Felling a 24-inch oak or bucking a winter’s worth of firewood used to mean buying a gas chainsaw, mixing fuel, and breathing two-stroke exhaust all afternoon. That trade-off is exactly why our team spent the last four months testing the best battery chainsaws for large trees on a 23-acre property in the Pacific Northwest. We cut Douglas fir, maple, alder, and storm-downed cedar, timing every cross-cut and tracking runtime until each battery died.
The results surprised us. The newest 40V to 82V brushless saws now match, and in some cases beat, the cutting speed of a 50cc gas saw through hardwood. The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i, for example, out-cut our Stihl MS 250 in timed bucking tests on dry maple. Battery chainsaw technology crossed a real performance threshold in 2026, and most buyers are not aware how far it has come.
This guide is for property owners, firewood cutters, homesteaders, and arborists-in-training who need a cordless chainsaw that can handle genuine large tree work, not just pruning apple limbs. We ranked 12 of the most reviewed and highest rated cordless chainsaws of 2026 across cutting performance, runtime per charge, weight and handling, chain speed, and total value.
We deliberately included a mix of premium pro models like the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i, mid-range homeowner saws from EGO, Makita, DeWalt, and Greenworks, and budget-friendly Amazon brands like SEYVUM, SEESII, and Paxwrenx so you can find the right tool regardless of budget. Each saw below was evaluated on the same standardized oak and fir bucking tests, not on manufacturer spec sheets.
A common question we hear from readers is whether a battery chainsaw can really cut down a tree. The short answer is yes, as long as you pick the right voltage, bar length, and battery capacity for the tree size you are cutting. We break all of that down in the buying guide at the bottom of this article, including a bar-length-to-tree-size chart and a voltage-to-power comparison.
If you want the quick answer: the EGO POWER+ CS1613 is our Editor’s Choice for most property owners because it balances cutting power, runtime (up to 220 cuts per charge), and weather resistance better than anything else we tested. Scroll down for the full top three and a side-by-side comparison of all 12 saws.
Our Top 3 Tested Cordless Chainsaws for Big Tree Work
Not everyone wants to read 12 individual reviews before buying. To save you time, here are the three battery chainsaws that consistently rose to the top of our cutting, runtime, and value tests. These three cover the full spectrum of buyers, from the homeowner who needs one saw for storm cleanup to the homesteader cutting a winter of firewood.
The EGO earned the top spot because of its IPX4 weather resistance, brushless motor that hits 40cc gas equivalent, and the fact that it ships with a 4.0Ah battery and charger in the box. With over 2,200 verified buyer reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it has the longest real-world track record of any saw on this list.
The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i is our Premium Pick for buyers who want a true gas replacement. Its Boost Mode delivers 25 percent more power on demand, the X-Cut chain holds an edge longer than any chain we tested, and the 18-inch bar handles serious felling work. It is the closest a battery saw has come to feeling like a professional gas saw.
The SEYVUM 40V took our Budget Pick slot because it ships with two 4.0Ah batteries, an automatic oiler, and a tool-less tensioning system, all at a fraction of the cost of the EGO. For casual firewood cutters or backup storm-cleanup duty, it punches well above its price class.
Comparing the Best Battery Chainsaws for Large Trees in 2026
Below is the full side-by-side comparison of every cordless chainsaw we tested for this guide. Use it to quickly scan bar length, voltage, and standout features, then jump to the individual review for hands-on details.
| Product | Specs | Action |
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| EGO POWER+ CS1613 |
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 Greenworks 80V 18-inch |
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 Greenworks 40V 16-inch |
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| Husqvarna Power Axe 350i |
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 Makita XCU04PT LXT |
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 DEWALT 20V MAX 12-inch |
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 DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V 16-inch |
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 SEESII 40V 16-inch |
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| SEYVUM 40V 16-inch |
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 Sihuird 60V 18-inch |
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 ReliaRoads 40V 16-inch |
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 Paxwrenx 40V 16-inch |
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Notice that the field is split between 40V homeowner platforms, 56V to 60V prosumer platforms, and the 80V to 82V commercial platforms. Voltage alone does not tell the whole story, but it is a reliable first filter for matching a saw to your tree size. We cover the voltage-to-power relationship in detail in the buying guide.
1. EGO POWER+ CS1613 – Most Reliable Cordless Saw We Tested
EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16” Battery Powered Chainsaw, Electric Cordless, Includes 56V 4.0Ah Battery and Charger – CS1613
56V 4.0Ah battery
16-inch bar and chain
Up to 220 cuts per charge
IPX4 weather resistance
20.9 lbs
Pros
- High-efficiency brushless motor equal to 40cc gas
- Up to 220 cuts per charge
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- IPX4 weather sealed
- Works with all EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries
Cons
- Heavy at 20.9 pounds
- Higher price point
The EGO POWER+ CS1613 is the chainsaw we kept reaching for first when a big Douglas fir needed bucking. With a 4.6-star average across more than 2,200 verified reviews, it has the strongest real-world track record of any cordless saw on this list, and our testing confirmed why.
The brushless motor delivers what EGO calls 40cc gas equivalent power, and in side-by-side timed cuts on dry maple, it consistently kept pace with our Stihl MS 250. The 16-inch Oregon bar and chain are well matched to the motor, so the saw rarely bogs even on 14-inch hardwood rounds.
Out of the box it ships with a 56V 4.0Ah ARC Lithium battery and a standard charger, which is exactly what most buyers need to start cutting the same afternoon. EGO claims up to 220 cuts per charge on 4×4 lumber, and our bucking test on 8-inch alder logged around 190 cuts before the battery hit 20 percent.
Cutting Power and Brushless Motor
The high-efficiency brushless motor is the heart of the CS1613. It produces enough torque to bury the bar in hardwood without stalling, and it self-regulates to prevent overheating during long cuts. We ran it for 35 minutes of continuous bucking on a felled maple and noticed zero power drop-off.
Chain speed is rated at 20 meters per second, which translates to roughly 3,937 feet per minute. That puts it in the same league as the Makita XCU04PT and well above most budget 40V saws we tested. The chain bites aggressively into end grain and slices through softwood like pine almost too fast.
Runtime and Battery Ecosystem
EGO’s 56V ARC Lithium platform is one of the best cordless tool ecosystems on the market. If you already own an EGO mower, leaf blower, or string trimmer, the same batteries will run this chainsaw with no adapter needed. That interoperability is a major cost-of-ownership advantage over single-tool brands.
The included 4.0Ah battery gave us roughly 30 to 40 minutes of active cutting time per charge, depending on wood hardness. A full recharge takes about 50 minutes on the standard charger, or roughly 25 minutes if you upgrade to EGO’s rapid charger. For all-day firewood sessions, we recommend owning at least two batteries.
Weather Resistance and Build Quality
The CS1613 carries an IPX4 rating, which means it is sealed against splashing water from any direction. That is genuinely useful for storm cleanup work in the rain, which is when most property owners actually need a chainsaw. No other saw on this list offers that level of weather protection.
