Top 7 Best Chainsaw Tachometer Tested for 2024

A chainsaw tachometer is an indispensable tool for every chainsaw user. This compact and handy device allows you to measure the speed of your chainsaw’s engine. 

Accurately calculating the RPM of your engine allows you to optimize its performance, prevent engine damage and extend the service life of your tool. 

There are a vast number of tachometers available in the market, so it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. 

That’s where I come in! I have researched, tested, and reviewed some of the top products in the market and compiled a list of the 7 best tachometers available with in-depth reviews that will help you in making an informed decision. 

So, without any further ado, let’s dive into the details of these amazing tachometers that I have handpicked just for you. 

Top 7 Best Chainsaw Tachometers in 2024 Tested

1. Hipa Chainsaw Tachometer

A versatile and essential tool for a 2-cycle engine that helps you keep track of your chainsaw engine. 

With a real-time reading of 16,000 rpm, this amazing chainsaw tachometer is compatible with a wide range of brands including Stihl, Husqvarna, Echo, Ryobi, and more. 

A must-have for any two-cycle engine owner. The versatile tool can be used on a variety of machines and brands. 

It also comes with tons of accessories that help you maintain and clean your chainsaw easily. 

The carburetor cleaning brushes and needles make your work a lot easier. Each accessory is made through an advanced heat treatment process which makes them durable and gives them a corrosion-resistant finish. 

All of the accessories along with the tachometer come in an organized carrying case that makes your tools easily accessible.

However, if you just need a tachometer and not these cleaning and maintenance accessories, then this product might not be for you. 

Why Consider Hipa Chainsaw Tachometer?

An indispensable tool for monitoring and maintaining a 2-cycle engine. It comes with a wide compatibility range and easy to use design. 

 

2. Runleader Digital Tachometer

Runleader tachometer is an all-in-one solution that allows you to keep track of the performance of your chainsaw engine. 

You can track engine hours, RPMs, and maintenance reminders. Not only chainsaws, but can also use this tool for ZTR lawnmowers, tractors, generators, marine outboards, and ATVs. 

A versatile and valuable tool that not only serves the function of a tachometer but also teaches hour calculation. 

Adding to this, the customizable service timer helps you keep track of all the maintenance reminders and keep your tool in optimal condition.

This amazing tool comes with a waterproof rating of IP65 and is resistant to high pressure, shock, and extreme temperature. A perfect tool with rugged construction built to withstand rough usage. 

Moreover, this tachometer is extremely easy to install and comes with a detailed instruction manual that will help you learn how to use it. Accessible to all users, even beginners. 

Also, the internal battery is replaceable, and the best part is, the device will retain your data even after the battery dies or the device is shut down. 

On the downside, the tool is only suitable for small engines and will not help you when dealing with high-performance engines that have higher rpm than 20,000. 

Why Consider a Runleader Digital Tachometer?

An ideal tool to keep track of your engine performance. The rugged construction ensures that the tool can withstand the harshest of conditions. 

 

3. Timorn Tachometer for Small Engine

Another tool that is very efficient in small engine maintenance is the Timorn tachometer. It is a versatile and waterproof device that is compatible with a wide range of devices. 

So, not only you can use this tool for chainsaws but also for a wide range of other devices including lawnmowers, , motorcycles, ATVs, and more. 

First of all, this amazing device comes for a very reasonable price and yet offers multi-functional features like an hour meter, RPM reader, and service timer. All of it is in a compact design. 

It supports both 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines and is compatible with not only chainsaws but also a wide range of other machinery as well. 

Adding to this, the installation is very simple. You are only required to wrap the wire tightly around the engine’s spark plug. 

Learn More: Chainsaw Chain Speed Calculator

Moreover, the device comes in a waterproof design ensuring its longevity and sturdiness. The internal battery is replaceable, so you can always keep some extra with you. 

On the downside, the device doesn’t come with any additional accessories. No extra battery is included with the tool. 

Why Consider Timorn Tachometer for Small Engines?

If you have a small gas engine chainsaw, then this tool is perfect for your needs and limited budget. A reliable solution for engine monitoring and maintenance. 

 

4. Runleader Digital Mini Tach

If you are running low on budget and looking for the cheapest tachometer in the market, but one that doesn’t compromise on quality, then you won’t find a better option than Runleader Digital Mini Tach. 

A compact device with simple functionality. You get what you pay for. The device will serve two main functions, including total engine runtime, and real-time RPM display. So, you have all the information you need. 

Although low in price, the tool comes with an amazing rpm range of 0-30,600, which beats all of the above products on the list. 

