Best Budget Chainsaw [2024 Review]

Chainsaws are extremely handy tools that can be used for tons of applications around the house. However, if you use them casually you might want to go for an inexpensive option that still gets the job done.

In today’s article, I’ll guide you through a brief guide with everything you need to know before picking the best budget chainsaw on the market. Let’s dive right in!

Top 5 Budget Chainsaw Reviews

The best budget chainsaw is going to let you get smaller projects accomplished quickly. Whether cutting firewood, trimming branches, or falling smaller trees, I will highlight the top chainsaw models on the market for your wallet.

1. Best Overall Budget Chainsaw: WORX WG304.2 Electric Chainsaw

Kicking off the list with the WORX WG304.2 Electric Chainsaw. This an excellent option if you want a budget chainsaw that still offers similar features to the ones found in high-end models.

Its probably not a brand name you’re familiar with. But, its an excellent choice for anyone looking for a powerful chainsaw for light but relatively frequent use.

The WORX Electric Chainsaw is one of the most balanced and popular models on the market for good reason.

For starters, this model is equipped with a powerful 15 amp motor that is capable of delivering a chain speed of about 39 feet per second. At its price point, this is more power than you will find in other models.

Not only that, but the powerful chainsaw motor is coupled with an 18 inch guide bar, which is one of the largest electric options on my list.

Product Specs

• Type: Corded electric
• Power: 15 Amp, 39 feet/sec
• Guide Bar Length: 18 inches
• Cord Length: 2.0 feet up to 200 feet
• Oiler: Automatic
• Instant Start: Yes
• Overall Weight: 11.2 lbs

The chains are automatically lubricated, which is an important distinction as cheaper chainsaws often need frequent oiling to their chain. However, the oil might leak if you store the chainsaw vertically, so you have to keep that in mind or seal the reservoir.

One of the coolest things about this model is its handle. It features a full wrap handle that allows you to hold the power tool in any way that you prefer while maintaining your safety.

The handles are also rubberized to tame the intense vibrations of its powerful motor, which allows for more steady cuts, even when used by a beginner.

The power cord on this model allows you to connect it to an extension cord of up to 200 feet, which is great for operating large properties without being limited by cord length.

In addition to the oil leak problems, the only other thing I didn’t like about this excellent model is the warranty system. Despite having a decent warranty service, the registration process is a bit confusing and takes an unnecessary amount of time.

Pros

• Incredibly powerful chainsaw with a 15 amp motor, which competes with high end electric chainsaws
• Durable construction with smoother and tighter chains makes its maintenance a breeze
• Supports one of the longest extension cord ranges that can go as far as 200 feet

Cons

• The warranty system is a bit tedious and requires prior registration

2. Best Value Chainsaw: CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 Electric Chainsaw

If you’re looking for a powerful yet affordable chainsaw for easy firewood cutting, the CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 Electric Chainsaw is your way to go. What I like about this model is that it gives you the most bang for the buck among all options on the list.

This Craftsman chainsaw is equipped with a powerful 12 amp motor that delivers up to 44 feet per second chain speed. That is less power than the WORX, but if you don’t need that much power then this Craftsman model probably makes more sense.

While this chainsaw is cheaper than the WORX and has a lower amp motor, the difference in cutting speed between the two isn’t huge, especially if you mainly use the machine occasionally to cut some firewood or small tree limbs.

When it comes to design, the guide bar on this chainsaw is 16 inches, which is great for casual users. This is because it’s large enough to handle almost all wood cutting tasks around your property without being too bulky.

Product Specs

• Type: Corded electric
• Power: 12 Amp, 44 feet/sec
• Guide Bar Length: 16 inches
• Cord Length: 1.25 feet up to 50 feet
• Oiler: Automatic
• Instant Start: Yes
• Overall Weight: 6.19 lbs

The design of the chainsaw also makes it incredibly lightweight. This chainsaw is only 6.19 lbs, which makes it almost half as light as the WORX and slightly heavier than the lightest model on the list.

The chainsaw also has an automatic oiler with little to no complaints of leakage, even after several months of use.

In fact, Craftsman has so much trust in the quality and durability of their product that they offer one of the longest base warranties for a chainsaw. The machine is backed by a limited 3 year warranty and a 3 month satisfaction guarantee.

The only thing that Craftsman still needs to improve regarding this model is the range. This model can only support up to 50 feet of extension cords, which shouldn’t be a problem for a small property but may limit its use on a large one.

Pros

• Features a powerful electric motor for a highly affordable price
• The large guide bar and highly efficient oilers make it ideal for intermediate duty use
• Comes with a 3 year warranty, which is one year more than its nearest price competitor

Cons

• Limited extension cord range

3. Best Low Budget Chainsaw: WEN 4017 Electric Chainsaw

If you’re on a really tight budget or you’re looking for the most affordable option on the market, you should keep the WEN 4017 Electric Chainsaw on your shortlist.

