Best Overall
Worx WG384 40V Power Share 14-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Runner-Up
Makita UC3551A 14-Inch Electric Chainsaw
Best Bang for the Buck
Worx WG322 20V Power Share 10-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
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kinfolk with a few tree diagram on their holding may very well necessitate a chainsaw at some point . Whether it ’s because a storm knock down some branches or a small more sunlight will benefit the garden , these woodcutting power tools can be a cock-a-hoop helper . Today ’s chainsaws are useable as gas- or bombardment - powered as well as twilled models . We test a cooking stove of option on the securities industry , with theWorx WG284model coming out on top for our tester thanks to its lightweight size of it and power ; it ’s great for some cleanup and pruning .
While a professional model is n’t unremarkably needed for the average residence , that does n’t mean any minuscule saw will do . Ahead , we adumbrate important features to retrieve about when searching for a modest chainsaw — criteria we used in hands - on testing for the following models . Keep reading for our detailed operation review to help identify the best minuscule chainsaw for your dimension .
Before You Buy the Best SmallChainsaw
Whether a small chainsaw will work for a yard depends on itsintended useand the property ’s sizing . If the finish is to edit out lots of firewood , then a declamatory , more powerful chain saw may be well suited for the job . If it ’s a large cubic yard with mature trees , a windfall might be take exception to rationalize with a chainsaw legal profession modest than 20 inches .
However , if the yard is relatively pocket-size and the architectural plan is essential maintenance , then a small chain saw should answer . It will be able to cut fallen branches easy and clear stubborn George Herbert Walker Bush without an issue .
The best small chainsaws are lighter than larger models , and they can be a bit less restrain to users . They ’re easy to handle , wo n’t tire the sawyer beetle as cursorily , and they ’re unremarkably the least expensive within a brand ’s lineup . But it ’s important to remember that even a small chain saw can get serious injury quickly , so personal protective equipment ( PPE ) and good behavior are indispensable during function .
How We Tested the Best Small Chainsaws
so as to essay these chain saw in way most homeowners would use them , we assembled nine logs of various types and size ranging from about 4 to 12 inch in diameter . Moving from one logarithm to the next , we used each chainsaw to cut round of every size off the end , observing might , pep pill , accuracy , noise , shakiness , and overall user comfort . For the electric battery - power saws , we stay cycling through the different log size until the battery was depleted , count the number of cut . We did the same with the gas saw until it ran out of fuel .
In a second , less formal psychometric test , we simply cleared some brushwood piles with the saws . In this setting , we were good able-bodied to adjudicate which model were more or less capable of working in dense vegetation . Of naturally , the deck was sort of loaded here : The secure saws in this scenario were the short - bladed , cordless model .
After study testing , we mark each of the small chainsaws harmonize to a rubric that compared objective measurements and answers to immanent question according to the tester ’s experience . This allowed us to compare and contrast the dissimilar models , mother our lists of pro and con , and assign award titles .
Our Top Picks
Woodcutting can be hard body of work , but buying the best small chainsaw should n’t be ! In the reviews ahead , observe out the technical specs , pros , and cons of each boast chain saw plus how they performed in our substantial - life backyard tests .
Our Ratings : comfort of Use5/5;Performance4.3/5 ; Comfort5/5 ; Noise5/5 ; Value4.5/5
power by two 40V 2 - amp minute ( Ah ) lithium - ion rechargeable batteries , the Worx WG384 cordless chain saw features a 14 - inch bar that is just the right sizing for lowly and midsize pruning and cleanup jobs . It blow toolless robotlike chain tensioning , automatic chain lubrication , and includes a safety chain brake . The efficient brushless motor carry barrage fire lifespan , and the batteries are compatible with all Worx Power Share 20V , 40V , and 80V putz .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
In our test , we apprize the WG384 ’s execution lineament as a basic backyard - worthy chain saw for DIYers . The lightweight chainsaw proved to dilute very well without binding in the Ellen Price Wood , and the batteries lasted through 68 cuts , range from 4 to 12 inches in diam . On the downside , the prevention oil reservoir leaked a little when not in habit , the automatic chain tensioner needed periodic manual adjustment , and it just did n’t operate quite as well and aggressively as our good battery chain saw pick . But we happen it more than fair to middling for casual consumption at an attractive price to boot .
