8 Best Chainsaws at Home Depot in 2023 – Reviews & Top Picks
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Portable, easy to use, and quick to get the job done, chainsaws are one of the best power-driven tools to have in the garage or tool shed. They are used for pruning, removing branches, cutting down large trees, and harvesting firewood, and don’t cause arm fatigue or calluses. Chainsaws aren’t exactly cheap, though. That’s exactly why you need to know in advance what kind of tool you’re looking for.
Otherwise, you’ll end up paying more for a machine that you don’t have much use for. So, look for a chainsaw of the right size, bar length, functionality, and cutting speed. We’ve covered all that in the Buyer’s Guide. But first, you can just pick one of the top-tier saws from our reviews. Read on to find your perfect chainsaw!
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2023
| Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall
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ECHO Gas 2-Stroke Cycle Chainsaw |
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CHECK PRICE |
Best Value
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RYOBI ONE+ Cordless Battery Chainsaw |
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CHECK PRICE |
Premium Choice
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Milwaukee M18 FUEL Lithium-Ion Battery Chainsaw |
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CHECK PRICE |
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DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Battery Powered Chainsaw Kit |
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CHECK PRICE | |
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Makita Corded Electric Rear Handle Chainsaw |
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CHECK PRICE |
The 8 Best Chainsaws at Home Depot
1. ECHO Gas 2-Stroke Cycle Chainsaw—Best Overall
| Type: | Gas-powered |
| Bar Length: | 18 inches |
| Weight: | 12.1 pounds |
| Warranty: | 5 years |
If you’re looking to cut down some trees and trim larger-than-average logs, the ECHO Gas 2-Stroke Cycle Chainsaw will be a great investment. First, it has an impressive bar length (18 inches) and can handle 32-inch diameter wood. Second, the G-force pre-cleaner system keeps the engine bay free of dust and debris. The chainsaw only takes a second to start and delivers smooth, consistent performance from the get-go.
Add a generous 5-year warranty, and you’ll instantly see the appeal of this 12-pound machine. The 40.2cc gas-powered engine, easy-access filter, and side-access chain tensioner turn this ECHO device into the best overall chainsaw at Home Depot. We do have to warn you that the blade replacement part is a bit tricky and time-consuming, but that’s only a minor con.
- Easily cuts 32” diameter wood
- Reduced effort starting system
- G-force air cleaner vs. dust/debris
- Backed by a generous warranty
- Hard to replace the blade
2. RYOBI ONE+ Cordless Battery Chainsaw—Best Value
| Type: | Battery-powered |
| Bar Length: | 10 inches |
| Weight: | 5.8 pounds |
| Warranty: | 3 years |
Lightweight, mobile, and incredibly user-friendly—that’s the best way to describe the RYOBI One+ Cordless Battery Chainsaw. It only weighs 5.8 pounds and takes little time to master. The built-in lockout system will protect you from accidents, while the onboard tool storage helps make quick adjustments on the spot. With this UL-listed chainsaw, you’ll get a 3-year warranty, a guide bar scabbard, and a front-hand guard for even more protection.
Now, the cutting length isn’t that great, and that’s the biggest downside. However, if you’re looking for a mobile, easy-on-the-hands chainsaw to maintain your own property, the RYOBI machine will be worth every single penny. This is one of the least expensive top-tier options on the table, which is exactly why we’re calling it the best chainsaw at Home Depot for the money.
- A highly affordable purchase
- Lockout system against accidents
- Very easy to use for a first-timer
- Lightweight, highly portable
- Modest cutting length
3. Milwaukee M18 Lithium-Ion Battery Chainsaw—Premium Choice
| Type: | Battery-powered |
| Bar Length: | 16 inches |
| Weight: | 13.9 pounds |
| Warranty: | 3 years |
Next up, we have one of the best battery-charged chainsaws money can buy. With it, you’ll get the performance of a 40cc gas-powered machine. It makes 150 cuts per charge and can “eat” through almost anything you throw at it. More importantly, it maintains speed under heavy loads. The design also deserves our attention. Crafted from durable, long-lasting materials, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Lithium-Ion Battery Chainsaw easily handles weather elements and impact.
