The Best Small Chainsaws for Women 2023: A Helpful Illustrated Guide

Introducing our latest reviews for the top small chainsaws tailored for women in 2023. Among the wide array of exceptional chainsaws available, a couple of new models have stood out as noteworthy contenders in our testing process. The focus of this article is to pinpoint the chainsaws that are best suited for women, emphasizing the concept that the ideal chainsaw choice should align with individual preferences and needs.

While a plethora of bulky and weighty chainsaws can be easily found, our assessment was centered on lighter models that demand less effort to wield. Opting for a chainsaw with a smaller bar size not only enhances its flexibility but also reduces its weight, allowing extended usage with minimal fatigue. Recognizing that a heavier machine may pose control challenges, we have meticulously evaluated and recommended chainsaws that cater to various requirements, satisfying the preferences of women as well as other buyers seeking manageable, lighter tools. The compact dimensions and reduced weight of these chainsaws not only facilitate effortless maneuverability but also enhance portability.

The pursuit of the best chainsaw for women seamlessly aligns with the pursuit of the best chainsaw for beginners and even the most cost-effective option. The foremost objective is to ascertain the intended application of the tool. As discussed in our guide on Selecting a Chainsaw, the nature of the task at hand and your personal comfort level with the tool are the pivotal starting points for the selection process.

Exploring Chainsaw Types

Three distinct chainsaw categories are available for consideration:

Gas Powered Chainsaws: These chainsaws are prized for their exceptional mobility, robust power, widespread availability, and ease of servicing. However, they do emit noise and fumes, are relatively heavier, and come with higher maintenance costs.

Corded Electric Chainsaws: Electric chainsaws offer the advantage of being lightweight, cost-effective, fume-free, and requiring lower maintenance. On the downside, their range is limited by the length of the electric cord. Operating in remote areas or forests without electrical access necessitates a portable generator. Moreover, they are less powerful compared to gas chainsaws, suitable primarily for smaller tasks.

Battery Powered Chainsaws: Battery-operated chainsaws, while less potent than their counterparts, excel in versatility, quiet operation, and minimal maintenance requirements. The advent of brushless motor tools has enabled efficient power adjustments between the battery pack and motor, optimizing performance. These chainsaws handle a variety of homeowner tasks, although they are not as robust as other chainsaw types. Additionally, battery-powered tools contribute to an environmentally friendly approach, further aided by the use of Biodegradable Bar and Chain Oil, crafted from vegetable-based ingredients. This choice not only promotes green technology but also eliminates exposure to petroleum-based products.

Key Criteria for Chainsaw Selection Our selection process for the chainsaws featured in this guide hinged on these vital attributes:

  • Size
  • Weight
  • Portability
  • Functionality

Choosing a chainsaw with a smaller bar size augments its maneuverability and, coupled with reduced weight, ensures extended usage without excessive fatigue. The lightweight design and compact dimensions enhance its portability and ease of use. Whether it’s pruning limbs or cutting firewood, both our recommended options—the best chainsaw for women and the best chainsaw for beginners—stand out as valuable additions to your tool repertoire.

What is the best chainsaw for women could also be considered the best chainsaw for beginners and possibly the best chainsaw for the money. The first objective is to determine what the tool’s intended use is. As written in Selecting a Chainsaw, what type of job is being performed and what tool you can handle are the two most important criteria to begin with during the selection process.

 

Comparison Table

 

 

Echo CS-2511T

Black & Decker LCS1240

Greenworks 16 Inch 60V

Worx WG303.1

Tanaka TCS33EDTP

Makita UC3551A

Bar Length

12”

12”

16”

16”

12”

 14″

Batteries are Included

N/A

Yes

Yes 2 year warranty

N/A

N/A

 n/a

Uses

Pruning, cutting fallen, limbs

Pruning, cutting fallen, limbs

Pruning, cutting fallen, limbs

Firewood, brush, limbs

Firewood, brush, limbs

Firewood, brush, limbs

Weight

5.2 lbs

8.3 lbs

12.lbs

11 lbs

12.4 lbs

12.4 lbs

Power Source

Gas

Cordless

Battery

Corded

Gas

 Corded

System

25 cc 2 stroke

40 volts

60 volts

120 volts 14.5 Amps

32.2 cc 2 stroke engine

 120 volts 14.5 Amps

Tool Warranty

1 year

1 year

4 years

3 years

7 years

 1 year

Echo CS-2511T

 

Features

The Echo website calls out this saw as for use by tree service professionals only.  However, knowledgeable and skillful operators may also use this tool. 

For Use by Tree Service Pros

The new Echo chainsaw features an inventive top-mounted bar oiler. In contrast to the  customary location on the bottom of the saw, the top-mounting allows the user simple access, as well as keeping the oil adjustment screw from getting blocked.  The owner can modify the flow rate of the saw’s oil by adjusting the bar oiler. The oiler only functions when the chain moves.  This spares oil and prevents it from puddling under the saw when it is idle. We have seen puddles of oil under both electric/battery and gas powered chainsaws.

