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While manual hand saws and pruning shears are well-suited for twigs and small branches, larger tasks call for the efficiency and speed of a mini chainsaw. These handheld power tools feature the same spinning blade and sharp teeth of full-size chainsaws, but with a smaller, lightweight design that’s much easier to control and maneuver into cramped areas and awkward angles.
Mini chainsaws are also powered by rechargeable batteries – requiring minimal maintenance to keep them in working order – which start up at the push of a button, and ready in seconds to tackle that brush pile, lop off stray branches, or dice up a downed tree limb.
The Best Mini Chainsaws
- Best Overall: Greenworks 24V Cordless Mini Chainsaw
- Best Compact: Greenworks 24V Brushless Mini Chainsaw
- Most Affordable: Potenco Mini Chainsaw
- Best Commercial-Grade: DeWalt 12-inch Brushless Mini Chainsaw
- Best Value: Worx Cordless 10-Inch Mini Chainsaw
What to Consider
Type
While mini chainsaws don’t have an official definition, the options on our list come in two distinct types. The smaller models have a single handle and light enough for one-handed cutting, while larger ones are essentially scaled-down versions of full-size chainsaws, with a rear and top handle for two-handed operation and control.
Power
Most mini chainsaws are powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, and typically range from 18 to 24-volts. The higher the voltage, the more power the battery can output, and combined with the saw’s cutting speed (measured in feet per second, or ft/s) indicate how easily the motor can handle tough or dense cutting tasks.
Bar Size
The length of your mini chainsaw’s cutting bar indicates the size of wood it can effectively cut, so make sure you choose one long enough to complete your task. A mini chainsaw’s maximum cut diameter is slightly smaller than the length of the bar, so while a 6-inch bar can’t handle more than about 4-inch diameter branches, a 12-inch version can take down a 10-inch diameter tree if needed.
Weight
While all mini chainsaws are lightweight compared to full-size models, some are heavier than others. If you have strength issues, or just want to reduce arm and shoulder fatigue during lengthy cutting projects, look for the lightest option that can still handle your task. This not only helps you maintain proper form while operating, but is more portable and convenient to store.
Features
Mini chainsaws can include many features that make its operation and maintenance much easier for the user. To reduce the maintenance requirements on your end, and ultimately extend the lifespan of your tool, look for a saw with an automatic chain oiler. User-friendly chain tightening mechanisms are another useful feature, ensuring proper tension during heavy use.
Since mini chainsaws are just as dangerous as full-size saws, look for important safety features like trigger locks, blade covers, and chain brakes. Regardless of the chainsaw you use, always wear proper eye protection to prevent injury from flying debris.
How We Selected
We have years of experience using a variety of chainsaws, large and small, through our time spent as a landscaper as well as for at-home projects. This experience, combined with extensive online research, helped us curate this list of mini chainsaw options. To ensure that our list includes the best option for a variety of cutting tasks, we included a range of styles and sizes, from tiny 4-inch blades to 10 and 12-inch options. Although these larger saws might be a stretch to consider “mini”, they’re still useful options for those who need to lop off thicker branches and tree limbs than the 4-8-inch blades are capable of.
Pros
Fade-free battery operation- Safety lock button reduces injury risk
- Automatic chain lubrication
Cons
- Might be too bulky for those low on space
We’re big fans of Greenworks power equipment, and this mini chainsaw is a prime example of why. Its user-friendly design is easy for first-timers to figure out, and thanks to its 10-inch bar, provides an impressive amount of cutting power. The thick, rubberized rear handle, combined with the wide top handle, makes this saw especially easy to control and maneuver as you work.
A large handle guard stands between your hand and the blade, and the safety lock—which must be pressed in order to activate the trigger—eliminates the risk of accidental starts.
Another perk is the comprehensive user guide that comes with this saw, which not only explains how the tool works, but also details techniques for using the saw effectively—and, more importantly, safely.
Key Specs
| Size | 10 in. |
|---|---|
| Power | 24V (2.0 Ah battery ) |
| Weight | 7.9 lbs |
| Chain Speed | 13.7 ft/s |
Best Compact
Greenworks 24V Brushless Mini Chainsaw
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Pros
- Impressive power output for its size
- Efficient brushless motor
- Fastest chain speed on our list
Cons
- Not long enough to cut extra-large branches
This Greenworks saw is a versatile combination of power and portability. It chews through light-duty pruning tasks with ease and its 24-volt battery has more cutting power and torque than commonly used 20-volt versions. That means they work s quickly, and with less user effort required.
A brushless motor and fade-free technology increase efficiency even more, and ensure you’re cutting with consistent power every time. Weighing just 3.4-pounds (including the battery) this saw is comfortable to carry around as you work and to maneuver into the best cutting angle for awkwardly positioned branches.
Another plus is that the 2.0Ah battery is compatible with other Greenworks tools, which is helpful if you already have a collection.
Pros
- Includes two batteries
- Rubberized handle for comfortable grip
- Weighs less than two pounds
Cons
- Not large enough for heavy-duty projects
- Work gloves may not fit through trigger guard
If you plan on pruning branches less than 4 inches in diameter, and don’t have the need or budget for a larger machine, consider this handheld Potenco saw. Its 1.7-pound weight is perfect for overhead cuts, and although the 4-inch blade lacks the functionality of larger options, it’s much more convenient for accessing hard to reach areas.
A built-in blade cover blocks flying debris while you cut, and helps prevent accidents by only exposing the bottom of the blade. There’s also a security lock that minimizes the chance of an accidental start.
Two batteries are included, and by keeping one charging at all times their individual runtimes are less of an issue.
