DEWALT Chainsaws: 5 Picks Ranked by Specs

Quick picks

Our 5 picks

1 Best overall

DEWALT 20V MAX 8-Inch Brushless Pruning Chainsaw

Best for: light pruning and tight spaces

Bar Length

8 Inch

Voltage

20V MAX

Motor Type

Brushless

Recommended Use

Pruning

Dimensions

22.5 × 11.2 × 5.25 inches

Weight

4.6 pounds

View on Amazon: DEWALT 20V MAX 8-Inch Brushless Pruning Chainsaw Affiliate link

This DEWALT 20V MAX pruning chainsaw features an 8-inch bar and a brushless motor. It weighs 4.6 pounds, making it lightweight for reduced fatigue. The compact design helps you access tight spaces. It delivers up to 70 cuts per charge on 4x4 pressure-treated pine. Auto-oiling provides continuous lubrication. It suits you if you need a tool-only unit for light trimming tasks.

Pros

• 8-inch bar length
• Brushless motor for efficiency
• Weighs only 4.6 pounds
• Auto-oiling system
• Up to 70 cuts per charge

Cons

• Tool only; battery and charger sold separately
• 8-inch bar limits cutting capacity
• Designed for pruning, not heavy felling

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight tool for pruning
• You already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries
• You work in tight spaces

Skip if

• You need a complete kit with battery
• You require a bar longer than 8 inches
• You are cutting large logs

Verdict: DEWALT 20V 8 in. Pruning Chainsaw fits you if you want a lightweight, compact tool for trimming branches. It is not suitable for heavy-duty cutting or users without existing batteries.

2 Best budget

DEWALT 12-Inch 20V MAX Cordless Chainsaw

Best for: Light pruning with existing 20V batteries

Bar Length

12 in.

Power Source

Cordless Battery Powered

Voltage

20V MAX

Dimensions

26.1 × 9.05 × 9.9 inches

Weight

9.95 pounds

View on Amazon: DEWALT 12-Inch 20V MAX Cordless Chainsaw Affiliate link

This is a 20V MAX cordless chainsaw with a 12-inch bar. It weighs 9.05 inches wide and 26.1 inches long. You get the tool only, so you need a compatible battery and charger. The 20V power source handles moderate cutting tasks. Its compact size fits in tight spaces. It suits users who already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries.

Pros

• 12-inch bar length for standard cutting tasks
• 20V MAX power source for reliable performance
• Compact 26.1-inch length for maneuverability
• Tool-only design saves weight if you have batteries

Cons

• Requires separate battery and charger purchase
• 20V voltage is lower than 60V FLEXVOLT options
• 12-inch bar is smaller than 16-inch models

Good fit if

• You already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries
• You need a compact tool for light pruning
• You want a lightweight chainsaw for overhead work

Skip if

• You need a 16-inch bar for large limbs
• You do not own compatible DEWALT batteries
• You require higher voltage for heavy-duty cutting

Verdict: DEWALT 20V 12 in. Cordless Chainsaw is a practical choice for owners of the 20V MAX system who need a lightweight tool for moderate cuts. It fits users who prioritize portability over raw power.

3 Best premium

DEWALT 60V 16 in. FLEXVOLT Chainsaw

Best for: cutting larger branches with existing FLEXVOLT batteries

Bar Length

16IN

Voltage

60V

Battery Capacity

2Ah

Dimensions

10.6 × 9.33 × 35.7 inches

Weight

16.6 pounds

View on Amazon: DEWALT 60V 16 in. FLEXVOLT Chainsaw Affiliate link

This DEWALT FLEXVOLT chainsaw uses a 60V system with a 16-inch bar. It weighs 16.6 pounds and measures 35.7 inches tall. The 2Ah battery capacity supports cutting tasks. You get a tool-only kit. This setup suits users who need a longer bar than standard 12-inch models. It offers a balance of power and reach for yard work.

Pros

• 60V voltage for higher power output
• 16-inch bar length for thicker branches
• 16.6 pounds weight for manageable handling
• FLEXVOLT battery compatibility

Cons

• 2Ah battery capacity limits runtime
• Tool-only kit requires separate purchase
• Heavier than 20V MAX models

Good fit if

• You need a 16-inch bar for larger cuts
• You already own DEWALT FLEXVOLT batteries
• You prefer a powerful cordless option

Skip if

• You want a complete kit with battery
• You need a lighter tool under 15 pounds
• You only cut small branches under 12 inches

Verdict: DEWALT 60V 16 in. FLEXVOLT Chainsaw fits users who already have FLEXVOLT batteries and need a longer bar. It delivers more power than smaller 20V models for heavier yard work.

4 Also great

DEWALT 20V MAX 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

Best for: light pruning with existing batteries

Bar Length

12 in.

Power Source

Battery Powered

Voltage

20V MAX

Dimensions

26.1 × 9.05 × 9.9 inches

View on Amazon: DEWALT 20V MAX 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw Affiliate link

This DEWALT chainsaw features a 20V MAX motor and a 12-inch bar. It is a tool-only unit, meaning you must supply your own battery and charger. The design measures 26.1 inches in length, with a width of 9.05 inches and a height of 9.9 inches. It suits users who need a compact, cordless option for pruning and light cutting tasks.

