Electric chainsaws: Good for trimming tree limbs, cutting firewood, pruning bushes, and as Leatherface might say, terrorizing a group of friends. When conducting my testing, I couldn’t validate Leatherface’s claims—quite frankly, I had no interest in doing so, which I’m sure my colleagues were also happy about. What analysis did show, however, was that when it comes to chopping wood or landscaping, having a high-quality electric chainsaw is a must.
And, no, I don’t mean gas chainsaw. In fact, I didn’t bother looking at gas chainsaws (my colleagues already did, so if you’re interested, check out the best gas chainsaws of 2024). While we might not agree on the gas vs. electric debate, I’m of the opinion that louder and smellier no longer equals superiority. I found several electric chainsaws that held their weight when it came to their cutting ability. What’s more, unless you’re running a logging business, an electric chainsaw is a more-than-suitable alternative (and you’ll probably save a few bucks, too).
With all that being said, let’s cut to the chase and check out the best electric chainsaws in 2024.
Our Top Picks
Our Picks For Best Electric Chainsaws
Best Overall
The Oregon CS1500 chainsaw is a self-sharpening chainsaw that is powered by a cord and provides an impressive amount of power. This is the first ever electric chainsaw that conveniently sharpens itself. It starts with a traditional pull start trigger action without any warmups, emissions, or gas oil mixings and runs with minimal noise.
The chainsaw also features an automatic oiler that has a transparent see-through window that shows you the level of oil remaining. The PowerSharp system saves you from down time from a dull chain. Just pull the PowerSharp lever and get a sharp saw in just 3-5 seconds.
Pros
- Convenient tool-less chain tensioning system
- No assembly required
- Stays silent between cuts
Cons
- Housing seems loose
Key Features
- 15-amp power rating
- Low vibration design with an over-mold handle
- 18-inch guide bar
- Powered by a cord
Most Powerful
The NaTiddy Electric Chainsaw is a powerful and efficient tool that is perfect for those looking for a lightweight electric chainsaw. Featuring an advanced brushless motor, the NaTiddy Mini Chainsaw provides up to 320% increase in motor life, 90% increase in output power, and 85% reduction in abrasion. The electric chainsaw runs faster, more stably, and produces less wear and lower temperatures, making it a great choice for anyone in need of reliable power.
This electric chainsaw is perfect for one-handed use because of its ergonomic design. It offers easy control and a comfortable grip without the heaviness and fatigue associated with traditional chainsaws. It is also friendly for individuals with weak wrists or arthritis, and the lightweight feature also makes it suitable for ladder work.
Pros
- No installation required
- Easy to use
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Battery life could be better for extended use
Key Features
- 2000mAh rechargeable batteries
- Equipped with overheat/overcharge/explosion-proof and temperature protection features.
- It takes only two to three hours to charge
Highest Quality
This cordless electric chainsaw can manage all your heavy-duty tasks just like a gas-powered chainsaw can. It has a low kickback bar and a chain that makes sure the cuts are seamless and smooth. There is an automatic oiling mechanism that works to keep the chain lubricated at all times.
It features a super comfortable wraparound handle that makes sure the machine is secured and you are in full control of it. This also allows you to make cuttings from different angles. You can also make quick adjustments to the chain without having to use any heavy tools.
Pros
- Low-kickback bar and chain
- 12-inches length for more efficiency
- Long and smooth runtime
Cons
- No battery charger or charging station
Key Features
- Cordless electric chainsaw
- Automatic oiling system
- 40V maximum power from lithium ion battery
- Enhanced safety features with a lock-off button and front hand guard
Honorable Mention
This is a great option if you’re looking for corded chainsaws. The Greenworks electric chainsaw offers you unlimited cuts with almost no downtime. The bar is 14 inches long and can be used to cut limbs and trees with ease.
You can expect this chainsaw to cut almost all that you can cut and shape with a gasoline-powered chainsaw. The 10.5-amp electric motor promises powerful performance and smooth cuts at just the push of a button.