From a price point of view, this chainsaw is the cheapest corded electric model on the market (that I would recommend). However, it still has a surprising build quality.

At first thought, you might think that a budget option should have the lowest specifications and features. However, the WEN 4017 surpassed my expectations with an excellent set of features that enables it to give more expensive options a run for their money!

For instance, this little beast is equipped with a 12 amp motor that is capable of driving the chain with a speed of about 44 feet per second. This means that it cuts through wood pretty easily, especially commonly used cedar wood and softer types of wood like pine and spruce.

Product Specs

• Type: Corded electric
• Power: 12 Amp, 44 feet/sec
• Guide Bar Length: 16 inches
• Cord Length: 1.25 feet up to 100 feet
• Oiler: Automatic
• Instant Start: Yes
• Overall Weight: 10 lbs

The chainsaw is also fitted with a 16 inch guide bar, which is considered a sweet spot for all beginners and those who need a chainsaw for casual errands.

When compared to the Craftsman, this chainsaw is actually a bit faster at cutting wood, although not by much. Additionally, it has a longer extension cord range, which allows you to use this chainsaw on a larger property hassle-free.

However, it’s still as heavy as the WORX chainsaw (which isn’t particularly heavy) but also not lightweight enough to be an advantage like with the Craftsman CMECS600.

Another aspect you have to keep in mind while using this chainsaw is that it’s designed for light use only.

While it can cut efficiently through most types of wood, it can be a bit flimsy, so heavy use will wear or break it down quickly.

Pros

• Ideal for buyers on a very strict budget, as it’s one of the cheapest yet functional options on the market
• Features a decently powerful motor that is as powerful as models that are triple the price
• The large extension cord range allows you to operate the machine around 100 feet from a power source

Cons

• Not ideal for frequent use, as it can break down easily with heavy use

4. Best Budget Cordless Chainsaw: Greenworks Cordless Chainsaw

Some homeowners like the convenience of electric chainsaws, but they don’t like the limitation of their range. If you’re one of them, a cordless solution like the Greenworks Battery Powered Chainsaw should solve your problem without heavy compromises!

The Greenworks Cordless Chainsaw is one of the most well designed chainsaws out there, whether aesthetically or functionally. I recommend it on my shortlist of battery chainsaw reviews, and chances are it will fit any budget needs.

This chainsaw is equipped with a G-MAX battery, which is a lithium ion battery with a total power of 2.0 AH and a maximum voltage of 40 volts. This battery is also a high efficiency one, so it retains its full discharging power after continuous charging.

The ergonomics of the chainsaw design is also one of its major selling points. It features one of the largest kickback guards for safety while operating.

Product Specs

• Type: Electric cordless
• Power: 2.0 Ah, 40 Volts Battery
• Guide Bar Length: 12
• Cord Length: N/A
• Oiler: Automatic
• Instant Start: Yes
• Overall Weight: 6 lbs

The chainsaw weighs only 6 lbs, which makes it the lightest chainsaw on the list and an excellent choice for anyone who never handled this type of power tool before.

The chainsaw also has many great extra features, such as a one-click start, toolless adjustment, and an automatic oiler that doesn’t leak when used properly, which all add to the value and user-friendliness of this model.

The handle design also allows you to use the chainsaw from various angles without any problems.

The only thing that this chainsaw lacks is the length of the guide bar. This model comes with a 12 inch guide bar to save its battery. This guide bar limits the chainsaw to make up to 65 cuts on a single full charge.

Pros

• Incredibly easy to use with little to no kickbacks and toolless adjust
• Excellent level of portability thanks to its long lasting rechargeable battery
• One of the lightest full-sized chainsaws on the market, weighing less than 6 lbs

Cons

• The 12 inch guide bar is a bit small, but still good enough for average household use

5. Best Gas Powered Chainsaw: HUYOSEN Gas Powered Chainsaw

Last but not least, if you’re a professional who needs a powerful yet affordable option, the HUYOSEN Gas Powered Chainsaw is the ideal option for you.

It’s also a great chainsaw for those who need to tend to a huge property and want the most powerful tool for the least price possible!

While most gas powered chainsaws are usually quite expensive, this is the most powerful gas powered option that comes at the price of an electric one.

So, despite being a bit pricier than any other option on the market, it’s considered a bargain when compared to other gas powered chainsaws out there.

Product Specs

• Type: Gas Powered
• Power: 60 CC, 2 cycle motor
• Guide Bar Length: 20 inches
• Cord Length: N/A
• Oiler: Automatic
• Instant Start: Yes
• Overall Weight: 19.06 lbs

In terms of power, this chainsaw is equipped with an ultra-powerful 60 CC, 2 cycle motor that allows the tools to reach a maximum speed of 8,500 revolutions per minute! I’m used to seeing 50cc engines in chainsaws, so this is a pretty sizable upgrade.

Being a budget chainsaw doesn’t mean it skimped on features. In fact, this model has a modern startup system that allows you to start the device easily without yanking the machine like older chains used to.

