9 Best Chainsaws with Brushless Motor, Compared
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Finding the best chainsaws with brushless motor requires looking at published specs rather than marketing claims. We compared 9 models based on their listing data. The Tietoc 2-in-1 Brushless Cordless Pole Saw leads because its 990W brushless motor and swappable bar sizes offer versatile overhead and handheld branch trimming. This guide helps you decide which tool fits your yard size, battery platform, and cutting needs.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You need flexible overhead and handheld branch trimming Tietoc 2-in-1 Brushless Cordless Pole Saw The 2-in-1 design and 8-inch bar allow conversion from pole to handheld use.
- You want the most compact model on the list Worx 20V 5-Inch Cordless Pruning Saw This 2.43-pound unit features a 5-inch bar for ultra-compact pruning tasks.
- You already own Makita 18V batteries for cutting Wugeku 16-Inch 40V Brushless Chainsaw This 40V chainsaw uses Makita 18V LXT batteries for dual-battery runtime.
Our 9 picks
Tietoc 2-in-1 Brushless Cordless Pole Saw
Best for: versatile overhead and handheld branch trimming
- Motor Type
- Brushless Motor (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 6-inch and 8-inch
- Power Source
- Cordless Battery Powered
- Battery Capacity
- 4000mAh
- Features
- Brushless, Automatic Oiler
- Recommended Use
- Tree Trimming, Garden
The Tietoc 2-in-1 convertible saw combines a handheld mini chainsaw with an extension pole for overhead trimming. It features a 990W brushless motor, swappable 6-inch and 8-inch bars, and two 4000mAh batteries providing 80 to 100 minutes of run time. An automatic oiler and tool-free tensioning handle routine maintenance. It suits you if you need a versatile, lightweight tool for both low-level yard pruning and ladder-free limb cutting.
Pros
- Converts between a handheld chainsaw and an extension pole saw
- Includes interchangeable 6-inch and 8-inch guide bars and chains
- 990W brushless motor powered by two included 4000mAh batteries
- Built-in automatic oiler and tool-free chain adjustment system
Cons
- Maximum bar length is 8 inches, limiting capacity on large logs
- Bar lubricating oil is not included in the package
Good fit if
- You need a single tool for both ground-level pruning and overhead limb cutting.
- You want swappable 6-inch and 8-inch guide bars to match branch diameter.
- You prefer a brushless setup that includes two batteries, a charger, and safety gear.
Skip if
- You regularly fell trees or buck logs that require a 14-inch or larger bar.
- You already own a dedicated pole saw and only need a traditional heavy-duty chainsaw.
Verdict: Tietoc 2-in-1 Brushless 6/8-Inch Cordless Pole Saw provides flexible yard maintenance with swappable bar sizes and pole-to-handheld conversion. Its 990W brushless motor and dual 4000mAh batteries make it a well-equipped choice for trimming branches at multiple heights.
Greenworks 60V 16" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: demanding property maintenance with 60V cordless power
- Motor Type
- Brushless Motor (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 16"
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Voltage
- 60V
- Engine Displacement
- 42 CC Gas Equivalent
- Battery Capacity
- 2.5Ah, 4.0Ah
View on Amazon: Greenworks 60V 16" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw
The Greenworks 60V 16-Inch Brushless Chainsaw pairs a 2.0 kW brushless motor with a 16-inch bar and a 66 ft/s chain speed, delivering power equivalent to a 42 cc gas engine. It features an automatic oiler, tool-free side chain adjustment, and an integrated chain brake. At 12.5 pounds, this cordless model fits you if you want high cutting speeds and broad compatibility with the Greenworks 60V battery ecosystem without dealing with gas.
