Best Chainsaws Under $500: 5 Spec-Based Picks
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You need reliable tools for yard work. This list of the best chainsaws under $500 helps you choose wisely. We compared 5 models using only the specifications published on the listings. The Husqvarna 450S Rancher leads because its 20-inch bar handles thick wood and its 14.9-pound weight balances power with control. You will find options for gas, electric, and cordless needs. Each pick targets a specific use case based on bar length, weight, and power source. Read on to decide which saw fits your cutting tasks.
Our top pick: Husqvarna 450S Rancher 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Husqvarna 450S Rancher 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw Best overall | Heavy-duty cutting and ranch work | Check price of Husqvarna 450S Rancher 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw on Amazon |
| 2 | Greenworks 80V 18 in Cordless Chainsaw Best budget | Light residential yard cleanup and pruning | Check price of Greenworks 80V 18 in Cordless Chainsaw on Amazon |
| 3 | Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw Best premium | Lightweight cordless cutting with boost power | Check price of Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw on Amazon |
| 4 | Husqvarna 445 18-Inch 50cc Chainsaw Best tree trimming | Moderate wood cutting with gas power | Check price of Husqvarna 445 18-Inch 50cc Chainsaw on Amazon |
| 5 | EGO Power+ 56V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw Also great | Mid-size pruning and branch removal | Check price of EGO Power+ 56V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw on Amazon |
The best fit for you
- You need heavy-duty power for thick wood Husqvarna 450S Rancher 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw The 20-inch bar and gas engine provide serious cutting power for tough jobs.
- You want the lightest cordless option available Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw This model weighs just 7.72 pounds, making it the most portable choice on the list.
- You prefer gas power with automatic oiling Husqvarna 445 18-Inch 50cc Chainsaw It features a 50cc engine and an automatic oiler for consistent lubrication during use.
- You need a budget-friendly electric chainsaw Greenworks 80V 18 in Cordless Chainsaw The 18-inch bar and included 4.0Ah battery offer reliable performance for light yard tasks.
Our 5 picks
Husqvarna 450S Rancher 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw
Best for: Heavy-duty cutting and ranch work
- Bar Length
- 20 Inch
- Power Source
- Gas
- Engine Displacement
- 50.2-cc
- Motor Type
- 2-cycle
- Features
- Automatic Oiler
- Recommended Use
- Firewood, Yard, Pruning
View on Amazon: Husqvarna 450S Rancher 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw Affiliate link
The Husqvarna 450S Rancher is a gas-powered chainsaw featuring a 50-cc X-Torq engine that delivers 3.2 HP. It comes with a 20-inch bar and includes LowVib technology to reduce in-hand vibrations. Weighing 14.9 pounds, this unit balances power with manageable weight. It suits users needing a reliable tool for ranch work or heavy-duty cutting tasks where cordless options fall short.
Pros
- 50-cc X-Torq engine produces 3.2 HP for efficient cutting
- 20-inch bar length handles larger logs with ease
- LowVib technology reduces vibration for better comfort
- Smart Start mechanism ensures quick and easy ignition
Cons
- Heavier at 14.9 pounds compared to many electric models
- Requires gasoline and oil mixing for operation
- No battery or cordless option available
Good fit if
- You need a powerful tool for thick branches
- You prefer gas engines for longer runtime
- You want reduced vibration during extended use
Skip if
- You only cut small, thin limbs
- You want a lightweight, cordless tool
- You prefer electric power sources
Verdict: Husqvarna 450S Rancher 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw fits users who need serious power for thick wood. It offers a strong engine and comfortable handling for tough jobs. It is not for those seeking light, battery-operated convenience.
Greenworks 80V 18 in Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: Light residential yard cleanup and pruning
- Bar Length
- 18 in
- Power Source
- Cordless Electric
- Voltage
- 80V
- Engine Displacement
- 50CC equivalent
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0 Ah
View on Amazon: Greenworks 80V 18 in Cordless Chainsaw Affiliate link
This 80V cordless electric chainsaw offers 18-inch cutting capacity with a brushless motor. It includes a 4.0 Ah battery and charger, providing power comparable to a 50CC gas engine. The tool weighs 9.48 pounds and features an automatic oiler and mechanical chain brake. It suits homeowners managing yard projects or storm cleanup tasks without the noise or fumes of gas.
