Finding the new best chainsaw in 2026 depends on the type of work you plan to do, your budget, and whether you prefer gas power or a cordless electric model. Some chainsaws are better for cutting firewood and handling storm cleanup, while smaller models are made for pruning branches and working in tight spaces.
In this guide, I’ll compare five chainsaws from EGO, Milwaukee, STIHL, ECHO, and Greenworks. I’ll cover their main features, strengths, drawbacks, and the type of buyer each one suits. You’ll also find links to check current prices on Amazon and AliExpress.
If you are searching for the best cordless chainsaw, a lightweight gas chainsaw, or a powerful 18-inch chainsaw for home use, this list will help you narrow down your options.
Quick Comparison: Best New Chainsaws in 2026
| Chainsaw | Power Source | Bar Length | Best For |
| Greenworks 82V 18-Inch | Battery | 18 inches | Heavy yard work and firewood |
| ECHO CS-2511T X Series | Gas | 12 inches | Professional pruning and arborist work |
| STIHL Battery Chainsaw | Battery | Model-dependent | General cutting and timber work |
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL HATCHET | Battery | 8 inches | Pruning and tight spaces |
| EGO POWER+ 18-Inch | Battery | 18 inches | Homeowners needing strong cordless power |
Check prices and availability:
- Greenworks 82V 18-Inch Chainsaw — Amazon | AliExpress
- ECHO CS-2511T X Series — Amazon | AliExpress
- STIHL Battery Chainsaw — Amazon | AliExpress
- Milwaukee M18 FUEL HATCHET — Amazon | AliExpress
- EGO POWER+ 18-Inch Chainsaw — Amazon | AliExpress
Prices, stock, and available configurations can change. Confirm the exact model, bar length, battery, and charger included before ordering.
Affiliate disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links. If you buy through one of these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
How to Choose the Best Chainsaw for Your Needs
Before choosing a chainsaw, think about the work you need to do most often.
- For firewood and larger logs: An 18-inch chainsaw can handle many common cutting jobs, provided the wood diameter and cutting conditions are suitable.
- For pruning branches: A compact pruning saw is easier to control in confined areas. The Milwaukee M18 HATCHET is designed for this type of work.
- For professional tree work: A lightweight gas top-handle saw such as the ECHO CS-2511T may suit trained arborists who need a compact tool.
- For lower-noise operation: Battery-powered chainsaws avoid engine exhaust during use and are generally quieter than comparable gas saws.
- For occasional home use: Check the battery cost, charger, replacement chain, maintenance needs, and warranty before deciding.
Bar length alone does not tell you how powerful a chainsaw is. Motor output, chain speed, chain condition, wood type, and operator technique all affect cutting performance.
#5. EGO POWER+ 18-Inch Chainsaw — Best Cordless Chainsaw for Homeowners
Image Source: Amazon
The EGO POWER+ 18-inch chainsaw is worth considering if you want the cutting ability of a gas-class saw without dealing with gasoline, engine exhaust, or a pull-start system. Its brushless motor and 18-inch bar make it suitable for a range of property-maintenance tasks.
EGO rates this model at the equivalent of a 50cc gas chainsaw. It uses a 2,500-watt brushless motor with a chain speed of up to 22 meters per second. EGO also lists up to 330 cuts in 4-by-4 lumber with a recommended 56V 6.0Ah ARC Lithium battery. Actual results will depend on the wood and cutting conditions.
Key Features
- 18-inch guide bar and chain
- 2,500W brushless motor
- Up to 22 m/s chain speed
- Compatible with EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries
- Digital display with cutting-speed controls and battery status
- Adjustable LED work light
- Tool-free chain tension adjustment
- IPX4 weather-resistant construction
- Metal bucking spikes
- Five-year limited tool warranty
What I Like About the EGO POWER+
The digital display is a useful feature because it lets you check the battery charge and cutting-speed settings without guessing. The LED work light can also help illuminate the cutting area when outdoor light is poor, although it should not replace proper work lighting.
The tool-free chain tensioning system is another practical addition. Instead of reaching for a separate tool for routine adjustments, you can tighten the chain using the adjustment dial. The metal bucking spikes help the saw stay positioned against the wood during a cut.
Battery power also makes the saw easier to start than a traditional gas chainsaw. There is no fuel mixture to prepare, and you do not have engine exhaust during operation.
