If you cut your own firewood, the saw you own decides how many cords you finish before your arms give out. After comparing twelve saws across gas, battery and corded platforms, the best chainsaws for firewood cutting share three things: enough torque to drive a chain through dense hardwood, a bar long enough to clear a log in a single pass, and a weight you can swing for an hour without wrecking your shoulders.
Most buying guides sort saws by power source, which is the least useful way to pick one. The question that actually matters is how much wood you cut in a year and how thick that wood is. Someone burning one cord of pine has completely different needs from a producer running five cords of oak, and the difference shows up in the engine size and bar length you need rather than in the badge on the housing.
We organized this roundup around that firewood volume first, then bar length, then power source. Along the way we looked hard at the two things that end cutting sessions early: a saw that bogs down in a knot of oak, and a saw that leaves your hands shaking after a full cord. Every pick below has a spec box, an honest read on what owners report, and a clear answer to the question of who it suits.
One note on our method: the performance figures and owner feedback come from the published specifications and customer review history for each saw. We did not put these machines through our own cut tests, so we have not invented cut times or fuel numbers. What we have done is cross-check the ratings, review volumes and spec sheets against what buyers consistently report, and flag the complaints that appear again and again.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Firewood Cutting (October 2026)
These three cover the widest range of firewood jobs. The SEESII is the one we would put in most people’s hands, the CRAFTSMAN is the strongest value in the group, and the EGO is the best-rated saw here for people cutting smaller rounds who want gas-class speed without a pull cord.
SEESII 40V 18-Inch Cordless
- 2200W brushless motor
- 18-inch bar
- 8.6 lb with two batteries
- up to 200 cuts per charge
CRAFTSMAN 16-Inch Corded
- 12-amp motor
- 16-inch low-kickback bar
- 6.2 lb tool-free tensioning
- 3-year warranty
EGO POWER+ 16-Inch Cordless
- 40cc gas equivalent motor
- 20 m/s chain speed
- tool-free dial tensioning
- IPX4 weather rated
Quick Comparison of All 12 Picks in 2026
Every saw below is listed once. Use this table to rule options in or out quickly, then read the full review for the ones that survive.
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| SEESII 40V 18-Inch Cordless |
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| CRAFTSMAN 16-Inch Corded |
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| EGO POWER+ 16-Inch Cordless |
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 Supstable 40V 16-Inch Cordless |
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 WEN 16-Inch Corded |
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 Oregon 2400W Corded |
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 Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch |
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 NEO-TEC 62cc 20-Inch Gas |
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 SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc 20-Inch Gas |
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 DEWALT 60V MAX 18-Inch Bare |
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Check Latest Price |
 DongCheng 40V 16-Inch Cordless |
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Check Latest Price |
 BLACK+DECKER 16-Inch Corded |
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Check Latest Price |
1. SEESII 40V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw: The Most Complete Firewood Kit Here
SEESII 40V Electric Chainsaw Cordless 18-Inch with 2 x 5.0Ah Batteries
2200W brushless motor
18-inch bar
8.6 lb tool weight
Up to 200 cuts per charge
Pros
- Gas-class cutting force from a 2200W brushless motor
- Only 8.6 lb with both batteries installed
- Two 5.0Ah batteries and two chargers allow near-continuous work
- 18-inch bar cuts large rounds in fewer passes
- Tool-less tensioning and 80ml automatic oiling
Cons
- Batteries take roughly three to four hours to charge
- Initial chain installation and tensioning takes practice
- Users caution against bearing down on the bar
This is the saw I would hand to someone cutting three to five cords a year who does not want to deal with fuel mixing. The 2200W brushless motor drives the chain at 30 ft/s, and owners consistently describe it cutting dense hardwood at a level closer to a mid-size gas saw than to a typical battery saw.
The weight is the number that matters most for firewood, and 8.6 lb with both batteries installed is exceptional. An hour of swinging a heavier saw is what ends cutting sessions, not the saw running out of anything. This one also ships with an 18-inch bar, which clears rounds that a 16-inch bar would need two passes for.
Two 5.0Ah batteries and two chargers mean you can swap while one charges and keep working. The rated figure is up to 200 cuts on 4-inch softwood per charge, which is a softwood number, so expect less on oak. Treat it as a realistic multi-hour session rather than a full cord on one charge.
What you give up compared with a gas saw
Runtime is the honest limit. A 62cc gas saw refuels in a minute and keeps going; this one needs a charge cycle every few hours depending on the wood. If you are cutting ten or more cords a year, you will spend more time on charging than the fuel savings are worth.
Charge time of roughly three to four hours per pack is the second limitation. Owners also warn that the first chain installation and tensioning takes a few tries, and that pushing down hard on the bar binds the chain in the groove instead of cutting faster.
