Reader support keeps this site open, opinionated, and happily independent. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.7 Best 14 Inch Chainsaw | Skip Gas, Go Electric

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The Echo CS-355T is the professional-grade outlier in this lineup, built for arborists who need a lightweight top-handle saw for climbing and limbing. Its 35.8cc professional engine delivers 5.3 horsepower—more than double the output of most cordless models—allowing it to chew through 8-inch birch and cherry with noticeable torque. Owners consistently report reliable starts even after sitting for months with stabilized fuel, a mark of Echo’s commercial-grade carburetion.

The top-handle design is purpose-built for one-handed maneuvering in trees, but it also works well on the ground for bucking small logs. User reviews highlight its balanced feel and low kickback chain, though the small gas and oil caps require careful filling. Some owners lean out the carburetor a half turn for extra power, but out of the box it handles aggressive cutting without bogging. The 5-year consumer warranty provides peace of mind for a tool that earns its keep.

This is not a casual homeowner saw—it demands respect and proper training, especially given the top handle’s inherent kickback risk. But if you need a compact professional saw that starts every time and out-cuts everything else in this roundup, this is the one. The weight is negligible at this power level, and the chain speed feels immediate compared to electric models.

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Husqvarna’s 120 Mark III is the benchmark gas chainsaw for the serious homeowner, pairing a 38cc X-Torq engine with LowVib dampeners that significantly reduce arm fatigue during extended sessions. The engine delivers 1.88 horsepower with highly efficient combustion, meaning less fuel consumption and fewer emissions than older two-stroke designs. Users report it starts easily on the first pull and cuts smoothly through everything from heavy yard cleanup to small tree felling.

The inertia-activated chain brake and separate choke/stop switch controls are well-engineered safety features—the stop switch automatically resets when you pull the choke out, preventing accidental flooding. At 10.7 pounds, it’s light enough for overhead pruning yet still has the grunt for cutting stumps. Reviews consistently praise its balance and durability, though one owner noted it can stall when the fuel level is low and the saw is tilted for flush cuts.

This saw is ideal for anyone who wants gas reliability without the bulk of a farm-grade machine. The 14-inch bar handles most residential tasks, and the automatic oiler keeps the chain running smoothly with a visible oil level. It’s not as compact as a top-handle professional saw, but for ground work and general property maintenance, it’s a near-perfect fit.

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The Makita XCU11Z is a tool-only 18V LXT chainsaw designed for users already invested in Makita’s massive battery platform. Its Makita-built brushless motor delivers 1,520 feet per minute of chain speed, providing impressive torque for a compact cordless saw. Users consistently note it cuts faster and quieter than comparable gas saws, with zero fumes or pull-start hassle—just slot in a battery and go. It handles 6×6 lumber and medium-sized branches with ease, though heavier cuts drain a 5AH battery quickly.

The rear-handle design keeps the weight centered for balanced maneuverability, and the tool-less chain tensioning works well but requires occasional checking as the chain stretches. At just 10 pounds, it’s one of the lightest saws here, making it a great choice for ladder work or tight spaces. Owner reports highlight its cold-weather performance—one user ran it without issues at 21°F on a 5AH battery, something gas saws can struggle with in winter.

The biggest caveat is that Makita runs on 18V, not 40V like many competitors, meaning battery demand is higher for sustained cuts. You’ll want at least a 5AH battery, preferably two, to get meaningful runtime. But for someone with a garage full of Makita tools, this is a seamless addition that punches above its voltage class.

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The Greenworks 40V hits the optimal balance of performance, weight, and price for most homeowners. Its advanced brushless motor delivers torque comparable to a 42cc gas saw, yet the tool weighs just 8 pounds—significantly less than any gas equivalent. Users report up to 75 cuts on a 4×4 with a single 4.0AH battery, which is excellent efficiency for a 40V system. The instant-start trigger eliminates priming, choking, and pulling, making it accessible for first-time chainsaw users.