Pros
- Strong claimed output for a cordless chainsaw
- Long 18-inch bar for a range of cutting jobs
- Digital display and adjustable work light
- Convenient chain tension adjustment
- Compatible with EGO’s 56V battery platform
Cons
- Battery and charger costs can add to the purchase price, depending on the package
- Battery runtime varies with the size and type of wood
- Heavier cutting jobs can drain the battery faster
- An 18-inch chainsaw may be more tool than needed for light pruning
Who Should Buy It?
The EGO POWER+ is a good option for homeowners who regularly cut firewood, clear fallen limbs, or maintain a larger yard. It also makes sense for people who already own compatible EGO 56V batteries.
If you only need to trim small branches a few times a year, a compact pruning saw may be easier to handle. For regular cutting of larger logs, compare the EGO’s complete kit price and battery capacity with other full-size chainsaws before buying.
Where to buy: Check Price on Amazon | Check Availability on AliExpress
#4. Milwaukee M18 FUEL HATCHET 8-Inch Pruning Saw — Best Compact Chainsaw for Pruning
Image Source: Amazon
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL HATCHET is built for a different job than the full-size chainsaws on this list. Its 8-inch bar and compact body make it useful for pruning branches, trimming trees, and working in areas where a larger saw is awkward.
Milwaukee says the tool weighs less than five pounds without a battery. Its POWERSTATE brushless motor is designed to deliver cutting performance comparable to a 25cc gas pruning saw. The tool is part of Milwaukee’s M18 battery platform.
Key Features
- 8-inch guide bar
- POWERSTATE brushless motor
- Compact design for access in tight spaces
- Variable-speed trigger
- Full-house chain designed to reduce vibration
- Automatic chain oiler
- Easy-access chain tensioner
- Translucent oil reservoir
- Metal bucking spikes
- Lanyard loop for suitable professional applications
What I Like About the Milwaukee M18 HATCHET
The compact design is its main advantage. When you are trimming smaller branches, carrying a large 16- or 18-inch chainsaw can feel unnecessary. A short-bar pruning saw is easier to position around branches and can be more convenient for repeated trimming jobs.
The variable-speed trigger gives the operator control over the cutting speed. The automatic oiler helps keep the chain lubricated, while the translucent reservoir makes it easier to check the oil level.
Another useful detail is its compatibility with Milwaukee’s M18 system. If you already own compatible M18 tools and batteries, buying a tool-only version may reduce the cost of adding another tool to your collection.
However, this is a pruning saw rather than a direct replacement for a full-size chainsaw. Its 8-inch bar limits the size of material it can handle comfortably.
Pros
- Compact and relatively lightweight
- Useful for pruning and trimming branches
- Brushless motor designed for demanding cuts
- Automatic chain lubrication
- Works with compatible Milwaukee M18 batteries
Cons
- Short 8-inch bar is unsuitable for many large-log jobs
- Battery is sold separately in the tool-only package
- Not the right choice for buyers who mainly cut large trees for firewood
- Requires regular chain and bar maintenance
Who Should Buy It?
Choose the Milwaukee M18 HATCHET if pruning is your main task and you want a small cordless saw for yard maintenance or professional landscaping. It is particularly worth considering if you already use Milwaukee M18 equipment.
If you need to cut thick logs or regularly prepare large amounts of firewood, look at the Greenworks or EGO 18-inch models instead. Their longer bars are better suited to that kind of work.
Where to buy: Check Price on Amazon | Check Availability on AliExpress
#3. STIHL Battery Chainsaw — Best Battery Chainsaw for General Cutting
Image Source: Amazon
STIHL makes battery-powered chainsaws for several types of cutting work, including pruning, felling, cutting logs to length, and timber construction. The specific model matters here because STIHL offers different bar lengths, battery systems, and power levels.
The feature set provided for this STIHL saw includes a brushless motor, a 3/8-inch PS3 saw chain, a 36V rated voltage, and compatibility with the AP battery system. The recommended battery listed for this configuration is the AP 200.0 P. The exact model name and bar length should be confirmed before you order.