Pros
- 2.0 kW brushless motor delivers a fast 66 ft/s chain speed
- Automatic chain oiler and tool-free side chain tensioning
- Battery platform shares power across more than 75 Greenworks 60V tools
- On-board battery fuel indicator shows remaining charge
Cons
- Total weight of 12.5 lbs is heavier than smaller pruning saws
- Battery is not fully charged out of the box and requires initial charging
Good fit if
- You need 42 cc gas-equivalent cutting performance on a 16-inch bar
- You already use or plan to expand into the Greenworks 60V tool lineup
- You want automatic bar oiling paired with tool-free chain adjustments
Skip if
- You are committed to a different cordless battery platform
- You prefer an ultra-compact mini pruning saw weighing under 10 pounds
Verdict: Greenworks 60V 16-Inch Brushless Chainsaw delivers heavy-duty 42 cc gas-equivalent performance and a rapid 66 ft/s chain speed on a capable cordless platform. It is a solid choice if you need serious cutting power backed by broad 60V battery interchangeability.
Worx 20V 5-Inch Cordless Pruning Saw
Best for: Light yard pruning and cutting small branches
- Motor Type
- Brushless Motor (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 5"
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Voltage
- 20V
- Chain Speed
- 33 ft/s
- Cutting Capacity
- 5 Inch
This compact 20V cordless tool is designed specifically for pruning and light trimming tasks. It features a brushless motor delivering a chain speed of 33 ft/s on a 5-inch guide bar. Weighing just 2.43 pounds bare, it includes tool-free chain tensioning and an automatic lubrication system. It suits you if you need a lightweight, maneuverable saw for small branches without the bulk of a standard full-size chainsaw.
Pros
- Brushless motor achieves a chain speed of 33 ft/s
- Lightweight build at 2.43 pounds (bare tool)
- Automatic chain lubrication system
- Tool-less chain tensioning and replacement
Cons
- 5-inch bar limits cutting capacity to small branches
- Battery and charger are sold separately (tool-only model)
- Not intended for felling or bucking large logs
Good fit if
- You want an ultra-lightweight saw for trimming small branches in tight spaces
- You already own WORX Power Share 20V batteries
- You prefer maintenance features like tool-free tensioning and auto-oiling
Skip if
- You need to cut wood thicker than 5 inches
- You do not own compatible batteries and need an all-in-one kit included
Verdict: WORX 20V 5-Inch Cordless Pruning Saw is an ultra-compact brushless option designed for quick trimming and pruning tasks. Its small footprint and 33 ft/s chain speed make light yard maintenance straightforward.
DongCheng 40V 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: Firewood cutting and residential storm cleanup
- Motor Type
- Brushless Motor (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 16-Inch
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Voltage
- 40V
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0Ah
- Features
- Brushless, Automatic Oiler
View on Amazon: DongCheng 40V 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw
The DongCheng 40V 16-Inch Brushless Chainsaw runs on two 20V 4.0Ah batteries to deliver 40V of power to its brushless motor. It features a 16-inch guide bar, automatic bar oiling, and a tool-free chain tensioning knob. Designed for firewood cutting, storm cleanup, and light felling, this saw suits you if you need up to 120 cuts through 4x4 lumber per charge without mixing gas or maintaining an engine.
Pros
- Dual 20V (40V total) 4.0Ah battery system
- Tool-free external chain tensioning knob
- Automatic bar and chain lubrication system
- Inertia chain brake stops in under 0.1 seconds
- Delivers up to 120 cuts per charge on 4x4 lumber
Cons
- Requires managing and charging two separate batteries
- Tied to the proprietary DongCheng battery ecosystem
- 16-inch bar is not built for oversized felling tasks
Good fit if
- You want a cordless 16-inch saw for firewood and storm cleanup
- You already use or plan to expand into DongCheng 20V/40V tools
- You prefer push-button starting and tool-free chain adjustments
Skip if
- You prefer a single battery pack instead of dual batteries
- You need a guide bar larger than 16 inches for heavy-duty felling
Verdict: DongCheng 40V 16-Inch Brushless Chainsaw pairs dual 20V batteries with a 16-inch bar and tool-free tensioning for reliable firewood cutting and storm cleanup.
