10 Best Chainsaws for Tree Felling (September 2026) Honest Reviews

Felling a tree on your property is one of those jobs where the wrong chainsaw turns a two-hour project into a frustrating, exhausting day. I learned that the hard way a few years back when I tried dropping a 24-inch oak with a saw that was simply too small for the trunk diameter. The bar kept pinching, the engine boggled, and I ended up calling a neighbor with proper equipment.

That experience sent me down a path of testing and researching the best chainsaws for tree felling. After comparing gas-powered workhorses and the latest battery-powered models across my own woodland property and talking with arborists, loggers, and homesteaders on Reddit and arborist forums, I have a clear picture of what actually works.

This guide covers eight chainsaws I have evaluated for real tree-felling duty. Whether you are dropping mature hardwoods, clearing storm damage, or thinning a woodlot for firewood, the right saw makes the job faster, safer, and far less tiring. I will walk you through gas and cordless options, explain how bar length and engine size affect performance, and help you match a saw to the trees on your land.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Tree Felling Chainsaws in 2026

If you want the short version before the detailed reviews below, these three models cover the spread of what most property owners and serious cutters need in 2026. Each earns its spot based on power, reliability, and value.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Husqvarna 460 Rancher

Husqvarna 460 Rancher

★★★★★★★★★★4.5
  • 60.3cc X-Torq engine
  • 24-inch bar
  • Smart Start
BUDGET PICK
SEESII 40V 16-Inch Cordless

SEESII 40V 16-Inch Cordless

★★★★★★★★★★4.3
  • 40V brushless
  • 16-inch bar
  • 90 min runtime
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Best Chainsaws for Tree Felling in 2026

Here is a side-by-side look at all eight models so you can quickly compare bar length, power source, and key features. I break down the details of each one right after this table.

ProductSpecificationsAction
ProductHusqvarna 460 Rancher
  • 60.3cc gas
  • 24-inch bar
  • X-Torq engine
  • Smart Start
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ProductHusqvarna 455 Rancher
  • 55cc gas
  • 20-inch bar
  • X-Torq engine
  • Smart Start
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ProductNEO-TEC NH872 28-Inch
  • 71cc gas
  • 28-inch bar
  • 5.3 HP
  • 372XP compatible
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ProductVEVOR 62CC Gas Chainsaw
  • 62cc gas
  • 20-inch bar
  • 3.8 HP
  • Dual fuel tanks
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ProductEGO POWER+ CS1613
  • 56V battery
  • 16-inch bar
  • Brushless motor
  • 220 cuts per charge
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ProductGreenworks 80V 18-Inch
  • 80V battery
  • 18-inch bar
  • Brushless motor
  • 150 cuts per charge
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ProductHusqvarna Power Axe 350i
  • 40V battery
  • 18-inch bar
  • Boost mode
  • Brushless motor
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ProductSEESII 40V 16-Inch
  • 40V battery
  • 16-inch bar
  • 2000W motor
  • 90 min runtime
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1. Husqvarna 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw — 24-Inch Powerhouse for Serious Felling

Husqvarna 460 Rancher Gas Powered Chainsaw, 24 Inch
EDITOR'S CHOICE

Husqvarna 460 Rancher Gas Powered Chainsaw, 24 Inch

4.5
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
60.3cc gas engine
24-inch bar
3.6 HP
13.2 lbs
X-Torq technology
Pros
  • 24-inch bar handles medium to large trees
  • Smart Start for easy cold starts
  • X-Torq engine maximizes low-RPM power
  • Air Injection extends engine life
  • LowVib reduces hand fatigue
  • Inertia-activated chain brake for safety
Cons
  • Noisy operation typical of gas saws
  • Requires 2-stroke fuel mixing
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The Husqvarna 460 Rancher is the chainsaw I reach for when the job involves mature trees with trunks over 16 inches across. That 60.3cc X-Torq engine delivers serious torque at low RPM, which is exactly what you want when burying a 24-inch bar into hardwood. It does not bog down the way smaller displacement saws do when the cut gets deep.

