8 Best Chainsaws under $400 in 2026

Contents
  1. The Top 8
  2. Top 8 Chainsaws Reviewed in Detail
  3. 1. Best Overall
  4. 2. Best for Daily Use
  5. 3. Best Budget
  6. 4. Best for Small Spaces
  7. 5. Best Compact
  8. 6. Most Versatile
  9. 7. Best Design
  10. 8. Best Splurge
  11. Chainsaws Compared Side by Side
  12. How We Reviewed
  13. How to Choose Chainsaws
  14. What to look for
  15. Frequently asked questions

You want the best chainsaw under 400. The Husqvarna 130 Gas Powered Chainsaw is the top pick due to its 16-inch bar length and effortless start-up features. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Seesii Mini Chainsaw. It offers a 6-inch cutting capability, but you sacrifice power and cutting speed.

Most buyers must choose between a gas-powered model with longer cutting bars or a compact electric chainsaw that is easier to handle. The rest of this page provides detailed reviews of several options to help you make an informed decision.

Paid links. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Prices are pulled live from Amazon and change often. How this works

The Top 8

1
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 2026
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…
Amazon.com
2
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
Seesii Mini Chainsaw, 6-inch Mini Chainsaw Cordless, Handheld Electric Power Chain Saw with 2 Batteries, for Tree Trimming Wood Cutting, Best Gifts for…
Amazon.com
3
VEVOR Gas Powered Chainsaw 25.4CC 2-Cycle 12 Inch 1.2HP Cordless Chain Saw
VEVOR Gas Powered Chainsaw 25.4CC 2-Cycle 12 Inch 1.2HP Cordless Chain Saw
Amazon.com
4
SEESII 12-Inch Electric Chainsaw Cordless, Brushless Motor
SEESII 12-Inch Electric Chainsaw Cordless, Brushless Motor
Amazon.com
5
Gas Chainsaws 20 Inch 62CC Gas Powered Chainsaw 3.4HP 2 Stroke Engine Gas Power Chain Saw for Cutting Wood Outdoor Garden Farm Home
Gas Chainsaws 20 Inch 62CC Gas Powered Chainsaw 3.4HP 2 Stroke Engine Gas Power Chain Saw for Cutting Wood Outdoor Garden Farm Home
Amazon.com
6
VEVOR 20inch 62CC Gas Powered Chainsaw, 3.8 HP 2 Stroke Engine Gas Power Chainsaws with Non-Slip Handle, Gas Chainsaws with Dual Fuel Tanks, For Wood Cutting, Tree Trimming, and Land Clearing
VEVOR 20inch 62CC Gas Powered Chainsaw, 3.8 HP 2 Stroke Engine Gas Power Chainsaws with Non-Slip Handle, Gas Chainsaws with Dual Fuel Tanks, For Wood…
Amazon.com
7
Getell 63cc Gas Chainsaw, 20-Inch 2-Cycle with Two Bars and Chains
Getell 63cc Gas Chainsaw, 20-Inch 2-Cycle with Two Bars and Chains
Amazon.com
8
Husqvarna 130 Gas Powered Chainsaw, 16 Inch
Husqvarna 130 Gas Powered Chainsaw, 16 Inch
Amazon.com

These are the strongest picks that come in under $400, cheapest first.

Top 8 Chainsaws Reviewed in Detail

Below, you will find key insights on each chainsaw on our list.

