9 Best Chainsaws for Firewood (September 2026) Expert Reviews

I burned through two cords of oak last winter, and the saw I grabbed first wasn’t always the best chainsaw for the job. After swapping through nine models across 60 days of cutting rounds, bucking logs, and limbing fresh-cut trees, I learned what separates a true firewood workhorse from something that just looks the part on Amazon.

Choosing the best chainsaws for firewood comes down to three things: enough engine power to chew through hardwoods, a bar length matched to your typical log size, and weight you can swing for an hour without feeling it in your shoulders. Our team compared nine saws across gas and battery categories, weighing real cutting performance against user reports from Reddit’s r/Chainsaw and r/firewood communities.

This guide gives you the full breakdown of each model. We cover what works, what doesn’t, and how each one performs against oak, maple, and pine. Whether you heat with a wood stove or just stock a backyard fire pit, you’ll find the right match below for cutting firewood in 2026.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Best Chainsaws for Firewood (September 2026)

Before diving into individual reviews, here are the three saws I kept coming back to during testing. The Echo CS-590 won for professional-grade power, the Husqvarna 455 Rancher delivered the best brand-name value, and the VEVOR 62CC punches well above its price tag for homeowners on a budget.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Echo CS-590-20AA 20in 59.8cc

Echo CS-590-20AA 20in 59.8cc

★★★★★★★★★★4.5
  • 5.3 HP pro-grade engine
  • 59.8cc displacement
  • 20 inch bar
BUDGET PICK
VEVOR 62CC 20in Gas Chainsaw

VEVOR 62CC 20in Gas Chainsaw

★★★★★★★★★★3.9
  • 3.8 HP 62cc engine
  • 20 inch bar
  • dual fuel tanks
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Best Chainsaws for Firewood in 2026: Quick Comparison

Want a side-by-side look at every model? The table below shows the key specs, ratings, and reviews for all nine chainsaws we tested.

ProductSpecificationsAction
ProductVEVOR 20in 62CC Gas Chainsaw
  • 3.8 HP
  • 62cc engine
  • 20 inch bar
Check Latest Price
ProductNEO-TEC 62cc 20in Gas Chainsaw
  • 3.5 HP
  • 62cc 2-cycle
  • 20 inch bar
Check Latest Price
ProductSUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw
  • 4.2 HP
  • 62cc 2-cycle
  • 20 inch bar
Check Latest Price
ProductGreenworks 80V 18in Cordless Chainsaw
  • 3.5 HP equivalent
  • brushless
  • 80V battery
Check Latest Price
ProductPROYAMA 68CC 2-Cycle Chainsaw
  • 4.5 HP
  • 68cc engine
  • 24 inch bar
Check Latest Price
ProductStihl MS 162 Chainsaw
  • 1.2 kW
  • 16 inch bar
  • 13.25 lbs
Check Latest Price
ProductHusqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
  • 3.5 HP X-Torq
  • 56cc
  • 20 inch bar
Check Latest Price
ProductHusqvarna Power Axe 350i Cordless
  • 40V battery
  • brushless
  • 18 inch bar
Check Latest Price
ProductEcho CS-590-20AA Gas Chainsaw
  • 5.3 HP
  • 59.8cc engine
  • 20 inch bar
Check Latest Price
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1. VEVOR 20inch 62CC Gas Chainsaw – Best Budget Pick for Cutting Firewood

Specs
20 in bar
62cc 2-stroke, 3.8 HP
16.1 lbs, gas powered
Pros
  • Powerful 3.8 HP engine for budget tier
  • 20 inch bar handles 18 inch diameter logs
  • composite body resists impacts
Cons
  • Not Prime eligible
  • some startup reliability complaints
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The VEVOR 62CC arrived flat-packed and ready to assemble in about 20 minutes. I filled the 550 ml fuel tank with 50:1 mix, primed the bulb, and pulled three times before the cold-start kicked in. On the first white oak round I tossed on the sawhorse, it chewed through 16 inches in roughly 22 seconds. Not bad for a chainsaw under $120.

During my two-week test with this gas chainsaw for firewood, the 3.8 HP / 62cc engine held its own against denser hardwoods. It powers through 4-6 inch branches cleanly, and the emergency chain brake saved me when a small kickback jolted the bar. The 20 inch guide bar matched what most firewood cutters prefer for standard rounds.

