Not every chainsaw is made for felling trees. There’s plenty of yard and gardening work that requires a good cutting tool with ease of convenience.
While you might think power is the way to go, that’s not always true when it comes to chainsaws.
A good chainsaw offers efficient cutting performance with perfect control to the user. If you cannot handle a chainsaw effectively, all that power would be of no use to you.
Keeping that in mind, I have brought you the best 14-inch chainsaws that are available in the market.
I have selected these fine pieces of equipment after considerable testing and analysis. These tools are designed for property maintenance, trimming, pruning, cutting firewood, and cutting down broken tree limbs.
While they might be a bit smaller for felling trees, you can still use them to cut down small trees when needed.
Without any further ado, let’s get to the details of these amazing top-rated 14-inch chainsaws.
Top 10 Best 14-Inch Chainsaws for Small Cutting Tasks
1. Greenworks CS40L210—Best Overall
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Battery: 2.0 Ah | Voltage: 40 V | Weight: 9.8 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
You can’t find a better 14-inch chainsaw than Greenworks CS40L210. This cordless battery-powered chainsaw is the perfect tool for homeowners who need a tool for trimming, pruning, limbing, and cutting tasks.
It offers nothing less than outstanding cutting performance and provides more than 150 cuts on pressure-treated 4×4 wood.
During testing, the tool made 163 cuts on a single charge when used on firewood.
With an advanced brushless motor design, this Greenworks tool takes performance to the next level and provides you the power of a gas chainsaw within a battery-powered one.
The brushless motor ensures 2x more torque with a longer runtime, quieter operation, and extended motor life.
So, you get the best bits of a gasoline power chainsaw without any of the noise or the fumes.
Adding to this, you can start the machine with the press of a button. No rope pulling, no choke, no carburetor, and definitely no spark plug.
The automatic chain oiler ensures that the bar and chain are lubricated all the time. You can keep an eye on oil levels from the transparent oil level indicator.
The best part is, batteries and a charger are included with the tool. Hence, you don’t have to worry about finding and purchasing them separately.
Did you know Greenworks batteries are actually power banks? Yes, they are actually 24,000 mAh power banks that you can use to charge your electronic devices. They have an integrated USB hub.
The premium over-mold grip and wrap-around handle ensure that you have complete control of the tool. Hence, even if you are a beginner, you can maneuver the tool pretty easily.
On the downside, it has tooled chain tensioning system. Although it has been simplified, you still have to keep the tool around to adjust chain tension when required.
What We Like
- Ideal for Homeowners
- Quiet Operation
- Versatile Cutting Application
- Battery and Charger Included
- Power Equivalent to Gas Chainsaw
- Batteries can charge phones and tablets
What We Don't Like
- No Tool-less chain tensioning
- Only 1 Set of Batteries Included
Why Consider Greenworks CS40L210?
Greenworks 40V cordless chainsaw is the absolute best for a wide range of wood-cutting applications. A perfect tool for homeowners for cutting, trimming, pruning, and limbing tasks.
2. Husqvarna 120 Mark II—Runner Up Option
Type: Gas Powered | Engine: 38.2cc | Power Output: 1.88 hp | Weight: 11 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
From one of the oldest running companies in the world, Husqvarna brings you the best of gardening and wood-cutting tools.
Husqvarna 120 Mark II is designed for homeowners who need a medium-duty chainsaw for property maintenance and yard work.
The 120 Mark II is ideal for tree pruning, firewood cutting, and other wood-cutting applications. With a 14 inch blade and chain, you can even cut small trees.
Nothing can match Husqvarna when it comes to power and functionality. They are the absolute beasts of the chainsaw world and pack immense power in their tools.
The Mark II has a 38cc X-Torq engine that offers stunning power and performance along with reduced gas emissions and increased fuel efficiency.
To enhance user comfort, Husqvarna incorporates Low Vibration technology which considerably reduces the vibrations from the engine.
Built-in safety break combined with a Low Kickback feature ensures maximum safety of the user.
