No matter how tight your budget is, you deserve the convenience of working with a powerful and functional chainsaw. In respect to this, we have prepared a detailed buying guide to help you get the best chainsaw under $200.
This list includes reviews on some of the most affordable chainsaws that do not compromise on quality. It includes some of the features many users should consider when shopping for a chainsaw.
Contents
Chainsaws Under $200 Reviews
DeWalt 20V DCCS620B 12″ Chainsaw
This DeWalt XR cordless chainsaw is a great option if you prefer something lightweight and portable. This cordless option also is compatible with the line of tools and battery. The 20V Max line under the DeWalt name spans across hundreds of tools. If you already have some on hand, no need to purchase more.
This chainsaw is 12 inches so it’s a little bit longer than the other battery-powered saw that we shared. It is great for light-duty DIY work and can handle some moderate work as well. It’s great for cleaning up brush and trimming trees and maybe some minor firewood preparation.
This particular chainsaw is listed as a #1 best seller in power chain saws. That says a little something about the quality and about the opinions of the more than 8,700 people that have reviewed the saw after they gave it a try.
Highlights
- Power: Battery-operated 20V Max
- Blade Length: 12 inches
- Weight: 8.8 pounds
- Warranty: 3 years
If you’re looking for something that reliably simple, this could be it. It’s great for light to medium use and DIY needs. The 12-inch bar gives you plenty of versatility overall. This chainsaw also has a high-efficiency brushless motor that makes the motor run better for longer.
According to the statistics, you can get up to 90 cuts per charge, which is better than some battery models out there. That’s several hours on a single battery. Of course, it might depend on how you run or challenge the saw as well.
What We Like
- Up to 90 cuts per charge
- Compatible with the 20V max line
- Brushless motor gives you longer life
- 12-inch bar adds some versatility
- Lightweight and comfortable to work with
What We Don’t Like
- You get more capability with an upgraded chain
Remington RM4218 16″ Chainsaw
The Remington RM4218 are easy to operate, gas powered chainsaws. First, this is one chainsaw under 200 dollars that’s suitable for occasional cutting of small to medium branches, bucking logs, and limbing trees whose diameter does not exceed 12 inches. This is made possible by the unit’s 16- inch sprocket tip chain bar.
The sprocket tip reduces friction and allows the chain to move easily, enhancing cutting performance. Since the bar and chain are both Remington owned (MTD products), they are readily available on the market, and therefore easy to replace. The bar is reversible and ought to be changed after every 5 weeks of use to heighten the unit’s life which is a lot.
The Remington RM4218 Rebel chainsaw is powered by a 42cc 2-cycle engine that gives it adequate power for light cutting jobs. The engine power is remarkably high. As is the case with any other gas chainsaw, you will need to carry out periodic maintenance like changing the spark plug and the air filter.
Fortunately, you can do this easily, even if you don’t have much technical knowhow.
Although the Remington RM4218 is not the lightest gas powered chainsaw on the market, it has an ergonomic design, a 5 point anti vibration system, and a cushion wrap that makes it more maneuverable and less tiring. However, this gas chainsaw is not as quiet as many electric saws. Ear protection is recommended when working with it.
These include QUICKSTART technology that makes possible to power on the engine with an On/Off button and an automatic chain oiler that keeps your chainsaw fully lubricated.
This chainsaw has been made with low kickback bar reduction in mind. It comes with a 3.8-inch tip, 57 drive links, and a 0.05-inch gauge. This is a popular size among homeowners who want saws with both exceptional performance and strength. The chain works with a speed of about 20 meters per second and is, therefore, better compared to most electric chainsaws whose speed ranges from 12-15m/s.
Other safety features include a throttle lockout switch at the handle to prevent accidental engine acceleration, and a front hand guard that protects your hand in case it slips off as the saw is running. The product also has a chain brake to stop the chain in milliseconds when activated, and a chain catcher that minimizes injuries should the chain slip or snap off.
At the end of the day, this is one of the best chainsaws under 200. From the features to the conveniences that it offers, this is our clear winner.
