Best Chainsaw For The Money 2022 – Get The Best Value Here
As inflation and interest rates continue to rise, all our pockets could use a breather. However, that does not mean you have to neglect your garden. In this post, I reveal the best chainsaw for the money in 2022.
I have included a range of options with bar’s extending from 12 to 24-inches. In addition, you’ll notice that despite their affordable price, most of these products possess anti-vibration technology, a chain brake, automatic oiling, and adjustable tensioning.
Intro To Chainsaws
Depending on its characteristics, quality of cut, and durability, the price of chainsaws vary significantly.
As you’ll see in this post, we focus on options for the average homeowner seeking to keep their trees trimmed and firewood sufficiently chopped.
Benefits Of A Quality Chainsaw
A quality chainsaw saves time and energy when pruning, trimming, or chopping wood. It alleviates you from back-breaking chopping and does the hard work for you.
What We Are Looking For In A Quality Option
The chainsaws featured on this list produce a clean, consistent slice, optimal power, safety features, and anti-vibration technology.
When a chainsaw possesses these features, they ensure an uninterrupted cut without the risk of an accident. Plus, they must be durable to provide greater longevity.
Best Chainsaw For The Money 2022
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1 – Craftsman CMXGSAMY426S 46cc 2-Cycle Full Crank 20-Inch – Best Choice Chainsaw
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2 – Husqvarna 460 Rancher 24-in 60.3-cc 2-Cycle Gas – Best Premium Chainsaw
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3 – WORX WG303.1 14.5 Amp 16″ Electric Chainsaw – Best Budget Chainsaw
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4 – Husqvarna 455 Rancher 20-in 55.5-cc 2-Cycle – Best Chainsaw Under $500
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5 – CRAFTSMAN V20* Cordless Chainsaw, 12-Inch (CMCCS620M1) – Best Chainsaw Under $200
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6 – Makita XCU04PT LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 16″ – Best Chainsaw Under $300
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7 – Sun Joe 24V-X2-CS16 16-Inch 48-Volt 4.0-Ah Cordless – Best Cordless ChainSaw For The Money
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8 – CRAFTSMAN 41BY4216791 S165 42cc Full Crank 2-Cycle – Best Gas Chainsaw For The Money
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9 – Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw – Best 16 Inch Chainsaw For The Money
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10 – Carmyra Portable Chainsaw Mill 36 Inches – Best Chainsaw mill for the Money
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11 – Stihl MS 261 C-M Chainsaw – Best Stihl Chainsaw For The Money
THE TOP 3
#1 – Craftsman CMXGSAMY426S 46cc 2-Cycle Full Crank 20-Inch – Best Choice Chainsaw
3 Selling Points
- Delivers steady power
- Easy maintenance
- Anti-vibration handle
Quick Facts
- Weight: 17.7 lbs
- Size: 20-inches
- Battery/Gas: Gas
- Power: 46cc 2-cycle
- Bar Height: 20-inches
Overview And Key Features
The Craftsman CMXGSAMY426S is a 2-cycle full-crank gas engine built for tree limbing, pruning, and trimming. I noticed it offered a simple pull start and a cushion-wrapped aluminum 3-point anti-vibration handle for enhanced balance of the chainsaw and improved manoeuvrability.
Furthermore, this chainsaw sports a 20-inch low kick bar and inertia-activated chain for a consistent cut. In addition, you’ll see that it delivers automatic oiling and allows tool-free access to the filter for easier maintenance.
Who Should Buy It
The Craftsman CMXGSAMY426S is a suitable saw for individuals seeking a high-quality product that handles simple pruning, cutting, and trimming tasks. Plus, it is a worthy option to easily slice through firewood.
Options
Besides the 20-inch bar design, Craftsman affords you the option of an 18, 16, and 14-inch to cut through varied timber thicknesses.
Pros
- Provides steady power
- Handles tree limbing, pruning, cutting, and trimming
- Anti-vibration handle
- Automatic oiler
- Hassle-free maintenance
Cons
- Moderately expensive
- Heavy
Overall Score: 95/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
#2 – Husqvarna 460 Rancher 24-in 60.3-cc 2-Cycle Gas – Best Premium Chainsaw
3 Selling Points
- Durable
- Quick Start
- Anti-vibration system
Quick Facts
- Weight: 13.2 lbs
- Size: 24-inches
- Battery/Gas: Gas
- Power: 3.6 HP
- Bar Height: 24-inches
Overview And Key Features
The Husqvarna 460 rancher offers a 24-inch bar with a 3.6 HP power output for a smooth, powerful cut. In addition, I noticed that this is a highly durable machine equipped with a side-mounted tensioning system, enabling adjustments to the unit while working.
