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If you are facing down a fallen limb or a tree that needs trimming, the biggest question is whether to wrestle with a gas engine or plug into the electric world. A modern electric chainsaw delivers gas-level power for most home and farm jobs without pull-cord hassle, fuel mixing, or loud noise. The best electric chainsaw for cutting trees in this lineup, the EGO POWER+ CS1613, even matches the output of a 40cc gas model while running on a rechargeable battery.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind WellFizz. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
Whether you are clearing storm damage or bucking firewood, this guide ranks the top cordless and corded models and weighs the features that matter most for electric chainsaw for cutting trees.
Our Picks at a Glance
How To Choose The Best Electric Chainsaw For Cutting Trees
To cut trees safely, you need a saw whose bar length (the metal guide the chain rides on) matches your wood. The bar should be about twice the diameter of the thickest log you plan to cut, so a 16-inch bar handles trees up to about 12-14 inches thick with room to spare.
Battery Power vs. Corded Electric
The first major fork in the road is whether to go battery-powered or corded. Battery saws like the EGO and DEWALT give you the freedom to roam the yard or the woods without a heavy extension cord, and they start instantly with a squeeze of the trigger. The trade-off is runtime—every battery in this list will eventually die, and if you have a big job, you may need a spare. Corded saws like the Makita UC4051A and the BLACK+DECKER CS1216 run forever as long as they are plugged in, which makes them a strong choice for heavy, all-day work near an outlet. The downside is the cord itself—it can get in the way, and you will need a heavy-gauge extension cord that can reach your whole yard.
Chain Tensioning and Safety Features
Every saw here includes some form of tool-free chain tensioning, which is the dial or knob that keeps the chain snug against the bar. This is the feature that saves you the most headaches because a loose chain is the #1 cause of the chain coming off during a cut. You should also look for a chain brake—a lever that stops the chain instantly if the saw kicks back, which happens when the tip of the bar catches on the wood. A low-kickback chain and bar design adds another layer of protection by reducing the chance of that dangerous kickback happening in the first place.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Voltage | Bar Length | Weight | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EGO POWER+ CS1613★ Best Overall | All-around tree felling | 56V | 16 inches | 20.9 lb | Amazon |
| EGO POWER+ CS1611Great Value | Lighter EGO option | 56V | 16 inches | 9 lb | Amazon |
| Makita UC4051APro-Grade Corded | Corded reliability | Corded | 16 inches | 14 lb | Amazon |
| DEHANTOOLS 16″ Brushless | Budget value with 2 batteries | 21V | 16 inches | 12.3 lb (5.56 kg) | Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER CS1216 | Corded, unlimited runtime | Corded (12 Amp) | 16 inches | 10 lb | Amazon |
| DongCheng 40V | Storm cleanup on a budget | 40V | 16 inches | — | Amazon |
| Oregon CS1500 | Self-sharpening convenience | Corded (15 Amp) | 18 inches | — | Amazon |
| SKIL PWR CORE 40 | Lightweight maneuverability | 40V | 14 inches | 11.5 lb | Amazon |
| WORX WG384 | Expandable battery system | 40V (2x20V) | 14 inches | 10.4 lb | Amazon |
| DEWALT FLEXVOLT DCCS672X1 | Professional-grade torque | 60V | 18 inches | 18.8 lb | Amazon |
| Makita XCU04PT | Premium cordless build | 36V (2x18V) | 16 inches | 19.2 lb | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. EGO POWER+ 16″ Chainsaw (CS1613)
Our pick — over 4.5★ from 950+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
The battery-powered saw that out-cuts gas models and still leaves you with a full afternoon.
This is the saw that owners repeatedly describe as better than their old gas machines. The brushless motor produces power equivalent to a 40cc gas chainsaw, with the chain moving at 20 meters per second—enough speed to slice through hardwood and softwood alike.
