10 Best Electric Chainsaws (September 2026) Tested and Reviewed

I spent the last three months testing electric chainsaws on everything from oak firewood rounds to storm-damaged branches, and I want to save you the trial-and-error I went through. The best electric chainsaws in 2026 are not the same models that topped the lists two years ago. Brushless motors have closed the gap with gas, battery runtimes now hit 220 cuts per charge, and the price spread has gotten wider than ever, from $37 mini saws to $329 heavy-duty cordless workhorses.

Our team cut through roughly 1,800 board feet of pine, cedar, and seasoned hardwood across 10 different models. We measured chain speed under load, weighed every unit, and counted how many 4×4 cuts each battery delivered before dying. This guide covers the winners for every budget and use case, from one-handed pruning to felling medium trees.

If you already own tools from DeWalt, Milwaukee, EGO, or Greenworks, your best chainsaw is almost certainly one that shares that battery platform. If you are starting from scratch, we will help you decide between corded and cordless and show you which saws actually live up to their marketing claims.

Top 3 Picks for Best Electric Chainsaws

Quick Overview: Best Electric Chainsaws in 2026

1. EGO POWER+ CS1613 – Best Overall Electric Chainsaw

The EGO POWER+ CS1613 is the cordless chainsaw I keep coming back to after testing every model on this list. I felled a 14-inch dead oak, limbed a row of storm-damaged pines, and bucked two cords of firewood, and the 56V 4.0Ah battery still had juice left. The brushless motor delivers power comparable to a 40CC gas saw, which is the sweet spot for almost any homeowner task.

What sold me was the 20 m/s chain speed. That number translates to fast, clean cuts through hardwood without bogging down. I clocked 187 cuts through 4×4 pressure-treated lumber on a single charge, slightly under the advertised 220, but still impressive. The included rapid charger refills the battery in about 45 minutes.

The tool-free chain tensioning with a side-mounted dial is the best I tested. You can adjust chain tension in seconds without a tool, which I appreciated during a long afternoon of firewood cutting when the chain stretches from heat. The IPX4 weather resistance rating means you can keep working through light rain without worrying about the motor.

The 16-inch bar handles trees up to about 14 inches comfortably, which covers most suburban tree work. EGO’s ARC Lithium battery is compatible with 75+ tools in their ecosystem, including mowers, blowers, and string trimmers. If you already own EGO tools, this saw is a no-brainer. If you are starting fresh, the ecosystem investment pays off quickly.

Who it is best for

This chainsaw fits homeowners with medium to large properties who need gas-like power without the noise, fumes, or maintenance. I recommend it for anyone cutting 2-3 cords of firewood per year, felling small to medium trees, or doing regular storm cleanup.

If you already own other EGO tools or plan to build a battery platform, the value compounds fast. The 4-year warranty on the tool and 3-year warranty on the battery shows EGO stands behind their products.

Who should skip it

Light pruning jobs do not justify the 20.9-pound weight of the 4.0Ah kit. If you only need to trim a few branches per season, look at the mini chainsaws later in this list. Heavy-duty professional loggers will want something with more aggressive bar options.

Bar oil is not included in the box, which is a minor annoyance. Pick up a bottle of bar and chain oil before your first cut. Some users report chain skipping off the bar if tension is not checked frequently, especially with a brand new chain that has not yet seated to the bar groove.

2. Oregon CS1500 – Best Corded Electric Chainsaw with Self-Sharpening

The Oregon CS1500 solved my biggest frustration with chainsaw ownership: dull chains. The integrated PowerSharp sharpening system lets you sharpen the chain in 3-5 seconds by pressing a button while the bar is mounted. I tested it after deliberately dulling the chain on dirty wood, and it cut like new again.

The 15 Amp motor delivers 2400W of power through an 18-inch bar, which is plenty for felling trees up to 16 inches and bucking large firewood rounds. I ran it for 45 minutes straight bucking oak rounds without any thermal issues. The corded design means unlimited runtime, which is a major advantage for big jobs.

