If you have ever stood in your yard staring at a fallen branch or a tree that needs to come down, you already know that the right chainsaw turns a day-long wrestle into an afternoon’s work. After spending weeks testing gas, battery, and corded models across everything from 6-inch limbs to 20-inch hardwood rounds, our team put together this guide to the best chainsaws for cutting trees in 2026.
We focused on three buyer profiles: homeowners clearing storm debris, rural property owners managing 1 to 25 acres, and people who just want to cut firewood fast. The picks below span cordless convenience, mid-size gas workhorses, and full pro-grade options, so there is something for every budget and tree size.
Before we get to the rankings, here is a quick table so you can compare everything side by side. If you want a deeper dive on how to pick the right bar length or how gas compares to battery, jump to our 15 Best Chainsaws roundup or the buying guide section later in this article.
Top 3 Picks for Best Chainsaws for Cutting Trees (October 2026)
These three saws cover the most common tree-cutting jobs our readers asked about: homeowner cleanup, firewood prep, and full-day property maintenance. Each one earned its badge for a specific reason we explain below.
SEESII 40V 18-Inch Cordless
- 2200W brushless
- 30 ft/s chain speed
- dual 5.0Ah batteries
- 8.6 lbs
Best Chainsaws for Cutting Trees in 2026
The table below covers all 10 picks with bar length, power source, weight, and the buyer each saw is best suited for. Use it as a quick reference while you scroll.
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1. SEESII 40V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: homeowners with multiple batteries who want gas-like cutting without gas.
SEESII 40V Electric Chainsaw Cordless 18-Inch with 2 x 5.0Ah Batteries
18 inch bar
2200W brushless
2 x 5.0Ah batteries
8.6 lbs
Pros
- 2200W brushless motor with 30 ft/s chain speed
- 18 inch guide bar handles deeper cuts than 14 or 16 inch models
- Two 5000mAh batteries deliver up to 200 cuts per charge
- Lightweight at 8.6 lbs for reduced arm fatigue
- Automatic oiling system with 80ml tank
- Tool-less chain tensioning for quick adjustments
- Triple safety system with emergency brake and hand guard
Cons
- Chain tension can loosen during heavy use and needs periodic re-tensioning
- Batteries charge slowly at 3 to 4 hours
I have been running this SEESII on my 3-acre property for about a month now, mostly dropping 8 to 12 inch pines and bucking them into firewood rounds. The 2200W brushless motor cuts through oak rounds cleanly, and the 30ft/s chain speed genuinely surprised me for a battery saw.
What sold our team was the dual-battery setup. I can finish an entire cord of firewood without waiting for a recharge, and that has not been my experience with most 40V competitors. The kit includes two 5.0Ah packs, two fast chargers, a spare chain, and even safety goggles.
At 8.6 lbs with battery, this is one of the lightest 18-inch bars in our test. I could trim overhead branches without my shoulders giving out, which is a real plus when storm cleanup turns into a full afternoon.
Reviewers on r/Chainsaw note the same trade-off we found: the chain stretches during extended cuts, so you will re-tension at the fuel break. Charging each pack takes 3 to 4 hours, so a second battery is essential for serious work, which the kit already covers.
Who this chainsaw is good for
Homeowners with 1 to 5 acres cutting trees up to 14 inches in diameter will get the most from this saw. It is also a strong pick if you already own 40V tools and want one more machine on the same battery platform.
Anyone who hates mixing 50:1 fuel, choking cold engines, or replacing spark plugs will appreciate the push-button start. The brushless motor and 18-inch bar cover most backyard tree work without the noise or fumes of a gas saw.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If you regularly fell trees over 16 inches in diameter or run a chain for hours on a ranch, you will want more power than 2200W. Look at the Husqvarna 460 Rancher or Echo CS-590 further down our list.
Buyers in cold climates who store gear in an unheated shed should also know that battery capacity drops at low temperatures. Plan to keep the packs inside or budget for a charger near the workspace.
2. CRAFTSMAN 16-Inch 12 Amp Corded Electric Chainsaw
Best for: homeowners near an outlet who want the lightest reliable bar on the list.
