
Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?
Spring is the time to get back into your yard and clear out whatever mess winter left you. It’s also the time to get ready for nights on the patio and afternoons admiring the garden. A powerhouse tool for clearing trees, cutting back hedges, and cutting up logs for a summer bonfire is a trusty chainsaw.
We’ve covered both electric and gas-powered chainsaws in the past, with both having their place in the garage when caring for your lawn. Electric chainsaws can come just as powerful as a gas version and are safer since they don’t stay on and idle after you start them. Still, long jobs where you’re clearing a lot of big, hardwood logs are easier if you have the power and longevity of a gas chainsaw.
We rounded up deals on chainsaws we’ve tested and gathered others that had promising specs so you can save money and get your lawn in pristine shape for the upcoming seasons. Read on for the best chainsaw sales on the market this April from trusted brands like Greenworks, Husqvarna, Makita, and more, and get big savings (up to 40 percent!) from our picks below.
This gas chainsaw has 38 cc (cubic capacity) power and a 16-inch bar for the right combination of power and size. It can fell small trees and cut back limbs while still being maneuverable enough for some precision pruning. It has a built-in dampener to soften vibrations and an inertia-activated chain brake, reducing the risk of injury caused by too much kickback.
This electric saw has very little kickback and quiet operation. The small bar and light weight make it ideal for small trees and limbs and can break down medium logs. Its auto-lubrication system has a clear window so you know exactly when you need more chain oil. It has a decent battery life but you can pick up an extra pack if tackling a long job.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
For those with a garage full of Milwaukee tools, this chain saw is part of the same 18-volt battery platform. This model performed efficiently when tested by our editors delivering fast, clean cuts through 10-inch diameter logs. There’s onboard storage for the screwdriver-wrench and has a quiet operation.
While other saws are small and maneuverable, this exceptionally lightweight model is about 3 pounds lighter while still delivering the power of a 32cc gas chainsaw.
The slim profile is perfect for landscaping jobs that require precision. A bright, LED battery indicator and power switch near the handle are sensible features that make this chainsaw all the more user-friendly.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Our editors tested the 40V version of the Greenworks electric chainsaw and were impressed with its performance. This 80V version will give you the same ease of use but with double the power. It gives you 150 cuts on a single charge and has the same output as a 42cc gas chainsaw. The 18-inch bar is great for cutting down large trees and thick logs. The battery also charges faster than others on the market, so you’re not waiting around for a topped off battery.
If you want to look into more Greenworks options, the Greenworks 40V 14-Inch Chainsaw is 30 percent off on Amazon
Danny Perez
Commerce Editor
Danny Perez is a Commerce Editor for Popular Mechanics with a focus on men's style, gear, and home goods. Recently, he was coordinator of partnership content at another product journalism outlet. Prior to that, he was a buyer for an independent men's shop in Houston, Texas, where he learned all about what makes great products great. He enjoys thrifting for 90s Broadway tees and vintage pajama sets. His spare time is occupied by watching movies and running to impress strangers on Strava.
Tested byRoy Berendsohn
Senior Home Editor
Roy Berendsohn has worked for more than 25 years at Popular Mechanics, where he has written on carpentry, masonry, painting, plumbing, electrical, woodworking, blacksmithing, welding, lawn care, chainsaw use, and outdoor power equipment. When he’s not working on his own house, he volunteers with Sovereign Grace Church doing home repair for families in rural, suburban and urban locations throughout central and southern New Jersey.