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Choosing the best brushless chainsaws requires looking at published specifications rather than marketing claims. We compared 12 models to help you find the right tool. The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i leads this list because its 7.72-pound weight makes it ideal for medium-duty cutting with a lightweight design. All picks are based on the specs published on the listings. This guide helps you decide which saw matches your cutting width, voltage, and battery needs.
Match bar length to your cutting needs
Focus on the bar length first. Options range from 8 inches for precise pruning to 20 inches for felling medium trees. The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i offers an 18-inch bar with a lightweight 7.72-pound design. Ryobi and Greenworks also provide 20-inch models for heavier work. Choose the width that matches your typical tasks to avoid unnecessary bulk or power limits.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw Best overall | medium-duty cutting with a lightweight design | |
| 2 | DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V Brushless Chainsaw Best premium | Users wanting a brushless chainsaw and blower combo | |
| 3 | Greenworks 60V 16" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw Best 60v | Lightweight cutting and tool compatibility | |
| 4 | Makita 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw Best budget | Makita users needing a 16-inch cutting capacity | |
| 5 | Makita 10-Inch Top Handle Cordless Chainsaw Also great | precision pruning and tight spaces | |
| 6 | Makita 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw Best 5.0 ah | Medium cutting tasks with extended battery life | |
| 7 | Bosch 18V 8-Inch Pruning Saw Also great | Precision limbing and high branch trimming | |
| 8 | Makita 36V 14-Inch Brushless Top Handle Saw Also great | compact pruning and detailed trimming work | |
| 9 | Ryobi 40V Brushless 20 in. Chainsaw Also great | Felling and bucking trees up to 36 inches | |
| 10 | Makita 36V Brushless 14-Inch Cordless Chainsaw Also great | Existing Makita 18V battery users | |
| 11 | Greenworks 80V 20" Brushless Chainsaw Best 80v | felling medium trees and storm cleanup | |
| 12 | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Brushless Chainsaw Best 40v | general yard maintenance and storm cleanup |
The best fit for you
- You need a balanced, lightweight saw for medium-duty cutting – Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw – It weighs 7.72 pounds and features an 18-inch bar for manageable handling.
- You want a brushless chainsaw and blower combo – DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V Brushless Chainsaw – This bundle includes a leaf blower alongside the 12.1-pound brushless chainsaw.
- You need a compact tool for precision pruning in tight spaces – Makita 10-Inch Top Handle Cordless Chainsaw – It has a short 10-inch bar and weighs 10.5 pounds for easy maneuverability.
- You want a lightweight pruning saw for high branch trimming – Bosch 18V 8-Inch Pruning Saw – This 3.9-pound tool reaches 17.9 inches long for comfortable limbing work.
Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: medium-duty cutting with a lightweight design
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Bar Length
- 18 in
- Tensioning System
- Tool-less
- Power Type
- Cordless
- Clearing Width
- 18-Inch
- Dimensions
- 18.9 × 8.8 × 9.4 inches
The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i is a cordless chainsaw with an 18-inch bar and a brushless motor. It weighs 7.72 pounds and includes a battery and charger. Boost Mode adds 25 percent more power on demand. The tool-less tensioning system keeps the X-Cut chain sharp. This model suits users who need a lightweight, high-efficiency saw for outdoor cutting tasks.
- 18-inch bar provides a wide clearing width
- Brushless motor offers high efficiency and durability
- Boost Mode delivers 25 percent more power
- Tool-less tensioning system simplifies chain adjustments
- Includes battery and charger in the kit
- 18-inch bar is shorter than the 20-inch options on this list
- 7.72-pound weight is heavier than the 10-inch and 14-inch models
- Single battery capacity limits runtime compared to dual-battery setups
- You need an 18-inch bar for medium-sized cutting jobs
- You want a lightweight saw that weighs under 8 pounds
- You prefer a tool-less system for quick chain tensioning
- You require a 20-inch bar for felling large trees
- You need dual-battery runtime for extended work sessions
- You prefer a top-handle design for overhead pruning
Verdict: Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Brushless fits homeowners who want a balanced, lightweight saw with a mid-size bar and easy maintenance. It is ideal for clearing brush and cutting firewood without the bulk of larger professional models.
DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V Brushless Chainsaw
Best for: Users wanting a brushless chainsaw and blower combo
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Voltage
- 60 V
- Battery Capacity
- 3 Ah
- Tensioning System
- Tool-free
- Included Equipment
- Leaf Blower
- Dimensions
- 12.8 × 8 × 23.5 inches
This DEWALT combo kit pairs a brushless chainsaw with a leaf blower. The chainsaw runs on 60V power and includes a 3 Ah battery. It features tool-free chain tensioning and auto-oiling for maintenance. The unit weighs 12.1 pounds. It suits users who want a brushless motor and a blower included in one purchase.
- Brushless motor for efficient power
- 60V voltage for strong performance
- Tool-free chain tensioning system
- Auto-oiling with Lubrilink technology
- 3 Ah battery capacity is lower than many 4.0 Ah competitors
- 12.1 pound weight is heavier than standard 16-inch models
- You want a brushless chainsaw with a included leaf blower
- You prefer tool-free chain adjustments
- You need 60V power for cutting tasks
- You require a battery larger than 3 Ah
- You prefer a lighter tool under 12 pounds
- You only need a chainsaw without a blower
Verdict: DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V Brushless Chainsaw fits users who value a brushless motor and included blower, though the 3 Ah battery and 12.1 pound weight may limit extended use for lighter tasks.
Greenworks 60V 16" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: Lightweight cutting and tool compatibility
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Bar Length
- 16"
- Voltage
- 60V
- Battery Capacity
- 2.5Ah, 4.0Ah
- Gas Equivalent
- 42 CC
- Chain Speed
- 66 FT/S
This Greenworks chainsaw uses a 60V brushless motor to deliver a chain speed of 66 feet per second. It features a 16-inch bar and weighs 12.5 pounds, making it significantly lighter than gas alternatives. The tool-free tensioning system and auto oiler simplify maintenance. It is a good fit for homeowners who want efficient cutting performance without the weight of a gas saw.
- 60V brushless motor provides 66 FT/S chain speed
- Tool-free side chain adjustment for quick tensioning
- Auto oiler sprays oil while cutting to extend chain life
- Weighs only 12.5 pounds for reduced fatigue
- Included 2.5Ah battery has lower capacity than 4.0Ah options
- 16-inch bar is shorter than 18-inch or 20-inch competitors
- You want a lightweight saw for one-handed trimming
- You already own Greenworks 60V tools
- You prefer tool-free maintenance adjustments
- You need to cut logs larger than 16 inches
- You require a battery with higher capacity than 2.5Ah
- You prefer gas-powered saws for maximum runtime
Verdict: Greenworks 60V 16" Brushless Chainsaw fits users who value lightweight handling and fast cutting speeds for small to medium tasks. It is ideal for those already invested in the 60V ecosystem who need a manageable tool for branch clearing.
Makita 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: Makita users needing a 16-inch cutting capacity
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Bar Length
- 16"
- Voltage
- 36V
- Gas Equivalent
- 32cc
- Chain Speed
- 0-3, 940 FPM
- Cutting Width
- 16-Inch
This Makita chainsaw uses two 18V LXT batteries to create a 36V system with a brushless motor. It features a 16-inch bar and reaches chain speeds up to 3,940 feet per minute. The tool weighs 11.2 pounds and includes an LED switch for visibility. It suits users who already own Makita 18V tools and need a mid-range option for general yard work.
- Brushless motor delivers power equivalent to a 32cc gas saw
- Variable speed trigger offers control from 0 to 3,940 FPM
- Built-in LED on/off switch improves visibility in low light
- Lock-off lever prevents accidental chain engagement for safety
- 16-inch bar is shorter than the 18-inch and 20-inch bars on other list items
- Sold as a tool-only unit without included batteries or charger
- 11.2-pound weight is heavier than the 8-inch and 10-inch pruning saws
- You already have Makita 18V LXT batteries and want to use them
- You need a 16-inch cutting capacity for medium-sized trees
- You prefer a brushless motor for better efficiency
- You need a chainsaw with a bar length longer than 16 inches
- You want a complete kit with batteries and a charger included
- You require a lighter tool under 10 pounds for overhead work
Verdict: Makita 36V 16-Inch Brushless Chainsaw fits users who already own Makita 18V batteries and need a reliable mid-size tool for standard cutting tasks. It offers solid power and safety features for homeowners who do not require the largest cutting capacity available.