Who this pick suits
This suits anyone cutting a few cords a season who wants gas-like power without gas storage, fuel mixing or a pull start, and who can park a charger near the work area. It is also the pick for people on small acreage with neighbors close enough that exhaust matters.
It is the wrong choice for full-time firewood production, and for anyone who needs to fell or process very large diameter timber in a single pass. An 18-inch bar handles firewood rounds well but is not a tree-felling bar.
2. CRAFTSMAN 16-Inch Corded Chainsaw: Lightest Saw and Long Service Life
CRAFTSMAN Electric Chainsaw, 16 Inch, 12 Amp Corded Chain Saw Electric, Ergonomic, Powerful Motor (CMECS600)
12-amp corded motor
16-inch low-kickback bar
6.2 lb tool weight
3-year limited warranty
Pros
- Lightest saw in the group at 6.2 lb
- Quiet smooth starting compared with gas
- Tool-free tensioning via side clamp knob
- Cuts 4-5 inch hardwood branches fast with no strain
- Owners report units still running after five years
Cons
- No chain brake
- chain coasts after trigger release
- Tensioner has a tendency to walk out during use
- Oil reservoir can leak if stored full
At 6.2 lb, this is the lightest saw in the group by a wide margin, and for a full cord of firewood that difference is felt by the end of the first hour. Detailed owner write-ups describe the 12-amp motor showing no strain on black locust and silver maple, with 4 to 5 inch hardwood branches going through in under five seconds.
Corded electric gets dismissed for firewood, but the logic does not hold up for anyone cutting near a building or a woodshed with power nearby. There is no fuel to mix, no pull cord to wrestle when your hands are cold, no exhaust, and effectively unlimited runtime as long as the extension cord is heavy enough gauge.
A three-year limited warranty is longer than most saws in this price bracket offer, and at least one owner reports a five-year-old unit still running after heavy use. The built-in oil window means you can see the bar oil level without guessing, and no priming is required.
Check your extension cord before you start
Owners are clear that cord length and gauge materially affect performance under heavy load. A 12-amp motor wants a heavy-gauge cord with no run through a multi-outlet adapter. An undersized cord will cause the motor to bog or the breaker to trip mid-cut, which is exactly when you do not want it.
The absent chain brake is the other thing to understand. Release the trigger and the chain coasts for a couple of seconds. That is a real consideration for beginners, so treat this saw as one you learn on rather than one you learn with.
Who this pick suits
This suits beginners, older users, and anyone who will cut firewood within reach of an outlet. It also suits people with hand or grip-strength issues, because at this weight you can hold the saw one-handed for positioning without fighting it.
Skip it if your wood is more than about 40 feet from a power source, or if you are processing timber in the woods where the cord cannot follow. That is the whole limitation, and for a yard or basement setup it rarely matters.
3. EGO POWER+ 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw: Best-Rated Saw in the Group
EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16” Battery Powered Chainsaw, Electric Cordless, Includes 56V 4.0Ah Battery and Charger – CS1613
Brushless motor, 40cc gas equivalent
16-inch bar
20 m/s chain speed
Tool-free dial tensioning
Pros
- Highest rated saw in this group
- Gas-equivalent brushless motor with no fumes or pull start
- Tool-free dial chain tensioning
- IPX4 weather resistance for wet cutting days
- Low-profile dial design cuts flush to the ground
Cons
- Cordless runtime limits large multi-cord jobs compared with gas
- Heavier than many entry-level cordless saws
- Listed weight of 20.9 lb is much higher than the bare-tool figures for other cordless picks
This saw carries the highest rating of anything we looked at, and it earns it. Eighty-three percent of its reviews are five-star, and the recurring theme is that the brushless motor delivers cutting force equivalent to a 40cc gas saw without the exhaust or the starting routine.
The tool-free dial tensioning is a small feature that saves real annoyance. On a gas saw, tensioning means removing covers, loosening a bar nut and often pulling the spark plug. Turning one dial on the side of this saw takes seconds, and you will do it several times per session.
IPX4 weather resistance means this is one of the few cordless saws here you can use in rain or damp snow without worrying. The low-profile tensioning dial also allows the saw to cut flush to the ground, which is useful when bucking rounds lying in grass.
Chain specification is 3/8-inch pitch, 0.043-inch gauge with 56 drive links, running up to 20 m/s. Rated output is up to 130 cuts on a 4×4 with the included 4.0Ah battery, and every EGO 56V ARC Lithium pack works with it.
The weight number deserves a second look
The listed weight for this saw is 20.9 lb, which is higher than several lighter cordless picks in this group. That figure reflects the package configuration rather than the bare saw, but for firewood work it is worth confirming what is included before you commit.
Runtime is the defining limit for firewood use. Owners treat this as an excellent saw for storm cleanup, limb work and seasonal cutting, and a harder tool for multiple full cords back to back.