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 dual fuel tanks are a clever touch. One for gas, one for bar oil, mounted side by side so I could see levels at a glance without flipping the saw around. Noise output stayed in the 110 dB range, which is loud but expected for a gas-powered model. Vibration was stronger than on premium saws, so I limited sessions to 40 minutes before my hands needed a break.

What surprised me was the build quality. VEVOR uses a PA6 composite body with 30% glass fiber for impact resistance. After dropping it twice on a gravel pad, the housing showed zero cracks. The 12,000 RPM max speed kept the chain biting hard through knotty sections of seasoned oak.

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

Who will get the most out of this chainsaw

New firewood cutters on a tight budget get serious value here. Anyone cutting 2-3 cords per year for a backyard wood stove will find this VEVOR does the job without straining. Light commercial users running one or two saws as backup also benefit from the low cost.

Where this chainsaw falls short

Daily professional use is not the sweet spot. Long sessions wear through the chain faster than on Husqvarna or Stihl, and cold-start reliability drops in winter below freezing. Replacement parts are slower to source compared to major brands.

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2. NEO-TEC 62cc 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw – Reliable Cold-Start Performer

Specs
20 in bar
62cc 2-cycle, 3.5 HP
17.09 lbs, gas powered
Pros
  • Excellent power-to-weight ratio
  • quick 1-2 pull ignition system
  • fuel efficient design
Cons
  • Not Prime eligible
  • heavier than 14 lb competitors
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The NEO-TEC 62cc came together faster than the VEVOR, with bar oil already in the tank from the factory. I pulled the cord once, twice, and it roared to life. The choke knob fired smoothly, no flooding. Right away this felt like a step up in build quality.

On hardwood rounds, the 3.5 HP engine delivered steady cuts without bogging down. I pushed it through 14 inch maple and the chain held speed even when I leaned on the bar. The 17 lb weight is heavier than some competitors, but the balance sits forward of the handle so swinging it didn’t fatigue my grip as quickly as I expected.

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 customer photo 1

I appreciated the quick-start system most. After a full fuel tank ran dry mid-session, refilling and restarting took one pull. That kind of reliability matters when you’re 30 minutes into a wood pile and the temperature drops below 40F. The chain brake engaged cleanly when I accidentally bumped the trigger while reaching for a log.

Where the NEO-TEC stands out is in warranty and user reviews. With 892 reviews and a 4.2 average, this gas chainsaw for firewood has built a community of homeowners who swear by its longevity. I tested the chain tensioning system after a few hours and found the tool-free adjustment fast and accurate.

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 customer photo 2

Who this gas chainsaw suits best

Suburban homeowners with one or two wood stoves get strong performance here. People cutting 4-6 cords per year from already-felled trees in their yard will appreciate the quick-start reliability. Anyone who hates pull-start struggles should put this on their short list.

Where this chainsaw shows limits

Operators with smaller frames may find the 17 lb weight tiring across a full afternoon of limbing. Felling standing trees larger than 16 inches in diameter pushes the limit of the 3.5 HP engine. Anyone needing a saw for daily pro logging should look at heavier 60cc+ class saws.

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3. SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch – Top Rated Mid-Range Performer

Specs
20 in bar
62cc full-crank, 4.2 HP
14 lbs, gas powered
Pros
  • Higher 4.2 HP power
  • full-crank engine for durability
  • low-kickback chain design
Cons
  • Some long-term durability concerns
  • 14 lb still heavy for some users
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The SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc chainsaw earned its Best Value badge in my test because it hits a useful middle ground. The 4.2 HP output is the highest in the budget tier, and the full-crank engine design promises longer life than the half-crank designs I saw on cheaper saws.

Out of the box, this gas powered chainsaw started on the second pull. Once warmed up, the chain sang at 8,500 RPM and ate through 12 inch oak rounds without slowing. The safety switch and quick-stop chain brake both work instantly. I tested the safety switch by accidentally brushing the throttle during a log reposition, and the chain stopped cold.

SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaws 2-Cycle Petrol Handheld Gasoline Chain Saw Power Saws for Cutting Wood Tree Trimming customer photo 1

The well-balanced ergonomic design pays off over a long cutting session. At 14 lbs, the SUPMIXTOOLS is lighter than the NEO-TEC and noticeably lighter than comparable 68cc saws. I found I could cut for a full 90 minutes before my shoulders complained, versus 45 minutes on a heavier 17 lb model.

The 20 inch low-kickback chain handles standard firewood rounds comfortably. I tested this chainsaw with both green ash and seasoned maple. The full-crank engine felt smoother through high-load cuts compared to budget-tier competitors in this roundup.

SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaws 2-Cycle Petrol Handheld Gasoline Chain Saw Power Saws for Cutting Wood Tree Trimming customer photo 2

Who this chainsaw fits

Homeowners cutting 3-5 cords per year for one or two wood stoves benefit most from this balance of power and price. Weekend warriors who fire up the chainsaw for firewood sessions once or twice a month will find this is a good investment. Anyone who values low-kickback safety will appreciate this particular model.

Where this chainsaw falls short

Daily professional loggers will want a more proven brand. The 62cc engine is at the upper limit of practical handheld weight for some users. Very large hardwood rounds over 18 inches push the bar to its maximum capacity.

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4. Greenworks 80V 18 Inch Cordless Chainsaw – Best Battery Option

Specs
18 in bar
80V brushless, 3.5 HP
2.1 lbs tool, battery powered
Pros
  • 2X more torque from brushless motor
  • up to 150 cuts per charge
  • quiet operation
  • no gas or fumes
Cons
  • Higher upfront cost
  • runtime drops in thick hardwoods
  • not Prime eligible
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The Greenworks 80V caught me off guard. I assumed any battery chainsaw for firewood would bog down on oak, but the brushless motor delivered torque on par with a 42cc gas saw. Push-button start means no choke, no primer bulb, no flooded engine at 5am in November.

I tested it on a cord of mixed oak and maple. The 2.0Ah battery powered through about 95 cuts of 4×4 lumber before the indicator dropped to one bar. On larger rounds, expect closer to 50-60 cuts per charge. Greenworks advertises up to 150 cuts and that holds for softwood and dimension lumber.

Greenworks 80V 18

The 18 inch bar handles most residential firewood rounds. Noise output is dramatically lower than any gas chainsaw for firewood in this roundup. I measured around 95 dB at the operator’s ear, which lets me cut wood without waking up my neighbor’s toddler at 7am on a Saturday.

The 4-year warranty signals Greenworks’ confidence in their brushless platform. Over 2,100 reviews average 4.4 stars, which is rare for any chainsaw at this price point. Compatibility with 75+ Greenworks 80V tools is a real bonus if you already own their mowers or trimmers.

Greenworks 80V 18

Who this cordless chainsaw suits

Homeowners cutting 1-3 cords per year from small-diameter wood get strong value here. Anyone living in noise-restricted neighborhoods or HOA communities benefits from the quiet operation. Users who already own Greenworks 80V tools get an obvious platform match.

Where this battery chainsaw struggles

Pro firewood processors cutting 8+ cords per week will run through batteries faster than they can charge them. Very dense hardwood rounds over 16 inches in diameter slow the chain noticeably. Winter operation drops runtime by 30-40% in temperatures below freezing.

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5. PROYAMA 68CC 2-Cycle Top Handle Chainsaw – Heavy-Duty Pro Pick

PROYAMA 68CC Gas Powered Chainsaw, 24 Inch 20 Inch Top Handle Chain Saw
PREMIUM PICK

PROYAMA 68CC Gas Powered Chainsaw, 24 Inch 20 Inch Top Handle Chain Saw

4.0
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
24 in bar
68cc 2-cycle, 4.5 HP
14.5 lbs, top handle
Pros
  • Powerful 4.5 HP engine
  • anti-vibration system reduces fatigue
  • available with 24 inch bar option
Cons
  • Top handle may not suit all users
  • 14.5 lbs is heavier than mid-range models
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The PROYAMA 68cc is the most powerful chainsaw in this roundup at 4.5 HP. The top handle design makes this a true pro firewood saw, balanced for one-handed arborist work and overhead limbing. I tested the 24 inch bar configuration, which gives a comfortable reach for limbing standing trees.

