The Best Cordless Chainsaws For Unrestricted Cutting Power

Cut without fumes or the hassle of a power cord with our handpicked selection of cordless chainsaws.
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Written & Tested By: Richard Morgan | Updated:
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Best Cordless Chainsaw
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Due to the improvements in battery technology, cordless chainsaws are far better than they once were and they now feature improved aH ratings for better performance.

When compared to other types of chainsaws, the battery-powered motor offers superior performance without the worry of fumes from a heavy petrol motor or the restriction from the power cable of an electric chainsaw. With budget-friendly and high-performance models available, there are plenty of models to choose from to best suit your requirements.

To assist you in selecting a cordless chainsaw, our handpicked selection lists top-performing models, chosen based on our first-hand experience using several to cut a range of wood in DIY and gardening settings. Our testing and up-to-date research further ensure the quality of our recommendations.

Our Top Picks At A Glance:

Best Overall: Ryobi OCS1830 ONE+ Brushless Chainsaw
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Makita DUC353Z Cordless Chainsaw
Best Performance: Makita DUC353Z Cordless Chainsaw
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BLACK+DECKER Battery Chainsaw
Best For Beginners: BLACK+DECKER Battery Chainsaw
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Bosch UniversalChain Cordless Chainsaw
Best Lightweight: Bosch UniversalChain Cordless Chainsaw
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Dewalt DCM565N XR Brushless Chainsaw
Best All-Rounder: Dewalt DCM565N XR Brushless Chainsaw
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Einhell GE-LC 18 Li Cordless Chainsaw
Best Budget: Einhell GE-LC 18 Li Cordless Chainsaw
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How The DIY Works Team Tests & Rates Cordless Chainsaws

Whether we are cutting trees, sleepers, firewood or a range of other types of wood, a chainsaw is a tool that we have plenty of experience with over the years. In terms of our preferred chainsaw type to use, battery-powered machines in particular are our favourite type primarily because they are maintenance-free and you aren’t restricted by any wires.

As you can see in the photo below, during testing of the Makita chainsaw, we were able to climb a tree and not have to worry about any wires getting tangled or not being able to reach and this is a prime example of why we prefer using battery-powered chainsaws. Also pictured is an example of how powerful cordless chainsaws can be and during testing of the DEWALT chainsaw, we were able to cut through large tree trunks with ease.

best cordless chainsaw uk

Richard Morgan/DIY Works
Berst Battery Cordless Chainsaw

Richard Morgan/DIY Works

During our ongoing testing, we analyse the chainsaw’s performance, usability and build quality. We also attempt to use the chainsaws in a range of applications to give them a thorough test.

To keep up our commitment to reviewing and testing the latest cordless chainsaws (for this article), we are continually testing out the latest offerings from top brands in the UK. This means that when we notice that a brand has released a new and improved model, we will attempt to upgrade our current selection of chainsaws for testing (where applicable).

best battery chainsaw

Richard Morgan/DIY Works
best battery chainsaw uk

Richard Morgan/DIY Works

As well as testing and our experience using a range of cordless chainsaws, we also based our recommendations on the latest research and several factors. Some of the factors that we took into consideration included the chainsaw’s performance, runtime, weight, ease of operation, grip, build quality, supplied accessories, warranty and value for money.

The Best Cordless Chainsaws

At DIY Works, our content is 100% independent and we would never recommend a product that we wouldn't use ourselves (read our editorial standards and how we test products).

1. Best Overall: Ryobi OCS1830 ONE+ Brushless Chainsaw

(How We Review →)

The Ryobi OCS1830 is a highly rated and popular cordless chainsaw that uses a high-performance 18V brushless motor. In terms of performance, it’s able to deliver a chain speed of 10 m/s whilst using a 30 cm bar.

As this chainsaw is part of the ONE+ collection, the batteries used can also be used among all of the brand’s power tools. This means that if you already own other Ryobi tools, you can save money by only buying the bare tool.

Pros
  • 30 cm Oregon bar and chain
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  • Chain speed of 10 m/s
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  • Automatic oiling system
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  • Tool-less tensioning
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  • Mechanical chain brake
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  • Rear handle with over mould for comfort
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  • Backed by a 3 year warranty
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  • Weighs just 3.6 KG with battery
Cons
  • Battery and charger need to be purchased separately (additional expense if you haven't already got one)

To conclude, the Ryobi OCS1830 is one of the best cordless chainsaws in the UK that combines performance with value for the money. It’s even backed by a three year warranty (when registered) for complete peace of mind.

2. Best Performance: Makita DUC353Z Cordless Chainsaw

(How We Review →)

Makita is a highly reputable power tools brand in the UK and their DUC353Z cordless chainsaw is a great example of their reputation. This particular model is one of the brand’s most popular chainsaws and it’s powered by two 18V Li-Ion batteries, which power the 36V DC motor for superior cutting performance.

Although the additional battery makes the chainsaw heavier, the extra performance makes it worthwhile. This is because it’s able to deliver a chain speed of 20 m/s, which makes light work of most wood-cutting tasks.

