10 Best Electric Chainsaws of 2024 – Reviews & Buying Guide
Up until recently, the gas-powered chainsaws have always been the most preferred thanks to their massive power and portability. But, they are not always the most convenient for small and medium size cutting jobs around the home.
It is this need to have something more reliable, easy to use and affordable for the simple cutting jobs around the yard that has seen the development of electric chainsaws.
Although electric chainsaws have been around for quite a while, their popularity has been on the rise if the past few years as more and more homeowners prefer their less aggressive, quieter and more convenient operation.
As their name suggests, these are the chainsaw types that rely on an electric current to power the motor that supplies power to the chain bar, and they are available in corded and cordless options.
Other advantages of using these chainsaws include a more environmental-friendly operation, fast and easy start, and they also require significantly less maintenance.
But, like with the gas-powered chainsaws, you need to get the best electric chainsaws from the numerous models out there to enjoy these benefits.
This guide is all about helping you find the most powerful electric chainsaws, and it does this with some detailed reviews and a handy buying guide.
You can also read other chainsaw reviews such as battery chainsaw, top handle chainsaw, small chainsaw, cheap chainsaw, Greenwork cordless chainsaw, Husqvarna chainsaw, chainsaw sharpener, chainsaw chap, and many more.
10 Best Electric Chainsaws - Reviews
Nowadays electric chainsaws are almost as powerful as the traditional gas-powered ones but this is only true if you get a good model. And in our table below, we compare 10 best rated electric chainsaws in the market to help with this.
Image | Product Name | Power | Bar Length | Weight | Rating | Current Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Black & Decker LCS1240 Cordless Electric Chainsaw | 40 V | 12 in | 10.4 lbs | 4.5 | |
 | 2. Worx WG303.1 Electric Chainsaw | 14.5 Amps | 16 in | 11.0 lbs | 4.1 | |
 | 3. Remington RM1425 Electric Chainsaw | 8 Amps | 14 in | 6.25 lbs | 4.2 | |
 | 4. Black & Decker CS1518 Corded Electric Chainsaw | 15 Amps | 18 in | 12.0 lbs | 4.2 | |
 | 5. Oregon 570995 CS1500 Electric Chainsaw | 15 Amps | 18 in | 12.9 lbs | 4.2 | |
 | 6. GreenWorks Pro GCS80420 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw | 80 V | 18 in | 10.8 lbs | 4.5 | |
 | 7. DeWalt DCCS620B Compact Cordless Electric Chainsaw | 20 V | 12 in | 8.8 lbs | 4.4 | |
 | 8. Poulan PL1416 Corded Electric Chainsaw | 14 Amps | 16 in | 11.0 lbs | 4.4 | |
 | 9. Makita UC4051A Electric Chainsaw | 14.5 Amps | 16 in | 15.7 lbs | 4.7 | |
 | 10. Earthwise CS33016 Electric Chainsaw | 12 Amps | 16 in | 9.9 lbs | 4.2 |
#1. Black & Decker LCS1240 Cordless Electric Chainsaw
Editor's Rating: 
(4.5 / 5)
- Power: 40 Volts
- Bar Length: 12 inches
- Weight: 10.4 lbs
The Black & Decker LCS1240 is designed to offer the convenience of a cordless chainsaw but with the power or a corded one.
It is a 40-Volt cordless electric chainsaw that will deliver relatively longer runtime, and it will stay charged up to an impressive five times longer than many other cordless chainsaws.
But, it also has many other impressive features besides the battery that make it one of the best cordless electric chainsaws out there.
The features include the low kickback 12-inch bar and chain that ensures you always get faster and smoother cuts, and it also has an auto oiling system to ensure constant lubrication.
Tool-free chain tensioning makes chain adjustments quick and easy, and the chainsaw also comes with a full wrap-around handle for better control and maximum comfort.
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#2. Worx WG303.1 Electric Chainsaw
Editor's Rating: 
(4.1 / 5)
- Power: 14.5 Amps
- Bar Length: 16 inches
- Weight: 11 lbs
The 3.5 HP 14.5-Amp motor on the Worx WG303.1 corded-electric chainsaw makes it highly powerful, and it will perform almost as good as some gas-powered chainsaws if not better.
Also, it makes use of some unique features to improve its performance and overall convenience which include the tool-free chain replacement and auto-tensioning system.
There is a large knob for the auto-tensioning and it helps to ensure that the chain always maintains proper tension. And it is one of the key features that make this one of the best corded electric chainsaws out there as it also extended the life of the chain and bar.
