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Electric chainsaws are a great choice for cutting trees, offering power, convenience, and reduced maintenance compared to petrol models. Modern designs provide impressive cutting capabilities, making them suitable for a range of tasks, from pruning branches to felling small to medium-sized trees.
Choosing the right one depends on power, cutting bar length, and ease of use. Here are some of the best electric chainsaws for cutting trees.
1
Oregon 2400W Electric Chainsaw for cutting trees (CS1400)
9.8
Exceptional
Main Highlights
2
DOVAMAN 2400W Electric Chainsaw (DCS01A)
9.7
Exceptional
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3
BLACK+DECKER 2200W Corded Chainsaw (CS2245)
9.6
Exceptional
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4
Einhell 2000W Electric Chainsaw (GH-EC 2040)
9.6
Exceptional
Main Highlights
5
Hyundai 1600W Electric Chainsaw
9.5
Excellent
Main Highlights
Choosing the Right Electric Chainsaw for Your Needs
Here are the key factors to consider when choosing a corded electric chainsaw:
- Motor Power – Measured in amps, most corded electric chainsaws range from 10 to 15 amps. Higher amp motors provide more cutting power, making them suitable for larger branches and small to medium-sized trees.
- Bar Length – The guide bar size determines the maximum thickness of wood you can cut. A 14-18 inch bar is ideal for cutting trees and thick branches, while smaller bars (10-12 inches) work well for light trimming and pruning.
- Weight and Handling – Corded electric chainsaws are typically lightweight, making them easy to handle for extended periods without excessive fatigue.
- Safety Features – Look for models with chain brakes, low-kickback chains, and safety switches to enhance protection while cutting.
Are Electric Chainsaws Powerful Enough for Cutting Trees?
Yes, electric chainsaws are powerful enough for cutting trees, especially small to medium-sized ones. Modern models have improved significantly, with corded versions offering 10 to 15-amp motors and high-end cordless models featuring brushless motors and strong batteries that can compete with petrol chainsaws.
However, they are not the best choice for cutting large trees or handling heavy-duty forestry work. Petrol chainsaws still provide more power and longer run times for such demanding tasks. But for most household tree-cutting needs, an electric chainsaw is more than capable.
Safety Tips for Using an Electric Chainsaw
Although electric chainsaws are generally safer than petrol models, they still require careful handling. Here are some important safety tips to follow:
- Wear Proper Safety Gear – Always use protective gloves, safety goggles, a helmet, ear protection, and steel-toe boots when operating a chainsaw.
- Check the Chainsaw Before Use – Ensure the chain is properly tensioned, sharp, and lubricated before starting.
- Maintain a Firm Grip and Good Stance – Hold the chainsaw with both hands and keep a stable stance to maintain control while cutting.
- Avoid Cutting Above Shoulder Height – Cutting above your shoulders increases the risk of losing control of the saw.
- Use Both Hands at All Times – One-handed use is dangerous and increases the likelihood of kickback.
- Be Aware of Kickback – Kickback happens when the tip of the chainsaw’s guide bar makes contact with an object, causing the saw to jerk backward. To prevent this, use the correct cutting technique and avoid using the tip of the bar.
- Keep the Work Area Clear – Remove obstacles and ensure no one is standing nearby while you work.