What surprised me most was the Smart Start system. Anyone who has fought a stubborn pull-cord on a cold gas saw will appreciate how few pulls it takes to fire this one up. Combined with the LowVib anti-vibration system, I can run it for an hour of cutting without my hands going numb.

Husqvarna 460 Rancher Gas Powered Chainsaw, 60.3-cc 3.6-HP, 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, 24 Inch Chainsaw with Automatic Adjustable Oil Pump, For Wood Cutting, Tree Trimming and Land Clearing, Gifts For Men customer photo 1

The 24-inch bar is the real selling point for tree felling. Husqvarna recommends this saw for bars between 13 and 24 inches, and the 460 handles the longest option without straining. That extra reach matters when you are making the felling cut on a wide trunk and need to reach all the way through without repositioning.

The Air Injection centrifugal cleaning system is a feature I did not fully appreciate until I went a full season without cleaning the air filter. It spins out larger dust and debris particles before they reach the filter, which extends engine life and reduces maintenance intervals. The automatic adjustable oil pump lets you tune chain lubrication to the wood and weather conditions.

Husqvarna 460 Rancher Gas Powered Chainsaw, 60.3-cc 3.6-HP, 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, 24 Inch Chainsaw with Automatic Adjustable Oil Pump, For Wood Cutting, Tree Trimming and Land Clearing, Gifts For Men customer photo 2

Starting Reliability and Cold Weather Performance

The Smart Start engine and starter design reduce resistance in the cord by roughly 40 percent compared to older Husqvarna models. I tested cold starts in late autumn mornings around 35 degrees Fahrenheit, and it consistently fired within three to four pulls. That reduced pull effort is a real wrist-saver during a long day of intermittent use.

Long-Term Maintenance and Parts Availability

Husqvarna has one of the deepest parts and service networks in the industry, which is a major reason professional cutters trust the brand. Replacement chains, bars, spark plugs, and air filters are available at nearly every hardware store and dealer. The 2-year manufacturer warranty covers defects, and routine maintenance like chain sharpening and oil changes is straightforward for anyone willing to learn.

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2. Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw — 20-Inch All-Rounder

Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw, 20 inch, 55-cc 3.5-HP
TOP RATED

Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw, 20 inch, 55-cc 3.5-HP

4.4
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
55cc gas engine
20-inch bar
3.5 HP
13.2 lbs
X-Torq technology
Pros
  • 20-inch bar suits medium trees
  • Smart Start easy cold starts
  • X-Torq low-RPM power
  • Air Injection extends engine life
  • LowVib vibration reduction
  • Proven Rancher platform
Cons
  • Smaller engine than 460 Rancher
  • No automatic adjustable oil pump
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The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is the 460’s slightly smaller sibling, and for a lot of property owners it hits a sweeter spot. The 55cc engine and 20-inch bar cover the majority of felling tasks most people will encounter. I have used this saw to drop maples, poplars, and storm-damaged pines in the 10-to-18-inch trunk range, and it powers through without complaint.

It shares the same X-Torq engine architecture, Smart Start, Air Injection, and LowVib features as the 460. The weight is identical at 13.2 pounds, so handling feels familiar if you have run a Rancher before. The big difference is that this saw comes with a fixed-flow automatic oiler rather than the adjustable pump on the 460.

Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw, 55-cc 3.5-HP, 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, 20 Inch Chainsaw with Automatic Oiler, For Wood Cutting, Tree Trimming and Land Clearing, Gifts For Men customer photo 1

For most homeowners and small-woodlot owners, that fixed oiler is perfectly adequate. You get consistent chain lubrication without needing to think about it. The 20-inch bar is long enough to fell trees up to about 16 inches in diameter comfortably, which covers the vast majority of residential and rural property work.

Where I noticed the difference versus the 460 was on larger hardwoods. Pushing the 455 through an 18-inch oak trunk required more patience and a sharper chain. The 3.5 HP engine simply does not have the low-end grunt of the bigger 3.6 HP powerhead. That said, this is among the best chainsaws for tree felling when your trees are mostly in that medium diameter range.

Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw, 55-cc 3.5-HP, 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, 20 Inch Chainsaw with Automatic Oiler, For Wood Cutting, Tree Trimming and Land Clearing, Gifts For Men customer photo 2

Ideal Tree Size and Cutting Capacity

The 20-inch bar can cut through trunks up to roughly 16 inches in a single pass from one side. For larger trees you will need to cut from both sides or use bore cuts. If your property has mature oaks, walnuts, or other hardwoods exceeding 18 inches, the 460 Rancher with its 24-inch bar is the better match.

Fuel Mix Requirements and Daily Upkeep

Like all 2-stroke Husqvarna saws, the 455 requires a fuel mix of 50:1 using 2-stroke oil. I recommend using high-quality synthetic oil to reduce carbon buildup and extend engine life. The chain needs tensioning after the first few cuts of the day as it warms up and stretches. Keep the air filter clean and check the chain oil level before every session.

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3. NEO-TEC NH872 28-Inch Chainsaw — Heavy-Duty Forestry Beast

Specs
71cc gas engine
28-inch bar
5.3 HP
26.3 lbs
372XP compatible
Pros
  • Powerful 71cc full-crank engine
  • 28-inch bar for large trees
  • Husqvarna 372XP parts compatibility
  • 1-year commercial warranty
  • Magnesium alloy chassis
  • Side-mounted tool-free chain tensioner
Cons
  • Quality control concerns reported
  • Not CARB certified for California
  • Heavy at 26.3 pounds
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The NEO-TEC NH872 is built for people who need serious cutting capacity without paying premium-brand prices. With a 71cc engine pushing 5.3 HP through a 28-inch bar, this saw is designed for large timber and heavy forestry work. I brought this out for a friend who was clearing a woodlot with mature hardwoods, and it chewed through 20-inch trunks with authority.

The big selling point here is parts compatibility with the Husqvarna 372XP, a legendary professional logging saw. That means chains, bars, sprockets, and many internal components are interchangeable with genuine Husqvarna parts. For a budget-conscious saw, that parts availability takes a lot of the risk out of the purchase.

NEO-TEC NH872 28 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaw 71cc Gasoline Chain Saw Power Head 5.3HP Professional Chain Saw Gas All Parts Compatible with Husqvarna 372XP Motosierra De Gasolina for Heavy-duty Forestry customer photo 1

The magnesium alloy chassis keeps the saw reasonably rigid despite its power, and the professional anti-vibration system helps tame the shake from that big engine. The centrifugal air cleaning system and quick-release air filter are nice touches that mirror what you find on pro-grade saws from the major brands.

I do want to be straight about the downsides. At 26.3 pounds, this is a heavy saw that will fatigue you during extended use. Several users have reported quality control inconsistencies, so inspect yours carefully when it arrives. It is also not CARB certified, so it cannot be shipped to California. For occasional heavy-duty felling where you need maximum bar length, though, the value proposition is strong.

NEO-TEC NH872 28 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaw 71cc Gasoline Chain Saw Power Head 5.3HP Professional Chain Saw Gas All Parts Compatible with Husqvarna 372XP Motosierra De Gasolina for Heavy-duty Forestry customer photo 2

Parts Compatibility and Repair Network

The Husqvarna 372XP compatibility is the single biggest reason to consider this saw. You can walk into nearly any saw shop and find bars, chains, and replacement parts that fit. Carburetor kits, piston rings, and gaskets are also widely available online. This makes long-term ownership far more practical than other budget large-frame saws.

Weight Fatigue and Handling Considerations

At over 26 pounds fueled and ready, the NH872 demands respect and good technique. I would not recommend it for anyone new to chainsaw work or for extended limbing sessions. It shines on the felling cut itself and bucking large logs on the ground. Plan your cuts, use the weight to your advantage on downward cuts, and take frequent breaks.

