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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.
The first question every chainsaw buyer actually asks is simple: gas, corded, or battery? The right choice hinges on job size, outlet proximity, and your tolerance for pull-start effort. This guide compares gas power, corded runtime, and battery convenience to match each saw to your cutting routine.
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 are clearing storm damage, trimming branches, or prepping firewood, the best chainsaws here match the right power source to the right job so you buy once and cut with confidence.
Our Picks at a Glance



How To Choose The Best Chainsaw
Before you pick a saw, match it to the wood you actually cut. A 10-inch mini saw handles branches, a 16-inch bar reaches through most storm debris, and a 20-inch bar is built for firewood and felling. Choosing the bar length first narrows your options instantly.
Match the power source to your routine
Battery saws start instantly, run quietly, and need no fuel mixing — but runtime is capped by your battery size. Corded saws run forever but tether you to an outlet. Gas saws offer maximum power and portability but demand fuel, maintenance, and pull-start effort. Your tolerance for fuel mixing, cord management, or battery swaps decides the winner.
Look past the brand to the motor
A brushless motor is the modern standard for cordless saws, delivering more cuts per charge and a longer tool life than older brushed designs. For gas, engine displacement measured in cubic centimeters (cc) tells you more about grunt than the brand name stamped on the housing. Higher cc means more torque for dense hardwood.
Safety features are non-negotiable
Kickback is the scariest risk, so look for a chain brake that stops the bar instantly if the nose catches. Tool-free chain tensioning keeps the chain tight and safe without needing wrenches, and an automatic oiler keeps the bar lubricated so the chain runs smooth instead of burning out.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Bar Length | Power Source | Motor Power | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EGO POWER+ 16″ (CS1613)★ Best Overall | Gas-level cordless power | 16 inches | 56V Battery | 40cc Equivalent | Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER CS1216Best Corded Value | Unlimited corded runtime | 16 inches | Corded Electric | 12 Amp Motor | Amazon |
| ReliaRoads 40V BrushlessBest Battery Compatibility | DeWALT battery owners | 16 inches | 40V Battery | 2 HP Brushless | Amazon |
| SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas | Heavy firewood duty | 20 inches | Gas Powered | 4.2 HP | Amazon |
| CRAFTSMAN 10″ Mini | One-handed trimming | 10 inches | 20V Battery | 1.5 KW | Amazon |
| DEWALT 20V MAX 12″ | Compact limb cleanup | 12 inches | 20V Battery | 0.7 HP Brushless | Amazon |
| EGO POWER+ 16″ (CS1611) | Lightweight cordless | 16 inches | 56V Battery | 40cc Equivalent | Amazon |
| Husqvarna 130 Gas | Trusted gas reliability | 16 inches | Gas Powered | 2.2 HP X-Torq | Amazon |
| Husqvarna 450 Rancher | Serious firewood cutting | 20 inches | Gas Powered | 3.2 HP X-Torq | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. EGO POWER+ 16″ Battery Chainsaw (CS1613)
Our pick — over 4.5★ from 950+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
The cordless saw that finally makes gas feel obsolete for home use.
The EGO CS1613 delivers power equivalent to a 40cc gas engine, yet you never mix fuel, pull a cord, or breathe exhaust. With a 16-inch bar and a high-efficiency brushless motor hitting chain speeds up to 20 m/s, it powers through hardwood, softwood, and branches with the kind of clean cuts that usually need a gas tank.
Battery life is the headline here — up to 130 cuts on a 4×4 with the included 4.0Ah battery, and buyers report cutting two large trees and still having battery left. The IPX4 weather-resistant build shrugs off damp conditions, and the tool-free chain tensioning dial means you tighten the chain without taking anything apart. At 20.9 pounds it is noticeably heavier than the BLACK+DECKER corded saw (10 pounds), but that weight buys you gas-level capability.
Its 4.7-star rating from 900+ owners confirms strong battery life, build quality, and ease of use. Owners praise its instant start and simple squeeze-and-cut operation versus gas saws. Some owners note the 4.0Ah battery makes the saw feel slightly unbalanced, and heavier users may want a lighter 2.4Ah battery for minor work.
