Buying guide for Best DeWalt chainsaws
Founded in 1924, DeWalt has made a name for itself thanks to the quality and reliability of its products, and its electric chainsaws are no exception. With efficient brushless motors, quiet operation, no fumes and no messy fuel to mix, their chainsaws offer a wealth of options for those who prefer electric tools over gasoline-powered ones.
When shopping for a DeWalt chainsaw, consider the kind of work you want it for. A saw with a 16- to 20-inch bar, for instance, is ideal for chopping up tree trunks or large fallen limbs, while a shorter 8-inch bar is more appropriate for pruning thin branches and general yard work. Conveniently, the power of the chainsaw’s motor is proportional to the length of the bar. That means if you buy a saw with an 18-inch bar to cut up large branches, you’re getting the voltage and torque needed for that type of work.
Look for options like tool-free chain tension adjustment and a self-oiling system, which prevent unnecessary damage to the chain and make fine-tuning easier. They come standard on DeWalt chainsaws. Also check the battery life to avoid having to pause in your work to recharge.
Our research has determined the DeWalt 16-inch 60-volt Flexvolt Cordless Chainsaw to be ideal for most users, including contractors. It isn’t unwieldy for smaller jobs, it offers enough voltage to handle almost any size task and it has a generous battery life.
Best DeWalt chainsaws
This electric chainsaw stands out from the pack thanks to 60 volts of power that make it capable of cutting twice as fast as other DeWalt saws. A full charge of the included lightweight battery pushes its brushless motor through 70 cuts, and its self-oiling system automatically keeps the chain lubricated. The 16-inch bar provides a low kickback for smooth cutting and safety.
This saw includes a scabbard that slides over the chain to protect it while being moved or stored, as well as a battery charger, providing everything you need to get right to work. Neither too big for pruning nor too small to chop down medium-sized trees, this chainsaw occupies a sweet spot for users who want an all-purpose tool capable of performing a wide range of cutting jobs.
With its 12-inch bar and chain, this light, compact chainsaw can be easily handled in tight spaces and maneuvered through dense brush. It includes a charger and a 20-volt lithium ion battery that features a handy LED charge indicator. The battery provides enough power for up to 90 cuts through 4-inch-by-4-inch pressure-treated wood. A self-lubricating system keeps the saw oiled, and the chain brake provides kickback protection. Tool-free chain tightening means you don’t have to worry about finding the appropriate wrench when you need to make an adjustment.
Its small size doesn’t make this chainsaw the right option for chopping large logs or commercial work. However, it’s the ideal choice for property owners with limited storage space who need an efficient tool for brush clearing, landscaping, preparing lumber or cutting up firewood.
Those looking to tackle major cutting jobs will find a lot to like in this 60-volt electric chainsaw. Its 18-inch bar and high-efficiency brushless motor can accommodate materials that most battery-powered saws simply can’t handle. A convenient wrench storage compartment is built right into its handle for quick chain adjustments. To keep you working safely, the tool features a chain brake and metal bucking spikes to prevent the saw from kicking back or skipping while chopping through thick material.
This saw definitely packs the power, but that power comes at the cost of battery life, because it can only achieve up to 65 cuts through 6-inch-by-6-inch wood on a full charge. Also, this DeWalt saw has a high price tag, and the battery and charger must be purchased separately. It’s the right saw for those who require maximum power but are dead set on avoiding the noise, mess and maintenance that come with owning a gas-powered alternative.
Most homeowners don’t need a tool that can fell trees, tear apart old decking or chop through huge trunks, making this little chainsaw the perfect property maintenance companion. Its 8-inch bar and 4.6-pound weight keep this tool compact and easy to manage, especially for those who are intimidated by full-size chainsaw operation. An integrated tip guard keeps the saw flexible, preventing it from becoming unwieldy while performing upcuts. Automatic oiling lubes the chain and bar as you work.
Built for pruning trees and shrubs, this chainsaw is a great option for anyone looking to maintain a good-looking yard without having to manage an overpowered tool. The DCB230 battery that DeWalt recommends lets you make up to 70 cuts before you need to recharge, but the battery and charger are not included.