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers two times the torque of brushed alternatives
- Includes 4.0 Ah battery and charger for immediate use
- Automatic oiler ensures consistent chain lubrication
- Mechanical chain brake adds safety during operation
Cons
- Limited to 18-inch bar length
- Requires battery charging between uses
- No variable speed trigger listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You need a quiet alternative to gas chainsaws
- You want a lightweight tool for overhead pruning
- You prefer electric power for residential yard work
Skip if
- You require cutting logs larger than 18 inches
- You need continuous heavy-duty logging without recharging
- You prefer the unlimited runtime of gas engines
Verdict: Greenworks 80V 18 in Cordless Chainsaw fits homeowners who need reliable, low-maintenance cutting for branches and small trees. Its brushless motor and included battery make it a practical choice for light to medium yard tasks.
Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: Lightweight cordless cutting with boost power
- Bar Length
- 18 Inch
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Dimensions
- 18.9 × 8.8 × 9.4 inches
- Weight
- 7.72 pounds
View on Amazon: Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw Affiliate link
The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i is an 18-inch cordless chainsaw powered by a brushless motor. It weighs 7.72 pounds, making it lighter than many gas alternatives. The kit includes a battery and charger. A Boost Mode button provides 25 percent more power when needed. The X-Cut chain offers lasting sharpness. This tool suits users who want quiet operation and high efficiency without the maintenance of gas engines.
Pros
- Brushless motor for high efficiency and quiet operation
- Boost Mode delivers 25 percent more power on demand
- Lightweight at 7.72 pounds for easier handling
- Includes battery and charger in one package
- X-Cut chain provides lasting sharpness
Cons
- Requires purchasing or charging a separate battery
- 18-inch bar limits capacity for very large logs
- No gas engine means reliance on battery runtime
Good fit if
- You want a lightweight tool for overhead work
- You prefer quiet operation over gas noise
- You need a boost button for tough cuts
Skip if
- You need unlimited runtime for all-day commercial use
- You prefer the simplicity of gas without charging
- You require a bar length longer than 18 inches
Verdict: Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Cordless fits homeowners who value quiet, lightweight performance and occasional heavy-duty cuts via Boost Mode.
Husqvarna 445 18-Inch 50cc Chainsaw
Best for: Moderate wood cutting with gas power
- Bar Length
- 18 Inch
- Power Source
- Gas
- Engine Displacement
- 50-cc
- Motor Type
- 2-Cycle
- Features
- Automatic Oiler
- Recommended Use
- Tree Trimming, Wood Cutting
View on Amazon: Husqvarna 445 18-Inch 50cc Chainsaw Affiliate link
The Husqvarna 445 is a 50-cc, 2.8-HP gas chainsaw with an 18-inch bar. It features an X-Torq engine that cuts emissions by up to 60% and boosts fuel efficiency by up to 20%. The automatic oiler and Smart Start system simplify maintenance and startup. Weighing 11.2 pounds, it offers LowVib technology for reduced handling fatigue. This model suits users needing reliable power for moderate wood cutting tasks.
Pros
- 50-cc X-Torq engine delivers 2.8 HP
- Automatic oiler reduces manual maintenance
- Smart Start system eases ignition
- LowVib technology dampens vibrations
Cons
- 11.2 pounds is heavier than cordless rivals
- Requires gas and oil mixing
- No brushless motor technology
Good fit if
- You need consistent power for thick branches
- You prefer gas engines for longer runtime
- You want automatic chain lubrication
Skip if
- You require zero-emission operation
- You need a lightweight tool for overhead work
- You prefer cordless convenience
Verdict: Husqvarna 445 50-cc Gas Chainsaw fits users who prioritize engine torque and fuel efficiency over lightweight portability. It is a solid choice for homeowners managing medium-sized wood cutting jobs.
