsaw is designed to boost your efficiency and comfort on the job. If you encounter startup issues, please don’t hesitate to contact our customer service for assistance.
  • Flexible and Lightweight: Our gas powered chainsaw is easy to handle with its lightweight design and 25.4CC engine. It cuts through wood smoothly without any stalls. With 1.2HP power, 0.75KW/8500 RPM engine speed, and the max speed reaching up to 11500 RPM, you'll enjoy a nimble and effortless cutting experience.
  • Easy Cutting: Tackle both trimming and felling tasks with ease. The gasoline powered chain saw's cutting diameter reaches 9.84"/250 mm, making it versatile for all your outdoor cutting needs.
  • Easy to Handle: Weighing just 9.26 lbs/4.2 kg, this top handle gas chainsaw is comfortable to use with one hand and won't tire you out. Its ergonomic wrap-around handle ensures a secure grip, so you can work longer without discomfort.
  • Durable Fuel Tank: Built with a tough outer shell, our top handle chainsaw's fuel tank withstands rough conditions and prevents leaks. With a 0.24 qt/230ml fuel tank and a 0.17 qt/160ml chain oil tank, you'll spend less time refueling and more time cutting.
No. 8
Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 8 Inch & 6 Inch Electric Chainsaw Battery Powered, 1000W Brushless Handheld Power Chain Saw with 2 Batteries, Tree Saw for Branch Trimming Wood Cutting, Gift for Men Women
  • [2-in-1 Design: 8" & 6" Guide Bar] – This Supstable mini chainsaw comes with two interchangeable guide bars (6-inch and 8-inch), allowing you to switch sizes easily according to your cutting needs. With just one compact mini chainsaw, you get the versatility of two sizes. Perfect for firewood cutting, tree pruning, and branch trimming, making it a must-have tool for your garden and outdoor tasks
  • [Powerful 1000W Brushless Motor] – This Supstable mini chainsaw is equipped with a high-performance 1000W brushless motor, delivering maximum cutting power for effortless wood cutting, tree pruning, and branch trimming. Compared to standard motors, it provides 30% more power, reduces friction, lowers heat, and ensures long-lasting durability. Perfect for garden tasks, firewood cutting, and DIY projects, this cordless chainsaw combines power, efficiency, and reliability in one compact tool
  • [Portable & Women-Friendly Mini Chainsaw] – The Supstable battery-powered mini chainsaw is slim, lightweight, and easy to handle, weighing only 3.2 lbs – just 18% of a bulky gas chainsaw. Its ergonomic design makes it perfect for women, seniors, and beginners, allowing comfortable garden trimming, tree pruning, and branch cutting without fatigue. Unlike full-sized chainsaws, there’s no heavy cord or gas engine to manage, making this cordless mini chainsaw ideal for quick and precise cutting anywhere
  • [Long-Lasting Battery & Fast Charging] – Equipped with 2×2000mAh rechargeable batteries, this Supstable cordless mini chainsaw provides up to 60 minutes of continuous runtime. Perfect for extended garden trimming, wood cutting, branch pruning, and outdoor projects, it ensures you can work without frequent recharging. The fast-charging design keeps your portable chainsaw ready for efficient and uninterrupted cutting, making it ideal for both home and outdoor use
  • [Complete Safety Protection for Peace of Mind] – The Supstable mini chainsaw comes with a safety lock, wood debris baffle, non-slip auxiliary handle, gloves, and protective goggles, providing full protection for beginners and experienced users alike. Ideal for family use, rental properties, schools, community gardens, and DIY outdoor projects, you can prune trees, cut branches, and trim wood confidently knowing your safety is fully covered

The Ultimate Chainsaw Buying Guide: Cut Through the Confusion

A chainsaw is a powerful tool. It helps you cut wood quickly. Whether you are clearing fallen trees or preparing firewood, choosing the right one matters. This guide helps you pick the perfect saw.

1. Key Features to Look For

When you shop for a chainsaw, look closely at these important parts:

Power Source Matters

  • Gas-Powered: These saws offer the most power. They are best for big jobs and thick trees. They need fuel and oil.
  • Electric (Corded): These are lighter and quieter. You must stay near an outlet. They work well for small trimming jobs.
  • Battery-Powered (Cordless): These offer freedom without cords. Battery life limits how long you can work. They are great for medium tasks.

