The 10 Best Small Chainsaws in 2021 (Reviews & Comparisons)

A chainsaw is one of the tools a homeowner needs at home. It is also one of the most effective tools in the logging and forestry industry.

A typical product consists of a metal bar (that comes in varying length). This metal bar rotates on a chain. They come in both large & small varieties.

Small chainsaws are used by homeowners to help them cut firewood, reduce logs to little bits, and make pruning faster. However, buying a good one can be quite tricky. This is especially true for inexperienced homeowners and upcoming professionals. If you find yourself in this situation, we have got you covered. Read on to find out our top picks.

Best Small Chainsaws

1. Makita XCU03PT1 Small Chainsaw

Key Features

It has an effective brushless motor that gives the product its high-power efficiency. This is almost equivalent to gas-powered models.
It has a high chain speed and a speed trigger that can be adjusted by the user.
It has a tool-less chain adjustment. This ensures an easier operation.
It has an in-built LED on and off switch.
It comes with a lock-off lever.

This product comes with other accessories. You can decide to buy it alone or with these additions. This includes an emergency preparedness kit, four batteries, and a grinder.

Why we like it

Its lock-off lever stops the chain from accidental engagement.
The LED switch also has an inbuilt automatic power-off function. This means that the LED switch can automatically go off when it is on standby.
It has an impressive cutting performance.

What we don’t like

It is expensive. This is especially true when you are buying the accessories that come with it.

2. BLACK + DECKER 40V Max Cordless Chainsaw

Key Features

Runtime and lifespan: This product comes with a 40V Lithium-ion battery that allows it to operate for a long period. It also has a long lifespan. Hence, you do not have to worry about getting another one anytime soon.
Its oiling system is automatic.
The chain can be adjusted easily.

The BLACK + DECKER brand has created a very effective 12-inch product. It packs a lot of power with a 40V battery.

Why we like it

If you need a chainsaw that is perfect for pruning branches, then this is your best option.
In a single charge, the battery gives the owner over 60 4×4 woodcuts.
It has a full wrap on its handle. This gives the user a better handling experience.

What we don’t like

It is quite expensive. It probably will not suit someone who is on a budget.

3. Greenworks CS40L210 Chainsaw, 14″

Key Features

It has a very effective 40V 2Ah battery that cuts lumber in 4×4 over 60 times.
It has a 14-inch bar and chain.
It has a very effective brushless motor.
It has an automatic oiler system. This helps with lubrication.

This 14-inch cordless product is another good product. Its features see it sneak into our top ten list.

Why we like it

The package includes a handguard for safety purposes.
Its brushless motor allows the product more runtime and torque.
It has a very long lifespan.

What we don’t like

It is expensive.

4. Greenworks 12-inch Chainsaw

Key Features

One of the best features of this product is the G-MAX high-performance 40V Lithium-ion battery. It provides free-fade power.
The chain has a tool-less tensioning system.
It automatically lubricates the bar and chain. This gives it a longer life span.

The Greenworks brand has another fantastic product. The slight drawback here is the 12-inch feature it comes with.

Why we like it

It comes with a translucent oil level tank.
It gets branches and limbs trimmed with minimal effort.
It comes with a handguard for ease of use and safety.

What we don’t like

The price is a bit high.

5. DEWALT DCCS620PI Chainsaw

Key Features

It is lightweight and has a compact design.
It has a 12-inch bar and chain. This makes it perfect for outdoor purposes.
It has a chain speed of about 25 feet/second.
Its chain tensioning is tool-free and has a bar tightening knob.
It comes with a brushless motor.

This product comes with a 20V lithium-ion battery. It is ideal for all outdoor tasks.

Why we like it

Its brushless motor increases runtime and life span.
We like its light-weighted nature. This makes handling better.

What we don’t like

It doesn’t have an automatic oiling system. This is a major flaw.

6. WORX WG322 Chainsaw

Key Features

Auto-chain tension: This product has a tool-free auto-chain system that provides the right tension for any job.
It has a chain lubrication system that runs automatically. Plus, it has a clear oil level indicator.
It is lightweight and has a compact design.
Battery: the battery in this product can be used on any other WORX product that requires a 20V battery.

The WORX brand has another quality product on the list. It surely has interesting features.

Why we like it

It is very fast: Not only does it give clean cuts, but it also does them in half the usual time.
It is convenient as well: This product neither has a cord nor contains gas. This makes it dependable.
The automatic oiler system gives smoother cuts and increases its durability. Users won’t experience straining.
It is lightweight. This increases the ease of handling this product.

What we don’t like

The chain seems to have the habit of falling off.

