When it comes to buying a chainsaw many people often assume that you need to spend hundreds of dollars to get a good one. However, this is not entirely true as there are still some high performing ones that retail for under $200.

Also, these cheap chainsaws are not from the "small" brands because even reputable brands like Husqvarna, Makita, and Worx have some very affordable models in the market.

Buying the best chainsaw under $200 does not also restrict you to a certain type because you can still get a gas, corded or cordless chainsaw for that price.

While it is true you will have to pay more than $200 to get something for heavy duty use, the cheap chainsaws are still quite handy for a variety of tasks around the home.

However, it is still important to make sure that you choose the best cheap chainsaw from the many options. This piece aims to help you with this by reviewing 10 best budget chainsaws and with our detailed buying guide.

Editor's Rating: (4.1 / 5)

• Power: 8-Amp
• Power Source: Electric
• Bar Length: 14-inch
• Weight: 6.25 lbs

Remington RM1425 is the best cheap chainsaw on our list and this is not only because of its highly affordable price tag but also because it is an easy to use and high performing tool.

This 8-Amp electric chainsaw comes with a 14-inch bar length which is great for cutting small limbs around the home and it is still powerful enough for fast trimming.

The convenient push-button oiler makes it easy to add just the right amount of oil, and there is also an external tensioner that makes chain tensioning easy.

Other things like the wraparound hand guard makes this chainsaw easy and convenient to handle and it comes fully assembled.

Editor's Rating: (4.6 / 5)

• Power: 18 Volts
• Power Source: Battery
• Bar Length: 12-inch
• Weight: 8.8 lbs

If you prefer the convenience of battery-powered power tools, our cheap chainsaw reviews also cater for you with the Makita XCU02ZLXT.

It is our best cheap cordless chainsaw and it runs on 18 Volts lithium-ion batteries that power the highly efficient Makita motor to deliver up to 1,650 FPM.

With a noise rating of 89 dB, this is a relatively quieter chainsaw and this is more so when you compare it to the gas-powered types.

The lightweight overall construction makes it easy to handle and the 12-inch guide bar is ideal for trimming in tight spaces.

Also, the tool-less chain adjustment makes it convenient to operate and easy to maintain.

Editor's Rating: (4.1 / 5)

• Power: 15-Amp
• Power Source: Electric
• Bar Length: 18-inch
• Weight: 11.3 lbs

It is hard to find an electric chainsaw that performs almost as good as the gas-powered models but this one from Worx comes as close as possible.

This low-cost chainsaw comes with an 18-inch bar length that is relatively longer than most others on our list to give you some, extra cutting width.

And it has a low-kickback bar that combines with the built-in chin brake to make this a relatively safer chainsaw.

The auto-oiler helps to keep the chain lubricated throughout the cut and there is also a window level indicator to let you monitor the oil level.

This 15-Amp electric chainsaw is fully assembled when you get it and the manufacturer will back it with a 3-year warranty.

Editor's Rating: (4 / 5)

• Power: 2 HP
• Power Source: Gas
• Bar Length: 14-inch
• Weight: 10.3 lbs

Husqvarna is one of those brands that you can always trust to produce some top-notch quality chainsaws, and their model 240 is the best cheap gas chainsaw on our list.

The chainsaw runs on a 2 HP x-torque engine that delivers more than enough power for the 14-inch guide bar to cut through logs with ease and fast.

Like most other Husqvarna chainsaws, it has the LowVib feature that reduces vibration to minimize user fatigue and combined chock/stop control to minimize the risk of engine flooding and make the tool easier to start.

The centrifugal air cleaning system is also a great addition to the design as it reduces the frequency of cleaning the filters and improves the engine life.

Editor's Rating: (4.5 / 5)

• Power: 40 Volts
• Power Source: Battery
• Bar Length: 12-inch
• Weight: 10.4 lbs

Black & Decker is one of those brands that should be in your mind when shopping for a good cheap chainsaw as they have many in this category. But their LCS1240 is for those looking for a powerful cordless chainsaw.

It runs on more powerful 40V lithium-ion batteries that will deliver longer run times and with a convenient auto oiling system.

The robust and durable construction ensures that you get to use this cheap chainsaw for many years, and it also comes with a wraparound handle for maximum user comfort.

Chain tensioning is also quick and easy thanks to the tool-less chain tensioner and this is also a relatively lightweight tool.

Editor's Rating: (4.4 / 5)

• Power: 40 Volts
• Power Source: Battery
• Bar Length: 14-inch
• Weight: 9.8 lbs

The more powerful and reliable brushless motor on the Greenworks CS40L210 makes it one of the best inexpensive chainsaws as it provides longer run times and is also more durable.

This battery-powered chainsaw uses 40V batteries which also help to provide longer run times, and you can get up to 100 cuts on a single charge.

The lightweight chainsaw also comes with a side access chain tensioner that is also very convenient, and with a wrap-around handle that makes it more comfortable to use.

Editor's Rating: (4.1 / 5)

• Power: 14.5-Amp
• Power Source: Electric
• Bar Length: 16-inch
• Weight: 11 lbs

The 14-Amp Worx WG303.1 delivers a performance that is almost similar to what you would get from a gas-powered chainsaw.

There are also many other features to back the powerful motor and make this one of the best low-cost chainsaws out there. And they include the auto-tension system that prevents over-tightening and ensures the chain maintains proper tensions for many uses.

Auto oiling is also a convenient feature and there is also a built-in reservoir with a window level indicator to help you monitor the oil.

Other things like the chain brake for safety and ergonomic handle also help to make this a great power tool.

