8 Best Chainsaws with Handheld, Compared
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Finding the best chainsaws with handheld designs requires comparing raw specifications rather than subjective opinions. We evaluated 8 models based strictly on the data published in their listings. The VEVOR 58CC 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw leads this list because its 58cc engine displacement delivers 3.22 HP of cutting power. This specification makes it ideal for heavy limb trimming and farm tree felling. You will see how bar length, weight, and power source differ across the other seven picks. Use this guide to decide which handheld chainsaw matches your specific property maintenance needs.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You need the most powerful handheld gas chainsaw NEO-TEC 62cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw The NEO-TEC 62cc model delivers 3.5 HP and a 20-inch bar for heavy yard work.
- You want the lightest option for overhead pruning Worx 20V 5-Inch Cordless Pruning Saw The Worx 20V weighs only 2.43 pounds, making it easy to manage one-handed.
- You require a compact gas saw for tight spaces JPNTECH 12-Inch 25.4cc Top Handle Chainsaw The JPNTECH 25.4cc top-handle design weighs 8.6 pounds and fits small woodcutting jobs.
- You need a budget-friendly electric saw for light trimming Worx 20V 5-Inch Cordless Pruning Saw Wait, I used Worx. Let's use Craftsman. The CRAFTSMAN V20 is a compact electric kit for branches up to 8 inches.
Our 8 picks
VEVOR 58CC 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw
Best for: heavy limb trimming and farm tree felling
- Features
- Handheld (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 20"
- Power Source
- Gasoline Powered
- Engine Displacement
- 58CC
- Recommended Use
- Tree Trimming, Farm, Garden
- Dimensions
- 16.1 × 9.84 × 11.2 inches
This handheld chainsaw combines a 58cc engine delivering 3.22 HP with a 20-inch guide bar capable of handling cuts up to 17.91 inches in diameter. At 15.4 pounds, it includes a built-in shock absorber to reduce operating vibrations. Its 550 ml fuel tank and 260 ml oil reservoir provide steady runtime for farm work, tree felling, and trimming large limbs where you need substantial cutting capacity without an electrical tether.
Pros
- 58cc gas engine produces 3.22 HP and up to 12,000 RPM
- 20-inch bar supports cutting diameters up to 17.91 inches
- Built-in shock absorber dampens operating vibrations
- Generous 550 ml fuel tank and 260 ml oil capacity
Cons
- Weighs 15.4 pounds before adding fuel and bar oil
- Requires 2-cycle fuel mixing and small-engine maintenance
Good fit if
- You need to cut logs or limbs up to 17.91 inches in diameter
- You want high-RPM gas power for heavy farm or garden clearing
- You require a vibration-dampened chassis for extended cutting sessions
Skip if
- You prefer an ultra-compact mini saw weighing under 10 pounds
- You want an electric cordless tool that eliminates fuel mixing
Verdict: VEVOR 58cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw provides dependable 3.22 HP cutting power and a 17.91-inch capacity for heavy-duty property maintenance and tree felling.
CRAFTSMAN V20 10-Inch Cordless Chainsaw Kit
Best for: Light yard pruning and cutting 8-inch limbs
- Features
- Handheld (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 10 inch
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Voltage
- V20
- Battery Capacity
- 2.0Ah
- Dimensions
- 8.69 × 8.56 × 21.5 inches
This handheld cordless electric chainsaw features a 10-inch bar designed to handle cuts up to 8 inches thick. Powered by a 20V 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery, it weighs 7.94 pounds and includes an auto-oiling system alongside bolt-lock chain tensioning. It suits you if you need a lightweight, battery-operated tool for managing small limbs, yard maintenance, and straightforward pruning tasks around your property.
Pros
- Lightweight build at 7.94 pounds
- 10-inch bar cuts material up to 8 inches thick
- Includes 20V 2.0Ah battery, charger, bar cover, and wrench
- Automatic oiler provides continuous lubrication
Cons
- Battery capacity is limited to 2.0Ah in this kit
- Bolt-lock chain tensioning requires using the included wrench
- VERSATRACK wall storage system is sold separately
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight battery saw for branches up to 8 inches
- You want a complete kit with a 20V battery and charger included
- You prefer an electric handheld tool over gas-powered alternatives
Skip if
- You need to cut logs thicker than 8 inches
- You require tool-free chain tensioning adjustments
- You prefer the continuous runtime of a gas-powered engine
Verdict: CRAFTSMAN V20 10-Inch Cordless Chainsaw provides a compact, battery-powered cutting setup for branches up to 8 inches thick. It gives you an easy-to-handle electric option complete with battery, charger, and automatic oiling.
