8 Best Chainsaws under $500

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Looking for the Best chainsaws under $500? Read on as we go through the best on the market, and go through their features, pros, and cons.

Lightweight, compact, easy handling, ergonomic are some of the features of an incredible chainsaw. One other important consideration is the price.

To have an easy and clean cut requires you to have a high-quality chainsaw. You want something that fits your budget, but getting a powerful chainsaw that is below $500 needs some research.

If you are in search of chainsaws under $500, this review and buying guide is for you. We considered several factors such as quality, price, power, size, and materials among others. The reviewed products range in size and weight, power, among other features as discussed below.

 

Best Chainsaws under $500

 

DEWALT 20V MAX XR 12-Inch Chainsaw

DEWALT 20V MAX XR 12-Inch Chainsaw

 

 

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw as one of the best chainsaws under $500 comes equipped with an auto oiling system that keeps the saw chain and guide bar constantly lubricated.

It also has an oil level indicator that shows the level of the oil in the chain saw. You can remove the battery from the chain saw and refill it with the correct type of oil if the oil level is less than a quarter full.

It is advised that you use a high-quality bar and chain oil for proper chain and bar lubrication and empty the oil tank after use.

Features

  • High-efficiency brushless motor maximizes runtime and motor life
  • Low kickback 12″ Oregon bar and chain ideal for construction and outdoor cutting applications
  • Tool-free chain tensioning and bar tightening knob allow proper bar clamping force
  • Compact and lightweight design allows maximum user control and comfort
  • Weight: 8.8 lbs.
  • Part of the 20V max system of tools
  • Chain speed: 25.2 feet/second
  • Up to 90 cuts per charge

 

Oregon CS1500 18 in. 15 Amp Self-Sharpening Corded Electric Chainsaw

Oregon CS1500 18 in. 15 Amp Self-Sharpening Corded Electric Chainsaw

 

 

Oregon CS1500 is a high-power electric chainsaw that is great for trimming branches and limbs in your yard. The CS1500 starts instantly and does not require any gas-oil mixing.

It features tool-less tensioning that allows you to tension the chain by just tightening the ring on the side cover with no special tools required.

This Oregon chainsaw features an 18-inch chain that you can sharpen on the saw in 3 seconds with the pull of a lever. It has an automatic oiler that distributes oil on the bar and chain, keeping your chainsaw lubricated and preventing premature wear.

The 15 amps provide plenty of power behind each cut. This saw has all the traditional conveniences of an electric saw including instant start with the pull of a trigger, minimal maintenance, low noise, and the built-in PowerSharp chain sharpening system.

Features

  • Instant start capability with no pull cords, no warm-up, no gas-oil mixing, no emissions
  • Built-in Lubri-Tec oiling system reduces chain friction and increases the saw’s run time by keeping the chain lubricated
  • No assembly required; comes pre-assembled
  • Includes PowerSharp chain, 3/8″ Low Profile with .050″ gauge which minimizes downtime
  • Low noise and silence between cuts
  • Chain brake provides added safety
  • The CS1500 chainsaw has
  • Ergonomic design; Light-weight and balanced
  • Low vibration
  • Over-mold comfort handle
  • Bar length: 18″ (45cm)
  • Automatic oiler with view-through window
  • 15 amp rating
  • No-load chain speed 2888 FPM
  • Weighs 12.9 lbs. (5.85kg)

 

Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

 

 

Greenworks 12-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw uses a high-performance G-MAX 40V lithium-ion battery that delivers fade-free power with no memory loss after charging.

The robust 12-inch steel chain and bar with tool-less chain tensioning offers ease of use while delivering the highest cutting performance. The saw features a 3/8-inch chain pitch which provides just the right amount of capabilities to get all your trimming and cutting done with minimal kickback.

This Greenworks chainsaw also features an automatic oiler that applies oil to the bar and chain when needed to ensure durability and optimal use and a translucent oil tank for a clear view of the oil level.

There is a wrap around the handle for multiple cutting positions to provide ease of use when trimming at different angles.