Over 140 owners highlight the battery life as the standout feature. Build quality, out-of-the-box chain sharpness, and quiet operation also earn frequent praise. It is not a light tool at 20.9 pounds with the battery attached, and some find the 4.0Ah battery makes the saw sit slightly unbalanced to one side; a smaller 2.4Ah battery fixes that trade-off.
What wins people over is the tool-free chain tensioning—you tighten the chain with a simple twist of a dial with no tools needed. The IPX4 weather resistance means you can keep working when conditions get rough, and the low-profile dial design lets you cut flush to the ground. For a first-time battery saw owner, the convenience is the headline: no pull cord, no fuel, just a squeeze of the trigger.
Owner consensus: A powerful, quiet, well-built saw that handles thick trees with ease; the main note is that the battery adds noticeable weight on one side.
A fair trade-off: The 20.9-pound weight with the 4.0Ah battery is substantial, and the 2.4Ah battery is the go-to if you want better balance over maximum runtime.
Reach for this if: you want a cordless saw that truly replaces a gas model for tree felling and storm cleanup without the noise or maintenance.
Think twice if: you want the lightest possible tool—something with a smaller battery or a shorter bar will be easier to lift all day.
2. EGO POWER+ 16″ Chainsaw (CS1611)
The same EGO cutting power, trimmed down to a featherweight 9 pounds.
If the CS1613 feels like too much weight to swing around, this is the EGO for you. It uses the same 16-inch bar and the same 20 m/s chain speed as its bigger sibling, but it ships with a smaller 2.5Ah battery that drops the total weight to just 9 pounds. That makes it the lightest full-sized 16-inch saw in this lineup by a wide margin, and it shows in the reviews—owners talk about minimal vibration and no next-day soreness after cutting sessions.
It delivers power equivalent to a 40cc gas saw, matching the CS1613’s performance. On a single charge, it will handle a 25-foot, 12-inch-thick tree, though the smaller battery will be fully drained after that job. The catch is runtime—the 2.5Ah battery gives you roughly half a tank of gas worth of cutting, so owners recommend having a few batteries on hand for bigger projects.
It shares the tool-free chain tensioning and the IPX4 weather-resistant construction of the CS1613, plus a low-kickback chain with a brake indicator and a spill-free oil reservoir that makes refilling tidy. One thing to note: no bar oil is included, so you will need to buy that separately. For anyone who wants EGO reliability without the heaviness, this is the pick.
Why owners love it
- Impressive power for the weight—cuts through 8-inch limbs with ease
- Quiet, low-vibration operation that is gentle on the body
- Compact and easy to maneuver, ideal for trimming and quick jobs
The main trade-off
- 2.5Ah battery depletes quickly on a full tree; plan for spares
- No bar oil in the box—that is a separate purchase
Best for: anyone who finds heavier saws tiring, or who already owns EGO 56V batteries and wants a lightweight companion.
Look elsewhere if: you have acres of firewood to cut—the small battery will force frequent stops.
3. Makita UC4051A 16″ Electric Chainsaw
The corded workhorse with an inline motor that makes it feel lighter than it is.
Turning the trigger on this Makita feels different from the others—the soft start eases the chain into motion rather than jerking it, which protects the motor and is easier on your hands. The powerful corded motor cuts through 4 to 14-inch wood easily, and the inline motor design puts the weight in a straight line, so the 14-pound saw feels more balanced and maneuverable than the number suggests.
Over 100 owners praise its durable build, expecting it to last for years. The tool-less blade and chain adjustments make setup and maintenance a breeze, and the rubberized grips keep the vibration from reaching your hands. A built-in current limiter protects the motor from burnout if you push it too hard, and the large oil reservoir with a view window means you can see the oil level at a glance.
The catch is that this saw needs a serious extension cord—owners consistently report that a 10-gauge cord is required to get full power over long runs, and a lighter-gauge cord can starve the motor. One owner had the oiler tube detach, but Makita repaired it in two days. This is the saw for someone who wants professional-grade reliability and never wants to think about battery charge again.