PROYAMA 26cc 12-Inch Top Handle Chainsaw
Best for: lightweight tree pruning and limb maintenance
- Features
- Handheld (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 12 Inch
- Engine Displacement
- 26CC
- Dimensions
- 22 × 9 × 11 inches
- Weight
- 8.7 pounds
This compact gas-powered chainsaw features a 26CC engine paired with a 12-inch guide bar. At 8.7 pounds, its top-handle setup is designed for handheld balance during tree pruning and clearing tasks. It includes an anti-vibration system and a wrap-around handle to manage operating fatigue. If you need a lightweight, gas-fueled tool for trimming branches and storm cleanup without the bulk of larger ground saws, this unit matches your requirements.
Pros
- Lightweight build at 8.7 pounds
- Compact 12-inch bar for pruning and climbing work
- Built-in anti-vibration system
- Quick-stop chain brake and safety switch prevent accidental starts
- Comes with two chains
Cons
- Small 26CC displacement limits heavy-duty cutting
- 12-inch guide bar cannot handle large-diameter logs
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight gas chainsaw weighing under 9 pounds
- You focus primarily on tree pruning, storm cleanup, or light firewood prep
- You prefer a top-handle configuration for balanced overhead maneuvering
Skip if
- You need to fell large trees or cut wide-diameter timber
- You prefer the zero-maintenance upkeep of a battery-powered saw
Verdict: PROYAMA 26CC 12-Inch Top Handle Chainsaw delivers an agile, lightweight gas platform built for overhead pruning and limb clearing. It trades raw displacement for easy maneuverability in tight branches.
Worx 20V 5-Inch Cordless Pruning Saw
Best for: Lightweight, one-handed garden branch pruning
- Features
- Brushless, Handheld (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 5"
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Voltage
- 20V
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Chain Speed
- 33 ft/s
This compact 20V cordless pruning saw features a 5-inch bar and a brushless motor delivering a 33 ft/s chain speed. Weighing just 2.43 pounds, it is designed for single-handed pruning and working in tight quarters. Tool-less tensioning and smart automatic chain lubrication keep maintenance simple. It suits you if you already use Worx Power Share batteries and need a lightweight tool for trimming garden branches.
Pros
- Brushless motor drives chain at 33 ft/s
- Tool-less chain tensioning and replacement knobs
- Smart auto lubrication adjusts oil based on branch thickness
- Weighs 2.43 pounds (3 pounds with battery)
Cons
- 5-inch bar limits cutting capacity to small limbs
- Battery is sold separately
Good fit if
- You already own 20V Worx Power Share batteries
- You need a lightweight tool under 3 pounds for quick pruning
- You want tool-free chain maintenance and automatic oiling
Skip if
- You need to cut logs or branches thicker than 5 inches
- You prefer gas power for prolonged heavy-duty work
Verdict: Worx 20V 5-Inch Brushless Mini Chainsaw provides fast 33 ft/s cutting in an ultra-compact, sub-3-pound package for light yard pruning.
NEO-TEC 58cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw
Best for: Heavy-duty firewood cutting and logging
- Features
- Handheld (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 18", 20"
- Power Source
- Gas Powered
- Engine Displacement
- 58cc
- Motor Type
- 2-Cycle
- Recommended Use
- Firewood, Logging
The NEO-TEC 58cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw delivers 2.8 HP from a 2-cycle engine running up to 7500 RPM. Built for firewood cutting and logging, it accommodates 18-inch and 20-inch guide bars. You get an integrated anti-vibration system, a tool-free side chain tensioner, and a dual-tank setup holding 550ml of fuel and 260ml of oil. It suits you if you need a high-power handheld saw for thick tree trunks.
Pros
- 58cc 2-cycle engine provides 2.8 HP and up to 7500 RPM
- Tool-free side-mounted chain tensioner for quick adjustments
- Built-in anti-vibration system with non-slip handle
- Dual-tank system with 550ml fuel and 260ml oil capacity
Cons
- Total weight of 21 pounds is heavy for extended overhead work
- Not CARB compliant and cannot ship to California addresses
Good fit if
- You need to cut thick trunks and large firewood logs up to 20 inches
- You want tool-free chain adjustments in the field
- You prefer a high-capacity dual-tank system for longer runtimes
Skip if
- You live in California or need a CARB-certified saw
- You need a lightweight pruning saw under 15 pounds
Verdict: NEO-TEC 58cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw brings 2.8 HP of cutting power to heavy firewood prep and logging jobs. Its tool-free chain tensioner and anti-vibration frame make managing thick cuts straightforward.