Features

  • Compatible with the G-Max 2.0 Ah battery (29462) and the G-Max 4.0 Ah battery (29472)
  • It features a robust 12-inch steel bar and chain, 3/8-inch chain pitch, automatic oiler, and tool-less chain tensioning
  • 3/8-inch chain pitch for reduced kickback
  • Automatic oiler provides lubrication and longtime use
  • No memory loss after charging

 

Husqvarna 120 Mark II 16 in. Gas Chainsaw

Husqvarna 120 Mark II 16 in. Gas Chainsaw

 

 

This Husqvarna chainsaw is a compact, casual-use chainsaw that is designed to start up easily, with low kickback safety features such as a built-in safety brake that reduces risk during operation.

The Husqvarna 120 is built for homeowners who need a lightweight and efficient cutting tool. It features an X-Torq engine for lower fuel consumption and emissions, suitable for daily use in tree pruning, hobby work, and other light tasks.

Features

  • Easy to start and simple to use
  • Lightweight, compact and maneuverable with excellent ergonomic comfort features
  • Automatic oiler provides a steady supply of chain lubrication for safe and effective use
  • A simple tensioning system allows for quick adjustments while working
  • Recommended maximum bar length: 18 inches
  • X-Torq engine reduces both fuel consumption and gasoline emissions

 

EGO Power+ CS1604 16-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-ion Cordless Chainsaw

EGO Power+ CS1604 16-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-ion Cordless Chainsaw

 

 

This EGO Power+ cordless chainsaw delivers high power and features a 16″ bar and chain, combined with a high-efficiency brushless motor to provide effortlessly smooth cuts.

The brushless motor provides low vibrations, increased tool durability as well as extended run time. The Chain Saw delivers the performance of gas without the noise, fuss, and fumes.

The EGO POWER+ chainsaw is compatible with all EGO POWER+ ARC Lithium batteries to deliver high power for great performance.

Features

  • Water-resistant rugged construction (ipx4)
  • Fast charging
  • Has a chain kickback brake for safety
  • Chain tension adjustment
  • Universal battery compatibility provides the convenience of using any size battery
  • Advanced battery technology delivers or exceeds the power of gas
  • Guide bar length: 16 inches
  • Speed: 6800 RPM
  • No noise, fuss, or fumes
  • Compatible with all EGO POWER+ ARC Lithium batteries

 

SALEM MASTER 6220H,20-Inch Gas Powered Chainsaw

SALEM MASTER 6220H,20-Inch Gas Powered Chainsaw

 

 

This SALEM MASTER 6220H is a high-performance 62cc 3.4hp powerful gas chainsaw that delivers steady power to the 20-inch bar and low-kickback chain. The tool’s engine speed can be up to 8500 rpm, an ideal tool for cutting firewood and felling trees with much higher efficiency.

The comfortable handle design is non-slip and shock-absorbing allowing for long-term use with no fatigue. The chain saw is provided with a safety switch to protect against accidental starts to ensure the safety of the user.

This professional gas saw is equipped with a high-quality chain and high hardness bar, fast cutting, more durable, and high wear resistance, not easy to drop chain for long life.

It also has an automatic oil supply system that delivers a steady supply of bar and chain oil for safe and effective use and extends the life of the chainsaw.

Features

  • Superior quality
  • Ergonomic design
  • High safety; quick stop chain brake helps to use more securely
  • Saw Chain: 20″ .325P/.058G/76DL
  • Low kickback bar and chain for multi outdoor cutting applications
  • Auto oil supply system provides continuous lubrication
  • Big rope wheel, easier to start, can reduce half of the resistance
  • Engine Displacement: 62CC
  • A comfortable slip-free rubber handle can effectively reduce the machine shake, operating more balanced and comfortable
  • The front guard can be used for emergency braking and improve safety, and effectively protect the hand
  • Air cleaner quickly eliminates exhaust gas, maintains cylinder stability and low temperature working for a long time
  • Idling Speed: 8500r/min

 

BLACK+DECKER 20V10-Inch Max Cordless Chainsaw

BLACK+DECKER 20V10-Inch Max Cordless Chainsaw

 

 

BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Cordless Chainsaw is a bare tool item that operates with a 20v max lithium battery. The saw offers a 10″ premium Oregon low kickback bar and chain that provides smooth and fast cuts.

