I have spent the last three months testing budget chainsaws in my yard, cutting everything from oak firewood to storm-felled branches. Finding the best chainsaws under $250 takes more work than most guides admit because the budget bracket is where quality varies wildly.
Some of these saws match a $400 Stihl in raw cutting power. Others feel dangerous after ten minutes of use. Our team pulled in ten models, ran them through hardwood, softwood, and dirty wood, and tracked noise, vibration, weight, and battery runtime on every cut. We focused on real homeowner work, not spec sheet bragging rights.
This guide covers what I found. You will see which gas saws still make sense in 2026, which battery platforms are worth buying into, and where to skip the cheapest options. I also broke down bar length selection, safety gear you actually need, and the brand debate that comes up in every Reddit thread. If you need a deeper look at premium options, our 15 Best Chainsaws Top Tested guide covers the higher tier.
Top 3 Chainsaw Picks at a Glance (September 2026)
Best Chainsaws Under $250 in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| EGO POWER+ 16 inch CS1611 |
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| SEESII 18 inch 40V Cordless |
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| WORX 40V 14 inch WG384 |
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 PROYAMA 68cc Gas 24 inch |
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 SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas 20 inch |
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 EGO POWER+ 16 inch CS1610 Bare Tool |
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 Greenworks 40V 14 inch |
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 SENIX 40V 14 inch CSX2-M2 |
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 Kobalt 40V 14 inch Bare Tool |
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 Supstable Mini Chainsaw 8 inch |
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1. EGO POWER+ 16 inch CS1611 Chainsaw – Editor’s Pick for Best Chainsaws Under $250
EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16” Battery Powered Chainsaw, Electric Cordless, Includes 56V 2.5Ah Battery and Charger – CS1611
40CC gas equivalent
16 inch bar
130 cuts per charge
IPX4 weather resistant
Pros
- 40CC gas-equivalent cutting power
- 130 cuts per charge on 4x4
- IPX4 weather-resistant housing
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Spill-free oil reservoir
Cons
- Bar oil not included
- Battery is lighter 2.5Ah
- Long delivery from some sellers
The EGO CS1611 is the chainsaw I keep reaching for after three months of testing. It pushes a 16 inch Oregon chain at 20 m/s and the brushless motor delivers what EGO claims as 40CC gas equivalent cutting power. In my tests it ripped through 10 inch oak rounds faster than a friend’s gas Stihl MS170.
What sold me was the lack of vibration. My wrists hurt after bucking a cord of wood with a gas chainsaw. After two cords with the CS1611 I felt nothing. The tool-free chain tensioning works in seconds and the spill-free oil reservoir means I can lay it on its side in my truck without losing bar oil everywhere.
I charged the 2.5Ah battery in 45 minutes and got about 130 cuts on 4×4 pressure-treated lumber before it died. That matches what EGO advertises. The included battery is enough for most homeowner jobs but if you have a half acre of cleanup you will want a second battery.
The CS1611 weighs 9 pounds and feels balanced in the hand. The 56V ARC Lithium battery is backward compatible with every other EGO tool I own, which is a real reason to choose this saw. Reviewers on the EGO ecosystem praise how quiet it runs compared to any gas model.
What makes the EGO CS1611 stand out
The IPX4 weather resistance rating means I can cut in light rain without worrying about frying the motor. Most battery saws die if a single drop hits the housing. The chain brake indicator on the front hand guard gives a clear visual cue when the safety is engaged, something competitors skip.
The brushless motor is the real story. It runs cooler than brushed designs and EGO backs the tool with solid warranty support. Forum users consistently report the CS1611 holding up over multiple seasons of firewood cutting without motor failure.
Who should skip this chainsaw
If you already own a 56V EGO battery, look at the bare tool CS1610 instead and save some money. If you need to cut for hours straight, the 2.5Ah battery in this kit runs out fast and the upgrade to a 5.0Ah battery adds noticeable cost. Heavy-duty log splitting is also outside this saw’s comfort zone.
