8 Best Lightweight Chainsaws

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Looking for the best lightweight chainsaws? today we look at the lightest and most portable chainsaws.

Compact and lightweight chainsaw designs enhance total user control for a wide range of chainsaw applications such as construction and outdoor cutting. Your chainsaw should be easy to handle and operate.

For this reason, the weight of the tool is equally important while you are considering chainsaw options. A lightweight chainsaw means that you can easily cut on branches and do other work with less fatigue without interference in the performance.

There are many chainsaw brands in the market today, all designed with different features and specifications to meet the needs of different users.

We are here to make the search easy for you by providing the best there is in the market. In this article, you will find the saw features and other information that we believe is important for you to know before purchasing your chainsaw.

 

Best Lightweight Chainsaws

 

1) DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw Kit, 5-Ah Battery, 12-Inch

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw Kit, 5-Ah Battery, 12-Inch

 

 

This DEWALT chainsaw has a  compact and lightweight design and weighs just 9 lbs. + battery. As one of the best lightweight chainsaws it comes equipped with an auto oiling system that keeps the saw chain and guide bar constantly lubricated, and an oil level indicator that shows the level of the oil in the chain saw.

The saw features a low kickback 12″ Oregon bar and chain for safety during use such as in construction and outdoor cutting applications. The motor helps increase the tool runtime as well as its durability.

Features

  • Compact and lightweight design for maximum user control and comfort
  • High-efficiency brushless motor
  • Weighs 8.8 Pounds
  • Battery Powered
  • Dimensions LxWxH 25 x 9 x 9 inches
  • Auto oiling system maximizes run time and motor life
  • Tool-free chain tensioning and bar tightening knob for proper bar clamping force
  • Chain speed : 25.2 feet/second
  • 90 cuts per charge on a 20V MAX* 5Ah battery
  • Low kickback 12-inch bar and chain

 

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

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

 

 

This Oregon CS1500 electric chainsaw is a high-power, low noise tool suitable for trimming branches and limbs in your yard. The saw 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 also has an automatic oiler that distributes oil on the bar and chain, keeping your chainsaw lubricated and preventing premature wear.

With 15 amps, you are assured of great power for every cut. The saw has all the is convenient with features such as instant start with the pull of a trigger, minimal maintenance, low noise, and the built-in PowerSharp chain sharpening system.

Features

  • Over-mold comfort handle
  • No assembly is required; comes pre-assembled
  • Ergonomic design and well balanced
  • Chain brake provides added safety
  • A Built-in Lubri-Tec oiling system reduces chain friction and increases the saw’s run time by keeping the chain lubricated
  • Includes PowerSharp chain, 3/8″ Low Profile with .050″ gauge which minimizes downtime
  • Low vibration, low noise, and silence between cuts
  • Automatic oiler with view-through window
  • No-load chain speed 2888 FPM
  • Lightweight: 12.9 lbs. (5.85kg)
  • Bar length: 18″ (45cm)
  • 15 amp rating
  • 120 Volt ~ 60 Hz

 

3) Husqvarna 120 Mark II 16 in. Gas Chainsaw

Husqvarna 120 Mark II 16 in. Gas Chainsaw

 

 

Husqvarna 120 Mark II 16 in. Gas Chainsaw is ideal for homeowners who need a lightweight and efficient cutting tool. It is made in a compact design and starts up easily, with low kickback safety features including a built-in safety brake to reduce risk during operation.

The tool features an automatic oiler that delivers a steady supply of chain lubrication for safe and effective use. Weighing 4.22 Pounds this is definitely one of the best lightweight chainsaws for your consideration.

Features

  • Lightweight, compact and maneuverable with excellent ergonomic comfort features
  • Automatic oiler ensures steady chain lubrication
  • A simple tensioning system allows for quick adjustments while working
  • Exclusive X-Torq engine reduces both fuel consumption and gasoline emissions
  • Recommended bar length, max: 18 inches

 

4) Greenworks 12-inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw

Greenworks 12-inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw

 

 

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

It has a robust 12-inch steel chain and bar with tool-less chain tensioning for easy usage. The saw provides the highest cutting performance in a lightweight and easy-to-handle design.

