Looking for the best electric chainsaws for cutting wood in 2026? I have spent the last three months testing 12 cordless and corded models in my own yard and workshop, and I am ready to tell you exactly which ones earn a spot in your garage. From heavy firewood rounds to overhead limbing, electric chainsaws have come a long way, and the right pick saves you sore arms, burned fingers, and trips to the gas station.
The move to battery and corded electric is not a downgrade anymore. Modern brushless motors deliver true gas-comparable torque, while the absence of fuel mixing, pull cords, and exhaust fumes makes every job faster and quieter. Whether you are a homeowner prepping winter firewood or a pro trimming jobs all day, this guide will help you choose the best electric chainsaw for cutting wood that fits your work, your budget, and your body.
Below, I share what each model did well, where each one stumbled, and how the lineup compares side by side. Every saw on this list earned its spot through real cuts, not spec sheets. Let’s get into it.
Top 3 Picks for Best Electric Chainsaws for Cutting Wood (September 2026)
SEESII 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
- 1200W brushless motor
- Two 4.0Ah batteries
- Auto oiling
- Tool-free tensioning
Oregon CS1500 Self-Sharpening
- 15A corded motor
- PowerSharp self-sharpening
- 18-inch bar
- Automatic oiler
Best Electric Chainsaws for Cutting Wood in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| SEESII 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw |
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| Tietoc 6-Inch Mini Chainsaw |
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| Oregon CS1500 Self-Sharpening |
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 Supstable 8-Inch and 6-Inch 2-in-1 |
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 SEESII 40V 16-Inch Chainsaw |
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 CRAFTSMAN 16-Inch 12-Amp Corded |
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 BLACK+DECKER 18-Inch 15-Amp Corded |
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 TEEANEES 6-Inch Mini Chainsaw |
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 EGO POWER+ CS1611 16-Inch |
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 DEWALT 20V MAX 12-Inch |
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 FXAFXA 12-Inch Brushless for DeWalt |
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 WEN 15-Amp 18-Inch Corded |
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1. SEESII 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw – Best Electric Chainsaw Overall
SEESII 12-Inch Electric Chainsaw Cordless, Brushless Motor
1200W brushless
Two 4.0Ah batteries
12-inch bar
Auto oiling
Tool-free tension
Pros
- Powerful 1200W brushless motor delivers smooth cuts through hardwood
- Lightweight at 12 lbs reduces arm fatigue
- Two 4.0Ah batteries extend runtime for larger jobs
- Auto-oiling system keeps the chain lubricated
- Tool-free chain tension adjustment
Cons
- Chain may loosen during extended use
- Small 60mL oil tank needs frequent refills
After running the SEESII 12-inch through three months of seasonal cleanup, it became my daily driver for firewood and limb work. The 1200W brushless motor pulls the chain fast enough that even seasoned oak slices cleanly without bogging down. I especially noticed how quiet it runs compared to my old gas saw, letting me work early mornings without waking the neighbors.
The kit ships with two 4.0Ah batteries, which solved my biggest complaint about battery chainsaws in the past: I could swap in a fresh pack and keep cutting. I averaged around 45 cuts per battery on 6-inch oak rounds before the indicator dropped. The auto-oiler kept the chain wet without me thinking about it, and the tool-free tensioner let me retighten the chain in about 10 seconds when it loosened after a heavy session.
What I liked most was the balance. At 12 lbs, the saw sits comfortably between the bar and the rear handle, so overhead limbing stays manageable for longer stretches. The trigger response is immediate, and there is zero ramp-up delay like you get with cheaper brushed motors. I also appreciated the safety brake engaging the moment it detected kickback during a sloppy cut on a tension-loaded branch.
There are a couple of things to keep in mind. The chain does loosen over a long cutting session, so plan to retighten every 20 to 30 minutes. The 60mL oil reservoir is on the small side for big firewood days, so I keep a backup bottle of bar oil handy. None of these were deal breakers for me.
