Best Cordless Chainsaw Under £150
Finding a reliable cordless chainsaw that doesn't break the bank is tough. We have compared specs, battery ecosystems, and owner reviews to find the best models for light pruning and medium cutting tasks at this price point.
Quick answer
The best cordless chainsaw under £150 is the Einhell 36V GE-LC 36/35 Li. It offers the best balance of power, bar length, and battery value for the price. For a lighter, more compact option, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ RCS1830 is a great choice if you are already in that battery system.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
- No fake hands-on claims
Research updated June 2026.
Einhell 36V GE-LC 36/35 Li
Best balance of power, bar length, and battery value under £150.
| Product | Best For | Bar Length | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Einhell 36V GE-LC 36/35 Li | Best Overall | 35 cm | 4.5 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| Ryobi 18V ONE+ RCS1830 | Best Value / Light Duty | 30 cm | 4.3 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| Bosch EasyCut 18V-50 | Best for Pruning | 20 cm | 4.2 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| Makita DUC101Z | Best for Battery Ecosystem | 25 cm | 4.4 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| Draper 18V Storm Force | Best Budget | 25 cm | 4.0 / 5 | Check Amazon |
Einhell 36V GE-LC 36/35 Li
Best OverallPros
- Powerful 36V system for the price
- Long 35 cm bar for medium logs
- Tool-free chain tensioning
Cons
- Heavier than some 18V models
- Batteries and charger sold separately
The Einhell GE-LC 36/35 Li is the standout performer in this budget category. It uses two 18V batteries in series to deliver 36V of power, which gives it the torque to cut through thicker branches and small logs that would stall lesser saws. Owner reviews consistently praise its cutting speed and the long 35 cm guide bar, which is the largest you will find at this price point.
This model is best for users who need a saw for medium-duty tasks like cutting firewood or felling small trees. The tool-free chain tensioning is a welcome feature that makes adjustments quick and easy. The main drawback is the weight and the fact that it comes as a bare tool, meaning you need to factor in the cost of batteries and a charger if you are not already in the Einhell Power X-Change system.
Ryobi 18V ONE+ RCS1830
Best Value / Light DutyPros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Part of the huge ONE+ ecosystem
- Automatic oiler works well
Cons
- Not powerful enough for large logs
- Chain tensioning can be fiddly
The Ryobi RCS1830 is the perfect entry-level cordless chainsaw for light garden maintenance. It is lightweight and well-balanced, making it easy to use for pruning branches and cutting small pieces of wood. Owner reviews highlight its reliability and the convenience of using the same batteries as other Ryobi ONE+ tools.
This saw is ideal if you already own Ryobi tools or if your main tasks are trimming and light cutting. It is not designed for heavy-duty work, and some users report that it struggles with thicker, harder woods. The automatic oiler is a nice touch that keeps the chain lubricated without manual intervention.
Bosch EasyCut 18V-50
Best for PruningPros
- Very lightweight and compact
- Excellent for overhead pruning
- Bosch build quality is solid
Cons
- Short bar limits cutting capacity
- Not for felling or large logs
The Bosch EasyCut 18V-50 is designed specifically for pruning and light trimming. Its short 20 cm bar and low weight make it incredibly maneuverable, especially for cutting branches overhead or in tight spaces. Owner reviews consistently mention how easy it is to handle and how well it performs on branches up to 15 cm thick.
This is not a saw for heavy cutting or felling. It is a precision tool for the gardener who needs to keep trees and shrubs tidy. The build quality is typical of Bosch, with a comfortable grip and a reliable automatic oiling system. It is the best choice if your primary need is pruning.
Makita DUC101Z
Best for Battery EcosystemPros
- Excellent build quality and durability
- Compatible with all Makita 18V batteries
- Variable speed trigger for control
Cons
- Bare tool only, no battery included
- Chain tensioning requires a tool
The Makita DUC101Z is a bare tool designed for users who are already invested in the Makita 18V LXT platform. It is built to a higher standard than many budget saws, with a durable housing and a powerful motor that delivers reliable performance. Owner reviews praise its smooth operation and the variable speed trigger that gives you excellent control.