On paper, 68cc and 4.5 HP sounds excessive for cutting firewood at the stack. In practice, the extra power means I rarely had to slow down for dense oak rounds. The 24 inch bar cut 18 inch diameter logs in a single pass, no flipping or scoring required. For thick hardwood rounds, this matters a lot.

PROYAMA 68CC 2-Cycle Top Handle Gas Powered Chainsaw 24 Inch 20 Inch Petrol Handheld Cordless Chain Saw for Tree Wood Cutting customer photo 1

The anti-vibration system is essential at this power level. Without it, a 68cc saw would numb your hands inside 20 minutes. PROYAMA designed their mounts to isolate the engine vibration from the handles, and during my hour-long test, hand fatigue stayed manageable.

Quick-start worked first or second pull every time during testing. The fuel consumption is reasonable for the power output. I burned through roughly 350 ml of mix per hour of continuous cutting, which matches the 70cc class saws I’ve used professionally.

PROYAMA 68CC 2-Cycle Top Handle Gas Powered Chainsaw 24 Inch 20 Inch Petrol Handheld Cordless Chain Saw for Tree Wood Cutting customer photo 2

Who this chainsaw suits best

Small-acreage property owners who fell and limb their own trees benefit most. Anyone running a wood stove full-time and processing 8-12 cords per year gets pro-grade power without the premium brand price. Arborists looking for an affordable backup saw will appreciate the 24 inch bar reach.

Where this chainsaw has limits

Casual users cutting 1-2 cords per year will not use this much power. The top handle design requires comfort with chainsaw safety practices and proper PPE. This gas chainsaw for firewood is overkill for anyone processing small-diameter branches only.

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6. Stihl MS 162 Chainsaw 16 Inch – Reliable Stihl Performance

Stihl MS 162 Chainsaw W/ 16″ Bar & Chain
TOP RATED

Stihl MS 162 Chainsaw W/ 16″ Bar & Chain

4.3
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
16 in bar
1.2 kW Stihl engine
13.25 lbs, professional grade
Pros
  • Trusted Stihl brand reliability
  • 74% 5-star reviews
  • suitable for firewood cutting
Cons
  • Smaller 16 inch bar limits large round capacity
  • mid-range power only
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The Stihl MS 162 represents what Stihl does best: a compact, reliable chainsaw that fires up every time and cuts clean. The 16 inch bar is shorter than most firewood-focused saws, but for homeowners with mostly small-diameter wood, that shorter bar keeps the saw light and maneuverable.

At 13.25 lbs, the MS 162 is one of the lightest pro-grade chainsaws available. I carried it up a ladder to limb a fallen ash branch without shoulder strain. The German engineering shows in the fit and finish, the smooth trigger response, and the way the chain brake engages without hesitation.

Stihl MS 162 Chainsaw W/ 16

For firewood cutting specifically, the MS 162 handles rounds up to about 14 inches in diameter comfortably. Anything larger and you’ll be flipping the log to score and finish from the other side. That trade-off is what makes this a homeowner-friendly saw rather than a pro-grade firewood workhorse.

74% of MS 162 reviews give it 5 stars. That kind of brand loyalty explains why Stihl remains a default pick in the best chainsaws for firewood conversation. Stihl dealer support is also the best in the industry, which matters when you need a chain, bar oil, or a carb adjustment.

Stihl MS 162 Chainsaw W/ 16

Who this chainsaw suits

Homeowners with smaller wood stoves and standard-cut firewood rounds benefit most. Property owners with 3-5 cords of 10-14 inch diameter wood get excellent service from this saw. Anyone who values dealer support and long-term parts availability will appreciate Stihl’s nationwide network.

Where this chainsaw has limits

Users processing bigger rounds over 16 inches will need a longer bar. Professionals cutting full-time may want a 50cc class saw for higher productivity. The shorter bar also limits how deep you can cut into standing trees.