Who this pick suits
This suits people cutting seasonal firewood in rounds of 12 inches or less, especially anyone who values quiet, fume-free operation near a house or in a subdivision. The weather rating also makes it the pick for late-season cutting when everything is wet.
For larger diameter logs and full-cord production, look at the 18-inch and 20-inch picks instead. A 16-inch bar means more passes on the biggest rounds in a load.
4. Supstable 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw: Best-Selling Cordless Pick
16 Inch Electric Chainsaw Cordless, 2000W Brushless Chainsaw, 4.0Ah Battery & Fast Charger, 40V Electric Chain Saws, Instant Brake, Tool-Free Chain Tension, Auto Oiling for Tree Trimming, Wood Cutting
2000W 40V brushless motor
35 ft/s chain speed
Up to 50 min runtime
150ml auto oiler
Pros
- Motor output comparable to a 42cc gas saw
- 50 minutes of runtime on the included 4.0Ah battery
- 150ml automatic oiling keeps the chain lubricated
- Tool-free side tensioning knob
- Chain brake plus lock and overload protection
Cons
- 40V battery platform is not compatible with 20V tools
- Undated generic branding with limited long-term parts track record
- Weight is not listed in the specifications
With close to five thousand reviews and a number one sales rank in its category, this is the cordless saw most people in this group actually encounter first. The 2000W brushless motor runs the chain at up to 35 ft/s, which owners compare favorably to a 42cc gas saw.
For firewood, the 150ml automatic lubrication reservoir is the detail that matters most. A chain that runs dry dulls in minutes and has to be sharpened twice as often, and automatic oiling takes that variable out of the equation for new owners who would not otherwise check the level.
The kit is unusually complete for this category. You get the battery, a fast charger, a spare chain, plus goggles and gloves, which removes the most common complaint about bare-tool listings where the essentials are sold separately.
Runtime of up to 50 minutes on the included 4.0Ah battery is honest for a 40V saw of this class. For firewood that means one focused session with a battery swap in between rather than an all-day push.
The battery platform lock-in matters
This is the one practical caution owners raise. The 40V pack works only with 40V tools, not the 20V tools that many households already own. If your other tools are on a different platform, you are buying into a second battery ecosystem.
The second caution is long-term parts support. The branding carries no service history, so if you need a bar sprocket, clutch or brake assembly in five years, parts availability is the open question. Weigh that against the strong current ratings.
Who this pick suits
This suits first-time saw owners who want a complete kit rather than a bare tool, cutting maybe a cord or two a year of mixed firewood. The triple safety system and included protective gear also make it a sensible pick to hand to a new user.
It is not the right saw for someone cutting several cords of oak a season, mostly because of runtime and the 16-inch bar. For that job, an 18-inch or 20-inch saw with more power reserves is the better buy.
5. WEN 16-Inch Corded Chainsaw: Best for First-Time Owners
WEN CP1216 Electric Chainsaw, Corded, 12-Amp, 16-Inch
12-amp motor
41-44 ft/s chain speed
Auto-oiling system
10 lb, 2-year warranty
Pros
- Owners cut logs over 12 inches in diameter in a single pass
- No fuel mixing or pull cord hassles
- Tool-free tensioning holds well
- Quiet compared with gas saws
- Light and easy to handle for beginners and older users
Cons
- Corded design limits reach unless a heavy-gauge extension cord is used
- No true chain brake on some variants
- Chain and oil are not included with the purchase
- Reservoir can leak if stored full
There is no pull cord, no choke procedure and no fuel to mix. That is the entire appeal for a first-time buyer, and with more than four thousand reviews it is an appeal that clearly works for a lot of people.
Owners report cutting logs of 12 inches and more in single passes, and one buyer used this saw to process close to two tons of firewood over time. The 12-amp motor runs the chain at up to 44 ft/s, which is faster than several gas saws in this group on paper.
At 10 lb it is heavier than the CRAFTSMAN but still light enough for a beginner to control, and the auto-oiling system extends chain life without you having to remember anything. A protective sheath and a 16-inch chain are included.
The cord is the real constraint. You need a heavy-gauge extension cord and a reasonably short path from the outlet, and once you understand that, this saw is genuinely capable rather than a token electric.
What you have to buy separately
Bar oil and an extra chain are not included, and the chain dulls as you cut. Budget for a spare chain and a bottle of bar oil up front, because the saw will not lubricate the chain you install out of the box by itself unless the reservoir is filled.
There is no true emergency chain brake on some variants, so the chain coasts after you release the trigger. For anyone who has not used a saw before, that is worth knowing rather than discovering.
Who this pick suits
This suits first-time buyers, apartment or condo residents, and anyone cutting firewood near a woodshed, garage or basement where power is close. It also suits people who want to avoid storing gasoline indoors over winter.
It does not suit cutting in the woods, on a large property where the nearest outlet is far, or anyone who wants to fell trees. Sixteen inches is a firewood bar, not a felling bar.
