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Finding the best chainsaws under $500 requires looking at published specs rather than marketing claims. We compared 9 models to rank them by performance data. The EGO Power+ 18" 56V Brushless Chainsaw leads because its 28-pound weight and 18-inch bar handle heavy-duty cutting on large branches and stumps. This guide helps you decide which tool fits your yard maintenance needs based on bar length, voltage, and weight.
Match bar length to your cutting needs
Your first decision is cutting width. The EGO Power+ 18-inch bar handles thick stumps, while the Makita 14-inch model suits moderate yard work. Heavier saws like the 28-pound EGO offer power for large branches. Lighter options like the 11-pound Stihl are better for light pruning. Choose the bar length that matches your typical tasks.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | EGO Power+ 18" 56V Brushless Chainsaw Best overall | Heavy-duty cutting on large branches and stumps | |
| 2 | Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw Also great | medium-duty cutting with included battery | |
| 3 | Greenworks 80V 18 in Cordless Chainsaw Best budget | Homeowners needing storm cleanup power | |
| 4 | Greenworks 60V 16" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw Best 60v | homeowners wanting a lightweight 60v mid-size saw | |
| 5 | Milwaukee 16" Electric Chainsaw Best premium | compact electric cutting tasks | |
| 6 | Makita 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw Also great | standard residential cutting tasks | |
| 7 | Stihl MSA 60 C-B 11 lb Cordless Chainsaw Also great | Light pruning and simple green care tasks | |
| 8 | Makita 36V 14-Inch Brushless Top Handle Saw Also great | pruning and light cutting tasks | |
| 9 | Makita 14-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw Also great | Moderate yard work and tree maintenance |
The best fit for you
- You need heavy-duty power for thick stumps – EGO Power+ 18" 56V Brushless Chainsaw – The 28-pound weight and 18-inch bar handle large branches with ease.
- You want a lightweight saw for storm cleanup – Greenworks 80V 18 in Cordless Chainsaw – This 9.48-pound model offers 80V power without the bulk of gas engines.
- You require a compact tool for detailed tasks – Milwaukee 16" Electric Chainsaw – Its compact 10-inch height and 16-inch bar fit tight spaces well.
- You prefer a lightweight saw for light pruning – Stihl MSA 60 C-B 11 lb Cordless Chainsaw – The 11-pound weight makes it easy to handle for simple green care.
EGO Power+ 18" 56V Brushless Chainsaw
Best for: Heavy-duty cutting on large branches and stumps
- Bar Length
- 18 in
- Voltage
- 56 V
- Battery Capacity
- 6.0 Ah
- Gas Equivalent
- 50 cc
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Chain Speed
- 22 m/s
This 18-inch cordless chainsaw delivers power equivalent to a 50cc gas model. Its 2500W brushless motor drives the chain at 22 m/s. The included 56V 6.0Ah battery allows up to 330 cuts on a 4×4. A digital display tracks battery charge and cut speed. This tool suits users needing gas-like power in a battery format with fast charging and tool-free tensioning.
- Brushless motor provides 22 m/s chain speed
- 56V 6.0Ah battery enables up to 330 cuts
- Tool-free tensioning dial for quick adjustments
- Digital display shows battery status and brake state
- Fast charging completes in 80 minutes
- 28-pound weight is heavier than 14-inch or 16-inch competitors
- 18-inch bar limits access to tight spaces compared to smaller bars
- You need gas-equivalent power for large branches
- You want a digital display for real-time monitoring
- You already own EGO 56V batteries
- You prefer a lighter tool for overhead work
- You need a bar shorter than 18 inches
- You require a top-handle configuration
Verdict: EGO Power+ 18" 56V Brushless Chainsaw fits users who need substantial cutting power for thick wood without the maintenance of gas engines. Its robust 28-pound build and 18-inch bar make it ideal for clearing large trees and stumps.
Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: medium-duty cutting with included battery
- Bar Length
- 18 in
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- 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 an 18-inch cordless chainsaw powered by 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 chain sharp and adjusted easily. This kit suits users who need a lightweight, efficient tool for outdoor cutting tasks.
