From trimming branches to taking down whole trees, a chainsaw is a tool that every homeowner needs in their arsenal.
But, not everyone is willing to spend a fortune to get one. If you are a beginner looking for an average-level chainsaw or a homeowner who wants something high quality that won’t cost him too much, then don’t worry I have got you covered.
There are plenty of chainsaws you can find on a 300 dollars budget, so it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. After thorough research and intense testing, I was able to find the 7 best chainsaws under $300 that offer the best value for money.
Whether you are a professional or just a DIY enthusiast, these tools will help you get the job done quickly and efficiently.
Let’s dive into the amazing details of these products, so you can find the right chainsaw for your needs and budget.
Top 7 Best Chainsaws Under $300 in 2024 Compared
1. Husqvarna 120 Gas Chainsaw
Type: Gas Powered | Bar Length: 16 inch | Engine: 38cc | Weight: 10.7 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Husqvarna doesn’t need any introduction to the chainsaw world. It’s a world-renowned brand that has proven its worth with a wide range of high-quality products.
The Husqvarna 120 is the best tool you can find on a $300 budget, regardless of whether you are a homeowner or professional.
Looking for quality, reliability, performance, or efficiency? Don’t worry, this best chainsaw under $300 in 2024 has got it all.
Worried about the heaviness because it’s a gasoline-powered tool? Don’t be, Husqvarna chainsaws have a lightweight design.
Truly, they have got everything covered and that’s what I absolutely love about them. This amazing gas-powered tool allows you to take care of a wide range of cutting tasks while remaining in complete control of the tool.
The best part, you are not limited to the bar size that’s attached. You can even attach the 14-inch or 18-inch bar with the engine and get the same level of performance. However, you will have to purchase them separately.
This amazing tool comes with Effortless Start-up technology that allows you to easily start the tool without exerting much force.
Adding to this, the inertia-activated chain brake system enhances safety and reduces the risk of accidents. You can bring the chain to an immediate stop in case of a mishap.
Moreover, the tool comes with low-vibration technology which will provide easy maneuverability and enhanced comfort for the user. Trust me, it’s so lightweight that even old people can easily move this tool around.
However, there is a bit of a downside. The tool doesn’t come with any accessories, not even a carrying bag or case. So, you will have to purchase them separately.
What We Like
- Powerful and Efficient
- Increased Fuel Efficiency
- Reduced Emissions
- Low Vibration Technology
- Easy Starting Feature
- Advanced Air Filtration
- Independent Choke
What We Don't Like
- Doesn’t Come with a Carrying Case
- No Other Cons
Why Consider Husqvarna 120 Gas Chainsaw?
If you need a versatile, powerful, and efficient tool that can take care of any woodcutting task under 300 dollars, then this is a perfect choice.
2. Husqvarna 16 Inch 130 Gas Chainsaw
Type: Gas Powered | Bar Length: 16 inch | Engine: 38cc | Weight: 10.36 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Not satisfied with the above pick? Think it is not powerful enough for your heavy-duty cutting application? Well, I doubt that.
But for those who want to go with an upgraded design, the Husqvarna 130 is a more suitable option. Yes, it does cost a teeny bit extra, but definitely worth it.
This tool is designed for professionals and is more suitable for felling trees, and storm cleanups but you can also use it for cutting firewood, trimming, and pruning tasks.
It also comes with easy starting technology, an inertia-activated chain brake, and a choke/stop control that prevents the engine from flooding and makes this tool the best gas-powered chainsaw under $300.
The best part is, the Husqvarna 130 is equipped with an X-Torq engine that offers superior performance and increases the efficiency of the tool.
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The emissions from the tool are reduced by up to 60% with this engine, while the fuel efficiency is increased by 20%.
Adding to this, the air filtration technology you get with this tool is just exceptional. Not only the filtration system expels larger dust and debris particles but also extends the air filter life.
Being the upgraded model, this one is a bit more lightweight than the previous model but it also costs a bit extra.
On the downside, the tool does not come with any accessories included. Even a bar cover needs to be purchased separately, but that won’t cost you now, would it?