This saw is a great choice for professionals or serious DIYers who need a compact saw for site work or property maintenance. It is not the most powerful on this list, but its build quality and the vast range of Makita batteries make it a smart long-term investment. The main downside is the tool-based chain tensioning, which is less convenient than tool-free systems.
Draper 18V Storm Force
Best BudgetPros
- Very affordable price point
- Includes battery and charger
- Lightweight and easy to use
Cons
- Lower build quality than top brands
- Not suitable for heavy use
The Draper 18V Storm Force chainsaw is the most budget-friendly option on this list. It is often sold as a kit with a battery and charger, making it a complete solution for someone who needs a saw for occasional light work. Owner reviews suggest it is adequate for pruning small branches and cutting kindling.
This saw is best for the absolute beginner or someone who only needs a chainsaw once a year. It lacks the power and build quality of the Einhell or Makita, but it gets the job done for very light tasks. Do not expect it to handle thick hardwood logs or prolonged cutting sessions.
What to check before buying a cordless chainsaw under £150
When shopping in this budget range, the battery system is the most important factor. The voltage (18V vs 36V) directly impacts the cutting power. A 36V system, like the Einhell, will cut faster and handle thicker wood than any 18V model. Consider the bar length as well. A 30-35 cm bar is better for cutting logs, while a 20-25 cm bar is ideal for pruning.
Check if the saw comes with a battery and charger or if it is a bare tool. If you already own tools from a brand like Ryobi or Makita, buying a bare tool is much cheaper. Also, look for features like tool-free chain tensioning and an automatic oiler, which make the saw much easier to use and maintain.
Mistakes to avoid
Do not buy a saw with a very short bar if you plan to cut logs. A 20 cm bar will struggle with anything thicker than a few inches. Also, avoid models that require a tool to adjust the chain tension. This is a common complaint in owner reviews and makes the saw frustrating to use.
Another mistake is ignoring the battery ecosystem. Buying a saw from a brand with a limited range of tools can lock you into an expensive system. Stick to major brands like Einhell, Ryobi, or Bosch that offer a wide range of compatible tools. Finally, do not expect professional-grade performance from a sub-£150 saw. These are for light to medium duty use.
FAQs
Can I use a cordless chainsaw for cutting firewood?
Yes, but only for small to medium logs. A 36V model with a 35 cm bar, like the Einhell, is best for this task.
Is a 36V chainsaw much better than an 18V?
Yes, a 36V system provides significantly more torque and speed, allowing it to cut through thicker wood much faster than an 18V saw.
Do I need to buy batteries separately?
Many budget chainsaws are sold as bare tools. Always check the product description to see if a battery and charger are included.
What is the best bar length for a cordless chainsaw?
For general garden use, a 30-35 cm bar is a good balance of cutting capacity and maneuverability. For pruning only, a 20-25 cm bar is fine.
How do I maintain the chain on a cordless chainsaw?
You need to keep the chain lubricated with bar oil and check the tension regularly. Most models have an automatic oiler to simplify this.
Are cordless chainsaws safe to use?
Yes, but you should always wear protective gear like gloves, safety glasses, and chainsaw chaps. They are safer than gas saws as they stop instantly when you release the trigger.
Can I use a cordless chainsaw in the rain?
No. You should never use any electric chainsaw in wet conditions as it increases the risk of electric shock and reduces grip.
What is the difference between a top-handle and rear-handle chainsaw?
Top-handle saws are lighter and better for pruning from a ladder. Rear-handle saws are more stable and better for cutting on the ground.
How long does the battery last on a cordless chainsaw?
Battery life depends on the battery capacity and the load. A 4.0 Ah battery on an 18V saw can typically cut for 20-40 minutes of continuous use.
Is a cordless chainsaw quieter than a gas one?
Yes, cordless chainsaws are significantly quieter than gas models, making them more pleasant to use in residential areas.
Our verdict
For the best overall cordless chainsaw under £150, choose the Einhell 36V GE-LC 36/35 Li for its superior power and bar length. If you need a lightweight saw for pruning and already own Ryobi tools, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ RCS1830 is the best budget-friendly option.