The pull-cord yank, the gasoline mix, the deafening roar, the exhaust fumes that cling to your clothes for hours. For years, that was the price of admission for any serious cutting around the property. The electric chainsaw rewrites that entire contract, delivering instant torque at the press of a trigger with zero warm-up, zero fuel stabilizer, and zero ear-ringing idle noise. But shifting from gas to battery brings its own set of questions about runtime, chain speed, and whether a cordless motor can muscle through a 12-inch oak limb when you need it to.
I’m Mo Maruf — the founder and writer behind The Tools Trunk. I spend my weeks comparing brushless motor specs, bar lengths, and battery amp-hour ratings across dozens of models so homeowners and pros alike know exactly where their money lands.
This guide breaks down the seven best cordless chainsaws on the market right now, covering everything from lightweight pruning tools to high-voltage bruisers capable of replacing a mid-range gas saw. Whether you are clearing storm debris or bucking firewood for next winter, these reviews zero in on the specific specs that separate a useful tool from a frustrating one so you can confidently buy your next electric chainsaw.
How To Choose The Best Electric Chainsaw
Buying an electric chainsaw is not about grabbing the biggest bar or the highest voltage number on the box. The real-world cutting experience depends on how the motor, battery, bar, and chain work together. Beginners often over-prioritize voltage while ignoring chain pitch and oiler reliability, both of which determine whether the saw actually keeps cutting through a long session.
Bar Length and Chain Pitch
Bar length defines the maximum diameter of wood you can cut in a single pass. A 12-inch bar handles limbs up to roughly 10 inches thick, while a 16-inch bar can manage larger logs and light felling. More important is the chain pitch — typically 3/8-inch low-profile or .325-inch — which dictates how aggressively the teeth bite. A lower-pitch chain gives smoother, safer cuts in smaller wood, while a coarser pitch moves more material per revolution in bigger timber.
Battery Voltage and Amp-Hour Capacity
Voltage determines the motor’s peak torque, and amp-hours (Ah) determine how long that torque lasts. A 40V system with a 4Ah battery delivers roughly 160 watt-hours of energy. For most homeowners, a 40V or 58V platform offers the best balance of weight and cutting stamina. Higher voltage systems (60V and above) tend to produce chain speeds exceeding 80 feet per second, approaching gas saw performance. Look for a battery with at least 4Ah if you plan to cut for more than 30 minutes continuously.
Automatic Oiler vs Manual Lube
An automatic oiler keeps the chain lubricated during operation, reducing friction and preventing premature bar wear. Every chainsaw in the mid-range and premium tiers includes one, but the oil flow rate varies. Some models let you adjust the flow depending on the wood density and temperature. If you cut hardwoods like oak or hickory, an adjustable oiler is a feature worth seeking out.
Tool-Free Chain Tensioning
Chains naturally stretch during use and need periodic tightening. A tool-free tensioning system — usually a dial or side knob — lets you adjust in seconds without a wrench. This is a major convenience if you run through multiple batteries in a session. Models that require a tool for tensioning can become frustrating when the chain slackens mid-job.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DCCS621B | Cordless | Construction cuts & daily runtime | 100 cuts per charge | Amazon |
| SENIX CSX6-M | Cordless | Gas-like speed & battery life | 85 ft/s chain speed | Amazon |
| Greenworks CS40L2511 | Cordless | Lightweight all-around yard work | 7.6 lb weight | Amazon |
| DCK KDCS58161BDM | Cordless | Feature-packed value | 58V brushless motor | Amazon |
| Makita XCU06Z | Cordless | Precision one-handed pruning | 10 in. bar / 7.2 lb | Amazon |
| Worx WG384 | Cordless | Auto-tension & dual battery system | Auto chain tensioning | Amazon |
| Stihl MSA60.0 C-B | Cordless | Light garden & craft work | 11 lb total weight | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. DEWALT 20V MAX 12 in. Cordless Chainsaw (DCCS621B)
The DCCS621B is a bare-tool powerhouse that delivers up to 100 cuts per charge thanks to a high-efficiency brushless motor. Weighing just over 10 pounds, the lightweight chassis gives you precise control during limbing and bucking without the shoulder fatigue that comes with heavier gas saws. The 12-inch low-kickback bar is ideal for tackling construction cuts, fallen limbs, and medium-sized firewood rounds.