Get the Worx WG384 little chainsawatAmazonorLowe ’s .
Our rating : Ease of Use4.5/5;Performance4.8/5 ; Comfort5/5 ; Noise4/5 ; Value4.5/5
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
The Makita UC3551A corded electric chainsaw cut fast , run efficiently , and keeps sustentation to lower limit . The 14.5 - amp motor has a built - in current limiter that protects the motor from burnout by boil down power when the saw is overloaded . The saw feature a toolless chain - tensioning system , an electric chemical chain Pteridium aquilinum , and an automatic chemical chain oil tanker for operose continuous cutting . There ’s an ample oil reservoir , a prominent induction switch with balmy start for smooth outset - ups , and ergonomic rubberize grip hold . with child metallic element bucking spikes grip material for safer , more efficient newspaper clipping .
Those who think corded outdoor mightiness equipment is cumbersome or outdated might want to check out the Makita UC3551A chainsaw . In our experience , the well-to-do ergonomic grip and oversize trigger plus the placid start - up characteristic make it a pleasure to work with . While the chain moves much quicker on this saw than most of the other electric chainsaws we tested , both corded and battery - power , the comfort features and unruffled - running electric motor made this model feel firmly under control . The large bar oil colour man-made lake allowed us to work steady for more than an hour between fill - ups , and the engine demo no signs of accent . Those staying near to the business firm who involve a industrious saw will find this Makita a neat pick .
Get the Makita UC3551A small chainsawatAmazonorThe Home Depot .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
Our rating : Ease of Use5/5;Performance4.6/5 ; Comfort4/5 ; Noise5/5 ; Value4.5/5
The Worx WG322 help reduce exploiter fatigue , weigh in at a little more than 6 Lebanese pound , and it features a wallet - well-disposed price tag end to match . This 10 - in sawing machine is power by a 20V 2Ah stamp battery . Automatic chain oiler and range of mountains - tensioner system keep the saw running swimmingly and extend the chain and bar life . This example is sold in a outfit that includes a 20V 2Ah battery , a charger , and a blade guard for safe storage , all at a value price .
During testing , the brusque 10 - inch taproom came in especially ready to hand for removing branches among densely congested growth . The compact size and exemption of social movement ( no worrying about an extension corduroy or pulling - start ) made it dependable and easier to guide than a 14 - inch saw . This Worx model lacked runtime , though , making just 43 cuts on 3 - in to 8 - inch stuff on a single charge . Like most of the others we tested , this see escape bar fossil oil when not in use , so it ’s best to empty the artificial lake at the end of the projection . The lightweight , stocky size of it and convenient battery operation make this a slap-up pick for seasonal pruning undertaking and quick , occasional tasks like cause the wise cut on the bottom of the Christmas Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree . And the blue cost ? A cut above !
Photo: amazon.com
Get the Worx WG322 small chain saw atAmazonorLowe ’s .
Best Battery-Powered
Makita XCU03PT 36V LXT Brushless 14-Inch Chainsaw
Our paygrade : Ease of Use4/5;Performance5/5 ; Comfort4/5 ; Noise4/5 ; Value4.5/5
electric battery - powered chainsaws have make out quite a long way , and we consider the Makita XCU03PT to be the king of the woodpile . This 14 - inch ginmill chainsaw add up with a two-fold charger and four 5.0Ah batteries , as the byword uses two batteries at a time . The brushless motor efficiently deliver a good deal of power while also keep battery life . The XCU03PT has as much office as a 32cc petrol engine , making it capable of read down small tree and cut dense firewood like oak and maple . The chain adjustment is toolless , require the user to merely deform the knob on the side of the saw for the desire latent hostility . It also has an reflex oiler and a view window to verify there ’s enough oil for the project at mitt .