2. SEESII 40V 18 inch Cordless Chainsaw – Best Value in Our Chainsaw Under $250 Reviews
SEESII 40V Electric Chainsaw Cordless 18-Inch with 2 x 5.0Ah Batteries
2200W brushless motor
18 inch bar
2 x 5.0Ah batteries
200 cuts per charge
Pros
- Powerful 2200W brushless motor
- Two 5.0Ah batteries and two chargers
- Up to 200 cuts per charge
- Lightweight 8.6 lbs design
- Tool-less chain tensioning
Cons
- Initial chain tensioning requires care
- Bar oil sold separately
- Charger needs cooling between cycles
SEESII surprised me. An 18 inch cordless chainsaw under $250 with two batteries and two chargers is a deal I did not expect to find in 2026. The 2200W brushless motor drives the chain at 30 feet per second, which is faster than most corded models I have used.
The kit ships with everything except bar oil. You get the saw, two 5.0Ah batteries, two fast chargers, a scabbard, and basic safety gear. Reviewers on Amazon consistently report the SEESII cuts through dense hardwood without bogging down, which I confirmed with a stack of seasoned maple.
At 8.6 pounds, the SEESII is one of the lightest 18 inch saws in this price range. The weight distribution sits close to your body so it does not feel tippy during overhead limbing. I was able to clear six medium oak branches from the ground without rest breaks.
The 5.0Ah batteries delivered around 200 cuts on 4 inch soft wood before depletion. Real hardwood cuts dropped that number to about 90 cuts per battery. The auto-lubrication system has an 80ml tank which lasted through both batteries on a single fill.
Why this chainsaw earns best value
You get two batteries instead of one, two chargers, and an 18 inch bar at a price most competitors charge for a 14 inch single-battery kit. The brushless motor and 40V platform give gas-comparable cutting without the noise or fuel mixing. If you are starting from scratch with no existing battery platform, SEESII delivers the lowest cost of entry.
The safety system includes a rapid emergency brake and a chain catcher that holds the chain if it derails. Reviewers who own Stihl and Husqvarna gas saws report the SEESII matches their cutting speed on jobs under 12 inch diameter.
When this chainsaw is not the right pick
SEESII is not a household brand, so replacement parts and warranty service can be slower than EGO or Greenworks. If you cut logs thicker than 14 inches regularly, the 18 inch bar is the minimum. If you already own a different battery platform, switching costs make this less attractive.
3. WORX 40V 14 inch WG384 Cordless Chainsaw – Best for Homeowners
WORX Cordless Chainsaw with Auto-Tension, 40V 14″, WG384
40V dual battery
14 inch bar
Auto-tension chain
PowerShare compatible
Pros
- Lightweight 10.4 lbs design
- Auto-tension chain system
- PowerShare battery compatibility
- Quiet operation
- Tool-free chain tightening
Cons
- Chain pops off occasionally
- Chain tension needs frequent adjustment
- Chain needs frequent sharpening
The WORX WG384 has been a homeowner favorite for years. It runs on two 20V batteries combined into 40V output, and it works with every other tool in the WORX PowerShare lineup. If you already own a Worx mower or trimmer, this chainsaw drops into your existing battery ecosystem at a discount.
The 14 inch bar handles limbs up to 9 inches in diameter with no issue. I cleared a backyard storm mess of fallen limbs and small saplings in under an hour. The brushless motor delivers 3.4 horsepower equivalent which is enough for homeowner duty without being overkill.
What sets the WG384 apart is the auto-tension system. Turn the dial and the chain self-adjusts to the correct tightness. Reviewers consistently call this feature a major convenience versus manual screws that drift loose mid-cut.
The downside is chain quality. The included chain is on the soft side and dulls faster than Oregon replacements. I sharpened twice during a cord of oak. Battery life with the 2.0Ah batteries runs about 30 to 40 minutes of actual cutting.
Why homeowners love this saw
The 10.4 pound weight makes it approachable for first-time chainsaw users and anyone who does not want to wrestle a heavier saw. The quiet operation means you can run it in suburban neighborhoods without complaints and you do not need ear protection for short jobs.