You will, of course, have to pay a pretty penny for this chainsaw, but the steep price is well compensated by the generous package. In it, you’ll find a 12 Ah battery, premium-quality charger, blade sheath, and scrench. The Milwaukee chainsaw reaches full throttle in just one second and provides full control over the cutting speed. So, if you’re in the market for a high-performance device, look no further!
- Up to 150 cuts per charge
- Handles heavy loads
- Sturdy, impact-resistant design
- Generous package with extras
- A bit on the expensive side
4. DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Battery Powered Chainsaw Kit
| Type: | Battery-powered |
| Bar Length: | 12 inches |
| Weight: | 9.5 pounds |
| Warranty: | 3 years |
DEWALT is another established name on the market. As for this chainsaw, it comes equipped with everything you’ll need to get to work: a blade, chain, battery, and charger. It’s one of the best machines for taking care of small-size trees and bushes. Specifically designed for limbing, it delivers impressive performance, despite its modest size. The bar length of 12 inches will be more than enough for removing branches.
Sadly, the 5Ah battery isn’t very strong and loses charge after a while. Furthermore, the container tends to leak when the chainsaw is stored. But you can fix that by storing the tool on its side. Besides, the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Battery Powered Chainsaw Kit is backed by a 90-day money-back guarantee. Don’t hesitate to use it if you’re not happy with the performance, build quality, or anything else.
- Perfect for small trees and limbs
- Decent performance for the size
- 90-day money-back guarantee
- The battery doesn’t last long
- Leaks oil when stored
5. Makita Corded Electric Rear Handle Chainsaw
| Type: | Corded |
| Bar Length: | 16 inches |
| Weight: | 12.3 pounds |
| Warranty: | 1 year |
This is a corded chainsaw, which means you need to have a power source around to use it. Fortunately, since the cord can extend up to 50 feet, that shouldn’t be a problem. The Makita Corded Electric Rear Handle Chainsaw is very quick to start and features a highly reliable current limiter system. It protects the device against an overload, keeping both the machine and the user safe.
And with a bar length of 16 inches, the chainsaw can cut medium-sized trees and help with pruning and trimming as well. Unfortunately, the overall build quality isn’t quite on par with the competition. The limited warranty (only backs the purchase for one year) is another con. Makita still did a great job with this unit, though. The quick blade/chain adjustment, visible oil level, and all-around decent performance make it worth your while.
- Very quick to start
- Current limiter against overloads
- Rubberized grip handles
- Average-at-best build quality
- Limited warranty: 12 months
6. RYOBI 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw with Heavy-Duty Case
| Type: | Gas-powered |
| Bar Length: | 16 inches |
| Weight: | 10 pounds |
| Warranty: | 3 years |
Moving up the list, we’ve got another chainsaw by RYOBI. This time around, it’s a gas-powered machine. It packs a 37cc 2-cycle engine, cuts through wood with a 16-inch bar, and delivers a steady, low-vibration performance. If you’re planning on using the chainsaw for long hours, this feature will be greatly appreciated. More good news: the replacement parts are very cheap and easy to install.
Plus, as the name suggests, the RYOBI 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw with Heavy-Duty Case arrives in a well-protected storage box. However, we also have to mention the (minor) quality control issues. Some buyers complain about getting the wrong model, not receiving a case, or having to wait for the delivery. To add to that, the chainsaw takes more time to start after 1–2 years of use.
- Steady performance: doesn’t vibrate
- Features cheap, easy-to-replace parts
- Comes packed with a storage case
- Hard to start after a while
- Quality control issues
7. Homelite 14 in. 9 Amp Electric Chainsaw
| Type: | Corded |
| Bar Length: | 14 inches |
| Weight: | 8.5 pounds |
| Warranty: | 2 years |
If comfortable cutting is the #1 priority for you, take a look at the Homelite 14 in. 9 Amp Electric Chainsaw. Thanks to the wraparound design of the handle, you can hold the tool and make cuts at different angles. That makes it a flexible, easy-to-use chainsaw. Also, the included retention hook holds the cord in place and prevents power disconnects in the middle of your cutting gig.
On the downside, the chain gets stuck quite often. To avoid that, you need to keep it tight at all times and make clean cuts. But that’s not always possible because the chain loses its sharpness and precision after a while. Finally, the plastic parts are very cheap and quick to break. Homelite’s chainsaw is quite affordable, though.