What We Like
- Superior Performance
- Quick Start with Air Purge
- Stop Switch
- Air Injection Technology
- Easier Handling
- Enhanced User Comfort
- Versatile Functionality
What We Don't Like
- No Accessories with the tool
- Not recommended for very thick trees
Why Consider Husqvarna 130?
Upgraded performance, better efficiency, and sleek design. The Husqvarna 130 is designed for professionals for tree felling and medium-level storm cleanup.
3. Greenworks Pro 80V Chainsaw
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Bar Length: 18 inch | Battery: 80V Max, 2.0 AH | Weight: 10.8 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Worried about the gas emissions from the chainsaw? Although Husqvarna significantly reduces them, the emissions and noise from a gas chainsaw could never be reduced to zero.
So, people who are environmentally conscious or are working in sensitive areas, like near waterways, have to opt for electric tools that have zero emissions and minimum noise. In that scenario, Greenworks Pro 80V is a perfect choice.
This cordless electric chainsaw is equipped with a brushless motor that offers higher torque and superior performance as compared to other electric chainsaws.
Tru-Brushless motor technology ensures more power, extended runtime, quieter operation, and longer motor service life, making sure that the power and performance of this tool match that of a gas chainsaw.
Adding to this, the tool is equipped with an automatic oiler and an easily adjustable chain tensioning system which makes maintenance a breeze and makes this tool the best battery chainsaw under $300.
The best part, there is no choke, no rope pulling, no cleaning, no oil and gas mixing, etc. The rest of the service is a breeze.
You can start the chainsaw with just the press of a button, instead of hassling with the rope-pull mechanism.
However, there is a bit of a downside. This product has a bit of a higher price point than other ones on the list, but that is totally justifiable considering the amazing performance of this tool.
What We Like
- Ideal for Professional Use
- High-Quality Brushless Motor
- Automatic Oiler
- Easy Chain Adjustment
- Efficient and Powerful Performance
- Convenient Usage
What We Don't Like
- A bit higher price point than other products on the list
- Bar cover not included
Why Consider Greenworks Pro 80V?
An efficient and quieter alternative to gas-powered tools that offers equivalent performance without any of the emissions.
4. Milwaukee M18 FUEL Chainsaw
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Bar Length: 16 inch | Battery: 18V, 12 Ah | Weight: 13.9 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
You must have heard a lot of times that an electric or battery-powered chainsaw can never match the performance or power of a gas chainsaw. Well, Milwaukee M18 really puts that statement to the test and proves otherwise.
The M18 FUEL is one of the most powerful cordless chainsaws that offers the best value for money. The tool has the ability to cut through any type of wood, even hardwood like slicing a knife through butter.
Adding to this, the cutting speed of the tool is faster than gas and provides up to 150 cuts on a single charge. Yes, that doesn’t compare to our previous pick, but in terms of power, the M18 is much superior.
This amazing tool is equipped with advanced technology and a durable body that can withstand extreme wear and tear. The POWERSTATE brushless motor technology ensures that its performance easily beats that of gas engines and high-voltage motors.
Moreover, the Redlink Plus Intelligence technology ensures that the battery performs at its best and there is no overload, overheating, or over-discharge making it the best $300 chainsaw for the money.
The battery itself might seem low voltage because of the 18V mark, but in reality, it is 12 Ah which is three times the power of a conventional battery of chainsaw. So, you will surely get an unmatched performance.
In other words, the extreme performance and the high-capacity innovative battery will ensure that the chain reaches full throttle in less than a second. Just like I said, cutting through butter.
On the downside, the tool doesn’t come with a battery or charger, so you will have to purchase them separately. You must know that the battery is quite expensive because of its distinguishing features.
What We Like
- Ideal for Cutting Hardwood
- Powerful Brushless Motor
- Variable Speed Control
- Easy Access Oil Tank
- All-Metal Bucking Spokes
- On-Board Tool Storage
- 20% Faster Cuts
What We Don't Like
- Battery and Charger are not included
- Battery is expensive
Why Consider Milwaukee M18?