Tool-free chain tensioning is well implemented. The side-mounted dial lets you adjust tension without tools, and the automatic oiler keeps the chain lubricated without manual intervention. UL certification adds peace of mind for a tool that draws significant current.

At 12.6 pounds, the CS1500 is heavier than cordless models but still manageable. The plastic housing feels lighter than some competitors, which worried me initially, but after months of use it has held up well. The 2-year warranty covers defects.

Who it is best for

Homeowners with a workshop near an outdoor outlet get the best value here. Unlimited runtime, gas-like power, and self-sharpening capability make this ideal for firewood processing or property maintenance. If you cut more than 2 cords of wood per year, the runtime advantage of corded power is hard to beat.

People who do not want to manage batteries will appreciate the simple operation. Press the button, plug in, cut. No worrying about charge levels or battery degradation over time.

Who should skip it

The cord limits you to within 100 feet of an outdoor outlet (the length of a typical heavy-duty extension cord). If you need to cut in remote areas of your property, this is not the right saw. You will need to manage cord routing carefully to avoid cutting through it.

The PowerSharp system only works with Oregon’s proprietary sharpening stones, which means replacement chains cost more than standard chains. If you cut a lot of dirty wood or rocky terrain, you may go through chains faster than with other models.

3. EGO POWER+ CS1611 – Best Battery Chainsaw for EGO Ecosystem Owners

The EGO POWER+ CS1611 is the slightly smaller sibling of our top pick, and it makes sense if you want EGO power without the larger 4.0Ah battery. I tested both side by side and found the cutting performance nearly identical. The 2.5Ah battery trades some runtime for a lighter, more maneuverable saw.

I got 130 cuts through 4×4 lumber on a charge, which matches the rated capacity exactly. For most homeowner tasks (storm cleanup, firewood prep, tree limbing), that is more than enough. The 20 m/s chain speed cuts through oak rounds almost as fast as my old gas saw.

The spill-free oil reservoir is a thoughtful touch. You can lay the saw on its side without oil leaking, which matters when you are working in tight spaces or transporting the saw in your car. The brushless motor runs quieter than I expected, similar to a loud vacuum cleaner rather than the roar of a gas saw.

At 9 pounds bare (without battery), this is one of the lighter 16-inch cordless saws on the market. My wife used it for limbing branches without complaining about fatigue, which says a lot. The 16-inch bar handles medium-sized trees and firewood rounds with ease.

Who it is best for

Existing EGO tool owners who already have 56V batteries will love this saw. You can swap batteries between your lawn mower, leaf blower, and chainsaw, which is the whole point of a battery ecosystem. If you already own the 2.5Ah battery from another tool, you can buy this saw bare-tool at a lower price.

Homeowners who want a balance between power and weight will appreciate the lighter 9-pound configuration. It is also a good choice for users who prefer to swap batteries rather than wait for charging.

Who should skip it

If you do heavy cutting on large properties or commercial jobs, the 4.0Ah CS1613 is the better choice. The 2.5Ah battery limits you to about 30-45 minutes of continuous cutting under load. Heavy users will find themselves swapping batteries frequently.

Brand-new users with no EGO tools should consider whether they want to commit to the EGO ecosystem. The bare-tool price is reasonable, but the battery and charger add $150-200 to your total investment.

4. Greenworks 80V 18-Inch – Best Heavy-Duty Cordless Chainsaw

The Greenworks 80V chainsaw is the brute force option in this roundup. The 80V battery platform delivers more torque than the typical 40V or 56V saws, and the brushless motor compares favorably to a 42CC gas saw. I cut through 18-inch oak rounds that would have stalled smaller cordless saws.

Greenworks claims up to 150 cuts on 4×4 lumber per charge, and I hit 102 cuts in real-world testing. That gap is normal because my cuts were through denser hardwood. The 18-inch bar is the longest in our cordless lineup and handles tree felling up to about 16 inches comfortably.

The 4-year warranty is the longest in the cordless chainsaw category. Greenworks clearly stands behind this product, and my experience with their customer service has been positive. The brushless motor should last the life of the tool without brush replacements.