6. Oregon 2400W Corded Chainsaw: Best Branded Corded Saw
Oregon 2400W Corded Electric Chainsaw with 16″ Guide Bar & Saw Chain
2400W 15-amp motor
16-inch bar with ControlCut chain
Lubri-Tec auto oiler
2-year warranty
Pros
- 15-amp motor from a dedicated chainsaw maker
- Instant start with no pull cord and quiet between cuts
- Lubri-Tec automatic oiling reduces friction
- Tool-free tensioning done directly on the saw
- Straightforward assembly and low kickback chain
Cons
- Corded design limits reach to locations near AC power
- Weight is not listed in the specifications
- Lower review volume than the leading corded picks
Oregon builds saws, which is the difference here. When something goes wrong with a ControlCut chain or a Lubri-Tec oiler, there is a company whose entire business is chainsaws behind it, and that is worth something over years of use.
The 15-amp motor is the most powerful corded output in this group. At 2400W it has more headroom for dense hardwood than a 12-amp saw, and the instant-start, silent-between-cuts behavior means you are not standing next to a running motor waiting for it to spin down.
Tool-free tensioning done on the saw, rather than requiring the bar to be removed, saves a step every time you adjust. The low-kickback ControlCut chain is a sensible default for firewood, where most cuts are square crosscuts through rounds rather than directional felling cuts.
Assembly is described by owners as straightforward: tensioner onto bar, bar and chain onto saw. That matters more than it sounds, because a brand-new owner facing a bar mounted backwards on day one is a bad start.
Where the cord changes the decision
Everything about this saw is good except the tether. A 2400W motor draws real current, so the extension cord has to be properly gauged, and the work has to happen within reach of an outlet.
For most people cutting a standard cord, the wood is already at the woodshed or driveway. In that situation the cord is a non-issue and you get the strongest motor with the least maintenance of any saw here.
Who this pick suits
This suits owners who want a recognizable brand behind the parts, cut near a power source, and prefer a stronger motor and automatic oiling over the lightest possible weight. It is a good first serious saw that will not need replacing.
If your cutting area is more than about 50 feet from an outlet, choose a cordless or gas saw instead. Also worth noting that the listed specifications do not include a weight figure, so confirm that before buying for long sessions.
7. Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch: Best for Lightweight Brand-Name Power
Husqvarna Power Axe 350i Chainsaw, 18 Inch, with Battery and Charger
18-inch cordless saw
Boost Mode adds 25 percent power
X-Cut chain
7.7 lb
Kit includes battery
Pros
- Only 7.7 lb with genuine brand-name cordless power
- Boost Mode delivers 25 percent more power on demand
- X-Cut chain holds its sharpness longer than standard chains
- Tool-less chain tensioning
- Brushless motor runs quietly and durably
Cons
- Highest cost in this product set
- 18-inch bar is shorter than dedicated firewood saws
- Battery limits apply on extended firewood runs
This is the pick for people who want a known brand on a battery saw. Husqvarna has been in the chainsaw business for decades, and the X-Cut chain is a real practical benefit because it holds its edge longer between sharpenings, which cuts one of the biggest ongoing costs of firewood cutting.
At 7.7 lb it is one of the lightest cordless saws here, and Boost Mode gives you a one-button 25 percent power increase for the cut where you need it, such as the first bite into a frozen or dense round.
Tool-less tensioning, a quiet brushless motor and a full kit in the box with battery and charger make this a low-friction first cordless saw. You are not hunting for a compatible pack or a separate charger on day one.
Owners rate it at 72 percent five-star, and the pattern in reviews is that people bought it as a battery alternative to a gas saw in the 18-inch class and found it handles that job well.
Where the cost shows up
This sits at the top of the cost range for this group, and for a battery saw that is money you are paying for the brand, the chain and the parts network behind them. If you are buying purely on cutting performance per dollar, a similar-output generic saw costs meaningfully less.
The 18-inch bar also means more passes than a dedicated firewood saw. For rounds over about 16 inches in diameter you will be finishing with a second cut, which slows a long session.
Who this pick suits
This suits a household that already wants a single battery platform to run several tools, or anyone who values long chain life and light weight over first cost. It works well for seasonal cutting of rounds up to about 15 inches.
For heavy annual volume, or for large diameter wood, an 18-inch cordless saw is the wrong shape of tool. Save your money or budget for a bigger bar with more power behind it.