Bar and Chain Length

The bar is the metal guide that holds the chain. Longer bars cut bigger logs, but they make the saw heavier. For most homeowners, a 14-inch to 16-inch bar is a good starting point.

Safety Features

Safety is the most important part. Good chainsaws have:

  • Chain Brake: This stops the chain instantly if the saw kicks back.
  • Low Kickback Chain: This reduces the chance of dangerous upward jolts.

2. Important Materials and Build Quality

The materials used affect how long your chainsaw lasts and how well it handles tough wood.

Engine Durability (For Gas Saws)

Look for a saw with a durable engine. Some engines have a magnesium alloy casing. This material is strong but keeps the weight down. Cheaper saws often use more plastic parts, which break easier.

Guide Bar Material

The best guide bars are made of hardened steel. This metal resists wear and tear from cutting. A quality bar stays straight longer.

Chain Quality

Sharp, well-made cutting teeth make cutting smooth. Look for chains from well-known brands. A dull chain makes the saw work too hard, which can ruin the engine.

3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Quality is not just about the price tag. Smart design improves the saw’s performance.

Vibration Dampening

Powerful saws shake a lot. Good chainsaws have anti-vibration mounts. These rubber or spring systems absorb the shaking. Better dampening means less arm fatigue for you.

Ease of Maintenance

A quality saw is easy to maintain. Can you easily access the air filter and spark plug? Many modern saws feature tool-less chain tensioning. This feature saves time when you need to tighten the chain.

Weight and Balance

A poorly balanced saw is hard to control. Hold the saw if you can before buying. It should feel balanced in your hands, not too heavy in the front or back. Lighter weight generally improves the user experience, especially for overhead work.

4. User Experience and Use Cases

Match the saw to the job you need to do.

Light Use (Trimming small branches, pruning)

An electric or small battery-powered saw works perfectly. They are light and easy to start.

Medium Use (Cutting firewood, clearing small storm damage)

A mid-sized gas saw (around 40cc engine) or a high-power battery model is ideal. These handle logs up to 12 inches thick well.

Heavy Use (Felling large trees, professional work)

You need a large, powerful gas chainsaw. These saws have bigger engines and longer bars (18 inches plus). These require more skill to operate safely.

Remember: Always wear safety gear! This includes a helmet, eye protection, gloves, and chaps. A powerful tool demands respect and proper protection.


Chainsaw Buying Guide FAQ

Q: What size chainsaw do I need for cutting firewood?

A: For most home firewood cutting, a saw with a 16-inch bar is usually best. This size cuts common log diameters quickly without being too heavy.

Q: How often should I sharpen the chain?

A: You should sharpen the chain often. A good rule is to check it every time you refuel the saw. If the saw starts forcing its way through wood instead of cutting smoothly, it needs sharpening.

Q: What is “chain pitch” and why does it matter?

A: Chain pitch is the distance between the drive links on the chain. It is important because you must match the pitch of your chain to the sprocket on your saw. Using the wrong pitch causes fast wear and poor cutting.

Q: Are battery-powered chainsaws strong enough for real work?

A: Yes, modern high-voltage (like 60V or 80V) battery saws are very strong. They can handle tasks that used to require small gas engines. Their main limit is battery runtime.

Q: What is “kickback” on a chainsaw?

A: Kickback is when the saw suddenly jumps up and back toward the user. This happens when the upper tip of the guide bar hits something hard. Safety features like the chain brake are designed to stop this danger immediately.

Q: How do I store a gas chainsaw for the winter?

A: You must properly store a gas saw. Run the engine until it completely stops to burn off all the fuel in the carburetor. Then, clean the saw and store it in a dry place.

Q: What does “cc” mean on a gas chainsaw?

A: “CC” stands for cubic centimeters. This number tells you the volume of the engine’s cylinder. A higher CC number means a bigger, more powerful engine.

Q: Should I buy a used chainsaw?

A: Buying used can save money, but it carries risks. If you buy used, check the compression of the engine. Also, check the condition of the chain brake and the bar for deep gouges.

Q: What is the difference between a top-handle and rear-handle saw?

A: Rear-handle saws are standard for ground work. Top-handle saws have the handle placed above the engine. Top-handle saws are designed specifically for professional arborists who work while climbing in trees.

Q: How much oil do I need to mix with gas for a 2-stroke chainsaw?

A: This ratio is very important! Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. A common mix is 50:1 (50 parts gasoline to 1 part 2-stroke oil). Using the wrong mix will quickly destroy the engine.