Greenworks Cordless Chainsaw Review
Greenworks has become a dominant name in battery-powered outdoor tools, offering a wide range of cordless chainsaws that cater to homeowners and light-duty users. This review evaluates the top models in the lineup to help you choose the right one for your property.
Quick answer
The Greenworks 80V 16-inch chainsaw is the best overall pick for most homeowners, offering the best balance of cutting power, battery life, and value. For lighter tasks, the 40V 12-inch model is a capable and more affordable option.
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Research updated June 2026.
Greenworks 80V 16-inch Chainsaw
Best balance of power, runtime, and value for most homeowners.
Greenworks 80V 16-inch Chainsaw
Best OverallPros
- Excellent power for its class
- Long runtime on a single charge
- Tool-free chain tensioning
Cons
- Heavier than some competitors
- Battery and charger sold separately on some kits
The Greenworks 80V 16-inch chainsaw is the flagship model in the lineup, designed for serious property maintenance. It delivers enough power to handle medium-sized trees and thick branches, making it a strong alternative to gas-powered saws for homeowners who want to avoid the maintenance of a two-stroke engine.
Owner reviews consistently praise its ability to cut through hardwood without bogging down. The 80V battery platform is shared with other Greenworks tools, which adds value if you already own other 80V products. The main drawback is the weight, which can be fatiguing during extended use.
Greenworks 40V 12-inch Chainsaw
Best for Light DutyPros
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Great for pruning and small branches
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Limited cutting capacity
- Battery life is short for larger jobs
The 40V 12-inch model is the entry point to the Greenworks chainsaw range. It is designed for light trimming and pruning tasks around the yard. The smaller bar and lower voltage make it much lighter and easier to handle than the 80V model, which is a key advantage for users who need a saw for occasional use.
Owner feedback indicates that it handles branches up to 10 inches in diameter well, but struggles with larger logs. The 40V battery platform is widely used across Greenworks tools, so it is a good option if you already own other 40V products. The main limitation is runtime, as the included 2.0 Ah battery drains quickly under heavy load.
Greenworks 80V 18-inch Chainsaw
Best for Heavy CuttingPros
- Largest bar in the lineup
- Comes with a larger 4.0 Ah battery
- Can handle larger logs and trees
Cons
- Heavy and can be tiring to use
- More expensive than the 16-inch model
The 80V 18-inch chainsaw is the most powerful model in the Greenworks range. It is designed for users who need to cut larger trees or process firewood. The longer bar and larger battery provide the extra capacity needed for more demanding tasks.
Owner reviews indicate that it performs well on hardwood and can handle logs up to 16 inches in diameter with ease. The included 4.0 Ah battery provides significantly longer runtime than the 2.0 Ah battery that comes with the 16-inch model. The trade-off is increased weight, which makes it less suitable for overhead pruning or extended use without breaks.
Greenworks 40V 16-inch Chainsaw
Best Value 40VPros
- Good balance of power and weight
- Comes with a larger 4.0 Ah battery
- More affordable than 80V models
Cons
- Less power than 80V counterparts
- Can struggle with dense hardwood
The 40V 16-inch chainsaw bridges the gap between the lightweight 12-inch model and the powerful 80V options. It offers a longer bar than the 12-inch model while maintaining a reasonable weight. It is a good choice for users who want a 16-inch bar but do not want to invest in the 80V platform.
Owner reviews note that it performs well on softwood and medium-sized branches, but it lacks the torque of the 80V models for cutting through dense hardwood. The included 4.0 Ah battery provides decent runtime, but the saw can bog down under heavy load. It represents good value for users who already own 40V tools.
Greenworks 80V 14-inch Chainsaw
Best Compact 80VPros
- Lighter than the 16-inch 80V model
- Good power for its size
- Compact design for tight spaces
Cons
- Shorter bar limits cutting capacity
- Not as powerful as the 16-inch model
The 80V 14-inch chainsaw is a compact option that offers the power of the 80V platform in a smaller package. It is designed for users who want the benefits of the 80V system but prefer a lighter, more maneuverable saw for tasks like pruning and limbing.
Owner reviews indicate that it is a good choice for users who find the 16-inch model too heavy. It provides more power than the 40V models while being easier to handle than the larger 80V saws. The shorter bar limits its ability to cut larger logs, but it excels at trimming and medium-duty cutting.
| Model | Best For | Bar Length | Voltage | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 80V 16-inch | Best Overall | 16 in | 80V | 4.6/5 |
| 40V 12-inch | Light Duty | 12 in | 40V | 4.4/5 |
| 80V 18-inch | Heavy Cutting | 18 in | 80V | 4.5/5 |
| 40V 16-inch | Value 40V | 16 in | 40V | 4.3/5 |
| 80V 14-inch | Compact 80V | 14 in | 80V | 4.2/5 |
Who Are Greenworks Cordless Chainsaws For?
Greenworks cordless chainsaws are designed primarily for homeowners and light-duty users. They are not intended for professional loggers or heavy commercial use. The 40V models are best suited for small yards, pruning, and light storm cleanup. The 80V models can handle more substantial tasks like felling medium trees and cutting firewood for home use.
