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TopGear Review

We offer expert, hands-on insights to help you choose the best equipment for your home and outdoor projects.

The 10 Best Lightweight Chainsaw for Easy Cutting

Written By TopGear Review

10 Easy Chainsaw Sharpening Tips for Maximum Cutting Power

A chainsaw is an essential tool for cutting trees or trimming branches. Some chainsaws are very heavy and difficult to handle; however, this is where the lightweight chainsaw comes into play.

If you need to use a chainsaw for a long time, it should be a lightweight chainsaw because such chainsaws are easy to manage and less likely to tire your energy.

When looking for the best lightweight chainsaw, several factors should be considered. First is the weight of the saw itself; it should be light enough for easy handling and maneuverability, especially if you plan to use it for a long time.

Secondly, there is power; lighter chainsaws may not have as much energy as heavier chainsaws, but they can still get most jobs done, so do not compromise too much in terms of performance when searching for the best lightweight chainsaw.

Last but not least is bar size and chain length—smaller bars with shorter chains are usually better suited to small tasks. However, they may not necessarily cut through thicker logs easily.

We spent a lot of hours researching and testing 10 different lightweight chainsaws to find the perfect balance between weight, power output, and cutting capability.

In this guide, we will share our top picks and explain why each one made it onto our list. These make them excellent choices for anyone needing the best lightweight chainsaw.

Top 10 Best Lightweight Chainsaws

Finding the right chainsaw can be difficult, especially when looking for a lightweight one. That’s why we have compiled this list of the best lightweight chainsaws available on Amazon. Whether you’re a professional or a homeowner, these chainsaws will make your cutting tasks easier and more efficient.

Here are our recommendations for the 10 best lightweight chainsaws:

ImageProductRemarkPrice
Our Pick
BLACKDECKER 20V MAX Chainsaw Kit 1024x1024 1
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Chainsaw Kit

Ideal for homeowners and occasional users

Recommended
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WORX WG305.1 8 Amp 14″ Electric Chainsaw

Great for easy cutting and efficient yard maintenance.

Top Choice
Makita XCU07PT 18V X2 36V LXT Lithium Ion Brushless Cordless 5.0Ah 14 Chain Saw Kit Teal
Makita XCU07PT 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless (5.0Ah) 14″ Chain Saw Kit, Teal

Excellent choice for various cutting jobs.

Great Value
Worx 40V 12 Cordless Chainsaw Power Share
Worx 40V 12″ Cordless Chainsaw Power Share with Auto-Tension (Tool Only) – WG381.9

Perfect for outdoor use with convenient features.

Highly Rated
LiTHELi Battery Chainsaw 12 40V Cordless Chainsaw
LiTHELi Battery Chainsaw 12″, 40V Cordless Chainsaw

Ideal for cutting small to medium-sized wood comfortably.

Beginners
WORX WG322 20V Power Share 1
WORX WG322 20V Power Share 10″ Cordless Chainsaw with Auto-Tension Batt/Charger Included Chainsaw

Suitable for casual users needing an easy-to-use tool

Expert’s Choice
51R7qUtCLhL 1
Husqvarna Power Axe 350i Cordless Electric Chainsaw

Best for efficient cutting on different outdoor occasions.

Home Use
Greenworks 24V 10 Cordless Chainsaw
Greenworks 24V 10″ Cordless Chainsaw

Good for light-duty tasks and maintaining small branches.

Best in Class
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EGO Power+ CS1800 18-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Chain Saw Battery and Charger Not Included 18-In.Chainsaw (NO BATTERY/CHARGER)

Ideal for power users tackling larger branches and trees.

Recommended
Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

Excellent for outdoor enthusiasts

best lightweight chainsaw

4.6/5

The very first chainsaw of our list is BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Chainsaw Kit. If you’re looking for the best lightweight chainsaw on the market, the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Chainsaw Kit is a great option.

Specifications
BrandBLACK+DECKER
Power SourceBattery Powered
Horsepower5 hp
Item Weight 6.8 Pounds
Product Dimensions16.7″L x 8.81″W x 9.63″H
Chain Length10 Inches

Pros

  • Tool-free blade tension system for easy adjustments
  • Lightweight design for reduced fatigue during use
  • The improved oiling system with a clear window to monitor oil level

Cons

  • Battery life may not be sufficient for longer jobs
  • Oil cap may be difficult to tighten
  • Chain speed may be slower than other models

We were impressed with the ease of use and maneuverability of this chainsaw. The tool-free blade tension system made it easy to adjust the chain as needed, and the lightweight design made it comfortable to use for extended periods. The improved oiling system with a clear window to monitor the oil level was also a nice touch.

best lightweight chainsaw

However, we did notice that the battery life may not be sufficient for longer jobs, so it’s important to have a backup battery on hand if needed. Additionally, the oil cap may be difficult to tighten, which could lead to oil leakage. Finally, the chain speed may be slower than other models, which could impact the speed of your work.

