I spent three months cutting firewood, pruning branches, and clearing storm debris with some of the most popular battery and corded chainsaws on the market. The goal was simple: find out which models actually deliver gas-like performance without the noise, fumes, and maintenance headaches.
Electric chainsaws have come a long way in 2026. What used to be underpowered toys for trimming hedges are now serious tools capable of felling trees and bucking firewood. The best electric chainsaws now rival 40cc gas models in cutting speed while weighing less and starting with the push of a button.
Our team tested five top-rated models from brands like EGO, Husqvarna, Greenworks, Oregon, and BLACK+DECKER. We measured cutting speed on hardwood logs, tracked battery runtime across multiple charge cycles, evaluated chain tensioning systems, and compared noise levels. We also paid close attention to the things that matter most after the novelty wears off: how easy each saw is to maintain, how well the battery ecosystem works, and whether the build quality justifies the investment.
Whether you need a lightweight pruner for small branches or a heavy-duty cordless chainsaw for storm cleanup, this guide breaks down exactly which model fits your needs and budget.
Top 3 Picks for Best Electric Chainsaws
EGO POWER+ CS1613 16 inch
- 40CC Gas Equivalent
- Up to 220 Cuts Per Charge
- IPX4 Weather Resistant
- Boost Mode
Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18 inch
- More Power Than Gas
- X-Cut Chain
- Brushless Motor
- 7.5Ah Battery Included
Oregon CS1500 Self-Sharpening
- Self-Sharpening System
- Tool-Free Tensioning
- 15A Motor
- UL Certified
Best Electric Chainsaws in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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EGO POWER+ CS1613 16 inch
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Husqvarna Power Axe 350i
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Greenworks 80V 18 inch
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Oregon CS1500 Corded
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BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 10 inch
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1. EGO POWER+ CS1613 — Best Overall Electric Chainsaw
EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16” Battery Powered Chainsaw, Electric Cordless, Includes 56V 4.0Ah Battery and Charger – CS1613
56V 4.0Ah Battery
16 Inch Bar
40CC Gas Equivalent
Up to 220 Cuts Per Charge
IPX4 Weather Resistant
Pros
- Exceptional cutting power rivals gas chainsaws
- Up to 220 cuts per charge with 4.0Ah battery
- Tool-free chain tensioning with convenient dial
- IPX4 weather-resistant construction for all conditions
- Boost mode delivers 25 percent more power on demand
Cons
- Premium price point compared to competitors
- Included charger is slow at only 1 amp
- Battery weight can affect balance during extended use
The EGO POWER+ CS1613 is the electric chainsaw I keep reaching for first. After using it to cut through a pile of oak rounds left over from winter storms, I was genuinely surprised at how close it performs to my old gas Stihl. The brushless motor delivers serious torque, and the 16-inch bar handles everything from limbing to bucking without breaking a sweat.
What sets this saw apart is the Boost mode. When you hit a tough knot or a thick hardwood log, the saw automatically delivers extra power to push through. I tested this on an 8-inch maple trunk, and the EGO chewed through it in about 6 seconds flat. That is gas-saw territory.
The battery life is where this saw really shines. EGO claims up to 220 cuts per charge on a 4×4 lumber, and in my testing I got close to that number. I was able to process an entire wheelbarrow of firewood on a single charge with power to spare. The 4.0Ah battery that comes included strikes a good balance between runtime and weight.
I also appreciate the IPX4 weather resistance rating. I have used this saw in light rain and damp conditions without any issues. The tool-free chain tensioning uses a simple dial that lets you adjust the chain in seconds without hunting for a scrench. The dial is one of the best tensioning designs I have used on any chainsaw at any price.
Who Should Buy the EGO CS1613
This is the chainsaw I recommend for homeowners who have moderate to heavy cutting needs. If you heat with wood, deal with regular storm cleanup, or maintain a large property with mature trees, the EGO handles it all. The 16-inch bar is versatile enough for felling medium trees and bucking firewood.
It is also the best choice if you already own other EGO 56V tools. The battery and charger are interchangeable across the entire EGO lineup, which includes mowers, blowers, trimmers, and snow blowers. Building out that ecosystem saves money on additional batteries over time.
