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Looking for a chainsaw under $300 means navigating a mix of corded electric, battery-powered, and gas engines — each with different strengths depending on whether you are trimming branches in the backyard or felling trees on a property.
I’m Mo Maruf — the founder and writer behind The Tools Trunk. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
Whether you value unlimited run time, instant starts without pull cords, or the raw torque of a gas engine, this roundup of the best chainsaw under $300 helps you match the saw to your specific cutting job without overspending.
Quick Picks
- EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16” Battery Powered — Top Performer
- GREENWORKS 60V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw — Best Value
- Husqvarna 130 Gas Powered Chainsaw, 38cc — Gas Powerhouse
- SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 14” Chainsaw Kit — Quick Charge
- PROYAMA 68CC 2-Cycle Gas Powered Chainsaw — Logging Torque
- Greenworks 40V 12″ Cordless Compact Chainsaw — Compact Cleanup
- Dewalt Chainsaw Pruning CRDLS 20V 8IN (DCCS623B) — One-Hand Pruner
- ReliaRoads 16-Inch Brushless Chainsaw — Budget Battery
- BLACK+DECKER 12 Amp 16 in. Electric Chainsaw — Corded Bargain
How To Choose The Best Chainsaw Under $300
Here is what to consider before you buy.
Power Source: Corded, Battery, or Gas
A corded electric chainsaw (12-15 amps) gives you unlimited run time and instant power — you only stop when you let go of the trigger. It works great near a garage or a house with a long extension cord, but you are tethered. Battery-powered models (usually 40V or 60V) let you walk anywhere on a property, but you trade run time for mobility — a 2.5Ah battery might give you 50 cuts on a 4×4 before it needs recharging. Gas saws (around 38cc to 68cc) offer the most torque for large trees and continuous heavy cutting, but they require mixing fuel, pulling a starter cord, and regular maintenance that electric owners never deal with.
Bar Length and What You Actually Cut
An 8-inch bar is perfect for pruning limbs under 7 inches in diameter. A 14-inch or 16-inch bar handles firewood logs, storm cleanup, and most homeowner tree work. A 20-inch or 24-inch bar on a gas saw can drop large oaks, but the saw body is heavier and harder to maneuver for small trimming.
Safety and Comfort Features You Should Expect
Every chainsaw under $300 should have a chain brake (a hand guard that stops the chain instantly if the saw kicks back). An automatic oiling system keeps the bar and chain lubricated while you cut — without it, friction destroys the chain fast. Tool-free chain tensioning lets you tighten a loose chain in seconds without searching for a wrench, which matters because chains loosen as they heat up during use. A low-kickback chain and bar design reduces the risk of the saw jumping backward if the tip hits something unexpectedly.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Power Source | Bar Length | Weight | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EGO POWER+ CS1611 | Premium battery power | 56V Battery | 16 in. | 9 lbs | Amazon |
| Husqvarna 130 | Entry-level gas | 38cc Gas | 16 in. | — | Amazon |
| Greenworks 60V | Lightweight battery | 60V Battery | 16 in. | 6.4 lbs | Amazon |
| SKIL PWR CORE 40 | Fast charging | 40V Battery | 14 in. | 11.5 lbs | Amazon |
| PROYAMA 68CC | Heavy-duty gas torque | 68cc Gas | 24 in. | 14.5 lbs | Amazon |
| Greenworks 40V 12″ | Compact camping/pruning | 40V Battery | 12 in. | 10.89 lbs | Amazon |
| DEWALT DCCS623B | Ultra-light pruning | 20V Battery | 8 in. | 2.09 kg (4.6 lbs) | Amazon |
| ReliaRoads 16-Inch | Budget battery value | 40V (2x20V) Battery | 16 in. | 4.77 kg (10.5 lbs) | Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER CS1216 | Corded bang-for-buck | 12A Corded | 16 in. | 10 lbs | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16” Battery Powered (CS1611)
A battery-powered saw that cuts like a 40cc gas model without the noise or pull cord.
You get instant-start electric convenience but the cutting power of a mid-range gas saw — the maker says it matches 40cc gas equivalents. The 16-inch bar and chain run at a chain speed of 20m/s (meters per second), which translates to fast, smooth cuts through firewood logs and storm debris. An included 56V 2.5Ah ARC Lithium battery delivers up to 130 cuts on a 4×4, so you can finish a full afternoon of limbing before reaching for the charger.