8. NEO-TEC 62cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw: Best for Big Logs
NEO-TEC 62cc 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaw 2-Cycle Petrol 3.5HP Handheld Reliable Motosierra De Gasolina for Tree Pruning Wood Cutting Firewood Preparation and Yard Maintenance
62cc 2-cycle engine
3.5 hp at 8500 RPM
20-inch bar
Chain brake and lockout
Pros
- 62cc engine gives real torque in dense hardwood
- 20-inch bar clears larger rounds in one pass
- Chain brake and trigger lockout for safety
- Quick-start premium starter with choke knob
- Wrap-around handle for maneuverability
Cons
- Gas design requires premixed fuel and regular maintenance
- Heavier than comparable cordless electric saws
- Starting procedure has a learning curve for first-time owners
A 62cc two-stroke engine with a 20-inch bar is the combination firewood cutting actually rewards. Gas saws in the 50 to 60cc range have the torque to keep a chain moving through oak and ash without bogging, and a 20-inch bar clears a large round in a single pass instead of two.
Owners highlight the chain brake and trigger lockout, which are the two safety systems that matter most on a gas saw with this much power. The wrap-around handle also helps when you are cutting on the ground or in a pile rather than on a stand.
The quick-start premium starter and choke knob make cold starting manageable, though the review pattern shows first-time owners struggling with the procedure at first. Once you own the routine, this is a saw that refuels in about a minute and keeps working all day.
Chain specification is 0.325-inch pitch, 0.058-inch gauge, 76 drive links. Listed weight is 17.1 lb, and the manufacturer describes 14 lb fully equipped, so the number you see depends on what is counted.
What a gas saw costs you to run
Two-stroke fuel mixing is the part people get wrong. This engine needs premixed fuel at the ratio specified in the manual, and getting that ratio wrong is the leading cause of a saw that will not start. Mixing fuel fresh each time and using a proper 2-stroke oil avoids the problem entirely.
Beyond fuel, a gas saw needs an air filter cleaned regularly, a spark plug checked occasionally, and a chain sharpened more often than an electric, because the chain runs drier even with the automatic oiler working.
Who this pick suits
This suits anyone cutting three or more cords a year, cutting large diameter hardwood, or clearing storm damage where a chain that never stops beats a battery that needs recharging. It also suits people who already own gas outdoor equipment and are comfortable with the maintenance.
If you cut one cord a year of softwood, this is more saw than you need. A lighter 16-inch cordless will handle that job with fewer headaches.
9. SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw: Budget Gas Pick
SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaws 2-Cycle Petrol
62cc full crank 2-stroke
20-inch low-kickback bar
8500 RPM chain speed
14 lb with toolkit
Pros
- Owners report out-cutting premium saws on knotty hardwood
- Easy assembly and quick starting within a few pulls
- 20-inch bar and low-kickback chain handle large logs
- Ergonomic balanced design reduces fatigue
- Installation toolkit included
Cons
- Choke linkage must be set precisely and the manual does not explain it
- Engine is loud enough to require ear protection
- Some reports of poor customer service or early failure
- though one reviewer notes later repair support improved
This is the most striking spec sheet per dollar in the group: a 62cc full crank two-stroke engine, a 20-inch low-kickback bar and 8500 RPM chain speed, at 14 lb. Full crank engines are typically smoother and better balanced than the simple crank designs found in entry-level saws, and owners notice.
Multiple owners report that this saw cuts large hardwood trunks faster than premium name-brand saws they had compared it against. One buyer bought a second unit as a backup, which is not something people usually say about a saw at this end of the market.
The low-kickback chain on a 20-inch bar is a good combination for firewood, where cuts are square crosscuts. The ergonomic balanced design is claimed to reduce fatigue, and at 14 lb this is one of the lighter 20-inch gas saws here.
An installation toolkit is included, which matters because getting the bar, chain and clutch right the first time saves an hour of frustration.
The choke linkage is the thing to read up on
The most common friction point in reviews is the choke linkage. It requires a specific setting that the manual does not explain clearly, and owners report confusion that leads to hard starting until they work it out. Learn the setting before you need it in cold weather.
Service and early failure experiences are reported as poor by a minority of buyers, though one reviewer notes later repair support improved. This is the trade-off of buying off-brand: strong hardware, thinner support.
Who this pick suits
This suits an experienced operator on a budget who wants 20-inch capability and 60cc class power without paying a pro-brand price. It is also a sensible second saw for someone who already has a battery saw and wants gas power for big days.
It is not ideal as a very first chainsaw, because the choke setup has a learning curve and there is no brand name backing the parts. Buy the manual and a spare spark plug before the first cold morning.
10. DEWALT 60V MAX 18-Inch Bare Chainsaw: Best for Quiet Operation
DEWALT 60V MAX Cordless Chainsaw, 18 in., Tool Only (DCCS672B)
18-inch brushless saw
2.85 hp equivalent output
Quiet no-idle motor
Bare tool only
Pros
- Quiet operation with no loud idling
- Strong torque owners match to gas prosumer saws
- Light balanced handling reduces fatigue on ground work
- Sharp chain out of the box with good longevity
- No fuel storage or mixing
Cons
- Sold as a bare tool
- battery and charger purchased separately
- Chain frequently goes loose and can slip off the sprocket
- Sprocket guard design lets the chain derail underneath
- Battery runtime limits long full-cord sessions
The quietness is the reason to notice this saw. Owners single out the absence of loud idling and the near-silent motor as the feature they notice most, which matters in a subdivision where a gas saw at seven in the morning starts conversations with neighbors.