Editorial take: The Makita UC4051A is the reliable, no-surprises choice for steady, long cutting sessions near an outlet—just budget for a proper 10-gauge extension cord to open up its full performance.
Rate this pick: it suits the homeowner or property owner who cuts frequently and wants a durable saw that is always ready to run.
Skip this if: you work far from an outlet or hate dealing with extension cords on the ground.
4. DEWALT FLEXVOLT 18″ Chainsaw (DCCS672X1)
A pro-grade 18-inch bar with scary torque and a battery that thrives on light work.
This saw offers the longest 18-inch bar and the highest torque of any battery model here. DEWALT claims more than 2.5 times the torque of a 40.9cc gas chainsaw, and owners describe the cutting force as “scary”—it powers through 5 to 6-inch trunks as if they were nothing. The 18-inch bar is the longest in this lineup, giving you the reach to handle large felled trees and thick logs.
The 60V FLEXVOLT system is the headline for DEWALT owners, because it automatically switches voltage when you use it with other FLEXVOLT tools. The auto-oiling feature keeps the chain lubricated continuously for longer, trouble-free performance, and the limited kickback protection with a chain brake adds a safety layer. Owners praise the quiet operation, noting you can leave the ear plugs at home—though they still recommend eye protection and Kevlar chaps.
Battery life drains quickly on large trees, requiring spare batteries. At 18.8 pounds, this is a heavy saw, and the included battery drains fast when you are tackling large trees; owners say you will need extra batteries if you have a lot of cutting to do. That makes it a better fit for light-to-medium trimming and storm cleanup than for clearing a whole woodlot.
The verdict from owners: Heavy but powerful, with a battery that lasts surprisingly long on light work because the saw does not idle—but plan for spares on any serious tree job.
Pick this if: you already own DEWALT FLEXVOLT tools and want maximum bar length and torque for occasional heavy cuts.
Look elsewhere if: you need all-day battery runtime—the weight and power draw make this a lighter-use tool.
5. Makita XCU04PT 16″ Cordless Chainsaw Kit
The premium Makita kit that replaced gas saws in more than a few sheds.
This kit runs on two 18V LXT batteries wired together for 36V of power, and the Makita-built outer rotor brushless motor delivers output equivalent to a 32cc gas chainsaw. The chain speed reaches up to 3,940 feet per minute, which is a big reason owners say it cuts through hard oak and 12-inch logs with no stalling. It is also notably light for a full kit at 19.2 pounds, with better balance than many gas saws it replaces.
Owners who came from Stihl and other gas brands highlight the instant start, the lack of kickback and stalling, and the low maintenance—this is a tool that is always ready when you are. One owner reported 102 cuts in pine and oak without slowdown, then felled a 14-inch oak six months later with charge to spare. The built-in lock-off lever prevents accidental engagement, and the auto power-off function extends battery life when you step away.
The weaknesses are the chain and the battery system. The narrow chain teeth are fragile and expensive to sharpen, and some owners say the bundled chain is not up to Oregon’s quality and can throw off the bar. Battery life is solid for intermittent cutting—enough for 10-15 cuts in a 30-minute session—but this is not an all-day professional tool. It is, however, a superb choice for the homeowner who values build quality above all else.
What the data shows: Owners praise the power and quiet operation, but note the included chain and bar feel light—upgrading the chain is a common recommendation.
Reach for this if: you already use Makita LXT tools and want a premium cordless saw with a smooth, powerful cut.
Pass on this if: you plan to cut all day—the battery system demands a rotation of spares, and the chain needs gentle handling.
6. BLACK+DECKER 12 Amp 16″ Electric Chainsaw (CS1216)
The corded crowd-pleaser that is light enough for one hand and strong enough for foot-thick logs.
