Trees are wonderful, majestic objects until a storm uproots one and sends it crashing on your roof, or overhanging branches begin to obstruct your view and traffic in and around your property. In such situations, the zesty roar of a chainsaw becomes a very welcome sound.
Nevertheless, that roar can quickly become uncomfortable and disquieting if it’s allowed to go on for too long. Having to breathe in noxious exhaust fumes is no party either, and expending more energy on getting the chainsaw to start than actually trimming the tree seems like a self-defeating strategy, especially when time is of the essence.
This is where electric chainsaws step right into the picture. Electric chainsaws are much less noisy than petrol chainsaws, emit zero fumes, are lighter and easier to maintain, and offer reduced kickbacks, which makes them safer than petrol chainsaws. Sure, they are less powerful than petrol chainsaws, but you’re unlikely to need that much power anyway unless you’re a professional lumberjack.
Having said all these, locating an electric chainsaw with all the best qualities can be a bit of a hassle. We’ve done our homework (and yours) and come up with this list of the best Electric Chainsaws in the UK. Our research was thorough and painstaking and is designed to help smoothen and speed up the decision making process for you.
Electric Chainsaws UK – Reviews
Electric Chainsaws score top marks when it comes to performance, comfort and convenience. They can handle all the lighter jobs around your property and even some of the tougher ones with greater ease and more speed. They are also relatively quieter and cheaper than petrol chainsaws, easier to maintain and manoeuvre, vibrate less and last longer. Recently, the status of electrical chainsaws has changed from merely handy to utterly indispensable, and it’s easy to see why.
In addition to all these qualities, electric chainsaws also offer several safety features that can significantly reduce the risk of injury to you. Factor in the absence of harmful fumes and you’ve got a high-end machine that comes up trumps on all counts.
This post is intended to help you locate the perfect electric chainsaw for you. We’ve also included a list of things to look out for when purchasing an electric chainsaw, to help you make the right decision.
Makita UC3541A/2 240V Electric Chainsaw
The Makita UC3541A/2 240V Electric Chainsaw is the ultimate in comfort and performance. At the price it’s offered, you’ll be hard-pressed finding another electric chainsaw that offers equal value for money.
Weighing just 4.7kg, the excellent build and ergonomic design of this chainsaw ensure that you can work for longer without fatigue creeping in. Vibration and noise are also brought to manageable levels with the Makita Chainsaw.
Its 1800 watts engine supports a cutting speed of 14.5 metres per second, which makes all kinds of trimming and cutting tasks faster and more convenient. It also features tool-less blade change and chain/ tension adjustment, which gives you the freedom to change the cutting chain tension on the fly.
The Makita Chainsaw also sports an adjustable chain oil pump that effectively lubricates the chain and prevents interruptions while you work. It also offers a clearly visible view of the oil tank, ensuring that you’re never in the dark as to the status of your chainsaw.
Clearly, this chainsaw has been built to ensure the safety of its operator. Its spikes are designed to provide greater control. It also sports chain brake and kickback brake to guarantee your safety.
Features and Specifications:
Size: The Makita Chainsaw sports a cutting bar length of 14″. Its chain speed of 14.5 metres per second makes it really ideal for most pruning and trimming tasks. This Chainsaw is also relatively lightweight at just 4.7kg, and this, coupled with its ergonomic design makes it a joy to work with.
Comfort: User comfort is one of the chief considerations of the Makita Chainsaw. Its handles have been rubber-padded to minimize vibration, and an adjustable chain oil pump helps you cut for longer without interruption. It’s also been designed to provide a firmer grip and encourage better control while cutting.
Safety Features: Work with greater peace of mind with the Makita Chainsaw. A protective cover for the chain helps protect your fingers from injury, while a chain brake stops the chain almost instantaneously when it encounters a solid obstacle, in order to prevent potentially harmful kickbacks. This chainsaw has also been designed to promote greater control.
Why We Like It:
- Budget-friendly
- Lightweight
- Automatic chain oiler
- Tool-less chain adjuster
- Visible oil pump
Our Verdict:
If you’re looking for an electric chainsaw that offers solid performance at a budget-friendly price, look no further than this chainsaw. It delivers on its promise while retaining a capacity to surprise.
