10 Best Compact Chainsaws 2025 in the United States

The DEWALT 20V MAX Pruning Chainsaw is a compact and lightweight battery-powered tool, making it excellent for quick trimming jobs and accessing tight spaces. Its 8-inch bar length is well-suited for pruning small branches rather than heavy cutting. Weighing just over 4.5 pounds, it is easy to handle and reduces fatigue during extended use.

Equipped with a brushless motor, the chainsaw offers improved battery life and cutting efficiency. With the appropriate battery (sold separately), users can achieve up to 70 cuts on treated pine before needing to recharge. Safety features include a tip guard to help prevent kickback during upcuts, enhancing user confidence. The auto-oiling mechanism keeps the chain continuously lubricated, minimizing maintenance needs. While quieter than gas models, battery-powered saws generally produce less noise.

The battery and charger are sold separately, so users without compatible DEWALT tools will need to acquire them independently. This chainsaw is an excellent choice for homeowners or gardeners seeking a lightweight, easy-to-use tool designed for pruning tasks rather than heavy-duty cutting or professional logging.

The Echo CS-590-20AA is a gasoline-powered chainsaw with a robust 59.8 cc engine and a 20-inch bar length, making it powerful enough for heavy-duty tasks. This chainsaw provides a strong 5.3 horsepower, which is impressive for this type of tool, ensuring it can handle tough cutting jobs efficiently. Safety is an essential aspect of chainsaws, and while specific safety features aren't detailed, Echo typically includes standard safety measures like chain brakes and vibration reduction in their products.

Maintenance is straightforward for Echo chainsaws, with accessible parts and a design that allows for easy cleaning and servicing. Noise level is an inevitable downside of gasoline-powered chainsaws, and while this model is likely to be loud, it performs powerfully in return.

This chainsaw is well-suited for those who need a reliable and potent tool for demanding outdoor tasks, like cutting large trees or heavy branches, but may not be the best fit for those looking for a lightweight or particularly quiet solution.

The WORX Nitro 20V 5" Cordless Brushless Chainsaw is a great option for those needing a lightweight and compact tool for trimming and cutting small to medium branches. Weighing just 3 pounds, it’s easy to handle and won’t cause much fatigue during use, especially with its soft grip design. The 5-inch bar length is ideal for precise pruning tasks but may not suit larger cutting jobs. Its 20V battery-powered brushless motor offers smooth and fast cutting at 33 feet per second, making it efficient for yard work.

One standout feature is the automatic chain lubrication and simple tension adjustment, which make maintenance hassle-free. In terms of safety, the saw includes a guard to protect your hands and reduce the risk of debris injury, which is important for any user. Battery-powered chainsaws generally operate more quietly than gas models, making this one more pleasant for neighborhood use.

The 2.0 Ah battery may limit continuous use time, approximately allowing up to 160 cuts on small hardwood branches before needing a recharge, so it might require planning for longer projects. This chainsaw is well-suited for those who want a portable, easy-to-use tool for light to moderate pruning and cutting, with convenient features that reduce upkeep and improve safety.