The automatic oiling system keeps the bar and chain lubricated as you work, and the spill-free oil reservoir means you do not drip bar oil everywhere in transport. A tool-free chain tensioning system lets you tighten a loose chain on the spot without any tools. The unit weighs 9 pounds, which is noticeably lighter than most gas saws in this bar class. Buyers report it “cuts as fast as a 16″ Stihl, much quieter, lighter, no vibration,” making it an easy daily driver for anyone tired of gas maintenance. The catch: it does not include bar oil, so you need to buy that separately before the first cut.
Real-world reach: The saw delivers gas-level cutting speed in a package that starts every time with a button push — ideal for homeowners who want power without the pull-start frustration.
The single trade-off: The included 2.5Ah battery provides roughly half a tank of gas run time, so if you have over an acre of heavy cutting, a second battery is worth adding.
Best for: Homeowners who want near-gas cutting power with electric convenience — and who already own other EGO 56V tools.
Look elsewhere if: You need hours of continuous run time without stopping to swap batteries; a corded or gas saw is cheaper for that.
2. GREENWORKS 60V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw
A 6.4-pound chainsaw that runs on a 60V battery platform shared with 75+ tools.
At just 6.4 pounds, this is one of the lightest 16-inch battery saws available, making it a great choice for extended use overhead or on ladders where every pound matters. The brushless motor starts with a two-finger button press — no choke, no pull cord, no fuel mix. An automatic oiler sprays oil while you cut, and the tool-free side chain adjustment lets you tighten the chain in about 10 seconds.
The 60V battery fits into more than 75 Greenworks 60V tools (lawnmowers, trimmers, drills), so if you already own Greenworks gear, you save money and storage space. Owners mention the saw “cut down a dying willow in 10 minutes” and say it “matches gas saw” performance for home tasks. One reviewer noted it draws the battery quickly after about 10 minutes of hard cutting and that the motor can overheat with consecutive heavy use — so this is best for seasonal cleanup rather than continuous logging. At this weight, it is noticeably lighter than the Greenworks 40V 12″ model, which comes in at 10.89 pounds — a big difference when you are carrying it around for an hour.
The standout advantages
- Extremely lightweight (6.4 lbs) for a 16-inch saw.
- Instant push-button start, no gas or pull cord.
- Battery works across the Greenworks 60V ecosystem.
A couple of real limitations
- Battery drains fast under continuous heavy cutting (about 10 min).
- Some buyers reported the chain falling off early; chain tension needs checking before each use.
Reach for this if: You want a campus-ready 60V battery that works on a dozen other yard tools and you prioritize light weight over brute torque.
Pass if: You need to cut hard, dry wood for hours daily; a gas saw or a heavier corded model will be more reliable.
3. Husqvarna 130 Gas Powered Chainsaw, 38cc
A 38cc gas saw with X-Torq engine that cuts fuel consumption and emissions.
If you want a gas saw from a brand that has been making them for decades, this Husqvarna 130 delivers the proven 2-HP X-Torq engine — a 38-cc 2-cycle design that the maker says boost power even at low RPMs (revolutions per minute) and lowers fuel consumption. The 16-inch bar handles typical home jobs like cutting firewood and pruning trees, and the inertia-activated chain brake reduces kickback risk. A fuel pump and combined choke/stop control make starting easier and reduce engine flooding, a common frustration with gas saws.
Air Injection technology expels larger dust and debris particles before they reach the air filter, which keeps the engine running longer between cleanings — useful if you are cutting in a dirty environment. Customers note it “cut like butter” and that one owner “has a Husqvarna that’s over 20 years old,” pointing to the brand’s long-term durability. However, some reviewers had trouble: one reported the saw stalled repeatedly and required 10+ pulls to restart, and a bar adjustment screw arrived bent for another buyer. At 38cc, this is a mid-range gas saw that suits occasional home use rather than daily professional work.
What you get
- Brand reputation for longevity (many reviewers point out decades of life).
- Air Injection cleaning system extends filter and engine life.
- Easier starting with fuel pump and combined choke/stop control.
What to expect
- Some units arrive with a chain too tight from the factory; adjust before first use.