Users consistently praise the sealed oil cap design that prevents leaks and dust ingress — a common annoyance on earlier models. The automatic oiler keeps the 3/8-inch low-profile chain lubricated during operation, and the tool-free chain tensioning makes adjustments quick when the chain stretches. Multiple reviews note the saw’s ability to cut through 8-inch poplar and 4-inch walnut without bogging down, though the chain speed is noticeably slower than a gas equivalent.
Runtime depends heavily on the battery you pair it with. Using a 5Ah or 6Ah battery yields roughly 30 minutes of active cutting, making this a strong choice if you already own DEWALT 20V MAX tools. The absence of fumes and pull-start hassle is a recurring highlight from owners transitioning from gas. For a dedicated bare-tool option within a proven battery ecosystem, this is tough to beat.
What works
- Excellent cut count per charge with a large battery
- Lightweight and well-balanced for precision cutting
- Sealed oil cap reduces mess and dust contamination
- Low kickback bar increases safety
What doesn’t
- Bare tool — battery and charger sold separately
- Slower chain speed compared to gas saws
- Chain may need retensioning after heavy use
2. SENIX 60V 16 in. Cordless Chainsaw (CSX6-M)
The SENIX CSX6-M delivers 85 feet per second chain speed from a 60V brushless motor — numbers that put it in the same league as entry-level gas saws. The 16-inch Oregon bar and chain give you enough reach to handle medium felling, limbing, and firewood cutting. Included in the kit is a 60V 4Ah battery with a charge-level indicator, plus a standard charger, so you are ready to cut out of the box.
Owners report cutting through a full cord of mixed hardwood on a single charge, and the tool-free tensioning with automatic oiler keeps the saw running without constant fiddling. The ECO mode extends runtime further when you are pruning or making lighter cuts, while full power is always available for dense logs. Several reviewers note that the chain speed rivals a gas saw and that the noise reduction is dramatic — no earplugs required for casual trimming sessions.
Two consistent criticisms are the slow charger (roughly two hours to top off a drained 4Ah battery) and the difficulty of the release button with thick work gloves. The chain has also been reported to derail when hot if not tensioned perfectly. Replacement chains for the 18-inch Oregon bar are expensive and hard to find, so verify bar compatibility before purchasing spares.
What works
- Chain speed approaches gas-tier performance
- Excellent battery life for residential cutting sessions
- Tool-free tensioning and automatic oiler included
- Quiet operation with ECO mode for light work
What doesn’t
- Charger is slow at around two hours for a full battery
- Release button is hard to press with thick gloves
- Replacement chain availability and cost are drawbacks
3. Greenworks 40V 14 in. Cordless Chainsaw (CS40L2511)
Weighing only 7.6 pounds with the battery attached, the Greenworks 40V is one of the lightest full-featured chainsaws in this roundup. The 14-inch bar and chain pair with a TurBrushless motor that delivers double the torque of brushed predecessors, giving you enough grunt to cut through 12-inch logs and heavy limbs. The kit ships with a 2.5Ah battery and a fast charger, making it a complete solution for yard cleanup and storm response.
First-time users, including those who have never operated a chainsaw, consistently find the push-button start and low weight non-intimidating. The automatic oiler feeds bar lube throughout the cut, and the easy-adjust tensioning system simplifies chain maintenance. Owners report cutting 4-foot limbs and 12-inch logs without bogging, often outperforming older gas saws in the same size class. The battery life is adequate for a 30- to 45-minute session, but heavier users quickly upgrade to a 6Ah battery for extended runtime.
The main downsides are the included 2.5Ah battery’s short runtime under heavy load and the tendency for the bar nuts to loosen if not checked frequently. One owner reported losing a nut mid-cut, damaging the chain. Make it a habit to verify the bar nuts and chain tension before each battery swap.
