Best Chainsaw Under $400: Top Picks for 2024

A chainsaw is a versatile tool that can be used for various tasks, including cutting trees, trimming bushes, and pruning branches. It is an essential tool for homeowners, landscapers, and construction workers. However, with so many options available in the market, choosing the right chainsaw can be overwhelming, especially if you’re on a budget. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best chainsaw under 400.

When it comes to chainsaws, there are two primary types: gas-powered and electric. Gas-powered chainsaws are known for their power and portability, while electric chainsaws are quieter, lighter, and easier to maintain. The type of chainsaw you choose will depend on your needs and preferences.

One critical thing to consider when purchasing a chainsaw is the bar length. The bar length is the cutting length of the chainsaw blade and determines the size of the tree or branch you can cut. A longer bar length means you can cut larger trees, but it also means the chainsaw will be heavier and more challenging to handle.

After researching and testing various chainsaws, we have identified the best chainsaw under 400 that offers excellent performance and value for money.

Best Chainsaws Under $400

When it comes to tackling heavy-duty outdoor tasks like cutting down trees or trimming branches, a reliable chainsaw is a must-have tool. However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve done the research and testing to bring you our top picks for the best chainsaws under $400. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a homeowner looking to tackle some DIY projects, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, here are our top choices for the best chainsaws under $400.

Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

If you’re looking for a powerful chainsaw that doesn’t require gas or fumes, then the Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw is a great option. With its TRUBRUSHLESSTM motor technology, automatic oiler, and pro style tensioning, this chainsaw is perfect for homeowners that need to tackle yard projects or storm clean-up.

Pros

• The TRUBRUSHLESSTM motor technology provides more power, longer runtimes, quiet operation, and extended motor life.
• The chain brake adds an extra layer of safety, reducing the risk of injury.
• The automatic oiler delivers proper chain lubrication and increased productivity.

Cons

• The 16″ chain length may not be long enough for larger trees.
• The 4.0Ah battery may not last long enough for extended use.
• The push button start may take some getting used to for those accustomed to pulling a starter rope.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw, and we were impressed with its power and ease of use. The TRUBRUSHLESSTM motor technology provided plenty of torque, allowing us to easily cut through branches and small trees. The automatic oiler kept the chain lubricated, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.

One of the standout features of this chainsaw is the pro style tensioning system, which makes adjusting the chain tension quick and easy. We also appreciated the push button start, which eliminated the need for gas or fumes and made starting the chainsaw a breeze.

While the 16″ chain length may not be long enough for larger trees, we found it to be perfect for smaller yard projects and storm clean-up. The 4.0Ah battery provided enough power for several hours of use, but may not last long enough for extended use.

Overall, we would highly recommend the Greenworks 40V 16″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw for homeowners that need a powerful and easy-to-use chainsaw for yard projects and storm clean-up.

WEN 4017 Electric Chainsaw, 16″ 12-Amp 16-Inch

If you’re looking for a reliable chainsaw that doesn’t require gasoline and won’t break the bank, the WEN 4017 Electric Chainsaw is a great option. With a powerful 12A motor that rotates the chain at up to 44 feet per second, this chainsaw can tackle most jobs around the house or yard.

Pros

• The lightweight design of the WEN 4017 limits fatigue to the user, making it easy to handle and use for extended periods of time.
• The auto-oiling system lubricates itself to elongate the saw’s lifespan, reducing the need for maintenance and increasing its overall durability.
• Tool-free chain changes make for easy and fast chain replacement, so you can get back to work quickly.

Cons

• The 16″ chain length may not be long enough for larger trees or branches.
• The corded electric power source limits mobility and may require an extension cord for larger yards or properties.
• Some users have reported that the chain that comes with the saw is not very durable and may need to be replaced with a higher-quality chain.

Overall, the WEN 4017 Electric Chainsaw is a solid choice for those in need of a reliable chainsaw for occasional use around the home or yard. It’s easy to use, lightweight, and requires no gasoline for emission-free operation.

DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Chainsaw, 12-Inch, Tool Only

If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient chainsaw that won’t break the bank, the DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Chainsaw might be the perfect fit for you. With its cordless and gas-free operation, it’s a convenient and eco-friendly option for construction and outdoor jobs like cutting beams, demolition work, and managing tree limbs.

Pros

• The compact and lightweight design of the battery-powered chainsaw maximizes user control, making it easy to handle even in tight spaces.
• The high-efficiency brushless motor technology maximizes runtime and long motor life, allowing you to work for longer periods of time without interruption.
• The tool-free chain tensioning and bar tightening knob make it easy to adjust the chain and ensure proper bar clamping force.

Cons

• The chainsaw is a bare tool, which means that the battery and charger are not included and need to be purchased separately.
• The saw may leak oil if stored with oil in it, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation and store it with the oil cap facing up.
• The chainsaw is not as powerful as gas-powered models, so it may take longer to cut through thicker logs and branches.