Torque is the other strong point. Several owners report output they match to gas prosumer saws, and the sharp chain that ships with it holds its edge well. The light, balanced handling suits ground-level cutting work where you are bent over a pile of rounds.
This is a bare tool. The battery and charger are purchased separately, so budget for a 60V MAX pack and charger if you do not already own them, and that cost changes the value calculation considerably for a first-time buyer.
Ratings are polarized at 70 percent five-star and 13 percent one-star, which tells you the saw itself is capable and the weak points are specific and repeatable.
The chain tension problem is the dealbreaker risk
Multiple owners report that the chain goes loose and can slip off the sprocket, and that the sprocket guard design lets the chain derail underneath the bar. On a firewood saw where you make hundreds of cuts a session, a chain coming off mid-cut is more than an annoyance.
If you already own DEWALT 60V MAX packs, that ecosystem compatibility may still make this the right call despite the tension issues. If you are buying a platform from scratch, weigh it against saws with a better chain retention record.
Who this pick suits
This suits DEWALT tool owners who want a quiet 18-inch saw and already have the batteries. It is also a strong pick for storm cleanup, where low noise and zero fumes around a house matter more than multi-day runtime.
It is the wrong choice for someone cutting full cords back to back, both for runtime and for the chain tension reports. Check the chain and tension before each session rather than trusting the initial setup.
11. DongCheng 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw: Best for Battery Platform Owners
DongCheng 40V 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw with 2×4.0Ah Batteries – Gas-Like Power for Tree Felling, Storm Cleanup & Firewood, Tool-Free Tensioning, Auto Oiler, Chain Brake
Brushless motor, dual 4.0Ah batteries
120 cuts on 4x4
Inertia chain brake
Tool-free tensioning
Pros
- Gas-like brushless force with instant push-button start
- Two 4.0Ah batteries give roughly 120 cuts through 4x4 per charge
- Inertia chain brake stops the chain in under 0.1 seconds
- Batteries cross-compatible with the wider 20V and 40V lineup
- Tool-free external tensioning and automatic oiling
Cons
- Manufacturer recommends fully charging both batteries before first use
- Lower review volume than leading picks in this category
- Weight is not listed in the specifications
The standout detail is the inertia-activated chain brake, which owners say stops the chain in under 0.1 seconds on a kickback. On a saw this size that is a meaningful safety margin, and it is the feature that separates this from other generic 40V saws at similar prices.
The battery ecosystem is the practical reason to pick it. If you own any DongCheng 20V or 40V tool already, the packs interchange, which means one charger and one battery set covers the whole shed.
The brushless motor gives gas-like cutting force with zero fumes and a push-button start instead of a recoil pull, and the automatic oiling system keeps chain lubrication off your mental checklist. External tool-free tensioning means you adjust the chain without pulling the plug or removing covers.
Rated output is up to 120 cuts through 4×4 lumber per charge, chain speed up to 14 m/s, on a 16-inch bar.
Do the first charge properly
The manufacturer recommends fully charging both batteries before first use in order to balance power delivery. Owners who skip it sometimes see uneven performance between packs, then assume the saw is faulty. Twenty minutes of setup saves that confusion.
Review volume is lower than the leading picks here, which means fewer long-term owner reports. Judge the durability claims on the low end of what is known rather than assuming the same track record as a heavily reviewed saw.
Who this pick suits
This suits anyone already invested in the DongCheng 20V and 40V platform, and first-time buyers who want a fast chain brake and instant start at a modest cost. It suits seasonal cutting of rounds up to about 14 inches.
For multi-cord annual cutting or larger rounds, the 16-inch bar and roughly 120 cuts per charge will have you swapping batteries more than you want. Look at an 18-inch saw instead.
12. BLACK+DECKER 16-Inch Corded Chainsaw: Best for Compact Storage
BLACK+DECKER 12 Amp 16 in. Electric Chainsaw (CS1216)
12-amp corded motor
16-inch low-kickback bar
Auto-oiler with oil window
10 lb, 2-year warranty
Pros
- Owners report cutting trees around 22 inches in diameter
- Unlimited corded runtime for long sessions
- Automatic oiling with a clear window to monitor level
- Easy bar removal for compact storage
- Beginner-friendly and quiet compared with gas
Cons
- Chain can jump off the bar due to missing guides near the sprockets
- Chain runs on for several seconds after trigger release
- Chain tension requires repeated adjustment during work
- Heavier and more balance-sensitive than lighter corded models
- Bar oil must be purchased separately
The headline claim from owners is cutting capability on trunks around 22 inches in diameter, which is well beyond what a 16-inch bar should handle in theory. That is the kind of report worth knowing about, because it tells you the 12-amp motor has real headroom for firewood work.
