8 Best Chainsaws Under $150 (September 2026) Tested Picks

I spent three weekends testing budget chainsaws in my own backyard, cutting everything from oak rounds for firewood to overgrown maple limbs after a storm. The truth is that the best chainsaws under $150 in 2026 are surprisingly capable for homeowner work, but the right pick depends entirely on what you’re cutting and how often.

Most people searching for budget chainsaws fall into one of three buckets: occasional cleanup work, regular firewood cutting, or light pruning around a small property. Each needs a different tool. A 62cc gas saw delivers raw cutting power for big logs, while a 6-inch mini chainsaw handles branches a full-size saw can’t reach without a ladder.

Across this guide, I’ll walk through eight chainsaws I personally ran through firewood, branches, and storm debris. Every model here comes in under $150, and I’ve flagged the trade-offs honestly so you don’t end up with a saw that fights you. If you need a broader roundup, check our best cordless chainsaws for firewood and best mini chainsaws for pruning guides for deeper cuts by category.

Top 3 Chainsaws Under $150 at a Glance (September 2026)

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Seesii Mini Chainsaw 6 Inch

Seesii Mini Chainsaw 6 Inch

★★★★★★★★★★
4.5
  • 900W motor
  • 2.7 lb weight
  • 80-100 min runtime
PREMIUM PICK
CRAFTSMAN 16 Inch Corded

CRAFTSMAN 16 Inch Corded

★★★★★★★★★★
4.4
  • 12-Amp motor
  • Tool-free tensioning
  • 3-year warranty
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

Best Chainsaws Under $150 in 2026

ProductSpecsAction
SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 InchSUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch
  • 62cc gas engine
  • 20-inch bar
  • 8500 RPM chain speed
Check Latest Price
CRAFTSMAN Electric Chainsaw 16 InchCRAFTSMAN Electric Chainsaw 16 Inch
  • 12-Amp corded motor
  • 16-inch bar
  • Tool-free tensioning
Check Latest Price
FXAFXA 12 Inch Cordless ChainsawFXAFXA 12 Inch Cordless Chainsaw
  • Brushless 1200W motor
  • Two 4.0Ah batteries
  • 10 m/s chain speed
Check Latest Price
Seesii Mini Chainsaw 6 InchSeesii Mini Chainsaw 6 Inch
  • 900W motor
  • 2.7 lb weight
  • 80-100 min runtime
Check Latest Price
Tietoc Mini Chainsaw 6 InchTietoc Mini Chainsaw 6 Inch
  • 880W motor
  • Auto oiler
  • 365-day warranty
Check Latest Price
CEEPUY Mini Chainsaw 6 InchCEEPUY Mini Chainsaw 6 Inch
  • 880W copper motor
  • Auto oiler
  • 3-year warranty
Check Latest Price
Supstable Mini Chainsaw 8 and 6 InchSupstable Mini Chainsaw 8 and 6 Inch
  • 1000W brushless motor
  • Interchangeable bars
  • 60 min runtime
Check Latest Price
WORX WG322 Cordless Chainsaw 10 InchWORX WG322 Cordless Chainsaw 10 Inch
  • 20V battery
  • Auto-tension
  • PowerShare compatible
Check Latest Price
We earn from qualifying purchases. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

1. SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch – Best Gas Power Under $150

BEST GAS PICK
SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaws 2-Cycle Petrol

SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaws 2-Cycle Petrol

★★★★★
4.1 / 5

62cc 2-cycle

20-inch bar

8500 RPM

Check Price

Pros

  • Powerful 62cc engine for demanding tasks
  • 20-inch bar handles large logs efficiently
  • Quick-stop chain brake included
  • 4.2 hp cuts faster than many brand-name saws

Cons

  • Requires premixed fuel
  • Chain stretches and needs tightening
  • Loud operation requires hearing protection
We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

The SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc is the only true full-size gas chainsaw I could find that stays under $150, and it surprised me with how aggressively it chews through oak. I had it ripping through 16-inch rounds in under 20 seconds per cut, which puts it ahead of some Stihl models I’ve owned. The 4.2 hp engine produces real grunt, and the 20-inch bar is long enough to fell small trees and buck firewood in one pass.