7. WORX WG 320 Chainsaw

Key Features

It comes with an automatic chain oiler. It also comes with an oil level indicator.
Efficient cutting power: It can cut through most things seamlessly. This includes wood or trees that are at least 4 inches thick.
It has an auto-tension system. This ensures that there is adequate tension for all kinds of cutting purposes. The system is patented as well.
It is one of the few products that come with a protective guard. This keeps safety at an optimal level.

If there is any product in the WORX brand that cherishes safety, it is this product.

Why we like it

It is very safe to use.
The battery that comes with this product can be used on any other product in the WORX brand.
The price is just right.

What we don’t like

It is quite heavy

8. Oregon CS1500 Small Chainsaw

Key Features

Its chain and bar are 18-inches.
It has a low noise design: this keeps it silent between cuts.
It includes chain brakes. This helps to enhance safety.

This is one of the few products that has self-sharpening abilities. That makes it a truly interesting product.

Why we like it

It is very easy to put its parts together: this makes the assembling process easier.
We like the safety measures this product has.
The saw sharpens itself in less than five seconds. That’s a big plus.

What we don’t like

It is quite difficult to use.

9. WORX WG303.1 Chainsaw

Key Features

It has an auto-tension chain system: it allows the product to automatically adjust the tension system it comes with. This improves the user’s experience.
It comes with a 14.5 Amp motor output, which allows it to cut effectively.
It has an inbuilt chain brake and low kick bar.
Its voltage is about 120V to 60Hz.

This product has similar features to other products from this brand. Let’s take a look at some of its features.

Why we like it

It has an inbuilt oil reservoir and an indicator. It also has an automatic oil lubrication system.
We love the safety measures taken with this product.
It comes with a three-year warranty.
It is perfect for farmers and ranchers.

What we don’t like

It doesn’t come with a battery.

10. Remington RM1425 Chainsaw

Key Features

It is lightweight and has a compact design: It weighs only about 6 pounds. This translates to a better handling experience.
Push Button: This allows the user to disperse the required amount of oil to the chains.
The chain’s tension can be changed using the external tension adjuster.

Are you looking for a chainsaw that is effective and cost-friendly? This product seems to be the best bet. It is especially used for trimming limbs and branches.

Why we like it

It is made for trimming limbs and branches.
The handle has a handguard that prevents flying debris from touching your hands.
It comes in fully assembled and ready to use.
The pricing is adequate.

What we don’t like

It may be a little bit difficult to operate.

Small Chainsaw Buyer’s Guide

How to Choose the Right Size Chainsaw

All chainsaws are not manufactured with the same specifications. So how can one choose the right size? Here are a few factors you should consider;

Smaller or Larger Chainsaws?

Smaller models are used for general maintenance activities. They are also used for pruning shrubs and trees. They are usually 14 to 16 inches long or less. You can place ornamental trees and shrubs with this sort. They are also safe, readily available, and are mostly powered by electricity.

However, larger models are mostly used for cutting down trees. They can get as big as 18″ or even 20-inches.

Power Source

One thing you have to consider is the power source of your product. Most are powered by gas or electricity. For most smaller models, it is recommended that you go with an electric chainsaw. The drawback here is that these will usually come with a cord.

House or Commercial Activities?

If you have more difficult jobs than simple trimming and pruning, then you should consider buying professional chainsaws. They are usually 16-inches to 18-inches long. Most homeowners use larger chainsaws to cut very thick but moderate-sized tree branches into logs. Most of these are gas-powered. Or if you are simply using your chainsaw to cut firewood then you will want to go for a smaller model. Your choice will largely depend on what you want to achieve.

Attributes of the Chainsaw

You will also need to buy one that has an automatic oiling system and an oil level indicator. This contributes to the durability of the product.

Other features you need to look at are the chain brakes, muffler, kickback security, amongst others. Getting a chainsaw with the right features can save you a lot of stress.

Chainsaw Pricing

The majority of people today are on a budget and really do not have money to throw around. If you are in this situation, you might find it helpful to take a look at the prices of various products before making a decision. It is possible to find a good chainsaw at an affordable price. Or, you can see our budget chainsaws here.

Small Chainsaw FAQs

How long can the chains on a chainsaw last?

Most chains can last up to five years. However, you might have to get a sharpener. This prolongs life.

It is important to remember that once the temper of the chain stops working, it might be time to buy a replacement chain.

Why do kickbacks occur?

This occurs when the moving chain at the tail of the guide bar comes in contact with an object. It can also happen when the wood touches the saw chain in the cut. This is one of the most common and severe accidents.

Can you start a chainsaw with the brake on?

You must always start with the brake on. Turn on the switch and open the choke (this enables the air-fuel to mix to the engine).

Final Thoughts

We feel that the Makita product just edges out the rest. With nice features and quite a premium look, it is the best little chainsaws out there.

You might think otherwise. So take a look at the product and choose the one you prefer. We hope you choose the right one.