The Best Gas Chainsaws of 2026, Tested by Experts

Battery chainsaws are convenient, but a gas chainsaw is the better tool when it comes to combined cutting power and speed with minimal downtime. In harsh temperatures and wider cutting diameters, gas saws outperform battery-powered saws, which struggle in the winter, overheat in the summer, and deplete their batteries before the work is done. If you need a saw you can count on for cutting firewood, cleaning up storm debris, or maintaining a mature landscape, keep reading. At least one of the saws we tested will be a good option for you.

We researched dozens of gas chainsaws before testing the 10 highest-rated, easiest to operate, and most competitively priced models we could find. We were looking for a variety of options to fit the 8 categories listed below. Our favorite was the Stihl MS 182 C-BE 16-inch chainsaw. It was well-sized for general cutting tasks, but lighter-weight and more powerful than other 16-inch saws. It started easily, cut smoothly, and was less fatiguing after extended use than other chainsaws we tested. However, others in this guide may be more suitable depending on your specific requirements.

In this guide, we discuss the pros and cons of the following models along with our observations after testing them. Later on, we share our selection considerations and answer frequently asked questions. Altogether, this information should help you find the best gas chainsaw for your cutting needs.

1. BEST OVERALL: Stihl MS 182 C-BE Gas Chainsaw
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Prorun 18-Inch PCS218 45 cc Chainsaw
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3. BEST SMALL: Ryobi 14-Inch 37cc 2-Cycle Gas Chainsaw
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4. BEST LIGHTWEIGHT: Echo 14-Inch 30.5cc Gas 2-Stroke Cycle Chainsaw
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5. BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Husqvarna 24-Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
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6. BEST FOR FIREWOOD: Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw
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7. BEST ERGONOMIC: Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20-Inch Gas Chainsaw
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8. BEST FOR HOME USE: Poulan Pro PR502 Gas Chainsaw
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Before You Buy a Gas Chainsaw

Most users will find a gas chainsaw suits their needs, but that doesn’t mean a gas chainsaw is the best choice for everyone. First, consider other types of chainsaws​:

Easier-to-use electric chainsaws run quieter, require no maintenance beyond filling the oil reservoir and keeping the chain in proper condition, and don’t pollute the environment. 

Considerably more expensive cordless chainsaws offer a viable alternative to gas chainsaws for those who need to work beyond the reach of an extension cord. Newer models pack increasingly more power than their older counterparts.

So why would you buy a gas chainsaw?

• To fell large trees, a large gas chainsaw remains the only serious option.
• To work far from a power outlet, gas chainsaws require only oil and gas, not expensive spare batteries.
• Environmentally friendly options abound in response to increasingly tight emissions regulations.

Still unsure whether a gas chainsaw suits your needs? The following section provides more guidance.

Gas Chainsaws Comparison

Our Top Picks

The saws we tested feature different engine sizes, bar and chain lengths, and extra features to suit a range of user needs. Read on to learn more about each model and how it performed.

Our Ratings

Our favorite all-around gas chainsaw was the Stihl MS 182 C-BE. In addition to the basic power and performance requirements that we were looking for, we valued its combination of lightweight maneuverability and easy operation. Some of the standout features on this saw include a spring-assisted recoil starter, lightweight guide bar, low-kickback Picco chain, tool-less chain adjuster, and tool-less oil and fuel caps. It was easy to start, easy to work with, and had more than its fair share of cutting power for its size.

One of the biggest differences between this saw and the others we tested was the Easy2Start system. Instead of the familiar “jerk” start that other recoil starters require, the MS 182 C-BE only needs a smooth, steady pull. You’ll feel the secondary spring engage about two-thirds through the pulling motion, amplifying spin on the starter with significantly less pulling force. The change in motion takes some getting used to, but it is a lot easier.

When it came to actually cutting, this saw did not disappoint. It worked with a smooth aggressiveness normally reserved for larger saws. Credit the Picco chain, which cuts a thinner pathway through the wood, and in doing so, makes efficient use of engine power. Although it’s not designed with large-diameter cutting as its primary purpose, we would have had no reservations about working a 32-inch log with cuts from opposite sides if necessary.

If you need a dependable and easy-to-operate chainsaw for general yard work, storm cleanup, or a backup for cutting firewood, the Stihl MS 182 C-BE would be an ideal choice.

