For these reasons many people just don't need the expense or power of a gas chainsaw. If you mainly use saws around the house you need to reconsider your purchase to include a good electric chainsaw first.
Good and bad points you need to remember are:
This "best" review is based on company reliability, user popularity and opinions expressed on my About Forestry Forum. Any and all of these chainsaws will make a great purchase. I've tried to include both moderately priced and top-of-the-line saws and their company web sites.
It would be remiss if I did not mention safety. Just because you have less power in an electric versus a gas saw doesn't mean you be casual about its use. Treat it with respect. An electric chainsaw should be considered dangerous and you would benefit by reviewing my chainsaw safety interview with Carl Smith.
Best Moderately Priced
Remington Electric Chainsaws- Some people consider Remington to manufacture the best mid-priced saw on the market. Suggested retail price range on all models - $50 to $120.
McCulloch Electric Chainsaws- Good value, adequate performance when cutting small size trees and pruning limbs. Suggested retail price range on all models - $50 to $110.
Craftsman Electric Chainsaws- These saws have the best Internet reviews for performance of any model I've seen - from top to bottom. Suggested retail price range on all models - $50 to $120.
Best Top-of-the-line
Makita Electric Chainsaws- A bit pricey but one of the most powerful electric chainsaws you can purchase with great Internet ratings. Suggested retail price range on all models - $150 to $300.
Milwaukee Electric Chainsaws- Many claims are made that this is the best electric chainsaw made. A Milwaukee electric chainsaw is certainly one of the most expensive. Suggested retail price range on all models - $280 to $520.
Makita Cordless Chainsaw- Very dependable battery operated chainsaw for the freedom from an electric cord. Limits cutting jobs due to the short 5" to 7" blades but an alternative to corded saws. Suggested retail price range on all models - $210 to $350.