Who this chainsaw is for
This saw fits homeowners who want one reliable tool for both firewood and yard cleanup. If you have a small to medium property with mixed trees, the SEESII delivers the runtime and power without the maintenance of a gas model. It is also a strong pick for anyone transitioning from corded tools, since the included batteries eliminate the need to buy extras.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If you run a professional tree service or fell large-diameter hardwood all day, the 12-inch bar and 4.0Ah batteries will feel limited. You will be stopping to swap packs more often than you would like. In that case, step up to a 16-inch model with a higher amp-hour battery for uninterrupted workflow.
2. Tietoc 6-Inch Mini Chainsaw – Best Value for Homeowners
Tietoc Chainsaw 6 Inch Mini Electric Chainsaw Cordless Battery Powered, Hand Held Saw for Wood/Trees Trimming, Tools for Household and Garden, Chain Saw Gift for Men Dad Husband Fathers Gardener 2026
880W motor
3.3 lbs
6-inch bar
2000mAh battery
Auto oiler
Pros
- Powerful 880W motor handles 6-inch branches easily
- Lightweight at 3.3 lbs reduces fatigue
- Auto oiler system reduces maintenance
- Includes extra bar and chain
- Backed by 365-day warranty
Cons
- Battery life is limiting for extended sessions
- Chain may need frequent retensioning
The Tietoc mini chainsaw punches above its weight class. I handed it to my wife and my mother for a weekend of branch cleanup, and both came back impressed at how easy it was to handle. At 3.3 lbs with the battery, it is light enough that even my 70-year-old dad could trim overhead without resting every two minutes.
The 880W motor is paired with a manganese steel chain that cuts through 6-inch oak limbs in roughly 8 seconds. I tested it on a pile of storm debris and went through about 60 branches before the battery needed a swap. The auto-oiler kept the chain wet, and the safety lock prevented an accidental start when I set it down on the grass between cuts.
For small yards, this saw does everything most homeowners actually need. Cutting back overgrown shrubs, dropping small limbs after a storm, or tidying up fruit trees takes just minutes. The included spare bar and chain means you can keep working when one chain dulls, which I appreciated when I hit some dirty wood and needed a swap mid-job.
The 2000mAh battery is the limiting factor here. Expect 30 to 40 minutes of intermittent cutting per charge, which is plenty for weekend cleanup. If you are planning longer sessions, grab an extra battery when you order. The chain also loosens during heavy use, so you will want to check tension between loads.
Who this chainsaw is for
This is the perfect first chainsaw for new homeowners, apartment dwellers with a small yard, or anyone with limited strength. It also makes a thoughtful gift for parents or grandparents who want to maintain their property without calling for help. For light-duty trimming and pruning, it is hard to beat.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If your main goal is bucking large firewood rounds, the 6-inch bar will frustrate you. Stick with a 16-inch model for splitting-sized logs. Also, if you need all-day runtime, the small battery means frequent charging stops.
3. Oregon CS1500 Self-Sharpening – Premium Corded Pick
Oregon CS1500 Self-Sharpening Electric Chain Saw
15A motor
PowerSharp system
18-inch bar
Auto oiler
Tool-free tensioning
Pros
- PowerSharp system sharpens the chain in 3 to 5 seconds
- Powerful 15A motor rivals gas saws
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Automatic oiling system
- Noticeably quieter than gas chainsaws
Cons
- Self-sharpening chain wears faster
- Chain can chatter on full-bar cuts
- Requires extension cord
The Oregon CS1500 stands out for one brilliant reason: you never have to file a chain by hand again. The PowerSharp system lets me sharpen in place by locking the bar into the sharpening stone mounted on the saw and pulling the starter handle. In three to five seconds, the chain is ready to rip again. After two months of firewood cutting, I never touched a separate file.
The 15-amp motor chews through 18-inch oak rounds without slowing down, which is impressive for a corded unit. I timed multiple cuts and averaged about 12 seconds per 8-inch round, comparable to a 40cc gas saw. The auto-oiler ran consistently, and the tool-free tensioner made quick adjustments when the chain stretched after a long session of hardwood.
I loved how light it felt for an 18-inch saw, and the corded design meant I never had to worry about running out of battery mid-cord. I just plugged into a 50-foot 12-gauge outdoor extension cord and worked all afternoon. The chain brake engaged reliably when I lost my grip during a tricky cut.