Worx WG303.1 also features an auto oiling system to help keep the chain lubricated, and there is also a large window indicator on the reservoir to help you monitor oil levels.
For safety, it has a low kickback bar and a built-in chain brake. And the rubberized rear handle and ergonomic full-wrap handle help to make this a more comfortable and easy to control chainsaw.
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#3. Remington RM1425 Electric Chainsaw
Editor's Rating: 
(4.2 / 5)
- Power: 8 Amps
- Bar Length: 14 inches
- Weight: 6.25 lbs
If you are looking for a lightweight electric chainsaw to help you cut small limbs and saplings, the Remington RM1425 will be a great choice.
It is the cheapest and also the lightest model on our electric chainsaw reviews but despite the affordable price tag it still has some excellent features, and it also performs well.
These features include 14-inch low kickback bar and chain that will help make trimming faster and more efficient, and an external chain tensioning that makes tensioning easy.
Operating this chainsaw is quite safe and comfortable as it will come with a wrap-around hand guard to help keep your hands away from debris when cutting.
Also, there is a push button oiler that will let you add just the right amount of oil and the chainsaw will come fully assembled and ready for use which is quite convenient.
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#4. Black & Decker CS1518 Corded Electric Chainsaw
Editor's Rating: (4.2 / 5)
- Power: 15 Amps
- Bar Length: 18 inches
- Weight: 12 lbs
Black & Decker is a highly reputable brand and the features and performance of their CS1518 corded-electric chainsaw will show why.
It runs on a 15-Amp motor which makes it one of the most powerful chainsaws on our list. And the 18-inch low kickback guide bar is also one of the longest on our list and it helps to speed up the cutting job.
Like most other high-performing electric chainsaws, it also has an automatic oiling system that helps to keep the chain lubricated and tool-free tensioning for fast and easy chain tensioning.
Other features like the clear window oil level indicator that makes it easy to monitor oil levels and the chain break for optimal safety on this heavy-duty electric chainsaw also help to make it a good buy.
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#5. Oregon 570995 CS1500 Electric Chainsaw
Editor's Rating: (4.2 / 5)
- Power: 15 Amps
- Bar Length: 18 inches
- Weight: 12.9 lbs
Oregon 570995 CS1500 also runs on a 15-Amp motor that makes it one of the strongest electric chainsaws both on our list and in the market.
This powerful corded chainsaw comes with 18-inch guide bar and chain with a reduced kickback to make it safer and more comfortable to operate.
You will also never have to worry about keeping your chain sharp when using this chainsaw as it comes with a self-sharpening system.
The ergonomic design and the overmold handle also help to make this a more comfortable and safer chainsaw to use. But, there is also an integrated chain brake to help with the safety.
Tool-less chain tensioning for easy and quick chain adjustment, low vibration design and automatic chain oiler with a view window are other impressive features on this chainsaw.
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#6. GreenWorks Pro GCS80420 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Editor's Rating: (4.5 / 5)
- Power: 80 V
- Bar Length: 18 inches
- Weight: 10.8 lbs
The GreenWorks Pro GCS80420 80V is a cordless chainsaw, but that does not mean it lacks power. Far from it. This model is one of the best and most high-end models in the GreenWorks line of products. It is used by many experts and professional woodworkers for a wide range of applications.
In fact, power is the main advantage of this chainsaw. Under the hood of the GCS80420, we find a heavy-duty 80 Volts 2 AH lithium-ion battery that is sufficient to cut through any type of material of any dimension with great ease. It will not stall or lock on you, as is commonly a problem with lower performing chainsaws when cutting thick and dense lumber.
With this GreenWorks 80 Volts chainsaw, you have the option to purchase 3 variants – one with the battery and charger. Another with the battery and charger, along with a GreenWorks lawnmower and the third, a vanilla model without the battery or charger at a significant saving. The battery is heavy-duty and long-lasting, allowing you to make up to 150 cuts on 4 x 4 inches lumber with a single fully charged battery. The best feature of this GreenWorks 80 Volts battery is definitely the recharge time. It can fully be recharged in 30 minutes or less – allowing you to cut more lumber with less wasted time to recharges.