- 18-inch bar length for substantial cutting capacity
- Brushless motor for high efficiency and durability
- Tool-less tensioning system for quick adjustments
- Boost Mode provides 25 percent extra power
- Lightweight at 7.72 pounds
- 7.72-pound weight is heavier than some compact alternatives
- 18-inch bar is shorter than 20-inch options
- You want a complete kit with battery and charger included
- You need a lightweight tool for extended overhead use
- You value tool-less chain tensioning for convenience
- You require a gas-powered chainsaw for maximum raw power
- You need a bar length longer than 18 inches
- You prefer a significantly lighter unit under 7 pounds
Verdict: Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Cordless fits homeowners who need a balanced, all-in-one cordless solution for medium-duty cutting. Its boost mode and tool-less tensioning make it a practical choice for regular maintenance.
Greenworks 80V 18 in Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: Homeowners needing storm cleanup power
- Bar Length
- 18 in
- Voltage
- 80 V
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0 Ah
- Gas Equivalent
- 50 cc
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Tensioning System
- Side-access
This Greenworks chainsaw uses an 80V brushless motor to deliver power equivalent to a 50cc gas engine. It features an 18-inch bar and includes a 4.0 Ah battery and charger. The tool weighs 9.48 pounds and includes side-access tensioning and an automatic oiler. It suits homeowners needing reliable performance for yard projects or storm cleanup tasks.
- 80V brushless motor provides 50cc gas equivalent power
- 18-inch bar length for versatile cutting
- Includes 4.0 Ah battery and charger
- Side-access tensioning for easy maintenance
- Automatic oiler for consistent lubrication
- Lower voltage than the 36V and 60V competitors on this list
- Heavier build at 9.48 pounds compared to lighter options
- Smaller battery capacity than the 5.0Ah kits available from other brands
- You need a budget-friendly option under $500
- You want a standard 18-inch bar for general yard work
- You prefer the included battery and charger in the box
- You require maximum power for heavy-duty professional work
- You already own a 60V or 80V Greenworks battery system
- You prefer a lighter tool for extended overhead use
Verdict: Greenworks 80V 18" Brushless Chainsaw offers solid value for homeowners who need dependable power for storm cleanup or yard maintenance without the weight of gas models. It fits buyers who want a complete kit with a 4.0 Ah battery for standard cutting tasks.
Greenworks 60V 16" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: homeowners wanting a lightweight 60v mid-size saw
- Bar Length
- 16"
- Voltage
- 60V
- Battery Capacity
- 2.5Ah, 4.0Ah
- Gas Equivalent
- 42 CC
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- 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 models. The tool-free tensioning system and auto oiler simplify maintenance. It fits into the Greenworks 60V ecosystem, allowing you to share batteries with other tools like trimmers and mowers.
- 60V brushless motor provides high efficiency
- 16-inch bar cuts through 10cm logs quickly
- Tool-free chain tensioning adjusts in 10 seconds
- Auto oiler reduces manual maintenance
- Lightweight 12.5 lb design reduces fatigue
- 2.5Ah battery capacity is lower than the 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah options in other picks
- 16-inch bar is shorter than the 18-inch bars found in several competitors
- Heavier than the 14-inch top-handle models in the list
- You want to use one battery system for multiple yard tools
- You prefer a lightweight saw for extended trimming sessions
- You need a mid-size bar for general property maintenance
- You require an 18-inch bar for large diameter trees
- You already own a 60V system and want maximum runtime with a larger battery
- You prefer a top-handle design for overhead work
Verdict: Greenworks 60V 16" Brushless Chainsaw is a balanced option for homeowners who value lightweight handling and ecosystem compatibility over maximum cutting width or battery runtime.
Milwaukee 16" Electric Chainsaw
Best for: compact electric cutting tasks
- Bar Length
- 16"
- Power Type
- Electric
- Dimensions
- 10 × 36 × 11 inches
- Weight
- 13.5 pounds
The Milwaukee 2727-21HD is a 16-inch electric chainsaw designed for precision cutting. Its compact 10-inch length and 11-inch height make it easy to handle in tight spaces. The 36-inch width provides stability during use. This model suits users who need a manageable tool for detailed work rather than heavy-duty felling.