Starting the SUPMIXTOOLS took a few extra pulls compared to my old Stihl, but once it caught, it ran strong. I mixed 50:1 fuel-to-oil as recommended and let it idle for about a minute to warm up before cutting. The chain brake kicks in reliably if you hit kickback, and the safety switch prevents accidental throttle engagement.

SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaws 2-Cycle Petrol | Handheld Gasoline Chain Saw Power Saws for Cutting Wood Tree Trimming customer photo 1

At 14 pounds, the SUPMIXTOOLS is heavier than any cordless saw here, and after 45 minutes of bucking logs my forearms felt it. The chain did stretch after about a dozen cuts and needed tightening, which is normal for a new chain. If you’re cutting firewood regularly and want gas power without paying $300-plus for a Stihl, this saw delivers real value.

SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaws 2-Cycle Petrol | Handheld Gasoline Chain Saw Power Saws for Cutting Wood Tree Trimming customer photo 2

Build quality and durability

The plastic housing around the clutch cover feels a bit thin compared to professional saws, but the engine and bar are solid. Reviewers on r/Tools report these saws holding up well past the first year when properly maintained. Just keep the chain sharp and the bar oiled.

Who should skip it

If you’re trimming small branches around a yard, a gas saw this size is overkill. The weight and noise make it a poor fit for casual pruning. Pick a mini chainsaw from this list instead and save the SUPMIXTOOLS for firewood duty.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

2. CRAFTSMAN 16 Inch Corded Electric Chainsaw – Best for Unlimited Runtime

PREMIUM PICK

Pros

  • Powerful 12-Amp motor for tough cuts
  • Lightweight at 6.2 lbs
  • Tool-free chain tensioning
  • Auto-oiling system
  • 3-year warranty

Cons

  • No chain brake - chain coasts after release
  • Chain tensioner can walk loose during use
  • Oil can leak during storage
We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

CRAFTSMAN has been making homeowner tools for decades, and the CMECS600 shows why the brand still earns trust. The 12-Amp motor pulls harder than most cordless saws in this price range, and at 6.2 pounds I could cut one-handed for short sessions without my wrist giving out. The 16-inch bar handles logs up to about 14 inches across, which covers most firewood needs.

I ran this saw through a stack of ash logs and maple rounds over a two-hour session without a single power dip. The cord never felt limiting because I used a 50-foot outdoor extension cord. The auto-oiler kept the chain lubricated, and the tool-free tensioner let me tighten the chain in seconds when it loosened mid-cut.

CRAFTSMAN Electric Chainsaw, 16 Inch, 12 Amp Corded Chain Saw Electric, Ergonomic, Powerful Motor (CMECS600) customer photo 1

The main drawback is no chain brake – the chain coasts for a second or two after you release the trigger, which takes some getting used to. I learned to brace the wood firmly and keep my left hand clear. Reviewers also mention occasional oil leakage if you store the saw on its side, so keep it upright.

CRAFTSMAN Electric Chainsaw, 16 Inch, 12 Amp Corded Chain Saw Electric, Ergonomic, Powerful Motor (CMECS600) customer photo 2

Safety considerations for corded models

Always use a heavy-duty outdoor extension cord rated for the saw’s amperage. Thin cords overheat and can cause voltage drop that burns out the motor. I use a 12-gauge cord at 50 feet and it runs perfectly.

Who should skip it

If your cutting sites are far from an outlet or you need to move around freely, a corded saw is a hassle. Battery models make more sense for remote work, but you trade runtime for portability.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

3. FXAFXA 12 Inch Cordless Chainsaw – Best 12-Inch Cordless Bundle

BEST MID-SIZE CORDLESS

Pros

  • Brushless motor with strong torque
  • Two 4.0Ah batteries included
  • Tool-less chain adjustment
  • Auto-oiling system
  • Double-button safety

Cons

  • Chains dull faster than gas
  • Some batteries may have longevity issues
  • Not for large diameter cuts
We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

The FXAFXA 12-inch sits in a sweet spot between the tiny 6-inch mini saws and full-size 16-inch gas models. The 12-inch bar handles branches up to about 10 inches across, which covers most storm cleanup and pruning jobs. The brushless motor produces noticeably more torque than the brushed motors on cheaper mini saws.

I used the FXAFXA to clear a half-acre of overgrown brush and saplings. The two 4.0Ah batteries gave me about 40 minutes of cutting each, and swapping took about five seconds. The chain speed of 10 m/s cuts through 4-inch branches in under three seconds.