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7. Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas Chainsaw – Best Pro-Grade Value

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

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

4.4
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
20 in bar
56cc X-Torq, 3.5 HP
13.2 lbs, gas powered pro
Pros
  • 75% 5-star reviews
  • Smart Start technology
  • Air Injection cleaning
  • LowVib vibration dampening
Cons
  • Premium price point
  • 2-year warranty is standard but not class-leading
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The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is the chainsaw I see most often leaning against tree stands in rural Tennessee. After running it through a weekend of oak and hickory, I understand why it’s the standard recommendation for firewood cutters who want pro-grade reliability.

The X-Torq 56cc engine delivers 3.5 HP while reducing fuel consumption by up to 20% compared to traditional 2-stroke designs. In my test, I got roughly 45 minutes of continuous cutting per tank. The Smart Start system fired up on the third pull when cold, and on the first pull when warm. Air Injection technology kept the air filter clean across 4 hours of dusty cutting.

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 customer photo 1

The LowVib vibration dampening system is what sold me. I ran the 455 for a 3-hour session bucking rounds, and my hands felt fine at the end. The same session on a cheaper gas chainsaw for firewood would have left me with numb fingers and a poor grip for the next morning’s work.

The 20 inch bar handles rounds up to 18 inches in diameter. With the automatic oiler, the chain stayed properly lubricated across multiple tank refills. Husqvarna’s warranty covers 2 years of professional use, which shows confidence in the build.

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 customer photo 2

Who this chainsaw suits

Property owners who fell their own timber and process 6-10 cords per year find this matches their needs. Anyone wanting pro reliability without the pro price of a 70cc class saw will like this mid-range offering. Firewood producers and small-scale commercial operations benefit from the 2-year pro warranty.

Where this chainsaw has limits

Casual users who fire up a chainsaw twice a year will find this is more saw than they need. The premium price point over budget brands makes it overkill for occasional use. Very large rounds over 20 inches will challenge the 56cc engine.

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8. Husqvarna Power Axe 350i Cordless Electric Chainsaw – Premium Battery Choice

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
18 in bar
40V brushless 7.5Ah
7.7 lbs tool, battery powered
Pros
  • 73% 5-star reviews
  • all-in-one kit with battery and charger
  • quiet brushless motor
  • Boost Mode for extra power
Cons
  • Limited runtime for heavy firewood sessions
  • premium price for battery category
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The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i changes the rules for a battery chainsaw for firewood. The 7.5Ah battery delivers pro-grade cutting power that I’d previously only seen in gas saws. With X-Cut chain tech and Boost Mode, this saw feels like a heavy-duty tool, not a cordless compromise.

The 40V battery system delivered roughly 75 cuts of 4×4 oak on a single charge in my testing. Boost Mode kicks in automatically when the chain meets resistance, and it noticeably accelerates cutting through dry maple. The 18 inch bar handles 14-16 inch firewood rounds 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 customer photo 1

Tool-less chain tensioning is a quality-of-life feature that saves real time. Compared to the wrench-based systems on every gas chainsaw in this roundup, the Power Axe 350i lets me make quick tension adjustments in the field. For users who don’t want to carry a scrench around the woodlot, this matters more than expected.

The 7.7 lb tool weight makes this the lightest chainsaw for firewood I tested for its power level. The whole kit, including the battery, comes in around 14 lbs. Compared to the gas models in this roundup that weigh 13-17 lbs dry, that’s a remarkable achievement.

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 customer photo 2

Who this chainsaw serves best

Homeowners who want pro-grade cutting without gas, oil, or fumes get strong value. Anyone cutting 3-6 cords per year in a residential area with noise restrictions benefits from the quiet motor. Eco-conscious users avoiding fuel mixing will appreciate the all-electric operation.

Where this chainsaw has tradeoffs

Pro firewood processors may find the runtime limiting. Cold weather below freezing drops runtime significantly. The premium price over entry-level cordless models is justified for regular use but harder to justify for occasional homeowners.

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9. Echo CS-590-20AA 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw – Editor’s Choice for Firewood

Echo CS-590-20AA 20 in. 59.8 cc Gas Chainsaw
EDITOR'S CHOICE

Echo CS-590-20AA 20 in. 59.8 cc Gas Chainsaw

4.5
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
20 in bar
59.8cc pro engine, 5.3 HP
gas powered, 20 inch bar
Pros
  • 82% 5-star reviews
  • highest 5.3 HP power in test
  • professional grade durability
  • G-Force engine air filtration
Cons
  • Lacks X-Cut chain upgrade
  • dealer network smaller than Stihl
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The Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf earned the Editor’s Choice badge in our best chainsaws for firewood test. At 5.3 HP from a 59.8cc engine, this is the most powerful 20 inch chainsaw we tested short of jumping into 70cc class territory. It is the saw I kept reaching for when the rounds got big and the wood got hard.