JPNTECH 12-Inch 25.4cc Top Handle Chainsaw
Best for: lightweight top-handle trimming and small woodcutting jobs
- Features
- Handheld (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 12"
- Power Source
- Gas Powered
- Engine Displacement
- 25.4CC
- Motor Type
- 2-Cycle
- Dimensions
- 23 × 9.8 × 9.8 inches
This handheld gas chainsaw runs on a 25.4cc 2-cycle engine paired with a 12-inch guide bar. Weighing 8.6 pounds, it features an ergonomic wrap-around top handle and a spring-assisted pull cord for easier starting. With 1.2 horsepower and a top engine speed of 11,000 RPM, it suits you if you need a lightweight, compact gas tool for routine yard trimming, woodworking, or cutting smaller branches.
Pros
- Lightweight build at 8.6 pounds
- 25.4cc 2-cycle engine delivering 1.2 HP and up to 11,000 RPM
- Compact 12-inch guide bar with 0.050'' 3/8LP 45DL chain
- Spring-assisted pull cord reduces starting resistance
- Ergonomic wrap-around top handle design
Cons
- 12-inch bar limits capability on large-diameter logs
- Requires manual 2-cycle gas and oil fuel mixing
- Lower power output at 0.9 kW compared to larger-displacement saws
Good fit if
- You want a lightweight gas chainsaw under 9 pounds for pruning and limb work
- You prefer a top-handle configuration designed for compact handling
- You need an engine speed reaching up to 11,000 RPM for quick cuts
Skip if
- You need a long guide bar of 18 to 20 inches for felling thick timber
- You prefer a battery-powered tool without 2-cycle engine maintenance
- You require an engine displacement greater than 25.4cc for heavy-duty jobs
Verdict: JPNTECH 12-Inch Gas Top Handle Chainsaw provides an 8.6-pound, 25.4cc setup designed for light to medium cutting tasks where agility matters. It delivers 1.2 horsepower in a compact package suited for woodworking and general trimming.
PROYAMA 62cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw
Best for: large-diameter log cutting with reduced vibration
- Features
- Handheld (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 20in
- Power Source
- Gas Powered
- Engine Displacement
- 62CC
- Dimensions
- 36.2 × 9.4 × 11.4 inches
- Weight
- 19.5 pounds
The PROYAMA 62cc 20-Inch Gas Handheld Chainsaw delivers substantial cutting capacity for your outdoor tasks. It features a 62cc gas engine paired with a 20-inch guide bar and an inertia-activated safety chain brake. With built-in LowVib dampeners to cut down operational vibration, it suits you if you need a full-sized gas saw for larger home and garden woodcutting projects but still want handheld control.
Pros
- 62cc gas engine delivers high cutting output
- 20-inch bar accommodates larger timber and logs
- LowVib dampeners reduce vibration and operator fatigue
- Inertia-activated chain brake and safety switch prevent accidental engagement
Cons
- Weight of 19.5 pounds increases fatigue during extended handheld use
- Length of 36.2 inches makes handling difficult in tight, confined spaces
Good fit if
- You need a long 20-inch bar for cutting through thicker logs and trees.
- You want a gas saw with built-in dampeners to lower vibration during operation.
- You require safety hardware like an inertia chain brake and accidental-start lock.
Skip if
- You need a lightweight pruning saw under 10 pounds for simple yard cleanup.
- You want a compact tool designed for tight branch trimming rather than heavy cutting.
Verdict: PROYAMA 62cc 20-Inch Gas Handheld Chainsaw provides high-displacement gas power and a full 20-inch bar for demanding yard tasks. It balances its 19.5-pound build with integrated vibration dampening and responsive chain brakes.
NEO-TEC 62cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw
Best for: heavy yard maintenance and bucking firewood
- Features
- Handheld (what this guide is about)
- Bar Length
- 20 Inch
- Power Source
- Gas Powered
- Engine Displacement
- 62 cc
- Motor Type
- 2-Cycle
- Recommended Use
- Firewood, Yard, Pruning, Wood Cutting
The NEO-TEC 20-Inch 62cc Gas Chainsaw is a handheld gas-powered saw built for heavy yard cleanup and cutting firewood. It features a 62cc 2-cycle engine producing 3.5 HP with speeds up to 8500 RPM. Paired with a 20-inch bar and a wrap-around handle, it provides reach and leverage. This tool suits you if you need sustained gas power for felling, limbing, and bucking larger logs across your property.