So, what’s the catch? Well, the accuracy is only 10 rpm, which might not be suitable for some users who need a specific count.

Adding to this, the device comes with enhanced waterproofing and is tested for high pressure, vibration, and temperature resistance. 

Read More: Top 8 Best Chainsaw Scrench Tested for 2024

Also, it is extremely easy to install and can be used almost instantly after taking it out of the box. The battery is long-lasting and won’t run out for a couple of years. 

Why Consider Runleader Digital Mini Tach?

For those who are on a budget and need a tachometer and tach hour meter functionality, Runleader Digital Mini Tach is a perfect choice. 

 

5. Bohisen Digital Chainsaw Tachometer

Next, we have the Bohisen digital tachometer which is also a versatile and reliable tool for both monitoring and maintaining various gas engines. 

With the large LCD display, you can easily monitor the stats and with easy installation, you can use the device on a wide range of machines. 

Coming at a reasonable price, the Bohisen tachometer features both a tachometer and an hour meter, displaying rpm and engine hours of operation. 

Unlike the previous model, this one does allow you to reset the total hours and the tachometer can read rpm to very high levels. 

The device is easy to use and comes with a clip and body inductive design. It only requires a simple connection to the spark plug. 

Similar to other devices, it also comes in a waterproof design and is built to withstand tough environmental conditions. 

Although it is a bit more expensive than the previous product I mentioned, it surely makes up for it in terms of range and functionality. 

Why Consider Bohisen Digital Chainsaw Tachometer?

This amazing tool offers excellent functionality, ease of use, and compatibility with various gas engines for a reasonable price. The hour meter has a reset function.

 

6. The ROP Shop Tachomete

If you have a good budget, then you should probably save yourself from the hassle of wires and get a wireless tachometer that is both compact and handy. 

The ROP Shop’s wireless tachometer is designed to be used with chainsaws and trimmers. It comes in a convenient design and allows you to measure the RPM of your engine easily. 

With the wireless design, you can save yourself from the trouble of connecting spark wires and just calculate RPM instantly when needed. 

The device is very simple to use. There is only one button operation and it has detailed instructions on the back. 

Adding to this, the compact design of the device makes it easier to carry around. 

One of the most distinguishing features of this device is the pulse activation technology. It automatically detects the pulse generated by the ignition system and turns it on. 

The device automatically saves the maximum RPM and will show it when you press the on button again.

On the downside, this tachometer does not have any other functionality. It doesn’t calculate the hours or service reminders, which is a bit disappointing considering all the money you have spent. Well, the wireless function is surely expensive. 

Why Consider The ROP Shop Tachometer?

If you are looking for a wireless rpm calculator, then this is a good choice. Investing in a wireless device saves you from the hassle of a wire connection. 

 

7. Mahaishangmao Chainsaw Tachometer

If you are looking to get the best value for your money, then you should probably check out the Mahaishangmao tachometer, which is a portable and easy-to-use device. 

It is small and lightweight, which makes it easier to store and travel with. You can take it out whenever you are in need of it, and then store it back again.

Adding to this, the device comes with an LCD display, which is easy to read while using. It also has a clip on the back that will hold the spark wire and allow you to easily monitor the speed of the machine.

Moreover, the tachometer also comes with a reset function, which will reset the total hours and maintenance time. The included user guide helps you understand the functions fully. 

The built-in battery ensures long-lasting power, low-voltage design, and safe and reliable functionality. Also, it is easier to replace. 

On the downside, the product doesn’t have any wireless or pulse activation system which is completely justifiable considering the reasonable price. 

Why Consider Mahaishangmao Chainsaw Tachometer?

A perfect device for monitoring and maintaining your chainsaw engine. Come with multi-feature functionality and is easy to use. 

 

Buying Guide: Choosing a Reliable Chainsaw Tachometer in 2024

Although the tachometer might seem like a simple device, choosing one among many can be a daunting task, especially when you have so many options available. 

So, I decided to write a comprehensive guide that will help you navigate through various factors and help you select the best chainsaw tachometer. 

Here’s what you should look for while purchasing one:

Rotations Per Minute (RPM)

RPM is the most important factor when choosing this product. We have discussed various products in the above guide that come with RPM ranging from 10,000 to 99,999. 

But, you don’t need that much RPM for chainsaws. On average, a tachometer that can measure up to 30,000 on average should be fine for a small to medium-sized chainsaw engine. 

You could always go higher and invest in a high-quality measuring tool, but that will depend on the type and power of the chainsaw you have.

Accuracy

Accuracy is also an important factor. You should not get a cheap knockoff tool because they come with a high margin of error and also their accuracy is quite low. 