Pros
  • Brushless motor with variable speed control
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  • New and improved adjustment lever
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  • Electric chain brake and kickback brake
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  • Desirable oil capacity display
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  • Chain speed of 20 m/s
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  • Ergonomic soft grip
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  • During testing, we found it to be very capable of tackling most difficult wood cutting tasks
Cons
  • Most expensive within our roundup
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  • Battery and charger need to be purchased separately (additional expense if you haven't already got one)

The unique dual-battery chainsaw by Makita makes it one of the highest-performing chainsaws on the market. The only drawback is that you’ll need to own additional batteries, which makes it an expensive option. However, during our testing, we were impressed by its performance and feel that it’s a great investment for those that regularly cut wood.

3. Best For Beginners: BLACK+DECKER Battery Chainsaw

(How We Review →)

Another premium option that uses a 36V motor is by the well-known BLACK+DECKER brand. Their cordless chainsaw is lightweight, quiet and powerful and the brand promises that it lasts up to 45 minutes and recharges in 90 minutes.

A standout feature of this particular model is its low sound output of just 92.8 dB. Compared to many of the alternatives, it’s over 10 dB quieter, which is a big bonus for those that need a quiet chainsaw.

Pros
  • Cut capacity of 30 cm
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  • Lightweight at just 3.8 KG
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  • Low kickback chain
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  • Automatic oiling system
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  • Non-slip and ergonomic handle
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  • Up to 560 cuts per charge
Cons
  • Slower chain speed and less power when compared to the alternatives

Although the chain speed of this cordless chainsaw is fairly low, it’s still very capable and makes it safer to use than other powerful chainsaws. This model is also one of the quietest options that delivers a high cut-per-charge ratio too.

4. Best Lightweight: Bosch UniversalChain Cordless Chainsaw

(How We Review →)

The Bosch UniversalChain is an excellent cordless chainsaw for those that are on a budget. However, aside from offering great value, it also benefits from being one of the lightest cordless chainsaws at just 3KG with the battery connected.

This particular model comes as a complete kit and included with the bare tool is the battery pack, charger, lubricating oil, cover and guide bar.

Pros
  • Weighs just 3.0 KG
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  • Tool-free chain tensioning and adjustments
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  • Chain speed of 4.5 m/s
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  • Charge time of 1 hour
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  • Comes as a complete kit
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  • Stabilizing tip protector
Cons
  • Not suitable for heavy duty cutting

For tackling light wood-cutting tasks or domestic use, the Bosch UniversalChain is an excellent option. It’s lightweight, easy to use and one of the cheapest cordless chainsaws that’s actually worth buying.

5. Best All-Rounder: Dewalt DCM565N XR Brushless Chainsaw

(How We Review →)

Dewalt is one of the most well-known power tools brands in the UK and the DCM565N is their latest cordless chainsaw. Although it comes with a premium price tag, it’s an excellent all-round option that won’t disappoint.

In terms of performance, this model delivers a chain speed of 7.68 m/s and has a variable speed trigger for controlled cutting.

Pros
  • Lightweight at just 3.6 KG
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  • Chain speed of 7.68 m/s
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  • Brushless motor
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  • Auto oiling functionality
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  • Single handed activation
Cons
  • Relatively expensive when compared to the alternatives

Although expensive, the Dewalt DCM565N is a great all-round chainsaw that’s ideal for light tasks such as fencing, loping and so much more. It’s also backed by a reputable brand for complete peace of mind.

6. Best Budget: Einhell GE-LC 18 Li Cordless Chainsaw

(How We Review →)

One of the cheapest cordless chainsaws that’s actually worth buying is the Einhell GE-LC 18. It’s a powerful battery chainsaw that has a blade length of 25 cm and delivers a speed of 4.3 m/s, which is ideal for most light-cutting tasks.

Included with the chainsaw is a 3.0 Ah battery and charger, which makes it a complete kit and adds to the value.

Pros
  • Instant reaction mechanical braking system
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  • Battery charge indicator LED’s
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  • Tool-less chain tensioning
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  • Ergonomic handle
    •
  • Automatic chain lubrication
    •
  • Supplied with battery and charger
Cons
  • Not suitable for heavy duty cutting

If you are on a tight budget and require a cheap cordless chainsaw for domestic cutting tasks, the Einhell GE-LC 18 is perfect. It comes as a complete kit that’s ready to use out of the box and it won’t disappoint considering its low price tag

Conclusion

Unless you are a professional that cuts wood all day, the cordless chainsaw is the best option. The only drawback is that it’ll eventually run out of charge, which is why the petrol-powered chainsaw may be the better option for professionals. However, with that being said, you can simply purchase an additional battery for a constant supply of power.

All of our recommendations are suited to a range of budgets and are produced by the best brands in the UK. However, to avoid disappointment, we advise that you choose a higher aH-rated battery for a longer run time.

If you require further information regarding our cordless chainsaw recommendations, feel free to get in touch and we will try to provide our assistance where possible.

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