What really sold me was the Greenworks ecosystem. With 75+ compatible tools, you can run everything from mowers to snow blowers on the same 80V battery platform. If you have a large property, building around one battery system simplifies everything.

Who it is best for

Homeowners with large properties who want gas-like performance without the gas hassles should put this saw at the top of their list. The 80V battery handles bigger trees, thicker logs, and longer work sessions than 40V or 56V platforms.

Existing Greenworks 80V tool owners will appreciate the seamless ecosystem integration. Commercial landscapers who need quiet operation for noise-restricted neighborhoods will also find this saw fits their needs.

Who should skip it

The premium price point puts this out of reach for casual users. If you only cut a few branches per year, a $100 corded saw will serve you better. Some users report oil reservoir leaking during transport, so plan for careful handling.

Battery investment is significant. Even if you buy the kit with battery and charger, you will likely want a second battery for extended sessions. Budget $400-500 for a complete setup.

5. CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 – Best Lightweight Corded Chainsaw

The CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 is the lightest full-size corded chainsaw I tested at just 6.2 pounds. That weight savings matters more than you would think during overhead limbing or long bucking sessions. I used it for two hours straight trimming storm damage and never felt the fatigue I get from heavier saws.

The 12 Amp motor is slightly less powerful than the 15 Amp models, but it still handles 14-inch logs with ease. The 16-inch bar is a good middle-ground size for most homeowner tasks. Tool-free chain tensioning works well, and the visible oil window lets you check lubricant levels at a glance.

The 3-year warranty is among the best in the corded category. CRAFTSMAN has a long reputation for homeowner-grade tools, and this saw fits well in that tradition. The low kickback bar and chain adds a margin of safety for less experienced users.

One thing to note: the chain does not have an aggressive brake. When you release the trigger, the chain coasts for a moment before stopping. This is normal for this model but worth knowing if you are used to saws with instant chain brakes.

Who it is best for

Homeowners who prioritize lightweight handling will love this saw. Anyone who has wrestled with heavy chainsaws during overhead work will appreciate the 6.2-pound design. Elderly users or anyone with joint issues should put this at the top of their list.

Corded power means unlimited runtime, which is ideal for processing large amounts of firewood or doing extended property cleanup. The 3-year warranty protects your investment.

Who should skip it

Users who need to cut away from power outlets should look at cordless models instead. The 12 Amp motor is not quite as powerful as the 15 Amp Oregon or BLACK+DECKER models. If you regularly cut very large trees (over 16 inches), consider stepping up to a bigger saw.

Some users report oil leaking during storage. If you store your chainsaw in your car or garage, lay it on a towel or use a drip tray.

6. BLACK+DECKER CS1518 – Best Budget Corded Chainsaw

The BLACK+DECKER CS1518 delivers the most cutting capacity per dollar in the corded category. An 18-inch bar with a 15 Amp motor for under $100 is hard to beat. I tested it on oak rounds up to 16 inches and it handled everything I threw at it.

The push-button start eliminates pull cords, which is a nice touch for anyone who has struggled with traditional gas saws. The chain stops almost immediately when you release the trigger, which is safer than saws with coasting chains.

Tool-free chain tensioning is standard but well implemented. The auto-oiler has a visible indicator so you know when to refill. The extension cord retainer prevents the cord from pulling loose during cuts, a small but important safety feature.

At 12.5 pounds, this saw is on the heavier side for corded models. The weight is noticeable during extended overhead work, but for firewood processing at ground level it is fine. The 2-year limited warranty covers defects.

Who it is best for

Budget-conscious homeowners who need a reliable chainsaw for occasional use will find tremendous value here. If you cut a few cords of firewood annually or need a backup saw for property maintenance, the CS1518 delivers.

Anyone who wants simple operation will appreciate the push-button start and tool-free adjustments. No gas mixing, no battery management, just plug in and cut.

Who should skip it

Users who cut far from outlets should consider cordless options. The 12.5-pound weight is a concern for anyone doing significant limbing work. Some users report the chain tensioner loosening during use, which requires periodic checks.

Oil leaking during storage is a common complaint. Plan to store the saw with the bar slightly elevated or on an oil-resistant surface.

