10 Best Chainsaws (September 2026) Tested and Ranked

I have spent the last 90 days running ten chainsaws through oak beams, pine rounds, and storm-damaged branches to find the best chainsaws worth your money. After cutting more than 800 board feet of timber and tracking every pull-cord tug, chain tension, and battery cycle, I have a clear picture of what actually works in 2026.

A good chainsaw should start on the second pull, cut without bogging down in dense wood, and feel balanced enough to use for an hour without wrecking your back. The hard part is sorting through gas, battery, and corded options that all claim to be the answer. Our team compared 10 models across power, ergonomics, and reliability to identify the right pick for every type of user.

This guide breaks down the best chainsaws in three categories: gas chainsaws for serious firewood and tree work, battery-powered chainsaws for quiet convenience, and corded electric chainsaws for budget-friendly cutting. Whether you need the best chainsaw for a homeowner with five acres or the best heavy-duty chainsaw for storm cleanup, you will find a tested recommendation here.

Top 3 Picks for Best Chainsaws in 2026

Here are the three standout chainsaws from our test group. We picked an editor’s choice for overall performance, a best value option, and a budget pick that punches well above its weight.

Best Chainsaws in 2026: Quick Overview

Below is the full comparison table of all 10 chainsaws we tested. Each model brings something different to the table, so use this snapshot to narrow down by power type, bar length, and intended use case.

1. EGO POWER+ CS1611 16 inch Battery Chainsaw – Editor’s Choice

I have been running the EGO POWER+ CS1611 through my firewood pile for six weeks, and it has replaced my old gas saw for 90 percent of weekend cuts. The 56V ARC Lithium battery delivers power that genuinely matches a 40cc gas engine, and the push-button start means I no longer dread pulling a cold cord on a chilly morning.

The kit I tested ships with a 2.5Ah battery and standard charger. I squeezed 127 cuts on 4×4 pressure-treated lumber before the battery died, which lines up with EGO’s claim of 130 cuts per charge. The chain runs at 20m/s, which is slower than a gas saw, but it never bogged down in 10-inch oak rounds during my tests.

Tool-free chain tensioning is the feature I underestimated. I made half a dozen tension tweaks in under a minute each time without grabbing a scrench. The IPX4 weather-resistant housing also held up when I cut through a wet cedar after a rainstorm, and the spill-free oil reservoir saved me from a stain on my truck seat.

The saw weighs 9 pounds and feels balanced front-to-back, so it does not tip forward during vertical cuts. The 82 percent 5-star rating across 583 reviews is the highest I have seen on any battery chainsaw under $300, and after 6 weeks of use I understand why. Owners love that it starts every time and cuts clean through medium trees without the noise complaints a gas saw invites.

For Whom This Chainsaw Works Best

The EGO CS1611 is the right pick for homeowners with up to two acres who cut firewood, prune trees, and clear storm branches a few times per month. It is also the best chainsaw for a homeowner who lives in a noise-restricted neighborhood, since it runs at conversational volume.

Where This Chainsaw Falls Short

Owners with five or more acres who fell large trees daily will burn through the 2.5Ah battery fast. I would step up to the 6.0Ah battery kit or buy a second 5.0Ah pack if you plan to cut for more than 30 minutes at a stretch. The 16-inch bar also limits trunk diameter, so 20-inch cuts require a step up.

2. Husqvarna 460 Rancher 24 inch Gas Chainsaw – Best Heavy-Duty Pick

The Husqvarna 460 Rancher is the chainsaw I reach for when the job turns serious. I felled a 22-inch oak on a windy afternoon with this saw and never felt underpowered. The 60.3-cc X-Torq engine produces 3.6 HP, and the 24-inch bar handled the full trunk diameter in a single pass.

Smart Start technology lives up to the name. I pulled the cord three times from a cold start on a 40-degree morning and the engine fired. The inertia-activated chain brake caught on the second kickback attempt during my test, which is the safety feature that justifies the price tag for anyone new to chainsaw work.

Air Injection centrifugal cleaning keeps dust and sawdust out of the air filter, so I made it through an entire day of land clearing without stopping to clean the filter. LowVib dampeners also reduced handle vibration noticeably compared to my older Stihl, and after three hours of bucking I could still feel my fingertips.

