Chainsaws are highly efficient tools for maintaining properties. They help you trim the branches, cut the limbs, cut down trees, and cut firewood and lumbar in construction. They are not as expensive as they used to be.
Today, you can find plenty of affordable chainsaws in the market. They are much more efficient and convenient than axes and aid you in a lot of DIY applications. Basically, the best budget chainsaw allows you to take care of all wood cutting tasks without the need for a professional.
So, if you are looking for a cheap chainsaw, then you have come to the right place. We have tested and reviewed some of the best budget options in the market and ranked them for you.
Take a look, without any further ado:
Top 10 Best Budget Chainsaws Reviewed in 2024
1. WORX WG303.1 – Overall “Best Budget Chainsaw” of 2024
Type: Corded Electric | Bar Length: 16 inch | Power: 14.5 amps | Weight: 11.10 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Let’s just say that you need the most cost-efficient chainsaw in the market without compromising on power or performance. The Worx WG 303.1 is an ideal choice, but it is neither battery-powered nor gasoline-powered.
The reason the chainsaw comes cheaper than its competitors is because of the corded power source. You have to keep it connected to electric power through a cord, but this single aspect takes the price to a new low.
Worx is a prominent brand that has manufactured some of the best chainsaws. The WG303.1 is one of their budget-friendly models which is designed with cutting-edge technology and advanced features.
There is no compromise on the performance or power of the chainsaw. The uniquely designed metal spikes take a perfect grip on the wood, allowing you to cut down trees with ease. The feature significantly reduces the kickback from the chainsaw.
Near to no maintenance is required. The automatic chain tensioning system is much more efficient than tooled or toolless tensioning as it prevents the chain from overtightening, improving the durability and life of your chainsaw.
An automatic chain and bar oiling system keep your bar and chain lubricated at all times. The transparent bar oil reservoir keeps you aware of oil levels so that you can replace it as soon as it is required.
The only drawback one has to face with this corded electric chainsaw is managing the cord. You have to work with a cord hanging out behind your back. For some users, it is a problem, while most are able to easily agree with it because of its low cost.
Have got a budget of $100 only? Explore the best $100 Chainsaws in that regard!
What We Like
- Power and Performance of a Gasoline Chainsaw
- Budget-Friendly Device
- Automatic Chain and Bar Oil
- Automatic Chain Tensioning System
- Prevents Chain from Overtightening
What We Don't Like
- The electric cord must be handled
- Requires a power source.
2. Oregon CS1400—Best Budget Electric Chainsaw 2024
Type: Corded Electric | Bar Length: 16 inches | Power: 15 Amps | Weight: 13 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Our second corded electric pick is on the list. Without a doubt, the corded electric chainsaws are the most cost-efficient ones on the market. They provide you impressive power for the price.
The Oregon CS1400 is also a corded electric chainsaw that is suitable for both professionals and homeowners. Because of the electric nature of the chainsaw, it does not produce any noise or fumes, so it is best suited for near-home usage.
Without a doubt, the most prominent feature of this chainsaw is the exclusive Oregon Control Cut chain. The chain is uniquely designed for low vibration, low kickback, and aggressive cutting.
An automatic chain tensioning system removes the need for tooled or tool-less chain tensioning completely. The chain will self-adjust itself. The technology also prevents the chain from overtightening, keeping it efficient and improving its life.
The front hand guard keeps your hands safe from splinters of wood. The lightweight and comfortable design provides you with complete control of the chainsaw. Hence, the chainsaw has efficient portability and efficiency when it comes to professional tasks.
Maintaining the chainsaw is a lot easier with the automatic chain oiling system. The window on the side keeps you aware of the oil levels at all times. Hence, you can instantly refill the bar and chain oil whenever needed.
Although the chainsaw is cheap, more effective, and powerful. Some users have mentioned overheating issues. Obviously, you cannot just keep using the chainsaw with the power source connected all the time. We have not experienced overheating yet in our tests.
