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Field guide

2026 Winner: Best Overall Professional Chainsaw

[2026 UPDATE] We had 30 experienced journeymen test and try Husqvarna, Milwaukee, Makita, Echo and others. Our experts review horsepower, chainspeed, price and weight.

Fast comparison

Our picks at a glance

Husqvarna Husqvarna 24 Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw

Top pick

Husqvarna 24 Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw

Husqvarna

Automatic chain oiler delivers a steady supply of bar and chain oil for safe and effective use

Watch for: This is an incredibly strong and durable choice, with that however comes some extra weight. This is an industrial chainsaw.

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Makita Makita XCU04PT1 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless 16 Chain Saw Kit with 4 Batteries

Ranked #2

Makita XCU04PT1 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless 16" Chain Saw Kit with 4 Batteries

Makita

Variable speed trigger and high chain speed (0-3,940 FPM) for improved cutting performance

Watch for: Several of our reviewers noted that the chain needed frequent adjustments

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Milwaukee Milwaukee 2727-20 M18 FUEL 16 in. Chainsaw

Ranked #3

Milwaukee 2727-20 M18 FUEL 16 in. Chainsaw

Milwaukee

Automatic oiler for proper chain lubrication

Watch for: You will need to buy M series batteries if you do not already use Milwaukee tools

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Echo Chain Saw, Gas, 20 in. Bar, 59.8cc

Ranked #4

Chain Saw, Gas, 20 in. Bar, 59.8cc

Echo

Strong longevity, some of our reviewers noted after 2 years they are still on their original oil filter, gas filter, air filter, spark plug, and have had absolutely no issues.

Watch for: Finding replacement chains for Echos can be a bit challenging

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DEWALT DEWALT 60V MAX Cordless Chainsaw

Ranked #5

DEWALT 60V MAX Cordless Chainsaw

DEWALT

One of the safer options on the market with a kick back protection feature and chain brake

Watch for: Battery life can struggle in hot temperatures

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Top pick

Husqvarna 24 Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw

Our Picks for the Best Overall Industrial and Professional Chainsaw

The Husqvarna 460 Rancher is a powerful chainsaw that can handle the toughest wood cutting jobs. Customers have used it to cut full grown trees up to 90 feet tall with diameters ranging from 33 to 38 inches. It is reliable, starting easily and every time, and is built with high quality materials. It has excellent safety controls and is intuitive to use. It is also more efficient and less fatiguing to use than cheaper models. The only con mentioned is its size and weight, which can make it difficult to handle for extended periods of time. Overall, customers highly recommend the Husqvarna 460 Rancher for anyone with tree heavy properties or aging trees in need of maintenance.

Husqvarna Husqvarna 24 Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw

Key specifications

Weight
14.5 lbs
Chain speed
9000 rpm
Horsepower
3.62 hp
Model
Husqvarna 24 Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
Power source
Gas

Why it stands out

  • Automatic chain oiler delivers a steady supply of bar and chain oil for safe and effective use
  • Centrifugal air cleaning system removes larger dust and debris particles before reaching the air filter. This results in reduced air filter cleanings and improved engine life. Overall this chainsaw has a very long life expectancy.

Flaws, not dealbreakers

This is an incredibly strong and durable choice, with that however comes some extra weight. This is an industrial chainsaw.

Ranked #2

Makita XCU04PT1 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless 16" Chain Saw Kit with 4 Batteries

The Makita XCU04PT1 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless 16" Chain Saw Kit is a good choice for people who are already familiar with the Makita rechargeable Li-Ion system. It is lightweight compared to some of its industrial peers. The chain adjuster is different from what some customers may be used to, but it works well and doesn't require an extra tool to adjust the chain. The batteries take a while to charge, but the charger is efficient and has a built-in fan to cool the batteries. The saw comes with a USB-A port on the charger, which can be useful for charging other devices. Customers have noted that the saw is powerful and efficient, with a roller tip bar that reduces friction and allows for more power to be used for cutting wood. Overall, the Makita XCU04PT1 is a reliable and efficient chainsaw that is suitable for a variety of tasks.