Overall, if you’re looking for the best lightweight chainsaw for smaller jobs around the house, the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Chainsaw Kit is a great option.

WORX WG305.1 8 Amp 14 Electric Chainsaw

4.6/5

We highly recommend the WORX WG305.1 8 Amp 14″ Electric Chainsaw for those who need a lightweight and efficient tool for light to medium-duty trimming, lambing, pruning, and cleaning up around the yard.

Specifications
BrandBLACK+DECKER
Power SourceBattery Powered
Horsepower5 hp
Item Weight 6.8 Pounds
Product Dimensions16.7″L x 8.81″W x 9.63″H
Chain Length10 Inches

Pros

  • The patented auto-tension chain system extends the life of the bar and chain.
  • The automatic, tool-free chain tensioning system and oil level indicator make it easy to operate and maintain.
  • The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver and use for a long time.

Cons

  • The 14″ bar may not be suitable for larger jobs.
  • The corded power source may limit flexibility.
  • The chainsaw may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks.

This chainsaw is a compact powerhouse that offers a powerful 8 amp motor in a lightweight and efficient 14″ design. The patented auto-tension chain system helps extend the life of the bar and chain, making it a low-maintenance option. The automatic, tool-free chain tensioning system and oil level indicator make it even easier to operate and maintain.

We found the comfortable rubberized over-grip handle to improve comfort and stability, making it easy for light to medium-duty tasks. The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver and use for extended periods.

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While the 14″ bar may not be suitable for larger jobs, we found it perfect for small to medium tasks. The corded power source may limit mobility, but it also provides consistent power without refueling. We also found that the chainsaw may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks.

In conclusion, the WORX WG305.1 8 Amp 14″ Electric Chainsaw is a great option for those who need a lightweight and efficient tool for light to medium duty tasks around the yard. If you are searching for the best lightweight chainsaw, this model offers a great balance of power, ease of use, and low maintenance.

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If you’re searching for the best lightweight chainsaw that’s easy to use and maintain, the Makita XCU07PT is an excellent choice.

Specifications
BrandMakita
Power SourceBattery Powered
Horsepower18 Watts
Item Weight 11.2 Pounds
Product Dimensions48″L x 48″W x 48″H
Chain Length14 Inches
Chain Speed3,940 FPM

Pros

  • The Makita-built outer rotor BL Brushless motor direct-drive system is highly efficient and provides power equivalent to a 32cc gas chainsaw.
  • Captured bar nuts and lateral chain tensioning make operation and maintenance of the saw convenient.
  • The variable speed trigger and high chain speed (0-3,940 FPM) provide improved cutting performance.

Cons

  • The battery life may not be long enough for extended use.
  • The chain may come loose more easily than on some other chainsaws.
  • The saw may not be powerful enough for heavy-duty cutting tasks.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the Makita XCU07PT, and we were impressed with how easy it was to use. The saw is powered by two 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries, which deliver 36V power and performance without leaving the 18V LXT platform. The saw is lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it a great option for cutting and trimming applications.

One of the standout features of the Makita XCU07PT is the Makita-built outer rotor BL Brushless motor direct-drive system. This system provides high power efficiency that is equivalent to a 32cc gas chainsaw. The captured bar nuts and lateral chain tensioning also make operation and maintenance of the saw convenient.

Another great feature of the Makita XCU07PT is the variable speed trigger and high chain speed (0-3,940 FPM), which provide improved cutting performance. We found that the saw was able to cut through small to medium-sized branches with ease.

However, there are a few potential drawbacks to the Makita XCU07PT. The battery life may not be long enough for extended use, so you may need to have spare batteries on hand. We also found that the chain may come loose more easily than on some other chainsaws, so you’ll need to keep an eye on it during use. Finally, the saw may not be powerful enough for heavy-duty cutting tasks.

Overall, we think that the Makita XCU07PT is one of the best lightweight chainsaw that’s easy to use and maintain. If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient saw for cutting and trimming applications, we highly recommend this product.