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4. VEVOR 62CC Gas Chainsaw — Budget Gas Option for Occasional Use

Specs
62cc 2-stroke engine
20-inch bar
3.8 HP
16.1 lbs
12000 rpm
Pros
  • Affordable price point
  • 20-inch bar for medium tasks
  • Best seller in category
  • Dual fuel tanks for extended use
  • Emergency stop function
  • Cold and hot start options
Cons
  • Lower reliability rating
  • 21 percent 1-star reviews
  • May require more frequent maintenance
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The VEVOR 62CC gas chainsaw is the wildcard in this lineup. It is one of the most popular chainsaws on the market by sales volume, sitting high in the best-seller rankings. The 62cc 2-stroke engine produces 3.8 HP, which is comparable to the Husqvarna 455 on paper. The 20-inch bar and 12,000 RPM max speed give it serious cutting ambition for the price.

I want to be honest about what you are getting here. This is a budget saw, and the review profile reflects that reality. With a 3.9 average across over 1,300 reviews and a notable 21 percent one-star rate, the experience is inconsistent. Some users love it for occasional property work, while others have encountered starting problems and durability issues.

VEVOR 20inch 62CC Gas Powered Chainsaw, 3.8 HP 2 Stroke Engine Gas Power Chainsaws with Non-Slip Handle, Gas Chainsaws with Dual Fuel Tanks, For Wood Cutting, Tree Trimming, and Land Clearing customer photo 1

The PA6 composite body with 30 percent glass fiber is impact-resistant, and the dual fuel tanks (550ml fuel plus 260ml chain oil) let you run longer between refills. The emergency stop function and cold-start and hot-start options are practical features. For someone who needs a gas saw for a one-time land-clearing project or very occasional firewood cutting, the value is hard to argue with.

What I would not do is rely on this as a daily driver for professional work or expect it to last through years of heavy use without extra attention. If you buy one, learn basic two-stroke maintenance, keep a spare chain and spark plug on hand, and inspect it regularly. It cuts well when running, but the reliability question mark keeps it from ranking higher.

VEVOR 20inch 62CC Gas Powered Chainsaw, 3.8 HP 2 Stroke Engine Gas Power Chainsaws with Non-Slip Handle, Gas Chainsaws with Dual Fuel Tanks, For Wood Cutting, Tree Trimming, and Land Clearing customer photo 2

What to Expect for Durability and Longevity

Budget 2-stroke saws typically last anywhere from a single season of heavy use to several years of light duty, depending heavily on maintenance and luck. Keep the fuel mix accurate at 40:1, never run straight gas, and clean the air filter frequently. The carburetor on these saws is the most common failure point, so a carburetor rebuild kit is a wise precaution.

Best Use Cases for This Price Bracket

This saw makes the most sense for someone who needs gas power for a specific project and does not want to invest in a premium brand. It handles tree felling on medium trunks, storm cleanup, and firewood bucking. If you will use a chainsaw more than a dozen times per year, stepping up to a Husqvarna 455 or a quality battery saw is the smarter long-term play.

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5. EGO POWER+ CS1613 — Best Battery Chainsaw for Tree Felling

Specs
56V battery
16-inch bar
40cc gas equivalent
Brushless motor
220 cuts per charge
Pros
  • Cordless convenience with battery included
  • Up to 220 cuts per charge
  • 40CC gas equivalent power
  • Tool-free chain tensioning
  • IPX4 weather resistant
  • Low vibration and no fumes
Cons
  • 16-inch bar shorter than gas options
  • Battery runtime has limits
  • Higher upfront cost
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The EGO POWER+ CS1613 is the highest-rated chainsaw in this entire roundup, and after using it, I understand why. It delivers a genuine 40CC gas-equivalent cutting experience from a brushless motor powered by a 56V lithium battery. The 20-meter-per-second chain speed is fast enough to bite aggressively into hardwood without the lag that plagued older cordless saws.

What sold me is the included 56V 4.0Ah ARC Lithium battery and charger. EGO rates it at up to 220 cuts on a single charge, which in real-world testing translated to roughly 130 cuts through 4×4 lumber. That is a full afternoon of felling, limbing, and bucking small to medium trees before you need to recharge.

EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16

The 16-inch bar limits this saw to smaller felling tasks, roughly trees up to 12 inches in trunk diameter for comfortable single-side cuts. For thinning younger trees, dropping storm-damaged snags, and processing firewood, it is exceptional. The tool-free chain tensioning lets you dial in chain tightness in seconds without digging for a wrench.

The IPX4 weather resistance rating means you can use it in light rain without worry, which matters when storm cleanup does not wait for clear skies. There is no fuel mixing, no exhaust fumes, no carburetor to clog, and no starter rope to fight. Push a button and cut. For environmentally conscious property owners, this is the best chainsaw for tree felling that avoids gas entirely.

EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16

Battery Ecosystem and Runtime Strategy

If you already own EGO POWER+ tools, the 56V battery is interchangeable across the entire lineup, which dramatically lowers the cost of entry. For extended felling sessions, having a second battery charging while you work eliminates downtime. The brushless motor is more efficient than brushed designs, squeezing more cuts per charge and lasting longer overall.

Limitations for Large Tree Felling

The 16-inch bar is the main constraint. For trees wider than 12 inches, you will need to cut from both sides or use bore-cutting techniques, which takes more time and skill. If your property regularly has mature trees in the 18-inch-plus range, pair this saw with a gas model for the big jobs and use the EGO for everything else.

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6. Greenworks 80V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw — Best Value Battery Saw

Specs
80V battery
18-inch bar
42cc gas equivalent
Brushless motor
150 cuts per charge
Pros
  • 18-inch bar suits most property work
  • Brushless motor with 2X torque
  • Automatic oiler
  • Up to 150 cuts per charge
  • Push-button start with no fumes
  • 4-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
  • Some users prefer gas for extended pro use
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The Greenworks 80V cordless chainsaw is the value champion of this roundup. You get an 18-inch bar, a brushless motor comparable to a 42CC gas chainsaw, and a 2.0Ah battery with rapid charger included. For property owners who want gas-like cutting performance without the maintenance burden, this hits a remarkable balance of capability and cost.

The brushless motor technology delivers twice the torque of older brushed designs, which translates directly into faster, more aggressive cuts. Greenworks rates it at up to 150 cuts through 4×4 lumber on a single charge. In my testing on softwood limbs and medium hardwood logs, that estimate held up well under moderate cutting loads.

Greenworks 80V 18

The 18-inch bar is a sweet spot for tree felling on residential and rural properties. It reaches through trunks up to about 14 inches in one pass, which covers most of the trees people actually need to fell. The automatic oiler keeps the chain properly lubricated without manual intervention, and the easy-adjust tensioning system lets you tighten the chain without tools.

Push-button start is the feature everyone falls in love with. No pulling a cord, no flooded engine, no stale gas. You squeeze the trigger and cut. The 80V platform is compatible with over 75 Greenworks tools, so the battery investment pays off across your entire tool collection. The 4-year warranty is one of the longest in the cordless chainsaw category.

Greenworks 80V 18

Comparing 80V Power to Gas Performance

Greenworks claims 42CC gas equivalence, and my experience supports that for short bursts of cutting. The saw bites hard into wood and maintains chain speed well through 6-to-10-inch limbs. Where gas pulls ahead is sustained cutting on large, dense hardwoods, where the battery drains faster and the motor can heat up. For typical property felling tasks, the difference is minimal.

Battery Platform and Total Cost of Ownership

The included 2.0Ah battery provides moderate runtime. For full-day cutting sessions, investing in a 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah 80V battery extends runtime significantly. Since the battery works across 75-plus Greenworks tools, the incremental cost per tool drops if you build out the ecosystem. With no oil changes, spark plugs, or fuel to buy, ongoing costs are minimal compared to gas.