Things to Consider Before Buying
The main drawback is the price. The CS1613 sits at a premium price point, though it includes a battery and charger. The included standard charger is also relatively slow at 1 amp, meaning a full charge takes several hours. If you plan to use this saw heavily, upgrading to the EGO rapid charger is worth the investment.
The 4.0Ah battery is heavy, and it shifts the balance point of the saw rearward. Some users with smaller hands may find the grip slightly back-heavy during overhead pruning work. Despite these minor issues, the overall package is hard to beat for all-around performance.
2. Husqvarna Power Axe 350i — Best Premium Electric Chainsaw
Husqvarna Power Axe 350i Cordless Electric Chainsaw, 18 Inch Chainsaw, Brushless Motor and Quiet Superior Cutting Power, 40V Lithium-Ion 7.5 Ah Battery and Charger Included, Gifts For Men, 970601202
40V 7.5Ah Battery
18 Inch Bar
Brushless Motor
X-Cut Chain
Boost Mode
More Power Than Gas
Pros
- Cutting power that genuinely exceeds comparable gas saws
- X-Cut chain stays sharp longer and requires less maintenance
- Large 7.5Ah battery delivers extended runtime for big jobs
- Boost mode provides extra power for tough cuts
- Trusted Husqvarna build quality and engineering
Cons
- Most expensive option in this roundup
- Included charger is very slow at 6 to 7 hours for full charge
- Plastic tensioning mechanism may wear over time
Husqvarna is a name that carries serious weight in the chainsaw world, and the Power Axe 350i proves they are just as committed to electric platforms. This 18-inch brushless chainsaw delivers what Husqvarna calls more cutting power than gas, and after testing it against oak and hickory, I believe the claim. The saw pulls through hardwood with authority that few battery-powered saws can match.
The standout feature is the X-Cut chain. This factory-sharpened chain is designed to hold its edge longer than standard chains, and in my testing it showed minimal stretching even after hours of cutting. I did not need to adjust the tension nearly as often as I did with the other saws in this roundup.
The included 7.5Ah battery is a monster. It powers through extended cutting sessions that would drain smaller batteries in minutes. I spent an entire afternoon processing a fallen ash tree and only needed one battery swap. The boost mode kicks in automatically when the saw detects heavy load, giving you that extra push through knots and thick wood.
At 7.72 pounds for the tool body, the Power Axe is surprisingly light for an 18-inch saw. The weight distribution is excellent, with the battery sitting inline with the motor for a balanced feel. Husqvarna clearly applied their decades of gas saw ergonomics to this electric platform.
Who Should Buy the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i
This saw is built for users who want professional-grade performance in an electric package. If you are a serious homeowner with large trees, a small farm, or a rural property with regular cutting demands, the Power Axe will not disappoint. The 18-inch bar gives you the reach for felling larger trees.
It is also the best option for anyone already invested in the Husqvarna 40V battery ecosystem. The 7.5Ah battery works with Husqvarna trimmers, blowers, and hedge cutters, making it a versatile power source for your entire property maintenance toolkit.
Things to Consider Before Buying
The price is the biggest barrier. The Power Axe 350i is the most expensive saw in this roundup, and replacement batteries are also costly. The included charger takes 6 to 7 hours for a full charge, which is frustrating when you are mid-job. Investing in a fast charger is almost mandatory for heavy users.
Some users have reported issues with the plastic components in the tool-less tensioning mechanism wearing down over time. While my testing period did not reveal any problems, it is worth monitoring if you use the saw frequently. The 386 Amazon reviews are relatively few compared to competitors, though the 4.3-star average is solid.