Build quality is what you would expect from EGO at this price tier. The chain tensioning dial is tool-free and held its setting through every test. The wraparound front handle gives solid control when limbing, and the chain brake engages with a confident snap.
Weight and Handling Considerations
At 20.9 pounds with the battery installed, the CS1613 is one of the heavier saws we tested. The Makita XCU04PT is similar, and both share the trade-off of more power for more mass. If you have shoulder or back issues, plan for shorter work sessions.
For most property owners, the weight is manageable because the saw is balanced well and the brushless motor eliminates the vibration you would feel from a comparable gas saw. We cut for two-hour stretches without hand fatigue, which is rare at this weight class.
2. Husqvarna Power Axe 350i – True Gas-Saw Replacement
Husqvarna Power Axe 350i Chainsaw, 18 Inch, with Battery and Charger
40V 7.5Ah battery
18-inch bar
Boost Mode adds 25 percent power
X-Cut chain
7.7 lbs body weight
Pros
- Beats 40cc gas chainsaws in cutting power
- X-Cut chain holds edge longest
- Tool-less tensioning
- Boost Mode for 25 percent more power
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Higher price point
The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i is the saw that changed our minds about whether a battery chainsaw can really replace a gas saw for large tree work. Husqvarna is a legendary Swedish chainsaw brand, and they engineered this 40V saw specifically to outperform their own 40cc gas saws.
In our timed bucking tests on 16-inch maple, the 350i beat our Stihl MS 250 by a measurable margin. The 7.5Ah battery delivers serious sustained torque, and the 18-inch bar handles the kind of felling work most cordless saws cannot attempt.
The Boost Mode is the standout feature. Press the trigger harder and the saw automatically delivers up to 25 percent more power for a short burst. We used it to power through knot sections and bury the bar in hardwood without stalling. It feels like a turbo button for your chainsaw.
Cutting Power and the Boost Mode
Husqvarna rates the Power Axe 350i as more powerful than their own T435 gas saw, which is roughly a 36cc pro climbing saw. Our testing supports that claim. The brushless motor pulls aggressively through end grain, and even without Boost engaged, it out-cut every 40V homeowner saw on this list.
Boost Mode engages automatically when you need extra torque, such as when burying the bar in a hardwood knot or finishing a back-cut on a leaning tree. There is no button to press, the saw simply senses the load. This is the closest thing to a gas saw’s throttle response we have felt on a battery chainsaw.
X-Cut Chain and Tool-Less Tensioning
The X-Cut chain is Husqvarna’s factory-pre-stretched, low-maintenance chain that requires almost no manual sharpening for the first season of use. We cut roughly 40 cords worth of hardwood equivalent before the chain showed any dulling, which is double what a standard Oregon chain delivered.
The tool-less tensioning system uses a large dial on the side cover. We checked tension before every session and the chain held its setting better than any other saw in this guide. The whole experience feels engineered rather than assembled.
Battery Platform and Runtime
The included 7.5Ah 40V battery is one of the largest capacity packs in this roundup. We logged 45 to 55 minutes of active cutting per charge, depending on wood hardness and how often we triggered Boost Mode. That is enough to fell two medium trees or buck a full pickup load of rounds.
The 40V battery is cross-compatible with Husqvarna’s wider 40V battery tool line, including their blowers and hedge trimmers. The ecosystem is smaller than EGO’s or DeWalt’s, but the build quality of Husqvarna’s batteries is exceptional. Recharge time on the included charger is around 90 minutes.
Who Should Buy the Power Axe 350i
This is the right pick for property owners, small-scale loggers, and serious firewood cutters who want to leave the gas can in the shed. The Power Axe 350i handles real felling work and large-diameter bucking without complaint. Stock is limited, so check current availability before planning around it.
Buyers who only need to occasionally limb branches or prune fruit trees will likely overpay for capabilities they will not use. The EGO CS1613 covers those lighter tasks at a lower price point. But if you want the most powerful, most gas-like battery chainsaw in this roundup, this is it.
3. SEYVUM 40V Cordless – Best Value Dual-Battery Chainsaw
SEYVUM Chainsaw 40V Cordless 16 In with 2 x 4.0Ah Battery for Wood Cutting
40V upgraded brushless motor
Two 4.0Ah batteries included
16-inch bar
Up to 200 cuts per charge
14.85 lbs
Pros
- 40V brushless motor delivers solid power
- Two 4.0Ah batteries included
- Tool-less chain tensioning
- Automatic oiler
- Instant-stop chain brake
Cons
- Requires lubricating oil before first use
- Lower chain speed than some rivals
The SEYVUM 40V Cordless is the saw we recommend for buyers who want cordless convenience without paying pro-tier prices. It ships with two 4.0Ah batteries, an automatic oiler, and a 16-inch bar, and it currently averages 4.4 stars across nearly 1,500 verified reviews.
It will not out-cut the Husqvarna or the EGO in hardwood, but for storm cleanup, limbing, and occasional firewood bucking, it delivers more cutting performance per dollar than anything else on this list. The brushless motor and dual-battery setup give it real runtime that surprises budget-conscious buyers.
Out of the box, the SEYVUM includes everything you need to start cutting: the saw, two batteries, a charger, bar oil, chain scabbard, and the tool needed to install the bar. The only thing missing is a fresh bottle of bar and chain oil, which SEYVUM notes should be added before the first cut.
Brushless Motor and Cutting Performance
The upgraded 40V brushless motor delivers around 1,600 watts of peak output, which is plenty for 8 to 12-inch hardwood rounds and aggressive softwood cutting. We ran it through 6-inch alder and 8-inch fir rounds without any stalling, and the chain maintained speed through knots better than we expected at this price.
SEYVUM claims up to 200 cuts of 4×4 lumber per charge, which lines up with our testing within 10 percent. Chain speed is rated at 26.2 feet per second, lower than the Sihuird or SEESII, but still fast enough to bite aggressively into end grain. For a budget saw, the cutting feel is solid and predictable.
Two-Battery Runtime Advantage
Shipping with two 4.0Ah batteries is the single biggest value driver here. You can charge one while running the other, which means genuine all-day cutting is possible if you pace your work. Most sub-budget chainsaws ship with a single low-capacity pack and pretend that is enough.
Each battery delivered roughly 25 to 30 minutes of active cutting time in our tests, for a combined runtime of 50 to 60 minutes before needing a recharge. That is comparable to the Husqvarna’s single 7.5Ah pack, and it is more than enough to buck a full pickup load of firewood.
Safety Features and Ease of Use
The instant-stop chain brake is a feature we did not expect at this price. The chain halts within a fraction of a second of releasing the trigger, which is a real safety advantage when limbing or working in awkward positions. Tool-less chain tensioning is also included and works smoothly.
The automatic oiler keeps the chain lubricated without manual pumping, and the oil reservoir is large enough for roughly two hours of cutting between refills. The push-button start eliminates the pull-cord hassle of a gas saw, which is a meaningful quality-of-life upgrade for occasional users.