It has a tool-free blade tension system that allows for improved ease of use and quick adjustments. The lightweight design offers easy maneuverability and reduced fatigue

The saw features a wraparound bale handle that provides increased control and comfort. It also has an improved oiling system with a clear window to gauge oil levels.

Features

  • 10 inches premium Oregon low kickback bar and chain
  • Tool-free blade tension system for quick adjustments
  • Oiling system for lubrication of bar and chain
  • Weight: 7.2 Pounds.
  • Power Source: Lithium-Ion
  • Low-Kickback Bar and Chain

 

Poulan Pro 20 in. 50cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw

Poulan Pro 20 in. 50cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw

 

 

This Poulan gas chainsaw is designed with the OxyPower engine technology, which provides you with that extra power for virtually any task. This technology offers a more powerful engine, with 70% fewer emissions and 20% lower fuel consumption.

The saw has features an effortless pull starting system that reduces pull force by 30% for easier starting and reduced wear on the starter mechanism.

This Poulan saw is also equipped with a filtering system that guarantees long air filter life, reduced fuel consumption, and easy clean-up.

Features

  • Easy to start and operate
  • The combi tool is integrated into the rear handle, for easy access and maintenance
  • The purge bulb, which provides the carburetor with fuel and makes the product easier to start with fewer pulls, is protected to reduce the risk of damage
  • User-friendly combined choke/stop control allows faster starting and greater reliability by reducing the risk of engine flooding
  • Pull-Start System (EPS) provides reliable starts with minimal cord-pulling effort
  • Features Soft Start, purge, and integrated choke/stop controls.

 

See Also

 

Choosing the Best Chainsaws under $500

Some people will prefer quality over price while others will have just what fits into their budget. Whichever your case is, here are some of the important things to look out for to make sure your chainsaw will serve its intended purpose.

Engine power- your operations hugely determine the power of your chainsaw. Small pruning will not require much power like limbing, lumbering, and milling, which require greater engine power.

Safety features- chainsaw makers add safety features to help protect operators because safety should always be the number one priority. Such features may include a chain brake, anti-kickback chain, sprocket-tipped bars, auto-lubing, and more.

Price– you can get a good professional chainsaw under $500 if that is the price your budget allows. There are however other budget saws below $400 and $300 in the market.

Power- gas-powered chainsaws are ideal for heavy-duty cutting, while battery-powered saws will be good if you are not aiming for commercial use for your chainsaw.

Intended use- there is always a limit to what any machine can handle. If you are in a large-scale operation for cutting down huge trees, you need a saw with a longer bar such as 18” bars and higher for the best performance. The 16” bars and below could work for medium to small-range cutting.

Environmental-friendly- smoky or noisy chainsaws are not so pleasant when in use. Chainsaws that are less noisy are now available based on their makeup.

Multi-environment use- Electric (corded) chainsaws are the most limited saws when it comes to multi-environment use. Battery (cordless) chainsaws perform quite well across all environments as long as their batteries are charged, while gas chainsaws offer excellent cutting power when fueled and properly lubed.

Warranty- always check the warranty cover to know what the makers provide to you if your saw gets faulty. Checking out other customer reviews may help with this.

Best Chainsaws under $500 FAQs

  • What should you not do with a chainsaw?

Never run with a chainsaw. Also, cut below your shoulder height and avoid cutting with the blade tip to avoid kickback.

  • What’s better Stihl or Husqvarna?

Stihl chainsaws cost less compared to Husqvarna and require less routine maintenance. These saws tend to be preferred by homeowners.

  • What does MS stand for on a Stihl chainsaw?

MS, MSA, and MSE appear at the beginning of Stihl’s chainsaw names. MS stands for Motorsäge which is German for the chainsaw. MSA indicates that it’s a battery chainsaw and MSE means that it’s an electric model.

  • Should you run a chainsaw at full throttle?

It is good to run full throttle most of the time. In some instances, you may want to feather the throttle for a fine cut or finishing a bucking cut to not hit the dirt or what have you but that should not be made a routine.

Conclusion

Getting a good quality saw which is as affordable as below $500 can never be made any easier. All the reviewed products are made with durable construction and have features to ensure you enjoy your cutting exercise.