Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.
You need to cut through 20-inch logs, not fiddle with a saw that barely chews through a branch. Picking the best 20 inch chainsaw means matching engine power and build quality to your work so you get reliable cuts every time. Here is the short version: the SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc gives you the most cutting force for the lowest price, the Husqvarna 450 Rancher is your lightweight favorite that starts every time, and the EGO POWER+ CS2005 brings gas-like performance without the fumes. This guide walks through each option using the manufacturer’s specs and real buyer feedback, so you know exactly which saw fits your budget and workload.
I’m Rikta, the writer behind FitlyFast. I built this guide by comparing each manufacturer’s published specs and looking at patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get the genuine strengths and trade-offs of every pick.
If you are clearing storm debris or stacking firewood for the winter, the right 20-inch chainsaw turns a frustrating job into a productive afternoon.
Quick Picks
- SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch — Best Overall
- 58 cc Gas Powered Chainsaw, 20 in & 18 in Quick-Switch Bars — Quick Switch
- NEO-TEC 20 Inch 62CC Gas Powered Chainsaw — Lightweight
- Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw — Reliable
- Echo CS-590-20AA 20 in. 59.8 cc Gas Chainsaw — Premium Value
- Husqvarna 455 Rancher 55cc Gas Chainsaw — More Torque
- EGO POWER+ 20″ Battery Powered Chainsaw CS2005 — Cordless
- Husqvarna 545 Mark II 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw — Professional
How To Choose The Best 20 Inch Chainsaw
Picking your 20-inch chainsaw depends on one question: what kind of work do you actually do? If you cut a few cords of firewood a year (a cord is a stack 4 feet high by 8 feet long by 4 feet deep), a mid-range gas saw works fine. If you work every day, you need a professional build with a decompression valve (a button that releases pressure in the cylinder so pulling the starter cord is easier) and a separable cylinder (a design that lets you replace the cylinder without replacing the whole engine) for rebuilds.
Engine Displacement (cc) and Power
Engine displacement (cc) tells you how much torque the saw can generate to keep the chain cutting. For a 20-inch bar, you need at least 50cc. A 50cc saw, like the Husqvarna 450 Rancher at 50.2cc, gives you enough power for frequent limbing (cutting branches off a felled tree) and light felling (cutting down standing trees). A larger 62cc engine, found in the SUPMIXTOOLS, delivers more grunt to push the full bar through large-diameter hardwood (dense wood from trees like oak or maple) without stalling.
Gas vs Battery Power
Gas saws are the standard for sustained high-power cuts because you just refill the tank and keep going. Battery-powered saws, like the EGO POWER+ with a 56V 6.0Ah (amp-hour, a measure of battery capacity) battery, have closed the gap — delivering up to 135 cuts per charge on a 6×6 piece of wood. The trade-off is runtime: you get about 45 minutes of heavy use per battery, so you need a second battery for longer sessions. Battery saws win on instant start, no mixing oil with gas, and much less noise.
Build Quality and Serviceability
Professional-grade saws have a magnesium crankcase (the housing around the engine’s rotating shaft) instead of plastic, a metal spike for bucking (cutting a log into sections), and an adjustable oil pump. These features make the saw lighter for its power and let you rebuild it instead of replacing it when a part wears out. Homeowner-grade saws offer good value, but you may replace them sooner under regular heavy use.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Engine (cc) | Power (HP) | Weight (lbs) | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc | Budget Power | 62cc | 4.2 HP | 14 lbs | $129.99Amazon |
| WTHW 58cc | Dual Bar Versatility | 58cc | 3.5 HP | 17 lbs | $129.99$199.99PrimeAmazon |
| NEO-TEC 62cc | Lightweight Power | 62cc | 3.5 HP | 14 lbs | $159.99Amazon |
| Husqvarna 450 Rancher | Reliable Mid-Range | 50.2cc | 3.2 HP | 11.33 lbs | $499.00Amazon |
| Echo CS-590 | Premium Value | 59.8cc | 5.3 HP | — | $478.99Amazon |
| Husqvarna 455 Rancher | More Torque | 55cc | 3.5 HP | 13.2 lbs | $499.99$589.99Amazon |
| EGO POWER+ CS2005 | Cordless Power | Equivalent 55cc | — | 30 lbs | $539.00Amazon |
| Husqvarna 545 Mark II | Professional Grade | 50.1cc | 3.6 HP | 12.64 lbs | $659.00Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch
$129.99as of Jul 8, 1:54 PMA 62cc budget saw with strong cutting power for the price.
The SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc earns the top spot because its 4.2 HP (horsepower) from a 62cc engine gives you more pull through large hardwood than the Echo CS-590’s 5.3 HP? No — it pushes harder than a 62cc saw at this price typically can. Buyers report it “easily cuts 36″ oak and 27″ cedar without bogging down,” and one owner noted that after a year of heavy use for wood stove firewood, it “still runs perfectly with no issues.” The chain speed hits 8500 RPM (revolutions per minute — how fast the chain spins around the bar), which means fast, aggressive cuts through logs. At 14 pounds and 32.14 inches long with the bar, it feels solid for all-day sessions. You get a chain brake (a lever that stops the chain instantly if the saw kicks back toward you) and a safety switch for accidental startups. The plastic housing is not as durable as a magnesium case on professional saws, but the engine’s raw cutting power makes up for the budget price.
Where It Excels
- Massive 4.2 HP from a 62cc engine
- Outperforms Stihl MS 271 in cutting speed, per verified reviews
- Starts in half a pull with a 50:1 premix (50 parts gas to 1 part oil)
Where It Falls Short
- Some units had quality control issues (reports of broken starter cords)
- Plastic body not as durable as magnesium-cased saws
Reach for this if… You want maximum cutting power for the lowest investment and do not mind a few rough edges on the plastic body.
Look elsewhere if… You need a saw that can survive daily commercial use — the build quality is not at professional level.
2. 58 cc Gas Powered Chainsaw, 20 in & 18 in Quick-Switch Bars
$129.99$199.99Prime priceas of Jul 8, 1:54 PMSwaps between felling and limbing bars in seconds without tools.
The unique advantage here is the Quick-Switch system: you change from the 20-inch felling bar to the 18-inch limbing bar without using a wrench. That means you drop a big tree, then trim the branches without grabbing a second saw. The 58cc 2-stroke engine produces 3.5 HP, and owners mention it “cuts fast through large limbs without strain.” It weighs 17 pounds, while the Husqvarna 450 Rancher is listed at 11.33 pounds. The metal construction and large 550 ml fuel tank (about 30% bigger than average) mean you refuel less often. You also get a centrifugal air filter (a spinning filter that flings dust away before it reaches the engine element), which keeps the engine cleaner longer. Customers note it “guzzles gas” and is louder than a Husqvarna 355, and the plastic housing does not match the engine’s solid feel.
Why It Stands Out
- Tool-less bar swap between 20″ and 18″
- Automatic chain oiler works well per multiple reviews
- Dual-spring anti-vibration system reduces fatigue
What to Watch
- Weighs 17 lbs, while the Husqvarna 450 is listed at 11.33 lbs
- Chain brake reported as fragile by one buyer
Ideal for… Landowners who need one saw for both felling large trees and detailed limbing work.
skip it if… Weight is your top priority — the dual-bar system adds heft.
3. NEO-TEC 20 Inch 62CC Gas Powered Chainsaw
$159.99as of Jul 8, 1:54 PMA 62cc saw that weighs as much as most 50cc models.
Most 62cc saws are heavy, but the NEO-TEC comes in at 14 pounds, while the WTHW 58cc saw is listed at 17 pounds. That makes it ideal for limbing, where you hold the saw at arm’s length. The wrap-around handle gives you extra control in tight spots. Reviewers point out it “starts easily” (cold in two pulls, hot in one) and “cuts like a demon.” The 3.5 HP engine spins the chain at 8500 RPM, and the included 20-inch bar uses a 0.325-inch pitch, 0.058-inch gauge chain with 76 drive links. Shoppers say the original chain lasts about 10–12 hours of use, which is normal for a factory chain. This saw requires a 25:1 fuel mix (double the oil of standard 50:1), so follow the manual closely — using the wrong mix can damage the engine.
Strong Points
- Outstanding power-to-weight ratio for a 62cc saw
- Wrap-around handle for better maneuverability
- Excellent customer service per verified buyer reports
Weak Points
- Requires 25:1 fuel mix (not standard 50:1)
- Choke knob protrudes far and may snag on brush
Best suited for… Anyone who wants big-engine power without the usual weight penalty.
Consider something else if… You do not want to maintain a separate fuel mix ratio from other saws.
4. Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw
$499.00as of Jul 8, 1:54 PMThe benchmark 50cc saw that proved reliability matters more than raw power.
The Husqvarna 450 Rancher is not the most powerful saw here, but its 50.2cc X-Torq engine (a design that burns fuel more efficiently and reduces exhaust emissions) delivers 3.2 HP with Smart Start technology that makes cold starts genuinely easy — pull once, it fires. At 11.33 pounds, it is the lightest 20-inch gas saw in this guide, which helps when you cut overhead branches. The Air Injection system (a fan that spins dust away from the air filter) extends engine life by keeping debris out. Buyers praise its balance and smoothness, with one noting it “slices through thick trees easily” while being lighter than a Poulan PR4016. At 16 inches long and 8.9 inches wide, the compact chassis feels nimble. For homeowners, the 450 is the balance of usability and durability, but if you cut large hardwood daily, the 62cc saws above will pull harder.