A specialized iteration of the pruning chainsaw, this chainsaw has a retractable pole that extends up to 10 feet, so you can trim high branches without the additional hazards associated with climbing a tree or ladder. Its low kickback 8-inch chain can chop through thick branches, and the built-in limb hook lets you remove pruned sticks with ease. Even fully extended, this saw remains light, well-balanced and a breeze to maneuver through brush and thickets.
It includes a tensioning wrench, charger and battery that can push through up to 96 cuts. A plastic sheath keeps the blade covered and safe between jobs. Its self-oiling system keeps maintenance to a minimum, and an ergonomic handle lets you maintain a good, comfortable grip even through long pruning jobs at full extension.
What to know before buying a DeWalt chainsaw
Volts and amp-hours
Volts: For those who might not know what the voltage figure represents, it’s probably easiest to make a comparison with cars. The power demand of the tool — what it needs to function — is the voltage. For a 12-volt tool, picture a compact car. For a 120-volt tool (which runs two 60-volt batteries in tandem), picture an eight-cylinder sports car. DeWalt chainsaws are rated at 20, 40 or 60 volts.
Amp-hours: Amp-hours (Ah) are effectively the fuel. The higher the amp-hours, the longer a battery can deliver a consistent level of performance. On a small power drill, you might have a 1.5-amp-hour battery. At the other end of the scale, some of DeWalt’s garden tools have 9-amp-hour batteries.
Why don’t you just go for the highest available amp-hours? There are several reasons. First, more amp-hours equals more cost. A higher amp-hour battery also takes longer to charge. Finally, as capacity increases, the tool gets bigger, so size and weight become limiting factors.
Voltage and amp-hours are not related. You can have a 20-volt, 6-amp-hour battery or a 60-volt, 6-amp-hour battery. Cordless chainsaws are power-hungry tools, so we recommend the highest amp-hours you can afford, with 4 amp-hours as a minimum.
Manufacturers seldom give run times because these times are impacted by all kinds of factors, but DeWalt chainsaws run between 30 and 45 minutes per charge (though some users claim longer). You might welcome a break, but you’ll need to purchase a spare battery if you want to work continuously.
DeWalt chainsaw voltage
20 volts: This DeWalt chainsaw is a lightweight, light-duty tool. It’s useful for a variety of jobs, but the 12-inch bar (the metal plate that the chain encircles) indicates the limit of its capacities. In real terms, you’re looking at a maximum cut of around 8 or 9 inches.
40 volts: This chainsaw with a 16-inch bar is a good all-rounder and ideal for most households, meaning it’s powerful but still manageable. It can fell trees with a 12-inch diameter.
60 volts: DeWalt’s 60-volt chainsaw retains the 16-inch bar but delivers more power, so it can do the same job more quickly. These qualities make it an excellent choice for property owners who want to make speedy work of seasonal maintenance jobs or contractors looking for a versatile alternative to a gas-powered chainsaw.
Convenience
Automatic oiling and tool-free chain tensioning are common features on chainsaws, so it isn’t surprising that all DeWalt models include them. If you’re thinking about buying a range of cordless garden tools, it’s worth looking at other 40-volt DeWalt models, such as leaf blowers, hedge trimmers and string trimmers, thus maximizing your investment in batteries.
Safety
DeWalt chainsaws have a couple of safety features not shared by all their competitors.
Chain brake: First, there’s the chain brake, a device you’ll find on gas chainsaws that stops the chain moving even if you press the trigger.
Lock-out button: The second is a safety lock-out button, so the chainsaw can’t be started accidentally. As a further precaution, you must squeeze the trigger and depress a button to make it run. It’s a comfortable one-handed operation, but if you slip for any reason, the motor stops.
Expert Tip
When using a
corded electric chainsaw, tape extension cords together so you're not distracted by a power disruption.
BestReviews Home Improvment Expert
Safety tips
- Wear protective gear. Always wear sturdy work boots, gloves (to maintain a good grip on your tool), hard hat with a face shield and ear protection. DeWalt chainsaws are not as loud as gas models, but the work can still be noisy.
- Make sure you have firm, stable footing. Avoid working on wet grass, mud or damp leaves.
- Keep children and pets away. Children often want to help, but make sure they stand well back while you’re cutting. Keep pets away from the work area. It isn’t just for their safety — any distraction could cause an accident.
