Best Electric Chainsaw Reviews UK 2023 – Which Makes the Cut?

Last Updated on January 10, 2023

Our Favourites

Editors Choice: Oregon CS1400 2400W
Choice with Anti-Kickback Chain: BLACK+DECKER 18V Cordless
Lightweight Choice: Bosch UniversalChain

Whether you’re a professional tree surgeon, have a generously sized garden that needs maintaining, or simply like to have a good store of firewood ready for winter – the best electric chainsaw is an essential tool.

These portable wood cutting machines are perfect for all manner of domestic outdoor maintenance tasks, such as pruning, firewood preparation, tree limbing and felling – making it easy for you to get your outdoor space looking wonderful. They are much quieter than petrol-powered chainsaws, as well as lighter and easier to operate.

However, as useful as electric chainsaws are, when it comes to picking the right model for your needs, many people find themselves feeling a little intimidated by the sheer amount of choice on offer.

In this article we give you the rundown of the top 10 models on the market; so you can find which is right for you and your needs.

How We Compared Electric Chainsaws

To find the right electric chainsaws we considered multiple factors including:

• Bar Length and Chain Speed
• Cordless and Corded Chainsaws
• Ease of Use
• Safety

Our team planned comparison points and specifically looked for products that would cater to all kinds of needs. We spent countless hours researching, consulting customer reviews and comparing features to come up with this list.

To find out more about our process please see here.

Best Electric Chainsaw Reviews – Top 10 Picks

1. Oregon CS1400 2400W (Editor’s Choice)

The Oregon CS1400 electric chainsaw is a powerful tool, capable of tackling a range of challenges. With a fantastic 2400-watt motor and a 14.7 m/sec speed, this durable saw offers an excellent cutting experience. The DuraCut saw chain even delivers up to 3 times longer cutting than competitors, thanks to a stronger overall design.

The ergonomic design of the Oregon CS1400 ensures that you get an experience that’s lightweight, balanced, and comes with minimal vibration. There’s a comfortable handle, and a front handguard to protect you against debris, too.

The Oregon also features a chain brake integrated into the system for extra safety. Moreover, there’s an oil level window so you can keep track of the amount of oil you have left. This powerful chainsaw has a lot to offer, but some customers complained that the chain does go blunt quite quickly. Additionally, the instructions are quite difficult to follow. You’ll need to go online for help.

2. BLACK+DECKER 18V Cordless (Best Small)

The Black + Decker 18V Cordless Chainsaw is another great option if you are searching for a compact and lightweight model which is comfortable to use. Ergonomically designed, this electric chainsaw weighs only 3.1kg and is evenly balanced so that you can easily work for hours without any fatigue.

The 25cm blade length is perfect for general domestic tasks such as pruning your trees, logging and getting firewood ready for winter. But if you are looking to fell larger trees, you should opt for a more heavy-duty model.

Adjusting the tension of the chain is easy. All you have to do is turn the dial to wind it up so you won’t need to fuss about with any additional tools. Also, should you find the chain needs some more oil, the convenient semi-automatic oiling system is activated at the press of a button – thus saving you time and effort.

Furthermore, because it is cordless, you will have much more freedom to move around without worrying about being tethered to the socket or accidentally cutting through the power cord. The 18V lithium-ion battery takes 5 hours to charge fully, but only supplies around 30 minutes of continuous cutting. It is also prone to overheating. Therefore, you may find you will require a spare battery or two to ensure you have enough power to finish the job.

With regard to safety, the Black + Decker 18V Cordless Chainsaw has a double switch startup, which reduces the risk of turning it on accidentally. In addition, the anti-kickback chain adds another layer of protection against injury.

3. Bosch UniversalChain (Best Lightweight)

Ideal for small tasks like pruning and cutting firewood, the cordless Bosch UniversalChain is a reliable and lightweight chainsaw. This compact device offers plenty of manoeuvrability. It allows you to get into tighter spots without putting yourself in danger. What’s more, the handle has been designed with a comfortable grip in mind. Thus, you can work for longer without getting cramp or wrist pain.

Ideal for portability and ergonomic cutting, the UniversalChain only weighs a total of 3kg with the battery included. There’s also a stabilizing tip protector with gripping teeth for better overall performance.

This reliable pruning chainsaw can give you a lot of freedom to make your garden look perfect. However, it is worth noting that this device is only designed for light garden work. The Bosch will easily cut through smaller branches and shrubs, but it won’t be able to take on any heavy-duty sawing. Using this device on something too thick might cause it to jam or break.