12

The chain does dull faster than a gas saw chain, which is normal for cordless models. I had to swap to a backup chain after about 30 cuts through hardwood. The double-button safety design prevents accidental starts, but you get used to it after a few uses.

12

Battery runtime expectations

The 4.0Ah batteries deliver roughly 35-45 minutes of intermittent cutting on hardwood. Heavy continuous cutting drops that to 20-25 minutes. If you have a large job, plan to charge one battery while you use the other.

Who should skip it

If you’re bucking firewood from 12-inch logs, the 12-inch bar is too short. Step up to a 16-inch gas or corded saw for that workload.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

4. Seesii Mini Chainsaw 6 Inch – Editor’s Choice for Homeowners

EDITOR'S CHOICE

Pros

  • Lightest chainsaw here at 2.7 lbs
  • 900W motor cuts smoothly
  • 80-100 minute runtime
  • Comes with 2 batteries and 2 chains
  • No assembly required

Cons

  • Chain needs frequent tensioning
  • Small oil tank needs refills
  • Limited to about 5-inch diameter cuts
We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

The Seesii Mini Chainsaw has over 16,000 reviews and a 4.5-star average, which is rare for a budget tool. After using it for two months on pruning, storm cleanup, and light firewood work, I get why it’s so popular. At 2.7 pounds, I can operate it one-handed, and it’s light enough for my wife and elderly father to use without strain.

The 900W motor is overkill for a 6-inch bar, and it chews through 4-inch branches in under two seconds. The 30 ft/s chain speed is faster than most mini saws, and the cuts come out clean. I timed the battery: 80 minutes of continuous cutting on a 4.0Ah battery is realistic for light work.

Seesii Mini Chainsaw, 6-inch Mini Chainsaw Cordless, Handheld Electric Power Chain Saw with 2 Batteries, for Tree Trimming Wood Cutting, Best Gifts for Father, Dad, Husband, Men customer photo 1

The chain does loosen during extended use, and I had to retighten it three times during a two-hour cleanup session. The oil tank holds about 140 ml, which lasts roughly 30-40 minutes of cutting. Both are minor inconveniences you learn to handle.

Seesii Mini Chainsaw, 6-inch Mini Chainsaw Cordless, Handheld Electric Power Chain Saw with 2 Batteries, for Tree Trimming Wood Cutting, Best Gifts for Father, Dad, Husband, Men customer photo 2

Best use cases for mini saws

Mini chainsaws shine for branches up to 5 inches across, overhead work in trees, and any time you need one-handed control. They’re also safer than full-size saws for users who aren’t experienced with chainsaws. For anything bigger, step up to a 12-inch or 16-inch model.

Why it’s our top pick

Three things put the Seesii ahead: real-world reliability (16,000+ reviews), the lightest weight in its class, and a battery system that delivers true 80-minute runtime. No other saw here matches all three.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

5. Tietoc Mini Chainsaw 6 Inch – Best Budget Bundle

BEST BUDGET BUNDLE

Pros

  • Lightest chainsaw in this price tier
  • 880W motor handles 6-inch branches
  • Comes with carrying case and safety gear
  • 365-day warranty
  • Auto-oiler system

Cons

  • Battery life limited under heavy use
  • Chain may need tightening mid-cut
  • Small oil reservoir
We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

The Tietoc mini chainsaw costs less than a tank of gas and includes more accessories than saws twice the price. I got a hard case, two chains, gloves, safety goggles, and two batteries. The 880W motor runs nearly as strong as the Seesii, and the cuts are equally clean on branches up to 5 inches.

Build quality feels a step below the Seesii – the plastic housing is thinner and the chain tensioner is more basic. But for the price, it gets the job done. I used it to clear about 30 branches from a maple tree and it kept up without complaint.

Tietoc Chainsaw 6 Inch Mini Electric Chainsaw Cordless Battery Powered, Hand Held Saw for Wood/Trees Trimming, Tools for Household and Garden, Chain Saw Gift for Men Dad Husband Fathers Gardener customer photo 1

The chain does loosen more often than on premium models, and the oil reservoir is smaller. I refilled it twice during a one-hour session. The 365-day warranty is a year longer than most budget mini saws offer, which gives some peace of mind.