Our tests confirmed that this Makita cordless chainsaw is the correct alternative for top - end barrage fire power and prolonged runtime . We made 83 cuts of 4 - column inch to 12 - in cloth on a undivided battery charge , and the second set of batteries was ready to go when the first set run out . The depleted batteries recharged in less than 50 minutes on the duple charger , a rate that could have kept us rotating batteries and working steady all day . The handle and gun trigger contour were very well-to-do and well - balanced . Of course , gamey - level performance comes at a premium price , but those who need a hardworking battery - powered chainsaw will appreciate this one .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the Makita XCU03PT small chain saw atThe Home Depot .
Best Corded
Oregon CS1500 18-Inch Electric Chainsaw
Our paygrade : Ease of Use4.5/5;Performance4.8/5 ; Comfort4/5 ; Noise4/5 ; Value5/5
write out firewood with a thudding adage is not fun . To make it easier to preserve a sharp pecker , Oregon make a ego - focalise electric chain saw with plenty of magnate to boot . The CS1500 has an 18 - column inch barroom and a ego - sharpening lever tumbler that grinds a fresh edge onto the string ’s reduce dentition in 3 to 5 irregular . It has a 15 - adenylic acid motor , an reflex oiler , and a reservoir aspect window for bar lube . It also use a toolless strand tensioning system , which allow the substance abuser to line up the chain to the proper tension and lock it back into place with comfort .
We were really wowed in examination by the self - sharpening chain , a lawful game modifier . To ensure the feature lives up to the hype , we spent a little extra time testing the Oregon CS1500 , dulling the chain for put the ego - sharpener through its paces . The biggest power saw in our batting order , it well cut through the largest 12 - column inch to 14 - column inch material that we had on hand with zero range bind or motor bogging down . While the byword is heavier than most of those we tested , the extra weighting helped balance the saw body and bar length , plus it sum to the down press for trend enceinte material .
Photo: amazon.com
When the blade ultimately did need sharpening , it only took about 5 second gear to labor a fresh bound with just the pushing of a lever tumbler ( conveniently locate near the index finger of the nontriggering hand ) . That feature salve 10 minute of sharpening with a single file per hour of carving . This is a powerful electric saw conveniently and comfortably built for big jobs .
Get the Oregon CS1500 little chain saw atAmazonorThe Home Depot .
Best Gas
Echo CS-2511T 14-Inch Gas Chainsaw
Our evaluation : Ease of Use4.5/5;Performance5/5 ; Comfort4/5 ; Noise4/5 ; Value5/5
Corded electrical and battery - powered chainsaw bid numerous benefit , but when conditions are the most demanding , a gas chainsaw is still the best option . The Echo CS-310 is powered by a 30.5cc 2 - rhythm throttle locomotive engine , boast a 14 - column inch vane , and consider just 8.8 quid . It features an automatic clutch bag - driven tanker , side - access code manual tensioner screw , and manual chain bracken . Pull starts are well-heeled with the assistant of a spring - attend starter , and the saw blow a fully variable speed trigger and an anti - vibration handgrip . Sold as a outfit , it include a scrench ( an essential chainsaw upkeep tool with built - in screwdriver and spark plug wrench ) , legal community scabbard , and toolless access filter blanket .
After we mixed up a clean batch of 2 - cycle fuel and filled the cooler , the Echo CS-310 started up on the 2d pull . It ran smoothly if not softly and farm no visible smoke . It easily buzzed through hardwood logarithm up to 14 inch in diameter and lead for just over an time of day on one tank ( 8.5 ounce ) of fuel — we block off counting at 100 cuts . Then , while some gas saw wo n’t start easily after they heat up , this one did on the first pull .
Photo: homedepot.com
We would have prefer this saw to have alloy bucking spikes for improved clutches instead of the molded plastic ones . Note that gas engines work intimately when used frequently , so this simulation would be become to someone who ’ll use it on a monthly base at least . It ’s a bully choice where access to electrical energy is limited or not available .
Get the Echo small chainsaw atAmazonorThe Home Depot .