EGO Power+ 56V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: Mid-size pruning and branch removal
- Bar Length
- 18"
- Power Source
- Battery Powered, Cordless
- Voltage
- 56V
- Engine Displacement
- 45cc gas equivalent
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0Ah
View on Amazon: EGO Power+ 56V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw Affiliate link
This EGO Power+ chainsaw uses a 56V brushless motor to deliver power equivalent to a 45cc gas engine. It includes a 4.0Ah battery and charger, allowing for up to 220 cuts on a 4x4. The 18-inch bar and chain handle large branches, while an LED work light aids visibility. It weighs 22.2 pounds and features tool-free chain tensioning for quick adjustments.
Pros
- Brushless motor provides 45cc gas equivalent power
- Includes 56V 4.0Ah battery and charger
- LED work light for low-visibility cutting
- Tool-free chain tensioning dial
- Up to 220 cuts per charge on 4x4s
Cons
- Heavier at 22.2 pounds than many gas rivals
- Battery life limited to 220 cuts per charge
- No remote or app connectivity for monitoring
Good fit if
- You want gas-like power without fumes
- You need a bright LED light for dusk work
- You prefer tool-free chain adjustments
Skip if
- You need longer runtime than one battery allows
- You prefer a lighter tool under 20 pounds
- You require app connectivity for tool management
Verdict: EGO Power+ 56V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw fits users who need reliable, fume-free power for mid-size jobs. It suits those who value quick setup and visibility over extreme lightweight portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Husqvarna 450S Rancher 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw | Greenworks 80V 18 in Cordless Chainsaw | Husqvarna Power Axe 350i 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw | Husqvarna 445 18-Inch 50cc Chainsaw | EGO Power+ 56V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bar Length | 20 Inch | 18 in | 18 Inch | 18 Inch | 18" |
| Power Source | Gas | Cordless Electric | Cordless | Gas | Battery Powered, Cordless |
| Voltage | not stated | 80V | not stated | not stated | 56V |
| Engine Displacement | 50.2-cc | 50CC equivalent | not stated | 50-cc | 45cc gas equivalent |
| Motor Type | 2-cycle | Brushless | Brushless | 2-Cycle | Brushless |
| Battery Capacity | not stated | 4.0 Ah | not stated | not stated | 4.0Ah |
| Features | Automatic Oiler | not stated | Brushless | Automatic Oiler | not stated |
| Recommended Use | Firewood, Yard, Pruning | Firewood, Pruning | not stated | Tree Trimming, Wood Cutting | not stated |
| Engine Cycle | 2-Cycle | not stated | not stated | 2-Cycle | not stated |
| Dimensions | 20.3 × 13 × 9.75 inches | 35.4 × 8.58 × 9.09 inches | 18.9 × 8.8 × 9.4 inches | 16 × 8.9 × 11.5 inches | 34 × 9.5 × 9.9 inches |
| Weight | 14.9 pounds | 9.48 pounds | 7.72 pounds | 11.2 pounds | 22.2 pounds |
| Size | 450S | 18" (2.5Ah) 2.5KW Motor | Battery + Charger | 445 | not stated |
| Model | 970702318 | CS80L417 | 970601202 | 970613018 | CS1803 |
| Color | not stated | Green | Orange | not stated | Black |
How to choose the right one
-
Match power source to use
Your cutting tasks determine the best power source. Gas engines provide high torque for heavy ranch work and thick logs. The Husqvarna 450S Rancher uses a gas engine with a 20-inch bar for serious power. Electric cordless models offer quiet, fume-free operation for light residential cleanup. The Greenworks 80V and EGO 56V models are ideal for homeowners who want to avoid fuel maintenance. Choose cordless for convenience and gas for raw cutting capacity.
-
Check bar length for wood
Bar length dictates the maximum diameter of wood you can cut in a single pass. A 20-inch bar, like the one on the Husqvarna 450S Rancher, handles thick logs and heavy-duty cutting. An 18-inch bar, found on the Greenworks 80V and EGO 56V, is sufficient for most residential pruning and branch removal. If you only cut small branches, a shorter bar reduces weight and improves maneuverability. Match the bar length to your largest typical cut.
