Note: This article contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my research and content. Read my full affiliate disclosure here.
If you do regular pruning, limb cleanup, or occasional small firewood cutting, a 40V chainsaw can deliver the cordless power and easier handling you need. Choosing the right one matters because battery runtime, bar length, and chain speed determine how much work you can finish per charge and how comfortably you can manage the tool for extended periods. This guide covers our seven shortlisted 40V chainsaws, explains the practical differences you will notice in the yard, and highlights the evaluation criteria we used, including battery runtime and cutting performance. Read on to see which features match your routine and property.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | WORX Nitro 40V Cordless 16" Chainsaw (WG385) with 2 Batteries and Dual Charger |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Greenworks 40V 16" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw with 4.0Ah Battery and Charger |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | ReliaRoads 16-Inch 40V Brushless Cordless Chainsaw (for DeWalt 20V MAX) |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | AIDERAR 16-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw (Tool Only) |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Greenworks 40V 18" Cordless Electric Chainsaw with 5.0Ah Battery and Charger |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | SEESII 12-Inch Cordless Brushless Chainsaw |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Supstable S16 Pro 16-Inch 40V Brushless Cordless Chainsaw with 4.0Ah Battery |  |
WORX Nitro 40V Cordless 16" Chainsaw (WG385) with 2 Batteries and Dual Charger
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 2.3 hp |
| Chain Speed | 59 ft/s |
| Chain Length | 16 inches |
| Included Components | Saw, (2) 4.0Ah PowerShare PRO batteries, dual charger, bar & chain sheath |
The WORX Nitro WG385 is a 40V cordless 16" chainsaw designed to replace small gas saws for regular yard work and light felling. It uses a brushless motor and two 4.0Ah PowerShare PRO batteries that deliver a 59 ft/s chain speed, automatic bar and chain lubrication, and enough energy to make many cuts on hardwood per charge. Typical uses include bucking, limb removal, and cutting firewood where portability and lower maintenance matter. Notable conveniences are tool-free chain tensioning for quick adjustments, an on-board battery indicator, and a quick-stop chain brake plus a safety trigger lock to reduce accidental starts. Practical benefits are quieter operation, no fuel mixing, and compatibility with the broader PowerShare battery platform. Important limitations are that its 16" bar is better suited to medium and small trees rather than large timber, and runtime will vary with wood density and cutting technique despite the claimed high cut count. Users should also plan for periodic chain sharpening and expect slightly reduced continuous cutting compared with a full-size gas saw.
Best for: Buyers who want a powerful, low-maintenance cordless chainsaw for regular yard tasks, firewood work, and mid-size tree jobs without managing gas engines.
Less Ideal for: Not the best choice for professional loggers or anyone who regularly fells very large trees and needs gas-level continuous power.
- Brushless motor for longer life and more efficient power delivery
- Includes two 4.0Ah PowerShare PRO batteries and a dual charger for extended runtime
- Tool-free chain tensioning and automatic lubrication simplify maintenance
- Quick-stop chain brake and safety trigger lock for improved safety
- On-board battery indicator helps manage charge during jobs
- 16" bar is limited for large-diameter felling or heavy commercial work
- Actual cuts per charge depend on wood type and cutting style, so heavy use may need extra batteries
Verdict: If you want a gas‑replacement cordless 16" saw that balances power, maintenance ease, and portable runtime, the WORX Nitro 40V WG385 is a strong all‑around choice.