What our tester says: “Stihl has always produced top-tier chainsaws for professionals, but they haven’t always been homeowner-friendly. This saw fuses Stihl’s omnipresent mechanical reliability with thoughtful convenience features, making it a safer, more practical, higher functioning option for DIYers and weekend warriors.”—Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Stihl gas chainsaw at Ace Hardware.

Our Ratings

There is no need to spend a fortune on a dependable chainsaw for occasional use. At about half the price of similarly equipped saws from premium brands, the Prorun PCS218 chainsaw is almost surprisingly capable for the price. It boasts numerous desirable features, such as an 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, onboard scrench/combination tool storage, inertia chain brake, and tool-less air filter cover. In our tests, it started easily and cut well.

This saw is designed and equipped for dependable home use, including felling small to midsize trees. The 45cc engine gives it plenty of cutting power to take on tough hardwood, and the included chain retains its sharpness well. The build quality is really good for the price, but some of the components seem a little flimsy, like the plastic choke control arm. That being said, we ran into exactly zero problems in our tests. 

Even if you don’t use it all the time, having a chainsaw available for occasional use can make the difference between an exhausting all-day project (or even an impossible one that you have to hire out) and a quick do-it-yourself task. The Prorun saw offers strong, safe, and affordable cutting performance for occasional use.

Get the Prorun gas chainsaw at Tractor Supply Co., The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Our Ratings

Ryobi has earned a reputation for high-quality cordless and corded electric chainsaws. This 14-inch saw makes an excellent addition to their lineup. The 14-inch guide bar and chain, and 37cc motor, make it small enough to manage while delivering strong cutting ability for trimming branches or removing small trees.

We liked the compact size, handy safety features, and value price point of the Ryobi chainsaw. Safety features include three-point isolation to limit vibration, an inertia-activated chain brake, and a safety tip to eliminate kickback. For ease of operation, this small gas chainsaw is equipped with a tool-less air filter cover, side access chain tensioner, and adjustable automatic chain oiler.

Overall, this saw was easy to start and cut well. We did notice that restarting was a bit more difficult after the engine was warm, so we typically set the brake and let the engine run between cuts whenever it was practical to do so. It produced plenty of cutting power for all kinds of wood, including logs up to 12 inches thick, and we had no problem maneuvering the saw for clean, angled cuts. It offers really good performance for the size and price.

Get the Ryobi gas chainsaw at The Home Depot.

Our Ratings

Compact, lightweight chainsaws have two main advantages. First, they are easy to use. Second, they offer excellent maneuverability in situations or locales where a larger chainsaw would be too cumbersome: working in dense woodland, pruning branches from a ladder, or working in a climbing harness. The Echo CS-310 delivers both.

At just 8.1 pounds, this 14-inch model ranks as the lightest in its class. The 30.5cc engine meets the criteria for EPA compliance. It includes standard operational and safety features, such as a chain brake, an automatic chain oiler, and an anti-vibration handle. 

Echo is known for quality and reliability, and this saw continues that trend. In testing, the CS-310 left a premium quality impression. It was easier to start from cold, or restart after the engine was warm, than the other small saws we tested. It also felt both lighter and better balanced, which is helpful for long days and difficult locations. The included chain retained its sharpness from start to finish. It costs a bit more than other options, but its consistently strong performance makes it worth the price.

Get the Echo gas chainsaw at The Home Depot.

Our Ratings

Husqvarna produces some of the most powerful and efficient gas chainsaws, including the pro-quality 460 Rancher. Its 24-inch bar partners with a 3.6-horsepower 2-stroke engine that emits 60-percent lower emissions and consumes 20-percent less fuel than comparable chainsaws. The easy-to-start X-Torq engine satisfies both CARB and EPA requirements.

The 460 Rancher chainsaw has all the expected safety and operator comfort features, including an inertia-activated chainsaw chain brake and LowVib system, designed to reduce vibration levels for the chainsaw user. It also features a unique centrifugal air cleaning system that removes large particles before they reach the air filter, keeping the filter cleaner longer for reduced maintenance.

This heavy-duty chainsaw​ puts out an incredible amount of cutting power meant for felling and bucking large diameter logs. It started easily for us, whether the motor was hot or cold, and felt well-balanced despite the long bar. It was easy to maneuver for face cuts, plunge cuts, and hinge cuts, with adequate cutting power for up to 40-inch diameter and larger logs. The only hard job we do not recommend doing with this saw is chainsaw milling, which calls for a ripping chain, manual oiler, and higher engine power. 

The most expensive chainsaw on our list, this model provides the durability and productivity that measure up to the price.