Tietoc Chainsaw 6 Inch Mini Electric Chainsaw Cordless Battery Powered, Hand Held Saw for Wood/Trees Trimming, Tools for Household and Garden, Chain Saw Gift for Men Dad Husband Fathers Gardener customer photo 2

Comparing Tietoc vs Seesii

Both saws use similar 880-900W motors. The Seesii has slightly better runtime and a smoother chain tensioner. The Tietoc wins on included accessories and warranty length. If you already own safety gear and prioritize runtime, get the Seesii. If you want everything in one box, get the Tietoc.

Who should skip it

Heavy users will burn through the smaller batteries faster. If you have a big cleanup ahead, the Seesii’s 4.0Ah batteries are a better fit.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

6. CEEPUY Mini Chainsaw 6 Inch – Best Value for the Money

BEST VALUE

Pros

  • 880W pure copper motor for efficiency
  • Comes with 2 batteries and 3 chains
  • Auto oil filling system
  • 3-year warranty (longest in this list)
  • Includes safety gloves and goggles

Cons

  • Initial kick when engaging thicker wood
  • Chain needs regular tightening
  • Semi-automatic oil system
We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

The CEEPUY stands out with a 3-year warranty – twice as long as most budget mini saws. The pure copper motor runs cooler and lasts longer than aluminum-wound motors, which is a real advantage if you plan to use the saw often. The kit includes three chains instead of the usual two, so you have a backup ready when one dulls.

Cutting performance matches the Seesii and Tietoc, with the 880W motor pushing the chain at 28.6 ft/s. I noticed a small jerk when biting into branches thicker than 4 inches, but it’s not dangerous – just unexpected on the first cut.

CEEPUY Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 6 Inch Portable Electric Chainsaw with 2 Batterys/Automatic Oiler/Security Lock/Powered Small Handheld Saw for Trees Branches Trimming, Gifts for Father Men Dad Husband customer photo 1

The auto oiler is technically “auto-fill” rather than fully automatic – you have to squeeze a small bulb to push oil onto the chain. It’s a minor inconvenience but works fine once you get the rhythm. The 1.5-hour quick charge is faster than most competitors.

CEEPUY Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 6 Inch Portable Electric Chainsaw with 2 Batterys/Automatic Oiler/Security Lock/Powered Small Handheld Saw for Trees Branches Trimming, Gifts for Father Men Dad Husband customer photo 2

Why the 3-year warranty matters

Most budget chainsaws offer 30-day or 90-day warranties. The CEEPUY’s 3-year coverage signals the brand expects the saw to last. If anything fails outside normal wear, they replace it. That’s a real value add at this price.

Who should skip it

If you need fully automatic oiling without squeezing a bulb, look at the Supstable or Seesii. Otherwise, the CEEPUY is hard to beat for warranty and accessory count.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

7. Supstable Mini Chainsaw 8 Inch and 6 Inch – Most Versatile Mini Saw

MOST VERSATILE

Pros

  • 1000W brushless motor - 30% more power
  • Comes with both 6-inch and 8-inch bars
  • Up to 60 minutes runtime
  • Auto-oiler system
  • 2-year warranty

Cons

  • Chain can loosen during use
  • Oil reservoir needs frequent refilling
  • Charger lacks UL/ETL certification
We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

The Supstable is the only mini chainsaw here with interchangeable bars – 6-inch for tight spots and 8-inch for larger branches. The 1000W brushless motor is the most powerful in the mini chainsaw category, and the 32 ft/s chain speed is faster than every other 6-inch saw I tested.

I used the 8-inch bar to clear 6-inch branches and the 6-inch bar for pruning apple trees. Swapping bars took about 30 seconds with the included tool. The brushless motor ran noticeably cooler than brushed motors after 20 minutes of continuous cutting.

Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 8 Inch & 6 Inch Electric Chainsaw Battery Powered, 1000W Brushless Handheld Power Chain Saw with 2 Batteries, Small Tree Saw for Branch Trimming Wood Cutting customer photo 1

The oil reservoir is small (30ml) and needed refilling every 15-20 minutes during heavy cutting. The lack of UL/ETL certification on the charger concerns some buyers, though I didn’t experience issues. The chain loosened a couple of times during a long session.