Greenworks 40V 16" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw with 4.0Ah Battery and Charger
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 160 |
| Chain Length | 16 inches |
| Included Components | Chainsaw, Battery, Charger, Manual |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 3 Year |
This Greenworks 40V 16" brushless chainsaw delivers gas-comparable cutting performance in a cordless, lower-noise package. It uses a brushless motor and a 16-inch Oregon bar to tackle tree felling, firewood cutting, storm cleanup, limbing, and pruning while avoiding fuel mixing and pull cords. The kit includes a 4.0Ah battery and charger for immediate use and claims extended runtime with tool compatibility across the Greenworks 40V platform. Practical conveniences include tool-free chain tensioning, an automatic oiler with a visible window, an electric two-step easy start, a safety chain brake, and metal bucking spikes for controlled cutting. Real-world benefits are reduced vibration and quieter operation compared with small gas saws, simpler maintenance, and straightforward battery storage. Important limitations are battery runtime for prolonged heavy cutting where multiple batteries or breaks to recharge will be needed and mixed user reports on the auto-oiler reliability. For buyers used to gas saws, this model is a strong cordless alternative for demanding homeowner and light professional tasks but may require extra batteries for multi-hour jobs.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize gas-like cutting power and low maintenance in a cordless chainsaw and want a ready-to-use 40V solution for heavy yard work and storm cleanup.
Less Ideal for: Contractors or users who need uninterrupted multi-hour cutting without swapping batteries should consider higher-capacity battery systems or gas models.
- Brushless motor offers higher efficiency, more torque, and lower vibration than brushed units
- Includes 4.0Ah battery and charger so the tool is ready to use out of the box
- 16-inch Oregon bar and chain handle heavy-duty tasks like tree felling and firewood cutting
- Tool-free chain tensioning and visible automatic oiler simplify maintenance during use
- Single 4.0Ah battery may limit continuous cutting time for extended or professional jobs
- Some users report inconsistent auto-oiler performance, which can require manual attention
Verdict: A gas-alternative 40V brushless chainsaw that delivers strong, low-vibration cutting performance ready to use with an included 4.0Ah battery and charger.
ReliaRoads 16-Inch 40V Brushless Cordless Chainsaw (for DeWalt 20V MAX)
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 2 hp |
| Chain Speed | 54 FT/S |
| Chain Length | 16 inches |
This ReliaRoads 16-inch cordless chainsaw converts two 20V MAX batteries into a 40V system to deliver brushless 2 horsepower performance and a chain speed up to 54 ft/s. It is aimed at routine yard work like pruning, cutting fallen branches, and small to medium firewood, and it includes two 16-inch chains, an oil bottle, and a guide bar cover so you can get started once you add batteries. Practical features such as tool-free tensioning and automatic oiling make maintenance quick and keep the bar and chain running smoothly during extended use. Safety features include a chain brake and a start lock to reduce accidental engagement. The saw does not include batteries or a charger and relies on two compatible DeWalt 20V packs for best runtime and power, so total cost and convenience depend on whether you already own compatible batteries. Expect strong cutting for homeowner tasks but not the continuous runtime of a dedicated 40V battery platform used by professional crews.
Best for: Homeowners who want a capable, maintenance-light 16-inch chainsaw for pruning, storm cleanup, and occasional firewood cutting and who prefer to reuse existing DeWalt 20V batteries to save money.
Less Ideal for: Professional arborists or users who need long continuous runtime for heavy logging tasks should choose a higher-capacity commercial system instead.
- Brushless 2 HP motor and 54 ft/s chain speed for efficient cutting of branches and firewood
- Runs on two DeWalt 20V MAX batteries so existing battery packs can be reused
- Tool-free chain tensioning speeds setup and reduces downtime
- Automatic oiling maintains lubrication for smoother cuts and longer bar life
- Includes two 16-inch chains and basic accessories so you have a spare chain ready
- Batteries and charger are not included which adds to overall cost if you do not already own compatible packs
- Not intended for heavy professional use where dedicated high-capacity 40V platforms offer longer continuous runtime
Verdict: A practical, homeowner-focused 16-inch cordless chainsaw that leverages existing DeWalt 20V batteries for brushless power and low-maintenance operation.