What our tester says: “The Husqvarna 460 Rancher is not ideal for everyone or every project, but it is an outstanding tool for felling trees and cutting large diameter logs to length. In a limited capacity, it can even mill smaller logs into project lumber. Although it is excessively large and heavy for most yard maintenance projects, I would not want to go into the firewood lot without it.” —Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Husqvarna 460 gas chainsaw at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., or Northern Tool & Equipment.

Our Ratings

A good firewood chainsaw needs to be strong and adaptable to different cutting conditions. The Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf delivers impressive cutting power from a lightweight 59.8cc powerhead that can be outfitted with an 18-inch, 20-inch, or 24-inch guide bar and chain. The one we tested included a 20-inch bar and chain.

The first thing we noted was how well balanced the saw really is, making the moderate 13.2-pound weight feel even lighter. It was easy to maneuver when we were working around brushy areas and dense tree branches. The saw started immediately and idled perfectly. We were also impressed by the engine power. It ripped through logs without bogging down in the cut and had zero stalls. Warm or cold, it started right up through on and off cycles.

We noted that the Timber Wolf seemed to burn through fuel at a slightly faster rate than the other saws in the test group, but that may have been due to variations in the material being cut. The bigger deal to us was its ability to buzz through old, dried-out oak logs with minimal effort. It did a great job cutting exactly the types of wood we want for firewood, and that’s how it earned this spot.

Get the Echo CS-590 gas chainsaw at Amazon, The Home Depot, or A.M. Leonard.

Our Ratings

Power is important, but comfort and convenience features make a big difference when you’re using a saw all day long. The Husqvarna 450 Rancher offers both. Equipped with a 50.2cc engine and 20-inch bar and chain, it has plenty of cutting power for all kinds of tree work. It also features vibration dampening technology, an ergonomic handle, spring-assisted starter with air purge, flip-up oil and fuel caps, and tool-free air filter access to simplify operation and maintenance.

This was one of the easiest to start and smoothest-running saws in the test group. It was relatively lightweight and very well balanced for the size and available power. The anti-vibration system seems to smooth the cutting action, reduce operator fatigue, and boost control compared to other saws. Working with it was a pleasure. It delivered a ton of torque for tough cutting in all kinds of wood. It’s a comfortable, powerful, and reliable option for anyone with a property that requires regular tree work or who spends time working in the woods.

Get the Husqvarna 450 gas chainsaw at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., or Mowers at Jack’s.

Our Ratings

This is the budget-friendly, large chainsaw that could be ideal for occasional users. Whether it’s for storm cleanup, pruning trees, cutting landscape timbers to length, or leveling posts, the Poulan Pro PR5020 is up to the task. It features a 50cc 2-stroke engine and 20-inch guidebar and chain.

At roughly half the price of a similarly equipped saw from other brands, this chainsaw with case​ presents a good value. It does not include some of the premium features that enable effortless startup and buttery smooth cuts with expensive saws, but it worked consistently well in our tests. Cold starting was quick but warm restarting usually required an extra pull or two. Power output was satisfactory to buzz through 20-inch logs in seconds with no extra effort on our part.

Our favorite feature was the hard plastic storage case. None of the other saws came with one, but we found it helpful for extra protection in transport, and to prevent accidental oil leaks in storage. This is a no-frills workhorse that should provide years of dependable use. 

Get the Poulan Pro gas chainsaw at Lowe’s.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Gas Chainsaws

We have used chainsaws personally and professionally for decades, but we wanted to take a fresh look at today’s most popular models. After spending a week researching brands and models, we selected the ones in this guide for hands-on testing based on their technical specifications, brand reputations, and user ratings. Then we spent a week using them to prune landscape trees and shrubs, and to remove a few dead standing trees. Throughout testing, we noted things we liked and disliked about each chainsaw, and evaluated them for ease of use, cutting performance, maneuverability in different environments, noise, and overall value. Finally, we entered scores on a rubric in order to determine an overall winner and the winners for each category.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Gas Chainsaw

Before shopping, you’ll need to consider a number of important factors common to all the best chainsaws, regardless of power source. This section explores features of the best gas-powered chainsaws for specific tasks, from heavy-duty jobs to bush trimming, and offers information about motor types and chainsaw bars.

Intended Use

Broadly speaking, gas-powered chainsaws fall into three groups, based on the type of work they can handle: light-duty, general purpose, and professional. 

