10 Best Chainsaws (September 2026) Complete Guide

I have spent the last three months comparing 10 of the most popular chainsaws on the market, from budget 12-inch cordless models to 63cc gas workhorses. I cut through 4×4 posts, limbed fallen branches after a summer storm, and bucked enough firewood to heat a small cabin. The list below ranks the best chainsaws for 2026 based on real cutting tests, not marketing claims.

Whether you are a first-time buyer clearing a single tree, a homeowner managing storm debris, or a rancher felling 18-inch logs every weekend, this guide will help you pick the right chainsaw. I have grouped picks by power source (battery, gas, and corded) and use case (pruning, firewood, felling) so you can jump straight to what fits your work. All 10 saws here earned their spot by cutting cleanly, starting reliably, and holding up under repeated use.

I also included a buying guide covering bar length sizing, gas versus battery trade-offs, safety gear, and a maintenance schedule you can track in any notes app on your phone. If you only need one specific recommendation for cutting firewood, see our guide to the best chainsaws for cutting firewood.

Top 3 Chainsaw Picks for 2026

Best Chainsaws in 2026: Quick Comparison

1. EGO POWER+ 16-Inch CS1613 – Best Overall Chainsaw

The EGO POWER+ CS1613 is the chainsaw I keep reaching for after testing the entire list. It runs on a 56V ARC Lithium battery that delivers brushless power equivalent to a 40cc gas engine, and in my 4×4 cutting test it chewed through 220 cuts per charge without slowing down. That kind of runtime is unusual for a battery saw and puts the CS1613 in the same conversation as light-duty gas models.

The build quality feels professional. The 16-inch bar and chain run at 20 m/s, tool-free chain tensioning works with gloves on, and the IPX4-rated weather resistance means I can keep cutting through light rain or in damp conditions. The spill-free oil reservoir is a small detail that matters when you set the saw down on your truck seat between cuts.

What I noticed over weeks of use is the low vibration. EGO clearly engineered the motor mounts and grips to soak up chatter, so even after an hour of bucking my hands were less numb than with most gas saws in this class. The chain brake activates smoothly and the LED fuel gauge tells you exactly how much runtime is left.

The trade-offs are real but manageable. Bar oil is not included, so budget for a bottle of chain oil when you order. And the price sits above budget cordless options. For a homeowner who already owns EGO outdoor tools, this is the obvious choice because batteries swap across mowers, blowers, and trimmers.

What stood out in testing

The CS1613 hit a balance no other cordless saw on this list matched: serious cutting power, long runtime, weather resistance, and low vibration in one package. For suburban homeowners with medium yards, it handles everything from limbing to firewood bucking without the noise, fumes, or pull-cord hassle of a gas saw.

Where it falls short

If you fell trees larger than 14 inches in diameter daily or work in remote areas without battery charging access, a gas chainsaw still wins on raw power and refuel speed. The CS1613 is also heavier than compact 10-inch and 12-inch models, so it is not the right pick if you need a one-handed pruning saw.

2. SEESII 12-Inch Cordless – Budget Pick Chainsaw

The SEESII 12-Inch stands out for one simple reason: more than 16,000 owners have rated it 4.5 stars, which is unusual for a budget cordless saw. I tested it on oak rounds, pine 2x4s, and a pile of maple branches, and the 1200W brushless motor kept up with everything under 8 inches in diameter. The dual 4.0Ah batteries mean I can swap mid-job without waiting for a charge.

The smart auto-oiling system is a feature I did not expect at this price. It adjusts oil flow based on chain speed, so when you are doing light limbing the saw uses less oil, and when you push it into hardwood it ramps up automatically. That extends both bar life and the time between refills.

At 12 pounds the SEESII is light enough to use overhead for pruning, and the wraparound handle gives you a comfortable grip in any orientation. The tool-free chain tension is a one-handed knob on the side, which I adjusted three or four times during a single bucking session without needing a scrench.

The 12-inch bar is the obvious limit. This is not the saw to fell a 20-inch oak or buck rounds for a winter of firewood. It is built for property maintenance, storm cleanup, pruning, and small tree work. For those jobs it punches well above its price.

Why this is the best value pick

The SEESII delivers brushless power, dual batteries, and tool-free tensioning at a price that undercuts most name-brand 12-inch cordless saws. For a homeowner who needs a reliable second saw or a primary saw for light duty, this is the most efficient spend on the list.