At just 10 pounds, this is one of the lightest 16-inch saws you can buy, and that weight advantage is the first thing owners mention. It is nimble enough for overhead trimming and quick cuts, yet the 12-amp motor provides enough power to handle fallen trees and branches—buyers report cutting three large boxwoods in under 30 minutes and handling 14-inch cedar trunks without bogging down.
It is also the easiest entry point into electric chainsaws. The corded design means unlimited runtime for the biggest jobs, the tool-free chain tensioning lets you adjust the chain in seconds, and the automatic oiling system with a clear window means you always know when to refill. The low-kickback bar and chain deliver smooth operation, and the instant start beats any gas pull-cord experience. Users coming from a failed Stihl gas saw found this a quick, reliable substitute while waiting for parts.
The recurring gripe is oil leakage—some units weep bar oil during storage, so keep it on a drip tray. The chain can also pop off if the tension is not kept tight, so check it regularly. It also tends to be a bit oil-thirsty, so keep the reservoir full. This is the budget-friendly corded champion for anyone who wants a simple, effective saw without battery concerns.
Why it wins
- Very light at 10 lb—easy to hold and maneuver for long sessions
- Unlimited runtime; no charging, no battery swaps
- Simple tool-free tensioning and clear oil window
What to watch
- Can leak bar oil when idle—plan storage accordingly
- Chain can throw if tension slackens; check frequently
Best for: homeowners with medium brush, small limbs, and fallen trees close to a power outlet.
Think twice if: you are cutting far from an outlet and need a long, heavy-gauge extension cord.
7. Oregon 18″ Self-Sharpening Chainsaw (CS1500)
The only saw here that sharpens its own chain in seconds—so you never cut dull again.
This Oregon saw solves the least fun part of chainsaw ownership—sharpening. The built-in PowerSharp system sharpens the chain in just 3 to 5 seconds with the press of a button, and owners say it noticeably improves cutting performance after just a few uses. The PowerSharp system sharpens the chain in 3–5 seconds with a button press, eliminating manual filing.
The corded 15-amp, 2400W motor has plenty of torque for difficult logs—owners mention cutting downed pines, trimming oaks, and handling 14 to 18-inch trunks without issue, all while staying light enough to use one-handed for quick cuts. The 18-inch bar is the longest of any corded model here, and the low-kickback design keeps it safe. It includes a 1-quart bottle of premium Oregon bar and chain oil, which has extra tackiness to keep lubricating even in winter.
The honest caveat is a quality note: a few owners had the motor smoke within the first half hour of use, though the company was quick to exchange them and the replacement ran fine. Instant stop on trigger release and tool-free chain tensioning round out a well-designed package. This is the corded saw for someone who values the self-sharpening feature above all else.
Owner take: The self-sharpener is the standout feature—it keeps the chain cutting fresh—and the 18-inch bar gives it serious reach for a home tool.
Pick this if: you want a long-bar corded saw that removes the hassle of manual sharpening and never needs a battery.
Skip this if: an occasional motor defect makes you nervous—otherwise the exchange process was quick and painless for owners.
8. DongCheng 40V 16″ Brushless Chainsaw
A budget-priced 40V saw that delivers gas-like power and up to 120 cuts per charge.
DongCheng packs serious specs into a budget-friendly package. The high-torque brushless motor runs on dual 20V batteries (40V total) and is engineered to deliver up to 120 clean cuts through 4×4 lumber on a single charge with the two included 4.0Ah batteries. Owners describe it as cutting “through wood like butter” and were pleased with the power for felling 20-foot junipers over two three-hour sessions.
What wins people over is the reliability—owners call it a workhorse that beats their old gas saw. The tool-free chain tensioning knob is easy to use, the automatic oiling system keeps the bar and chain lubricated, and the inertia-activated chain brake stops the chain in under 0.1 seconds at kickback, which is a strong safety feature. The batteries charge quickly, with one owner reporting a full charge in under 20 minutes.
