Best Small Chainsaws In 2023 – Reviews And Buyer’s Guide

Best Small Chainsaws 2021 – Reviews And Buyer’s Guide

Chainsaw is one of the most versatile, efficient and vital tools that was ever invented. Used by both professionals and average homeowners, this tool makes the usual yard work a piece of cake. Over the past decade, chainsaws have greatly evolved.

Today, there are many small chainsaws in the market specifically designed to cater for the needs of the average homeowner and anyone else who does not fancy the big loud intimidating machines.

While the many different types and models of small chainsaws available both online and in the stores give buyers more options to choose from, potential buyers often get overwhelmed by too many options.

To make the chainsaw-buying process a little easier for homeowners and anyone looking to buy one. We have compiled, unbiased, and informative reviews on the best small chainsaws. We have also included a tabulated list showing relevant information on the best small chainsaws today.

This article is therefore written for the benefit of anyone who wants to purchase a small chainsaw but does not really have a chainsaw model or type in mind.

If you just want to look around before making a decision, this article is also for you.

Top Rated Small Chainsaws Compared

ImageNameTypePowerBar LengthWeight
Remington RM1425 Limb N TrimRemington RM1425 Limb N Trim Corded-electric8 Amp14 inch6.25 pounds
Makita UC3551A Electric Chain Saw, 14Makita UC3551A Electric Chain Saw, 14"Corded-electric14.5 Amp14 inch10.8 pounds
Worx WG322 20V Cordless ChainsawWorx WG322 20V Cordless ChainsawBattery-powered20V10 inch6.19 pounds
GreenWorks 20262 G-MAX GreenWorks 20262 G-MAX Battery-powered40V12 inch6 pounds
Makita XCU02Z 18V X2 LXTMakita XCU02Z 18V X2 LXTBattery-powered36V12 inch8.8 pounds
Tanaka TCS33EDTP/12 Gas-powered32.2. cc12 inch11.9 pounds

Things To Consider When Buying A Small Chainsaw

There are very many types and models of small chainsaws in the market today. Obviously, having a lot of choices to choose from is great for the chainsaw buyer as you get to choose one based on your needs, your preferences, and your budget.

However, the many options available can also make it very difficult for one to choose the right one as many people do get overwhelmed and confused when faced with too many choices.

If you are looking to buy a chainsaw, below are some of the factors you should put into consideration to enable you choose one that is suitable for your needs.

things consider when choosing small chainsaw

Chainsaw Type

The first decision that has to be made is the type of chainsaw to be bought. There are mainly three types of chainsaws namely; battery-powered, gas-powered and electric chainsaws.

Each of these three chainsaw types has disadvantages and advantages that make it suitable or unsuitable to different chainsaw users. In summary, below are some of the pros and cons of purchasing either type of chainsaw.

1. Most Corded electric chainsaws have sufficient power to handle most of the chainsaw task required by homeowners and the average chainsaw user around the yard. They require little if any maintenance; produce zero emissions and relatively less noise than the gas-powered chainsaws.

Electric chainsaws are also smaller in size and relatively easier to handle and carry around. Corded electric chainsaws are also the most affordable chainsaw types.

However, the corded- electric chainsaws also have a few downsides. One downside is that they come with a cord which must be plugged into a power source whenever the chainsaw is in use.

This makes them less portable as they are tethered to the power source. Sometimes, the cord is not easy to maneuver around as it can get tangled, causing the chainsaw user to trip over it.

2. Battery-Powered/ Cordless Chainsaws: Like the corded-electric chainsaws, they are also quiet, noise-free, and emission-free. Since they are powered by batteries, they usually have less power capacities than the corded-electric chainsaws and have to be charged from time to time.

They also require no maintenance apart from recharging the batteries when they run out of charge. They are however easily portable as they are not attached to any cords. However, they happen to be the most expensive chainsaws.

3. Gas-powered chainsaws are powered by fuel and are usually fitted with two-stroke engines. They are very powerful and often used for medium to heavy-duty chainsaw tasks like cutting and felling medium to large sized trees. However, they produce a lot of noise and harmful emissions and require a lot of maintenance.