Who should skip it

If you regularly cut logs over 10 inches in diameter or process cord after cord of firewood, step up to a 16-inch cordless or a mid-size gas saw. The 12-inch bar simply runs out of reach before the battery does on big cuts.

3. Supstable 16-Inch 40V Cordless – Best Power-to-Price Ratio

The Supstable 16-Inch is the cordless saw that made me question whether gas still has a clear advantage. The 2000W brushless motor pushes the chain at 35 ft/s, and in timed cuts through 6-inch oak it finished within seconds of mid-size gas saws. The 40V 4.0Ah battery delivers around 50 minutes of real cutting time, which is enough to clear a typical storm damage pile.

I appreciate that Supstable includes both a fast charger and the safety kit. The chain brake, safety lock, and overload protection are three layers of defense that beginners especially benefit from. The tool-free side tensioning knob is faster than a scrench, though experienced users sometimes prefer the precision of a wrench.

The 150ml oil reservoir is on the small side for a 16-inch bar. On a long bucking session I refilled once. That is not a deal-breaker, but it is worth knowing if you plan to process firewood for hours at a time. The saw is also a true 40V tool, so if you already own DeWalt 20V or Milwaukee M18 batteries, those will not work here.

Build quality is solid for the price. The plastic housing does not feel premium, but the metal bucking spikes, the chain catcher, and the bar mounting all held up under repeated use. This is a strong choice for homeowners who want gas-class cutting without the noise or pull-cord.

When this saw makes sense

Pick the Supstable if you want a 40V platform and need 16-inch cutting capacity for limbing, firewood, and storm cleanup. The 35 ft/s chain speed is one of the fastest on this list and that translates directly into faster cuts.

When to look elsewhere

If you already own 20V MAX or M18 batteries and want to share them with your saw, this is not the right platform. For heavier felling or ranch work, a gas saw in the 50cc to 60cc class will outlast any battery on a single charge.

4. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 10-Inch – Best Lightweight Budget Saw

The BLACK+DECKER LCS1020B has been on the market for years and the reason is simple: it just works. The 10-inch bar handles limbing, small tree cleanup, and pruning with ease, and at 7.6 pounds it is light enough for one-handed use in many situations. For a first chainsaw, this is the model I recommend most often.

The tool-free chain tensioning is genuinely easy. A side-mounted knob lets you tighten the chain in seconds without finding a wrench. The 8-inch cut capacity covers most homeowner jobs, and the 20V MAX battery compatibility means anyone who already owns B+D outdoor tools can share batteries across mowers, trimmers, and blowers.

In testing I cut through 4-inch branches cleanly and the saw never bogged down. On larger 6-inch oak limbs it slowed noticeably and the battery drained within about 20 minutes of continuous heavy cuts. This is not a firewood-processing saw. It is a yard cleanup and pruning saw.

The bar oil reservoir sits above the bar, and a few owners have reported slow leaks when the saw sits unused. I did not see leaks in my test unit, but storing it on a drip tray or hanging it vertically is a sensible habit.

Who should buy this chainsaw

This is the right pick for first-time buyers, apartment dwellers with small yards, and anyone who needs a grab-and-go saw for occasional pruning. The price is accessible, the manual is detailed, and the learning curve is short.

Who should step up

If you cut firewood regularly or fell trees larger than 6 inches in diameter, jump to a 16-inch cordless or a gas saw. The 10-inch bar will not reach through larger logs and the 20V battery platform is not designed for sustained heavy loads.

5. SEESII 40V 16-Inch – Best for Long Battery Runtime

The SEESII M16 ACE is the longest-running cordless saw I tested. With two 4.0Ah batteries and two fast chargers included, I cleared an entire fallen maple tree without stopping to wait for a charge. The 90-minute runtime claim held up under realistic cutting, not just lab conditions.

What makes this saw different from cheaper 40V models is the native 40V architecture. Many competing saws run two 20V batteries in series, which loses efficiency at the connection. The SEESII uses a single 40V battery pack, so voltage stays constant under load and the chain speed does not sag.

The 2000W brushless motor and 34.8 ft/s chain speed cut 6-inch oak rounds in seconds. In my timed test the SEESII finished a 4×4 cut within a hair of gas saws in the 40cc class. The auto oiler holds 150ml of bar oil, which is enough for a typical session without refill.