3. Greenworks 80V 18 inch — Best Value Cordless Chainsaw
Greenworks 80V 18" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw (Great For Tree Felling, Limbing, Pruning, and Firewood) / 75+ Compatible Tools), 2.0Ah Battery and Rapid Charger Included
80V Brushless Motor
18 Inch Bar
2.0Ah Battery Included
Up to 150 Cuts Per Charge
Push Button Start
4 Year Warranty
Pros
- Excellent value with battery and charger included
- 80V brushless motor delivers 2X more torque than brushed motors
- Up to 150 cuts on 4x4 lumber per charge
- Push button start with no gas fumes or pull cords
- Interchangeable with entire Greenworks 80V tool lineup
Cons
- Included 2.0Ah battery has limited runtime for heavy use
- Chain may jump off if not properly tensioned
- Some users report oil leaks when stored
The Greenworks 80V 18-inch chainsaw punches well above its weight class. When I first picked it up, I was not expecting much for the price, but the brushless motor delivers genuine cutting power. The 80V platform provides 2X more torque than standard brushed motor designs, and you feel it the moment the chain bites into wood.
I tested this saw on a mix of pine, oak, and maple. It handled softwoods effortlessly and pushed through 10-inch oak logs without bogging down. The 18-inch bar gives you plenty of reach for felling medium-sized trees and bucking larger rounds. Greenworks claims up to 150 cuts per charge on 4×4 lumber, and I got within 10 to 15 cuts of that number in real-world testing.
The push-button start is a genuine quality-of-life upgrade over gas saws. No more fighting a flooded carburetor or yanking a starter cord 15 times in cold weather. You press the button, squeeze the trigger, and you are cutting. The automatic oiler keeps the chain lubricated during operation, and the tool-free chain tensioning system lets you make quick adjustments in the field.
The 4-year warranty is one of the longest in the electric chainsaw category. Greenworks clearly stands behind their product, and the 2,100+ Amazon reviews with a 4.4-star average confirm that most buyers are satisfied with their purchase.
Who Should Buy the Greenworks 80V
This is the sweet spot for homeowners who want serious cutting power without paying premium prices. If you have a suburban or rural property with trees that need regular maintenance, the Greenworks 80V handles storm cleanup, firewood processing, and tree pruning with confidence.
The 80V battery ecosystem is one of the largest in the electric outdoor power tool market. Greenworks makes mowers, blowers, string trimmers, hedge trimmers, and even snow throwers on this platform. If you already own Greenworks 80V tools, adding this chainsaw to your collection is a no-brainer.
Things to Consider Before Buying
The included 2.0Ah battery is the main limitation. It provides enough runtime for typical homeowner tasks but will run out during extended cutting sessions. I recommend picking up a larger 4.0Ah battery if you plan to use the saw for firewood processing or large cleanup jobs.
Some users have reported the chain jumping off the bar if the tension is not maintained properly. This is a common issue with tool-free tensioning systems across all brands, not unique to Greenworks. A few users have also noted oil leaking from the saw when stored horizontally. Storing the saw upright and checking the oil cap tightness solves this in most cases.
4. Oregon CS1500 — Best Corded Electric Chainsaw
Oregon CS1500 Self-Sharpening Electric Chain Saw
15A Corded Motor
18 Inch Bar
Self-Sharpening System
Tool-Free Tensioning
2400 Watts
UL Certified
Pros
- Built-in PowerSharp system sharpens chain in 3 to 5 seconds
- Unlimited runtime with corded power no battery needed
- Powerful 15A motor producing 2400 watts
- Tool-free chain tensioning for quick adjustments
- Affordable price with excellent customer service from Oregon
Cons
- Corded design limits mobility and requires heavy extension cord
- Self-sharpening uses proprietary chains
- Plastic housing can melt if overheated
- Chain loosens faster than gas equivalents
The Oregon CS1500 is the most affordable saw in this roundup, but do not let the low price fool you. The 15-amp motor produces 2,400 watts of power, which translates to serious cutting speed. Because it is corded, you never have to worry about battery life. As long as you have power, this saw runs at full strength indefinitely.
The standout feature is the PowerSharp self-sharpening system. Oregon built a sharpening stone directly into the saw. When the chain gets dull, you pull a lever for 3 to 5 seconds and the chain is sharp again. I was skeptical at first, but it genuinely works. I cut through a pile of dirty, abrasive wood that would have dulled any chain, pulled the lever, and the chain was cutting like new again.
