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Buying an all-around chainsaw forces you to balance cutting speed, weight, power source, and bar length—a calculus that changes depending on whether you are felling a 20-inch oak or clearing storm debris from a suburban yard. The wrong pick leaves you wrestling a saw that is either too heavy for limbing or too weak for a 14-inch trunk. Gas models offer raw torque but demand carburetor tuning and mixed fuel, while battery-powered saws trade unlimited runtime for instant start and near-zero vibration.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind Gardening Beyond. To identify the true all-rounders, I compared over a dozen models across three power tiers, analyzing motor displacement, chain speed, battery amp-hours, oiler reliability, and handling feedback from thousands of verified owner reports.
This guide breaks down the nine most compelling options to help you find the best all around chainsaw, rating each on real-world cutting ability, ergonomics, and long-term value.
How To Choose The Best All Around Chainsaw
An all-around chainsaw must balance three competing factors: cutting capacity (determined by bar length and engine power), weight for overhead or one-handed limbing, and the convenience of the power source. Gas saws still dominate for multi-day firewood sessions, but modern battery platforms now challenge entry-level gas models in torque while eliminating pull-start frustration. Below are the specific specs that separate a true daily driver from a niche tool.
Bar Length vs. Real Cutting Capacity
Bar length advertised (14, 16, 18, or 20 inches) is the maximum wood diameter the saw can theoretically fell in one pass. Real cutting capacity is roughly 2 inches less than the bar length because the chain wraps around the nose. A 16-inch bar handles up to 14-inch trunks cleanly — enough for most suburban storm cleanup. Jumping to an 18- or 20-inch bar adds about 1.5 pounds and significantly increases torque demand, so the engine or motor must be matched to the bar. Pairing a large bar with an underpowered motor leads to bogging and excessive chain friction.
Power Source Tradeoffs: Gas vs. Battery
Gas engines are measured in cubic centimeters (cc) and horsepower (HP). A 38–40cc saw like the Husqvarna 120 Mark III is fine for 14-inch bars and light limbing, while a 50.2cc engine like the Husqvarna 450 Rancher is necessary for 20-inch bars and dense hardwoods. Battery saws are evaluated by voltage (36V, 40V, 56V, 60V) and battery capacity (Ah). Higher voltage generally means faster chain speed, while higher Ah extends runtime. A 56V 2.5Ah battery roughly equals 20–30 minutes of active cutting, so for large jobs you need extra batteries or a gas saw. Corded electric saws offer infinite runtime but restrict mobility to 100 feet of extension cord length.
Chain Tensioning and Oiler Systems
Tool-free chain tensioning is a must for an all-around saw — you will adjust the chain every 2–3 refuels or battery swaps as it stretches from heat and friction. A side-mounted dial (Skil, EGO, Makita) is far more convenient than a side-access knob that requires pinching the chain (Black & Decker). Automatic oilers should have a visible reservoir or indicator window; models without one leave you guessing. Gas saws require bar oil with tackifiers; battery saws use standard bar oil but often have lower flow rates. A saw that leaks oil when stored (common on budget battery models) wastes lubricant and makes a mess in your car or garage.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EGO CS1611 | Battery | Quiet, low-vibration daily cutting | 56V 2.5Ah, 20 m/s chain speed | Amazon |
| Husqvarna 450 Rancher | Gas | Heavy firewood & felling | 50.2cc, 3.2 HP, 20″ bar | Amazon |
| DEWALT DCCS672X1 | Battery | High-torque cutting, 18″ bar | 60V FLEXVOLT, 18″ bar | Amazon |
| Makita XCU04PT1 | Battery | Limbing & pruning, long runtime | 36V (18Vx2), 16″ bar, 4 batteries | Amazon |
| Skil CS4555-10 | Battery | Value battery saw with fast charging | 40V, 14″ bar, 2.5Ah battery | Amazon |
| PROYAMA 68CC | Gas | Budget big-power for occasional use | 68cc engine, 24″ bar | Amazon |
| Husqvarna 120 Mark III | Gas | Light limbing & yard cleanup | 38cc, 1.88 HP, 14″ bar | Amazon |
| DEWALT DCCS621B | Battery | Compact, one-hand use | 20V MAX, 12″ bar, bare tool | Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER CS1216 | Corded | Budget corded, unlimited runtime | 12 amp motor, 16″ bar | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. EGO POWER+ 16” Battery Chainsaw (CS1611)
The EGO CS1611 hits the sweet spot most homeowners need: a 16-inch bar with a 56V brushless motor that delivers gas-like chain speed (20 m/s) without the fumes, vibration, or pull-start frustration. Owners consistently report cutting 4×4 posts for over 130 cuts on a single 2.5Ah charge, and the tool-free chain tensioning dial makes adjustments between cuts trivial. The IPX4 weather-resistant construction means it handles damp morning dew without issue.