1. Best Overall

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…

$29.99 $49.99
in stock
Amazon.com
  • AWESOME CUTTING POWER – GARDENER FRIENDLY: Super mini chainsaw is equipped with 880 watts high power motor, manganese steel chain & auto oiler system. Cut 6-inch branches with no effort, like a hot knife through butter. Smoothly cutting thicker pieces of wood that other chainsaws struggle with, make easy work of tree trimming, camping & gardening. Every homeowner needs it, with the cordless chainsaw, you will save so much money trimming garden yourself, rather than paying someone to do it!
  • NOT INTIMIDATING, WOMAN FRIENDLY: Slim & lightweight (only 3.3lb, 25% the weight of a bulky larger gas chainsaw), easy to handle and work like a champ, friendly to the elderly, women, arthritis patients. So much easier to use over a full size chain saw, you don’t have to drag around an electical cord. Light enough as to not give you arm/hand “fatigue”, definitely recommend this handheld cordless mini chainsaw to any serious gardener!
  • AUTO OILER-SYSTEM: This mini chainsaw cordless is equipped with auto chain lubrication system. Just pour oil (general motor oil is fine) into the tank, then you can freely lubricate the chain by pressing, reduce wear and tear for smoother cutting, more cuts and less energy use. One oil fill can be used for a whole day, no more carrying around a heavy bottle of lubricating oil!
  • LARGE CAPACITY BATTERY: Equipped with 2000mAh removable & rechargeable battery, the cordless mini chainsaw will finish all your cutting, even in the field! It’s suitable for wood cutting, garden pruning, twig pruning, shrub pruning; widely used in gardens, farms, parks, forests, pastures, orchards, greenhouses. In addition, self-overload & temperature protection provide battery much longer life.
  • SECURITY DESIGNS: 1. Security lock prevents accidental activation (The security lock & start button need to be pressed simultaneously for the chainsaw to start); 2. Safety baffles to prevent the wood from splashing; 3. Equip with an anti-slip texture handle, making you grip the mini chainsaw tightly; Safety comes, please feel free to use it!
  • 365-DAY WARRANTY: Tietoc mini chainsaw adopts flame retardant & environmental protection materials, and has professional certification [FCC]. We are proud of our mini chainsaws so will offer a 365-day warranty (no need to return product). Any issue please contact us, we will make things right within 24h.
  • PACKAGE LIST: Mini Chainsaw ×1; Rechargeable Li-on Battery ×1; Chain ×2 (1 has been mounted on the chainsaw); Guide Plate ×1; Quick Charger ×1; Screwdriver ×1; Guide Plate Sheath ×1. [Tips: 1. The product list includes small oil bottles, but does not include lubricating oil. 2. The product list only includes green paper boxes and does not include black plastic boxes.]
  • Tietoc Mini Chainsaw Cordless: Perfect Stocking Stuffer, Christmas Gifts for Dad, Mom, Friends, Husband, DIYer, Gardeners, Homeowners
  • Safety Warnings: 1.Avoid charging in wet or high-temperature conditions. 2. Use the provided charger only. 3.Disconnect the charger when charging is complete.
  • Charging Operation Steps: 1.Connect the Charger: Plug the charger into a suitable power outlet. 2.Attach the Charging Cable: Connect the charging cable securely to the product. 3.Charging Indicator: Monitor the charging indicator to ensure the product is charging correctly. 4.Full Charge Notification: Disconnect the charger once the battery is fully charged.
Updated: 22 hours ago

The Husqvarna 130 is a gas-powered chainsaw with a 16-inch bar. It is easy to start and handle. This chainsaw is suitable for various yard tasks. The fuel pump and combined choke make starting simple. It works best for cutting small to medium branches.

Pros

Easy start-up process. Lightweight design enhances control. Versatile for many home tasks.

Cons

Limited power for large jobs. Smaller cutting capacity compared to larger models.

This chainsaw is a good fit for beginners. It’s also ideal for light yard work and trimming.

Choose the Husqvarna 130 for a reliable, easy-to-use chainsaw for small jobs.

2. Best for Daily Use

Seesii Mini Chainsaw, 6-inch Mini Chainsaw Cordless, Handheld Electric Power Chain Saw with 2 Batteries, for Tree Trimming Wood Cutting, Best Gifts for…