Makita 10-Inch Top Handle Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: precision pruning and tight spaces
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Bar Length
- 10 in
- Voltage
- 18 V
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0 Ah
- Chain Speed
- 0-4,720 FPM
- Tensioning System
- Lateral
This Makita 10-inch top handle chainsaw uses an 18V brushless motor with a 4.0 Ah battery. It reaches 4,720 FPM chain speed and includes a torque boost mode for dense wood. The lateral tensioning system simplifies maintenance. Its compact 10.5-pound build suits professional tree care tasks where maneuverability matters more than long cutting runs.
- 10-inch bar length for precise cuts
- 4,720 FPM chain speed
- Torque boost mode for dense material
- Lateral chain tensioning system
- 10-inch bar is shorter than most 14-inch or 16-inch options on this list
- 18V battery system offers less runtime than 40V or 60V competitors
- You need a lightweight tool for overhead pruning
- You work in tight spaces where a 10-inch bar fits better
- You prioritize maneuverability over maximum cutting capacity
- You require a bar length of 14 inches or longer
- You need extended runtime for felling large trees
- You prefer a side-handle design for two-handed stability
Verdict: Makita 10-Inch Top Handle Brushless Chainsaw fits arborists who need a compact, high-speed tool for detailed work. It is not suitable for users who need longer bars or higher voltage for heavy-duty felling.
Makita 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: Medium cutting tasks with extended battery life
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Bar Length
- 16"
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0Ah
- Gas Equivalent
- 32cc
- Chain Speed
- 0-3, 940 FPM
- Tensioning System
- Tool-less
This Makita cordless chainsaw features a 16-inch bar and a brushless motor. It delivers a chain speed of 0-3,940 FPM, matching a 32cc gas saw. The kit includes two 5.0Ah batteries. You get tool-less chain tensioning and an LED switch. It weighs 19.2 pounds. This setup suits users needing reliable power and extended runtime for standard cutting tasks.
- Brushless motor provides high power efficiency
- Includes two 5.0Ah batteries for longer runtime
- Tool-less chain adjustment for quick maintenance
- Chain speed reaches 3,940 FPM
- 16-inch bar is shorter than the 18-inch and 20-inch options on this list
- Weighs 19.2 pounds, which is heavier than lighter 10-inch or 14-inch models
- Gas equivalent is 32cc, lower than the 40cc or 42cc equivalents found in other listings
- You need a mid-size 16-inch bar for general yard work
- You want a kit with two 5.0Ah batteries included
- You prefer tool-less chain tensioning for easy adjustments
- You require a bar length longer than 16 inches
- You need a gas equivalent above 32cc for heavy felling
- You prefer a lighter tool under 19 pounds
Verdict: Makita 16-Inch Brushless Chainsaw fits users who need a balanced mix of cutting width and battery runtime. It is a solid choice for homeowners managing medium-sized trees.
Bosch 18V 8-Inch Pruning Saw
Best for: Precision limbing and high branch trimming
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Bar Length
- 8 in
- Voltage
- 18 V
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0 Ah
- Chain Speed
- 23.6 ft/s
- Tensioning System
- Tool-less
This Bosch pruning saw features an 18-volt brushless motor and an 8-inch bar. It includes a 4.0 Ah battery and charges via the AMPShare system. The tool weighs 3.9 pounds and offers a chain speed of 23.6 ft/s. Its compact size and low vibration make it suitable for limbing and high branches. You get a complete kit ready for immediate use.
