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10 Best Lightweight Chainsaws 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#2

Greenworks 80V 18" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw (Great For Tree Felling, Limbing, Pruning, and Firewood) / 75+ Compatible Tools), 2.0Ah Battery and Rapid Charger Included

Rating
10.0
Power Source
Bar Length
Safety Features

Most important from
2029 reviews

Power Source
No more dealing with stalls, gas/oil mixtures, and it's quieter.
Bar Length
Cuts through limbs like butter, and I've downed and cut up 16" diameter trees effortlessly.
Safety Features
Great safety feature: as soon as you stop a cut, everything shuts down.
Ease of Maintenance
The chain tends to pop off the bar almost with every battery charge, which can be annoying during large jobs.

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.

Rating
10.0
Power Source
Bar Length
Safety Features

Most important from
2029 reviews

Power Source
No more dealing with stalls, gas/oil mixtures, and it's quieter.
Bar Length
Cuts through limbs like butter, and I've downed and cut up 16" diameter trees effortlessly.
Safety Features
Great safety feature: as soon as you stop a cut, everything shuts down.
Ease of Maintenance
The chain tends to pop off the bar almost with every battery charge, which can be annoying during large jobs.
#3

Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw, 50.2-cc 3.2-HP, 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, For Tree Pruning, Yard Cleanups and Firewood Cutting, 970613120

Rating
9.9
Weight
Engine/Motor Power
Safety Features

Most important from
363 reviews

Weight
The chainsaw feels about a pound lighter compared to similar models.
Engine/Motor Power
The chainsaw runs noticeably smoother during both idle and running compared to other models.
Safety Features
The fuel level see-through window is a helpful feature.
Ease of Maintenance
The spark plug was properly gaped from the factory, which is uncommon for small engines.

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.

Rating
9.9
Weight
Engine/Motor Power
Safety Features

Most important from
363 reviews

Weight
The chainsaw feels about a pound lighter compared to similar models.
Engine/Motor Power
The chainsaw runs noticeably smoother during both idle and running compared to other models.
Safety Features
The fuel level see-through window is a helpful feature.
Ease of Maintenance
The spark plug was properly gaped from the factory, which is uncommon for small engines.

Buying Guide for the Best Lightweight Chainsaws

Choosing the right lightweight chainsaw can make your cutting tasks easier and more efficient. Whether you're trimming branches, cutting firewood, or tackling small trees, a lightweight chainsaw can provide the power you need without the bulk and fatigue associated with heavier models. To find the best fit for you, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your specific needs.
WeightWeight is a crucial factor when selecting a lightweight chainsaw, as it directly affects your comfort and ease of use. Lightweight chainsaws typically range from 5 to 10 pounds. If you plan to use the chainsaw for extended periods or have limited upper body strength, opt for a model on the lighter end of the spectrum. For occasional use or shorter tasks, a slightly heavier model may still be manageable and offer additional power.
Power SourceChainsaws can be powered by gas, electricity, or batteries. Gas-powered chainsaws are generally more powerful and suitable for heavy-duty tasks but are also heavier and require more maintenance. Electric chainsaws are lighter and easier to maintain, making them ideal for small to medium tasks around the yard. Battery-powered chainsaws offer the convenience of cordless operation and are lightweight, but their runtime is limited by battery life. Choose a power source based on the type and frequency of tasks you plan to perform.
Bar LengthThe bar length of a chainsaw determines the size of the wood it can cut. Lightweight chainsaws typically have bar lengths ranging from 10 to 16 inches. A shorter bar (10-12 inches) is easier to handle and ideal for trimming branches and cutting small logs. A longer bar (14-16 inches) can handle larger logs and small trees but may add some weight and require more control. Consider the typical size of the wood you'll be cutting to choose the appropriate bar length.
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 ratings provide more cutting capability but can also add weight. For light pruning and small tasks, a lower power rating (20-30cc or 8-12 amps/18-20 volts) is sufficient. For more demanding tasks, such as cutting thicker logs, a higher power rating (30-40cc or 12-15 amps/36-40 volts) may be necessary. Match the power to the intensity of your cutting needs.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are essential in any chainsaw to prevent accidents and injuries. Look for features such as chain brakes, low kickback bars, and automatic oilers. Chain brakes stop the chain quickly in case of kickback, while low kickback bars reduce the risk of kickback occurring. Automatic oilers ensure the chain remains lubricated, reducing wear and the risk of malfunction. Prioritize models with robust safety features, especially if you are a beginner or will be using the chainsaw frequently.
Ease of MaintenanceRegular maintenance is necessary to keep your chainsaw in good working condition. Features that simplify maintenance include tool-less chain tensioning, easy access to the air filter and spark plug (for gas models), and clear oil level indicators. Tool-less chain tensioning allows you to adjust the chain without additional tools, saving time and effort. Easy access to maintenance points ensures you can perform routine checks and replacements quickly. Choose a model with user-friendly maintenance features to keep your chainsaw running smoothly.

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