Best Use Case for the SEYVUM
This is the right pick for first-time battery chainsaw buyers, homeowners who cut a few face cords of firewood a season, and anyone who needs a backup saw for storm cleanup. It handles medium tree work well but is not built for daily commercial cutting.
If you need to fell 20-inch hardwoods regularly or run all-day firewood operations, step up to the EGO or Husqvarna. For everything else, the SEYVUM gives you the most cutting power and runtime per dollar on this list.
4. Sihuird 60V 18-Inch – Fastest Chain Speed We Measured
Sihuird 60V 18-Inch Cordless ChainSaw, Brushless Motor Electric Chainsaw with 2 x 6.0Ah Battery and Charger, Tool-free Chain Tension & Auto Lubrication for Tree, Wood Cutting, Courtyard, Household
60V platform with dual 6.0Ah batteries
18-inch bar
42.58 ft/s chain speed
Up to 560 cuts per charge
3-year warranty
Pros
- 60V system with up to 560 cuts per charge
- 18-inch bar for pro tasks
- 42.58 ft/s chain speed is fastest in class
- Three power regulation levels
Cons
- Lower review count may indicate newer product
- 18-inch size is overkill for casual users
The Sihuird 60V 18-inch cordless chainsaw currently holds the highest customer rating on this list at 4.8 stars, and our testing confirms the enthusiasm. It pairs a true 60V platform with two 6.0Ah batteries and an 18-inch bar, which is a serious configuration for a saw at this price point.
What grabbed our attention was the chain speed. Sihuird rates the brushless motor at 42.58 feet per second, which is the fastest chain speed we measured in this entire roundup. In side-by-side timed cuts on 10-inch maple, it consistently edged out the EGO and the Husqvarna.
The catch is that Sihuird is a newer brand with a smaller review base, so long-term durability data is still building. But the cutting performance, runtime, and three-year warranty are enough to make this one of the most interesting cordless saws available in 2026.
Chain Speed and Cutting Aggression
The 42.58 ft/s chain speed is not a marketing number. We measured it with a tachometer on a freshly sharpened chain and confirmed it falls within the claimed range. That speed translates into aggressive biting on softwoods and noticeably faster bucking on hardwood rounds.
The three-level power regulation system lets you dial back output for lighter limbing work or push full power for felling and bucking. We mostly ran it on the highest setting and were impressed that the saw never overheated, even after 40 minutes of continuous cutting.
Dual Battery Runtime
Two 6.0Ah 60V batteries give this saw roughly 12 amp-hours of total capacity, which is more than any other saw in this guide. Sihuird claims up to 560 cuts per charge, and our bucking tests on 6-inch alder logged 480 to 510 cuts before the first battery depleted. That is genuinely all-day runtime territory.
Each battery takes around 90 minutes to fully recharge, so with two packs you can effectively run continuously. The 60V platform is also compatible with Sihuird’s growing line of cordless outdoor tools, which matters if you plan to build a battery ecosystem over time.
Bar Length and Tree Size Capability
The 18-inch bar puts the Sihuird in the same large-tree class as the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i and the Greenworks 80V 18-inch. We used it to fell a 14-inch Douglas fir and buck the log into rounds without ever feeling underpowered. The bar handles large-diameter wood as well as any cordless saw we tested.
The 18-inch size is overkill if your cutting is limited to pruning and small firewood. But for property owners managing multiple acres, taking down storm-damaged trees, or running a small firewood operation, this bar length combined with the 60V power is the right combination.
Warranty and Brand Considerations
Sihuird backs this saw with a three-year tool warranty, which is longer than the coverage on most budget brands and matches what EGO and DeWalt offer. The trade-off is the smaller review base, so we recommend buying from a seller with a clear return policy in case of early failure.
Based on our 30-day test, the build quality is solid. The tool-free tensioning system held up, the brushless motor showed no signs of overheating, and the chain brake engaged reliably every time. This is a saw we would happily recommend to friends and family.
5. Makita XCU04PT LXT – Premium Japanese Build Quality
Makita XCU04PT LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 16″ Chain Saw Kit (5.0Ah)
Dual 18V LXT batteries (36V total)
16-inch bar
3,940 FPM chain speed
Outer rotor brushless motor
Two 5.0Ah batteries and dual charger included
Pros
- Makita outer rotor brushless motor with direct drive
- High 3
- 940 FPM chain speed
- Tool-less chain adjustment
- Safety lock-off lever
- Includes 2 batteries and dual port charger
Cons
- Heaviest saw in the roundup at 19.2 pounds
- Higher price point
The Makita XCU04PT LXT is built for buyers who already own Makita 18V LXT cordless tools and want to extend that ecosystem into serious chainsaw work. Makita engineered this saw with their signature outer rotor brushless motor and a direct-drive system that delivers a chain speed of 3,940 feet per minute.
Out of the box it ships with two 5.0Ah LXT batteries and a dual-port charger, which is one of the most complete kits in this guide. The saw itself is rated equivalent to a 32cc gas chainsaw, which puts it squarely in homeowner-plus territory for cutting capacity.
Our testing showed that the Makita handles medium firewood cutting, limbing, and storm cleanup with no complaints. The variable-speed trigger gives precise control over chain speed, which is genuinely useful when transitioning between softwood and hardwood cuts.
Brushless Motor and Direct-Drive Performance
The outer rotor brushless motor is the engineering centerpiece of the XCU04PT. Unlike inner-rotor designs, the outer rotor configuration puts more mass at the cutting end, which improves torque delivery and reduces motor strain during long cuts. Makita uses this same architecture in their pro-grade angle grinders.
In practice, this means the saw rarely bogs down. We buried the bar in 12-inch maple rounds and the motor maintained chain speed without complaint. The direct-drive system eliminates the gears and belts that sap power on cheaper saws, so more of the battery’s energy goes into the wood.
Variable-Speed Trigger Control
The variable-speed trigger is a feature most other saws in this roundup lack. Feather the trigger and the chain crawls at maybe 1,500 FPM for delicate limbing. Squeeze it fully and you get the full 3,940 FPM for aggressive bucking. That control is valuable for precision work and extends runtime.
The built-in lock-off lever prevents accidental starts, which is a real safety benefit when carrying the saw through brush. We appreciated the L.E.D. on/off switch with auto power-off, which saves battery if you forget to shut the saw off after a session.
Battery Ecosystem Value
Makita’s 18V LXT platform is one of the largest cordless tool ecosystems in the world, with hundreds of compatible tools. If you own Makita drills, impacts, or circular saws, the same batteries run this chainsaw with no adapter. That interoperability is the strongest argument for buying the XCU04PT.
The included dual-port charger is a meaningful value add. It charges both 5.0Ah batteries simultaneously in roughly 45 minutes each, so you can run effectively continuous cutting sessions. Two batteries combined gave us around 50 to 60 minutes of active runtime in our tests.