- Lightweight 3.9-pound design reduces fatigue
- Brushless motor delivers 23.6 ft/s chain speed
- Includes 4.0 Ah battery and charger
- Tool-less tensioning system for quick adjustments
- 8-inch bar cuts smaller diameters than 16-inch or 20-inch models
- 18-volt system provides less power than 40-volt or 80-volt competitors
- 3.9-pound weight is higher than bare-tool-only options
- You need a lightweight tool for high branches
- You already use Bosch 18-volt AMPShare batteries
- You primarily prune limbs rather than fell trees
- You require cutting large diameter logs
- You prefer a top-handle chainsaw design
- You want maximum cutting power for heavy duty work
Verdict: Bosch 18V 8-Inch Pruning Saw fits users who prioritize comfort and reach over raw power. It is an ideal tool for precise limbing tasks where maneuverability matters more than deep cutting capacity.
Makita 36V 14-Inch Brushless Top Handle Saw
Best for: compact pruning and detailed trimming work
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Bar Length
- 14 in
- Voltage
- 36 V
- Gas Equivalent
- 30 cc
- Cutting Width
- 14-Inch
- Dimensions
- 8.74 × 19.8 × 11 inches
This Makita top-handle chainsaw delivers 36V power from two 18V LXT batteries. It features a brushless motor that matches the power of a 30cc gas engine. The 14-inch bar offers a compact cutting width for precise work. You get 25% faster cutting than standard gas models. This tool suits users who need a lightweight, gas-free option for detailed trimming or pruning tasks.
- Brushless motor provides 30cc gas equivalent power
- 25% faster cutting performance than 30cc gas saws
- Compact 14-inch bar length for maneuverability
- Low noise level for operator comfort
- 14-inch bar is shorter than many competitors offering 16 to 20-inch options
- Tool-only configuration requires you to supply separate batteries and charger
- Requires two 18V batteries to achieve 36V output
- You need a compact saw for top-handle maneuverability
- You already own 18V LXT batteries
- You prefer gas-free operation with low noise
- You require a longer bar for felling large trees
- You want a complete kit with batteries included
- You prefer a side-handle design for two-handed stability
Verdict: Makita 36V 14-Inch Brushless Top Handle Saw fits users who value compact precision and existing battery compatibility. It is a strong choice for detailed pruning where a 14-inch bar is sufficient.
Ryobi 40V Brushless 20 in. Chainsaw
Best for: Felling and bucking trees up to 36 inches
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Bar Length
- 20 in
- Voltage
- 40 V
- Gas Equivalent
- 50 cc
- Cutting Width
- 20-Inch
- Power Type
- Cordless
This Ryobi chainsaw features a 40-volt brushless motor and a 20-inch bar. It delivers power comparable to a 50cc gas saw for felling and bucking. The unit weighs 9 pounds and measures 32 inches long. It includes a hard case for storage. You get automatic chain lubrication and a mechanical brake for safety. This tool is designed for users who need a reliable gas replacement for moderate yard work.
- 20-inch bar handles cuts up to 36 inches
- Brushless motor offers 50cc gas equivalent power
- Includes a durable carrying case
- Automatic oiler maintains chain lubrication
- Weighs only 9 pounds for manageable handling
- 20-inch bar is shorter than the 22-inch options available
- Sold as a tool-only unit without battery or charger
- Requires separate purchase of chain lubricant
- You need a gas replacement for cutting trees up to 36 inches wide
- You want a brushless motor for efficient power delivery
- You value included storage with a hard carrying case
- You require a battery and charger included in the box
- You need to cut logs wider than 36 inches
- You prefer a top-handle design for overhead work
Verdict: Ryobi 40V Brushless 20 in. Chainsaw suits homeowners who need a powerful, portable tool for felling and bucking medium-sized trees. It is a practical choice for those who already own Ryobi 40V batteries and want a complete package with storage.
Makita 36V Brushless 14-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: Existing Makita 18V battery users
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Bar Length
- 14"
- Voltage
- 36V
- Gas Equivalent
- 32cc
- Chain Speed
- 0-3, 940 FPM
- Tensioning System
- Lateral
This Makita chainsaw uses two 18V batteries to create 36V power. It features a brushless motor that matches a 32cc gas saw. The 14-inch bar and 940 FPM chain speed handle most yard tasks. You get lateral chain tensioning and an LED switch for control. It is a tool-only unit weighing 10.8 pounds. This model suits users who already own 18V Makita batteries.