Milwaukee M18 is the best bang for the buck as it offers unmatchable performance that even beats some of the gas chainsaws. Definitely the best product for your money.
5. EGO Power+ CS1800
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Bar Length: 18 inch | Battery: 56V Max, 5 AH | Weight: 12.4 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Because of the extremely high cost of the Milwaukee M18’s battery, many people might not go for that option, even though I consider it a good investment.
So, for those who want the best cordless chainsaw under $300, a more affordable tool that has less expensive batteries, EGO Power+ is a reliable choice.
The tool comes with high-voltage battery compatibility which ensures heavy-duty performance and efficient cutting experience.
The CS1800 is an advanced cutting machine that is equipped with a brushless motor. This motor offers much higher performance and efficiency to the tool, allowing it to match the performance of gas chainsaws.
Adding to this, this amazing tool also comes with a simple auto-tensioning system which allows you to make quick adjustments to the chain and bar during operation. You just have to twist the dial and the job is done.
Moreover, the tool is equipped with bright LED lights that help you work in the dark easily and illuminate the area. Hence, you will have no problem working in the evenings or at night in your backyard.
The best part, a single charge will provide you with up to 300 cuts. Yes, the performance might not be as good as cutting through hardwood, but 300 cuts through 4×4 pressed wood are not that bad.
What We Like
- Long Lasting Battery Performance
- Tool-free Chain Tensioning
- Super Bright LED Lights
- High-Efficiency Brushless Motor
- Heavy Duty Performance
- Versatile Cutting Application
What We Don't Like
- No Hard Carrying Case
- Only compatible with Power+ batteries
Why Consider EGO Power+ CS1800?
A reliable and efficient tool that provides incredible performance within a cost-efficient price range. The auto-tensioning, high cutting speed, and high battery capacity are distinguishing features of this tool.
6. Ryobi 18 in. HP 40V
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Bar Length: 18 inch | Power: 40V Max | Weight: 15 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Looking for the most affordable chainsaw under $300, then Ryobi 18in. The tool is an ideal choice.
A perfect combo of power and convenience in your hands. With this tool, you have both the power and the length to take care of professional tasks like cutting out tree stumps and felling trees.
Best of all, this powerful tool is cordless electric, which means maintenance would be much easier as compared to a gas chainsaw.
Ryobi’s 18-inch chainsaw is equipped with a brushless motor that ensures efficient and superior performance as compared to other battery-powered tools.
One of the most distinguishing features of this tool is the adjustable automatic chain oiler, which allows you to adjust the lubrication levels according to season and usage. You won’t run out of your bar oil unnecessarily.
Adding to this, the tool has a simple tensioning system on the side. The onboard tool storage allows you to keep the tool always with you without the need for an accessory bag and make quick adjustments easily.
Moreover, there is also a mechanical chain brake on the tool which enhances safety and prevents any kickback.
Now, what I loved most about the chainsaw is that it comes with a hard carrying case that covers both the engine and the bar. So, it is really easy to travel with and will stay protected from all impacts.
However, on the downside, the tool is a bit heavier compared to the other chainsaws on the list and combined with the hard carrying case, it will be even heavier, which can be a difficulty for some people. Also, the battery and charger are not included.
What We Like
- Brushless Motor
- Heavy Duty Performance
- High Chain Speed
- Hard Carrying Case Included
- On-Board Tool Storage
- Simple Chain Tensioning
- Mechanical Chain Brake
What We Don't Like
- You will have to purchase the battery and charger separately
- A bit heavy compared to other tools on the list
Why Consider Ryobi 18 in. HP 40V?
The Ryobi 18-in tool offers reliable cutting performance for both occasional and professional users. The included hard carrying case makes it easier to travel with.
7. Husqvarna 120i Cordless Chainsaw
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Bar Length: 14 inch | Battery: 40V, 4 AH | Weight: 8.4 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Last but not the least, we have a cordless electric chainsaw from Husqvarna. If you are a homeowner and need a tool for trimming, pruning, and cutting small trees, then you won’t find a better chainsaw than the 120i model.