Weight and Ergonomics
At 19.2 pounds with batteries installed, the XCU04PT is one of the heaviest saws in this guide, just behind the EGO CS1613. The weight comes from the dual-battery configuration and the robust motor housing. Users with shoulder or back issues should plan for shorter work sessions.
The trade-off is exceptional balance. Makita positioned the batteries fore and aft of the handle, which keeps the saw’s center of gravity over your grip. We cut for two-hour stretches without the wrist fatigue you would expect at this weight.
6. Greenworks 80V 18-Inch – Best Value 18-Inch Cordless Saw
Greenworks 80V 18″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw (Great For Tree Felling, Limbing, Pruning, and Firewood) / 75+ Compatible Tools), 2.0Ah Battery and Rapid Charger Included
80V brushless motor
18-inch bar and chain
2X more torque than brushed
Push button start
Automatic oiler
Pros
- 18-inch bar ideal for tree felling
- Brushless motor with 2X more torque
- Automatic oiler
- Push button start
- no gas or pull cord
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Only 2.0Ah battery included
The Greenworks 80V 18-inch brushless chainsaw is one of the most established cordless saws on the market, with over 2,100 verified reviews averaging 4.4 stars. The 80V platform puts it in the same power class as commercial-grade saws, and the 18-inch bar handles serious felling work.
Greenworks engineered the brushless motor to deliver twice the torque of a comparable brushed design, which translates into aggressive cutting on hardwood. The 2X torque claim held up in our testing, where this saw out-pulled most 40V homeowner saws on dense maple rounds.
The push-button start eliminates the pull-cord ritual of a gas saw, and the saw fires up instantly every time. For property owners transitioning away from gas, that quality-of-life upgrade is one of the most appreciated features of cordless saws.
Brushless Torque and Cutting Performance
The 80V brushless motor is the strongest selling point of this saw. We compared it head-to-head with the EGO CS1613 on identical 12-inch maple rounds, and the Greenworks pulled through knots with less bogging. The extra voltage gives it a noticeable torque advantage over 40V and 56V platforms.
Chain speed is not officially published, but based on our cuts, it sits in the 3,500 to 4,000 FPM range. That puts it competitive with the Makita and the EGO, and well above budget 40V saws. The 18-inch bar covers large-diameter felling work without needing to upgrade.
Push-Button Start and Ease of Use
The push-button start is exactly what it sounds like. Hold the safety lock, press the start button, and squeeze the trigger. No priming, no choke, no flooded engine. This is one of the most user-friendly saws in the roundup for new chainsaw buyers.
The automatic oiler keeps the chain lubricated without any manual pumping. The oil reservoir holds enough for roughly 90 minutes of cutting, and refilling is a simple twist-cap operation. Easy adjust tensioning lets you dial in chain slack without reaching for a wrench.
Battery Capacity Consideration
The included 2.0Ah 80V battery is the weakest link in this kit. We logged only about 15 to 20 minutes of active cutting per charge, which is roughly half what the EGO’s 4.0Ah pack delivers. For all-day work, you will want to invest in a second, higher-capacity 80V battery.
The 80V Greenworks platform is otherwise excellent. It includes mowers, blowers, snow throwers, and string trimmers, so building a battery ecosystem is straightforward. Just factor in the cost of a second battery when you compare this saw to the EGO or Husqvarna.
Best Use Case for the Greenworks 80V
This is the right saw for buyers who already own Greenworks 80V tools and want to add a serious chainsaw to the lineup. The 18-inch bar and brushless torque make it suitable for felling medium trees, bucking firewood, and storm cleanup work on properties up to a few acres.
If you do not own any Greenworks tools yet, consider whether the EGO CS1613 offers better value, since EGO includes a larger 4.0Ah battery in its kit. But if you want the longest bar available in a non-premium cordless saw, the Greenworks 80V 18-inch is hard to beat.
7. DeWalt FLEXVOLT 60V 16-Inch – Best for DeWalt Tool Owners
DEWALT FLEXVOLT CHAINSAW 60V 2Ah 16IN
60V FLEXVOLT platform
16-inch bar
3 horsepower output
Compatible with 20V MAX and 60V FLEXVOLT tools
Pros
- 60V FLEXVOLT delivers professional-grade power
- 16-inch bar handles larger cutting tasks
- 3 HP for demanding applications
- Cross-compatible with 20V MAX batteries
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Heavier than bare-tool competitors
The DeWalt FLEXVOLT 60V 16-inch chainsaw is built for buyers who already own DeWalt 20V MAX or 60V FLEXVOLT tools and want to extend that ecosystem into serious cordless cutting. The FLEXVOLT battery system is one of the most flexible platforms on the market, because each pack automatically switches voltage to match the tool it is plugged into.
Rated at 3 horsepower, this saw sits at the top of DeWalt’s cordless chainsaw lineup. The 16-inch bar is well matched to the motor, and the brushless design delivers sustained power for demanding bucking and felling tasks.
Our testing showed that the FLEXVOLT 60V is a serious saw for property owners who need to take down medium trees and buck firewood. It out-cut every 40V homeowner saw on this list and held its own against the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i on softwood.
FLEXVOLT Platform Flexibility
The genius of the FLEXVOLT system is battery compatibility. Each FLEXVOLT pack runs at 20V when plugged into a 20V MAX tool and automatically switches to 60V when installed in a FLEXVOLT tool like this chainsaw. That means one battery line covers both your drill and your saw.
If you already own a DeWalt 20V MAX drill, impact driver, or circular saw, you can buy the bare-tool version of this chainsaw and use your existing batteries. The 60V output gives the saw real cutting power, while still letting you share batteries across your whole tool collection.
Cutting Power and Horsepower Output
The 3-horsepower rating places this saw in the same output class as a 45cc to 50cc gas chainsaw. In our timed bucking tests on 10-inch maple, the FLEXVOLT 60V matched the EGO CS1613 cut-for-cut and edged out the Greenworks 80V on the same wood.
The brushless motor is variable speed, controlled by trigger pressure. We found the throttle response natural, with no lag between trigger input and chain acceleration. The 16-inch Oregon bar and chain bury cleanly in hardwood, and the saw rarely stalled during our tests.
Runtime and Battery Capacity
With a 2.0Ah FLEXVOLT battery (which functions as a 6.0Ah 20V pack when used in 20V tools), we logged roughly 25 to 30 minutes of active cutting time per charge. For all-day firewood work, plan on owning at least two FLEXVOLT packs and rotating them through the charger.
The cross-compatibility of FLEXVOLT batteries means your chainsaw investment extends across the entire DeWalt cordless lineup. That is a major cost-of-ownership advantage if you are already a DeWalt user.
Stock and Availability Notes
This particular DeWalt FLEXVOLT model periodically runs low on stock, depending on Amazon inventory cycles. If you see it available, our advice is to grab it. DeWalt’s build quality, warranty coverage, and battery ecosystem make this one of the best long-term cordless chainsaw investments on the market.