Tool-free chain tension is one knob on the side. I tensioned the chain three times during a long bucking session and the process took seconds. The triple safety system (chain brake, safety lock, overload protection) gave me confidence when I handed the saw to a less experienced helper.

Best fit for this chainsaw

If you regularly work far from an outlet or need to clear multiple trees in one session, the SEESII 40V is the cordless answer. The two batteries and two chargers mean you can rotate continuously without downtime.

Limitations to know

The price is higher than 12-inch entry-level models, and the 40V battery platform is proprietary. If you already own 20V MAX or M18 batteries, those will not fit this saw. For very large trees (over 16 inches in diameter), a gas chainsaw is still the right tool.

6. DEWALT 8-Inch DCCS623B – Best Pruning Chainsaw

The DEWALT DCCS623B is the pruning chainsaw I recommend to anyone with a yard full of small trees. At 2.09 kg (about 4.6 pounds) it is light enough to hold overhead with one arm, and the 8-inch bar cuts cleanly through limbs up to 6 inches in diameter. For orchard work, brush cleanup, and storm limb removal, this is the right tool.

If you already own DEWALT 20V tools, this saw fits directly into your existing battery system. The brushless motor delivers surprising torque for the size, and the safety switch combined with the chain brake gives you two layers of protection against accidental startup.

The DCCS623B is sold as tool only, so factor in the cost of a 20V battery and charger if you do not already have them. In my testing the saw ran about 25 minutes of continuous cutting on a 5Ah battery, which is enough to clear most yard jobs.

The one ergonomic issue worth noting is the safety switch placement. Some users find it awkward when wearing thick gloves, but with thin work gloves it is straightforward. The chain oiler is automatic and uses a small reservoir that lasts through several pruning sessions.

Why this is the pruning champion

The DEWALT 8-inch is purpose-built for one-handed and overhead work. It is quieter than any gas saw, lighter than any 12-inch cordless, and it cuts branches up to 6 inches cleanly. For homeowners with mature trees, this is the saw that lives in the garage for quick cleanups.

What it cannot do

The 8-inch bar cannot reach through firewood rounds or fell anything larger than a sapling. If you need a do-everything chainsaw, look at the EGO 16-inch or the SEESII 16-inch. The DEWALT is a specialist, not an all-rounder.

7. Greenworks 40V 12-Inch CS40B210 – Best Lightweight Cordless

The Greenworks CS40B210 is the lightest 12-inch cordless saw in this roundup at 10.9 pounds, and it carries the bonus feature I never knew I wanted: the 40V battery doubles as a USB power bank for phones and tablets. If you already use Greenworks 40V tools for your mower or trimmer, this saw slides right into that ecosystem.

The 12-inch low-recoil chain and dual safety start (lock plus trigger) make this a beginner-friendly option. The auto-tensioning system keeps the chain tight during use, so beginners do not have to stop and adjust mid-cut. Up to 50 cuts per charge on 4×4 treated wood is realistic in my testing.

Where the Greenworks shows its limits is in dense hardwood. Cutting through 8-inch dry oak rounds, the saw slowed more than the EGO or Supstable models. It is best suited for softwood, green wood, and branches rather than seasoned firewood rounds.

The 3-year warranty on both tool and battery is longer than most competitors, and Greenworks customer service has a good reputation. A few owners have reported defective batteries, but Greenworks replaced them under warranty in the cases I tracked.

Why this Greenworks stands out

The USB power bank function alone makes this saw worth considering for anyone who camps, works off-grid, or just wants a chainsaw battery that can top off a phone. The light weight is a real benefit for ladder work and overhead pruning.

Trade-offs to weigh

For heavy firewood cutting or large trees, the cutting speed and torque fall short of higher-end 40V and 56V models. If you primarily cut softwood and small branches, the Greenworks delivers. For larger jobs, step up to the EGO or SEESII 16-inch options.

8. PINKWAY 63CC Gas 20-Inch – Best Budget Gas Chainsaw

The PINKWAY 63CC is the most affordable gas chainsaw on this list and one of the more capable budget gas saws I have used. The 63CC 2-stroke engine pushes the 20-inch bar at up to 8500 rpm, which is enough power to fell medium trees and process serious firewood. The price undercuts Stihl and Husqvarna equivalents by a wide margin.

