What to look for when buying a cordless chainsaw?

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When shopping for a cordless chainsaw, you want something that balances power, ease of use, and reliability. Whether you're trimming branches or cutting down small trees, picking the right chainsaw can make all the difference. Here's what to keep in mind.

When buying a cordless chainsaw, it's essential to focus on battery power, chain speed, ergonomics, and the size of the bar. Ensuring the chainsaw fits your cutting needs and feels comfortable in your hands will improve your work efficiency and safety.

Let’s take a closer look at the factors that matter most.

What is the best voltage for a battery-operated chainsaw?

Voltage is one of the most critical factors when choosing a cordless chainsaw. It directly impacts the power and performance of the tool.

Higher voltage means more power, enabling the chainsaw to handle tougher tasks. Typically, 40V and 80V models are preferred for heavy-duty work, while 20V is best for light tasks.

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When it comes to battery-operated chainsaws, the voltage is a key indicator of power. A higher voltage means your chainsaw can handle tougher jobs without bogging down or requiring frequent recharges.

  • 20V chainsaws are great for light tasks like trimming small branches and cutting firewood. They are compact, lightweight, and easier to handle, making them perfect for homeowners or occasional users. However, the tradeoff is less cutting power, so they're not suitable for larger trees or thick logs.

  • 40V chainsaws offer a good balance of power and runtime. These are ideal for medium-duty tasks like cutting down small to medium trees, trimming thick branches, or handling heavier wood. They’re perfect for regular users who want a reliable chainsaw for various tasks without the need to constantly recharge.

  • 80V chainsaws are designed for more intensive jobs. If you're tackling large trees or thick, dense wood, an 80V chainsaw will give you the power and endurance you need. These chainsaws are typically used by professionals or anyone who needs the heavy-duty capability for larger projects.

Choosing the right voltage depends on the scale of the work you’re planning. If you want something that can handle diverse tasks, a 40V model is often the sweet spot. But if you plan on using your chainsaw for bigger projects or commercial work, investing in an 80V model might be worth it.

What is important when buying a chainsaw?

Buying a chainsaw requires more than just picking the most powerful one. You need to consider factors like ergonomics, safety features, and brand reputation.

Look for a chainsaw that fits comfortably in your hands, has safety features like a chain brake, and a brand that you can trust for quality and durability.

When buying a cordless chainsaw, comfort and safety are just as important as power. The last thing you want is a tool that’s too heavy or awkward to use, especially when you’re handling it for hours.

  • Ergonomics: A chainsaw with a comfortable grip and well-balanced weight will reduce fatigue, making it easier to use for extended periods. Make sure the handle is designed for a secure grip, even with gloves on.

  • Safety Features: Look for chainsaws with a chain brake, which stops the chain if there’s kickback. Many models also include a safety switch to prevent accidental starts.

  • Noise Reduction: While not always advertised, chainsaw noise is something to keep in mind if you're working in a residential area or for extended periods. Some chainsaws offer better sound insulation, making them quieter and more pleasant to use.

  • Brand Reputation: Some brands have built a strong reputation for reliability and customer service. Always check reviews and ratings to see what others say about the chainsaw’s durability and performance.

What size battery-powered chainsaw do I need?

The size of the chainsaw bar is another important factor to consider. A longer bar allows you to cut larger logs or trees, while a shorter bar offers more maneuverability.

For most home users, a 14-16 inch bar is sufficient. However, if you plan to tackle large trees, a bar length of 18 inches or more will be necessary.
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The bar length on a chainsaw determines how big a piece of wood you can cut in one pass. Here’s a breakdown:

  • 14-16 inches: Ideal for general yard work like trimming branches and cutting smaller logs. If you're primarily using your chainsaw for pruning, cutting firewood, or dealing with trees no bigger than 12 inches in diameter, this size will serve you well. Chainsaw Size Guide1

  • 18-20 inches: Perfect for tackling larger trees or thicker logs. If you have a lot of trees to prune or need to fell larger trees, this size will give you the extra reach and power you need. Best Chainsaws for Heavy Duty2

  • 20+ inches: These are heavy-duty chainsaws, typically used for professional logging or large-scale tree cutting. They offer maximum power and cutting efficiency but are bulkier and more challenging to handle.

