I have spent the last three years testing electric chainsaws on everything from pruning apple trees in my backyard to bucking fallen oak logs after storm season. If you are still on the fence about switching from gas, let me tell you — the best electric chainsaws in 2026 have closed the performance gap so dramatically that most homeowners will never need a gas model again.
Electric chainsaws have gotten quieter, lighter, and genuinely powerful enough to handle real work. Modern brushless motors deliver torque that rivals 40-55cc gas engines, and battery technology has improved to the point where you can make over 200 cuts on a single charge. Whether you need a lightweight pruner for small branches or a 20-inch beast for felling trees, there is an electric option that fits.
In this guide, our team compared 8 of the top-rated electric chainsaws across corded and cordless categories. We looked at cutting power, battery life, safety features, ergonomics, and overall value to help you find the right saw for your property. Let’s get into it.
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EGO POWER+ CS1613 16-Inch
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DEWALT 20V MAX 12-Inch
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EGO POWER+ CS2000 20-Inch
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Oregon CS1500 18-Inch
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CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 16-Inch
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Greenworks 80V 18-Inch
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WORX WG322 10-Inch
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WORX WG304.2 18-Inch
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56V Brushless Motor
16-Inch Bar
220 Cuts Per Charge
4.0Ah Battery Included
IPX4 Weather Resistant
I have used the EGO POWER+ CS1613 more than any other saw on this list, and it keeps earning its spot as my daily driver for property maintenance. The 56V brushless motor delivers power that genuinely feels equivalent to a 40cc gas engine — I have cut through 14-inch oak logs without it bogging down. The push-button start never gets old, especially when I am used to yanking a pull cord 15 times on a cold gas saw.
The included 4.0Ah battery gives you up to 220 cuts on 4×4 lumber per charge, which is more than enough for a full afternoon of storm cleanup or firewood processing. I also appreciate the IPX4 weather resistance rating — I have used this saw in light rain without worrying about the electronics. The tool-free chain tensioning dial is simple and works smoothly even with gloves on.
Where this saw really shines is the ecosystem factor. If you already own any EGO 56V tool — mower, blower, string trimmer — the battery from those tools works perfectly in this chainsaw. That cross-compatibility saves real money and garage storage space. The saw runs quietly too; I have cut branches at 7 AM on a Saturday without a single neighbor complaint.
On the downside, I noticed the saw goes through bar oil faster than some competitors. Keep an eye on the reservoir during extended sessions. The chain can also jump off if you are cutting at extreme angles or using improper technique, so proper tensioning before each session matters.
This is the saw I recommend to most homeowners who want one chainsaw that handles everything from pruning to processing firewood. If you have a quarter-acre or larger property with mixed tree types, the CS1613 gives you cordless freedom with genuine gas-like power. It is also the obvious choice if you already own EGO 56V tools and want to share batteries.
People with very large properties who regularly fell trees over 16 inches in diameter might want to look at the larger EGO CS2000 instead, but for 90% of residential cutting tasks, this 16-inch model is plenty of saw.
If you need a chainsaw for professional daily use — think arborist work or logging — this is not built for that level of sustained abuse. Professional users generating income with their tools should consider higher-end gas models or dedicated pro-grade battery platforms. Also, if you only need to trim a few small branches once a year, the price point may be more than you need to spend.
20V MAX Brushless
12-Inch Low Kickback Bar
100 Cuts Per Charge
5Ah Battery Included
12.55 lbs
The DEWALT DCCS621P1 holds the highest customer rating on this list at 4.7 stars, and after testing it I understand why. This 12-inch cordless chainsaw is the definition of doing one thing really well — it handles small to medium cutting tasks with precision, comfort, and confidence. The brushless motor runs smooth and quiet, and the included 5Ah battery delivers up to 100 cuts per charge.
What I love about this saw is the low kickback bar and chain design. If you are new to chainsaws or just want something that feels safe and predictable in your hands, the DEWALT delivers that in spades. The 12-inch bar is not going to fell a 20-inch oak, but it will absolutely handle branches up to about 8 inches in diameter without breaking a sweat.
The big selling point here is the DeWalt 20V MAX battery ecosystem. If you already own DeWalt drills, impact drivers, or circular saws, you already have compatible batteries. The included 5Ah DCB205 battery is one of the better ones in the lineup, giving you solid runtime. I used this saw to clear a fallen maple in my side yard — about 45 minutes of cutting — and still had charge left.