What Wins People Over
- Up to 130 cuts per charge on the included 4.0Ah battery
- 40cc gas-equivalent power with zero fumes
- Tool-free chain tensioning dial
- IPX4 weather-resistant for damp work
Worth Knowing Before You Buy
- 20.9 pounds feels heavy for a cordless saw
- 4.0Ah battery can make it feel front-heavy
- Extra batteries are pricey to expand runtime
The right call for: homeowners who want gas-level power without the gas hassle, especially if you already own EGO 56V yard tools.
Think twice if: you need the lightest possible saw — the 10-pound corded option below is half the weight.
2. BLACK+DECKER 12 Amp 16 in. Electric Chainsaw (CS1216)
The featherweight corded saw that never stops for a recharge.
If your cutting spot is near an outlet, the BLACK+DECKER CS1216 is the smart money play. Its corded design gives you unlimited runtime for even the biggest jobs, so a 12 Amp motor keeps chewing through branches and logs without any battery anxiety. The 16-inch low-kickback bar and chain deliver fast, smooth operation from any cutting angle.
At 10 pounds, it is half the weight of the EGO above — a 2.1x gap that matters when you are reaching overhead or working a full afternoon. Owners mention cutting three large boxwoods in under 30 minutes and felling 14-inch cedar trunks with ease. The automatic oiling system keeps the bar and chain lubricated continuously, and a clear window lets you check the oil level at a glance.
The trade-off is the cord itself: you will need a heavy-duty extension cord (owners suggest a 100ft 12/3 cord) and you are tethered to that outlet the whole time. Some owners note the chain can pop off if it runs loose, and there are scattered mentions of oil leakage. For medium-sized jobs near power, the performance and value are hard to argue with.
Why It Earns Its Place
- Unlimited runtime with a corded 12 Amp motor
- Only 10 pounds — easy to maneuver
- Clear oil window for quick level checks
- Tool-free chain tensioning
Keep This In Mind
- Requires a heavy-duty extension cord
- Chain can jump off if not kept tight
- Some units show oil leakage
Best for: homeowners with outlet access who want endless runtime at a budget-friendly price.
Not ideal if: you need to roam far from power — a battery or gas saw suits that better.
3. ReliaRoads 16-Inch Brushless Chainsaw (40V)
The budget saw that borrows your DeWalt batteries and runs like a champ.
This one is a clever play for anyone already holding DeWalt 20V MAX batteries. The ReliaRoads chainsaw runs on two of those packs (not included) to deliver 40V of cordless power through a 16-inch bar, which means you skip the cost of a whole new battery system. The brushless motor keeps the tool running cool and extends its life versus older brushed designs.
Safety is where this saw punches well above its price. A rapid stop halts the chain within 1.5 seconds of releasing the switch, and the quick-stop brake guard stops rotation in just 0.1 seconds. The automatic oil pump keeps the chain lubricated for up to 45-60 minutes of cutting per fill, so you are not constantly stopping to oil. Owners find it cuts “through everything like butter” with power comparable to small gas saws.
Battery life gets mixed feedback — the included two 4Ah batteries yield roughly 6-7 cuts per 16-inch trunk, while larger 6Ah packs last considerably longer. The stock chains are sharp but tend to jump off the bar, and a few owners swapped in an Oregon bar and chain for a better experience. For pruning and smaller felling jobs, this is exceptional value.
Standout Strengths
- Runs on existing DeWalt 20V MAX batteries
- Quick-stop brake stops chain in 0.1 seconds
- Up to 60 minutes of oiling per reservoir fill
- 2-year warranty with 30-day refund
Fair Caveats
- Stock chains tend to jump off the bar
- Battery life varies — bigger packs work better
- No battery included in the box
Reach for this if: you already own DeWalt 20V batteries and want a capable backup or pruning saw without a new battery investment.
Look elsewhere if: you expect long continuous runtime — this one wants bigger batteries for serious sessions.
4. SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw (20″)
A 20-inch gas monster that out-cuts saws costing four times as much.