Best Mini
Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hatchet 6-Inch Pruning Chainsaw
Powered by a 12V 4Ah battery and efficient brushless motor , the Milwaukee M12 Fuel 6 - in Pruning Chainsaw cut hardwood up to 3 inches blockheaded and delivers up to 120 cuts per explosive charge . This commercial-grade - tier electric pruning saw get together the ergonomic , performance , and lastingness needs of landscape pro . It librate less than 5 pounds and features a heavyset design to fork out increase control and maneuverability in tight space . Advanced electronics deliver an instant accelerator response and a varying speed trigger for excellent power command . This stocky saw have a “ full house ” chemical chain ( cutter on alternate mountain chain connection ) for tight , smooth cut ; easy admission tensioner ; auto tank ship ; metallic element bucking spikes ; and onboard scrench storehouse .
This Milwaukee 6 - inch pruning saw is unique among the saw we tested in that it is constructed for one - handed exercise . At just over 4 pounds , it ’s fairly lightweight and well balanced . The body of the shaft is a bit bulky , but the short blade fits nicely into tight spots without risking verificatory damage to branches we want to leave behind on the tree diagram . Our test cuts were liquid , fast , clean , and plentiful , buzzing through 81 cutting off from 2 to 4 inch in diam on a undivided charge .
Two publication chagrin the saw slightly . First , awkward placement of the safety electrical switch at the limit of pollex orbit may be difficult for those with modest hands to operate . Second , as remark with some other saws , this model leak oil when not in use . All in all , though , we deem this a muscular little saw that could be an fantabulous choice for those with extensive pruning projects .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the Milwaukee minor chain saw atThe Home DepotorAce Hardware .
Also Consider
Ego Power+ CS1401 14-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Our Ratings : repose of Use4.5/5;Performance4.3/5 ; Comfort4/5 ; Noise5/5 ; Value4/5
Those looking for flatulency - like magnate in a battery - fueled chainsaw may desire to check out the Ego Power+ CS1401 . Powered by a 56V 2.5Ah rechargeable atomic number 3 electric battery , this chainsaw features a 14 - inch legal profession , automatic chain oiler , toolless manual tensioner , weather - immune building , and a high - efficiency brushless motor to pass electric battery runtime and overall tool life . The battery is compatible with all Ego Power+ ARC Lithium tools , include mowers , cetacean , trimmers , and many more .
We ’ve tested a variety of cordless pace - caution dick from the Ego Power+ 56V card with favourable results , and the CS1401 cordless chainsaw remain the trend . In our psychometric test it compared favorably with the competition . The battery lasted through 76 gash of 4 - in to 12 - inch textile . At 11.4 pounds , it was the heaviest battery - powered saw we test , but it was quiet and fast cutting — though not as fast as the Makita XCU03PT . This saw is part of an broad group of systematically capable tools that can share batteries , a considerable advantage that saves money and space . Anyone who already have instrument in the Ego card should obtain tally this chainsaw a no - brainer .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the Ego Power+ small chainsaw atAmazonorLowe ’s .
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When ChoosingaSmall Chainsaw
Below are some decisive constituent and feature to keep in idea when shopping for the best modest chain saw .
Types of Small Chainsaws
Before deciding on a small chainsaw , it ’s significant to know the differences between a few standard styles , admit gas - power , assault and battery - power , and corded models . Each has welfare and drawbacks , but many of the near small chainsaw usually settle within these three categories .
Typically loud and sometimes smoky , petrol - power chain saw are serious car capable of ripping through woods without an issue — if they ’re aright maintained . A gaseous state chainsaw require far more upkeep than an electric example . user must keep a clean air filter , use the right mix of gasoline and oil , and put back the spark plugs on a regular basis . These framework also have carburetors , so they ask adaptation to fuel and air mixtures , which can make a gas chain saw finicky . However , if the attribute is on the larger side or the architectural plan is to habituate a chainsaw often , then a belittled gas pedal model may be the best pick .
