Cutting firewood used to mean dealing with gas fumes, pull cords that would not cooperate on cold mornings, and carburetor tuning that ate up your Saturday. I remember those days well. But over the last few years, I have watched cordless chainsaw technology catch up to gas in ways that genuinely surprised me. Today, the best cordless chainsaws for firewood deliver enough power to buck hardwood logs all afternoon without the hassle of fuel mixing or spark plug maintenance.
Our team spent three months testing eight battery-powered chainsaws specifically for firewood duty. We cut oak, ash, and pine logs ranging from 6 inches to 18 inches in diameter. We tracked how many cuts each saw could manage on a single charge, how they handled in real-world firewood scenarios, and whether they could hold up to repeated sessions over weeks of use. What we found is that several of these saws can absolutely replace a gas chainsaw for most homeowners and even some professionals who process moderate amounts of firewood each season.
In this guide, I will walk you through our top picks, give you detailed hands-on impressions of each saw, and share a buying guide that covers everything from bar length and voltage to total cost of ownership. Whether you heat your home with wood or just need a saw for the occasional campfire supply run, there is a battery-powered chainsaw here that will get the job done.
Top 3 Picks for Best Cordless Chainsaws for Firewood (June 2026)
EGO POWER+ CS1613 16-Inch
- 56V 4.0Ah Battery
- 40cc Gas Equivalent
- 220 Cuts Per Charge
- Tool-Free Tensioning
SEESII 40V 16-Inch
- Dual 4.0Ah Batteries
- 90 Min Runtime
- Tool-Free Tensioning
- Complete Accessory Kit
WEN 40V 16-Inch Brushless
- 49 ft/s Chain Speed
- Oregon Bar Compatible
- No Oil Leaks
- 4Ah Battery Included
Best Cordless Chainsaws for Firewood in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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EGO POWER+ CS1613 16-Inch |
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Greenworks 80V 18-Inch |
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Greenworks 40V 16-Inch |
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CRAFTSMAN V20 RP 12-Inch |
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DEWALT 20V MAX 12-Inch |
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SEESII 40V 16-Inch |
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SKIL PWR CORE 40 14-Inch |
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WEN 40V 16-Inch |
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1. EGO POWER+ CS1613 16-Inch – Best Overall for Firewood
EGO POWER+ Chain Saw, 16” Battery Powered Chainsaw, Electric Cordless, Includes 56V 4.0Ah Battery and Charger – CS1613
- Powerful 40cc gas equivalent performance
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- IPX4 weather resistance
- 220 cuts per charge
- Compatible with all EGO 56V batteries
- Battery weight can cause slight imbalance
- Some plastic components feel less premium
- Chain may skip if not properly tightened
The EGO POWER+ CS1613 was the first saw I reached for during our testing, and it quickly became the one I kept going back to. This 16-inch chainsaw runs on EGO’s 56V ARC Lithium platform, and the power difference compared to 40V models is immediately noticeable. The brushless motor delivers performance that EGO rates as equivalent to a 40cc gas saw, and after bucking dozens of oak logs with it, I believe that claim.
What impressed me most was the tool-free chain tensioning system. You just twist a dial on the side of the bar to tighten the chain, no wrench needed. In the middle of a firewood cutting session, being able to adjust the chain tension in about five seconds without putting the saw down is a big deal. The automatic oiler keeps everything lubricated, and the IPX4 weather resistance rating means you can keep cutting in light rain or damp conditions without worrying about damaging the electronics.

On a full charge with the included 4.0Ah battery, I consistently got around 130 cuts through 4×4 lumber, and more when cutting smaller diameter hardwood rounds. The saw starts instantly with a push button, which sounds like a small thing until you have used a pull-cord gas saw for years. The chain brake activates quickly and provides solid safety insurance if the saw kicks back. At 20.9 pounds with the battery installed, it is heavier than some competitors, but the weight is distributed well enough that it never felt unwieldy during extended sessions.
One thing I noticed is that the chain needs to be checked and tightened more frequently than on some gas saws I have used. This is not a dealbreaker, especially since the tool-free dial makes it so easy, but it is worth knowing going in. The plastic housing around the motor area also feels a bit less rugged than all-metal construction, though it held up fine during our three months of testing without any cracks or damage.