$35.99 $39.99
in stock
Amazon.com
  • POWERFUL & SMOOTH CUTTING: SEESII mini chainsaw is equipped with a powerful 900W motor and a precision-hardened chain, achieving chain speeds up to 30ft/s. Cut effortlessly through wood up to 15cm thick in just 7 seconds, as smoothly as a hot knife through butter. Even thicker pieces of wood that other chainsaws struggle with are easily cut. Compared to traditional motors, it offers 30% higher cutting efficiency and doubles the lifespan, saving you the cost of frequent machine replacements.
  • ONE-HANDED OPERATION, WOMEN FRIENDLY: This mini chainsaw cordless weighs only 2.7 pounds, just 23% of the weight of a bulky, large gasoline chainsaw, making it especially suitable for women, the elderly, and arthritis sufferers, preventing fatigue even during long working hours. It’s also ideal for DIY beginners, as it’s fully assembled; simply insert a fully charged battery to start cutting. The ergonomic design ensures optimal grip, providing both efficiency and a comfortable user experience.
  • LONG-LIFE BATTERY: SEESII pruning saw is equipped with two powerful 21V 2000 mAh batteries, providing up to 80-100 minutes of continuous operation, enough to cut over 100 pieces of wood consecutively. You can cut without worrying about interruptions, even in the field! Suitable for garden pruning, timber cutting, branch trimming, and shrub trimming. Furthermore, higher quality cells and overload and temperature protection features can significantly extend battery life.
  • SAFETY FIRST: The double safety lock of the electic chainsaw prevents accidental activation, and the chain guard effectively prevents debris from flying everywhere. The low-recoil design enhances stability and ensures your safe operation. Its low operating noise ensures it won’t disturb neighbors or family members, even when working in the early morning or evening. The perfect combination of powerful performance and thoughtful design makes this chainsaw the ideal assistant for your daily work.
  • COMPLETE SET FOR IMMEDIATE USE- EVERYTHING INCLUDED: Open the box, add the battery, and begin cutting—no assembly needed for the bar and chain. The package includes everything you need: 2 batteries, 2 chains (one pre-installed), 1 oil bottle(oil not included), 1 pair of gloves, 1 charger, 1 nut driver, and 1 screwdriver. With these essentials, you can start working right away without any extra cost or wasted time.
  • A PERFECT GIFT & WORRY-FREE AFTER-SALES SERVICE: SEESII battery chainsaw is a wonderful gift for men, husbands, and fathers, suitable for various special occasions such as Valentine’s Day, Father’s Day, Christmas, Thanksgiving, or anniversaries. It will surprise people of all ages, and no man will refuse it. We offer a 2-year after-sales service. If you require service for your purchased product, please feel free to contact us for a replacement and refund (no return required).
Updated: 22 hours ago

The SeeSii Mini Chainsaw features a 6-inch bar and a powerful 900W motor. It cuts through wood up to 15cm thick. With a speed of 30ft/s, it delivers smooth and quick cuts. This model is handheld, making it easy to maneuver.

Pros

Compact size for easy storage. Fast cutting with minimal effort. Great for indoor or small outdoor projects.

Cons

Limited cutting capacity for larger logs. May require frequent battery charging during extended use.

This mini chainsaw is perfect for homeowners with small yards. It’s also suitable for gift giving on occasions like Father’s Day.

The SeeSii Mini Chainsaw is a powerful tool for quick and easy cutting tasks.

3. Best Budget

VEVOR Gas Powered Chainsaw 25.4CC 2-Cycle 12 Inch 1.2HP Cordless Chain Saw

$82.71 $109.99
in stock
Amazon.com
  • High-Strength Steel: Cut trees quickly with our gas chainsaw, thanks to its high-strength steel chain and bar. The 12″ bar reduces sawdust splatter, keeping your work area cleaner and safer. This chainsaw is designed to boost your efficiency and comfort on the job. If you encounter startup issues, please don’t hesitate to contact our customer service for assistance.
  • Flexible and Lightweight: Our gas powered chainsaw is easy to handle with its lightweight design and 25.4CC engine. It cuts through wood smoothly without any stalls. With 1.2HP power, 0.75KW/8500 RPM engine speed, and the max speed reaching up to 11500 RPM, you’ll enjoy a nimble and effortless cutting experience.
  • Easy Cutting: Tackle both trimming and felling tasks with ease. The gasoline powered chain saw’s cutting diameter reaches 9.84″/250 mm, making it versatile for all your outdoor cutting needs.
  • Easy to Handle: Weighing just 9.26 lbs/4.2 kg, this top handle gas chainsaw is comfortable to use with one hand and won’t tire you out. Its ergonomic wrap-around handle ensures a secure grip, so you can work longer without discomfort.
  • Durable Fuel Tank: Built with a tough outer shell, our top handle chainsaw’s fuel tank withstands rough conditions and prevents leaks. With a 0.24 qt/230ml fuel tank and a 0.17 qt/160ml chain oil tank, you’ll spend less time refueling and more time cutting.
Updated: 22 hours ago

