Best Battery-Powered Chainsaw 2025: Gas Killer or Compromise?
Battery-powered chainsaws have evolved from glorified toys into legitimate tree-cutting machines. The latest models from EGO, Husqvarna, and Milwaukee can fell small to medium trees, limb hardwoods, and buck firewood with surprising efficiency. But can they truly replace a gas chainsaw? We tested seven models to find out.
Why Go Battery-Powered?
The advantages of battery chainsaws are significant. No mixing fuel, no pull-starting, no carburetor adjustments, no spark plug changes, and dramatically less noise and vibration. You press a button and start cutting. Maintenance is limited to chain sharpening and bar oil. For homeowners who use a chainsaw a few times a year for storm cleanup, pruning, and small tree work, a battery chainsaw makes more sense than ever.
Top Battery Chainsaws Compared
| Image | Model | Bar Length | Voltage | Chain Speed | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | EGO CS1804 Check Price | 18″ | 56V | 6,800 FPM | $399 | 9.3/10 |
 | Milwaukee 2727-21HD Check Price | 16″ | 18V | 6,600 FPM | $449 | 9.0/10 |
| — | Husqvarna 540i XP Check Price | 16″ | 36V | 5,900 FPM | $529 | 8.8/10 |
| — | Greenworks 60V CS60L01 | 18″ | 60V | 5,800 FPM | $279 | 8.4/10 |
Where Gas Still Wins
For professional arborists, rural property owners clearing large trees, or anyone cutting all day long, gas chainsaws still reign supreme. A 50cc gas saw delivers sustained power for hours with just a tank refill, and the cutting speed through large hardwood trunks is noticeably faster. If you’re regularly felling trees over 18″ in diameter or bucking large quantities of firewood, a gas saw like the Husqvarna 450 Rancher or Stihl MS 271 remains the better tool for the job.
Our Top Pick: EGO CS1804
The EGO Power+ CS1804 is the battery chainsaw that convinced us this category has arrived. Its 18-inch bar handles surprisingly large logs, the 56V ARC Lithium battery provides impressive runtime, and the cutting speed genuinely approaches gas-saw territory. The tool-free chain tensioning system is the best in class, and at $399 with a 5.0Ah battery and charger, it’s a strong value. If you’re a homeowner looking to ditch the hassles of gas, this is the saw to buy.
Just bought the EGO CS1800 based on this review. It’s surprisingly powerful for a battery chainsaw. Cut through 14-inch oak like butter.