5 Best Professional Electric Chainsaw – Buyer’s Guide

A large yard with a hedge or trees requires regular trim and maintenance. Chainsaws offer a simple, effective way of dealing with unwanted branches and heavy-duty pruning jobs without summoning expensive professional help.

Gas chainsaws were highly powerful in yesteryears than electric chainsaws; however, that gap is dwindling. Professional, high-powered electric chainsaws offer almost a similar output level as their gas-powered counterparts. Electric chainsaws blend efficiency, price, and power and are among the cheapest chainsaws available in the market. These corded chainsaws are ideal for handling residential woodcutting chores such as trimming, pruning, clearing branches, shaping edges, etc.

Why Use an Electric Chainsaw

Electric chainsaws generate less amount of noise; hence you can use them any time without disturbing others. Electric chainsaws don’t produce toxic emissions – making them safe and environmentally friendly. Since electric models don’t have complicated engines and fewer moving parts, they are easy to operate and maintain.

Heavy-duty gas-powered chainsaw requires upper body strength and practice to use them safely, slightly irrelevant if you only use them for light yard work a few times a year. Electric chainsaws tend to be smaller and lightweight than their gas counterparts. The bar on the electric chainsaw measures 14-16 inches, and even the heavier models weigh no more than 10lbs, making them easier to carry and wield overhead.

Apart from the initial lower price investment, electric chainsaws are cheaper to own over the long term. There is no need to purchasing fuel-making these machines easy on your pockets. Electric models are light in weight and portable and don’t produce any vibrations; hence they are safer to use for extended periods.

Yanking a gasoline model’s temperamental pull start that requires users to crank a pull cord to start the engine is intimidating. Electric chainsaws reduce this sense of impending danger as they get up and running with a flick of a switch once they’re connected to an electrical source. The only maintenance needed for an electric chainsaw is to periodically lubricate the chain, as it improves chain movement along the bar and avoids overheating. Some models even come with an auto-lubrication facility.

The electric chainsaw has its drawbacks as well. Electric chainsaws require a power cord that mostly has a length limit of 100 feet, restricting your movement and can be a nuisance and safety hazard if you don’t pay close attention. While walking around the shrubs, the cord can get entangled or twisted. It is also heavy and cumbersome to climb a tall tree with the cable. Suppose you are a professional or have a large yard with many trees to maintain; in that case, electric chainsaws may be challenging to maintain, considering the different types of jobs and terrain you need to encounter.  

Things to Consider While Purchasing Electric Chainsaw

Guide Bar: The chainsaw guide bar, also known as the chainsaw blade, is essential to guide the chain’s movement, the machine’s cutting element. Chainsaws with long bars are ideal for cutting down large trees or bulky branches. Chainsaws with shorter bars are suitable to cut through small tree branches and are lighter and easier to handle. Chainsaw blades are available in 14 inches to 18 inches. Ideally, the chainsaw blade should be 2 inches longer than the wood you want to cut down to prevent any kickbacks and injuries.

Power: The power of an electric chainsaw is measured in amps. Most corded electric chainsaws come in the 7 to 15amp power range, making them suitable for light to heavy works. If you need to cut dense woods, you would require a heavy-duty electric chainsaw that offers around 15 amps. If you need the electric chainsaw for occasional trim of your yards, then an 8- or 10-amp model should be enough.

Blade Speed: An electric chainsaw’s blade speed is measured in rotations per minute (RPM). Electric chainsaws are available in the range of 2000 RPM or 3000 RPM, depending on the type of tasks required. Some chainsaw models mention blade speed as feet per minute (FPM). Electric Chainsaw’s in the 40 FPM to 50 FPM can efficiently handle day-to-day tasks.

Chain Brake System: In some situations, chainsaw users can experience kickback (a sudden thrust caused by a chainsaw blade when it hits any hard object). This kickback can lead to potential accidents or cuts. Some electric models are equipped with a chain brake system – it stops the chain from spinning when a kickback occurs. If you’re new or inexperienced with chainsaws, a chainsaw with a braking feature is highly recommended.