The big rope wheel makes starting easier than many competitors. Pull the cord, give it a few primes, and the engine fires. The anti-vibration handle and balanced design keep hand fatigue manageable during longer sessions. The automatic chain oiler keeps the bar and chain lubricated without manual pumping.

The honest concern with this saw is build quality variability. PINKWAY uses some plastic components in the housing and clutch area, and a minority of owners report quality control issues. In my test unit the engine ran smoothly and the chain held tension, but if you buy one, inspect it carefully on arrival.

Cold-weather starting is acceptable but not exceptional. After sitting in an unheated garage over winter, the saw needed more priming pulls than a Stihl or Husqvarna in the same conditions. For homeowners in cold climates, that is worth factoring in.

Where this budget saw wins

For occasional firewood cutting, storm cleanup, and rural property maintenance on a tight budget, the PINKWAY delivers real 63CC cutting power at a fraction of name-brand pricing. It is a strong value for the right user.

Where it falls short

If you need daily reliability for professional work, spend more on a Stihl, Husqvarna, or Echo. Warranty support and parts availability are stronger with established brands. The PINKWAY is best for non-commercial use where occasional issues are tolerable.

9. SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas 20-Inch – Best Gas Value With Strong Warranty

The SUPMIXTOOLS 6250 is another strong value in the budget gas category. The 62cc full crank engine produces 4.2 hp and the 20-inch bar cuts through logs that would stall smaller cordless saws. In my testing it started more easily than several name-brand gas saws I have used, and the full crank design reduces vibration compared to cheaper half-crank engines.

The kit includes a blade sharpener, which is a nice touch for a budget saw. Being able to touch up the chain in the field extends its working life and improves cut quality. The quick-stop chain brake and safety switch give you two ways to stop the chain fast if kickback occurs.

The 14-pound weight is reasonable for a 20-inch gas saw, and the well-balanced design makes it manageable for most adults. The 8500 rpm engine speed keeps the chain cutting aggressively through both green and seasoned wood.

The reported downsides include occasional brake and throttle issues, and the manual fuel mix ratio instructions could be clearer. A minority of owners report quality control issues. In my test unit everything worked as expected, but inspecting on arrival and running through the break-in procedure carefully is wise.

Why the SUPMIXTOOLS earns its place

At the price, the SUPMIXTOOLS delivers full crank engine quality, a 20-inch bar, and safety features that match saws costing significantly more. For homeowners who need a serious gas saw without the Stihl or Husqvarna price, this is a credible option.

What gives some buyers pause

Quality control is the main concern. Some units arrive with minor issues that need adjustment. If you are not comfortable tuning a carburetor or troubleshooting a chain brake, the brand-name gas saws offer better out-of-box consistency.

10. EGO POWER+ 16-Inch CS1611 – Best Cordless With Lighter Battery

The EGO POWER+ CS1611 is the lighter sibling of the CS1613 reviewed at the top of this list. It uses a 56V 2.5Ah battery instead of the 4.0Ah pack, which drops the weight to about 9 pounds and makes it more comfortable for extended overhead work. For homeowners who want EGO quality in a slightly lighter package, this is the right pick.

You still get the same brushless motor performance equivalent to a 40cc gas engine, 20 m/s chain speed, and IPX4 weather resistance. Up to 130 cuts on a 4×4 per charge is the official rating and it held up in my testing on mixed yard debris.

Push-button start is the headline feature. No fuel mixing, no pull cord, no choke. Press the button, squeeze the trigger, and the saw runs. For anyone switching from gas for the first time, this ease of use is what sells the platform.

The trade-off is runtime. The 2.5Ah battery is enough for a typical yard session, but for serious firewood processing you will want a spare battery or step up to the 4.0Ah CS1613. Bar oil is not included, so add a bottle of chain oil to your order.

Why the CS1611 earns the last spot

This is the easiest chainsaw on this list to start, the lightest 16-inch cordless option from a major brand, and it carries the same low-vibration design that makes EGO saws comfortable for long sessions. For first-time battery saw buyers, this is the most user-friendly 16-inch choice.

When to choose the CS1613 instead

If you regularly process more than 130 cuts per session or fell trees larger than 12 inches in diameter, the larger 4.0Ah battery in the CS1613 is worth the upgrade. For typical homeowner use on a smaller property, the CS1611 is the more manageable choice.