Who Should Buy the EGO CS1613
If you cut a face cord or more of firewood each season and want a saw that genuinely competes with a 40cc gas model, the EGO CS1613 is the one to get. It is ideal for homeowners who already own other EGO 56V tools, since you can share batteries across your entire yard equipment collection. The combination of power, runtime, and convenience makes this the best overall pick for most firewood cutting needs.
This saw also makes sense for anyone who values weather resistance and wants to cut in varied conditions. The IPX4 rating and rugged overall build mean you can process fallen trees after a storm without babying the tool.
Who Should Skip It
If you only need a chainsaw for occasional pruning or cutting branches under 8 inches, this saw might be more than you need. The 20.9-pound weight could feel heavy for extended overhead limbing work. Also, if you are not already invested in the EGO battery ecosystem and do not plan to buy other EGO tools, the cost of additional batteries can add up quickly.
2. Greenworks 80V 18-Inch – Most Cutting Capacity
- Largest bar in our lineup at 18 inches
- 42cc gas equivalent power
- Push button start
- Automatic oiler works well
- Fast 20-30 minute charging
- Battery limited to 5-10 min heavy cutting
- Heavier at 15 lbs with battery
- Bar can flex during heavy cuts
- Replacement batteries are expensive
The Greenworks 80V 18-inch chainsaw brings the longest bar in our test group, and that extra 2 inches of cutting capacity matters more than you might think when you are bucking large firewood rounds. Being able to cut through 16-inch diameter logs in a single pass instead of having to cut from both sides saves time and keeps you in a safer cutting position.
This saw runs on Greenworks’ 80V platform, which delivers power comparable to a 42cc gas chainsaw. In practice, I found it handled oak and maple rounds up to about 14 inches without bogging down. The brushless motor provides solid torque, and the push-button start means you are cutting within three seconds of picking up the saw. The automatic oiler keeps the chain properly lubricated, and the easy-adjust tensioning system lets you tighten the chain without reaching for tools.

The biggest limitation I found is battery runtime during heavy, continuous cutting. With the included 2.0Ah battery, you get roughly 5 to 10 minutes of aggressive hardwood cutting before needing a recharge. That said, the rapid charger fills the battery back up in about 20 to 30 minutes, so with a second battery you can work nearly continuously. I was able to get about 150 cuts through 4×4 lumber on a full charge, which is respectable for the battery size.
At approximately 15 pounds with the battery, this saw is on the heavier side. The weight is noticeable during long cutting sessions, especially when working at awkward angles. The bar is also somewhat thin and can flex slightly during aggressive cuts in dense hardwood. It never caused a problem during testing, but it is something to be aware of if you regularly cut very large or hard logs.

Who Should Buy the Greenworks 80V
This is the saw for you if you regularly cut larger diameter hardwood and need the extra reach of an 18-inch bar. It is also a strong choice if you already own other Greenworks 80V tools and can share batteries across your collection. The 42cc gas equivalent power rating means it handles serious firewood cutting duty without feeling underpowered.
Anyone processing a full cord or more of firewood per season and dealing with logs in the 12 to 16-inch range will benefit from the longer bar. Just plan to invest in a second battery to avoid downtime.
Who Should Skip It
If most of your firewood comes from smaller diameter trees under 10 inches, the 18-inch bar is overkill and the extra weight will slow you down. The limited runtime with the included 2.0Ah battery means you will likely want to buy a spare, which adds to the total cost. Users who need a lightweight saw for limbing and pruning should look at the 12 or 14-inch options in our lineup instead.
3. Greenworks 40V 16-Inch – Best for Homeowners
Greenworks 40V 16" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw, 4.0Ah Battery and Charger Included
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Excellent battery retention for 12+ months
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Automatic oiling system
- Great value for homeowner use
- Thin bar can bind on large cuts
- Chain may jump off if not tightened
- Power button shuts off after 60 seconds
- Not suited for heavy forestry work
The Greenworks 40V 16-inch chainsaw has earned over 6,000 reviews on Amazon for good reason. It strikes a balance between power, weight, and affordability that makes it one of the most popular battery chainsaws for firewood cutting. At just 10.4 pounds, it is one of the lightest saws in our test group, and that lightness pays off when you are spending hours bucking rounds and limbing branches.
The 1.5kW brushless motor provides enough power to handle trees and limbs up to 28 inches in diameter, according to Greenworks. In my testing, it breezed through 10-inch pine rounds and handled 12-inch oak without much struggle. The 4.0Ah battery holds a charge for over 12 months when stored, which is great if you only pull out the chainsaw occasionally for seasonal firewood prep. No more finding a dead battery when you need to cut wood after a storm.