Highlights
- Type: Gas Powered Chainsaw
- Engine: 42 cc 2-cycle
- Chain Size: 16 inch
- Chain Speed: 20m/s
- Pitch size: 0.375 inches
- Weight: 22 pounds
- Suitable for small to medium-sized cutting
- QUICKSTART technology
- Automatic chain oiler
- Chain brake
- Great anti-kickback features
- 2-year limited warranty
Oregon CS1500 18″ Chainsaw
An electric powered chainsaw, the Oregon CS1500 is one of the best chainsaw under 200 dollars that’s run by a 15 Amp motor. This powerful 15 amp motor delivers power equivalent to 1,800 Watts, which is sufficient to handle many cutting tasks.
The cutting equipment is an 18-inch guide bar and chain. With this 18 inch guide bar and chain, this chainsaw has adequate cutting power for midsize tree cutting, light storm damage cleaning, and other related tasks.
The guide bar has a small radius nose to reduce friction and kickback. Although the nose sprocket is irreplaceable, the body is laminated and therefore make sure you have more life when greased regularly.
The Oregon powered chainsaw has a 0.05-inch gauge, a 3/8 pitch, and 62 drive links. This allows the chisel-style cutters to carry out efficient cutting. The electric chainsaw operates at a speed of 15m/s, which is at the upper hand for electric chainsaws.
The unique selling point of the Oregon CS1500 is its integrated sharpening system. All you need to re-sharpen your chainsaw is lift the lever while running the saw at full speed for about three to five seconds.
One complaint leveled against this model is the tendency of its chain to slip. However, this can be avoided by keeping the electric chainsaw well oiled and tensioned. Avoiding aggressive use is also important.
This chainsaw has been well designed with robust metal drive components and a hard plastic cover. The handle comes with a grip for easier handling. The throttle trigger is well-positioned, and a trigger lockout switch has been incorporated for safer powering on.
The motor powering the Oregon CS1500 chainsaw is not brushless. This makes the tool less-powerful than many best chainsaws that use a brushless motor.
To get the most out of this chainsaw, you will need to use the right power cord. Oregon recommends a 14 Gauge (AWG) cord for a 50-foot cord and 12 AWG for a 100-foot cable.
Like many high-end chainsaw models, this powered chainsaw comes with an automatic oiling system that releases oil automatically depending on the sawing conditions.
Safety features include a chain brake that stops the saw in the event of kickback. Bumper spikes support the saw during cutting, while front and rear hand guards keep the hands safe from flying debris and the chain. A throttle and catcher are also included to prevent accidental saw startup and protect the hand in case the chain snaps, respectively.
Accessories include a protective scabbard for the bar chain, a little amount of bar and chain oil, and a user’s manual.
Highlights
- Type: Electric Powered Chainsaw (Corded)
- Motor: 15 amps, 1800 Watts
- Chain Size: 18 inches
- Chain Speed: 15m/s
- Pitch size: 3/8 inches
- Weight: 12.6 lbs
- Suitable for small to medium-sized cutting power
- Self-Sharpening
- Chain brake for safety
- Quiet operation
Black+Decker LCS1240 12″ Chainsaw
You should this brand already as it’s a household name in chainsaws. If you are looking for the best chainsaw to use on-the-go and one that will not bother you with a cumbersome extension cord, the Black Decker LCS1240 is a chainsaw under 200 dollars that might suit you.
This cordless battery powered chainsaw uses a 40V lithium battery and charger that supplies the cordless chainsaw with enough power to do most of the domestic wood cutting. However, the 12-inch chain bar limit this cordless chainsaw to light weight pruning and small tree cutting.
Starting these cordless chainsaws is easy. The only thing you need to do is pull the lock-off button with your thumb and then pull the trigger. There may be a little delay in activation before it roars into action, yet it’s an easy to use model.
This cordless chainsaw comes with a comfortable, ergonomic grip. This allows you to saw in different orientations with minimal fatigue.
The manufacturer says this cordless chainsaw weighs just a little bit over 8 pounds and is therefore lightweight and quite easy to use.
The LCS1240 cordless chainsaw has an automatic oiling feature that keeps the bar and chain well lubricated. This cordless chainsaw also has an integrated filter to catch any large debris spray and a tool-free chain tensioning for easy and quick chain adjustments.
