September 2023
Chainsaws: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of chainsaws rankings posted by key online experts, as of September 2023.
Summary
On 7 Sep 2023, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 88 chainsaw endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
70 chainsaws were endorsed in total, only 14 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)
As of 7 Sep 2023, 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.
Brand breakdown
-
Husqvarna: 9 chainsaws
(#1 is Husqvarna 120i)
-
Makita: 6 chainsaws
(#1 is Makita UC4051A)
-
Worx: 6 chainsaws
(#1 is Worx WG304.1)
-
Greenworks: 5 chainsaws
(#1 is GreenWorks 20362)
-
Echo: 4 chainsaws
(#1 is Echo CS-400)
Price breakdown
At a glance - September Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Chainsaw |
Chainsaw Larry
|
Reviewed
|
Popular Science
|
Thomasnet
|
Chain Saws Direct
|
Fire And Saw
|
TopTenReviews
|
The Spruce
|
Sawinery
|
Bob Vila
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | Check price |
Makita UC4051A
The Makita UC4051A electric chainsaw is highly praised for its powerful performance, ease of use, safety features, and durability, making it suitable for professional landscapers, arborists, or homeowners with large trees or extensive woodcutting needs.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
1
|
-
|
|
2
|
- | $347 |
Echo CS-400
The Echo CS-400 chainsaw is highly recommended by experts for its powerful gas-powered engine, cutting precision, ease of use, and durability, making it suitable for professionals and homeowners tackling tough cutting tasks.
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
7
|
-
|
|
3
|
- | $147 |
Worx WG304.1
The Worx WG304.1 is a powerful and efficient electric chainsaw praised for its cutting performance, ease of use, quiet operation, safety features, and durability, making it a reliable tool for home and property owners.
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
4
|
- | $246 |
Poulan Pro PR5020
The Poulan Pro PR5020 is a powerful and user-friendly gas-powered chainsaw with a 50cc engine, 20-inch bar and chain, and a range of features that make it suitable for professional use and everyday tasks.
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
5
|
- | Check price |
Makita XCU03PT
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
6
|
- | $289 |
Husqvarna 120i
The Husqvarna 120i is a lightweight and easy-to-use battery-powered chainsaw that is ideal for homeowners and individuals who need a reliable tool for occasional light-duty tasks such as pruning and cutting small trees.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
7
|
- | $600 |
Husqvarna 460 Rancher
The Husqvarna 460 Rancher is a highly regarded gas-powered chainsaw known for its power, cutting performance, and durability, making it suitable for a range of cutting tasks.
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
8
|
- | $419 |
Echo CS-590-20 Timber Wolf
The Echo CS-590-20 Timber Wolf is a gas-powered chainsaw designed for professional use, offering power, versatility, and durability for a range of cutting tasks.
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
9
|
- | $99 |
Worx WG303.1
The Worx WG303.1 is a powerful and user-friendly electric chainsaw that excels in light-duty tasks and offers a quieter chainsaw experience.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
3
|
-
|
|
10
|
- | $113 |
Oregon CS1500
The Oregon CS1500 is a highly praised electric chainsaw known for its power, ease of use, safety features, and durability, making it suitable for cutting medium-sized trees and branches.
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
15
|
- | $130 |
GreenWorks 20362
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
6
|
-
|
|
16
|
- | $209 |
Echo CS-310
The Echo CS-310 chainsaw is a gas-powered chainsaw known for its powerful cutting performance, ease of use, and strong safety features, making it a durable and reliable option for both professional and home use.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
|
17
|
- | $250 |
GreenWorks Pro 80V GCS80420
The GreenWorks Pro 80V GCS80420 chainsaw is a highly praised battery-powered electric chainsaw known for its power, performance, and safety features.
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
|
18
|
- | $309 |
Ego Power+ CS1604
The Ego Power+ CS1604 Chainsaw is a highly recommended cordless chainsaw that offers powerful cutting performance, ease of use, safety features, and durability, making it suitable for both professional and DIY users.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
We ranked Makita UC4051A #1 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best chainsaws” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Makita UC4051A as #1.
The Spruce
Best Overall, Electric
|
Easy to start
Powerful performance
Low maintenance
|
Complaints that initial assembly is difficult
|
Sawinery
|
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
|
Needs electricity as a power source and an extension cord
Possible shipping delays
|
We ranked Echo CS-400 #2 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best chainsaws” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Echo CS-400 as #1.