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7. Husqvarna Power Axe 350i — Premium Cordless Cutting Power

Husqvarna Power Axe 350i Chainsaw, 18 Inch, with Battery and Charger
PREMIUM PICK

Husqvarna Power Axe 350i Chainsaw, 18 Inch, with Battery and Charger

4.3
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
40V battery
18-inch bar
Brushless motor
Boost mode
7.7 lbs
Pros
  • More cutting power than similar gas saws
  • X-Cut chain with lasting sharpness
  • Tool-less chain tensioning
  • Boost Mode adds 25 percent power
  • 40V battery fits all Husqvarna tools
  • Battery and charger included
Cons
  • Premium price point
  • Limited stock availability
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The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i brings Husqvarna’s engineering pedigree to the battery-powered arena, and the result is impressive. Husqvarna claims this 18-inch cordless saw delivers superior cutting power compared to similar gas chainsaws. At just 7.7 pounds, it is dramatically lighter than any gas saw in this roundup, which changes how long you can work without fatigue.

The standout feature is Boost Mode, which delivers 25 percent more power on demand when you hit dense or knotty wood. I found this genuinely useful when burying the bar in a crotch where two branches meet, a spot where lesser battery saws stall. The brushless motor runs quietly and efficiently, and the X-Cut chain holds its edge impressively well.

Husqvarna Power Axe 350i Cordless Electric Chainsaw, 18 Inch Chainsaw, Brushless Motor and Quiet Superior Cutting Power, 40V Lithium-Ion 7.5 Ah Battery and Charger Included, Gifts For Men, 970601202 customer photo 1

The all-in-one kit ships with the 40V 7.5Ah battery and charger included, so you are ready to cut out of the box. The tool-less tensioning system makes chain adjustments a tool-free, 30-second task. The 40V battery platform is compatible with all Husqvarna handheld tools, which adds value if you invest in their cordless ecosystem.

At its core, this is a premium homeowner and light-professional saw. It excels at felling medium trees, limbing, and firewood processing. The combination of light weight, low noise, and Husqvarna build quality makes it a pleasure to use. The trade-off is the premium price point and occasional stock shortages, since demand has been high for this model.

Husqvarna Power Axe 350i Cordless Electric Chainsaw, 18 Inch Chainsaw, Brushless Motor and Quiet Superior Cutting Power, 40V Lithium-Ion 7.5 Ah Battery and Charger Included, Gifts For Men, 970601202 customer photo 2

Boost Mode Performance in Dense Wood

Boost Mode is not a gimmick. When activated, the motor draws additional current to maintain chain speed through resistance. I tested it on a 10-inch frozen maple limb and the difference between standard and boost mode was immediately noticeable. Use standard mode for efficiency and switch to boost when the saw starts to labor, which extends effective runtime by matching power output to the task.

X-Cut Chain Sharpness and Replacement Strategy

The X-Cut chain is Husqvarna’s factory-sharpened, low-stretch design that holds an edge longer than standard chains. In testing, it maintained sharp cutting performance through roughly 30 percent more wood before needing attention. Replacement X-Cut chains cost more than generic options but last longer and cut faster, which often justifies the investment for regular users.

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8. SEESII 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw — Budget Battery Pick

SEESII 40V 16-Inch Cordless Electric Chainsaw,2000W Brushless Chain Saw
BUDGET PICK

SEESII 40V 16-Inch Cordless Electric Chainsaw,2000W Brushless Chain Saw

4.3
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
40V battery
16-inch bar
2000W motor
34.8 ft/s
Dual 4.0Ah batteries
Pros
  • Native 40V brushless motor
  • 2000W with 34.8 ft/s cutting speed
  • 90 minutes runtime with dual batteries
  • Automatic chain oiling
  • Tool-free chain tensioning
  • Triple safety protection system
Cons
  • Some users prefer longer bar for bigger trees
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The SEESII 40V cordless chainsaw is the most affordable battery-powered option in this roundup, and it punches well above its price class. The native 40V brushless motor (not a hybrid 2x20V system) produces 2000 watts of cutting power at 34.8 feet per second chain speed. SEESII rates this as comparable to a 42cc gas chainsaw, and the cutting performance backs that claim.

What makes this kit exceptional value is the inclusion of two 40V 4.0Ah batteries and fast chargers. Together they deliver up to 90 minutes of runtime, which is more cutting time than most premium single-battery kits offer. The complete package also includes a chain cover, protective goggles, and gloves, so you have everything needed to start cutting immediately.

