Looking Beyond the CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Chainsaw? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

Comparing key specs and features

DEWALT 12-Inch 20V MAX Cordless Chainsaw

The DEWALT DCCS621B matches the CRAFTSMAN’s 12-inch bar and 20V platform but omits the battery and charger. You get a tool-only unit that weighs slightly less at 26.1 inches in length. This makes it a lighter option for existing DEWALT users who already own compatible batteries. It lacks the CRAFTSMAN’s bubble level and auto-oiling features. You must source these maintenance tools separately. This alternative suits those who prioritize brand ecosystem integration over included accessories. If you already have DEWALT 20V batteries, this unit offers a familiar interface without the bulk of a full kit. It is a practical swap for users who need a portable, tool-only solution for smaller cuts.

BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 10-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

The BLACK+DECKER LCS1010 features a shorter 10-inch bar and a 2.0 Ah battery, making it lighter and more compact than the CRAFTSMAN. It shares the 20V MAX platform, allowing battery sharing if you own other BLACK+DECKER tools. The reduced bar length limits cutting capacity for larger limbs. The smaller battery also means less runtime for extended projects. This model is not suitable for heavy limbing or thick branch removal. It fits homeowners who need a compact saw for light pruning tasks. The trade-off is power and endurance for a smaller footprint and lower cost entry point. If your work involves only small branches and you value portability, this unit provides a simpler, lighter alternative to the CRAFTSMAN’s robust 4.0 Ah setup.

BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

The BLACK+DECKER LCS1240 steps up to a 40V MAX system with a 12-inch bar, offering more power than the CRAFTSMAN’s 20V model. It includes a battery and charger, similar to the CRAFTSMAN kit. The 40V platform provides higher torque for standard cutting jobs. This unit weighs 10.4 pounds, slightly heavier than the CRAFTSMAN’s 9.9 pounds. It features automatic lubrication, matching the CRAFTSMAN’s auto-oiling benefit. The larger voltage system requires 40V batteries, which are not compatible with the CRAFTSMAN’s 20V pack. This alternative suits users who want a ready-to-use kit with more power for thicker wood. It is a better choice if you need higher performance for standard yard work rather than precision cutting in tight spaces.

SEESII 40V 2-in-1 Pole Saw & Hedge Trimmer

The SEESII PCT8543 is a 40V 2-in-1 tool that functions as both a pole saw and hedge trimmer. It includes a 4.0 Ah battery, matching the CRAFTSMAN’s capacity but at a higher 40V voltage. The design allows you to reach high branches and shape hedges with one versatile unit. It is not a direct replacement for a standard chainsaw, as it lacks a traditional bar for ground-level cutting. The weight is 9.8 pounds, similar to the CRAFTSMAN. This alternative fits homeowners who need to reach high limbs and shape hedges. It gives up the CRAFTSMAN’s precision cutting and bubble level for multi-function versatility. You should pick this if your primary tasks involve high branch pruning and hedge maintenance rather than standard limbing.

Seesii 4-in-1 Cordless 8-Inch Pole Chainsaw & Blower

The Seesii 4-in-1 Pole Chainsaw features an 8-inch bar and a 4-in-1 design that includes a blower function. It is designed for high branch trimming and leaf cleanup. The unit weighs only 5.51 pounds, significantly lighter than the CRAFTSMAN. It includes dual batteries, offering extended runtime for outdoor work. The shorter 8-inch bar limits cutting diameter compared to the CRAFTSMAN’s 12-inch bar. This model suits users who value the included dual batteries and rotating head over maximum cutting width. It is not suitable for heavy limbing or thick branch removal. You should pick this alternative if you need to trim high limbs and clear debris with one kit. It offers a lighter, multi-functional solution for maintenance tasks rather than raw cutting power.

EGO Power+ 56V Cordless 12-Inch Chainsaw

The EGO CS1201 uses a 56V system with a 12-inch bar, delivering gas-equivalent power. It weighs only 5.69 pounds, much lighter than the CRAFTSMAN’s 9.9 pounds. The 56V platform provides higher torque for thicker branches. This unit is ideal for users who already own 56V batteries and require more power for demanding cuts. It lacks the CRAFTSMAN’s bubble level and auto-oiling features. The compact form factor makes it manageable for various tasks. You should pick this alternative if you need robust performance for thicker wood and already have the EGO battery ecosystem. It offers superior power-to-weight ratio and cutting capability for users who prioritize performance over the included accessories and precision tools found in the CRAFTSMAN kit.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

CRAFTSMAN V20 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

Best for: Precision cutting in tight residential spaces

Bar Length

12"

Power Source

Battery Cordless

Voltage

20V

Battery Capacity

4.0 Ah

Dimensions

26.9 × 9.03 × 10.9 inches

Weight

9.9 pounds

View on Amazon: CRAFTSMAN V20 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

The Craftsman V20 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw offers a compact 12-inch bar for maneuverability in tight spaces. It includes a 4.0 Ah battery for extended runtime and features a bubble level for precise, level cuts. The tool-free tensioning and auto-oiling system reduce maintenance needs. Its 9.9-pound weight makes it manageable for most users. This model suits homeowners needing reliable performance for standard yard work.