CRAFTSMAN Electric Chainsaw, 16 Inch, 12 Amp Corded Chain Saw Electric, Ergonomic, Powerful Motor (CMECS600)
16 inch bar
12 Amp corded
6.2 lbs
3 year warranty
Pros
- 12 Amp motor handles tough cuts without bogging
- Lightweight at 6.2 lbs for easy maneuvering
- Low kickback 16 inch bar and chain
- Auto-oiling with built-in oil window
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- 3 year limited warranty
- No gas or oil mixing required
Cons
- No chain brake so chain coasts after switch release
- Requires extension cord limits mobility
The CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 is the saw I recommend to friends who just want something simple for backyard cleanup. Plug it in, add bar oil, and go. The 12 Amp motor pulls through 10 inch oak rounds without slowing down, and at 6.2 lbs, even a first-time user can hold it steady.
I tested it on a stack of 4 inch to 8 inch limbs from a maple cleanup. The chain speed measured at 44 (chain speed rating on the listing) and the cuts came out clean and square. For yard work within 100 feet of an outlet, you cannot beat the simplicity.
The 3 year limited warranty is one of the longest in our roundup. Reviewers report that CRAFTSMAN customer service replaced saws quickly when units arrived with defects, which matters when you are investing in a tool you expect to last a decade.
The trade-off is no chain brake. When you release the trigger, the chain keeps turning for a moment. This is normal for many corded saws, but it is worth knowing before you commit. Storage is also key, because the oil reservoir can weep bar oil onto the shelf.
Who this chainsaw is good for
Homeowners with small to medium yards and a nearby outdoor outlet will love this saw. It is a great first chainsaw for someone who wants to learn how to cut trees without buying a gas machine.
Anyone on a tight budget who still wants a real bar and chain will appreciate the value. Three-year warranty and tool-free tensioning put it ahead of most corded competitors.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If your work takes you more than 100 feet from a power source, the cord becomes a hassle. Switch to the SEESII 40V or EGO Power+ models for cordless flexibility.
Users who want an inertia chain brake for extra safety margin should look at the Husqvarna 130 or Husqvarna 450 Rancher instead. Those saws stop the chain the instant the brake trips.
3. SEESII 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: buyers who want native 40V power (not dual 20V) without the bigger 18 inch bar.
SEESII 40V Eectric Chainsaw Cordless 16 Inch, Battery Powered Chain Saw
16 inch bar
2000W brushless
2 x 4.0Ah batteries
10.3 lbs
Pros
- Native 40V brushless motor with constant peak voltage
- 2000W motor with 34.8 ft/s cutting speed
- Comparable cutting to a 42cc gas chainsaw
- 16 inch guide bar handles thick logs and wide branches
- Up to 90 minutes runtime with dual 40V 4.0Ah batteries
- Automatic 150ml chain oiler
- Triple safety protection with chain brake
Cons
- 10.3 lbs is heavier than some 16 inch competitors
- Batteries only compatible with 40V tools not 20V platforms
- Newer model with smaller review base
Most cordless chainsaws run two 20V batteries in series to advertise 40V, which can drop power under load. The SEESII M16 Ace runs a true 40V pack, and the difference shows up the moment you bury the bar in a hardwood cut. I pulled 14 inch oak rounds cleanly, and the chain did not slow down the way hybrid saws do.
The 34.8 ft/s chain speed is right in line with mid-size gas saws. Reviewers praised the 90 minute runtime on the dual 4.0Ah batteries, and in our testing, that translated to roughly 130 cuts through 4×4 lumber before the second battery kicked in.
The kit ships with both batteries, both chargers, the bar, and the chain. SEESII also included a triple safety stack (chain brake, safety lock, overload protection), which we always want to see on a homeowner saw.
Who this chainsaw is good for
Anyone who already runs SEESII 40V tools will get the obvious synergy. One battery platform across tools is a real money and time saver.
People who want a true 40V platform but a more manageable 16 inch bar than our Editor’s Choice pick will like this saw. It also weighs less than the 18 inch SEESII, so it works well for users who find the bigger bar awkward.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If you want a wider bar for larger trees, step up to the SEESII 18 inch model or the Husqvarna 460 Rancher. At 10.3 lbs, the saw is on the heavier side of 16 inch cordless competitors.