Also, check out our blog post on the 10 best chainsaw for cutting trees.

Worx 40V 12 Cordless Chainsaw Power Share

If you’re looking for a lightweight chainsaw that can handle common backyard tasks, the Worx 40V 12″ Cordless Chainsaw Power Share with Auto-Tension could be a great choice.

Specifications
BrandWORX
Power SourceBattery Powered
Horsepower2000 Watts
Item Weight 9.9 Pounds
Product Dimensions28.35″L x 9.45″W x 9.84″H
Chain Length12 Inches
Chain Speed21 FT/S

Pros

  • With two 20V Power Share batteries, this chainsaw provides gas-like performance.
  • The automatic chain-tensioning system ensures that the chain is always at the right tension.
  • The same battery can power over 75+ 20V, 40V, and 80V lifestyle, garden, and power tools in the Power Share family.

Cons

  • The chain is not very durable and may need to be replaced frequently.
  • The saw may struggle with larger or tougher tasks.
  • The chain has a tendency to come off the chain frame when cutting small loose limbs or vines.

We’ve used the Worx 40V 12″ Cordless Chainsaw Power Share with Auto-Tension for a variety of tasks around the yard and have been impressed with its performance. The two 20V Power Share batteries provide plenty of power, and the automatic chain-tensioning system ensures that the chain is always at the right tension.

One thing to keep in mind is that the chain is not very durable and may need to be replaced frequently, especially if you’re using the saw for tougher tasks. However, for common backyard tasks, the Worx chainsaw is more than capable.

Another potential issue is that the chain has a tendency to come off the chain frame when cutting small loose limbs or vines. This can be frustrating, but it’s not a dealbreaker.

Overall, if you’re looking for a lightweight chainsaw that can handle common backyard tasks, the Worx 40V 12″ Cordless Chainsaw Power Share with Auto-Tension is a solid choice. Just be aware of its limitations and keep an eye on the chain.

LiTHELi Battery Chainsaw 12 40V Cordless Chainsaw

If you are in the market for a lightweight chainsaw that can handle small to medium-sized wood, the LiTHELi Battery Chainsaw is a great option. With its 12″ low-kickback bar & chain and rubber-wrapped handles, it offers a comfortable and convenient grip for all your cutting needs.

Specifications
BrandLiTHELi
Power SourceBattery Powered
Horsepower550 Watts
Item Weight 4 Kilograms
Product Dimensions10.63″L x 9.65″W x 20.67″H
Chain Length12 Inches
Chain Speed26ft/s

Pros

  • The magneto motor delivers an impressive 26ft/s chain speed, making it easy to cut through wood up to 20″ thick.
  • The tool-less chain tensioning and auto oiling features make it easy to maintain and keep the chain lubricated.
  • The safety features, including the quick brake release and 0.1s chain stop, make it a safe option for users.

Cons

  • The battery life may not be sufficient for larger jobs, as it supports up to 36 cuts on 4″×4″ lumber per charge.
  • The chain can loosen more frequently than expected, requiring frequent adjustments.
  • It may not be the best option for cutting hardwood trees larger than 10″.

Overall, the LiTHELi Battery Chainsaw is a solid choice for those in need of a lightweight and convenient chainsaw for home and garden tasks. The tool-less chain tensioning and auto oiling features make it easy to maintain, while the safety features ensure a safe and efficient cutting experience.

WORX WG322 20V Power Share 1

If you’re looking for a lightweight chainsaw that can handle common backyard jobs, the WORX WG322 20V Power Share 10″ Cordless Chainsaw might be the right tool for you. With its auto-chain tension and auto-lubrication systems, this chainsaw is surprisingly easy to use and maintain. Plus, the included battery and charger can power not just this saw, but every Worx Power Share product on the platform.

Specifications
BrandWORX
Power SourceBattery Powered
Horsepower1 hp
Item Weight 6.2 Pounds
Product Dimensions25″L x 7.5″W x 9.5″H
Chain Length10 Inches
Chain Speed3,940 FPM

Pros

  • This cordless chainsaw is as fast and powerful as anything in its class.
  • The automatic, tool-free chain tension system ensures you’ll always have the correct tension for the job at hand.
  • The automatic chain lubrication system not only makes for smoother, more efficient cuts, it extends the life of the tool.

