10 Best Small Chainsaws in 2022
Cut Through All Your Tasks with the Best Mini Chainsaws Taking Over the Market
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Chainsaws are one of the most efficient and versatile tools used by homeowners and professional workers alike. Painstaking yardwork becomes significantly simpler with the use of this invention. The tool itself has changed and evolved in the past decade. Today, small chainsaws are instrumental in the home maintenance tasks of average homeowners.
Even the smallest chainsaw can be very useful for those who wish to avoid sawing by hand and perfect for anyone else who doesn’t want to deal with the hassle of obnoxiously loud machines. A large part of maximizing the efficiency of this item is finding the best small chainsaw that suits your preferences and needs.
If you’re looking to purchase the best chainsaw but aren’t sure what make and model to invest in, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve researched the best mini chainsaw options for you. These chainsaw reviews and guides will help you find the right one.
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View the Best Small Chainsaw for the Money, Below.
- BLACK+DECKER LCS1020
- Makita XCU03PT1 18V X2
- Oregon CS1400 Saw
- BLACK+DECKER LCS1240
- Greenworks 20312 40V
- Echo CS-310
- Makita UC3551A
- GreenWorks 2000219
- Worx WG303.1
- Remington RM4214CS 2-Cycle Chainsaw
1. BLACK+DECKER LCS1020
Best Lightweight Chainsaw From a Reputable Chainsaw Brand
Tired of getting caught in awkward, tight corners due to the restrictions of the length of a cord? This battery-powered tool is ideal for close quarter-cutting, and it excels at getting in even the tightest areas. If quaking aspen dominates your yard, this is the best chainsaw to prune unwanted shrub growth.
Unlike typical gas saws that require tiresome pull starts, this battery-powered chainsaw will come to life easily. That's thanks to the start button and sliding safety-lock combination. In addition, this lightweight chainsaw features a noise level comparable to a vacuum cleaner. As a result, it's perfect for those who want to keep their yard work on the down-low.
Aside from the long-established manufacturer, which has a reputation of being one of the most trusted brands, this battery-powered model is extremely maneuverable and will allow you to clear your small yard in no time. It's one of the best lightweight chainsaws on our list!
Check Price on Amazon ➞2. Makita XCU03PT1 18V X2
One of the Best Electric Saws for Cutting Speeds and Low Volume
Powered by two 18V batteries, this Makita model will give you a 36V run-time and performance without having to worry about a high battery demand. This kit comes with a dual-port charger that can charge both batteries efficiently and simultaneously. It also ensures that you don’t have any harmful emissions. With an increased cutting speed and reduced noise level, it's hard to go wrong with this option.
While this design isn’t as lightweight as the previously mentioned Black+Decker, it offers strong cutting speeds with low volume levels.
Check Price on Amazon ➞3. Oregon CS1400 Saw
A Great Electric Chainsaw for Minimum Fatigue
This may be one of the best 16-inch chainsaw options available as far as top-rated chainsaws go. Oregon is certainly one of the best chainsaw brands, for sure! This rugged machine has the perfect balance of user-friendliness and power to complete all necessary yard work you encounter. A simple squeeze of the trigger will send it shredding through tree limbs and saplings. Experience minimum kickback and ensure you get a smooth cut every time.
One of the best parts about this electric chainsaw is how lightweight it is – the user will experience minimal fatigue while taking on some serious pruning and yard clearing tasks.
Check Price on Amazon ➞4. BLACK+DECKER LCS1240
Best Electric Powered Chainsaw for Convenience and Comfort
The impressive 40V battery that powers this Black+Decker LCS1240 ensures a long lifespan. It also features a runtime that lasts up to 5 times longer than competing models. The automatic oil lubrication constantly maintains the bar and chain, and the wrap-around bale handle is hard to beat.
You won’t have to worry about much kickback from the 12-inch bar and chain either, which is always comforting to know when using such a potentially dangerous tool.
The combination of lightweight design and comfortable grip gives you a lot of control over your cuts, meaning you can keep them smooth and intentional throughout use. When it comes to battery-powered chainsaws, you can't go wrong with this one.
Check Price on Amazon ➞5. Greenworks 20312 40V
Best Mini Chainsaw with the Cutting Power to Rival Gas-Powered Chainsaws
This GreenWorks mini chainsaw has a reliable battery-powered runtime and an impressive amount of safety features, including a low kickback chain and chain brake. This prevents any accidental kickbacks. This chainsaw presents an alternative to gas-powered chainsaws that many users are looking for.
It features brushless motor technology and torque level without the hassle of the pull-to-start that many gas models require. However, the 16-inch bar and chain is a size that only experienced users should work with.
Once you’ve operated this tool, it will be hard to go back to the trouble of mixing oil and gas. Minimal vibration and enhanced user comfort make this machine a pleasure to work with.