Budget

How much money are you willing to spend on a chainsaw? Obviously, the chainsaw you end up buying must be within your budget. The best thing is that with the many available chainsaw options, it is safe to say that there is something for everyone.

If you are going to be using your small chainsaw only a few times in a year, it would be wise to buy a cheaper model as in such a case, it would not make sense to buy a powerful, durable and expensive chainsaw model.

However, if you want a good chainsaw that will last for a long time, you can pick one from Husqvarna, Stihl or any other chainsaw brands. While products from such brands are bound to be a bit more expensive, they are usually very durable.

Chainsaw Tasks

It is very important to consider the type of jobs you will be using the chainsaw for when choosing a small chainsaw.

For example, if you will be using it only for pruning/trimming tree limbs and branches around your yard, it will be best to buy a smaller electric model that is easy to, maneuver.

However, if you intend to be cutting up logs and felling large trees, a gas-powered model with more power will be more suitable for the job.

Physical Strength

A chainsaw is no play-thing. It can be very dangerous especially if handled by a person who does not have enough physical strength to use it.

However, there are many small chainsaws that are suitable for someone who for whatever reason cannot handle a heavier saw. When choosing a chainsaw, make sure that you can comfortably use it before you take it home.

Safety Features

Safety features are very important when choosing a chainsaw. They help protect you (the user) from chainsaw kickback and generally from getting hurt while operating the chainsaw.

If you are not very conversant with chainsaw use, it is important to choose a model that has many safety features in order to minimize the risk of chainsaw accidents from occurring when you will be using the chainsaw.

Maintenance

Generally, gas-chainsaws require a lot of maintenance in order to perform well and last for many years. You as the chainsaw owners/ user will have to clean it out from time to time, change the oil, and clean the chainsaw and so many other things.

If you are looking for a chainsaw that requires little or no maintenance, a battery powered or an electric-powered chainsaw will be more suitable for you.

Best Small Chainsaw Reviews – Our Top Picks

1. Remington RM1425 Limb N

For your light-duty tree cutting needs, you need a small chainsaw which is rugged, lightweight and reliable enough to be used for a long duration of time. The Remington RM1425 is an electric chainsaw that you may consider when looking for one.

Its main working elements which are the chainsaw and bar are 14 inches in length and have low kickback in case it gets stuck in a branch. To keep this chain from overheating, it’s provided with a push button that you regularly press to squirt the lubricating oil.

For chain longevity, there is an external tension adjustment system which allows you to either slacken or tighten the chain depending on the cutting demands. Additionally, a wrap-around hand guard keeps flying debris from your hand as you saw through wood.

To power the saw through small branches and saplings, an 8-amp motor is fitted onto it. To roar the chainsaw into life, you simply squeeze the trigger.

This small chainsaw gives you the benefits of an electric chainsaw of being low weight and compact.With an electric motor, weight is considerably reduced ensuring that you can trim for long without feeling too fatigued.

If you are looking for a small chainsaw with enough power to tackle small tasks around your yard, this is the chainsaw for you. It is small in size, light and very affordable.

Top Features

  • 8-amp motor
  • 14-inch chain and bar
  • Wrap-around handguard
  • 6.25 pounds
  • Push-button oiler
  • External chain tensioner
  • Low kickback
Pros
  • Lightweight and easy to use
  • Runs quiet
  • Any leak is easy to fix
  • Throttle lockout prevents accidental chain startup
  • Comes fully assembled
  • Cheap Cost
Cons
  • Oiler leaks at times
  • Chain teeth are further apart than usual
  • Durability is questionable

2. Makita UC3551A 14″ Electric Chain Saw

Makita UC3551A 14

The small chainsaw needs to provide you with faster cutting speeds, ease of maintenance, and protection mechanisms from fatigue and current overloads. These are the exact features you would be getting from the Makita UC3551A.

Fitted with a powerful electric motor, the Makita delivers a top chain speed of up to 2,900 Feet per Minute. With such a speed, fast cutting of limbs and saplings becomes a breeze. After completing your work, an electric brake quickly brings the chain to a stop.