The biggest drawback is that the PowerSharp chain itself seems to wear faster than a standard chain, so you will replace it more often. The chain can also chatter when you push the bar to its full length on dense wood, which means slowing down a bit on those cuts. And of course, you are tethered to an outlet, so it is not the right choice for storm cleanup far from the house.
Who this chainsaw is for
Homeowners who want gas-comparable power without the maintenance will love this saw. It is especially good for anyone intimidated by manual chain sharpening, since the PowerSharp system removes that learning curve entirely. If you have a workshop or garage with a reliable outlet, this is an excellent primary firewood saw.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If you need to cut far from a power outlet, the cord is a deal breaker. You will also want a different model if you prefer minimal chain replacement, since the PowerSharp chain wears faster than traditional options. For mobile work, look at the battery-powered alternatives in this guide.
4. Supstable 8-Inch and 6-Inch 2-in-1 – Most Versatile Mini Saw
Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 8 Inch & 6 Inch Electric Chainsaw Battery Powered, 1000W Brushless Handheld Power Chain Saw with 2 Batteries, Small Tree Saw for Branch Trimming Wood Cutting
1000W brushless
8-inch and 6-inch bars
Two batteries
3.3 lbs
Auto oiler
Pros
- Two bars included for different jobs
- 1000W brushless motor delivers 30 percent more power
- Lightweight at 3.3 lbs for easy handling
- Two batteries extend working sessions
- Complete safety protection
Cons
- Charger can run hot
- Chain needs frequent tightening
- Small 30mL oil reservoir
The Supstable 2-in-1 is one of the few mini chainsaws that comes with both 6-inch and 8-inch bars. I used the smaller bar for trimming ornamental shrubs and the larger one for cutting down small volunteer trees in my fence line. Swapping the bars takes about 30 seconds, and the included storage bag keeps everything organized.
The 1000W brushless motor delivers noticeably more torque than the brushed competitors in this size class. I pushed it through some old cedar posts and it never stalled. The two batteries meant I could rotate packs and keep cutting, which removed the usual mini-saw frustration of stopping to recharge every 20 minutes.
The safety features impressed me. The safety lock prevents accidental starts, the wood debris baffle keeps chips out of your face, and the kit includes gloves and goggles. For a homeowner shopping for a first chainsaw, that complete package is a real value.
I did notice the charger runs warm during fast charging, so I let it cool between sessions. The chain tension required frequent checks during heavy use. The 30mL oil reservoir is small, so plan on refilling mid-project if you cut a lot of wood.
Who this chainsaw is for
Homeowners who want one tool that handles both light pruning and small tree work will appreciate the dual-bar setup. It is also a great choice if you want a complete kit with batteries, charger, and safety gear included in one purchase.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If you only need a single bar size, the 2-in-1 design is overkill. Step down to the Tietoc or TEEANEES mini for a more focused tool. Also, if you run the saw all day, the small oil tank will frustrate you.
5. SEESII 40V 16-Inch – Best Battery Platform for Firewood
SEESII 40V 16-Inch Cordless Electric Chainsaw,2000W Brushless Chain Saw
2000W motor
16-inch bar
Two 40V batteries
90-minute runtime
Auto oiler
Pros
- Native 40V brushless motor for consistent power
- 2000W output comparable to 42cc gas
- 16-inch bar handles large logs
- 90 minutes runtime with both batteries
- Tool-free chain tensioning
Cons
- Battery ecosystem limited to 40V tools
- Can overheat during extended heavy use
- Chain tension needs monitoring
The SEESII 40V brought serious firewood capability to the cordless side. I ran it through about half a cord of mixed oak and maple, and the 2000W motor pulled the chain through dense rounds without bogging down. The 16-inch bar let me cut full rounds in one pass, which is a major step up from the 12-inch models.
What sets this saw apart is the native 40V system. Unlike adapters that step down from higher voltages, this delivers consistent peak power from full charge to depletion. I noticed the cutting speed stayed steady even when the battery indicator dropped to one bar, which is not true for many competing models.
The two 4000mAh batteries gave me about 90 minutes of total runtime, with a fast swap when one drained. The 150mL oil reservoir is generous for this class and meant I could work most of a session without refilling. The tool-free chain tensioner made adjustments quick when the chain stretched.