Cons

  • The battery life is relatively short, so this chainsaw might not be the best choice for larger jobs.
  • Some users have reported issues with the chain coming off the bar during use.
  • The chainsaw might not be powerful enough for larger, more demanding jobs.

We recently had the chance to try out the WORX WG322 20V Power Share 10″ Cordless Chainsaw, and we were impressed with its performance. The chainsaw is surprisingly lightweight and easy to handle, which makes it ideal for homeowners who need to tackle common backyard jobs. The automatic chain tension and chain lubrication systems both worked well, and we appreciated not having to worry about adjusting the chain tension or lubricating the chain manually.

One thing to keep in mind is that the battery life on this chainsaw is relatively short, so you might need to recharge the battery frequently if you’re using the chainsaw for extended periods of time. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the chain coming off the bar during use, so you’ll need to be careful when using the chainsaw to avoid this problem.

Overall, we think the WORX WG322 20V Power Share 10″ Cordless Chainsaw is a solid choice for homeowners who need a lightweight chainsaw for common backyard jobs. It’s easy to use, easy to maintain, and surprisingly powerful for its size. If you’re in the market for a new chainsaw, we definitely recommend giving this one a try.

Husqvarna Power Axe 350i Cordless Electric Chainsaw 1

We highly recommend the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i Cordless Electric Chainsaw for anyone in need of a lightweight and efficient chainsaw.

Specifications
BrandHusqvarna
Power SourceBattery Powered
Horsepower2
Item Weight 7.72 Pounds
Product Dimensions18.9″L x 8.8″W x 9.4″H

Pros

  • The X-Cut chain provides lasting sharpness and top-of-the-line performance.
  • The tool-less chain tensioning system makes slack adjustments easy.
  • The boost mode delivers 25 percent more power when you need it.

Cons

  • The battery and charger are sold separately.
  • The chainsaw is not suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
  • The price point may be higher than other cordless chainsaws.

This cordless electric chainsaw is perfect for pruning branches and felling trees. The brushless motor provides durability, high efficiency, and quiet operation. The chainsaw is 10 percent lighter than comparable saws, which reduces fatigue while using it.

The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i Cordless Electric Chainsaw is equipped with a chain brake that features an indicator light if the brake is engaged. This safety feature is essential when working with a chainsaw.

In conclusion, the Husqvarna Power Axe 350i Cordless Electric Chainsaw is a reliable and efficient tool for any tree cutting needs. The lightweight design, lasting sharpness, and boost mode make it a great investment for any homeowner or professional.

Greenworks 24V 10 Cordless Chainsaw

If you’re looking for a lightweight chainsaw that can handle small to medium-sized branches, the Greenworks 24V 10″ Cordless Chainsaw is a great choice

Specifications
BrandGreenworks
Power SourceBattery Powered
Horsepower 500
Item Weight 7.85 Pounds
Product Dimensions24.8″L x 8.07″W x 12″H
Chain Length10 Inches

Pros

  • The 24V Lithium-Ion battery is compatible with a range of indoor and outdoor tools, making it a versatile addition to your DIY arsenal.
  • The 10-inch bar and chain are perfect for cutting branches and limbs with ease.
  • The tool-less chain tensioning system allows for quick adjustments so you can get back to the task at hand.

Cons

  • The automatic oiler can be a bit finicky and may require some adjustments to ensure proper oil application.
  • The translucent oil tank can be difficult to read in bright sunlight.
  • The battery life may not be sufficient for larger cutting tasks.

In our experience, the Greenworks 24V 10″ Cordless Chainsaw was easy to handle and maneuver, even for those with limited experience using chainsaws. The lightweight design and comfortable grip made it easy to use for extended periods of time without causing fatigue.

The tool-less chain tensioning system was a standout feature, allowing for quick adjustments on the fly. However, we did experience some issues with the automatic oiler, which required some fine-tuning to ensure proper oil application.

Overall, we would recommend the Greenworks 24V 10″ Cordless Chainsaw for those looking for a lightweight and versatile tool for small to medium-sized cutting tasks.

EGO Power CS1800 18 Inch 56 Volt Cordless Chain Saw

If you are looking for a powerful and innovative chainsaw, the EGO Power+ CS1800 is a great option. With its 18-inch bar and chain, you can take down large branches, stumps, and tall trees with ease. The tool-free chain tensioning system allows you to tighten the chain with the twist of a dial, making it easy to use. The bright LED headlights also illuminate your work area, making it easy to see what you are cutting.

