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10 Best 12 Inch Chainsaw 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 12" Battery Powered Chainsaw, Electric Cordless, Includes 56V 2.5Ah Battery and Charger - CS1201

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,354
Power Source
Engine/Motor Power
Weight

Most important from
2898 reviews

Power Source
No gas, no mess, and significantly less maintenance hassle compared to traditional gas-powered chainsaws.
Engine/Motor Power
Delivers power comparable to a small 30cc gas chainsaw, easily cutting through 14-inch diameter trees with minimal effort.
Weight
Balanced design feels just right with the battery attached, neither too heavy nor cumbersome during extended use.
Ease of Maintenance
The tool-free chain tensioning system is a game-changer, eliminating previous frustrations with chain drops and making on-the-fly adjustments effortless.
Noise Level
Runs quietly enough to use without disturbing neighbors, ideal for residential areas and noise-sensitive environments.
Runtime (for Battery-Powered Chainsaws)
Battery runtime easily supports multiple tree cutting sessions, with quick recharge times allowing work breaks instead of interruptions.

The EGO POWER+ 12-inch chainsaw is a battery-powered tool designed to offer power similar to a small 30cc gas chainsaw, thanks to its efficient brushless motor. It can run up to 130 cuts per single charge of the included 2.5Ah battery, which is quite good for light to medium tasks like trimming branches and clearing brush. Its 12-inch bar and chain size suit smaller jobs rather than heavy cutting.

Weighing about 8.4 pounds with the battery, it's lighter than many gas alternatives, making it easier to handle and less tiring during use. The chainsaw includes tool-free chain tensioning, allowing quick adjustment of the chain without extra tools, which simplifies maintenance. Since it’s battery-powered, it runs quietly compared to gas models, making it ideal when noise is a concern.

This model is a solid choice for homeowners needing a lightweight, easy-to-use chainsaw for general yard work and occasional cutting, although it’s not designed for heavy-duty cutting or professional logging.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,354
Power Source
Engine/Motor Power
Weight

Most important from
2898 reviews

Power Source
No gas, no mess, and significantly less maintenance hassle compared to traditional gas-powered chainsaws.
Engine/Motor Power
Delivers power comparable to a small 30cc gas chainsaw, easily cutting through 14-inch diameter trees with minimal effort.
Weight
Balanced design feels just right with the battery attached, neither too heavy nor cumbersome during extended use.
Ease of Maintenance
The tool-free chain tensioning system is a game-changer, eliminating previous frustrations with chain drops and making on-the-fly adjustments effortless.
Noise Level
Runs quietly enough to use without disturbing neighbors, ideal for residential areas and noise-sensitive environments.
Runtime (for Battery-Powered Chainsaws)
Battery runtime easily supports multiple tree cutting sessions, with quick recharge times allowing work breaks instead of interruptions.
#2

12 inch Brushless Chainsaw, Cordless Saw with Battery and Charger, 5.9Lb Super Lightweight & Compact, Auto Oiler, 5.0Ah Battery 1100w Power, Handheld Chain Saw for Wood Cutting, Tree Trimming, Pruning

Rating
10.0
Engine/Motor Power
Weight
Safety Features

Most important from
709 reviews

Engine/Motor Power
The chainsaw delivers powerful and stable cutting, making quick work of branches and yard boards, and is much easier to handle than larger gas-powered saws.
Weight
Its lightweight design and safety features inspire confidence, even for beginners or users with no prior experience, allowing comfortable one-handed use.
Safety Features
Its lightweight design and safety features inspire confidence, even for beginners or users with no prior experience, allowing comfortable one-handed use.
Ease of Maintenance
Maintenance is straightforward with tool-free chain tensioning, though the chain can come loose and requires occasional resetting due to debris buildup.
Noise Level
Its quiet operation and emission-free design make it ideal for noise-sensitive neighborhoods and environmentally conscious users.
Runtime (for Battery-Powered Chainsaws)
The inclusion of two batteries is a major advantage, enabling extended work sessions without interruption and ensuring ample runtime well beyond an hour.

This 12-inch cordless chainsaw stands out with its powerful 1100W brushless motor, capable of cutting through 8-inch logs quickly, making it suitable for typical yard work like pruning, trimming, and light wood cutting. Its lightweight design at about 5.9 pounds makes it comfortable to handle, even for extended periods or one-handed use, which is a big plus if you have tight spaces or are new to chainsaws.

The included 5.0Ah battery provides up to 60 minutes of runtime, enough for most home gardening jobs without frequent recharging. Safety is well addressed with dual-safety triggers and anti-kickback technology, reducing risk during operation. Maintenance is easy thanks to tool-free chain tensioning and a self-lubricating chain that avoids messy oil spills. Additionally, the saw operates quietly compared to gas models and produces no emissions, making it good for noise-sensitive or environmentally conscious users.

However, the brand is less known, and while the saw is powerful for its size, it’s best suited for light to medium tasks rather than heavy-duty cutting. Also, the 12-inch blade limits the size of wood you can cut effectively. This chainsaw is a great choice for homeowners and casual users who want a lightweight, easy-to-use, and eco-friendly tool for everyday yard maintenance.