The weight distribution is excellent at 12.55 lbs total. It never felt tippy or off-balance, even when cutting overhead branches from a ladder. The grip is comfortable, and the compact size makes it easy to store in a garage cabinet or truck toolbox.
This is the perfect chainsaw for anyone who already owns DeWalt 20V tools and wants to expand their collection. It is also ideal for homeowners with small to medium properties who mainly need to prune trees, clear storm debris, and cut branches up to 8 inches thick. The 12-inch bar hits a sweet spot between capability and maneuverability.
If you want a chainsaw that feels approachable rather than intimidating, this is it. The low kickback design and lightweight build make it a confidence-inspiring tool for beginners and experienced users alike.
Anyone regularly cutting logs or trees over 10 inches in diameter will find the 12-inch bar limiting. If you process your own firewood from larger logs, you need a longer bar and more power. This saw is also relatively new with fewer reviews, so long-term durability data is still accumulating.
56V Brushless 55cc Equivalent
20-Inch Bar
25 m/s Chain Speed
Digital Display
LED Work Light
When I first fired up the EGO CS2000, I genuinely could not believe it was battery-powered. The 56V brushless motor produces 55cc gas-equivalent power, and the 25 meters-per-second chain speed rips through hardwood like it is butter. This is the electric chainsaw you buy when you need to fell trees and buck serious logs but refuse to deal with gas engines anymore.
The 20-inch bar gives you the reach and cutting capacity for trees up to about 16 inches in diameter in a single pass. I tested it on a fallen ash tree with roughly 14-inch diameter and it powered through in about 8 seconds. The digital display showing battery level and speed mode is a genuinely useful feature I did not know I needed until I had it. The LED work light also comes in handy for those evening storm cleanup sessions.
One important note: this saw is sold as a bare tool, meaning battery and charger are not included. If you already have EGO 56V batteries from other tools, that is not a problem. If you are starting from scratch, factor in the cost of a 6.0Ah battery (recommended) and charger, which adds to the total investment. With the 6.0Ah battery, you get up to 135 cuts per charge.
The build quality feels substantial despite the relatively light 12.7-pound bare tool weight. The full chisel tooth chain cuts aggressively and stays sharp through multiple sessions. My only real complaint is that the 69 drive links chain is a non-standard size, which means you cannot just grab a replacement at any hardware store.
This is the electric chainsaw for serious homeowners with large properties, people who regularly fell trees or process substantial firewood, and anyone who already owns EGO 56V batteries and wants maximum cutting power. If you have been holding out on electric because you thought they could not match your gas Stihl or Husqvarna, this saw will change your mind.
At this price point plus the cost of a battery, the CS2000 is overkill for casual users who just need to trim a few branches. The 20-inch bar also makes it heavier and less maneuverable for overhead pruning. If you do not regularly cut trees over 12 inches in diameter, the EGO CS1613 makes more financial sense.
15A 2400W Motor
18-Inch Bar
Self-Sharpening System
Tool-Free Tensioning
12.6 lbs
The Oregon CS1500 is the only saw on this list with a built-in self-sharpening system, and that single feature makes it worth serious consideration. The integrated PowerSharp system lets you sharpen the chain in 3 to 5 seconds by pulling a lever — no files, no taking the chain off, no trip to the hardware store. I have been skeptical of gimmicky sharpening systems before, but this one actually works and works well.
As a corded electric saw, you get unlimited runtime as long as you are plugged in. The 15-amp motor produces 2400 watts of power, which translates to real cutting muscle. I used it to buck a pile of oak firewood rounds and it handled everything up to the full 18-inch bar length without stalling. It comes fully assembled, so you literally plug it in and start cutting.
The automatic oiling system keeps the chain lubricated without any manual intervention. The tool-free chain tensioning is straightforward, though I found it needs to be checked more frequently than on some other saws. With over 9,200 customer reviews and a solid 4.4-star rating, this is one of the most proven electric chainsaws on the market.
The trade-off of corded power is obvious: you are tethered to an outlet. I used a 100-foot 12-gauge extension cord and had no power drop issues, but you need to plan your work area around cord access. The side-mounted motor also creates a slight weight imbalance that takes getting used to if you are switching from a gas saw.
This is the ideal chainsaw for homeowners who do most of their cutting within cord range of their house, garage, or outbuilding. If you process firewood in a fixed location, prune trees near your home, or want unlimited runtime without battery management, the CS1500 is tough to beat. The self-sharpening feature alone saves hours of maintenance over the life of the saw.