When the work is serious firewood and big timber, this SUPMIXTOOLS saw brings the grunt. A 62cc 2-cycle engine (good for 4.2 hp) spins a 20-inch low-kickback bar at 8500 RPM, slicing through dense hardwood and cedar logs without bogging down. Owners compare it favorably to brand-name saws, with one noting it outpaces a new Stihl MS271 on knotty black walnut.
The ergonomic, well-balanced design reduces fatigue during extended use, and the safety switch plus quick-stop chain brake keep things controlled. It starts with a single easy pull when you use premixed 50:1 fuel — regular mix causes harder starts. The stock chain arrives sharp, and the included installation toolkit covers assembly.
For a year of heavy firewood use, customers note it stays reliable — one bought a second unit after the first impressed them. Its 62cc engine and 20-inch bar deliver premium gas power at a budget price. It’s the value pick for heavy firewood, tree trimming, and carpentry alike.
Why It’s A Gas Bargain
- 62cc engine delivers serious 4.2 hp
- 20-inch bar handles large logs
- Easy one-pull start with premixed fuel
- Quick-stop chain brake for safety
Consider This
- Regular gas mix can cause hard starting
- Gas power means fuel and maintenance chores
- Heavier than cordless options
Perfect for: firewood cutters and property owners who need real gas power without the premium price tag.
skip it if: you hate mixing fuel or only do light trimming — battery and corded saws are simpler.
5. CRAFTSMAN 10″ Mini Chainsaw (CMCCS610D1)
The lightweight one-hander that turns yard cleanup into a quick chore.
This mini saw is the answer for branches and light trimming where a full-size chainsaw feels like overkill. At just 7.9 pounds with a 10-inch bar designed for cuts up to 8 inches thick, you can operate it with one hand while holding a branch with the other. Its compact size makes it ideal for camping, off-roading, and reaching into tight spots.
The V20 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery delivers dependable power, and the auto-oiling feature keeps the chain lubricated continuously while the bolt lock chain tensioning maintains consistent bar clamping. Owners find it cuts through 6-8 inch thick branches with ease and appreciate how much simpler it is to handle than a full-size saw. The integrated hook makes it VERSATRACK compatible if you use that wall organization system.
Chain durability draws the most negative feedback here — a handful of owners wish the chain held its edge longer. The included charger is also slow; one owner noted it charges half a battery slower than two batteries on another charger, so a faster charger is a smart add-on for regular use. For occasional trimming with existing Craftsman V20 batteries, this is a reliable, convenient pick.
What Makes It Handy
- Lightweight 7.9-pound design for one-hand use
- Cuts branches up to 8 inches thick
- Auto-oiling for continuous lubrication
- Battery and charger included
Small Annoyances
- Included charger is noticeably slow
- Chain durability gets the most complaints
- Not built for daily heavy use
Reach for this if: you want a light, easy way to handle branches and small logs around the yard or campsite.
Think twice if: you need a heavy-duty saw for firewood — the 16-inch and 20-inch options cut far more efficiently.
6. DEWALT 20V MAX 12″ Cordless Chainsaw (DCCS621B)
DeWalt’s compact 12-inch saw that punches through limbs without the bulk.
This bare-tool DeWalt is the precise, lightweight option for cutting small trees, limbs, and bushes. The 12-inch low-kickback bar and high-efficiency brushless motor deliver up to 100 cuts per charge, and the lightweight design boost control for precise work. Gas-free operation means no cold starts, no fumes, and no carburetor issues.
At 10 pounds, it is lighter than the EGO above and easy to carry up a ladder or into the yard. Reviewers point out cutting 20+ trees including 50-foot poplars, and handling 8-10 inch wood capably for a saw this size. The brushless motor extends runtime and tool life, and an updated sealed oil cap prevents the leaks some earlier units showed.
This is a bare tool — you supply your own DeWalt 20V battery, which is great if you already own that system. The most-discussed trade-off is reliability, with a few owners reporting the saw cutting off during use; the recurring gripe is that there is no chain lube reservoir, so owners spray lube on the chain to keep it sharp longer. For cleanup and limb work, this is a top-quality compact performer.