- Occasional quality issues (bent screws, stalling) mean you may need to tune the carburetor.
Ideal for: A buyer who trusts the Husqvarna name and prefers gas for the unlimited run time and raw torque on larger wood.
Skip if: You do not want to mix fuel, tune a carburetor, or store gasoline — a corded or battery saw avoids all that entirely.
4. SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 14” Chainsaw Kit (CS4555-10)
A 40V brushless saw that charges from 0 to 30% in just 15 minutes.
This SKIL PWR CORE 40 kit focuses on minimizing downtime: the included 2.5Ah battery charges from dead to 30% in 15 minutes using the Auto PWR JUMP charger, so you can take a short break and get back to cutting quickly. The digital brushless motor provides efficient high-performance power for cutting through branches and stumps without gas maintenance. The maker claims no 40V chainsaw cuts faster compared to 40V competitive brands, though real-world results vary.
The 14-inch bar is a practical size for storm cleanup and firewood splitting — long enough for most homeowner jobs but short enough to keep the saw nimble in tight spaces. Tool-free chain tensioning is done with a dial on the side of the tool, and the anti-kickback brake cuts power instantly if kickback occurs. Shoppers say it is “lightweight, easy to handle” and that the battery lasts about an hour, with one reviewer noting “having two batteries solves this because they charge so quickly, allowing you to work for hours.” The 5-year limited warranty is generous for the price range. At 11.5 pounds, it is heavier than the Greenworks 60V (6.4 lbs) but still manageable for one-handed use.
The key that matters most: Rapid charging means you get back to work faster — a second battery gives you nearly continuous runtime for light-to-moderate cutting sessions.
Honest limitation: The 2.5Ah battery does not last long under heavy cutting; this is a weekend-warrior saw, not a full-day logging tool.
Pick this for: Weekend warriors who make a handful of cuts, take a break, and need the saw ready again quickly without waiting an hour for a charge.
Not for: Continuous heavy use like felling a dozen large trees in one session — a gas saw or a larger battery platform suits that better.
5. PROYAMA 68CC 2-Cycle Gas Powered Chainsaw (24 in. / 20 in.)
A 68cc gas saw that rips through 22-inch stumps in under a minute.
This PROYAMA is the most powerful saw in the roundup by the numbers — a 2-cycle 68cc engine (though buyers report it is actually closer to 62cc) producing 4.5 horsepower. It comes with both a 24-inch and 20-inch bar in the box, letting you swap depending on the job. The anti-vibration system reduces fatigue during extended use, but at 14.5 pounds this is a heavy saw that gives you a workout.
Owners mention it “rips through oak” with impressive power and “starts 2nd pull, no heavy priming.” One buyer mentioned it “powered through a 30″ oak” after 50 hours of use. However, the saw has real rough edges: it is “very loud” with no muffler restriction, the “plastics decent but may melt” near the exhaust, and the gas cap is easy to cross-thread. Unlike the EGO or Greenworks battery saws that start instantly, this gas saw requires mixing oil and gas, pulling a choke, and dealing with normal gas-engine quirks. The gap in weight versus the Dewalt pruning saw (14.5 lbs vs 2.09 kg) is substantial when you are carrying it all day.
Raw power advantages
- Cuts large logs (22-30 inches) faster than any battery saw in this list.
- Comes with two bars (24 in. and 20 in.) for versatility.
Serious compromises
- Heavy (14.5 lbs) and very loud; not for small trimming.
- Some customers note reliability issues — dies after 20-30 minutes, support unhelpful.
- Requires mechanical tweaks (Loctite on screws, replace bar nuts).
Best for: Someone who needs to drop large trees on a budget and is comfortable wrenching on a saw — this is a project tool, not a turnkey solution.
Look elsewhere if: You want a reliable, quiet, light saw for occasional home use — a corded or battery saw will save you frustration.
6. Greenworks 40V 12″ Cordless Compact Chainsaw
A compact 12-inch saw that doubles as a portable power bank for charging phones.
This cordless saw is built for smaller cutting jobs: storm cleanup, pruning, and camping. The 40V 2.0Ah battery delivers 50 cuts on a 4×4 treated wood per charge, according to the maker. The 12-inch low-recoil chain handles limbs and small logs — not massive tree trunks. Dual safety start (lock button plus trigger) prevents accidental starts, and tool-free auto-tensioning adjusts the chain without extra tools.
