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Chainsaws can be a pretty substantial investment – but they do not necessarily need to be. You can find good quality chainsaws for less than $200, believe it or not. Read on to learn the best deals for the highest quality products. We did the research so you do not have to!
Comparison Chart of the Best Chainsaws Under $200
Product | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
Dewalt DCCS620B 20V MAX XR  | Best Overall | |
Oregon CS1500  | Runner-up | |
Remington RM4216  | Best for the Money | |
Husqvarna 120 Mark II  | Best Gas Chainsaw Under $200 | |
Greenworks 12-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw  | Editor's Pick |
Can You Find a Quality Chainsaw Under $200?
Reading the title of this article may have seemed counterintuitive to you – if you have spent any time at all browsing the wide world of chainsaws, you know that there are models that can run up to (and even far past) $500. So wouldn’t a $200 saw be, well, a little less quality than those other models?
The truth is, when it comes to chainsaws, price is not necessarily an indicator of quality.
You should certainly be a bit more discerning when it comes to lower cost models, as sometimes manufacturers do skate over some flaws when the saw carries a smaller price tag. But this is definitely not the case with all saws – see our list below for some awesome options at a lower price.
What Should I Look for When Buying a Chainsaw?
How do you know what chainsaw is right for you? Here’s how to choose a chainsaw:
Length
What are you intending to cut? If you are mostly doing casual yard work, you can probably get away with a shorter chainsaw, but if you are going to be cutting firewood, a longer chainsaw would be a better bet for you.
Power Source
Chainsaws are typically powered by either a gasoline engine, an electric cord, or a rechargeable battery. These sources range in pros and cons, from the most powerful (gas) to the most convenient (battery power). Find the choice that’s best for you.
Weight
These power tools are exceptionally dangerous, we are not going to lie. The last thing you want is a saw that is too heavy for you to maneuver for long periods of time – the more tired you are, the greater the safety risk. Find a saw at a weight you can handle.
Quick Take: Best Chainsaws Under $200
Hoping to cut right to the chase? Below are the best chainsaws under $200:
Review of the Best Chainsaws Under $200
Want to see the best saw options at the lowest prices? Check out these products:
Best Overall:
Dewalt DCCS620B 20V MAX XR
PROS
CONS
What Are People Saying?
Users are big fans of the tool-less operation system on this model. Whether you are looking at tensioning the chain, or tightening the guide bar, you will not need to mess around with any screwdrivers or wrenches. Nothing but your hands are needed to operate this model!
What We Love About It
We were impressed that DEWALT recognized the very best brands in the business: Oregon. This saw comes with a built in Oregon chain, so you will not have to make an additional purchase to upgrade the factory model, as with most saws.
Who’s This Perfect For?
If you want a chainsaw for under $200 that can do pretty much anything you ask of it, this is the option for you. This model is not just recommended for yard work and other casual homeowner use, but also for professional construction project use as well.
Final Thoughts
The DEWALT model was far and above our top choice, thanks to its versatility, it tool-less operation, its included high quality Oregon chain, and much, much more. If you want a saw that can do it all, you can’t go wrong with this DEWALT.
Runner-up:
Oregon CS1500
PROS
CONS
What Are People Saying?
People really appreciate how easy this model is to operate. Because of its electric powered system, it is a lot more simple to maintain than its gas powered counterparts. Plus, it has some awesome convenience features, including a signal when the oil is running low.
What We Love About It
We are big fans of the self sharpening chain system on this model. A self sharpening chain is proven to last much longer than a chain that you need to sharpen yourself regularly, and it will save you a ton of work. Also, this saw is a lot quieter than many of the other models available on the market today.
Who’s This Perfect For?
We actually have a bit of a cautionary warning with this saw – because it is heavier than some of the other models on this list, we recommend that beginners and those new to operating chainsaws stay away from this model. The Oregon CS1500 is best operated by someone with a decent amount of chainsaw experience.
Final Thoughts
This Oregon model is top notch in the areas of self sharpening chains, reduced noise levels, simplicity of operation, and lack of required maintenance. It should probably only be operated by those who have worked with chainsaws before, but if you do use it, you will not be disappointed.
Best for the Money:
Remington RM4216
PROS
CONS
What Are People Saying?
Users are super impressed that this model comes with its own included carrying case. This may seem like a frivolous addition, but in actuality it is exceptionally convenient and helpful, and also helps the saw stay clean when it is not in use so that it can operate at full capacity.
What We Love About It
It may seem like it is too good to be true, but it is in fact true – a Remington model chainsaw at such an exceptionally low price. You may suspect there is some sort of defect in this model, but in actuality, it is just a fantastically good deal!
Who’s This Perfect For?
This saw is an excellent option for homeowner use. It has some great built in safety features, such as a more balanced weight than other models available on the market, and a chain brake. These features make it a good option for casual users or those new to operating chainsaws.
Final Thoughts
This Remington model is an awesome option for anyone seeking a saw that really prioritizes the user in its design, yet will not break the bank. From added safety features to an included carrying case, Remington seems to have thought of everything when creating this saw.
Best Gas Chainsaw Under $200:
Husqvarna 120 Mark II
PROS
CONS
What Are People Saying?
