April 26

The 6 Best Chainsaws Under $100 (2020 Edition)

When it comes to purchasing a chainsaw, you may be shocked by the range of prices you can find. For this article, we’re going to explore the best chainsaws you can buy for about $100.

Although gas-powered, two stroke chainsaws are the type of chainsaws that people typically envision when they think of chainsaws, there aren’t any available for prices lower than or around $100.

These machines have complex engines that automatically prices them out of the $100 range.

Plus, I think it’s safe to assume that if you’re only looking to spend $100 on your chainsaw, that you probably aren’t looking for a real power-horse of a tool. Likely, you’re planning to use your chainsaw only occasionally for smaller projects. 

In this article, we will discuss our favorite $100 Cordless Chainsaw and $100 Electric Chainsaw.

​Top Choice:

#1
Worx WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw with Auto-Tension

​​Fast and powerful as anything in its class; And with no gas, and no cord, there’s much less muss and fuss.

​The automatic, toolfree chain tension system ensures you’ll always have the correct tension for the job at hand.

​4.5 of 5 Stars

Best $100 Cordless Chainsaw

Cordless chainsaws have not always been a popular favorite, but times have changed. Many people are opting for cordless chainsaws because they are quieter, easier to use, and require less maintenance than traditional gas-powered chainsaws.

Worx WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw with Auto-Tension

For the occasional user, the small job, or the less-than-brawny user, a cordless chainsaw can be an awesome alternative to a gas-powered chainsaw.

The bulk of the cost for cordless yard maintenance equipment is the batteries.

If you already own a piece of cordless maintenance equipment, you may want to check and see if they offer a compatible chainsaw for you to use with your existing batteries and charger.


Worx WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw with Auto-Tension

If you are just starting to collect cordless power equipment for yard maintenance, we recommend reviewing chainsaws that have the option to share their batteries and charger with other tools for the yard and home.

Our pick for a $100 cordless chainsaw is the Worx WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw with Auto-Tension. For around $100, you’ll be able to get this 10” chainsaw and use it with other Worx power tools, too.

Worx WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw with Auto-Tension

For safety, convenience, and longevity, this chainsaw features a tool-free auto-tensioning system to make sure your chainsaw is working at optimal performance. 

It also has an automatic oiling system to keep your chain lubricated. There is even an oil level indicator so you know when to top off your fluids. 

This chainsaw is compact at only 6.19 pounds and features an ergonomic handle design, which is excellent for preventing user fatigue and increasing maneuverability.

For added convenience, you can purchase an optional extension pole to attach to your chainsaw so you can cut hard to reach limbs up to 10’ away.

Worx WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw with Auto-Tension

The smaller bar size means you’ll only be able to cut a diameter of no more than 8” or so in one pass.

The included battery lasts for about 30 minutes of continuous use, so if you have a large project in mind, you may want to consider buying the bigger battery or stocking up on extra replacement ones so you can swap them out as needed.

The batteries take about 5 hours to charge, so it’s a good idea to keep one charged and one on the charger at all times.

Sale
Worx 20 V 10" Cordless Chainsaw, Auto-lubrication, Tool-less Chain Tension, PowerShare, WG322- Battery & Charger Included
  • [FAST, CLEAN CUTS] This cordless 20V PowerShare chain saw is as fast and powerful as anything in its class. And with no gas and no cord, there’s much less muss and fuss. Please fill the oil tank with chain oil before using the chainsaw. Then, run the chain for a few seconds without cutting to help lubricate it better, oil is sold separately.
  • [AUTO-CHAIN TENSION] The automatic, tool-free chain tension system ensures you’ll always have the correct tension for the job at hand

Best $100 Electric Chainsaw

Electric chainsaws have many of the same benefits as cordless chainsaws – lower vibration and noise, no harmful emissions, and ease of use.

The primary difference between cordless and electric chainsaws is – you guessed it – the cord. Electric chainsaws require a corded power source during operation.

