Finding the Best Professional Chainsaw in 2024

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Loggers, landscapers, lumberjacks and other professions that need the world’s best professional chainsaw rely on this tool for a living.

Over time, repeatedly slicing through robust tree trunks takes its toll on a chainsaw’s engine. That’s why a professional-grade chainsaw is different. They come with beefier engines, cut at incredible speeds, and boast safety features that many standard models don’t offer. I’ve personally selected and reviewed each chainsaw here, focusing on their engine quality, control, and overall user-friendliness.

Stick around and I’ll walk you through some of the top chainsaw options I’ve come across.

Top 6 Advanced Chainsaw Comparison & Reviews

1.  Husqvarna 20 Inch 445 Rancher Gas-Powered Chainsaw

First on my list is a Husqvarna model. You don’t need to be a professional to power and get this best pro chainsaw to work. For every day landowners and homeowners in need of a heavy duty power saw, this top saw is for you.

The 20-inch or 18-inch bar length gas powered chainsaw features a two-cycle engine. Much like the upstairs neighbor, the Husqvarna chainsaws keep you safe with the inertia activated chain brake.

It’s essentially similar to the Husqvarna 24 inch model, just smaller. The automatic chain oiler is designed to provide a means to feed a steady stream of chain without catching and pulling.

Cleaning the air filter in this Husqvarna Rancher can be done with ease with the quick-release design and X-Torq engine means less fuel consumption and reduced emissions to help the environment and to even save you a few bucks in the process. What’s not to love?

Like the Husqvarna 445, When you need adjustments, the chain tensioning system allows you to make safe cuts on wood. There’s also an anti-vibration system which means less vibration when carrying the weight.

It’s also the lightest professional chainsaw I have found compared to other models.

As for warranty, this gas-powered saw has a 2 year warranty for a homeowner and 90 days warranty for commercial use. Great for the price.

What I Like

What I Don't Like

2. Makita XCU03PT1 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 14" Chain Saw Kit

When I saw that this was an Amazon’s Choice product, I wasn’t surprised—Makita has always stood out in terms of ratings. Believe me, there’s nothing more frustrating than being on a job with a low-powered chainsaw and a dull chain. Having a reliable chainsaw truly makes all the difference.

In the realm of professional chainsaws, Makita consistently delivers. Their brushless motor direct drive system? It performs on par with a 32cc engine chainsaw, ensuring I get those clean cuts every time.

When in use, this powerful system provides a way to save on fuel. The saw fuel tank features a large opening too.

The variable speeds could be one of the most useful features in this tool. When one speed doesn’t work, just rev up the engine for a faster speed to cut through.

For safety in every cut, it’s using a built-in lock off lever. It prevents the chain from accidentally firing up. Grease the chain with ease through the oil filling port that also allows you to monitor the bar oil level to ensure it provides peak performance.

The Makita XCU03PT1 is also safe to handle with a compact 14-inch bar length. The LED on/off switch is easy to see. To save battery and for safety reasons, the professional chainsaw automatically shuts off when it’s not used for extended periods.

Now that’s a great feature you need.

What I Like

What I Don't Like

3. Dewalt DCCS620P1 20V Max Lithium-Ion XR Brushless Compact 12 Inch Cordless Professional Chainsaw Kit

For this top model, there is an option for using a 20V battery and one without. The best professional chainsaws aren’t the Echo 59.8cc chainsaw, Stihl or any other name if they don’t perform up to standard.

This brushless motored chainsaw is great for construction and outdoor use, basically any heavy duty job you have on your plate. It features a low kick back bar and chain that helps keep you safe and makes operation easier.

The brushless motor features other benefits. It features a high level of efficiency which increases runtime.

A popular feature when looking for the best professional chainsaws is it should come with a tool-free tension knob designed for easy adjustments and more control.

I spoke too soon as this small little saw may be the most lightweight professional chainsaw at 8.8 pounds of weight only! The Dewalt DCCS620P1 is a bit compact at a mere 12 inches bar length.

What I Like

What I Don't Like

4 . Poulan Pro PR4016, 16 in. 40cc 2-Cycle Gas Professional Chainsaw

A 20-inch bar length is ideal to handle commercial or more professional wood cutting jobs. The 16-inch model is great for household and cutting jobs that need to be done well.

The Poulan Pro PR4016 features a powerful engine that’s 40-cc two-stroke. Not as powerful as the Echo 59.8cc chainsaw, but still great.

The Poulan chainsaws I’ve used are outfitted with OxyPower technology, impressively requiring about 20% less oil than most models I’ve tried. Plus, it’s hard not to appreciate the 70% reduction in emissions – it feels good knowing I’m making a greener choice while not compromising on power.

Additionally, the built-in automatic oiler ensures the bar and chain are always well-lubricated. I’ve found that this consistent lubrication leads to reduced maintenance and wear on my end.

The air filter system in this chainsaw is superior which means it prolongs air filter life and reduces fuel consumption. This comes at no sacrifice to engine power.

