A gas-powered chainsaw is the best way to defeat overgrown trees and storm debris. Although battery-powered equipment has advanced by leaps and bounds, it still can’t compete with the power and speed of gas-powered chainsaws. So we researched chainsaws at Home Depot, Lowes, Amazon, and Walmart to bring you the nine best gas-powered chainsaws of 2023.
This article helps you find the best chainsaw to fit your individual needs, by breaking down each model’s specs, features, pros, and cons. We even included an easy-to-follow buyer’s guide to ensure you understand each feature’s meaning and how it pertains to your cutting needs.
Our top picks
| Best long bar chainsaws |
| Husqvarna 460 Rancher |
| Echo CS-4910-20 |
| Echo CS-620PW-27 |
| Best medium bar chainsaws |
| Husqvarna 455 |
| Echo CS-400-18 |
| Black+Decker BXGCS1642P |
| Echo CS-501P-18 |
| Best small bar chainsaws |
| Echo CS-271T-12 |
| Echo CS-355T-14 |
Top 3 long bar gas-powered chainsaws – reviews
1. Husqvarna 460 Rancher with 24-inch bar – Best overall
Our top pick for long-bar chainsaws is the Husqvarna 460 Rancher with a 24-inch bar. However, if 24 inches is too long for you, you can also get the 460 Rancher with a 20-inch bar or purchase a separate chain bar as small as 13 inches. Thus, the 460 Rancher is one chainsaw to handle all your trimming needs.
The secret to the 460 Rancher’s success is its high-quality 60.3 cc X-Torq engine, which is powerful, fuel-efficient, and reduces emissions by up to 60%. In addition, it is durable and low-maintenance, with a centrifugal air cleaning system that pops out with a screwdriver.
If you have ever used a chainsaw, you know how dangerous and uncomfortable kickback can be. That is why Husqvarna engineered the 460 Rancher with a low kickback chain that can go as fast as 56 feet per second. It also has an inertia-activated chain brake and an automatic oiler.
Additional features:
- Side-mounted tension system
- Felling marks
- Smart Start (reduced effort starter)
- Three-piece crankshaft
- Air purge for cold starting
How does it handle? It uses Husqvarna’s LowVib technology to reduce vibration levels and has an ergonomic front handle. Although it may be too heavy for some users, overall it is comfortable to use.
Specifications
- Chain bar: 24 in.
- Engine type: 2-stroke
- Engine displacement: 60.3 cc
- Consumer warranty: 2 years
- Weight: 13.2 lb.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.4 oz.
- CARB compliant: yes
Pros
✓ Powerful engine
✓ Automatic break
✓ Cuts large trees
✓ Fast
✓ Fuel-efficient
✓ Low emissions
✓ Centrifugal air cleaning system
✓ Easily cuts hardwood or softwood
Cons
✗ Doesn’t have a tool-less
tensioning system
✗ Expensive
Buy Now
2. Echo CS-4910-20 – Runner Up
Our second favorite long-bar chainsaw is the Echo CS-4910-20. Although it is moderately priced, it contains high-end features such as:
- 50.2 cc professional-grade engine that is durable and potent
- Replaceable metal bucking spikes to improve control and leverage
- Decompression valve that makes starting easier
- Echo’s G-Force technology to reduce maintenance
The CS-4910-20 comes with a 20-inch bar but can also be used with a 16 or 18-inch chain bar, making it an excellent option for chopping firewood or cleaning up storm damage. And you don’t need to break out a wrench or screwdriver, because it comes equipped with tool-ess air filter access and a tool-less tensioning system.
Additional features:
- Heavy-duty air filter
- Side-mounted chain tensioner
- Automatic oiler (clutch-driven)
How does it handle? It is lightweight for a long bar chainsaw and features a spring vibration-reduction system.
Specifications
- Chain bar: 20 in.
- Engine type: 2-stroke
- Engine displacement: 50.2 cc
- Consumer warranty: 5 years
- Weight: 10.4 lb.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.4 oz.