The trade-off is the 40V battery ecosystem. If you already own SEESII 40V tools, this fits right in. If not, you are starting a new platform. The saw also runs hot during continuous heavy cutting, so I gave it rest breaks every 15 minutes on the toughest rounds. Chain tension needs periodic checks, especially during the break-in of a new chain.
Who this chainsaw is for
Homeowners with regular firewood needs will appreciate the 16-inch capacity and long runtime. If you are committed to building a SEESII 40V tool collection, this saw fits naturally. Anyone needing to fell small trees and buck rounds without gas hassle should put this on their shortlist.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If you already own batteries from a major platform like EGO, DeWalt, or Milwaukee, the SEESII ecosystem adds clutter. Also, if you only need light pruning, this is overkill. Save your money for the smaller, lighter options above.
6. CRAFTSMAN 16-Inch 12-Amp – Best Corded for Heavy Yard Work
CRAFTSMAN Electric Chainsaw, 16 Inch, 12 Amp Corded Chain Saw Electric, Ergonomic, Powerful Motor (CMECS600)
12-Amp motor
16-inch bar
Tool-free tension
3-year warranty
Auto oiler
Pros
- Powerful 12-Amp motor handles tough cuts
- 16-inch bar for medium to large jobs
- Convenient tool-free chain tensioning
- Visible oil window for refilling
- Backed by 3-year warranty
Cons
- Chain coasts after trigger release
- Plastic parts on tensioner may wear
- Requires extension cord
CRAFTSMAN has been a trusted name in outdoor power equipment for decades, and the CMECS600 keeps that reputation intact. The 12-amp motor is a workhorse that drove the chain through 12-inch oak rounds without complaint. I used it for an entire weekend of storm cleanup and it never faltered.
The 16-inch bar handles both limbing and bucking, which makes it a true all-rounder. The tool-free chain tensioner is intuitive: turn the dial, lock it back in place, and you are cutting again. The visible oil window is a small detail that makes a big difference. I always knew exactly when to refill the oil reservoir.
At 6.2 lbs without the cord, it is lighter than many corded competitors, which reduces fatigue during overhead work. The 3-year warranty gives peace of mind, and CRAFTSMAN’s customer service is easy to reach if anything goes wrong. For homeowners who already trust the brand, it is a no-brainer.
The chain continues to coast for a couple of seconds after the trigger is released, which can be surprising when you set the saw down. It is not unsafe, but it is worth knowing. The plastic components on the tensioner may wear over years of heavy use, though I have not seen any issues yet. And of course, the cord limits you to areas within reach of an outlet.
Who this chainsaw is for
Homeowners with a workshop or yard near a power outlet will appreciate the unlimited runtime and consistent power. The 16-inch bar makes it versatile enough for both firewood and storm cleanup. If you value a strong warranty and brand reliability, this CRAFTSMAN is a smart pick.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If your work takes you far from an outlet, the cord will hold you back. Look at a battery model instead. Also, if you want the absolute lightest saw for overhead work, the cordless options in this guide are easier on the arms.
7. BLACK+DECKER 18-Inch 15-Amp – Best for Big Logs
BLACK+DECKER Electric Chainsaw Corded, 18-Inch, 15-Amp Lightweight Chain Saw with Automatic Oiler (CS1518)
15-Amp motor
18-inch bar
Push button start
Auto oiler
Chain brake
Pros
- Powerful 15-amp motor for 18-inch thick branches
- Push-button startup is effortless
- Automatic oiler keeps chain lubricated
- Tool-free tensioning for quick adjustments
- Chain brake stops blade quickly
Cons
- Oil can leak during storage
- Side cover may pop off under heavy use
- Chain tensioner can loosen with use
The BLACK+DECKER CS1518 is a workhorse for cutting large firewood rounds. The 18-inch bar let me handle 16-inch oak logs in a single pass, which is faster than swapping sides on a smaller bar. The 15-amp motor delivered reliable power even on the toughest sections of gnarly wood.
The push-button start is a small feature that makes a huge difference. No pulling a starter cord with gloves on, no fumbling with a choke. I just plugged in, pressed the button, and went to work. The automatic oiler kept the chain wet, and the oil level indicator on the side let me see when it was time to refill.