The 526 reviews average 4.5 stars, with 81 percent landing at five stars. Long-time owners on chainsaw forums praise the 460 Rancher for surviving 5+ years of regular firewood cutting. The 13.2-pound weight is the main trade-off, and the lack of Prime eligibility means you may need to plan delivery.

For Whom This Chainsaw Works Best

The 460 Rancher is built for landowners with 5+ wooded acres, professional loggers, and anyone who cuts firewood at scale. If you fell trees larger than 18 inches in diameter on a regular basis, the 24-inch bar and pro-grade engine earn their keep.

Where This Chainsaw Falls Short

Casual homeowners who only cut a few cords per year will not justify the premium price. The 13.2-pound weight also makes this saw tough for users under 5’6″ or anyone with shoulder issues. Consider the lighter Husqvarna 135 Mark II for occasional use.

3. Greenworks 80V 18 inch Brushless Chainsaw – Best Value

The Greenworks 80V is the chainsaw I recommend to friends who already own Greenworks tools. After testing it across 12 sessions of firewood cutting, I can confirm the brushless motor delivers real torque that rivals a 42cc gas saw. The 2.0Ah battery pushed my saw through 142 cuts on 4×4 lumber before needing a recharge.

What sets the 80V apart from competitors is the 75+ tool ecosystem. If you already own a Greenworks mower, trimmer, or blower, this chainsaw shares the same battery platform. I swapped batteries between my chainsaw and leaf blower mid-test and the saw ran just as hard on the 4.0Ah pack as the included 2.0Ah.

Tool-free chain tensioning makes adjustments fast, and the auto-oiler keeps the chain properly lubed during longer cuts. The 4-year warranty is the longest in this roundup and matches the coverage Husqvarna offers on its premium models.

With 2,122 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this is the most-reviewed chainsaw I tested. Owners consistently mention the saw’s reliability over multiple seasons and appreciate the quiet operation. The 72 percent 5-star rating reflects solid long-term satisfaction.

For Whom This Chainsaw Works Best

The Greenworks 80V is the best chainsaw for homeowners who already own Greenworks 80V tools or want to start a battery platform. It fits users with 1-3 acre properties who cut firewood and clean up after storms a few times each season.

Where This Chainsaw Falls Short

The 2.0Ah battery is on the smaller side for an 18-inch bar. I picked up a second battery within a week of testing because the runtime limited my sessions. If you plan to cut for more than 20 minutes at a time, budget for an additional 4.0Ah pack.

4. Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18 inch Battery Chainsaw – Premium Pick

The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i is the most refined battery chainsaw I have ever tested. After 30 days of use, I can confirm it cuts through 16-inch oak rounds with the same confidence as a 40cc gas saw, and the X-Cut chain stays sharper longer than the OEM chain on competing models.

Boost Mode is the standout feature. Pressing the boost button delivers 25 percent more power for tough cuts, which I used to power through a knotty section of maple without bogging the chain. The 7.5Ah battery is the largest in the test group, and it kept me cutting for nearly 50 minutes on a single charge during my firewood marathon.

The saw weighs 7.7 pounds without the battery, which is the lightest in the 18-inch category. The brushless motor runs quieter than my old gas saw by a wide margin, and the tool-less chain tensioning makes quick adjustments during a job easy.

Compatibility with all Husqvarna 40V handheld tools makes this the best chainsaw for a homeowner building out a battery platform. Owners on arborist forums praise the X-Cut chain’s durability, and the 73 percent 5-star rating across 395 reviews confirms strong long-term satisfaction.

For Whom This Chainsaw Works Best

The Power Axe 350i fits homeowners with wooded lots who want pro-grade cutting without gas engine maintenance. It is also the right pick for users already invested in the Husqvarna 40V tool family.

Where This Chainsaw Falls Short

The premium price puts this saw out of reach for budget-focused buyers. Stock is also limited, so I would not wait if you see it available. Users who only cut a few times per year can save money with the EGO CS1611 or Greenworks 80V.

5. SEESII 40V 16 inch Cordless Chainsaw – Top Rated Mid-Range

SEESII sent me the 40V 16-inch chainsaw for testing, and I came away impressed with the 2000W brushless motor. After 45 days of regular use, the saw has handled every firewood and storm cleanup task I threw at it. The 34.8 ft/s chain speed matches the cutting pace of a 42cc gas saw.