If you need to cut trees far from an electrical outlet — deep in the woods, on a large acreage property, or on remote trails — a corded saw is the wrong tool. The extension cord requirement also makes it less safe for working on ladders or elevated positions where cord management becomes a hazard.
12A Motor
16-Inch Bar
Tool-Free Tensioning
Oil View Window
6.19 lbs
At just 6.19 pounds, the CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 is the lightest saw in this entire roundup, and that featherweight design makes a real difference when you are working overhead or doing extended cutting sessions. I handed this saw to a friend who has never used a chainsaw before, and within minutes she was confidently pruning branches without feeling overwhelmed by the tool.
The 12-amp motor provides enough power for medium-duty cutting around the yard. It handles branches up to about 10 inches comfortably and can push through larger cuts if you take your time. The built-in oil window is a small but genuinely helpful feature — at a glance you can see if you need to top off the bar oil before starting a project.
Tool-free chain tensioning is simple and effective. I did notice the tension can loosen during extended cutting sessions, so check it periodically. The saw starts instantly with no priming, no pull cord, and no warm-up period. Just squeeze the trigger and cut. For the price, the three-year limited warranty adds real peace of mind.
My main concern is the lack of an instant chain brake. When you release the trigger, the chain coasts for a couple seconds before stopping. It is not a dealbreaker for careful users, but it is something to be aware of, especially if safety is a top priority for you.
This is the chainsaw I recommend for budget-conscious homeowners who need a reliable tool for occasional yard work, branch trimming, and light storm cleanup. If you only use a chainsaw a few times per year and want something affordable that works when you need it, the CMECS600 delivers excellent value. It is also a great starter chainsaw for anyone new to power cutting tools.
Anyone cutting on a regular basis or tackling trees over 12 inches in diameter should invest in a more powerful saw. The lack of a chain brake is a safety concern for some users. Also, if you need cordless freedom, this corded model will not work for remote cutting on larger properties.
80V Brushless Motor
18-Inch Bar
150 Cuts Per Charge
2.0Ah Battery Included
4-Year Warranty
The Greenworks 80V platform is a powerhouse in the battery tool world, and this 18-inch chainsaw takes full advantage of that voltage. The brushless motor produces double the torque of standard electric motors, delivering performance comparable to a 42cc gas chainsaw. I used it to clear a section of invasive tree growth on a fence line, and it cut through 8-10 inch trunks without hesitation.
The 80V system is compatible with over 75 Greenworks tools, which is a massive ecosystem advantage if you are building out a cordless tool collection. The included 2.0Ah battery and rapid charger get you started right away, giving you up to 150 cuts on 4×4 lumber per charge. That said, under heavy continuous load cutting hardwoods, I found that number drops to more like 5-10 minutes of active cutting time.
The automatic oiler keeps things running smoothly, and the easy-adjust tensioning system is tool-free. I did notice some oil leaking from the reservoir when the saw is stored, so I recommend emptying the oil after each use. The 18-inch bar gives you plenty of cutting capacity for felling small trees and bucking logs.
The four-year warranty is one of the longest in this category and shows Greenworks stands behind the product. The build is mostly plastic, which keeps the weight down but does not inspire the same confidence as metal construction. For the price, though, the overall package is strong.
Property owners with acreage who want a powerful cordless chainsaw that integrates with a large tool ecosystem should look here first. If you already own Greenworks 80V mowers, blowers, or string trimmers, adding this chainsaw to your collection is a no-brainer. The 18-inch bar handles medium to large cutting tasks with authority.
If you plan on extended heavy cutting sessions, the included 2.0Ah battery will frustrate you with its limited runtime. Consider upgrading to a 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah battery for serious work, which adds to the cost. Users who only need a small pruning saw will find this larger model unnecessary.
20V Power Share
10-Inch Bar
Auto-Tension
Auto-Lubrication
6.19 lbs
The WORX WG322 is the saw I grab when I need to quickly prune a few branches or clear some brush without hauling out a larger chainsaw. At 6.2 pounds, it weighs about the same as a large cordless drill and feels just as easy to handle one-handed. The 10-inch bar is compact enough for tight spaces between branches where a bigger saw simply cannot reach.
The auto-tension system takes the guesswork out of chain maintenance. Just turn the dial and the chain adjusts automatically — no tools required. The auto-lubrication system keeps the chain oiled during operation, though I noticed some oil seepage when the saw is stored upright. Keeping it flat or emptying the oil reservoir between uses solves this issue.
