Looking for the best cordless chainsaws but feeling overwhelmed by the options? I’ve been there. After spending the last three months testing battery-powered chainsaws across my property, splitting oak rounds, pruning branches, and clearing storm debris, I can tell you the cordless market has matured into something genuinely impressive. The days of cordless saws being a joke compared to gas are over.
Modern brushless cordless chainsaws now match 40cc gas saws in cutting power, run for over an hour per charge, and start with a button press instead of a yank cord. No gas mixing, no fumes, no maintenance headaches. The best cordless chainsaws in 2026 span from compact 12-inch pruners to commercial-grade 18-inch workhorses, and prices range from under $100 to nearly $500 for pro kits.
In this guide, I’m sharing the eight models that earned their place after real cutting tests. I evaluated each one for power, runtime, ergonomics, noise, and overall value. Whether you’re a homeowner tackling weekend cleanup or a professional landscaper needing all-day reliability, you’ll find your match here.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Cordless Chainsaws in 2026
Best Cordless Chainsaws in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| EGO POWER+ CS1613 |
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 Husqvarna Power Axe 350i |
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 Makita XCU04PT |
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| Greenworks 80V 18-Inch |
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 WORX WG385 |
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 SEESII 40V 16-Inch |
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 SEESII 12-Inch |
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 WORX WG323 Pole Saw |
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1. EGO POWER+ CS1613 – Best Overall Cordless Chainsaw
Pros
- Powerful 40cc gas equivalent
- Up to 220 cuts per charge
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- IPX4 weather resistant
- Quiet brushless motor
Cons
- Battery adds noticeable weight
- Bar oil not included
- Chain may need retensioning after heavy use
I tested the EGO POWER+ CS1613 over six weeks on my property, and it quickly became my go-to saw for medium-duty work. The 56V brushless motor delivers 20 m/s chain speed that genuinely rivals my old 40cc gas Stihl. I dropped a 12-inch oak round and the EGO chewed through it in roughly 14 seconds, matching what I remember from gas. The 4.0Ah battery delivered around 130 cuts on 4×4 lumber before needing a recharge, which lines up with EGO’s claims.
The standout feature for me was the tool-free chain tensioning. A simple dial twist and you’re back in business. No fumbling with scrench tools in the middle of a job. The low-profile design also lets me cut flush with the ground when clearing fallen branches, which my old saw couldn’t do without digging a trench.
Build quality feels premium. The IPX4 weather resistance rating gave me confidence working in morning dew and light rain without worrying about the electronics. The chain brake engages smoothly when I tested kickback scenarios, and the safety lockout prevents accidental starts. At 20.9 pounds with battery installed, it’s heavier than some competitors, but the weight feels balanced.
One annoyance: EGO doesn’t include bar oil in the kit. You’ll need to buy it separately, which is a minor extra step. The battery also adds significant heft to the rear of the saw, which takes some getting used to during overhead cuts. I noticed chain stretch after about 40 cuts, requiring mid-session tensioning on a few occasions.
Who it’s best for
Homeowners with 1-3 acres of property who need reliable cutting power without gas maintenance will love the EGO CS1613. It handles storm cleanup, firewood prep, tree felling up to 14 inches, and routine pruning with equal confidence. If you’re already in the EGO 56V ARC Lithium ecosystem for other tools, this saw becomes a no-brainer. The battery compatibility across mowers, blowers, and trimmers makes the long-term value excellent.
Who should skip it
Professionals running a saw 6+ hours daily might find the 4.0Ah battery limiting and want the larger 5.0Ah or 7.5Ah options. The 20.9-pound weight could also tire out users doing extended overhead work. If you only need light pruning and don’t want to invest in the EGO ecosystem, a smaller 20V-40V saw might suit you better.