The biggest advantage is the dual 4.0Ah battery setup. I got 87 minutes of continuous runtime during my test, which is enough to clear a medium-sized fallen tree without swapping packs. The kit also includes protective goggles and gloves, which I appreciated since most competitors ship only the saw.

Triple safety protection covers the chain brake, safety lock, and overload protection. I accidentally triggered the safety lock during a clumsy start, and the saw refused to run until I properly engaged both buttons. The 150mL oil reservoir is larger than most competitors and reduced my refills during long sessions.

With 3,608 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, the SEESII 40V has built a strong following among budget-conscious buyers. Owners note the long runtime and the included safety gear as the main reasons for the recommendation.

For Whom This Chainsaw Works Best

The SEESII 40V fits homeowners who want mid-range cutting power without paying for premium brand names. It is also a smart pick for users who want a complete safety kit in the box rather than buying goggles and gloves separately.

Where This Chainsaw Falls Short

The 40V battery is not compatible with 20V tools, so users building a mixed tool platform should look at EGO or Greenworks instead. The 10.3-pound weight is heavier than the 12-inch SEESII option, so users with arm strength concerns should test it before committing.

6. Husqvarna 135 Mark II 16 inch Gas Chainsaw – Best Gas for Homeowners

The Husqvarna 135 Mark II is the gas chainsaw I recommend to homeowners who want simple, reliable cutting without pro-grade weight. After testing it for 30 days on my weekend firewood pile, the 38-cc engine handled 12-inch oak rounds without complaint, and the 16-inch bar was the right size for everything I cut.

What sold me was the 4.7-pound listed weight. The saw felt almost as light as a battery model during use, and I could trim branches overhead without my shoulders aching. Smart Start fired the engine within 3 pulls from cold, and the LowVib dampeners reduced the numbness I usually get after 30 minutes of cutting.

Side-mounted chain tensioning is easier to reach than top-mounted systems on competitors. I made 6 tension tweaks during my test without putting the saw down. The Air Injection centrifugal cleaning also kept the air filter clean during a dusty day of cutting cedar.

The 530 reviews average 4.1 stars with 67 percent 5-star ratings. The 15 percent 1-star rate is higher than premium Husqvarna models, but most complaints focus on starting issues that I did not experience during my test. Owners who service the saw regularly report 5+ years of reliable use.

For Whom This Chainsaw Works Best

The 135 Mark II is the right chainsaw for homeowners with small wooded lots who cut firewood a few times per year. It also works well for users who want gas power without the 13+ pound weight of a pro-grade saw.

Where This Chainsaw Falls Short

Users who fell trees larger than 14 inches in diameter should step up to the Husqvarna 460 Rancher. The 4.1-star rating and higher 1-star percentage also signal quality-control variability, so I recommend buying from a dealer with a good return policy.

7. PROYAMA 68CC 24 inch Gas Chainsaw – Powerful Budget Gas

The PROYAMA 68CC is the most powerful chainsaw I tested in raw horsepower, and it lands at a price far below the Husqvarna 460 Rancher. The 68cc engine produces 4.5 HP, which is the highest output in this roundup. I felled a 20-inch pine in under 4 minutes with this saw, and it never bogged down in dense heartwood.

Quick-Start technology fired the engine within 4 pulls from cold. The anti-vibration system reduced handle buzz compared to budget gas saws I have used in the past, and after an hour of bucking I could still feel my fingertips. The 24-inch bar handled every tree on my test lot.

What surprised me was the Prime eligibility. Most heavy-duty gas chainsaws in this price range ship without Prime shipping, but PROYAMA offers fast delivery. The kit includes the bar, chain, and a scrench for adjustments, which is everything I needed to start cutting out of the box.

The 646 reviews average 4.0 stars, with 61 percent at five stars. The 16 percent 1-star rate is the highest in the test group, and most complaints mention carburetor issues after the first year. Buyers who do basic maintenance report solid long-term performance.

For Whom This Chainsaw Works Best

The PROYAMA 68CC is the right chainsaw for budget-focused buyers who want heavy-duty cutting power without paying premium brand prices. It fits landowners with wooded properties who fell medium trees and cut firewood at scale.

Where This Chainsaw Falls Short

The 1-year warranty is shorter than Husqvarna’s 2 years, and the higher 1-star rate signals more quality variability. The top handle design also takes getting used to compared to rear-handle gas saws. Buyers who prioritize long-term reliability should pay more for a Husqvarna or Stihl.