Key Features
- Battery-powered operation
- Brushless motor
- 36V rated voltage
- 3/8-inch PS3 saw chain
- Compatible with the listed AP battery system
- Tool-free Quick Chain Adjuster
- Ematic guide bar lubrication system
- IPX4 splash-water protection
- Quickstop chain-braking system
- Variable-speed trigger
- Magnesium motor housing
What I Like About the STIHL Battery Chainsaw
The brushless motor reduces the need for motor maintenance compared with a conventional gas engine. Battery operation also removes the need to prepare a gasoline-and-oil mixture, which is helpful for people who prefer a simpler starting routine.
STIHL’s Ematic lubrication system is designed to direct bar oil toward the areas where the chain and guide bar need it. STIHL says the system can reduce bar oil consumption by up to 50% under the conditions described for its Ematic system. The actual result depends on the saw, chain, oil, and working conditions.
The Quick Chain Adjuster is another useful feature for routine maintenance. The chain still needs to be checked regularly, but the adjustment system can make tension changes more convenient.
The Quickstop chain brake is designed to stop chain rotation in certain kickback situations. It is an important safety feature, although no chain brake can remove the risk of injury when using a chainsaw.
Pros
- No gasoline engine or exhaust during operation
- Brushless motor design
- Tool-free chain tension adjustment
- Bar lubrication system designed to reduce oil use
- Weather-resistant construction on the specified model
Cons
- Battery and charger may be sold separately
- The exact model and bar length need confirmation
- Battery runtime depends on the work and battery capacity
- Replacement batteries can be expensive
Who Should Buy It?
A STIHL battery chainsaw may suit homeowners, property managers, and experienced users who want cordless cutting equipment for regular outdoor work. It is worth comparing if you already own compatible STIHL AP batteries.
Before buying, confirm the full model number and check that the bar length, battery system, and power level match your needs. STIHL’s product range includes saws for different jobs, so the brand name alone is not enough to determine whether a particular model is right for you.
Where to buy: Check Price on Amazon | Check Availability on AliExpress
#2. ECHO CS-2511T X Series 12-Inch Gas Chainsaw — Best Lightweight Gas Chainsaw for Professional Pruning
Image Source: Amazon
The ECHO CS-2511T X Series is a compact gas-powered top-handle chainsaw designed mainly for professional tree-care work. Its small size and low dry weight make it a different kind of tool from the full-size saws used to cut large logs on the ground.
The CS-2511T uses a 25cc two-stroke engine and is available with 12- or 14-inch guide bars, depending on configuration. ECHO lists a dry powerhead weight of about 5.2 pounds without the bar and chain. The product information supplied for this article identifies the 12-inch version.ww
Key Features
- 25cc two-stroke gas engine
- 12-inch bar in the specified configuration
- Lightweight top-handle design
- Spring-assisted starting system
- Automatic, adjustable chain oiler
- Side-access chain tensioner
- Anti-vibration system
- Dual-post chain brake
- Textured grip handles
- Five-year consumer warranty listed by ECHO for the model
What I Like About the ECHO CS-2511T
The biggest reason to consider this saw is its weight. A compact top-handle chainsaw can be useful for trained arborists who need to move around a tree and make controlled cuts as part of professional work.
Its adjustable automatic oiler helps lubricate the chain while it runs. The side-access chain tensioner also makes routine adjustments easier to reach, while the anti-vibration system is designed to reduce vibration transferred to the operator’s hands.
Since this is a gas saw, you do not need to wait for a battery to recharge. You do, however, need to use the correct fuel mixture, maintain the engine, and follow the manufacturer’s starting and storage instructions.
One important point: a top-handle chainsaw is not the best choice for every homeowner. These saws are designed for trained users and can be harder to control safely in the wrong position. If you mainly cut firewood on the ground, a conventional rear-handle saw is usually the more appropriate type to consider.
Pros
- Lightweight powerhead for a gas chainsaw
- Compact design for professional tree-care tasks
- 25cc two-stroke engine
- Adjustable automatic oiler
- Side-access chain tensioning
- Available in more than one bar-length configuration
Cons
- Requires gasoline and two-stroke engine oil
- Needs regular engine maintenance
- Top-handle design is intended for trained users
- Not the best match for general firewood cutting or large logs
Who Should Buy It?
The ECHO CS-2511T is worth considering for professional arborists and trained tree-care workers who need a lightweight gas-powered top-handle saw. It may also appeal to buyers who prefer gas power for specialist pruning work.