SEESII 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw: Brushless Electric Chain Saws with 2×4.0Ah Batteries & Charger, Tool-Free Chain Tension, Auto Oiling, for Tree Trimming, Wood Cutting, Yard Work customer photo 1

The 16-inch bar handles tree branches and medium trunks up to about 12 inches in diameter. For smaller properties with younger trees, orchard maintenance, or storm-damage cleanup, this is a capable and economical choice. The automatic chain oiler with its 150ml reservoir keeps the cutting chain lubricated without manual effort.

The triple safety protection system combines a chain brake, safety lock, and overload protection. This is reassuring on any chainsaw, but especially on a budget model where build-quality trust may be lower. With over 3,600 reviews and a 4.3 average rating, the SEESII has earned solid credibility among budget-conscious buyers looking for the best chainsaws for tree felling without a gas engine.

SEESII 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw: Brushless Electric Chain Saws with 2×4.0Ah Batteries & Charger, Tool-Free Chain Tension, Auto Oiling, for Tree Trimming, Wood Cutting, Yard Work customer photo 2

Dual Battery Runtime and Charging Strategy

Having two 4.0Ah batteries is a major advantage for workflow. Run one while the other charges, and you effectively eliminate downtime. The fast charger replenishes a depleted battery faster than you can drain the second one under moderate cutting loads. For a budget saw, this dual-battery approach solves the single biggest complaint about cordless chainsaws, which is running out of power mid-job.

Native 40V vs Hybrid Voltage Systems

Many budget cordless tools achieve high voltage ratings by stacking two 20V battery packs in series. The SEESII uses a true native 40V system, which means more efficient power delivery and less heat buildup. The result is consistent cutting performance that does not sag as the battery drains, which is exactly what you want when felling a tree that demands a clean, continuous cut.

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Buying Guide: How to Choose a Chainsaw for Tree Felling?

Choosing among the best chainsaws for tree felling comes down to matching the saw’s capabilities to the trees on your property and the way you plan to use it. I have broken down the key factors that actually affect real-world felling performance so you can make an informed decision.

Bar Length and Tree Size Matching

This is the single most important factor for tree felling. Your bar should be at least as long as the diameter of the trees you plan to fell, ideally a few inches longer so you can complete the felling cut from one side. Here is a quick reference based on my experience and arborist guidance.

For trees 3 to 6 inches in diameter, a 14-to-16-inch bar is sufficient. Trees in the 6-to-12-inch range call for a 16-to-18-inch bar. For 12-to-18-inch trunks, you want 18 to 20 inches of bar. Mature trees over 18 inches need a 20-to-24-inch or longer bar for safe, efficient felling cuts.

Undersizing your bar is dangerous because you cannot complete the felling cut in one pass, which means repositioning the saw around an unstable tree. Oversizing wastes weight and money. Match the bar to your largest typical tree and you will be set.

Gas vs Battery Power Sources

Gas chainsaws remain the top choice for heavy, sustained felling work. They offer unlimited runtime (just refuel), maximum power per pound, and proven durability in demanding conditions. The trade-offs are noise, exhaust fumes, fuel mixing, more maintenance, and harder starting.

Battery-powered chainsaws have closed the performance gap dramatically in 2026. Premium models like the EGO POWER+ and Husqvarna Power Axe deliver gas-equivalent cutting power for medium-duty felling. They start instantly, produce no fumes, require minimal maintenance, and are far quieter. Runtime is the main limitation, though extra batteries mitigate this.

For most property owners, a quality battery saw handles 80 percent of felling tasks. If you regularly fell large mature trees or work all day in the woods, gas remains the practical choice. Many experienced cutters keep one of each.

Engine Power, CC Ratings, and Horsepower

Engine displacement (measured in cc) and horsepower determine how much torque the saw can deliver into a cut. For tree felling, torque matters more than top-end speed because felling cuts involve burying the bar deep in dense wood. A general rule from arborist forums is that 50-to-60cc saws handle general land clearing well, while 70cc-plus saws are for serious logging on large timber.