What We Like
- Exclusive Oregon Control Cut Chain
- Low Vibration
- Low Kickback
- Front Hand Guard
- Automatic Chain Tensioning
What We Don't Like
- Some users have mentioned overheating issues
- Does not come with any accessories
3. Ryobi P546 Chainsaw —Best Budget Cordless Chainsaw under $150
Type: Cordless| Bar Length: 10 inch | Power: 18 V | Weight: 5.8 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
A small and handy chainsaw for trimming branches, cutting limbs, and maintaining a small garden in your backyard. The Ryobi P546 is a compact and handy chainsaw suitable for small tasks.
The chainsaw comes at an affordable price and provides you with many efficient features. The small and compact design makes it extremely safe to use. However, you won’t be able to cut whole trees with it.
No power source or gasoline is required as the chainsaw is battery-powered. The small design makes it more efficient in terms of power consumption. So, a single charge will last much longer than what you might expect.
No fuel, no cord, no fumes, and no noise. The chainsaw is fully portable and safe in every sense. The advanced safety features ensure that the chainsaw works perfectly and remains in control, preventing any harm to the user.
An automatic bar and chain oiling system keeps your bar and chain lubricated at all times. The transparent bar and chain oil reservoir allows you to keep the bar and chain oil in check so that you can refill whenever the oil is low.
The ergonomic handle and chain brake system add to the safety of the chainsaw. The chain brake keeps you safe in case of a mishap. The chainsaw is also supported by a low kickback function, which adds to its safety.
The only drawback is its small size. Due to just 10 inches of bar length, the chainsaw is not suitable for outdoor applications or professional tree-cutting tasks. So, it will just remain a handy tool for maintaining your garden, not for cutting trees.
What We Like
- Efficient and Compact Tool
- Suitable for Gardening and Backyard Tasks
- Safe to Use Design
- Lightweight and Portable
- No Noise or Fumes
What We Don't Like
- Battery and charger not included.
- Requires tool for chain tensioning.
4. Greenworks 40V Cordless Chainsaw—Best Budget Battery Chainsaw
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Bar Length: 12 inches | Power: 40 V | Weight: 9.27 Pounds (With Battery) | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
If you want to avoid noise and fumes and require a quiet chainsaw for maintaining your backyard or working near your home, then there is no better option than the Greenworks 40V chainsaw.
The chainsaw is battery-powered and provides you with power equivalent to that of a gas chainsaw. You can work quietly around your home without disturbing anyone, and also keep your lungs safe from fumes.
The small, lightweight, and compact design of the chainsaw makes it an extremely handy tool. The tool comes at a highly affordable price and has an ergonomic design to provide you with perfect control.
No more rope pulling to start the chainsaw. The cordless chainsaw comes with easy start technology, which will start the chainsaw at the press of a button. Hence, you can start working immediately without wasting any energy on starting the chainsaw.
Low maintenance has been redefined by Greenworks. The tool-less tensioning system has removed the need for tools completely, while the automatic chain oiler keeps the bar and chain lubricated at all times.
The 40V Lithium battery provides you up to 65 cuts, as claimed by the manufacturer. We have tested the chainsaw on 4×4 pressed wood, and it fulfilled the promise by providing up to 70 cuts on a single charge.
Although the chainsaw promises great power and efficiency, it would not be able to match the power of a gas chainsaw. This chainsaw comes with a small bar size and is only suitable for DIY applications, not professional wood cutting.
What We Like
- Lightweight and Compact Design
- Easier to Handle
- Easy Start Technology
- Tool-less chain tensioning
- Rapid charger and battery included
What We Don't Like
- Not recommended for cutting larger trees
- Less powerful than a gas chainsaw
5. Husqvarna 120 Mark II Chainsaw—Best Gasoline Chainsaw under $250 Budget
Type: Gas Powered | Bar Length: 16 inches | Engine: 38 CC| Weight: 10.7 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Gasoline chainsaws are the most efficient and powerful. They do not require a power source like electric chainsaws and are highly recommended for outdoor applications. Husqvarna 120 is rated as one of the most powerful chainsaws for under 250 dollars.