Further, the motor in this model has been designed for maximum efficiency. It contains the legendary DigiPro brushless motor that is both energy efficient and heavy-duty. Moreover, this motor is known to deliver the performance of an equivalent 45 cc gas-powered chainsaw, which is very powerful. You get a lot of performance from this GreenWorks 80 Volts chainsaw. Best of all, you power on this unit by simply pushing the power button located a finger away from the handle. You do not have to wait or yank multiple times to get this unit started. It will power on anytime you push the power switch. People who have used gas-powered chainsaws will know just how helpful and practical this feature is.
Additionally, the bar measures 18-inch which make it very versatile. Effectively, it allows you to cut material of up to 36-inch in diameter, which is overkill for most. It’s just nice to know that this GreenWorks 80 Volts chainsaw can over-deliver, if necessary. The front has steel buckling spikes for security and ease of use. You can use it to push on the material and help guide material away from the user. Additionally, this model has a strong metal hand guard that protects the user’s hand at all time. It is very tough and provides robust protection.
Read More: 3 Best GreenWorks Chainsaws
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#7. DeWalt DCCS620B Compact Cordless Electric Chainsaw
Editor's Rating: 
(4.4 / 5)
- Power: 20 Volts
- Bar Length: 12 inches
- Weight: 8.8 lbs
DeWalt DCCS620B is a relatively compact cordless electric chainsaw that runs on a highly efficient brushless motor that helps to increase the runtime and overall tool life.
At a total weight of just 8.8 pounds, it is a relatively lightweight chainsaw. It also has tool-free chain tensioning for fast and easy chain adjustments, and a bar tightening knob to ensure proper bar clamping force.
The low on our list but it is still very useful for many outdoor cutting jobs.
However, it is kickback 12-inch bar and guide might not be very long, and this is more so when compared to others important to note that it comes as a bare tool, and so you will still need to buy the battery to use it.
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#8. Poulan PL1416 Corded Electric Chainsaw
Editor's Rating: (4.4 / 5)
- Power: 14 Amps
- Bar Length: 16 inches
- Weight: 11 lbs
Poulan PL1416 is a 14-Amp corded electric chainsaw with a 16-inch long bar and guide, and it will be very useful for small and medium size cutting jobs.
This chainsaw is designed with a tool-free and side-mounted chain tensioner that makes chain adjustments fast and easy.
Also, it has an automatic chain lubrication system that ensures the chain is always lubricated to minimize wear and kickback, and also for a longer engine life.
And because this corded-electric chainsaw uses an inline engine design, you can be confident of greater balance and excellent control. There is also an easy-to-see brake alert to make it easy to determine when the chain brake engages, and the tool comes with a hard plastic blade cover.
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#9. Makita UC4051A Electric Chainsaw
Editor's Rating: 
(4.7 / 5)
- Power: 14.5 Amps
- Bar Length: 16 inches
- Weight: 15.7 lbs
Makita UC4051A has most of the features that you can wish for in a commercial chainsaw for your professional jobs, and it will also be very handy around the home.
It is one of the most powerful electric chainsaws that you can get anywhere thanks to its 14.5-Amp motor. This motor also has a significantly longer life than many others thanks to the built-in current limiter that helps to protect it from damages caused by overheating.
Start-ups are fast and smooth when using this chainsaw thanks to the large trigger switch. It is also a comfortable tool to operate and easy to maneuver as it comes with an ergonomically designed and rubberized handle.
There is also a large oil reservoir to reduce the oil refilling frequency, and a view window to help you determine when you need to add more oil.
Other fantastic features that make this one of the best electric chainsaws include the electric chain brake and tool-less blade and chain adjustment.
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#10. Earthwise CS33016 Electric Chainsaw
Editor's Rating: (4.2 / 5)
- Power: 12 Amps
- Bar Length: 16 inches
- Weight: 9.9 lbs
The relatively affordable Earthwise CS33016 runs on a 12-Amp motor which is quite powerful, and with a low kickback 16-inch guide bar and chain.
It allows for tool-less chain tensioning to make chain adjustments fast and almost effortless. Also, some comfortable rubber overmold handles for a comfortable operation.
The automatic oiler helps to keep the chain well-lubricated, and there is also an oil level window indicator. And you will get a hard plastic cover for the bar and chain on your purchase to help with storage when not in use.
Other things that make it the best electric chainsaw for the money include the safe start button and the fact that it requires tool-less assembly and is fully assembled in the package.
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How to Buy the Best Electric Chainsaws
For those that do not have prior experience buying electric chainsaws or any other types, all will probably look the same, and they will only choose one according to the brand.
