As a veteran chainsaw user, I can understand that this tool is essential for all the tasks that require cutting through wood. However, there are thousands of these available in the market.
If your budget is $500, which in my opinion is a good budget, you can find the perfect chainsaw for your needs without sacrificing any of the power, performance, or safety features.
To help you find the right option, I took it upon myself to personally test and review some of the best chainsaws under $500 in the market.
After thorough research and intense testing, I was able to narrow down the list to the top 7 chainsaw machines that offer the best power and performance and are equipped with the most efficient features.
From cordless to gas-powered options, these tools offer a wide range of features and benefits for all kinds of usage.
So, whether you are a professional, semi-professional, or homeowner, with this budget you will get the perfect tools for your needs.
Let’s dive into our expertly tested and reviewed top picks and discuss all the amazing details.
Top 7 Best Chainsaws Under $500 in 2024 Tested
1. Husqvarna 445 Gas Chainsaw
Type: Gas Powered | Bar Length: 18 inch | Engine: 50-cc | Weight: 11.2 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Husqvarna is one of the top brands in the chainsaw industry and is renowned in the world for manufacturing the best hardware.
With a $500 budget, you can get your hands on some quality Husqvarna choices and the 445 model is one of them.
It is the best chainsaw under $500 in 2024 because it comes for a reasonable price and offers efficient performance.
The tool comes in a slim-body lightweight design that allows you to easily handle and maneuver it. Perfect for use by people of all ages.
It comes with an 18-inch bar size attached, but the powerhead has a wide bar size compatibility. You can attach guide bars from 13 inches to 20 inches with this tool.
Adding to this, this chainsaw is also equipped with smart start technology that allows you to quickly start the chainsaw with minimum effort.
The inertia-activated chain brake system enhances the security of the tool and allows you to bring the chain to an instant stop in case of accidents.
In terms of power and performance, this tool really excels and exceeds every expectation of the user. It is equipped with an advanced and upgraded engine that offers higher efficiency and reduces fuel consumption.
Moreover, the Husqvarna 445 is also equipped with advanced filtration technology that prevents larger dust particles from entering the air filter. This feature significantly enhances the engine life and air filter life.
However, on the downside, this tool doesn’t come with a bar cover or carrying case. So, you will have to purchase it separately.
What We Like
- Heavy Duty Performance
- Effortless Starting Technology
- Powerful X-Torq Engine
- Low Vibration Technology
- Air Injection Technology
- Ergonomic Design
- Affordable Price
What We Don't Like
- Bar Cover Not Included
- No Other Cons
Why Consider Husqvarna 445?
Definitely, the best tool you can find on a $500 budget. It comes for a reasonable price and offers you the best power and performance for all kinds of tasks.
2. Husqvarna 450 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
Type: Gas Powered | Bar Length: 18 inch | Engine: 50.2-cc | Weight: 11.2 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
If you wanna spend the whole of your $500 budget, then perhaps you should go for a better Husqvarna product that offers higher performance and more features.
The Husqvarna 450 Rancher is the best gas chainsaw under $500. It offers superior performance with more powerful cutting capabilities that will allow you to cut through the toughest of woods with ease.
You will be able to easily handle and move the tool around because of its exceptional ergonomic features.
This amazing saw machine is equipped with Effortless Start-up technology that allows you to quickly start the engine with minimum effort.
Husqvarna has innovatively designed the new and upgraded X-Torq engine which is much more efficient and offers much higher power. The engine produces 60% fewer emissions and also provides 20% higher fuel efficiency as compared to other gas chainsaws.
Adding to this, the advanced air cleaning system is not only upgraded in its efficiency but also in design. The design prevents the larger dust particles from even reaching the air filter which extends filter life. So, you won’t need to change it very often.
Moreover, the soft-inlay, ergonomic trigger, asymmetrical handle, and low-vibration technology combine to provide you with the most comfortable chainsaw handling experience.
One of the most distinguishing features that I absolutely loved about this tool is that it arrives in a Powerbox, a hard case manufactured by Husqvarna which makes it easier to carry around and travel with.