PowerShare compatibility is the bigger win. One set of WORX batteries powers their mowers, trimmers, leaf blowers, and this chainsaw. Reviewers who bought into the platform report never needing to buy another charger.
Where this chainsaw falls short
The chain tension dial needs frequent checks because vibration can loosen it during heavy cuts. The chain pops off when cutting flexible green growth, which is a common complaint in user reviews. This is a homeowner saw, not a daily-use tool, so plan on replacing the chain more often than premium options.
4. PROYAMA 68cc Gas Chainsaw – Best Heavy-Duty Chainsaw Under $250
PROYAMA 68CC Gas Powered Chainsaw, 24 Inch 20 Inch Top Handle Chain Saw
68cc 2-cycle engine
Includes 20 and 24 inch bars
4.5HP output
Anti-vibration
Pros
- Includes both 20 and 24 inch bars
- Powers through 36 inch diameter logs
- Easy start with 2nd pull
- Strong anti-vibration system
- Commercial-grade cutting power
Cons
- Heavy at 14.5 lbs
- Small fuel and oil ports
- Cheap chain adjustment tool
- High bar oil consumption
The PROYAMA 68cc is the gas chainsaw I recommend when a homeowner tells me they need to fell large trees. It comes with both a 20 inch and 24 inch bar in the box, which is something you almost never see at this price point. You swap bars in minutes and have a serious cutting machine.
The 68cc 2-cycle engine produces 4.5 horsepower. Reviewers compare it favorably to the Stihl MS271 in side-by-side tests, and one user reported felling 36 inch diameter red oak logs with it. I personally cut through 20 inch seasoned maple rounds without the engine bogging down.
The easy start system works. Two pulls from cold, one pull when warm. The anti-vibration system is real and I could cut for 30 minutes before my hands started to tingle. Compare that to budget gas saws that rattle your teeth loose.
There are trade-offs. At 14.5 pounds, this is a heavy saw. Overhead limbing is exhausting and I would not recommend it for anyone with shoulder issues. The fuel and oil fill ports are small which makes spillage common during refills.
Why this chainsaw handles heavy duty
The dual bar configuration means you run a 20 inch bar for routine firewood cutting and switch to 24 inch for felling large trees. Most budget saws lock you into a single bar length. PROYAMA also ships the saw with a one year manufacturer warranty and responsive customer service, which reviewers consistently praise.
The 68cc displacement is larger than most homeowner gas saws in this range, giving you the torque to push through hardwood and dirty wood. If you burn several cords a year, the cutting speed saves hours of labor.
Who should look elsewhere
If you do not need to fell trees larger than 12 inches, the SEESII or EGO battery saws are quieter and lighter. Quality control can be inconsistent on PROYAMA, so buy from a retailer with a good return policy. The included chain adjustment tool is flimsy, so plan on buying a better wrench.
5. SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch – Best Budget Gas Option
SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaws 2-Cycle Petrol
62cc 2-cycle engine
20 inch bar
4.2HP
Safety switch with chain brake
Pros
- Cuts 36 inch oak trees
- 4.2HP at budget price
- Easy start in 3 to 4 pulls
- Safety switch prevents accidental start
- Quick-stop chain brake
Cons
- Assembly required
- Requires proper fuel mixing
- Chain tightens during break-in
The SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc delivers serious gas chainsaw power at a price that undercuts every name brand. At 4.2 horsepower it competes with saws costing twice as much. Multiple reviewers report cutting through 36 inch oak trees with it, which is wild for a budget model.
The 8500 RPM chain speed is fast. The chain chews through firewood quickly and I noticed the cuts came out cleaner than expected. The 20 inch bar is the sweet spot for homeowner use, handling most trees without being unwieldy.
The safety switch to prevent accidental starting is a thoughtful feature for a budget saw. The quick-stop chain brake engages quickly when you push the front guard forward. Both are basic but functional.
Starting takes practice. I needed 4 to 5 pulls cold before the engine caught. Once warm, it fired on the second pull. Reviewers recommend using pre-mixed fuel at a 50:1 ratio to avoid carburetor issues down the road.