Another downside is that if you apply too much force to the chainsaw, it will stop automatically. This can leave you with a jammed saw.

4. BLACK+DECKER CS2040-GB (Best for Regular Use)

If you need a comfortable saw which is suitable for day-to-day garden jobs, the BLACK+DECKER CS2040-GB could be just the right choice. This electric chainsaw is designed to minimise discomfort and fatigue when used for extended periods, so you can get all your chores done without suffering.

An anti-vibration system and a rubberised rear handle work in unison to limit the strain on your hands during use, especially when tackling larger jobs.

This electric chainsaw has a high-torque, 2000W motor which puts it in line with the other models on our list. The chain is spun at a rate of 12.5 m/s for highly-efficient cutting, but also has integrated safety measures that halt the chain as soon as you release the trigger. This rapid stop mechanism ensures you are well protected from serious injury.

The BLACK+DECKER CS2040-GB claims to have a maximum cutting width of 40cm, which is more than enough to tackle those larger branches you’ve been meaning to get rid of. However, the chain is prone to blunting quickly and slipping easily, so you may have some interruptions while working.

If you have some soggy logs to slice, the low kickback chain and automatic oiling system help you to cut through thick and even wet wood with relative ease – while also protecting the chain from wear.

An anti-kickback mechanism is included, as well as a rear handguard to keep your arms safe from any accidental slips.

5. Einhell GH-EC 2040 (Best Heavy-duty)

If you need to tackle tough jobs alongside your usual garden chores, the Einhell GH-EC Electric Chainsaw is an excellent all-around choice. With its generous 40cm Oregon rail and chain as well as 13.5 m/s cutting speed, this model can slice through thick branches with ease. The sturdy, metal gearing is designed to last the test of time. Plus, the ergonomic handle makes it comfortable to hold and manoeuvre without fatigue.

Easy to use for beginners and experienced users alike, the Einhell GH-EC packs a punch with 2000W of power. As long as you keep it topped up, the easy-fill oil tank will keep the chain lubricated automatically. Hence, you won’t have to worry about inadvertently damaging it if you get carried away with your work.

Safety and convenience are top priorities for this electric chainsaw. Not only does it feature tool-free chain changes and tension adjustment, but it also includes a chain brake and kickback protection to prevent injury. The tensioner may need fairly frequent adjustment. However, should the chain suddenly slips off the rail, the chain catch bolt will reduce the chances of a nasty accident.

But like any product, it does have a few minor drawbacks worth mentioning. For one, it’s quite noisy, which may be an issue for you if you have close neighbours or sensitive hearing. Also, it doesn’t come with a protective bag or cover for storage.

Overall though, if you need an easy to use, comfortable, safe and powerful electric chainsaw – the Einhell GH-EC ticks all the boxes.

6. BLACK+DECKER CS2245-GB (Best for Big Logs)

The BLACK+DECKER CS2245-G has a powerful 2200W motor and is a good choice of chainsaw if you have wider logs and trunks to deal with. The 45cm chain can slice through thick wood at a speed of 12.5 m/s, making short work of your tougher jobs.

The self-lubricating system automatically dispenses oil onto the chain as you work, so you won’t need to worry about the chain drying out and becoming damaged. There is also a handy clear-view oil reservoir so that you can quickly see when it needs topping up. The chain brake and kickback protection help you stay safe from accidents.

Unfortunately, the oil reservoir can be prone to leaking, so you’ll need to keep an eye on it to make sure you aren’t losing any. It would also be sensible to empty the oil before storing it away, to avoid a potential mess when you next need to use it. Moreover, the chain seems to get blunt easily even with constant lubrication, so you may find yourself replacing it often.

Like other models we have seen, the BLACK+DECKER CS2245-G uses an anti-vibration system to reduce the stress on your arms and hands during use. The back handle is moulded in soft rubber and the weight distribution is well-balanced overall; so you should find it is comfortable to use for hours at a time.

7. BLACK+DECKER Corded 1800W (All-Around Option)

Yet another chainsaw from BLACK+DECKER; the CS1835 model has a smaller cut than the previous one on our list at 35cm but it still packs a decent amount of power with its 1800W motor. It can cut through thick branches and wet or dry woods with little effort required.

The chain speed is an impressive 12 m/s, which is fast enough to produce rapid and efficient cuts. It also has an auto lubrication mechanism, so you can worry less about the wear and tear of the chain. The oil reservoir can hold up to 100ml of oil, so you are unlikely to need to refill it that often.

In line with other models, the BLACK+DECKER CS1835 incorporates safety features which reduce your risk of kickback injuries and shield your hands from slipping onto the blades.