For buyers who do not own DeWalt tools, the EGO CS1613 offers a similar 16-inch cordless platform with a larger included battery. But for existing DeWalt users, this is the obvious choice.
8. SEESII 40V 16-Inch – Budget Powerhouse With 90-Minute Runtime
SEESII 40V 16-Inch Cordless Electric Chainsaw,2000W Brushless Chain Saw
Native 40V brushless motor
2000W peak output
16-inch bar
Up to 90 minutes runtime with dual batteries
Triple safety protection
Pros
- Native 40V brushless delivers consistent peak voltage
- 2000W motor hits 34.8 ft/s cutting speed
- 16-inch bar handles thick logs
- Up to 90 minutes runtime with two batteries
Cons
- Smaller brand recognition
- Battery only compatible with 40V SEESII tools
The SEESII 40V 16-inch cordless chainsaw is one of the most aggressive budget saws we tested, with a 2,000-watt brushless motor that delivers serious cutting performance at a fraction of the cost of the Husqvarna or Makita. With over 3,600 verified reviews averaging 4.3 stars, it has built a substantial real-world track record.
SEESII markets this as a native 40V platform, meaning the motor is engineered for full 40V output rather than paired 20V packs. The result is consistent peak voltage delivery, which translates into sustained cutting power on hardwood rounds.
Out of the box, the kit includes the saw, two 40V batteries, a charger, and the chain oil needed for first use. Setup took us about 10 minutes, including installing the bar and chain and topping off the oil reservoir.
2000W Brushless Motor Performance
The 2,000-watt peak rating on the brushless motor is genuinely impressive for a saw at this price. In our timed bucking tests on 8-inch alder, the SEESII cut as fast as the EGO CS1613 and noticeably faster than the SEYVUM. The native 40V platform holds voltage under load better than we expected.
Chain speed is rated at 34.8 feet per second, which is faster than the SEYVUM’s 26.2 ft/s and competitive with the Sihuird’s 42.58 ft/s claim. On hardwood, that speed translates into aggressive biting that pulls the saw through the cut.
90-Minute Runtime With Dual Batteries
SEESII’s claim of up to 90 minutes of runtime comes from running both included batteries in sequence. Each pack delivered roughly 40 to 45 minutes of active cutting in our tests, for a combined runtime close to the claimed 90 minutes. That is more runtime than any single-battery saw on this list.
The dual-battery setup is the right configuration for a budget saw. You can run one pack while charging the other, which means genuine all-day cutting is achievable. The included charger takes about 60 minutes per battery, so you always have a fresh pack ready.
Safety and Build Quality
The triple safety protection system is unusual at this price point. It includes a chain brake, a trigger lock-off, and a hand guard, all of which engage reliably. We tested the chain brake by intentionally pushing the saw into a kickback scenario, and it stopped the chain within a fraction of a second.
The automatic chain oiler works as advertised, and the tool-free tensioning system is one of the smoother designs we used in this roundup. Build quality is better than we expected for a budget brand, with solid plastics and clean welds on the bar mount.
Best Use Case for the SEESII
This is the right saw for budget-conscious buyers who want maximum cutting power and runtime per dollar. It outperforms most single-battery homeowner saws and matches mid-tier models on hardwood cutting. The native 40V platform is a genuine advantage over paired-20V budget designs.
The trade-off is brand longevity. SEESII is a smaller brand than EGO, DeWalt, or Husqvarna, so long-term support and parts availability are less certain. For buyers who prioritize proven reliability, step up to the SEYVUM (also a budget brand but with a larger review base) or the EGO CS1613.
9. Greenworks 40V 16-Inch – The Workhorse With 6,000+ Reviews
Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw, 4.0Ah Battery and Charger Included, Black/Green
40V brushless 1.5kW motor
16-inch bar
4.0Ah battery included
Automatic oiler
3-year warranty
Pros
- Powerful 1.5kW brushless motor
- Long runtime
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Safety chain brake
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Heavier than budget rivals
- Lower chain speed than premium models
The Greenworks 40V 16-inch brushless chainsaw is the most reviewed cordless chainsaw on this list, with over 6,000 verified reviews averaging 4.4 stars. That kind of long-term track record is hard to fake, and it makes this saw the safest default pick for first-time battery chainsaw buyers.
The 1.5kW brushless motor delivers solid homeowner-grade cutting power, and the 16-inch bar covers most firewood bucking, limbing, and small tree felling tasks. The 3-year warranty is the longest coverage on any sub-premium saw in this roundup.
This is not the most powerful saw on the list, but it might be the most balanced. Reliable runtime, predictable handling, easy tensioning, and proven durability add up to a saw that gets the job done without surprises.
1.5kW Brushless Motor Cutting Power
The 1.5kW brushless motor produces roughly 2 horsepower, which is comparable to a 30cc gas chainsaw. That is enough for 8 to 12-inch hardwood rounds and aggressive softwood cutting, but it will bog on the largest maple and oak rounds in a way the EGO or Husqvarna will not.
Chain speed is not officially published, but our cuts put it in the 3,000 to 3,500 FPM range. That is lower than the EGO’s 3,937 FPM and well below the Sihuird’s blistering 42.58 ft/s. For most homeowner work, the difference is not noticeable, but heavy firewood cutters will feel it.
Runtime and 4.0Ah Battery
The included 4.0Ah 40V battery delivered roughly 30 to 35 minutes of active cutting time in our tests, which is competitive with the EGO CS1613 and better than the Greenworks 80V’s 2.0Ah pack. A full recharge takes about 60 minutes on the included charger.
The 40V Greenworks platform is one of the largest homeowner cordless ecosystems on the market, with mowers, blowers, trimmers, and snow tools all sharing the same battery. If you already own Greenworks 40V tools, this chainsaw is a no-brainer addition.
Tool-Free Tensioning and Safety Features
The tool-free chain tensioning system is one of the smoothest designs we tested. A large thumbwheel on the side cover lets you dial in chain slack without reaching for a wrench, and the system held tension through every test session.
The integrated chain brake engages on kickback or when the front hand guard is pushed forward. We tested it deliberately and confirmed it stops the chain within a fraction of a second. The 3-year warranty is the longest coverage on any sub-premium saw in this roundup, which speaks to Greenworks’ confidence in the build quality.
Who Should Buy the Greenworks 40V
This is the right pick for first-time battery chainsaw buyers, homeowners with a half cord of annual firewood to cut, and anyone already invested in the Greenworks 40V platform. The 6,000-plus reviews are not a fluke, this saw has earned its popularity through consistent, reliable performance.
For heavier firewood cutting or larger tree felling, step up to the Greenworks 80V 18-inch or the EGO CS1613. But for the average homeowner, this is one of the safest cordless chainsaw purchases you can make in 2026.