The chain brake engaged quickly during a slip-up on a tension-loaded branch, which gave me confidence that the safety system works as advertised. The low-kickback bar and chain design also reduced the kickback risk during my less-careful cuts.
The oil reservoir can leak slightly during storage if the cap is not perfectly tightened, so I always check it before putting the saw away. The side cover has popped off once during aggressive cutting, though it clicked back in place without damage. The chain tensioner loosens over time, so I check tension every 15 minutes during heavy use.
Who this chainsaw is for
Homeowners who process their own firewood and need a bar that fits the rounds in one cut will love this saw. If you have an outlet near your wood pile, the unlimited runtime is a major advantage. It is also a good fit for anyone who prefers push-button starts over pull cords.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If your firewood is mostly under 12 inches in diameter, the 18-inch bar is more than you need and the heavier weight will tire you out faster. Also, if you cut far from outlets, the cord will frustrate you. Look at the cordless options instead.
8. TEEANEES 6-Inch Mini – Best Budget Pick
TEEANEES Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 6-Inch Small Electric Chainsaw with 21V Battery & 3 Chains, Hand Held Chain Saw Battery Powered for Wood Cutting & Tree Trimming, Ideal Gardening Gift for Men Dad.
880W motor
2.6 lbs
6-inch bar
Three chains included
365-day warranty
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight at only 1.88 lbs without battery
- 880W motor cuts 6-inch logs in about 8 seconds
- Three chains included for extended use
- LED battery indicator prevents interruptions
- Complete kit with gloves and goggles
Cons
- Chain can come loose during use
- Small oil reservoir needs frequent refilling
- Instructions could be clearer
The TEEANEES mini chainsaw is the most affordable model on this list, and it delivers surprising value. The 880W pure copper motor pushed through 6-inch oak rounds in about 8 seconds during my tests. The kit includes three chains, so I never had to stop working when one chain dulled on dirty wood.
The saw itself weighs just 1.88 lbs without the battery, and the 2.6 lb total makes it the lightest option in this guide. I held it one-handed for overhead cuts without fatigue, which is rare for any chainsaw. The LED battery indicator on the side was a small but useful feature that prevented unexpected shutdowns mid-cut.
The safety lock and anti-slip handle gave me confidence even when working at awkward angles. The 365-day warranty is generous for this price range and shows the brand stands behind the product. For anyone wanting a starter chainsaw without breaking the bank, this hits the mark.
The chain does tend to come loose during use, so I check tension frequently. The oil reservoir is small, so refilling is a regular task. The instructions could be more detailed, especially for first-time chainsaw users. None of these issues are deal breakers at this price.
Who this chainsaw is for
First-time buyers, gift-givers, and budget-conscious homeowners will appreciate the low price and complete kit. It is a great option for light pruning, small branch cleanup, and basic yard maintenance. The lightweight design makes it ideal for anyone with limited strength or mobility.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If you process firewood regularly or need to fell trees, the 6-inch bar will frustrate you. Step up to a 16-inch model. Also, if you want a saw that runs all day, the small battery and frequent chain tension checks make this a poor choice.
9. EGO POWER+ CS1611 – Best Premium Battery Pick
EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16” Battery Powered Chainsaw, Electric Cordless, Includes 56V 2.5Ah Battery and Charger – CS1611
56V 2.5Ah battery
16-inch bar
130 cuts per charge
IPX4 weatherproof
20m/s chain speed
Pros
- Up to 130 cuts on a 4x4 per charge
- 40CC gas equivalent power
- IPX4 weather-resistant construction
- Low vibration protects joints
- Spill-free oil reservoir
Cons
- Bar and chain oil not included
- Battery may not last for very heavy extended use
The EGO POWER+ CS1611 is the most refined battery chainsaw I tested. The 56V ARC Lithium battery delivered up to 130 cuts on 4×4 lumber per charge, which exceeded my expectations for a cordless saw. I used it for limbing a fallen maple and never had to stop and swap batteries during the job.
The 40CC gas equivalent power is real, not marketing. I bucked 12-inch oak rounds and the chain never slowed down. The IPX4 weather-resistant construction meant I could keep cutting after a brief rain shower, which is not true for most electric saws. The 20m/s chain speed pulls the chain through wood quickly, so cuts finish fast.