- Brushless motor delivers 36V power equivalent to a 32cc gas saw
- High chain speed reaches 940 FPM for efficient cutting
- Lateral chain tensioning allows for convenient maintenance and operation
- Built-in LED switch includes auto power-off to save battery life
- 14-inch bar is shorter than the 16-inch and 18-inch bars on other list items
- Tool-only design means you must supply your own batteries and charger
- Weighs 10.8 pounds, which is heavier than some lighter 10-inch or 14-inch competitors
- You already own 18V LXT batteries and want to use them for this tool
- You need a mid-range 14-inch bar for standard pruning and small tree work
- You prefer the convenience of lateral chain tensioning over side-access systems
- You want a complete kit with batteries and a charger included in the box
- You need to cut larger trees requiring a 16-inch or 18-inch bar length
- You are looking for a lighter tool under 10 pounds for extended overhead use
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless 14" Chainsaw provides reliable power for users who already have 18V LXT batteries. It is best for homeowners who need a versatile mid-size saw for routine yard maintenance.
Greenworks 80V 20" Brushless Chainsaw
Best for: felling medium trees and storm cleanup
- Bar Length
- 20 in
- Voltage
- 80V
- Gas Equivalent
- 50CC
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Tensioning System
- Side-access
- Cutting Width
- 20-Inch
This Greenworks chainsaw uses an 80V brushless motor to deliver power equivalent to a 50cc gas engine. The 20-inch bar handles tree felling and limbing with ease. Weighing 12.4 pounds, it offers a balance of reach and manageability. The side-access tensioning and automatic oiler simplify maintenance. It is a strong option for homeowners tackling larger yard projects.
- 80V brushless motor provides 2X torque
- 20-inch bar length for large cuts
- Equivalent power to a 50cc gas engine
- Automatic oiler for consistent lubrication
- Side-access tensioning for quick adjustments
- Heavier at 12.4 pounds than many 18V or 40V competitors
- Higher 80V voltage requires specific battery compatibility
- 20-inch bar may be excessive for light pruning
- You need to fell medium-sized trees
- You require the power of a 50cc gas engine
- You prefer a 20-inch cutting capacity
- You only need to prune small branches
- You already own a 40V or 60V battery ecosystem
- You want a lighter tool for overhead work
Verdict: Greenworks 80V 20" Brushless Chainsaw fits homeowners who need serious cutting power for storm cleanup or felling. It suits those who already use 80V batteries and need a 20-inch bar for larger logs.
Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Brushless Chainsaw
Best for: general yard maintenance and storm cleanup
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Bar Length
- 16"
- Voltage
- 40V
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0Ah
- Tensioning System
- Tool-free
- Cutting Width
- 16-Inch
This Greenworks chainsaw pairs a 40V brushless motor with a 16-inch bar. It includes a 4.0Ah battery and charger. The tool-free tensioning and automatic oiler simplify maintenance. You get a 10.4-pound unit for yard work. It suits homeowners needing a reliable cordless option for limbs and small trees.