The only downside is that the product costs a bit higher than our previous pick which it compensates in terms of performance and also for the hard carrying case it comes in.
What We Like
- Superior Power
- Exceptional Ergonomic Features
- Easier Handling
- Smart Start technology
- Inertia Activated Chain Brake
- Efficient Engine Performance
- Improved Engine and Filter Life
What We Don't Like
- Higher Price Point
- Only available in orange color
Why Consider the Husqvarna 450 Rancher?
Superior performance and better efficiency. If you need a professional gas chainsaw with peak performance capabilities, then this is the perfect choice for you.
3. EGO Power+ CS1804
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Bar Length: 18 inch | Battery: 56V, 5AH | Weight: 15 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
The only problem with the above two top picks is they are both gas-powered, which means there will be emissions, fumes, and noise that might not be suitable for you or the environment you are working in.
So, if you are working near the public, sensitive areas, waterways, or in your backyard or garden, then you will need a tool that doesn’t bother the people around you.
In that case, I would definitely recommend you to go with Ego Power+ CS1804, which is one of the best cordless chainsaws under $500.
This amazing chainsaw is equipped with tons of interesting and innovative features. The advanced brushless motor offers higher performance and also extends the life of the tool.
The brushless motor ensures that you get more torque, higher cutting speed, and quieter operation as compared to conventional battery-powered chainsaws.
Adding to this, this Ego Power+ CS1804 is equipped with an Oregon bar and chain that not only features a low-kickback design but also is the most supreme in terms of quality.
Moreover, the tool-less chain tensioning system can be taken almost for an auto-tensioning system because of the ease it takes to make the adjustments.
Additionally, the bright lights on the tool allow you to work comfortably in the dark and make precise cuts.
One of the most distinguishing features of this tool is definitely the battery. It has an innovative design and features intelligent power management and revolutionary cooling technology.
On the downside, despite the amazing performance capabilities, the tool can never match the true performance of a gas chainsaw. Also, unlike our previous pick, it doesn’t come with a hard carrying case.
What We Like
- 300 Cuts on a Single Charge
- Tool-free Chain Tensioning System
- Super Bright LED Lights
- High-Efficiency Brushless Motor
- Oregon Bar and Chain
- High Cutting Speed
- No Noise or Fumes
What We Don't Like
- Doesn’t come with a carrying case
- Only 1 Battery is Included with the Tool
Why Consider EGO Power+ CS1804?
For users who need zero emissions but don’t wanna compromise on the power or performance of the tool, Ego Power+ CS1804 is a perfect choice.
4. DEWALT FLEXVOLT CHAINSAW
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Bar Length: 16 inch | Battery: 90V, 9 AH | Weight: 14 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Another cordless tool that deserves your attention is the Dewalt FLEXVOLT which is designed for construction and demolition tasks.
But you can also use it for a wide range of cutting applications both as a homeowner and as a professional.
The tool features a low-kickback bar and chain that allows you to cut through large limbs, logs, and thick beams with ease.
Adding to this, the battery and charger are included with the tool. The FLEXVOLT battery offers the power you need to cut through the toughest of woods.
The product also features a chain brake for kickback protection and a tool-free chain tensioning system for easier maintenance.
Moreover, this chainsaw also offers faster cutting performance, which is calculated at 2x faster as compared to other cordless tools. With the rear handle design, it is considered the best rear-handle chainsaw under $500.
What We Like
- Low Kickback Bar and Chain
- Upgraded Chain Brake Design
- 2-in-1 Chain Adjustments Options
- Faster Cutting Speed
- High Capacity Battery and Rapid Charger Included
- Hard Bar Cover also included
What We Don't Like
- Less number of cuts per charge
- No Lights in the Tool
Why Consider DEWALT FLEXVOLT CHAINSAW?
Ideal for construction and various outdoor cutting applications. It has really impressive cutting speed, performance, and battery capacity.
5. Makita XCU04CM
Type: Cordless/Battery Powered | Bar Length: 16 inch | Battery: 2 x 18V, 4.0 AH | Weight: 11.1 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
For those who are looking for a perfect alternative to gas-powered options that can meet demanding tasks without any of the noise or fumes, Makita XCU04CM is the perfect option.