Rating
10.0
Engine/Motor Power
Weight
Safety Features

Most important from
709 reviews

Engine/Motor Power
The chainsaw delivers powerful and stable cutting, making quick work of branches and yard boards, and is much easier to handle than larger gas-powered saws.
Weight
Its lightweight design and safety features inspire confidence, even for beginners or users with no prior experience, allowing comfortable one-handed use.
Safety Features
Its lightweight design and safety features inspire confidence, even for beginners or users with no prior experience, allowing comfortable one-handed use.
Ease of Maintenance
Maintenance is straightforward with tool-free chain tensioning, though the chain can come loose and requires occasional resetting due to debris buildup.
Noise Level
Its quiet operation and emission-free design make it ideal for noise-sensitive neighborhoods and environmentally conscious users.
Runtime (for Battery-Powered Chainsaws)
The inclusion of two batteries is a major advantage, enabling extended work sessions without interruption and ensuring ample runtime well beyond an hour.
#3

Greenworks 40V 12" Cordless Compact Chainsaw (Great For Storm Clean-Up, Pruning, and Camping), 2.0Ah Battery and Charger Included

Rating
10.0
Weight
Ease of Maintenance
Noise Level

Most important from
8085 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and super easy to use, even for beginners, making it perfect for storm clean-up and pruning.
Ease of Maintenance
The chain tensioner is functional but doesn't tighten as much as preferred, though it's a minor issue.
Noise Level
The battery lasts for hours, and it's quiet with no obnoxious smells or starting problems.
Runtime (for Battery-Powered Chainsaws)
The battery lasts for hours, and it's quiet with no obnoxious smells or starting problems.

The Greenworks 40V 12-inch cordless chainsaw is designed for users needing a compact and efficient tool for light tasks such as storm clean-up, pruning, or even camping. One of its standout features is the low kickback safety chain combined with a hand guard, which enhances safety during operation. This is particularly beneficial for beginners or those unfamiliar with chainsaw handling. Additionally, the automatic oiler ensures that the bar and chain remain lubricated, promoting durability and consistent performance without the hassle of manual oiling.

Weighing just under 11 pounds, this chainsaw is lightweight, making it easier to handle for extended periods and reducing user fatigue. The electric start feature means you won’t deal with the fuss of gas, fumes, carburetors, or starter ropes, which many users appreciate for convenience.

This chainsaw is a great fit for homeowners or hobbyists looking for a reliable and user-friendly tool for light to moderate tasks. Its safety features, ease of use, and low maintenance requirements position it well for casual users, though those needing heavy-duty performance may look towards more powerful alternatives.

Rating
10.0
Weight
Ease of Maintenance
Noise Level

Most important from
8085 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and super easy to use, even for beginners, making it perfect for storm clean-up and pruning.
Ease of Maintenance
The chain tensioner is functional but doesn't tighten as much as preferred, though it's a minor issue.
Noise Level
The battery lasts for hours, and it's quiet with no obnoxious smells or starting problems.
Runtime (for Battery-Powered Chainsaws)
The battery lasts for hours, and it's quiet with no obnoxious smells or starting problems.

Buying Guide for the Best 12 Inch Chainsaw

Choosing the right 12-inch chainsaw can make a significant difference in your cutting tasks, whether you're pruning trees, cutting firewood, or tackling small to medium-sized branches. To find the best fit for you, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are the main specs to consider when selecting a 12-inch chainsaw.
Power SourceChainsaws can be powered by gas, electricity, or batteries. Gas-powered chainsaws are typically more powerful and suitable for heavy-duty tasks, but they are also louder and require more maintenance. Electric chainsaws are quieter, lighter, and easier to maintain, making them ideal for light to medium tasks around the yard. Battery-powered chainsaws offer the convenience of cordless operation and are great for small to medium tasks, but their runtime is limited by battery life. Choose a power source based on the type and frequency of your cutting tasks.
Engine/Motor PowerThe power of a chainsaw's engine or motor is measured in cubic centimeters (cc) for gas models or amps/volts for electric and battery models. Higher power means the chainsaw can handle tougher and thicker wood more efficiently. For light pruning and small branches, a lower power (around 20-30cc or 8-12 amps) is sufficient. For more demanding tasks, look for higher power (above 30cc or 12 amps). Consider the typical size and hardness of the wood you'll be cutting to determine the right power level for you.
WeightThe weight of a chainsaw affects its maneuverability and ease of use. Lighter chainsaws (under 10 pounds) are easier to handle and less tiring, making them suitable for extended use and for users who may not have a lot of upper body strength. Heavier chainsaws (over 10 pounds) can be more stable and powerful but may cause fatigue more quickly. Think about how long you'll be using the chainsaw and your physical strength when choosing the right weight.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are crucial in a chainsaw to prevent accidents and injuries. Look for features such as chain brakes, which stop the chain immediately if kickback occurs; low kickback chains, which reduce the risk of kickback; and hand guards, which protect your hands from debris. Additionally, features like automatic oiling systems and tool-less chain tensioning can make the chainsaw safer and easier to maintain. Prioritize safety features based on your experience level and the type of work you'll be doing.
Ease of MaintenanceRegular maintenance is essential to keep your chainsaw running smoothly and safely. Features that make maintenance easier include automatic oilers, which keep the chain lubricated; tool-less chain tensioning, which allows you to adjust the chain without additional tools; and easy-access air filters and spark plugs for gas models. Consider how comfortable you are with performing maintenance tasks and choose a chainsaw with features that simplify the process.
Noise LevelThe noise level of a chainsaw can be an important factor, especially if you live in a residential area or are sensitive to loud sounds. Gas chainsaws are generally the loudest, while electric and battery-powered models are quieter. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB), and lower numbers indicate quieter operation. If noise is a concern, look for chainsaws with lower decibel ratings or consider electric or battery-powered options.
Runtime (for Battery-Powered Chainsaws)For battery-powered chainsaws, runtime is a critical factor. It indicates how long the chainsaw can operate on a single charge. Runtime can vary based on the battery's capacity (measured in amp-hours, Ah) and the power of the chainsaw. Higher capacity batteries provide longer runtimes but may add weight. Consider the typical duration of your cutting tasks and choose a chainsaw with a battery that offers sufficient runtime to complete your work without frequent recharging.

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