10 Best Lightweight Chainsaws 2025 in the United States

The Greenworks 80V 18" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw is a solid choice for those in need of a lightweight, yet powerful tool for tree felling, limbing, pruning, and cutting firewood. Weighing only 2.05 pounds, it’s easy to handle and maneuver, making it suitable for various outdoor tasks. Powered by an 80V battery, this chainsaw offers a cord-free experience, eliminating the hassle of gas, fumes, and maintenance associated with traditional gas chainsaws. The brushless motor technology enhances the tool's efficiency by providing more torque, longer runtime, and quiet operation.

With an 18-inch bar length, it’s ideal for professional users who require a robust and reliable tool. The automatic oiler ensures the chain is properly lubricated, contributing to increased productivity and smoother cutting operations. The easy-to-adjust tensioning system allows for quick and straightforward bar and chain maintenance, which is a significant convenience for users.

Additionally, it features a user-friendly design with a push-button start, which simplifies the operation process by removing the need for a carburetor, spark plug, or starter rope. One of the standout features is its capability to make up to 150 cuts on 4x4 lumber on a single charge, making it comparable to a 42CC gas chainsaw, which speaks to its powerful performance. However, it’s important to note that being battery-powered, it will require recharging or potentially having a backup battery for extended use. This chainsaw is most suitable for users who prioritize ease of use, low maintenance, and a quieter operation without compromising on power and performance.

The Husqvarna 970601202 350i 42V Power Axe is a lightweight and powerful cordless chainsaw, weighing only 7.72 pounds, making it easy to handle for extended periods. This model runs on a 40V lithium-ion battery, providing the convenience of cordless operation and eliminating the need for fuel mixing or maintenance associated with gas-powered chainsaws.

The 18-inch bar length is suitable for a variety of cutting tasks, from trimming branches to felling small trees, making it versatile for homeowners and garden enthusiasts. The brushless motor enhances durability, efficiency, and ensures quieter operation compared to traditional motor types. Push-button Boost Mode is a handy feature that delivers 25% more power when needed, making tougher cuts more manageable. Additionally, the X-Cut chain maintains sharpness longer, and the tool-less tensioning system simplifies chain adjustments, contributing to easier maintenance.

A significant advantage is the compatibility of the 40V battery with other Husqvarna handheld tools, offering flexibility for users who own or plan to purchase multiple tools from the brand. On the downside, battery life might be a constraint for more extensive jobs, and replacement batteries can add to the long-term cost. Furthermore, while its lightweight nature is a plus, users accustomed to traditional gas chainsaws might find the power slightly lacking for heavy-duty tasks. For most home and garden applications, this chainsaw offers a good balance of performance, convenience, and ease of use.

The Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw is a robust option for those needing a powerful yet portable tool for tasks like tree pruning, yard cleanups, and firewood cutting. Weighing 11.33 pounds, it may not be the lightest chainsaw out there, but it balances this with a powerful 50.2-cc, 3.2-HP engine, ensuring it handles tough jobs effectively. The gas power source provides strong and consistent performance, making it suitable for more demanding tasks compared to electric models.

The bar length is versatile, supporting 13 to 20 inches, allowing users to adapt the chainsaw to specific needs whether it's for fine pruning or cutting larger logs. Safety features like the inertia-activated chain brake are critical, reducing the risk of kickback injuries, a common concern for chainsaw users. Maintenance is made easier with the Air Injection Technology, which helps prolong engine life by keeping debris away from the air filter.

The ergonomic design, including the soft inlay handle and LowVib technology, enhances comfort and reduces fatigue during prolonged use. However, the weight might be a bit on the higher side for users specifically looking for a very lightweight chainsaw. Additionally, being gas-powered means it requires more maintenance and handling care compared to electric or battery models. This chainsaw is ideal for those who need a mix of power and ergonomic support, suitable for both occasional and more intensive use cases.