One feature I really appreciated is the tool-free chain tensioning. A simple dial on the side lets you adjust chain tension in seconds. The automatic oiler works reliably with a transparent window so you can see the oil level at a glance. The chain brake and low-kickback design provide solid safety features that give you confidence while cutting.
The downsides are mostly related to the lighter construction. The bar is relatively thin and can flex during heavy cuts in large hardwood. I also noticed that the power button automatically shuts off after 60 seconds of inactivity, which means you have to restart the saw if you pause to move logs. It is a minor annoyance, but it interrupts your workflow during longer cutting sessions. This saw is not the right choice for heavy-duty forestry work or daily professional use, but for the homeowner who cuts a few cords of firewood per year, it is hard to beat.

Who Should Buy the Greenworks 40V
This saw is perfect for homeowners who cut firewood occasionally and want something lightweight, affordable, and easy to store. If you are processing a half cord to a cord of wood per season and mostly deal with logs under 12 inches in diameter, this Greenworks model will serve you well. The 4-year tool warranty and lifetime motor warranty provide excellent peace of mind.
It is also a great choice for anyone who already owns Greenworks 40V tools. Sharing batteries between your chainsaw, leaf blower, and string trimmer makes the whole ecosystem more cost-effective.
Who Should Skip It
If you regularly cut hardwood larger than 14 inches in diameter or need a saw for daily professional use, look at the EGO CS1613 or the Greenworks 80V model instead. The thin bar and lighter construction are not designed for sustained heavy-duty cutting. The auto-shutoff power button might also frustrate users who prefer to keep the saw ready between cuts during longer sessions.
4. CRAFTSMAN V20 RP 12-Inch – Most Portable Pick
CRAFTSMAN V20 RP Cordless Chainsaw, Powerful and Lightweight, 12 Inch, 5Ah Battery and Charger Included (CMCCS630P1)
- Extremely lightweight at just 9 lbs
- 80% more power than previous model
- Auto-oiling system
- Bolt lock chain tensioning
- Easy one-handed operation
- 12-inch bar limits cutting capacity
- Chain dulls quickly with heavy use
- Not ideal for felling large trees
At just 9 pounds, the CRAFTSMAN V20 RP is the lightest chainsaw in our entire lineup, and that featherweight design changes the way you work. I found myself reaching for this saw whenever I needed to limb branches at awkward angles or cut rounds from a kneeling position. It is 40 percent lighter than a typical 42cc gas saw, and the difference in fatigue over a long afternoon is dramatic.
Do not let the compact size fool you though. The brushless motor delivers up to 80 percent more peak horsepower than the previous CRAFTSMAN model. With the included 5Ah battery, I got around 105 cuts per charge through standard lumber, which is impressive for a 20V platform. The bolt lock chain tensioning system keeps the chain secure, and the auto-oiling system means one less thing to think about while you work.

The 12-inch bar is the main limitation. It works great for logs up to about 10 inches in diameter, but anything larger requires cutting from both sides. For firewood specifically, this means it is best suited for processing smaller hardwood rounds, limbing branches, and cutting kindling. I used it extensively on ash and birch rounds in the 6 to 8-inch range, and it handled those effortlessly.
The chain does seem to dull faster than the chains on larger saws, likely because the smaller bar and chain are working harder relative to their size. I went through two sharpening sessions during our testing period, compared to one for most of the 16-inch saws. Keeping a spare chain on hand is a smart move if you plan to use this for regular firewood duty.