The Getell 63cc Gas Chainsaw features a 20-inch bar and two chains. Its 63cc engine delivers strong performance for demanding cuts. The additional chains allow you to work longer without interruptions. This chainsaw is great for firewood and storm cleanup.

Pros

Powerful engine for tough jobs. Backup chains ensure continuous operation. Longer bar for bigger cuts.

Cons

Heavier than smaller models. May be harder to handle for beginners.

It suits users with large properties needing heavy-duty cutting. Best for those experienced with chainsaws.

The Getell chainsaw is ideal for users who need a reliable tool for large cutting tasks.

4. Best for Small Spaces

SEESII 12-Inch Electric Chainsaw Cordless, Brushless Motor

$88.99 $107.99
in stock
Amazon.com
  • High-Capacity 4.0Ah Battery Cut longer and work smarter with two long-lasting 4.0Ah lithium batteries that delivers extended runtime for big jobs. The built-in battery indicator ensures you’re always in control, so you’ll never run out of power unexpectedly.
  • 1200W Brushless Motor – Unstoppable Cutting Force Dominate tough cuts with a high-efficiency 1200W brushless motor, engineered for ultra-fast chain speeds and smoother performance. Effortlessly slice through hardwoods, thick logs, and storm debris—perfect for demanding tasks.
  • 12-Inch Cutting Bar – Tackle Big Projects From pruning branches to cutting lumber, the 12-inch cutting capacity handles it all. Ideal for yard work, camping, construction, and emergency cleanup.
  • Smart Auto-Oiling System – Effortless Maintenance The intelligent lubrication system adjusts oil flow based on cutting speed, keeping the chain cool and smooth during heavy use. The 60mL oil tank reduces downtime so you can cut without interruptions.
  • Lightweight & Cordless – Total Freedom Weighing just 12 lbs , this compact, wireless chainsaw lets you work anywhere—no cords, no limits. Perfect for remote job sites, rooftops, or backyard projects.
Updated: 22 hours ago

The SEESII 12-Inch Electric Chainsaw features a brushless motor and two 4.0Ah batteries. It offers extended runtime for bigger jobs. The built-in battery indicator helps you monitor power levels. It’s designed for comfort during use.

Pros

Lightweight and easy to handle. Quiet operation compared to gas models. Extended battery life for longer work sessions.

Cons

May struggle with very thick woods. The shorter bar limits cutting size.

This electric chainsaw is a good choice for casual users. It works well for light-duty tasks.

The SEESII 12-Inch is a reliable chainsaw for light cutting tasks with good battery life.

5. Best Compact

Gas Chainsaws 20 Inch 62CC Gas Powered Chainsaw 3.4HP 2 Stroke Engine Gas Power Chain Saw for Cutting Wood Outdoor Garden Farm Home

$89.99 $113.99
in stock
Amazon.com
  • High Performance–62cc 3.4hp powerful gas chainsaw delivers steady power to the 20-inch bar and low-kickback chain. The engine speed can be up to 8500 rpm. Ideal tool for cutting firewood and felling trees with a much higher efficiency
  • Auto Oiler–Automatic oil supply system delivers a steady supply of bar and chain oil for safe and effective use, and extends the life of the chainsaw.While providing the highest cutting performance helps reduce fuel consumption by 20%. More environmentally
  • Reliable and Professional–Professional gas chain saw, equipped with high quality chain and high hardness bar, fast cutting, more durable and high wear resistance, not easy to drop chain, having a longer using life
  • Ergonomic Design — The comfortable handle design, non-slip and shock-absorbing, not easy to fatigue for a long-term use, making this chainsaw balanced, maneuverable, and comfortable to operate, use more securely
  • Warranty: We are committed to providing our customers with high-quality products and exceptional customer service. Amazon’s return policy does not cover gasoline-related products, so if you have any questions, please contact us directly by Amazon Email or our official website
Updated: 22 hours ago

The VEVOR 20-inch Gas Powered Chainsaw has a 62cc engine with 3.8 HP. It can cut thick trunks and branches efficiently. The 20-inch bar allows for larger cuts. It’s suitable for both home and professional tasks.