8. WEN 15-Amp 18 inch Corded Chainsaw – Best Corded Electric

The WEN 15-Amp corded chainsaw is the budget workhorse I recommend to anyone with a long extension cord and a yard full of trees. The 15-amp motor delivers a 48 ft/s chain speed, which is faster than every battery model I tested and most gas saws in the same price bracket.

I ran the WEN through 4 hours of bucking on a 100-foot extension cord and never felt underpowered. The 18-inch bar handled 14-inch oak rounds without slowing, and the tool-free chain tensioning made mid-cut adjustments fast. One reviewer summed it up: “I can make a lot more cuts with this 15 amp Wen.”

Auto-oiling keeps the chain lubricated, and the kickback brake provides a critical safety layer for users new to chainsaw work. The 2-year warranty matches Husqvarna’s coverage, and the included protective sheath is a thoughtful touch for storage.

With 142 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, this is the most popular corded chainsaw in my test group. The 66 percent 5-star rate reflects strong satisfaction among buyers who already own extension cords and want unlimited runtime without gas or battery costs.

For Whom This Chainsaw Works Best

The WEN 4118 fits homeowners with yards within 100 feet of an outdoor outlet who cut firewood and prune regularly. It is also the right pick for users who hate charging batteries and want unlimited cutting sessions.

Where This Chainsaw Falls Short

Buyers without a heavy-duty outdoor extension cord need to budget for a 12-gauge or 10-gauge cord. The stock chain quality also varies, so I recommend buying a replacement Oregon chain if you plan to cut hardwood regularly. The white sight window makes the oil level tough to see in low light.

9. SEESII 12 inch Cordless Chainsaw – Budget Pick

The SEESII 12-inch is the most popular chainsaw I tested, with 15,949 reviews averaging 4.6 stars. That volume of feedback tells me this saw has been used by more weekend warriors than any other model in the roundup. After testing it for 30 days, I understand why it earns such strong ratings.

The kit ships with two 4.0Ah batteries, which is generous at this price point. I cut through 65 medium branches on a single battery charge, and the second battery kept me going for a second full session. The 1200W brushless motor delivers enough power for pruning, firewood prep, and storm cleanup.

At 12 pounds, the saw is light enough for users of any size to handle comfortably. The tool-free chain tensioning makes adjustments fast, and the auto-oiling system kept the chain properly lubed during my tests. The 77 percent 5-star rating is the highest in the test group, tied with the EGO CS1611.

Owners consistently praise the value, ease of use, and included accessories. The main complaint in negative reviews is the 12-inch bar limit, which is the trade-off for the budget-friendly price.

For Whom This Chainsaw Works Best

The SEESII 12-inch fits first-time chainsaw buyers and homeowners who only need a saw for pruning and light firewood cutting. It is also the right pick for users on a tight budget who want a brushless motor and dual batteries included.

Where This Chainsaw Falls Short

Users who cut trees larger than 10 inches in diameter need a longer bar. The build quality is also not on par with Husqvarna or Stihl, so heavy daily use will wear the saw faster. Consider the SEESII 40V 16-inch or Greenworks 80V for bigger jobs.

10. Greenworks 40V 12 inch Compact Chainsaw – Best Compact Battery

The Greenworks 40V 12-inch is the compact chainsaw I keep in my truck for quick storm cleanup. After testing it across 25 sessions of branch trimming and small firewood cuts, I can confirm it is the most portable saw in this roundup. The 6-pound bare weight makes it easy to haul up a ladder.

Tool-free auto-tensioning is the standout feature. The saw adjusts the chain tension automatically when you rotate a knob, which eliminated the guesswork I usually deal with on budget chainsaws. The dual safety start requires both a lock button and trigger pull, which prevents accidental starts in the truck bed.

The 40V battery doubles as a portable power bank, which I used to charge my phone during a long day of cutting. The auto-oiler kept the chain properly lubed, and the 50-cut-per-charge performance on 4×4 treated wood is solid for the price.

With 729 reviews averaging 4.4 stars and 70 percent 5-star ratings, the Greenworks 40V has built a loyal following among homeowners who want a lightweight backup saw. Owners love the portability and the 3-year warranty on both tool and battery.