Where It Shines
- Lightest 20″ gas saw at 11.33 lbs
- Smart Start and inertia-activated chain brake (chain stops automatically when kickback happens) for safety
- LowVib anti-vibration system (rubber dampeners between the engine and handles) reduces hand fatigue
Where It Lags
- Less power than 62cc competitors at similar price
- Some units shipped with over-torqued spark plug
Pick this if… You value a proven brand, light weight, and easy starting over outright cutting speed.
pass on it if… You regularly cut large-diameter hardwood and need more torque — go with a 60cc+ saw.
5. Echo CS-590-20AA 20 in. 59.8 cc Gas Chainsaw
$478.99as of Jul 8, 1:54 PMThe 59.8cc saw that churns out an insane 5.3 horsepower at a mid-range price.
The Echo CS-590 is the hidden star here. With a 59.8cc engine producing 5.3 HP, it has the highest horsepower rating of any saw in this guide, compared with the SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc at 4.2 HP. That extra power lets you push through a full bar of hardwood without losing chain speed. Buyers call it “best bang for your buck” and say it cuts a full F250 truckload of firewood on a single tank of fuel. The build quality is a step up from budget brands: a professional-grade air filtration system and a chassis designed for years of service. One owner replaced a 20-year-old Husqvarna 272xp with this Echo and found it oiled better. At 37 inches long with the bar, it is one of the longer saws here. It does not include a tachometer (a gauge that shows engine RPM) or adjustable oil pump from the start, which some veterans might want, but for the price, it is a remarkable performer.
Why It Wins
- Highest horsepower in this guide at 5.3 HP
- Excellent fuel economy — cuts a truckload of wood per tank
- Solid build that buyers report lasts for years
Trade-Offs
- Longer overall length (37″) can feel less nimble
- May need carburetor adjustment for optimal cold start
Own this if… You want premium cutting power at a price well below flagship Husqvarna models.
Think twice if… You need a compact saw for tight spaces — the 37″ length is awkward in brush.
6. Husqvarna 455 Rancher 55cc Gas Chainsaw
$499.99$589.99as of Jul 8, 1:54 PMStep-up version of the 450 with 55cc of grunt for bigger wood.
The 455 Rancher is the 450’s bigger brother, bumping the engine to 55cc (from 50.2cc) and horsepower to 3.5 (from 3.2 HP). That extra displacement means you can lean on the saw harder in a cut without it stalling. The X-Torq engine runs more efficiently with lower emissions than older 2-stroke designs. At 13.2 pounds, it is heavier than the 450, which is listed at 11.33 pounds, but that weight is in the engine, which helps balance the 20-inch bar. Reviewers love the compression release feature (a button that lets you pull the starter cord more easily by releasing pressure in the cylinder), calling it “great” — one 72-year-old woman reported feeling “strong, reliable” starting it. The saw handles hardwood “like butter.” One issue: the oil pump can clog with metal shavings from manufacturing, though you can replace the pump. The 7-degree offset front handle improves control when cutting at ground level.
Best Features
- 55cc engine with compression relief for easy starting
- Steel spring vibration dampeners feel substantial
- Works with bars from 13″ to 24″, giving you upgrade room
Known Issues
- Oil pump susceptible to clogging from metal fragments
- Heavier than the 450 model at 13.2 lbs
Get this if… You need more grunt than the 450 offers but still want Husqvarna’s starting ease and parts availability.
Pass if… You can stretch to the Echo CS-590 for more power at a similar price point.
7. EGO POWER+ 20″ Battery Powered Chainsaw CS2005
$539.00as of Jul 8, 1:54 PMRuns like a 55cc gas saw but fires up with the push of a button.
The EGO CS2005 uses a high-efficiency brushless motor (a motor with no brushes that wear out, making it more efficient and longer-lasting) that delivers power equivalent to a 55cc gas saw, with chain speeds up to 25 meters per second. On a single charge of the included 56V 6.0Ah battery, you get up to 135 cuts on a 6×6 piece of wood. The 20-inch bar uses a full chisel tooth chain with a 3/8-inch pitch and 0.050-inch gauge with 69 drive links — the same chain as a gas saw. It carries an IPX4 weather-resistance rating (protected from splashing water), so light rain is not a problem. The onboard digital display shows battery charge and lets you adjust speed modes. There is also an LED work light. At 30 pounds, it is the heaviest saw here because the battery and motor add weight that gas saws avoid. Buyers recommend a second battery for longer jobs — you get about 45 minutes of runtime in heavy use on eco mode.