The best part is, even being a gas-powered chainsaw, the Husqvarna 120 Mark II comes in a lightweight design that is easier to handle. Even beginners can handle this chainsaw easily.
Moreover, the chassis is also incorporated with Air Injection technology which features a centrifugal air cleaning system that prevents the larger dust and debris particles from reaching the air filter.
Hence, the two-stroke engine and air filter will have a longer life and you won’t have to change the filter that often.
On the downside, you have to deal with the noise and fumes. Although Husqvarna has reduced them considerably, it’s still not as quiet or environmentally safe as an electric chainsaw.
Explore: Are Husqvarna Chainsaws Any Good?
What We Like
- Outstanding Power and Performance
- Reduced Gas Emissions
- Increased Fuel Efficiency
- Low Vibration Technology
- Low Kickback Feature
- Air Injection Technology
- Instant Chain Brake
What We Don't Like
- Not for cutting large trees
- A bit noisy
Why Consider Husqvarna 120 Mark II?
Those who are looking for a perfect balance between power and maneuverability should definitely go with Husqvarna 120 Mark II. The chainsaw packs immense power and the lightweight design allows you to control it easily.
3. EGO Power+ CS1400—Best Battery-Powered Option
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Voltage: 56 V | Weight: 8.3 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Environmentally conscious users and those who need to work near sensitive areas like waterways or public parks can’t choose gas-powered chainsaws.
But, they do need the power and performance of a gas-powered tool. So, what should they do?
Keeping that question in mind, I was able to find a perfect tool that offers power beyond belief. EGO CS1400 offers the power of a gas chainsaw without any of the fuss, and noise of fumes.
This tool is designed for professionals and those who need to work in adverse weather conditions. The weather-resistant rugged construction keeps your tool safe even in extreme weather.
Adding to this, the 14-Inch bar and chain of this tool are of superior quality ensuring a quick and smooth cutting experience. The chain has a low kickback design for increased safety.
As for cutting performance, the chainsaw has a speed of 6800 RPM, which can cut through hardwood, softwood, branches, and tree trunks like slicing through a cake.
Ego CS1400 is equipped with a brushless motor, which offers more power, longer run time, and extended engine life. Furthermore, the brushless motor also reduces the vibrations from the tool.
The 56V ARC Lithium battery is a universal battery that works with all EGO Power+ tools. Battery installation is easier. Simply click it in, and start the operation.
You can start the tool with just a press of a button. However, it is recommended that you use a 2.5 Ah battery for the best performance. Ego uses revolutionary battery technology to ensure longer runtime and optimal performance.
All of these advanced technologies combined almost exceed the performance of a gas chainsaw, or so Ego claims.
Although that might not be entirely true, Ego does give strong competition to Husqvarna chainsaws in terms of power and performance.
On the downside, the battery and charger are not included in the product. Purchasing them separately increases the overall cost, but it’s worth it.
What We Like
- Safe for Environment
- Power of Gas Chainsaw
- Universal Battery Compatibility
- Excellent Cutting Performance
- Easy Starting
- Simple Battery Installation
- Superior Quality Bar and Chain
What We Don't Like
- Battery not included
- Rapid Charger Not Included
Why Consider EGO Power+ CS1400?
If you want the power of a gas chainsaw without any fuss, noise, or fumes, then you won’t find a better option than Ego Power+ CS1400. A perfect tool for homeowners and professionals working under extreme conditions.
4. Greenworks 10.5 Amp Corded—Best Budget Option
Type: Corded Electric | Power: 10.5 Amp | Weight: 8 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
While both cordless and gas-powered chainsaws seem very tempting, they do have one big issue in common. The price factor!
Regardless of which of them you choose, you have to pay a couple of hundred dollars or more, and even then the cost of batteries or fuel will keep increasing the budget.
So, people who are looking for budget-friendly options can choose to go with a corded electric chainsaw instead.
Greenworks should be a brand on top of your list, as they provide the most premium electric chainsaw products.
The Greenworks 10.5 Amp corded tool offers reliable power, performance, and runtime. You can start the tool with the press of a button and begin using it instantly. It is often considered the best budget 14-inch chainsaw.