Features

  • 3/8-inch chain pitch ensures great performance with minimal kickback
  • The automatic oiler provides a bar and chain lubrication increasing the run use and durability
  • A translucent oil tank provides a clear view of the oil level
  • 12-inch steel chain and bar
  • Weighs 6 Pounds
  • Battery Powered
  • Dimensions LxWxH 26.4 x 8.1 x 11 inches
  • It is compatible with the G-Max 2.0 Ah battery (29462) and the G-Max 4.0 Ah battery (29472)

 

5) CRAFTSMAN 42cc-16 Full Crank 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw

CRAFTSMAN 42cc-16 Full Crank 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw

 

 

This CRAFTSMAN 16-inch gas-powered and lightweight chainsaw comes with a heavy-duty carrying case that ensures safety during carrying or storage.

It is engineered with a robust 42cc full-crank engine, which provides greater power and longer equipment life with less vibration. The EasyStart technology features an incredibly easy-to-pull starting system, allowing you to get to work in seconds.

With the 3-point anti-vibration system and the ergonomically designed handle, there is reduced vibration and fatigue but increased control and maneuverability during cutting.

The Craftsman gas-powered chainsaw features a premium Craftsman 16″ bar and a low-kickback chain for all-around superior performance. The chain brake is inertia activated for safety while operating, stopping the chain automatically.

The saw has a lightweight Poly Chassis that ensures reliable performance and prolonged use, with minimal user fatigue.

Features

  • Ergonomically balanced design
  • Lightweight, durable Poly Chassis is easy to handle and lighter in weight, without sacrificing power
  • A side-mounted tensioning system saves time and ensures chain tension stays consistent, as chain adjustments are quickly made while working
  • Inertia-activated chain brake
  • An adjustable auto oiler system maintains the proper amount of lubricant on the chain
  • Tool-less access to the spark plug and air filter provides quick and easy access to cleaning and replacement
  • Heavy-duty case, 2-cycle engine oil, and a scrunch are included
  • Backed by a 2-year limited
  • Low-kickback 16 in. bar

 

6) Remington 42cc-14-Inch  Full Crank 2-Cycle Gas Powered Chainsaw

Remington 42cc-14-Inch  Full Crank 2-Cycle Gas Powered Chainsaw

 

 

This Remington gas-powered chainsaw is designed with Quickstart technology that provides a quicker, smoother, and easier pull-start, allowing you to quickly work on the yard, lawn, and other areas.

The lightweight saw features a 3-point anti-vibration system that, together with the ergonomically designed handle, reduces vibration and user fatigue while increasing control and maneuverability, whether cutting through branches or trees.

The tool-free access is made with advanced power to cut through branches and wood with ease.

This Remington gas chainsaw features a tough, heavy-duty, durable 42cc full-crank engine that provides greater power, less vibration, and longer equipment life. It has a premium 14″ bar and low-kickback chain for all-around superior performance, as well as a chain brake that provides extra user safety.

Additionally, a robust side-mounted tensioning system is included to save time and ensure chain tension stays consistent as chain adjustments are quickly made while working.

The tool has an adjustable auto oiler system that keeps the chain properly lubricated, and you can manually increase or decrease the oil flow, helping to keep the chain sharp and ensure smooth and safe saw cuts.

Features

  • Lightweight, durable poly chassis
  • High output engine with 14-inch bar and chain
  • Easy to handle and provides reliable performance and prolonged use with minimal user fatigue
  • Tool-less access to the spark plug and air filter provides quick and easy access to cleaning and replacement
  • 2-cycle engine oil and a scrunch are included
  • Adjustable auto chain oiler with easy view maintains proper amount of lubricant on the chain
  • Backed by a 2-year limited warranty
  • Weighs 13.87 pounds

 

7) WORX WG305.1 8 Amp 14″ Electric Chainsaw with Auto-Tension

WORX WG305.1 8 Amp 14" Electric Chainsaw with Auto-Tension 

 

 

This small electric WORX chainsaw is easy to hold up for pruning trees and makes quick work of cleaning up after a storm. It can be used for long stretches without getting tired in your hands and arms, making it an awfully useful little tool.