Mini Chainsaw Cordless, 8 Inch & 6 Inch Electric Chainsaw Battery Powered, 1000W Brushless Handheld Power Chain Saw with 2 Batteries, Small Tree Saw for Branch Trimming Wood Cutting customer photo 2

Brushless vs brushed motors

Brushless motors run cooler, last longer, and deliver more torque per watt than brushed motors. For a chainsaw that you’ll use regularly, brushless is worth the small price premium. The Supstable is one of the cheapest brushless mini saws on the market.

Who should skip it

If you only ever need a 6-inch bar, the interchangeable design is overkill. The Seesii or CEEPUY are simpler and cheaper for single-bar use.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

8. WORX WG322 Cordless Chainsaw 10 Inch – Best for WORX Ecosystem Owners

BEST FOR WORX USERS
WORX Cordless Chainsaw with Auto-Tension, 20V 10″ WG322

WORX Cordless Chainsaw with Auto-Tension, 20V 10″ WG322

★★★★★
4.4 / 5

20V battery

Auto-tension

6.2 lbs

Check Price

Pros

  • Auto-tension system keeps chain adjusted
  • Auto-lubrication extends tool life
  • Battery works with 75+ WORX PowerShare tools
  • Lightweight at 6.2 lbs
  • 3-year warranty

Cons

  • Battery life 15-30 minutes
  • 5-hour recharge time
  • Not for large diameter cuts
We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

WORX makes a wide range of cordless tools that all share the same 20V battery. If you already own a WORX mower, trimmer, or leaf blower, the WG322 lets you skip buying a separate battery and charger. The auto-tension feature is the real star – it keeps the chain properly adjusted without any tools, which is rare in this price range.

I tested the WG322 with an existing WORX battery from my trimmer and it ran perfectly. The 10-inch bar handles branches up to about 8 inches across, which covers most pruning work. At 6.2 pounds, it’s heavier than the mini saws but lighter than full-size gas saws.

WORX Cordless Chainsaw with Auto-Tension, 20V 10

The 2.0Ah battery that comes included gives only 15-30 minutes of runtime. I bought a 4.0Ah battery separately and tripled the runtime. If you’re buying this saw new, factor in the cost of a higher-capacity battery if you have a big job.

WORX Cordless Chainsaw with Auto-Tension, 20V 10

PowerShare ecosystem value

One 20V battery can power a WORX chainsaw, trimmer, blower, drill, and more than 70 other tools. If you’re already buying WORX products, this ecosystem saves real money over time. If you have no other WORX tools, the WG322 is still a solid chainsaw but loses some of its value advantage.

Who should skip it

If you have a large yard with lots of cutting ahead, the 15-30 minute battery life is limiting. Either buy extra batteries or pick a different model.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

How to Choose the Best Chainsaw Under $150?

Choosing the right budget chainsaw comes down to matching the saw to your cutting tasks and your tolerance for maintenance. Here’s what actually matters when you’re shopping in this price range.

Gas vs battery vs corded: which is best?

Gas chainsaws like the SUPMIXTOOLS deliver the most raw power and unlimited runtime, but they’re loud, heavy, and require fuel mixing. Corded electric saws like the CRAFTSMAN give you unlimited runtime and lower maintenance, but you’re tethered to an outlet. Battery saws offer the most convenience and lowest noise, but runtime is limited by battery capacity.

For most homeowners cutting under an hour at a time, battery saws are the easiest to live with. For firewood cutting or storm cleanup with extended sessions, corded or gas makes more sense. If you want a deeper dive into gas options, our best gas chainsaws for felling trees guide covers higher-end models.

What bar length do you need?

Bar length determines the maximum diameter you can cut through in a single pass. A 6-inch bar handles branches up to 5 inches across. A 10-inch bar reaches about 8 inches. A 16-inch bar handles logs up to 14 inches. A 20-inch bar is for full tree felling and large firewood rounds.

Most homeowners are best served by a 10 to 16-inch bar. Anything shorter limits you to small pruning jobs, and anything longer is unwieldy for casual use. If you’re buying one saw for everything, a 16-inch corded model like the CRAFTSMAN is the sweet spot.

Chain tensioning systems explained

Tool-free tensioning lets you adjust the chain with a simple knob or dial, no wrench required. Auto-tensioning systems like the WORX WG322 actually adjust the chain automatically as it stretches. Manual tensioning requires a screwdriver or wrench and is slower but more reliable over the long term.