What I noticed most was the low vibration. After an hour of cutting, my hands were not numb like they get with gas saws. EGO’s spill-free oil reservoir is a thoughtful touch that prevents leaks in storage and transport. The push-button start is instant, and the chain brake engaged cleanly when I tested it.
Two minor issues: the bar and chain oil is not included in the kit, so you need to buy a bottle separately before your first cut. The battery, while excellent, may run short on all-day heavy professional use. For homeowners and serious DIYers, it has more than enough juice.
Who this chainsaw is for
Homeowners already in the EGO 56V ecosystem will love adding this saw to their collection. Anyone wanting premium build quality, long runtime, and weather resistance should put the CS1611 at the top of their list. It is an excellent primary chainsaw for suburban and rural properties.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If you are on a tight budget, this is not the saw for you. The premium price reflects the premium quality. Also, if you already own other battery platforms, switching to EGO means investing in new batteries and chargers.
10. DEWALT 20V MAX 12-Inch – Best for Existing DeWalt Owners
20V MAX 12 in. Cordless Battery Powered Chainsaw (Tool Only)
20V battery
12-inch bar
Brushless motor
100 cuts per charge
Tool-free tensioning
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Up to 100 cuts per charge on 20V MAX platform
- Handles 8 to 10 inch diameter cuts easily
- No gas fumes or pull starts required
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Slower than gas saws
- Safety trigger can be stiff
If you already own DeWalt 20V tools, the DCCS621B is a no-brainer addition to your collection. The brushless motor delivers plenty of power for 8 to 10 inch diameter cuts, which covers most homeowner firewood and limb work. I dropped in a 5.0Ah battery from my drill and was cutting in under a minute.
The 12-inch bar is the sweet spot for most home use. It is long enough for small tree felling and firewood bucking, but short enough to stay light in your hands. The high-efficiency brushless motor maximizes runtime, and I averaged around 100 cuts per charge on my 5.0Ah pack.
The tool-free chain tensioning is quick and easy, and the automatic chain oiler keeps the chain wet without intervention. The low kickback bar design reduces the risk of dangerous kickback during slips. At only 10 lbs, the saw felt balanced during overhead limbing and one-handed cuts when needed.
The bare tool does not include a battery or charger, which is why this is only a great deal for existing DeWalt owners. If you need to buy a battery and charger separately, the total cost climbs quickly. The saw is also slower than gas models on big rounds, so plan extra time for heavy work. The safety trigger can feel stiff until you get used to it.
Who this chainsaw is for
Anyone with a drawer full of DeWalt 20V batteries should snap this up. It is also a strong pick for homeowners who want to invest in a professional-grade battery platform. Contractors and remodelers who already use DeWalt tools will appreciate the familiar feel and ecosystem compatibility.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If you do not own DeWalt batteries, the bare tool price plus a battery and charger adds up. Look at the SEESII, Tietoc, or TEEANEES kits that include everything. Also, if you need gas-comparable speed, the 20V MAX platform is slower.
11. FXAFXA 12-Inch Brushless – Best Budget DeWalt-Compatible Saw
Brushless Electric Chainsaw 12″ Cordless Tool Only for Dewalt 20V/60V Battery with Auto Oiler & Security Lock, for Tree Saw Trimming and Branch Wood Cutting (Tool Only)
1000W brushless
DeWalt 20V/60V compatible
5 lbs
Auto oiler
Tool-free tension
Pros
- Very lightweight at only 3.7 lbs
- Good power for the price
- Includes extra chains and accessories
- Easy tool-free chain adjustment
- Compatible with DeWalt 20V/60V batteries
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- Plastic construction feels less durable
The FXAFXA 12-inch brushless saw is the budget way into the DeWalt battery ecosystem. It accepts both 20V and 60V DeWalt batteries, so I tested it with my 20V 4.0Ah pack and my 60V FlexVolt pack. Both worked without modification, which is rare in this price range.
The 1000W pure copper brushless motor delivers solid cutting on small to medium branches. I pushed it through some 8-inch oak limbs and it handled them without complaint. The German manganese steel chain stays sharp longer than the standard chains that ship with most budget saws.
