After several hours of research, I finally made my selection of the best electric chainsaws among more than twenty models available at the moment.
My favorite is the Makita UC4051A, a mid-range model quite versatile, which offers an excellent comfort of use.
You will also find at the end of this article a shopping guide summarizing the key points to choose your electric chainsaw.
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The best inexpensive electric chainsaws
The entry-level models already offer excellent ergonomics and good power. They are therefore generally sufficient for small pruning work, and they allow to cut woodcutting, as long as one remains on diameters small to medium.
Their weak point is usually the guide-chain: it is often difficult to work calmly because the chain has an unfortunate tendency to relax. This is THE critical point to check systematically.
Oregon CS1500 : the best cheap step
Oregon is a brand owned by the international group Blount. One of the specialties of this manufacturer: the chainsaws, more particularly known for their cutting system. With the CS 1500, the brand signs a very successful model, which enjoys excellent value for money.
This electric chain saw is equipped with a 45 cm guide and has a power of 2400 W. The CS 1500 is equipped with a circuit breaker system in case of overheating. Its 0.14 L oil tank has a level indicator. It is specifically designed for cutting medium logs and for regular use.
The first advantage of this model is Oregon’s integrated chain sharpening system. Efficient and easy to use, it saves a lot of time in use.
With its 6.8 kg, the chainsaw does not really rank among the featherweight. It is even a bit heavy for an electric model. But it forgives him all the more easily his little fault that it catches up with a power and ease of cutting quite impressive.
As is often the case with entry-level models, the chain tensioning system (without tools) is not exceptional. It is essential to make a careful adjustment, to properly position the chain and to tighten it, otherwise it jumps regularly.
In use, the Oregon CS 1500 chainsaw provides good grip and ease of use. The cleaning and maintenance operations can be very slightly complicated by the fact that this model does not fit on the sidewall.
If it is not perfect, this chainsaw is really good job and it is particularly sharp and manageable. This is an excellent choice if you are looking for a model suitable for cutting firewood.
If you were used to thermal models, it is also a very good model to switch to the electric. Definitely a very good value for money!
Ryobi RCS2340 : amazing performance for a mini price
Ryobi is a trademark of TechTronic Industries Group (TTI), a manufacturer of tools for the general public, professionals and manufacturers. This brand is more specifically designed for individuals, and its catalog has a large selection of models at low prices, perfect for occasional use and / or for beginners.
The Ryobi 5133002186 chainsaw does not necessarily inspire confidence at first glance, because it must be said: some parts are quite cheap. But under this uninviting appearance, it still hides a 2300 W engine, which ensures good performance for its mini price.
This model has a 40 mm guide. The chain tensioner (without tools) is quite reliable. With an effective anti-vibration system and an ergonomic micro-alveolate handle, it offers an appreciable working comfort, especially since it weighs less than 5 kg, which makes it quite manageable. Another good point: the almost immediate chain stop (less than 12 seconds).
This chainsaw – reliable and fairly powerful – yet has particularly frustrating defects. It is criticized first of all its power cable, really very short.
The Ryobi 5133002186 also disappoints the side of the oil. Nothing wrong with the integrated automatic oil pump, which offers automatic lubrication of the guide and efficient chain. But the tank leaves something to be desired.
While it is easily accessible, the oil level is visible, but the mouth is so narrow that it is complicated to fill it cleanly. Moreover, this model requires the use of a very fluid specific oil (the safest is to opt for that proposed by … Ryobi, necessarily). The chainsaw is delivered with a bottle, but it is more on the sample than on a can of oil itself.
Without being a war machine, Ryobi 5133002186 is a good little soldier. If you need to cut firewood and you do not have a big budget, this chainsaw is reliable, despite its flaws. Given its price/mini: respect!
Makita UC4041A /2: a reasonable basis for your firewood
When it comes to getting equipment at a lower cost, Makita is never far away. Indeed, the power tool giant has made questionable choices to stay competitive.
If the design is still Japanese, the manufacturing is mainly Chinese, and sometimes there are some weaknesses. But in the end, the brand continues to offer value for money, especially in case of a concern, it is usually possible to obtain spare parts and repair its devices.
The Makita UC4041A chainsaw is designed for cutting firewood as well as pruning and pruning small trees. With its 4.8 kg and 1800 W, it is actually quite manageable and powerful enough to maintain the trees. But it is all the same for sawing the firewood that it is really practical.
This chain saw is equipped with a fairly thin chain and a guide bar for easy tension adjustment, since the adjustments are done without tools, using a simple and lockable pivoting lever. On the safety side, this model has the Safety-Magic brake, triggered by inertia.
In use, this model is fairly ergonomic to ensure a comfortable use. The front handle offers a good grip, the rear handle has an effective rubber coating. We also appreciate the oversized switch, rather practical.
The Makita UC4041A comes with a clear user manual. Attention, however: no oil can included! Since the use of oil is essential, you should think to buy it separately. We note that the oil tank has a capacity of 200 ml and that it allows a visual control welcome.
In short! On paper this model is all good. Unfortunately, the quality of the guide bar leaves something to be desired. The chain tends to relax, and no bowl: the hook that ensures tension is the weak link in the chain saw. Admittedly, it is cheap and easy to replace, but it is nonetheless embarrassing that it is likely to break!
The Makita UC4041A must remain in its comfort zone. It will prove effective for reasonable use, to make small and medium cuts of firewood.
When it comes to pruning, however, it will quickly show its limits!