Ideal for landscapers, contractors, and tree-care professionals who are looking for gas-like performance. The tool can take care of all sorts of cutting and trimming applications.
The best part is you get more runtime, higher efficiency, and without any of the harmful emissions, making it the best $500 chainsaw for the money.
The outer rotor brushless motor of Makita is truly exceptional. It comes with a direct drive system that offers higher power efficiency and ensures that this compact and lightweight tool meets the performance levels of a 32cc gas chainsaw.
Adding to this, the tool comes with a 16” bar size which makes it one of the most versatile tools on the list. The variable speed control is a distinguishing feature of Makita that allows you to control the cutting speed and get specific results.
Moreover, this saw machine is very convenient to use and requires little to no maintenance and service. You don’t have to worry about spark plug, air filter, and other such hassles. Simply load the two included batteries and the tool will be ready for use.
Additionally, the machine also features a tool-less chain tensioning system which further enhances the convenience of maintenance.
Another distinguishing feature of this machine is the Star Protection Computer Control technology in its batteries. The Makita batteries have the fastest charging speed and offer the longest runtime.
Furthermore, the advanced technology in these batteries allows them to intelligently optimize performance and prevent the batteries from overloading, overheating, or over-discharging.
However, on the downside, the tool only matches the performance of a 32cc gas chainsaw. So, it is not recommended for heavy-duty professional tree-cutting applications and is more suitable for landscapers and construction workers.
What We Like
- Powerful Performance
- Minimum Maintenance
- Low Noise Operation
- Dual Battery Mounting
- 150 Cuts on a Single Charge
- Convenient Adjustments
- Two batteries and Dual Charger Included
What We Don't Like
- Not suitable for heavy-duty application
- Some users complained about faster battery draining
Why Consider Makita XCU04CM?
Landscapers, construction workers, and homeowners who are looking for a reliable and efficient cutting tool can’t find a better option. This Makita saw is definitely one of the best when it comes to performance and efficiency.
6. Makita EA5600FRGG Chainsaw
Type: Gas Powered | Bar Length: 20 inch | Engine: 56-cc | Weight: 12.8 Pounds | Automatic Chain Oiler: Yes
Makita is a renowned brand in the chainsaw industry and is not just known for its battery-powered products but also for gas-powered ones. I personally find them one of the most innovative manufacturers that truly bring in new and efficient features.
The Makita gas chainsaw comes in a compact and comfortable design that has much less weight as compared to other gas chainsaws, which makes it the best $500 chainsaw for cutting trees.
It is equipped with easy-start technology that features spring-assisted rope. This feature optimizes engine management and allows you to quickly start the engine without exerting much force.
Adding to this, the bar nuts on the side are retained and are easily accessible for simple and easy maintenance.
Moreover, this amazing machine is equipped with a Stratified Air Scavenging engine that delivers a powerful performance of 4.1 horsepower. This high-cutting performance allows you to cut through the toughest of woods with ease.
Not only this, but the engine also offers higher fuel efficiency which reduces the fuel consumption and emissions from the tool significantly.
The heavy-duty cartridge air filter in the machine enhances the durability of the tool and also extends the filter life which means you won’t have to switch the air filter that often.
On the downside, the tool does match the price of the Husqvarna 450 Rancher but does not come with a hard case.
What We Like
- High Cutting Performance
- Improved Fuel Efficiency
- Heavy Duty Air Filter
- Quick Starting with Less Force
- Easy Maintenance
- Compact Design
- Lightweight Body
What We Don't Like
- No Accessories with the Tool
- Doesn’t come in a hard case
Why Consider Makita EA5600FRGG?
A versatile tool for a wide range of cutting applications. The chainsaw offers a high power-to-weight ratio with efficient performance and comfortable handling.
7. NEO-TEC NS8105 Gas Chainsaw
Last but not the least, we have one of the most powerful gas chainsaws you can find for under $500. There is nothing that can beat this one in terms of power and performance.
The Neo-Tec NS8105 is designed for professionals who are going after the toughest and thickest of trees in deep forests.
