Heavy Duty Brushless Chainsaws for Serious Cutting
For most heavy duty tasks, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 16 inch chainsaw is our top pick. It delivers gas like power with up to 110 cuts per charge, ideal for large logs and all day projects. Its main limitation is the high price when bought with batteries.
Heavy duty cutting demands a chainsaw that won’t quit. Brushless motors offer more torque, longer runtime, and greater durability than brushed versions.
Whether you’re felling trees, bucking firewood, or clearing storm damage, these electric models rival gas power without the fumes or maintenance.
What to look for
The shortlist, ranked
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 16 in. Brushless Chainsaw (Kit)
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 16 inch chainsaw is a beast. It uses a POWERSTATE brushless motor and REDLINK PLUS intelligence to deliver gas like power. Owners report it cuts through hardwoods with ease. The 16 inch bar handles most large jobs. It features an auto oiler and tool free tensioning. This kit includes two 12.0Ah High Output batteries and a rapid charger.
Pros
- Excellent cutting speed and torque
- Long runtime with 12.0Ah batteries
- Durable build quality
Cons
- Heavy with large battery
- Expensive kit price
Husqvarna 120i 14 in. Battery Chainsaw (Bare Tool)
Husqvarna brings pro grade design to battery power. The 120i features a brushless motor that reduces energy consumption by up to 40%. It has a 14 inch bar, ideal for lighter heavy duty work. The slim body and low vibration reduce fatigue. It’s compatible with Husqvarna’s 36V battery system. The tool only option suits those already in the ecosystem.
Pros
- Ergonomic design with low vibration
- Energy efficient brushless motor
- Trusted Husqvarna quality
Cons
- Requires separate battery purchase
- 14 inch bar limits larger cuts
DEWALT 20V MAX XR 12 in. Brushless Chainsaw (Tool Only)
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR 12 inch chainsaw is a lightweight option that still packs punch. It has a brushless motor and a high efficiency chain for faster cutting. It’s best for limbing and cutting small to medium branches. The tool only design works with any DEWALT 20V battery. Users appreciate the tool free bar tensioning and low kickback bar.
Pros
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Low kickback bar
- Tool free chain tensioning
Cons
- Short bar not for large logs
- Battery sold separately
EGO Power+ 16 in. 56V Lithium Ion Cordless Chainsaw (Tool Only)
EGO’s 16 inch chainsaw is a top performer in the 56V lineup. It has a brushless motor that delivers up to 90 cuts on a single charge. The tool includes a weather resistant construction and an IPX4 rating. It features a tool free tensioner and automatic oiler. This tool only version is ideal for EGO owners. It offers a great balance of power and price.
Pros
- Long runtime and reliable power
- Weather resistant build
- Lower price than comparable models
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- Chain tensioner can be stiff
Makita 18V X2 (36V) 16 in. Brushless Chainsaw (Bare Tool)
Makita’s X2 chainsaw runs on two 18V batteries to deliver 36V of power. It has a 16 inch bar and a brushless motor with variable speed. The automatic chain lubrication and tool less blade change make it convenient. It’s designed for heavy duty cutting, rivaling gas models. This bare tool is perfect for Makita pros.
Pros
- Strong dual battery power
- Low noise and zero emissions
- Automatic chain oiler
Cons
- Requires two batteries and charger
- Heavier than single battery models
Greenworks Pro 80V 18 in. Brushless Cordless Chainsaw (Tool Only)
The Greenworks Pro 80V 18 inch chainsaw is the longest bar in this lineup. It provides enough reach for large diameter trees. The brushless motor delivers up to 90 cuts per charge. It features an automatic oiler and tool free chain tensioning. This tool only is for owners of Greenworks 80V system.