- Brushless motor for efficient power delivery
- Includes 40V 4.0Ah battery and charger
- Tool-free chain tensioning system
- Built-in automatic oiler with transparent window
- 3-year warranty on tool and battery
- 16-inch bar is shorter than 18-inch or 20-inch options on this list
- 4.0Ah battery capacity is lower than 8.0Ah or 5.0Ah variants available
- 10.4-pound weight is heavier than some 10-inch or 8-inch pruning saws
- You need a complete kit with battery and charger included
- You prefer a 16-inch bar for manageable cutting widths
- You want tool-free adjustments for quick chain maintenance
- You require an 18-inch or 20-inch bar for large diameter trees
- You already own Greenworks 40V batteries and want a tool-only unit
- You need a lighter weight under 10 pounds for overhead work
Verdict: Greenworks 40V 16" Brushless Chainsaw fits homeowners who want a ready-to-use cordless saw for general yard maintenance and storm cleanup. It is a solid choice for those who value included accessories and easy maintenance over maximum bar length.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw | DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V Brushless Chainsaw | Greenworks 60V 16" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw | Makita 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw | Makita 10-Inch Top Handle Cordless Chainsaw | Makita 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw | Bosch 18V 8-Inch Pruning Saw | Makita 36V 14-Inch Brushless Top Handle Saw | Ryobi 40V Brushless 20 in. Chainsaw | Makita 36V Brushless 14-Inch Cordless Chainsaw | Greenworks 80V 20" Brushless Chainsaw | Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Brushless Chainsaw |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bar Length | 18 in | – | 16" | 16" | 10 in | 16" | 8 in | 14 in | 20 in | 14" | 20 in | 16" |
| Voltage | – | 60 V | 60V | 36V | 18 V | – | 18 V | 36 V | 40 V | 36V | 80V | 40V |
| Battery Capacity | – | 3 Ah | 2.5Ah, 4.0Ah | – | 4.0 Ah | 5.0Ah | 4.0 Ah | – | – | – | – | 4.0Ah |
| Gas Equivalent | – | – | 42 CC | 32cc | – | 32cc | – | 30 cc | 50 cc | 32cc | 50CC | – |
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless |
| Chain Speed | – | – | 66 FT/S | 0-3, 940 FPM | 0-4,720 FPM | 0-3, 940 FPM | 23.6 ft/s | – | – | 0-3, 940 FPM | – | – |
| Tensioning System | Tool-less | Tool-free | Tool-free | – | Lateral | Tool-less | Tool-less | – | – | Lateral | Side-access | Tool-free |
| Cutting Width | – | – | 16-Inch | 16-Inch | – | 16-Inch | – | 14-Inch | 20-Inch | 14-Inch | 20-Inch | 16-Inch |
| Power Type | Cordless | – | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | – | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless |
| Intended Use | – | – | – | – | – | – | Limbing | – | – | – | Limbing | Limbing |
| Included Equipment | – | Leaf Blower | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Clearing Width | 18-Inch | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 18.9 × 8.8 × 9.4 inches | 12.8 × 8 × 23.5 inches | – | 10.2 × 20.9 × 10.2 inches | 9.21 × 15 × 8.78 inches | 10.2 × 21.9 × 10.2 inches | 17.9 × 3.8 × 10 inches | 8.74 × 19.8 × 11 inches | 32 × 7 × 10 inches | 9 × 21.3 × 10.6 inches | 37.6 × 9.69 × 11 inches | 28.3 × 21.5 × 14.5 inches |
| Weight | 7.72 pounds | 12.1 pounds | – | 11.2 pounds | 10.5 pounds | 19.2 pounds | 3.9 pounds | – | 9 pounds | 10.8 pounds | 12.4 pounds | 10.4 pounds |
| Size | Battery + Charger | – | 60V 16" (4.0Ah + 2.5Ah) | Chain Saw Tool Only (No Batteries) | – | Chain Saw Kit (Two 5.0Ah Batteries) | 179 in | – | – | – | 20" (Tool Only) 3KW Motor | 40V 16" (4.0Ah) |
| Color | Orange | Yellow | – | Teal | Teal | Teal | – | Teal | – | Teal | Green | Black/Green |
| Model | 970601202 | DCBL772X1-DCCS670B-BNDL | – | XCU04Z | XCU06SM1 | XCU04PT | GKE18V-20N14X | XCU08Z | RY405011 | XCU07Z | CS80L04 | 20312 |
For broader cutting tasks, you can compare motor specifications across the best chainsaws with brushless.
How to choose the right brushless chainsaw
Match bar length to tasks
Bar length determines the maximum diameter of wood you can cut in a single pass. An 8-inch bar, like the Bosch pruning saw, suits precise limbing and tight spaces. A 16-inch bar, found on Greenworks and Makita models, handles standard firewood and medium branches. For felling larger trees, look for 18-inch or 20-inch options like the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i or the Greenworks 80V model. Choose a bar that matches your largest routine cut to avoid unnecessary bulk and weight for smaller jobs.