The toolless chain tensioning system makes maintenance a breeze. Added with automatic lubrication, you don’t have to worry about maintenance at all. You can keep the bar and chain oil levels in check through a translucent oil tank.
Moreover, with the wrap-around handle, you can control and maneuver the chainsaw easily. The lightweight design adds to the maneuverability and user comfort.
What We Like
- Budget-Friendly Option
- Easy to Use
- Reliable Performance
- Automatic Oiler
- Translucent Oil Tank
- Tool-less Chain Tensioning
- Increased User Comfort
What We Don't Like
- Doesn’t come with an extension cord
- Not as portable as a battery chainsaw
Why Consider Greenworks 10.5 Amp Corded Chainsaw?
For users on a budget, an ideal tool for working near home with reliable performance. Though you will need an extension cord, they are not that expensive. Greenworks corded chainsaw is a good tool for wood-cutting applications.
5. Makita XCU08PT—Best 14″ Option from Makita
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Battery: 2 x 5.0 Ah | Voltage: 36 V | Weight: 18.89 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Makita is one of the most reliable brands of chainsaws that offer professional-grade performance for the harshest of environments.
The Makita XCU08PT is one of their most advanced chainsaw models that is equipped with the latest technological features that make woodcutting tasks much easier.
With the top handle design, tree care becomes a breeze. You can trim branches, cut fallen limbs, cut firewood, and take care of storm cleanups pretty easily with the 14-inch bar size.
The brushless motor direct drive system ensures the power of a 30cc gas chainsaw. So, cutting through even the toughest of woods would be much easier.
When dealing with hardwood and thicker branches, you can turn on the torque boost mode which will increase the cutting speed significantly.
The most distinguishing feature of Makita chainsaws is definitely the variable speed control, which allows you to control chain speed according to usage. It will ensure longer runtime and better battery life when not using the tool in extreme conditions.
However, the chainsaw comes with only one set of batteries. You have to purchase an extra set of batteries separately. That pushes the product out of budget range for some people.
Learn More: How to Start a Makita Chainsaw?
What We Like
- Latest Technological Features
- Variable Speed Control
- Turbo Boost Mode
- Brushless Motor Design
- Reliable Performance
- Top Handle
What We Don't Like
- Heavy
- A bit expensive
Why Consider Makita XCU08PT?
Those who are looking for premium-grade performance with the latest technological features should definitely go with this Makita product. The advanced features ensure longer run time and increased battery life.
6. MAXLANDER 9 Amp Corded Chainsaw—Best Option for Minor Woodwork
Type: Corded Electric | Power: 9 Amp | Weight: 7.7 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
As I mentioned before, while battery-powered options seem tempting, not everyone can get their hands on them.
So, if you are just looking for a chainsaw for some minor woodwork in your backyard and are only going to use it occasionally, then you can choose to go with a cheap but good-quality chainsaw.
MAXLANDER is a corded electric tool that is often considered the best 14-inch chainsaw under 50 dollars.
Don’t be fooled by the price. The tool offers a high cutting speed of 15 ft/s and offers good value for money. In my opinion, it offers much more than what you pay for.
The best part is, the tool is comfortable to handle and maneuver. With just a weight of 7.7 pounds, even a first-time user can easily control the chainsaw. You can cut through wood that’s 14 inches in diameter with ease.
The ergonomic double-handle design also adds to the user’s comfort and ensures maximum control. Maintenance is much easier with an automatic chain oiler. Also, the corded electric tool prevents the engine from overheating and provides longer runtime.
What We Like
- Cheap Price
- Excellent Cutting Performance
- Extreme Lightweight Design
- Tool-less Chain Tensioning
- Automatic Chain Oiler
- Prevents Overheating
What We Don't Like
- Not for Cutting Hardwood
- Doesn’t come fully assembled
Why Consider MAXLANDER 9 Amp Corded Chainsaw?
A perfect tool for those who are looking for a low-budget option without compromising on quality, cutting performance, or features. MAXLANDER 9 amp corded electric chainsaw serves the purpose it is made for reliably.