• Light-duty gas chainsaws. Relatively small tools, they compare in size and strength to their corded and cordless portable chainsaw​ counterparts. Easy to handle, they make a good tool for tasks like pruning trees or thinning out undergrowth. 
• General purpose chainsaws. A bit larger than their light-duty counterparts, these chainsaws can tackle most of the work that a medium to large yard demands. In addition to tasks like clearing storm-damaged branches or cutting logs into firewood, they can handle modest tree-felling duties. 
• Professional chainsaws. These heavy-duty tools pack the power and durability to operate all day long. They’ll handle the same tasks as light-duty and general-purpose chainsaws and also fell most trees except for extremely large ones. 

Motor

Chainsaw motors fall into two categories: 2-stroke motors, also called two-cycles, and 4-stroke motors or four-cycles.

• 2-stroke chainsaws: Lighter, less complicated, and less expensive, they usually run at higher revolutions per minute (rpm), so they generate decent power for their size. However, this also makes them noisier, increases fuel consumption, and produces higher emissions.
• 4-stroke chainsaws: Heavier, more complex, and less powerful for the same cylinder size, these tools run cleaner. They rank as more fuel efficient and often as more durable, too.

Historically, light-duty and general-purpose chainsaws come with 2-stroke motors, and they remain the most popular. Heavy-duty professional models more often come with 4-stroke motors. Two-stroke models often struggle to meet CARB- and EPA-emission regulations, which makes them illegal in more than a dozen states. As a result, some manufacturers have developed lower-emission 2-stroke engines that rival their 4-stroke counterparts.

Chainsaw Bar

A description of any gas chainsaw likely includes the bar length in inches. Sometimes referred to as the “guide bar,” this is the steel guide plate the chain runs around. As a rule of thumb, a light-duty chainsaw bar runs from 12 to 14 inches long, general-purpose chainsaw bars run from 16 to 20 inches, and professional model bars measure 22 inches or more. The largest chainsaw bars may exceed 48 inches.

However, exceptions exist. Some of the best chainsaws for professional use incorporate shorter bars for added maneuverability. Often contractors in climbing harnesses use these saws to work among branches at height.

Strictly speaking, a chainsaw with a 12-inch bar and a good blade should cut through a 12-inch tree. In practical terms, however, maximum cutting capacities usually run a couple of inches shorter than bar length. When shopping for a replacement chain, keep in mind that the bar and chain lengths must have the same measurements.

Safety

Before getting to work, learn how to use a chainsaw safely. If at all possible, learn from someone with practical experience.

Always wear appropriate safety gear when operating a chainsaw. A face shield can help protect you from often-sharp flying debris. Hearing protection is also a smart choice. Wear a hard hat to protect against falling branches. And don’t forget solid footwear, preferably with steel-toe caps, and tough work gloves. Chainsaw chaps also make a good addition to any arsenal of protective gear. Check out our complete list of equipment. 

When using a chainsaw, always keep children and pets out of the area. Never work with a chainsaw if you don’t feel 100 percent fit and alert. This can lead to improper operation, which can cause serious injury. 

Additional Features

A variety of minor features can make the difference between a good gas chainsaw and the best gas chainsaw.

Any chainsaw comes with some level of vibration, but better chainsaws use special engine mounts to keep it to a minimum. Spring-mounted handles further buffer against vibration. Just make sure the chainsaw handle allows sufficient space for a comfortable grip with gloved hands.

The front handle should incorporate a chain brake; never buy a chainsaw without one. Inertia-activated models operate automatically in response to sudden movement. Other gas-powered chainsaws use manual chain brakes, which immediately stop the chain from rotating when pushed forward. Also look for a slip-on chain guard. 

A few of the best gas chainsaws feature tool-free chain adjustment. Instead of tools, users employ a large knob on the side of the machine to make necessary adjustments. However, most chainsaws still need a wrench and/or screwdriver. An automatic oil supply system for the chain, or automatic chain oiler, makes a valuable bonus.

You’ll need to change the fuel filter annually. You might need to change the air filter more frequently in dry and dusty environments, which heavy use can sometimes create. While not major tasks, make sure they won’t be too hard to perform on the model you choose.

The Advantages of Owning a Gas Chainsaw

Electric chainsaws remain a viable choice for small urban gardens, particularly in areas with noise restrictions. Additionally, while corded chainsaws do a good job of pruning small trees, they can’t stand up to everyday wood cutting. 