In the event that a branch is too thick and the motor becomes overloaded, a built-in current-limiter reduces the power to the motor. It is an engineering design put in place to protect the motor from burning out.

Another good feature about this small chainsaw is the automatic chain lubrication system. It shifts from the conventional push button which becomes tiresome when you need to keep cutting continuously. The reservoir for this oil has a clear window for knowing when to re-fill it.

As you go about your work, your comfort is important just as the performance of the chainsaw. This saw has a rubberized ergonomic handle which absorbs the small amounts of vibrations produced by the moving parts.

To make the process of starting the saw easier; a large trigger is fitted onto the handle and turned to start the saw once squeezed smoothly.

Top Features

  • Rubberized handles
  • See-through oil reservoir
  • Tool-less chain and blade adjustment
  • Large start trigger
  • Current Limiter
  • Electric chain brake
  • 14-inch bar and chain
  • Automated chain oiler
  • Spiked material gripper
Pros
  • Provides for a tool-less chain tension adjustment
  • Rubberized handle reduces fatigue
  • Lubrication is automated
  • The motor is protected from burnout
  • Smoothly starts
  • Easy to set up and use
Cons
  • Instructions on how to use it for the first time are not clear
  • Guide bar bearing comes out on occasions.

3. Worx WG322 10-in Cordless 20V Chainsaw

Worx WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw with Auto-Tension

Cordless chainsaws provide you with a certain degree of convenience that lacks in either corded or gas chainsaws. You can bring it along (provided it has some battery charge) and worry less about fumes in the process. Powered by a 20V battery, the Worx is one of the best small chainsaws out there.

With this battery, you can power your small chainsaw as well as other 20 volts Worx tools if you own any. The rechargeable battery powers the motor which in turn drives the 10 inches chain bar and chain. Such power makes it cut cleanly and fast.

The ease of use and smooth running of this saw is quite impressive. An auto lubrication system eliminates the task of having to press a button every time to lubricate the bar. Alongside the auto lube, there’s an auto tension system that ensures the chain has the right tension for a clean cut.

What if you want to trim branches higher up the ground? Well, this small chainsaw is compatible with an optional extension pole thereby adding 10 feet of extra height.

A lightweight, yet compact design makes for a fatigue-free usage on any outing. To further provide you some relief, an ergonomic handle that’s comfortable on the hands is fitted onto the chainsaw.

Top Features

  • 20 volts battery
  • Battery charge indicator
  • Auto-lubrication
  • Weighs 6.19 pounds
  • Auto-tensioning
  • Compatible with an extension pole
  • Ergonomic handle
Pros
  • Very light
  • Works as a chainsaw and a pole saw
  • Comfortable grip
  • Battery compatible with other products
  • Motor delivers plenty of torque
  • Lithium-ion battery lasts quite a while
  • Easy to start
Cons
  • Only cuts small twigs
  • Battery charge drains quick at times

4. GreenWorks 20262 G-MAX 40V

Greenworks 12-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw

The Greenworks is another cordless chainsaw which is great for trimming small twigs, tree limbs and saplings. A high-performance G-MAX 40V battery powers this power tool through the different tree limbs that you will be trimming.

This battery made from Lithium-ion delivers a longer lasting charge. The power provided by the battery is then harnessed by the motor which then develops the needed torque delivered to the robust 12 inches steel bar and chain. It is this chain that does the work on your property.

A chain with a pitch of 3/8 inches is fixed on the bar to deliver the right amount of capabilities for limb trimming and cutting. This chain and bar are kept lubricated at all times when the chainsaw is running the automated oiling system.

The wrap-around handle gives you a multi-position cutting possibility to suit your working angle. In a way, the comfortable handle reduces awkward working positions which result in backaches.

Fatigue is minimized further by the reduction in the number of vibrations, weight, and noise produced by the tool. If you own an array of other Greenworks tools, then the 40 volts battery that comes with this product is compatible with the other range of tools.