What works
- Extremely lightweight at under 8 pounds
- Easy push-button start ideal for beginners
- Torque output beats many gas saws in its class
- Complete kit includes battery and charger
What doesn’t
- Included 2.5Ah battery drains quickly under heavy cutting
- Bar nuts may loosen during prolonged use
- Chain replacement parts not always cross-compatible
4. DCK 58V 16 in. Cordless Chainsaw (KDCS58161BDM)
The DCK 58V leverages a high-voltage brushless motor to deliver cutting power that owners describe as comparable to a gas saw. The 16-inch Oregon bar and chain handle light felling, limbing, and firewood duty. The kit is unusually complete: two 58V 4Ah batteries, a 5A fast charger, bar oil, a scabbard, and an impact-resistant carrying case — there is nothing else to buy.
Tool-free chain tensioning via a large dial and an automatic oiler with a transparent oil window make daily maintenance straightforward. A built-in LED light illuminates the cut line for dusk or underbrush work, and the dual-layer safety system (synchronous start button plus chain brake kickback stop) provides real protection for new users. The 5A charger can refill a drained 4Ah battery in roughly 50 minutes, minimizing downtime between cutting sessions.
Weighing nearly 23 pounds in the box, the saw itself is on the heavier side, largely due to the 58V battery pack. A few reviewers noted that assembly requires fitting the chain manually, which can be awkward for first-timers. Despite the weight, the combination of power, included accessories, and a five-year tool warranty delivers significant value for homeowners who want a complete system without incremental purchases.
What works
- Complete kit with two batteries, charger, oil, and case
- Power output close to gas saws
- Fast 50-minute charge time
- LED light and oil window are practical additions
What doesn’t
- Saw is heavy, especially with the 58V battery
- Manual chain installation can be tricky for new owners
- Not compatible with 20V tools from the same brand
5. Makita XCU06Z 18V LXT Top Handle Chainsaw
The Makita XCU06Z is a compact top-handle saw engineered for pruning, trimming, and limbing tasks that demand one-handed maneuverability. Weighing just 7.2 pounds, it is 28 percent lighter than comparable gas top-handle saws, which makes a real difference when you are working up a ladder or reaching into thick canopy. The outer rotor brushless motor delivers 4,720 feet per minute of chain speed, equivalent to a 22cc gas saw.
Users who already own into the Makita LXT 18V system appreciate the cross-compatibility — drop any 18V battery onto this tool and start cutting. The captured bar nut and lateral chain tensioning simplify bar and chain swaps without losing parts. Torque boost mode engages extra power when you hit dense knots or hardwood. Multiple reviewers describe it as ideal for brush clearing and precise pruning where a large bar would be clumsy.
The main limitation is the short 10-inch bar, which restricts you to branches and small logs under about 8 inches in diameter. No battery or charger is included, so the upfront cost is higher if you are not already in the Makita ecosystem. The guide plate is less robust than full-size saws, and the soft start feature can feel sluggish during repetitive limbing cuts.
What works
- Extremely light and well-balanced for one-handed use
- Chain speed matches a 22cc gas saw
- Fits existing Makita 18V LXT battery platform
- Lateral chain tensioning is quick and precise
What doesn’t
- 10-inch bar limits cut diameter
- Bare tool — battery and charger not included
- Guide plate feels less durable than full-size models
6. Worx 40V 14 in. Cordless Chainsaw Power Share (WG384)
The Worx WG384 is the only model in this lineup with automated chain tensioning, which constantly adjusts the chain slack to maintain optimal tension while you cut. The dynamic brushless motor draws power from two 20V Power Share batteries wired in series to produce 40V, and the kit includes both 2Ah batteries plus a dual charger. The 14-inch bar is suitable for pruning, firewood, and storm cleanup around the property.