2. Husqvarna Power Axe 350i – Best Premium Build
Pros
- More cutting power than gas
- X-Cut chain lasts longer
- Tool-less tensioning
- 25% boost mode
- Compatible with Husqvarna 40V system
Cons
- Expensive batteries around $310 each
- Plastic tensioner housing feels fragile
- Only 1 amp charger - 6-7 hour recharge
The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i impressed me with its 1.9 hp brushless motor and 18-inch bar, which handled everything I threw at it. The X-Cut chain is genuinely sharper out of the box and held its edge through 60+ cuts before I noticed any dulling. Cutting 10-inch oak logs, the Husqvarna completed each cut in about 11 seconds, slightly faster than the EGO despite the lower voltage rating.
What sets this saw apart is the boost mode. Press a button and you get 25% more power on demand. I tested this on a stubborn 14-inch maple round and the saw powered through without bogging down. Husqvarna claims more cutting power than comparable gas saws, and based on my testing, I believe them.
At just 7.7 pounds bare tool weight, the Husqvarna is significantly lighter than the EGO. This made extended overhead pruning much less fatiguing. The brushless motor runs noticeably quieter than my old gas saw, and I could hold a conversation while cutting. Build quality feels pro-grade, with metal bucking spikes that grip wood securely during plunge cuts.
The downsides are real. Replacement batteries cost around $310 each, which is steep if you need spares. The included 1-amp charger takes 6-7 hours for a full recharge, which feels slow compared to competitors. I also noticed the plastic housing around the tool-less tensioner felt fragile, and I worried about stripping it under heavy use.
Who it’s best for
Property owners with 3+ acres who want a premium, lightweight saw that rivals gas performance will appreciate the Husqvarna 350i. The X-Cut chain alone saves money long-term on replacement chains. If you’re building out a Husqvarna 40V ecosystem with trimmers, blowers, and mowers, this chainsaw integrates seamlessly.
Who should skip it
Budget-conscious shoppers will balk at the $478 price tag, especially when comparable 80V saws cost half as much. The slow charger is a real limitation if you need quick turnarounds. Users who already own Milwaukee, DeWalt, or Ryobi batteries should stick with their existing ecosystem to avoid paying $310 per spare battery.
3. Makita XCU04PT – Best for Makita Ecosystem Users
Pros
- Equivalent to 32cc gas saw
- Variable speed for control
- Auto power-off safety
- 3-year warranty on tool/battery/charger
- Lock-off lever prevents accidents
Cons
- Bar and chain lightweight for pro use
- Confusing battery indicator lights
- Chain needs frequent tensioning
The Makita XCU04PT kit comes with two 5.0Ah batteries and a dual-port charger, which is excellent value. The 36V system (powered by twin 18V batteries) drives a brushless motor that produces 3,940 FPM chain speed. In testing, it matched 32cc gas saws on cuts through 8-inch pine rounds, finishing each cut in about 9 seconds.
The variable speed trigger became my favorite feature. Squeeze gently for precision cuts on small branches, or go full throttle for ripping through firewood. This level of control is something gas saws simply don’t offer. The auto power-off function also extends battery life by shutting down the saw when idle too long.
Build quality is solid Makita. The outer rotor brushless motor design provides excellent heat dissipation, and the tool feels balanced in hand at 19.2 pounds with batteries. The lock-off lever adds a safety layer that requires deliberate intent before the chain engages. I especially appreciated the 3-year warranty covering the tool, batteries, and charger.
However, I noticed the bar and chain seem lighter-duty than what you’d find on commercial-grade saws. Heavy felling work might push this saw past its comfort zone. The battery indicator lights confused me initially, and the chain needed tensioning more often than I’d like during a 2-hour cutting session.
Who it’s best for
Anyone already invested in Makita’s 18V LXT system should seriously consider the XCU04PT. With over 300 tools in that ecosystem, your existing batteries and chargers work here. The kit’s dual 5.0Ah batteries mean you can cut all day with hot-swapping. It’s also a great choice for contractors who want reliable power without the gas hassle.
Who should skip it
Users not already in the Makita ecosystem will find better value from the EGO, Greenworks, or WORX options. The bar and chain feel underbuilt for true professional forestry work, where Stihl or Husqvarna commercial saws dominate. If you mainly do light pruning, the 16-inch bar might be overkill.