Overall, we highly recommend the DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Chainsaw for its convenience, efficiency, and ease of use. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, this chainsaw is a great choice for all your cutting needs.

Saker Mini Chainsaw

If you’re looking for a lightweight and portable chainsaw that can handle small jobs around the house, the Saker Mini Chainsaw is a great option.

Pros

• The Saker Mini Chainsaw is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to maneuver and control with one hand.
• The pure copper motor is powerful and efficient, allowing for smooth and fast cutting.
• With a rechargeable lithium battery, you can use this chainsaw for a long time without needing to recharge.

Cons

• The 4-inch chain length may not be long enough for larger jobs.
• The safety lock can be a bit tricky to use at first.
• It may not be as durable as some larger, more expensive chainsaws.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the Saker Mini Chainsaw, and we were impressed with its performance. Despite its small size, it was able to easily cut through branches and small trees around our yard. We loved how lightweight and easy to control it was, and the rechargeable battery meant that we didn’t have to worry about cords or finding an outlet.

One thing to keep in mind is that the 4-inch chain length may not be long enough for larger jobs, but for small tasks around the house it’s perfect. We also found that the safety lock can be a bit tricky to use at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a great safety feature.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the Saker Mini Chainsaw for anyone looking for a lightweight and portable option for small jobs around the house or yard.

tietoc Mini Cordless Chainsaw

If you’re looking for a powerful and lightweight chainsaw for your garden pruning, twig pruning, shrub pruning, or wood cutting needs, the tietoc Mini Cordless Chainsaw is a great choice.

Pros

• Slim and lightweight design
• Seniors friendly
• Powerful 880 watts high power motor

Cons

• Batteries take about 5-6 hours to recharge
• Not suitable for cutting larger logs
• Chain oil can leak if not properly tightened

We recently tested the tietoc Mini Cordless Chainsaw and were impressed with its performance. The chainsaw is equipped with an 880 watts high power motor and a manganese steel chain that can cut a 6-inch diameter log in just 8 seconds. It’s much more efficient and easier to use than an axe, which takes about 300 seconds to cut a 6-inch diameter log.

The mini chainsaw is also seniors-friendly, thanks to its slim body and mini size that’s comfortable to hold, even after prolonged use. It’s equipped with an auto chain lubrication system that reduces wear and tear for smoother cutting.

The tietoc Mini Cordless Chainsaw comes with two 2000mAh removable and rechargeable batteries that provide enough power to finish all your cutting needs. The chainsaw is suitable for gardens, farms, parks, forests, pastures, orchards, and greenhouses.

The chainsaw is equipped with five security designs, including a security lock that prevents accidental activation, safety baffles to prevent wood from splashing, anti-cut gloves that protect your hands, an anti-slip texture handle that makes it easy to grip the chainsaw tightly, and goggles that protect your eyes from sawdust.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a powerful and lightweight chainsaw that’s seniors-friendly and suitable for a variety of cutting needs, the tietoc Mini Cordless Chainsaw is a great choice.

HOPTO Mini Chainsaw

If you’re looking for a powerful and efficient mini chainsaw that can help you with your DIY projects, gardening, or farm work, the HOPTO Mini Chainsaw is a great choice. With its 6-inch chain, 850W pure copper motor, and double 21V 2000mAh lithium batteries, this cordless chainsaw can cut through wood, bamboo, poly pipes, and branches up to 6 inches thick in just 5-15 seconds. Plus, it comes with a safety baffle, hand guard, safety switch, and complimentary safety goggles and cut-resistant gloves to ensure your safety while using it.

Pros

• The 850W pure copper motor drives the chain at 39ft/s, delivering faster and more efficient cuts.
• The double 21V 2000mAh lithium batteries give double running time, and one single battery powers the electric chainsaw for 40 minutes.
• The mini chainsaw is easy to assemble in one minute, requiring no screwdriver, and comes with a PE material carrying case for easy storage.

Cons

• The chain may need to be adjusted or tightened occasionally, especially after prolonged use.
• The mini chainsaw may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks or professional use.
• The batteries may take a few hours to fully charge, and may need to be replaced after a few years of use.

We’ve used the HOPTO Mini Chainsaw for a variety of tasks, including cutting branches, trimming bushes, and clearing bushland. We were impressed with its power, speed, and efficiency, as well as its lightweight and compact design. The LED light and battery indicator were also very helpful, especially when working under low light conditions or monitoring the battery level. The safety features and accessories provided also made us feel more secure and comfortable while using the mini chainsaw.

Overall, we highly recommend the HOPTO Mini Chainsaw for anyone who needs a reliable and versatile chainsaw for their outdoor projects. Its affordable price, high quality, and user-friendly features make it a great value for money. Get yours now and experience the convenience and power of this mini chainsaw!