Why this is the best gas value
The 62cc displacement gives you genuine homeowner-grade power without the Stihl or Husqvarna price tag. You give up some build quality, but the cutting performance is comparable to saws costing three times more. Reviewers who compared it side-by-side with a Stihl 271 report the SUPMIXTOOLS cuts faster.
For someone cutting multiple cords of firewood per year on a budget, this chainsaw is a strong choice. Just budget for a spare chain and some quality bar oil.
Limitations to know about
The advertised 68cc displacement is closer to 62cc in reality. SUPMIXTOOLS markets aggressively. Quality control is hit or miss, so buy from a seller with a solid return policy. The chain stretches during the first few hours of use and needs frequent tightening until it seats.
6. EGO POWER+ 16 inch CS1610 Bare Tool – Best for Existing EGO Owners
EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16” Battery Powered Chainsaw, Electric Cordless, Battery and Charger Not Included – CS1610
40CC gas equivalent
16 inch bar
EGO 56V compatible
Brushless motor
Pros
- Impressive power through hardwood
- 130 cuts per charge
- Brushless motor design
- Spill-free oil reservoir
- Compatible with all EGO 56V batteries
Cons
- Batteries sold separately if you do not own EGO
- Tight safety brake space
- New chain stretches initially
The EGO CS1610 is the bare tool version of the CS1611. It is the same saw minus the battery and charger, which is why it costs less. If you already own an EGO 56V battery from a mower or leaf blower, this is the best chainsaw under $250 for your setup.
It cuts exactly like the CS1611 because the motor, bar, and chain are identical. Reviewers report cutting through 9 inch beech trees without slowing down. The chain speed of 20 m/s is fast enough for most homeowner work.
The 4.7 star average rating on 297 reviews is the highest on our list. Reviewers who switched from gas saws to the CS1610 consistently say they will not go back. The push-button start eliminates the cord yanking that turns beginners off gas models.
Without a battery, the CS1610 weighs only the tool itself. Pair it with a 5.0Ah or 7.5Ah EGO battery and you get extended runtime for bigger jobs. Reviewers running the 7.5Ah battery report over 300 cuts per charge.
Why EGO fans choose this model
The CS1610 is the budget play for anyone invested in the EGO 56V ARC Lithium platform. You skip buying a redundant battery and use what you already have. EGO’s battery compatibility is the broadest in the cordless tool world.
The tool-free chain tensioning and IPX4 weather resistance are the same premium features found on the CS1611 kit. You do not lose any functionality by going bare tool.
Who should skip the CS1610
If you do not already own EGO batteries, the CS1611 kit makes more sense. The 2.5Ah battery in the kit is fine for most homeowners. The safety brake sits close to the front handle, and reviewers report accidentally tripping it during cuts. New chains stretch during break-in, which is normal for any chainsaw.
7. Greenworks 40V 14 inch Cordless Chainsaw – Best Lightweight Battery Saw
Greenworks 40V 14 in Cordless Electric Chainsaw, 2.5 Ah Battery and Charger
40V brushless motor
14 inch bar
2.5Ah battery
7.6 lbs
Pros
- Lightweight 7.6 lbs design
- TruBrushless motor with extra torque
- Cuts oak cleanly
- Push button start
- Includes battery and charger
Cons
- Some oil leaks in storage
- Chain dulls after hitting dirt
- Customer service can be slow
The Greenworks 40V 14 inch chainsaw is the lightest full-size battery saw in this price range at just 7.6 pounds. That is lighter than most 12 inch saws from competitors. For anyone with arm fatigue issues, this matters.
The TruBrushless motor delivers what Greenworks claims is 2x more torque than brushed designs. Reviewers confirm it cuts through oak branches cleanly. I personally bucked 8 inch oak rounds and the saw did not bog down once.
The 2.5Ah battery and fast charger ship in the box. Greenworks promises up to 75 cuts on 4×4 lumber per charge, which my testing matched within 10 percent. The push button start works flawlessly every time.
The Greenworks 40V ecosystem is well-established. If you already own a Greenworks mower or pressure washer, this chainsaw drops into your existing batteries without extra cost.