Furthermore, it features a LowVib anti-vibration which restricts vibrations on the handle while operating. This protects your hands and promotes smooth operation. Finally, it is powered by an X-Torq engine which lowers gas emissions and consumption.
Who Should Buy It
I find that the Husqvarna 460 Rancher suits individuals with larger yards that demand intense pruning, clean-ups, and firewood cutting.
Options
Besides the enlarged 24-inch bar, Husqvarna offers the Rancher in three 20-inch designs, along with 16 and 18-inch options.
Pros
- Durable
- Enables adjustments to the saw while working
- 24-inch bar
- Anti-vibration system offers a smooth feel
- Reduces fuel consumption and gas emission
Cons
- Pricey product
- It still generates higher emissions than a battery-operated product
Overall Score: 97/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
#3 – WORX WG303.1 14.5 Amp 16″ Electric Chainsaw – Best Budget Chainsaw
3 Selling Points
- Super affordable
- Auto-lubrication chain
- Chain brake prevents accidents
Quick Facts
- Weight: 11.1 lbs
- Size: 16-inches
- Battery/Gas: Battery
- Power: 14.5 amp
- Bar Height: 16-inches
Overview And Key Features
The Worx WG3031 is a highly affordable 14.5 amp battery-powered chainsaw that sports premium features. An auto-tension system restricts the chain from over-tightening for increased longevity. In addition, an auto-lubrication setup keeps the chain running smoothly around the bar.
Moreover, I found it produced chain brakes to prevent accidents and possessed an ergonomic front handle and a rubberized rear. This construction enabled me to gain leverage while cutting vertically and horizontally.
Who Should Buy It
The Worx WG303.1 is an ideal chainsaw for those readers on a strict budget this year.
Options
The closest alternative to the WG303.1 is a 15 amp 18-inch bar for tree pruning and firewood slicing.
Pros
- Affordable price tag
- Auto-lubrication chain
- The ergonomic front handle helps you cut horizontally and vertically with ease.
- The rubberized rear handle enhances control of the chainsaw
- Chain break prevents accidents
Cons
- Some users I spoke to reported challenges with chain jumping.
- The durability of the chain cover was also raised as an issue.
Overall Score: 92/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
#4 – Husqvarna 455 Rancher 20-in 55.5-cc 2-Cycle – Best Chainsaw Under $500
3 Selling Points
- Suits professional tree work and land clearing
- Anti-vibration system for a softer feel
- Automatic oiler system
Quick Facts
- Weight: 13.2 lbs
- Size: 20-inches
- Battery/Gas: Gas
- Power: 3.49 HP
- Bar Height: 20-inches
Overview And Key Features
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is a premium chainsaw with a 20-inch bar and a 3.49 HP X-Torq engine. I noticed that the X-Torq worked wonders lower fuel consumption, and the company claims it reduces gas emissions.
Next, I enjoyed the LowVib anti-vibration system, which provided a smooth feel during operations. Plus, a side-mounted tensioning system enabled me to make fast adjustments while using it. Lastly, it sported an automatic oiler and a quick-release air filter for an easy clean.
Who Should Buy It
This chainsaw is a premium product, created for those dabbling with professional tree-cutting work and land-clearing operations.
Options
Husqvarna offers two lower-powered 20-inch bar chainsaw’s as an alternative to the 455 Rancher. Plus, you’ll notice that you also have the choice of a 16, 18, and 24-inch bar.
Pros
- More powerful than other 20-inch Rancher chainsaw’s
- Lowered vibration levels
- Fairly easy to start
- Automatic oiler
- Hassle free maintenance
Cons
- Expensive
- The blade is shorter than the 460 Rancher.