Key Specs
| Size | 4in. |
|---|---|
| Power | 21V (2.0 Ah battery |
| Weight | 1.65 lbs |
| Chain Speed | 19.6 ft/s |
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Best Commercial-Grade
DeWalt 12-inch Brushless Mini Chainsaw
Pros
- Efficient and long-lasting brushless motor
- Bar tightening knob and tool-free tensioning
- Chain brake prevents kickback injuries
- Rubberized grip and wrap around handle for maximum control
Cons
- Relatively heavy
- Does not include battery
If you have heavy-duty projects lined-up but don’t want to deal with larger, lumberjack-style chainsaws, this powerful 12-inch mini chainsaw is worth a look. The large chain brake immediately halts the chain’s movement in case of kickback, and the convenient wraparound handle is comfortable to orient and position when making angled cuts.
This specific model does not include a battery, but if you have other tools in DeWalt’s 20-volt family, those batteries are compatible. If you don’t have any batteries on hand, this version includes a 5 Ah battery for about $50 more.
It’s not the most affordable option out there, and may be overkill for some, but if you have a lot of heavy-duty work to do, this durable, high-quality tool is worth the investment. DeWalt tools also have a good warranty, offer a year of free service, and a 90-day money-back guarantee.
Key Specs
| Size | 12 in. |
|---|---|
| Power | 20V (battery not included) |
| Weight | 9.25 lbs |
| Chain Speed | 25.2 ft/s |
Pros
- Impressive size and power for the price
- Lightweight
- Transparent oil-level window
Cons
- Lacks brushless motor of more expensive options
Despite the affordable price, this versatile Worx saw still provides a lot of bang for your buck. Its 10-inch bar and 20-volt motor are robust enough to handle serious pruning and trimming tasks, and the automatic lubrication system ensures that you’re always cutting with maximum efficiency. The light, 6.2-pound weight increases control and overall comfort when cutting, and also comes in handy for elevated and overhead cuts.
Another plus is that it comes with a 2.0Ah battery that has a convenient three-LED level indicator and is compatible with other Worx power tools.
The brushed motor lacks the efficiency and durability of the brushless versions used by more expensive tools though, so this saw isn’t the most practical choice for tackling frequent, heavy-duty projects.
Key Specs
| Size | 10 in. |
|---|---|
| Power | 20V (2.0 Ah battery) |
| Weight | 6.2 lbs |
| Chain Speed | 12.5 ft/s |
Pros
- Brushless motor reaches max speed in less than a second
- 4-inches wide for greater maneuverability
- Accepts large-capacity batteries for extended runtime
- Variable speed trigger for greater control
Cons
- Does not include battery
If you have the budget for it, and either have a spare M18 battery on hand, or are comfortable buying one separately, this high-quality saw is a smart investment. The 8-inch blade is capable of slicing through 6-inch branches, while still compact enough to wield comfortably all day. It even includes metal bucking spikes–a feature usually only found on full-size chainsaws–to keep your log or branch stable and secure while cutting.
Since this model doesn’t include a battery, it’s best for those who already have an M18 Fuel power tool collection. The upside to that is, unlike many mini chainsaw brands, you have the option to use high-capacity battery packs. The ability to use a 5 or 6 Ah battery— instead of the 2.0Ah used by most other saws means longer runtime without stopping to recharge.
Key Specs
| Size | 8 in. |
|---|---|
| Power | 18V (battery not included) |
| Weight | 5.9 lbs |
| Chain Speed | 16.4 ft/s |
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Pros
- Dual-handle design is easy to control
- Hand guard deflects debris
- Tip-guard stabilizes saw during upcuts
Cons
- Battery capacity is lower than most
This 6-inch pruning saw is designed with maximum control and maneuverability in mind, making it a great choice for beginners. With a rubber-coated pistol grip and top-mounted pommel-style handle, both hands can maintain a solid, stable grip on the machine at all times, and comfortably twist and adjust the blade angle with ease.
A built-in tip guard gives the blade a stable grip on the material being cut—particularly when attempting upward cuts—and a large hand guard protects you from flying debris and kickbacks. Its 1.5 Ah battery lacks the capacity of more common 2.0 Ah versions, which limits the saws overall runtime.
Key Specs
| Size | 6 in. |
|---|---|
| Power | 20V (1.5 Ah battery) |
| Weight | 7.8 lbs |
| Chain Speed | 14.4 ft/s |
Alex Rennie
Alex Rennie is a freelance writer who specializes in the Home Improvement, DIY, and Tool space. As a former residential and commercial carpenter, Alex uses his hands-on experience to write practical buying guides, how-to articles, and product reviews. His work has also appeared in Business Insider's Insider Picks, and before his writing career, he was a full-time carpenter living in New York City. There, he worked as part of a team designing, building, and installing large furniture pieces, as well as performing a variety of home repair and maintenance projects. Alex currently lives in Los Angeles, CA, and spends his free time exploring the beaches and mountains with his fiancé and their dog Louie.
Rachel Klein
Senior Commerce Editor
Rachel Klein is a Senior Commerce Editor for Popular Mechanics, where she writes about everything from garden hose reels and patio furniture to mesh wifi systems and robot vacuums. She started her career as a daily newspaper reporter and was a travel editor for more than a decade before she started testing and reviewing luggage, noise-cancelling headphones, and other travel-related products. Fast-forward another five years and her area of expertise includes home decor, appliances, tech, and outdoor adventure gear. In her spare time, you'll find her planning her next trip, reading historical fiction, and seeing as much art as she can squeeze into a weekend.