The pro-style side-mounted chain tensioning offers precise adjustment, though it does require a tool—a trade-off some may find less convenient than tool-free dials. The automatic oiler with a transparent window lets you monitor bar lubrication at a glance. Safety features include an inertia-activated chain brake, which one owner credits with preventing injury during a kickback event. Customer feedback praises its ease of use for smaller users and seniors, noting the light weight reduces fatigue during cleanup sessions.

This is a tool-only purchase, so factor in the cost of a Greenworks 40V battery and charger if you don’t already own them. The battery can run down quickly under heavy load—some owners bought a second 6.0AH pack for uninterrupted work. But for storm cleanup, pruning, and weekend firewood cutting, it’s the most well-rounded cordless option here.

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The SKIL PWR CORE 40 is the strongest value proposition in this group, bundling a brushless 40V chainsaw with a 2.5Ah battery and the Auto PWR JUMP charger that takes the battery from 0% to 30% in just 15 minutes. SKIL claims no cordless 40V competitor cuts faster, and owner reviews largely agree—it powers through branches without bogging and handles storm cleanup with surprising authority for an electric saw. The digital brushless motor runs efficiently and quietly, and the tool-free chain tensioning dial is about as simple as it gets.

The auto-lubrication system keeps friction low, and the anti-kickback brake adds confidence. Battery life runs about an hour of mixed use, but the quick-charge feature means a second battery can keep you working continuously. Several owners note that the saw works perfectly for weekend tasks like splitting firewood and trimming overgrown lots, and they appreciate that it doubles their battery ecosystem if they already own SKIL outdoor tools.

A minor trade-off: the 2.5Ah battery is on the smaller side, so heavy users will want to invest in a larger capacity pack. The weather-resistant construction adds durability for damp conditions, and the included scabbard protects the bar during storage. This is the kit to buy if you want a turnkey cordless solution that includes everything except bar oil.

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The Worx WG384 uses a unique dual-battery configuration—two 20V Power Share batteries wired in series to deliver 40V of power—which means any existing Worx 20V battery works with this saw. This is a major advantage for users already inside the Worx ecosystem. The dynamic brushless motor provides strong torque, and the automated chain tensioning system removes guesswork: the saw self-adjusts tension for optimal cutting performance. Reviews consistently praise its lightweight build and quiet operation, with many women and smaller-framed users noting they can handle it easily solo.

The Quick Stop chain brake is a well-implemented safety feature, though one owner mentioned the brake requires a firm pull to disengage—a loud click signals correct operation. The automatic oiler keeps the chain lubricated, extending bar life. Battery life runs around 45 minutes with the included 2.0Ah packs, which is enough for lighter work but may require a swap for bigger jobs. Some users report the included chain feels less durable than aftermarket options like the Oregon S52 or R52, which fit with minor tweaks.

The included dual charger and two batteries make this a true ready-to-go kit. If you already own Worx tools, this is a no-brainer addition. For newcomers, the ecosystem compatibility means you can expand into trimmers, blowers, and other tools later. Just remember to add bar oil before use—the saw doesn’t ship with it.

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The Ryobi RY40530 is a bare-tool 40V chainsaw purpose-built for pruning fruit trees and light trimming. It’s one of the lighter options here, making it easy to maneuver on ladders or in tight branches. The brushless motor delivers enough power for branches up to 7 inches thick, and owners report it cuts nearly as fast as a gas saw on smaller material. The instant-start trigger and lack of fumes make it far more pleasant for quick touch-ups around the yard than any gas alternative.

This is an entry-level model in terms of power—attempting larger logs will burn through battery quickly and slow the cut speed significantly. The chain uses 13 teeth per side for easier sharpening, which is a nice detail for DIY maintenance. Several users noted the bar oil tends to ooze from the saw after use, so proper storage with the scabbard is important. The trigger has a slight lag that takes a few cuts to get used to, but it’s not a dealbreaker for intermittent use.

If you already own Ryobi 40V batteries from a trimmer or blower, this is a cost-effective way to add chainsaw capability without buying a whole new system. But as a standalone purchase, you’ll need to factor in the battery and charger cost. It’s the best pick for occasional pruning where weight and convenience matter more than raw cutting speed.