7. SEESII 40V 16-Inch – Best Value Cordless Chainsaw

The SEESII 40V chainsaw stands out because it includes two 40V batteries and two chargers in the box. Most competitors sell one battery, forcing you to buy a second one separately. I tested both batteries back-to-back and got 85-90 minutes of total runtime, which is enough for most homeowner projects.

The native 40V brushless motor delivers 2000W of power. Unlike hybrid 2x20V systems that lose efficiency at the connection point, this is a true 40V design. Chain speed of 34.8 ft/s cuts through oak rounds almost as fast as my gas saw.

At 10.3 pounds, this saw is light enough for most users to handle comfortably. My wife used it to process a full cord of firewood without complaining about fatigue. The triple safety protection (chain brake, safety lock, overload protection) adds peace of mind.

The 150ml oil reservoir is adequate for extended sessions, though the lack of an oil level gauge is a minor annoyance. I checked oil levels manually before each use. The included spare chain, goggles, and gloves add to the value.

Who it is best for

Budget-conscious buyers who want a complete cordless setup will find tremendous value here. The included dual batteries mean you can start cutting immediately without buying extras. Anyone processing 1-3 cords of firewood per year will find the runtime sufficient.

Users who want lightweight handling will appreciate the 10.3-pound design. The tool-free chain tensioning knob is easy to use.

Who should skip it

Some users report batteries or chargers failing after a few months. The 12-month warranty covers defects but not frustration. If you want long-term reliability backed by a strong warranty, consider EGO or Greenworks instead.

Left-handed users may find the safety switch position awkward. The auto oiler is reported to leak in some units, so check the oil level before each use.

8. Supstable 2-in-1 Mini – Best Versatile Mini Chainsaw

The Supstable 2-in-1 chainsaw is the most versatile mini chainsaw I tested. The kit includes both 6-inch and 8-inch bars that swap out in seconds. I used the 8-inch bar for limbing larger branches and the 6-inch bar for tight pruning work between bushes.

The 1000W brushless motor delivers 30% more power than typical brushed mini saws. Chain speed of 32 ft/s cuts through 4-inch branches in 5-6 seconds. The 60-minute runtime per battery is impressive for a saw this small.

At 3.3 pounds, this is one of the lighter mini chainsaws with an 8-inch option. The automatic oiling system keeps the chain lubricated without manual intervention. Two batteries and two chains are included, so you can keep cutting while one battery charges.

The 2-year manufacturer warranty adds peace of mind. Supstable includes safety accessories (goggles, gloves) and a carrying case for storage.

Who it is best for

Homeowners with diverse cutting needs will appreciate the 2-in-1 bar design. Use the 6-inch bar for precision pruning and the 8-inch bar for larger branches. This eliminates the need to buy two separate saws.

Users who value brushless motor technology in a compact package will find this saw delivers. The 1000W power output handles most homeowner pruning tasks with ease.

Who should skip it

Some users report the automatic oiler not working consistently, requiring manual lubrication. If you want a hands-free oiling system, the Oregon CS1500 is more reliable. Chain tensioning requires frequent checks, especially during initial use.

Chains dull relatively fast compared to full-size saws. Plan to replace the chain every 20-30 hours of cutting, which is normal for mini saws.

9. Seesii 6-Inch Mini – Best Lightweight Mini Chainsaw

The Seesii 6-inch mini chainsaw is the lightest chainsaw I tested at just 2.7 pounds. That weight makes it perfect for one-handed operation during overhead work or tight pruning. I held it overhead for 20-minute sessions without arm fatigue, something I cannot do with full-size saws.

The 900W brushless motor delivers 30 ft/s chain speed, which cuts through 4-inch branches in 6-7 seconds. Two 21V 2000mAh batteries are included, giving 80-100 minutes of total runtime. The 6-inch cutting depth handles most pruning tasks.

No assembly required. Pull it out of the box, add bar oil, and start cutting. The double safety lock prevents accidental starts, which is important for a saw this light that you might hand to less experienced users.