Makita 18V 14-Inch Brushless Chainsaw
Best for: homeowners with existing 18V battery systems
- Motor Type
- Brushless Motor (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 14"
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Voltage
- 18V
- Chain Speed
- 1,520 FPM
- Tilling Width
- 14 Inch
This cordless rear-handle chainsaw runs on an 18V battery platform and features a built-in brushless motor. It pairs a 14-inch guide bar with a chain speed of 1,520 FPM for routine yard cutting. Weighing 10 pounds, it offers a compact frame measuring 21.6 inches long. If you already use compatible 18V batteries and need an emissions-free cutting tool without pull starts, this unit fits your basic cutting chores.
Pros
- Brushless motor reaches a chain speed of 1,520 FPM
- 14-inch guide bar for light to mid-size cutting
- Compact rear-handle design for maneuverability
- Zero emissions and no gas-and-oil fuel mixing
Cons
- Sold as a bare tool without battery or charger
- Operates at a single 18V platform rather than higher-voltage systems
Good fit if
- You already own compatible 18V power tool batteries
- You prefer an emissions-free tool with no pull starts
- You need a 14-inch bar for backyard cutting tasks
Skip if
- You need an all-in-one kit that includes a battery and charger
- You want a higher-voltage chainsaw for heavy felling work
Verdict: Makita 18V Brushless 14-Inch Chainsaw delivers quiet, cordless cutting on a compact 18V platform for users who already have compatible batteries. It provides a 14-inch bar and 1,520 FPM chain speed without fuel mixing.
Wugeku 16-Inch 40V Brushless Chainsaw
Best for: cutting firewood and storm cleanup with Makita batteries
- Motor Type
- Brushless Motor (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 16 inch
- Power Source
- Battery Cordless
- Voltage
- 40V
- Engine Displacement
- 40cc-class
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0Ah
This cordless chainsaw pairs a brushless motor with a 16-inch bar and a chain speed reaching up to 69 ft/s. It delivers 40cc-class cutting power by running on two 4.0Ah batteries simultaneously. Because the power system is compatible with Makita 18V LXT batteries, it suits you if you cut firewood or clear fallen storm limbs and already own or use that platform.
Pros
- High chain speed up to 69 ft/s with 40cc-class power
- Runs on two 4.0Ah batteries compatible with Makita 18V LXT tools
- Brushless motor paired with an automatic oiling system and 140 ml tank
- Full kit includes two chains, a dual-port charger, gloves, and goggles
Cons
- Chain oil is not included in the package
- Requires both batteries installed simultaneously to operate
Good fit if
- You want 40cc-class power for cutting firewood and clearing fallen storm limbs
- You already own or use Makita 18V LXT platform batteries
- You prefer a complete kit that includes extra chains, batteries, and a dual charger
Skip if
- You need a smaller, compact pruning saw for light branch trimming
- You want a chainsaw that operates on a single battery pack
Verdict: Wugeku 16-Inch 40V Brushless Chainsaw provides fast 69 ft/s cutting speed and dual-battery runtime for heavy yard cleanup. Its compatibility with Makita 18V LXT batteries makes it a practical, capable option for property maintenance.
Makita 36V Brushless 14-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: Makita 18V platform owners needing 36V cutting
- Motor Type
- Brushless Motor (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 14"
- Power Source
- Battery Cordless
- Voltage
- 36V
- Engine Displacement
- 32cc
- Tilling Width
- 14 Inch
View on Amazon: Makita 36V Brushless 14-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
The Makita 36V 14-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw pairs an outer rotor brushless direct-drive motor with a 14-inch bar to match the output of a 32cc gas saw. Powered by two 18V LXT batteries, it delivers variable chain speeds up to 3,940 FPM. At 10.8 pounds, it fits your needs if you already own 18V Makita tools and want lateral chain tensioning with captured bar nuts for straightforward maintenance.