Users are reporting that this Husqvarna is able to strike the exact right balance between size and power. It is lightweight enough to be able to maneuver around easily, yet still boasts a 2.4 horsepower engine – despite being just under ten pounds in total.
What We Love About It
We always appreciate any attention to detail when it comes to improving chainsaw operation safety, and this model does not disappoint. It has a built-in safety brake to prevent any unwanted accidents, and the more ergonomic design will reduce user fatigue.
Who’s This Perfect For?
If you want a gas chainsaw that can get the job done for you but still come in at under $200, this is the ideal model for you. It is best intended for casual yard work, and you can trust that Husqvarna will provide the support you need if you ever experience an issue.
Final Thoughts
The Husqvarna 120 Mark II is an all around excellent product option, particularly if you are looking for a gas model from the reliable Husqvarna brand to do your regular yard work. It is durable and built to last, and strikes the best balance between size and overall power.
Editor's Pick:
Greenworks 12-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw
PROS
CONS
What Are People Saying?
People are impressed with the warranty options provided with this model. Greenworks automatically includes a four year warranty, and also gives you the opportunity to add more years onto that warranty if you would like.
What We Love About It
This is the top cordless model we were able to find, and we just need to emphasize how awesome it is to be working with a cordless chainsaw. And for this model in particular, the battery life on a Greenworks will last for just as long as a typical tank of gas will for a gas powered saw, so you do not need to worry about reducing your efficiency with this model.
Who’s This Perfect For?
Anyone who may be looking for a lighter weight chainsaw will find the tool of their dreams with this model. Many users who were most satisfied with this saw are senior gardeners who need something that is easy to operate but still super effective.
Final Thoughts
This saw is a top notch product, particularly for those engaging in casual use who want something that will not break their back if they have to operate it for an extended period of time. With its other great features such as extended warranty options and cordless capability, this saw will not fail to impress.
Advantages of Investing in a Quality Chainsaw
Here are some of the factors that can help you narrow down your decision making:
Safety Features
Like we have been saying, chainsaws are just straight up dangerous. Safety features such as an automatic brake, an additional chain guard, or a two button push start system can make a big difference in helping you hold on to all your fingers.
Durability
Chainsaws do really tough work, and as a result, they can wear down faster than other tools might. Higher quality chainsaws are made of more durable material (and usually less plastic) and will be able to go the distance for you to last a long time.
Lack of Required Maintenance
The last thing you want is to constantly be spending time you could be getting your projects done on changing out your chainsaw chain, or fixing its oiling system. Higher quality saws can help you avoid all that by requiring less overall work to maintain them at a high level.
How to Change a Chainsaw Chain
Make sure your chainsaw is not running!! We cannot emphasize this step enough.
- Locate the two nuts holding the bar to the saw, and loosen them using a wrench.
- Remove the nuts and, in turn, the side cover of the saw.
- While the side cover is removed, this is a great opportunity to also clean any debris that may have built up inside the chainsaw.
- Pull the chainsaw bar off the stud and unhook the chain from the drum.
- With the bar removed, take a moment to make sure it is still straight and not bent or twisted at all.
- Clean out the groove of the bar, as well as its oil holes.
- Get your new chain ready. When handling a fresh chain, it may be advisable to wear work gloves, since new chains are extremely sharp.
- Replace the saw bar.
- Make sure the cutting teeth on the chain are facing away from you and towards the front of the saw.
- Hook the chain to the back of the drum and carefully match it all along the length of the bar, including the bottom.
- Reinstall your side case and reattach the nuts.
- Use your wrench to make sure the chain is spinning freely.
- Activate the chain brake to make sure your chain does not move.
Check out the video below for a more in depth overview of how to put on a chainsaw chain:
People Also Ask
We found answers to some of the most frequently asked chainsaw questions:
How Much Does a Good Chainsaw Cost?
This question goes back to what we mentioned earlier, about whether or not you can get a good chainsaw for under $200. The truth is, there is no set cost for a “good” chainsaw.
You can get many high quality models for around $200, or, if you want to spend more, you can pay up to $500.
What is the Best Chainsaw Size for Home Use?
Again, this depends on what exactly your home use entails. If you are doing some light branch work, you could probably get away with a smaller chainsaw. However, if you are going to be regularly cutting felled trees for firewood, you are going to want something larger.
Are Electric Chainsaws as Good as Gas?
The truth is, gas chainsaws definitely have cornered the market when it comes to power. If you want something with a lot of punch, gas is your best bet. However, gas chainsaws are also heavier, less safe to operate, more inconvenient to start, and worse for the environment – so it really depends on what you are defining as “good.”
Do Chainsaws Overheat?
Chainsaws can overheat, though there are safety precautions you can take to prevent that from happening, such as taking regular breaks while you are cutting (which is also good practice to prevent your arms from tiring and causing another safety hazard!).
Conclusion
You do not need to break the bank in order to invest in a high quality chainsaw that can go the distance for you. There are plenty of fantastic chainsaw options available for under $200. We have compiled a list of the best choices above – and we promise you will not be disappointed with our picks.