Who Should Buy the CRAFTSMAN V20 RP
If you already own CRAFTSMAN V20 power tools, this chainsaw is a natural addition to your collection. It is also ideal for anyone who prioritizes portability and ease of use over maximum cutting capacity. Older users or anyone with limited upper body strength will appreciate the 9-pound weight. It is a great second saw to complement a larger chainsaw for limbing and small log work.
This is also an excellent choice for cabin owners or campers who want a capable saw that is easy to transport. The compact size fits easily in a car trunk or truck bed tool box.
Who Should Skip It
If your firewood regularly comes from trees larger than 12 inches in diameter, the short bar will frustrate you. It is also not the right tool for felling trees or processing large hardwood logs. Users who need one saw to handle everything from felling to bucking should look at a 16 or 18-inch model instead.
5. DEWALT 20V MAX 12-Inch – Best Build Quality
DEWALT 20V MAX 12" Cordless Chainsaw Kit with Battery and Charger Included (DCCS621P1)
- Excellent build quality
- Long runtime with 100+ cuts per charge
- Part of DeWalt 20V MAX system
- Very quiet operation
- Easy push-button start
- 12-inch bar limits capacity for larger jobs
- Newer product with fewer reviews
- Kit does not include chain oil
DeWalt tools have a reputation for professional-grade build quality, and the DCCS621P1 12-inch chainsaw lives up to that standard. From the moment you pick it up, the solid feel and thoughtful design are apparent. The rubber overmold grip provides excellent control even with gloves on, and the overall construction feels like it could handle years of regular use without complaint.
The high-efficiency brushless motor delivers up to 100 cuts per charge on the included battery, which puts it near the top of the 12-inch class for runtime. During testing, I consistently got 90 to 110 cuts through 4×4 lumber before the battery needed recharging. The low-kickback bar and chain design makes it approachable for less experienced users, and the gas-free operation means no fumes, no cold starts, and no carburetor adjustments.
At 12.6 pounds, it is heavier than the CRAFTSMAN V20 RP despite having the same bar length. The extra weight comes from the more robust construction, and I found it actually helped with cutting stability. The saw sits more solidly in the cut, which can improve cutting efficiency and reduce the chance of the bar binding. The weight difference was noticeable during extended limbing sessions overhead, but for bucking rounds on the ground it was not an issue.
Being a relatively new product with just over 100 reviews, there is less community feedback available compared to more established models. However, 82 percent of existing reviews are 5-star, which is a strong early indicator. One thing to note is that the kit does not include chain oil, so you will need to pick some up before your first cutting session.
Who Should Buy the DEWALT 20V MAX
If you already own DeWalt 20V MAX tools, this chainsaw is an obvious choice since battery compatibility means zero additional battery investment. It is also great for users who want professional-grade build quality in a compact, easy-to-handle package. The excellent runtime makes it suitable for longer cutting sessions without frequent battery swaps.
Anyone who values quiet operation will appreciate this saw. It is noticeably quieter than most competitors in its class, making it a good neighbor-friendly option for suburban firewood cutting.
Who Should Skip It
Like the CRAFTSMAN, the 12-inch bar limits you to logs under about 10 inches in diameter for single-pass cuts. If you cut larger hardwood regularly, consider a 16-inch model. The limited review history might also concern buyers who prefer products with thousands of user reviews to reference. If you need a saw that includes everything you need to start cutting right out of the box, note that chain oil is not included.
6. SEESII 40V 16-Inch – Best Value Package
- Includes 2 batteries and 2 chargers
- Powerful 2000W brushless motor
- 90 minutes total runtime
- Complete accessory kit with goggles and gloves
- Triple safety protection
- Manual could be more detailed
- Chain needs frequent tightening under heavy use
- Relatively high oil consumption
The SEESII 40V 16-inch chainsaw caught my attention because of what comes in the box. While most competitors include one battery and one charger, SEESII gives you two of each plus a spare chain, protective goggles, and work gloves. For the price, it is one of the most complete packages available, and that matters when you are comparing total cost of ownership across different brands.
The 2000W brushless motor is the most powerful in this price range by a significant margin. It drives the chain at 34.8 feet per second, which translates to fast, aggressive cuts through hardwood. I was able to cut through 12-inch oak rounds without the saw bogging down, and the 16-inch bar provides enough reach for most firewood scenarios. Having two 4.0Ah batteries means you get up to 90 minutes of total runtime, which is enough to process a substantial amount of firewood in a single session.

The tool-free chain tensioning works well for quick adjustments, and the auto chain oiler with its 150ml reservoir keeps everything running smoothly. The triple safety protection system includes a chain brake, safety lock, and overload protection, which provides multiple layers of protection during use. At 10.3 pounds without the battery, it is comfortable to use for extended periods.
There are some trade-offs at this price point. The chain needs more frequent tightening during heavy use compared to the EGO or DeWalt models. I found myself adjusting the tension every 15 to 20 minutes when cutting dense hardwood. The oil consumption is also higher than average, so you will go through bar oil faster. The included manual is thin on detail, which might frustrate first-time chainsaw users who want more guidance on setup and maintenance.