- Cord retention hook included
- Wraparound handle design
- Tends to bog down/get stuck
- Cheap plastic parts fail quickly
- The chain doesn’t stay sharp
8. Toro Flex-Force Electric Cordless Chainsaw
| Type: | Battery-powered |
| Bar Length: | 16 inches |
| Weight: | 15 pounds |
| Warranty: | 3 years |
Wrapping things up, let’s see what Toro has to offer. This battery-powered, 16-inch chainsaw is quite heavy. Rated at 15 pounds, it might be a bit of a challenge to move around constantly. On the bright side, the cushioned handle makes it easier to use the chainsaw. It keeps the hands comfortable and eliminates hand fatigue. Optimized weight balance also helps.
Next, the 60v engine is digitally controlled to handle harder tasks as you go. However, the Toro Flex-Force Electric Cordless Chainsaw doesn’t have any listings or certifications, and sometimes, the company takes a while to deliver it. You will receive a 3-year full warranty from the manufacturer, of course.
- Cushioned handle for extra comfort
- Digitally controlled power output
- Heavier than the average chainsaw
- No certifications or listings
- Slow delivery times
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Chainsaw at Home Depot
Bar Size: How Big Is Enough?
The math here is simple: the longer the bar, the better it will be at handling large-diameter logs. And the one thing to remember is that if the log is rated at 10 inches, the chainsaw needs to be at least 12 inches. Now, a 6-inch bar will only be able to prune the branches and cut lightweight wood. To bring down a bigger tree, opt for a 10-inch tool. For cutting firewood, 14 inches is a perfect size.
Looking for a flexible tool for a wide range of tasks? Check out the 16-inch chainsaws. They can not only prune and trim but also cut larger-than-average trees. Finally, we have 18-inch chainsaws. They are capable of making deeper cuts and getting the job done quicker and with less effort. As for 20–24-inch tools, they’re mostly used for milling and other commercial tasks (like getting rid of an old stump).
Safety First: Must-Have Accessories for Chainsaws
No matter how well-built the machine is or how many safety features it includes, a chainsaw is still a dangerous tool. So, to keep yourself safe when operating a gas-powered or electric chainsaw.
- Ear protection. Chainsaws tend to get loud. And, when exposed to dangerously loud sounds, you’ll run the risk of damaging your ears. Thankfully, there are lots of top-quality ear protection devices out there that will dull the hazardous noises down. We’re talking about earplugs and earmuffs, of course. Plugs are cheaper and more efficient, while muffs are more comfortable and can play music.
- Safety goggles and helmet. When you’re busy cutting down a tree, the last thing you’re thinking of is the debris and dust. However, if some of that stuff gets into your eyes, the consequences can be quite severe. That’s why safety goggles are mandatory at many woodworking factories. The same goes for the helmet: it will shield you from a derailed chain and kickback.
- Protective gear/clothing. The body also needs to be protected—at all times. Before you do any sawing, put on a pair of protective pants (often called chaps), gloves, and boots, along with a jacket to keep you both warm and safe. When the machine gets out of control, these accessories will help avoid serious injuries.
- A first aid kit. What if the gear fails to protect you? Well, that’s exactly why you need to have a first-aid kit ready. The sooner you treat a wound and stop the bleeding, the higher your chances of having a speedy recovery will be.
How Do You Store a Chainsaw?
First, deplete the fuel container. To do that, keep running the chain until the engine stops. Don’t forget to remove the spark plug wire: this is done to prevent short circuits in the chainsaw. With that out of the way, disconnect the chain and the bar for easy storage. Now just hide the machine in a protective bag and put it in a spot where it’s always cool and dry.
The garage or the shed is a great place for it. Generally, it’s not recommended to keep this tool outdoors. And ideally, the chainsaw should be placed in a protective case (some manufacturers include one in the package). But you can also hang it on a wall. In any case, before storing it, spray some protective oil over the chain and the saw.
Gas-Powered, Battery-Powered, Or Corded: What’s the Difference?
The very-first chainsaws were powered by gas, and, to this day, they are still the most powerful option on the market. True, gas-powered chainsaws take longer to start, weigh more, and release toxic fumes into the atmosphere. There’s also more upkeep involved. But they compensate for that with raw power. Electric saws, in turn, can be either corded or charged by a battery.