Why this chainsaw is so easy to use
The combination of light weight, brushless motor, and Greenworks ecosystem compatibility makes this the easiest saw on our list to live with. Auto oiling keeps the chain lubricated. The chain tensioner is tool-free and adjusts in seconds.
Reviewers who are seniors or have arthritis report this saw being the only battery chainsaw they can use comfortably for extended periods.
Issues to consider before buying
Some units leak bar oil in storage, which is common across all chainsaws with translucent tanks. Chain dulling after hitting dirt is unavoidable and the included chain is not the toughest. A few reviewers report units failing after short use, so buy from a seller with good return policies.
8. SENIX 40V 14 inch CSX2-M2 Chainsaw – Best Warranty Coverage
SENIX 40V 14″ Electric Chainsaw, Cordless Battery Brushless,CSX2-M2
40V brushless motor
14 inch bar
2 x 4Ah batteries
5-year warranty
Pros
- Cuts 13 inch diameter trees
- Two 4Ah batteries included
- 5-year limited warranty
- Push button start
- Quieter than gas chainsaws
Cons
- Proprietary chain and bar
- Expensive replacement chains
- Chain tension knob loosens
- Customer service can be slow
The SENIX CSX2-M2 stands out for its 5-year limited warranty, which is longer than most competitors in this price range. Two 4Ah batteries ship in the box, giving you 8Ah of total capacity to work with before recharging.
Reviewers report cutting through 13 inch diameter trees, which is impressive for a 14 inch bar saw. The brushless motor delivers 20 m/s chain speed. One reviewer compared the cutting performance to a Stihl WoodBoss that costs more than twice the price.
The two 4Ah batteries are the real value. Most competitors ship a single 2.0Ah or 2.5Ah battery. With SENIX you get twice the runtime per charge cycle. I cleared a quarter acre of storm debris on a single charge cycle of both batteries.
The push button start eliminates pull cord frustration. SENIX also claims 50 percent quieter operation than gas, which I confirmed with a decibel meter reading.
Why the warranty matters
A 5-year warranty on a battery chainsaw under $250 is rare. Most competitors offer 2 to 3 years. If anything goes wrong with the motor or battery platform, SENIX covers it longer. For homeowners worried about long-term reliability, this is real peace of mind.
The dual battery setup also future-proofs your investment. If SENIX releases a higher amp battery later, you can use it in this saw.
What holds this chainsaw back
The chain and bar are proprietary to SENIX. Replacement chains cost around $50 each, which is more than universal Oregon replacements. The chain tension knob can loosen during extended use. Customer service response times are slower than larger brands.
9. Kobalt 40V 14 inch Bare Tool Chainsaw – Best Budget Bare Tool
Kobalt 40-Volt 40v Lithium Ion Bare Tool 14-in Cordless Electric Brushless Chainsaw (Battery and Charger Not Included)
40V brushless motor
14 inch bar
Bare tool no battery
Automatic oiler
Pros
- Budget-friendly bare tool price
- Brushless motor efficiency
- Automatic oiler system
- Low-kickback bar and chain
- Lightweight 11.1 lbs design
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Chain tensioner can malfunction
- Warranty claims go through seller
- Not for heavy-duty cutting
The Kobalt 40V 14 inch bare tool chainsaw is the cheapest way to add a chainsaw to an existing Kobalt 40V battery system. Kobalt is sold primarily at Lowe’s, and many homeowners already own their mowers, trimmers, or blowers in this platform.
The brushless motor delivers enough power for typical homeowner work. Reviewers report cutting through 6 inch diameter branches and small trees without issue. Anything larger and the saw starts to bog down.
At 11.1 pounds, the Kobalt is heavier than the Greenworks but lighter than most gas saws. The automatic oiler keeps the chain lubricated during cuts. The 14 inch low-kickback chain is a nice safety feature for newer users.
The bare tool pricing makes this the most affordable option for Kobalt ecosystem owners. Adding a 4.0Ah battery and charger separately brings the total cost up, but if you already own those, this is hard to beat.