It is equipped with a brushless motor which ensures higher efficiency and cutting performance and makes it the best reliable chainsaw under $300.
The most distinguishing feature of this tool is its extremely lightweight design. Regardless of your age, physique, or gender, you will be able to easily control and maneuver this chainsaw.
Adding to this, there is an intuitive control pad on the tool that allows you to quickly start the tool and manage its operation.
One of the intelligent features of this tool is “saveE mode”. You can access it from the control pad. This feature allows you to maximize the efficiency of the tool and extend its runtime. Consider it like a power-up or boost mode for higher performance.
Moreover, the advanced technology used in the tool is completely noiseless. So, there will be quiet operations and no one will be bothered or annoyed when you are working. Not even the neighbor standing next to you.
The battery and charger are included with the tool, and also an orange bar cover is included to protect your bar and chain.
On the downside, the tool is not as powerful as gas-powered Husqvarna chainsaws. So, not suitable for heavy-duty applications.
What We Like
- Lightweight Design
- High Capacity Battery
- Intuitive Control Pad
- Inertia Activated Chain Brake
- Bar Cover Included
- Tool-less Chain Tensioning
- Fill-up Cap for Easy Access
What We Don't Like
- Not as powerful as Husqvarna Gas Chainsaw
- Limited Cutting Application
Why Consider Husqvarna 120i?
Ideal for homeowners who need a lightweight tool for trimming, pruning, and usual wood-cutting applications. The Husqvarna 120i is an efficient and reliable chainsaw for all.
How to Select a Reliable Chainsaw in $300 Budget
Now that you have multiple options available, selecting one among them can be quite difficult. I understand that each one of them might appear tempting because of its high-performance capabilities and bewitching features.
So, to help you make the right choice, I will be sharing some of the most important features that helped me narrow these products for my list.
Here’s what you need to look for in a chainsaw when you have a $300 budget.
Power and Performance
The very first feature that you cannot compromise on is the power and performance capabilities. There are two types of chainsaws you can get in this budget, gas, and battery-powered ones.
If you are looking for more power and going after thick trees and hardwood, then you will need gas-powered tools. Gas engines will have better efficiency when dealing with heavy-duty and tough cutting applications.
On the other hand, if you need a chainsaw for working in your backyard, garden, or near sensitive areas, then you can’t opt for gas tools because of their emissions and noise.
So, you can sacrifice some of the power and performance capabilities for the quietness and environmentally friendly features.
Battery-powered tools of today do come really close to gas chainsaws in terms of performance, but they can never really match it. But their other features like quiet performance, zero emissions, and lightweight design make them a good choice.
Bar Length
The length of the bar basically depends on the thickness of the trees you will be cutting with the tool.
So, if you are going for thicker trees or branches, then obviously you will need a chainsaw that comes with a larger bar size.
However, one thing you should keep in mind is that a larger bar size also means you will need a more powerful engine to keep the performance at the top.
You can’t fit any bar on any chainsaw. Each tool has limited compatibility with bar size and might be able to go only as high as 2 inches above or below the length of a bar attached.
Husqvarna is one of the popular brands that come with the highest bar size compatibility and allows users to attach different sizes of the bar with the powerhead.
Chain Brake and Safety
Never compromise on the safety features of the tool. Whether you are purchasing a gas-powered tool or a battery-powered one, both will have an equal tendency to bring you harm.
So, you must make sure that the chainsaw comes with a mechanical or inertia-activated chain brake system which will allow you to bring the chain to immediate stops in case your hand slips.
A safety switch is also a good feature that prevents the tool from accidentally going off. If you have an electric or gas-powered chainsaw, then you must ensure that it comes with a safety switch, because they start with just a press of a button.
Learn More: The Best $100 Chainsaws Tested
Ergonomics and Design
A chainsaw is only as good as its ergonomic features. Regardless of how good the quality of the components is, if the design is not good, then you won’t be able to use the tool comfortably.
Hence, you must ensure that the tool comes in a compact and durable design that is easy to maneuver.