The 40V MAX Lithium-Ion Battery life holds charge up to 18 months. In one charge, you can do more than 60 4 x 4 lumber cuts. With moderate work, this battery life and charger last about 30 to 60 minutes of continuous cutting. Hotter temperatures and cutting logs that are more than 11 inches larger will drain the battery life faster.
The battery and charger come with a charge indicator that shows you the remaining battery life charge.
This is one of the best chainsaws under 200.
Highlights
- Type: Battery Powered Chainsaw
- Chain Size: 12 inches
- Weight: 10.4 lbs
- 40V, 2AH lithium battery and charger
- Suitable for medium-sized cutting
- Easy to change batteries
- Tool-free chain tensioning for easy chain adjustments
- Automatic oiling
- Good for cutting fallen limbs and pruning branches
- Full wrap handle for comfortable cutting in different orientations
Poulan Pro PR5020 20″ Chainsaw
The Poulan Pro PR5020 is a powerful and portable gas powered chainsaw for more complex professional and DIY projects.
This gas powered saw uses an OxyPower 50 CC 2-Cycle engine. This engine is more powerful than that of many average chainsaws under 200 dollars which have a maximum capacity of 45CC.
This gives the unit’s 20-inch blade the ability to handle medium to slightly heavy-weight tasks. The OxyPower engine technology allows 20% less fuel consumption and 70% less emissions.
This chainsaw comes with a super clean air filter system that gives the engine more life, reduces fuel consumption, and facilitates a steady supply of power.
Gas powered chainsaw models with an engine above 45 CC produce a decent amount of kickback. However, the Poulan Pro PR5020 has been built to minimize kickback and does not transfer vibrations to your hands. With minimal kickback and vibrations, the tool is safer to use and less prone to causing fatigue.
Another safety feature in this machine is the instant chain stopping function. This keeps you from the risk of accidents while the saw is in use. A chain guard also protects you from accidentally touching the chainsaw blades.
Despite its relatively affordable cost, this chainsaw does not compromise on design. It is a comfortable fit ergonomically designed to help you work longer. Again, the vibration dampening technology of this saw reduces saw instabilities and makes it more convenient to work with.
Highlights
- Type: Gas Powered
- Engine: 50 CC, 2-Cycle
- Chain Size: 20 inches
- Weight: 17 pounds
- Suitable for medium-sized to less complex heavy cutting
- OxyPower engine technology
- Effortless starting
WORX WG3041 18″ Chainsaw
An electric corded chainsaw, the WORX WG3041 would suit you if you are looking for a reasonably powerful saw. This chainsaw works great at this price tag for light/medium cutting jobs around your farm or home.
This chainsaw comes with an 18-inch bar and chain that conveniently cuts through 12-inch diameters of wood without being expensive. This makes the saw suitable for tasks such as clearing some light-to-medium storm damage, cutting firewood, and felling small to medium height trees.
Despite the average blade size, these chainsaws are easy to operate. They come in a lightweight and balanced design to facilitate easy maneuvering and use for an extended time with minimal fatigue.
Let’s talk about power! This chainsaw comes with an output of 15 amps, which makes these chainsaws some of the most powerful chainsaws in their league. We can say this produces 1800 watts that translates to 2.4 BHP, nearing many gas-powered chainsaws.
Unlike many gas-powered chainsaws, the WORX WG3041chainsaws work quietly to help you cut wood without disrupting your neighbors. An automatic oiling system offers a constant lubrication system to reduce friction and give these electric chainsaws more life.
These corded electric chainsaws come with a kickback guide as well as a low kickback chain that meets ANSI B175.1 standards. Although this does not guarantee zero kickback, it dramatically reduces the impact and likelihood.
A chain brake adds on safety to these chainsaws, while front and rear guards protect your hands from these electric chainsaws and debris. Another safety feature is a lock-off button that you can deploy to prevent accidental powering on.
Highlights
- Type: Electric Powered (Corded)
- Motor: 15 amps, 1800 Watts
- Chain Size: 18 inches
- Weight: 11.3 pounds
- A great choice for medium-sized cutting
- Tool-free chain replacement and auto-tensioning system
- Great anti-kickback and safety features
- Has an automatic oiling system
- Chain brake
- Three-year warranty
Black + Decker 20V LCS1020 10″ Chainsaw
Small and steady can certainly win the race. Black + Decker knew what they were doing when they made this simple chainsaw. It’s a cordless model and the battery is part of their 20V Max line so if you use other tools in this line, it’s a great addition. Or it’s a great way to get started in that line.