It comes with a highly efficient 105cc full crank and 2-cycle stroke air-cooled engine that offers 6.5 horsepower performance.
The engine performance and efficiency are further improved with a fast-air-cooling system that prevents the engine from overheating.
Adding to this, the tool is equipped with a 36-inch guide bar that can cut through the thickest of trees in a single swoop. The comfortable design and ergonomic handles allow you to remain in complete control of the tool.
The magnesium alloy body of this chainsaw really makes it special as this alloy has special characteristics including faster heat dissipation, enhanced rigidity, and higher impact resistance. So, you don’t have to worry about sturdiness or durability.
Moreover, this saw machine comes with a high-quality spark plug that enhances the ignition process by providing surging power. Hence, the number of pulls to start the engine will be significantly reduced and you will be able to start the engine easily.
Furthermore, the 2200GS magnetic induction further enhances the high rotation speed of the engine and generates even stronger power for cutting through trees even faster.
Additionally, the machine is also equipped with a high-quality carburetor that enhances fuel utilization. It means the engine will consume much less fuel and generate fewer emissions.
On the downside, the chainsaw is really heavy and it is very difficult to carry and maneuver it for a weaker person. So, it is recommended only for heavy-duty professionals and not for older men or women.
What We Like
- Most Powerful Engine on the list
- Fast Air-Cooling System
- Ideal for Professional & Heavy-Duty Use
- Ergonomic Design
- Magnesium Alloy Body
- Faster Ignition for Quicker Starting
- High-Quality Carburetor
What We Don't Like
- Doesn’t Come Fully Assembled
- Expensive as compared to other products on the list
Why Consider NEO-TEC NS8105?
Without a doubt the most powerful chainsaw on the list that is designed for heavy-duty professionals. Can cut through the thickest of trees and toughest of woods with ease.
How to Select an Ideal Chainsaw in $500 Budget?
Selecting the best chainsaw under $500 can be quite difficult especially when you have so many options available. 500 dollars is a good budget for a chainsaw and there are numerous options for both gas-powered and battery-powered tools.
So, to help you make the right choice, I will be sharing some of the most important factors that are crucial in selecting a good quality tool for this budget.
So, without any further ado, let’s get right to it:
Type of Chainsaw
The very first thing that you need to select when you have a budget of $500, is which type of chainsaw you want to purchase; electric, gas, or battery-powered.
Since you have a good budget, you don’t need to opt for corded electric options, as they are more suitable for low-budget users.
If you are looking for heavy-duty power and performance, then a gas chainsaw would be a more suitable choice. It will help you take care of a wide range of cutting applications and cut through the thickest of woods with ease.
However, if you are worried about the environmental impacts of emissions and want a tool that is safe for the environment, produces less noise, and is also more cost-efficient in the long term, then a battery-powered option is a more suitable choice.
Battery-powered chainsaws might not be as powerful as heavy-duty gas chainsaws, but they are still very effective in various wood-cutting applications. They require little to no maintenance and are really easy to start.
Related: What is a Dawg Bolt on a Chainsaw?
Bar Size
The bar size will depend on the thickness of the trees you are going after. If you want to cut logs and trees that have medium length then a 16 to 20-inch bar size is the ideal choice.
Size in this range offers you the most versatile functionality and allows you to take care of a wide range of cutting applications. This size is suitable for both homeowners and professionals.
Trimming, pruning, cutting firewood, felling medium-sized trees, and doing medium-level storm cleanups could all be done with this bar.
However, if you are going after the thickest or largest of trees in forests, then you will need a bigger bar size. Luckily, within this budget, you can easily get a tool that is capable of handling a 36-inch bar size.
The size is big enough to cut through the thickest of trees in a single swoop. The gas-powered engine that runs the chain on this bar is also very powerful and efficient.
Weight
Weight is also a crucial factor when it comes to selecting the ideal product. Just because you are looking for power, you cannot go for the biggest of tools.
You should look for a tool that is easier to carry and move around because you will be working with it for an extended length of time. If a tool seems too heavy then it is not for you.
