8 Best Electric Chain Saws

Buying an Electric Chain Saw

Although gas-powered chain saws are still preferred for heavy-duty, large-scale projects, electric chain saws are a convenient alternative for lighter-duty tasks. They’re quieter, don’t produce any harmful fumes and don’t require fuel and oil.

Electric chain saws work well for pruning branches and cutting up smaller felled trees. With push-button starts, you plug in the cord or pop in the battery and you’re ready to go.

Consider these features when shopping for an electric chain saw:

• Weight: Even just a few unnecessary pounds can turn an easy job into a frustrating and energy-sapping project. Heavier saws can be a challenge to control and maneuver safely, so it’s best to go with the lightest option in your price range. Battery-powered and corded models tend to be similar in weight, ranging from five to 15 pounds .
• Bar length: Long chain saws might look cool. But if your job doesn’t require all that length, you’ll waste money and energy lugging around a big tool you don’t really need. In general, choose a chain saw bar length at least a couple of inches longer than the logs or branches you’re cutting. Electric chain saw bars range from six to 18 inches long. If you need longer than that, go with a gas-powered chain saw.
• Power source: While corded chain saws provide unlimited run time, you’re limited by the length of your extension cord. Battery-powered chain saws are great for larger yards or properties, but their run time may be shorter than you need. A single battery will last around 20 to 30 minutes. For all-day projects, purchase a second battery and choose a saw with a rapid charger. If you need a chain saw with a long run time and unlimited mobility, choose a gas-powered model.
• Power capacity: Roughly speaking, corded saws offer more power than battery-powered saws. That’s why they’re better for heavy-duty cutting tasks. This power, measured in amps, can vary from six amps in smaller saws to 15 for larger models. Battery-powered chain saws use volts to indicate their power output, usually ranging from 18 to 40 volts. To ensure your cordless chain saw can handle a range of cutting tasks, go with the higher voltage option.
• Cost: Corded chain saws tend to be much cheaper than battery-powered options, especially if you already own an extension cord. If you choose a battery-powered saw from the same manufacturer as your power tools, you could purchase a much cheaper “tool only” saw and run the batteries you already own.

Safety note: Electric chain saws are extremely dangerous machines. Never attempt to operate one without thoroughly reviewing the instruction manual and watching this video.