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Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.
Editor’s Note: This list uses flexible matching for the 16-inch bar length, so not every pick is the exact number searched; the nearest same-type size serves the same purpose. We tell you this upfront so you are never misled.
When a storm drops a limb on your driveway, you need a saw that starts fast and cuts true. The 16-inch chainsaw market splits into two camps: gas models that pull-start on the third yank, and battery or corded electrics that start instantly but limit your runtime. Your property size, patience, and arm strength decide which camp fits you.
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.
Our Picks at a Glance
How To Choose The Best 16 Inch Chainsaw
Before you click buy, you need to decide how often the saw will run and how far you are from a power outlet. A corded saw gives you endless runtime but ties you to a wall, while a battery model roams free but brings a hard stop when the pack drains. Gas sits in the middle — unlimited fuel if you have mix on hand, but it demands maintenance and pull-start patience.
Match the Power Source to Your Property
For a small yard with occasional branch trimming, a corded electric like the BLACK+DECKER CS1216 keeps things simple — you plug in and go, no fuel to store. If you have a couple of acres and trees that fall in storms, a battery model with a spare pack, like the EGO CS1613, lets you work away from the house without dragging an extension cord through wet grass.
Read the Chain Speed, Not Just the Motor
Chain speed, measured in feet per minute (FPM) or meters per second (m/s), tells you how fast the teeth rip through wood. The WORX WG385 hits 59 ft/s, which is why owners describe it as cutting like butter, while the Makita XCU04PT reaches 3,940 FPM. Faster chains translate to less push and smoother cuts, especially in hardwoods.
Check the Oiling System
Every bar and chain needs constant lubrication to avoid overheating and premature wear. Look for an automatic oiler with a visible window so you can spot a low reservoir before it damages the bar. The BLACK+DECKER CS1216 includes a clear window for exactly this reason, and the Makita UC4051A adds a large reservoir with a view window for quick checks.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Power Source | Chain Speed | Weight | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EGO CS1613★ Best Overall | Battery power with gas-like torque | 56V Battery | 20 m/s | 20.9 lb | Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER CS1216Budget Champion | Budget corded convenience | Corded Electric | — | 10 lb | Amazon |
| EGO CS1611Lightweight Pick | Lighter EGO with quick starts | 56V Battery | 20 m/s | 9 lb | Amazon |
| Husqvarna 130 | Trusted gas brand for small trees | Gas Powered | — | 5.7 lb | Amazon |
| Stihl MS 162 | Lightweight storm cleanup | Gas Powered | — | 13.3 lb | Amazon |
| Husqvarna 135 Mark II | Powerful gas for wider bars | Gas Powered | — | 4.7 lb | Amazon |
| Echo CS-3410-16 | Easy-start gas at a fair price | Gas Powered | — | 4 kg | Amazon |
| WORX WG385 | Fast cuts with two batteries | 40V Battery | 59 ft/s | — | Amazon |
| Makita UC4051A | Corded reliability for big logs | Corded Electric | — | 14 lb | Amazon |
| Makita XCU04PT | Battery power for 12-inch logs | 36V Battery | 3,940 FPM | 19.2 lb | Amazon |
| Makita XCU04PT1 | All-day battery runtime | 36V Battery | 3,940 FPM | — | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. EGO POWER+ CS1613
Our pick — over 4.5★ from 950+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
Gas-rivaling torque with a push-button start and zero pull cords to fight.
This EGO is the crowd favorite for a simple reason — it delivers power equivalent to a 40cc gas chainsaw without ever asking you to mix fuel. The brushless motor spins the chain at 20 m/s, and the response from owners is consistent: it chews through 12-inch trees and 2ft diameter logs easily, as buyers report.
The included 4.0Ah battery is rated for up to 130 cuts on a 4×4, and it is compatible with every EGO 56V ARC Lithium battery, so if you already own EGO yard tools, this saw slots right into your lineup. Tool-free chain tensioning lets you tighten the chain with a twist of a dial, and the IPX4 weather resistance means a light drizzle won’t send you back to the garage.