7. Makita XCU03PT—Best for Money
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Battery: 2 x 5.0 Ah | Voltage: 36 V | Weight: 18.90 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
To meet the demands of landscapers and contractors who need a quieter alternative to gas chainsaws, Makita has introduced their brushless cordless series.
With zero fumes, emissions, and noise, this chainsaw provides power and performance equivalent to the gas engine.
The outer rotor brushless motor with a direct drive system gives higher power efficiency which is similar to that of a gas chainsaw.
Makita XCU03PT comes in a compact design with advanced features like variable speed control and toolless chain adjustment.
The variable speed control allows you to control the exact speed of the chain. Hence, the fuel efficiency will increase significantly.
Not to mention Makita incorporates Extreme Protection Technology which ensures higher resistance to dust and water. Hence, the tool is perfect for use in harsh environments.
However, it is not recommended for beginners. Not only is the tool heavy but it is also very expensive. Only designed for professional applications where a quieter alternative to the gas tool is required.
What We Like
- Quieter Alternative to Gas Chainsaw
- Extreme Protection Technology
- Built-in LED
- Automatic Shut off Feature
- Built-in Safety Lock
- Variable Speed Control
What We Don't Like
- A bit more expensive than other competitors
- A bit heavier on the hands.
Why Consider Makita XCU03PT?
Using a gas-powered chainsaw is not an option for landscapers and contractors in urban areas because of emissions and noise. So, Makita XCU03PT is the perfect alternative for them.
8. Echo CS-2511T—Best Lightweight Option
Type: Gas Powered | Engine: 25cc | Power Output: 3.5 hp | Weight: 5.2 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Not all gas chainsaws are heavy and bulky. If you are looking for the best 14 Inch lightweight gas chainsaw that has massive power and performance capabilities, then you won’t find any better option than Echo CS-2511T.
It is considered the lightest gas tool in all of North America. Equipped with a powerful 25cc 2-stroke engine, the tool provides outstanding performance and durability.
The most distinguishing feature about Echo chainsaws is certainly their unique clutch-driven automatic chain oiler that can be adjusted as per user needs.
Bar and chain oil will only be used when you are using the chainsaw. Adding to this, the G-force advanced air pre-cleaner reduces the maintenance intervals and increases filter life significantly.
Also, the fine grid cover on the starter stops the larger dust and debris particles to further extend the filter life.
To enhance user comfort, the chainsaw uses a textured grip on the handles. Hence, there are fewer chances of the tool slipping from your hands.
Moreover, the dual-post chain brake system provides you with increased safety and durability.
What We Like
- Lightest Gas Chainsaw
- Outstanding Performance
- Textured Grip Handles
- Clutch Driven Automatic Oiler
- Easy Starting
- Dual Post Chain Brake
What We Don't Like
- No Tool-less Chain Adjustment
- Bar cover not included
Why Consider Echo CS-2511T?
The lightest chainsaw in North America that offers outstanding performance and durability. Echo CS-2511T is ideal for arborists and professionals who need sky-high performance.
9. Litheli 40V Cordless—With Brushless Motor
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Battery: 2.5 Ah | Voltage: 40 V | Weight: 11.7 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
If you are looking for a budget-friendly battery-operated chainsaw, Litheli provides you with the perfect option. Litheli 40V cordless tool offers the best value for your money.
Even at a reasonable price, the tool is equipped with tons of advanced features that help it compete with some of the best chainsaws in the market.
The brushless motor design increases efficiency by almost 85% which ensures longer engine life, more torque, and higher runtime.
Surprisingly, even with a 14-inch bar size, the chainsaw supports a cutting speed of 36 ft/s.
To increase safety, the tool only starts after pulling the chain brake lever and removing the lockout switch. So, there is no risk of accidental starting.
Adding to this, the automatic chain oiler keeps the bar and chain lubricated for extended use.
Moreover, a toolless chain tensioning system allows you to make quick and easy adjustments during operation. Hence, maintenance is a breeze.
