Trees are an essential part of our lives, providing us with oxygen, shade, and beauty.
However, there are times when we need to cut them down, either for safety reasons or to free up space.
When it comes to taking down trees, nothing beats the power and efficiency of a chainsaw.
But with so many options available, choosing the best chainsaw for your tree-cutting needs can be a daunting task.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the essential factors you need to consider when selecting the perfect chainsaw.
From its engine type and power levels to its safety features and budget considerations, we’ll arm you with all the information you need to make the right choice.
So, whether you’re a professional lumberjack, a DIY enthusiast, or a gardener, read on to discover the best chainsaw for cutting trees.
1. PROYAMA PCS58 58CC Gas Powered Chainsaw
Specifications
I recently purchased the PROYAMA PCS58 58CC Gas Powered Chainsaw, and I have been extremely pleased with the performance of this chainsaw.
The 58cc engine provides plenty of power to handle tough jobs like tree pruning, clearing land, firewood preparation, and cleaning up after storms.
The chainsaw is surprisingly lightweight for its size, making it easy to maneuver around the garden or backyard.
The chainsaw also features an anti-vibration system that helps reduce vibration levels during operation, making it more comfortable to use for extended periods.
The Soft Start technology makes it easy to quickly start the engine and get right to work.
It also has a convenient side adjust chain tensioning feature that makes maintenance a breeze.
Overall this is an excellent gas-powered chainsaw that will make any job easier and faster.
2. WEN 4017 16-inch Electric Chainsaw
Specifications
I recently tested WEN 4017 16-inch Electric Chainsaw for my home improvement projects and I must say it is a great little machine.
It is lightweight and well-balanced, making it easy to maneuver. The 12amp motor produces enough power to handle most projects with ease.
The auto-oiling system gives you one less thing to worry about as it keeps the chain well-lubricated so that it lasts longer.
The tool-free chain tensioning and changing makes for quick and easy blade changes with no mess or hassle.
The cable strain relief notch is also nice to have as it helps keep your extension cords wrangled while you’re working.
I found the chainsaw to be quiet when in use, meaning I can work without disturbing my neighbors, which was a big plus for me.
Clean-up afterward was also fast and efficient, as there were no fumes or mess from using gasoline like other models require.
Overall, I recommend this product for the price point and light-duty applications such as basic pruning and trimming of small tree branches around the yard.
Although, I do suggest that first-time users take extra care in handling this machine, as it can be difficult if you don’t have experience with chainsaws.
3. Poulan Pro PR4218 Gas Chainsaw
Specifications
I have been using the Poulan Pro PR4218 Gas Chainsaw for a few months now and I must say that it is an excellent tool.
It has great power and cutting performance and is ideal for medium-duty storm clean-up, cutting firewood, and felling trees. The engine is 42 cc, 2-stroke with an 18-inch bar.
The EasyStart system makes pull-starting the chainsaw much easier than traditional chainsaws.
This means less effort and time spent getting it started up each time you need to use it. Additionally, there’s an automatic oiler which ensures proper lubrication of the bar and chain as well as a Super Clean air filter system for extended air filter life.
The PR4218 also has an inertia-activated chain brake for added safety during operation.
The ergonomic design helps reduce vibration and fatigue while operating the saw, making it comfortable to use over longer periods of time.
Maintenance on this chainsaw is also made simple with its tool-less access to filter and spark plug so you can keep your saw in top condition without any hassle.
Overall, I’m satisfied with the performance of the Poulan Pro PR4218 Gas Chainsaw.
It performs exactly as advertised and I haven’t had any issues or problems with it after many uses in various conditions such as felling trees or clearing debris after storms.
Its lightweight design at only 14 lbs makes it easy to maneuver around and transport if needed while still providing the power necessary to get your job done quickly and efficiently.
All of this combined with its lower emissions output up to 70%, lower fuel consumption up to 20%, and two year warranty make this a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable chainsaw for medium duty tasks!
4. SOYUS 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Specifications
I recently used the SOYUS 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw and can attest to its excellent performance.
This saw is powered by a brushless motor which provides more torque, less vibration and improved efficiency compared to other cordless chainsaws.
The dual safety system ensures that accidental kickbacks are avoided and the auto-oiling system with an extra large 9.5oz oil tank keeps the chain running smoothly.
The tool-free chain tensioning makes quick work of any adjustments needed and I was impressed by how many cuts I was able to make on 4×4 lumber with up to 200 cuts with the 16-inch bar and chain.
The chain speed of 49.2ft/s and more than 8000 RPM makes this saw great for a variety of applications.
All in all, I recommend this product to those looking for a cordless chainsaw.