Oregon CS1500 18 in. 15 Amp Self-Sharpening Corded Electric Chainsaw

This feature allows for a lighter weight machine, but many users complain about the reduced range of motion and risk of cutting your extension cords.

If you are planning to use your chainsaw around the typical suburban yard, access to electrical outlets won’t really be a concern.

If you live in a rural area, an electric chainsaw is probably not your best bet because it can be tricky to find electrical outlets near your work zone.

Here are 4 others that we recommend:


Oregon CS1500 Self-Sharpening Electric Chainsaw

Our favorite $100 electric chainsaw is the Oregon CS1500 Self-Sharpening Electric Chainsaw. It’s the only self-sharpening electric chainsaw on the market, which makes it even lower maintenance than other available electric chainsaws.

Electric chainsaws always require less maintenance than gas-powered chainsaws, so this self-sharpening feature is a major plus.

One of the many benefits to an electric chainsaw is the electric start system, which doesn’t require any fuel mixing, priming, pumping, or pulling.

Oregon CS1500 18 in. 15 Amp Self-Sharpening Corded Electric Chainsaw

Electric chainsaws are much quieter than traditional chainsaws, are silent between cuts, and offer zero emissions because there is no fuel.

For added safety, the Oregon CS1500 Self-Sharpening Chainsaw has a chain brake for safety and weighs only 12.9 pounds to increase maneuverability and decrease user fatigue.

Oregon CS1500 18 in. 15 Amp Self-Sharpening Corded Electric Chainsaw

​The tool-less chain tensioning system is both a safety and convenience feature on this chainsaw that you’re sure to love. With an 18” guide bar, you can conquer almost any job in your yard with ease, from trimming branches, to cutting firewood and trees.

The 18” guide bar would allow you to cut wood with a 16” diameter in one pass, and, if you’re patient, up to 32” in a couple of passes.

To keep your chainsaw in tip-top condition, the automatic oiler system has a see-through window so you know when your chainsaw needs more oil.

Sale
Oregon CS1500 18-inch 15 Amp Self-Sharpening Corded Electric Chainsaw, with Integrated Self-Sharpening System (PowerSharp), 2-Year Warranty, 120V, Grey, Black
  • Powerful performance: 15A electric chainsaw with integrated PowerSharp self-sharpening system. The perfect chainsaw for homeowners and DIY, with a long-lasting 18-inch guide bar
  • Built-in PowerSharp self-sharpening system minimizes downtime by sharpening your chain in 3 to 5 seconds. Ergonomic design features Chain Brake for safety. Lightweight design.
  • Tensioning without tools: Allows you to adjust your chain quickly and easily so that you can maintain the perfect tension for the ideal cut with next to no maintenance

Greenworks 10-Inch 24V

Greenworks 10-Inch 24V Cordless Chainsaw with Extra Chain, 2Ah Battery and Charger Included 20362. This 24V battery-powered chainsaw has a 10 inch chain and bar size. It is perfect a beginner chainsaw user to cut branches and limbs with ease.

It is easy to use, very light with a weight of only 6 pounds, and has impressive safety features.

PROS:

  • 10-inch bar and chain
  • 24V Lithium-Ion Battery compatible with both indoor and outdoor tools
  • Automatic oiler
  • Tool-less chain tensioning
  • Battery and Charger included
  • Long battery life
  • Translucent oil tank
  • Cushioned Handles
  • Battery and extra chain included with purchase
  • 4 year warranty available
  • Easy to use
Greenworks 10-Inch 24V Cordless Chainsaw with Extra Chain, 2Ah Battery and Charger Included 20362

CONS:

  • Battery could be stronger
  • Consumes more oil than expected
  • Has plastic parts

SAFETY FEATURES:

  • Front and rear hand guards
  • Lock on the trigger
  • Auto-oiler system
  • Reduced kickback bar
  • Low kickback chain
  • Battery pack has internal circuit breaker
Greenworks 10-Inch 24V Cordless Chainsaw with Extra Chain, 2Ah Battery and Charger Included 20362
  • 24V Lithium-Ion Battery compatible with both indoor and outdoor tools, 2Ah Battery and charger included
  • 10-Inch Bar and chain, Perfect for cutting branches and limbs with ease

Remington RM1425

Remington RM1425 Limb N Trim 8 Amp 14-Inch Electric Lightweight and Corded Chainsaw with Handle Guard, Black. 