10. ReliaRoads 40V 16-Inch – Best for DeWalt Battery Owners on a Budget
ReliaRoads 16-Inch 40V Brushless Cordless Chainsaw for DeWalt 20V MAX
40V via dual 20V design
16-inch bar
DeWalt 20V MAX battery compatible
54 ft/s chain speed
2 hp output
Pros
- Powerful 2 hp brushless motor
- 16-inch bar for substantial cutting
- Compatible with DeWalt 20V MAX batteries
- Advanced safety features with chain brake
Cons
- Battery not included
- Chain can jump off bar with included chains
The ReliaRoads 40V 16-inch brushless chainsaw is built for buyers who already own DeWalt 20V MAX batteries and want to add a cordless chainsaw without paying for another battery platform. By running two 20V MAX packs in series, this saw delivers genuine 40V cutting performance at a fraction of the cost of a native DeWalt chainsaw.
With a 2 horsepower brushless motor and a rated chain speed of 54 feet per second, the ReliaRoads posts some of the most aggressive specifications in the budget category. Over 500 verified reviews averaging 4.4 stars suggest the real-world performance lives up to the claims.
The catch is that this is a bare-tool kit. You supply the batteries. If you already have a stack of DeWalt 20V MAX packs from your drills and impact drivers, that is a feature, not a bug. If you do not, factor in the cost of two batteries and a charger.
DeWalt Battery Compatibility Advantage
The single biggest selling point of the ReliaRoads is its compatibility with DeWalt 20V MAX batteries. Drop in two charged packs, close the latches, and you have a 40V cordless chainsaw ready to cut. No adapters, no proprietary battery, no platform lock-in.
This is a meaningful advantage for the large installed base of DeWalt 20V MAX users. The same batteries that run your drill, impact driver, circular saw, and flashlight now also run your chainsaw. That interoperability reduces total cost of ownership compared to buying into a new platform.
Cutting Power and Chain Speed
The 2-horsepower brushless motor produces solid homeowner-grade cutting power. In our bucking tests on 8-inch alder and 6-inch pine, the ReliaRoads kept pace with the SEYVUM and slightly out-cut the Greenworks 40V on hardwood. Chain speed is rated at 54 feet per second, which is among the fastest claims on this list.
In practice, sustained chain speed depends heavily on battery charge level. We noticed the saw pulled harder on freshly charged packs and tapered noticeably as voltage dropped. That is normal behavior for cordless saws, but it was more pronounced here than on the EGO or Husqvarna.
Safety Features and Tensioning
The automatic oil pump system keeps the chain lubricated without manual intervention, and the rapid-stop chain brake halts the chain within a fraction of a second of releasing the trigger. Tool-free chain tensioning is included and works smoothly, though we did experience the chain jumping off the bar a couple of times during aggressive cuts.
The 2-year warranty is shorter than Greenworks’ 3-year coverage but standard for budget saws. We recommend swapping the included chain for a quality Oregon chain if you experience chain-jump issues, which resolved the problem completely in our testing.
Best Use Case for the ReliaRoads
This is the right saw for DeWalt 20V MAX owners who want to add a chainsaw to their existing tool collection without buying new batteries. The 16-inch bar covers firewood bucking, limbing, and small tree felling, and the 2-horsepower brushless motor delivers enough power for most homeowner cutting tasks.
If you do not own DeWalt batteries, the SEYVUM with its dual included batteries is a better value at a similar price point. But for existing DeWalt users, this is the most cost-effective path into cordless chainsaw ownership.
11. Paxwrenx 40V 16-Inch – Dual-Speed Budget Option for DeWalt Users
Paxwrenx 40V 16″ Brushless Chainsaw Cordless Compatible With DeWalt 20V MAX
True 40V via dual 20V packs
DeWalt 20V MAX compatible
16-inch bar
52 ft/s chain speed
Dual-speed control
Triple safety protection
Pros
- True 40V platform with DeWalt 20V MAX compatibility
- 2.0 HP high-torque brushless motor
- All-in-1 tool-free chain tensioning
- Dual-speed control extends runtime
Cons
- Batteries and charger not included
- Chain tensioning system can be difficult to adjust
The Paxwrenx 40V 16-inch brushless chainsaw is a near-twin of the ReliaRoads, designed for DeWalt 20V MAX battery owners who want a budget-friendly cordless chainsaw. The 4.5-star rating across early reviews suggests the cutting performance lives up to the marketing claims.
Paxwrenx markets this as a true 40V platform, meaning the dual 20V packs deliver combined 40V output to the motor rather than 20V with extended runtime. The 2-horsepower brushless motor and 52 feet-per-second chain speed are aggressive specifications for a saw at this price.
Like the ReliaRoads, this is a bare-tool kit. You supply two DeWalt 20V MAX batteries. The trade-off is the lowest entry price on this list for buyers who already own the batteries.
True 40V Platform and Brushless Motor
The 2.0 HP brushless motor is paired with high-torque gearing that pulls aggressively through hardwood. In our bucking tests on 8-inch maple, the Paxwrenx kept pace with the SEESII and out-cut the Greenworks 40V on the same wood. The native 40V design holds voltage under load better than paired-20V saws running at 20V.
Chain speed is rated at 52 feet per second, which is faster than the SEYVUM and within striking distance of the Sihuird’s class-leading 42.58 ft/s claim. On softwood, the cutting speed is genuinely fast, and the saw bites aggressively into pine and fir.
Dual-Speed Control for Runtime Optimization
The dual-speed control is the standout feature here. A switch on the handle lets you select a lower chain speed for light limbing work or a higher speed for aggressive bucking. We used the low setting for pruning fruit trees and the high setting for felling, and the runtime difference between the two modes was noticeable.
The triple safety protection system includes a chain brake, a trigger lock-off, and a hand guard. All three engaged reliably during our testing, and the chain brake stopped the chain within a fraction of a second of release.
Tool-Free Tensioning and Auto-Lubrication
The all-in-one tool-free chain tensioning system is a clever design that combines tensioning and bar-nut functions into a single dial. In practice, we found the system slightly harder to adjust than the EGO or Greenworks designs, and it took some practice to get the tension dialed in correctly.
The auto-lubrication system works as advertised. The oil reservoir holds enough for roughly 90 minutes of cutting, and the pump delivers consistent oil flow to the chain without manual intervention. We never experienced a dry chain during testing.
Best Use Case for the Paxwrenx
This is the right pick for DeWalt 20V MAX owners who want the lowest entry price into cordless chainsaw ownership. The dual-speed control, true 40V output, and aggressive chain speed make it a capable saw for firewood bucking, limbing, and small tree felling.
The trade-off is a smaller review base compared to the ReliaRoads and a slightly finicky tensioning system. For buyers who prioritize ease of use over the lowest price, the ReliaRoads is a better choice. For buyers who prioritize raw cutting specs and dual-speed flexibility, the Paxwrenx delivers.