Pros

• 12-inch bar length for moderate cutting capacity
• 20V MAX power source for cordless operation
• Compact dimensions at 26.1 inches long

Cons

• Sold as a tool-only unit without battery or charger
• Renewed condition rather than new
• 20V system offers less power than higher-voltage competitors

Good fit if

• You already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries
• You need a compact tool for tight spaces
• You want a lightweight option for pruning

Skip if

• You require a complete kit with battery and charger
• You need to cut large-diameter logs
• You prefer new condition products over renewed

Verdict: DEWALT 20V MAX 12 in. Cordless Chainsaw fits users who already have compatible batteries and need a compact tool for light pruning. It is not suitable for those needing a full kit or heavy-duty cutting power.

5 Best 12 inch

DEWALT 12-Inch 20V Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

Best for: General outdoor cutting and construction tasks

Bar Length

12"

Power Source

Battery

Voltage

20V MAX

Motor Type

Brushless

Dimensions

26.1 × 9.13 × 10 inches

Weight

12.7 pounds

View on Amazon: DEWALT 12-Inch 20V Brushless Cordless Chainsaw Affiliate link

This DEWALT tool features a 12-inch low kickback bar and a brushless motor for efficient cutting. It weighs 12.7 pounds and measures 26.1 inches long. The kit includes a battery and charger for gas-free operation. It suits users needing precise control for outdoor tasks and construction cuts without the hassle of fuel maintenance.

Pros

• 12-inch low kickback bar for safer cutting
• Brushless motor delivers up to 100 cuts per charge
• Lightweight 12.7-pound design for better control
• Includes battery and charger in the kit

Cons

• Limited to 20V MAX power output
• 12-inch bar restricts large-diameter tree cutting
• Heavier than 8-inch pruning models

Good fit if

• You need a complete kit with battery and charger
• You require a 12-inch bar for moderate cuts
• You prefer gas-free operation for cleaner work

Skip if

• You need to cut large diameter logs
• You want a longer runtime than 100 cuts
• You prefer a lighter 8-inch pruning tool

Verdict: DEWALT 20V 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw fits users who need a balanced tool for general outdoor cutting and construction tasks. It offers a complete kit with reliable brushless performance for moderate daily use.

Specifications side by side

DEWALT Chainsaws: Quick Spec Comparison

The lineup splits into two distinct groups based on voltage and bar length. The 20V MAX models, including the 8-Inch Brushless Pruning Chainsaw and the 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw, prioritize portability. These units weigh under five pounds or come in compact kits, making them ideal for light pruning and tight spaces. The 60V FLEXVOLT Chainsaw stands apart with a 16-inch bar and higher weight, designed for users needing more power for heavier yard work.

You should choose based on your existing battery ecosystem. If you own 20V MAX tools, the 12-Inch Brushless Cordless Chainsaw offers a balanced kit for general outdoor cutting. The 60V option suits those already invested in the FLEXVOLT system who require a longer reach. All models are cordless, eliminating engine maintenance while delivering consistent performance for your specific cutting tasks.

Where DEWALT Fits

DEWALT’s range spans from compact 8-inch pruning tools to powerful 16-inch FLEXVOLT models. You choose based on your existing battery system. The 20V MAX lineup offers lightweight, brushless options ideal for tight spaces and light trimming. The 60V FLEXVOLT option provides more power for larger branches but requires heavier batteries. Gaps include a lack of gas-powered chainsaws and no 20V models with bars longer than 12 inches. If you need heavy-duty cutting without the weight of a 60V setup, this brand may not fit your needs. Stick to 20V for portability or 60V for power.

How to choose the right DEWALT chainsaw

1. Check your battery system

   Your existing power source dictates which model fits your workflow. If you already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries, the 20V models like the 8-inch or 12-inch saws are practical choices. You avoid buying a separate power system. If you use the 60V FLEXVOLT platform, the 16-inch model leverages that higher voltage for more power. Verify your current inventory before selecting a tool. This ensures compatibility and reduces upfront costs for additional batteries or chargers.

2. Match bar length to tasks

   Bar length determines the maximum diameter of branch you can cut in one pass. The 8-inch bar on the top pick is ideal for light pruning and tight spaces where precision matters. The 12-inch bars on other models handle moderate cuts and general yard work. The 16-inch FLEXVOLT model allows you to tackle larger branches that exceed the capacity of smaller bars. Choose the shortest bar that handles your typical workload to maintain control and reduce weight.

3. Evaluate weight for overhead work

   Weight significantly impacts comfort during extended use, especially for overhead pruning. The 8-inch pruning chainsaw weighs only 4.6 pounds, making it easy to maneuver above shoulder height without fatigue. Heavier models, such as the 16-inch FLEXVOLT saw at 16.6 pounds, are better suited for ground-level cutting or stationary tasks. Consider how long you will hold the tool aloft. Lighter units reduce strain on your shoulders and arms during repetitive trimming jobs around trees and shrubs.

4. Assess portability needs

   Dimensions determine how easily you can transport and store the tool. Compact models like the 8-inch pruning saw measure 22.5 inches in length, fitting easily into truck beds or small sheds. Larger 12-inch and 16-inch models extend to 26.1 inches or more, requiring more storage space. If you frequently move between job sites or navigate narrow pathways, a shorter overall length improves maneuverability. Measure your storage area and transport vehicle before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.

5. Consider brushless motor benefits

   Brushless motors offer improved efficiency and longer runtime compared to brushed alternatives. The 8-inch pruning saw features a brushless design, providing reliable performance for light daily tasks. Some 12-inch models also include brushless technology, balancing power with durability. This technology reduces maintenance needs and extends the life of the motor. Check the product specifications to confirm if the model you are considering includes a brushless motor. This feature is valuable for users who want consistent power output over time.

Frequently asked questions

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