Makita Makita XCU04PT1 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless 16 Chain Saw Kit with 4 Batteries

Key specifications

Weight
21.9 lbs
Chain speed
8000 rpm
Horsepower
32 hp
Model
Makita XCU04PT1 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless 16" Chain Saw Kit with 4 Batteries
Power source
Battery

Why it stands out

  • Variable speed trigger and high chain speed (0-3,940 FPM) for improved cutting performance
  • Tool-less chain adjustment for convenient operation and maintenance

Flaws, not dealbreakers

Several of our reviewers noted that the chain needed frequent adjustments

Ranked #3

Milwaukee 2727-20 M18 FUEL 16 in. Chainsaw

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Chainsaw is a battery-powered chainsaw that is lightweight and easy to use. It is reliable and can handle a variety of tasks, including cutting down small to medium-sized trees. Customers have noted that the battery lasts for a decent amount of time and that the tool is well-made and efficient. Some customers have experienced issues with the tool arriving in the wrong packaging, but overall the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Chainsaw has received positive reviews. It is a good choice for people who want a reliable chainsaw that is easy to start and use, and it is especially suitable for those who prefer not to deal with the hassle of gas-powered tools.

Milwaukee Milwaukee 2727-20 M18 FUEL 16 in. Chainsaw

Key specifications

Weight
14.3 lbs
Chain speed
8000 rpm
Horsepower
5.3 hp
Model
Milwaukee 2727-20 M18 FUEL 16 in. Chainsaw
Power source
Battery

Why it stands out

  • Automatic oiler for proper chain lubrication
  • Compatible with all M18 batteries. Higher capacity batteries will yield higher performance.

Flaws, not dealbreakers

You will need to buy M series batteries if you do not already use Milwaukee tools

Ranked #4

Chain Saw, Gas, 20 in. Bar, 59.8cc

The Echo CS-590 chainsaw is a reliable and powerful tool that is easy to start and run. With minimal maintenance and care, it can last for years and handle a variety of tasks, including cutting and splitting firewood, logging, and sawing lumber. Some users have had issues with the warranty when purchasing the saw, but overall it has received positive reviews for its durability, performance, and value. The Echo chain saw is also a reliable and efficient tool that is easy to use and maintain. The decompression valve for an easier pull start is a great feature. Powerful, but not too heavy, chainsaw.

Echo Chain Saw, Gas, 20 in. Bar, 59.8cc

Key specifications

Weight
15.4 lbs
Chain speed
7500 rpm
Horsepower
3.9 hp
Model
Chain Saw, Gas, 20 in. Bar, 59.8cc
Power source
Gas Powered

Why it stands out

  • Strong longevity, some of our reviewers noted after 2 years they are still on their original oil filter, gas filter, air filter, spark plug, and have had absolutely no issues.
  • Strong anti-vibration handle

Flaws, not dealbreakers

Finding replacement chains for Echos can be a bit challenging

Ranked #5

DEWALT 60V MAX Cordless Chainsaw

Take on tough cutting, chopping, and shaping tasks with the 60V MAX* Brushless Cordless 18 in. Chainsaw. This powerful chainsaw delivers a peak horsepower of 2.85 HP when used with a DCB609 battery (sold separately), and features tooled chain tensioning for reliable bar retention. The professional-grade brushless motor and automatic oiling system ensure efficient operation and continuous lubrication. This chainsaw is equipped with a low kickback bar and chain for outdoor cutting and a chain brake for added kickback protection.

DEWALT DEWALT 60V MAX Cordless Chainsaw

Key specifications

Weight
10.1 lbs
Chain speed
7000 rpm
Horsepower
2.85 hp
Model
DEWALT 60V MAX Cordless Chainsaw
Power source
Battery Powered

Why it stands out

  • One of the safer options on the market with a kick back protection feature and chain brake
  • Continuous lubrication with auto-oiling feature for longevity of use

Flaws, not dealbreakers

Battery life can struggle in hot temperatures

How we pick it

Built from crew feedback

These pages are built from lineman community feedback, product review cycles, and a live link inventory. Survey methodology and commercial disclosure live on How we pick gear.

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