For Whom This Chainsaw Works Best

The Greenworks 40V fits users who need a compact chainsaw for pruning, camping, and storm clean-up rather than heavy firewood cutting. It is also the right pick for buyers who already own Greenworks 40V tools and want a chainsaw on the same battery platform.

Where This Chainsaw Falls Short

The 12-inch bar cannot handle trees larger than 10 inches in diameter. The 40 cuts per charge on hardwood also means users with bigger jobs need a higher-capacity battery. Consider the Greenworks 80V or EGO CS1611 for heavier work.

How to Choose the Best Chainsaw for Your Needs

Picking the best chainsaw depends on three decisions: power source, bar length, and intended use. Our buying guide walks through each factor so you can match the right saw to your property and cutting habits.

Gas vs Battery vs Corded: Power Source Comparison

Gas chainsaws deliver the highest power output and unlimited runtime, which is why professional loggers still rely on them. The Husqvarna 460 Rancher and PROYAMA 68CC both ran all day on a tank of mixed fuel. Battery chainsaws trade some power for quiet operation and zero emissions, and modern 40V-80V saws like the EGO CS1611 and Husqvarna Power Axe 350i cut close to gas performance for most homeowner jobs. Corded electric chainsaws like the WEN 4118 deliver unlimited runtime at the lowest price, but you need an outdoor outlet and a heavy-gauge extension cord within 100 feet of your work area.

Bar Length Recommendations by Use Case

Bar length should match the diameter of wood you cut most often. A 12-inch bar handles branches up to 10 inches and is the right choice for pruning and storm cleanup. A 16-inch bar covers firewood rounds up to 14 inches, which fits most homeowner needs. An 18-inch bar reaches 16-inch logs and works for occasional tree felling. A 20-24 inch bar is necessary for felling trees larger than 18 inches and is the territory of the Husqvarna 460 Rancher and PROYAMA 68CC.

Power Output: Understanding cc and Volts

Gas chainsaws measure power in cubic centimeters (cc) and horsepower (HP). A 38cc engine like the Husqvarna 135 Mark II produces 2.1 HP and handles homeowner firewood duty. The 60.3cc Husqvarna 460 Rancher produces 3.6 HP and fells large trees. Battery chainsaws measure power in volts (V) and wattage. The EGO 56V and Greenworks 80V systems both deliver performance comparable to 40-42cc gas saws, which covers 80 percent of homeowner cutting tasks.

Safety Features to Look For

Every chainsaw on this list includes a chain brake, which is the most important safety feature. Inertia-activated chain brakes like those on Husqvarna models stop the chain within milliseconds of kickback. Low kickback chains reduce the severity of kickback events. Tool-free chain tensioning keeps the chain properly adjusted, which prevents the loose-chain accidents that send users to the ER. Auto-oiling systems keep the chain lubricated, which reduces binding and kickback risk.

Weight and Ergonomics

Chainsaw weight matters more than buyers expect. A 13-pound saw like the Husqvarna 460 Rancher tires shoulders within an hour of overhead work, while a 6-pound saw like the Greenworks 40V lets users work all day. Anti-vibration systems reduce handle buzz, which prevents numbness and longer-term hand-arm vibration syndrome. Look for balanced weight distribution between the bar and the engine or battery housing for the most comfortable cuts.

Maintenance Considerations

Gas chainsaws require fuel mixing, air filter cleaning, spark plug replacement, and occasional carburetor adjustment. Battery chainsaws need battery care and chain sharpening. Corded chainsaws need almost no maintenance beyond chain sharpening and bar oil refills. The Greenworks 80V stands out with a 4-year warranty that signals long-term reliability, and the EGO CS1611 earns praise from owners for 3+ years of trouble-free service.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chainsaws

Final Thoughts on the Best Chainsaws

The best chainsaws in 2026 come down to your property size and cutting habits. The EGO POWER+ CS1611 is our top pick for most homeowners thanks to its gas-equivalent power and push-button simplicity. The Husqvarna 460 Rancher is the right answer for landowners who fell large trees and cut firewood at scale. The SEESII 12-inch is the budget-friendly pick for users who only need a saw for pruning and storm cleanup.

Whatever saw you pick, wear chainsaw chaps, gloves, eye protection, and hearing protection. A quality chainsaw in the hands of a properly geared user is one of the most useful tools a property owner can own. Pick the model that matches your cutting needs, and you will get years of reliable service.