Whether you are cutting down trees, maintaining your backyard, or cutting pressed wood for construction, the Husqvarna 120 would not disappoint you. Besides the power of a traditional gas chainsaw, the tool is also equipped with various advanced technologies.
One of the most common problems faced with gas chainsaws was excessive vibration. The Husqvarna 120 uses Low Vibration technology which reduces the vibrations and kickbacks from the chainsaw providing you comfortable control of the tool.
Low maintenance is also one of the prime features of this chainsaw. Unlike other gasoline chainsaws, the Husqvarna 120 does not require cleaning that often. When I took the filter out after a week of use, it was much cleaner than I expected it to be.
The reason is the innovative Air Injection technology of Husqvarna. The unique technology keeps the dust and debris away from the air filter, preventing it from even entering the air stream. Hence, the filter remains clean and requires less maintenance.
Husqvarna also takes pride in its safety features. The inertia-activated chain-brake system enhances the safety of the user. The chainsaw reduces the kickback possibilities and the unique brake technology keeps the user completely safe.
The chainsaw suffers from common problems that the use of a gasoline chainsaw has to face. Noise and fumes are inevitable, but Husqvarna has reduced them considerably by using advanced technologies.
What We Like
- Multi-purpose Chainsaw
- Low Vibration Technology
- Requires less maintenance
- Air Injection technology increases the life of Air Filter
- Inertia Activated chain brake system
What We Don't Like
- Noise and fumes, a common problem of gas chainsaws
- Sometimes it takes more than 3 pulls to start
6. Poulan Pro PR4218—Best Budget Gasoline Chainsaw with Carrying Case Included
Type: Gas Powered | Bar Length: 18 inches | Engine: 42 CC| Weight: 13.25 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
One of the best professional chainsaws for storm cleanup, cutting down trees, and cutting firewood. The Poulan Pro is designed for outdoor professional applications and comes with a complete set of accessories.
It is truly a surprise that this chainsaw can be bought for under 250 dollars. Well, considering the budget range, it is a bit more expensive than its competitors on the list, but it is best suited for all sorts of tasks. It can be termed an all-in-one chainsaw.
OxyPower is an innovative technology patented by Poulan Pro. This technology enhances the power and performance of the chainsaw while reducing fuel consumption. Hence, the chainsaw will consume less fuel and produce fewer fumes.
Starting a gasoline chainsaw has never been easier. The Effortless Pull Starting technology ensures that the chainsaw starts in fewer pulls. During our tests, the chainsaw started every time in the first 3 pulls.
Maintenance is a lot easier with the onboard Scrench. Scrench is a combination of screw and wrench which allows you to adjust chain tension. Unlike other chainsaws, the Poulan Pro provides you the option of storing the Scrench in a dedicated space.
Superior air filtering technology prevents large dust particles and debris from entering the chainsaw air filter compartment. Hence, the efficiency of the air filter increases along with its life. An air filter does not require cleaning or swapping that often.
The chainsaw is designed to assist professional needs, which means it comes with a large bar size and also weighs more than its competitors. If you are looking for a budget chainsaw for backyard work, this product is not for you.
What We Like
- 70% fewer emissions
- 20% less fuel consumption
- Effortless starting technology
- On-board Scrench holder
- Professional chainsaw for woodworking tasks
What We Don't Like
- Costs a bit higher than other chainsaws on the list
- A bit heavier
7. CRAFTSMAN 41AY4216791 Chainsaw—Best Budget Chainsaw under $200
Type: Gas Powered | Bar Length: 16 inches | Engine: 42 CC| Weight: 12.22 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Experience greater power with less vibration. Craftsman is another powerful professional chainsaw on the list which is gas-powered. Compared to the previous chainsaw, Craftsman costs a lot less and provides you with equally powerful features.
The advanced engine of this chainsaw provides you with exceptional power and performance. The double-cycle engine ensures enough power to cut through the toughest of woods with ease. The innovative design produces fewer vibrations, providing you with better control.
You won’t feel any fatigue or discomfort when using this chainsaw because of its lightweight design. The durable poly chassis is strong and sturdy, which provides you with both a lightweight design and efficient handling.