Pros

Powerful engine for heavy-duty cutting. Large bar for efficient work. Dual fuel tanks extend operation time.

Cons

Heavier design may be challenging for some users. Requires regular maintenance for optimal performance.

This chainsaw is ideal for users needing power for logging or extensive yard work. It’s great for professionals.

The VEVOR 20-inch chainsaw is a strong option for demanding cutting tasks in various situations.

6. Most Versatile

VEVOR 20inch 62CC Gas Powered Chainsaw, 3.8 HP 2 Stroke Engine Gas Power Chainsaws with Non-Slip Handle, Gas Chainsaws with Dual Fuel Tanks, For Wood…

$104.56 $115.90
in stock
Amazon.com
  • Powerful Performance: This 62cc gas chainsaw features a 3.8 HP (2.8 kW) engine with a 12,000 rpm Max speed, making it ideal for home and professional logging. The 20 in (508 mm) guide bar cuts diameter up to 18 in (455 mm), efficiently handling thick trunks and large branches. If you encounter startup issues, please don’t hesitate to contact our customer service for assistance.
  • Easy Start Function: Our 62cc chainsaw offers cold and hot start options, adapting to different working environments. Use the choke switch, start switch, and pull the rope to begin, quickly entering work mode.
  • Emergency Stop for Security: The gas chain saw features an emergency stop function. Just press the stop lever, and the chainsaw will immediately cease operation. Additionally, the guard design effectively avoids wood chips from flying, ensuring your security.
  • Adaptable to Outdoor Conditions: The PA6+30%GP composite body provides excellent impact-resistant ability and high-temperature durability. Whether in cold winter or hot summer, this gas-powered chainsaw delivers stable performance, avoiding body cracking and oil leakage.
  • Thoughtful Design Features: The chainsaw has a 550 ml (0.14 gal) fuel tank and 260 ml (0.07 gal) chain oil tank for extended use. The 40:1 fuel mixture ensures continuous lubrication, reducing wear. The extended pull rope makes starting easier, and the chain adjuster allows for easy tension adjustments for optimal performance.
Updated: 22 hours ago

The VEVOR 25.4CC Gas Powered Chainsaw has a 12-inch bar and is lightweight. It features a high-strength steel chain for quick cuts. This model reduces sawdust splatter for cleaner work areas. It is good for small projects and tree trimming.

Pros

Lightweight and portable design. Quick cutting capability. Cleaner workspace due to reduced splatter.

Cons

Limited cutting size with a 12-inch bar. May not be powerful enough for tougher jobs.

This chainsaw suits users needing a lightweight tool for minor tasks. Great for homeowners with small yards.

The VEVOR 25.4CC chainsaw is perfect for light cutting tasks and convenient handling.

7. Best Design

Getell 63cc Gas Chainsaw, 20-Inch 2-Cycle with Two Bars and Chains

$119.99 $199.99
PRIMEPRIME
in stock
Amazon.com
  • Keep The Job Moving: Two 20-in bars and two chains give you a ready backup cutting set if a bar is pinched or worn, helping reduce avoidable downtime during longer firewood, ranch, or storm-cleanup projects
  • Power Through Demanding Cuts: The 63cc 3.2KW 2-cycle engine is rated at 8500 rpm, giving you strong cutting output for large logs, firewood, and property cleanup when steady progress matters
  • Stay In Control Longer: The anti-vibration handle, ergonomic grip, fast-acting chain brake, and low-kickback design help you manage the saw with greater control and less transmitted vibration through extended sessions
  • Start And Lubricate With Less Fuss: CDI ignition supports dependable starts, while the automatic oiler feeds the cutting system during use so this gas powered chainsaw keeps your workflow moving with fewer interruptions
  • Get The Core Kit In One Box: Includes the powerhead, two 20-in bars, two chains, bar cover, fuel mixer, and tool kit for tree felling, bucking, firewood prep, and acreage work, reducing extra sourcing before the job
Updated: 22 hours ago

The Husqvarna 450 Rancher features a 20-inch bar and a powerful 50.2cc engine. It combines ergonomic design with gas power. Quick start features help you get to work faster. Suitable for yard cleanups and firewood cutting.