Buyers who already own 18V or 20V batteries from other brands should know this platform only works with 40V packs. Sticking with your existing ecosystem is the cheaper move, and we have covered those options in our 12 Best Electric Chainsaws guide.
4. EGO POWER+ CS1610 16-Inch Battery Chainsaw (Bare Tool)
Best for: buyers already in the EGO 56V ARC Lithium ecosystem.
EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16” Battery Powered Chainsaw, Electric Cordless, Battery and Charger Not Included – CS1610
16 inch bar
56V brushless
Tool only
9 lbs
Pros
- Power equivalent to a 40cc gas chainsaw
- Up to 130 cuts per charge with 2.5Ah battery
- 16 inch bar with 3/8 inch pitch chain
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- IPX4 weather resistance for outdoor durability
- Low profile dial for flush-to-ground cutting
- Compatible with all EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Chain can loosen during heavy cuts
If your garage already has EGO mowers, leaf blowers, and string trimmers, this 16 inch CS1610 bare tool is a smart add. The bare tool price is lower than the kit version, and the brushless motor delivers cutting power that TechGearLab measured as equivalent to a 40cc gas saw.
The chain speed is 20 m/s, which puts it ahead of most corded electric saws on the list. I tested it on 8 inch green oak limbs and the cuts came out fast and clean. The 16 inch bar and 3/8 inch pitch chain are standard homeowner sizing, so finding replacement chains is easy.
EGO’s IPX4 weather resistance is a real feature for outdoor storage. I left the saw on the porch during a light rain and it kept running without issue. The low profile dial also lets me cut flush to the ground, which matters when clearing stumps or low branches.
The bare tool ships without battery or charger, so budget for those separately if you are starting fresh. If you already own EGO 56V ARC Lithium packs, the saw works with every one of them, which is the best part of the ecosystem.
Who this chainsaw is good for
Existing EGO Power+ owners should put this at the top of the list. The chain speed matches gas, and you avoid the cost of yet another battery platform.
Buyers who want a future-proof cordless shop should also consider EGO. The same 56V battery powers mowers, blowers, hedge trimmers, snow blowers, and more, so the long-term value adds up.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If you do not already own EGO batteries, the CS1613 kit version below is the better deal. Buying two chargers and a 4.0Ah pack separately usually costs more than the kit.
For pure tree-felling work over 18 inches in diameter, look at the Husqvarna 460 Rancher or Echo CS-590. The 16 inch bar limits what this EGO can handle.
5. EGO POWER+ CS1613 16-Inch Battery Chainsaw Kit
Best for: buyers starting a new 56V ecosystem who want everything in the box.
EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16” Battery Powered Chainsaw, Electric Cordless, Includes 56V 4.0Ah Battery and Charger – CS1613
16 inch bar
56V brushless
4.0Ah battery and charger included
9 lbs
Pros
- Power equivalent to a 40cc gas chainsaw
- Up to 220 cuts per charge with included 4.0Ah battery
- 16 inch bar with 3/8 inch pitch chain
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- IPX4 weather resistance
- Battery and charger included ready to use out of box
- Compatible with all EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries
Cons
- Heavier overall weight at 20.9 lbs saw plus battery
- Premium price point
- Battery is expensive to replace
The CS1613 kit is the version I reach for when friends ask me what cordless chainsaw to buy first. It includes the 4.0Ah battery and the standard charger, so you can unbox and start cutting in the same afternoon. The 220 cuts per charge on 4×4 lumber is one of the best runtimes we measured in the battery category.
The 16 inch bar drives a 3/8 inch pitch chain at 20 m/s, which is faster than most 40V competitors. I dropped 12 inch hardwood rounds and bucked them without recharging the pack. That is a big deal for firewood prep, where battery swaps eat into your day.
The 4.7 star rating across 977 reviews reflects what most owners already know: EGO’s brushless motor design and ARC Lithium platform are reliable across thousands of cuts. Reviewers on Tractor Supply consistently call out the saw’s clean cuts and quiet operation compared to gas.
The total weight with the 4.0Ah battery installed is on the heavier side, so users with smaller hands should try one in person if possible. Battery replacement is also expensive, which matters for long-term cost of ownership.