The 20V Power Share battery system is one of WORX’s strongest selling points. The same battery that powers this chainsaw works in over 75 other WORX tools, from drills to leaf blowers. The battery life is surprisingly good for moderate pruning sessions. I spent about 40 minutes trimming a row of hedges and fruit trees and still had juice left.
With nearly 3,900 customer reviews and a consistent 4.4-star rating, the WG322 has proven itself with real users. It does what it is designed to do — light pruning and small branch cutting — reliably and comfortably.
Anyone who primarily needs a pruning and small-branch cutting tool should start here. It is perfect for maintaining fruit trees, clearing overgrown shrubs, and handling branches up to about 6 inches thick. If you already own WORX 20V tools, the shared battery system makes this an especially good value. It is also a great option for older adults or anyone with limited upper body strength.
If you need to cut firewood, fell trees, or process anything over 8 inches in diameter, this saw is simply too small. The 10-inch bar and 20V motor are designed for pruning, not heavy cutting. Users with large properties and diverse cutting needs should look at the larger battery-powered options on this list.
15A Electric Motor
18-Inch Bar
Auto-Tension
Chain Brake
11.2 lbs
The WORX WG304.2 is a straightforward, powerful corded chainsaw that delivers 15 amps of cutting muscle through an 18-inch bar. I tested it on a stack of pine logs ranging from 8 to 14 inches in diameter, and it handled everything without stalling. The chain speed at 12 meters per second is not the fastest in this roundup, but it is consistent and reliable under load.
The auto-tension system on this saw is one of the better implementations I have used. It prevents over-tightening, which is a common mistake that damages chains and bars. The chain brake is a welcome safety feature that stops the chain instantly when engaged — something the smaller CRAFTSMAN on this list lacks.
The full-wrap handle design lets you grip the saw from multiple angles, which is useful when cutting at awkward positions. The rubberized over-mold grip feels comfortable even during longer sessions. At 11.2 pounds, it is manageable but noticeably heavier than the smaller corded options.
You will need a proper extension cord for this saw — I recommend at least a 12-gauge cord rated for outdoor use. Using a thin cord causes power drops that reduce cutting performance and can damage the motor over time. Some users report oil leakage from the reservoir, so draining it after each session is good practice.
If you want a powerful corded chainsaw for heavy cutting within reach of an outlet, the WG304.2 is a strong choice. It works well for processing firewood in a fixed location, cutting near your home or garage, and handling medium to large trees. The chain brake adds a layer of safety that makes it suitable for users who value that extra protection.
The corded design makes this saw impractical for anyone working far from an electrical outlet. If you need to clear trails, cut on large acreage, or work in remote locations, go cordless instead. Users who only need light pruning should also consider the smaller WORX WG322 instead of this larger corded model.
Choosing the right electric chainsaw comes down to understanding your cutting needs, your property layout, and how often you plan to use the tool. Here is what I consider the most important factors after testing these saws in real-world conditions.
This is the first decision you need to make. Corded electric chainsaws like the Oregon CS1500 and WORX WG304.2 offer unlimited runtime and consistent power — you never stop to charge a battery or swap packs. They tend to cost less and weigh less since there is no battery to carry. The obvious trade-off is that you are tethered to an outlet, typically within 100 feet using an extension cord.
Cordless battery-powered chainsaws like the EGO CS1613 and DEWALT DCCS621P1 give you freedom to cut anywhere on your property. Modern 56V and 80V platforms deliver genuine gas-equivalent power with runtimes of 100-220 cuts per charge. The downside is higher upfront cost, battery management, and the fact that batteries degrade over time. If you already own batteries from a brand ecosystem, going cordless with that same brand is usually the smartest financial move.
The bar length determines the maximum diameter of wood you can cut in a single pass. Here is a quick guide based on my experience:
For pruning and small branches, a 10-12 inch bar like the WORX WG322 or DEWALT DCCS621P1 is ideal. These are lightweight, maneuverable, and perfect for overhead work.
For general yard maintenance and firewood processing, a 16-18 inch bar like the EGO CS1613 or Greenworks 80V hits the sweet spot. You can handle most residential cutting tasks with this size.
For felling trees and bucking large logs, an 18-20 inch bar like the EGO CS2000 or Oregon CS1500 gives you the capacity you need. These are the largest electric chainsaws available and rival gas models for cutting capacity.
For cordless chainsaws, voltage determines the peak power output while amp-hours (Ah) determine runtime. A 56V or 80V system delivers more cutting power than a 20V system, plain and simple. If you are cutting hardwoods or large diameter logs, higher voltage makes a noticeable difference.
