Portable Brushless Pole Saws That Make Tree Work Easy
The Greenworks Pro 80V is our top pick for homeowners who need cordless convenience and reliable power for medium branches. Its brushless motor delivers efficient cutting, but it is heavier than some competitors. For most people, this saw offers the best balance of reach, cutting speed, and battery life.
Trimming high branches used to mean ladders and risky balancing acts. A portable brushless pole saw changes that by letting you cut from the ground safely.
Brushless motors provide more torque, longer runtime, and quieter operation than brushed versions. These saws are light enough to carry around your yard and reach up to 20 feet or more.
How to pick the right one
The top picks, ranked
Greenworks Pro 80V Brushless Pole Saw
The Greenworks Pro 80V features a powerful brushless motor and an 8-inch bar. Owners report smooth cuts through 6-inch limbs. The adjustable head angles for versatile cutting. Battery life is excellent for a full yard session.
Pros
- High torque cuts fast
- Long battery runtime
- Adjustable head for multiple angles
Cons
- Heavier than some models
- Battery and charger sold separately
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Pole Saw
This DEWALT pole saw runs on the versatile 20V MAX battery platform. It has an 8-inch bar and a reach of 15 feet. The brushless motor delivers efficient power and extended runtimes. Users like the low vibration and easy start.
Pros
- Shares batteries with other DEWALT tools
- Low vibration reduces fatigue
- Compact and well balanced
Cons
- Bare tool only, no battery included
- Not ideal for very thick branches
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 8-Inch Pole Saw
The BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX is an affordable cordless pole saw that handles small branches up to 6 inches. It extends up to 10 feet and has a lightweight design. Owners find it easy to maneuver for quick trims. The brushless motor ensures reliable performance.
Pros
- Very affordable price point
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Good for small to medium branches
Cons
- Shorter reach than many competitors
- Battery runtime is moderate
EGO Power+ 10-Inch 56V Brushless Pole Saw
EGO’s pole saw has a 10-inch bar and extends to 15 feet. Its 56V battery provides strong cutting torque. The brushless motor is efficient and quiet. Users report it slices through 8-inch limbs without bogging down.
Pros
- Longer bar cuts thicker branches
- High power output
- Tool-free chain tensioning
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier
- Premium price point
Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 8-Inch Pole Saw
The Ryobi 40V HP is part of the Expand-It system, allowing you to swap heads. It includes a pole saw attachment with an 8-inch bar. The brushless motor gives good performance. Homeowners like the ability to use other attachments like trimmers.
Pros
- Compatible with Expand-It attachments
- Good power for its class
- Easy to store with removable head
Cons
- Reach is shorter than others
- Attachment system adds complexity
Makita 18V X2 (36V) Brushless 10-Inch Pole Saw
Makita’s pole saw runs on two 18V batteries for 36V of power. It has a 10-inch bar and a reach of 14 feet. The brushless motor offers high torque and durability. Users appreciate the variable speed trigger and excellent build quality.
Pros
- Pro-grade build and durability
- Powerful cutting capacity
- Variable speed trigger for control
Cons
- Requires two batteries, increasing weight
- Expensive investment
Sun Joe 24V-BL 8-Inch Brushless Pole Saw
The Sun Joe 24V-BL is a compact cordless pole saw that extends up to 9.8 feet. It has an 8-inch bar and a brushless motor. The design is lightweight, making it easy to handle. It is best for small yards and occasional use.
Pros
- Very lightweight and portable
- Easy to store in small spaces
- Simple assembly and operation
Cons
- Short reach limits high branches
- Battery runtime is limited
How they compare
| # | Model | Bar Length | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Greenworks Pro 80V Brushless Pole Saw | 8 inches | All-around performance and long runtime | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Pole Saw | 8 inches | Users already in the DEWALT 20V system | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 8-Inch Pole Saw | 8 inches | Budget-conscious homeowners with light pruning | 8.8 | Check price |
| 4 | EGO Power+ 10-Inch 56V Brushless Pole Saw | 10 inches | Large branches and tall trees | 9.0 | Check price |
| 5 | Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 8-Inch Pole Saw | 8 inches | Versatility with attachments | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | Makita 18V X2 (36V) Brushless 10-Inch Pole Saw | 10 inches | Heavy-duty professional use | 9.1 | Check price |
| 7 | Sun Joe 24V-BL 8-Inch Brushless Pole Saw | 8 inches | Compact storage and light trimming | 8.0 | Check price |
Frequently asked questions
What is the advantage of a brushless motor in a pole saw?
Brushless motors are more efficient, producing more power with less energy. They run cooler and last longer. They also tend to be quieter and have less vibration.
How long does a battery last on a brushless pole saw?
Battery life depends on the voltage and amp-hour rating, as well as cutting conditions. Typical runtimes range from 30 minutes to over an hour. Thicker branches drain the battery faster.
Can I use a brushless pole saw to cut thick branches?
Most models handle branches up to 6 to 8 inches in diameter. Some with a 10-inch bar can cut slightly thicker. For larger branches, you may need a gas-powered saw or professional service.
Do I need to buy a battery and charger separately?
Some saws come as a kit with battery and charger, while others are bare tools. Check the product listing. If you already own tools from the same brand, buying a bare tool saves money.
How do I maintain the chain on a pole saw?
Keep the chain sharp and properly tensioned. Most saws have tool-free tensioning, making adjustment easy. Lubricate the bar and chain with appropriate oil before each use.
Can a pole saw reach branches high up?
The maximum reach includes the length of the pole plus your height. Typical reaches are 10 to 15 feet. For very high branches, you might need a taller ladder or a different tool.
Are cordless pole saws as powerful as gas ones?
Modern brushless cordless saws are quite powerful and sufficient for most residential tasks. Gas saws may still have an edge in very heavy, prolonged use, but cordless models are lighter and easier to maintain.
What safety gear should I use?
Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, and gloves. Consider a hard hat if cutting overhead. Wear sturdy, non-slip boots. Never operate the saw while on a ladder.
The bottom line
For most homeowners, the Greenworks Pro 80V is the best overall choice because it delivers powerful performance and long battery life in a user-friendly design. If you need to cut thicker branches and have a larger budget, the EGO Power+ 10-inch is a worthy upgrade. For those on a tight budget, the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX is a solid entry-level option.