AIDERAR 16-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw (Tool Only)
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 1450 watts |
| Model Number | DL-01 |
This 16-inch AIDERAR cordless chainsaw is a tool-only, 40V system that runs on two DeWalt 20V batteries (sold separately) and is aimed at homeowners who need a lightweight electric saw for routine yard work. The brushless motor delivers stronger cutting power and improved runtime compared with brushed designs, while auto-oiling and tool-free chain tensioning make upkeep quick and fuss-free. Safety features include a chain brake, safety lock-off lever, and an auto power-off when idle. The saw ships with two chains, a guide bar, bumper spike, and a multi-tool so you can start using it right away once you supply batteries and oil. Expect quieter, cleaner operation than a gas saw and easier maintenance, but plan to match two high-capacity batteries for meaningful run time and heavier cutting. Because it is sold without batteries or charger, initial cost remains low if you already own compatible 20V batteries, otherwise you will need to budget for batteries to get full value from the tool.
Best for: Ideal for homeowners on a budget who already own compatible DeWalt 20V batteries and want a quieter, low-maintenance saw for cutting firewood, pruning, and clearing fallen limbs.
Less Ideal for: Not a good choice for buyers who need a complete out-of-the-box system with batteries and charger or for heavy daily professional logging where longer continuous runtime is required.
- Brushless motor for stronger cutting performance and longer motor life
- Auto-oiling and tool-free chain tensioning reduce maintenance time
- Built-in safety features including chain brake, lock-off lever, and auto power-off
- Includes guide bar, two chains, bumper spike, and multi-tool so it is ready to use aside from batteries
- Sold as a bare tool so batteries and charger are not included
- Runtime and cutting power depend on having two matched high-capacity 20V batteries
Verdict: If you already own compatible 20V batteries, this brushless 16-inch cordless saw gives affordable, low-maintenance cutting power for typical yard work.
Greenworks 40V 18" Cordless Electric Chainsaw with 5.0Ah Battery and Charger
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 1 |
| Chain Length | 18 inches |
| Included Components | Chainsaw, Manual, Battery, Charger |
The Greenworks 40V 18-inch cordless chainsaw is designed to tackle typical yard work like pruning, storm cleanup, limbing, and cutting firewood up to roughly 32 inches in diameter. It uses a brushless 40V HP motor and a 5.0Ah lithium-ion battery that Greenworks rates for extended run time and compatibility with a large 40V tool platform. Practical touches include push-button start, an automatic oiler, tool-less chain tensioning, and a built-in chain brake that simplify use and maintenance. The battery and 5A rapid charger make it convenient to keep working without long downtime, and the unit’s sub-10-pound weight reduces operator fatigue for longer jobs. On the downside, battery runtime will vary by cut type and heavy continuous cutting will require spare batteries for full-day work, and the 18-inch bar limits reach compared with larger gas saws. For homeowners who want predictable, low-maintenance cutting with easy upkeep and no fuel hassles, this model delivers dependable, near-gas performance in a quieter, cleaner package.
Best for: Homeowners and property stewards who prioritize reliable, low-maintenance cutting power for pruning, storm cleanup, and firewood on small to medium trees and who prefer cordless convenience over gas maintenance.
Less Ideal for: Professional arborists or users who need long runtimes for continuous heavy logging or who require bar lengths beyond 18 inches should consider larger gas or pro battery systems.
- Brushless 40V HP motor provides strong, gas-like cutting power
- Includes 5.0Ah battery and 5A rapid charger for extended use and quick recharge
- Tool-less chain tensioning and automatic oiler simplify maintenance
- Lightweight design reduces operator fatigue during extended tasks
- Heavy or continuous cutting requires spare batteries for full-day work
- 18-inch bar limits reach compared with larger professional gas chainsaws
Verdict: A dependable, low-maintenance 18-inch cordless chainsaw that delivers near-gas power for homeowners who want reliable cutting without fuel hassles.
SEESII 12-Inch Cordless Brushless Chainsaw
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 1200 watts |
| Chain Length | 12 inches |
| Included Components | chainsaw |
The SEESII 12-inch cordless chainsaw is designed for homeowners and pros who need portable, high-power cutting without a generator. It pairs a 1200W brushless motor with two 4.0Ah batteries to deliver sustained cutting power for pruning, cutting storm debris, and working on small to medium logs. The tool-free chain tension system and automatic lubrication reduce downtime and routine maintenance, and the 60 mL oil tank helps keep the chain running smoothly during longer sessions. Because it is cordless and relatively lightweight for its class, it is easy to move around the yard or use at remote sites where cords are impractical. Important limits to note are the 12-inch bar, which constrains maximum log diameter compared with full-size saws, and battery reliance for very long jobs where alternating charged packs or a backup power source is needed. For straightforward woodcutting tasks this model balances cutting performance, convenience, and low maintenance.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize efficient, portable wood cutting for yard cleanup, pruning, and medium DIY projects and want a low-maintenance cordless saw they can move around the property easily.
