November 2022
Chainsaws: Meta Ranking Report
This report contains an aggregate consensus of Chainsaw rankings posted by key online experts, as of November 2022.
Summary
As of 10 Nov 2022, Makita UC4051A takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed chainsaw with 2 expert endorsements. 2 experts out of 2 recommended it as the '#1 chainsaw' this month. It is followed by Echo CS-400 and Worx WG304.1 , with 3 and 3 expert endorsements respectively.
At a glance - November 2022 Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Chainsaw |
Bob Vila
|
Fire And Saw
|
Chain Saws Direct
|
Thomasnet
|
Sawinery
|
Chainsaw Larry
|
Popular Science
|
TopTenReviews
|
Reviewed
|
The Spruce
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | Check price |
Makita UC4051A
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
|
2
|
- | $350 |
Echo CS-400
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
2
|
|
3
|
- | $110 |
Worx WG304.1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
|
4
|
- | $582 |
Husqvarna 460 Rancher
|
6
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
|
5
|
- | $60 |
Worx WG303.1
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
|
6
|
- | $270 |
Poulan Pro PR5020
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
|
7
|
- | $359 |
Makita XCU03PT
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
6
|
-
|
|
8
|
- | $289 |
Husqvarna 120i
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
9
|
- | $429 |
Echo CS-590-20 Timber Wolf
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
10
|
- | $90 |
Oregon CS1500
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
|
11
|
- | $180 |
Craftsman S165
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
|
16
|
- | Check price |
Huyosen 5520E
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
17
|
- | $130 |
GreenWorks 20362
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
|
18
|
- | $245 |
GreenWorks Pro 80V GCS80420
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
We ranked Makita UC4051A #1 in November 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Chainsaws” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Makita UC4051A as #1.
Sawinery
|
Pros
Rubber grip handles and highly-visible trigger switch for convenient use
Features 16-inch guide bar and tool-free chain adjustments blades
A trusted and popular tool brand choice compared to other chain saws gas powered models
Provides soft ignition and smooth start-ups
Automatic chain oiler that allows continuous heavy cutting action
Built-in current delimiter
Convenient and efficient features
Large metal spike
Highly recommended for cutting large tree and logs
Has electric chain brakes for safety purposes
Warranties for workmanship defects up to one year from purchase
Thoroughly inspected and tested before shipping out of the factory
|
Cons
Needs electricity as a power source and an extension cord
Possible shipping delays
|
The Spruce
Best Overall, Electric
|
Pros
Easy to start
Powerful performance
Low maintenance
|
Cons
Complaints that initial assembly is difficult
|
We ranked Echo CS-400 #2 in November 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Chainsaws” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Echo CS-400 as #1.
Sawinery
|
Pros
Well-built design, good reliability
Perfect for beginners with its light weight
Offers five-year warranty for non-commercial use
Powerful chainsaw with 18-inches bar and a 40.2-cc engine
Easy to manage with digital ignition and side-access chain tensioner
Includes automotive-style air filter for superior filtration
|
Cons
Has components that need maintenance regularly
Delivery delays when purchased
|
Reviewed
Best Overall / Editors' Choice
|
Pros
Power
Guide bar length
Ease of use
|
Cons
Price
|
The Spruce
Best Overall, Gas
|
Pros
Very powerful performance
Lightweight
Fairly easy to start
|
Cons
Gas chainsaws are prohibited in some cities
Noisy
|
Methodology: combine opinions of key experts
Identify Experts
We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend Chainsaws.
Capture Rankings
For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of Chainsaws, it must be updated in the last 9 months.
Aggregate Rankings
We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking
Experts chosen for November 2022 ranking
Bob Vila
Fire And Saw
Chain Saws Direct
Thomasnet
Sawinery
Chainsaw Larry
Popular Science
TopTenReviews
Reviewed
The Spruce
We ranked Worx WG304.1 #3 in November 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Chainsaws” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Worx WG304.1 as #1.
TopTenReviews
Best reliable and entry level chainsaw that’s easy to use.
|
Pros
Fully assembled, use straight out of the box
15-amp motor for powerful cutting action
18-inch bar
|
Cons
Uses an electric cord
|
We ranked Husqvarna 460 Rancher #4 in November 2022 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Chainsaws” rankings.
Bob Vila
Best heavy duty
|
Pros
Heavy-duty cutting power for large projects
Powerful X-Torq engine
Easy, non-pull start with SmartStart system
Air-cleaning system filters out contaminants
Long-lasting engine
|
Cons
Large and heavy; may be challenging for some users to operate
Expensive
|
TopTenReviews
One of the best chainsaws for tackling medium-sized outdoor jobs
|
Pros
Easy to start
Great safety features
|
Cons
Long bar makes handling complex
High price
|
We ranked Worx WG303.1 #5 in November 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Chainsaws” rankings.