Check Price on Amazon ➞6. Echo CS-310
Best Small Gas Chainsaw for Lower Fuel Consumption
Echo is a brand known for its innovative research and design development, so high-quality tools are their norm. The Echo CS-310 gas chainsaw is no exception. Although this 16” bar is gas-powered, it sports lower fuel consumption than competing machines, making it more eco-friendly. You can use this gas chainsaw for woodwork, drilling, cutting, metalwork, and many more applications.
The versatility and diversity of applications for this tool make it worth the expense and the sprocket-nose bar for added cut control seals the deal.
Check Price on Amazon ➞7. Makita UC3551A
Best Electric Chainsaw with a Great Warranty
Engineered for simple maintenance requirements, fast cutting, and easy operation, the UC3551A makes yardwork almost enjoyable. It features a large oil reservoir that allows for continuous cutting without stopping in the middle for a refill. You'll find a built-in current limiter. This reduces the power that goes to the motor if the saw overloads, making this tool-less blade machine even safer.
Aside from the generous warranty that Makita is known for, this tool is a decent size and can get everything done at an affordable cost.
Check Price on Amazon ➞8. GreenWorks 2000219
A Powerful Chainsaw with a Great Battery
This GreenWorks line of 40V battery-powered tools offers the same versatility of power for many other machine options and the same quick charging battery. In short, you can get back to work without waiting forever on the charger.
The 12” bar length makes this tool easy to handle, which plays a significant role in the safety of the user.
Check Price on Amazon ➞9. Worx WG303.1
An Electric Model Comparable in Power to Small Gas Chainsaws
With 14.5 amp power and a 16” bar, this Worx tool packs a punch. A single oversized knob works to secure the chain and bar to maintain the tension while you work, which is incredibly helpful for those who use their chainsaw for many of the same tasks. This design sports a lot of stability throughout use, even when emitting peak horsepower.
If you hate retightening the tension, the Worx WG303.1 comes in handy by being able to stay at the perfect tension use after use.
Check Price on Amazon ➞10. Remington RM4214CS 2-Cycle Chainsaw
Best Long Lasting Gas Powered Saw
The 14” bar of this Remington is sprocket-tipped and ideal for nearly any pruning and branch trimming. The durability of this gas-powered chainsaw is unmatched. It'll last a long time through consistent use. It's great for cutting through tough tree branches and even small trees.
Although this Remington gas chainsaw is the heaviest and arguably the most difficult to maneuver, the ergonomic design makes up for the added weight, and the QuickStart technology is extremely reliable.
Check Price on Amazon ➞Small Chainsaw Buyer’s Guide
With all the different kinds of small chainsaw models and chainsaw chains on the market today, it can be challenging to find a lightweight chainsaw that best suits your needs, budget, and overall preferences. Before investing in such an important tool, keep the following factors of the best chainsaws in mind.
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Type of Chainsaw
You first need to know the type of chainsaw you’re interested in buying. Each type has its own benefits and disadvantages. Some are better for light tasks, and others can tackle anything. How much power your lightweight chainsaw has depends entirely on the type, make, and model. Here are the major types you have to choose from.
Battery-Powered / Cordless
Battery-powered chainsaws come with all kinds of benefits, from being noise-free and emission-free to being just very pleasant to work with overall. In addition, they require no maintenance, thanks to their battery power source. A good cordless chainsaw is also extremely portable. These types are some of the lightest chainsaws on the market. However, keep an eye on their power since you’ll need to charge the batteries between uses.
Cordless power tools are safer than other types – the battery eliminates any potential cord tripping hazards that one may encounter with corded models. They’re the best lightweight chainsaw option for climbing trees. However, they might not have the cutting power of a small gas-powered chainsaw.
Corded Electric
These electric chainsaws usually have enough power to suit the needs of the average homeowner in their yard work. They don’t require much maintenance, and they produce no emissions. Plus, electric chainsaws are considerably less noisy compared to their gas-powered counterparts.
This type tends to be easier to carry around due to their smaller size; this design also contributes to their affordable price. However, there are a few downsides to these; electric chainsaws need to be tethered to a stationary power source whenever they’re in use. Their portability drops significantly!
Gas-Powered
Gas chainsaws (usually) feature a two-stroke engine powered by fuel, making them extra powerful. A small gas chainsaw can handle heavy-duty tasks such as cutting medium-sized to larger trees.
While their sheer strength is incredibly appealing, gas chainsaws come with drawbacks of harmful emission release, lots of noise when in use, and a lot of necessary maintenance.
Safety
As the user, your primary concern should be the safety of yourself and those around you when using a mini chainsaw. Safety features, such as kickback, will protect you from potential injury when using the power tool.
If you’re not super experienced with any type of power tool, we recommend selecting a lightweight chainsaw that rates very highly in the safety department to reduce the risk of harmful accidents.
Make sure to purchase chainsaw chaps, gloves, goggles, and any other safety equipment. Even the best lightweight chainsaw will need protection.