Less Ideal for: Contractors or users who regularly need to fell large trees or process large-diameter logs should choose a full-size gas or professional electric chainsaw instead.
- 1200W brushless motor provides strong, efficient cutting power for hardwood and storm debris
- Two 4.0Ah batteries extend runtime for longer jobs and include a built-in charge indicator
- Automatic oiling with a 60 mL tank reduces frequent stops for lubrication
- Tool-free chain tensioning simplifies on-the-job adjustments
- Cordless, relatively lightweight design improves portability and use at remote sites
- 12-inch bar limits the maximum log diameter compared with larger professional chainsaws
- Runtime depends on battery swapping for extended heavy-duty cutting sessions
Verdict: A powerful, low-maintenance cordless 12-inch saw that maximizes portable cutting performance for homeowners and weekend woodworkers.
Supstable S16 Pro 16-Inch 40V Brushless Cordless Chainsaw with 4.0Ah Battery
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 2000 watts |
| Chain Speed | 35ft/s |
| Chain Length | 16 inches |
The Supstable S16 Pro is a battery-powered 16-inch chainsaw aimed at homeowners who need gas-like cutting power without the fuss of fuel. It pairs a 2000W brushless motor with a 40V 4.0Ah battery to deliver up to 35 ft/s chain speed and work sessions the manufacturer says can run up to about 50 minutes per charge. Notable features include an automatic chain oiler, tool-free side tensioning for quick chain adjustments, a rapid-response chain brake, and included safety gloves and goggles. In practice this makes the saw well suited to cutting medium logs, pruning large branches, and storm cleanup around the yard while avoiding fumes and cold starts. The cordless design improves maneuverability but runtime is limited by a single battery and additional batteries will be needed for extended professional use. The kit is ready to run out of the box, but buyers should be aware the battery system is 40V only and accessory compatibility is restricted to the same voltage family.
Best for: Homeowners and careful DIYers who want near-gas power without fuel maintenance and who value ready-to-use safety features for routine tree trimming, firewood cutting, and storm cleanup.
Less Ideal for: Professional arborists or users who need uninterrupted all-day runtime and rely on interchangeable batteries across different voltage platforms.
- High-power 2000W brushless motor delivers strong, gas-like cutting performance
- Automatic chain lubrication reduces wear and produces smoother cuts
- Tool-free chain tensioning allows fast on-the-job adjustments
- Comes as a complete kit with battery, fast charger, safety goggles, and gloves
- Single included 4.0Ah battery limits continuous runtime for long jobs
- Battery system is 40V only so it is not compatible with 20V tools
Verdict: Buy this if you want a ready-to-run 16-inch cordless chainsaw that delivers strong, gas-like cutting performance with convenient safety and maintenance features.
Choosing the Right 40V Chainsaw: Key Factors to Consider
Battery Capacity and Runtime
Battery capacity and real-world runtime determine how much cutting you can do between charges. Higher amp-hour ratings give longer run times, but actual endurance depends on bar length, chain load, and wood density. Expect shorter runtimes under repeated under-load cutting of thicker limbs or green wood.
Also consider whether the battery is part of a wider platform you already own. Interchangeable batteries let you swap packs from other tools to extend work time. Charging speed matters too. Faster chargers reduce downtime, and carrying a spare battery is often the most practical way to double effective runtime during a session.
Cutting Power and Chain Speed
Motor output and chain speed determine how quickly the saw slices through wood. Higher torque helps push through thicker or tougher branches with less stalling, while higher chain speed gives cleaner cuts and faster progress on repetitive tasks. For homeowner use, look for enough power to cleanly cut typical branches and small logs without bogging down.