Unlimited runtime is the quiet advantage over every cordless pick here. For a weekend of splitting and bucking several cords, you do not stop to charge anything, and the automatic oiler with a clear viewing window means you can check the level without opening anything up.
Easy bar removal makes this the most storable saw in the group. A saw that breaks down to a manageable bundle matters if it lives in a small garage or a closet between uses rather than in a shed with room to spare.
It is also beginner-friendly, which matters because there is no fuel mixing, no choke and no primer bulb to get wrong before your first cut.
Chain retention is the weakness to plan around
Owners report the chain jumping off the bar because of a lack of chain guides near the sprockets, and needing to readjust tension repeatedly during work. Check tension before every cutting session rather than once at the start of the day.
The chain also runs on for several seconds after the trigger is released, and there is no chain brake to stop that. Bar oil is sold separately, so include it in your first order. Ratings sit at 69 percent five-star with the complaints concentrated on these specific mechanical points.
Who this pick suits
This suits beginners and apartment dwellers cutting firewood near a power outlet, especially anyone short on storage space. It also suits anyone who wants unlimited runtime and no fuel to store indoors over winter.
It is not the right saw for property where the wood is far from an outlet, or for long sessions where repeated tension checks would wear you down. For those cases, an 18-inch saw with a stronger motor fits better.
Choosing the Right Chainsaw for Your Firewood
Size the saw to cords per year, not to brand
Start with volume. If you burn about one cord a year of softwood, a 16-inch saw with a 40V battery or a 12-amp corded motor covers it, and you will be cutting for a few hours rather than all day. Three to five cords a year, especially with hardwood, pushes you toward an 18-inch saw or a mid-size gas saw in the 50 to 60cc class.
Ten cords or more, or a full-time cutting operation, means a 20-inch bar with 60cc or more. That combination is what keeps a chain from stalling when it meets a dense oak knot, and a stalled chain is what dulls teeth and creates kickback risk.
Engine displacement, measured in cubic centimeters, is the number to compare on gas saws. Roughly 40cc suits 14 to 16 inch work, 50 to 60cc covers the 18 to 20 inch firewood range that most people need, and 70cc or more is for felling and heavy land clearing rather than firewood.
Match bar length to log diameter
A saw can cut a log about two inches narrower than its bar length in a single pass, and you can work around that limit with a smaller saw or by cutting through from two sides. The practical rule is to size the bar so your largest rounds clear in one pass.
For rounds up to about 10 inches, a 14-inch bar is enough. For 10 to 14 inch rounds, 16 inches. For 14 to 18 inch rounds, 18 inches. For rounds over 18 inches, you want 20 inches or more, and that is where gas saws earn their place.
Gas, battery or corded: the honest trade-off
Gas saws win on endurance and on very large wood. They refuel in a minute and run all day, and a 60cc engine has the torque to back a 20-inch bar through hardwood. You pay for that with fuel mixing, exhaust, noise, pull-start frustration in cold weather, and regular maintenance on the air filter, plug and carburetor.
Battery saws win on convenience and quiet. No fuel mixing, no storage of gasoline indoors, push-button start at any temperature, and low noise for suburban or early morning work. You pay with runtime, and with less power headroom on the largest diameter wood. Modern 2000W-plus brushless saws have largely closed the gap on mid-size hardwood.
Corded saws win on simplicity and cost per cut. Unlimited runtime, instant start, almost no maintenance, and the lightest, quietest operation available. You pay by being tethered, which is why this is a yard and woodshed tool rather than a woodland one.
Cold starting and easy-start technology
The number one complaint about gas saws in owner forums is that they will not start when it is cold. Fuel injection, decompression valves and easy-start throttle positions all reduce the effort needed, and a primer bulb plus choke sequence becomes routine after the first two or three attempts.
If cold starts are a genuine concern for you, that is a good reason to choose a battery or corded saw instead of paying to solve a problem you do not have to have. Both start instantly at any temperature.
Buying channel, parts and service
Traditional pro-brand chainsaws are typically sold through authorized dealers rather than general retail, while corded and battery saws from mainstream brands are widely available. Dealer-only brands generally mean easier access to a dealer who can service the saw and source parts locally, which is worth something over a ten-year ownership period.
Generic brands may be cheaper up front and harder to support later. Before buying, check whether you can order a bar, chain, sprocket, clutch and brake parts for the exact model from a company with a real address and a real return policy.
Safety gear you should budget for
Chainsaw chaps are the single most important item, and they should be your first purchase rather than an afterthought. Add a helmet with a face shield, cut-resistant gloves, hearing protection, and boots with chainsaw-rated protection.
Understand the kickback zone, which is the upper rear quadrant of the bar tip, and never cut with the tip pointing into the log. Keep both feet on the ground, cut with the lower side of the bar where the pull is strongest, and never cut above shoulder height. Never work alone, and never cut in poor light.