Pros
- Brushless direct-drive motor delivers chain speeds up to 3,940 FPM
- Power output equivalent to a 32cc gas chain saw
- Captured bar nuts and lateral chain tensioning
- Auto power-off function shuts the tool down during delays
Cons
- Batteries and charger are not included with this bare tool
- Requires two 18V batteries simultaneously to run
- Base weight is 10.8 pounds before adding two battery packs
Good fit if
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries and chargers.
- You need chain speeds up to 3,940 FPM on a 14-inch guide bar.
- You prefer captured bar nuts to prevent lost hardware during adjustments.
Skip if
- You do not own Makita batteries and need a kit with power included.
- You need a guide bar larger than 14 inches for heavier cutting tasks.
Verdict: Makita 36V 14-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw delivers 32cc gas-equivalent cutting speeds using two 18V batteries. It is a capable cutting tool with practical maintenance features like captured bar nuts and automatic power shut-off.
WORX 20V 12-Inch Brushless Chainsaw
Best for: Light yard cleanup and 4x4 wood cutting
- Motor Type
- Brushless Motor (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 12"
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Voltage
- 20V
- Chain Speed
- 33 ft/s
- Dimensions
- 26.5 × 9.2 × 8.5 inches
The WORX 20V 12-Inch Cordless Brushless Chainsaw pairs a 12-inch guide bar with a brushless motor delivering a 33 ft/s chain speed. At 8.6 pounds, it provides up to 56 cuts on four-by-four hardwood per charge. It features tool-free chain tensioning and an immediate kickback brake. If you need a compact cordless saw for trimming branches and bucking wood around your yard, this setup suits you.
Pros
- Brushless motor provides chain speed up to 33 ft/s
- Tool-free chain tensioning and bar replacement knobs
- Delivers up to 56 cuts on 4x4 hardwood per charge
- Stops immediately when kickback occurs
Cons
- 12-inch bar is shorter than 14-inch and 16-inch alternatives
- 20V platform delivers lower voltage than 40V, 60V, or 80V systems
Good fit if
- You want a 12-inch brushless saw that weighs 8.6 pounds.
- You prefer tool-free adjustments for chain tensioning and bar changes.
- You routinely cut limbs and hardwood up to 4x4 dimensions.
Skip if
- You need a longer 14-inch or 16-inch bar for larger logs.
- You require a higher-voltage cordless platform for heavy-duty bucking.
Verdict: WORX 20V 12-Inch Cordless Brushless Chainsaw delivers a 33 ft/s chain speed and simple tool-free maintenance in an 8.6-pound frame. It is a practical pick for moderate cutting jobs and yard clearing.
Greenworks 80V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Best for: heavy cutting with an 80V 2.0Ah battery
- Motor Type
- Brushless Motor (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 18"
- Power Source
- Battery Cordless
- Voltage
- 80V
- Engine Displacement
- 42cc
- Battery Capacity
- 2.0Ah
If you need high voltage for heavy yard chores, this chainsaw pairs an 80V platform with an 18-inch guide bar and a brushless motor. It runs on an included 2.0Ah battery that yields up to 150 cuts on 4x4 lumber per charge. With performance comparable to a 42cc gas engine, push-button starting, and an automatic oiler, it suits you if you regularly fell trees, prune branches, or cut firewood.
Pros
- High-voltage 80V brushless motor equivalent to a 42cc gas engine
- 18-inch bar handles tree felling, limbing, and firewood cutting
- Delivers up to 150 cuts on 4x4 lumber per 2.0Ah charge
- Equipped with an automatic chain oiler and easy adjust tensioning
Cons
- 2.0Ah battery capacity provides less runtime than 2.5Ah variations
- 18-inch bar is larger than needed for small, quick pruning jobs
Good fit if
- You want 80V cordless power paired with an included 2.0Ah battery.
- You need an 18-inch bar for cutting firewood, pruning, or tree felling.
- You prefer push-button electric starts over pull ropes and gas maintenance.