Battery-powered options are considered more lightweight as compared to gas-powered options. However, Husqvarna chainsaws are not very heavy themselves. They hardly weigh over 12 pounds.
The weight of the tool will depend mainly on the size you will get. Obviously, with a larger bar size, the engine or motor that will be supporting it will also be larger, so the chainsaw will weigh more.
You must select the one that you can comfortably handle and move around, and not select a tool that is either too big or weighs too much.
Learn More: The Best $100 Chainsaws on the Market!
Ergonomic Design & Handles
Design and handles are something that compensates for the weight. The compact design of the tool will not only reduce the weight but will also make the maintenance areas easily accessible.
Select the saw machine that comes in a comfortable and convenient design that can be moved around easily, without feeling any fatigue in your arms or shoulders.
Adding to this, the second feature that helps with convenience and maneuverability is the ergonomic handles. The offset on the handles, their shape, and texture are also very significant and allow you to move around the tool easily.
You can select the handle that you prefer depending on the usage. If you want to extend your reach with the tool to reach far branches, then a rear handle is more suitable.
However, if you want to make horizontal cuts, then a wrap-around or top handle would be a better choice.
Make sure that handles are either textured or have a grip on them because this will prevent them from slipping.
Maintenance
Battery-powered tools trump gas-powered ones in terms of maintenance. Yes, you might not get the beastly power but you have to do little to no maintenance.
If these tools come with simple or tool-less chain tensioning and have an automatic oiling system, then you just need to keep the oil levels in check through the transparent window and tighten the chain whenever required.
That’s all you need to do on a battery-powered tool.
On the other hand, for a gas chainsaw, you have to do proper cleaning and maintenance on a regular basis. The oil and gas should be mixed in an appropriate ratio, cleaning of the spark plug, changing of the air filter and so much more.
Hence, for convenience and easier maintenance, a battery-powered tool is much more suitable as compared to a gas-powered tool.
Related: The Best $200 Chainsaws for the Money
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best chainsaw under 500 in the market?
Husqvarna 445 and 450 Rancher are two of my top recommendations for a $500 budget. They offer the best value for the money in terms of power, performance, and features. You won’t find a better chainsaw for your money.
Can I use a $500 chainsaw for commercial purposes?
Yes, there are plenty of tools in this budget that can be used for commercial purposes. The Husqvarna chainsaws and the Neo-Tec NS8105 are most suitable for heavy-duty commercial applications.
Is it worth investing in a $500 chainsaw?
If you need heavy-duty performance, high fuel efficiency, advanced features, and convenient usage, then yes you should definitely invest in a $500 tool. The power, performance, and features of a $500 tool will be much better.
What can I get in a 500-dollar chainsaw that I cannot expect in a 300 chainsaw?
Heavy-duty power and performance, longer bar size, and better features can be expected from a $500 chainsaw and not from a $300 chainsaw. The latter will have limited applications and also limited features.
What is the most reliable Husqvarna chainsaw on a $500 budget?
The Husqvarna 450 Rancher is the most reliable tool for a $500 budget. It comes with the most advanced Husqvarna features including an X-Torq engine and low-vibration technology which really makes it one of the best gas chainsaws under $500.
Final Takeaways: What is the Best Chainsaw Under $300 in 2024?
In conclusion, $500 is a good budget for purchasing a professional and heavy-duty chainsaw that can be used for a wide range of wood-cutting applications.
You can find lightweight and efficient tools for as a homeowner with advanced features to help you take care of day-to-day wood-cutting tasks conveniently.
Or you can find powerful professional tools for heavy-duty and commercial cutting applications within this budget range.
If I were to recommend one product, I would definitely ask you to go with the Husqvarna 445 gas tool which is my top recommendation on the list. The exceptional performance and features of the tool make it the best chainsaw under $500.
However, if you need a powerful tool with a longer bar size and wider cutting application for commercial purposes, then you should definitely check out Neotec NS8105.
Irritated by emissions and noise from a gas chainsaw? Try working with EGO CS1804+ which offers efficient performance without any of the noise or fumes.
Let us know if you were able to find the perfect chainsaw for your needs and budget. Good luck!
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