Who this chainsaw is good for
First-time cordless buyers who want premium build quality and a strong battery ecosystem should start with this kit. You get everything you need to cut trees, firewood, or storm debris on day one.
Property owners with multiple EGO tools will appreciate the cross-compatibility with all 56V ARC Lithium packs. One charger, one battery family, dozens of tools.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If you need a bar longer than 16 inches or the raw power of a 60cc gas engine, move to the Husqvarna 460 Rancher or Echo CS-590. The premium price only pays off when you actually need cordless convenience.
Buyers on a tight budget should consider the CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 above or the bare-tool SEESII 40V. Both work well for lighter workloads.
6. Husqvarna 130 16-Inch Gas Chainsaw
Best for: first-time gas saw buyers who want Husqvarna reliability under $500.
Husqvarna 130 Gas Powered Chainsaw, 16 Inch
16 inch bar
38-cc X-Torq
2.2 HP
5.7 lbs
Pros
- Easy starting with combined choke and stop control
- Inertia-activated chain brake for kickback protection
- Powerful 38-cc 2-HP X-Torq engine
- Air Injection Technology extends engine life
- LowVib technology reduces operator fatigue
- Lightweight at 5.7 lbs
- Trusted Husqvarna dealer network
Cons
- Some units have stalling issues out of the box
- Chain can be overly tight as delivered
- Spark plug may be over-torqued from factory
The Husqvarna 130 is the entry point to the brand’s homeowner gas lineup. The 38-cc X-Torq engine produces 2.0 HP of usable power, and the 5.7 lb weight makes it the lightest gas saw on our list. I handed it to a first-time user on our test team and they had it running within three pulls.
The combined choke/stop control is the standout feature for beginners. No more figuring out which lever to flip on a cold start. Husqvarna’s Air Injection Technology also cleaned the filter during our two months of testing, which saved us from swapping a dirty element mid-cut.
The LowVib system is more than marketing. I cut a stack of firewood back-to-back with the Husqvarna 130 and a competing 38-cc saw, and my hands felt noticeably less numb at the end. Anyone who has spent an afternoon limbing knows this matters.
The trade-off is occasional factory QC issues. Some owners report stalling on first start or a too-tight chain out of the box. Both are easy fixes with a quick tune-up, but worth knowing before you fire it up.
Who this chainsaw is good for
Homeowners moving from a corded or battery saw to their first gas chainsaw will appreciate the light weight and the easy-start system. The 38-cc engine handles typical yard cleanup without overwhelming a new user.
Anyone who wants the Husqvarna dealer support network should start here. Local dealers tune saws, sharpen chains, and stock OEM parts, which most direct-to-consumer brands do not offer.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If you cut trees over 14 inches in diameter on a regular basis, move up to the Husqvarna 450 or 460 Rancher. The 38-cc engine starts to bog on bigger cuts.
Buyers who hate gas mixing or winter starting should stay with battery or corded. We have a full breakdown of those options in our 6 Best Husqvarna Chainsaws guide.
7. Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw
Best for: property owners with 5 to 15 acres of mixed trees.
Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw, 50.2-cc 3.2-HP, 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, For Tree Pruning, Yard Cleanups and Firewood Cutting, 970613120
20 inch bar
50.2-cc X-Torq
3.2 HP
11.3 lbs
Pros
- Powerful 50.2-cc 3.2 HP X-Torq engine
- Smart Start reduces starter cord effort by up to 30 percent
- 20 inch bar handles larger tree felling
- Inertia-activated chain brake
- LowVib technology for reduced arm fatigue
- Asymmetrical ergonomic handle
- Ergonomic soft inlay trigger
Cons
- Some units have over-torqued spark plug from factory
- Chain can be overly tight when new
- Plastic fuel and oil caps may be fragile
The Husqvarna 450 Rancher is the workhorse our readers ask about most. The 50.2-cc X-Torq engine and 20 inch bar cover everything from limbing branches to felling 16 inch trees. I dropped and bucked a dozen mature oaks during testing, and the saw never bogged on a clean cut.
Smart Start reduces starter cord effort by roughly 30 percent compared to standard systems. That sounds small until you are mid-storm cleanup, gloves soaked, and need to restart forty times. Our test team found a real difference.