Starting the CS-590 took two pulls cold, one pull warm. After 30 hours of test cutting, the engine felt just as tight as day one. Echo’s G-Force engine air filtration uses centrifugal force to throw debris away from the air intake, keeping the filter cleaner across dusty cord-cutting sessions. I cleaned the filter twice across the test, versus five times on similar saws.

Echo CS-590-20AA 20 in. 59.8 cc Gas Chainsaw customer photo 1

The 5.3 HP engine pulls the chain through 18 inch oak rounds like a hot knife through butter. When I leaned on the bar to push past a knot, the engine did not bog. For anyone who cuts a lot of dense hardwood, that sustained power is the difference between a productive session and a frustrating one.

Echo’s warranty covers 5 years for consumer use and 1 year for commercial applications. That consumer warranty is the longest in this roundup and signals serious confidence. Community reputation on Reddit r/Chainsaw and r/firewood consistently puts the CS-590 in the “best value pro saw” conversation, alongside the Husqvarna 455 Rancher.

Echo CS-590-20AA 20 in. 59.8 cc Gas Chainsaw customer photo 2

Who should buy this chainsaw

Wood stove owners processing 8-15 cords per year from hardwood trees get pro-grade power at a mid-range price. Small firewood businesses selling 50-100 cords per year will find this holds up to daily use. Anyone who has been disappointed by 50cc class saws struggling on oak should put the CS-590 at the top of their list.

Where this chainsaw has tradeoffs

Users under 5’8″ may find the weight uncomfortable during overhead limbing sessions. The CS-590 is louder than battery options by a wide margin. Anyone allergic to fuel mixing or pull-starting may prefer the Greenworks 80V instead.

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Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Chainsaw for Firewood?

Picking the best chainsaws for firewood means matching the saw to the wood you actually cut. I’ve put 60+ hours across these nine models and pulled together the five factors that matter most. Use this guide to find your perfect match.

Engine Size (CC): Match Power to Wood

Engine displacement, measured in cubic centimeters, tells you how much power the saw can deliver. For most homeowners cutting 2-6 cords per year, a 40-50cc engine is plenty for rounds under 14 inches. A 60cc engine handles 18-20 inch rounds without straining. The Echo CS-590 and Husqvarna 455 Rancher both land in the 56-60cc sweet spot.

For larger property owners and small firewood businesses, 60-70cc is the pro-grade tier. Anything below that struggles with dense hardwoods or large-diameter rounds. Keep in mind, higher cc means higher weight. Budget chainsaws in the 62cc class (VEVOR, NEO-TEC, SUPMIXTOOLS) trade build quality for affordability.

Bar Length: Size to Your Typical Rounds

The guide bar determines the maximum diameter round you can cut in a single pass. A 16 inch bar handles up to 14 inch diameter rounds. An 18 inch bar covers 16 inch rounds. A 20 inch bar tackles rounds up to 18 inches comfortably. Most firewood-focused saws ship with 20 inch bars as the sweet spot.

If you fell trees larger than 18 inches, consider a 24 inch bar like the PROYAMA 68cc. If you cut mostly 10-12 inch rounds from bucked firewood, a 16 inch bar keeps the saw light and inexpensive. Bar length alone is not a measure of cutting capacity, but it does dictate what you can fit between the chain and the wood.

Gas vs Battery: Pick Your Power Source

Gas chainsaws dominate the firewood space for good reason. They deliver more power per dollar, run as long as you have fuel, and work in any weather. The Echo CS-590 and Husqvarna 455 Rancher represent the gas sweet spot. Budget gas options like the VEVOR 62CC make entry-level cutting affordable.

Battery chainsaws have closed the power gap substantially. The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i and Greenworks 80V both deliver cuts comparable to 42cc gas saws. Battery wins for noise, emissions, push-button start, and indoor-friendly operation. Battery loses on runtime per session and upfront cost. For 1-3 cord per year users in noise-restricted areas, battery makes sense.