Budget
What amount are you willing to spend on the best mini chainsaws? Of course, whatever option you choose will need to fit within your budget. Fortunately, there are so many different models on the market that you’ll be able to find the one that is right for you – even if you have a super tight budget.
The amount you should spend depends on the intended use of the chainsaw. For example, if you’ll only use the machine several times a year, you’re probably better off purchasing a cheaper model. Buying an expensive and more powerful model just wouldn’t make sense for such a small amount of use.
On the flip side, if you’re looking for a mini chainsaw that will last you for a long time and work consistently well, consider more reputable brands that use higher-quality materials. These types of mini chainsaws will perform excellently for years to come. Durability and reliability are crucial for something you will use all the time.
Additional features may ramp up the price. For example, your chainsaw may come with an automatic chain oiler, anti-vibration system, inertia chain brake, a built-in chain sharpener, and more! But you may not need all of this – the best mini chainsaw for you may not come with all the bells and whistles.
Maintenance Requirements
Like we saw when examining the different types of mini chainsaws, specific maintenance requirements can vary depending on the individual type. While a small gas-powered chainsaw will last for years to come and perform well during that time, it will require a lot of regular maintenance. The oil will need to be changed, the air filter will need to be cleaned, and overall routine checkups will be necessary. All chains will need bar and chain lubrication.
If you’re looking for lightweight chainsaws that require very little or even no maintenance whatsoever, avoid gas-powered models. A more suitable option may be an electric or battery-powered tool.
Buyer’s Guide Questions
How to Cut Down a Small Tree with a Chainsaw
Here are the steps you should follow if you plan on using your lightweight chainsaw to cut down a small tree.
Safety First
You should clear the workspace around the tree, removing any tripping hazards. Create a clear escape route in case you need to get out of the way; your tree might fall quickly and unexpectedly. Personal well-being also plays a strong role in this process, so make sure that you rest up and mentally prepare for the physical work ahead of you. Even using super lightweight chainsaws will be taxing.
Eat a healthy breakfast and make sure you’re awake and alert for the task at hand. Dress properly for safety with head protection, eye protection, hearing protection, heavy-duty boots for ankle protection, and any other leg and body protection you may need.
Have a Plan
After checking to ensure that your tool has been well-maintained, examine the area around the tree you would like to fall. Inspect the trees around it and make sure you won’t create a domino effect with the first falling tree. Also, make sure there aren’t any structures around that could be damaged by limbs.
Determine the Fall Direction
Once you have an idea of the objects surrounding your tree, you can determine which direction you would like it to go down. If it is already leaning in a direction that also has a clear path, that would be the best scenario. However, if there are objects or buildings in the way, you should consult with an experienced professional and make sure everything happens as safely as possible.
Proceed with Caution
If you have a clear path, you can make the face cut. This is the cut that determines the direction that which the tree will fall. Calculate the proper dimensions of the hinge you will create, and then start the back cut. You can place a wedge in the cut to assist with directional felling – just make sure not to cut through the hinge! Contact a professional at any point if you feel unsafe or are unsure of how to proceed.
What Can You Cut with a Small Chainsaw?
Again, this is dependent on the type of chainsaw you’re using, as some power tools are stronger than others. Small gas chainsaws are better for heavy-duty projects, whereas corded or battery-powered saws may be better for tree pruning.
If you use the right blade, you can cut through metal with your chainsaw. However, homeowners tend to use these tools to prune their yards and trim any unwanted shrubbery or other growths.
The best mini chainsaws are very powerful and can handle cutting down trees and through logs; you just need to make sure you are prepared.
How to Cut Small Logs with a Chainsaw
When making your own firewood or cutting logs for any other reason, you need to make sure you’re following the steps properly. Gear up with the necessary safety equipment, clear your workspace, and always remember to maintain good posture throughout the process.
When you’re ready to begin, you have the option to:
- Lay the log fully on the ground, supported on both ends.
- Lay the log on the ground, supported on one end while the other is in the air.
The first option is the safest and simplest method, but the other can also be completed safely as long as you are careful.
Conclusion
What one person may consider the best chainsaw might not be the same for you, so choosing your ideal tool should not be decided rashly. Before limiting yourself to a specific manufacturer and model, you should make sure you thoroughly consider all the different factors listed above. Ultimately, you are the only one who knows what exactly you need.
Industry professionals and online small chainsaw reviews can help to point you in the right direction and give you some pointers, but the internet can’t read your mind. It won’t automatically know what exactly you plan on using the machine for as well as how to fit it within your budget.
If you’ve never used one of these machines before, you should go for a model with less than 18″ of guide bar – you may even be good with a solid 12-inch bar and chain. Experienced users and industry professionals should only ever use the 20″ bars and larger.
Did you Know?
There are models of this machine that are perfectly suitable for environmentally sensitive areas. Choose an emission-free model, like a battery-powered or an electric type, for places where you want to avoid harmful emissions.