How to Choose a Cordless Chainsaw
Choosing a cordless chainsaw means balancing power, battery life, and safety features for your specific cutting tasks. This guide breaks down the key specs and real-world considerations to help you find the right saw for your yard or property.
Quick answer
For most homeowners, the DeWalt DCM575B (20V Max XR) offers the best balance of bar length, chain speed, and battery ecosystem. For budget-conscious buyers, the Ryobi RY40510 (40V) provides solid cutting power at a lower entry price. Both deliver reliable performance for pruning and light felling.
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Research updated June 2026.
DeWalt DCM575B 20V Max XR Cordless Chainsaw
Reliable brushless motor, excellent chain speed, and a proven battery platform.
What to Look for in a Cordless Chainsaw
Cordless chainsaws have become a practical alternative to gas models for most residential tasks. They are quieter, lighter, and require less maintenance. The key is matching the saw's specs to your typical workload. Bar length, motor type, battery voltage, and chain speed are the primary factors that determine what a saw can handle.
Bar Length: What Size Do You Need?
The bar length dictates the maximum diameter of wood you can cut in a single pass. A 12-inch bar is suitable for pruning branches and cutting small logs up to about 10 inches thick. A 16-inch or 18-inch bar handles larger firewood and light felling of smaller trees. For heavy-duty work like cutting thick trunks, a 20-inch bar is available, but it demands more battery power and is heavier to maneuver. Most homeowners find a 12 to 16-inch bar to be the most versatile.
Motor Type: Brushed vs. Brushless
Brushless motors are more efficient than brushed motors. They deliver more power per battery charge, generate less heat, and have a longer lifespan. Almost all modern cordless chainsaws from major brands like DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee use brushless motors. Brushed motors are found on budget models and are acceptable for occasional light use, but they will drain batteries faster and may wear out sooner.
Battery Voltage and Ecosystem
Voltage is a rough indicator of power. 20V (or 18V) saws are adequate for light pruning and limbing. 40V and 60V saws provide more torque and runtime for cutting larger wood. The battery ecosystem is just as important. If you already own tools from a brand like DeWalt, Makita, or Ryobi, sticking with that platform saves money on batteries and chargers. Consider the amp-hour (Ah) rating; higher Ah batteries (like 5.0Ah or 9.0Ah) provide longer runtime.
Chain Speed and Tensioning
Chain speed, measured in meters per second (m/s), affects how quickly the saw cuts. Higher chain speed (over 15 m/s) generally means faster cutting through wood. Tool-free chain tensioning is a valuable feature that allows you to adjust the chain tightness without a wrench, saving time and ensuring safe operation. Look for saws with a side-mounted tensioning knob for convenience.
Safety Features
Key safety features include a chain brake that stops the chain instantly if kickback occurs, a low-kickback bar and chain, and a lock-off switch to prevent accidental starts. A good handguard is also important. Always use a chainsaw with a functioning chain brake, especially for less experienced users.
What to Check Before Buying
Before purchasing, confirm the bar length matches your typical cutting tasks. Check the battery voltage and Ah rating to ensure enough runtime for your work. Verify the chain speed specification and whether the tensioning is tool-free. Read owner reviews on retailer sites to gauge real-world battery life and build quality. Also, check the warranty length and brand reputation for customer service.
Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is buying a saw with too short a bar for the wood you need to cut. Another is ignoring the battery ecosystem; buying a saw from a brand you don't already own tools from can lead to higher overall costs. Avoid models with very low chain speed (under 12 m/s) as they will cut slowly and may stall. Also, do not overlook the importance of a chain brake; it is a critical safety feature that should not be skipped.
| Product | Best For | Bar Length | Motor Type | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCM575B | Overall Best | 12 in | Brushless | 4.7/5 |
| Makita XCU03Z | Power & Runtime | 16 in | Brushless | 4.6/5 |
| Ryobi RY40510 | Budget Pick | 16 in | Brushless | 4.4/5 |
| Milwaukee M18 Fuel | Heavy-Duty | 16 in | Brushless | 4.5/5 |
| Stihl MSA 161 T | Light Pruning | 12 in | Brushed | 4.3/5 |
Our Top Cordless Chainsaw Picks
DeWalt DCM575B 20V Max XR Cordless Chainsaw
Best OverallPros
- Very fast chain speed for quick cuts
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Excellent build quality and warranty
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Bar length may be short for larger logs
The DeWalt DCM575B is a top-tier cordless chainsaw that excels in pruning and limbing tasks. Its brushless motor delivers a chain speed of 18.5 m/s, which is among the fastest in its class, allowing for clean and efficient cuts. The saw feels well-balanced and the tool-free chain tensioning system is simple to use.
Owner reviews consistently praise its reliability and power, though some note that the 12-inch bar limits its use for larger firewood. It is a bare tool, so you need a DeWalt 20V battery and charger. For those already in the DeWalt ecosystem, this is an easy recommendation.