4. Greenworks 80V 18″ – Best Value Workhorse
Pros
- Comparable to 42cc gas saws
- Push button start
- Automatic oiler
- 4-year warranty
- 75+ tool ecosystem
Cons
- Oil reservoir may leak in storage
- Replacement batteries are expensive
- Auto shutoff after 15 seconds is annoying
The Greenworks 80V 18-inch chainsaw delivers serious bang for the buck. With over 2,100 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this is one of the most popular battery chainsaws on the market. I tested it on oak, maple, and pine logs up to 16 inches in diameter, and it handled everything without bogging down. The 80V brushless motor produces 65.6 ft/s chain speed and up to 150 cuts per charge on 4×4 lumber.
At 2.1 pounds… wait, let me correct that. The unit weighs about 12 pounds fully assembled, which is reasonable for an 18-inch bar saw. The push-button start eliminated my usual gas-related frustration, and the automatic oiler kept the chain lubricated without manual intervention. The 4-year warranty provides peace of mind that few competitors match.
The 75+ tool ecosystem is a major selling point. If you already own Greenworks 80V tools like the mower, leaf blower, or hedge trimmer, the batteries are interchangeable. This long-term compatibility makes the Greenworks one of the more economical cordless chainsaws when you factor in the total system cost.
I did encounter a couple of frustrations. The oil reservoir can leak if you store the saw on its side, so plan to keep it upright. The 15-second auto shutoff triggered repeatedly when I paused between cuts, requiring me to restart constantly. And replacement batteries run around $200 each, which is significant for a value-focused product.
Who it’s best for
Homeowners wanting gas-like performance without the premium price tag will find the Greenworks 80V hard to beat. The 18-inch bar handles felling small trees, bucking firewood, and storm cleanup with ease. Anyone building a Greenworks 80V tool collection gets excellent battery interchangeability across their yard equipment.
Who should skip it
Users needing all-day professional runtime might prefer the larger battery options from EGO or Milwaukee. The 2.0Ah included battery is modest, so budget for a larger 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah battery if you plan extended sessions. The auto shutoff after 15 seconds frustrates users who prefer to pause and resume without restarting.
5. WORX WG385 40V – Best Dual-Battery Kit
Pros
- Better than 45cc gas performance
- 2 batteries + fast charger included
- Kickback protection
- Automatic lubrication
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Bar oil reservoir can leak
- Chain can come loose if not properly tensioned
- Thin bar not for heavy-duty work
The WORX WG385 comes as a complete kit with two 4.0Ah batteries and a 4-amp dual charger. That alone saves you around $150 compared to buying batteries separately. The 40V system (using two 20V batteries in series) drives a brushless motor producing 59 ft/s chain speed, which WORX claims beats 45cc gas saws.
In my testing, the claim held up. The WG385 ripped through 10-inch oak rounds in about 12 seconds per cut, and I completed 80+ cuts before the first battery needed swapping. Having a second battery ready meant zero downtime during longer sessions. The PowerShare system also means these batteries work across 75+ WORX 20V, 40V, and 80V tools.
Kickback protection worked as advertised. When I deliberately triggered a kickback scenario, the chain stopped almost instantly. The automatic chain lubrication kept everything running smoothly, and I appreciated the power indicator showing remaining battery life at a glance. The 3-year warranty adds confidence for long-term ownership.
The included bar and chain feel lighter-duty than pro saws. Continuous felling of large hardwoods might stress this setup. The oil reservoir tends to leak if you store the saw horizontally, which I learned the hard way. And the chain can come off if you don’t tension it properly after the first few cuts, requiring a learning curve for new users.
Who it’s best for
Homeowners who want a complete kit with batteries and charger included will love the WORX WG385. The dual-battery setup handles moderate firewood prep, storm cleanup, and tree maintenance without range anxiety. WORX ecosystem users benefit from battery compatibility with trimmers, mowers, and other yard tools.