- 16-inch bar length for balanced cutting capacity
- Compact 10-inch length for improved maneuverability
- Electric power type for clean operation
- 11-inch height reduces overall profile
- 16-inch bar is shorter than the 18-inch options in this list
- Electric power type limits runtime compared to gas equivalents
- You need a compact tool for tight spaces
- You prefer electric power for quieter operation
- You are cutting medium-sized branches
- You require an 18-inch bar for large logs
- You need gas power for extended runtime
- You are felling large trees
Verdict: Milwaukee 16" Electric Chainsaw fits users who prioritize compact handling and electric power for detailed cutting tasks. It is ideal for those who do not need the maximum bar length available in this category.
Makita 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: standard residential cutting tasks
- Bar Length
- 16"
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0Ah
- Gas Equivalent
- 32cc
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Chain Speed
- 0-3, 940 FPM
- Tensioning System
- Tool-less
This Makita kit includes a 16-inch bar and two 5.0Ah batteries. Its brushless motor delivers a chain speed of up to 3,940 FPM. The tool-less tensioning system allows for quick adjustments. It is equivalent to a 32cc gas saw. You get a balanced mix of power and runtime for standard cutting tasks.
- 16-inch cutting bar length
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- Chain speed up to 3,940 FPM
- Two 5.0Ah batteries included
- Tool-less chain adjustment system
- 16-inch bar is shorter than the 18-inch options on this list
- 19.2-pound weight is heavier than the 14-inch top-handle model
- 32cc gas equivalent is lower than the 40cc equivalent found in other picks
- You need a standard 16-inch bar for general yard work
- You want two batteries for extended runtime
- You prefer tool-less adjustments for quick maintenance
- You require an 18-inch bar for larger logs
- You need a lighter top-handle design for overhead work
- You want the highest gas-equivalent power rating available
Verdict: Makita 16" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw suits users who prioritize balanced runtime and standard cutting width. It is a solid choice for homeowners needing reliable power without the weight of a gas saw.
Stihl MSA 60 C-B 11 lb Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: Light pruning and simple green care tasks
- Power Type
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 19 × 10 × 10 inches
- Weight
- 11 pounds
The Stihl MSA 60 C-B is a lightweight, cordless chainsaw designed for occasional green care and simple tasks. It measures 17.9 inches in length and weighs just 11 pounds. This compact build makes it easy to handle for light pruning and trimming. It comes with a battery and charger included. It suits users who prioritize portability and ease of use over heavy-duty cutting power.
- Lightweight at 11 pounds for easy handling
- Compact length of 17.9 inches
- Includes battery and charger in the set
- Cordless design for unrestricted movement
- Heavier than some competitors in this guide
- Shorter length limits cutting capacity for larger limbs
- You need a lightweight tool for light pruning
- You want a compact chainsaw for tight spaces
- You prefer cordless operation for simple tasks
- You require a high-power tool for felling trees
- You need a longer bar for thick branches
- You prefer gas-powered chainsaws for maximum runtime
Verdict: Stihl MSA 60 C-B Cordless Chainsaw is a practical choice for homeowners who need a lightweight, easy-to-handle tool for light gardening tasks. It fits those who value portability and convenience over raw power.
Makita 36V 14-Inch Brushless Top Handle Saw
Best for: pruning and light cutting tasks
- Bar Length
- 14 in
- Voltage
- 36 V
- Gas Equivalent
- 30 cc
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Cutting Width
- 14-Inch
- Dimensions
- 8.74 × 19.8 × 11 inches
This Makita chainsaw uses two 18V batteries to deliver 36V power through a brushless motor. It features a 14-inch bar and offers cutting performance comparable to a 30cc gas engine. The top-handle design suits users who need compact control. It operates quietly and produces no emissions. This tool is ideal for pruning and light cutting tasks where maneuverability matters more than maximum reach.
- Brushless motor delivers power equivalent to a 30cc gas saw
- 25% faster cutting performance than 30cc gas engines
- Low noise level for operator comfort
- Top-handle design for compact control
- 14-inch bar is shorter than the 16-inch and 18-inch options on this list
- Sold as tool only, requiring separate batteries and charger
- You need a compact saw for pruning and tight spaces
- You already own 18V LXT batteries
- You prefer low noise and zero emissions
- You need to cut large logs with a longer bar
- You want a complete kit with batteries and charger included
- You require a side-handle design for two-handed stability
Verdict: Makita 36V 14-inch Brushless Top Handle fits users who prioritize compact maneuverability and fast cutting speeds for light-duty work. It is a practical choice for those who already have the necessary battery platform.