Oregon CS1400 Electric Chainsaw
The Oregon CS1400 Electric Chainsaw is the consummate high-end product. Manufactured by a company with a proven pedigree, this chainsaw lives up to expectations, and then some.
It’s extremely easy to set up, and it arrives fully ready to get to work, with its instant start capability. The Oregon chainsaw also features a fully ergonomic design that promotes safety and minimizes fatigue-causing vibration.
Cutting and trimming are easy and convenient with this chainsaw, with 15amps supporting a 14.7m/sec chain speed. This product has also been designed to last, with Oregon’s flagship DuraCut saw chain able to last up to three times longer than others while coping with the toughest of conditions. It’s 16″ guide bar also serves to increase control and trim precision.
The chain can be adjusted remarkably easily without the need for tools, or even power for that matter, courtesy of the built-in tensioning ring. Its Lubri-Tec oiling system is another handy feature that keeps the chain well-oiled and friction-free. There’s also a chain brake feature that significantly reduces the risk of injury to users.
Features and Specifications:
Size: This chainsaw’s cutting bar length of 16″ makes it well suited to some of the real heavyweight tasks. Its 15amps engine facilitates a chain speed of up to 14.7m/sec. The Oregon chainsaw is, however, supremely easy to assemble, and it also sports a really comfortable and ergonomic design.
Comfort: Users are protected from debris by a front handguard. The Oregon chainsaw is also lightweight, low noise, low vibration and generally takes your comfort very seriously. Chain tensioning is tool-free and power-free, while the automatic oiler keeps the bar and chain lubricated, preventing them from degrading prematurely.
Safety Features: The Oregon chainsaw features an integrated chain brake that immediately turns off the chainsaw immediately it hits a snag, in order to protect you from violent kickbacks. It also features reinforced chrome to increase saw chain strength and prevent the chain from falling off.
Why We Like It:
- Budget-friendly
- Lightweight
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Integrated chain brake
- Durable and quiet
Our Verdict:
The Oregon chainsaw delivers exceptional value for money. It is capable of handling whatever gets thrown at it with a minimum of fuss, is easy to use and ultimately delivers a great experience.
BLACK+DECKER 36 V Lithium-Ion Chainsaw
The BLACK+DECKER 36 V Lithium-Ion Chainsaw is quietly brilliant. It is a low noise, high powered chainsaw that effortlessly and unfussily delivers its brief.
This battery-powered chainsaw sports a really appealing look, but beauty is not all it’s got going for it. It was also designed for maximum comfort and ease of use, with an over-moulded rubber non slip main handle. A secondary bale handle also contributes to the balanced weight distribution of this chainsaw. Its lightweight 3.8kg guarantees ease of use.
With its remarkable 36v engine driving a chain speed of 5m/s, this chainsaw can handle a wide variety of cutting tasks competently and tirelessly. The engine is powered by a Lithium-Ion 2ah battery, which is interchangeable with other battery-powered chainsaws by the same maker. It also sports an 11.8″ cutting bar length.
It’s automatic oil system efficiently distributes oil across the machine and chain tensioning (and fitting) can be done quite easily and without the need for tools. An oil level window is provided to keep you abreast of the status of the chainsaw. The improved ergonomics of this chainsaw also doubles as a safety feature, in addition to anti-kickback chain, bar sheath and spike window.
Features and Specifications:
Size: The BLACK+DECKER chainsaw’s 3.8kg lightweight design makes working with this tool infinitely easier for anyone. It’s chain speed of 5m/s and a cutting bar length of 11.8″ may not look like much, but this chainsaw is extremely tough and its 36v engine gives it enough power to handle even the toughest of tasks.
Comfort: When it comes to user comfort, this chainsaw scores top marks. It sports a fully ergonomic design complete with balanced weight distribution and multiple handles. Oiling is efficient and automatic, and its chain can be tensioned and fitted without the need for tools.
Safety Features: This chainsaw has been designed to prevent it from slipping from your hands even in the event of a kickback. Kickbacks are very rare anyway, as the chainsaw has been fitted with an anti-kickback chain. It also sports a bar sheath and rear handguard.