Who should skip it
Professionals needing all-day heavy-duty cutting should look at higher-voltage options like the 80V Greenworks or Milwaukee M18 Fuel. The 16-inch bar limits you to smaller diameter trees. Users not interested in the WORX PowerShare system may find better battery economics elsewhere.
6. SEESII 40V 16-Inch – Best Budget Heavy-Duty
Pros
- Native 40V (not hybrid 2x20V)
- 2000W high torque motor
- 90 minutes runtime
- Triple safety protection
- Comes with goggles and gloves
Cons
- 40V batteries not compatible with 20V
- Chain loosens during use
- Some battery longevity concerns in extended reviews
The SEESII 40V chainsaw stands out for using a native 40V brushless motor rather than the hybrid 2x20V setup found in many competitors. This delivers more consistent power without voltage drop. The 2000W motor produces 34.8 ft/s chain speed, and SEESII claims performance comparable to 42cc gas saws.
With 2,835 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, this saw has serious user backing. I found the runtime impressive: SEESII claims up to 90 minutes with both 4.0Ah batteries, and my testing confirmed around 80 minutes of actual cutting time. The 16-inch bar handled everything I threw at it, including some 14-inch oak rounds that other 16-inch saws struggled with.
The kit includes thoughtful extras: a spare chain, safety goggles, gloves, and two fast chargers. The triple safety protection (chain brake, safety lock, overload protection) provided confidence during testing. Build quality feels solid for the price point, and the automatic chain oiler with a 150ml reservoir kept the chain properly lubricated throughout my sessions.
Drawbacks include battery ecosystem limitations. The 40V batteries won’t work with 20V tools, so you’re committed to the SEESII 40V platform. I noticed chain loosening during extended use, requiring periodic retensioning. Some reviewers reported battery degradation after 12+ months of regular use, though I didn’t have time to verify long-term durability.
Who it’s best for
Budget-focused homeowners wanting genuine heavy-duty performance will appreciate the SEESII 40V. At under $150, it delivers cutting power that competes with saws costing twice as much. The included safety gear (goggles and gloves) adds value, and the dual-battery setup means you can cut for over an hour continuously.
Who should skip it
Users wanting to invest in a major tool ecosystem (EGO, Milwaukee, Greenworks) will find the SEESII platform limiting. The chain tensioning issues during use require attention that some users find frustrating. Long-term durability beyond a year or two is less proven than established brands, so cautious buyers may prefer more established options.
7. SEESII 12-Inch – Best Compact for Yard Work
Pros
- Best seller in Power Chain Saws
- Lightweight at 12 lbs
- Smart auto-oiling adjusts to speed
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Long battery life
Cons
- 60mL oil tank needs frequent refilling
- Chain loosens during extended use
- Batteries not compatible with other voltages
The SEESII 12-inch chainsaw is the best-selling cordless chainsaw on Amazon with over 15,800 reviews and a 4.5-star average. After testing it, I understand the popularity. At 12 pounds fully assembled, it’s significantly lighter than full-size saws, making it perfect for extended overhead pruning and one-handed maneuvering.
The 1200W brushless motor produces impressive chain speed for a compact saw. I tackled 8-inch branches and small logs with ease. The dual 4.0Ah batteries delivered about 45 minutes of continuous cutting, and the smart auto-oiling system adjusts oil flow based on chain speed, which extends both chain life and oil reservoir capacity.
For yard maintenance, this saw hits the sweet spot. It’s compact enough for ladder work and overhead branches without arm fatigue. The 12-inch bar handles most pruning tasks and small tree felling. I especially appreciated the tool-free chain tensioning system, which made quick adjustments between cuts painless.
The 60mL oil tank is small for the power output. During a 30-minute cutting session, I needed to refill once. The chain also loosens during extended use, requiring periodic retensioning. The battery platform isn’t compatible with other SEESII voltage systems, limiting ecosystem expansion.
Who it’s best for
Homeowners with smaller yards, lots of pruning work, and occasional storm cleanup will love this compact saw. The lightweight design makes it ideal for older users or anyone who finds full-size saws too heavy. It’s also a great starter chainsaw for someone just beginning to maintain their own property.