Why Go Electric
- Instant push-button start, no fuel mixing needed
- Up to 135 cuts per charge on a 6×6
- Digital speed control and battery indicator on board
Real Limitations
- Weighs 30 lbs — much heavier than any gas saw here
- Runtime limited to ~45 minutes per battery in heavy use
Pick the EGO if… You prioritize quiet operation, zero maintenance, and already own other EGO 56V tools.
Stick with gas if… You need to cut all day without stopping to swap batteries.
8. Husqvarna 545 Mark II 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw
$659.00as of Jul 8, 1:54 PMA commercial-grade saw built for forestry crews who cut every day.
The 545 Mark II is for professional arborists (tree care workers) and crews who cut daily. The 50.1cc X-Torq engine puts out 3.6 HP, and the AutoTune system automatically adjusts the carburetor settings as conditions change — so you do not re-tune the saw when you move from sea level to higher altitude or from winter to summer temperatures. The enhanced cooling system handles longer runs under load better than the 450/455 series. At 12.64 pounds, it splits the weight difference between the 450 and 455. The dampeners between engine and chassis reduce vibration noticeably. It accepts bars from 13 to 20 inches. For a weekend firewood cutter, this is overkill. For someone whose income depends on the saw starting and cutting all week, the AutoTune and rebuildable design justify the premium. Buyers describe it as “heavy-duty” and note it “cuts great out of box.”
Pro Advantages
- AutoTune automatically adjusts carburetor for altitude and temperature
- top-tier cooling for extended engine life
- Lightweight for a professional-grade saw at 12.64 lbs
Things to Know
- Higher price with less power than the Echo CS-590
- Some buyers reported receiving used units
Buy this if… You work in forestry or tree care and need a saw with automatic altitude compensation and rebuild capability.
Choose something else if… You are a homeowner who cuts firewood a few times a year — the Echo or 450 Rancher gives you more value.
Understanding the Specs
Engine Displacement (cc)
This tells you the size of the engine’s combustion chamber (the space where fuel burns), measured in cubic centimeters (cc). More cc means more torque — the twisting force that keeps the chain cutting through dense wood. For a 20-inch bar, 50cc is the minimum for decent performance, and 60cc+ gives you reserve power to push through hardwood without slowing down. A 62cc saw like the SUPMIXTOOLS handles a bar buried in oak better than a 50.2cc Husqvarna 450.
Horsepower (HP)
This measures the engine’s total work output. A higher HP number means the saw cuts faster because it maintains chain speed under load. The Echo CS-590 leads this guide with 5.3 HP from a 59.8cc engine, which is unusually high for that displacement. More HP means you push the saw through a cut with less effort — the chain keeps spinning fast rather than slowing down when you apply pressure.
Chain Pitch, Gauge, and Drive Links
These three numbers determine what replacement chain fits your saw. Pitch (for example, 0.325-inch) is the distance between chain rivets (the metal pins holding the chain links together). Gauge (for example, 0.058-inch) is the thickness of the drive link (the part of the chain that rides in the bar’s groove). Drive links (for example, 76DL) is the total count of links in the chain. A saw with 0.325-inch pitch and 0.058-inch gauge using 76 drive links needs a specific bar and sprocket (the toothed wheel that drives the chain) match. Always check these numbers when buying a replacement chain — mixing them up will damage the bar or be unsafe.
Anti-Vibration System
Chainsaws create heavy vibration that can cause hand fatigue and numbness over time. Anti-vibration systems use rubber or spring dampeners (cushions that absorb shock) between the engine and handles to reduce that buzz. Husqvarna’s LowVib is one common system. The WTHW 58cc saw uses a dual-spring design. A good anti-vibration system makes a difference during a full day of cutting — your hands and arms feel less drained at the end.
FAQ
What is the best fuel mix for a 20 inch chainsaw?
How often should I sharpen the chain on my 20 inch chainsaw?
Is a battery powered 20 inch chainsaw powerful enough for cutting firewood?
What is the difference between a 50cc and a 62cc chainsaw for a 20 inch bar?
How do I know if a replacement chain will fit my 20 inch chainsaw?
What does the chain brake do on a gas chainsaw?
How do I maintain a 2-cycle chainsaw engine?
Do I need a professional grade chainsaw for home use?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
If you want one dependable pick, the 20 inch chainsaw winner is the SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc because it delivers 4.2 horsepower from a 62cc engine at a low price point, and verified buyers report strong cutting performance. If you want a proven, lightweight saw that starts every time, grab the Husqvarna 450 Rancher. And for cordless convenience with gas-like power, the EGO POWER+ CS2005 is the modern alternative that skips the fumes and noise.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of July 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
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