- CARB compliant: yes
Pros
✓ Adjustable automatic oiler
✓ 5-year consumer warranty
✓ Tool-less air-filter access
✓ Tool-less chain tensioning
✓ Durable
Cons
✗ Not as powerful as the 460 Rancher
Buy Now
3. Echo CS-620PW-27 – Best professional-grade
Our top pick for long-bar professional-grade chainsaws is the Echo CS-620PW-27. Its 59.8 cc engine gives the machine enough power to handle even the toughest jobs pros face in residential areas. For example, its 27-inch bar can cut logs up to 4 feet in diameter, and you can also use it with a bar as short as 16 inches.
Echo is known for its durability, and the CS-620PW-27 can hold up against heavy-duty professional use with features like:
- Pro-grade magnesium sprocket cover and crankcase
- Heavy-duty two-piece air filter
- Pro-grade bar & chain
- 5-year consumer / 1-year commercial warranty
- UL (Underwriter Laboratories) certification
In addition, the CS-620PW-27’s engine gets 15% more horsepower per engine displacement (cc) than earlier Echo models (e.g., CS 600P), and you can purchase a kick guard separately to reduce kickback.
Additional features:
- Transparent fuel tank
- Tool-less air filter cover
- Side-mounted chain tensioner
- Inertia chain brake
- Decompression valve
- Automatic adjustable oiler
- Dual bumper spikes
How does it handle? It has a full wrap handle, so you can hold it how you see fit, and it comes equipped with a vibration reduction system. However, it may be too heavy for some users and some users can’t safely handle a 27-inch bar.
Specifications
- Chain bar: 27 in.
- Engine type: 2-stroke
- Engine displacement: 59.8 cc
- Consumer warranty: 5 years
- Weight: 19.4 lb.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.8 oz.
- CARB compliant: yes
Pros
✓ Powerful
✓ Durable
✓ Cuts thick logs
✓ 5-year consumer warranty
✓ Easy maintenance
✓ Large fuel tank
✓ Automatic adjustable oiler
Cons
✗ 27-inch bar can be cumbersome
✗ Heavy
Buy Now
Top 4 medium bar gas-powered chainsaws – reviews
1. Husqvarna 445 – Best overall
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is our top pick for medium bar chainsaws, and it is sold with a 16-inch or 18-inch bar. It is user-friendly, feature-packed, and durable. In addition, its 44.7 cc X-Torq engine is fuel-efficient and contains plenty of power for household use.
Because this tool is for home use, Husqvarna enhanced its useability with the following features:
- Smart Start (low-effort starting)
- Inertia-activated chain brake
- Quick-release air filter
- Flip-up fuel cap
- Snap-lock cylinder cover (easy to change spark plugs)
- Easy to read fuel level window
Overall, it is the best home-use chainsaw for pruning medium branches.
Additional features:
- Centrifugal air cleaning system
- Felling marks
- Intuitive controls
- Three-piece crankshaft
- Air-purge
How does it handle? It has a narrow body, low-vibration technology, and an ergonomic design. It is comfortable to use with its rear handle and 7-degree offset front handle.
Specifications
- Chain bar: 18 in.
- Engine type: 2-stroke
- Engine displacement: 50.2 cc
- Consumer warranty: 2 years
- Weight: 11.2 lb.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.2 oz.
- CARB compliant: yes
Pros
✓ Powerful
✓ Durable
✓ Easy maintenance
✓ Fuel-efficient
✓ Low emissions
✓ Easy to handle
Cons
✗ Expensive
✗ Not good for hardwood
✗ Automatic oiler is not adjustable
Buy Now
2. Echo CS-400-18 – Runner up
The Echo CS-400-18 is one of the Echo’s bestselling chainsaws because it is durable, user-friendly, and packs a lot of punch for its price point. For example, it features Echo’s i-30 starter that reduces starting effort by 30% and a pro-grade 40.2 cc engine. It has over 2,000 reviews on Home Depot and has the highest average star rating out of all the medium bar chainsaws we uncovered.
The CS-400-18 comes with an 18-inch chain bar, but the CS-400 is also available with a 16-inch bar. So, you can quickly cut small to medium-sized branches, decking, and firewood. Additionally, it comes standard with an inertia-type chain brake and an adjustable bar oiler.
Additional features:
- Echo’s G-Force technology (reduces maintenance)
- Automotive-style air filter
- Tool-less air filter system
- Tool-less chain tensioning
How does it handle? It is well-balanced with easily accessible controls, and vibration-reducing technology.
Specifications
- Chain bar: 18 in.