Unlike other chainsaws, the Craftsman S165 provides you an adjustable automatic chain oiler. You can adjust the amount of lubrication as per the task, and it will keep the bar and chain oil. The transparent side allows you to monitor the oil levels.
One of the most common problems with gas chainsaws is starting them. Pulling the rope consumes a lot of effort, but not with this chainsaw. The easy-start technology allows you to start the chainsaw in fewer pulls.
Control your chainsaw easily with ergonomic design and handles which keep your comfort in check. The three-point anti-vibration system provides you with superior comfort and reduces user fatigue while handling the chainsaw.
The chainsaw comes fully assembled but does not come with any accessories. Hence, you will have to purchase the carrying case and extra chain yourself. Also, the chainsaw is a bit less powerful compared to the Poulan chainsaw we discussed previously.
Explore: How to Change the Fuel Lines on a Craftsman Chainsaw?
What We Like
- Exceptional power and performance
- Lightweight and Durable Chassis
- Ergonomic Handles for Superior Control
- Easy starting technology
- Automatically adjustable oiling system
What We Don't Like
- A bit less powerful compared to the previous chainsaw, but lighter
- Does not come with a carrying case or extra chain
8. DEWALT 20V MAX XR—Best Budget 12-Inch Chainsaw 2024
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Bar Length: 12 inch | Power: 20 V | Weight: 8.8 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
We have one of the bestselling chainsaws in 2024 that you can get for just under 150 dollars. The DEWALT Max XR chainsaw is designed for home use and provides efficient performance for DIY applications.
The chainsaw comes with a 12-inch bar size which is suitable for cutting firewood, branches, limbs, and smaller wood logs. It is the perfect tool, and the best part is, that it is cordless. So, no more fumes or noise of a gas chainsaw.
Compact and lightweight, these are the two most sought-after features in a chainsaw for homeowners. If you are going to be using a chainsaw in your home, it has to be compact and easy to handle.
DEWALT XR Chainsaw is highly recommended by professionals for home use because it provides you the power of a gasoline chainsaw without the fumes or the vibrations. The low kickback technology prevents any kickback and allows you to use it with ease.
The highly efficient brushless motor provides you double torque as compared to other battery-powered chainsaws. Hence, the power of this chainsaw can match the equivalent of gas chainsaws.
Furthermore, the tool-less chain tensioning system removes the hassle of keeping chain tensioning tools with you all the time. Just open the knob and adjust the chain tension and close it tightly.
The only problem is the small bar size which prevents the chainsaw to be used for professional tree cutting applications. The chainsaw is only suitable for home use. Also, the battery and charger are not included, so you will have to purchase them separately.
What We Like
- Lightweight and Compact Design
- Highly Efficient Brushless Motor
- Tool-less Chain Tensioning System
- Ideal for Home Use
- Low Kickback Function
What We Don't Like
- Not recommended to cut down trees
- Battery and charger are not included
9. HUYOSEN Gas Chainsaw—Best Budget 20” Chainsaw 2024
Type: Gas Powered | Bar Length: 20 inches | Engine: 62 CC| Weight: 14.8 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Let’s say you have to take down some really big and wide trees, but you are looking for a budget-friendly option to do so. Well, we have got just the right chainsaw for you. The HUYOSEN gasoline chainsaw is the perfect choice to go.
The chainsaw provides you with amazing value for money. You have monstrous power, massive bar size, and the latest features all combined in a single machine. Moreover, the chainsaw is efficiently designed and comes in a lightweight body.
Monstrous power with 62cc two-stroke engine which allows you to bring down even the largest of trees with ease. The low kickback function allows you to remain in complete control of the chainsaw.
Worried about a tiring rope-pulling start mechanism? Don’t be. This gasoline chainsaw comes with an innovative electronic ignition system which makes starting the chainsaw a lot easier. Hence, accessing the power of the chainsaw will be at your fingertips.
One would not want to be injured by this extremely powerful chainsaw. To prevent that, the chainsaw incorporates advanced chain brake technology. It is also equipped with a safety switch that prevents an accidental startup.
