Choosing the right chainsaw is essential for efficient cutting tasks, whether pruning branches, felling trees, or splitting firewood. This guide highlights some of the best 16 and 18 inch chainsaws available, ranging from electric corded and cordless models to gas-powered options. Below is a comparative summary table of top chainsaws, followed by detailed reviews and a buying guide to help you find the ideal chainsaw for your needs.
| Product | Bar Length | Power Source | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon Self-Sharpening Corded Chainsaw | 18 Inch | Electric (Corded) | PowerSharp self-sharpening, 15A motor, tool-free tensioning |
| DEWALT 60V MAX Cordless Chainsaw | 18 Inch | Battery Powered | Quick chain adjust, chain brake, auto-oiling |
| EGO POWER+ 16″ Battery Chainsaw (CS1610) | 16 Inch | Battery Powered | 40cc gas equivalent, chain speeds up to 20 m/s, efficient cuts |
| Greenworks 80V Brushless Cordless Chainsaw | 18 Inch | Battery Powered | Brushless motor, automatic oiler, 2x torque |
| WTHW 58cc Gas Powered Chainsaw with Quick-Switch Bars | 18 & 20 Inch | Gas Powered | Powerful 58cc engine, quick bar swapping, large fuel tank |
Oregon 2400W Self-Sharpening 18-Inch Corded Chainsaw
The Oregon CS1500 features a powerful 15 Amp electric motor paired with an 18-inch guide bar designed for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. Its hallmark is the integrated PowerSharp self-sharpening system that quickly sharpens the chain in 3 to 5 seconds, reducing downtime and maintenance effort. The chainsaw offers tool-free chain tensioning for quick adjustments, enhancing convenience during extended use. Safety is prioritized with an ergonomic design and a chain brake. Its lightweight construction makes it easier to handle for various cutting jobs around your property.
DEWALT 60V MAX 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
The DEWALT 60V MAX cordless chainsaw is built for safety and ease of use with limited kickback protection and a chain brake. It features onboard wrench quick chain adjustment, allowing users to maintain optimal chain tension conveniently. Continuous lubrication via its auto-oiling system ensures longevity and smooth operation. This battery-powered tool offers freedom from cords and gas, ideal for users seeking a lightweight yet reliable chainsaw with an 18-inch bar for heavier yard cutting jobs.
EGO POWER+ 16” Battery Powered Chainsaw CS1610
The EGO POWER+ CS1610 is a cordless chainsaw that delivers power equivalent to a 40cc gas chainsaw through its high-efficiency brushless motor. Equipped with a 16-inch bar and chain, it provides up to 130 cuts per charge when paired with a 2.5Ah battery (sold separately). Chain speeds reach up to 20 m/s for fast, clean cutting through hardwoods, softwoods, and branches. Its lightweight and ergonomic design suits a wide range of users, perfect for pruning and light tree felling.
Greenworks 80V Brushless 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
This Greenworks chainsaw stands out with its brushless motor technology, providing twice the torque for enhanced power, longer runtime, quieter operation, and extended motor life. The 18-inch chain and bar are well-suited for professional users, while the automatic oiler ensures consistent lubrication and high productivity. Included are a 2.0Ah battery and rapid charger, making it ready for work on pruning, limbing, and light felling tasks.
WTHW 58cc Gas Chainsaw with 18 & 20 Inch Quick-Switch Bars
The WTHW gas chainsaw offers powerful cutting performance with a 58cc 2-stroke engine and versatile operation using its quick-switch bar system. You can easily swap between a 20-inch felling bar and an 18-inch limbing bar, allowing a single saw to handle multiple tasks efficiently. Its larger fuel and oil tanks extend runtime for long work sessions. Featuring a centrifugal air filter, quick start recoil system, and inertial chain brake, this saw prioritizes user safety, reliability, and ease of use.
Buying Guide for 16 and 18 Inch Chainsaws
Power Source
Chainsaws typically come in three power types: gas, corded electric, and cordless battery-powered. Gas chainsaws tend to deliver the most power and longer runtime but require more maintenance and fuel handling. Corded electric chainsaws offer consistent power and low maintenance but limit mobility. Battery-powered chainsaws combine portability with cleaner operation and easier startup, though runtime depends on battery capacity.
Bar Length and Cutting Needs
Both 16 and 18 inch bars are suitable for a range of home and professional cutting tasks. An 18-inch bar is better for larger tree felling and firewood cutting, while a 16-inch bar excels in pruning and lighter limbing. Consider the typical size of wood you will work with when choosing bar length.
Chain Maintenance
Look for features such as tool-free chain tensioning and self-sharpening chain systems. These reduce downtime and effort needed to keep the chainsaw operating efficiently. Automatic oilers help maintain proper chain lubrication, which is crucial to prolong chain life and improve cutting performance.
Safety Features
Essential safety features include chain brakes to stop the chain quickly in kickback situations, ergonomic handles for controlled handling, and safety guards. Some models also offer reduced kickback chains and motors designed to limit abrupt chain movement.
Weight and Ergonomics
A lightweight design enhances maneuverability and reduces user fatigue during prolonged use. Adjustable handles and vibration reduction contribute to better control and comfort.
Runtime and Battery Compatibility
For cordless chainsaws, battery capacity and charge time impact how long you can operate without interruption. Some brands offer compatibility across multiple power tools, allowing you to use a single battery system efficiently.