A useful surprise: the 40V battery can charge phones and iPads, acting as a portable power bank in emergencies or at a campsite. The 3-year tool and battery warranty adds confidence. Reviewers point out it is “nice and light and good for small odd angle spaces” and “exceeds expectations” for clearing limbs up to 7 inches in diameter. One caveat: some users note it “does not have a top mounted chain break” (it uses a thumb button on the side), so be deliberate with your grip. At 10.89 pounds, it is significantly heavier than the Greenworks 60V (6.4 lbs) despite having a shorter bar — the 60V model is lighter because it uses a different motor and battery design.
Smart secondary feature: The battery doubles as a USB power bank, making this a genuinely useful tool for camping, emergency kits, or any scenario where you might need to charge a phone.
Stick to its size: This is a light-duty saw for green wood and limbs up to 8-10 inches; hard, dry logs will bog it down.
Pick this for: Occasional pruning, storm cleanup near the house, or camping trips where a portable power bank is a bonus.
Pass if: You need a saw for thick firewood or heavy logging — get a larger bar and more voltage.
7. Dewalt Chainsaw Pruning CRDLS 20V 8IN (DCCS623B)
A 2.09-kg pruning saw that clears small oaks up to 7 inches in diameter.
At just 2.09 kilograms (about 4.6 pounds), this Dewalt pruning saw is the lightest in this roundup — you can comfortably hold it one-handed while reaching into a tree canopy. The 8-inch bar is ideal for trimming branches and small trees where a full-size 16-inch saw is overkill. It runs on Dewalt 20V MAX batteries (tool only, battery not included), so if you already have Dewalt tools, this is a no-brainer addition.
Shoppers say it is “much lighter than 18″ saw” and “perfect for clearing small oaks up to 7″ diameter.” One owner reported the “fantastic battery life (lasts all weekend on one charge)” for light trimming, and a 70-year-old operator said she “operated this saw with ease.” The trade-off: the small bar means you cannot cut anything larger than about 7 inches in diameter, and some owners say the “slow RPMs can jam on small branches” — it works best on wood 1 inch and thicker. Compared to the 16-inch ReliaRoads saw at 4.77 kg, the Dewalt is lighter, making it a clear choice for limbing over felling.
Why it earns its place
- Extremely lightweight and maneuverable for overhead or one-handed pruning.
- Excellent battery life for small trimming jobs (lasts all weekend).
- Runs on the common Dewalt 20V MAX battery platform.
Where it falls short
- Limited to branches under 7 inches — not a firewood saw.
- Tool only (no battery included); adds cost if you are not already on Dewalt 20V.
Suits: Homeowners with Dewalt 20V tools who need a lightweight pruning attachment for limbing and brush clearing.
Avoid if: You need to cut firewood logs larger than 7 inches — get a 14-inch or 16-inch bar.
8. ReliaRoads 16-Inch Brushless Chainsaw, 40V (2 x 20V MAX) Cordless
A 16-inch brushless saw that runs on two Dewalt 20V batteries you may already own.
This budget-friendly battery saw features a brushless motor and 16-inch bar that delivers cutting power comparable to a gas saw without fumes or fuel mixing. It is compatible with Dewalt 20V MAX battery packs (two batteries required, not included). The automatic oil pump provides uninterrupted lubrication for up to 45 to 60 minutes of cutting work, which keeps the chain running smoothly.
Safety features include a rapid stop that halts the chain within 1.5 seconds of releasing the switch and a quick-stop brake guard that stops rotation in 0.1 seconds. Buyers report it “cut like gas saw without fuel/fumes” and that “two 4AH batteries yield 6-7 cuts per charge” through a 25-foot palm with a 16-inch trunk. One caveat: the chain loosens during use but is easy to adjust. At 4.77 kg (about 10.5 pounds), it is noticeably heavier than the Dewalt pruning saw (2.09 kg) — but it also offers a bar length of 16 inches versus 8 inches. Make sure you have two high-quality Dewalt 20V batteries at 4Ah or higher; cheap batteries heat up quickly.
The surprise value: If you already own Dewalt 20V batteries, this saw gives you a 16-inch cutting tool without buying a new battery platform — a huge cost saving.