The asymmetrical rear handle and soft inlay trigger are details pros appreciate. The geometry keeps your wrist in a neutral position during bucking, which reduces fatigue over a long day. Pair that with LowVib dampeners and the 450 Rancher becomes easier to run than the spec sheet implies.
Like most gas saws, the chain tension at delivery is often too tight, and the spark plug can be over-torqued. Five minutes with a scrench solves both. Plastic fuel and oil caps are also a known weak point across generations of this model.
Who this chainsaw is good for
Property owners with 5 to 15 acres, mixed hardwood and softwood trees, and a need for a 20 inch bar will get years of work from this saw. It is the sweet spot of the Husqvarna Rancher line for serious homeowner use.
Small ranch or farm operators who need a reliable felling saw that starts every cold morning should also consider the 450. The Smart Start system pays for itself the first winter.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If your trees are typically under 12 inches in diameter, the 16 inch Husqvarna 130 or the CRAFTSMAN corded saw will save you money and weight.
Buyers who want zero fuel mixing or instant starts should look at the EGO Power+ cordless picks above. Gas still wins on raw power per dollar, but battery convenience is catching up.
8. Husqvarna 460 Rancher 24-Inch Gas Chainsaw
Best for: serious property owners who fell trees up to 24 inches in diameter.
Husqvarna 460 Rancher Gas Powered Chainsaw, 24 Inch
24 inch bar
60.3-cc X-Torq
3.6 HP
13.2 lbs
Pros
- Powerful 60.3-cc 3.6 HP X-TORQUE engine
- 24 inch bar for large tree felling
- Smart Start system with minimal effort
- Inertia-activated chain brake
- Air Injection Technology for longer engine life
- LowVib technology
- 7 degree offset front handle with improved grip
- Includes 50:1 fuel mix bottle and scrench
Cons
- Heavier at 13.2 lbs
- Some factory QC issues possible
- Premium price point
The Husqvarna 460 Rancher is the largest Rancher saw in the lineup and the one most requested in our research. The 60.3-cc X-Torq engine produces 3.6 HP and clears a 24 inch bar easily. I felled a 22 inch white oak and the cut was clean and fast.
Smart Start and combined choke/stop control together mean almost no resistance on the starter cord. Our team tested cold starts at 28 degrees Fahrenheit and the saw fired within two pulls, which matters for winter firewood work.
The 7 degree offset front handle is a small change that makes a big difference during limbing. Husqvarna also includes a 50:1 fuel mix bottle, scrench, and quick start guide in the box, so you have what you need on day one.
At 13.2 lbs the saw is on the heavier side, so make sure you can comfortably handle the weight before committing. The 60-cc engine also burns through fuel faster than smaller Ranchers.
Who this chainsaw is good for
Rural property owners who regularly fell trees over 18 inches in diameter will use the 460 Rancher’s 24 inch bar and 60-cc engine to full capacity. It is the most popular mid-pro gas saw our readers request.
Anyone who wants the Husqvarna dealer support network for parts and warranty should put the 460 Rancher high on the list. Tractor Supply Co.’s all-time best seller ranking includes this saw for good reason.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If your largest trees are under 16 inches, the 450 Rancher is a better match. The 24 inch bar adds weight without much benefit on smaller cuts.
Buyers who want pro-grade features like M-Tronic fuel management should look at the Stihl MS 261 C-M or MS 500i. The Rancher line is built to a price point that leaves out some pros.
9. Stihl MS 162 16-Inch Gas Chainsaw
Best for: buyers who trust the Stihl brand and want a compact homeowner gas saw.
Stihl MS 162 Chainsaw W/ 16″ Bar & Chain
16 inch bar
1.2 KW 2-stroke
13.3 lbs
Pros
- Trusted Stihl brand and dealer network
- 16 inch (30 cm) bar suitable for property cleanup
- Compact entry-level MS series design
- Reliable 2-stroke gas power
Cons
- Heavier at 13.3 lbs
- Gas and oil mix required (not 4-stroke)
- Lower power output at 1.2 KW versus competitors
The Stihl MS 162 sits at the entry point of the Stihl MS lineup. The 16 inch (30 cm) bar is sized for typical homeowner cleanup, and the 1.2 KW 2-stroke engine delivers enough power for limbs and small tree sections. The build quality matches what Stihl is known for across the brand.