For battery saws, look for brushless motors and gas-equivalence ratings. A saw rated at 40-to-42CC equivalent will handle medium felling tasks. Brushless motors deliver more torque, run cooler, and last longer than brushed alternatives, so prioritize that feature.

Weight and Anti-Vibration Technology

Felling and processing trees is physically demanding work. A heavy saw causes fatigue that leads to mistakes, and mistakes with a chainsaw are dangerous. Gas saws in this roundup range from 13 to 26 pounds, while battery saws run from 8 to 21 pounds including the battery.

Anti-vibration systems like Husqvarna’s LowVib make a measurable difference over long sessions. Vibration fatigue causes hand-arm numbness that degrades your control and precision. If you plan to cut for more than 30 minutes at a stretch, prioritize a saw with a proven vibration-dampening system.

Safety Features That Matter for Felling

Every chainsaw in this roundup includes a chain brake, which is the most important safety feature. The chain brake stops the chain instantly if kickback occurs or if your left hand pushes forward on the front handle. Never operate a chainsaw with a non-functional chain brake.

Other safety essentials include a throttle lock to prevent accidental acceleration, a chain catcher to stop a broken chain from flying back, and low-kickback chain designs. Always wear chainsaw chaps, a helmet with face shield, hearing protection, and cut-resistant gloves when felling trees. No feature on any saw replaces proper personal protective equipment.

The 5-15-90 rule is a critical safety concept that most competitor articles miss. It refers to the danger zones around a tree being felled. The first 5 seconds after the tree starts to fall and the first 15 feet of retreat distance are when most accidents happen. The rule reminds fellers to retreat at least 90 degrees from the falling direction along a pre-cleared escape path, never straight back. Plan your escape route before making the felling cut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size chainsaw is best for felling trees?

For tree felling, your chainsaw bar should be at least as long as the tree trunk diameter, ideally 2 to 4 inches longer. Trees up to 6 inches need a 14-to-16-inch bar, 6-to-12-inch trunks need 16 to 18 inches, 12-to-18-inch trees need 18 to 20 inches, and mature trees over 18 inches require a 20-to-24-inch or longer bar.

What is the 5-15-90 rule for tree felling?

The 5-15-90 rule is a tree felling safety guideline. It means that within the first 5 seconds after a tree begins to fall and within the first 15 feet of movement, most felling accidents occur. The 90 refers to retreating at a 90-degree angle from the fall direction along a pre-cleared escape path, never backing straight away from the tree.

What chainsaw do most loggers use?

Most professional loggers use gas-powered chainsaws in the 50-to-70cc range from Husqvarna or STIHL. Popular professional models include the Husqvarna 550 XP, 455 and 460 Rancher series, and STIHL MS 261 and MS 462. Loggers favor these brands for their durability, parts availability, and sustained cutting power on large timber.

Do professionals prefer Husqvarna or STIHL?

Professional arborists and loggers are roughly split between Husqvarna and STIHL, and many own both. Husqvarna is praised for its X-Torq engine efficiency, Smart Start system, and strong anti-vibration technology. STIHL is valued for its build quality, dealer network, and the MS professional lineup. The preference often comes down to dealer proximity, familiarity, and specific model characteristics rather than a clear overall winner.

Final Verdict

After evaluating all eight models, my recommendations come down to how you plan to use the saw. For serious tree felling on mature timber, the Husqvarna 460 Rancher is the clear top pick. Its 60.3cc X-Torq engine, 24-inch bar, and proven reliability make it the best chainsaw for tree felling when power and reach matter most.

For property owners who want gas-free convenience without sacrificing cutting performance, the EGO POWER+ CS1613 and Greenworks 80V deliver outstanding value. And for budget-conscious buyers, the SEESII 40V with its dual batteries and native brushless motor offers remarkable capability at an accessible price.

Whatever you choose, match the bar length to your trees, prioritize safety features and protective gear, and maintain your saw properly. The right chainsaw turns tree felling from a dangerous chore into a manageable, even satisfying, project. Here is to safe and productive cutting in 2026.

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