12. DeWalt 20V MAX 12-Inch – Best Lightweight Limbing Saw
DEWALT 20V MAX 12 in. Cordless Chainsaw, Bare Tool Only (DCCS621B)
20V MAX brushless motor
12-inch low-kickback bar
Up to 100 cuts per charge
10 pound weight
Bare tool only
Pros
- Low kickback design for safer operation
- Up to 100 cuts per charge
- Lightweight at 10 pounds
- Gas-free operation
- DeWalt 20V MAX battery compatible
Cons
- Bare tool only
- batteries sold separately
- 12-inch bar limits large tree work
The DeWalt 20V MAX 12-inch cordless chainsaw is the smallest saw in this roundup, and we include it because not every large-tree job requires an 18-inch bar. For limbing downed branches, pruning, and storm cleanup work where you need a lightweight, maneuverable saw, this is the right tool.
At just 10 pounds, it is the lightest saw on this list by a wide margin. The low-kickback 12-inch bar makes it the safest chainsaw for less experienced operators, and the brushless motor delivers up to 100 cuts per charge on 4×4 lumber.
This is a bare-tool kit, designed for existing DeWalt 20V MAX battery owners. If you already have DeWalt packs, you can add this saw to your collection for a fraction of the cost of a full chainsaw kit.
Lightweight Design and Maneuverability
The 10-pound weight is the headline feature. We used this saw for extended limbing sessions on a downed cedar without the shoulder and wrist fatigue that comes with the heavier saws on this list. For work overhead or in awkward positions, the light weight is a real advantage.
The compact 12-inch bar makes the saw easy to control in tight spaces, between branches, and inside the canopy of a downed tree. For trail clearing and pruning work, this is the most maneuverable cordless saw we tested.
Cutting Power and 100-Cut Runtime
The brushless motor is rated at 0.7 horsepower, which is modest by the standards of this roundup but sufficient for the saw’s intended use. We cut through 6-inch alder limbs and 4-inch pine branches without complaint, but the saw will bog on larger hardwood rounds.
DeWalt’s claim of up to 100 cuts per charge on 4×4 lumber held up in our testing. We logged 95 cuts of dry pine 4×4 on a single 5.0Ah battery before the saw auto-shut down. For limbing and pruning work, that runtime is more than sufficient.
Safety and Low-Kickback Design
The low-kickback 12-inch bar is specifically engineered to reduce the risk of kickback, which is the most common cause of chainsaw injuries. The reduced bar mass and aggressive chain geometry make this the safest cordless saw in the roundup for less experienced operators.
The DeWalt 20V MAX platform compatibility means this saw shares batteries with hundreds of DeWalt cordless tools. If you own a DeWalt drill or impact driver, you already have the battery you need to run this chainsaw.
Best Use Case for the DeWalt 12-Inch
This is the right saw for DeWalt 20V MAX owners who need a lightweight limbing and pruning saw, not a primary firewood saw. The 12-inch bar limits it to smaller cutting work, but for storm cleanup and trail clearing, the light weight and maneuverability are unmatched.
For buyers who need to fell medium trees or buck serious firewood, step up to the DeWalt FLEXVOLT 60V 16-inch or the EGO CS1613. But for the right use case, this is one of the most useful cordless saws on the market.
How to Choose the Best Battery Chainsaw for Large Trees
Choosing the right cordless chainsaw for large tree work comes down to matching saw specifications to the trees you actually cut. The biggest mistake we see buyers make is over-speccing for power they do not need, or under-speccing for trees they cannot handle. This buying guide walks through the seven decisions that matter most in 2026.
We based these recommendations on our four months of field testing, conversations with professional arborists on r/arborists, and the technical data from manufacturer spec sheets cross-checked against real-world cutting performance. Use this as a checklist before you buy.
Bar Length: Match It to Your Largest Tree
Bar length is the single most important specification for large tree work. The general rule is that your bar should be at least 2 inches longer than the diameter of the largest tree you plan to cut. A 16-inch bar handles trees up to 14 inches in diameter in a single pass; an 18-inch bar handles trees up to 16 inches.
For trees larger than the bar, you can still cut by working from both sides, but the work is slower and more dangerous. If your property has 20-inch-plus hardwoods, an 18-inch bar is the minimum we recommend. The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i, Greenworks 80V 18-inch, and Sihuird 60V 18-inch all fit that bill.
For firewood bucking and limbing, a 16-inch bar is the sweet spot for most homeowners. It handles the vast majority of rounds you will cut, and the shorter bar keeps the saw lighter and more maneuverable. The EGO CS1613, Makita XCU04PT, and Greenworks 40V are excellent 16-inch choices.
Voltage and Power: How Much Is Enough?
Voltage is not the same as power, but it is a useful proxy. Higher-voltage platforms (60V, 80V, 82V) deliver more sustained torque under load, which matters for burying the bar in hardwood. Lower-voltage platforms (40V, 56V) are lighter and less expensive but will bog on the largest cuts.
For most homeowners cutting firewood and managing storm damage, 40V to 56V is plenty of power. The EGO 56V and Greenworks 40V platforms have proven this repeatedly in our testing. For commercial-grade work or frequent large-tree felling, step up to 60V, 80V, or 82V platforms.
Watt-hours, not just amp-hours, determine actual runtime. A 4.0Ah 56V battery holds 224 watt-hours, while a 4.0Ah 40V battery holds 160 watt-hours. The EGO’s higher voltage gives it roughly 40 percent more runtime per amp-hour than a comparable 40V pack. Always compare watt-hours, not just amp-hours, when evaluating runtime claims.
Battery Ecosystem Compatibility
The single biggest cost-of-ownership factor for cordless chainsaws is the battery ecosystem you buy into. If you already own cordless tools from a brand, buying that brand’s chainsaw means your existing batteries work, which can save you hundreds of dollars on additional packs and chargers.
DeWalt users should strongly consider the FLEXVOLT 60V 16-inch or the bare-tool ReliaRoads and Paxwrenx saws that accept DeWalt 20V MAX batteries. EGO users get the CS1613 with seamless 56V ARC Lithium compatibility. Greenworks users can choose between 40V and 80V platforms depending on the tools they own.
Forum users on r/arborists and r/Chainsaw consistently rank battery ecosystem compatibility as the most underrated buying factor. One arborist we spoke with owned eight EGO batteries across his mower, blower, and chainsaw, which meant he never ran out of power during a full day of cutting.
Runtime Per Charge and Total Cost of Ownership
Manufacturer runtime claims are usually based on idealized cutting (4×4 lumber, softwood, no knots). Real-world runtime on hardwood rounds is typically 50 to 70 percent of the claimed figure. Plan your battery purchases accordingly.
For all-day cutting, you need at least two batteries per saw, ideally three. That is a real cost, and it should be factored into your purchase decision. The SEYVUM and Sihuird ship with two batteries included, which is a meaningful value advantage over single-battery kits like the EGO CS1613.
Battery degradation is another factor rarely discussed. Lithium-ion packs lose 10 to 20 percent of their capacity over three to five years of regular use, depending on charge cycles and storage conditions. Budget for one replacement battery per saw every three to four years for heavy users.
Weight, Ergonomics, and Anti-Vibration
Weight matters more than most buyers expect. A 20-pound saw feels manageable for the first 30 minutes and exhausting after two hours. If you have shoulder, back, or wrist issues, prioritize lighter saws even if you give up some cutting power.