Why We Like It:
- Lightweight
- Improved ergonomics
- Good safety features
- Automatic oil system
- Tool-free chain tensioning
Our Verdict:
Don’t look beyond the BLACK+DECKER 36 V Lithium-Ion Chainsaw if you’re looking for a chainsaw that’s quietly efficient and relatively safe to use. This Chainsaw also offers immense value for money.
Makita UC4051A 240V Electric Chainsaw
The Makita UC4051 electric chainsaw improves on the design and performance of previous iterations to provide users with a machine that boasts great features and few faults.
This chainsaw sports an overhauled design, with an improved ergonomic soft grip and a longitudinal motor that enhances manoeuvrability. The handles have also been padded to reduce the effects of vibration.
Its 2000 watt motor is good for chain speed of up to 14.5m/s, and a cutting bar of 40cm can tackle all your cutting and trimming tasks with greater efficiency, less noise and zero emissions. This machine also sports a built-in current limiter and a large trigger switch to ensure optimum performance.
Like most of the chainsaws on this list, the Makita UC4051A features automatic chain oiling and a large oil level window. It also supports tool-less blade and chain adjustments for enhanced convenience and simplified maintenance. User safety is guaranteed by an electric chain brake and a kickback brake, while spikes on the chain provide a firmer grip and greater control.
Features and Specifications:
Size: With its cutting bar of 15.7″, this chainsaw can cut with a speed of up to 14.5m/s. It also boasts a 2000 watt engine that makes quick work of all your cutting and trimming tasks around the house, no matter how complex they are, or how tough the trees are supposed to be.
Comfort: Weighing 5.6kg, this chainsaw is one of the heavier ones on our list. Nevertheless, its ergonomic design makes handling easy. Automatic chain oiling, tool-less chain tensioning and large oil level window makes maintaining this chainsaw a simple task.
Safety Features: Kickbacks are effectively prevented by an electric chain brake and a kickback brake. The chain is also spiked in order to grip the workpiece more firmly and provide greater control. The chainsaw’s engine is also protected from burnout by a built-in current limiter.
Why We Like It:
- Easy startup
- Good safety features
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Automatic chain oiling
- Reduced vibration
Our Verdict:
The Makita UC4051A was advertised as an improvement on previous versions and this chainsaw makes it pretty obvious. Every one of its features, from performance to safety can easily be described as exceptional.
Ryobi OCS1830 Bar One+ Cordless Brushless Chainsaw
This chainsaw looks great. Even better, it performs great. The Ryobi OCS1830 18V Cordless Chainsaw is solid, dependable and versatile.
It sports a visually stunning design that’s just as practical as it is beautiful. This chainsaw is powered by 18V batteries and features a high-performance Brushless motor. It also features 30cm Oregon bar and chain, which support a chain speed of 10m/s.
Chain tensioning can be achieved without the need for tools, while chain oiling is done automatically. These features, in addition to an over-moulded rear handle, make this chainsaw really easy to use.
Your safety is protected by electrical and mechanical chain brake that guard against dangerous kickbacks.
Features and Specifications:
Size: Weighing just about 3.2kg, the Ryobi chainsaw is one of the lightest on our list. It is powered by 18V lithium batteries and a brushless motor that supports a chain speed of 10m/s. Its cutting bar of 30cm also makes it fully capable of performing tough cutting tasks.
Comfort: This chainsaw sports an over-moulded rear handle and an ergonomic design that enhances user comfort. Other features such as tool-less chain tensioning and automatic chain oiling make this chainsaw very easy to work with.
Safety Features: The Ryobi chainsaw features both electrical and mechanical chain brakes to prevent and protect you from potentially harmful kickbacks.
Why We Like It:
- Lightweight
- Reasonably solid
- Excellent performance
- Very quiet
- Good safety features
Our Verdict:
The Ryobi chainsaw is light, quiet, easy to use and maintain and generally excellent performance-wise. Which makes it ideal for all your gardening and yard work.
BLACK+DECKER CS2245-GB Corded Chainsaw
Are you in the office market for an electric chainsaw that makes an art of efficiency and consummate convenience? This magnificent chainsaw should be your first pick.