- Engine type: 2-stroke
- Engine displacement: 40.2 cc
- Consumer warranty: 5 years
- Weight: 12.1 lb.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.9 oz.
- CARB compliant: yes
Pros
✓ Durable
✓ Easy access controls
✓ Easy maintenance
✓ 5-year consumer warranty
✓ Adjustable automatic oiler
✓ Tool-less air-filter access
✓ Tool-less chain tensioning
Cons
✗ Can’t see fuel level
Buy Now
3. Black+Decker BXGCS1642P – Best budget buy
If you are on a tight budget, consider the Black+Decker BXGCS1642P. It doesn’t have all the frills and thrills you see in high-end chainsaws, but it is reliable and costs less than most medium-bar models. Also, unlike many budget models, the BXGCS1642P has a CARB-compliant 42 cc engine and an adjustable automatic oiler.
Additional features:
- Spring-assisted start
- Low kickback design
- Bumper spikes
How does it handle? It has a 3-point anti-vibration system to reduce hand fatigue and most users find it comfortable to use.
Specifications
- Chain bar: 16 in.
- Engine type: 2-stroke
- Engine displacement: 42 cc
- Consumer warranty: 2 years
- Weight: 12.16 lb.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 9 oz.
- CARB compliant: yes
Pros
✓ Affordable
✓ Engine oil and scrench tool included
✓ Adjustable automatic oiler
✓ Powerful for its price point
✓ Low kickback design
Cons
✗ Doesn’t cut hardwood
✗ Not as durable as Echo or Husqvarna
✗ Less features than high-end models
Buy Now
4. Echo CS-501P-18 – Best professional grade
Our top pick for professional medium-bar chainsaws is the Echo CS-501P-18. It has an 18-inch chain bar and a 50.22 cc X-series engine that provides fast revving and superior performance. In addition, its pro-grade bar and chain are tough enough to cut through hardwoods easily.
Maintenance is a cinch with tool-less air filter access and captive bar nuts that control hardware loss. It also has an automatic adjustable oiler to keep the bar lubricated and a decompression valve for reduced effort starting.
Additional features:
- G-force engine technology
- Anti-vibration technology
- Tool-less chain tensioning
How does it handle? It has a comfortable rubber-coated front handle, making the CS-501P-18 easy to maneuver.
Specifications
- Chain bar: 18 in.
- Engine type: 2-stroke
- Engine displacement: 50.22 cc
- Consumer warranty: 5 years
- Weight: 12.6 lb.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.6 oz.
- CARB compliant: yes
Pros
✓ Powerful
✓ Easily cuts hardwood
✓ Durable
✓ Large fuel tank
✓ High-performance power source
✓ Adjustable automatic oiler
✓ Tool-less chain tensioning
Cons
✗ Some users say the fuel tank is tough to open
Buy Now
Top 2 small bar gas-powered chainsaws – reviews
1. Echo CS-271T-12 – Best overall
Our top pick for small bar chainsaws is the Echo CS-271T-12. Echo delivers a lightweight user-friendly model without sacrificing durability or capability. It has a 26.9 cc professional-grade engine that provides outstanding torque and instant throttle response. In addition, its 12-inch blade smoothly cuts branches up to 21 inches in diameter.
It has a laundry list of features designed to simplify household yard work, including:
- Echo’s i-30 starter that reduces starting effort by 30%
- Tool-less air filter access makes it easy to keep your tool in top shape
- Air pre-cleaner so you can change the air filter less often
- Inertia-type chain brake improves safety by activating when there is kickback
- Tool-less chain tensioning, so you don’t have to mess with a wrench
- Automatic adjustable oiler that is clutch-driven, so you use less oil
Overall the CS-271T-12 is a tiny titan that comfortably handles most cutting tasks a homeowner would attempt. That includes pruning small trees and cleaning yard debris.
How does it handle? It is lightweight with a top handle making it very easy to maneuver.
Specifications
- Chain bar: 12 in.
- Engine type: 2-stroke
- Engine displacement: 26.9 cc
- Consumer warranty: 5 years
- Weight: 6.6 lb.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 8.1 oz.