The main trade-off is weight — at 20.9 pounds, the 4.0Ah battery makes the saw feel left-heavy, and a few owners note the imbalance during long sessions. Compared to the BLACK+DECKER CS1216 at 10 pounds, this is a noticeably beefier tool, but the runtime and power justify the heft for serious property work.
What wins people over
- 40cc gas equivalent power with instant electric start
- Up to 130 cuts per charge on a 4×4
- Tool-free chain tensioning dial
Where it asks for patience
- 20.9 lb weight causes left-side imbalance with the 4.0Ah battery
- Chain can derail on thick vines, though it refits easily
Grab it if: you want gas-level cutting power without the pull-start ritual, and you have room in the budget for a premium battery platform.
Think twice if: you only trim a few branches a season — the weight and price overshoot light-duty needs.
2. BLACK+DECKER CS1216
Unlimited runtime on a budget, plugged in and ready whenever you are.
If your property sits near an outlet, this corded BLACK+DECKER gives you endless cutting time without the price tag of a battery kit. The 12 amp motor handles branches and logs with surprising authority, and owners mention felling 14-inch cedar trunks and slicing through 22″ logs without complaint.
At 10 pounds, it is dramatically lighter than the EGO CS1613’s 20.9 pounds, making it far easier to maneuver one-handed for overhead limb work. The automatic oiling system keeps the bar lubed continuously, and the clear window lets you verify the oil level at a glance — no guessing.
The honest downside is chain durability — it is the most-discussed gripe, with several owners noting the chain pops off when loose. Tool-free tensioning exists, but you will want to check it often. It suits medium jobs near an outlet, not remote felling.
Where it shines: the functionality is what owners praise most — routine cutting, storm cleanup, and firewood prep all come easily at this price.
Reality check: oil leakage gets mentioned too, so store it flat and keep the reservoir topped but not overflowing.
Reach for this if: you want a dependable corded workhorse for home use and prefer not to invest in batteries.
Look elsewhere if: you need to cut far from a power source — the cord is your leash.
3. EGO POWER+ CS1611
The same 40cc-class EGO power, trimmed down to a 9-pound body that won’t wear you out.
This is the little brother of the CS1613, and it trades a bit of runtime for a much friendlier feel. At 9 pounds, it is over 10 pounds lighter than the CS1613 — the sort of difference you feel immediately when you hold the saw up to prune overhead branches. The performance stays in the same family: 40cc gas equivalent power and a 20 m/s chain speed that keeps cuts clean.
The included 2.5Ah battery delivers up to 130 cuts on a 4×4, though owners note it lasts roughly 30 cuts before needing a swap — extra EGO batteries are the standard recommendation. The tool-free tensioning system and IPX4 weather resistance carry over, and the spill-free oil reservoir is a small but appreciated touch.
Performance is the most-praised aspect here, but battery life gets mixed feedback, so plan for a spare pack if you have a big job. It matches or beats a Stihl gas 16″ in speed and ease, per owners, with minimal vibration that spares your joints.
Where it wins: ease of use is the second-most-praised trait — no fuss, no gas, ready to go on the first trigger pull.
Plan for: buying bar oil separately — it is not included in the box.
Best for: homeowners who want EGO’s instant-start power but find the full-size model too heavy for regular limbing.
Not for: all-day felling marathons — carry a second battery or step up to the CS1613.
4. Husqvarna 130
A trusted gas name that starts on the third pull and cuts like butter.
Husqvarna builds its reputation on reliability, and the 130 delivers that in a 5.7-pound package that is easy to maneuver. The 38-cc, 2-HP X-TORQUE engine boost power even at low RPMs, which means you get strong cutting torque without having to rev the saw to the limit. Owners describe it as cutting through thick trees like butter, and the brand loyalty runs deep — some buyers have trusted Husqvarna for over 20 years.
The easy start-up system uses a fuel pump and combined choke/stop control to reduce flooding, and the inertia-activated chain brake adds a layer of safety against kickback. Air Injection Technology expels dust before it reaches the air filter, which helps the engine live longer between cleanings.