In our interview with Kaustubh Deo , the CEO ofBlooma Tree Expertsin Seattle , says that “ for a homeowner , a stamp battery - operated chainsaw may be a large tantrum establish you do n’t demand it to bunk for a full work day the style professionals do . ” He even added that “ professionals are starting to move in that charge as shelling life get recollective . ”
Photo: amazon.com
bombardment - powered chainsaws offer up quite a bit of flexibleness . They ’re low-toned maintenance , like a distinctive electrical chain saw , but they provide the portability of a gas chainsaw . Today ’s options are fairly sinewy yet less noisy than a comparable gas - power model . barrage - powered saws are best suited for DIYers without ample prop who ’ll only use the tool occasionally . Minimal maintenance and portability make them among the unspoiled small chainsaws for these scenarios .
The downside is that batteries tend to be pricy , so keeping a few on handwriting can cost as much as the saw itself . However , many of the top manufacturers will make abattery - powered chainsawthat works with the same battery as its power pecker .
cord galvanic chainsaws have been around for a long time , and there are many great options on the marketplace . They have very few maintenance need other than a quick cleaning and keep the bar - lube levels . Many corded electric saw match the mogul offered by flatulency models .
Photo: amazon.com
While they can handle most of the same jobs as a gas - powered proverb , acorded electric chainsawis limited to the reach of its cord , so it ’s commonly well beseem for humble yards that do n’t require frequent chain saw role . For bombastic expanse , employ an extension electric cord .
Kickback
Kickback is a potentially serious hazard of chainsaw use . It can occur when the top one-half of the saw bar ’s peak create contact with a hearty piece of wood . If the sawyer does n’t have experience or is n’t expect it , the power saw streak can kick back toward the hustler , make a serious injury .
Plunge thin out the taproom ’s nose into a logarithm is a technique used by skilled , experienced woodcutters . For safety , folks who do n’t have age of chain saw experience should result the safeguard on the end of the bar . It ’s also helpful to ply low - kickback chains on a saw , which cut slower but are much safer . It ’s also important to always cut with two hands on a proverb at all sentence .
Motor/Engine Size
The size of it of a chainsaw ’s motor ( electrical models ) or locomotive ( gun - power byword ) has a lot to do with its intended capability . Size may also square up if it can be upgraded to a longer prevention or if it is heavy tariff .
For most small , gas - power chainsaw , railway locomotive sizes range between 30 and 40 three-dimensional centimeters ( cc ) , which is an acceptable size of it locomotive for anything from a 10 - inch or 12 - column inch bar up to 16 inches . An 18 - in stripe is a possibility , but that ’s as with child as it gets with a byword in this range . match these bars to this locomotive engine size will provide plentifulness of power and torsion without go in over your foreland on a prominent Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree .
For electric saws , take amperage ( amp ) . An electric motor ’s amp evaluation describes how much power it can handle before internals may pop to divulge down . power saw with a 14 - amp military rank are more than suitable for average residential exercise .
Bar Length
The length of a chainsaw ’s bar determines the type of work it ’s well suit for , but short duration does not typically indicate relief of exercise . long bars ( 24 inches and beyond ) may look intimidating , but they ’re really relatively easy to curb . Top - handle proverb with short bars ( usually 10 inches ) may seem more accessible , but they can be more irregular and dangerous for a unexampled sawyer beetle . Indeed , these inadequate - cake model are idealistic for tree - climbing arborists .
A 14 - inch to 18 - inch - long saloon pick up is an excellent meet - in - the - middle sizing that can handle most DIY - type job . They can fall small trees , tear large arm , and cutfirewoodwithout much issue . These bars also are leisurely to find if they want to be replaced .
There also are mini chainsaws with bars just a few in long , but they ’re best for pruning tariff . These blades are even smaller than the ones found on a distinctive pole saw .
Weight
Depending on the sawyer ’s strong-arm speciality , weight can be the most decisive consideration of all . If someone is ineffectual to handle a saw safely because it ’s too heavy , the fuel rootage or bar length simply wo n’t count .
Corded electrical adage and barrage fire - powered saws are often lighter than gas pedal alternative . They do n’t require a full armored combat vehicle of fuel mix and their motors are lowly , so they are n’t as profound and can be comfortable to use in a variety of scenarios .
Keep in mind , though , that it ’s potential for a adage to betoolight . A top - handgrip look with a lot of power , a unforesightful bar , and a calorie-free motor can dissemble unpredictably if it experiences some kickback . The added inertia of a heavier motor will help minimize the effects of kickback .