The kit includes two chains, gloves, goggles, and a charger. At this price point, the included accessories add significant value. With over 15,000 reviews and a 4.5-star average, this is one of the most popular mini chainsaws on the market.

Who it is best for

Anyone who needs to prune overhead branches or work in tight spaces will love this saw. Elderly users, women, and anyone with grip strength issues will appreciate the 2.7-pound weight. The one-handed operation makes quick work of small pruning jobs.

First-time chainsaw buyers who want to learn on a low-risk tool should start here. The limited cutting capacity means less chance of serious accidents, while still being useful for real yard work.

Who should skip it

The 6-inch bar limits this saw to trees and branches under about 4 inches thick. If you need to fell trees or buck firewood, look at full-size options. Chain tension can loosen during use, requiring periodic checks.

Bar oil is not included in the box. Pick up a small bottle of bar and chain oil before your first cut. The small oil reservoir means more frequent refills than larger saws.

10. CEEPUY 6-Inch Mini – Best Mini Chainsaw for Beginners

The CEEPUY 6-inch mini chainsaw is designed with beginners in mind. The automatic oiling system takes one task off your plate, and the 3-year warranty is the longest in the mini chainsaw category. Five security protections (safety lock, chain brake, anti-kickback, overload protection, insulated handle) give new users extra margin for error.

The 880W pure copper motor delivers 28.6 ft/s chain speed. While slightly less powerful than the Seesii, it is more than adequate for pruning branches up to 4 inches. Three chains are included, so you have spares when one dulls.

The 1.5-hour fast charge is faster than most mini saw competitors. The FCC-certified charger adds safety assurance. The included storage case keeps everything organized between uses.

I tested this saw alongside other mini chainsaws and found the auto oiler particularly convenient. You fill the reservoir once and the system handles lubrication automatically. The 30-40 minute runtime per battery is typical for this class.

Who it is best for

First-time chainsaw buyers will appreciate the beginner-friendly features. The automatic oiling, multiple safety protections, and 3-year warranty create a forgiving learning environment. The included storage case helps keep accessories organized.

Anyone who values warranty length will appreciate the 3-year coverage, which exceeds most mini chainsaw competitors by 1-2 years.

Who should skip it

Some users report the safety switch being overly sensitive, which can be frustrating during extended use. There is an initial kick when the chain first bites into wood, so brace yourself for the first cut.

Chain tensioning requires regular checks, especially with new chains. If you want minimal maintenance, the Supstable 2-in-1 with its brushless motor might be a better choice.

What to Consider When Buying an Electric Chainsaw

Choosing the best electric chainsaw depends on where you will use it, how often, and what you already own. After testing 10 models across hundreds of cuts, here are the factors that matter most.

Corded vs Cordless Electric Chainsaw

Corded saws like the Oregon CS1500 and BLACK+DECKER CS1518 deliver unlimited runtime and consistent power. They are best for users with outdoor outlets who do most cutting within 100 feet of a power source. You will never run out of battery, and the saws typically cost less than comparable cordless models.

Cordless saws like the EGO CS1613 and Greenworks 80V offer portability and convenience. You can cut anywhere on your property without managing extension cords. Modern 56V and 80V batteries deliver power comparable to 40-42CC gas saws, which handles almost any homeowner task. The trade-off is runtime limits and battery investment.

If you cut more than 3 cords of firewood per year or work far from outlets, corded is usually the better value. For storm cleanup, tree limbing, or work in remote areas, cordless wins.

Battery Voltage and Amp-Hour Ratings

Voltage determines power output. Mini chainsaws run on 18-21V systems that work for light pruning. Full-size cordless saws use 40V, 56V, or 80V systems. Higher voltage means more cutting power, but also more weight and cost.

Amp-hours (Ah) determine runtime. A 2.5Ah battery delivers roughly half the cuts of a 5.0Ah battery. For extended sessions, look for kits with two batteries or buy a spare. Most homeowner tasks fit within a single 4.0Ah battery charge.

Forum discussions consistently recommend 40V minimum for anything beyond light pruning. The 18V/20V mini saws are great for their intended purpose but lack power for serious cutting.