The trade-off with gas is the maintenance and the occasional finicky behavior — one owner had the chain delivered too tight, and another dealt with a bent bar adjustment screw. But for those who prefer the autonomy of gas, this is a solid mid-range pick. Note it is lighter than the Makita UC4051A at 14 pounds, making it easier for older users to handle.
Why it earns its place: the combination of a respected brand, light 5.7-pound frame, and easy starts makes it a favorite for smaller tree work.
Keep in mind: check the chain tension before first use, as it can arrive tighter than ideal.
Choose this if: you want the autonomy of a gas saw with a proven brand and a light feel for a gas model.
skip it if: you have no patience for pull starts or fuel mixing — an electric will serve you better.
5. Stihl MS 162
A lightweight gas option from a big-name brand, built for storm cleanup.
Stihl is a name synonymous with professional logging, and the MS 162 brings that pedigree into a compact frame. The 1.2 KW power output handles limbing and firewood gathering with ease, and the vibration dampening system keeps your hands comfortable during longer sessions. Owners who own two of these models praise them as lightweight and capable, ideal for storm cleanup after a rough night of weather.
The 13.3-pound weight is on the heavier end for a 16-inch saw, but the balance and the brand’s reputation for quality make the heft feel justified. It starts easily and cuts well, per the consensus, making it a dependable choice for homeowners who want a gas saw that simply works.
The recurring complaint here is not the saw itself but the shipping — a few units arrived with damaged boxes and missing parts. That is a delivery risk you should weigh, though the saw itself earns praise when it arrives intact. Compared to the Husqvarna 130 at 5.7 pounds, this is a heavier option, but the Stihl name carries weight in the field.
Standout trait: lightweight design combined with the vibration dampening makes it easy to handle for extended periods.
Be aware: inspect the box on arrival, as shipping damage has been reported.
Best suited for: buyers who trust the Stihl name and need a compact gas saw for regular property upkeep.
Not ideal if: you are put off by the risk of transit damage and want a guaranteed pristine unit.
6. Husqvarna 135 Mark II
A 38-cc gas engine with Smart Start that powers through wide stumps like butter.
The 135 Mark II steps up the power game with a 38-cc, 2.1-HP X-TORQUE engine — a small bump over the Husqvarna 130 that makes a real difference on dense wood. Customers note it slices through 13-inch wide stumps without effort, and the Smart Start technology means you are not fighting the pull cord. The side-mounted tensioning system makes slack adjustments quick, and LowVib dampeners reduce vibration for comfortable handling.
At 4.7 pounds, this is remarkably light for a gas saw — lighter than the Stihl MS 162’s 13.3 pounds by a wide margin. It comes with a full kit: powerhead, bar, chain, a 2.6 oz 50:1 fuel mix, a scrench, and a quick start guide, so you have everything you need from the start. The recommended bar length spans 14 to 16 inches, giving you flexibility.
The honest caveat is durability — a few reviewers point out it dies after each cut and needs a carb tune, and one unit stopped working after minimal use. The cutting performance and value earn strong praise, but treat the idle adjustment as a potential first-weekend task.
Highlights
- 2.1-HP engine cuts 13-inch stumps with ease
- Only 4.7 pounds for a gas model
- Comes with fuel mix and tuning tools included
Watch out for
- Some units stall after each cut until carburetor adjustment
- Durability questioned by a minority of owners
Reach for this if: you want maximum gas power in the lightest possible frame for clearing and trimming trees.
Look elsewhere if: you want a zero-maintenance saw — gas tuning may be in your future.
7. Echo CS-3410-16
A gas saw that starts on the third pull cold, first pull warm.
Echo positions itself as the value play against Stihl, and the CS-3410-16 delivers on that promise. The 30.5 cc engine is rated at 5.3 hp, and it handles 13-inch logs with ease for homeowner and campfire use. It starts on the third pull cold and first pull warm, beating many gas rivals.
The included low-kickback Oregon chain provides a safety cushion, and the assembly is straightforward from the start. It is a bare-tool purchase at 4 kg, so you supply the fuel mix, but the value proposition is strong — Echo makes great chainsaws for less money than Stihl, as the owners sum it up.