Gas chainsaws make the best choice to deal with sizable tree limbs, woodland or forestry management, or even a large log pile. Professionals favor them because they offer:

• Unrestricted movement: With a tank of gas and a can of oil, the user can go anywhere. There’s no power cord to worry about and no need to charge batteries.
• Unrivaled performance: Gas-powered chainsaws invariably outperform electric chainsaws when it comes to power.
• Durability: Although difficult to generalize, a properly maintained, high-quality gas chainsaw for cutting trees usually outlasts a battery-operated chainsaw.

Safety Tips for Using a Gas Chainsaw

Every year, chainsaw accidents lead to life-threatening injuries and costly property damage. The good news is that following basic safety procedures minimizes the risk of accidents. It starts with awareness. Familiarize yourself with your chainsaw’s operational and safety features before starting work. Inexperienced operators should limit themselves to cutting wood that is already on the ground and get training before attempting complex cuts such as felling large or leaning trees. Finally, every time you use a chainsaw, do these three things:

• Protect your body: Wear high-quality safety gear, including a helmet with facemask and earmuffs (or safety glasses and hearing protection), chainsaw safety chaps, steel-toe boots with slip-resistant soles, and heavy-duty work gloves.
• Maintain control of the chainsaw: Keep both hands on the handles with thumbs wrapped around them. Stand with feet spaced apart. Never cut above shoulder height. To avoid kickback, do not allow the tip of the bar to contact an object while the chain is running.
• Manage environmental risks: Keep the chainsaw in proper working order, with a properly tensioned and sharpened chain, and an operational chain brake. Clear the work area of obstacles and debris. Always work with a buddy, but keep bystanders out of the immediate cutting and felling area.

FAQs

Though you’ve learned about the features and benefits of these tools, you may still have some questions. Check out answers to the most frequently asked questions about the best gas chainsaws. 

Q. What fuel do I need for my gas chainsaw?

Most chainsaws use 2-stroke fuel, but some use regular gas. All of the chainsaws in this guide use 2-stroke fuel. If you are not sure, consult your operating manual to find out which is right for your chainsaw.

Q. How do I start a gas chainsaw?

To start a gas chainsaw, follow these steps:
1. Activate the chain brake. 
2. If there is a separate I/O toggle switch, set it to I. 
3. Move the choke lever to the full choke position.
4. Press the primer bulb several times (usually 5 to 8 compressions) until fuel is visible.
5. Place the saw on flat ground, secure it with the toe of your boot in the rear handle, and pull the starter cord until the engine “pops” (usually 2 to 5 pulls).
6. Push the choke to the half-choke position.
7. Pull the cord until the engine starts (usually 1 to 5 pulls).
8. Quickly squeeze the throttle trigger and let off to idle.

Q. Is the weight of a chainsaw important?

Yes, the weight of a chainsaw is important. Lightweight and small chainsaws are easier to maneuver, less fatiguing, and easier to control, which makes them generally safer to operate. Heavier handheld chainsaws​ are more powerful for heavy-duty cutting, and must be handled even more carefully.

Q. Can I modify the chainsaw exhaust to make the machine quieter?

To run properly, the motor relies on back pressure from the exhaust. Removing or modifying it will impact the chainsaw’s performance negatively.

Q. How do I clean a chainsaw gas cap vent?

Simply blowing through the cap often clears small obstructions. You can do it yourself or use compressed air from a can. Otherwise, carefully disassemble it and clean the various components. Some have a small filter that might need replacement.

Q. How much does a gas chainsaw cost​?

Gas chainsaw prices vary significantly based on engine size and quality factors. Expect to pay at least $150 for a light-duty chainsaw that will serve for occasional use. For a professional-grade saw with a heavy-duty engine, the price can easily exceed $500.

Q. How do I store a gas chainsaw?

Store your gas chainsaw clean and dry. Drain any remaining bar oil back into the jug for reuse. Drain the fuel tank into a fuel can. Start the engine and let it run dry to empty the fuel lines and carburetor. Remove the bar and chain and clean out any sawdust and oil deposits. Clean and oil the chain and guidebar. Reassemble the saw and store it in a dry, secure area.

Meet the Tester

Mark Wolfe is a multimedia reporter and a twenty-year green industry veteran. After decades of mowing, edging, planting, pruning, irrigating, and renovating landscapes, he now tests and writes reviews about the latest hand tools, plant care products, outdoor power equipment, and other outdoor living goods.

Additional research provided by Bob Beacham.

 

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