Pros

Ergonomic design enhances comfort. Powerful engine for efficient cuts. Quick start for user convenience.

Cons

Heavier than smaller chainsaws. Requires more maintenance than electric models.

Ideal for those with larger properties needing a reliable tool for serious yard work. Good for experienced users.

The Husqvarna 450 Rancher offers power and comfort for demanding cutting jobs.

8. Best Splurge

Husqvarna 130 Gas Powered Chainsaw, 16 Inch

$187.99 $259.99
in stock
Amazon.com
  • Husqvarna 130 16 inch gas chainsaw is easy to start and easy to handle, making it one of your valuable yard tools for a variety of home and garden tasks—recommended for use with bar lengths between 14 inches (min) and 16 inches (max)
  • Effortless Start-Up: fuel pump and combined choke/stop control allow easier starting and reduce the risk of engine flooding, while gas chainsaw 16 inch blade has an inertia-activated chain brake to reduce the likelihood of injury due to kickback
  • Superior Performance: Gas chain saw delivers superior performance with an efficient 38-cc, 2-HP X-TORQUE Engine. Patented engine technology maximizes power, even at low RPMs. This chainsaw can make a great gift for men who work outdoors
  • Air Injection Technology: Equipped with a centrifugal air cleaning system that expels larger dust and debris particles before they reach the air filter for improved engine life. This chainsaw gas powered product suits Fathers Day gifts
  • Easy Handling: This cordless hand chainsaw features LowVib technology that uses dampeners to reduce vibrations and minimize operator fatigue for easier handling of recommended 14 to 16-inch chainsaw bars. Our chainsaws are great for mens gift ideas
Updated: 22 hours ago

The SEESII 40V Electric Chainsaw features an 18-inch bar and a 2200W motor. It provides cutting performance similar to gas models. The two included batteries ensure you can work longer. This chainsaw is efficient for heavy cutting tasks.

Pros

High power for effective cuts. Long battery life for extended use. Quiet operation makes it user-friendly.

Cons

May be more expensive than smaller models. Requires access to charging for batteries.

This electric chainsaw is suitable for users needing a powerful, quiet tool. Ideal for larger projects.

<!– MISSING PROSE: verdict:8 –>

Chainsaws Compared Side by Side

The table below compares the best chainsaw under 400 options. You’ll find information on cutting length, power source, and weight. This can help you decide which chainsaw fits your needs best.

# Product Best for Brand Price Link
1 Husqvarna 130 Gas Powered Chainsaw Best Overall Husqvarna $187.99 Check
2 Seesii Mini Chainsaw Best for Daily Use SeeSii $35.99 Check
3 Getell 63cc Gas Chainsaw Best Budget Getell $119.99 Check
4 SEESII 12-Inch Electric Chainsaw Cordless Best for Small Spaces seesii $88.99 Check
5 VEVOR 20inch 62CC Gas Powered Chainsaw Best Compact VEVOR $104.56 Check
6 VEVOR Gas Powered Chainsaw 25.4CC 2-Cycle 12 Inch 1.2HP… Most Versatile VEVOR $82.71 Check
7 Husqvarna 450 Rancher 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw Best Design Husqvarna $399 Check
8 SEESII 40V Electric Chainsaw Cordless 18-Inch with 2 x… Best Splurge Seesii $199.98 Check
9 Gas Chainsaws 20 Inch 62CC Gas Powered Chainsaw 3.4HP 2… — SALEM MASTER $89.99 Check
10 Tietoc Chainsaw 6 Inch Mini Electric Chainsaw Cordless… — Tietoc Direct $29.99 Check

Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.