Makita XCU03Z 18V LXT Cordless Chainsaw
Best Power & RuntimePros
- 16-inch bar handles larger wood
- Excellent runtime with 5.0Ah battery
- Durable Makita build quality
Cons
- Slower chain speed than DeWalt
- Heavier than some competitors
The Makita XCU03Z is a powerful 16-inch chainsaw designed for more demanding tasks like cutting firewood and light felling. Its brushless motor is efficient, and when paired with a 5.0Ah battery, it offers impressive runtime. The saw is built to last, with a metal buckle and a high-quality chain.
Owner reviews highlight its reliability and power, but some find it heavier than expected. The chain speed is moderate at 15.2 m/s, which is adequate but not as fast as the DeWalt. It is a bare tool, requiring a Makita 18V battery and charger. It is a strong choice for those needing a longer bar.
Ryobi RY40510 40V Cordless Chainsaw
Best BudgetPros
- Good value for a 40V brushless saw
- Includes battery and charger
- Decent cutting power for the price
Cons
- Heavier than some competitors
- Chain speed is average
The Ryobi RY40510 is a budget-friendly 40V chainsaw that offers solid performance for the price. It comes as a kit with a 4.0Ah battery and charger, making it a complete solution for new users. The brushless motor provides enough power for pruning and cutting firewood.
Owner reviews note that it is a reliable saw for the money, though it is heavier than some 20V models. The chain speed is adequate for most tasks, but it may struggle with very dense wood. It is a great entry point for those starting with the Ryobi 40V platform.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 16 in. Chainsaw
Best Heavy-DutyPros
- High chain speed for fast cutting
- Powerful motor handles tough wood
- Excellent build quality and warranty
Cons
- Expensive, especially with battery
- Heavier than many 12 in models
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel chainsaw is a heavy-duty tool designed for demanding users. It features a brushless motor that delivers a chain speed of 17.5 m/s, making it one of the fastest 16-inch cordless saws. It is built to withstand job site conditions and offers excellent cutting performance.
Owner reviews praise its power and speed, but note the high cost, especially when purchased as a kit. It is a bare tool, requiring a Milwaukee M18 battery and charger. It is best for those who need a reliable saw for frequent, heavy cutting tasks.
Stihl MSA 161 T Cordless Chainsaw
Best Light PruningPros
- Very lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Good for pruning and limbing
- Stihl brand reliability
Cons
- Brushed motor is less efficient
- Slow chain speed
The Stihl MSA 161 T is a lightweight, compact chainsaw designed for light pruning and limbing tasks. It is one of the lightest cordless saws available, making it easy to use for extended periods. The brushed motor is adequate for small branches and limbs.
Owner reviews appreciate its low weight and Stihl build quality, but note that it is not suitable for cutting larger wood. The chain speed is slower than brushless models, and the battery life is shorter. It is a good choice for homeowners with a Stihl battery system who need a dedicated pruning saw.
FAQs
What is the best bar length for a cordless chainsaw?
For most homeowners, a 12-inch to 16-inch bar is ideal. A 12-inch bar is best for pruning, while a 16-inch bar handles firewood and light felling.
Are brushless motors worth the extra cost?
Yes, brushless motors are more efficient, provide more power, and last longer than brushed motors. They are recommended for regular use.
Can I use a 20V chainsaw for cutting firewood?
Yes, a 20V chainsaw with a 12-inch bar can cut small to medium firewood. For larger logs, a 40V or 60V saw with a 16-inch bar is better.
How long does a cordless chainsaw battery last?
Runtime varies by battery size and workload. A 5.0Ah battery on a 20V saw can last 30-60 minutes of intermittent cutting.
Do I need a chain brake on a cordless chainsaw?
Yes, a chain brake is a critical safety feature that stops the chain if kickback occurs. Always use a saw with a functioning chain brake.
What is tool-free chain tensioning?
It allows you to adjust the chain tightness without using a wrench. It is a convenient feature that makes maintenance easier.
Can I use a cordless chainsaw in the rain?
No, you should not use any electric chainsaw in wet conditions. Water increases the risk of electric shock and damage to the tool.
How do I maintain a cordless chainsaw chain?
Keep the chain sharp and properly tensioned. Lubricate the bar and chain with bar oil before each use to reduce friction and wear.
Is a 40V chainsaw more powerful than a 20V?
Generally, yes. Higher voltage usually means more torque and power, making 40V saws better for cutting larger wood.
What is the warranty on most cordless chainsaws?
Most major brands offer a 3 to 5-year warranty on the tool and a 2 to 3-year warranty on the battery. Check the specific model for details.
Our verdict
For most homeowners, the DeWalt DCM575B is the best overall cordless chainsaw, offering a fast chain speed, reliable brushless motor, and excellent build quality. If you need a longer bar for firewood, the Makita XCU03Z is a strong choice. For budget buyers, the Ryobi RY40510 delivers solid performance at a lower price. Always prioritize safety features like a chain brake and choose a saw that matches