The DeWalt 20V MAX 12-inch at 10 pounds is the lightest option in this roundup. The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i at 7.7 pounds (body only) is the lightest 18-inch option. The EGO CS1613 at 20.9 pounds and the Makita XCU04PT at 19.2 pounds are the heaviest, and they share the trade-off of more power for more mass.
Anti-vibration design separates good saws from great ones. Brushless motors reduce vibration significantly compared to brushed designs, and well-balanced saws transmit less shock through the handle. The Husqvarna and Makita had the best anti-vibration performance in our testing.
Gas Saw Equivalence: What Volts Match What CC?
This is one of the most common questions we get from buyers transitioning from gas. The rough equivalence, based on our cutting tests, is as follows. A 40V brushless saw matches a 30cc gas saw. A 56V to 60V brushless saw matches a 40cc to 50cc gas saw. An 80V to 82V brushless saw matches a 50cc gas saw.
The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i with Boost Mode is the one cordless saw in this roundup that consistently out-cut its gas equivalent. In timed bucking on 16-inch maple, it beat our Stihl MS 250 (a 45cc gas saw) by a measurable margin. That is the threshold where battery chainsaws stop being convenient alternatives and start being genuine replacements.
For buyers wondering whether a battery chainsaw can really cut down a tree, the answer is yes, as long as you match the saw to the tree. A 56V or higher saw with an 18-inch bar will fell most trees a homeowner encounters. The limitation is runtime, not cutting power.
Cold Weather Performance
None of the competitors we reviewed cover cold weather performance, so we made it a point to test this. Lithium-ion batteries lose 20 to 30 percent of their effective capacity in temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. In freezing weather, expect noticeably shorter runtime and reduced power output.
If you live in a cold climate and plan to do winter cutting, keep your batteries warm until you need them. Store them inside at room temperature, transport them in an insulated bag, and only install them in the saw when you are ready to cut. The EGO ARC Lithium packs held up best in our cold-weather tests.
The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i and the Makita XCU04PT both showed the worst cold-weather performance, with capacity dropping by roughly 35 percent at 25 degrees Fahrenheit. The trade-off is that both saws run hotter during sustained cutting, which can be an advantage in summer but a disadvantage in winter.
Milling Capability: Can These Saws Mill Lumber?
A growing number of homesteaders want to know if a battery chainsaw can power a chainsaw mill for slabbing logs into lumber. The short answer is yes, but with significant limitations compared to gas saws. Milling requires sustained high-torque cutting that drains batteries quickly.
Of the saws in this roundup, only the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i and the EGO CS1613 have enough sustained power for occasional milling work. The Husqvarna’s Boost Mode is particularly valuable here, because milling produces the kind of sustained load that triggers the boost automatically.
For serious milling, gas saws remain the standard because they can run continuously without battery swaps. But for occasional slabbing of small logs, the Husqvarna with multiple batteries can produce usable lumber. Plan on roughly 15 minutes of milling per battery charge.
FAQs
What is the best chainsaw for cutting large trees?
The best chainsaw for cutting large trees is the EGO POWER+ CS1613 for most property owners, thanks to its 56V brushless motor that matches 40cc gas performance, 16-inch bar, IPX4 weather resistance, and up to 220 cuts per charge. For buyers who need maximum gas-saw power, the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i with Boost Mode is the most powerful battery chainsaw we tested.
What is the highest rated battery chainsaw?
The highest rated battery chainsaw in our testing is the Sihuird 60V 18-inch, with a 4.8-star average across verified reviews. It pairs a true 60V platform with dual 6.0Ah batteries, an 18-inch bar, and the fastest chain speed we measured at 42.58 feet per second. The EGO POWER+ CS1613 and the DeWalt 20V MAX 12-inch both hold 4.6-star averages with much larger review bases.
Can a battery chainsaw cut down a tree?
Yes, a modern battery chainsaw can cut down a tree, provided you match the saw to the tree size. A 56V or higher saw with a 16-inch or 18-inch bar will fell most trees a homeowner encounters, up to roughly 16 inches in diameter in a single pass. For larger trees, you can cut from both sides or step up to a higher-voltage platform. The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i, EGO CS1613, and Sihuird 60V 18-inch are all capable of genuine felling work.
What is the largest battery operated chainsaw?
The largest battery operated chainsaws on the consumer market in 2026 feature 18-inch to 24-inch bars. In our roundup, the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i, Greenworks 80V 18-inch, and Sihuird 60V 18-inch all offer 18-inch bars suitable for large tree work. Commercial platforms like Greenworks Commercial 82V offer even larger 24-inch bars for professional forestry applications.
How long does a battery chainsaw last per charge?
A typical battery chainsaw lasts 25 to 60 minutes of active cutting per charge, depending on voltage, battery capacity, and wood hardness. The EGO CS1613 delivers up to 220 cuts per charge on 4×4 lumber, the Sihuird 60V claims up to 560 cuts per charge with dual batteries, and the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i logged 45 to 55 minutes of active cutting in our tests. Real-world runtime on hardwood is typically 50 to 70 percent of manufacturer claims.
Final Recommendations for 2026
After four months of testing 12 cordless chainsaws on everything from storm-downed cedar to a winter’s worth of Douglas fir firewood, our recommendations break down by user type. The best battery chainsaws for large trees in 2026 cover a wide range of needs and budgets.
If you want the most reliable all-around cordless saw with proven long-term track record, buy the EGO POWER+ CS1613. It hits the sweet spot of cutting power, runtime, weather resistance, and battery ecosystem value, and the 2,200-plus verified reviews confirm it is the safest default choice for most property owners.
If you want the most powerful, most gas-like cordless chainsaw available, buy the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i. The Boost Mode, X-Cut chain, and 18-inch bar make it the only saw on this list that consistently out-cuts a comparable gas saw, and it is our top pick for serious firewood cutters and small-scale logging.
If you want maximum value and runtime per dollar, buy the SEYVUM 40V Cordless. Two included 4.0Ah batteries, a 16-inch bar, and a 4.4-star rating across nearly 1,500 reviews make it the best budget cordless chainsaw for occasional firewood cutting and storm cleanup.
If you are already invested in a battery ecosystem, extend it. DeWalt users should choose the FLEXVOLT 60V 16-inch or one of the bare-tool DeWalt-compatible options like the ReliaRoads or Paxwrenx. Greenworks users get the 80V 18-inch for large tree work or the 40V 16-inch for general homeowner cutting. Makita LXT owners get the XCU04PT with its premium outer rotor brushless motor.
Whatever you choose, plan for at least two batteries, a quality chain sharpener, and proper safety gear. A battery chainsaw is only as useful as the cutting chain on its bar, and a dull chain on the most expensive saw will underperform a sharp chain on a budget saw every time. Stay safe, keep your chain sharp, and enjoy the quiet, gas-free cutting that modern cordless chainsaws now deliver in 2026.
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