This super lightweight chainsaw is able to fulfill many day to day needs. IT is super simple to use as well as set up.

No products found.

Some great features include:

  • Very light weight: 6 pounds
  • Easy on and off trigger
  • Unlimited power source
  • 8 amp will allow you to trim larger projects
  • Powerful enough to cut 6 inch tree
  • Auto oiler
  • External tensioner
  • Minimal noise  when using
  • Low kickback chain and bar
  • Wraparound hand guard

This saw has many great features that users all around the world want and need. Plus you can’t beat this price tag. Another fantastic aspect of this chainsaw is that it ships fully assembled. When your package arrives at your doorstep just open the box and start any project right away.

No products found.


​BLACK+DECKER 18-Inch 

BLACK+DECKER Electric Chainsaw, 18-Inch, 15-Amp (CS1518)

Another great saw at just under 100 dollars. This product features a 15 amp motor, tool-free chain tensioning, an automatic oiling system as well as great safety features.

More detailed features include:

  • Chain brake for optimal safety
  • Clear oil window
  • Weight: 11.99lbs
  • Power Source: corded-electric
  • Able to cut large branches
  • Oregon low-kickback bar and chain
  • Tool-free chain tensioning
  • Automatic oiling
  • 2 year limited warranty

Customers all around the world have given this chainsaws great reviews. Some key positives mentioned include:: easy assembly, light weight, heavy duty, and great safety features.

BLACK+DECKER Electric Chainsaw, 18-Inch, 15-Amp, Corded (CS1518)
  • SMOOTH, FAST CUTS – OREGON Low-kickback 18 in. bar and chain help make every cut seamless.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN – Electric chainsaw is easier to maneuver in different cutting orientations.

WORX WG305.1

WORX WG305.1 Electric Chain Saw, One Size

This product has great features including patented auto tension chain system, a powerful 8 amp motor, chain lubrication, light weight as well as compact.

Other features include:

  • Oil level window
  • 8 amp motor
  • Tool-free auto tension system
  • 14” Bar Length
  • Chain Brake safety feature
  • Compact
  • Weight: 7.94 lbs
  • Dimensions: 10 x 16 x 8 inches
  • Great for use on light to medium duty jobs
  • Oil tank capacity: 4 flu oz
  • Chain pitch: 3/8 inches 

This product like the rest has great reviews from its customers. What individuals liked about this product was first the price tag, as well as being easy to use, having plenty of power, easy setup, being light, cuts quickly, and very durable.  

Sale
Worx WG305.1 8 Amp 14" Electric Chainsaw
  • Power Source Type: Corded
  • Patented auto-tension chain system for extended Bar & chain life

​Conclusion

Hopefully this article has given you enough information to decide whether you would prefer the $100 Oregon CS1500 Self-Sharpening Electric Chainsaw or the Worx WG322 20V Cordless Chainsaw with Auto-Tension.

Both chainsaws have impressive benefits for such a low price, and each has their own pros and cons. While the Oregon chainsaw has a bigger bar length, it is heavier and requires a cord.

The Worx chainsaw is lighter weight, but the bar is small and the battery life can be short. In either case, for small, odd jobs around the yard, we’re sure you’ll be pleased with these $100 chainsaws!


About Me.

Hi, Jeremy Here, 

I am the the guy behind Cut The Timber. On this site, I share everything that learned and continue to learn about wood. From grains, to projects, to saws, and everything in between. 

I grew up camping with my family and ended up becoming an Eagle Scout. Currently, my family and I live on a ranch outside of Montana with tons of trees and fire pit fun. 

If you have any questions, feel free to email me: jeremy@cutthetimber.com


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