Start the professional chainsaw with a pull and enjoy the anti-vibration system for less vibration. It will nicely handle the job done.

What I Like

What I Don't Like

5. Remington RM1425 Limb N Trim 8 Amp 14-Inch Lightweight Corded Electric Chainsaw

Remington RM1425

Many people strive to find a top lightweight chainsaw for easy handling. It can get tiresome cutting through wood or material with tough resistance and adding on the heavy weight of the chainsaw to boot.

The Remington RM1425 is a 14-inch super lightweight tool coming in at just over 6 pounds! It’s easy to use, handle, and it doesn’t get any more compact than that!

Despite its compact size, this chainsaw packs a punch. It’s equipped with an 8 amp electric motor that effortlessly trims through branches. Though, if you’re tackling entire trees, you might want something with a bit more heft.

Manually lubricating a blade can be quite messy and need more effort. Why not eliminate that with a chainsaw that features an automatic oiler in the design? All you need to make it work is to push a small button and the oil is going to be dispensed! 

The quick tensioner in this professional chain saw makes it easy to adjust the low kickback. Some of the greatest electric chainsaws have more features for safety. There is a wraparound hand guard to keep your mits away from debris.

What I Like

What I Don't Like

6. Worx WG322 20V Cordless Professional Chainsaw with Auto-Tension

Cordless and electric seem to be the way to go because they provide convenience and efficiency with chainsaws. The Worx WG322 power chainsaw is all of that and more.

The cordless 20V power professional chainsaw cuts through branches with swift motions and complete ease. It also features a tool-free chain tension system that ensures you have the proper settings to handle the cutting job.

Just like the larger gas and oil powered models, there is auto lubrication for convenience. It’s also a comparable option to the Remington coming in at 6.2 pounds. It offers less strain to extend working time. This model comes with a 16″ bar length.

The batteries provide enough power for power washers and lawnmowers, guaranteeing to be tough enough for this little saw.

What I Like

What I Don't Like

My Top Pick: Husqvarna 460 24 Inch Rancher Gas Chainsaw

The powerful two-cycle engine with a 24-inch bar length in the Husqvarna 460 Rancher professional chainsaw is designed to provide a whole lot of power to cut through the tough stuff.

There’s an inertia added chain brake with low vibration features that make this saw safe and comfortable. It’s easy to start and get working as well.

The mounted chain tensioner also gives more freedom to adjust the chain while at work. Plus, the X-Torq engine reduces fuel consumption. It’s also easy to clean the air filter.

Taking on heavy-duty outdoor cutting can be quite exhausting. Trust me, felling large trees is no walk in the park. But the Husqvarna 460 Rancher? It’s surprisingly light, tipping the scales at just 12.79 pounds!

That’s pretty good for a chainsaw with all the cutting power this one holds!

If you’re looking for the best saw that has the power and performance, the Husqvarna 460 Rancher professional chainsaw is the best chainsaw model in the market.

What to Look for in the Best Professional Chainsaw

Determining the best value model in the market can vary depending on various factors such as size, engine options, power, performance, and features. Ultimately, the decision rests with you as the individual user. In addition to reading chainsaw reviews, it is important to consider your specific requirements and preferences when selecting a model.

We’ve provided the important features I feel a standard chainsaw should come with. Read through it and decide what’s for you to help you when looking. A pro chainsaw should work well in all weather conditions and pack a lot of power for heavy use.

But what else should it do?

Type

There are several core types of commercial or professional saws I’ve come across. Let’s dive into the advantages of each to help you figure out which one might be the best fit for your needs.

Size

The ideal size of a professional chainsaw really hinges on the demands of your job. It’s crucial to pick one that’s nimble enough for your workspace and ensure it’s a weight you’re comfortable handling during your tasks.

When tackling thin branches, I often reach for my battery-powered chainsaw—it’s more than sufficient. But for the more demanding lumber tasks, I’ve found that the oil/gas-powered chainsaws give me the extra control and power I need.

Weight

The weight of professional saws ties into the size as well. In general, a larger chainsaw would weigh much more than you can handle properly. If weight is an issue, look into the smaller battery powered or electrical engine options.

They are usually the smaller of the three types of chainsaws. You may even find options that weigh under pounds as I have proven in my list.

Length

Many people think the bar length only matters with the size of the wood you are cutting. While that is true about the bar to some extent, the bar length actually affects how fast and how well your saw cuts through the wood

There are tiny bar options measuring at 12 inches length all the way up to 28! Yes, engine power matters and a gas powered chainsaw with an 18 inch blade could probably be as efficient as one of the other two with a 24 inches bar.

But when the engines are the same, a longer bar length is going to give you an easier time penetrating the wood for easy cuts. However, for smaller jobs a smaller bar is more efficient and lighter weight so you can handle them easily.

Choose an engine power that matches the job too.