Pros
- 62cc 2-cycle engine delivering 3.5 HP and up to 8500 RPM
- 20-inch guide bar with 0.325-inch pitch and 0.058-inch gauge chain
- Safety features include an integrated chain brake and trigger lockout
- Wrap-around handle aids maneuverability during multi-angle cutting
Cons
- Requires manual 2-cycle petrol and oil mixing
- Heavier than compact pruning saws at 17.1 pounds on the spec sheet
Good fit if
- You need a full-size 20-inch bar and a 3.5 HP gas engine for yard wood cutting.
- You want a wrap-around handle to help control bucking and felling cuts.
- You require safety mechanisms such as a chain brake and trigger lockout.
Skip if
- You prefer a cordless battery model that avoids gasoline and exhaust.
- You only need a small pruning tool for light branch work.
Verdict: NEO-TEC 20-Inch 62cc Gas Chainsaw delivers 3.5 HP of 2-cycle cutting power paired with a 20-inch guide bar for substantial yard maintenance. It is a solid handheld choice when your property requires regular felling, bucking, and firewood prep.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | VEVOR 58CC 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw | CRAFTSMAN V20 10-Inch Cordless Chainsaw Kit | PROYAMA 26cc 12-Inch Top Handle Chainsaw | Worx 20V 5-Inch Cordless Pruning Saw | NEO-TEC 58cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw | JPNTECH 12-Inch 25.4cc Top Handle Chainsaw | PROYAMA 62cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw | NEO-TEC 62cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bar Length | 20" | 10 inch | 12 Inch | 5" | 18", 20" | 12" | 20in | 20 Inch |
| Power Source | Gasoline Powered | Cordless | not specified | Cordless | Gas Powered | Gas Powered | Gas Powered | Gas Powered |
| Voltage | not specified | V20 | not specified | 20V | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Engine Displacement | 58CC | not specified | 26CC | not specified | 58cc | 25.4CC | 62CC | 62 cc |
| Motor Type | not specified | not specified | not specified | Brushless | 2-Cycle | 2-Cycle | not specified | 2-Cycle |
| Battery Capacity | not specified | 2.0Ah | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Chain Speed | not specified | not specified | not specified | 33 ft/s | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Cutting Capacity | not specified | not specified | not specified | 5 Inch | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Features | Handheld | Handheld | Handheld | Brushless, Handheld | Handheld | Handheld | Handheld | Handheld |
| Recommended Use | Tree Trimming, Farm, Garden | not specified | not specified | Pruning | Firewood, Logging | not specified | not specified | Firewood, Yard, Pruning, Wood Cutting |
| Engine Cycle | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 2-Cycle | 2-Cycle | not specified | 2-Cycle |
| Dimensions | 16.1 × 9.84 × 11.2 inches | 8.69 × 8.56 × 21.5 inches | 22 × 9 × 11 inches | 3.1 × 6.7 × 14.6 inches | 20 × 10 × 12 inches | 23 × 9.8 × 9.8 inches | 36.2 × 9.4 × 11.4 inches | 20.7 × 10.8 × 12 inches |
| Weight | 15.4 pounds | 7.94 pounds | 8.7 pounds | 2.43 pounds | 21 pounds | 8.6 pounds | 19.5 pounds | 17.1 pounds |
| Size | 58CC-20inch | 10 inch | 26cc 12in with 2 chains | Mini Chainsaw | not specified | 23"L x 9.8"W x 9.8"H | 62 cc 20 in | 20 Inch |
| Color | Orange & Black | Red | Orange | Black,orange | Light Orange | Orange | Orange Light Gray | not specified |
| Model | CN-58G | CMCCS610D1 | PCS26 | WG325.9 | 1D-NCS5800-LTT-3 | J-2500 | PCS62S | Gas Chainsaw NCS6200-20 |
How to Choose the Right One
-
Match Power Source to Job
Select your chainsaw by matching engine displacement and bar length to the wood diameter you will cut. Use the VEVOR 58cc 20-inch model for heavy felling and farm tasks. Choose the Worx 20V 5-inch brushless saw for lightweight, one-handed pruning where portability matters most. Gas models like the NEO-TEC 62cc offer sustained power for logging, while electric options reduce maintenance needs for occasional yard cleanup.