Chain Care, Bar Oil and Sharpening
Chain maintenance is what separates a saw that cuts fast from one that feels slow, and it is the cheapest performance upgrade available. A dull chain forces you to push harder, which produces more heat, more vibration and more fatigue, and it increases the chance of a kickback event.
Check tension with the saw off and the brake engaged. A correctly tensioned chain sits against the bottom bar but can still be pulled around by a gloved hand. Check it again after the first tank on a gas saw, because a new chain stretches when it breaks in.
Sharpen the chain by hand with a round file matched to the chain pitch, keeping the depth gauge height consistent across all cutters. Do it every few tanks on hardwood work, and more often than you think. Some owners report the difference between a fresh edge and a dull chain as the difference between one cut and three.
Bar oil is not optional. It reduces friction, carries heat away from the sprocket and bar nose, and dramatically extends chain and bar life. Battery and corded saws in this roundup all use automatic oiling systems, and they still need oil. Buy a purpose-made chainsaw bar and chain oil, fill the reservoir at the start of every session, and check the level periodically.
Common substitutes work in a pinch, and owners use them, but they are compromises. A high-viscosity motor oil will lubricate a chain but not replace a proper bar oil with the additives that prevent corrosion and gum-up in the sprocket over storage. If a bar oil substitute is your only option, keep chain maintenance more frequent, and never store a chain long-term without cleaning off the residue.
For hardwood specifically, a full skip chain cuts faster because fewer teeth are in the cut at any moment, leaving more kerf. A full house or semi-skip chain is gentler on the engine and produces less vibration, which some operators prefer over long sessions. Both are correct choices; the deciding factor is whether you want speed or comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good size chainsaw for cutting firewood?
For one to two cords a year of softwood, a 16-inch bar with a 12-amp corded motor or a 40V battery saw is plenty. For three to five cords of hardwood, go to an 18-inch bar or a gas saw in the 50 to 60cc class. For ten cords or more, you want a 20-inch bar with 60cc or more displacement so the chain does not stall in dense wood.
What is the best chainsaw bar length for cutting firewood?
Most firewood work needs an 18 to 20 inch bar. A saw cuts a log about two inches narrower than its bar in a single pass, so 18 inches clears rounds up to roughly 16 inches and 20 inches clears rounds up to roughly 18 inches. Shorter 16 inch bars need a second pass on larger rounds, which costs time over a full cord.
Is a corded electric chainsaw worth it?
Yes, if you cut within reach of an outlet. Corded saws have unlimited runtime, near-zero maintenance, quiet operation and no fuel to mix or store, and a 15-amp motor matches a 42cc gas saw on most firewood. The limitation is reach: you need a heavy-gauge extension cord and the wood has to be reasonably close to power.
What type of chainsaw chain is best for cutting hardwood?
A full skip chain cuts fastest in hardwood because fewer teeth enter the cut at once, leaving a wider kerf and pulling less load on the engine. A full house or semi-skip chain is gentler and produces less vibration, which many operators prefer for long sessions. Match the file to the chain pitch when sharpening, and keep the depth gauge height even across all cutters.
Do battery-powered chainsaws need bar oil?
Yes. Every battery saw in this roundup uses an automatic oiling system, and those systems still need oil in the reservoir. Oil reduces friction, carries heat away from the sprocket and bar nose, and extends chain and bar life. Check the level before each session and top it up, since a dry chain dulls fast in hardwood.
Is a battery chainsaw good enough for cutting a full cord?
A modern 2000W-plus brushless saw can get through a cord, but you will be swapping batteries. Rated figures of 130 to 200 cuts per charge are usually measured on 4×4 softwood, so expect fewer on oak. For several cords a year, a gas saw in the 50 to 60cc class is the tool that finishes the job without charging pauses.
Our Verdict: Which Chainsaw Should You Buy for Firewood
For most people reading this, the SEESII 40V 18-Inch cordless saw is the right starting point. It pairs an 18-inch bar with a 2200W motor at 8.6 lb, ships with two batteries and two chargers, and has more owner history behind it than anything else in this group. Buy chainsaw chaps on the same day.
If your wood sits near an outlet, the CRAFTSMAN 16-inch corded saw is hard to argue with: 6.2 lb, a three-year warranty and owners reporting five-year-old units still running. For the highest-rated option and small rounds, the EGO POWER+ 16-inch leads on owner satisfaction, with the widest gap being runtime on long jobs.
Cut three or more cords of hardwood a year, and step up to a 62cc gas saw with a 20-inch bar. That is the combination that keeps a chain moving through oak without bogging, and it is the tier where the best chainsaws for firewood cutting stop being about convenience and start being about torque. Whatever you choose, buy a second bar and chain so you are not stuck with one bar length, and sharpen more often than feels necessary.