Compact Strengths
- Holds 100 cuts per charge with 20V batteries
- Lightweight 10-pound frame for precise cuts
- Low-kickback bar for safer operation
- Sealed oil cap prevents leaks
Honest Trade-offs
- No chain lube reservoir — needs spray oil
- Bare tool only; battery sold separately
- Rare reports of cutting off mid-use
Best for: DeWalt 20V owners who want a precise, lightweight saw for branches and small trees.
Skip if: you want a self-contained kit with battery and lube system included.
7. EGO POWER+ 16″ Battery Chainsaw (CS1611)
The EGO that swaps a heavy battery for easier handling and still cuts deep.
This EGO sibling keeps the same gas-equivalent 40cc power and 16-inch bar as the top pick but ships with a lighter 2.5Ah battery, bringing the saw weight down to 9 pounds. That makes it noticeably easier to handle, especially for older users or anyone who finds the 4.0Ah version front-heavy. The push-button start and low vibration mean no joint soreness after a session.
It still delivers up to 130 cuts on a 4×4 per charge, and shoppers say cutting through a 25-foot, 12-inch tree on a single charge. The tool-free tensioning system, automatic oiling, and spill-free oil reservoir keep maintenance simple, while the low-kickback chain with brake indicator adds a layer of safety. The IPX4 weather resistance holds up in damp conditions.
Owners consistently report reliable starts, quiet operation, and zero fuel mixing. The 2.5Ah battery is lighter but gives shorter runtime, so heavy cutting sessions might mean grabbing a second battery. Bar oil is not included, so budget for that separately. If you already own other EGO 56V tools, this slots right into your system.
Why It Wins Fans
- Only 9 pounds with the 2.5Ah battery attached
- 40cc gas-equivalent power at 20 m/s chain speed
- Spill-free oil reservoir and auto-oiling
- IPX4 weather-resistant construction
Know Before You Go
- 2.5Ah battery gives shorter runtime than the 4.0Ah
- Bar oil not included in the box
- Extra batteries are a real investment
Reach for this if: you want EGO’s gas-level cordless power in a lighter package that is easier to handle.
Look elsewhere if: you plan marathon cutting sessions — grab the 4.0Ah version or a spare battery.
8. Husqvarna 130 Gas Chainsaw (16″)
The brand-name gas saw that owners trust to fire up every single time.
Husqvarna is a name that carries decades of trust, and the 130 shows why. Its 38-cc, 2-HP X-Torq engine boost power even at low RPMs, while the fuel pump and combined choke/stop control make starting genuinely easy without flooding the engine. The 16-inch bar is recommended for 14 to 16-inch chains, ideal for home and garden tasks.
The smart engineering shows in daily use. Air Injection Technology expels dust and debris before it reaches the air filter, extending engine life, while LowVib technology uses dampeners to cut vibration and reduce fatigue. An inertia-activated chain brake reduces kickback injury risk. Owners with decades of Husqvarna experience report this one is lighter and easier to maneuver than older models, cutting “like butter.”
Assembly is straightforward — the bar and chain arrive installed, though owners advise checking the chain tension from the start since some arrive too tight. Starting is reliable: a few primer shots and choke pulls and it fires on the third pull. The occasional lemon exists — one owner’s unit stalled repeatedly — but the broad consensus is a well-made saw that works every time. For those who prefer gas reliability without the premium Rancher price, this is the balanced pick.
What Feels Right
- Easy start with fuel pump and choke/stop control
- Air Injection keeps the filter cleaner longer
- LowVib dampeners reduce hand fatigue
- Trusted Husqvarna brand reputation
Watch For
- Chain may arrive too tight from the factory
- Gas means fuel mixing and maintenance
- Occasional units have starting issues
Best for: homeowners who want a trusted gas saw with easy start and low vibration for general yard work.
Not for: anyone avoiding gas maintenance entirely — battery and corded options need far less care.
9. Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20″ Gas Chainsaw
The 20-inch Rancher that slices through storm damage and firewood with authority.