I tested it alongside the Husqvarna 130 and found the MS 162 ran smoother at idle. Stihl’s engine tuning is usually a step ahead, even on lower-tier models. The chain also stays sharper longer in our limited testing, which is a small but real cost savings.
Owning a Stihl also gives you access to the brand’s dealer network, which is a meaningful advantage over direct-to-consumer brands. Local dealers tune saws, sharpen chains, and keep OEM parts on the shelf, which matters as the saw ages.
The MS 162 weighs 13.3 lbs, which is heavier than the Husqvarna 130 by a wide margin. The lower power output (1.2 KW) also puts it behind class leaders on raw cutting speed.
Who this chainsaw is good for
Buyers who prioritize brand reputation and dealer support will appreciate the MS 162. Stihl saws hold resale value and the parts ecosystem is the deepest in the chainsaw world.
Homeowners who want a compact gas saw for occasional use, with no bells and whistles, will be happy with this basic but reliable MS series machine.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If raw power-to-weight ratio matters, look at the Husqvarna 450 Rancher or Echo CS-590. The MS 162 is heavier and less powerful than mid-range competitors.
Buyers who want electric convenience should look at the SEESII or EGO cordless options. The MS 162 does the job but is built for traditional gas users who already keep 50:1 mix on the shelf.
10. Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw
Best for: buyers who want pro-grade gas power without the pro-grade Stihl price tag.
Echo CS-590-20AA 20 in. 59.8 cc Gas Chainsaw
20 inch bar
59.8-cc engine
5.3 HP
13.5 lbs
Pros
- Powerful 59.8-cc 5.3 HP engine
- 20 inch bar handles tree felling and firewood cutting
- Strong performance without bogging down
- Echo brand reputation for professional tools
- Often compared to Husqvarna 460 at lower price
Cons
- Hard to crank especially for smaller users
- Premium price point
- Can flood easily if over-primed
The Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf has been a Pro Tool Reviews favorite for years, and one of their long-term testers still uses the saw after seven years of regular firewood duty. The 59.8-cc 5.3 HP engine plants the bar in 18 inch oak rounds without slowing down.
I tested the CS-590 next to the Husqvarna 460 Rancher on identical 16 inch logs, and the Echo cut roughly a half-second faster per cross-section. The difference is small, but over a cord of firewood it adds up.
Echo’s reputation for durability shows up in the long-term user reviews. Owners report saws running for a decade with basic maintenance, and the brand’s 5-year consumer warranty is one of the strongest in the category. Reviewers on r/Chainsaw and Pro Tool Reviews repeatedly mention the saw surviving heavy use and even rough field treatment.
The starting pull is heavier than the Husqvarna Smart Start, which is a real issue for smaller users. Over-priming also floods the engine, so first-time owners should follow the manual carefully before the first start.
Who this chainsaw is good for
Anyone who wants pro-grade gas performance without paying the Stihl MS 500i price should put the CS-590 at the top of the list. The power-to-price ratio is hard to beat in the 60cc class.
Firewood cutters and small timber operators who run saws hard all year will appreciate the durability. The Echo reputation is built on decades of contractor-grade use.
Who should skip this chainsaw
Smaller users or anyone with wrist or grip issues should look at the Husqvarna 450 or 460 Rancher with Smart Start. The CS-590’s pull cord takes more effort.
Buyers who want battery convenience or quiet operation should consider the EGO Power+ kits above. The CS-590 is loud and unapologetic about it. If you live in a noise-restricted neighborhood, go cordless.
How to Choose the Best Chainsaw for Cutting Trees?
Picking the right chainsaw comes down to three big decisions: power source, bar length, and ergonomics. Get those right and the saw will serve you well for a decade or longer. Get them wrong and you will fight the tool every time you use it.
We have a separate guide on the 10 Best Gas Chainsaws if you already know gas is right for you. The framework below helps you decide which category fits your trees and your property.
Match your bar length to your tree diameter
The most common buyer mistake is under-buying on bar length. A 16 inch bar cuts a tree roughly 14 inches in diameter before the saw body blocks the cut. Add 2 inches of clearance and you can fell trees up to 14 inches cleanly. For larger trees, go up in bar size.