Pros

• 12-inch bar length for standard cutting tasks
• 4.0 Ah battery provides extended runtime
• Bubble level ensures precise and level cuts
• Auto-oiling and tool-free tensioning reduce maintenance

Cons

• 20V voltage is lower than 40V competitors
• 9.9-pound weight is heavier than some cordless options
• 12-inch bar limits capacity for larger limbs

Good fit if

• You need a compact tool for small spaces
• You value precise, level cutting accuracy
• You want minimal maintenance with auto-oiling

Skip if

• You require high-power cutting for large trees
• You prefer a lighter tool under 9 pounds
• You need a 40V system for longer runtime

Verdict: Craftsman V20 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw fits homeowners who prioritize precision and ease of use over raw power.

2 Also great

DEWALT 12-Inch 20V MAX Cordless Chainsaw

Best for: Existing DEWALT battery users

Bar Length

12 in.

Power Source

Cordless Battery Powered

Voltage

20V MAX

Dimensions

26.1 × 9.05 × 9.9 inches

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

This DEWALT tool is a 20V MAX cordless chainsaw with a 12-inch bar. It is sold as a tool-only unit, so you must supply your own battery. The design measures 26.1 inches in length and weighs light enough for handheld use. It suits users who already own DEWALT 20V batteries and need a compact saw for light to medium pruning tasks.

Pros

• 12-inch cutting bar length
• Compatible with 20V MAX battery system
• Compact 26.1-inch overall length

Cons

• Sold as tool-only, requires separate battery purchase
• Limited to 20V power output compared to 40V options
• No included carrying case or accessories

Good fit if

• You already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries
• You need a lightweight saw for occasional pruning
• You prefer a compact 12-inch bar size

Skip if

• You do not own a compatible 20V battery
• You need high power for thick limbing
• You want an all-in-one kit with battery included

Verdict: DEWALT 20V MAX 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw fits owners of the DEWALT ecosystem who need a portable, tool-only solution for smaller cuts. It is not suitable for those without existing batteries or those requiring heavy-duty performance.

3 Best budget

BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 10-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

Best for: Light pruning with existing 20V MAX batteries

Bar Length

10 inches

Power Source

Cordless

Voltage

20V MAX

Battery Capacity

2.0 Amp Hour

View on Amazon: BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 10-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

This BLACK+DECKER model features a 10-inch Oregon bar and chain, paired with a 20V MAX power system. It includes a 2.0 Amp Hour lithium battery designed for extended runtime. The tool operates cordlessly and works with other 20V MAX lithium-ion tools from the brand. It suits users needing a lightweight option for light pruning and small branch cutting tasks.

Pros

• 10-inch premium Oregon low kickback bar and chain
• Includes 2.0 Amp Hour lithium battery
• Compatible with other 20V MAX cordless tools
• Cordless operation for portability

Cons

• 10-inch bar is shorter than the 12-inch bars on most competitors
• 2.0 Amp Hour battery capacity is modest for heavy work
• No higher voltage option available in this specific listing

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight tool for light pruning
• You already own other 20V MAX BLACK+DECKER batteries
• You want a budget-friendly entry into cordless cutting

Skip if

• You regularly cut branches thicker than 8 inches
• You require a 12-inch or longer bar for wider cuts
• You need a tool-only option without included batteries

Verdict: BLACK+DECKER 20V 10-Inch Cordless Chainsaw fits homeowners with existing 20V MAX tools who need a compact saw for light jobs. It is not suitable for heavy limbing or thick branch removal.

4 Best premium

BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

Best for: users wanting a complete battery kit

Bar Length

12"

Power Source

Battery Cordless

Voltage

40V MAX

Battery Capacity

2.0Ah

Dimensions

28.6 × 8.81 × 9.63 inches

Weight

10.4 pounds

View on Amazon: BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

This BLACK+DECKER chainsaw uses a 40V MAX system with a 12-inch bar. It includes a 2.0Ah battery and charger. The motor delivers over 60 cuts of 4x4 pine lumber on one charge. An automatic oiling system keeps the chain lubricated. Tool-less tensioning allows for quick adjustments. It weighs 10.4 pounds. This unit suits users who want a complete kit with battery included for standard yard tasks.

Pros

• 40V MAX voltage for strong cutting power
• Includes 2.0Ah battery and charger in the box
• Automatic oiling system for consistent lubrication
• Tool-less chain tensioning for fast setup
• Battery state of charge indicator

Cons

• 2.0Ah battery capacity is smaller than premium competitors
• Heavier at 10.4 pounds than some 20V models
• No variable speed control listed in specifications

Good fit if

• You need a complete kit with battery and charger included
• You want automatic chain lubrication without manual pumping
• You prefer tool-less adjustments for quick tensioning

Skip if

• You require variable speed control for delicate cuts
• You already own compatible 40V MAX batteries
• You need a lighter tool for overhead work

Verdict: BLACK+DECKER 40V 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw fits users who want a ready-to-use kit with automatic lubrication and a 40V power system for standard cutting jobs.