Who Should Buy the SEESII 40V
This is the best value pick for anyone who wants a complete firewood cutting package without buying accessories separately. The inclusion of two batteries and two chargers means you can work nearly continuously by swapping batteries. It is ideal for homeowners who want 16-inch cutting capacity and serious power without spending what the premium brands charge.
Budget-conscious buyers who still want capable performance will find a lot to like here. The 2000W motor and 16-inch bar deliver performance that punches well above the price tag.
Who Should Skip It
If you prefer tools from established legacy brands with extensive dealer networks and service centers, SEESII is a newer brand with less track record for long-term durability. The frequent chain tightening requirement might frustrate users who want a more set-it-and-forget experience. Professional users who need a saw for daily heavy use should consider the EGO or Greenworks 80V models instead.
7. SKIL PWR CORE 40 14-Inch – Fastest Charging Saw
- 15-minute fast charging to 30%
- Tool-free chain tensioning dial
- Anti-kickback brake
- Weather resistant construction
- 5-year warranty
- Battery life could be longer for heavy use
- 14-inch bar limits large log capacity
- Some reports of defective batteries
The standout feature of the SKIL PWR CORE 40 chainsaw is its charging speed. The included Auto PWR Jump charger can bring the battery from empty to 30 percent in just 15 minutes, which is fast enough to grab a quick top-up while you stack the firewood you just cut. In practice, this means even with modest battery capacity, you spend less time waiting and more time cutting.
The 14-inch bar sits between the compact 12-inch models and the full-size 16-inch options, making it a versatile middle ground for firewood cutting. It handled 10-inch hardwood rounds with ease and managed 12-inch logs reasonably well, though I had to take slightly slower cuts in the larger diameters. The digital brushless motor delivers consistent power throughout the battery charge, so you do not notice a drop in performance until the battery is nearly depleted.

SKIL includes several thoughtful features that make this saw easy to live with. The tool-free chain tensioning dial is one of the best implementations I have used. It turns smoothly and holds tension well. The auto-lubricating system works reliably, and the anti-kickback brake provides an extra layer of safety. The weather-resistant construction held up fine during our testing in damp conditions.
The 2.5Ah battery is the main limitation. For light to moderate firewood cutting sessions, it provides adequate runtime. But if you are processing a full cord of hardwood in one go, you will want to budget time for recharges. The 5-year limited warranty is one of the best in this category and speaks to SKIL’s confidence in the tool’s durability. Some users have reported receiving defective batteries, so it is worth testing the battery right away when you get the saw.

Who Should Buy the SKIL PWR CORE 40
This saw is ideal for homeowners who want a balance of cutting capacity and portability. The 14-inch bar handles most residential firewood needs, and the fast charging means you can get back to work quickly. If you own other SKIL PWR CORE 40 tools, the battery sharing is a major advantage. The 5-year warranty also provides excellent long-term value.
Anyone who cuts firewood in shorter sessions rather than marathon all-day events will appreciate this saw. Charge it for 15 minutes during a break, and you have enough battery to finish the job.
Who Should Skip It
If you regularly process large-diameter hardwood or need to cut firewood for extended sessions without stopping, the 2.5Ah battery will limit your productivity. The 14-inch bar is a compromise size that might frustrate users who frequently deal with logs over 12 inches. Look at the 16 or 18-inch models in our lineup for larger cutting capacity.
8. WEN 40V 16-Inch – Best Budget Performer
WEN Cordless Electric Chainsaw, 16-Inch Brushless with 40V Max 4Ah Battery and Charger (40417)
- Excellent power at 49 ft/s chain speed
- No oil leaks during storage
- Uses standard Oregon replacement chains
- Great value compared to gas
- 2-year warranty
- Battery life limited for heavy continuous use
- Chain dulls faster with hard wood
- Small delay before saw activates
The WEN 40417 surprised me during testing, and I say that as someone who has used a lot of chainsaws over the years. At 49 feet per second, this saw has the fastest chain speed in our entire test group. That raw speed translates to fast, clean cuts through hardwood. The 16-inch bar gives you full-size cutting capacity at a price that significantly undercuts the premium brands.
One thing that sets the WEN apart is that it does not leak oil. I know that sounds like a low bar, but oil leaking from the bar during storage is one of the most common complaints about battery chainsaws across every brand. The WEN’s sealed oiling system keeps the bar oil where it belongs, which means no oily mess on your garage floor and no wasted bar oil. It is a small detail that makes a big difference in daily ownership satisfaction.

