Whether you’re looking to chop up smaller trees for firewood or cut away brush, the best battery chainsaws make short work of outdoor chores without giving off exhaust. (You also don’t have to worry about a pesky cord, which is a big plus.) Our top pick for 2024 is the Ego Power+ 56-Volt Cordless Chainsaw, an easy-to-use machine that’s incredibly powerful and charges in just under 40 minutes, though it’s certainly not the only reliable model out there.
The best battery chainsaws allow you to make short work of brush, twigs and anything else you need ... [+]
Battery powered chainsaws are typically the tool of choice for smaller jobs like trimming branches, making them ideal for the average homeowner’s cutting needs. (For bigger tasks like slicing through thick trees, you’d be better off with a more powerful gas chainsaw.) Therefore, before you start shopping, it’s wise to think about what, exactly, you plan to use your chainsaw for. If a cordless model makes sense for you, then you can consider battery life, power output and bar length to ensure you pick out the right option for your needs. Ahead, here are the best battery chainsaws to add to your arsenal of outdoor tools.
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How We Chose The Best Battery Chainsaws
To determine the best battery chainsaws on the market, we started by identifying the most trusted brands in the space—including Ego, Husqvarna and Dewalt—and each of their most popular models. Then, we took a closer look at each of the chainsaws, considering their power, battery life, bar length and overall construction. If the models met our standards for quality—and they had overwhelmingly positive customer reviews to back them—they made this list.
What To Consider When Buying A Battery Chainsaw
Though not as powerful as gas models, battery chainsaws have a lot going for them: They’re cordless, easier to use and ideal for smaller outdoor chores. If you’re thinking of bringing one home, here’s what to keep in mind as you shop.
Bar Length
The bar is the part of the chainsaw that you use to cut (along with the actual chain). If you’ll be working your way through larger trees or hedges, you’ll want a longer bar length that’s 12 inches and up. But, for smaller pruning jobs, something as small as 6 inches will do the trick.
Battery Life
Because some jobs require extra battery power, these chainsaws often tell their capacity by number of cuts. If you’re just planning to do the odd tree-chopping, this doesn’t matter as much as if you will be doing larger jobs.
Tension Adjustment And Tightening
Adjusting the tension is important for getting the right cut. If your chain is too tight, it won’t easily dig into wood and branches. That will force your machine to work harder and can wear it out faster. Finding a tool that you can easily adjust is important if you’re going to be working with different types of wood and brush.
What’s The Best Battery Chainsaw To Buy?
The best chainsaw for you is ultimately one that meets your needs. Figuring out in advance how you plan to use your chainsaw, including how long your need your battery life to last, is important for ensuring you make the right choice. When it comes to our top pick for 2024, there’s a clear winner: the Ego Power+ Cordless Chainsaw. Not only is it powerful, but it charges in just under 40 minutes and is relatively straightforward to use, too.
Is A Battery Chainsaw Worth It?
Depending on the type of battery chainsaw you choose, these are typically equal in price or even less expensive than their gas-powered peers. They also don’t spew out exhaust, giving you a more comfortable work environment. If you’re planning to tackle really big jobs and you don’t mind exhaust and noise, a gas chainsaw may be a better fit. But, if you want a more environmentally-friendly option that’s easy on your ears and good for most yard work, a battery chainsaw is the way to go.