For typical backyard jobs, compare a rear-handle battery chainsaw before choosing this model. It will be a more suitable fit for many homeowners who do not need a professional climbing saw.
Where to buy: Check Price on Amazon | Check Availability on AliExpress
#1. Greenworks 82V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw — Best Overall Chainsaw for Heavy Yard Work
Image source: Amazon
The Greenworks 82V 18-inch cordless chainsaw is my leading pick in this comparison for homeowners and property owners who need a full-size battery-powered saw. Its 2.7kW brushless direct-drive motor is rated by Greenworks as providing power equivalent to a 55cc gas chainsaw.
The model number is 82CS271. Greenworks lists a chain speed of up to 82 feet per second and up to 210 cuts in 4-by-4 lumber on a single charge with the specified 4Ah battery. Those figures are manufacturer claims, so real-world results will vary with the wood, chain condition, and cutting technique.
The supplied configuration includes an 82V 4Ah battery and charger. Check the retailer’s package details before ordering, as product listings and bundles can differ.
Key Features
- 18-inch guide bar
- 7kW brushless direct-drive motor
- Manufacturer-rated 55cc gas-equivalent power
- Chain speed up to 82 ft/s
- Up to 210 cuts in 4-by-4 lumber under stated test conditions
- Automatic chain oiler
- Transparent oil tank
- Mechanical chain brake
- Heat-treated steel bucking spikes
- Wraparound handle
- 82V 4Ah battery and charger in the specified kit
What I Like About the Greenworks 82V Chainsaw
The 18-inch bar gives this saw a useful range for routine property work. It can be suitable for cutting firewood, clearing fallen limbs, and handling many medium-sized logs when the diameter and cutting conditions are appropriate.
Its brushless direct-drive motor is another reason to consider it. Greenworks rates the motor at 2.7kW, with a claimed output equivalent to a 55cc gas saw. This gives buyers a way to compare its stated power class with gas-powered models, though gas-equivalent ratings do not mean the two saws will perform identically in every situation.
The battery system removes the need to mix fuel or maintain a gas engine. The automatic oiler helps keep the chain lubricated, and the transparent oil tank makes it easier to check the oil level before work.
The mechanical chain brake is an important safety feature. The wraparound handle can also give the operator different grip positions when working on suitable cuts.
There is one trade-off to keep in mind. Greenworks says this model is not compatible with its 80V products. Before buying, check the exact voltage platform and make sure you are comfortable with the cost of replacement batteries.
Pros
- Full-size 18-inch bar for a wide range of cutting tasks
- High claimed output for a cordless saw
- Brushless direct-drive motor
- Battery and charger included in the specified kit
- Automatic chain lubrication
- No gasoline engine exhaust during use
Cons
- Replacement batteries can add to the long-term cost
- Runtime depends on the wood and workload
- Not compatible with Greenworks 80V products
- A full-size chainsaw may be unnecessary for small pruning jobs
Who Should Buy It?
The Greenworks 82V 18-inch chainsaw is a strong candidate for homeowners with larger yards, rural property owners, and people who regularly cut firewood or clear storm debris. It makes the most sense when you need the reach of an 18-inch bar and want to avoid the fuel and engine maintenance associated with a gas saw.
If you already own compatible Greenworks 82V batteries, check whether a tool-only package is available and compare its price with the complete kit. If you are buying into the platform for the first time, include the battery and charger cost in your budget.
I would choose a smaller pruning saw for occasional branch trimming and compare a gas model if you expect long periods of heavy cutting away from charging facilities. For a general-purpose cordless saw with a full-size bar, however, the Greenworks deserves the top spot in this particular lineup.
Where to buy: Check Price on Amazon | Check Availability on AliExpress
Which Chainsaw Wins? Greenworks vs. ECHO vs. STIHL vs. Milwaukee vs. EGO
Choosing the winner depends on the work you plan to do. The Greenworks, EGO, STIHL, ECHO, and Milwaukee models serve different needs, so the most expensive or powerful-looking option will not automatically be the right one for every buyer.
Best Overall for Most Full-Size Cordless Jobs: Greenworks 82V
The Greenworks takes the top position because it combines an 18-inch bar, a 2.7kW motor, and a stated 55cc gas-equivalent rating. It is the option I would compare first for firewood cutting, fallen branches, and general property maintenance.