Chain Tensioner: The chainsaw chain takes a brutal beating while cutting through thick bushes or trees and need to be adjusted periodically. There are two types of chain tensioners.

Scrench Chain Tensioner – You can tighten the chain using a scrench – a combination of wrench and screwdriver is used to tighten the bolt or screw of the chainsaw to adjust the chain tension.

Tool-Less Chain Tensioner – It does not require any special tool; instead, a knob is fitted on the chainsaw; you can easily adjust the chain tension by turning the knob.

Weight:  Check out the chainsaw’s weight and its performance as you need to lift the machine while cutting and take it along to faraway places. A hefty device would be difficult to hold on to for long periods. Electric chainsaws generally weigh in the range of 9 to 15 pounds.

Compatibility: Woodworking projects have diverse tasks. Compatibility with attachments such as Debarkers (cleans logs before cutting), milling machines (lets you cut wood for planks and beams) allow you to complete all tasks efficiently. Some chainsaw models come with the option of attaching a pole to the device. This allows you to reach extended or elevated places for trimming and pruning tall trees.

Extension cord:  Corded electric chainsaws require a constant power supply, and to reach too far places in the yard, they need to be plugged into an extension cord to receive power. You need to find the right cable for your tool to avoid poor performance and safety issues.

The gauge is a critical component as it protects the chainsaw and maintains an efficient source of power. If you are not careful with the extension cord gauge, it may lead to overheating of the extension cords, as electricity cannot flow through the wire effectively, and heat builds, which could cause the chainsaw to overheat and burn itself out.

If you have a light electric saw that takes around 12-amps, a more lightweight 16 gauge model with a 50ft cord will suffice. If you are using a high-powered machine for heavy-duty jobs, a 12 or 10 gauge cord must perform the task efficiently. The extension cord also needs to have the correct safety ratings and must be classed as an outside cord to be suitable, as they are robust and designed to handle temperature fluctuations.

Features in Electric Chainsaw

Anti-Vibration System: Some chainsaw features a mechanism that separates the chainsaw rear handle from having contact with the engine. This dampens vibration and lowers operator fatigue allowing you to work longer while minimizing any potential discomfort.

Chain catcher: This feature stops the chain if it loosens and comes off the guide bar.

Throttle Lock: This feature prevents any unintentional operation of the chainsaw, as you need to unlock the throttle before using the electric chainsaw.

Air-Cleaning filter restricts the accumulation of dirt, debris, and sawdust in the chainsaw’s internal parts. It also prevents sputtering.

Electric Chainsaw Reviews

1. Oregon CS1500 18 in. 15 Amp Self-Sharpening Corded Electric Chainsaw

Oregon’s high-power, 15 amp CS1500 chainsaw comes with a unique PowerSharp® Integrated Sharpening System. The CS1500 is the only corded electric chainsaw on the market with this feature. With the PowerSharp® system, you can sharpen the 18-inch chain on the saw in 3 seconds with the pull of a lever, minimizing the downtime by allowing you to sharpen your chain right on them conveniently.

The Oregon CS1500 chainsaw comes with all the bells and whistles of a new-age electric saw.  The corded chainsaw starts instantly and doesn’t require any gas-oil mixing. It features, Tool-less tensioning that allows you to tension the chain by tightening the ring on the side cover without using any special tools. Featuring an automatic oiler that distributes oil on the bar and chain, keeping your chainsaw lubricated and preventing premature wear. 

The Oregon CS1500’s 18-inch guide bar is a Double Guard 91 model with a small radius nose that reduces kickback. The bar comes with a non-replaceable nose sprocket and a laminated body, perfect for tackling almost any job in your yard. The nose sprocket reduces friction and improves cutting; however, it does need to be greased regularly.  The electric saw is equipped with a PowerSharp 91PS chain. It comes with a 3/8″ pitch, a 0.05″ gauge, and 62 drive links and features chisel-style cutters that deliver efficient cutting and have excellent stay-sharp properties. The electric saw has a chain speed of 15 meters per second.