Bomves Cordless Mini Chainsaw

If you’re looking for a lightweight and efficient chainsaw for your gardening needs, the Bomves Cordless Mini Chainsaw is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The mini chainsaw is lightweight and easy to operate, making it suitable for women and the elderly.
• With its high-quality gear design and updated chip technology, the chainsaw ensures smooth cutting at speeds up to 19.2 ft/s, drastically reducing cutting time.
• The chainsaw comes with two 24V-2000MAH rechargeable batteries that only take about 1.5 hours to fully charge and can work for 25 to 30 minutes.

Cons

• The chainsaw is only suitable for general tree trimming, garden art, and shrub trimming, and may not be powerful enough for larger logs or trees.
• The chainsaw may not be suitable for extended use as the battery life is limited to 25 to 30 minutes.
• The chainsaw may require additional safety measures, such as wearing glasses and non-slip safety gloves, to prevent debris from entering your eyes.

We were impressed with how easy the Bomves Cordless Mini Chainsaw was to operate. With its six simple steps to replace the chain and multiple accessories to aid with assembly, we were up and running in no time. The chainsaw is also lightweight, making it easy to maneuver and suitable for extended use without feeling tired.

We also appreciated the chainsaw’s multiple safety protections, including a safety lock button to prevent accidental activation, a safety baffle to prevent wood chips from flying everywhere, and non-slip safety gloves to give you a comfortable feeling.

Overall, the Bomves Cordless Mini Chainsaw is a great option for those looking for a lightweight and efficient chainsaw for their gardening needs. However, if you’re looking for a more powerful chainsaw for larger logs or trees, you may need to consider other options.

Oregon CS1500 18-inch 15 Amp Self-Sharpening Corded Electric Chainsaw

If you are in the market for a powerful and low-noise electric chainsaw, the Oregon CS1500 corded chainsaw might be a great option for you. We found this chainsaw to be a great tool for trimming branches and limbs around our yard. It starts instantly and does not require any gas-oil mixing, saving us time and hassle.

Pros

• The 15A electric chainsaw with an integrated PowerSharp self-sharpening system is perfect for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, with a long-lasting 18-inch guide bar.
• Tensioning without tools allows for quick and easy chain adjustment, so you can maintain the perfect tension for the ideal cut with next to no maintenance.
• The automatic oiling system provides continuous lubrication to the bar and chain from the oil tank, keeping the chain lubricated for less friction to extend the life of your chain.

Cons

• The chainsaw might be too heavy for some users, weighing in at 12.6 pounds.
• The corded design of the chainsaw might limit the range of motion for some users.
• The chainsaw might not be ideal for larger, tougher jobs.

We were impressed with the performance of the Oregon CS1500 chainsaw. The built-in PowerSharp self-sharpening system minimizes downtime by sharpening the chain in just three to five seconds, and the ergonomic design features a Chain Brake for safety. We appreciated the lightweight design and the fact that the chainsaw comes pre-assembled, so we did not have to spend time setting it up.

The chainsaw features an 18-inch chain that you can sharpen on the saw in three seconds with the pull of a lever. The automatic oiler distributes oil on the bar and chain while on the saw, keeping your chainsaw lubricated and preventing premature wear. We found the chainsaw to be low noise, making less noise than a gasoline chainsaw. It is UL certified and comes with a two-year Oregon warranty.

Overall, we recommend the Oregon CS1500 chainsaw for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts looking for a powerful and low-noise electric chainsaw for trimming branches and limbs around their yard.

EGO Power+ CS1804 18-Inch Cordless Chain Saw

If you’re looking for a chainsaw that delivers the power and performance of a gas chainsaw without the noise and fumes, the EGO Power+ CS1804 Cordless Chain Saw is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The 18-inch bar and chain make it easy to tackle even large trees and branches.
• The bright LED lights illuminate your work area, making it easier to see what you’re doing.
• The 11,000 RPM motor delivers clean, efficient cuts every time.

Cons

• The tool-free chain tensioning system can be a bit tricky to use at first.
• It’s a bit heavier than some other cordless chainsaws on the market.
• The battery can take a while to charge fully.

We recently had the chance to test out the EGO Power+ CS1804 Cordless Chain Saw, and we were impressed with its overall performance. The 18-inch bar and chain made it easy to tackle even larger trees and branches, and the bright LED lights were a nice touch that made it easier to see what we were doing.

One thing we really appreciated about this chainsaw was the 11,000 RPM motor. It delivered clean, efficient cuts every time, and we didn’t have to worry about any of the fuss or noise that comes with a gas chainsaw.