Editor's Rating: (4.2 / 5)

• Power: 15-Amp
• Power Source: Electric
• Bar Length: 18-inch
• Weight: 12.9 lbs

Although this Oregon chainsaw is the heaviest on our list, Oregon CS1500 is still easy and comfortable to use. But, its most unique feature is the self-sharpening system that helps to keep the chain sharp on the job.

The 15-Amp motor is also quite powerful, and if you combine this with the 18-inch bar length, you get a chainsaw that can handle relatively heavier duties.

Chain tensioning is also quick and easy as you will not need any tools. The ergonomic overall design keeps vibration in check and it also includes a comfortable over-mold handle.

And there is also an integrated chain brake to make this a relatively safe chainsaw.

Editor's Rating: (4.2 / 5)

• Power: 12-Amp
• Power Source: Electric
• Bar Length: 16-inch
• Weight: 10 lbs

Here is another Black & Decker chainsaw that has everything that you can expect to get from the best cheap chainsaws.

The 12-Amp electric chainsaw has a 16-inch low kickback bar that provides significantly large cut capacity and is also relatively lightweight as it only weighs 10 pounds.

Chain adjustment is also quick and easy and you will not need any tool to do it. And the cheap chainsaw also uses an auto oiling system to keep the bar and chain lubricated and has a clear window that makes oil level monitoring easy.

Editor's Rating: (3.9 / 5)

• Power: 38 cc
• Power Source: Gas
• Bar Length: 16-inch
• Weight: 12 lbs

The 38 cc 2-cycle engine makes this Poulan Pro chainsaw quite powerful despite the relatively affordable price tag.

The gas-powered chainsaw comes with a 16-inch bar that gives it a relatively wider cutting capability. And it is also a comfortable tool to use thanks to the anti-vibe handle design and over-mold rear handle that minimizes user fatigue.

It also makes use of a super clean air filtration system to minimize the need to clean the filter regularly while also increasing the life of the engine.

With the effortless pulling start you will also never have to waste a lot of time trying to get it started. This chainsaw also comes fully assembled and with a hard carrying case.

Even as you go out to buy a cheap chainsaw, it is important to make sure that you get something high-quality that also suits your particular needs and not just settle for the most affordable one.

Like any other power tool, there are certain vital things that you should always consider when buying a chainsaw.

#1. Types of Chainsaw

Whether you are buying the cheapest or the priciest chainsaws, one of the first decisions you need to make is the type to go for. There are three general types of chainsaws which are gas-powered, corded and the cordless models and each will have both pros and cons.

1. Gas-Powered Chainsaws

Also, they are the most mobile type as you can use them anywhere as long as you have some gas. And if you get one with a large tank capacity, you can also get a long run time.

Gas-powered chainsaws are also more rugged and tough enough to handle regular abuse and if you maintain them well they can last for a long time.

2. Corded-Electric Chainsaw

These chainsaws are ideal for medium-duty tasks but some of the top rated corded chainsaws can also handle some relatively heavy-duty tasks.

The most significant shortcomings with these chainsaws are that they will not be useful during power outages and the extension cord limits their mobility.

3. Cordless-Electric Chainsaws

Cordless electric chainsaws are one of the quietest types and they are also highly portable as you can use them anywhere provided the battery is charged.

And since they do not have as many components as the gas-powered chainsaws, they will require less maintenance.

What to Buy

If you are looking for the best cheap chainsaw for heavy duty tasks the gas-powered model are the best options.

And if you want something with a constant supply of power and with minimal downtimes for use around the house where you have power outlets nearby, a corded chainsaw is a great choice.

The cordless or battery-powered types, on the other hand, are a good choice if you want something for occasional light to medium cutting tasks.

#2. Bar Length

Bar length is a measure of the cutting section of the chainsaw and the longer it is the wider the logs that you can cut in one pass.

However, this does not mean that a chainsaw with a smaller bar length cannot cut large pieces of wood. Instead, it means smaller bar length tools will have to take more passes.

When it comes to choosing the right bar length, the right idea is always to go for one that is at least 2 inches longer than the wood pieces you intend to be cutting.

Also, note that the longer the bar length the harder the chainsaw will be to use as it becomes heavier and also the risk of injuries increases.

#3. Safety

Chainsaws are one of the most dangerous tools that you can use whether you are a beginner or an experienced longer or landowner.

Hence, as you are shopping for the best affordable chainsaw, safety should always be at the top of your mind. Luckily, most manufacturers add several safety features to their chainsaws to make them safer to use.

Some of the safety features to watch out for include auto-oiler which keeps the tool oiled and safe to use, anti-vibration to reduce stress on your arms, anti-kickback, chain brake, hand guard and kill switch.

#4. Warranty

Most chainsaws manufacturer will back their products with a warranty to give you some assurances that it is top notch quality and will serve you for long.

A good cheap chainsaw will come with at least a 1-year warranty but some from leading brands like Husqvarna will be backed by a 2-year warranty.

While a long warranty is always great, it is important to ensure that any cheap chainsaw that you buy has at least a 1-year warranty.

Conclusion

You do not always have to burn hundreds of dollars to get a top-notch chainsaw as you can still get a high performing one for under $200.

Most of the leading brands have a cheap chainsaw model as they are always striving to cater to different individuals or different market segments.

However, it is still important to make sure that you choose the best cheap chainsaw. And for this our detailed guide above and top 10 reviews will be very handy.

Understanding the different types of chainsaws available and features that define them such as bar length and power should always be the first step.

With this information in mind and by sparing some time to shop around, finding the best budget chainsaws should be easy.

Lastly, remember to read the manual before assembling and using any chainsaw you buy and take all the necessary safety precautions such as wearing proper clothes and footwear when using the power tool.