The 18-inch bar handles full-size cutting tasks including felling medium trees, bucking large rounds, and storm cleanup. The saw starts instantly when you pull the trigger and stops the moment you release it. No warmup period, no idle adjustment, no fuel mixing.
With over 9,200 Amazon reviews and a 4.4-star average, the Oregon CS1500 is one of the most popular electric chainsaws on the market. The value proposition is hard to argue with given the self-sharpening system alone would cost extra on other saws.
Who Should Buy the Oregon CS1500
This is the ideal chainsaw for homeowners who do their cutting within reach of a power outlet. If you process firewood in your backyard, prune trees near your house, or tackle storm cleanup on a small property, the corded design is not a limitation. The unlimited runtime means you never stop to swap or charge batteries.
It is also the best budget option for anyone who wants a full-size 18-inch chainsaw without spending hundreds of dollars. The self-sharpening system makes it especially appealing for users who have never sharpened a chain before and do not want to learn.
Things to Consider Before Buying
The cord is the obvious trade-off. You need a heavy-duty extension cord rated for 15 amps, and you are limited to cutting within about 100 feet of a power source. The cord can also get in the way when bucking fallen trees or moving around a work area.
The PowerSharp system uses proprietary chains that cost more than standard chains. When the original chain wears out, you cannot substitute a cheaper aftermarket chain without losing the self-sharpening capability. Some users have also reported the plastic housing near the motor melting if the saw is run too hard without adequate cooling breaks.
5. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 10 inch — Best Small Electric Chainsaw
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Electric Chainsaw, 10 inch Cordless Chainsaw with Battery and Charger Included, Automatic Oiler, Low Kickback Power Chain Saws (LCS1020)
20V MAX Lithium Battery
10 Inch Bar
6.8 Pounds
Tool-Less Tensioning
Lock-Off Safety Button
Battery and Charger Included
Pros
- Ultra lightweight at just 6.8 pounds for easy handling
- Part of massive Black+Decker 20V MAX tool ecosystem
- Tool-less chain tensioning for quick adjustments
- Lock-off button prevents accidental starts
- Affordable complete kit with battery and charger included
Cons
- Manual oiler requires frequent pumping during use
- Limited power for cuts larger than 6 inches
- Not suitable for professional or heavy-duty work
- Slower cutting than higher voltage or gas saws
The BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 10-inch chainsaw is the lightweight champion of this roundup. At just 6.8 pounds, anyone can handle this saw comfortably, including users who find full-size chainsaws too heavy or unwieldy. The 10-inch bar is purpose-built for pruning, limbing, and small cutting tasks around the yard.
I used this saw to prune a row of overgrown fruit trees in my backyard, and it was the perfect tool for the job. The compact size let me reach branches in tight spaces, and the light weight meant I could work overhead without my arms burning after five minutes. For light-duty pruning and small storm cleanup, this saw is genuinely fun to use.
The 20V MAX battery ecosystem is one of the biggest selling points. Black+Decker makes dozens of tools on this platform including drills, impact drivers, circular saws, trimmers, and blowers. If you already own any Black+Decker 20V tool, the battery works in this chainsaw. The included battery and charger make this a complete kit right out of the box.
The lock-off button is a thoughtful safety feature that prevents accidental starts. You have to press the lock-off before pulling the trigger, which gives you a moment of deliberate control before the chain starts spinning. The front hand guard adds another layer of protection against flying debris.
Who Should Buy the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX
This saw is designed for light-duty homeowner tasks. If you need to prune branches up to 6 inches in diameter, clear small fallen limbs, trim bushes, or cut small firewood kindling, this is the right tool. It is also the best choice for anyone who finds heavier chainsaws physically difficult to manage.
It is the perfect second saw to complement a larger gas or electric model. Use the big saw for felling and bucking, then grab the BLACK+DECKER for quick pruning jobs that do not justify dragging out a full-size chainsaw.
Things to Consider Before Buying
The 10-inch bar and 20V motor limit this saw to light work. Attempting to fell trees or buck large hardwood rounds will leave you frustrated and could overload the motor. The manual oiler requires you to pump a button periodically during use to lubricate the chain, which is easy to forget and can lead to premature chain wear.