-
Check Bar Length Capacity
The guide bar length determines the maximum diameter of wood you can cut in a single pass. A 20-inch bar, found on the VEVOR and NEO-TEC 62cc models, handles large-diameter logs and heavy firewood prep. Smaller bars like the 10-inch on the CRAFTSMAN or 5-inch on the Worx limit you to thinner branches. Ensure your bar length exceeds the thickest limb you plan to remove to avoid unsafe binding or repeated cuts.
-
Compare Horsepower Output
Horsepower indicates the cutting force available to slice through dense wood. The NEO-TEC 62cc delivers 3.5 HP, making it suitable for demanding logging jobs. The VEVOR 58cc provides 3.22 HP for dependable heavy-duty maintenance. Lower power models like the JPNTECH 25.4cc at 1.2 HP are better for light trimming. Higher horsepower reduces strain on the engine during tough cuts, ensuring consistent performance without bogging down.
-
Evaluate Engine Displacement
Engine displacement in cubic centimeters (cc) correlates with power potential. Larger displacements like 58cc or 62cc, seen in VEVOR and NEO-TEC models, offer robust torque for thick wood. Smaller engines like the PROYAMA 26cc or JPNTECH 25.4cc prioritize agility over raw power. If you perform frequent heavy cutting, choose a higher cc rating. For occasional pruning, a smaller engine provides sufficient power while keeping the unit lighter and easier to maneuver.
-
Assess Weight and Balance
Weight affects control, especially during overhead pruning or extended use. The Worx 20V weighs only 2.43 pounds, making it ideal for one-handed operation. The PROYAMA 26cc top handle saw weighs 8.7 pounds, offering a balance of power and maneuverability for tree work. Heavier models like the NEO-TEC 58cc at 21 pounds require two hands and more strength. Consider your physical ability and the height of cuts when selecting a weight class.
-
Look for Safety Features
Integrated safety mechanisms protect you during operation. The PROYAMA 62cc includes a responsive chain brake to stop the chain quickly if kickback occurs. The NEO-TEC 58cc features an anti-vibration frame to reduce fatigue during long sessions. Check for tool-free chain tensioners, which allow for quick adjustments without extra tools. These features enhance control and reduce the risk of injury, making them essential for both professional and home users.
Frequently asked questions
What is the lightest handheld chainsaw on the list?
The Worx 20V 5-Inch Cordless Pruning Saw is the lightest option at 2.43 pounds. Its compact design allows for one-handed use, making it ideal for lightweight garden branch pruning. The unit features a brushless motor and a 5-inch cutting capacity for small limbs.
Which handheld chainsaw has the highest horsepower?
The NEO-TEC 62cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw offers the highest output at 3.5 HP. It pairs this power with a 20-inch guide bar and a 2-cycle engine. This setup supports heavy yard maintenance, bucking firewood, and substantial felling tasks with ease.
Are there handheld chainsaws under 10 pounds?
Yes, three models weigh under 10 pounds. The Worx 20V 5-Inch saw weighs 2.43 pounds. The JPNTECH 12-Inch Gas Top Handle Chainsaw weighs 8.6 pounds. The PROYAMA 26cc 12-Inch Top Handle Chainsaw weighs 8.7 pounds. All three are designed for agile pruning.
What is the largest bar length available?
The maximum bar length is 20 inches. This specification appears on the VEVOR 58CC, NEO-TEC 58cc, PROYAMA 62cc, and NEO-TEC 62cc models. These longer bars accommodate larger diameter logs for farm tree felling and heavy-duty firewood cutting jobs.
Which handheld chainsaw uses a brushless motor?
The Worx 20V 5-Inch Cordless Pruning Saw uses a brushless motor. This technology helps improve efficiency and durability in a cordless package. It delivers fast cutting speeds in an ultra-compact form factor suitable for light yard pruning tasks.
Do any handheld chainsaws include automatic oiling?
The CRAFTSMAN V20 10-Inch Cordless Chainsaw Kit includes automatic oiling. This feature ensures consistent chain lubrication during operation. It is a compact, battery-powered setup that comes complete with a battery and charger for light yard pruning.
Which gas chainsaw weighs the most?
The NEO-TEC 58cc 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw is the heaviest at 21 pounds. It provides 2.8 HP and a 20-inch bar for heavy firewood prep. The weight is balanced by a tool-free chain tensioner and an anti-vibration frame.
What is the smallest cutting capacity?
The smallest cutting capacity is 5 inches. This specification belongs to the Worx 20V 5-Inch Cordless Pruning Saw. It is designed for lightweight, one-handed garden branch pruning and small limb clearance rather than large tree felling.