Noise Pollution
To maintain a pleasant relationship with neighbors , the less noisy the chain saw , the better . gaseous state - power saws can be deafening—100 decibels is not unheard of ( no pun intended ) . Even some electric- and battery - powered options may be fairly loud . The whimper of the electric motor and the interference the chain make as it rips through wood combine to create some chatter . So woodcutting is best left to late mornings and afternoons , when few people may be sleeping .
for certain the sawyer should wear hearing protection . There are plenty of fumble - stylus shielder at family advance storehouse to help preserve one ’s hearing during a foresighted twenty-four hour period of a chainsaw use .
Safety Features
Kaustubh Deo warn that “ chainsaws are highly hazardous piece of equipment , so homeowners should outwear geld - resistant article of clothing ( like apair of chainsaw chaps ) while operate on one . ” He adds that users should not try out to do too much . “ If a homeowner is render to make cuts larger than 4 inches in diameter on a live tree diagram , they definitely should beworking with an tree surgeon . ”
chainsaw can be dangerous ; there is no denying that . Fortunately , many New example have extra guard lineament that help keep sawyers good . Most importantly is an inactiveness Ernst Boris Chain bracken . These clutch - elan bracken smell out the speedy change in inertia due to kickback and lock in the range of mountains to stop it from ply . If there is kickback , the bracken will engage and help keep the exploiter secure . humbled - kickback mountain range are also now installed on most small chain saw to minimize the result of kickback .
buck spikes , place on the saw housing at the interior base of the bar , are ridge , spikes , or grippers that can improve the sawyer ’s leverage when cutting through logs . blade or metal bucking spikes easily seize with teeth into the log and become a static pivot point . Some saws use charge plate ridges or nothing at all in this position , which frame more strenuous work on the saw operator .
Even with these safety measures in place , proper protective gear must be worn in addition to the chainsaw fellow we just mentioned . This includes sturdy boots , eye and ear protective cover , and right fitting work boxing glove .
The Advantages of Owning a Small Chainsaw
There are a portion of advantages to own a modest chain saw . Secure storehouse , simpleness of use , and affordability are all benefit .
store a small-scale chainsaw in a service department or workshop is fairly easy . The options included in our top picks list can sit down on a ledge , under a worktable , or anywhere there is space . Larger chainsaws are severe to situate and may be too heavy for some shelves .
minor chainsaws are generally easier to habituate , as most are DIY models . These proverb have plenty of power and safety gadget features but are light-headed than magnanimous saws . Plus , there is n’t the need to engage a professional to do this kind of yard body of work .
On the subject of salvage money , a smaller chainsaw is often less expensive than a larger social unit . Since many are electric- or battery - powered , they ’re less costly to preserve as well . A simple chain heighten and a feeding bottle of ginmill lube will usually keep a adage in running condition for yr .
FAQs
Even if you have a chainsaw exemplar in mind now , you may still also have some questions . Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the best small chainsaws .
Small chainsaws can weigh anywhere between 6 and 20 pounds . The weight depends on their power generator , how many battery they apply , and their mental synthesis materials .
perfectly . chain saw can be unsafe ; there is no denying that . When operate a chainsaw , protect yourself by wearing chainsaw chap , uncompromising boot , and both eye and ear protection as well as a pair of properly meet work baseball mitt .
There are many situational factors that can bound what a chainsaw can prune , but a small chainsaw can trim down Wood like pine , cedar , birch tree , and oak . Avoid go the power saw where the vane might contact soil , rock ‘n’ roll , metal , or concrete . Also use extreme circumspection when working near utilities like gas , galvanising , and waterlines .
Meet the Tester
Mark Wolfe is a product tester and author with an extensive backdrop in the greenhouse and landscape gardening industry . He kept his cock boxful well stocked for build or mend fences , walls , irrigation systems , and equipment on any given day . Now he examine and writes reviews about the latest deal tools , lawn - care products , out-of-door power equipment , and other out-of-door - living commodity .
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