5 Best 4.0ah battery

SEESII 40V 2-in-1 Pole Saw & Hedge Trimmer

Best for: High branch pruning and hedge shaping

Bar Length

10"

Power Source

Cordless

Voltage

40V

Battery Capacity

4.0Ah

Chain Speed

31 ft/s

Design

2-in-1

View on Amazon: SEESII 40V 2-in-1 Pole Saw & Hedge Trimmer

This SEESII kit combines a pole saw and hedge trimmer in one 40V system. It includes a 4.0Ah battery for extended runtime. The 800W motor drives an 8-inch bar at 31 ft/s. You can cut branches up to 10 inches thick. The adjustable pole reaches 8.5 feet for high limbs. This setup handles both tree pruning and hedge shaping efficiently.

Pros

• Includes 40V 4.0Ah battery for up to 60 minutes of saw runtime
• 800W motor delivers 31 ft/s chain speed for thick branches
• Adjustable pole extends to 8.5 feet for overhead reach
• Switchable heads allow use as pole saw or hedge trimmer

Cons

• Heavier at 9.2 lb compared to standard handheld chainsaws
• Single 4.0Ah battery limits total runtime across both tools
• No dedicated tool-only option available for existing 40V users

Good fit if

• You need to reach high tree branches without a ladder
• You want to maintain tall hedges and prune trees with one system
• You prefer cordless freedom for large yard areas

Skip if

• You only need a standard handheld chainsaw for ground work
• You already own a full SEESII 40V ecosystem
• You require a lightweight tool for prolonged overhead use

Verdict: SEESII 40V 2-in-1 Pole Saw & Hedge Trimmer fits homeowners who need to reach high branches and shape hedges with a single versatile tool. The included 4.0Ah battery supports extended outdoor work.

6 Best 8 inch

Seesii 4-in-1 Cordless 8-Inch Pole Chainsaw & Blower

Best for: high branch trimming and leaf cleanup

Bar Length

8 Inch

Power Source

Battery Powered

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Capacity

4000mAh

Recommended Use

Tree Trimming, Lawn

Design

4-in-1

View on Amazon: Seesii 4-in-1 Cordless 8-Inch Pole Chainsaw & Blower

This Seesii kit combines an 8-inch pole chainsaw with a handheld blower. It uses a brushless motor and includes two 4000mAh batteries. The 800W motor handles branches up to 8 inches thick. The blower offers 560 CFM airflow with three speed settings. The rotating head and extension pole allow safe ground-level trimming. You get a versatile tool for yard cleanup and pruning.

Pros

• 8-inch bar cuts branches up to 8 inches thick
• Includes two 4000mAh batteries for extended runtime
• Brushless motor provides efficient power
• Blower features 560 CFM max airflow
• Head rotates 180 degrees for flexible cutting angles

Cons

• 8-inch bar is smaller than the 12-inch bars on other list items
• Blower speed maxes out at 77.6 mph
• Requires dual-lock safety engagement before use

Good fit if

• You need a pole saw for high branches
• You want a blower for leaves and dust
• You prefer cutting branches up to 8 inches thick

Skip if

• You require a 12-inch cutting capacity
• You need a dedicated heavy-duty chainsaw only
• You want a single-purpose tool without blower functions

Verdict: Seesii 8-Inch 4-in-1 Pole Chainsaw fits users who need to trim high limbs and clear debris with one kit. It suits those who value the included dual batteries and rotating head over maximum cutting width.

7 Also great

EGO Power+ 56V Cordless 12-Inch Chainsaw

Best for: Users needing gas-equivalent power in a compact form

Bar Length

12"

Power Source

Battery Powered

Voltage

56V

Engine Displacement

30cc gas equivalent

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Capacity

2.5Ah

View on Amazon: EGO Power+ 56V Cordless 12-Inch Chainsaw

The EGO Power+ 12-inch cordless chainsaw uses a 56V brushless motor to deliver power equivalent to a 30cc gas saw. It features a chain speed of up to 20 m/s and includes a 2.5Ah battery. The tool weighs 8.4 lbs with the battery attached. It offers tool-free chain tensioning for quick adjustments. This setup suits users needing gas-like power in a lightweight, compact form factor.

Pros

• 56V brushless motor provides 30cc gas equivalent power
• Chain speed reaches up to 20 m/s
• Tool-free chain tensioning allows quick adjustments
• Lightweight build at 8.4 lbs with battery attached

Cons

• Included 2.5Ah battery limits cuts to approximately 130 on a 4x4
• Heavier than 20V MAX alternatives due to higher voltage system
• Smaller bar length than 16-inch or 20-inch options available

Good fit if

• You want gas-equivalent power without the maintenance
• You need a lightweight tool for overhead limb work
• You already own the EGO 56V battery platform

Skip if

• You require a 16-inch or 20-inch bar for large logs
• You prefer a lighter 20V MAX system for extended carry
• You need a tool-only option to use existing batteries

Verdict: The EGO 12" 56V Brushless Cordless Chainsaw delivers robust performance for users who need gas-equivalent power in a manageable size. It is ideal for those who already own 56V batteries and require higher torque for thicker branches.

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