The Spruce
Best Overall, Gas
|
Very powerful performance
Lightweight
Fairly easy to start
|
Gas chainsaws are prohibited in some cities
Noisy
|
Sawinery
|
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
|
Has components that need maintenance regularly
Delivery delays when purchased
|
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 September 2023 ranking
Chainsaw Larry
Reviewed
Popular Science
Thomasnet
Chain Saws Direct
Fire And Saw
TopTenReviews
The Spruce
Sawinery
Bob Vila
We ranked Worx WG304.1 #3 in September 2023 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.
|
Fully assembled, use straight out of the box
15-amp motor for powerful cutting action
18-inch bar
|
Uses an electric cord
|
We ranked Poulan Pro PR5020 #4 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best chainsaws” rankings.
TopTenReviews
The best value gas-powered chainsaw
|
Easy to start
Powerful for its size
|
Heavy
Needs idling time before use
|
We ranked Makita XCU03PT #5 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best chainsaws” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Makita XCU03PT as #1.
Reviewed
|
Lightweight
Easy to maneuver
Part of the Makita 18V LXT ecosystem
|
Price
Underpowered for some applications
Plastic components that can break
|
TopTenReviews
The best battery powered chainsaw overall
|
Low maintenance
Low noise
Incredible safety features
|
Need additional batteries
|
We ranked Husqvarna 120i #6 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best chainsaws” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Husqvarna 120i as #1.
We ranked Husqvarna 460 Rancher #7 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best chainsaws” rankings.
TopTenReviews
One of the best chainsaws for tackling medium-sized outdoor jobs
|
Easy to start
Great safety features
|
Long bar makes handling complex
High price
|
We ranked Echo CS-590-20 Timber Wolf #8 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best chainsaws” rankings.
Popular Science
Best gas chainsaw
|
Responsive throttle
Translucent fuel tank
Long-lasting, sharp chain
|
A bit on the heavy side
|
We ranked Worx WG303.1 #9 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best chainsaws” rankings.
The Spruce
Best Budget, Electric
|
Comfortable, padded handle
Automatic chain tension and oil
Excellent performance
|
Chain adjuster knob is large, might be accidentally turned during use
|
Sawinery
|
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
|
Possible shipping delays
Corded electric chainsaw, may be limited by length of cord
|
We ranked Oregon CS1500 #10 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best chainsaws” rankings.
Popular Science
Best budget
|
Pre-assembled
Little to no maintenance required
Lots of safety precautions in place
|
Instructions are a must-read
|
TopTenReviews
The best self-sharpening chainsaw
|
Built-in chain sharpener
Instant start
Powerful for an electric model
|
Chain can slip off if not properly tensioned
|
We ranked GreenWorks 20362 #11 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best chainsaws” rankings.
The Spruce
Best for Small Jobs
|
Very light
Easy to start and use
Handles small jobs around the yard very well
|
Not powerful or big enough for tackling large tree limbs or lots of brush
|
Sawinery
|
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
|
Battery is a 24V lithium-ion that needs to be recharged
Charger sold separately
|
We ranked Echo CS-310 #12 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best chainsaws” rankings.
TopTenReviews
The best all-rounder
|
Powerful enough to make quick work of any wood
Lightweight and durable construction
|
You must mix your fuel with oil before using
Quite loud – up to 90 dB
|
Bob Vila
Best Gas
|
Easy to start so users don’t to have to strain to pull the starter cord over and over
Light weight allows for extended use and better maneuverability
Powerful, smooth-running engine easily cuts logs up to 14 inches in diameter
|
Molded plastic bucking spikes do not grip as well as metal
Should be used at least monthly to preserve engine components
|
We ranked GreenWorks Pro 80V GCS80420 #13 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best chainsaws” rankings.
Bob Vila
Best for Firewood
|
Long 18-inch bar and chain are suitable for big jobs like felling and bucking
High-torque motor and fast chain speed facilitate heavy-duty wood cutting
Good runtime-to-charge-time balance: 30 minutes of runtime, 30 minutes to charge
Modest price point for a heavy-duty battery-powered chainsaw
|
Heaviest saw in test group
Chain tensioner feels a bit less robust than we like for heavy-duty work
|
We ranked Ego Power+ CS1604 #14 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best chainsaws” rankings.
Bob Vila
Also Consider
|
Powerful and aggressive tool with 16-inch bar; suitable for downed trees, branches, and firewood
Good cut capacity and runtime; suitable for small and large cutting
Water-resistant construction with IPX4 rating
|
Soft start takes some getting used to
Oil filter can slow adding oil into reservoir
|