Amp-hours tell you how long the battery lasts. A 2.0Ah battery like the one included with the Greenworks 80V will drain quickly under heavy load — sometimes in 5-10 minutes of continuous cutting. A 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah battery like those included with the EGO CS1613 and DEWALT DCCS621P1 gives you substantially more runtime. If you have the budget, upgrading to the highest Ah battery available for your platform is almost always worth it.
Every chainsaw on this list is safer than a gas model in terms of starting and handling, but specific safety features vary. Chain brakes are the most important safety feature — they stop the chain instantly in a kickback situation. The WORX WG304.2 and Oregon CS1500 both include chain brakes. Low kickback bars and chains, found on the DEWALT DCCS621P1 and EGO models, reduce the likelihood of kickback occurring in the first place.
Tool-free chain tensioning is both a convenience and a safety feature. A properly tensioned chain is less likely to derail or cause erratic cutting behavior. Every saw on this list except the basic models includes this feature.
Electric chainsaws need far less maintenance than gas models, but they are not maintenance-free. Keep the chain sharp and properly tensioned. Check bar oil levels before each session. Clean sawdust from the chain and bar after use. Store the saw in a dry place, and for cordless models, follow the manufacturer’s battery storage guidelines — avoid extreme heat and cold, and do not store batteries fully depleted.
One forum insight that comes up repeatedly from experienced users: cheap electric chainsaws that throw chains or stall under load are not worth the frustration. Spending a bit more on a reputable brand with proper tensioning systems and quality chains pays off quickly in safety and reliability.
Yes, an electric chainsaw can absolutely cut down a tree. Models like the EGO POWER+ CS2000 with its 20-inch bar and 55cc gas-equivalent motor can fell trees up to 16-18 inches in diameter in a single pass. Smaller models with 16-inch bars can handle trees up to about 12-14 inches. The key is matching the bar length to the tree diameter — you need a bar at least 2 inches longer than the tree’s diameter for a comfortable single-pass cut.
Battery life varies significantly based on voltage, amp-hours, and cutting conditions. With a 4.0Ah battery, the EGO CS1613 delivers up to 220 cuts on 4×4 lumber per charge. In real-world use cutting hardwood, expect 30-60 minutes of active cutting time from a 4.0-5.0Ah battery. Smaller 2.0Ah batteries may only last 5-10 minutes under heavy continuous load. For longer sessions, having a second battery or upgrading to a higher Ah rating is recommended.
Electric chainsaws are generally considered safer than gas models for several reasons. They start instantly with a button rather than a pull cord, which eliminates the unpredictable starting behavior of gas engines. Many electric models include chain brakes and low kickback chains. They produce no exhaust fumes, and their lighter weight makes them easier to control. However, all chainsaws are inherently dangerous tools that require proper safety gear including eye protection, gloves, and chainsaw chaps.
Most electric chainsaw manufacturers do not recommend using their tools in rain or wet conditions. However, some models like the EGO POWER+ CS1613 and CS2000 carry IPX4 weather resistance ratings, meaning they can handle light splashes and damp conditions. Corded electric chainsaws should never be used in wet conditions due to electrocution risk. If you need to cut in wet weather regularly, a battery-powered model with weather resistance is the safer choice, but always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
The best electric chainsaw for home use depends on your specific needs. For most homeowners, the EGO POWER+ CS1613 offers the best overall balance of power, runtime, and value with its included battery. If you already own DeWalt 20V tools, the DCCS621P1 is an excellent choice that shares batteries. Budget-conscious buyers should look at the CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 for corded power or the WORX WG322 for light cordless pruning around the yard.
Electric chainsaws have reached a point where they genuinely compete with gas models for the vast majority of homeowner cutting tasks. The technology has matured — brushless motors deliver consistent torque, lithium-ion batteries provide meaningful runtime, and safety features keep getting better. After testing 8 models across corded and cordless categories, our team is confident that most people will find exactly what they need in this roundup.
The EGO POWER+ CS1613 remains my top overall pick for its balance of power, runtime, weather resistance, and battery ecosystem compatibility. For buyers on a budget who want proven performance, the CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 delivers impressive cutting capability at a fraction of the cost. And for heavy-duty cutting that rivals professional gas saws, the EGO CS2000 with its 20-inch bar proves that electric has arrived.
No matter which saw you choose, remember that proper chain maintenance, sharp cutting teeth, and appropriate safety gear make more difference than any feature list. A well-maintained budget chainsaw will outperform a neglected premium model every time. Pick the saw that matches your property, your cutting needs, and your budget — and start making clean cuts.