The BLACK+DECKER CS2245-GB Corded Chainsaw’s ergonomic two-hand design ranks second to none for comfort and ease of operation.
This remarkable machine is powered by a 2200 watt high torque motor that supports a chain speed of 12.5m/s. Together with its cutting capacity of 45cm, you have a solid, high-grade machine that’s up for any task.
Its rear handle is fitted with a rubber over mould, to minimize vibration and maximize comfort, while the integrated Auto Oil System keeps the chain effectively lubricated and protected from undue wear. Its large 150ml tank also sports an oil level viewing window.
In the event of a kickback, this chainsaw’s Chain Brake System shuts down the machine almost immediately. It’s also been fitted with a handguard for further security and protection.
Features and Specifications:
Size: This chainsaw weighs 7.1kg, making it one of the bulkiest on our list. Nevertheless, its cutting length of 45cm, plus chain speed of 12.5m/s and 2000 watt engine definitely makes it capable of handling all sorts of tasks in and around your home.
Comfort: It doesn’t slack when it comes to user comfort either. It boasts all the usual comfort features including auto oiling, large tank and visible oil level window. In addition to this, its two-handle grip lends itself well to stability, with the rear handle fitted with rubber to minimize vibration.
Safety Features: Your safety is emphasized with this machine. It boasts a Chain Brake System, which automatically cuts power within 0.15 seconds if the chainsaw kicks back. A handguard further prevents your hand from slipping off accidentally and making contact with the chain.
Why We Like It:
- Easy to assemble
- Easy to use
- Very solid
- Good safety features
- Comfortable
Our Verdict:
The BLACK+DECKER CS2245-GB Corded Chainsaw is one of the most efficient and solid chainsaws on our list. Quiet, cost-effective and powerful, this chainsaw is highly recommended.
BLACK+DECKER CS2040-GB Chainsaw
BLACK+DECKER is a reputable name when it comes to the production of chainsaws, and they deliver the goods again with this particular version.
Like the other chainsaw on our list by the same maker, this chainsaw also sports the easy to operate, two-hand design.
It’s also powered by a powerful but quiet 2200 watt motor that makes all kinds of cutting and trimming tasks a breeze, with 12.5m/s chain speed and a blade length of 40cm.
Its chain can be adjusted and replaced easily without the need for tools, its integrated oil system keeps the chain lubricated at all times, while its 200ml oil tank sports a visible oil level window. User comfort is further enhanced by its anti-vibration system.
Also like the other BLACK+DECKER chainsaw on our list, this chainsaw features the Chain Brake System that automatically switches off the chainsaw almost as soon as it kicks back.
Features and Specifications:
Size: This chainsaw comes in at a pretty reasonable 5.5kg. Its 40cm cutting capacity, 12.5m/s chain speed and high power 2200 watt engine makes it suitable for all kinds of cutting and trimming tasks, regardless of the thickness or condition of the log.
Comfort: All the comfort features that BLACK+DECKER is known for are represented in this chainsaw. It boasts an anti-vibration system, Auto Oil System, Tool-less chain tensioning, visible oil level window, rubber over mould rear handle, quiet engine, amongst others.
Safety Features: The chain brake system of this chainsaw automatically powers off the machine within 0.15 seconds in the event of a kickback. In addition to this, the chainsaw is also equipped with a handguard to protect against accidentally touching the chain.
Why We Like It:
- Solid
- Comfortable
- Good safety features
- Pretty quiet
- Powerful Engine
Our Verdict:
This chainsaw is one out of the list of several high-quality products offered by BLACK+DECKER. It’s solid and reliable and offered at a good price.
Einhell GE-LC 18 Li Kit Power X-Change Cordless Chainsaw
The Einhell GE-LC 18 Li Kit Power X-Change Cordless Chain Saw boasts a wide range of features that makes it eminently capable of handling any task in your garden.
It sports an appealingly ergonomic design, complete with three LEDs that provide information about its status at all times.
This chainsaw is powered by a 3.0 Ah Power X-Change battery that can also be used for other Power X-Change products. The guide bar and chain are made by Oregon and they deliver a cutting speed of 43 m/s and 23cm cutting length.
The chain is automatically lubricated, and oil can be very easily refilled when it needs to be. Chain tensioning and replacement can also be done without the need for tools.
