Choosing the best electric saw: 15 top models of 2021

Parameters for choosing a high-quality electric saw

The first thing that attracts attention in the operation of an electric chain saw is the low acoustic effect. When used correctly, the device operates with a minimum noise level. Do not worry that the sound produced by the instrument will create discomfort to others.

The chain saw - both gasoline and electric - has a wide range of applications. The working tool is used for sawing logs and preparing firewood, cutting branches and felling small trees, dismantling wooden buildings and structures, performing transverse, longitudinal and oblique cutting of boards. The device is actively used for carpentry and construction.

Unlike the gasoline counterpart, the electric model is easy to use. Most of the models are small and lightweight. Even women can cope with such a working tool. Another advantage of the electric saw is its low vibration mode. You can forget about muscle pain and fatigue in the arms.

As for the downsides, there is one. It is about the need to connect to the electrical network. For example, an unscheduled or emergency power outage can make adjustments to a person's plans. The mains cable is one of the stumbling blocks when it comes to the advantages and disadvantages of power saws. The cord that always gets tangled under your feet creates some inconvenience while using the device. Therefore, many people choose a battery-type model or get used to the presence of a network cable.

The mains-powered chain saw has a standard construction. Inside the plastic or metal case, there is a motor that is responsible for the rotation of the drive sprocket. The sprocket, in turn, starts the toothed saw chain. The stop teeth on the front of the housing make it easy to cut wood.

Choosing an electric saw is not an easy task. The models presented on the market differ in weight, dimensions, design, power and functional content. Today we will show you how to choose the best electric saw.

Main settings

Electric or cordless chain saw - which is the best option? Devices powered from the mains are considered more powerful, reliable and practical. They are characterized by compactness and ease of use. Oftentimes, a small saw has a quiet ride and high productivity. The battery-type working tool does not need to be tied to the mains. The device is powered by a removable / built-in battery.

We recommend that you have a spare battery handy. Having a second battery allows more work to be done. When choosing between electric and cordless tools, it is better to focus on personal preference and the frequency of use of the saw.

The overwhelming majority of electric chain saws are characterized by lightness, compactness and maneuverability. The weight of such a tool does not exceed 5–6 kg. Due to its low specific gravity, the electric saw can be used for cutting wood at a height.

When choosing a tool, it is recommended to pay attention to the duration of continuous operation, the volume of the oil tank, the presence of a soft start system and a battery charge level indicator. An electric saw with a knapsack belt is considered to be more convenient to use.

Power

However, the main criterion for choosing a working tool is power. The higher the engine power, the greater the productivity of the working tool. So, professional saws with a power of 2 kW or more are used to cut logs with a diameter of 30 cm or more. Units with a capacity of 1500–2000 W are the optimal solution for domestic use. The power of such a device is enough to perform basic household tasks.

Electric saws up to 1500 W are suitable for small and medium-sized branches and for cutting thin boards.

Chain regulation

The household power saw has a low profile chain. Despite the average performance, a low profile chain is considered safer to operate. Vibration mode and noise effect are minimal.

The chain tension is adjusted using the classical or simplified method. In the first option, you cannot do without a flat screwdriver. To adjust the chain, you need to loosen or, conversely, tighten the fastening screws. A simplified version involves adjusting the chain by moving a special slider.

Bus length

The cutting depth depends on the length of the bar. The higher the indicator of this parameter, the greater the functionality of the device. When choosing the length of the bus, you need to take into account the power of the device. A light file with a long bar is not only inconvenient, but also unsafe to use.

According to leading electric saw manufacturers, the ideal power to bar length ratio might look like this:

• power from 2 kW and more - tire length from 40 cm;
• power 1500-2000 W - bus length about 35 cm;
• power less than 1500 W - busbar length about 30 cm.

It is equally important to know the pitch of the tire. The 6.3 mm pitch ensures a neat and clean cut. The 9.3 mm pitch provides above average performance and the 9.5 mm pitch is suitable for professional high power saws.

Smooth start

Why do you need a softstarter, you ask? When the saw is started, the motor supplies a large current, a jerk of the chain occurs, accompanied by a reverse kickback. Soft start systems help prevent kickback.

Safety

The chain saw is a potentially hazardous work tool. To avoid injury, you must strictly follow the instructions for using the device.

An accidental start-up lock minimizes the risk of unscheduled starting of the saw. Built-in anti-vibration mode reduces hand stress and enhances tool safety. The inertia brake stops the chain as soon as the engine is turned off.

Having dealt with the main technical points and selection criteria, we will proceed directly to the acquaintance with electric chain saws.

The best models for home and garden

The first five in our review are the best electric (cordless) saws for home use according to user reviews.