Bob Vila
Best light duty
|
Pros
Affordable option
Runs as long as the unit is plugged in
Tool-less chain tension
Chain brake for enhanced safety
Automatic oiler
|
Cons
Less durable plastic components
May be difficult to replace parts
May require an extension cord
|
Sawinery
|
Pros
16-inch bar length
Chain brakes and full-wrap rubberized handle
Metal spike bumper
Quick-stop chain brake that prevents wasted motions
Light-duty exterior that reduces fatigue even when operating for long hours
Auto-tension function
14.5 amp motor that produces 12m/s chain speed
Affordable price and warranty period of three years
|
Cons
Possible shipping delays
Corded electric chainsaw, may be limited by length of cord
|
The Spruce
Best Budget, Electric
|
Pros
Comfortable, padded handle
Automatic chain tension and oil
Excellent performance
|
Cons
Chain adjuster knob is large, might be accidentally turned during use
|
We ranked Poulan Pro PR5020 #6 in November 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Chainsaws” rankings.
TopTenReviews
Best gas-powered chainsaw for value
|
Pros
Easy to start
Powerful for its size
|
Cons
Heavy
Needs idling time before use
|
We ranked Makita XCU03PT #7 in November 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Chainsaws” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Makita XCU03PT as #1.
TopTenReviews
The best battery powered chainsaw to take safety features to the next level
|
Pros
Low maintenance
Low noise
Incredible safety features
|
Cons
Need additional batteries
|
Reviewed
|
Pros
Lightweight
Easy to maneuver
Part of the Makita 18V LXT ecosystem
|
Cons
Price
Underpowered for some applications
Plastic components that can break
|
We ranked Husqvarna 120i #8 in November 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Chainsaws” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Husqvarna 120i as #1.
We ranked Echo CS-590-20 Timber Wolf #9 in November 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Chainsaws” rankings.
Popular Science
Best gas chainsaw
|
Pros
Responsive throttle
Translucent fuel tank
Long-lasting, sharp chain
|
Cons
A bit on the heavy side
|
We ranked Oregon CS1500 #10 in November 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Chainsaws” rankings.
Popular Science
Best electric chainsaw
|
Pros
Pre-assembled
Little to no maintenance required
Lots of safety precautions in place
|
Cons
Instructions are a must-read
|
TopTenReviews
The best self-sharpening chainsaw to keep your jobs moving
|
Pros
Built-in chain sharpener
Instant start
Powerful for an electric model
|
Cons
Chain can slip off if not properly tensioned
|
We ranked Craftsman S165 #11 in November 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Chainsaws” rankings.
Bob Vila
Best overall gas
|
Pros
Chain brake for enhanced safety
Anti-vibration mounting
CARB and EPA compliant
Includes carrying case for transport and storage
|
Cons
May require high fuel consumption for heavy-duty projects
Heavy
|
The Spruce
Best Budget
|
Pros
Cushion-wrapped handle for reduced vibration
Easy Start Technology
Doesn't burn through fuel
|
Cons
Few complaints of difficulty in restarting the saw after a work break
|
We ranked Huyosen 5520E #12 in November 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Chainsaws” rankings.
Bob Vila
Best Budget gas
|
Pros
Affordable model
Powerful 54.6cc motor
vibration-dampening cushioned handle
Automatic chain oiler
|
Cons
Basic compared to similar tools offered by competitors
|
Sawinery
|
Pros
Incredibly powerful engine of 3.4HP with an 18-inch bar and chain
Durable and well-suited for cutting wood and small trees
Excellent electronic ignition system with 8500 rpm speed
Includes a filtration system
Integrated with automatic chain oiler
Designed with comfortable and safe construction
Offers a 12-month warranty
550 ml fuel tank capacity
|
Cons
Expect delivery delays
Users must wear protective gears when using this machine
|
We ranked GreenWorks 20362 #13 in November 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Chainsaws” rankings.
Sawinery
|
Pros
Quiet operation and great cutting performance
Lightweight chainsaw, perfect for small jobs
Well-balanced and durable build
Equipped with tool-free chain tensioning for easy adjusting
Easy-to-grip ergonomic handle
Guaranteed 3-year limited tool and battery warranty
Automatic chain oiler ensures durability
Greenworks batteries are interchangeable for same-voltage tools
|
Cons
Battery is a 24V lithium-ion that needs to be recharged
Charger sold separately
|
The Spruce
Best for Small Jobs
|
Pros
Very light
Easy to start and use
Handles small jobs around the yard very well
|
Cons
Not powerful or big enough for tackling large tree limbs or lots of brush
|
We ranked GreenWorks Pro 80V GCS80420 #14 in November 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Chainsaws” rankings.
Bob Vila
Best Battery Powered
|
Pros
Suitable for heavy-duty jobs
Lightweight and easy to handle
Runs for 1-2 hours per charge; 30 minutes to charge
Comes with a battery and charger
Multiple safety features
|