One important thing to keep in mind when choosing the right bar length is to allow two inches of leeway. The bar length of the saw should be at least two inches longer than whatever piece of wood you plan to cut.

Transporting the chainsaw in a case or a bar cover is also advised.

Safety

Felling trees comes with its risks, so I always prioritize safety. Frankly, whether I’m out in the field or just around the house, staying safe is always at the forefront of my mind, regardless of the task at hand.

Look for a model that comes with a chain brake, this allows you to stop the chain mid-action whenever you need to. It sort of functions as an emergency stop for the saw.

Wrap around handguards are also safe for your hand and protects your flesh from debris and having an anti-vibration system and anti-kick back feature will make sure to keep you out of harm’s way of any serious accidents.

Plus anti-vibration systems provide an easier way to handle tools for a better performance. 

One option I have on my list even features a lock-out feature that’s going to prevent the saw to start by accident. I always want technology to cut safely and avoid accidents even at home, so buy a model with safety features.

How to Start

How do you start the chainsaw? A lot of you may be familiar (thanks,horror movies) with the pull start, or you can find ones with an easy on/off switch to start. It’s best to choose a saw with an easy start technology.

Chain

The chain needs to be tough, very very tough. You definitely do not want it to snap halfway during a job especially if you’re doing a lot of heavy work. It does need to be powerful enough to cut whatever your needs are.

A bar chain that isn’t well made can also dull easily, raking in more costs for you on the maintenance front. Chromium steel chains are very durable and may be sharpened with chain sharpening kits.

Making sure you set the chain tensioner properly will also play a part in the safety and longevity of the chain. 

Operation

Why would anyone invest in a chainsaw that’s a challenge to operate? It’d deter both seasoned loggers and homeowners alike, not to mention those just dipping their toes into the field. Personally, I’ve always valued a saw that’s intuitive to handle. When I’m out there cutting trees, a smooth operation is essential.

Things to look out for include:

Remington RM1425

Durability and Maintenance

For best professional chainsaws, money goes a long way in terms of value. To have a durable and robust power tool in your home, you need to invest the money.

Made with durable and heavy-duty chromium steel chains and equipped with a ton of safety features will most likely equal a higher price point.

Consider the price it takes to maintain your chainsaw. Since they are made to tackle great tasks, the best chainsaws on the market should outlast the rest in value. Without maintenance, the effort exuded will wear out the chains.

A lot of durable models come with automatic lubrication which will no doubt lengthen the lifespan of the chain, and with it the chainsaw itself. 

Some professional chainsaw models can be disassembled and reassembled easily when parts need to be switched out and replaced.

Extras

Those are the basics that usually come with saws and tools, but some professional chainsaws out there will feature a variety of other capabilities, some of which include:

Warranty or Guarantee

A warranty is something that comes first. As when you start to choose different electronic products/machinery, I stress the value of a product warranty or guarantee. A warranty is solely to put protection on your rights through the years.

As you may have seen if you have done your research, there are a lot of faulty and damaged products that are eligible for a return. Without the protection of a warranty, you just have to count your losses and suck it up.

Make sure you fully understand what the manufacturer covers in the warranty. Many only have a limited warranty. A warranty like that only offers some form of protection over the years, but it’s better than no warranty at all.

Some companies even offer an X number of days guarantee in case you use the product and it doesn’t meet expectations.

What is the Best Brand of Chainsaw?

When it comes to brands, I’ve explored a fair share of them. Let me share with you the top 5 chainsaw manufacturers I’ve come to trust, whether I’m shopping on Amazon or walking into a brick-and-mortar store.

Stihl

When buying Stihl chainsaws, it’s good to do it through their website. They have almost a century’s worth of experience in chainsaw manufacturing under their belt.

Stihl MS 881

Husqvarna

It’s difficult if not impossible to come across a “best chainsaw list” without seeing this brand pop up. Sometimes even more than once!

Black+Decker

While this brand doesn’t specialize in chainsaws, they have made their mark producing a ton of other quality electronics and household appliances.

Dewalt

This brand makes table saws, they make chainsaws, their products are guaranteed quality and used by professionals.

Remington

Remington is another well-respected brand and quite well-known power tool company.

cutting lumber with Remington chainsaw

Poulan Pro

Known as one of the best producers of industrial and light-duty chainsaws, Poulan Pro is also a veteran in the business.

Conclusion

I hope I helped you get a clearer picture of the right chainsaw for you. Buying gas chainsaws in this day and age is not a complicated and long process as you would think. Determine the right size depending on the task it’s set to do, like cutting trees.

Be prepared to do regular maintenance to keep it working, make sure you can handle the weight of the chainsaw for an extended period of time. Perhaps the one quality that far exceeds the rest would be safety.

Wear the proper safety equipment and take necessary safety precautions every single time. Although price is important too, value and performance should be what you prioritize.

Looking for other helpful tips and buying guides? We’ve got a collection of articles for you, including this page about setting up a small woodworking workshop so you can have a place to do your projects.

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Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.

Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.

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