Skip if
- You need longer continuous runtime without swapping batteries and prefer 2.5Ah or higher.
- You only require a compact saw for light, small-diameter branch trimming.
Verdict: Greenworks 80V 18-Inch Brushless Chainsaw delivers 42cc-equivalent cutting performance on an 80V battery system without gas fumes or pull cords.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Tietoc 2-in-1 Brushless Cordless Pole Saw | Greenworks 60V 16" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw | Worx 20V 5-Inch Cordless Pruning Saw | DongCheng 40V 16-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw | Makita 18V 14-Inch Brushless Chainsaw | Wugeku 16-Inch 40V Brushless Chainsaw | Makita 36V Brushless 14-Inch Cordless Chainsaw | WORX 20V 12-Inch Brushless Chainsaw | Greenworks 80V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bar Length | 6-inch and 8-inch | 16" | 5" | 16-Inch | 14" | 16 inch | 14" | 12" | 18" |
| Power Source | Cordless Battery Powered | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Battery Cordless | Battery Cordless | Cordless | Battery Cordless |
| Voltage | not specified | 60V | 20V | 40V | 18V | 40V | 36V | 20V | 80V |
| Engine Displacement | not specified | 42 CC Gas Equivalent | not specified | not specified | not specified | 40cc-class | 32cc | not specified | 42cc |
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless |
| Battery Capacity | 4000mAh | 2.5Ah, 4.0Ah | not specified | 4.0Ah | not specified | 4.0Ah | not specified | not specified | 2.0Ah |
| Chain Speed | not specified | 66 ft/s | 33 ft/s | not specified | 1,520 FPM | 69 ft/s | not specified | 33 ft/s | not specified |
| Cutting Capacity | not specified | not specified | 5 Inch | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Features | Brushless, Automatic Oiler | Brushless, Automatic Oiler | Brushless, Handheld | Brushless, Automatic Oiler | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless |
| Recommended Use | Tree Trimming, Garden | not specified | Pruning | Firewood | not specified | Firewood | not specified | not specified | Firewood, Pruning |
| Design | 2-in-1 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Tilling Width | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 14 Inch | not specified | 14 Inch | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 49 × 4.9 × 3 inches | not specified | 3.1 × 6.7 × 14.6 inches | 10 × 11 × 19 inches | 21.6 × 9.06 × 13.8 inches | 28 × 8 × 9.6 inches | 9 × 21.3 × 10.6 inches | 26.5 × 9.2 × 8.5 inches | 18 × 7 × 10 inches |
| Weight | not specified | not specified | 2.43 pounds | not specified | 10 pounds | not specified | 10.8 pounds | 8.6 pounds | 2.05 pounds |
| Color | Green - 6 & 8 Inch - 2 Batteries | not specified | Black,orange | not specified | not specified | not specified | Teal | Black，orange | not specified |
| Model | MNCS-168 | not specified | WG325.9 | DCCS40161(EA-04) | XCU11Z | NT40BCS01 | XCU07Z | WG350 | GCS80421 |
| Size | not specified | 60V 16" (4.0Ah + 2.5Ah) | Mini Chainsaw | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Normal | 18" (2.0Ah) 1.8KW Motor |
How to choose the right one
-
Match Voltage to Bar Length
Voltage determines the motor's power potential, which must align with your bar length. The Greenworks 60V model pairs a 16-inch bar with high output, suitable for demanding property maintenance. Conversely, the WORX 20V unit uses a 5-inch bar for light pruning. Selecting a higher voltage like 40V or 60V ensures the motor can drive longer bars without stalling. Lower voltage platforms are efficient for smaller bars under 12 inches. Check the voltage specification to ensure the power source matches the cutting capacity you require for your specific yard tasks.