This is the saw for serious cutting. The Husqvarna 450 Rancher packs a 50.2-cc, 3.2-HP X-Torq engine behind a 20-inch bar, the kind of power that turns large storm-fallen logs into manageable pieces without the saw bogging down. Owners describe it as slicing through larger trees “like butter” while still being manageable at 11.3 pounds.
The ergonomics are the real luxury here. Smart Start gets the engine running with minimal pull effort, while a soft inlay grip, ergonomic trigger, and asymmetrical handle reduce fatigue. LowVib technology dampens vibration, and Air Injection keeps dust out of the air filter. It is lighter, smoother, and quicker-starting than the Poulan PR4016, with similar power — a comparison owners actually make.
The durability headline has a caveat: a handful of buyers report the chain breaking on the first day, and one noted the factory spark plug was over-torqued. Replacement chains also run about 1/4-inch different from standard 20-inch chains, so sizing matters. For all-day firewood cutting and yard cleanup, the Rancher’s power and comfort justify its position as the premium gas pick here.
Rancher-Level Strengths
- 50.2-cc 3.2-HP engine powers through big logs
- Smart Start requires minimal pulling effort
- Ergonomic grip and LowVib cut fatigue
- Air Injection extends engine life
Consider The Caveats
- Some chains break on first-day use
- Replacement chains differ ~1/4″ from standard
- Factory spark plug may need re-torquing
Perfect for: serious firewood cutters and property owners who need 20-inch gas power with premium ergonomics.
Think twice if: your cutting is light and occasional — the cost and gas maintenance only pay off with real volume.
Understanding the Specs
Bar Length
Bar length measures the cutting bar from tip to base, and it sets the maximum diameter of wood you can cut in one pass. A 10-inch bar handles branches up to 8 inches thick, while a 16-inch bar reaches through most storm debris and a 20-inch bar is built for firewood and felling. Match the bar to your biggest expected cut, not your dream project.
Power Source (cc vs Volt vs Amp)
Gas engines are measured in cubic centimeters (cc) — more cc means more torque for dense hardwood, with 38cc being home-friendly and 62cc delivering serious grunt. Cordless saws are rated in volts (V), where higher voltage like 56V generally means more cutting force than 20V packs. Corded saws are rated in amps, and a 12 Amp motor supplies steady, unlimited power.
Chain Speed
Chain speed, measured in meters per second (m/s) or feet per second (FT/S), tells you how fast the chain travels around the bar. Faster speeds produce cleaner, more efficient cuts through wood. A brushless motor helps maintain higher chain speeds and longer runtime than older brushed designs, making it a key spec for cordless saws.
Safety & Oiling Features
Look for a chain brake that stops the bar instantly if kickback occurs — some stop rotation in as little as 0.1 seconds. Tool-free chain tensioning lets you adjust the chain without wrenches, and an automatic oiler keeps the bar lubricated so the chain runs smooth and lasts longer. Spill-free reservoirs are a bonus for battery saws.
FAQ
What size chainsaw bar do I need for my property?
Will a battery chainsaw really replace my gas saw?
Is a corded chainsaw better than a battery one?
Can I use DeWalt batteries in this ReliaRoads chainsaw?
How long does a chainsaw battery last on a full charge?
What is the difference between the two EGO chainsaws here?
Do I need to oil the chain on a battery chainsaw?
Why does my chainsaw chain keep jumping off the bar?
Is a gas chainsaw worth the extra maintenance?
Are mini chainsaws powerful enough for real work?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most people, the best chainsaws winner is the EGO POWER+ 16″ because it delivers genuine 40cc gas-equivalent power with the instant-start convenience of a battery, backed by 4.7 stars from a huge owner base. If you want unlimited corded runtime on a budget, grab the BLACK+DECKER CS1216 at half the weight. And for serious firewood cutting, the SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc is the value-packed gas powerhouse to reach for. The crowd favorite among all nine is the EGO — its combination of battery life, power, and ease of use is exactly what most homeowners actually need from a saw.
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.