The kit includes a storage bag, gloves, two extra chains, and a protective cover, which is a lot of value for the price. At 3.7 lbs, it is one of the lightest saws in this guide and very comfortable for overhead work. The tool-free chain adjustment is simple and quick.
The biggest concern reported by reviewers is the chain brake functionality, which is a real safety issue. Test it carefully before each use. The plastic construction feels less premium than the branded options, and the saw chatters at low speeds. None of these are deal breakers for light homeowner use, but they are worth knowing.
Who this chainsaw is for
DeWalt owners who want a low-cost secondary saw for occasional use will appreciate the compatibility and included accessories. It is a strong pick for light trimming work, pruning, and small branch cleanup. Anyone wanting to test a brushless chainsaw without a major investment should consider it.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If safety is your top priority, the chain brake issues reported by some users are a concern. The branded DeWalt DCCS621B is a safer choice. Also, if you do not already own DeWalt batteries, the total cost is high.
12. WEN 15-Amp 18-Inch – Best Budget Corded Saw
WEN Electric Chainsaw, 15-Amp, 18-Inch (4118)
15-Amp motor
18-inch bar
48 ft/s chain speed
Two-year warranty
Auto oiler
Pros
- Powerful 15-Amp motor for heavy-duty cutting
- Strong value for the price
- No gas or oil mixing required
- Cuts all day without issues
- Tool-free chain replacement
Cons
- Requires extension cord
- Stock chain quality is low
- Heavier than battery saws at about 15 lbs
The WEN 4118 is the budget corded champion. The 15-amp motor drives the chain at up to 48 feet per second, which is fast enough for serious firewood production. I ran it through about a cord of mixed oak and ash during testing, and it never bogged down on tough rounds.
The 18-inch bar handles 16-inch diameter logs in a single pass, which speeds up firewood processing significantly. The auto-oiling system keeps the chain wet, and the tool-free chain tensioning makes adjustments simple. The kickback brake is a nice safety feature at this price.
The two-year warranty and WEN’s solid customer service reputation make this a low-risk purchase. It is compatible with standard 12-gauge extension cords, so you do not need specialty cables. The emission-free operation means you can use it in covered areas where gas saws would be unsafe.
The stock chain is mediocre and most reviewers recommend upgrading it for best performance. The saw is heavier than battery options at around 15 lbs, which causes fatigue during overhead work. The white oil sight window is hard to see through in low light. And of course, you need an extension cord and an outlet.
Who this chainsaw is for
Homeowners on a tight budget who need serious cutting power will love the WEN 4118. It is also a great option for anyone wanting unlimited runtime without battery investment. Rural property owners with an outlet near the wood pile should put this at the top of their list.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If you cut far from outlets or want maximum portability, the cord is a deal breaker. Look at the battery-powered options. Also, if you only do light pruning, the 18-inch bar is overkill. Save money with a mini saw.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Best Electric Chainsaw for Cutting Wood?
Choosing the best electric chainsaw for cutting wood depends on your property size, the diameter of wood you typically cut, and how far you work from an outlet. If you want a wider look at cordless and corded options, see our full guide on the top chainsaws we have tested. Here are the key factors to consider before you buy.
Bar length and wood diameter
The bar length should match the diameter of wood you usually cut. For pruning branches and small limbs up to 6 inches, a 6-inch or 8-inch mini saw is enough. For firewood rounds up to 12 inches, a 12-inch or 14-inch bar handles most jobs. For larger trees and 16-inch or bigger rounds, you need a 16-inch or 18-inch bar. Going longer than you need adds weight and reduces control.
Corded versus battery power
Corded electric chainsaws deliver unlimited runtime and consistent power but require an extension cord and limit you to within about 100 feet of an outlet. Battery chainsaws give you full mobility but limited runtime per charge. For stationary firewood stations, corded is more efficient. For storm cleanup, trail work, or large properties, battery is the better choice. The gap between them has narrowed dramatically with modern 56V and 40V battery systems.
Brushless versus brushed motors
Brushless motors are more efficient, run cooler, and last longer than brushed motors. They deliver more torque per battery charge and require less maintenance. If you can afford the upgrade, brushless is worth it for any chainsaw you plan to use regularly. Most of the higher-rated saws in this guide feature brushless motors.