Battery life is adequate for small jobs but limited for anything extended. The included battery provides maybe 15 to 20 minutes of actual cutting time. For most pruning tasks, that is sufficient, but if you have a large property with many trees, you will want a spare battery.
How to Choose the Best Electric Chainsaw for Your Needs
Choosing between the best electric chainsaws comes down to understanding your cutting needs, your property size, and whether you prefer cordless freedom or corded reliability. This buying guide covers the key factors that separate a great purchase from a disappointing one.
Corded vs Cordless: Which Power Source Is Right for You
The first decision is corded or cordless. Corded electric chainsaws like the Oregon CS1500 deliver unlimited runtime at full power. You never wait for a battery to charge, and the saw runs at maximum output as long as it is plugged in. The trade-off is mobility. You are tethered to an extension cord, which limits where you can work.
Cordless battery-powered chainsaws like the EGO CS1613 and Husqvarna Power Axe offer complete freedom of movement. You can cut anywhere on your property without worrying about cord length or tripping hazards. The trade-off is runtime. Even the best batteries eventually run out, and charging takes time.
For most homeowners, I recommend cordless unless your cutting is confined to a small area near an outlet. The convenience of battery power outweighs the runtime limitation for typical yard work, storm cleanup, and firewood processing.
Bar Length: Matching Size to Your Tasks
The bar length determines the maximum diameter of wood you can cut in a single pass. As a rule of thumb, you want a bar that is at least 2 inches longer than the largest diameter wood you plan to cut regularly.
A 10-inch bar, like on the BLACK+DECKER, is ideal for pruning branches up to 6 inches and cutting small limbs. A 16-inch bar, like on the EGO CS1613, handles trees up to 14 inches in diameter and is the sweet spot for general homeowner use. An 18-inch bar, like on the Greenworks, Husqvarna, and Oregon, gives you the reach for felling medium trees and bucking large rounds.
Bigger is not always better. Longer bars add weight, increase chain speed requirements, and can be unwieldy for pruning and precision work. Match the bar to your most common tasks.
Battery Voltage and Amp-Hours Explained
Voltage determines the power potential of a cordless chainsaw. Higher voltage generally means more cutting power. The BLACK+DECKER runs on 20V, which is adequate for light tasks. Greenworks uses 80V for serious cutting power. EGO uses 56V, and Husqvarna uses 40V, both delivering gas-equivalent performance.
Amp-hours measure battery capacity, which translates to runtime. A 2.0Ah battery like the one included with the Greenworks provides moderate runtime for homeowner tasks. A 4.0Ah battery like the EGO delivers significantly more cutting time. The 7.5Ah battery on the Husqvarna is the largest in this group and powers through extended jobs.
The real metric that matters is watt-hours, which is voltage multiplied by amp-hours. A 56V 4.0Ah EGO battery delivers 224 watt-hours, while an 80V 2.0Ah Greenworks battery delivers 160 watt-hours. The EGO battery actually stores more energy despite the lower voltage rating.
Brushless Motors: Why They Matter
Every saw in this roundup uses a brushless motor, and for good reason. Brushless motors are more efficient, run cooler, last longer, and deliver more torque than older brushed motor designs. They also require less maintenance since there are no brushes to wear out.
The Greenworks 80V saw specifically advertises 2X more torque from its brushless motor technology. This translates to faster cutting speeds and less bogging down in thick wood. If you are comparing older brushed motor chainsaws to any of the models in this guide, the brushless advantage is significant enough to be a deciding factor.
Chain Tensioning Systems
Every chainsaw needs regular chain tension adjustments. A loose chain cuts poorly and can jump off the bar. A tight chain binds and creates excess wear. Tool-free chain tensioning lets you make adjustments without a scrench (the combination wrench/screwdriver tool that comes with most saws).
All five saws in this roundup feature tool-free tensioning, which is a major convenience upgrade. The EGO uses a rotary dial that I found to be the most intuitive design. The Husqvarna and Greenworks use similar knob-based systems. The Oregon and BLACK+DECKER use a thumb-wheel mechanism. All are functional, but the EGO dial feels the most precise.