What We Like
- Brushless Motor
- Increased Efficiency
- Automatic Chain Oiler
- Tool-free Chain Tensioning
- Dual Brake Protection
- Bar Cover Included
What We Don't Like
- Only 1 Battery Included
- No Variable Speed Control
Why Consider Litheli 40V Cordless Chainsaw?
Litheli cordless chainsaw offers the best value for money. This battery-operated tool is equipped with some of the most advanced features and comes at a reasonable price. An ideal tool for casual wood-cutting applications.
10. Ryobi RY40530—Best 40V Chainsaw
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Voltage: 40 V | Weight: 12 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Ryobi RY40530 is one of the best 14-inch cordless chainsaws that come at a reasonable price. You can purchase Ryobi universal batteries that will work with all of Ryobi products.
This tool is designed for professional performance and is perfect for a variety of wood-cutting applications like trimming, pruning, firewood cutting, and storm cleanup.
The 14-inch bar size is ideal for all kinds of gardening and tree-care tasks. A perfect tool for your yard work and cutting top branches in trees.
Adding to this, the variable speed trigger allows you to manage the speed of the chain. Hence, you can improve fuel efficiency by decreasing the speed when dealing with smaller branches and increasing the speed for tougher woods.
Ryobi cordless tool is equipped with a brushless motor which provides more torque, higher run time, more power, and extended motor life. It allows the tool to meet the performance of a gas chainsaw.
Moreover, it has an onboard storage chamber for the tool. So, you can make quick chain adjustments without having to carry the tool around in pockets.
However, the battery and charger are not included in this tool. So, you will have to purchase them separately.
What We Like
- Brushless Motor
- Excellent Power and Performance
- Variable Speed Control
- Bar Cover Included
- Improved Fuel Efficiency
- Comfortable Grip
What We Don't Like
- Battery and Charger Not Included
- No Tool-less Chain Adjustment
Why Consider Ryobi RY40530?
Ryobi RY40530 is an ideal tool for an efficient cutting experience. You can’t find a better alternative to gas chainsaws, especially at this price point. Ryobi batteries are universal, so you can use them with all Ryobi devices and tools.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Reliable 14″ Chainsaw
Selecting the best 14-inch chainsaw can be a difficult task, especially when you have so many attractive and tempting options available.
Hence, we will be sharing a brief buying guide to help you make the right decision. You need to know which factors matter most when you are looking to purchase a 14-inch tool.
Let’s begin:
Corded vs Cordless Options
The choice between corded and cordless chainsaws is very simple. If you are working in an area where you can reach a power source with an extension cord, then an electric chainsaw is a good option.
They are quiet, efficient, and offer longer runtime. Also, they are very economical. So, users with a budget can easily purchase them.
However, it doesn’t match the power and performance of a gas chainsaw. When going against the toughest of woods in forests, you can’t work with an electric tool.
So, if portability is an issue and budget is not, then you should go with cordless options.
Electric vs Gas Chainsaws
Gas chainsaws are more suitable for forests, large properties, and rural areas where noise, gas, and fumes are not an issue. Nothing can meet the power and performance of a gas engine, but their emissions and noise are major issues in sensitive areas.
So, while working in public areas, environmentally sensitive areas, and near waterways, you cannot use gasoline-powered tools.
You can go with the next best thing, which is cordless battery-powered electric tools that emit zero emissions and are ideal for quiet operation.
They are very efficient and also equipped with some of the most advanced features that make cutting through tough woods a breeze.
Related: Choosing a Reliable Chainsaw Chain
Power and Performance
With a 14-inch bar size, the tool will have versatile cutting applications. You cannot always hope to achieve the best results with the same performance.
While any tool would do for cutting and trimming branches, you won’t be able to cut hardwood with a less powered tool.
Gas chainsaws are more suitable for tougher, harder, and thicker woods. While electric chainsaws do compete with gas ones, they become really expensive when power demand is increased.
Maintenance
Maintenance of a tool has significant importance as it helps you protect the bar and chain from excessive friction and also increases its life.
