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Battery and electric chainsaws have grown powerful enough to tackle serious yard work without the fumes or maintenance of a gas engine. That power comes close to a spinning chain, so how well a saw brakes, resists kickback and fits comfortably in the hand can matter as much as how fast it cuts.
Consumer Reports tested eight battery and electric chainsaws for cutting speed, safety features and ease of use, so shoppers can find a saw that gets the job done without unnecessary risk.
Priced at $549, the Ego CS2005 runs on a 56-volt battery and includes onboard storage for its bar wrench and other small tools. Consumer Reports found it cut through 10-by-10-inch oak beams with speed to spare, matching the top score in this lineup. CR pointed to its kickback-resistant chain, automatic brake and start-lock trigger as reasons it rated the saw safe to operate, maintain and store. Testers flagged the absence of a storage case and vibration dampening, and suggested wearing ear protection given the noise the saw produces.