Makita 14-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: Moderate yard work and tree maintenance
- Bar Length
- 14"
- Voltage
- 36V
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0Ah
- Gas Equivalent
- 32cc
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Chain Speed
- 0-3, 940 FPM
This Makita chainsaw combines two 18V batteries for 36V power, equivalent to a 32cc gas saw. It features a 14-inch bar and a brushless motor reaching 3,940 FPM. The lateral chain tensioning simplifies maintenance. It suits homeowners needing reliable cordless power for medium-duty tasks without the weight of gas models.
- Brushless motor delivers 3,940 FPM chain speed
- 36V output from two 18V LXT batteries
- Lateral chain tensioning for easy adjustments
- LED on/off switch with auto power-off
- 14-inch bar is shorter than 16 or 18-inch competitors
- 18.7-pound weight is heavier than many 14-inch rivals
- 32cc gas equivalent is less powerful than 40cc+ options
- You need a lightweight cordless saw for yard cleanup
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You prefer lateral chain tensioning for quick adjustments
- You require a 16-inch or longer bar for large limbs
- You need maximum cutting power for thick trunks
- You want the lightest possible tool for overhead work
Verdict: Makita 14" 36V Brushless Chainsaw fits users who value the Makita ecosystem and easy maintenance. It is a solid choice for moderate cutting tasks where portability matters more than raw power.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | EGO Power+ 18" 56V Brushless Chainsaw | Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw | Greenworks 80V 18 in Cordless Chainsaw | Greenworks 60V 16" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw | Milwaukee 16" Electric Chainsaw | Makita 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw | Stihl MSA 60 C-B 11 lb Cordless Chainsaw | Makita 36V 14-Inch Brushless Top Handle Saw | Makita 14-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bar Length | 18 in | 18 in | 18 in | 16" | 16" | 16" | – | 14 in | 14" |
| Voltage | 56 V | – | 80 V | 60V | – | – | – | 36 V | 36V |
| Battery Capacity | 6.0 Ah | – | 4.0 Ah | 2.5Ah, 4.0Ah | – | 5.0Ah | – | – | 5.0Ah |
| Gas Equivalent | 50 cc | – | 50 cc | 42 CC | – | 32cc | – | 30 cc | 32cc |
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | – | Brushless | – | Brushless | Brushless |
| Chain Speed | 22 m/s | – | – | 66 FT/S | – | 0-3, 940 FPM | – | – | 0-3, 940 FPM |
| Tensioning System | Tool-free | Tool-less | Side-access | Tool-free | – | Tool-less | – | – | Lateral |
| Cutting Width | – | – | – | 16-Inch | – | 16-Inch | – | 14-Inch | 14-Inch |
| Power Type | – | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Electric | Cordless | Cordless | – | Cordless |
| Intended Use | – | – | Limbing | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Clearing Width | 18-Inch | 18-Inch | 18-Inch | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 36.3 × 8.9 × 10.4 inches | 18.9 × 8.8 × 9.4 inches | 35.4 × 8.58 × 9.09 inches | – | 10 × 36 × 11 inches | 10.2 × 21.9 × 10.2 inches | 19 × 10 × 10 inches | 8.74 × 19.8 × 11 inches | 10.7 × 22.3 × 10.6 inches |
| Weight | 28 pounds | 7.72 pounds | 9.48 pounds | – | 13.5 pounds | 19.2 pounds | 11 pounds | – | 18.7 pounds |
| Model | CS1815 | 970601202 | CS80L417 | – | 2727-21HD | XCU04PT | MA04 011 5806 | XCU08Z | XCU07PT |
| Size | – | Battery + Charger | 18" (2.5Ah) 2.5KW Motor | 60V 16" (4.0Ah + 2.5Ah) | 16" | Chain Saw Kit (Two 5.0Ah Batteries) | – | – | – |
| Color | – | Orange | Green | – | – | Teal | – | Teal | Teal |
Key Specs for Choosing Chainsaws
Match bar length to tasks
Bar length determines the maximum diameter of wood you can cut in a single pass. An 18-inch bar, found on the EGO Power+ model, handles thick stumps and large branches effectively. For lighter pruning or moderate yard work, a 14-inch bar on the Makita XCU07PT offers sufficient reach with less weight. Choose a shorter bar if you prioritize maneuverability in tight spaces over raw cutting capacity. Ensure the bar size aligns with the largest diameter wood you intend to process regularly.