Pros
- Transparent oil reservoir
- Easy one-button start without any choking, pulling, or priming
- Produces very low noise
Cons
- Not suitable for left-handers
Key Features
- Powered by a cord
- Hand guard at the front for additional safety
- Automatic lubrication from self-oiling system
- Tool-free chain tensioning ability
Contender
This is perhaps the best battery-powered chainsaw with a low kickback and a 12-inches long bar. You can use this electric chainsaw for all your outdoor projects. The chainsaw comes in a highly ergonomic design which allows users to gain maximum control of the machine as they operate it.
Moreover, there is a safety cover for the front hand to make sure you don’t injure yourself. The lightweight and compact design also help you feel more in control at difficult angles. The motor is brushless and highly efficient in motion.
Pros
- 20V maximum power on 5Ah battery
- Quick battery charge time
- Smooth cutting for hours
Cons
- Complaints about chain jumping off
Key Features
- Cordless electric chainsaw
- Tool-free chain tensioning ability
- Adjust bar clamping force from the bar tightening knob
- Gives 90 cuts per charge
Another Great Option
This is a 14-inch long chainsaw with a powerful 8-Amp motor. You can use this electric chainsaw for light to medium-duty limbing, trimming, yard cutting, and pruning. The chainsaw features an auto-tension chain system which makes it easier to maintain the chain at an optimum tension level.
The oil tank can fill up to 4 fl oz of oil for lubrication. You can see through the oil window to check the level of oil remaining. The design is made to complement the use of both hands comfortably at any angle. It’s lightweight and compact, just 6.6lbs, which is very easy to maneuver.
Pros
- No oil leakage, no mess
- Auto-tensioning chain system
- Rubberized over grip handle for safety
Cons
- Leaks oil if placed in a vertical position
Key Features
- Powered by a cord
- 28 ft/s powerful chain speed for smooth and quick cuts
- Very low maintenance and energy efficient
- Works with chain and bar oil
Best Electric Chainsaws: A Buying Guide
While compiling this review, I thought about what my neighbor, who seems to have little landscaping experience, might want to know about electric chainsaws. Sure, I could recommend powerhouse brands like DeWalt or Black + Decker and I’d probably never hear a complaint from him. But everyone who works with tools enough knows the feeling of finding the one that performs excellently in all the ways you need it to. So, instead of saying, “Yeah, Mike, the DeWalt electric chainsaw is a safe bet,” I might ask some more questions (or I’d just text him a link to this buying guide if I’m feeling anti-social).
Things To Consider Before Buying an Electric Chainsaw
Here are a few things to consider before making your purchase.
Size
The size of a chainsaw is determined by how long the bar is or the length of the piece that supports the chain. Long bars on chainsaws are perfect for people who will be cutting a lot of large trees or huge bulky branches. Shorter bars are perfect for small branches and trees or home DIY projects. If a shorter bar seems more ideal for you, check out the best small chainsaws.
Power source
You can find electric chainsaws in both corded as well as cordless options. You need to consider mobility when deciding the kind of power source you’ll need. I could easily move around with a cordless one without worrying about the distance and the risk of cutting the cord itself, but when I needed a bit more power, the corded option proved better. We’ll dig into cordless vs. corded in more depth later.
Safety features
While it’s true you shoulder consider safety when working with any tool, it’s especially true when it comes to chainsaws. Electric chainsaws are powerful tools that should always be operated with extreme care and protection. Some electric chainsaws have the option of a chain brake that is located on its handle that stops the rotation of the chain if there’s an emergency (a personal must-have). You can also look for chainsaws with a safety switch.
Power
You will see a chainsaw’s power in amps or amperes mentioned in the specifications. The intended use of your chainsaw will determine the power that you should get. If you’ll be using your electric chainsaw for heavy-duty tasks like cutting dense trees, 15 amps or more would be appropriate. For lighter use, you can get away with 8-10 amp models.
Gas vs. Electric Chainsaws
There are some significant differences between the operation and characteristics of a gas chainsaw and an electrical chainsaw even though they both are used for the same purpose. You’ll need to consider the good and bad of both kinds before you make a final decision.