The size of the chainsaw you need will depend on your typical projects. If you’re unsure, a 16-inch bar is versatile enough for most home tasks.

What is the difference between 40V and 80V chainsaws?

The primary difference between 40V and 80V chainsaws is their power and runtime. 80V models are more powerful, but they also come with a higher price tag.

80V chainsaws are designed for heavy-duty tasks, providing more power and longer runtime. If you’re working on large-scale projects, the extra power is worth the investment.

The difference between 40V and 80V chainsaws is mainly seen in their performance during tougher tasks. Let’s break it down:

  • 40V Chainsaws: These are often sufficient for most homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. They offer a good balance of power, weight, and runtime, making them perfect for cutting medium-sized trees and trimming thicker branches. They typically provide around 30-45 minutes of runtime on a single charge, depending on the type of work you're doing.

  • 80V Chainsaws: If you have heavy-duty tasks in mind, an 80V chainsaw is the way to go. These chainsaws provide significantly more power, making them ideal for professionals or those with large properties. They can handle thicker logs and bigger trees, with a longer runtime per charge. However, they are heavier and more expensive.

Ultimately, the choice between 40V and 80V will depend on the scale of your projects. If you’re doing occasional light to medium-duty work, a 40V chainsaw will do just fine. But for larger, more demanding jobs, the 80V will provide the extra power you need.

What is the difference between a 20V and 40V battery chainsaw?

20V chainsaws are generally lighter and more affordable, but 40V chainsaws provide more power and are better suited for heavier tasks.

A 40V chainsaw is more powerful, making it suitable for medium-duty work, while a 20V chainsaw is perfect for lighter, occasional use.
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The difference between 20V and 40V battery chainsaws often comes down to the type of work you’re planning to do. Here's how they stack up:

  • 20V Chainsaws: Lightweight and affordable, 20V chainsaws are great for light-duty tasks like cutting small branches and trimming bushes. They are ideal for homeowners with small yards or those who only need a chainsaw occasionally. However, their power is limited, and they may struggle with tougher tasks like cutting through thick logs or large trees.

  • 40V Chainsaws: These chainsaws offer more power and longer runtime, making them better for medium-duty work. They can handle cutting down small to medium-sized trees and thicker branches. The extra voltage means you can work longer without the need for frequent recharging.

If you’re unsure which to choose, it’s all about balancing power with the tasks you need to complete. For everyday use, a 20V chainsaw is a great option, but if you want to tackle more challenging projects, go for the 40V.

How long does the battery last on a cordless chainsaw?

Battery life is a key consideration when buying a cordless chainsaw. The amount of runtime you get depends on the battery’s voltage, the job at hand, and the chainsaw’s energy efficiency.

Battery life can vary, but generally, you can expect 30-60 minutes of cutting time. For longer tasks, consider getting an extra battery.

  • Low Voltage Chainsaws (20V): These tend to have shorter battery life, usually around 20-30 minutes of cutting time. However, they are lighter and easier to handle, making them suitable for smaller tasks.

  • Higher Voltage Chainsaws (40V, 80V): These have more robust batteries that provide longer runtimes—typically

Battery life on a chainsaw—what can you expect?
Expect 30 minutes to an hour of cutting time, depending on the voltage and type of work. A larger battery gives you more time, but it also adds weight.

For lighter tasks like trimming or pruning, the battery can last up to an hour. However, for heavier cutting, the battery may drain quicker. Some models come with a quick-charging feature, but you should consider having extra batteries for longer jobs.

Conclusion

Choosing the right cordless chainsaw comes down to understanding your needs. By considering factors like voltage, battery life, and cutting capacity, you can select the best chainsaw for your tasks. Always prioritize safety and comfort to ensure the tool works for you, not against you.


  1. Adding this link will help you understand the most appropriate chainsaw size for various tree cutting tasks, including pruning and firewood preparation. ↩

  2. This link provides insight into chainsaws that offer extra reach and power for larger tasks, which is useful when considering chainsaws for professional use or large-scale tree cutting. ↩

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