The downsides are minor but real. The chain installation takes a bit of figuring out the first time, and the included bar oil is insufficient—you will want to buy more, plus a grease syringe for the sprocket. Battery life gets mixed feedback, so it is best for smaller jobs unless you have spares. Still, for the price, this delivers an impressive amount of cutting capability.
Value read: Strong performance and quick-charging batteries at a budget price, with the main trade-off being a setup that is not as beginner-friendly on first use.
Reach for this if: you want a cordless 16-inch saw with great power and two batteries for a small budget.
Pass if: you need it for all-day professional use—the battery system is best for moderate cutting sessions.
9. SKIL PWR CORE 40 14″ Chainsaw (CS4555-10)
The easy-swinging 14-inch saw that surprises owners with its anti-bog cutting power.
This SKIL is for the person who finds most chainsaws too heavy to enjoy. The 14-inch bar keeps the saw compact and the weight down to 11.5 pounds, which is a big deal for owners who are older, disabled, or just not interested in wrestling a heavy tool. One owner called it “empowering” to be able to handle tree trimming solo when other saws felt unmanageable, and the light weight is what wins people over.
Do not let the small bar fool you on power. The digital brushless motor does not bog down when cutting, according to owners, and the 40V system handles 3 to 5-inch branches and 8 to 10-inch trunks with ease. The included 2.5Ah battery lasts about an hour on mixed cutting, and the Auto PWR JUMP charger is genuinely fast—it charges the battery from 0 to 30% in just 15 minutes.
A few quirks show up in the feedback. The saw can leak a little oil when it is sitting, so set it down carefully, and on very hot days the battery can overheat. The anti-kickback brake and tool-free chain tensioning dial add convenience and safety. This is a saw that punches above its weight for the right user.
Owner consensus: A light, easy-to-maneuver saw with surprisingly strong power and a fast charger; the battery engine gets warm on hot days.
Best for: anyone who prioritizes a light, easy-handling saw for trimming and smaller trees—especially users who need less weight.
Think twice if: you plan to cut large trees all day—the 14-inch bar and single battery limit heavy work.
10. WORX 40V 14″ Chainsaw (WG384)
The auto-tensioning 14-inch saw that pairs perfectly with a smart battery ecosystem.
The WORX stands out for its automated chain tensioning—instead of a manual dial, the saw maintains the right tension and torque for each job automatically, which owners say makes for more efficient cuts and less fiddling. The chain speed is a fast 26 feet per second, and the two 20V batteries deliver 40V of power that handles everything from small branches to big logs, with one owner reporting it cut a 9-inch dense beech tree easily.
The real draw here is the WORX Power Share ecosystem. These 20V batteries are compatible with all WORX 20V and 40V tools, so if you already own WORX gear, this saw is a natural and affordable addition. The battery level indicator tells you exactly how much charge is left and roughly how many logs you can cut before heading back to the shed. At 10.4 pounds, it is light enough for a smaller-framed person to handle solo, and the quick-stop chain brake adds a safety layer.
The recurring trade-off is chain durability. The included chain is a known weak point—some owners say it does not hold tension and needs frequent sharpening, and the saw is listed as “40V” but uses two 20V batteries, which surprises a few buyers. Several owners recommend upgrading to an Oregon S52 chain for better longevity. Battery life hovers around 30 to 45 minutes of cutting, which is respectable for the class.
What stands out
- Automated tensioning removes the most common chainsaw hassle
- Batteries work across the full WORX Power Share tool line
- Light at 10.4 lb and easy for anyone to handle
What to know
- Included chain can be weak—owners often upgrade to Oregon
- It is marketed as 40V but runs on two 20V batteries
Pick this if: you are already in the WORX battery ecosystem and want an automatic-tensioning saw for occasional tree work.
Look elsewhere if: you want the best chain from the start—this one may need an aftermarket upgrade.
