What’s the best type of chainsaw for homeowners in 2023 – gas, corded or cordless?

Don’t forget to buy chain oil when getting your first chainsaw. All chainsaws use chain oil to keep the chain lubricated and cutting smoothly.

Corded chainsaws vs. cordless models

Cordless chainsaws are available at reasonably low prices and current models often have more power than cordless chainsaws offered by manufacturers in previous years. When considering whether to buy a cordless or corded electric chainsaw, consider these factors.

Price

Cordless chainsaws typically cost twice as much as corded models. If you only expect to use the chainsaw once a year or so, consider going with the less expensive alternative – a corded chainsaw.

Convenience

Cordless chainsaw are more convenient to use because you don’t have to worry about connecting them to an extension cord. If you don’t have an outdoor extension cord that will reach the areas of your lawn where trimming and cutting is needed, then you’ll likely want to choose a cordless chainsaw.

As a trade-off, you will typically sacrifice some power when choosing a cordless chainsaw over a corded model. This gap in power continues to narrow in 2023 but corded chainsaws often have more powerful motors than low-cost cordless models.

Also, you’ll find that chainsaw batteries eventually wear out over time. This can take 5 to 10 years. Replacement batteries can cost nearly as much as buying a new chainsaw. You won’t face this problem if you buy a corded chainsaw.

Consider these factors when choosing an electric chainsaw.

Power

As mentioned above, lower-priced cordless chainsaws often don’t have as powerful motors as corded models. For corded electric chainsaws, you can look at the motor amperage specification to see how powerful the chainsaw will be. For example, the WEN 4017 16" Electric Corded Chainsaw uses a motor rated at 12 amps. That chainsaw will easily cut through most limbs up to 10-inches.

Most cordless chainsaw motors aren’t rated for amperage. You can use battery voltage to compare cordless chainsaw power. A 40-volt cordless chainsaw will be more than twice as powerful as a 20-volt model. The cost of the chainsaw will also go up as battery voltage increases. To buy a low-cost cordless chainsaw, you’ll likely have to settle for a model that will cut 6-inch limbs with about a ½-hour of run time before battery recharge is needed.

If you only need a chainsaw for light to medium trimming, then a 20-volt cordless chainsaw may be right for you.

When to buy a gas chainsaw instead of electric

You’ll need a gas chainsaw when you have a large property with lots of thick trees that need regular trimming. Gas chainsaws are much more powerful than most electric models. Gas chainsaws are also available with longer bar lengths to cut thicker trees and limbs.

You’ll also need to maintain the engine on a gas chainsaw. Otherwise, you’ll have to deal with engine starting problems or a rough-running chainsaw engine.

Most gas chainsaws use a 2-cycle engine so you’ll need to keep a good supply of fuel/oil mix handy.

When you’ll be using a gas chainsaw regularly, choose a sturdy model and a brand that offers replacement chains and parts.

The top brands of gas chainsaws in 2023 include:

• Husqvarna chainsaws

• Poulan chainsaws

• McCulloch chainsaws

• Craftsman chainsaws

For advice on how to keep your gas chainsaw in top shape, visit our Chainsaw DIY Help section.

Choosing the right chainsaw for your home’s needs will save you money and help you complete tree trimming and removal chores quickly and efficiently. When using a chainsaw, always follow the safety instructions in the owner’s manual. For expert advice on chainsaw cutting, read our article How to cut trees, limbs and branches with a chainsaw by Jeff Day.