To use a corded chainsaw, you’ll need to plug it into a power source. That makes it less flexible and mobile than a gas- or battery-powered machine. Corded saws are best suited for cutting and pruning small or medium-sized wood logs. As for battery-run chainsaws, they are lightweight and highly portable. On the downside, cheaper models aren’t as powerful as their bigger “siblings”.
Buying a New Chainsaw: How to Find the Right Tool?
- Performance comes first. Gas-powered saws are measured in cubic centimeters, which represent the size of the engine. The larger the motor, the mightier it will be. For most tasks, 30cc is a great place to start. With 40cc, you’ll be able to get the job done much faster. Battery-powered chainsaws are rated in volts, and 18–20V is what you’ll get with most machines. As for corded chainsaws, they are measured in amperage, with 8–15 amps being the industry average.
- Check the build quality next. Most chainsaws are specifically engineered with durability in mind. However, sometimes, manufacturers use cheap plastic to keep the price low, and that’s something you should avoid. Plastic is brittle, doesn’t last long, and will chip off fairly easily. In contrast, when the body is crafted from stainless steel, it doesn’t break or rust even when used in rough conditions.
- Look for a user-friendly tool. You don’t have to be a veteran woodcutter to operate a chainsaw. Still, there are lots of techy features that make it easier to use the tool. An automatic oiler keeps the blade lubricated, while an onboard storage unit holds the scrench. Also, invest in a chainsaw that provides easy access to the chain tensioner for quick adjustments.
- Does it have any safety features? This power equipment comes packed with quite a few safety features that do a great job of preventing accidents. We’re talking about a chain brake (secures the user against kickback), front-hand guard (protects from flying debris), and the lockout system (minimizes the chances of accidentally starting the motor).
- How much does it cost? Chainsaws today are quite affordable. That said, some tools cost more than others. So, while you can find a premium electric chainsaw for $120–$200, for a gas-powered tool of the same caliber, you’ll have to pay $200–$350. For $400–$600, expect top-notch performance, efficiency, and a sturdy design. Small-size machines are available for $50–$100, but their effectiveness leaves a lot to be desired.
Why Get a Chainsaw? What Are the Benefits?
- Perfect for making quick cuts. A regular saw takes effort to cut. With a chainsaw, you can get the same job done ten times faster. You can, of course, hire a contractor for tree felling, cutting logs, or decorating/pruning your favorite trees, but that won’t be cheap. So, in the long run, these tools will be a beneficial investment.
- Mobile, easy to carry around. If you opt for a gas-powered or battery-charged chainsaw, you’ll be able to take it with you wherever you go. Now, a tank full of gasoline or a powerful battery won’t be as light as a feather; still, compared to some of the bigger, bulkier tools from the past, chainsaws are, indeed, mobile and portable.
- Doesn’t cause finger/hand fatigue. Even if you’re doing light pruning/trimming with a regular saw, that will put a lot of pressure on your hands. It won’t be a problem with a chainsaw. The best models have built-in guards for safety, anti-vibration features, and cushioned handles for extra comfort.
- Serves for a very long time. Chainsaws stay in shape for at least 8–10 years. When maintained properly, they last for up to 20 years (the chains dull in 5–6 years). To increase the lifespan, keep the machine and the air filter clean, the chain lubricated, and the blades sharp. Don’t ever cut metal, rocks, or ice with a chainsaw, and keep it in a dry area to prevent rusting. Lastly, check the instructions for the correct chain tension and oil-gas mixture.
- Reasonably priced. If you like to do some DIY work/maintenance around the property, you won’t need a $1,000 chainsaw kit with lots of extras. Instead, opt for a $100–$150 tool. It will make all your trimming, pruning, and cutting duties so much easier and more enjoyable. Gas-powered chainsaws aren’t exactly cheap, and for the average person, a battery-run machine might be a better pick.
Conclusion
In the reviews, we checked out eight top-notch, fan-favored chainsaws, and they all deserve your attention. However, if you’re interested in the best overall tool, go with ECHO. This brand’s chainsaw is quick to start, easily cuts 32-inch wood, and keeps dust/debris away from the motor. With RYOBI ONE+, you’ll get flexibility, portability, and ease of use at an affordable price. As for our premium choice, the Makita chainsaw, it’s incredibly powerful and delivers a steady performance. It’s crafted from premium materials and comes with useful extras.
Featured Image Credit: Tim Umphreys, Unsplash
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