Updated on Oct. 16, 2024
Few power tools provide the raw power and efficiency of a chainsaw. When used correctly, the best chainsaws complete landscaping projects quickly, easily and safely.
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A reliable chainsaw is an essential piece of a homeowner’s landscaping toolkit, and when used properly, can save you a lot of time and energy. The best chainsaw easily cuts through branches and logs in seconds, completing a task that would otherwise take much longer with a manual saw. Whether you’re pruning unruly branches, cutting up a felled tree or tackling construction demolition, a chainsaw is a great investment.
Regardless of the saw you choose, be sure to thoroughly review the instructions and practice chainsaw safety. We highly recommend asking a professional or experienced chainsaw user to walk you through the basics of cutting techniques and safety precautions. All chainsaws aren’t created equal, so take the time to review these considerations before making your purchase.
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We’ve used Husqvarna products for years, and the high-quality construction and durability of the 2.8 HP Husqvarna 445 made it an easy choice as our best chainsaw. The slim body and ergonomic handle combine for easy mobility, and the 18-inch bar’s versatility tackles a wide range of sawing and pruning tasks. Thanks to its smart-start technology, this saw fires up with one or two pulls, putting an end to those time and energy-draining startup sessions.
“I love the caps for the fuel and oil tanks; they have integrated levers that flip up for leverage and click in place – very user friendly,” reviewer RJ Nunnally explained. “The choke/start/stop switch is well placed and intuitive to use. The side for the bar has the tensioner built into it (as opposed to built into the saw itself) so it releases chain tension when removed, making maintenance easy.”
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The Wen 16-inch Electric Chainsaw features 12 amps of sawing power and costs significantly less than any other option on our list. At just 10 pounds, it’s light enough for extended use and easy to maneuver, both of which contribute to overall safety. Although the corded power supply limits portability, the push-button start and unlimited run time could be worth it to the right user. A two-year warranty has you covered if any issues arise.
“This saw goes above and beyond the call of duty,” reviewer Arnold explains. “I had a giant pine tree blow down in my yard so I bought this saw. I am amazed at the power of this electric saw. I highly recommend it!” P.S. For something a little less bulky, try the Saker mini chainsaw.
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Gas models tend to be pricier than electric versions, but this Craftsman Chainsaw is a steal for a gas chainsaw that still provides the power and maneuverability of a higher-end option. The wraparound handle features a textured rubber grip for maximum control, and an auto-oiling mechanism cuts down on chainsaw maintenance time. A chain brake reduces the chances of kickback injuries, and bucking spikes provide the extra leverage you need for those heavy-duty cuts.
“If you are looking for a mid size gas chainsaw for around your property for trimming trees and cutting small to medium sized logs, this is the chainsaw for you,” verified reviewer D.J Turner explained. “I used premixed ethanol free 2 cycle fuel and filled the chain oil, followed the starting directions and it fired right up and ran perfect.”
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With a 20-inch bar and 3.49 HP engine, the Husqvarna 455 Rancher is the best chainsaw for extra-large jobs, like tree felling or expansive land-clearing projects. This heavy-duty saw chews through logs and branches quickly and efficiently, and thanks to its anti-vibration technology, is comfortable to use on all-day projects.
Its fuel-efficient X-Torq engine cuts down on fuel tank refills, and the side-mounted tension system and automatic oiler ensure that you won’t waste unnecessary time performing routine maintenance.
“The first thing I noticed was how easy the Husqvarna is to start,” reviewer HLG explained. “Follow the directions and starts easily very time. The first time I set the chain on the tree it just fell through the log with no effort. The power is amazing and the anti-vibe handle made it comfortable to hold onto as it simply chewed through the logs like butter!”
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The multi-functional Sun Joe Convertible Pole Chainsaw is both a pole-mounted and a handheld mini chainsaw. Its telescoping handle reaches up to 15 feet overhead, and the eight-inch bar can take down limbs up to 9-1/2 inches thick. Once on the ground, simply remove the pole, and use the handheld saw to cut up the branches into a manageable size.
“We’re very impressed with the quality of this product,” purchaser Harold Eady explained. “Good productivity cutting limbs away from the roof of our house. Cut oak tree limbs up to 8″ diameter without any issues. Converting to pole saw was easy and also good production realized.”
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The Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hatchet Chainsaw may not have the power or bar length of the larger options on our list, but its compact size makes it the best chainsaw for quick and easy, light-duty pruning. At just five pounds, it’s comfortable to use in tight and awkward areas and easy to perform cuts at any angle. The bar sheath is a nice perk as well.
“This thing is perfect for cutting small stuff under 4”,” reviewer Robert Williamson explained. “It’s good because it’s small, light weight and just enough power to get the job done, and you can you use it with one hand and control what you cut off with the other. I do line work and this this is a game changer when you are just doing some light line clearance work.”
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The 16-inch bar on the Oregon CS1400 Chainsaw tackles small and large cutting tasks effectively. Thanks to the corded power supply, you won’t need to worry about recharging any batteries. A molded rubber cover on the handle and a trigger grip make it easy to maintain control as you cut, and a hand guard protects against flying chips and other debris. At less than $100, this electric saw is a great value as well.
“I’ve been using this saw to cut down two big trees killed by the unusual extreme winter event my state had a couple of years ago,” reviewer TNC explained. “I bought this saw to do small trim jobs on trees, but it has been more than capable to do everything a good, regular, gas chainsaw can do. I’m surprised and impressed.”
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