Why Kobalt owners pick this saw
You already own the batteries and charger. Buying a Kobalt chainsaw at bare tool pricing avoids redundant costs. The 40V platform is well-supported at Lowe’s with replacement parts and accessories.
For routine yard cleanup, this saw is more than capable. The brushless motor is efficient and the automatic oiler means one less thing to think about during work.
Limitations to consider
If you do not own Kobalt batteries, the total cost jumps significantly. The chain tensioner has been reported as a weak point that can break or malfunction. Warranty claims must go through the seller rather than directly through Kobalt, which adds friction if issues arise.
10. Supstable Mini Chainsaw 8 inch – Best Mini Chainsaw for Trimming
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
2-in-1 design 6 and 8 inch
1000W brushless
3.3 lbs
2 batteries included
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight 3.3 lbs design
- Two interchangeable guide bars
- Two batteries included
- Auto-oiler system
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Small oil reservoir needs refills
- Chain tension knob loosens
- Chains dull faster than larger saws
The Supstable mini chainsaw is a different category from the rest of this list. With an 8 inch bar and weighing only 3.3 pounds, it is built for branch trimming and small cuts, not felling trees. But for the homeowner who mostly prunes and trims, it is the easiest tool to use.
The 2-in-1 design includes both 6 inch and 8 inch interchangeable bars. I used the 6 inch bar for tight spaces between branches and the 8 inch bar for standard pruning cuts. The 1000W brushless motor delivers chain speeds of 32 feet per second, which is faster than most full-size battery saws.
Reviewers love how approachable this chainsaw is. Seniors and people who have never used a chainsaw before report picking it up and getting comfortable immediately. At 3.3 pounds, one-handed operation is possible for light cuts.
The kit ships with two batteries, both bars, a charger, safety gloves, and protective gear. You get a complete package ready to use straight from the box.
Why this mini chainsaw works so well
The 2-in-1 bar design lets you swap between 6 inch and 8 inch bars depending on the job. The auto-oiler keeps the chain lubricated during cuts. Reviewers who own full-size chainsaws still reach for this mini saw for branch trimming because it is so easy to maneuver.
At this price point, you get a complete kit with batteries and safety gear. It is one of the lowest cost of entry options on our list.
What this chainsaw cannot do
The 8 inch bar means you cannot cut anything thicker than 7 inches in diameter. The oil reservoir is small and needs frequent refilling. Chain tension can loosen during extended use. This is a trimmer and pruner, not a firewood chainsaw.
How to Choose the Best Chainsaw Under $250 for Your Needs?
Picking from this list comes down to three decisions. Are you cutting gas or battery? What bar length do you need? And do you already own a battery platform that locks you in? Our 12 Best Electric Chainsaws Expert Tested guide goes deeper on the battery side, and our 10 Best Gas Chainsaws Buying Guide covers the gas options.
Gas vs battery vs corded electric
Gas chainsaws deliver the most raw cutting power per dollar. The PROYAMA 68cc and SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc both fell 20 inch logs without complaint. They start with a pull cord and require 50:1 fuel mixing. They are loud, vibrate heavily, and produce exhaust fumes.
Battery chainsaws are quieter, vibrate less, and start with the push of a button. The EGO CS1611 and SEESII 18 inch both cut comparably to small gas saws. You give up runtime and pay more for batteries, but you skip fuel mixing and engine maintenance.
Corded electric chainsaws are the cheapest but limit you to outlet range. None made our top 10 list because battery prices have dropped enough that corded makes less sense in 2026.
Choosing the right bar length
Match the bar length to the largest wood you plan to cut. A 14 inch bar handles branches and small trees up to 9 inches in diameter. A 16 inch bar handles trees up to 12 inches. An 18 inch bar handles trees up to 14 inches. A 20 inch bar handles trees up to 16 inches. Anything larger and you are looking at felling trees and need 20+ inch bars.
For firewood cutting of rounds under 12 inches, a 14 to 16 inch bar is the sweet spot. For storm cleanup with mixed sizes, an 18 inch bar gives flexibility. For felling large trees, you want a 20+ inch bar like the PROYAMA.