Makita UC3520A

Combines power and compactness. Well balanced instrument is easy to use. Anti-slip rubberized grip cover increases the safety of the device. Makita UC3520A has double insulation protection and an effective inertial circuit start system. Due to the presence of a transparent window on the body, the amount of oil is monitored.

Makita UC3520A Review Video

This video demonstrates a test drive of a powered saw.

BOSCH AKE 30 S

BOSCH AKE 30 S is popular among owners of private farms and summer cottages

Lightweight and compact model for cutting wooden beams and battens. BOSCH AKE 30 S is popular among owners of private farms and summer cottages. It has a long service life as it is equipped with a chrome-plated chain. The optimized ergonomic handle makes the instrument easy to operate. Differs in economical oil consumption, low noise production and optimum chain speed.

Video "Review BOSCH AKE 30 S"

This video shows how to properly assemble and run the device.

STIHL MSE 141 C-Q-14

Basic model for household use in the country. It is characterized by high ergonomics, compact size and low weight. The STIHL MSE 141 C-Q-14 electric saw has built-in overload protection. The oil container is supplemented with a transparent sight glass. The QuickStop Super chain brake improves the safety of the appliance and reduces the risk of injury.

Video "STIHL MSE 141 C-Q-14 Review"

This video shows you how to use the instrument correctly.

Hammer CPP 1800 D

Popular with summer residents. The tool is used for cutting building materials and preparing firewood for the winter. It can also be used for pruning fruit and berry and ornamental shrubs and trees. For quick and convenient adjustment of the chain, a special slider is provided, which is located on the side panel of the case.

Hammer CPP 1800 D has a high level of safety: overheating protection, mechanical brake and accidental start blocking button.

Hammer CPP 1800 D Review Video

Do you want to know what are the advantages of the Hammer CPP 1800 D electric model? Watch the video review carefully.

STIHL MSE 190 C-BQ

Productive, the safest and most user-friendly model of an electric chain saw. It is actively used in agriculture and landscape and architectural design.The STIHL MSE 190 C-BQ electric saw is equipped with ergonomic handles and QuickStop Super emergency braking. An oil level control window is provided.

Video "Electric Saws STIHL MSE 190 C-BQ, STIHL MSE 210 C-BQ-14, STIHL MSE 230 C-BQ and STIHL MSE 250 C-Q-18"

In this video, experts talk about the benefits of each tool.

The best professional models

Professional electric saws are characterized by more power and high performance. We bring to your attention the Top 5 electric saws according to consumer reviews.

Makita UC4030A

Professional sawing equipment of the Makita trademark is distinguished by its practicality, durability, reliability and high resistance to operational loads. The Makita UC4030A is characterized by low oil consumption and a high level of safety. Has a built-in inertial braking mechanism and reliable toolless chain adjustment.

Makita UC4030A Review Video

Want to know how the Makita UC4030A works? Watch the video review.

STIHL MSE 250 C-Q-18

Professional tool for cutting problem wood and performing labor-intensive work. Due to its high productivity, it can be used for cutting frozen and dense wood material. The STIHL MSE 250 C-Q-18 features LED overheating indication and optimized vibration protection for the handles. The device is equipped with a soft start system.

STIHL MSE 210 C-BQ-14

High-performance and extremely ergonomic power saw for harvesting firewood, making landscaping and architectural crafts and building various objects from wood. STIHL MSE 210 C-BQ-14 has a convenient chain brake, motor protection against possible overload and a soft start button. The oil level can be monitored through a transparent sight glass. A bayonet lock is installed on the oil tank cover.

STIHL MSE 230 C-BQ

A powerful professional-grade unit for finishing work. Differs in a reliable and durable design.The STIHL MSE 230 C-BQ is equipped with a QuickStop Super emergency stop brake and self-switching carbon brushes. There is a built-in protection against overheating when the feed is too strong or the cutting element is jammed.

Thanks to the special bar design, the STIHL MSE 230 C-BQ electric saw is characterized by low oil consumption.

BOSCH GKE 40 BCE

Forms an even and neat cut when cutting wood. Due to its low weight (4.8 kg), it is convenient to use. The load on the hands is minimal. Users note low noise performance and anti-vibration protection. BOSCH GKE 40 BCE is suitable for processing wood with various degrees of hardness. The manufacturer provides for the possibility of a smooth start and protection against overheating during intensive work. The emergency braking system works quickly and reliably.

Video "Review BOSCH GKE 40 BCE"

This video review is dedicated to describing the benefits of working with a professional tool.

When choosing from a wide variety of saws, it is important to consider the expected level of tool load. High-power devices are suitable for professional use. However, do not forget that the power of the device affects the level of sound produced. If you need a saw for a summer cottage or at home, it is better to take a medium power tool.