-
Check Chain Speed for Cutting
Chain speed indicates how fast the cutter moves along the bar, affecting cutting efficiency. The Wugeku 16-Inch model offers 69 ft/s, providing rapid cuts for firewood and storm cleanup. The Makita 18V model lists 1,520 FPM, which is a standard speed for homeowner tasks. Higher speeds like 66 ft/s on the Greenworks 60V unit handle thicker wood more quickly. You should compare these feet per second ratings to gauge performance. Faster chains reduce the time needed to section logs or clear branches, making them ideal for heavy-duty work.
-
Consider Battery Interchangeability
If you already own power tools, check the battery platform compatibility to save costs and simplify storage. The Wugeku 16-Inch model works with Makita 18V LXT batteries, offering flexibility for existing users. The Makita 18V and 36V chainsaws share the same ecosystem, allowing you to use the same batteries across different tools. This compatibility is crucial if you want to expand your cordless inventory. Verify the voltage and brand requirements before buying. Using existing batteries reduces the need for additional purchases and ensures you always have power available for your projects.
-
Evaluate Weight for Maneuverability
Weight impacts how easily you can handle the tool, especially during overhead trimming or extended use. The WORX 20V 5-Inch Pruning Saw weighs only 2.43 pounds, making it ultra-compact and easy to maneuver for light tasks. The Makita 18V 14-Inch model weighs 10 pounds, which is manageable but requires more strength for prolonged periods. Lighter units reduce fatigue when trimming branches. Heavier units often provide more robust construction and power. Assess your physical comfort and the specific task to determine the ideal weight class for your needs.
-
Look for Automatic Oiling
Automatic oiling systems maintain chain lubrication without manual intervention, ensuring consistent performance and safety. Several models, including the Tietoc 2-in-1, Greenworks 60V, and DongCheng 40V, feature this capability. This spec reduces maintenance steps and prevents chain dry-out during cutting. You should prioritize units with automatic oilers for continuous use. Manual systems require frequent stops to check oil levels. Automated systems keep the chain running smoothly, extending its life and improving cut quality. Check the features list to confirm this essential maintenance aid is included in your chosen model.
Frequently asked questions
Which brushless chainsaw is best for trimming overhead branches?
The Tietoc 2-in-1 Brushless Cordless Pole Saw is the top choice for overhead work. It features an 8-inch bar and converts from a pole saw to a handheld unit. The 990W brushless motor provides reliable power, and it includes two 4000mAh batteries for extended runtime during vertical trimming tasks.
What is the smallest brushless chainsaw available?
The WORX 20V 5-Inch Cordless Pruning Saw is the most compact option on the list. It weighs only 2.43 pounds and features a 5-inch bar. This mini chainsaw is designed for light yard pruning and quick cuts on small branches, making it easy to handle for extended periods.
Do brushless chainsaws require oil for the chain?
Many models include automatic oilers to keep the chain lubricated during operation. The Tietoc, Greenworks 60V, and DongCheng 40V units all feature this automatic oiling system. This feature reduces manual maintenance and ensures consistent chain performance while cutting wood or pruning branches.
Which brushless chainsaw works with Makita batteries?
The Wugeku 16-Inch 40V Brushless Chainsaw is compatible with Makita 18V LXT batteries. It offers a 69 ft/s chain speed and a 16-inch bar for firewood cutting. This compatibility allows users with existing Makita battery systems to utilize their current power sources without purchasing new ones.
How fast does the chain move on these models?
Chain speed varies by model and voltage. The Wugeku 16-Inch 40V unit reaches 69 ft/s, while the Greenworks 60V model achieves 66 ft/s. The WORX 20V 5-Inch and 12-Inch models both operate at 33 ft/s. Faster speeds generally improve cutting efficiency for thicker wood.
Can I use a brushless chainsaw for cutting firewood?
Yes, several models are suited for firewood cutting. The DongCheng 40V 16-Inch and Greenworks 80V 18-Inch units are designed for this task. They offer higher voltage platforms and larger bars to handle thicker logs. The Wugeku 16-Inch model is also recommended for heavy firewood cutting and storm cleanup.