That being said, there were a few minor drawbacks to this chainsaw. The tool-free chain tensioning system took a bit of getting used to, and it was a bit heavier than some other cordless chainsaws on the market. Additionally, the battery can take a while to charge fully, so you’ll want to make sure you plan ahead if you’re going to be doing a lot of cutting.

Overall, we think the EGO Power+ CS1804 Cordless Chain Saw is a great choice if you’re looking for a powerful, reliable chainsaw that doesn’t require any gas or oil. Just be prepared to spend a bit of time getting used to the tool-free chain tensioning system.

Craftsman Electric Chainsaw

If you’re looking for a reliable electric chainsaw under $400, the Craftsman Electric Chainsaw is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The 12-Amp motor of this corded electric chainsaw helps with tough cuts, making it a great tool for homeowners who need to tackle some heavy-duty yard work.
• The built-in oil window and no priming required feature make it easy to maintain and use this chainsaw without any hassle.
• The 16-inch low kickback bar and chain make it safe to use, even for beginners.

Cons

• The chainsaw is corded, which means you’ll need to be near an electrical outlet to use it.
• It may not be the best option for professional use or for cutting down larger trees.
• Some users have reported that the chain tensioning system can be a bit finicky to adjust.

Overall, we think the Craftsman Electric Chainsaw is a great option for homeowners who need a reliable and affordable chainsaw for occasional yard work. It’s easy to use, maintain, and store, and it has a 3-year limited warranty for added peace of mind.

In our experience, this chainsaw is powerful enough to cut through most materials, including branches and small trees. However, if you need to cut down larger trees or use a chainsaw more frequently, you may want to consider a gas-powered or professional-grade electric chainsaw.

If you’re interested in purchasing the Craftsman Electric Chainsaw, you can find it on Amazon for under $100.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best chainsaw under 400, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

Power Source

Chainsaws can be powered by electricity, gas, or battery. Each power source has its own advantages and disadvantages. Electric chainsaws are typically lighter and quieter, but they require a power outlet and may not be as powerful as gas-powered models. Gas-powered chainsaws are more powerful and can handle tougher jobs, but they are heavier and louder. Battery-powered chainsaws are portable and convenient, but they may not have the same power as electric or gas models.

Bar Length

The bar length refers to the length of the cutting blade. Longer bars are better for cutting larger trees, while shorter bars are better for smaller jobs. However, longer bars can also be more difficult to control, so it’s important to choose a bar length that matches your experience level and the type of work you’ll be doing.

Safety Features

Safety should always be a top priority when using a chainsaw. Look for models with safety features such as anti-vibration systems, chain brakes, and automatic oiling systems. These features can help prevent accidents and keep you safe while using the chainsaw.

Price

Finally, consider your budget when choosing a chainsaw. While you can find some great models for under 400, keep in mind that more expensive models may have additional features and be more durable in the long run. However, if you’re only planning to use the chainsaw occasionally, a less expensive model may be the best choice for you.

By considering these factors, you can find the best chainsaw under 400 that meets your needs and helps you get the job done safely and efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top features to look for in a chainsaw under $400?

When looking for a chainsaw under $400, it’s important to consider the size and power of the engine, the weight of the saw, and the quality of the chain and bar. Look for a saw with a powerful engine, but also one that is lightweight and easy to handle. A good chain and bar will ensure that the saw cuts smoothly and efficiently.

How do Stihl chainsaws compare to Husqvarna in the sub-$400 range?

Both Stihl and Husqvarna make excellent chainsaws in the sub-$400 range. Stihl chainsaws are known for their reliability and durability, while Husqvarna chainsaws are known for their power and cutting ability. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.

Which chainsaw brands are preferred by professional loggers?

Professional loggers typically prefer chainsaws from brands such as Stihl, Husqvarna, and Echo. These brands are known for their durability, power, and reliability, which are essential qualities for a chainsaw used in a professional setting.

What is the best gas chainsaw for home use within a $400 budget?

There are many great gas chainsaws available for home use within a $400 budget. Some top options include the Husqvarna 440E, the Poulan Pro PR5020, and the Craftsman CMXGSAMY426S. These saws are all lightweight, easy to handle, and powerful enough for most home use.

Can you recommend a powerful yet lightweight chainsaw under $400?

If you’re looking for a powerful yet lightweight chainsaw under $400, we recommend the Echo CS-400. This saw has a powerful 40.2cc engine, yet weighs only 10.1 pounds, making it easy to handle and maneuver. It also features a high-quality chain and bar for efficient cutting.

What should I consider when choosing a chainsaw for tree cutting under $400?

When choosing a chainsaw for tree cutting under $400, consider the size and power of the engine, the weight of the saw, and the length of the bar. Look for a saw with a powerful engine and a bar length that is appropriate for the size of the trees you will be cutting. A lightweight saw will also be easier to handle and maneuver in tight spaces.