Top Features

  • G-MAX 40 V Lithium-Ion battery
  • 12” steel chain and bar
  • 3/8” chain pitch
  • Automatic Oiler
  • Tool-less chain tensioning
  • Wrap-around handle
  • Translucent oil tank
  • Compatible battery
Pros
  • Enough power for fairly thick logs
  • Simply turn a dial to tension or slacken the chain
  • Impressive for light duty
  • Fast charging battery
  • Last longer on a charge
Cons
  • Does not have a chain brake
  • Not suitable for cut larger branches

5. Makita XCU02Z 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 12″

Makita XCU02Z 18V X2

The 12” cordless Makita is another option you could consider apart from the corded option. If you are looking for improved portability but an almost similar performance as its electric counterpart, then this chainsaw will come in handy. It has an inbuilt motor that is powered by two 18 volts LXT Lithium-ion batteries.

This brings the total to 36 volts that are needed to deliver an impressive runtime that your work demands. However, these two batteries have to be bought separately.

When plugged in, the batteries produce enough power through the motor to deliver a chain speed of up to 1,650 feet per minute (FPM). This speed is great for light duty tree limbs trimming work.

The chain’s movements are guided by a 12” bar which keeps it in place and ensures the chain does not slip off even at high speeds. With time, the chain will tighten or become loose. To correct that, use the tool-less chain adjustment system. Apart from convenience, it prolongs the lifespan of the chain.

User comfort is another great feature of this chainsaw. Its sound levels are measured at 89 dB(A). Which is sufficient for providing ear and neighbors’ comfort as you work. Since this tool is cordless, there is little to no maintenance work to worry about which is a feature that makes it easy to use.

Top Features

  • Two 18 volts LXT batteries
  • 1,650 FPM chain speed
  • 89 dB(A). Sound level
  • 12” guide bar
  • Tool-less tension adjustment
  • Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) Water resistant protection
  • Rubber soft grip
  • Chain brake
  • Hand guard
Pros
  • Has a chain that brings it to a quick halt
  • Requires little maintenance
  • Less noisy
  • Comfortable handle
  • Fast charging batteries
Cons
  • Batteries not part of the package
  • Chain slips off the bar on occasions

6. Tanaka TCS33EDTP/12 32.2cc 12-Inch Top Handle Chain Saw

Tanaka TCS33EDTP/12 32.2cc 12-Inch

Gas powered chainsaws are known to deliver the best performances when it comes to sheer cutting power. If you want a gas chainsaw, then this one from Tanaka is a good option for the light-duty trimmings you might need to carry out.

Powered by a 32.2 cc, 2-stroke commercial grade engine, it delivers enough power to carry out shaping, pruning and hobby work involving cutting tree limbs. Using a pure fire engine technology, the saw assures a powerful yet clean engine performance at a lesser fuel consumption rate.

The engine produces the torque required to run the Oregon chain guided by a 12” steel bar. This sprocket nose-bar provides additional control for an easier cut. Starting the engine is easier as it uses the half-throttle choke with a purge primer bulb.

An automatic oiler is connected to the gear drive to release lubricating oil provided the engine is running. For tensioning, a side-access tensioner is in place for a quicker and convenient process.

Top Features

  • 12” bar
  • 32.2 cc engine
  • Gear driven oiler
  • Side access tensioner
  • Oregon chain
  • 2-cycle engine
Pros
  • Starts quickly
  • Less fuel consumption
  • Low emissions
  • Compact Design for portability
  • Powerful engine
  • Anti-vibration system for comfort
  • Durable, rugged construction
Cons
  • Requires routine maintenance
  • Chain oil leaks at times
  • The bolt holding the chain bar in place loosens with time

Conclusion

Buying a small chainsaw should not be a rash decision. Before settling on any one model or seller, it is important to thoroughly consider the factors above, read other customers’ online reviews and to shop around for the best deals.

What one chainsaw user may consider the best chainsaw, will not be the best chainsaw for all other chainsaw users. Ultimately, the best small chainsaw for you will be one that you consider suitable for you in respect to the work you will be suing it for, your needs, and your budget.

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