Its battery and charger are included in the specified kit, which helps buyers compare the total purchase cost. The main things to check are battery runtime, the cost of extra batteries, and compatibility with other tools you own.
Best Alternative for Cordless Cutting: EGO POWER+
The EGO is a close alternative for buyers who prefer its 56V battery platform. It has an 18-inch bar, a 2,500W brushless motor, a digital display, and a tool-free chain tensioning system. EGO’s stated 330-cut figure uses a 56V 6.0Ah battery and 4-by-4 lumber, so it should not be treated as a guaranteed number for every job.
If you already own EGO batteries, this saw may offer better value for your setup. Compare the exact kit and warranty terms before making a decision.
Best for Professional Pruning: ECHO CS-2511T
The ECHO is the specialist choice. Its 25cc gas engine and lightweight top-handle design suit trained arborists who need a compact saw for tree-care work. It is not the one I would recommend as a general-purpose firewood saw for an average homeowner.
Best for Battery-Powered General Cutting: STIHL
The STIHL battery chainsaw deserves consideration if you want a cordless tool with a brushless motor, chain-brake protection, and convenient chain adjustment. The exact model must be confirmed before comparing it directly with the 18-inch Greenworks and EGO models.
Best for Small Branches: Milwaukee M18 HATCHET
Milwaukee wins for compact pruning tasks. Its 8-inch bar is useful when maneuverability matters more than reach. For larger logs, its short bar makes it the wrong tool for the job.
My final recommendation: For buyers who need a full-size cordless chainsaw for regular yard work and firewood, start by comparing the Greenworks 82V and EGO POWER+. Choose the Milwaukee for pruning, the ECHO for trained professional tree work, or a suitable STIHL model if its battery platform and cutting capacity fit your needs.
Before purchasing any chainsaw, check the current price, included equipment, replacement-chain availability, battery costs, and warranty. Wear appropriate chainsaw protective equipment and follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions. A chain brake and other safety features reduce certain risks but cannot prevent every injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best chainsaw to buy in 2026?
For a full-size cordless saw in this comparison, the Greenworks 82V 18-inch chainsaw is my top pick. The EGO POWER+ is another option worth comparing. Your choice should depend on the type of cutting you do, your battery needs, and your budget.
Are battery chainsaws powerful enough to cut firewood?
Yes, suitable battery chainsaws can cut firewood. Models such as the Greenworks 82V and EGO POWER+ have 18-inch bars and manufacturer-rated outputs designed for demanding cutting tasks. Actual performance depends on the wood, chain sharpness, battery charge, and the saw’s limits.
Is an 18-inch chainsaw good for home use?
An 18-inch chainsaw can be useful for homeowners who regularly cut firewood, clear fallen branches, or maintain larger properties. It may be too large for simple pruning, so choose the bar length based on the work you actually do.
Is a gas chainsaw better than a cordless chainsaw?
A gas chainsaw can be useful for extended work where battery charging is inconvenient. A cordless model is easier to start and avoids engine exhaust during use. The better choice depends on cutting time, power needs, maintenance preferences, and access to spare batteries.
Which chainsaw is best for pruning trees?
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL HATCHET is designed for compact pruning work. The ECHO CS-2511T is a professional top-handle option for trained arborists. Homeowners should choose a suitable saw for the branch size and never use a top-handle saw for climbing work unless properly trained and equipped.
Do cordless chainsaws come with batteries and chargers?
It depends on the package. Some are sold as tool-only products, while others include a battery and charger. The EGO and STIHL configurations described above may differ from the listed Greenworks kit, so check the exact model and package contents before purchasing.
What should I check before buying a chainsaw online?
Confirm the model number, bar length, battery voltage, included battery and charger, chain specifications, warranty, and return policy. Check that replacement chains and bar oil are available. If you are comparing marketplace listings, make sure the seller is offering the exact model you want.
Final Thoughts
The best chainsaw for you is the one that fits your cutting jobs and your budget. The Greenworks 82V is my first choice in this group for full-size cordless work. The EGO POWER+ is a strong alternative, while the Milwaukee, STIHL, and ECHO each fit different needs.
Compare the full package price rather than the tool price alone. A lower-cost saw can become more expensive if you need to buy a battery, charger, protective equipment, or replacement parts separately.
Affiliate disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links. If you buy through one of these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
