The best chainsaw for homeowners is a safe, light 16–18-inch cordless.
Saturday yard work should not feel like a logging camp. If you’re trimming limbs, bucking small logs, or clearing storm debris, you need a saw that starts fast, cuts clean, and stays safe. I’ve tested gas, cordless, and corded models to find what works for real homes in 2026. In this guide, I compare size, safety, runtime, and ease of use so you can pick the best chainsaw for homeowners without guesswork. I’ll also show when to choose gas over battery, and which models give the most value for the price.
Husqvarna 120 Mark III 14-Inch Gas Chainsaw
The Husqvarna 120 Mark III packs proven gas power into a compact 14-inch body. It uses an X-Torq engine to reduce fuel use and emissions while keeping torque steady. The automatic oiler feeds the bar to keep the chain cutting smooth. At under most pro saw weights, it’s easier to handle for light cutting around the yard.
For small trees, pruning, and firewood, this saw feels steady and predictable. The chain brake engages fast when you need it. The side-mounted chain tensioner is handy once you get used to it. If you want a starter gas saw with a known name, this model checks the boxes for reliability and simple maintenance.
Pros:
- Compact 14-inch bar fits yard pruning and storm cleanup
- X-Torq engine lowers fuel use and fumes
- Automatic oiler keeps the chain lubricated
- Inertia-activated chain brake for added safety
- Good brand support and parts availability
Cons:
- Pull-start and carb tuning can frustrate new users
- Louder and heavier than most cordless options
- Gas storage and mixing required
My Recommendation
The Husqvarna 120 Mark III suits homeowners who prefer gas power in a small form. It’s ideal for limb work, light felling, and general cleanup on medium lots. If you cut a few weekends each year and want something dependable, this is a smart start. It’s not the best chainsaw for homeowners who want silent, push-button starts, but it’s a durable gas pick for light to mid-duty tasks.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small yard pruning | 14-inch bar is easy to maneuver |
| Occasional storm cleanup | Reliable gas power and chain brake |
| Budget gas starter | Lower price point for a known brand |
Greenworks 80V 16-Inch Brushless Chainsaw
The Greenworks 80V 16-inch cordless chainsaw blends strong cutting with simple controls. The brushless motor gives better efficiency and less heat than older designs. With a 2.5Ah pack, it tackles pruning, limbing, and small tree felling without a drop cord or fumes. Tool-free chain tension makes quick adjustments easy in the yard.
This model sits in the sweet spot for many homeowners. It starts with a trigger pull, and the chain stops the moment you let go. It’s part of a platform with many yard tools, so the battery works across devices. If you want power close to small gas saws without the noise and mess, this is a strong pick.
Pros:
- Brushless motor for efficient cutting and longer life
- 16-inch bar covers most yard tasks
- Tool-free chain tension for quick fixes
- Stops fast when you release the trigger
- Shares batteries with 80V Greenworks tools
Cons:
- Heavier with the battery than corded units
- Battery and rapid chargers add to the cost
- Not ideal for large hardwood trunk bucking
My Recommendation
This is in my top tier for the best chainsaw for homeowners. It’s perfect for people who want gas-like power but prefer quiet and clean operation. If your yard has frequent limbing needs and you value quick starts, this saw shines. The 80V pack also sets you up well for a full yard tool ecosystem.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Suburban yards | Strong power without gas hassle |
| Frequent pruning and limbing | 16-inch bar and quick trigger start |
| Multi-tool users | 80V battery works across many tools |
Husqvarna 455 Rancher 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is a classic for big yard jobs. With a 20-inch bar and a robust X-Torq engine, it tackles larger trees, firewood, and land clearing. It has an automatic oiler and a solid anti-vibration system to reduce fatigue. The air cleaning tech helps keep performance stable between filter changes.
If you own land or cut heavy hardwood, this saw earns its keep. It is heavier and louder, but the power streamlines big cuts. Maintenance is part of the deal, and it rewards you with long service life. For serious work, it’s hard to beat in the homeowner range.
Pros:
- Strong power for felling and bucking
- 20-inch bar increases cut capacity
- Anti-vibration for longer work sessions
- Reliable brand parts and service
- Automatic oiler and chain brake safety
Cons:
- Heavy for light pruning tasks
- Requires regular gas engine maintenance
- More noise and emissions than electric
My Recommendation
For rural properties and large trees, the 455 Rancher is the best chainsaw for homeowners who need real power. I recommend it if you cut firewood all winter or clear lots. It’s overkill for small branches, but a dream on big logs. Learn proper safety and maintenance, and it will serve you for years.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Large hardwoods | Power and 20-inch bar length |
| Firewood cutting | Fast bucking with steady torque |
| Acreage owners | Built for bigger, ongoing jobs |
CRAFTSMAN 16-Inch 12-Amp Electric Chainsaw
The CRAFTSMAN 12-amp corded chainsaw offers simple, steady cutting for a low cost. You plug in, hit the trigger, and start cutting. The 16-inch bar handles standard yard tasks like pruning and small log bucking. It has an auto oiler to keep the chain running smooth.