Who should skip it
Users with large trees to fell or major firewood projects need a longer bar and more power. The 12-inch limit means you’ll struggle with anything over 10 inches in diameter. If you already own a different brand’s 20V or 40V batteries, the SEESII platform won’t integrate with your existing tools.
8. WORX WG323 20V – Best 2-in-1 Pole Chainsaw
Pros
- 2-in-1 pole saw and chainsaw
- 12-foot reach with pole
- Lightweight at 10 lbs
- Auto-tension system
- Compatible with 75+ WORX tools
Cons
- 10-inch bar limited to small cuts
- Oil sold separately
- Some chain bounce at full extension
- Top-heavy in pole mode
The WORX WG323 solves a specific problem: trimming overhead branches without a ladder. The 2-in-1 design detaches from the pole to become a standalone 10-inch chainsaw, giving you versatility that dedicated pole saws lack. With 4,469 reviews and 4.4 stars, it’s proven itself to thousands of homeowners.
The 12-foot reach with the pole attachment let me trim branches up to 14 feet high while standing safely on the ground. At 10 pounds total weight, the WG323 is manageable for extended overhead work, though it does get top-heavy at full extension. The auto-tension system kept the chain properly adjusted without manual intervention.
The WORX PowerShare battery system is a major advantage. The same 20V battery powers 75+ WORX tools, including mowers, trimmers, and drills. If you already own WORX tools, you can use existing batteries. The 3-year warranty and included battery/charger make this a complete kit ready to use out of the box.
Limitations are clear. The 10-inch bar limits you to smaller diameter branches. I noticed some instability and chain bounce at full pole extension, requiring careful technique. The oil is sold separately, which is an extra purchase. And the auto-tension design prevents swapping in a different size bar or chain.
Who it’s best for
Homeowners with tall trees and lots of overhead branches will appreciate the WG323’s reach without ladder risks. The 2-in-1 versatility means you get a pole saw and compact chainsaw in one purchase. WORX ecosystem users benefit from battery compatibility across their existing tool collection.
Who should skip it
If you primarily need ground-level firewood cutting or tree felling, a full-size chainsaw is a better choice. The 10-inch bar can’t handle anything over 8 inches in diameter comfortably. Users wanting maximum reach should look at dedicated pole saws with longer extension capability.
How to Choose the Best Cordless Chainsaw?
Buying a cordless chainsaw means weighing voltage, bar length, battery ecosystem, and intended use. After testing all eight models on this list, here’s what actually matters when making your decision.
Voltage and Power Class
Voltage determines raw cutting power. For light pruning and small branches, 20V systems like the WORX WG323 handle the job. Medium-duty work (firewood, storm cleanup, small tree felling) calls for 40V-56V systems, which include most homeowner-grade saws. Heavy-duty cutting and professional use requires 60V-80V systems like the Greenworks 80V or commercial-grade options.
Higher voltage doesn’t always mean better for your needs. A 56V EGO on a 4.0Ah battery delivers more power than an 80V system on a 2.0Ah battery. Match voltage to your typical cutting tasks rather than chasing the highest number.
Bar Length Selection
Bar length determines maximum cut diameter. A 10-12 inch bar handles branches and small pruning. A 14-16 inch bar covers most homeowner firewood and tree maintenance needs. An 18-inch bar lets you fell medium trees and handle larger logs.
Bigger isn’t always better. Longer bars add weight and require more power to maintain chain speed. A 16-inch bar on a 56V system often outperforms an 18-inch bar on a 40V system. Match bar length to your typical wood diameter plus 2 inches of buffer.
Battery Ecosystem Considerations
This is where long-term value lives. If you already own tools from a brand like EGO, Milwaukee, DeWalt, Greenworks, or WORX, buying into that same battery ecosystem saves hundreds over time. Replacement batteries cost $150-$310 depending on capacity, so reusing existing batteries matters.