Overall, this model is comfortable to use – mainly due to its anti-vibration mechanisms and ergonomic handle. It is also well-balanced, so you should find it easier to work at the unusual angles required to reach some branches. Furthermore, should you need to make a more accurate cut, the steel spike bumper helps you to work precisely.

8. Makita UC4041A/2 (Best for Precise Cuts)

The Makita UC4041A/2 is another popular chainsaw choice that offers high-performance quality for simple garden tasks. The entire unit weighs only 4.7kg, so it is perfect if you are looking for a lightweight and easily manoeuvrable option to limit fatigue.

The 40cm chain is generous enough to slice through reasonably sized logs quickly, and is adjusted via a tool-less tensioner; so you won’t need any extra equipment. However, the chain is prone to slipping off and the tensioner isn’t particularly durable; with many users complaining it had broken after relatively little use.

The soft-grip handles help to minimise vibration so you can work for longer periods without discomfort. Additionally, the Makita UC4041A/2 includes a metal bumper spike – enabling you to create more precise and controlled cuts should the need arise.

Aside from the issues with the chain tensioner, you should find maintaining the Makita UC4041A/2 simple thanks to automatic chain oil dispensing and the easy-view oil level window. This allows you to keep a close eye on the amount of oil available at any time, thus preventing any surprise damage and ensuring the chain runs smoothly.

As expected, the Makita UC4041A/2 also includes safety features such as a mechanical chain brake and a kickback brake to defend you against injuries.

9. Makita DUC302Z Cordless (Luxury Choice)

The Makita DUC302Z is another great cordless chainsaw choice that is powerful enough to deal with most domestic garden work, as well as thicker branches and small trees.

Having a generous 30cm bar and 8.3 m/s cutting speed, this chainsaw isn’t as hefty or quick as other models we have seen, but will still get the job done effectively. The most obvious benefit of this model over others is its cordless design, which allows you versatility and freedom of movement which is absent with corded models.

The Makita DUC302Z electric chainsaw requires the use of two 18V lithium-ion batteries, providing a combined power output of 36V when installed. The batteries have a long lifespan and will reach a full charge in about 90 minutes, so you won’t need to wait around long before you can get on with your garden chores. Unfortunately, the downside to all this is that there are no batteries or charger included as standard, so you’ll have to purchase them separately which will be an additional expense.

A full charge should give you about an hour’s worth of continual cutting, which is likely to be enough time for all but the largest tasks. When the batteries begin to run low, the low-power indicator light will flash to notify you. This is a useful feature to save you the inconvenience of running out of power half-way through a job.

In line with other models we have seen, the Makita DUC302Z doesn’t require you to use any special tool to tense the chain. Instead, there is a handy lever which makes adjustments quick and easy.

As you should expect, there are a number of safety features included too. These consist of a soft-start, kickback brake and electric chain brake to minimise risk during use.

10. Bosch AKE 40-19 S (Best for Light Jobs)

The Bosch AKE 40-19 S is a great domestic chainsaw choice which is perfect if you want to fell small garden trees, prune unwanted branches or prepare firewood for winter.

While its 1900W motor may not be as powerful as other models we have seen, the large 40cm chrome chain is spun at an impressive rate of 12 m/s. making this electric chainsaw more than adequate for slicing through logs without any struggle.

If you have a lot of garden jobs to be getting on with, you’ll be pleased to know that this chainsaw is designed with comfort in mind. It is equally balanced, so you can use it comfortably even if you hold it at an awkward angle when slicing through branches. The ergonomically shaped handles are easy to grip securely and the entire unit weighs just under 6kg – so you shouldn’t get fatigued even with hours of use.

The special SDS system means it is very easy to tighten the chain as you go, without the need for an additional tool. However, many users complained that the chain jumps off frequently during use; so you may find yourself having to stop and tighten the chain more often than you’d like.

Also, once the chain has come off, it is quite awkward to get it back on – which means you end up wasting time that could be spent being productive.

In terms of safety and maintenance, the Bosch AKE 40-19 S has a number of features to make your life easier. The automatic lubrication system helps prevent damage to the chain caused by lack of oil, which can be easy to forget if you’re a beginner. That said, the oil reservoir is prone to leaking, so it’s best you don’t leave it filled up for long periods.

Lastly, the rapid-react kickback brake halts the chain in less than a second should one occur – ensuring you will be protected from any kickback injuries.

How To Choose an Electric Chainsaw

What factors should we look at when finding the best electric chainsaw? Let’s take a look.