Specifications
BrandEGO Power+
Power SourceBattery Powered
Horsepower550 Watts
Item Weight 9.7 Pounds
Product Dimensions34″L x 9.9″W x 9.5″H
Chain Length18 Inches

Pros

  • The EGO Power+ CS1800 has the performance of gas without the noise, fuss, and fumes.
  • The tool-free chain tensioning system tightens the chain with the twist of a dial, making it easy to use.
  • The bright LED headlights illuminate your work area, making it easy to see what you are cutting.

Cons

  • The EGO Power+ CS1800 is more expensive than some other chainsaws on the market.
  • The battery and charger are not included, so you will need to purchase them separately.
  • Some users have reported issues with tightening the chain on this unit.

We recently had the opportunity to try out the EGO Power+ CS1800, and we were impressed with its performance. The chainsaw has an aggressive 18-inch bar and chain that made quick work of the branches and trees we were cutting. The tool-free chain tensioning system was also a nice feature, as it allowed us to quickly and easily adjust the chain tension as needed.

One thing to keep in mind is that the EGO Power+ CS1800 is more expensive than some other chainsaws on the market. However, we think the performance and features of this chainsaw make it worth the investment.

Overall, we would recommend the EGO Power+ CS1800 to anyone in the market for a powerful and innovative chainsaw. Its performance and features make it a great option for both homeowners and professionals alike.

Greenworks 40V 16 Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

If you’re looking for a lightweight chainsaw that can handle tree cutting, limbing, pruning, and firewood, the Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw is worth considering.

Specifications
BrandGreenworks
Power SourceBattery Powered
Horsepower3.6 hp
Item Weight 9.7 Pounds
Product Dimensions32″L x 8.07″W x 8.27″H
Chain Length16 Inches

Pros

  • The brushless motor technology provides more power, longer runtimes, quiet operation, and extended motor life.
  • The mechanical chain brake adds an extra layer of safety and reduces the risk of injury.
  • The automatic oiler delivers proper chain lubrication and increased productivity.

Cons

  • The chainsaw is sold as a tool only, so you’ll need to purchase a battery and charger separately.
  • Some users have reported that the chain tensioning system can be difficult to use.
  • The chainsaw may struggle with larger trees or thicker branches.

In our experience, the Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw is a reliable and efficient tool for light to medium-duty tasks. The brushless motor technology provides impressive power and longer runtimes, and the mechanical chain brake adds an extra layer of safety. We also appreciate the automatic oiler, which keeps the chain lubricated and running smoothly.

However, it’s worth noting that the chainsaw is sold as a tool only, so you’ll need to purchase a 40V lithium-ion battery and charger separately. Additionally, some users have reported that the chain tensioning system can be difficult to use, which may be frustrating for beginners. Finally, while the chainsaw can handle most light to medium-duty tasks, it may struggle with larger trees or thicker branches.

Overall, we recommend the Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw for anyone in need of a lightweight and efficient tool for light to medium-duty tasks.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best lightweight chainsaw, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve compiled a list of factors to keep in mind to help you make an informed decision.

Power Source

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a lightweight chainsaw is the power source. There are two main types of power sources: electric and gas. Electric chainsaws are typically lighter and easier to maneuver, making them a great option for those who need a chainsaw for light to medium-duty tasks. Gas chainsaws, on the other hand, are more powerful and can handle heavier-duty tasks, but they are typically heavier and require more maintenance.

Bar Length

Another important factor to consider is the bar length. The bar length refers to the length of the cutting blade on the chainsaw. A longer bar length means you can cut through thicker branches and trees, but it also means the chainsaw will be heavier and more difficult to maneuver. For light to medium-duty tasks, a bar length of 12-16 inches is usually sufficient.

Weight

Weight is also an important factor to consider when choosing a lightweight chainsaw. A lighter chainsaw is easier to maneuver and less tiring to use, which is especially important for longer tasks. Look for a chainsaw that weighs between 6-10 pounds for the best balance of power and maneuverability.

Safety Features

When using a chainsaw, safety should always be a top priority. Look for a chainsaw with safety features such as a chain brake, which stops the chain from rotating in the event of kickback, and a handguard to protect your hands from flying debris.

Additional Features

Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. Some chainsaws come with features such as automatic oiling systems, tool-less chain adjustment, and anti-vibration systems to reduce fatigue. These features can make using your chainsaw easier and more comfortable.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best lightweight chainsaw for your needs.

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