Pros
- Extra long 18 inch bar
- Fast chain speed
- Compatible with 80V line
Cons
- Batteries are expensive
- Heavier and harder to control
Kobalt 80V Max 18 in. Brushless Chainsaw (Bare Tool)
Kobalt’s 80V Max 18 inch chainsaw offers high voltage power. It has a brushless motor and a 18 inch bar. The tool features a variable speed trigger and automatic oiler. It includes a metal bucking spikes for better control. It works with Kobalt 80V batteries, sold separately.
Pros
- High voltage for heavy cutting
- Bucking spikes for stability
- Variable speed trigger
Cons
- Heavy and may cause fatigue
- Battery system less common
How they stack up
| # | Model | Bar Length | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Milwaukee M18 FUEL 16 in. Brushless Chainsaw (Kit) | 16 inches | Most powerful and lasting cut per charge | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Husqvarna 120i 14 in. Battery Chainsaw (Bare Tool) | 14 inches | Professional ergonomics and low vibration | 9.1 | Check price |
| 3 | DEWALT 20V MAX XR 12 in. Brushless Chainsaw (Tool Only) | 12 inches | Compact power for limbing and pruning | 8.8 | Check price |
| 4 | EGO Power+ 16 in. 56V Lithium Ion Cordless Chainsaw (Tool Only) | 16 inches | Best battery platform and value | 9.0 | Check price |
| 5 | Makita 18V X2 (36V) 16 in. Brushless Chainsaw (Bare Tool) | 16 inches | Pro users needing dual battery power | 9.2 | Check price |
| 6 | Greenworks Pro 80V 18 in. Brushless Cordless Chainsaw (Tool Only) | 18 inches | Longest bar length for big trees | 8.7 | Check price |
| 7 | Kobalt 80V Max 18 in. Brushless Chainsaw (Bare Tool) | 18 inches | High voltage for demanding cuts | 8.5 | Check price |
Frequently asked questions
Can a brushless chainsaw replace a gas chainsaw for heavy duty work?
Yes, modern brushless chainsaws can match gas performance for most tasks. They offer instant torque and no maintenance. However, for all day professional felling, gas may still have longer runtime. Battery technology improves each year.
What is the advantage of a brushless motor over a brushed one?
Brushless motors are more efficient, have fewer moving parts, and last longer. They provide more power and torque while using less battery. They also run cooler and quieter.
How long does the battery last on a heavy duty chainsaw?
Runtime depends on battery capacity and load. With a 12.0Ah battery, you can expect 50 to 110 cuts per charge. Lighter tasks extend runtime, while heavy cutting drains faster.
Do I need a special bar and chain for brushless chainsaws?
No, brushless chainsaws use standard bars and chains. You can replace them with compatible sizes. Always check the pitch and gauge specified by the manufacturer.
Are brushless chainsaws more expensive than gas?
The initial cost can be higher, especially with batteries. But over time, you save on fuel, oil, and maintenance. Plus, they are cleaner and quieter.
Can I use any brand battery with a different brand chainsaw?
No, batteries are proprietary. Use only the same brand battery that matches the voltage and compatibility. Adapters are not recommended for safety.
How often should I sharpen the chain?
Sharpen the chain whenever it becomes dull. Signs include sawdust instead of chips, and increased effort. Frequent use may require sharpening after every few hours.
What safety features should I look for?
Look for a chain brake, low kickback bar, and a safety trigger. Some models have an electronic brake that stops the chain instantly. Always read the manual.
Is a longer bar always better?
Not necessarily. A longer bar increases cutting capacity but adds weight and reduces maneuverability. Choose a bar length that suits your typical work. For heavy duty, 16 to 18 inches is common.
How do I maintain a brushless chainsaw?
Keep the bar and chain oiled, clean the air vents, and inspect the chain tension regularly. Store the tool in a dry place. Battery should be stored at room temperature.
Our pick
For the best combination of power, runtime, and quality, choose the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 16 inch. It excels in heavy duty tasks and justifies its price with performance. If you want a professional feel without the high cost, the EGO Power+ 16 inch offers great value. For those needing maximum bar length, the Greenworks Pro 18 inch is a solid choice, but be ready for extra weight.