The Einhell chainsaw takes user safety very seriously, and several measures have been put in place to ensure this. The machine features kickback protection, and instant chain brake immediately powers off the chainsaw once kickback occurs. It also features a catch bolt that holds on to the chain if it ever comes loose, while a metal stop claw maintains stability.
Features and Specifications:
Size: At 3.05kg, this chainsaw is lightweight. Powered by an 18V battery, it can deliver cutting speed of 43m/s, with a maximum cutting length of 23cm. The Einhell chainsaw can handle a wide variety of cutting and trimming tasks effortlessly and with a minimum of fuss.
Comfort: The ergonomic handle of this chainsaw facilitates a firmer grip and provides better balance. You can adjust and relay the chain with no tools required while refilling the oil is made easier by a big filler opening. Chain lubrication is also done automatically.
Safety Features: Kickback protection and an instant-reaction mechanical chain brake are just some of the safety features of this chainsaw. It also features a catch bolt that holds on to the chain if it ever comes unstuck and a metal stop claw that steadies the chainsaw.
Why We Like It:
- Lightweight
- Good security features
- Solid performance
- Cordless operation
- Fast charging
Our Verdict:
If you want a chainsaw that rids you of the hassles associated with corded chainsaws while delivering excellent service, you definitely should give the Einhell GE-LC 18 Li chainsaw a try.
Best Electric Chainsaws – Buyer’s Guide
Electric Chainsaws are generally more cost-effective than their gas-powered relatives, but they still cost a pretty penny. That’s why it’s very normal to want to be certain that you’re making the right choice before settling on one.
Like everything else, electric chainsaws are subject to personal specifications, so you need to find the one that works for you. Here are the most important features you need to look out for when shopping for a new electric chainsaw:
1. Cutting Bar Size
Obviously, the size of the chainsaw’s cutting bar is an important consideration to make. This is because it largely specifies the type of task your chainsaw is able to perform.
A 14″ (or shorter) bar is ideal for most small to medium-duty jobs. However, if you need to perform heavy-duty tasks, or you’re a professional lumberjack, you may have to purchase a 16″ to 18″ bar, or even larger.
2. Kickback Reduction Features
Chainsaws are inherently dangerous, so safety needs to be a major consideration when deciding on which one to buy.
Look for chainsaws that offer safety features such as bar-tip guard, kickback reduction chain, chain brake and kickback reduction bar. The chain brake, for instance, will stop the chain when resistance is encountered. Other safety features such as mufflers, sheaths and covers and chain catchers are also quite handy.
3. Comfort and Convenience Features
It’s no use having the most powerful chainsaw if you dread the thought of having to use it. Your comfort is another important consideration that you need to take into account before you purchase an electric chainsaw.
Some of the more obvious convenience features to look out for include:
- Automatic Chain Oiler: A well-oiled chain will make your work smoother, easier and faster, with less frequent interruptions. It will also protect your chain from wearing out quickly, and it also prevents accidents. All these benefits make the automatic chain oiling feature pretty important.
- Tool-less chain tensioner: This is a manual mechanism that lets you adjust the tension of the chain without the need for tools. This feature can make cutting easier and improve overall safety.
- Visible Oil Window: It’s important to know how much oil you’ve got left in the tank so that your chainsaw doesn’t shut itself down in the middle of an important task. That’s why a clearly visible oil window is necessary.
- Anti-vibration: Vibrations can increase discomfort and make you fatigued easier. Features such as rubber paddings and metal springs can help minimize vibration.
Other features to look out for include spring assist start and wraparound handles.
Conclusion
Electric chainsaws can definitely make your work easier. They are easier to handle and operate than gas chainsaws, are more eco-friendly, require less maintenance, make less noise and are generally less expensive than gas chainsaws.
Notwithstanding the latter fact, they still cost a considerable amount, and having to change them frequently will place serious strain on anyone’s financial capabilities. Going further, chainsaws can be dangerous tools, which makes it all the more imperative to locate one that ticks all the right boxes, according to you.
With proper guidance and information, however, half of your problems are already solved. All that’s left for you to do is determine the perfect one for you after perusing their features and then embark on your adventure.