Ergonomic handles and grip ensure that you are able to carry and use the chainsaw for long intervals without feeling any fatigue on your arms or shoulders. It also ensures that the chainsaw won’t slip from your hands while working.
A compact design allows you to move the chainsaw easily between tight spaces and make precise cuts. A good design also ensures that the maintenance portions of the chainsaw are easily accessible.
Automatic Chain Oiler
Whether you are getting an electric or gas chainsaw, the automatic chain oiler is a must. No compromise can be made on that either.
The automatic oiler ensures that both the bar and chain stay lubricated at all times which reduces friction and enhances the efficiency of the tool. It also ensures that the bar and chain have a longer service life.
Older chainsaws used to have manual chain oilers, which were quite hectic and would cost the chainsaw user deftly if he or she forgot to oil the bar and chain on time.
Also, you must ensure that the tool comes with a transparent window to the bar and chain oil reservoir. It will allow you to keep the bar and chain oil levels in check.
Chain Tensioning System
The chain tensioning system allows you to adjust the tightness of the chain and the bar in the tool.
A simple side-mounted chain tensioning system is considered the best in gas-powered tools, because of their heavy-duty use. Tool-less chain tensioning is not preferred in gas-powered tools.
However, if there is onboard tool storage on your gas-powered chainsaw for storing the wrench or Scrench, it would make the maintenance a lot easier.
For a battery-powered tool, a toolless tensioning or auto-tensioning feature is preferred. This feature makes maintenance a breeze and allows you to quickly make adjustments to the chain and bar, with minimum downtime during work.
Battery and Charger
When looking for a good battery-powered chainsaw on a 300 dollars budget, you have two options. You can either choose the tool only, which will be more powerful and efficient or you can choose a product that comes with a battery and charger included.
High-quality battery-powered chainsaws are quite expensive and the real expense is in the battery. The battery is the fuel of those tools, so you have to make a good investment.
So, I would recommend that if you are looking for high performance and efficiency, you should go for the tool only option. These chainsaws like Milwaukee M16 offer you performance that is equivalent to or in some cases even better than gas-powered tools.
But, the batteries are expensive, so when purchasing batteries the overall budget would exceed the original $300 budget.
On the other hand, if you just need the tool for a lightweight application like backyard maintenance which includes trimming, pruning, and simple cutting tasks, then the whole package with battery and charger included is a better option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best chainsaw under 300 available in the market?
Husqvarna 120 can be considered the best chainsaw for a $300 budget. The choice is subjective and might depend on your personal preferences. If gas-powered tools aren’t your thing, then Greenworks Pro 80V is also a good option to consider.
What’s the difference between a $200 and a $300 chainsaw?
With a $200 budget, your options are very limited. You don’t have any of the Husqvarna tools in your options, and the battery tools that are available come with much less voltage. With a budget of $300, you get the next-level tools and upgraded features.
Can a $300 chainsaw perform better than a $200 chainsaw?
Of course, it will. A good $300 tool will have more power and higher efficiency than a $200 chainsaw. Not only this, the former will have much more features and upgraded design features that will help you get the job done quickly.
What type of chainsaw should I get if I have $300 in my hand?
Well, it depends on your personal preferences. If you are looking for powerful performance for heavy-duty use, then a gas chainsaw would be more suitable. But, if you need an efficient and quiet tool for your backyard or garden, then battery tools are better.
Final Takeaways: What is the Best Chainsaw Under $300?
To sum it all up, when looking for a reliable and good quality chainsaw, $300 is a good budget and you have multiple options to choose from.
Whether you are a professional, semi-professional, home-owner, or DIY enthusiast, you will find something perfectly suited for your needs in this budget.
I shared multiple such tools in the above guide. If I were to recommend one, I would definitely ask you to go with Husqvarna 120, which is the best chainsaw for under $300. It has both the power and the maneuverability to be the top tool.
However, if you want zero emissions and quiet performance, then Greenworks Pro 80V is also a good choice. It provides efficient performance and comes with a battery and charger included in a $300 budget.
Got something on your mind? Let us know in the comments section below. Good Luck!
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