Power delivery under load is also important. Some cordless saws maintain speed better when cutting dense wood. Smooth, consistent chain movement reduces kickback risk and finishes cuts faster, so check how the saw behaves under real cutting loads rather than just peak specs.
Bar Length and Cutting Capacity
Bar length directly affects the maximum diameter you can cut in a single pass. Shorter bars are lighter and easier to handle for pruning, while longer bars let you tackle larger limbs or small rounds. Choose a bar length that matches the typical work you will do: frequent pruning and trimming usually benefit from 12-16 inch bars, while occasional cutting of small logs may call for 16-18 inch bars.
Remember that longer bars increase weight and battery draw. A longer bar with insufficient power or small battery will slow cutting and drain faster, so balance bar length with motor capability and battery capacity.
Weight, Balance, and Ergonomics
How a chainsaw feels in your hands affects fatigue and control, especially when working overhead or for extended periods. Weight distribution between the battery, motor, and handle governs balance; a well-balanced saw tracks more predictably through a cut. Look for comfortable handle shapes, vibration damping, and accessible controls that can be reached while wearing gloves.
Lighter saws are easier to manage for pruning and ladders, but extremely light units may sacrifice cutting durability. Consider the typical duration and type of jobs you will do to find the best tradeoff between portability and stability.
Safety Systems and Ease of Use
Built-in safety features reduce the chance of injury during common garden tasks. Chain brakes, kickback reduction designs, and automatic chain oiling are practical elements that protect you and keep the saw running cleanly. Tool-free chain tensioning and easy-to-access oil ports simplify maintenance, encouraging regular care that extends tool life.
Also evaluate noise and exhaust characteristics. Quieter cordless motors create a less stressful working environment and make the tool more acceptable for neighborhoods with noise restrictions.
Maintenance and Serviceability
Regular maintenance keeps a chainsaw cutting safely and efficiently. Consider how easy it is to sharpen or replace the chain, access the bar for tensioning, and top up chain oil. Tool-free adjustments save time and reduce frustration, which means you are more likely to keep the chain properly tensioned and lubricated.
Also factor in battery service options and availability of replacement parts. A saw that is easy to maintain will last through many seasons of pruning and light cutting without frequent workshops visits.
Which 40V Chainsaw Suits Different Yard Sizes
Small yards and garden beds often reward a compact, lower-bar saw that is easy to maneuver among shrubs and tree canopies. For tight spaces, a lighter saw with a 12-14 inch bar reduces the risk of accidental damage and keeps fatigue low during frequent trimming.
Medium properties that include ornamental trees and occasional firewood cutting benefit from mid-length bars and moderate battery capacity. These saws strike a balance between runtime and cutting reach without becoming unwieldy during longer jobs.
- Compact saws: best for pruning, shaping, and light limb work
- Mid-size saws: handle routine yard cleanup and small logs
- Larger-bar options: suitable when cutting thicker rounds less frequently
Battery Management Tips for Extended Jobs
Plan work around battery life by grouping similar tasks and using a fresh battery for prolonged sessions. Start with pruning and lighter cuts, then move to thicker limbs as charge permits. Carrying at least one spare battery lets you finish multi-hour chores without long breaks.
Keep batteries cool and avoid full discharges when possible. Charging between jobs rather than waiting for complete depletion preserves battery longevity. Use the charger recommended for the battery platform to ensure safe and efficient charging cycles.
- Organize tasks by intensity to conserve charge
- Store batteries in a cool, dry place between uses
- Rotate batteries during heavy work to avoid overheating
Routine Maintenance That Keeps Cuts Clean
A sharp, correctly tensioned chain and clean bar groove have a big impact on cut quality and battery drain. Inspect the chain for dull teeth and burrs before a session. Sharpening small chainsaw chains is straightforward with a round file and guide; keeping the chain sharp reduces strain on the motor and battery.