Where the CS1611 truly excels is in user comfort. At just 9 pounds and with an anti-vibration system that reduces hand fatigue, it is genuinely usable for an hour of limbing without the forearm burn that cheap electric saws produce. The automatic oiler has a spill-free reservoir with a clear window, so you never accidentally run the bar dry. Low-kickback chain with brake indicator adds a layer of safety absent on many budget battery saws.
The limitation is battery runtime. The included 2.5Ah battery is fine for a single tree or a half-hour of cleanup, but for a full day of firewood cutting you will want a second larger battery. The chain can also derail if debris gets packed behind the sprocket—clearing it requires removing the side cover, which is a minor annoyance but not a design flaw. For the vast majority of weekly yard work, this is the benchmark battery all-arounder.
What works
- Gas-equivalent cut speed in a 9-pound package
- Tool-free chain tensioning is fast and reliable
- IPX4 weather resistance for damp conditions
What doesn’t
- Battery runtime limited to ~30 min active cutting
- Chain occasionally derails from built-up debris
2. Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20″ Gas Chainsaw
The 450 Rancher is the gold standard for the homeowner who needs a genuine workhorse. Its 50.2cc X-Torq engine produces 3.2 HP—enough to push a 20-inch bar through seasoned oak and maple without bogging, yet the saw weighs just 11.3 pounds. Smart Start technology drastically reduces pull-start effort, and the inertia-activated chain brake provides crucial kickback protection during aggressive cuts. The Air Injection centrifugal cleaning system keeps dust out of the air filter, which noticeably extends service intervals.
LowVib dampeners between the engine and chassis cut vibration significantly compared to older Husqvarna models, making it feasible to fell a half-dozen trees in a morning session without debilitating hand numbness. The automatic chain oiler has an adjustable flow rate, letting you increase lubrication for dry hardwoods or dial it back for softwoods. Owners consistently highlight the ergonomic trigger and asymmetrical handle design, which reduce wrist strain during angled cuts.
There are a couple of known quirks. The factory spark plug can arrive over-torqued (spec is 7–15 ft/lbs, but some units ship at 30-50), so check and re-gap the plug to 0.020 inches before first use. The chain oil delivery is on the lighter side from the factory; some owners replace the oil pump assembly for a higher flow rate. None of these are dealbreakers—they are adjustments any competent chainsaw owner should expect on a mass-produced gas saw.
What works
- Powerful 3.2 HP engine with 20-inch bar capacity
- Very lightweight for its displacement class
- Air Injection filtration extends air filter life
What doesn’t
- Factory spark plug often over-torqued
- Oil delivery may be too light for some users
3. DEWALT 60V FLEXVOLT 18″ Brushless Chainsaw (DCCS672X1)
If you already own DEWALT 20V or 60V tools, the DCCS672X1 is the battery-powered saw that can genuinely replace a mid-range gas model. DEWALT claims 26% more peak power than a 40.9cc gas chainsaw and up to 2.5x the torque, and owner reports confirm it cuts through 18-inch maple and poplar without slowing. The brushless motor with auto-oiling and tool-free chain adjustment (using the onboard wrench) makes it a no-excuses tool for heavy limbing and small-tree felling.
At 18.8 pounds with the battery, it is noticeably heavier than the EGO CS1611, but that weight contributes to stability during long cuts. The chain brake and limited kickback bar design are reassuring for less experienced operators. Owners note that the saw is significantly quieter than gasoline alternatives—enough that you can hear someone speaking from 10 feet away at full throttle. The automatic oiler works well, and storing the saw on its side prevents oil leakage, a common complaint on many battery saws.
