One of the biggest problems I have faced when looking for a quality chainsaw is finding one that is both lightweight and still heavy-duty enough to tackle the jobs I need it to handle. Too often, lightweight chainsaws do not have the cutting power to take on bigger jobs. What is needed, is a combination of portability, maneuverability, and a lightweight saw that is easy to use in a variety of tasks.
Quick Summary
Value
Power
Reliability
Plenty of power for homeowners with land to care for. Very easy to start for a gas chainsaw, and won’t vibrate like crazy – so can be used by people of all ages. It’s a bit pricey, but the general consensus is that it’s worth it.
Things to consider before buying an electric chainsaw
When it comes to electric chainsaws, there are a few things to look for when selecting which one will work best for your needs. First and foremost, you need to determine whether or not you want a corded or cordless saw.
Corded saws have the advantage of being able to run pretty much indefinitely, you do not run out of fuel or a charge. However, the cord can be a bit of a challenge when it comes to using the saw. Cordless saws provide the convenience of mobility you get with a gas-powered saw, but without the emissions and the weight. However, they only hold a charge for so long.
You will also want to consider cutting width. This will determine what types of cuts and projects that the saw will work for. A wider cutting radius will allow you to fell adult, mature trees, whereas a smaller radius will give more precise, clean cuts.
WORX 18-in 15.0 Amp Electric Chainsaw
Not as heavy duty as gas-powered counterparts
Features and benefits
The WORX electric chainsaw combines the convenience of a cordless saw with powerful cutting abilities to make even the toughest project a little easier.
18″ bar
This is an enhanced length of the cutting bar compared to other similar models. The extra length makes the saw easier to handle when cutting with less vibration and potential for slippage.
Reduced emissions
One of the biggest perks of an electric chainsaw is that you do not have to mix oil and gasoline to power the saw; this means no more noxious gas fumes to contend with during the work. It also means that less harmful emissions are being released into the environment. With increasingly strict environmental regulations, this is really beneficial.
Less vibration
Even though the saw has a powerful motor, the increased length of the cutting bar, as well as the streamlined electric engine mean less vibration. Less vibration means that you get cleaner, more precise cuts, and it doesn’t wear you out as much as a gas-powered saw with a lot of vibration.
All-metal spikes
The cutting edge of the saw, the serrated elements of the blade are all metal; this means that it is more durable and also provides better stability.
Automatic oiling
With the WORX electric chainsaw, you do not have to regularly oil the saw to keep things properly lubricated. The saw automatically keeps itself oiled, giving you enhanced performance with less effort.
Auto tensioning chain
This makes it easy to ensure that the saw is at the right tension for the job, every time. This patented system helps to prevent over or under tightening, which can lead to less precise cuts and a shorter lifespan of the saw.
Low kickback bar and chain brake
These features help reduce the vibration associated with powerful chainsaws, making them easier to use and manage. The chain brake is a safety measure for enhanced protection against potential accidents.
Fully assembled with a good warranty
You do not have to try to figure out how to put together a complicated product when you choose the WORX electric chainsaw; it comes fully assembled so there are no tools or knowhow required to get it up and running.
The manufacturer offers a 3-year warranty, which provides added peace of mind just in case something goes wrong with the saw. WORX ensures that you have three years of protection in the event something breaks or malfunctions.
Alternatives
Black + Decker LCS1240 12″ Lithium Ion Chainsaw
This is a slightly more expensive chainsaw than the WORX saw, with a slightly smaller cutting radius. One of the biggest advantages of the Black + Decker model is that it has a more powerful engine and battery life that is pretty hard to beat. It should be noted that the WORX chainsaw does have a wider cutting radius. With the Black + Decker saw, you have to pay extra if you want the battery included, which is not the case with the WORX model.
Sun Joe SWJ701E 18-inch 14 Amp Electric Chainsaw
This is another quality option from Sun Joe, which makes a variety of lawn and garden power tools. This model is cheaper than the WORX model, but boasts the same width of cutting radius. You do lose a bit of power with this version compared to the WORX, as it has 14, rather than 15 amps. It is lightweight with low vibration and can handle small-to-moderate cutting tasks.
One key difference between this model and the others described here is that this is a corded, not cordless, model, which can limit the mobility of the saw.
Looking For More Options? Click here to read our full chainsaw buying guide.
Conclusion
One of the biggest complaints about wider radius chainsaws is their weight and the difficulty that presents when it comes to using the tool. What I have long searched for is a powerful chainsaw that is lightweight and portable. With the WORX 18” 15.0-amp electric chainsaw, you get a good combination of convenience and performance.