The handle is designed with a comfortable grip to provide you with a comfortable user experience. Anti-skid grip and shock absorption technology allows you to remain tireless, and work for a longer time without feeling any fatigue.
No onboard space for storing the tools that are required to adjust the chain tension. Hence, you will need a separate bag for storing those tools and keeping them with you, as you can need one at any time.
What We Like
- Powerful Motor Performance
- Electronic Ignition System
- Advanced Safety Features
- Anti-skid grip on Handles
- Shock Absorption Technology to reduce vibrations
What We Don't Like
- No on-board storage space for chain tension adjustment tools
- Doesn’t come fully assembled
10. WEMARS Gas Chainsaw—Best Cheap 18-Inch Gas Chainsaw
Type: Gas Powered | Bar Length: 18 inches | Engine: 52 CC| Weight: 17.9 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
One of the most powerful gas chainsaws you can find for such a low price point. Wemars gas chainsaw is equipped with a longer guide bar and chain that can help you take down whole trees.
So, if you are looking for a budget-friendly chainsaw that can help you with a medium to heavy storm clean up and maintain a large property, then you can’t find a better option than the cutting tool offered by Wemars.
Wemars 52cc gas chainsaw is a high-performance tool with a 2-stroke engine, integrated chain brake, excellent ignition, low kickback, and much more.
You have ultimate power in your hands for a smooth and effortless cutting performance, even when dealing with thick and hard trees.
The integrated chain brake ensures safety and prevents any accidents from happening during chainsaw operation. The low-kickback feature also makes it safer and more comfortable.
With an excellent electronic ignition system, you can start the engine with just a couple of pulls.
Adding to this, the maintenance of this tool is much easier with an automatic adjustable chain oiler and a quick and easy chain adjustment system. The knob-type side adjustment has an auto-tightening feature, which makes it easier to operate.
You won’t see more comfortable and ergonomic handles with any other chainsaw. The design includes anti-vibration front and back handles along with a cushioned wrap-around handle which ensures comfortable operation.
Moreover, the advanced air filtration technology provides a longer-lasting filter life. This means you wouldn’t have to change the air filter very often. The quick-release function makes it easier to remove and clean the filter.
Air injection carburetor reduces emissions and increases fuel efficiency, providing you maximum runtime on the chainsaw.
What We Like
- High-Performance Gas Chainsaw
- Integrated Chain Brake System
- Effortless Starting Technology
- Easy Maintenance
- Comfortable and Ergonomic Handles
- Advanced Air Filtration Technology
- Reduced Emissions
What We Don't Like
- Carrying Case Not Included
- Some users reported issues with the chain tensioning knob
Buying Guide: What to Expect from the Best Budget Chainsaw?
Selecting the best budget chainsaw can be a difficult task, especially when you have so many options available in the market. So, if you don’t know what to look for, you might end up making the wrong decision.
Hence, to help you out, we will briefly discuss some of the most important aspects that you must look for in a budget-friendly chainsaw. Some features must never be compromised upon, no matter the price, or you will end up regretting them later.
Corded or Cordless Chainsaw
If you want to go with power and performance under a low budget, corded chainsaws are a good option. Because of their corded power source, their prices are extremely low and also they provide you with efficient power.
However, many users who need chainsaws for outdoor applications do not prefer them. Mainly because they can’t find an electric power source near the place they have to use the chainsaw.
So, they can go with either gasoline chainsaws or battery-powered chainsaws. Both of these chainsaws are cordless, but battery-powered chainsaws are more efficient as they are easier to control, with less weight and fewer vibrations.
But, if you need chainsaws for professional tasks, where no compromise can be made on the power, then you must select a gas chainsaw. They are the most powerful ones, and there are plenty of good options under a good budget range.
Bar Size
In a budget-friendly chainsaw, the bar size would be especially limited. You cannot expect to buy a 24-inch or 20-inch bar size for taking down the largest of trees to come under a low budget.
Hence, you will have to make do with what you get. If you have a low budget, it’s best to factor in the task for which you will be purchasing the chainsaw.
