10 Best Lightweight Chainsaws 2026 in the United States

The Greenworks 80V 18" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw is a solid choice for those in need of a lightweight, yet powerful tool for tree felling, limbing, pruning, and cutting firewood. Weighing only 2.05 pounds, it’s easy to handle and maneuver, making it suitable for various outdoor tasks. Powered by an 80V battery, this chainsaw offers a cord-free experience, eliminating the hassle of gas, fumes, and maintenance associated with traditional gas chainsaws. The brushless motor technology enhances the tool's efficiency by providing more torque, longer runtime, and quiet operation.

With an 18-inch bar length, it’s ideal for professional users who require a robust and reliable tool. The automatic oiler ensures the chain is properly lubricated, contributing to increased productivity and smoother cutting operations. The easy-to-adjust tensioning system allows for quick and straightforward bar and chain maintenance, which is a significant convenience for users.

Additionally, it features a user-friendly design with a push-button start, which simplifies the operation process by removing the need for a carburetor, spark plug, or starter rope. One of the standout features is its capability to make up to 150 cuts on 4x4 lumber on a single charge, making it comparable to a 42CC gas chainsaw, which speaks to its powerful performance. However, it’s important to note that being battery-powered, it will require recharging or potentially having a backup battery for extended use. This chainsaw is most suitable for users who prioritize ease of use, low maintenance, and a quieter operation without compromising on power and performance.

The Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw is a robust option for those needing a powerful yet portable tool for tasks like tree pruning, yard cleanups, and firewood cutting. Weighing 11.33 pounds, it may not be the lightest chainsaw out there, but it balances this with a powerful 50.2-cc, 3.2-HP engine, ensuring it handles tough jobs effectively. The gas power source provides strong and consistent performance, making it suitable for more demanding tasks compared to electric models.

The bar length is versatile, supporting 13 to 20 inches, allowing users to adapt the chainsaw to specific needs whether it's for fine pruning or cutting larger logs. Safety features like the inertia-activated chain brake are critical, reducing the risk of kickback injuries, a common concern for chainsaw users. Maintenance is made easier with the Air Injection Technology, which helps prolong engine life by keeping debris away from the air filter.

The ergonomic design, including the soft inlay handle and LowVib technology, enhances comfort and reduces fatigue during prolonged use. However, the weight might be a bit on the higher side for users specifically looking for a very lightweight chainsaw. Additionally, being gas-powered means it requires more maintenance and handling care compared to electric or battery models. This chainsaw is ideal for those who need a mix of power and ergonomic support, suitable for both occasional and more intensive use cases.

The DEWALT 20V MAX Pruning Chainsaw is a lightweight, battery-powered tool designed for easy handling and reduced fatigue, weighing just over 4.5 pounds. Its 8-inch bar length makes it ideal for pruning tasks and accessing tight spaces in your garden, though it might not suit heavier cutting jobs. The brushless motor delivers a solid 2.8 horsepower, helping maximize battery life and performance.

This chainsaw runs on a 20V MAX battery (sold separately), offering about 70 cuts per charge on standard wood, which is quite efficient for its size. Safety and convenience are well covered with an auto-oiling system that keeps the chain lubricated continuously and a tip guard that adds stability during upcutting, reducing kickback risk. Maintenance is straightforward, thanks to its compact design and brushless motor, which generally requires less upkeep than traditional engines.

Since the battery and charger are not included, you'll need to invest in those if you don't already own compatible DEWALT tools. This saw suits homeowners or garden enthusiasts looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use pruning chainsaw rather than heavy-duty cutting. It is a good fit for routine yard work but might fall short for larger tree trimming or cutting thicker branches.