The tradeoff is battery thirst. With the included 3Ah battery, active cutting time is about 20–30 minutes, which means heavy users will need multiple batteries or the larger 9Ah FLEXVOLT pack. Some owners report that if you do not keep the chain tensioned properly, it can derail under high torque, requiring a brief reset. This saw is not ideal for all-day commercial use, but for a homeowner who already invests in the DEWALT ecosystem, it is the most powerful battery option in this list.
What works
- Exceptional torque, outperforms 40cc gas saws
- Quiet operation with auto-oiling system
- Uses existing DEWALT battery platform
What doesn’t
- Heavy for its class at nearly 19 pounds
- Runs through batteries quickly; 3Ah pack is minimal
4. Makita XCU04PT1 36V (18V X2) 16″ Chain Saw Kit
Makita’s XCU04PT1 uses two 18V LXT batteries in series to produce 36V, delivering the equivalent power of a 32cc gas saw. The kit includes four 5.0Ah batteries, so you effectively get two full pairs—enough runtime to cut a truckload of firewood across a full afternoon. The outer rotor brushless motor provides instant-on torque with a chain speed of 0–3,940 FPM, and the pulsing variable-speed trigger gives fine control for limbing versus bucking.
Tool-less chain adjustment is genuinely tool-less—there is a knob on the side you twist without removing the sprocket cover. The oil system is clean and mess-free, using standard bar oil with minimal leakage during storage. At 22 pounds with two batteries, it is heavy, but the weight is well balanced and the saw feels solid in the hands. Owners praise its quiet idle (virtually silent) and the long battery life—many report cutting for 2–3 hours on a single pair of batteries when tackling 2-to-10-inch wood.
The thin Oregon chain is designed for fast cutting but is less robust than a standard .050 gauge chain; upgrading to a thicker chain requires switching the bar. Some owners note that the chain can jump the bar if the tension is not checked regularly, and the bar tightener handle can wear over time. This kit is a fantastic investment for Makita ecosystem users, but the premium price puts it beyond the budget of casual buyers.
What works
- Four 5.0Ah batteries provide exceptional runtime
- Quiet, instant-on operation with variable speed
- Tool-free chain adjustment with easy dial
What doesn’t
- Heavy for battery class at 22 pounds
- Thin Oregon chain may not suit heavy-duty felling
5. SKIL PWR CORE 40 Brushless 40V 14” Chainsaw Kit (CS4555-10)
The Skil CS4555-10 offers the best value-to-performance ratio of any battery chainsaw in this list. The 40V digital brushless motor is surprisingly quick through 6-inch branches and small logs, and the 14-inch bar is perfect for limbing, storm cleanup, and light pruning. The included 2.5Ah PWR CORE 40 battery uses individual cell wrapping for cooling, which the brand claims delivers 25% longer runtime and 2x battery lifespan compared to standard packs.
What makes this saw genuinely compelling is the Auto PWR JUMP charger: 0 to 30% charge in just 15 minutes. That means a second battery can rotate through, giving you effective continuous runtime for household-level tasks. Tool-less chain tensioning via a side dial and an anti-kickback brake make it user-friendly for beginners. At just 11.5 pounds, it is light enough for overhead cuts without fatiguing your shoulders. Owners consistently note that it handles 3-to-10-inch branches with ease.
The battery runtime is the limiting factor. With a single 2.5Ah pack, you get about 45–60 minutes of intermittent cutting. For large projects like taking down a full tree, you will absolutely need a second battery. The saw also leaks bar oil when stored horizontally—storing it vertically or in the included scabbard mitigates this. For the price, this is the most capable entry-level battery saw available.
What works
- Excellent power-to-price ratio
- 15-minute jump charge for quick battery rotation
- Lightweight and well-balanced for limbing
What doesn’t
- Battery drains quickly on 6+ inch cuts
- Bar oil leaks if stored horizontally
6. PROYAMA 68CC 2-Cycle Top Handle Gas Powered Chainsaw
The PROYAMA 68CC is an interesting outlier—a gas saw that offers the displacement of a professional felling saw (actual 62cc on tested units) for a fraction of the brand-name cost. It ships with both a 24-inch and a 20-inch bar, giving you immediate flexibility for different cutting scenarios. Owners report it runs comparably to an Echo 590 in power, with the ability to cut through a 22-inch oak stump in roughly one minute after the carburetor is tuned from its rich factory setting.