How We Reviewed

Where our data comes from

We gathered data from reputable product review sites, manufacturer websites, and user reviews. Our focus was on chainsaws priced under $400.

How we built this shortlist

We reviewed over 30 chainsaws based on features, performance, and user ratings. We prioritized those that have solid user feedback and meet specific power and size criteria.

What we ruled out and why

Chainsaws that had poor user ratings or lacked essential features such as safety measures were removed from our list. We also excluded models that were too heavy for general home use.

What we did not do

No products were tested by hand or measured in a lab. All scores and recommendations are based on available data and user reviews.

How often this page is updated

This page will be updated regularly to reflect new models and user feedback. We aim to refresh it every three to six months.

How to Choose Chainsaws

Power Source

Choose between gas and electric models. Gas chainsaws usually offer more power and longer operation but can be heavier and noisier. Electric chainsaws are lighter and easier to use but may struggle with thicker wood.

Bar Length

Bar length affects cutting capacity. A longer bar, such as 16 inches or more, can handle larger trees. A bar shorter than 12 inches is better for light jobs and trimming small branches.

Weight

Consider the weight of the chainsaw, especially for prolonged use. Heavier models can cause fatigue. Look for chainsaws weighing under 10 lbs if you need something light for regular use.

Battery Life

For cordless electric chainsaws, check the battery capacity. A high-capacity battery (like 4.0Ah or more) will allow you to work longer without recharging. Ensure you have spare batteries for extended tasks.

Safety Features

Look for important safety features, such as chain brakes and hand guards. These features help prevent accidents during operation. Consider a chainsaw with easy-access controls for improved safety.

What to look for

Cutting Capacity

The cutting capacity of a chainsaw is determined by its bar length. A longer bar allows for cutting larger diameters, while a shorter bar may be better for trimming. For heavy-duty tasks, consider bars of at least 16 inches.

Power and Performance

Chainsaw power is typically measured in cc for gas models or watts for electric ones. A higher cc or watt rating generally means better cutting performance. Look for at least 30cc for gas models or 1200W for electric options.

Ergonomics and Comfort

A chainsaw should feel comfortable during use. Look for models with features like anti-vibration handles and lightweight designs. This will reduce fatigue and improve handling, especially for extended periods.

Ease of Maintenance

Chainsaws require regular maintenance. Choose models that allow easy access to the air filter, spark plug, and chain tension adjustments. This will make it easier to keep your chainsaw in good shape.

Durability

A durable chainsaw is essential for long-term use. Look for models with high-quality materials, such as steel bars and tough plastic casings. This will ensure your chainsaw can withstand tough conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best chainsaw under 400?

The best chainsaw under 400 is the Husqvarna 130. It has a 16-inch bar and is easy to start.

Can I use an electric chainsaw for heavy-duty tasks?

Electric chainsaws can handle light to moderate tasks but may struggle with very thick wood. For heavy-duty tasks, gas models are more suitable.

How do I maintain my chainsaw?

Regular maintenance includes cleaning the air filter, checking the chain tension, and sharpening the chain. Always refer to the user manual for specific maintenance requirements.

What is the difference between gas and electric chainsaws?

Gas chainsaws typically offer more power and are better for heavy-duty work. Electric chainsaws are lighter, quieter, and easier to use but are better for lighter tasks.

How long does a chainsaw battery last?

Battery life varies by model. Higher capacity batteries (like 4.0Ah) can last longer. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications.

Sources and standards

Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:

About the author

Radhika Gupta

Radhika Gupta 12+ years

Editor, Best Under 2026

Radhika Gupta builds the buying guides on Best Under 2026. Every shortlist starts from the manufacturer specification and the live Amazon listing, then gets cut down by who the product actually suits. Nothing here is hands-on tested, and we do not pretend otherwise — where a guide names a drawback it comes from the spec sheet or from a pattern in buyer reports, not from a lab. Prices are pulled from Amazon and stamped with the date they were checked. If something here is wrong, email hello@bestunder2026.com and it gets fixed.

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