We’ve highlighted some distinguishing features of both kinds of chainsaws for you to better understand the difference and get the most suitable one for yourself.
Electric chainsaws
- There’s little to no noise production, even when they’re running at full capacity
- Require little to no maintenance
- You don’t need to buy gasoline for it every time you use it
- Less mess
- Offers lower power behind the chain
- Intended for smaller, low-to-medium-duty jobs
- Found them easier to handle due to their lightweight
- Safer than gas chainsaws
Gas-powered chainsaws
- Very loud
- Emit harmful fumes and smoke when running
- Need specific kinds of gas and oil mixtures to operate
- Suitable for heavy-duty cutting jobs
- No need for power as long as you have a gasoline supply
- Require a lot of maintenance to keep the machine healthy
- Extremely powerful cutting
Are Electric Chainsaws Safer Than Gas Chainsaws?
To a serious chainsaw operator, this might be a mute question. For DIYers or homeowners, the question of safety can be extremely relevant.
Electric chainsaws are typically lightweight and generally less risky to operate than gas-powered chainsaws. You can easily carry them and control them, which is great if using a chainsaw is not your full-time job.
Electric chainsaws also don’t emit harmful toxins into the air. Not only can the fumes generated by gas-powered chainsaws be highly toxic to humans, but they also pollute the overall environment. You also don’t need special workers or professionals to operate an electric chainsaw. Their easy start and stop system allows for simple operation.
You also don’t have to worry about fuel usage or fuel mixing. This is safer and healthier for the environment as well. Moreover, electric chainsaws do not make an annoyingly loud noise when you run them. If you work with electric chainsaws, you can worry less about respiratory or hearing damage.
So, it’s probably safe to say that electric chainsaws are safer than gas-powered chainsaws. However, all kinds of chainsaws can be dangerous if the operator is inexperienced or unable to handle the machine. Thus, it’s necessary that you wear protective gear and stand in the right posture before you begin working.
Tips for Using Electric Chainsaws Efficiently
Here are some useful tips for using electrical chainsaws:
- Wear heavy, snug-fit clothing, so you don’t have to worry about your outfit as you work and there’s a lower chance of loose clothes getting stuck in the chainsaw by accident.
- Use the electric chainsaw only for the purposes it’s intended for.
- Make sure you have stable footing and an upright posture for better control over the machine; don’t slouch.
- Avoid cutting anything above the reach of your head or shoulders, as it is easier to lose control in that position.
- Read all the instructions for the chainsaw before you operate it.
- Always stay alert – if you experience vibration or kickback, release the throttle and wait for it to stop completely before you restart it.
- Cut one log/bush/branch at a time.
- Check for hard nails or metals in the object you’re cutting.
- Don’t try to overreach and stretch your arms in a position where you lose control.
- Operate the chainsaw with both hands; the best position I’ve found is elbow locked, arms straight, left hand in the front, and right hand on the rear handle, in a slightly bent position.
Conclusion
Electric chainsaws can save you a lot of time, energy, money, and a whole lot of headaches. They are safer and easier to use compared to gas-powered chainsaws and have very deservingly gained popularity thanks to these characteristics.
Electric Chainsaw FAQ
Can you cut a tree down with an electric chainsaw?
If it’s a small or medium-sized tree and the chainsaw is equipped with the required amps, then yes you can easily cut a tree with an electric chainsaw.
What’s better? An electric chainsaw or a petrol chainsaw?
Electric chainsaws are lightweight, small, quiet, safe, and easier to handle, but they lack the stamina and power needed for high-end jobs like cutting big trees. The deciding factor for the best kind of chainsaw is their intended use.
Why does an electric chainsaw stop cutting?
Electric chainsaws might stop cutting efficiently if they have a dull chain, or the bar is bent. It could also be because of an improperly adjusted chain on the bar.
How to start an electric chainsaw?
The cordless ones come with an easy start button or a switch that you flip to start the machine, unlike the gas-powered ones where you have to pull the cord to start the engine.
How long do battery-powered electric chainsaws last?
Battery-powered chainsaws last about 30 minutes to one hour on a single charge.