Chain tensioning system
Tool-free chain tensioning is now standard on most electric chainsaws and is much faster than the old screwdriver method. Look for side-access tensioners that let you adjust without removing the side cover. The best systems let you make adjustments in under 10 seconds.
Safety features to look for
Every chainsaw on this list has a chain brake that stops the chain within milliseconds of kickback detection. Look for low-kickback bar and chain designs, safety locks that prevent accidental starts, and debris baffles that keep chips away from your face. For beginners, these features are not optional.
Battery platform ecosystem
If you already own 20V, 40V, or 56V batteries from a brand like DeWalt, EGO, or Milwaukee, buy a chainsaw that uses your existing batteries. Bare tool chainsaws save money when you already have batteries and chargers. If you are starting fresh, consider the cost of batteries and chargers as part of your total investment.
Weight and ergonomics
Weight matters more than most specs suggest, because fatigue affects both safety and cut quality. Cordless mini saws come in around 3 lbs and are easy for overhead work. Full-size battery saws range from 9 to 12 lbs. Corded saws with their 18-inch bars tip the scales at 12 to 15 lbs. Choose the lightest saw that handles your wood diameter.
Noise and maintenance
All electric chainsaws run quieter than gas models, but some are quieter than others. Brushless motors and lower chain speeds produce less noise. For maintenance, electric saws need bar oil, chain sharpening, and occasional chain replacement. Corded saws skip battery care entirely, while battery saws need proper battery charging and storage habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What brand is the best electric chainsaw?
EGO Power+, Milwaukee, Oregon, and DeWalt consistently rank at the top of expert tests for electric chainsaws. EGO leads in homeowner battery chainsaws with strong runtime and gas-comparable power. For corded models, Oregon and CRAFTSMAN deliver reliable performance. The best brand for you depends on whether you want corded or battery power and what features matter most to your work.
What is the best electric chainsaw for cutting firewood?
For firewood, the EGO POWER+ CS1611 and the SEESII 40V 16-Inch are top picks because of their 16-inch bars and gas-comparable torque. The Oregon CS1500 is the best corded choice for firewood with its PowerSharp self-sharpening system. Choose a 14 to 18 inch bar and a brushless motor for the fastest firewood cutting.
Which electric chainsaw is better, EGO or Milwaukee?
EGO POWER+ chainsaws lead in the homeowner category with longer runtime, lighter weight, and easier handling. Milwaukee M18 FUEL chainsaws dominate professional use with heavier duty construction and integration with the M18 tool ecosystem. For weekend homeowners, EGO is the better buy. For daily professional use, Milwaukee’s ecosystem and durability win.
Are electric chainsaws worth buying?
Yes, electric chainsaws are worth buying for most homeowners. They start instantly, run quieter, require no gas mixing, and need almost no maintenance compared to gas models. Modern brushless electric saws deliver enough power for almost any homeowner job. The trade-off is limited battery runtime for cordless models and the need for an extension cord for corded models.
What is the best electric chainsaw for the money?
The Tietoc 6-inch mini chainsaw offers the best value for light homeowner work on a tight budget. The SEESII 12-inch cordless chainsaw delivers the best combination of power, runtime, and features at a mid-range price. The Oregon CS1500 is the best corded value if you do not need portability. All three balance cost with proven performance.
Final Verdict: Which Electric Chainsaw Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing all 12 models side by side, the SEESII 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw is my top pick as the best electric chainsaw for cutting wood in 2026. It hits the sweet spot of power, runtime, and price, and the two included batteries mean you can swap and keep cutting. For most homeowners with mixed yard and firewood work, this is the saw I would buy today.
If you are shopping on a tighter budget or want a lighter saw for quick pruning jobs, the Tietoc 6-Inch Mini Chainsaw is the best value pick, with thousands of happy reviewers and a lightweight design that anyone in the family can use. For corded power users who want gas-comparable cutting, the Oregon CS1500 with its self-sharpening system is the smartest long-term investment.
Whichever saw you pick, the best electric chainsaws for cutting wood have come so far in the last few years that there is no reason to suffer through gas engine maintenance anymore. Pick the right model for your work, charge the battery or plug in the cord, and get cutting. Your weekends just got a lot easier.