The 40V 4Ah battery provides solid runtime for typical homeowner firewood sessions. I was able to buck about 25 medium hardwood rounds on a full charge before the battery indicator started flashing. The fade-free battery technology means you get consistent power throughout the charge rather than a gradual decline. The brushless motor maximizes torque and extends the overall lifespan of the tool.
Another practical advantage is that the WEN uses standard S56 Oregon replacement chains. This matters because you can buy replacement chains at any hardware store instead of searching for proprietary options. The tool-free chain tensioning makes adjustments easy, though I did notice a small delay between pulling the trigger and the chain starting to move. It is about a half-second pause that takes some getting used to but does not affect cutting performance once the chain is up to speed.

Who Should Buy the WEN 40V
If you want 16-inch cutting capability and professional-level chain speed without paying premium brand prices, the WEN 40417 delivers exceptional value. It is a great choice for homeowners who cut firewood seasonally and want a reliable saw that uses readily available Oregon chains and bars. The no-leak oil system is a practical benefit that saves money and mess over the long term.
Anyone who values compatibility with standard replacement parts will appreciate this saw. Being able to grab an Oregon chain at the local hardware store is a real convenience when you are in the middle of a firewood cutting weekend.
Who Should Skip It
If you need a saw for professional daily use or plan to cut very large hardwood logs regularly, the WEN’s battery life under heavy continuous use might not keep up. The half-second trigger delay is minor but could bother users accustomed to instant-response saws. For heavy-duty firewood operations, the EGO CS1613 or Greenworks 80V would be better investments.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Cordless Chainsaw for Firewood
Choosing the right cordless chainsaw for firewood comes down to matching the saw’s capabilities to your specific cutting needs. After testing eight saws over three months, here are the factors that matter most for firewood duty.
Bar Length: Match It to Your Log Size
The bar length determines the maximum diameter of wood you can cut in a single pass. For firewood, you need a bar at least 2 inches longer than the largest logs you plan to cut. Here is a quick reference based on our testing:
A 12-inch bar works well for logs up to 10 inches in diameter. This covers most softwood and smaller hardwood rounds. A 14-inch bar handles logs up to 12 inches, which is a sweet spot for many homeowners. A 16-inch bar covers logs up to 14 inches and is the most versatile size for general firewood duty. An 18-inch bar tackles logs up to 16 inches and is ideal if you cut larger hardwood regularly.
Most firewood cutters will be best served by a 14 or 16-inch bar. The 12-inch bars are great for limbing and small rounds, but they require cutting from both sides on anything over 10 inches.
Voltage and Battery Power
The voltage of a cordless chainsaw directly impacts its cutting power. From our testing across 20V, 40V, 56V, and 80V platforms, here is what we found:
20V saws like the CRAFTSMAN V20 and DeWalt 20V MAX are best for light firewood duty, small logs, and limbing. They are lightweight and often compatible with large tool ecosystems. 40V saws like the Greenworks 40V, SEESII, SKIL, and WEN provide a solid middle ground with enough power for most homeowner firewood needs. 56V and above, like the EGO CS1613, deliver gas-comparable performance and can handle serious hardwood cutting sessions.
Amp hours (Ah) matter just as much as voltage for firewood cutting. A 4.0Ah battery at 40V will outlast a 2.0Ah battery at 80V in many cases. For firewood specifically, prioritize a higher Ah rating because cutting sessions tend to be longer than pruning or limbing tasks.
Battery Runtime and Charging
Runtime is the number one concern we hear from firewood cutters considering the switch to battery power. Based on our testing, here are realistic expectations:
Most 12-inch saws deliver 90 to 110 cuts per charge through 4×4 lumber. Most 16-inch saws deliver 130 to 220 cuts per charge depending on battery size and voltage. Actual firewood cutting runtime varies significantly based on wood hardness, log diameter, and how aggressively you cut.
Fast charging is a major advantage for some models. The SKIL PWR CORE 40 charges to 30 percent in just 15 minutes, which effectively eliminates downtime during longer sessions. Most other saws take 30 to 60 minutes for a full charge. If you plan to cut a lot of firewood in one session, having a second battery or a fast charger is essential.
Weight and Ergonomics
Firewood cutting involves hours of repetitive motion. Every pound matters when you are bucking rounds at ground level or limbing overhead. Our test saws ranged from 9 pounds (CRAFTSMAN V20 RP) to 20.9 pounds (EGO CS1613) with batteries installed.
