How to choose the right chainsaw
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The best chainsaw for you depends on your primary task, power source preference, bar length needs, and how comfortable you are with maintenance. Gas models offer top power for heavy use, battery-powered saws are quiet and easy to start for medium chores, and corded electric saws are budget-friendly for light trimming around the house.
What type of chainsaw should you buy?
The three main power sources are gas, battery (cordless), and corded electric. Gas saws are the most powerful and best for felling large trees, limbing, and all-day use, but they require mixing oil and gas, regular maintenance, and are heavier and louder. Battery chainsaws have improved drastically and now rival smaller gas saws for cutting firewood and moderate tree work. They start instantly with a push of a button, run quietly, and have zero emissions, making them ideal for residential yards and urban areas. Corded electric saws are the lightest and cheapest option for occasional pruning and cutting small logs. They are reliable as long as you’re near an outlet, but the cord limits mobility and can be a tripping hazard.
How to choose the right bar length
Bar length determines the maximum diameter of wood you can cut in one pass. As a rule of thumb, the bar should be at least two inches longer than the thickest log you plan to cut. For small limbs and firewood under 6 inches thick, a 12- to 16-inch bar is plenty. For felling medium trees or cutting firewood up to 18 inches thick, a 16- to 20-inch bar is the sweet spot. Larger bars, like 24 inches and up, are for professional loggers and serious landowners who cut big timber regularly. Keep in mind that longer bars make the saw heavier and harder to control, so don’t oversize unless you truly need it.
What safety features matter most
A working chain brake is the most critical safety feature. It stops the chain instantly if the saw kicks back, which can happen when the tip of the bar contacts wood. Look for a saw with a large, easy-to-use handguard that activates the brake. Low-kickback chain and guide bars are also important. They reduce the chance of kickback by limiting the cutting action at the bar tip. Many saws now include a captive chain tensioner that prevents the chain from slipping off, and some models have an automatic chain oiler to keep the chain lubricated for safer cutting.
Corded vs battery vs gas: which is right for you?
Your choice comes down to where you work and how often. If you have a large property with trees far from the house, a battery saw (with extra batteries) or a gas saw gives you the freedom to move without a cord. Battery saws are quieter and easier to start, but you may need to buy multiple batteries for extended cutting sessions. Gas saws shine in remote areas with no power, and they run as long as you have fuel. But they are louder, heavier, and require more maintenance (air filter, spark plug, fuel mix). Corded saws are best for small backyards where an extension cord can reach the farthest branch, they give unlimited run time and lower cost.
Key maintenance tips to extend chainsaw life
A sharp chain is the number one factor for safe and efficient cutting. Replace or sharpen the chain as soon as you see fine sawdust instead of proper chips, or when you have to push hard to cut. Use a round file matched to the chain pitch, and check depth gauges regularly. Keep the bar groove clean and oiled. Check bar oil level before every use and adjust oil flow if the chain seems dry. After each use, clean the air filter and inspect the chain tension, a loose chain can derail and cause injury. For gas saws, empty the fuel tank if storing for more than a month to prevent gummed-up carburetors.
Top features to look for in 2026
Modern battery saws now offer brushless motors that boost power and runtime, plus tool-less chain tensioning that makes adjustments quick. Many mid-range saws include side-access chain tensioning, which is much safer and easier. Look for models with a transparent oil tank so you can easily see the fuel level at a glance. Vibration-dampening handles are common on better saws and reduce fatigue during longer cuts. Some high-end battery saws now have a digital display showing remaining charge and oil level, though these features add cost and complexity.
Frequently asked questions
What size chainsaw do I need for cutting firewood?
For splitting firewood that’s already cut into rounds, a bar length of 16 to 20 inches handles most logs up to 16 inches thick. If you plan to fell trees for firewood, go with the bar length that matches the tree diameter; a 20-inch bar is a common versatile choice.
Are battery chainsaws powerful enough for felling trees?
Modern battery saws from top brands can handle felling medium-sized trees up to about 12 to 16 inches in diameter. They lack the sustained torque of a gas saw for repeated heavy cuts on large hardwood, but for occasional limbing and smaller trees, they are more than capable.
What is the safest chainsaw for beginners?
A corded electric or small battery saw with a low-kickback chain and automatic chain brake is safest for beginners. These saws are lighter, have less recoil, and eliminate fuel mixing. Many models also include a chain catcher and a captive tensioner, which reduce the chance of accident.
How often should I sharpen the chain?
Sharpen your chain every time you refuel for gas saws, or after every couple of hours of cutting with electric/battery saws. Signs of dullness include sawdust instead of chips, needing to push hard to cut, or the chain wandering off the cut line. Regular filing keeps work safe and efficient.
Can I use a chainsaw to trim branches overhead?
It’s not recommended to use a standard handheld chainsaw above shoulder height. The risk of kickback and losing control is high. Instead, use a pole saw or a lightweight battery chainsaw designed for pruning, and always keep both hands on the saw with a secure stance.
What should I look for in a chainsaw chain?
The chain’s pitch (distance between drive links) and gauge must match your bar. For most homeowner saws, a low-kickback chain with a smaller cutter profile is safer. Chains with chrome-plated cutters last longer, and some brands offer easy-sharpening links that help you maintain a sharp edge.