-
Consider weight for portability
Weight affects how easily you can hold and control the saw overhead. Lighter models reduce fatigue during extended use. The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i weighs just 7.72 pounds, making it the most portable choice on this list. The Greenworks 80V weighs 9.48 pounds, offering a balance of power and lightness. Heavier gas models, like the Husqvarna 445 at 11.2 pounds, provide stability but may tire your arms faster. Select a weight you can comfortably manage for your job site.
-
Evaluate engine displacement for power
Engine displacement, measured in cubic centimeters, indicates the potential power output of a gas saw. The Husqvarna 445 features a 50cc engine, providing strong torque for moderate wood cutting jobs. Higher displacement generally means more power for tough cuts but often increases weight and fuel consumption. The Husqvarna 450S Rancher also relies on a robust gas engine for heavy-duty tasks. If you do not need high torque, a smaller engine or electric motor may suffice for your needs.
-
Look for automatic oiling
Automatic oiling systems maintain chain lubrication without manual intervention, reducing upkeep and preventing chain wear. The Husqvarna 445 includes an automatic oiler, ensuring consistent performance during tree trimming and wood cutting. This feature is less common in smaller electric models, which often rely on simpler maintenance routines. If you plan to use your saw frequently, an automatic oiler saves time and extends chain life. Check the specifications to confirm this feature is included in your chosen model.
Frequently asked questions
Which chainsaw has the lightest weight?
The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i is the lightest option. It weighs 7.72 pounds. This makes it the most portable choice for users who value lightweight performance. The Greenworks 80V model is the next lightest at 9.48 pounds. Heavier gas models like the Husqvarna 450S Rancher weigh 14.9 pounds.
What is the longest bar length available?
The Husqvarna 450S Rancher features the longest bar at 20 inches. This length fits users who need serious power for thick wood and ranch work. All other listed models have 18-inch bars. The Greenworks 80V, Husqvarna Power Axe 350i, Husqvarna 445, and EGO Power+ all use 18-inch bars.
Which model includes an automatic oiler?
The Husqvarna 445 18-Inch 50cc Chainsaw includes an automatic oiler. This feature helps maintain the chain during moderate wood cutting jobs. It is the only model on the list that highlights this specific attribute. Other models rely on manual lubrication or do not list this feature in their specs.
Are there any brushless motor options?
The Greenworks 80V 18 in Cordless Chainsaw features a brushless motor. This motor provides reliable, low-maintenance cutting for light residential tasks. The EGO Power+ and Husqvarna Power Axe 350i are also cordless but do not explicitly list brushless motors in their provided specifications. Gas models do not use electric motors.
Which chainsaw is best for heavy-duty ranch work?
The Husqvarna 450S Rancher is best for heavy-duty ranch work. Its gas engine and 20-inch bar provide serious power for thick wood. It is not suitable for those seeking light, battery-operated convenience. The Husqvarna 445 is another gas option but has a smaller 18-inch bar and weighs less.
What is the heaviest chainsaw on the list?
The EGO Power+ 56V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw is the heaviest. It weighs 22.2 pounds. This weight suits users who value quick setup and visibility over extreme lightweight portability. It is significantly heavier than the cordless Husqvarna Power Axe 350i, which weighs only 7.72 pounds.
Does the Husqvarna 445 use a two-cycle engine?
Yes, the Husqvarna 445 uses a 2-cycle engine. This engine type is common for gas-powered chainsaws and provides torque for moderate wood cutting. It is a solid choice for homeowners managing medium-sized jobs. The Husqvarna 450S Rancher is also gas-powered but does not explicitly list its engine cycle in the specs.
Which cordless saw has the largest battery capacity listed?
The Greenworks 80V and EGO Power+ models both list a 4.0Ah battery capacity. These capacities support light to medium yard tasks and mid-size pruning. The Husqvarna Power Axe 350i lists battery and charger but does not specify the amp-hour rating. Gas models do not use batteries.