Safety Features to Look For
Electric chainsaws are generally safer than gas models because they stop instantly when you release the trigger. No chain coasting means less risk of accidental contact. However, additional safety features matter.
The BLACK+DECKER includes a lock-off button that prevents accidental trigger pulls. The Husqvarna and EGO both feature chain brakes that stop the chain immediately if kickback occurs. Look for front hand guards that protect your leading hand from flying debris. Bucking spikes, which are the metal teeth near the base of the bar, help you pivot the saw through thick wood and maintain control during cuts.
Battery Ecosystem Considerations
This is the factor most buyers overlook and regret later. When you buy a cordless chainsaw, you are not just buying a saw. You are investing in a battery platform. The battery and charger that come with your chainsaw will work with other tools from the same brand at the same voltage.
EGO has one of the most comprehensive 56V ecosystems with mowers, blowers, trimmers, and snow tools. Greenworks 80V also has an extensive lineup. The Black+Decker 20V MAX platform is massive with dozens of affordable tools. Husqvarna’s 40V lineup is smaller but focused on professional-grade outdoor equipment.
Before buying any cordless chainsaw, check what other tools are available on that battery platform. If you plan to eventually replace your gas outdoor equipment with electric, choosing a brand with a broad ecosystem saves money and reduces charger clutter.
FAQs
What are the best electric chainsaws according to consumer reports?
Based on consumer testing and our hands-on evaluation, the best electric chainsaws are the EGO POWER+ CS1613 for overall performance, the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i for premium cutting power, and the Greenworks 80V for best value. These models consistently rank highly for cutting speed, battery life, and ease of use in independent testing.
Is Husqvarna or Stihl better for electric chainsaws?
Both Husqvarna and Stihl make excellent battery-powered chainsaws. Husqvarna tends to offer more power per dollar with models like the Power Axe 350i, while Stihl is known for exceptional build quality and their established dealer network. For homeowners, Husqvarna provides better value. For professionals who want dealer support and service, Stihl remains the top choice.
Are any electric chainsaws actually good for serious work?
Yes, modern electric chainsaws are excellent for serious work. Models like the EGO POWER+ CS1613 deliver 40cc gas-equivalent power, and the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i claims more cutting power than comparable gas saws. Electric chainsaws now handle tree felling, firewood processing, and storm cleanup with performance that rivals gas models while offering quieter operation and zero emissions.
How long do battery chainsaws last on a single charge?
Battery chainsaw runtime varies by model and battery size. The EGO CS1613 with a 4.0Ah battery delivers up to 220 cuts per charge on 4×4 lumber. The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i with a 7.5Ah battery can run for extended cutting sessions lasting several hours of intermittent use. Smaller batteries like the 2.0Ah Greenworks typically provide 20 to 30 minutes of active cutting time, enough for typical homeowner tasks.
Can an electric chainsaw replace a gas chainsaw completely?
For most homeowners, yes. The best electric chainsaws in 2026 deliver cutting power comparable to 35 to 40cc gas models. They handle tree felling, bucking, pruning, and storm cleanup effectively. The main limitations are maximum bar length and continuous runtime for all-day commercial cutting. Professional users may still need gas as a backup, but homeowners can confidently go all-electric.
Final Thoughts on the Best Electric Chainsaws
After three months of testing, the EGO POWER+ CS1613 remains my top recommendation for the best electric chainsaw overall. It hits the perfect balance of power, runtime, features, and build quality that most homeowners need. The 40cc gas-equivalent motor handles serious cutting tasks, and the IPX4 weather resistance means you do not have to baby it.
If you want maximum cutting power and are willing to pay for it, the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i is a professional-grade tool that delivers more power than comparable gas saws. For budget-conscious buyers, the Greenworks 80V offers outstanding value with a proven brushless motor and a massive tool ecosystem. The Oregon CS1500 is unbeatable for corded convenience with its self-sharpening system, and the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX is the perfect lightweight pruner for small jobs.
The best electric chainsaws of 2026 have finally closed the performance gap with gas models. With quieter operation, zero emissions, push-button starting, and minimal maintenance, there has never been a better time to make the switch.