Performance and Cutting Power
The performance of a Greenworks chainsaw depends heavily on the voltage and bar length. The 80V models deliver significantly more torque and cutting speed than the 40V models. Owner reviews on retailer sites consistently report that the 80V 16-inch and 18-inch models can cut through hardwood like oak and maple without stalling, provided the chain is sharp.
The 40V models are adequate for softwood and smaller branches but can struggle with dense hardwood. The brushless motors used in the 80V models provide better efficiency and longer runtime compared to the brushed motors found in some older 40V models.
Battery and Ecosystem
Greenworks uses two main battery platforms: 40V and 80V. The 40V platform is shared with a wide range of tools including lawn mowers, trimmers, and blowers. The 80V platform is more powerful and is used for higher-demand tools like chainsaws, snow blowers, and pressure washers. Batteries are not interchangeable between the 40V and 80V systems.
The included batteries range from 2.0 Ah to 4.0 Ah. A 2.0 Ah battery on an 80V saw provides enough runtime for about 30-45 minutes of intermittent cutting. The 4.0 Ah battery roughly doubles that runtime. Owners recommend purchasing a spare battery for longer jobs.
Build Quality and Warranty
Greenworks chainsaws are built with a focus on affordability rather than premium materials. The housings are made of high-impact plastic, which keeps weight down but may not be as durable as magnesium or aluminum used on professional-grade saws. The chains are standard Oregon or similar brand, and replacement parts are widely available.
Greenworks offers a 4-year warranty on the tool and a 2-year warranty on the battery. This is a standard warranty period for consumer-grade cordless tools. Owner reviews indicate that customer service is responsive, though some users report longer wait times for parts.
Alternatives to Consider
If you are considering a Greenworks chainsaw, it is worth comparing it to other brands in the same price range. DeWalt offers the 20V Max and 60V FlexVolt chainsaws, which are popular among users who already own DeWalt tools. Milwaukee has the M18 Fuel chainsaw, which is known for its power and build quality but comes at a higher price. Stihl offers the MSA series of battery chainsaws, which are built to a higher standard but are more expensive.
For users who do not need a battery system, gas chainsaws from brands like Stihl and Husqvarna still offer superior runtime and power for heavy-duty use. However, they require more maintenance and produce emissions and noise.
What to Check Before Buying a Cordless Chainsaw
Before purchasing a cordless chainsaw, consider the following factors: bar length should match the size of the trees you plan to cut. A 12-inch bar is sufficient for pruning, while a 16-inch or 18-inch bar is needed for felling. Battery voltage determines power output. Higher voltage (80V) provides more torque and cutting speed. Battery capacity (Ah) affects runtime. Larger Ah batteries provide longer runtime but add weight. The battery platform should match other tools you own or plan to buy. Finally, consider the weight of the saw, as heavier models can be tiring to use for extended periods.
Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Chainsaw
A common mistake is buying a saw with a bar that is too short for the intended use. A 12-inch bar cannot safely cut through a 14-inch log. Another mistake is underestimating the importance of battery capacity. A saw with a small battery may run out of power before the job is done. Some users also overlook the weight of the saw, leading to fatigue and poor cutting technique. Finally, failing to consider the battery ecosystem can result in being locked into a platform that does not offer the tools you need.
FAQs
Are Greenworks chainsaws any good?
Yes, Greenworks chainsaws are reliable for homeowners and light-duty use, offering good power and value for the price.
Which is better, Greenworks 40V or 80V chainsaw?
The 80V models are more powerful and better for cutting hardwood and larger trees, while the 40V models are lighter and more affordable for light tasks.
How long does the battery last on a Greenworks chainsaw?
Battery life depends on the model and usage, but a 2.0 Ah battery typically provides 30-45 minutes of intermittent cutting, while a 4.0 Ah battery lasts about twice as long.
Can you use a Greenworks 40V battery in an 80V chainsaw?
No, 40V and 80V batteries are not interchangeable. You must use the correct voltage battery for each tool.
Do Greenworks chainsaws come with a battery and charger?
Some kits include a battery and charger, while others are sold as bare tools. Check the product description carefully before purchasing.
How do you sharpen a Greenworks chainsaw chain?
You can sharpen the chain with a round file matching the chain pitch, or take it to a professional sharpening service.
Are Greenworks chainsaws compatible with Oregon bars and chains?
Yes, Greenworks chainsaws use standard Oregon bars and chains, which are widely available for replacement.
What is the warranty on a Greenworks chainsaw?
Greenworks offers a 4-year warranty on the tool and a 2-year warranty on the battery.
Can a Greenworks chainsaw cut down a tree?
The 80V models can fell medium-sized trees, but the 40V models are best suited for pruning and limbing only.
How do you tension the chain on a Greenworks chainsaw?
Most models have tool-free chain tensioning. Loosen the side knob, adjust the tension screw, and tighten the knob.Best Webb Outdoor Storage Box of 2026Best Mountfield Outdoor Storage Box of 2026Best Patio Heaters of 2026Best Patio Heater for Small GardenBest Patio Heater for Thick WeedsBest Patio Heater for Large Garden
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