Overall Score: 93/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
#5 – CRAFTSMAN V20* Cordless Chainsaw, 12-Inch (CMCCS620M1) – Best Chainsaw Under $200
3 Selling Points
- Extended running time between charges
- Lightweight
- Auto oiling
Quick Facts
- Weight: 9.9 lbs
- Size: 12-inches
- Battery/Gas: Battery
- Power: 4.0 AH
- Bar Height: 12-inches
Overview And Key Features
The Craftsman V20 Cordless Chainsaw is a 12-inch design powered by a 4.0 AH lithium battery pack that provides impressive run time between charges. In addition, you’ll see that it offers tool-free tension and auto-oiling for a smooth run. Finally, it was created to use in tight spaces and cuts timber up to 10-inches thick.
Who Should Buy It
This 12-inch chainsaw suits individuals working in tight spaces or handling younger, thinner trees.
Options
Craftsman offers you the option of a smaller 6 and 10-inch blade, which are even better for operating in tight spaces.
Pros
- Suited to tight areas
- 4.0 AH lithium battery
- 12-inch bar
- Auto oiling
- Cordless
Cons
- Not built for large jobs
- Some users reported oil leaks over time
Overall Score: 94/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
#6 – Makita XCU04PT LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 16″ – Best Chainsaw Under $300
3 Selling Points
- Powerful lithium ion battery
- Variable speed trigger
- Lock-off lever prevents the chain from accidentally engaging.
Quick Facts
- Weight: 11.1 lbs
- Size: 16-inches
- Battery/Gas: Battery
- Power: 5.0 AH
- Bar Height: 16-inches
Overview And Key Features
The Makita XCU04PT is a premium chainsaw driven by a powerful, 5.0 AH lithium battery, which offers the same specs as a 32 cc gas engine. You’ll find that it contains a variable speed trigger to control your chain velocity. Its maximum is 940 FPM.
Furthermore, I found that it enables tool-less chain adjustments to allow hassle-free operations. You’ll see that it contains a built-in-lock-off lever which stops the chain from unintentionally engaging.
Who Should Buy It
The Makita XCU04PT is a suitable chainsaw for individuals seeking a moderately priced premium option for general pruning, trimming, and firewood cutting.
Options
Makita offers you the option of 10, 12, and 14-inch bar options besides the larger 16-inch found on the XCU04PT.
Pros
- Powerful lithium ion battery
- Features a variable speed trigger
- Lock-off lever prevents unintentional starting
- Automatically shuts off to save battery
- Reaches rapid chain speed
Cons
- The lightweight structure leads to the chain jumping off the timber from certain angles.
- Lower voltage than the XCU08PT
Overall Score: 96/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
#7 – Sun Joe 24V-X2-CS16 16-Inch 48-Volt 4.0-Ah Cordless – Best Cordless ChainSaw For The Money
3 Selling Points
- Kick brake
- Protective hand guard
- 1200W motor
Quick Facts
- Weight: 13 lbs
- Size: 16-inches
- Battery/Gas: Battery
- Power: 2.0 AH
- Bar Height: 16-inches
Overview And Key Features
The Sun Joe 24V X2 CS16 chainsaw is a battery-opted device driven by a dual 24-volt 2.0AH battery, which delivers 15 minutes of runtime between charges. In addition, you’ll find that it carries a 1200W motor and is equipped with a protective hand guard for a smoother, safer cut.
Furthermore, the chainsaw contains a kick brake to stop the machine and prevent accidents. Plus, a built-in safety switch further protects you by cutting accidental starts.
Who Should Buy It
The X2 CS16 is an affordable chainsaw built for individuals on a budget looking to avoid gas chainsaws.
Options
Sun Joe stocks a 24-volt 16-inch bar, a 20-volt 10-inch, and a 100-volt 18-inch bar chainsaw.
Pros
- Battery operated
- Cuts through trunks, logs, and branches up to 15.5-inches wide
- Kick brake prevents accidents
- Auto-oiling
- Built-in safety switch prevents accidental starts
Cons
- The limited run time between charges
- It takes a few seconds to reach full speed
Overall Score: 96/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
#8 – CRAFTSMAN 41BY4216791 S165 42cc Full Crank 2-Cycle – Best Gas Chainsaw For The Money
3 Selling Points
- Durable chassis
- Easystart technology
- 3-point anti-vibration system
Quick Facts
- Weight: 15.2 lbs
- Size: 16-inches
- Battery/Gas: Gas
- Power: 42 CC Crank
- Bar Height: 16-inches
Overview And Key Features
The Craftsman S165 is an affordable gas-powered chainsaw with a 16-inch bar and chain that handles pruning, trimming, and slicing firewood. You’ll notice that it possesses a lightweight and durable poly chassis that is a breeze to operate, lessening fatigue.