Regularly top up the chain oil reservoir and clean saw vents. Blocked vents can overheat the motor, reducing performance. After wet or dirty work, wipe the saw down and lightly lubricate moving parts to prevent corrosion.
- Check chain tension before each use
- Sharpen or replace chain teeth as needed
- Keep oil reservoir filled and vents clear
Safety Practices When Using Cordless Chainsaws
Wear proper protective equipment: eye protection, gloves, hearing protection, and chainsaw-resistant chaps when cutting larger limbs or standing beneath the saw. Maintain a stable stance and clear the work area of tripping hazards.
Use two hands on the saw at all times and avoid cutting above shoulder height. Be mindful of potential pinching that can stall the chain and create kickback. Let the saw reach full speed before contacting wood and do not force the bar through a cut.
- Always engage the chain brake when moving between cuts
- Inspect the cut path for nails, wire, or other obstructions
- Plan escape routes for larger limb removals
Storing Your 40V Chainsaw and Batteries
Store the saw in a dry, ventilated space and remove the battery when not in use to prevent accidental activation and reduce battery drain. For winter storage, clean the saw, drain or top up oil as recommended, and keep the battery at partial charge in a cool area to maximize long-term life.
Label batteries and rotate them seasonally if you keep multiple packs. Regularly inspect for swelling, damage, or reduced performance and retire compromised packs to avoid safety issues.
- Remove batteries for storage and keep them partially charged
- Clean saw and chain before extended storage
- Inspect batteries regularly for damage
How We Chose the Best 40V Chainsaw
We focused on features that translate to real-world performance in yards, gardens, and small acreage. Our selection filtered for battery platform and voltage around 40V, bar lengths suitable for typical homeowner tasks, and chain drive systems designed for consistent cutting. We prioritized models with clear runtime claims and fast recharge compatibility because uptime matters when clearing multiple limbs or small logs. Safety features like chain braking and tool-free chain tensioning were required to ensure practical, repeatable use in the garden. Ergonomics and weight were evaluated to determine how tiring a saw feels during extended pruning sessions. We excluded heavy professional-grade saws and low-voltage hobby units that do not meet sustained cutting needs. The final picks reflect a balance of battery endurance, cutting speed, bar length options, user controls, and overall handling for everyday outdoor maintenance.
FAQ
How long will a 40V chainsaw battery typically last on a single charge?
Runtime often depends on bar length and the density of wood being cut. For routine pruning, expect enough time for several dozen small cuts per charge; heavier cuts and longer bars will reduce that significantly. Carrying a spare battery is the most reliable way to extend work time.
Can a 40V chainsaw handle cutting small logs for firewood?
A 40V chainsaw can usually handle small logs and rounds up to the capacity of its bar length and motor torque. For repeated, thick log cutting you may notice slower speeds and shorter runtimes compared with gas models, but for occasional firewood processing it is often adequate.
What maintenance tasks are most important for cordless chainsaws?
Keeping the chain sharp, maintaining correct tension, topping up chain oil, and keeping the motor vents and bar groove clean are the most important tasks. These steps preserve cutting efficiency and reduce battery strain.
Are 40V chainsaws loud compared with gas models?
Cordless 40V motors are generally quieter than gas engines, producing less exhaust noise and vibration. They still generate mechanical noise from the chain and should be used with hearing protection during extended cutting.
Is chain sharpening difficult for a homeowner?
Sharpening a small chainsaw chain is a manageable DIY task with a round file and a guide. Regular, light sharpening prevents rapid dulling and keeps cuts efficient. If you prefer, many garden shops offer sharpening services.
Final Verdict
Choosing a 40V chainsaw comes down to matching battery capacity, bar length, and ergonomic comfort to the types of cuts you do most. Prioritize battery runtime and cutting torque if you often tackle thicker limbs, or choose a lighter, shorter-bar saw if pruning and frequent overhead work are your main tasks. Balance safety features and maintenance ease against reach and power to find the saw that will be reliable season after season. With the right tradeoffs, a 40V chainsaw offers quiet, low-maintenance cutting that suits most homeowners and small-acreage tasks.