Reality check: You need two separate batteries to run it, and cheap batteries will overheat; invest in quality Dewalt 4-8Ah packs for best performance.
Best for: Dewalt tool owners who want a full-length 16-inch saw without investing in a new ecosystem.
Not for: Someone who wants a ready-to-run kit — you need to supply two batteries and a charger separately.
9. BLACK+DECKER 12 Amp 16 in. Electric Chainsaw (CS1216)
A 12-amp corded saw that cuts 22-inch logs without ever recharging a battery.
This BLACK+DECKER corded chainsaw gives you unlimited run time as long as you stay near an outlet with a long extension cord. The 12-amp motor provides enough power to cut through branches and logs, and the 16-inch low-kickback bar handles cuts up to 22 inches according to buyers. An automatic oiling system keeps the bar and chain lubricated, and a clear window lets you check the oil level without opening the cap.
Tool-free chain tensioning lets you make quick adjustments without extra tools. Owners mention it “cuts easily” through 14-inch cedar trees and has “plenty of power” for property maintenance. One customer observed the “16” bar handles 22″ cuts,” though the same owner mentioned “chain takes 5-6 seconds to stop after trigger release” — slower than the instant stops on battery or gas saws with brakes. At 10 pounds, it weighs about the same as the Greenworks 40V 12″ (10.89 lbs) but has a longer bar, and it weighs 10 pounds versus the Greenworks model’s 10.89 pounds. The trade-off is you are tethered: you need a heavy-duty extension cord suitable for outdoor use.
The big upside
- Unlimited run time — never wait for a battery charge.
- Light enough (10 lbs) for a 16-inch bar, easy to handle.
- Simple operation: plug in, pull trigger, go — no gas or battery worries.
The real limitation
- You are tied to an extension cord, limiting reach in large yards or on remote properties.
- Chain continues spinning for 5-6 seconds after trigger release; not as safe as instant-stop designs.
Suits: Homeowners who work close to a power outlet and want the lowest possible cost per cut without worrying about battery life.
Not for: Anyone cutting far from a house, in a forest, or in a location without easy extension cord access.
Understanding the Specs
Bar Length vs. Power Source
Bar length determines the maximum diameter log you can cut in one pass — an 8-inch bar handles branches up to about 7 inches thick, while a 16-inch bar handles logs up to roughly 14 inches. Longer bars need more motor power (measured in amps for corded saws, volts for battery saws, or cc for gas saws) to spin the chain effectively through the wood. A 12-amp corded motor on a 16-inch bar has enough torque for most homeowner cuts, but a 68cc gas engine on a 24-inch bar can push through oak trunks that would bog a battery saw down.
Automatic Oiler and Chain Tensioning
An automatic oiling system feeds bar oil onto the chain as it spins, reducing friction and heat that would otherwise dull the chain in minutes. Most chainsaws under $300 include this, but the reservoir capacity varies — some hold enough oil for 45-60 minutes of cutting, others last about a full tank of gas. Tool-free chain tensioning means you can tighten a loose chain with a dial or knob instead of a wrench, which matters because chains loosen as they heat up and need adjustment mid-job.
FAQ
What bar length do I need for cutting firewood?
Is corded electric chainsaw powerful enough for heavy use?
How long does a battery chainsaw run on a single charge?
Will a Dewalt 20V battery work with the ReliaRoads chainsaw?
What is the difference between a gas chainsaw and a battery chainsaw for home use?
What does a chain brake do, and do I need one?
Can I use a chainsaw that came with a 16-inch bar with a 20-inch bar?
How often should I sharpen a chainsaw chain?
What extension cord do I need for a corded electric chainsaw?
How do I prevent the chain from coming off during cutting?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For the majority of shoppers, the chainsaw under $300 winner is the EGO POWER+ CS1611 because it delivers gas-level cutting performance without the pull cords, fumes, or maintenance — and The instant-start convenience is genuinely life-changing for anyone who cuts wood more than twice a year.. If you want the lightest possible saw for pruning and you already own Dewalt 20V batteries, grab the Dewalt DCCS623B for its featherweight 2.09 kg build that handles limbs up to 7 inches. And if you never want to worry about battery run time or mixing fuel, the BLACK+DECKER CS1216 corded saw gives you a 16-inch bar with unlimited runtime