The Oregon CS1500’s chain stays oiled using the built-in Lubri-Tec oiling system, reducing chain friction and increasing the saw’s run time. The electric chainsaw comes pre-assembled, ensuring that you can start working right away. The electric chainsaw generates low noise and is silent between cuts. Chain brake for added safety Ergonomic design: Light-weight and balanced. Low vibration. Over-mold comfort handle.

Pros

• Built-in chain sharpener
• Easy to sharpen the chain
• Excellent cutting power
• Tool-less chain adjustment system

Cons

• The chain can slip off if not correctly tensioned

2. Remington RM8EPS Ranger Electric 2-in-1 Pole Saw & Chainsaw Combo

The Remington RM8EPS Ranger makes easy work of taking down hard-to-reach branches to assist you in yard maintenance. This 2-in-1 pole saw/chainsaw features a full wrap handle that enhances maneuverability and versatility. It also features a quick push-button change that enables you to convert to a chainsaw easily, without the help of any tools. 

The Remington RM8EPS features an 8-amp electric motor that instantly starts to drive the chain over the low-kickback 10-inch bar and chain to work right away on lawn care, trimming, yard work, and other projects. The Ranger electric chain saw is designed to reach up to 10-feet in height with an extendable shaft extendable.  Considering operator height, the pole saw can cut limbs 10 to 15 feet overhead.

The Remington RM8EPS’ telescoping design paired with flip and lock clamps allows you to adjust the pole’s length quickly to trim trees of varying heights efficiently. If you need to cut the logs on the ground, detach the saw from the pole to convert it from a pole saw into a chainsaw without any tools or hassle. The Ranger electric chainsaw has a non-slip grip to enhance comfort and an anti-rotation pole for stability during use to maintain optimal comfortability.

Pros

• 2-in-1 functionality
• Effective cutting capacity
• Comfortable cutting
• Lockup is easy and fairly intuitive

Cons

• No automatic chain tensioner

3. Makita-UC4051A Electric Chain Saw

The Makita Electric Chain Saw is engineered for fast cutting, efficient operation, and easy maintenance. The UC4051A features a powerful 14.5 amp motor that can deliver up to 2,900 FPM for efficient cutting and trimming, branches, bushes, and even trees, making it stand side-by-side with some gas-powered units of equivalent size. The Makita UC4051A is equipped with a 16-inch guide bar and low-kickback Oregon chain.

The Makita 16 UC4051A’s motor has a built-in current limiter engineered to protect the engine from burnout by reducing power when the saw is overloaded and an electric chain brake for maximum productivity.  The electric chainsaw’s “Tool-less” blade and chain adjustments ensure convenient operation and easy maintenance. It is also equipped with a large oil reservoir with a view window that allows the operator to check the bar oil level.

The Makita 16 UC4051A includes an automatic chain oiler for heavy continuous cutting and a large oil reservoir with a view window that allows the operator to check the oil level easily. The electric chain saw’s motor rests directly in front of the handle, making it well balanced. The chain saw has ergonomic rubberized grip handles and a large trigger switch with a soft start for smooth start-ups for increased comfort. The Makita chain saw comes with a 30-day replacement guarantee and a one-year warranty on workmanship and materials from the original purchase date.

Pros

• Professional-grade components
• The large trigger is easy to use with gloves
• Automatic chain oiler for heavy continuous cutting
• Electric chain brake for maximum productivity
• Soft start for smooth start-ups
• The current limiter helps protect the motor from damage caused by heat

Cons

• Expensive

4. WORX 304.2 18-Inch 15.0 Amp Electric Chainsaw with Auto-Tension, Chain Brake, and Automatic Oiling – WG304.2

The WORX 304.2 electric chainsaw is powered by a powerful 15-amp motor that delivers consistent performance and easily tears through standard backyard chainsaw projects. Its 18-inch bar is long enough for thick branches and moderately sized trunks. It can efficiently take down standing trees with a diameter of up to 18 inches and chop up to 36” diameter log on the ground.