The chainsaw features an auto-tension chain system to keep it tight, and an easy prime oil pump that makes it simple to keep the chain lubricated. There is far less maintenance involved to keep this cutting tool in good shape.

Features

  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Comfortable and easy to handle
  • Chain lubrication with oil lever indicator
  • Patented auto-tension chain system for extended bar and chain life
  • A powerful 8 amp motor offers a consistent performance
  • Oil tank capacity 4 flu oz.
  • Chain pitch: 3/8 inches
  • Dimensions LxWxH 10 x 16 x 8 inches
  • Corded
  • Weighs 7.94 Pounds

 

8) WEGSD Mini Chainsaw 4-Inch Cordless

WEGSD Mini Chainsaw 4-Inch Cordless

 

 

WEGSD Mini Chainsaw is suitable for wood cutting, tree branches pruning, and gardening. The mini chainsaw with a weight of just about 1.54lbs and a total length of only 33cm (13inch) is easy to control and use with no fatigue.

The saw adapts a high-quality guide chain that has undergone a deep quenching process to ensure smooth cutting.

The saw features an integrated guide plate that disperses heat quickly and is very resistant to falling and abrasion.

The chain saw switch can adjust the speed according to the strength, allowing you to adjust the cutting speed you need according to the operating conditions.

Features

  • Ergonomic design
  • Lightweight and portable body
  • Wear-resistant
  • Small size, can be held with one hand
  • Non-slip handle design for comfortable handling
  • Easy to install and operate
  • Long battery life
  • The pure copper motor provides strong power, fast cutting, and improves efficiency
  • An intelligent circuit control board provides overload protection to meet your different construction needs
  • Special guide plate, tungsten steel ball does not need to be lubricated, so that the machine reduces resistance during operation and reduces wear on the machine

 

See Also

Choosing the Best Lightweight Chainsaws

Chain type- most people especially those who like doing everything by themselves will be fine using the chain that comes with their chainsaw. However, if you use your saw for wide-ranging tasks, familiarize yourself with the teeth profile and spacing options available. If you happen to need multiple chains, then make sure you choose a chainsaw that will allow easy chain changing.

Chain brake- kickback is the major safety risk when it comes to chainsaw use. A chain brake stops the motion of the chain when there is kickback almost immediately, making it a great safety feature.

Power– it can either be gas or electric-powered. Gas-powered offers the most powerful option, but are heavier and noisier. Electric powered saws on the other hand (corded or cordless) have less power.

Anti-vibration- this feature helps to reduce fatigue. You should look for a chainsaw with rubberized handles and anti-vibration features for comfort when handling. This is particularly useful on gas-powered saws, which have more vibration due to the moving parts of the engine.

Handle position- top-handle saws are more compact and lighter. These saws can often be used one-handed. However, they are designed for use at height, which sacrifices stability. They are easy to maneuver hence ideal for pruning limbs and fallen branches if you are working on the ground.

FAQs

  • What is the lightest most powerful chainsaw?

Released recently, the Echo CS-2511T is the lightest top handle chainsaw on the market. Other lightweight chainsaws are from Worx, Remington among other brands.

  • What is the lightest electric chainsaw?

Echo CS-2511T and WORX WG305.1 are some of the lightest and good quality chainsaws in the market today. They are easy to use with an ergonomic design for easy handling.

  • Who makes the lightest gas chainsaw?

Echo recently introduced the CS-2511T, which is the lightest gas chainsaw on the market. Using a 25 cc two-stroke engine, the saw provides high performance with no fatigue.

Conclusion

Remember that the maintenance of your chainsaw is mainly all about the chain and motor. This ensures that your chainsaw gives the maximum run time while at the same time the durability is increased.

You should also look for a chainsaw that has all the necessary safety features to avoid accidents. Feel free to try out one of the chainsaws discussed in this article the next time you go shopping for a chainsaw.