5. Husqvarna 120 Gas 38cc Chainsaw
Specifications
The next saw I recommend is the Husqvarna 120 Gas 38cc Chainsaw after testing it.
This powerful saw has an efficient X-Torq engine that reduces emissions by up to 60% and increases fuel efficiency by up to 20%.
It also features lowVib technology that dampens vibrations and minimizes operator fatigue for easier handling of recommended 14 to 18 inch chainsaw bars.
The air purge system allows for effortless start-up, plus the combined choke/stop control helps reduce the risk of engine flooding.
This gas-powered chainsaw is perfect for smaller to medium projects; however, it does come with a few drawbacks.
Firstly, it is unsuitable for large projects due to its smaller size and power output.
Additionally, chain tensioning requires tools which can be inconvenient. However, overall this is a good product, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and powerful chainsaw.
6. DEWALT 20V DCCS620B Cordless Chainsaw
Specifications
I’ve had my DEWALT 20V DCCS620B Cordless Chainsaw for a few months now and I can honestly say it’s been an absolute workhorse.
It runs on the 20V MAX battery system, so you get plenty of runtime and power from each charge.
The 12-inch bar and chain make it great for cutting through construction materials and outdoor applications with little effort.
I was also pleased to find out that there is no need for any tools when it comes to tensioning or tightening the bar—it has a knob for quick adjustments when needed.
The brushless motor of this chainsaw gives you maximum efficiency and extended motor life, which is great considering its lightweight (just 9 lbs. with battery).
With a 5Ah battery, the DEWALT cordless saw can make up to 90 cuts per charge through 4×4 pressure-treated wood! It’s really impressive how much power this saw packs in such a small package.
It is great for occasional use at home or as a go-to tool on the job site.
It has all the power of gas-powered chainsaws without any of the hassle or fumes, plus its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Highly recommended!
7. Husqvarna 445 Gas Chainsaw
Specifications
I’ve been using the Husqvarna 445 Gas Chainsaw for several months now and I must say, it has been a great experience.
This incredibly powerful yet efficient saw offers superior performance in many applications.
With its powerful 50-cc 2.8-HP X-Torq engine, emissions are significantly reduced and fuel efficiency is improved. Even when cutting through tough material, the chain remains steady and smooth thanks to the combination of choke/stop control and low vibration technology.
The gas chainsaw 18 inch bar also features air injection technology which helps to expel larger dust particles before they reach the air filter, thereby increasing engine life span.
Starting up is a breeze too with the Smart Start technology which only requires minimal effort by the user.
To top it off, there’s an inertia-activated chain brake that reduces kickback risk if something unexpected happens during cutting operations.
All in all, this Husqvarna 445 Gas Chainsaw provides excellent value for money given its impressive power and durability coupled with its ergonomic design that makes it easy to handle. Highly recommended!
8. Greenworks Pro 80V GCS80421 Chainsaw
Specifications
The next saw I recommend for home use is the Greenworks Pro 80V GCS80421 battery-powered chainsaw.
This chainsaw is packed with features that make it a great choice for professional users.
The 18” chain and bar make it suitable for jobs of any size. The Trubrushless Motor technology provides two times more torque than regular motors, giving you more power, longer runtime, quiet operation, and extended motor life.
The automatic oiler delivers proper chain lubrication and increased productivity while the easy adjust tensioning allows for fast bar and chain maintenance.
Plus, this powerful machine can get up to 150 cuts on 4×4 lumber on a single charge while being comparable to a 42cc gas chainsaw, making this an excellent eco-friendly alternative.
Using this tool is also very simple; no gas or fumes are required, and there’s no carburetor, spark plug, or starter rope—press the button to start and you’re ready to go.
9. Makita XCU04PT1 36V Chainsaw
Specifications
As a second-last saw we recommend, I’d like to mention the Makita XCU04PT1 36V Chainsaw, which is extremely reliable.
It’s a powerful saw with a brushless motor that delivers the power of a 32cc gas chainsaw, yet it’s still quiet and efficient.
With two 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries, I can get the job done without leaving my 18V LXT platform.
The variable speed trigger and high chain speed (0-3,940 FPM) ensure improved cutting performance, while tool-less chain adjustment makes for convenient operation and maintenance.
The Makita XCU04PT1 is truly one of the best chainsaws for cutting trees on the market today.
Its 32-hp motor gives it plenty of power to cut through even the toughest materials, while its relatively lightweight design (21.9 lbs) makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
On top of that, no emissions or oil are mixing to worry about and no pull starts; plus, due to its brushless motor design, it requires less maintenance than traditional gas chainsaws.