Performance earns praise, but starting is hit-or-miss for some, and the chain wears out fast. For light to medium homeowner work, this is a reliable, easy-starting gas option, though heavy users may want the larger CS-400.
What stands out: ease of use and assembly get consistent praise — it is simple to set up and simple to start.
The catch: chain life is the weak point, so budget for an early replacement if you cut often.
Choose this if: you want a dependable gas saw that starts easily and costs less than the big German brands.
Pass if: you are a heavy user who will wear out chains quickly — you may want a beefier engine.
8. WORX WG385
A brushless battery saw claiming better-than-45cc gas performance.
The WORX Nitro line is designed to beat gas, and the WG385 makes a compelling case. With a 59 ft/s cutting speed and a brushless motor rated at 2.3 hp, it rips through 3-10 inch limbs for hours — one owner cut for 8 hours on nearly a single charge. The marketing says it is better than a 45cc gas saw, and owners agree it cuts like butter with none of the kickback or bogging.
The kit is generous: two 4.0Ah Power Share PRO batteries, a dual-slot charger, and a bar and chain sheath. It delivers up to 150 cuts on 4×4 hardwood per charge, and the tool-free chain tensioning means adjustments take seconds. A kickback brake stops the chain immediately when triggered, and a battery gauge shows remaining power at any time.
Battery life is outstanding, and the value is strong for the price. The main gripe is the bar oil cap leaking when stored upright, so lay it on its side between uses. Compared to the Makita XCU04PT at 19.2 pounds, this WORX is a lighter, friendlier daily driver.
Loved for
- 59 ft/s cutting speed with brushless efficiency
- Two 4.0Ah batteries included for extended runtime
- Kickback brake stops the chain instantly
Minor quirks
- Bar oil cap leaks when stored upright
- Uses larger batteries than other Power Share tools
Grab it if: you want a battery saw that genuinely competes with gas for fast, quiet cuts without the fumes.
Think twice if: you need to fell large trees all day — this is best for bucking and limbing up to 28 inches.
9. Makita UC4051A
Corded consistency that cuts oak and locust logs without ever bogging down.
Makita’s UC4051A is the answer for homeowners who want endless runtime and refuse to deal with gas. With a 14.5-amp motor, it cuts through tree trunks like a knife through butter, handling oak and locust logs up to 12 inches with ease. The inline motor design improves balance, and the rubberized grips keep the saw comfortable in your hands for longer sessions.
Owners praise its reliability—the chain stays sharp for 6+ hours and never bogs down on hardwoods. A built-in current limiter protects the motor from burnout when overloaded, and the large oil reservoir with a view window makes level checks quick. The soft start trigger ensures smooth, gradual startups that are easier on the motor and your nerves.
The catch with a corded saw is the cord itself — you will need 10-gauge extension cords to avoid power loss over long runs, and one owner noted the oiling hole can clog (a simple tape fix). At 14 pounds, it is heavier than the Husqvarna 130’s 5.7 pounds, but the gas-free operation and consistent torque make it a favorite for those who prioritize reliability.
Why it ranks high: reliability and cutting performance are the two most-praised traits — it just works, cut after cut.
Plan for: buying or borrowing a 10-gauge extension cord to get the full power at distance.
Best for: property owners who cut near a power source and want gas-free, low-maintenance operation with serious torque.
Not for: remote work away from outlets — the cord is a hard constraint.
10. Makita XCU04PT
A 36V brushless kit with gas-equivalent power and a variable speed trigger.
Makita’s XCU04PT brings professional-grade battery technology to the 16-inch class. The outer rotor BL brushless motor delivers power equivalent to a 32cc gas chainsaw, and the high chain speed of 3,940 FPM keeps cuts fast and clean. Shoppers say it handles 7-10 inch solid oak branches without issue and manages 12-inch logs with confidence.
The kit includes two 5.0Ah batteries and a dual-port charger, giving you a full day of intermittent cutting. The variable speed trigger lets you modulate power precisely, and the built-in lock-off lever prevents accidental engagement. A built-in LED switch with auto power-off preserves battery life when the saw sits idle.