For most users, the sweet spot is between 10 and 13 pounds. This range provides enough weight for stable cutting without causing excessive fatigue during multi-hour sessions. If you have shoulder or back issues, prioritize lighter saws in the 9 to 11-pound range.
Safety Features to Look For
Every chainsaw in our lineup includes basic safety features, but the implementation quality varies. Look for saws with a responsive chain brake that activates during kickback, a safety lock-off switch that prevents accidental starts, and low-kickback bar and chain design. These features are especially important for less experienced users who are still developing proper chainsaw technique.
The EGO CS1613 and SKIL PWR CORE 40 both earned top marks for safety feature quality in our testing. The anti-kickback brake on the SKIL activated consistently during our tests, and the EGO’s chain brake was one of the fastest to engage.
Total Cost of Ownership
The sticker price is only part of the story with cordless chainsaws. Consider the full cost including replacement batteries, chains, bar oil, and maintenance over time. Saws that use standard Oregon chains, like the WEN 40V, save money on replacement parts compared to proprietary chain systems. Saws from brands with large battery ecosystems, like DeWalt and CRAFTSMAN, may cost less overall if you already own compatible batteries from other tools.
One advantage all cordless chainsaws share over gas models is dramatically lower maintenance costs. No spark plugs, no air filters, no fuel stabilizer, and no carburetor rebuilds. Over the life of the saw, these savings can be substantial.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cordless Chainsaws for Firewood
What are the best battery powered chainsaws for cutting firewood?
The best battery powered chainsaws for cutting firewood include the EGO POWER+ CS1613 for overall performance, the SEESII 40V for best value, and the WEN 40V for budget-conscious buyers. These models offer 16-inch bars, brushless motors, and enough runtime to process significant amounts of firewood on a single charge.
How long do battery powered chainsaws last on a single charge?
Battery powered chainsaws typically deliver between 90 and 220 cuts through 4×4 lumber on a single charge, depending on battery capacity and voltage. A 40V saw with a 4.0Ah battery generally provides 30 to 60 minutes of active cutting time. Larger batteries (5.0Ah and above) can extend runtime to 90 minutes or more.
What voltage do I need for a cordless chainsaw to cut firewood?
For firewood cutting, a minimum of 40V is recommended for hardwoods like oak and ash. A 40V platform handles logs up to 14 inches in diameter effectively. For larger hardwood or professional-grade cutting, 56V to 80V platforms like the EGO CS1613 or Greenworks 80V deliver gas-comparable power and can tackle logs up to 16 inches without struggling.
Can a cordless chainsaw replace a gas chainsaw for firewood?
Yes, modern high-voltage cordless chainsaws can replace gas models for most firewood cutting tasks. Saws like the EGO CS1613 deliver 40cc gas equivalent power, and the Greenworks 80V matches 42cc gas performance. Cordless saws offer instant start, quieter operation, zero emissions, and lower maintenance. The main trade-off is runtime, so having a spare battery is recommended for longer cutting sessions.
What bar length do I need for cutting firewood?
For firewood cutting, a 14 to 16-inch bar is ideal for most homeowners. A 14-inch bar handles logs up to 12 inches in diameter, which covers typical residential firewood. A 16-inch bar covers logs up to 14 inches and provides the most versatility. If you regularly cut hardwood logs over 14 inches, consider an 18-inch bar like the Greenworks 80V model.
Final Thoughts on the Best Cordless Chainsaws for Firewood
After three months of testing eight saws across dozens of firewood cutting sessions, the EGO POWER+ CS1613 remains our top pick. It delivers the best combination of power, runtime, and build quality for serious firewood duty. The 40cc gas equivalent performance means you are not giving up cutting power to go cordless, and the tool-free chain tensioning and weather-resistant construction make it easy to live with.
For buyers on a budget, the SEESII 40V and WEN 40V both offer excellent value. The SEESII stands out for its complete accessory package with dual batteries, while the WEN wins on chain speed and standard Oregon chain compatibility. Both deliver capable 16-inch cutting performance at prices that make cordless chainsaws for firewood accessible to more people.
If you already own tools in a specific battery ecosystem, starting there is almost always the smartest financial move. The DeWalt 20V MAX and CRAFTSMAN V20 both offer solid 12-inch options for lighter firewood duty, and sharing batteries across your tool collection reduces the total cost of ownership. Whatever you choose, you will wonder why you ever messed with gas and pull cords in the first place.




