
Don’t forget to buy chain oil when getting your first chainsaw. All chainsaws use chain oil to keep the chain lubricated and cutting smoothly.
Corded chainsaws vs. cordless models
Cordless chainsaws are available at reasonably low prices and current models often have more power than cordless chainsaws offered by manufacturers in previous years. When considering whether to buy a cordless or corded electric chainsaw, consider these factors.
Price
Cordless chainsaws typically cost twice as much as corded models. If you only expect to use the chainsaw once a year or so, consider going with the less expensive alternative – a corded chainsaw.
Convenience
Cordless chainsaw are more convenient to use because you don’t have to worry about connecting them to an extension cord. If you don’t have an outdoor extension cord that will reach the areas of your lawn where trimming and cutting is needed, then you’ll likely want to choose a cordless chainsaw.
As a trade-off, you will typically sacrifice some power when choosing a cordless chainsaw over a corded model. This gap in power continues to narrow in 2023 but corded chainsaws often have more powerful motors than low-cost cordless models.
Also, you’ll find that chainsaw batteries eventually wear out over time. This can take 5 to 10 years. Replacement batteries can cost nearly as much as buying a new chainsaw. You won’t face this problem if you buy a corded chainsaw.
Consider these factors when choosing an electric chainsaw.
Power
As mentioned above, lower-priced cordless chainsaws often don’t have as powerful motors as corded models. For corded electric chainsaws, you can look at the motor amperage specification to see how powerful the chainsaw will be. For example, the WEN 4017 16" Electric Corded Chainsaw uses a motor rated at 12 amps. That chainsaw will easily cut through most limbs up to 10-inches.
Most cordless chainsaw motors aren’t rated for amperage. You can use battery voltage to compare cordless chainsaw power. A 40-volt cordless chainsaw will be more than twice as powerful as a 20-volt model. The cost of the chainsaw will also go up as battery voltage increases. To buy a low-cost cordless chainsaw, you’ll likely have to settle for a model that will cut 6-inch limbs with about a ½-hour of run time before battery recharge is needed.
If you only need a chainsaw for light to medium trimming, then a 20-volt cordless chainsaw may be right for you.