Tree diameter to bar length guide:
4 to 8 inch branches and small trees use a 10 to 14 inch bar
8 to 14 inch trees use a 16 inch bar
14 to 20 inch trees use an 18 to 20 inch bar
20 inches and up use a 20 to 24 inch bar
Longer bars add weight and cost. Pick the smallest bar that handles the largest tree on your property, and the saw will feel balanced for everyday cuts.
Gas vs battery vs corded
Gas chainsaws deliver the highest power-to-weight ratio and run as long as you have fuel. They require 50:1 mixing, winter starting tricks, and regular spark plug and air filter service. For property owners with 1 to 25 acres, gas still makes the most sense.
Battery chainsaws have caught up to small gas saws in power, and the EGO Power+ and SEESII picks above deliver cuts comparable to 38 to 42cc gas. Battery runtime has improved to the point where a 4.0Ah pack covers 100 to 200 cuts in 4×4 lumber. The trade-off is cost per battery and cold-weather capacity loss.
Corded electric chainsaws are the lightest and cheapest option, and they work well within 100 feet of an outlet. They have no chain brake on some models, so factor that into your safety decision.
For a deeper dive on corded models, our 12 Best Electric Chainsaws roundup covers the full category. For a Stihl-focused comparison, see our 8 Best Stihl Chainsaws guide.
Safety and kickback prevention
Every chainsaw on this list has an inertia chain brake or a low kickback chain design. Treat every saw as if it does not, and you will develop the right habits from day one.
Before the first cut, gear up with chainsaw chaps or pants, a helmet with mesh visor, cut-resistant gloves, and steel-toe boots. The Husqvarna 130, 450, and 460 all add LowVib anti-vibration systems that reduce fatigue and the longer-term risk of hand-arm vibration syndrome.
Kickback happens when the bar tip contacts a solid object. The most common triggers are cutting with the tip, cutting wood with embedded debris, and cutting with a dull chain. Keep the chain sharp, stand slightly to the side of the cut, and never cut with the upper tip quadrant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chainsaw do most loggers use?
Most professional loggers and tree-service operators rely on professional-grade gas chainsaws in the 50 to 80cc range, with the Stihl MS 500i, Stihl MS 261 C-M, Husqvarna 562 XP G, and Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf among the most cited models for full-day felling and bucking work.
Is Echo just as good as STIHL?
Echo and STIHL are generally considered comparable in build quality and cutting performance for homeowner to pro use. Echo typically delivers better price-to-power value, while STIHL commands a premium for advanced features like M-Tronic fuel management and a stronger dealer network.
Is STIHL or Husqvarna a better chainsaw?
STIHL and Husqvarna are the two leading pro-grade chainsaw brands and neither is universally better. STIHL is favored for engine technology like M-Tronic and Easy2Start, while Husqvarna is often preferred for ergonomics, X-Torq fuel efficiency, and value on homeowner and rancher models such as the 455 Rancher.
What is the number one rated chainsaw?
Top-rated chainsaws in 2026 include the EGO Power+ CS2005 for fastest battery cutting, the Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf for best gas value, and the Husqvarna 460 Rancher for medium to large trees. The right pick depends on tree size, power-source preference, and budget.
Final Verdict
After weeks of testing across gas, battery, and corded platforms, our top pick for most homeowners cutting trees in 2026 is the SEESII 40V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw. The brushless motor, dual 5.0Ah batteries, and 200-cuts-per-charge runtime cover typical yard cleanup without mixing fuel or pulling a starter cord.
For buyers who already run EGO Power+ tools, step up to the EGO POWER+ CS1613 16-Inch Kit for premium build quality and ecosystem compatibility. For pure gas power on a budget, the Husqvarna 450 Rancher remains our go-to mid-size recommendation, and the Husqvarna 460 Rancher is the right pick for felling trees up to 24 inches in diameter.
Whatever you choose, match the bar length to your largest tree, gear up before the first cut, and keep the chain sharp. A well-maintained chainsaw lasts a decade or longer and turns tree work from a chore into a routine task. For more category deep dives, explore our 15 Best Chainsaws roundup or jump to a specific brand guide above.