In addition, I noticed that the adjustable chain was automatically oiled through the process. Finally, I found that the Easystart technology made it a smooth process to get going.
Who Should Buy It
I feel this chainsaw best suits individuals with sizeable gardens who could use the extended run time of the gas-powered engine. In addition, it carries an affordable price tag for the average individual.
Options
Craftsman offers you the choice of an extended 18-inch bar or a smaller 14-inch construction to cater to all preferences.
Pros
- Durable, poly chassis
- Easy to handle
- Quick, smooth start
- Anti-vibration system
- Comfortable handle
Cons
- Produces increased emissions over battery-powered chainsaws
- The rising gas price can elevate your operation costs
Overall Score: 94/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
#9 – Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw – Best 16 Inch Chainsaw For The Money
3 Selling Points
- Double the torque
- Automatic oiler
- Push start
Quick Facts
- Weight: 10.3 lbs
- Size: 16-inches
- Battery/Gas: Battery
- Power: 40 volts
- Bar Height: 16-inches
Overview And Key Features
The Greenworks 40-volt cordless chainsaw is powered by a battery and TruBrushLessTM Moto Technology which provides double the torque on each cut. In addition, the technology lowers poses and increases runtime.
Furthermore, I noticed that it automatically oiled the chain during operations as the push start button took the work out of getting it running.
Who Should Buy It
The Greenworks cordless chainsaw is a moderately affordable device. Ideal for homeowners with smaller areas to maintain.
Options
Besides the 14-inch construction, Greenworks offers their cordless chainsaws with a 12, 14, or 18-inch bar.
Pros
- Powerful
- Chain brake prevents accidents
- Pro Style tensioning offers a simple bar and chain maintenance
- Easy push start
- Reduced noise
Cons
- Shorter run time than a gas chain saw
- Reduced anti-vibration assistance
Overall Score: 93/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
#10 – Carmyra Portable Chainsaw Mill 36 Inches – Best Chainsaw mill for the Money
3 Selling Points
- Durable construction
- Cuts cedar, walnut, and oak
- Cuts beams between 0.5 to 13-inches thick
Quick Facts
- Weight: 16.5 lbs
- Size: 36-inches
- Battery/Gas: Battery
- Power: 550 Watts
- Bar Height: 14 to 36-inches
Overview And Key Features
The Carmyra is a specialist milling chainsaw, built to slice cedar, walnut, and oak into fine lumber. You’ll see that the bar height of the machine adjusts from 14 to 36-inches.
Who Should Buy It
This machine suits hobbyists or small business owners looking for an affordable piece of equipment to cut beams of wood.
Pros
- Durable construction
- Adjustable bar
- Cuts cedar, walnut, and oak
- Ideal for DIY enthusiasts and small business owners
- Affordable
Cons
- Challenging to assemble
- It cuts slow
Overall Score: 91/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
#11 – Stihl MS 261 C-M Chainsaw – Best Stihl Chainsaw For The Money
3 Selling Points
- Reduces maintenance
- Anti-vibration system
- Optimizes engine power
Quick Facts
- Weight: 10.8 lbs
- Size: 16-inches
- Battery/Gas: Gas
- Power: 4.0 bhp
- Bar Height: 16-inches
Overview And Key Features
The Stihl MS 261 C-M is a gas-powered chainsaw that produces 4.0 bhp for a clean, consistent cut. I found that it contained a side access chain tensioner to improve your control, and a pre-separation air filtration system, to reduce maintenance.
Furthermore, you’ll find that it contains an Anti-Vibration system to shield your hands while working. Finally, the Stihl M-Tronic technology optimizes fuel quality to boost engine power.
Who Should Buy It
I recommend considering the Stihl MS 261 C-M if you are in the market for a versatile chainsaw to handle various conditions and tasks.
Options
As juggernauts of the power tools sector, Stihl offers a robust variety of options, ranging from shorter 12-inch bar designs to more industrial 20-inch constructions.
Pros
- Excellent quality
- Durable
- Doubles time between filter cleanings
- Anti-vibration system
- Boosts engine power
Cons
- Expensive
- It is frustrating to purge air from the fuel line