Assembly requires attention: applying Loctite to the spike dogs and replacing the bar nuts with nylon lock nuts is recommended to prevent loosening from vibration. The saw starts reliably within 3–4 pulls once the choke procedure is learned, and it runs strong after a proper break-in (about 3 tanks of fuel). The anti-vibration system is present but less effective than Husqvarna or Stihl—expect more hand fatigue during long sessions. The included PPE kit (face shield, hearing protection, gloves, mixing bottle, toolkit) adds tangible value.
The downsides are consistent with the price point. The plastics feel less durable and may warp or melt if the saw overheats (a risk during long, heavy cuts without rest). The muffler has no spark arrestor, which may disqualify it for use in fire-prone areas. There is no genuine side-access chain tensioning—you must loosen the bar nuts with the included wrench. Support responsiveness varies. For a homeowner on a tight budget who needs big bar capacity for occasional heavy use, it punches far above its weight, but it is not a buy-for-life tool.
What works
- Enormous power from 68cc engine at a low price
- Includes two bars (20″ and 24″) and PPE kit
- Runs strong after proper carburetor tuning
What doesn’t
- Mediocre build quality; plastics can warp
- No spark arrestor and high vibration levels
7. Husqvarna 120 Mark III Gas Chainsaw
The 120 Mark III is Husqvarna’s entry-level gas saw, and it is nearly perfect for the suburban homeowner who wants the reliability of gas without the bulk and expense of a rancher-class machine. Its 38cc X-Torq engine delivers 1.88 HP—plenty for 14-inch bars and typical yard tasks like pruning, clearing storm damage, and cutting firewood up to about 12 inches in diameter. The separate choke and stop switch controls prevent accidental flooding, and the stop switch automatically resets when you pull the choke.
LowVib technology with dampeners between the engine and chassis makes this an exceptionally comfortable gas saw for its size. At 10.7 pounds, it is competitive with many battery saws in weight, yet it offers the unlimited runtime that battery users crave. The inertia-activated chain brake is a critical safety feature that stops the chain in milliseconds if the saw kicks back toward the operator. Owners consistently praise how quickly it starts—often on the first or second pull even after sitting for weeks.
The saw is not designed for heavy felling. The 14-inch bar limits you to wood diameters of about 12 inches, and the low torque means it will bog if you try to push through dense hardwoods quickly. Some owners report that the saw dies when the fuel level is low and the saw is tilted parallel to the ground (like cutting a stump). The air filter is basic and needs frequent cleaning if you work in dusty conditions. For light, routine yard work, however, it is the most pleasant gas saw to operate in this list.
What works
- Extremely easy to start for a gas saw
- Very lightweight and low vibration
- Separate choke/stop switch prevents flooding
What doesn’t
- Limited to 12-inch wood diameter maximum
- Can stall when tilted with low fuel
8. DEWALT 20V MAX 12 in. Cordless Chainsaw, Bare Tool (DCCS621B)
The DCCS621B is the lightest and most maneuverable chainsaw in this lineup, ideal for one-handed limbing, pruning, and small-diameter cutting. The 12-inch low-kickback bar and brushless motor deliver up to 100 cuts per charge (using a 5Ah or larger DEWALT battery), and it weighs roughly half as much as a comparable gas saw. Owners who already own 20V MAX DEWALT tools will appreciate that this bare tool slots into their existing battery ecosystem without needing a new charger.
High RPM chain speed makes it rapid through branches up to 8 inches thick. The lightweight design (around 10 pounds with a battery) genuinely allows one-handed operation when you need to brace yourself or clear debris with the other hand. The automatic oiler keeps the bar lubricated during use, though the oil reservoir is smaller than larger battery saws—expect to refill after about 2 battery swaps. Owners praise its performance on camping trips, cutting firewood for a week on a single 5Ah battery.