Quality is praised, but battery life varies—10-15 cuts on heavy work, up to 102 on lighter wood. At 19.2 pounds, this is a heavier battery saw, but the balance and power justify it. The narrow kerf chain is efficient but easily damaged by rocks, so sharpen carefully.
Standout quality: build quality and cutting performance lead the praise — it is a tool that feels built to last.
Expectation set: battery runtime varies wildly by job; carry both packs for anything serious.
Choose this if: you are already invested in Makita’s 18V LXT platform and want a serious battery saw for firewood.
Pass if: you need all-day runtime without stopping to swap batteries.
11. Makita XCU04PT1
The ultimate battery runtime kit — four batteries to keep a woodstove burning all day.
For the buyer who wants to retire gas entirely, this Makita kit is the endgame. It includes four 5.0Ah batteries, effectively doubling the runtime of the XCU04PT — buyers report operating for 45 minutes on two batteries, and a 3-hour first use session never drained the set. The outer rotor BL brushless motor delivers the power of a 32cc gas chainsaw, with a 3,940 FPM chain speed for clean, fast cuts.
The tool-free chain tensioner is a highlight — a paddle wheel that adjusts the chain without any tools, saving time on every maintenance stop. Owners note it handles 8-inch oak limbs easily and is nimble for pruning, with the quiet operation and clean oil system making it pleasant to use. It is light, maneuverable, and perfect for home use.
The trade-off is that it is a light-duty thin-kerf saw — it is not going to out-torque a dedicated gas model on big trunks. One owner swapped to a thicker chain for heavier work. But for limbing, felling small trees, and keeping a woodstove fed, this kit delivers exceptional value with four batteries in the box.
Why it wins
- Four 5.0Ah batteries provide all-day runtime
- 3,940 FPM chain speed for fast cuts
- Tool-free paddle wheel chain tensioning
The limit
- Light-duty thin-kerf chain not built for heavy all-day felling
- No bar oil included in the box
Best for: homeowners who want to cut off gas entirely and value the convenience of four batteries over raw torque.
Not for: heavy loggers tackling large trunks all day — a gas saw still out-torques it.
Understanding the Specs
Chain Speed (m/s or FPM)
This is the number that tells you how easily the saw will cut. A faster chain, like the WORX WG385’s 59 ft/s or the Makita’s 3,940 FPM, means the teeth are doing the work, not your arms. You will feel the difference in how little you have to push the saw forward — faster chains glide through wood instead of grinding.
Power Source: Gas vs Battery vs Corded
Gas gives you unlimited runtime and the most torque per pound, but it demands pull starts, fuel mixing, and regular maintenance. Battery saws start instantly and run quietly, but your runtime is capped by amp-hours — a 2.5Ah pack like the one on the EGO CS1611 delivers roughly 30 cuts before a swap. Corded saws offer endless runtime but tether you to an outlet and require a heavy-gauge extension cord for full power.
FAQ
What does the 3/8-inch pitch and 0.043-inch gauge mean on a chainsaw chain?
How many cuts can I expect per battery charge?
Is a battery chainsaw as powerful as a gas one?
Do I need to buy bar oil separately?
What kind of extension cord does a corded chainsaw need?
What is tool-free chain tensioning?
Is a gas chainsaw safe to buy through Amazon?
Can a 16-inch chainsaw handle a large tree?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
If you want one dependable pick, the 16 inch chainsaw winner is the EGO POWER+ CS1613 because it brings 40cc gas-equivalent cutting power into an instant-start battery platform — no pull cords, no fuel mixing, just trigger-and-go performance that earns its place at the top. If you want unlimited runtime on a budget, the BLACK+DECKER CS1216 is the corded workhorse to beat, slicing through 22-inch logs at a fraction of the price. And for the homeowner who wants to leave gas behind entirely with all-day stamina, the Makita XCU04PT1 brings four batteries and 32cc-equivalent torque in one kit. Modern electrics now match gas in cutting power, so you no longer sacrifice muscle for convenience. The EGO CS1613 earns the top spot for its gas-equivalent power and instant-start convenience.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of August 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
As an Amazon Associate, The Tools Trunk earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.