The electric chainsaw is equipped with WORX’s exclusive, patented tool-free chain replacement and auto-tensioning system. The Worx 304.2 auto-tension system includes a single, oversized knob that secures the bar and chain and maintains proper tension during operation automatically. The electric chainsaw is also equipped with an auto-lubrication system to ensure that your chain always stays well-oiled. The Auto-Tension and Auto-Oiler feature not only make this a safer, better-performing chainsaw; they also extend the life of the tool.

The WORX 304.2 is cost-effective and starts easier.  The electric chainsaw is outfitted with a whole host of high-tech features to take the intimidation out of using a chainsaw. The electric chainsaw weighs only 11.2 lbs, so almost anyone can use and carry it around the yard. The chain pitch is 3/8”, with 63 chain links, and comes with a 0.05-inch gauge, and it spins around the bar at an efficient 12 m/s, makes laborious tasks look easy. The electric chainsaw is equipped with a 200 ml oil tank featuring an oil-level indicator window that ensures that you are always aware of when to refill. The WORX 304.2 is equipped with metal bump spikes that hold the wood, allowing you to get a solid footing on the log for a smooth continuous cut. That spike bumper also reduces kickbacks.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Less Noisy
• Easy to use and adjust

Cons

• Oil Leakage

5. Sun Joe SWJ803E 10 inch 8.0 Amp Electric Multi-Angle Pole Chain Saw

The Sun Joe SWJ803E  pole chain saw takes the danger and difficulty out of trimming your overgrown trees. Powered by a robust 8-amp motor, the SWJ803E’s can handle the most stubborn tree limbs up to 9.5-inches thick. This pole chain saw features a durable, 10-inch Oregon bar, while the chain features an auto lubrication system ensuring the bar and chain remain fully lubricated during use. 

The Sun Joe SWJ803E’s telescoping pole extends from 5.8 ft. to 8.8 ft. (1.8m to 2.7m), providing up to 14 ft. overhead reach, making it suitable for cutting overhanging limbs and thin logs. The pole chain saw’s multi-position head cuts at 0, 15, and 30 angles. At only 7.9 lbs, the Sun Joe SWJ803E is super lightweight and easy to handle, so you can stand safely on solid ground while adjusting the chainsaw’s telescoping pole. The chainsaw reliably powers up with the push of a button and features a safety switch to prevent accidental start.

The Sun Joe SWJ803E comes equipped with a built-in safety switch to prevent accidental starting. The chain saw has an oil tank capacity of 2 fluid ounces. The handle/trigger is optimized for right-hand users; a safety interlock button on the left side of the handle/trigger assembly must be depressed with the thumb before the trigger can be activated with fingers. The electric saw is CSA- approved and comes with a full two-year warranty.

Pros

• Quite easy to assemble
• Lightweight
• Very well-balanced in hand
• Powerful motor 

Cons

• The chain adjuster is set with a screw, so a flathead screwdriver is needed.

Safety Guidelines While Using Chainsaw

To operate an electric chainsaw safely, it is essential to follow some safety guidelines:

Wear snug-fitting and heavy-duty cloth. Invest in protective gear such as hard boots, gloves, safety glasses, and eye protection. Since you’ll likely be operating the chainsaw for an extended period, ear protection will preserve your hearing as well as allow you to work comfortably for long periods. If you are using the chainsaw for cutting entire trees, wear a hard hat.

Operate the chainsaw with both hands.  If you are right-handed, ensure that your left hand is in front, with arms straight and elbow locked.

Stand in a stable and secured position while operating the chainsaw. To reduce the kickback risk, stand off to the project’s left side and avoid touching the chainsaw’s upper tip.

Never overreach. Avoid cutting anything above your shoulders as you may lose control.

Constantly monitor the chainsaw while operating. If you experience any kickback or vibrate slightly, release the throttle and wait until the chainsaw comes to a complete stop before restarting.

Read the instructions manual carefully before operating the machine.

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