Weight and Ergonomics: Cut Longer, Hurt Less

A chainsaw that is too heavy becomes a wall hanger after the first cord. Look for weight below 14 lbs for occasional use and below 17 lbs for extended sessions. The Husqvarna 455 Rancher at 13.2 lbs and the Stihl MS 162 at 13.25 lbs are the lightest pro-grade options in this roundup.

Anti-vibration systems matter more than you might think. A saw without LowVib or similar dampening will numb your hands in 20-30 minutes. Cheap saws in the budget tier deliver all their vibration straight to your fingers. Pro-grade saws use spring or rubber mounts to isolate the engine vibration.

Safety Features and Warranty

Every chainsaw on this list has chain brake and trigger lockout, but quality varies. Look for inertia-activated chain brakes, low-kickback chains, and tool-free chain tensioning when you can get it. The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i and Husqvarna 455 Rancher both have tool-free tensioning.

Warranty length is a reasonable proxy for manufacturer confidence. Echo’s 5-year consumer warranty is the best in this category. Husqvarna and Stihl offer 2 years. Budget tier brands like VEVOR and NEO-TEC typically offer 90 days to 1 year. For occasional residential use, that is fine. For commercial work, longer warranties matter.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chainsaws for Firewood

What is a good size chainsaw for firewood?

A good size chainsaw for most firewood cutters is a 40-60cc engine with a 16-20 inch bar. That handles rounds up to 18 inches in diameter, which covers the majority of residential firewood cutting. Homeowners cutting 2-4 cords per year from typical hardwoods do well with a 45-55cc saw. Property owners processing 6-10 cords per year, or anyone felling trees over 16 inches, should look at 60cc class saws like the Echo CS-590 or Husqvarna 455 Rancher.

Do professionals prefer Husqvarna or Stihl?

Both Husqvarna and Stihl have strong pro followings, and the choice usually comes down to specific model and dealer support. Stihl has a wider dealer network and stronger parts availability, which matters for professional users who can’t afford downtime. Husqvarna typically delivers slightly more power per dollar at the same cc class. For firewood specifically, both the Stihl MS 261 and Husqvarna 455 Rancher are commonly recommended pro saws among loggers and arborists.

Is Echo or Stihl a better chainsaw?

Echo and Stihl are both excellent brands, but they target slightly different users. Echo focuses on power and value, with saws like the CS-590 delivering 5.3 HP at a mid-range price and a 5-year consumer warranty. Stihl emphasizes refinement, dealer support, and long-term reliability, making them a favorite for serious professionals. For firewood cutting on a budget-conscious pro or demanding homeowner, the Echo CS-590 is hard to beat. For users who prioritize service network and parts availability, Stihl wins.

What is the most popular chainsaw for logging?

The most popular chainsaws for logging and firewood production in the 20 inch bar class are the Echo CS-590, Husqvarna 455 Rancher, and Stihl MS 261. Each delivers 50-60cc of power, weighing 13-17 lbs, and handles rounds up to 18-20 inches with ease. For heavier logging work, the Stihl MS 462, Husqvarna 572XP, and Echo CS-7310 lead the 70cc class. Reddit r/Chainsaw consistently recommends these models for users cutting 5+ cords per year.

Final Verdict: Picking the Best Chainsaw for Firewood

After testing all nine saws through real firewood cutting sessions, my recommendations come down to three picks. The Echo CS-590 earned Editor’s Choice with its 5.3 HP engine, pro-grade durability, and unmatched 5-year warranty. The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is the best name-brand value for users wanting pro reliability without going full pro budget. The VEVOR 62CC is the budget pick that punches well above its price tag for occasional firewood cutting.

If you cut 1-3 cords per year for a backyard fire pit, any of the entry-level gas saws or the Greenworks 80V will serve you well. If you process 6-15 cords per year for a wood stove, the Echo CS-590 or Husqvarna 455 Rancher will pay back the investment through faster, easier cutting. Use the buying guide above to match engine size, bar length, and weight to your typical rounds, and you’ll find the best chainsaws for firewood for your specific situation in 2026.

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