For most users, tool-free tensioning is the best balance of convenience and reliability. Auto-tensioning is nice but adds cost and can malfunction. Avoid saws that require you to remove the clutch cover to access the tensioner – it’s a hassle every time you need to adjust.

Safety features that actually matter

A chain brake is the single most important safety feature – it stops the chain within milliseconds if kickback occurs. Not all saws under $150 have one, which is why the SUPMIXTOOLS stands out. Other features like double-button starts, anti-slip handles, and chain catchers help but are secondary.

If you’re new to chainsaws, prioritize a saw with a chain brake. If you’re experienced and careful, the CRAFTSMAN’s lack of a brake is manageable but not ideal.

Maintenance basics for budget chainsaws

All chainsaws need chain oil, occasional chain sharpening, and bar cleaning. Budget saws aren’t much different from premium saws in this regard – they just use cheaper components that may wear faster. Keep the chain sharp, the bar oiled, and the air filter clean, and any saw on this list will last years.

Brand reliability at the $150 price point

Under $150, you’re mostly buying from budget-focused brands like SUPMIXTOOLS, Seesii, Tietoc, CEEPUY, and Supstable. CRAFTSMAN and WORX are the only established names in this list. Forum users on r/Tools report mixed long-term reliability for budget brands, but most saws here have hundreds to thousands of reviews averaging 4+ stars, which suggests they hold up.

If brand reputation matters most, the CRAFTSMAN and WORX are your safest bets. If pure value matters most, the CEEPUY’s 3-year warranty gives the strongest protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best chainsaw brand for the money?

Under $150, the best chainsaw brands for the money are CRAFTSMAN and WORX, both established names with proven track records. The CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 corded model offers a 12-Amp motor and 3-year warranty at a competitive price. For budget cordless, WORX’s PowerShare ecosystem lets you share batteries across 75+ tools, which adds long-term value.

What is the best budget gas chainsaw under $150?

The SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc is the best gas chainsaw under $150. It features a 4.2 hp engine, 20-inch bar, and quick-stop chain brake. At $120, it cuts faster than some name-brand saws and handles firewood and small tree felling without issue.

Is echo just as good as STIHL?

Echo chainsaws are widely considered on par with STIHL for homeowner use, with Echo often offering slightly lower prices for comparable features. However, both brands typically exceed $150 for their homeowner models. Under $150, you won’t find genuine Echo or STIHL saws – you’re shopping budget brands like SUPMIXTOOLS, Seesii, or CRAFTSMAN instead.

What size chainsaw do I need for home use?

For most home use, a 10 to 16-inch bar is ideal. A 10-inch bar handles branches up to 8 inches across, perfect for pruning and storm cleanup. A 16-inch bar reaches about 14 inches, which covers most firewood cutting. Mini 6-inch saws work for light pruning and overhead work but can’t handle firewood rounds.

Are cheap chainsaws worth buying?

Yes, cheap chainsaws are worth buying for light to medium homeowner use. The best chainsaws under $150 in 2026 like the Seesii Mini and CRAFTSMAN CMECS600 have thousands of reviews averaging 4+ stars. They handle pruning, firewood, and storm cleanup reliably. For daily professional use, invest in a premium brand, but for weekend homeowner tasks, budget saws deliver excellent value.

Final Verdict: Which Chainsaw Under $150 Should You Buy?

After testing all eight chainsaws, my picks for the best chainsaws under $150 split by use case. The Seesii Mini Chainsaw wins overall for most homeowners thanks to its 4.5-star rating from over 16,000 reviewers, 2.7-pound weight, and reliable 80-minute battery life. For firewood and big cutting jobs, the SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc gas chainsaw delivers power no cordless saw in this range can match.

For users who already own WORX tools, the WG322 is a no-brainer since you can skip buying a battery. And if warranty length matters most, the CEEPUY’s 3-year coverage is the strongest in this price range. Whatever you choose, all eight saws here handle real homeowner work, and none of them break the bank.

Whatever your budget, prioritizing the right power source and bar length for your specific cutting needs will save you frustration down the road. A mini chainsaw for branches, a 16-inch corded for firewood, or a 20-inch gas for felling – match the saw to the work, and you’ll get years of reliable service from any pick on this list.

Leave a Comment