Best Chainsaw for the Money

The best chainsaw for the money is the EGO Power+ CS1613 56V with a 16-inch bar (~$330). It delivers 40cc gas-equivalent power, metal bucking spikes, tool-free tensioning, and everything a homeowner needs in one kit. Under $200, the Greenworks 40V 12-inch (~$150) is unbeatable. Under $350, the EGO CS1613 wins. Under $500, the Husqvarna 445 II is the value gas standard.

Not sure which chainsaw? Try our Cut Calculator — 4 questions, one recommendation.

Bar Length Guidance

Don't overpay for bar length you don't need. A 16-inch bar handles 90% of homeowner jobs. Only go longer if you regularly cut logs over 14 inches.

Chainsaws range from $100 to $800+. The question is what you get at each price point and where the value sweet spots are.

Under $200: You're looking at compact battery saws with 12-inch bars or entry-level gas saws. The Greenworks 40V 12-inch (~$150) includes battery and charger, weighs 8.4 lbs, and handles pruning and light storm cleanup. Good for occasional use. The Stihl MS 170 (~$200) gives you gas reliability in a tiny, portable package.

At $200-$400: This is where value peaks. The EGO CS1613 (~$330) gives you 40cc gas-equivalent power, a 16-inch bar, and the full EGO build quality. The Echo CS-3510 (~$300) is the lightest gas saw in its class with easy starting. The DeWalt DCCS620P1 (~$230) is the compact all-rounder. Dollar for dollar, $250-$350 buys more chainsaw than any other range.

At $400-$600: You're paying for more power, longer bars, and premium features. The Husqvarna 445 II (~$400) and 455 Rancher (~$500) are worth the premium if you need gas runtime and 18-20 inch bars. The EGO CS1800 (~$350) sits right at the value line between mid-range and premium.

Above $600: Professional territory. The Husqvarna 460 Rancher (~$600) is the entry point. Unless you're felling 20+ inch trees regularly, you don't need to spend this much.

Top 3 Picks

1Best Value Overall

EGO Power+ CS1613 56V 16"

EGO · Battery · 16" bar · 12.8 lbs with battery

9/10

~$330

EGO Power+ CS1613 56V 16"

Best mid-range battery chainsaw and the ideal first saw. 40cc gas-equivalent power, 16-inch bar, push-button start, and all-in kit pricing under the 18-inch model. Perfect for storm cleanup, property maintenance, and learning to cut safely.

Pros
  • +40cc gas-equivalent power
  • +16-inch bar handles 90% of homeowner tasks
  • +Push-button start, auto-oiler
  • +Tool-free chain tensioning
  • +Metal bucking spikes
  • +Great value as a complete kit
Cons
  • -16-inch bar limits large firewood work
  • -Battery sold separately on some listings
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2Best Under $200

Greenworks 40V 12"

Greenworks · Battery · 12" bar · 8.4 lbs with battery

7.6/10

~$150

Greenworks 40V 12"

Best budget chainsaw under $200. 12-inch bar, 8.4 lbs, push-button start, battery and charger included. Handles pruning, light storm cleanup, and campsite wood for under $150. Hard to beat for occasional use.

Pros
  • +Under $150 with battery and charger
  • +Just 8.4 lbs, easy to handle
  • +Push-button start
  • +Quiet for residential use
  • +Good value for occasional cutting
Cons
  • -12-inch bar limits cutting capacity
  • -40V battery has less power than 56V/60V
  • -Build quality below EGO and DeWalt
  • -Shorter battery life than premium brands
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3Best Value Gas Saw

Echo CS-3510 16"

Echo · Gas · 16" bar · 8.8 lbs (powerhead)

8/10

~$300

Echo CS-3510 16"

Lightest gas chainsaw in its class. 35.8cc engine, i-30 starting system that reduces pull-cord effort by 30%, and a 16-inch bar for storm cleanup and general cutting. Gas reliability when the power is out and batteries can't charge.

Pros
  • +Lightest gas saw in its class
  • +i-30 system reduces pull-cord effort by 30%
  • +16-inch bar for versatile homeowner use
  • +Gas reliability for emergencies
  • +Fair price for the quality
Cons
  • -35.8cc limits heavy-duty cutting
  • -Still requires gas/oil maintenance
  • -Less power than battery saws at this price
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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best chainsaw under $200?
The Greenworks 40V 12-inch (~$150) is the best chainsaw under $200. It includes battery and charger, weighs just 8.4 lbs, and handles pruning and light storm cleanup. For gas, the Stihl MS 170 14-inch (~$200) is the most portable and reliable option.
What's the best chainsaw under $500?
The EGO CS1800 56V 18-inch (~$350) is the best value under $500. You get 45cc gas-equivalent power, an 18-inch bar, and push-button start. For gas, the Husqvarna 445 II 18-inch (~$400) delivers the best gas performance under $500.
Is a cheap chainsaw worth buying?
Yes, if you match the saw to your needs. A $150 Greenworks 12-inch handles pruning and light cleanup perfectly. Cheap becomes a problem when you buy too little saw for the job. A $150 saw won't process firewood efficiently. Buy enough chainsaw for your biggest regular task.
What features do you get at each chainsaw price point?
Under $200: 12-inch bar, basic motor, light duty. $200-$400: 14-16 inch bar, 35-45cc equivalent, tool-free tensioning, auto-oiler. $400-$500: 18-inch bar, 45-55cc, anti-vibration, Smart Start. $500+: 20-24 inch bar, 55-60cc, professional features, premium build.

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Best Chainsaw for HomeownersBest Chainsaw for BeginnersBest Battery ChainsawBest Gas Chainsaw