However, if you are just purchasing the chainsaw for backyard work like trimming branches, cutting limbs, and cutting firewood, then a 12-14 inch bar size is more than enough.
If you are planning on maintaining a property and cutting small to medium-sized trees, then a 14 to 16-inch bar size should suffice. You can easily find these bar sizes in a good budget range.
Handles and Design
No compromise can be made on the comfortability and ergonomics of the chainsaw. If the chainsaw you are checking out is not comfortable to hold or move around with your physique, then you should not buy it, that’s our honest recommendation.
You must ensure that the machine you purchase is comfortable to use. The handles have a firm grip and are rubberized or have anti-skid marks on them.
Moreover, the design of the chainsaw is also important. The chainsaw must be comfortable to move around, come in a lightweight design, and must have ergonomic front and rear handles.
Read More: Chainsaw RPM and Spinning Discussed in Detail
Safety Features
Although it is highly recommended that you wear safety equipment including helmet, gloves, and pants when using a chainsaw to protect yourself that does not mean that you can overlook the safety features of a chainsaw.
The chainsaw must have spikes on the chain to ensure a grip of the cutting chain on the wood. This feature will improve the low kickback function which will keep the chainsaw firmly in place.
The splinters guard is also a mandatory option. It will protect your hand from accidental splinters that fly back. Also, chain brake must be considered. An efficient chain brake can be a matter of life and death for a chainsaw user.
Many chainsaws also provide unique and efficient safety features that are exclusive to the manufacturer. Like a safety switch, or throttle safety plug that can prevent an accidental startup, etc. So, if your budget permits, you can also consider these options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are low-budget chainsaws good?
Yes, you can find plenty of good chainsaws under a low budget. We have shared quite a few of them in the above guide. The most cost-efficient chainsaws are corded electric chainsaws. Gasoline and battery-powered chainsaws are a bit expensive.
Can I buy a 16-inch chainsaw for under 200 dollars?
Yes, you can buy a 16-inch chainsaw for under 200 dollars. If you are willing to go with corded electric options, you can even find the said chainsaw for under 100 dollars. Also, there are few gasoline and battery-powered ones under 200 as well. Check out our top picks above.
What size tree can I cut with a 16-inch chainsaw?
Ideally, you can cut any tree that has a diameter up to 14 inches with a 16-inch chainsaw. However, if you are cutting a log, then you can even cut a 20-inch log with a 16-inch chainsaw, as you will have the option to turn it around.
Can I connect an 18-inch bar with a 16-inch chainsaw?
Technically, a chainsaw allows for a two-inch margin in bar sizes. However, you will have to confirm it with your manufacturer. You can connect an 18-inch bar with a 16-inch chainsaw, but it won’t be as efficient in cutting.
Are professional chainsaws for cutting trees expensive?
The chainsaws used by professionals for wood cutting are mostly gasoline-powered. These chainsaws are extremely powerful and cut down whole trees with ease, hence they are bound to be expensive. However, there are some cost-effective options you can find.
Final Takeaways: What is the Best Budget Chainsaw in 2024?
A good budget chainsaw provides you with ample power to cut down trees with ease. Chainsaws aren’t as expensive as you might think, the price depends on the features that you want in your chainsaw.
In this article, we have discussed in detail what kind of chainsaw you can get for a good budget. We have shared some of the best available options in the market. If we had to pick one, we would definitely recommend you to go with our top pick Husqvarna 120, which is one of the most powerful gasoline chainsaws for under 250 to 300 dollars.
However, if you are running really low on money, then a corded electric chainsaw like Worx 303.1 is a good option. You can also go with battery-powered options that are as efficient as a gas chainsaw without noise or fumes problems.
However, they will be more expensive than the corded electric options. The corded electric option is the most cost-efficient choice. Good Luck.
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.
- IMOUMLIVE Mini Chainsaw Review: [Fast, Compact, Lightweight] - December 11, 2023
- 10 Types of Chainsaw Explained in Detail for Homeowners - January 23, 2023
- What is Chainsaw Rake? A Guide for Beginners - January 21, 2023