I’ve spent the past few months testing some of the most popular electric chainsaws on the market—cutting through everything from dry firewood to overgrown branches in my yard. Whether you’re a seasoned woodcutter or a homeowner needing a reliable tool for occasional trimming, an electric chainsaw can make a big difference.
Gas chainsaws are powerful, sure—but they’re noisy, require a lot of maintenance, and aren’t ideal for casual users. Electric chainsaws, especially cordless models, are clean, quiet, and much easier to handle.
So I got my hands on five top-rated models to see which electric chainsaws actually live up to the hype.
What to Consider Before Buying
Before diving into the reviews, ask yourself:
- Corded or Cordless? Do you have access to power outlets or need mobility?
- Cutting Power: Will you be trimming limbs or cutting down whole trees?
- Battery Life: Do you need a chainsaw that lasts over an hour?
- Weight and Ergonomics: Will you be lifting this above your head?
- Ease of Use: Do you want tool-free tensioning and automatic oiling?
- Budget: Are you willing to spend more for premium performance?
Chainsaw Types Compared
| Chainsaw Model | Type | Corded/Cordless | Bar Length | Battery Included | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DCCS621B | Compact Chainsaw | Cordless | 12-inch | No | 8.8 lbs |
| Greenworks GCS80420 | Heavy-Duty | Cordless | 18-inch | Yes | 13.4 lbs |
| Husqvarna 120i | All-Around Use | Cordless | 14-inch | Yes | 10.8 lbs |
| EGO Power+ CS1804 | Professional Grade | Cordless | 18-inch | Yes | 13.1 lbs |
| Oregon CS1500 | Budget Option | Corded | 18-inch | N/A | 12.6 lbs |
Our Top Picks by Category
| Category | Product | Why It’s the Best |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | EGO Power+ CS1804 | Combines gas-like cutting power, long battery life, and easy handling—ideal for both heavy-duty and casual work |
| Best Budget | Oregon CS1500 | Affordable, powerful, and includes a built-in self-sharpening system, making it low-maintenance |
| Best for Beginners | DEWALT DCCS621B | Extremely lightweight, easy to control, and intuitive—perfect for smaller tasks and first-time users |
| Best Power | Greenworks GCS80420 | Delivers 80V of raw power with an 18″ bar—ideal for felling large trees and cutting thick logs |
| Best Mid-Range | Husqvarna 120i | A well-balanced saw with smart battery management and solid performance for general yard work |
Hands-On Reviews
EGO Power+ CS1804
Best For: Overall Performance
Tested By: Myself, cutting large logs and clearing tree limbs
Why We Like It: This chainsaw feels like a gas saw, without the gas. It’s incredibly powerful and runs for almost an hour on a full charge. The battery charges in about 40 minutes, so downtime is minimal.
Pros:
- Near-gas level cutting power
- Long 18″ bar great for thick wood
- Quick recharge time
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Durable and ergonomic
Cons:
- Heavier than others
- Premium price
Oregon CS1500
Best For: Budget Users
Tested By: Used for trimming and firewood prep
Why We Like It: This is the only self-sharpening chainsaw I tested, and it works. Just pull the red PowerSharp lever, and the chain sharpens in seconds. It’s corded, so no battery worries—but you’ll need an extension cord.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Self-sharpening system
- Quiet operation
- Tool-free chain tensioning
Cons:
- Needs to be plugged in
- Not great for remote work
DEWALT DCCS621B
Best For: Beginners or Light Work
Tested By: Used on shrubs, small limbs, and 6-inch logs
Why We Like It: Lightweight, intuitive, and starts instantly. It’s perfect for first-time users and DEWALT tool owners (it uses the same 20V battery system).
Pros:
- Very lightweight
- Great for smaller tasks
- Quick chain tensioning
- Quiet and low vibration
Cons:
- Battery not included
- Not for heavy-duty jobs
Greenworks GCS80420
Best For: Power Users
Tested By: Used for cutting logs over 14 inches in diameter
Why We Like It: This is a beast. The 80V battery packs serious punch and lasted nearly an hour. Ideal for people who want gas-like performance with no emissions or mess.
Pros:
- 80V of raw power
- Includes battery and charger
- Excellent for felling trees
- High-quality build
Cons:
- Heavy for prolonged use
- Expensive
Husqvarna 120i
Best For: Balanced Performance
Tested By: Used for backyard trimming and medium logs
Why We Like It: It’s a well-rounded saw with decent power and great battery efficiency. Husqvarna also includes a smart savE mode for longer runtimes when you don’t need full power.
Pros:
- Save battery mode extends life
- Trusted brand
- Well-balanced feel
- Quiet motor
Cons:
- Takes time to recharge
- Slight learning curve with controls
Other Things to Consider
- Battery Life: Most cordless models offer 30–60 minutes. Invest in a second battery for longer sessions.
- Bar Length: 12–14″ bars are great for small tasks; 16–18″ for serious cutting.
- Chain Tensioning: Tool-free tensioning saves time and effort.
- Noise Level: Cordless chainsaws are generally quiet, ideal for suburban use.
- Weight: Anything under 12 lbs is easy to handle. Heavier models can fatigue your arms quickly.
- Accessories: Some include chain oil, batteries, or carrying cases. Check what’s in the box before buying.
- Price: Expect to pay around $150–$450 depending on power, features, and brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do electric chainsaws last?
Cordless chainsaws can run for 30–60 minutes per charge. With proper care, the tool itself can last several years.
Can I cut down a tree with an electric chainsaw?
Yes, especially with models like the EGO CS1804 or Greenworks 80V that rival gas chainsaws.
What kind of oil should I use?
Most electric chainsaws require bar and chain oil. Check your manual for specifics.
Are corded chainsaws better than cordless?
Corded models don’t run out of power, but they limit your movement. Cordless chainsaws offer more flexibility but need charged batteries.
Do I need to sharpen the chain?
Yes, unless you get a self-sharpening model like the Oregon CS1500. Most others will need sharpening after extended use.
Conclusion
After personally testing all five of these electric chainsaws, I can confidently say there’s a perfect fit for every kind of user. If you’re looking for an all-around powerhouse that feels like a gas chainsaw but runs cleaner and quieter, the EGO Power+ CS1804 is your go-to. For those on a tighter budget, the Oregon CS1500 offers surprising value with its self-sharpening feature and strong cutting ability. Beginners will feel most comfortable with the lightweight and user-friendly DEWALT DCCS621B, while serious users who need raw power will appreciate the Greenworks GCS80420. And if you’re looking for something right in the middle—efficient, reliable, and easy to handle—the Husqvarna 120i strikes a great balance. No matter your budget or experience level, switching to an electric chainsaw will save you time, maintenance headaches, and noise—without sacrificing performance.
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