- CARB compliant: yes
Pros
✓ Lightweight
✓ Durable
✓ User-friendly
✓ Easy to maneuver
✓ Cuts smoothly
✓ Easy maintenance
✓ 5-year consumer warranty
Cons
✗ Expensive
✗ Some users have difficulty pouring fuel into its small hole
Buy Now
2. Echo CS-355T-14 – Best professional grade
The Echo CS-355T-14 is our top pick for small bar professional chainsaws. It is robust and durable but still user-friendly and lightweight, making it an excellent option for cutting small to medium-sized branches throughout the workday. Echo built the CS-355T with features to improve efficiency, such as:
- Chain brake windows that provide a clear view of the bar and chain
- Swing-out lanyard ring that easily clips to a harness or belt
- Ergonomic design to reduce fatigue
- Digital ignition system and i-30 starter so it’s easy to start
- Adjustable automatic oiler only lubricates the bar when the chain moves, reducing the oil consumption
- Side-mounted tool-less tensioning allows for quick adjustments
Echo power tools are a wise investment because they are highly durable and built to last. Echo backs the CS-355T-14’s quality with a 5-year consumer / 1-year commercial warranty. It is built to withstand an arborist’s rigorous routine with a professional grade 35.8 cc engine and a dual-post chain brake that stops the chain in kickback conditions.
Additional features:
- Tool-less air filter cover
- Replaceable metal bumper spikes
- Adjustable hand rest
How does it handle? Echo engineered the CS-355T-14 with a unique handle angle that allows users to position their wrists naturally. Furthermore, the handle is contoured to shape to its operator’s hand, and its adjustable palm rest provides leverage. Because it has an ergonomic design and anti-vibration technology, it is comfortable for prolonged use.
Specifications
- Chain bar: 14 in.
- Engine type: 2-stroke
- Engine displacement: 35.8 cc
- Consumer warranty: 5 years
- Weight: 7.7 lb.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.2 oz.
- CARB compliant: yes
Pros
✓ Powerful
✓ Well balanced
✓ Durable
✓ Lightweight
✓ 5-year consumer warranty
✓ Easy to use
✓ Easy maintenance
Cons
✗ Small fuel tank
✗ Some users have difficulty pouring fuel into its small hole
Buy Now
Buyer’s guide
Our gas-powered chainsaw buying guide tells you everything you need to know about the following:
Household vs. professional grade
Arborists and lawn care pros use their chainsaws more frequently than the typical homeowner, so professional-grade chainsaws are more durable and powerful. As a result, professional chainsaws typically differ in the following ways:
- More horsepower
- Heftier bearings
- More efficient air filters
- Heavy-duty crankcase
However, these extra benefits come at a cost. Professional grade chainsaws typically cost over twice as much as those intended for homeowners. The table below compares typical specs of household and pro grade chainsaws.
| Household | Pro grade | |
| Bar length | 12 – 22 in. | 12 – 36 in. |
| Engine displacement | 25 – 52 cc | 35 – 90 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 8 – 20 oz. | 8 – 30 oz. |
| Price | $150 – $400 | $350 – $1,000 |
Chain bar length
A chainsaw bar, also known as the guide bar, is a metal piece that supports the chain. A chainsaw with a longer bar can cut thicker branches but is also heavier and more challenging to maneuver. Therefore, you should select a chainsaw with a bar two inches longer than the average thickness you will cut. For example, If your average log is 12 inches thick, you’ll want a chain bar length that’s 14 inches long.
| Chain bar length | Intended use |
| Small (12 – 14 in.) | Light-duty, pruning small trees |
| Medium (16 – 18 in.) | General purpose, pruning mature trees, cutting down small trees |
| Large (20+ in.) | Professional use, cutting large trees |
Engine
When shopping for gas power tools, it is essential to compare engines:
- 2-stroke / 2-cycle engines run on a gas/oil mixture. Because the engine is lubricated as the tool runs, they require less maintenance. They are also easier to start and vibrate less.
- 4-stroke engines, like a car, run on straight gas and have a separate system that uses oil to lubricate the engine. As a result, they are more fuel-efficient and expel lower emissions.
- Engine displacement (cc) indicates how powerful an engine is.
Emissions
Americans are increasingly concerned about air pollution, and gas-powered outdoor tools are a huge source of toxic emissions. In response to environmental concerns, policymakers often regulate or ban gas-powered outdoor tools. So be sure to check state and local policies before purchasing a gas chainsaw.