11. DEHANTOOLS 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw
A generous two-battery budget kit that is perfect for trimming, not felling the forest.
This is the saw for the budget buyer who wants to prune trees and cut branches without spending a fortune. The 16-inch brushless motor delivers a fast 5200 RPM and a 14 m/s chain speed, which is plenty for semi-large branches around 8 inches thick and general yard cleanup. The standout feature is the package—you get two 4.0Ah batteries, a charger, work gloves, safety goggles, and a cleaning brush, which is unusually generous at this price point.
Owners find it a great value, calling it “well-made” and praising how easy it is to start, unlike a gas pull-cord. The tool-free chain tensioning and a large battery display that shows real-time status add convenience, and the automatic oiling system with a clear tank keeps the chain lubricated without fuss. The reinforced metal gearbox and silicone handle make for a comfortable, non-slip grip that is suitable for longer sessions.
The chain is the weak link, and owners are direct about it. The recurring report is that the chain comes off frequently—one owner noted “even after 45 min the chain comes off about every 2 or 3 minutes”—and the tensioning pins feel like they need a redesign. This is the same story across several budget saws, so it is a matter of diligent tensioning and possibly replacing the chain. The battery life also gets mixed feedback, so treat the 21V class as a trimming tool, not a felling machine.
Honest read: The feature list and included accessories are impressive for the price, but the chain needs careful management—this is a pruning saw, not a heavy-duty logger.
Reach for this if: you want an affordable, ready-to-run battery kit for trimming branches and small cuts around the yard.
Pass if: you are felling large trees—the 21V power and chain durability will frustrate you.
Understanding the Specs
Voltage and Amp-Hours (Battery Saws)
Voltage is the easiest shorthand for a battery saw’s power ceiling—higher numbers like 56V and 60V generally mean more cutting force than a 21V or 40V model. The amp-hour (Ah) rating tells you the fuel tank size: a 4.0Ah battery holds roughly twice the runtime of a 2.0Ah pack on the same saw. For tree cutting, aim for at least 40V and a 4.0Ah battery if you want reasonable power and runtime in one package.
Amps and Watts (Corded Saws)
Corded saws advertise their motor with amps or watts, which tells you the raw electrical draw. A 12-amp saw like the BLACK+DECKER is solid for medium limbs, while a 15-amp, 2400W model like the Oregon has more torque reserve for bigger logs. The trade-off is that a corded saw still needs the right extension cord—a long, skinny cord will starve the motor, so a heavy 10 or 12-gauge cord is often required for full power.
FAQ
What size chainsaw do I need to cut down a tree?
Is a 40V chainsaw powerful enough for tree branches?
Can I use any extension cord with a corded electric chainsaw?
How long does a battery chainsaw battery last?
Why does my chainsaw chain keep coming off?
What is the difference between a brushless and a brushed chainsaw motor?
Do I need to oil my chainsaw chain every time I use it?
Is a corded chainsaw better than a battery chainsaw?
What safety features should I look for in an electric chainsaw?
Which brand makes the most reliable electric chainsaw?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
If you want one dependable pick, the electric chainsaw for cutting trees winner is the EGO POWER+ CS1613 because it combines the power of a 40cc gas saw with the convenience of a 56V battery, all while keeping noise and maintenance to a minimum. If you want the lightest EGO experience or already own EGO batteries, grab the CS1611 at 9 pounds. And for the budget-conscious corded buyer who never wants to charge a battery, the BLACK+DECKER CS1216 remains the most accessible, lightweight way to start cutting.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of August 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
As an Amazon Associate, WellFizz earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.
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Mo Maruf
I created WellFizz to bridge the gap between vague wellness advice and actionable solutions. My mission is simple: to decode the research and give you practical tools you can actually use.
Beyond the data, I am a passionate traveler. I believe that stepping away from the screen to explore new environments is essential for mental clarity and physical vitality.