This actually comes in a full kit that includes your battery, charger, and a blade cover for the chainsaw. Of course, you can also just purchase the tool if you don’t need the battery. They have several different options so you can choose what works for you.
This chainsaw is a 10-inch model so it’s great for DIY projects and small things. It holds up well and has plenty of power for the size. Your battery should last for a few hours of consistent cutting as well, which is certainly an important aspect to consider.
Highlights
- Power: 20V Max battery
- Blade Length: 10 inches
- Weight: 6.80 pounds
- Warranty: 3 years
This chainsaw delivers in all the basic ways that you might expect. You can do a lot of different cutting things and even some firewood creation. You might be limited on how large of a piece you can handle because of the 10-inch blade but it should be sufficient for the majority of pruning and trimming needs.
The 3-year warranty is one of the better warranties out there. When you compare it to some brands, you see 1 and 2 years to be fairly common. The chainsaw also allows you to enjoy automatic oiling features, but this particular feature could use some improvements on this model.
The chain tensioning takes some getting used to. Your blade won’t hold tight to the bar unless the tension is just right. So be sure to get to know the tension system well. In addition, this awesome small chainsaw has a wraparound handle and an ergonomic grip. It also has low kickback for some additional safety.
What We Like
- Compatible with the 20V max battery line of tools
- Can hold a charge up to 5 hours
- Simple and reliable for small tasks
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Kit includes a blade cover
What We Don’t Like
- The tension system is challenging to get just right and keep the blade in place
Budget Chainsaw Features and Considerations
The following features differentiate the best budget chainsaws from those that are not as good.
Purpose
There are three types of chainsaws: gas powered chainsaws, electric chainsaws, and battery powered chainsaws.
The tasks you intend to carry out with this power tool will determine which among these power tools will suit you. Select the type of chainsaw that best suits your needs and budget.
Gas Powered Chainsaw
Gas powered chainsaws run on engines. A gas chainsaw’s power is measured in terms of cubic centimeters (CC). The higher the CC, the more powerful the engine of the best gas chainsaw is.
Unlike battery-powered models, a gas powered chainsaw cuts thicker tree diameters. You can use these power tools for extended hours, thanks to their powerful engines.
Regrettably, gas chainsaws are more cumbersome than corded and battery-powered models, and more likely to cause fatigue. Gas chainsaws generate a lot of noise and vibrate more.
A gas chainsaw would be a good option to find if you are looking for a tool for heavy-duty tasks like de-limbing large branches or felling medium to large-sized trees.
Corded Electric Chainsaw
A Corded Electric Chainsaw comes with a cable that’s connected to an Alternating Current (AC) power source.
Although a corded electric chainsaw is not as powerful as their gas-powered counterparts, they are more portable, cost less, and are easy to use. Additionally, they make a lot less noise.
Unfortunately, a corded Electric Chainsaw also comes limited in use by its cables. This makes a corded electric chainsaw only suitable for use in areas close to a power outlet. However, you can invest in a long extension cord for your corded electric chainsaw to increase their range of use.
If you are looking to carry out some light trimming around your yard occasionally throughout the year, then this type of chainsaw may suit you a lot.
Cordless Chainsaws
Unlike the corded electric saw, a cordless chainsaw is powered by a rechargeable battery. Once fully charged, you can use the cordless chainsaws from anywhere.
The key selling point of a 40v cordless chainsaw is their mobility, and their ability to cut medium-sized materials. However, a 40v cordless chainsaw is not the best option for heavy-duty cutting.
Cordless battery powered chainsaws would be good if you are looking for a tool to handle less complex tasks without gas tank emissions and cable limitations.
Engine
For gas powered chainsaws, the unit for engine size measurement is Cubic Centimeters (CC). Engines with a higher CC generate more power and are hence suitable for more complex tasks. However, they tend to be heavier.
A good budget gas chainsaw will have an engine capacity ranging from 30 to 45 CC. These will generate a Brake Horsepower (BPH) of about 1.7 BPH and 3 BPH.