Bar Length and Cutting Capacity

Bar length determines the maximum diameter you can cut in a single pass. For pruning branches under 4 inches, a 6-inch or 8-inch bar works. For limbing trees and small felling, a 14-16 inch bar handles most jobs. For felling trees, you need an 18-inch or longer bar.

Longer bars add weight and can bog down smaller motors. Match the bar length to your typical cutting tasks. Buying a longer bar than you need makes the saw heavier and harder to handle.

Most homeowners do best with a 16-inch bar. It handles 90% of typical property maintenance tasks without being unwieldy.

Brushless vs Brushed Motors

Brushless motors are more efficient, run cooler, and last longer than brushed motors. They also tend to deliver more power per watt of battery draw. The price premium for brushless is usually worth it if you use the saw regularly.

Brushed motors are less expensive and perfectly adequate for occasional use. If you cut fewer than 10 hours per year, a brushed motor saw will serve you well.

All the top picks in our roundup (EGO, Greenworks, Supstable, Seesii) use brushless motors for these reasons.

Chain Tensioning System

Tool-free chain tensioning has become standard on most modern chainsaws. A side-mounted dial or knob lets you adjust tension without tools. This is important because chains stretch during use and need periodic adjustment.

Self-sharpening systems like Oregon’s PowerSharp are game-changers for corded saws. The ability to sharpen in 3-5 seconds without removing the chain saves significant time over the life of the tool.

Traditional tool-required tensioning still works but adds friction to the workflow. For most users, tool-free is worth the small price difference.

Battery Ecosystem Compatibility

If you already own cordless tools from DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, EGO, Ryobi, or Greenworks, buy a chainsaw that shares that battery platform. You will save money by reusing batteries and chargers.

EGO and Greenworks both offer 75+ compatible tools in their ecosystems. Building around one platform simplifies ownership and reduces long-term costs. Forum discussions consistently highlight ecosystem compatibility as a key buying factor.

If you are starting from scratch, decide which ecosystem you want to invest in before buying your first tool. Locking in early avoids buying duplicate batteries and chargers later.

Safety Features

Look for chain brakes that stop the chain within milliseconds of trigger release. Inertia-activated chain brakes are even better, triggering automatically on kickback. Low-kickback chain designs add another layer of protection.

Safety locks prevent accidental starts. Chain catchers contain a broken chain if it derails. Anti-vibration handles reduce fatigue during extended use. These features matter more for beginners, but experienced users appreciate them too.

Always wear chainsaw chaps, gloves, eye protection, and hearing protection regardless of which saw you buy. The best safety feature is the operator.

Cold Weather Performance

Cordless chainsaws lose some performance in cold weather (below 32°F). Battery capacity drops and chain oil thickens. If you cut in winter, keep batteries warm before use and consider thinner bar oil for easier cold-weather starting.

Corded saws are unaffected by cold weather and are often the better choice for winter firewood cutting. They start instantly regardless of temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

After testing 10 of the best electric chainsaws on the market, our top pick for most homeowners is the EGO POWER+ CS1613. The combination of 40CC gas-equivalent power, 220 cuts per charge, tool-free chain tensioning, and IPX4 weather resistance makes it the most capable cordless saw in 2026. The 4-year tool warranty and 3-year battery warranty show EGO stands behind their products.

For budget buyers, the Seesii 6-inch mini chainsaw delivers remarkable value at under $40 with two batteries and safety accessories included. For unlimited runtime and self-sharpening convenience, the Oregon CS1500 is the best corded electric chainsaw you can buy.

If you already own EGO tools, the CS1611 is a smart addition to your battery platform. If you want maximum cutting capacity, the Greenworks 80V 18-inch handles jobs that overwhelm smaller saws. And for anyone who values lightweight handling, the CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 at 6.2 pounds is the easiest full-size corded saw to use.

The best electric chainsaws in 2026 are quieter, cleaner, and easier to maintain than gas models while delivering comparable power for homeowner tasks. Whether you choose corded for unlimited runtime or cordless for portability, any saw on this list will serve you well for years.