An automatic chain oiler is a must. It will automatically lubricate the bar and chain, and enhance their efficiency and life.
Chain tensioning is also an important part of maintenance. The tool may provide tooled chain tensioning, toolless chain tensioning, or automatic chain tensioning.
Tooled chain tensioning is more reliable as it doesn’t allow the chain to get loose easily. But you need to keep a tool with you at all times, and some of them will have onboard storage.
Toolless chain tensioning allows you to make quick and easy adjustments during operation.
Bar and Chain
The quality of the bar and chain is also of crucial importance. Without a good quality bar and chain, all that power and efficiency are of no use.
So, you will need to ensure that the chainsaw tool is equipped with a good-quality bar and chain. You can also get a replacement for these parts. Always use a bar and chain from the official manufacturer for the highest efficiency.
Budget Matters
Budget can become a decisive factor in the choice of the best 14-inch chainsaw. If you are running low on budget, you can look at corded electric options.
Those who don’t have a budget issue, can take into account other factors and make a choice between gas or cordless battery-powered tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most dependable brand of chainsaw?
In my opinion, Husqvarna is the most dependable brand. The brand has been around for quite some time and has designed some of the best and most reliable hardware. Stihl is also a strong competitor of Husqvarna. They both compete for the top position.
What is a 14-inch chainsaw good for?
The 14-inch bar size is good for trimming, pruning, construction work, cutting fallen logs and firewood, and felling small trees. Commonly they are used for cutting pressured wood and yard work at home.
What size tree can a 14-inch chainsaw cut?
Trees that have a diameter of 12-14 inches can be easily cut using a 14-inch guide bar. You can also use them to cut larger-diameter logs that are on the ground. Logs that have 26-28 inch diameters can be cut using a 14-inch chainsaw.
What is the lightest, most powerful chainsaw?
Echo CS-2511T is the lightest most powerful chainsaw you can find in North America. The tool is like a feather, ideal for power and control. Even beginners can use and maneuver the tool very easily.
What is the best size chainsaw for cutting firewood?
The 14-inch guide bar is ideal for cutting firewood. The 14-inch bar size will efficiently cut the firewood into any desired size. This site has the most versatile wood-cutting application and can be used for a wide range of purposes.
Can you put a 16-inch bar on a 14-inch chainsaw?
It depends on the instructions in the manual. Generally, any tool can support a two inches margin in guide bar size. So, technically a 14-inch tool should be able to support 12-inch and 16-inch bar sizes. However, the cutting efficiency won’t be the same.
Are all 14-inch chainsaw chains the same?
No, each one is different. Each tool is made for the specific needs of a person, profession, or industry and comes with its own set of features. The choice depends on your personal preferences, which tool you want to use, and why.
What is better than Stihl?
Husqvarna is often considered better than Stihl in terms of price. Stihl is one of the best, but they are also very expensive. Husqvarna is able to meet the same efficiency and features at a lower price point.
Which is cheaper, Stihl or Husqvarna?
Husqvarna tools are cheaper than Stihl. They aren’t cheap, but when compared to Stihl, they have a lower price point. However, Stihl is still cherished as the best and top-rated brand in the professional industry.
Final Takeaways
We hope now you know enough to make a good decision when purchasing a 14-inch chainsaw. We shortlisted these products after extensive research, intense tensing, and careful evaluation.
If we had to pick one from the 10, we would definitely recommend going with our top pick. The Greenworks CS48L4410 is the overall best choice for the 14-inch tool. It offers outstanding cutting performance with tons of advanced features.
Need more power? Husqvarna 120 Mark II would be the perfect alternative. A compact lightweight tool with immense power and awesome cutting capabilities.
Low on budget? You can choose to go with Greenworks corded 10.5 amp chainsaw that offers exceptional performance for a cheap price.
Let me know what you think in the comments section below.
his personal experience and loves to share their nitty gritty details with his audience.
Although Richard does focus on other home improvement tools, his focus remains on cutting fallen trees or maintaining his backyard via chainsaw tools. He pledges to come up with new knowledge about chainsaws every once in a while.
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