- Apply the chain brake before starting the saw. Check that the chain is properly tensioned. If it shows any signs of damage, replace it immediately.
- Never use a chainsaw if you’re not 100% fit and alert. This could lead to accidents and put undue strain on your body.
Expert Tip
Secure long hair and any loose clothing.
BestReviews Home Improvement and DIY Expert
Chainsaw maintenance tips
- Keep the saw clean. Remove dirt and debris from your chainsaw after each use, paying special attention to the cooling fins. You can use a soft brush or compressed air to dislodge particles and dirt from deep crevices.
- Keep the chain sharp. If your saw is no longer digging easily into wood, producing fine dust as opposed to shreds or smoking while cutting, it’s time to sharpen the chain. Chain sharpening is a laborious task that requires some time to complete. You’ll need to use a file specifically made for the job and sharpen each blade individually. Consult your saw’s manual for specific instructions.
- Check the chain tension. With the battery removed from the saw, pull the chain away from the bar. Proper tension allows you to pull the chain slightly but won’t result in any slack. Loosen or tighten the chain before use as needed to ensure safe operation.
- Watch the oil level. When the oil tank is less than a quarter full, it needs to be refilled. After you’re done using the saw, empty any unused oil from the reservoir.
- Store the saw safely. Most chainsaws come with a sheath that slides over the bar to protect the chain from accidental damage and you from cuts and scratches. Keep the bar covered at all times while the saw is not in use. Store the tool in a cool, dry place.
- Practice good battery upkeep. When you’re done working, remove the battery pack from the chainsaw, brush off any dirt that has accumulated on it and place it in a DeWalt charger. Storing a battery in this manner used to be bad practice, but DeWalt’s chargers have advanced technology and intelligent monitoring that extends the life of the pack. Store the charger and battery in a dry area that doesn’t experience any extreme temperatures.
Expert Tip
Always unplug or remove batteries when servicing chainsaws.
BestReviews Home Improvement and DIY Expert
FAQ
Q. Are brushless motors better than brush motors?
A. In cordless tools, yes. Brush motors are cheap, but they were developed primarily for corded electric motors. They will work in cordless tools, but they aren’t anywhere near as efficient as brushless, which will run around 30% longer with the same battery.
A cordless chainsaw is quite a power-hungry tool, so having a brushless motor is a major advantage. They’re also virtually maintenance-free. In DeWalt’s chainsaw range, the XR designation tells you that they’re fitted with brushless motors.
Q. Do I need to buy replacement chains from DeWalt?
A. No. As long as the size is the same (check carefully), it doesn’t matter what chains you buy, and you can probably save money sourcing from another supplier. Make sure to buy a high-quality alternative. Cheap chainsaw blades stretch more quickly and need sharpening more frequently.
Q. Will DeWalt Max batteries work in XR chainsaws?
A. Yes, if the voltage is the same. We need to look at this question carefully, though, because there are a few alternatives:
- If you already own a 20-volt Max DeWalt battery, it will work with 20-volt XR DeWalt chainsaws. You can put it in the XR charger too. However, you can’t charge the XR batteries in the Max charger.
- Other brands of 20-volt Max batteries probably won’t fit.
- You can’t normally swap voltages around. A 20-volt Max or XR does not generate enough power for a 40-volt chainsaw. You can’t go the other way either. For example, a 40-volt battery won’t work on a 20-volt tool. The exception is the Flexvolt battery, which can be switched between compatible 20- and 60-volt tools (but, oddly, not 40-volt).
Q. How much can I expect to spend on a DeWalt chainsaw?
A. The cheapest DeWalt chainsaw is the 8-inch 20-volt pruning chainsaw at around $170 for a bare tool, and the battery and charger will probably double that cost. At just over $280 with the battery and charger, the 12-inch 20-volt chainsaw is excellent value for such a powerful tool. If you’re considering such a high-performance model, you’ll probably want at least one spare battery as well. Note that all DeWalt chainsaws have a three-year warranty.
DeWalt’s focus seems to be on the 40-volt range, and it is arguably the best option for all but commercial users. It’s unlikely you’ll find one under $300, and by the time you add a decent battery, it will be closer to $500. It is in line with competitors of similar quality, but it’s still quite an investment.