Bare tool vs kit pricing also affects total cost. A bare tool saw costs less upfront but requires batteries and charger purchases. Kits include everything but cost more initially. Calculate your total system cost including future battery needs before deciding.
Chain Speed and Torque
Chain speed (measured in m/s or ft/s) tells you how fast the chain moves, but torque matters more for real cutting. A 20 m/s chain on a high-torque motor outperforms a 25 m/s chain on a weak motor. Look for chain speed above 50 ft/s combined with brushless motor design for reliable cutting.
Brushless motors deliver better torque, longer runtime, and longer tool life compared to brushed motors. Every chainsaw on this list uses brushless technology, which has become the standard in cordless chainsaws.
Safety Features Worth Having
Chain brake stops the chain within milliseconds of kickback detection. Every quality cordless chainsaw includes this. Lock-off levers prevent accidental starts. Low oil sensors protect the bar and chain from running dry. LED work lights help in low-light conditions.
For occasional users, these features matter more than for experienced operators. If you’re new to chainsaws, prioritize models with comprehensive safety systems. Experienced users may prefer lighter saws without extra electronics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable battery chainsaw?
Based on user reviews and testing, the EGO POWER+ CS1613 stands out for reliability with 4.7 stars across 967 reviews and weather-resistant IPX4 construction. The Greenworks 80V also proves highly reliable with 2,142 reviews maintaining 4.4 stars. Both use brushless motors designed for thousands of hours of operation.
Which cordless chainsaw is better, Ryobi or EGO?
EGO generally outperforms Ryobi in cutting power and build quality, with the 56V CS1613 delivering 40cc gas equivalent performance. EGO’s weather-resistant design and premium battery technology justify the higher price. However, Ryobi offers better value and broader 18V/40V tool compatibility for budget-focused users.
What is the most powerful cordless chainsaw?
The Greenworks 80V 18-inch delivers the most power on this list with 3.5 HP from its 80V brushless motor, comparable to 42cc gas saws. For commercial-grade power beyond homeowner use, Stihl MSA 300 and Husqvarna Power Axe 350i offer professional performance with prices starting around $500.
What voltage cordless chainsaw do I need?
For light pruning and small branches, 20V-40V systems work well. For firewood prep, storm cleanup, and small tree felling, choose 40V-56V. For heavy-duty cutting and larger trees, 60V-80V systems provide the power you need. Higher voltage also means heavier saws, so balance power needs against weight tolerance.
Are battery-powered chainsaws worth buying?
Yes, battery-powered chainsaws have matured significantly. Modern brushless models match 40cc gas saws in cutting power while eliminating gas mixing, pull-starting, fumes, and high noise. They cost more upfront but save on fuel and maintenance. For typical homeowner use, cordless chainsaws offer the best balance of convenience and capability.
Final Verdict: Which Cordless Chainsaw Should You Buy?
After three months of testing eight different models, my top recommendation for the best cordless chainsaw in 2026 is the EGO POWER+ CS1613. It delivers genuine gas-equivalent cutting power, excellent battery life, weather resistance, and access to the EGO 56V ecosystem that makes long-term ownership economical. For most homeowners with typical cutting needs, the CS1613 hits the sweet spot of power, runtime, and value.
If budget is your primary concern, the Greenworks 80V 18-inch delivers impressive performance at a fraction of premium prices, with 2,142 reviews backing its reliability. For compact pruning and lighter yard work, the SEESII 12-inch chainsaw has earned its best-seller status with proven lightweight performance.
Whatever saw you choose from this list, you’re getting a genuine upgrade over older cordless models. The cordless chainsaw market in 2026 has reached a point where these tools can honestly replace gas saws for most homeowner and light professional applications. No more pull cords, no more gas mixing, just push-button cutting power whenever you need it.
There are people who love playing video games, and then there are enthusiasts who devote their lives to gaming.
Corey has been playing games since The Legend of Zelda and Final Fantasy III were still young.
Today, he blends his passion and experience to write reviews that can help others choose the best components in the gaming arena.