In short, this is an incredibly reliable chainsaw with plenty of power and features to make it easy to use and maintain. If you’re looking for a durable chainsaw that won’t disappoint, look no further than the Makita XCU04PT1 36V Chainsaw – you won’t regret it!
10. Husqvarna 455 Rancher 55.5-cc Gas Chainsaw
Specifications
As an experienced Husqvarna 455 Rancher 55.5-cc Gas Chainsaw user, I can confidently say this product is worth every penny.
If you’re looking for a high-powered, heavy-duty chainsaw ideal for professional tree work and land clearing, look no further.
With an 18-inch bar length and a 56 cc gasoline engine, this chainsaw delivers outstanding cutting performance.
Moreover, the 3.49-HP X-Torq engine reduces fuel consumption and gasoline emissions, making it an eco-friendly option for those who are conscious of the environment.
One of the standout features of the Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaw is the LowVib anti-vibration system, which reduces vibration levels to ensure safe and comfortable operation.
The side-mounted tensioning system also allows for quick adjustments to the chain while working, which saves time and effort.
What really impressed me about this chainsaw was the effortless starting mechanism that allowed me to start the chainsaw with minimal effort, even after prolonged storage.
Additionally, the automatic oiler delivers a steady supply of chain lubrication for safe and effective use, while the quick-release air filter makes cleaning and replacement a hassle-free process.
If I had to point out any drawbacks, it would be the heavyweight of the chainsaw, which weighs around 16 lbs.
This weight may make maneuvering difficult for extended periods, but the product’s performance more than makes up for it.
Overall, the Husqvarna 455 Rancher 55.5-cc Gas Chainsaw is a highly recommended product for anyone in need of a powerful and reliable chainsaw that does not compromise on safety and performance. Trust me; this investment will be worth it.
How To Choose The Best Chainsaw For Cutting Trees
When it comes to selecting the best chainsaw for cutting trees, there are several factors to consider.
Purpose:
The purpose of the chainsaw should be the first thing to consider.
Will you be using it for occasional yard work, regular tree maintenance, or professional logging?
For occasional yard work, an electric chainsaw may work perfectly.
Regular tree maintenance may need a gas chainsaw because of the amount of work involved. Professional logging, on the other hand, requires a powerful gas chainsaw.
Power source:
The engine is the most crucial component of any chainsaw. Gas-powered chainsaws are more powerful and suitable for heavy-duty work.
On the other hand, electric chainsaws are less powerful and more suitable for occasional home use.
Gas-powered chainsaws come in larger engine sizes, usually measured in cubic centimeters (cc), while electric chainsaws are measured in volts (V).
Bar length:
Bar length is another critical factor that determines the size of the cut you can achieve with your chainsaw. Longer bars are suitable for cutting larger trees, while shorter bars are ideal for small jobs. A bar length between 12-16 inches is considered appropriate for occasional yard work. On the other hand, bars between 16-20 inches are better for more giant trees.
Power and engine size:
The power of a chainsaw is closely related to engine size. A bigger engine size results in more power, which can handle heavy-duty works. However, a larger engine generally means more weight, which can be challenging to handle for extended periods. A 50cc engine is considered powerful enough for almost all chainsaw needs.
Weight:
Weight is an often-overlooked factor, but it can impact your chainsaw experience significantly. Lighter chainsaws are easier to handle and maneuver, especially for extended periods of use. However, they may not be as powerful as heavier models. Electric chainsaws are generally lighter and easier to handle, while gas chainsaws tend to be heavier because of the engine.
Budget:
Finally, it’s essential to consider your budget when selecting a chainsaw. Chainsaws come in different price ranges, and it’s important to find one that offers the right combination of features, power, and quality within your budget. Always aim for the highest quality in your price range, especially if you plan to use your chainsaw frequently.
In Summary, when selecting the best chainsaw for cutting trees, consider the purpose, engine type, bar length, power and engine size, weight, and budget. By understanding these factors, you will be able to select a chainsaw that fits your needs, preferences and ultimately your wallet.
Final Thoughts
To wrap up, our team of experts has spent hours researching, testing, and analyzing the top chainsaws for cutting trees to bring you a comprehensive list of the very best.
We understand that choosing the right chainsaw can be overwhelming, which is why we have carefully curated this list to make your decision-making process easier.
As passionate tree-cutting enthusiasts, we have firsthand experience using these chainsaws and can attest to their performance, durability, and safety features.
We are confident that our recommendations will exceed your expectations and make your tree-cutting tasks more efficient and enjoyable.
At the end of the day, our goal is to share our experience and expertise with our readers so that you can confidently choose the best chainsaw for cutting trees.
We hope that our recommendations and insights have been helpful and wish you the best of luck in finding the perfect chainsaw to suit your needs.