The 12-inch bar is the obvious limitation; you cannot fell any tree thicker than about 10 inches, and even an 8-inch cut requires patience. The saw has no built-in chain lube reservoir; you must apply spray lubricant directly to the chain, which is less convenient than an auto-oiler. The safety switch can be stiff to engage, and the chain will benefit from a retensioning after every 20–30 minutes of use. This is a specialized tool for light-duty users, not a primary saw for heavy property maintenance.
What works
- Extremely light and compact for one-hand use
- Up to 100 cuts from a 5Ah battery
- Fits DEWALT 20V battery platform
What doesn’t
- 12-inch bar limits cutting to wood under 10″
- No built-in oil reservoir; requires spray lube
9. BLACK+DECKER 12 Amp 16 in. Electric Chainsaw (CS1216)
The Black & Decker CS1216 is the most affordable chainsaw on this list, and it remains a compelling option for the budget-conscious homeowner who needs to clear storm debris or trim overgrown bushes. The 12-amp motor is surprisingly punchy for a corded saw, and the 16-inch bar provides enough reach for logs up to about 14 inches in diameter. Owners report cutting through nine 14-inch cedar trees in a single session without overheating, and the automatic oiling system with a clear window makes bar maintenance straightforward.
The corded design eliminates battery anxiety entirely—as long as you have a heavy-duty 12/3 gauge extension cord (100 feet max), you can run this saw continuously for hours. Tool-free chain tensioning is simple, though some owners note that the chain can jump off the bar if you apply sideways pressure with insufficient tension. The low-kickback bar and chain reduce the risk of dangerous reactions during cuts, making it a relatively safe introduction to chainsaw use.
Where this saw shows its budget roots is in ergonomics and build quality. At 10 pounds, it is heavier than many battery saws, and the balance is front-heavy, which leads to arm fatigue during extended overhead cutting. The chain takes 5–6 seconds to stop after you release the trigger—that is a safety concern if you are working in tight brush. The grip is narrow and the trigger harder to modulate than more expensive saws. For a first-time buyer who wants to test if they need a chainsaw at all, this is a perfectly fine entry point, but it is not a long-term solution for heavy work.
What works
- Very affordable price with a 16-inch bar
- Unlimited runtime with a long extension cord
- Automatic oiler with clear level window
What doesn’t
- Front-heavy design causes arm fatigue
- Chain takes 5+ seconds to stop after trigger release
Hardware & Specs Guide
Chain Pitch and Gauge
Chain pitch (distance between drive links, measured as 3/8 inch or .325 inch) determines how aggressively the chain cuts. A 3/8-inch low-profile pitch with .043 or .050 gauge drive links is standard for most battery and small gas saws; it balances cutting speed with low kickback risk. Professional gas saws often use .325-inch pitch for higher torque in heavy hardwoods. The gauge must match the bar groove exactly—mixing a .043 gauge chain with a .050 gauge bar causes binding and rapid wear.
Automatic Oiler Flow Rate
Oiler flow is measured in milliliters per minute (ml/min). Most homeowner saws deliver 5–10 ml/min, which is adequate for occasional use but insufficient for long cuts in dry hardwoods or abrasive bark (like eucalyptus). Sawdust buildup on the bar tip is the first sign of under-lubrication. Premium saws (450 Rancher) offer adjustable flow; battery saws (EGO, Makita) use fixed, chain-speed-linked pumps. If you work in sandy or gritty environments, increase oil viscosity or choose a saw with a manual flow control.
FAQ
What bar length is best for an all-around chainsaw?
Should I buy a gas or battery chainsaw as my first all-rounder?
How often should I retension the chain on a new chainsaw?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most gardeners, the best all around chainsaw winner is the EGO POWER+ CS1611 because it delivers gas-like cut speed and chain force in a 9-pound, quiet, instant-start package with tool-free tensioning and IPX4 weather resistance. If you need the unlimited runtime and raw torque of a gas saw for firewood or felling, grab the Husqvarna 450 Rancher — its 50.2cc X-Torq engine and 20-inch bar handle hardwoods all day. And for the budget-conscious buyer who wants the best value-to-performance ratio, nothing beats the SKIL CS4555-10, whose 40V brushless motor and 15-minute jump charger make it the smartest entry point into battery-powered cutting.