Corded saws shine in small yards with easy outlet access. There’s no battery to charge and no gas to mix. The weight is manageable, which helps with control. If you want a basic saw that just works, this is a safe bet for tight budgets.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly and simple to use
- Constant power with no battery downtime
- 16-inch bar fits most homeowner jobs
- Auto oiler for smoother cuts
- Lighter than many gas and cordless models
Cons:
- Power cord limits range and movement
- Not ideal for remote or wooded lots
- Less torque than high-end cordless or gas
My Recommendation
If you live in a suburb and cut near outlets, this is the best chainsaw for homeowners on a budget. It’s ideal for routine pruning, small log cuts, and seasonal cleanup. I would not choose it for heavy hardwood or remote work. But for simple, safe jobs near the house, it’s easy to recommend.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Budget buyers | Low price and low upkeep |
| Small yards | Cord suits close-range work |
| Beginners | Lightweight and easy controls |
EGO Power+ 18-Inch 56V Cordless Chainsaw
The EGO Power+ 18-inch saw is a top-tier cordless cutter with a strong 56V battery. It offers fast chain speed and a bar length that hits the sweet spot for home jobs. The brushless motor boosts efficiency and reduces wear. It includes a 4.0Ah battery and charger, so it’s ready out of the box.
What stands out is the confidence it gives new users. The saw starts instantly, stops quickly, and runs quietly. You can cut early on a weekend without waking the block. If you need more runtime, extra EGO packs swap in seconds across a mature 56V lineup.
Pros:
- Powerful brushless motor with 18-inch capacity
- Instant start and quick-stop safety
- Low noise compared to gas saws
- Battery and charger included
- Part of a large 56V ecosystem
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost than entry-level saws
- Heavier with big batteries installed
- Chain oil can still leak during storage (common to many saws)
My Recommendation
This is one of the best chainsaw for homeowners who want a near-pro cordless feel. It balances size, power, and control very well. If you cut limbs, small to mid trees, and firewood on weekends, it shines. For most suburban users, it will replace a small gas saw with less fuss.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Mid-size yards | 18-inch reach and strong torque |
| Quiet neighborhoods | Low noise and no fumes |
| Tool platform buyers | Works with EGO 56V tools |
62cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw, Pro Cutting Saw
This 62cc gas chainsaw offers big-engine grunt at a budget price. The 20-inch bar supports felling and bucking larger logs. It lists an anti-vibration setup and quick-start design to make tough jobs easier. The two-cycle engine demands mixed fuel and regular care, like most gas saws.
If you want raw cutting power for occasional large jobs, this is appealing. It will feel heavier than smaller saws, and it needs a steady hand. The value is strong if you understand gas maintenance. Keep the chain sharp and the bar oiled, and it will move through heavy wood.
Pros:
- High displacement for demanding cuts
- 20-inch bar improves reach and log capacity
- Budget-friendly for the power level
- Anti-vibration reduces user fatigue
- Suitable for firewood and land clearing
Cons:
- Heavier and louder than homeowner cordless saws
- Brand support and parts may vary
- Requires careful break-in and carb tuning
My Recommendation
I recommend this to value hunters who need a big-gas option once in a while. It is not the best chainsaw for homeowners who focus on frequent pruning. It shines when you cut larger rounds a few times per season. Learn to maintain it, and you can save money on big jobs.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Budget big cuts | High cc engine at lower cost |
| Firewood rounds | 20-inch bar for thick logs |
| Occasional land clearing | Strong torque for heavy loads |
Homeowner’s Guide to the Chainsaw (Book)
This guide walks you through chainsaw basics from safety to sharpening. It explains proper stance, limbing steps, and felling plans in plain language. If you are new to saw work, it helps you build good habits fast. It also covers splitting and stacking wood so your work pays off in the winter.
A good saw is only half the job; safe technique is the rest. I like keeping a reference like this in the shop. It shortens the learning curve and reduces stress in the field. Pair it with the best chainsaw for homeowners you choose, and you will work smarter.
Pros:
- Clear safety guidance for new users
- Covers trimming, felling, and maintenance
- Step-by-step photos and tips
- Improves confidence before bigger cuts
- Great add-on to a new saw purchase
Cons:
- Not a substitute for hands-on training
- Some techniques may evolve as tools advance
- Physical book adds one more item to store
My Recommendation
If you are buying your first saw, this book is a wise extra. It won’t make the cut for the best chainsaw for homeowners, but it makes every saw safer. Read it before you tackle storm cleanup or a tricky limb. You’ll learn tips that most people discover the hard way.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Beginners | Clear safety and setup guidance |
| Self-learners | Step-by-step photos and explanations |
| Home workshops | Handy reference near your tools |
SEESII 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
The SEESII 40V cordless saw brings solid performance with two 4.0Ah batteries. The brushless motor improves runtime, while the 16-inch bar suits yard cuts. Auto oiling and tool-free tension reduce fiddle time. Two packs help you cut longer without waiting on a charge.