Check voltage for power needs
Voltage indicates the motor's potential power output. Higher voltage systems, such as the 80V Greenworks or 60V DEWALT, deliver more torque for thick logs and storm cleanup. The 40V and 60V options from Ryobi and Greenworks offer a balance of power and runtime for general yard maintenance. Lower voltage 18V and 36V Makita saws are sufficient for pruning and smaller branches. Select a voltage that aligns with the density of the wood you plan to cut regularly.
Consider battery capacity for runtime
Battery capacity, measured in Amp-hours (Ah), determines how long the saw runs on a single charge. The Greenworks 60V model includes a 4.0 Ah battery, while the Makita 16-inch kit offers two 5.0 Ah batteries for extended use. If you already own batteries from a specific brand ecosystem, check compatibility first. The Makita 16-inch tool-only version requires separate battery purchases. Higher capacity batteries add weight, so balance runtime needs with handling comfort for overhead work.
Evaluate weight for handling
Weight affects fatigue during extended use, especially for overhead pruning. The Bosch 18V pruning saw weighs only 3.9 pounds, making it easy to hold for high branches. The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i weighs 7.72 pounds, offering a lightweight balance for medium-duty tasks. Heavier models, like the Makita kit with two batteries at 19.2 pounds, are better for stationary bucking than overhead work. Choose a weight you can manage comfortably for your specific cutting style and duration.
Verify power source type
All models in this guide are cordless and brushless, eliminating fuel maintenance and reducing noise. Brushless motors offer longer life and better efficiency than brushed alternatives. Ensure you have the necessary charger and compatible batteries for your chosen voltage system. The DEWALT bundle includes a leaf blower, adding versatility. If you lack existing batteries, select a kit that includes them to get started immediately. Cordless operation provides freedom of movement without extension cords or gas lines.
Frequently asked questions
Which brushless chainsaw is best for clearing brush and firewood?
The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i is the top choice for medium-duty cutting. It features an 18-inch bar and weighs only 7.72 pounds. This lightweight design makes it easy to handle for clearing brush and cutting firewood. You get a balanced tool without the bulk of larger professional models.
Is there a brushless chainsaw that includes a leaf blower?
Yes, the DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V Brushless Chainsaw comes with a included leaf blower. This bundle suits users who want a combo tool. Note that it weighs 12.1 pounds and includes a 3 Ah battery, which may limit extended use for lighter tasks compared to heavier-duty options.
What is the lightest brushless chainsaw for precision pruning?
The Bosch 18V 8-Inch Pruning Saw is the lightest option at just 3.9 pounds. It is designed for precision limbing and high branch trimming. Its compact size prioritizes comfort and reach over raw power, making it ideal for detailed work where maneuverability matters more than deep cutting capacity.
Which brushless chainsaw offers the longest cutting bar?
The Ryobi 40V Brushless 20 in. Chainsaw and the Greenworks 80V 20" Brushless Chainsaw both feature 20-inch bars. These models suit homeowners who need to fell or buck medium-sized trees. The Greenworks model also includes a 3KW motor for serious cutting power during storm cleanup.
Can I use my existing 18V batteries with these saws?
Yes, several Makita models are compatible with existing 18V batteries. The Makita 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw (XCU04Z) is sold as a tool only, allowing you to use your own batteries. Other Makita options like the 36V 14-Inch model also support this ecosystem for versatile yard maintenance.
Which brushless chainsaw is best for tight spaces and arborists?
The Makita 10-Inch Top Handle Cordless Chainsaw is designed for precision pruning in tight spaces. It fits arborists who need a compact, high-speed tool for detailed work. At 10.5 pounds, it offers maneuverability for detailed trimming, though it is not suitable for users needing longer bars or heavy-duty felling.
What is the best brushless chainsaw for storm cleanup?
The Greenworks 80V 20" Brushless Chainsaw is ideal for storm cleanup and felling medium trees. It features a 20-inch bar and a 3KW motor. This model suits users who already use 80V batteries and need serious cutting power for larger logs and urgent yard debris removal.