But, there are many things that set these power tools apart and instead of just going with your favorite brand, you should also consider the following vital things.
#1. Corded vs. Cordless Electric Chainsaws
Like many other electric power tools, electric chainsaws are available in both the corded and cordless/battery powered models.
When it comes to buying a good electric chainsaw one of the first and probably the most important decisions you need to make is which one to buy between the two. And for this decision to be easy, you need to understand the pros and cons of both.
Corded Electric Chainsaws
Corded electric chainsaws are the types that come with an electric cord that requires them to be constantly plugged-in as they rely on the electricity from the mains to power their motor.
Because they are always plugged in, these chainsaws provide consistent and reliable power, and you can use them infinitely provided there are no power interruptions.
Also, the absence of a battery makes them relatively lightweight when compared to the cordless types, and it also means zero downtimes as you never have to stop to recharge the battery.
And like the battery-powered chainsaws, they provide a quieter operation and with zero emissions, and because they also have fewer internal parts they will require less maintenance.
However, the cord can be annoying to deal with and also a risk hazard as it can get tangled or even trip you. But, these are shortcomings that you can easily overcome given that the corded-electric chainsaws are often quite cheap.
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Cordless Electric Chainsaws
Cordless electric chainsaws are the more recent type among all the chainsaws types. And they are the kinds that are powered by rechargeable batteries which are in most cases lithium-ion.
These chainsaws offer the portability of the gas-powered chainsaw but without the annoying noise, emissions or fuel and oil mixing to deal with.
Like the corded-electric types, they are quite silent and with zero emissions, and they also have fewer parts meaning they require less maintenance.
There is no cord to deal with when using these chainsaws, and so you can use them almost anywhere provided the batteries are charged.
But, they provide limited runtimes as you will hardly get one that can run for more than an hour or two, and this also translates to more and longer downtimes as you have to wait for batteries to recharge.
The presence of a battery also makes these chainsaws relatively heavier than the corded types. And they are also more expensive as many will cost twice or more of what you would pay for a simple corded-electric chainsaw.
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Buying Advice: If you are going to be using your electric chainsaw around the home where there are power outlets nearby, go for the corded-electric models as they are more affordable and provide consistent and reliable power.
But, if you are ready to spend some extra cash to get something more portable that you carry around and are ready to buy some extra battery packs, a cordless electric chainsaw can be a good buy.
#2. Performance
The reason why you buy a chainsaw is to be able to cut wood more efficiently and faster than when using other tools, and so the performance of the chainsaw you choose is crucial.
When it comes to the performance, the most important things to consider are the speed and size of the wood that the chainsaw can cut.
For speed, the faster the chainsaw can cut the better as it will speed up your job. When it comes to wood thickness, something with a longer bar performs better as it can cut thick wood in a single pass.
#3. Ease of Use
A good electric chainsaw for home use is one that is straightforward to use whether you have prior experience with similar tools or not.
Luckily, electric chainsaws will always shine when it comes to the ease of use. But, the ease of use will still vary from one model to the other.
Here you need to watch out for things like how easy the chainsaw is to start, the weight, maneuverability and also ease of maintenance as they all determine how easy it is to use.
The easiest electric chainsaws to use are ones that start fast at the push of a button, are lightweight for easy maneuverability and with minimum hand fatigue, and require minimal maintenance.
#4. Safety
A chainsaw is probably one of the most dangerous tools that you can use, and the electric models are not an exception.
And so before you buy an electric chainsaw, you should make sure that it is designed with adequate safety and security features.
Some of the safety features to watch out for are a rubberized non-slip handle, anti-vibration system, and automatic chain brake as they will make the tool safer to operate.
#5. Price
Price is an important factor to consider but you should not just go for the cheapest electric chainsaw. Instead, you should go for one that will give you good value for your money.
Look at the features and capabilities of the chainsaw to determine whether it is worth what you are paying. You can get a simple corded-electric chainsaw for under $50 but a good cordless model will cost upwards of $200.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that an electric chainsaw will be very handy to have, and this is more so for those with a lot of trees and shrubs growing around their compound.
But, it is important to make sure that you get one that is high-quality, performs well and gives you great value for your money.
Finding one should now be easy as our detailed guide above provides the information that you need when choosing one from the many models out there.
And for recommendations, our top 10 best electric chainsaw reviews have you covered. And regardless of which one you choose among them, you can be confident of getting a top notch quality chainsaw.
Last Updated on February 13, 2020 by Tom Bradly