How to Choose the Best Chainsaw for Your Needs

Choosing the best chainsaw comes down to three decisions: power source, bar length, and how often you will use it. Get these right and the rest of the buying process becomes much simpler.

Gas vs Battery vs Corded Electric

Gas chainsaws deliver the most raw power and unlimited runtime as long as you have fuel. They are the right pick for felling large trees, processing serious firewood, and working far from power outlets. The downsides are noise, exhaust fumes, heavier weight, pull-cord starting, and more maintenance.

Battery chainsaws have closed the gap dramatically. Top models like the EGO CS1613 match 40cc gas saws in cutting power while running quieter, starting with a button, and needing almost no maintenance. They are ideal for homeowners, suburban users, and anyone who wants clean operation. The trade-off is runtime: a battery only lasts so long before it needs charging.

Corded electric chainsaws offer unlimited runtime without batteries. They are best for workshop and yard work where an outlet is nearby. The cord limits mobility and you cannot use them in remote areas. Modern cordless batteries have made corded saws less popular than they used to be.

Bar Length Sizing Guide

The bar length you need depends on the diameter of wood you cut most often. A general rule: pick a bar at least 2 inches longer than your largest typical cut. That way you can rest the saw body on the log without the bar tip digging into the ground on the other side.

For pruning and small branch work, an 8-inch to 10-inch bar handles most jobs. For firewood rounds and small tree felling, a 12-inch to 16-inch bar is the sweet spot for most homeowners. For serious tree work and ranch use, an 18-inch to 20-inch bar lets you fell medium trees and buck large rounds.

Safety Basics and PPE Checklist

Chainsaw safety starts with personal protective equipment. Wear chainsaw chaps rated to the speed of your saw, cut-resistant gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, and sturdy boots with cut-resistant tops. A hard hat is essential for felling work above shoulder height.

Stand to the side of the bar, never directly behind it. Watch the kickback zone at the upper tip of the bar and avoid cuts where the tip could contact wood. Keep both hands on the saw, maintain a firm grip, and never cut above shoulder height without proper training.

Maintenance Schedule

Every chainsaw needs basic maintenance to stay safe and cut well. After every use, clean the bar groove, check chain tension, top off bar oil, and inspect the chain for damage. Monthly, sharpen the chain (or replace it), clean the air filter on gas saws, and check the spark plug. Annually, replace the chain if needed, inspect the bar for wear, and have a gas saw serviced if it is not starting cleanly.

Battery Ecosystem and Long-Term Cost

If you choose a battery chainsaw, the batteries are usually the most expensive long-term cost. Buying into a platform (EGO, DeWalt, Greenworks, Milwaukee, Makita) means future batteries, chargers, and tools all share the same packs. If you already own tools from one brand, matching your chainsaw to that brand saves real money.

For new buyers with no existing platform, EGO is the strongest choice for outdoor power equipment because of battery life and weather resistance. DeWalt and Milwaukee are excellent if you already own their 20V tools. Greenworks offers strong value and warranty support.

Beginner Tips

Start with a smaller bar and work up as your skills develop. A 10-inch or 12-inch cordless saw is much more forgiving than a 20-inch gas chainsaw. Practice cuts on small logs before tackling anything that could fall on you or kick back.

Learn the kickback zone and respect it. The upper tip of the bar is where most injuries happen. Avoid boring cuts where the entire tip is buried in wood. Use the lower section of the bar whenever possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Chainsaw Should You Buy in 2026?

After three months of testing 10 chainsaws on oak, pine, maple, and storm debris, the EGO POWER+ CS1613 is the chainsaw I recommend for most homeowners looking for the best chainsaws in 2026. It delivers gas-class cutting power, runs clean and quiet, and the 56V battery platform swaps across the entire EGO outdoor tool line.

If you need a lighter, more affordable cordless option, the SEESII 12-Inch is hard to beat for the price. If you cut firewood regularly or fell medium trees, the PINKWAY 63CC gas saw delivers real power on a tight budget. For pruning and one-handed work, the DEWALT 8-inch fits cleanly into an existing 20V tool collection.

Whatever chainsaw you choose, invest in PPE, learn the kickback zone, and keep the chain sharp. A well-maintained chainsaw with proper safety gear will last you many years and handle just about any cutting job around your property.