I like this for homeowners who want convenience at a fair price. It won’t match high-end torque, but it handles pruning and small trees with ease. The controls are simple, and the package feels complete out of the box. Keep the chain sharp, and it stays smooth and safe.
Pros:
- Two batteries included for longer sessions
- Brushless motor boosts efficiency
- 16-inch bar covers common yard work
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Good value for cordless performance
Cons:
- Not as strong as 56V or 80V premium models
- Heavier with dual-battery swaps
- Brand ecosystem is smaller
My Recommendation
For light to mid-duty cutting, this is a contender for the best chainsaw for homeowners on a budget. It suits small lots, new users, and those who want a full kit day one. If you don’t need the muscle of a pro cordless saw, this checks the boxes. It is a friendly entry to battery chainsaws.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Budget cordless | Comes with two 4.0Ah batteries |
| Pruning and limbing | 16-inch bar and light feel |
| Weekend cleanup | Simple controls and tool-free tension |
12-Inch 20V Cordless Electric Chainsaw
This compact 12-inch 20V saw is made for small jobs. It comes with two 4.0Ah batteries, which is a nice bonus for the price. The small bar is easy to place in tight branches. It’s lighter than many saws, which helps new users gain control and confidence.
For fast trim work and light limbs, it’s quick and quiet. It is not meant for big hardwood trunks. But it is perfect for storm debris, shrub cleanups, and camping firewood prep. If you want a safe starter tool, this is a friendly option.
Pros:
- Very light and easy to handle
- Two batteries included for longer use
- Great for trimming and small branches
- Quiet operation for neighborhoods
- Low maintenance compared to gas
Cons:
- Limited cut size with a 12-inch bar
- Lower torque than mid-tier cordless
- Not ideal for dense hardwood
My Recommendation
I recommend this for beginners and small-yard owners who want a safe, lightweight tool. It is not the best chainsaw for homeowners who need to fell trees. But for quick trims and seasonal tidy-ups, it shines. It’s also a smart choice as a second saw for ladder work.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| New users | Lightweight and easy to control |
| Small branch work | 12-inch bar slips into tight spots |
| Backup saw | Handy for ladder and trim tasks |
Oregon CS1500 Self-Sharpening Chainsaw
The Oregon CS1500 is a corded saw with a clever twist: a built-in self-sharpening feature. Pull the lever, and the PowerSharp system refreshes the chain on the spot. The 15-amp motor and 18-inch bar give it a generous cut path. You get steady power with no battery or gas learning curve.
This saw is a relief when you hit dull chain mid-cut. Instead of stopping your day, you sharpen and keep going. If your yard has more maples than outlets, a corded saw like this makes sense. It’s a great pick for people who want sharp cuts and simple care.
Pros:
- Self-sharpening lever saves time and money
- 18-inch bar for larger limbs
- Consistent corded power
- Quick start and low noise
- Reliable brand bar and chain components
Cons:
- Power cord limits mobility
- Heavier than some compact corded models
- Needs compatible PowerSharp chain system
My Recommendation
If you dread sharpening, this might be the best chainsaw for homeowners who cut near outlets. It suits mid-size yards and anyone who values a sharp chain every time. For quick weekend jobs, the cord is a small trade-off. The self-sharpening feature alone makes it a standout.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Sharpening-averse users | PowerSharp lever fixes dull chains fast |
| Mid-size pruning | 18-inch reach and steady power |
| Garage users | Easy maintenance and storage |
FAQs Of best chainsaw for homeowners
What size chainsaw is best for most homeowners?
A 16–18-inch bar hits the sweet spot. It handles limbs, small trees, and firewood without feeling bulky.
Should I choose gas, cordless, or corded?
Gas gives max power but needs more care. Cordless is quiet and easy. Corded is cheap and steady near outlets.
How important is chain sharpening?
Very important. A sharp chain cuts faster and safer. Some saws like the Oregon CS1500 self-sharpen on demand.
What safety gear do I need?
Use chainsaw chaps, eye and ear protection, gloves, and boots. A helmet with face shield is smart for felling.
How do I store my chainsaw?
Clean the bar, drain gas if storing long-term, and keep it dry. For cordless, store batteries at moderate charge and out of heat.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
For most people, an 18-inch cordless like the EGO Power+ or a 16-inch 80V model from Greenworks is the best chainsaw for homeowners. They start fast, run quiet, and cut most yard tasks with ease.
Need more muscle? Choose the Husqvarna 455 Rancher. Prefer budget simplicity? The CRAFTSMAN corded or Oregon CS1500 fit well. Pick the best chainsaw for homeowners that matches your yard, your noise limits, and your comfort with maintenance.