Joe Fahey Echo Vice President describes the saw like this. He says,With a lighter product, end users have less operator fatigue which equals greater efficiency. A more compact saw gives users more maneuverability around tightly woven branches.”

Light weight is this saw’s value proposition, it weights slightly over 5 pounds. And although Echo touts it as a professional’s saw any user who wants to add a solid tool to their tool box should consider this one.  Yes it is a small saw that is dedicated to small work, it is not designed for felling trees.  All tools have their place this one is not different, if you are looking for a light weight professional saw for removing smaller limbs then this is your tool . 

Pros

  • Professional tool with good price point
  • Small and Lightweight
  • Excellent for climbers
  • 12 or 14 inch bar
  • Fast idle choke

Cons

  • Not a tool for amatuers
  • 14” bar is standard, 12 “ is better for tight work.
  • Sporatic reviews of oiler stopped working

Our Conclusion

Even though this was a very small light saw, it still surprises you when you actually see it. Light-weight on a belt, starts very easy and cuts like a much bigger saw. For tree climbing this is a fantastic saw. We highly recommend it.

Black & Decker LCS1240 40V

Features

One of the best features of the Black and Decker 40 volt chainsaw is its side-loading 40V battery,  2-cycle fuel is not needed with this saw. You still need to add chain oil to keep the Oregon 12″ bar and chain lubricated, but the battery and electric motor is what is driving the saw as it cuts. The chain tension is controlled by first loosening the black bar and then adjusting the locking knob on the right side of the saw. This allows the tightening of the orange tension knob to adjust the proper tension of the chain. A properly tightened chain will show a maximum of 1/8″ of give/space at the bottom of the chain when you pull on it. It should snap back snug into place when you let go. The chain will stretch and expand slightly as it heats up during use, so only a little slack is required.
Starting the saw is easy. First, insert the charged 40V battery, pull back on the lock-off button with your thumb, and then pull the trigger. There is about a one-second delay before the saw starts. This can be disturbing at first, and may be changed with future releases of this saw.

This is a 40-volt max lithium-ion cordless chainsaw. This product kicks gas. The tool free chain tension feature is convenient for quick and easy chain adjustments. Easily rotate the inner dial to unlock the bar and turn the outer dial to adjust the chain tension for optimal cutting efficiency. This chain saw is equipped with a premium 12 inch Oregon low-kickback bar and chain running at five meters per second for a fast cut speed. It is equipped with an automatic oiling system, this eliminates priming and assures your bar and chain receive the proper lubrication. There is a clear window to gauge the oil level. This 40-volt max chainsaw offers power runtime and versatility all without the weight, noise and hassle of gas-powered equipment.  At 8.3 pounds the chainsaw is lightweight and its full wraparound handle provides a comfortable grip. This high power, small compact chainsaw with a lithium-ion battery with long life the 40-volt max 2.0-amp hour lithium-ion battery included with this chainsaw makes over 60 cuts and 4×4 pine lumber on average per single charge.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Battery operated
• Batteries interchangeable
• Price

Cons

• Smaller bar size
• Ordinary performance
• Not long battery life

Safety

Even as manufactures continue to develop additional safety features, a chainsaw can be a dangerous tool if not used properly. Read the operation manual and do not presume to know everything there is to know about chainsaw operation. Work with a companion, not alone. When working in wooded areas carry first aid, food, water and a cell phone and leave a note. Wear chainsaw safety clothing aka personal protective equipment.
• Helmet
• Visor or goggles
• Chainsaw safety mitt
• Ear protection
• Trousers
• Jacket
• Gloves
• Boots

Our Conclusion

The obvious plus is the weight and the way the saw handles. This saw was not as powerful as other cordless saws we used. This saw does not provide hard-hitting cutting and huge power reserves. On the other hand, this is a good saw for convenience and cost. This is one of the least expensive cordless chainsaws on the market, but with the Greenworks 40V DigiPro 16″ chainsaw coming in at about the same price, it’s going to be tough to recommend the Black and Decker over it unless you don’t plan on cutting a lot of thicker wood.

Greenworks Pro 60 Volt 16-Inch  Cordless Chainsaw

A 60-volt lithium ion battery and that means no gas and no harmful environmental emissions powers this saw like many of the Green Works tools. This saw has brushless motors that generate power more efficiently with less stress on the motor and its parts. The result is a motor that offers superior power and a long lifespan. It is very easy to start, there is no pulling a cord all you have to do is push a button. There are no exhaust fumes or loud noise as with a gas-powered chain saw.  This Green Works chainsaw also powers the entire family of Green Works 60 volt tools.