1. Bar Length and Chain Speed

Bar length, sometimes called “chain length”, refers to the length of the cutting area on the chainsaw. The bar length determines how wide an area you will be able to cut at any one time. Therefore, whether you are planning to trim branches or cut through very wide logs or tree trunks, you should make sure you purchase a chainsaw which has an appropriate bar length for the job.

For general garden tasks, like pruning and trimming the branches from small trees and large bushes, chainsaws with a bar length of 35cm will be sufficient. If you are looking for a chainsaw to prepare firewood with, you should choose one which has a bar length of 40cm at the least.

The chain speed describes just that – how quickly the chain rotates around the bar. This is usually measured in metres per second (m/s). The faster the chain speed, the faster you can cut through your target. Being able to work faster is obviously useful if you have a lot of large logs to slice up in one afternoon.

2. Cordless and Corded Chainsaws

Cordless Chainsaws

Cordless chainsaws allow you to have complete freedom and portability, without needing to worry about being close to a socket. These chainsaws don’t require any fuel. Instead, they use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries as a source of power.

This convenience is great if you have a large area of land you need to work on, as you can simply move from place to place with your chainsaw without any limitations.

However, the convenience of batteries also has its downsides. Lithium-ion batteries require proper care to extend battery life. In addition, they take many hours to charge fully, and they often don’t supply much more than an hour to 90 minutes of continuous cutting per charge. This means you can find yourself with a flat battery part way through a job, and then potentially have to wait many hours for the battery to recharge before you can resume working.

Of course, you can circumvent this issue by purchasing multiple batteries and always having a set ready to use; but it is worth bearing in mind that this can prove expensive. To begin with, many cordless chainsaws are sold as “body only”, which means you will have to buy your first set of batteries and charger separately. Any additional battery purchased will greatly add to your upfront costs.

The use of batteries often makes cordless chainsaws the heavier option, which may be worth considering if you are going to be using it for long periods.

Corded Chainsaws

On the contrary, corded chainsaws are more lightweight and won’t run out of power at an inconvenient moment. They are also usually more powerful than battery-powered cordless chainsaws, so they can be the better choice if you are likely to be cutting thicker or tougher wood.

Because corded chainsaws must be plugged into a power socket at all times, this reduces your reach to the length of the cord itself – unless you use an extension lead. You must also be careful not to trip over or cut through the power cord during use.

3. Ease of Use

Most electric chainsaws are easy to use, but if you choose a model which is too heavy or uncomfortable, you are unlikely to enjoy using it. Therefore, if you are planning to use your electric chainsaw for long periods of time, it is very important that you check the weight, features and design are suitable for your circumstances.

Many electric chainsaws have ergonomically designed handles which are easy to grip securely, and some models are carefully balanced so you will find them easier to hold at different angles. This reduces strain and fatigue, so you can get your cutting tasks done in comfort.

Furthermore, it is best to look for a model which offers tool-free chain tensioning. This means you can simply turn a dial to tighten the chain as required, without having to stop what you’re doing and waste time using additional equipment.

4. Safety

Safety is a serious matter when it comes to chainsaws. With power tools like MIG welders, table saws and cordless drills, if they are not used responsibly, they have the potential to cause devastating and even life-threatening injuries in the blink of an eye.

One of the biggest risks of injury from chainsaw use is “kickbacks”. This usually occurs when a tooth at the tip of the chainsaw collides with wood which it doesn’t cut through, thus throwing the chainsaw back and up towards you. The risk of kickback can vary among wood types, wetness and humidity levels.

Many electric chainsaws have built-in kickback brakes which can help protect you should a kickback occur. These automatically stop the chain if a sudden change in direction is detected.

You should also look for a model which has additional safety measures such as two switch operation and automatic stop mechanisms. Two switch operation protects you from accidentally turning the chainsaw on, while auto-stop ensures the chain stops spinning should you release the trigger and drop the chainsaw.

If you will be using your electric chainsaw professionally or for long periods of time, it is also worth considering a model which has vibration reducing mechanisms. These work to prevent the risk of hand-arm vibration syndrome, which is the result of damage to your tissues from regular exposure to vibration.

Conclusion

Any of the electric chainsaw reviews we have looked at would make great choices, but our overall favourite has to be the OREGON CS1400 electric chainsaw. We like that it offers a lightweight and ergonomic design, allowing you to tackle a range of challenges. Furthermore, it has a 2400W motor and a 14.7m/sec chain speed.

These features, together with its advanced plating process, provide you with extra layers of heavy-duty chrome for optimum strength. Lastly, the front handguard will keep your hands safe from any flying debris.