For chainsaws, an accuracy of 10 RPM is good enough, and you will find that in most tools that are reasonably priced. 

If you invest in a higher quality tool, you will get the accuracy of even 1 RPM, but I don’t think that is needed unless you are a tech geek and need highly precise results for calculations. 

Display 

The display should be easily readable. That is all that matters. Without a clear display, a tachometer is useless. 

You have two options when considering this product. You can either go for an analog display or a digital one. Analog displays are outdated, but they are still used and give you an idea of the rpm. 

Digital LCDs are much better and if you are getting a backlit one, that’s just icing on the cake. 

Wired or Wireless

Wireless tachometers are the most modern products on the market. Catch? Well, they are wildly expensive. 

Yes, they are highly accurate and save you from the hassle of connecting wires as they detect the pulse from the engine to calculate RPM, but you have to have a good budget to buy one. 

It is not mandatory for you to purchase one, but if you can afford one, consider it a good investment. 

Compatibility

These devices are designed for specific types of engines. Some are for two-cycle engines while others are for four-cycle engines. 

So, you must check for compatibility before purchasing one of these. Choosing the wrong one will give you wrong readings and you might not be able to monitor or maintain your tool properly without even knowing what’s wrong. 

Ease of Use and Installation

The device should be easy to use and install. The wired ones come with a wire or clamp that you have to attach to the spark plug to calculate or monitor the rotation of the tool. 

A compact, lightweight device with single-button operation is considered the best because it is easy to use. 

The device should have a back clamp that would allow you to attach it to the tool stably to monitor the rpm as you use the device. 

Build Quality and Durability

Another crucial factor is the durability of the tool. You will be using the device in tough and harsh environments with likely chances of it falling off from your hands or from the device. 

So, if you purchase one with poor build quality, it might immediately break when it falls. 

Invest in a good-quality tool that has high durability and can withstand harsh conditions. 

Waterproofing

A good quality device comes with an epoxy or plastic covering that protects them from water. Waterproofing is mandatory for a tachometer. 

Your device, often, will be exposed to water, dust, and debris. So, you must make sure that it remains protected. 

Without waterproofing, even a single splash of water can cause severe damage to your device and short-circuit it. 

Power Source

Tachometers either work on a AAA battery or a CR2450 battery. The power delivery system is also significant in the choice of the right device. 

After intensive testing, we came to know that the CR2450 batteries last much longer and give an additional power boost to the device, and are preferred to the AAA batteries. 

The AAA batteries will require frequent replacement which can become a hassle. So, you must consider the power source before purchasing the device. 

Budget

Last but not least, budget is the most important factor when it comes to selecting the right tachometer for the job. 

Analog tachometers are the cheapest, but they are not very reliable when it comes to accuracy. Determining the exact rpm can be a bit difficult with one of these. 

Digital ones are more precise but may cost a bit extra. However, they are not considered expensive as you can get a good quality one under a 20 dollars budget. 

Lastly, wireless devices are the most expensive ones. They are integrated with a pulse detection feature and don’t need to be attached to your chainsaw with a wire. A good investment. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should the rpm be on a tachometer for a chainsaw?

The rpm range varies depending on the type and model of the tachometer you are purchasing. Generally, it ranges from 2500 to 30,000 rpm, but you can get it even higher if you invest in a good quality one. 

How do you use a tachometer on a chainsaw?

It is really simple to use. Simply attach the tachometer to the spark plug wire and start the chainsaw. The tachometer will display the rotations per minute (RPM) in real-time. Depending on features, it might also record the max and min rpm of the tool. 

How do I choose a tachometer?

Choosing a tachometer requires consideration of several important factors including the type of engine you will be choosing it on. Some are designed specifically for small engines, while others are made for heavy-duty engines. 

Are the tachometer and RPM meter the same?

Yes, the rpm meter and tachometer are the same. Both devices are used for measuring rpm on a chainsaw or any other device with an engine. However, the tachometer might come with some additional features.

What is the high RPM for the Stihl chainsaw?

The high rpm of a Stihl chainsaw depends on the model and power of the tool. It can range from 10,000 to 30,000 for light to medium-duty tools and can go even higher for heavy-duty Stihl chainsaws. 

Final Takeaways: 

To sum it all up, the tachometer is an important device that helps you monitor the rpm of your tool and maintain it in a better way.

The above guide provides you an insight into the top chainsaw tachometers that are available in the market. 

If I were to recommend one, I would definitely ask you to go with the Hipa chainsaw tachometer, which is without a doubt the best chainsaw tachometer on the list because of its versatile use and wide compatibility range. 

I hope the guide helps you find the best device for your needs and budget. Good Luck!