The quick-stop chain brake adds an extra layer of safety, though reviewers note the brake requires a firm pull to disengage before the saw will start. The automatic oiler delivers consistent lubrication, and the battery level indicator on the saw helps you plan when to swap packs. Owners praise the quiet operation and the fact that the same batteries work across all Worx 20V and 40V tools. Several users report cutting 9-inch beech and dense hardwood without losing momentum.
The auto-tension system is not perfect — some owners find the chain still pops off when cutting twisted or new-growth wood, requiring manual retensioning. The stock chain has also been criticized for feeling “tinny” and needing frequent sharpening. An aftermarket Oregon R52 chain (3/8 pitch, .043 gauge) is a common upgrade that resolves the issue.
What works
- Automatic chain tensioning reduces manual adjustments
- Two batteries included with dual charger
- Cross-compatible with entire Worx Power Share line
- Chain brake adds reliable safety
What doesn’t
- Auto-tension can fail in twisted or green wood
- Stock chain quality is below average
- Chain brake release can be stiff with gloves
7. Stihl MSA60.0 C-B Cordless Chainsaw
The Stihl MSA60.0 C-B is purpose-built for occasional green care and light craft cutting — think garden pruning, small branch removal, and DIY projects rather than heavy firewood production. Weighing just 5 kilograms (11 pounds) complete with the battery, it is the lightest saw on this list and designed for maximum comfort during short-duration tasks. The 1.4 kW brushless motor provides enough torque for branches up to about 6 inches in diameter while keeping the tool nimble enough for one-hand operation.
Stihl’s engineering pedigree is evident in the balanced chassis and low vibration levels. Owners who have used Stihl gas saws for decades appreciate the familiar ergonomics and the quiet, fume-free operation. The chain brake is easy to engage and provides a quick stop in case of kickback. The captive nut system simplifies chain changes, and the automatic oiler keeps the bar lubricated during light cutting bouts.
There are two real trade-offs for this model. First, the performance is not designed for prolonged cutting of dense hardwood — the battery drains faster under load compared to higher-voltage options. Second, the price sits at a premium tier for a saw that is primarily intended for light residential use rather than heavy acreage management. It is a specialized tool for gardeners who prioritize weight and ease over raw cutting capacity.
What works
- Extremely light and comfortable to handle
- Renowned Stihl build quality and low vibration
- Very quiet operation ideal for suburban yards
- Easy chain maintenance with captive nut design
What doesn’t
- Battery runtime is limited under heavy loads
- Premium price for a light-duty tool
- Not suited for large-diameter felling or firewood
Hardware & Specs Guide
Brushless vs Brushed Motors
Brushless motors eliminate carbon brushes, reducing friction and heat. This directly translates to longer runtime per charge — typically 30 to 50 percent more cuts than a brushed motor of the same voltage. Brushless motors also produce higher peak torque and have a longer service life because there are no brushes to wear down. Every tool in this guide uses a brushless motor, which is the baseline standard for any modern electric chainsaw worth considering.
Chain Speed and Torque Curve
Chain speed is measured in feet per second (ft/s) and determines how fast the chain travels around the bar. Higher chain speed (80+ ft/s) allows the saw to slice through wood more efficiently with less pressure from the operator. However, raw speed alone does not determine cutting ability — the motor’s torque curve matters just as much. A motor that maintains high torque under load prevents the chain from stalling in dense hardwood. The SENIX CSX6-M’s 85 ft/s and Makita XCU06Z’s 4,720 FPM are both examples of speed-torque combinations that cut effectively across a range of wood densities.
FAQ
What bar length should I choose for typical homeowner cutting?
How long does a typical battery last on a single charge?
Do I need to manually oil the chain on an electric chainsaw?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the electric chainsaw winner is the DEWALT DCCS621B because it combines a proven 20V MAX battery platform, a lightweight form factor, and an impressive cut count per charge that suits both construction and property maintenance. If you want gas-like chain speed and the ability to cut through a cord of firewood on one charge, grab the SENIX CSX6-M. And for precision one-handed pruning where every ounce matters, nothing beats the Makita XCU06Z.