Features

The Greenworks Pro is a 60-volt cordless chainsaw that runs on a lithium-ion battery. As most battery powered tool this chainsaw battery requires charging before each use.  The short time to charge will provide little inconvenience.  It features tool-less chain tensioning, a built-in debris shield, and an auto-oiler with an easy-check mechanism that allows you to check the oil status at a glance.

  • Lightweight less than 9.5 pounds
  • Push button start
  • Tool-less chain adjustments
  • Automatic oiler system
  • Brushless motors, 30% more torque, 70% less vibration, longer life.
  • Chain brake prevents kick back
  • 2AH Battery and Charger
  • Heavy duty 16-inch Oregon bar and chain
  • 16″ bar can handle large crosscuts up to 30″

Pros

  • Brushless motor equals more power
  • Lightweight
  • Quick release trigger
  • 16 inch bar
  • Interchangeable use with other Greenworks G-MAX 40V System tools

Cons

  • Battery gives limited run time
  • Lack of service centers
  • Only compatible with Greenworks G-MAX batteries

Safety

Always read the user manual no matter what your previous expertise is. The safety features are consistent with other saws and there is not anything vastly different. The regular low kickback and chain brake work well, and you can expect an efficient performance, even under poor conditions.

Our Conclusion

An excellent alternative to a gas chainsaw is the Greenworks G-MAX 40v 16-inch Digipro brushless chainsaw comes close to the best alternative to it. It possesses enough power to tackle big jobs and works with little noise and vibration. The 4.6 out of 5-star rating it has on Amazon reflects users’ evaluations.

Worx WG303.1

Features

This chainsaw is a suitable power tool with more than enough power to cut through relatively thick trees and it should be given serious consideration. It is a corded saw pulling 14. 5 amps on 120 volts. Limbs, light brush and pruning cutting make it ideal for the homeowner. The gauge window shows oil levels and coupled with the automatic oil lube system should prevent running out of oil, as long you keep your eye on the window.
As stated earlier in this review, these chainsaws work well for beginners as well as women. The auto tension system eliminates the need for any of the fine adjustments that are normal for chain tension fine-tuning.

Safety

Safety is very important because chainsaws are one of the most dangerous power tools. Care and caution need to be taken when using a chainsaw. When choosing a saw select one that is comfortable and manageable for you.
The WORX WG303.1 16-inch chainsaw is lightweight and easily handled. These two features contribute to the saws safety.
The chain brake system automatically activates when the saw is incorrectly used or when kickback occurs.

Pros

• Light
• Easy to Use
• Quiet
• Auto chain tensioning

Cons

• Not powerful enough for big jobs
• 4 hour battery life
• Performance deteriorates with longer extension cords

Our Conclusion

This chainsaw is for the budget conscious buyer. It will serve the occasional user quite well. There are limitations with this chainsaw and it is the power source. When compared to gasoline-powered saws electric saws are not as powerful. As with any tool the selection boils down to your needs and requirements.

Tanaka TCS33EDTP

Features

The Tanaka Company is part of the Hitachi Power Tools group. If you desire a light duty, top handle gas saw with great cutting power, and then the Tanaka TCS33EDTP/14 32.2cc 14-Inch Top Handle Chainsaw may be what you are looking for.
This tool packs power and the price is at a fraction of other well-known brands. It is easy to start. At 12 pounds it weighs more than the corded and cordless saws however, it is not beyond being manageable and it is backed by a 7-year warranty. The 14-inch top hand chainsaw is popular for its PureFire engine, which could ensure its users the best performance possible. Shaping, pruning, or cutting trees for a job or personal use, this chainsaw fits the bill.

• CARB Compliant 32.2 cc PureFire EngineAir Resources Board
• Extra Large Fuel Tank
• Easy Start-Up with a half-choke and purge primer bulb to easily start your tool
• Five-Point Anti-Vibration System
• Two-Bar Mounting Studs assures a sharp chain and effective peak cutting
• Automatic Oiler

Safety

This saw’s handgrip makes it easy to hold. The low kick back feature adds to its safety. The following are safety features of this machine.
• A chain brake stops the chain in the event of kickback
• A chain catcher protects the operator in the event of chain failure.
• Throttle trigger lockout prevents the accidental use of the throttle trigger
• Front hand guard protects the user’s left hand
• Anti-vibration system helps reduce vibration and fatigue

Pros

• Well balanced with handle above the motor
• Easy start, easy to operate
• Powerful machine for light duty work
• Excellent cutting performance
• Low price for professional grade saw
• Suitable for tree work

Cons

• 12 pounds is heavier than other models
• Gas saws requires more maintenance

Our Conclusion

The Tanaka is not a cheap saw; however, you will find that it costs far less than some other well-known brand, commercial grade top handle saws. It will work for you if you are an experienced chainsaw user and do light cutting tasks. Based on our review, as well as the excellent user feedback, we believe this tool offers excellent value for the money.