While shopping, look out for the following certifications:
- CARB compliant chainsaws meet the California Air Resources Board’s criteria.
- EPA-approved chainsaws meet federal emissions criteria, which is similar to CARB compliance.
Electric chainsaws are an emissions-free alternative to gas chainsaws. They come in both corded and cordless models, but most homeowners prefer battery-powered chainsaws.
Safety
Chainsaws are very hazardous when misused. Before operating any chainsaw, carefully read OSHA’s chainsaw safety tips. Also, don’t forget the following safety equipment:
- Head protection: Look for a safety helmet with a chin strap.
- Eye protection: More than regular eyeglasses are needed.
- Noise protection: Gas-powered chainsaws are loud, typically 105 – 115 dB.
- Leg protection: OSHA recommends chainsaw chaps.
- Shoes: Wear non-slip, steel-toe boots.
- Gloves: Good work gloves will increase comfort and prevent cuts.
Cost
Most gas-powered chainsaws cost $150 to $650, but cheap models can be as little as $115, and professional-grade gas chainsaws can cost as much as $1,500.
| Average cost | $390 |
| Typical price range | $150 – $650 |
| Extreme low end cost | $115 |
| Extreme high end cost | $1,500 |
Additional features
When chainsaw shopping, look out for these helpful features:
- Chain brake: This is a mandatory safety feature that all chainsaws should have.
- Automatic chain oiler: Without proper lubrication, chainsaws overheat and malfunction. Fixed chain oiling systems release oil at a constant rate, and adjustable oilers allow the user to adjust the rate.
- Easy start: Gas-powered tools are more difficult to start than electric tools because you have to prime the carburetor. So, some models have a spring-assisted start or decompression valve, making it much easier for the user.
- Carrying case: Some models come with a carrying case for travel and storage. Storing your chainsaw in a durable case will prolong its life.
- Tool-less chain tension adjustment: Some chainsaws have a built-in chain adjustment tool that is much quicker than a wrench.
- Ergonomic design: According to the South African Journal of Industrial Engineering, a rubber-coated power grip, and proper handle positioning increases comfort. It also suggests an anti-vibration system and a top handle.
- Centrifugal air cleaning system: It eliminates large pieces of debris, so the air filter is replaced less frequently.
FAQ about gas-powered chainsaws
Out of all the chainsaws we looked at, Echo and Husqvarna are the most durable. They are both built to withstand demanding workloads.
Husqvarna outshines Stihl in the following ways:
● Larger fuel tanks
● Lower vibration
● More fuel-efficient
● Faster cutting
● Lower emissions
● Better selection of pro-grade chainsaws
It depends on what you’re cutting. Hedge trimmers cost less than chainsaws, are safer, and easier to handle. So, if you are cutting thin leafy branches, it is best to use a hedge trimmer. However, chainsaws are more powerful than hedge trimmers and can cut thicker branches. Therefore, chainsaws are required for most trees.
If you are cutting several hedges and shrubs, take a look at the best battery-powered hedge trimmers and the best gas hedge trimmers. On the other hand, if you only have a few small shrubs to maintain, you can get away with manual hedge clippers.
Professional tree trimming typically costs $255 to $655. However, small trees can cost as little as $75, while large, cumbersome trees can cost as much as $1,600 to trim.
Kickback from a chainsaw is dangerous, and doing the following will help you avoid it:
● Check the chain brake to make sure it is in good condition.
● Use a low kickback chainsaw.
● Cut one branch at a time.
● Watch the nose of the chain bar; if it hits a solid object, there will be a kickback.
● Regularly clean your chainsaw to prevent debris from accumulating between parts.
● Do not stand in the kickback zone
You can find more tips on avoiding chainsaw kickback at the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety.
When to call a pro
Using a high-power chainsaw can be exhilarating, but with great power comes great responsibility. When you use a chainsaw, you are responsible for the safety and well-being of yourself and others. Unfortunately, that is a tall order without the proper training and experience, so most homeowners prefer to hire a professional arborist or landscaper, depending on the project.
LawnLove participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other retailer affiliate programs. LawnLove may earn revenue from products promoted in this article.
Main Image Credit: Pxfuel with Text Overlay using Canva Pro