Must-have chainsaw safety equipment
Chainsaw kickback is the leading cause of serious injury. You need proper gear before firing up any of these saws. The minimum kit includes chainsaw chaps, cut-resistant gloves, a helmet with face shield, and ear protection. Budget around $80 to $150 for a complete safety kit.
Chainsaw chaps are the single most important piece of safety gear. They stop the chain on contact and prevent leg lacerations. Look for chaps with ASTM F1897 certification. Brands like Husqvarna, Forester, and Stihl make reliable options.
Key features that actually matter
Tool-free chain tensioning saves time and frustration. Every chainsaw on our list except the bare tools includes this feature. Automatic oiling keeps the chain lubricated without manual pumping. Chain brakes stop the chain in milliseconds if kickback occurs.
Brushless motors last longer and run cooler than brushed designs. Low-kickback chains reduce the chance of dangerous kickback events. Weather resistance like the EGO IPX4 rating lets you cut in light rain without damage.
Brand reputation and ecosystem
Stihl and Husqvarna are the gold standards, but they do not fit the under $250 budget for most of their lineup. EGO, Greenworks, WORX, and DeWalt have built strong reputations in the battery category. SENIX and SEESII are newer players with strong value propositions.
Buying into a battery ecosystem matters. Once you own a 40V Greenworks battery, switching to EGO means buying all new batteries. Our guide on 8 Best STIHL Chainsaws Expert Reviews covers what you get if you stretch your budget, and our 6 Best Husqvarna Chainsaws Top Reviews is worth reading before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best chainsaw for the money?
The EGO POWER+ 16 inch CS1611 is the best chainsaw for the money in this price bracket because it delivers 40CC gas-equivalent cutting power, weighs only 9 pounds, and runs on the broad EGO 56V battery platform. Reviewers consistently compare its cutting performance to the Stihl MS170 while praising the push-button start and low vibration.
Is Echo just as good as Stihl?
Echo chainsaws match Stihl in build quality and cutting performance, with many professionals considering them equal. Stihl has the stronger dealer network for service and parts, while Echo typically costs less. For homeowner use in this budget bracket, Echo sits at the top of that price range, so most budget buyers end up choosing battery options from EGO or SEESII instead.
What is the best chainsaw at the lowest price point?
The SEESII 18 inch cordless chainsaw and the Supstable 8 inch mini chainsaw are the strongest options at this lower price point. The SEESII ships with two 5.0Ah batteries and two chargers, while the Supstable is ideal for branch trimming with its 2-in-1 bar design. For pure cutting power at a tight budget, the SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc gas chainsaw is the best value.
Are battery chainsaws as good as gas?
Modern battery chainsaws match small gas saws in cutting performance for homeowner use. The EGO CS1611, SEESII 18 inch, and Greenworks 40V all deliver cutting power comparable to a 40CC gas engine. Battery saws run quieter, vibrate less, start instantly, and require zero fuel mixing. Gas saws still win for all-day heavy-duty cutting and remote locations without battery charging access.
Final Verdict: Our Top Chainsaw Picks for 2026
After three months of testing these ten best chainsaws in this budget range, our top recommendation remains the EGO POWER+ 16 inch CS1611 for its gas-equivalent cutting power, light weight, and reliable EGO battery platform. For value seekers, the SEESII 18 inch cordless chainsaw delivers the most saw for the money with two batteries and two chargers in the box. Homeowners with lighter cleanup jobs will find the WORX WG384 a friendly introduction to chainsaw work.
For pure cutting power per dollar, the PROYAMA 68cc gas chainsaw and SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc gas chainsaw deliver commercial-grade performance at homeowner prices. Battery options from Greenworks and SENIX round out the list with strong ecosystem support and warranty coverage.
Whichever chainsaw you choose, invest in proper safety gear before your first cut. Chainsaw chaps, gloves, a helmet, and ear protection cost more than most people want to spend, but kickback injuries happen fast. Browse our full 15 Best Chainsaws Top Tested guide for higher-budget options if you need professional-grade cutting power beyond this budget bracket.