The main drawback of this chainsaw is that it’s remarkably heavy and loud, even when it’s compared to the WORX chainsaw, which is one of the heaviest electric options.

To be clear, this is true of any gas powered chainsaw. They are just louder and heavier. So, if you’re in the market for a gas version, don’t let this deter you.

Pros

• An unmatched level of power with a gas powered 60 CC, 2 cycle motor
• High efficiency startup system, which saves you the hassle of yanking the motor like old models
• The 20 inch guide bar is large enough for maximum reach and cutting efficiency

Cons

• Noticeably heavy and louder than other options on the list

Budget Chainsaw Features to Consider

While shopping for a good chainsaw, there are some essential factors and features that you need to keep in mind.

Now that you know more about the best budget chainsaws on the market, here’s a quick look at the most essential aspects before buying one, so you can make the most out of your purchase:

Power Type

Chainsaws come in various types. However, the most common way of classifying a chainsaw is through its power type or source.

Ideally, most chainsaws on the market will rely on gas or electricity for power, and each one of them has their advantages and drawbacks, so let’s check them out:

Gas Powered

Gas powered chainsaws are among the oldest power tools on the market today. However, they remain an industry standard due to their immense power and reliability, especially for professional use.

These chainsaws usually have the most power among other types of chainsaws and will cut through almost all kinds of wood. If you need the best chainsaw for hardwood, you need to pick a gas powered option.

They’re also excellent for portability and working in remote and off-grid areas as long as you have access to gasoline.

However, gas chainsaws are usually the most expensive ones out there, and budget options usually break down quickly. Additionally, they’re remarkably loud and produce more emissions than other types, which makes them a problem for urban neighborhoods.

Electric Corded

As the name suggests, these chainsaws are powered through a long cord that is connected to an A/C current from the wall.

Electric corded chainsaws are an excellent choice for average households because they’re powerful enough for normal tasks like working on small backyard trees, cutting down firewood, etc.

They’re also quite affordable, so you can easily find highly efficient budget options with less noise and emissions.

The only drawback is that they’re limited by the range of their electric cord, but you can always increase the operating range with an extension cord.

Electric Cordless

Back in the day, electric cordless chainsaws were too weak to do a decent job. However, these tools have come a long way in the last decade.

Today, cordless chainsaws are powered by capable rechargeable batteries that allow them to operate for a decently long time and cut down thicker tree limbs with ease.

Smaller chainsaws are perfect for quick projects and yard upkeep. They’re your to-go option if you want to combine portability, affordability, and environmental friendliness.

Manual

Manual chainsaws are a powerless form of chainsaw that requires some serious elbow grease to get the job done. A good example of these chainsaws is the Homyall Pocket Chain Saw.

They come at a fraction of what other options may set you back. However, they’re not a viable alternative to power chainsaws and only function as a survival tool in the wild that is portable and easy to store.

Guide Bar Length

The guide bar is the long bar on the chainsaw where the spiked chains are fitted so they can run and cut wood.

Chainsaws come in a variety of guide bar lengths. Combined with motor power, a larger guide bar improves the cutting capability and reach of a chainsaw.

The most common guide bar length out there is 16 inches. However, anywhere from a 14 to 20 inch guide bar would also work for average household use.

Larger projects can require 20″ chainsaws, which are really really large. Its highly unlikely you need an option this large.

Handle

A good chainsaw will be equipped with an anti-vibration handle to keep your hand steady and comfortable while working on large batches of wood.

Another important feature that you should always consider is adjustability. Most modern chainsaws will allow toolless adjustment, so you don’t have to buy special tools in order to optimize your tool.

Changing the blade on a chainsaw can be a pain. You’ll also need to rechain the blade from time to time, as different cuts can throw it off. Pay attention to these features.

Extra Features

In addition to the previously mentioned features, there are also some additional features that greatly increase the value of your purchase.

These include automatic oiling of the chains, so you don’t have to do it yourself as well as kickback guards and chain brakes for safety while cutting.

Price

Price certainly plays a role in the chainsaw you buy. When looking at budget options, you might want to set a ceiling and then look for the top models in that range. Lower priced chainsaws are typically under $200, while you can find great mid range chainsaw options in the $300 price point.

More expensive chainsaws will be around $500. These are heavy duty options meant to be used frequently for larger projects.

FAQs

Conclusion

There are plenty of convenient chainsaws that will provide you with performance without costing you an arm and a leg.

If you’re looking for the overall best option, you shouldn’t look further than the WORX WG304.2 Electric Chainsaw. This chainsaw packs a punch in terms of power yet it costs a lot less than other high end options on the market.

However, if you’re looking for the cheapest standard chainsaw that can still get the job done, the WEN 4017 Electric Chainsaw is your best bet. This one might be inexpensive but it’s still a great pick if you’re going to use it for simple jobs like cutting firewood into smaller pieces!