The power of a chainsaw is measured in amps. Most chainsaw motors come with power ranging from 8 to 15 amps and therefore offer a brake horsepower of about 1.3 BPH to 2.4 BPH respectively.
The higher the amps or BPH, the more powerful the chainsaw is.
Guide Bar
A guide bar’s size is measured from its tip to the point where it contacts the saw’s power head. This ranges from 6 to 42 inches, with most averaging at 20 inches.
When used in the right way, a chainsaw is capable of cutting a log whose diameter is twice the size of the bar. This implies that a 20-inch guide bar can cut a log with a diameter of 40 inches.
Of course, a longer bar will cut a bigger diameter in one single pass. One rule of thumb is to have a bar whose length is 2 inches longer than the diameter of the cutting wood you intend to cut. Using a smaller lightweight blade will heighten the risk of ‘pinching’ kickbacks.
- Saws whose bar length range from 6 to 14 inches are suitable for pruning, trimming, and light cutting. Averaging at a 10 inch size, you can also use such a tool for bucking logs, taking limbs off trees, and small-sized tree cutting.
- Chainsaws whose bar length range from 16 to 20 inches can handle medium-sized tree cutting and light storm damage clean up.
- Larger saws with bars ranging from 22 to 40 inches are great for professional foresters, ranchers, and farmers looking to handle heavy-duty sawing. These are ideal for log and large tree cutting but are not efficient in handling lightweight duties.
Portability and Ease of Use
A chainsaw’s portability will determine how easy it is to maneuver around with, and how fast you will get tired after using it.
While gas saws are heavier than electric chainsaws, you can still choose a gas model whose weight is easy to handle. Chainsaws are also more likely to cause fatigue. In this case, a tool equipped with vibration dampeners will be more convenient to use for extended hours than one with none.
While handling a chainsaw, cautiousness is paramount. A model designed with extra safety features will keep you from accidents and injuries. Some chainsaw safety features include:
- Two or more Throttle Triggers: A chainsaw that needs you to press more than one throttle trigger to start the engine will help you avoid putting your tool in power when not well prepared.
- Vibration dampeners: Vibration makes a chainsaw harder to handle, unstable, and tiring. Not only will a vibration dampener make your chainsaw easier to use for extended hours, but also will it heighten the safety of your chainsaw.
- Chain Brake: A saw’s chain brake is the lever positioned close to the end of the right-hand grip. This stops the chain immediately when pushed and can be automatically triggered when the chainsaw kicks back.
- Narrow-Ended Guide Bar: Sawing with a guide bar’s end can cause kickback, which happens when the chainsaw suddenly springs back towards you. A guide bar with a narrow end reduces the chances of kickback, and therefore keeps you safe.
A well-designed safe chain will also reduce a chainsaw’s kickback.
Other Convenient Features
Most modern chainsaws come equipped with convenient features like a tool-free chain tensioning system to help you or an automatic oiler to keep your tool fully lubricated.
Some models have an automatic chain tensioning system mounted on the side. With this chain tensioning system, you will be able to cut with ease, thus saving time. Always look for a chainsaw that comes with an automatic chain tensioning system.
A chainsaw whose guide bar has Sprocket tips would also have lesser friction around the tip and have a higher cutting speed. This feature also reduces the chances of the bar wearing out.
If you live in a cold area or need chainsaws under 200 bucks for cutting during winter, you can choose a chainsaw with a heated handle to counter this cons.
Some chainsaws are designed with heated carburetors to keep ice crystals away from accumulating at the engine.
When looking for a gas chainsaw, it would be excellent to consider one with a spring-assisted starting in order to shrink the pulling force required to start your saw.
Another convenient accessory for many people is a carry case. This helps to protect your chainsaws under 200 dollars and make carrying them around easier.
Warranty
Smart customers consider chainsaws that come with a reasonable warranty. Check the warranty as this will keep you worry-free and help you avoid unnecessary costs should some parts of the chainsaw malfunction.
Conclusion
By following these buying tips, you will balance the pros and cons and pick the best chainsaw under 200 dollars that is still very high quality Our reviews are also on the best performing saws in the market, and one of them will most likely suit you.
