Electric chainsaws provide a convenient, quiet, and eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered models for most homeowners. While they may lack the raw power for felling large trees, today‘s electric chainsaws have more than enough cutting ability to tackle branches and limbs around your property.
In this guide, I‘ve ranked and reviewed the top 5 electric chainsaws on the market today based on performance, features, price, and overall value.
How I Ranked the Top Electric Chainsaws
To come up with my rankings, I considered several important criteria that impact real-world use:
- Power and Cutting Ability: The motor, voltage, amps – key factors that determine cutting force
- Bar Length: Longer bars can cut thicker branches but require more power
- Weight and Portability: Balance and ease of use are important for control
- Price and Overall Value: Bang for your buck across different budget ranges
- Brand Reputation: Established brands inspire confidence in quality
Keep reading for my picks across a range of price points and needs.
#1 Best Overall: EGO Power+ CS1401
The EGO Power+ CS1401 takes the top spot thanks to its excellent balance of power, runtime, features, and brand reputation.
This cordless electric chainsaw is powered by EGO‘s fast-charging 56V lithium-ion battery system. The brushless motor provides ample cutting force while the weather-resistant construction stands up to outdoor use.
Highlights:
- 56V lithium-ion battery
- 14" Oregon bar and chain
- Automatic oiler
- Weather resistant construction
- 5 year warranty
Pros:
- Plenty of power for most tasks
- Good run time per charge
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Comfortable, ergonomic grip
Cons:
- Battery and charger sold separately
- On the expensive side
For a high-powered, feature-packed electric chainsaw, the EGO Power+ CS1401 is hard to beat.
#2 Best 20V Option: Dewalt 20V Max XR
The Dewalt 20V Max XR chainsaw is my top pick for those already invested in the 20V battery system.
This lightweight, compact chainsaw is easy to use and maneuver thanks to its well-balanced design. While it lacks the power of the Ego, the brushless motor and sturdy build make it stand out from cheaper 20V models.
Highlights:
- 20V MAX 5.0Ah lithium battery
- Brushless motor
- 12" bar and chain
- Tool-free tensioning and chain removal
Pros:
- Trusted Dewalt brand
- Lightweight and compact
- Good run time with 5Ah battery
- 3 year limited warranty
Cons:
- Mediocre cutting power
- Shorter bar than most models
- Batteries sold separately
For Dewalt fans, the 20V Max XR chainsaw delivers their signature quality in a lightweight, easy-handling package. Just don‘t expect to fell large trees with this one.
#3 Best Electric Pole Saw: Sun Joe SWJ806E
Need to trim high branches and clear tall brush? The best electric pole saw for value and performance is the Sun Joe SWJ806E.
This 2-in-1 electric saw quickly converts from a pole saw to a handheld chainsaw, giving you versatile cutting options. An 8.6 ft extension pole paired with the 7.5 amp motor lets you prune branches up to 14 feet high.
Highlights:
- 8.6 ft telescoping aluminum extension pole
- Detachable 8" chainsaw
- 7 position head for optimal angles
- Weighs just 6.4 lbs
Pros:
- Very affordable price
- Reaches high branches with ease
- Electric start with safety switch
Cons:
- Underpowered for large limbs
- Chain tensioner is tricky
- Requires outdoor extension cord
For tackling high branches without lugging a ladder around, the Sun Joe SWJ806E pole chainsaw is a great value.
#4 Best High-End: Makita UC4051A
The Makita UC4051A is my top premium pick for professionals and avid DIYers that need maximum cutting muscle.
Makita‘s chainsaw uses a powerful 15 amp direct drive motor and large 16” guide bar that can power through thick timber and fallen trees. The pro-grade clutch system increases bar life while the current limiter protects the motor from overloads.
Highlights:
- 15 amp direct drive motor
- 16” guide bar
- Current limiter
- Large oil reservoir
- Ergonomic rubberized grip
Pros:
- Extreme cutting power
- Very rugged and durable
- Smooth clutch engagement
- Trusted pro-level brand
Cons:
- Expensive upfront cost
- Heavy at 17 lbs
- Corded not cordless
If you need a reliability chainsaw for storm cleanup or milling small logs, the robust Makita UC4051A is worth the premium price.
#5 Most Affordable: Greenworks 14” Electric Chainsaw
For buyers on a tight budget, the best value is the Greenworks 14” 10 Amp Electric Chainsaw.
This corded model provides descent cutting capacity thanks to its 10 amp motor and 14” Oregon bar and chain. The tool-free chain tensioner allows quick adjustment to maintain optimal power.
Highlights:
- 10 amp electric motor
- 14” bar and chain
- Tool-less chain tensioning
- Weighs just 8 lbs
Pros:
- Very low price
- Decent power for light jobs
- Lightweight and easy to use
- 3 year warranty
Cons:
- Durability issues over time
- Not for heavy duty use
- Requires outdoor extension cord
While it lacks the brawn and advanced features of premium models, the Greenworks 14” chainsaw excels at basic property maintenance tasks for a fraction of the price.
Electric Chainsaw Buying Guide
Before purchasing an electric chainsaw, consider what type of cutting jobs you need it for along with your budget. Here are some key factors to weigh:
Power Source
Cordless: Convenient and portable thanks to battery power. Runtime depends on battery capacity. Popular systems include Ego 56V, Dewalt 20V Max and 40V Max.
Corded: Reliable consistent power from an outlet. Avoid voltage drops using properly rated extension cord. Generally more affordable upfront.
Intended Use Case
Light Duty: Pruning branches, small trees, brush clearing. Opt for 10-12 amp motor with 14-16” bar.
Medium Duty: Storm cleanup, fallen limbs up to 8-10” diameter. Look for 40V-80V cordless or 15 amp+ corded.
Heavy Duty: Forestry, milling lumber. Requires gas-powered chainsaw. Electric won’t suffice.
Bar Length
Longer bars can cut thicker branches but require more power. Make sure to match bar length to chainsaw motor capability.
10-14 inches: Up to 6-8” diameter branches
16-18 inches: Up to 10-12” diameter branches
20+ inches: Whole tree felling/bucking
Safety Gear
Be sure to use proper protective equipment like chainsaw chaps, steel-toe boots, gloves, eye protection, and helmet. Work cautiously, don‘t overextend reach, and brace firmly while cutting.
The Bottom Line
For most homeowners, an electric chainsaw in the 40V-80V range offers ideal versatility for typical property maintenance. Models like the EGO Power+ CS1401 provide all the cutting power you need for pruning trees and clearing brush with none of the noise, fumes or maintenance of gas chainsaws.
Focus your search on trusted brands, quality construction, and adequate power for intended tasks. With proper care and safety precautions, a good electric chainsaw will provide years of reliable service.
