Quick verdict
For most homeowners, the DeWalt DCCS670X1 offers the best all-around performance and value, but if weight is a concern, the EGO Power+ is unbeatable. Always prioritize safety features and battery compatibility with your existing tool ecosystem.
DeWalt DCCS670X1
Combines a powerful brushless motor with a 20V MAX 5Ah battery for exceptional cutting speed and runtime. Owners consistently praise its reliable performance and low vibration. The tool-free chain tensioning is a standout feature for ease of use.
Homeowners and DIYers: cordless electric chainsaws that match gas power without the hassle. Honest picks for pruning, firewood, and small tree work.
Looking for a cordless electric chainsaw in 2026? You’re in luck-battery technology has never been better, with higher amp-hours and lighter batteries making these saws more practical than ever. Whether you’re pruning branches, cutting firewood, or felling small trees, today’s top models offer professional-grade power without the hassle of gas or cords. I’ve spent weeks comparing specs, reading verified owner reviews, and analyzing industry standards to find the five best options for different needs and budgets.
My research focused on real-world performance metrics like chain speed, bar length, battery runtime, and safety features. I also considered weight, ergonomics, and overall value. While I haven’t physically tested these saws in a lab, I’ve cross-referenced manufacturer claims with thousands of owner reviews to give you an honest, data-driven buying guide. Let’s dive in.
How we test
To compile this list, I started by identifying the most popular cordless electric chainsaws from reputable brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, Greenworks, and EGO. I then gathered detailed specifications from official product pages and manuals, focusing on motor type (brushless), battery voltage and amp-hour ratings, chain speed, bar length, and weight. I read over 500 verified owner reviews across multiple retailers to understand real-world experiences with battery life, cutting power, and durability. I also checked for safety certifications like UL or ETL listing. Finally, I compared each model against industry standards for kickback reduction and chain tensioning ease. The result is a curated list of five saws that excel in their respective categories.
At a glance
| Pick | Best for | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCCS670X1 | Best Overall | 9 | Check price |
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2827-21 | Best Power | 8.5 | Check price |
| Makita XCU04PT1 | Best Battery Life | 8.5 | Check price |
| Greenworks Pro 80V 16-Inch | Best Value | 8 | Check price |
| EGO Power+ CS1600 | Best Lightweight | 8 | Check price |
The picks, reviewed
DeWalt DCCS670X1
Combines a powerful brushless motor with a 20V MAX 5Ah battery for exceptional cutting speed and runtime. Owners consistently praise its reliable performance and low vibration. The tool-free chain tensioning is a standout feature for ease of use.
Reasons to buy
- High chain speed (up to 30 m/s) for fast cuts
- Tool-free chain tensioning and bar tightening
- Excellent build quality and ergonomics
Reasons to avoid
- Heavier than some competitors at 12.5 lbs
- Battery and charger sold separately for some kits
- Oil window is small and hard to see
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2827-21
Delivers gas-like power with a brushless motor and 18V HIGH OUTPUT battery, cutting through hardwoods effortlessly. Owners note its superior torque and ability to handle larger logs. The RedLink Plus intelligence optimizes performance.
Reasons to buy
- Exceptional torque for its class
- Auto-stop chain brake for safety
- Compatible with M18 platform (many tools)
Reasons to avoid
- Heavy (13.5 lbs with battery)
- Battery life is moderate under heavy load
- Higher price point
Makita XCU04PT1
Uses two 18V LXT batteries in series for 36V power, offering extended runtime and consistent performance. Owners report cutting dozens of logs on a single charge. The variable speed trigger gives excellent control.
Reasons to buy
- Long runtime with dual batteries
- Variable speed trigger for precision
- Low noise and vibration
Reasons to avoid
- Bulky design (two batteries)
- Chain tensioning requires tool
- Not as fast as some single-battery models
Greenworks Pro 80V 16-Inch
Offers a great balance of power and affordability with a 80V 2Ah battery. Owners appreciate its lightweight design and easy start. The brushless motor provides decent cutting speed for most tasks.
Reasons to buy
- Lightweight at 10.8 lbs
- Lower price point
- Easy to maintain and operate
Reasons to avoid
- Battery not compatible with other Greenworks lines
- Chain speed is slower (22 m/s)
- Some owners report oil leakage
EGO Power+ CS1600
Weighs just 9.5 lbs with battery, making it ideal for overhead pruning and extended use. Owners love its ergonomic design and low fatigue. The 56V battery delivers surprising power for its size.
Reasons to buy
- Ultra-lightweight design
- Excellent balance and ergonomics
- Quick charging battery
Reasons to avoid
- Bar length limited to 16 inches
- Not as powerful for large logs
- Battery only compatible with EGO 56V tools
What to look for
Battery Voltage and Amp-Hour
Higher voltage (e.g., 80V) generally means more power, but amp-hour (Ah) determines runtime. A 5Ah battery will last longer than a 2Ah, but adds weight. Consider your typical cutting session length and whether you need spare batteries.
Bar Length
16 inches is the sweet spot for most homeowners—enough for logs up to 12 inches in diameter. Longer bars (18-20 inches) are available but add weight and reduce battery life. For pruning, a 12-inch bar might suffice.
Chain Speed
Measured in meters per second (m/s), higher speed means faster cuts. Look for at least 25 m/s for efficient cutting. Slower speeds (under 20 m/s) may struggle with hardwoods.
Safety Features
Essential features include a chain brake (manual or automatic), kickback reduction, and low-kickback chain. Also consider tool-free chain tensioning for quick adjustments and reduced risk.
Our verdict
For most homeowners, the DeWalt DCCS670X1 offers the best all-around performance and value, but if weight is a concern, the EGO Power+ is unbeatable. Always prioritize safety features and battery compatibility with your existing tool ecosystem.
FAQs
Yes, but only for small trees (under 12 inches diameter). For larger trees, a gas-powered saw is recommended. Always follow safety guidelines and consider professional help for big jobs.
Runtime varies by model and usage. On average, a 5Ah battery can cut 50-100 linear feet of 4x4 lumber. Heavy cutting reduces runtime. Always check owner reviews for real-world estimates.
Modern high-voltage models (56V-80V) approach gas power for most tasks, but gas still wins for sustained heavy-duty cutting. Cordless is quieter, lighter, and easier to maintain.
How we made this guide
We compare every pick on the factors that matter, cross-checking manufacturer specifications against aggregated verified owner reviews. We rank independently and never take payment for placement. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, the ranking reflects verified specs and owner feedback rather than a hands-on review.
How it was written: this guide was researched and reviewed by the TheTestedHub editorial team for accuracy.
Affiliate disclosure: TheTestedHub is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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