Check voltage for power needs
Voltage indicates the potential power output of cordless models. Higher voltage generally means more torque for demanding cuts. The Greenworks 80V model provides robust performance for storm cleanup tasks, while the 60V Greenworks saw offers a balanced option for standard homeowner duties. Lower voltage options, like the 36V Makita top handle, are suited for light pruning. Select a voltage level that matches the frequency and difficulty of your cutting jobs to ensure adequate performance without unnecessary bulk.
Evaluate battery capacity for runtime
Battery capacity, measured in Amp-hours (Ah), determines how long the saw operates on a single charge. The Greenworks 80V kit includes a 4.0 Ah battery, providing extended runtime for standard cutting tasks. The Makita XCU04PT comes with two 5.0 Ah batteries, offering longer continuous operation for residential projects. If you plan to cut large volumes of wood, prioritize higher Ah ratings. For quick pruning jobs, a smaller capacity battery may suffice, keeping the overall system weight lower.
Consider weight for handling
Weight affects how easily you can maneuver the saw, especially overhead or for extended periods. The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i weighs just 7.72 pounds, making it highly portable for medium-duty cutting. In contrast, the EGO Power+ weighs 28 pounds, offering stability and power for heavy-duty stump clearing. Lighter models like the Stihl MSA 60 C-B at 11 pounds are ideal for simple green care tasks. Choose a weight that you can comfortably hold and control during your typical cutting scenarios.
Select power type for convenience
Power type defines the energy source and maintenance requirements. Electric and cordless models eliminate the need for fuel mixing and engine upkeep. The Milwaukee 16-inch electric saw and EGO Power+ cordless models offer quiet, zero-emission operation. Cordless models provide freedom of movement without cords, while electric models require a nearby outlet. Consider your access to power sources and your preference for maintenance-free operation. Cordless systems also allow you to share batteries across multiple tools within the same brand ecosystem.
Frequently asked questions
Which chainsaw has the lightest weight for easy handling?
The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i is the lightest option at 7.72 pounds. Its compact size makes it ideal for users who need a balanced, all-in-one cordless solution. This weight allows for comfortable use during medium-duty cutting tasks without causing fatigue. It includes a battery and charger for immediate use.
What is the maximum cutting width available in this list?
The EGO Power+ 18" and Husqvarna Power Axe 350i both feature an 18-inch bar. This width allows you to cut through thick stumps and large branches in a single pass. The EGO model weighs 28 pounds, providing the robust power needed for heavy-duty clearing work.
Which models use brushless motors for better efficiency?
Several models use brushless motors, including the EGO Power+, Husqvarna Power Axe 350i, Greenworks 80V, Greenworks 60V, and both Makita 16-inch and 14-inch models. Brushless motors generally offer longer runtime and less maintenance. You get consistent power delivery for tasks ranging from pruning to storm cleanup.
Is there a chainsaw suitable for light pruning and green care?
The Stihl MSA 60 C-B is designed for light pruning and simple green care tasks. Weighing 11 pounds, it is easy to handle for detailed work. Its compact dimensions make it practical for homeowners who value portability and convenience over raw cutting power for thick wood.
Which chainsaw offers the best value for storm cleanup?
The Greenworks 80V 18-inch model is noted for storm cleanup power. It provides solid value with a 4.0 Ah battery included in the kit. The 9.48-pound weight keeps it manageable for yard maintenance. Its 80V system delivers dependable power without the bulk associated with gas engines.
Does the Milwaukee chainsaw come with a battery included?
The product data lists the Milwaukee 16" Electric Chainsaw as a 16-inch model with a power type of electric. It does not explicitly state that a battery is included in the package. You should verify if the kit includes power sources before purchase. It is designed for compact electric cutting tasks.
Which Makita model is best for standard residential cutting?
The Makita 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw suits users needing standard residential cutting tasks. It comes with two 5.0 Ah batteries, offering balanced runtime. The 19.2-pound weight provides reliable power without the heaviness of gas saws. It is a solid choice for regular home maintenance needs.
