His interested in DIY started in high school, and eventually led to him studying an BEng in Enginneering at University of California, Berkley and then Mechanical Engineering at Stanford University.
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A chainsaw is a must-have for every homeowner or if your job entails cutting trees and wood. And chainsaws with 16-inch guide bars are the go-to options due to their efficiency in cutting medium trees and trimming. When the need arises, the 16-inch chainsaw can also cut large trees. But which are the best with the market awash with these power tools?
We have compiled this buyer’s guide of the best 16-inch chainsaw to help you when shopping. The 16-inch chainsaws in this piece are from extensive testing by our experienced team. We also interviewed seasoned users to get their opinion about the brands and models. Furthermore, we read reviews from different online platforms to learn about other users’ experiences. Please read it to the end to learn more.
Top Picks for the Best 16-Inch Chainsaw
Before we get into our man review, here are the three best options on the market:
1. Greenworks Cordless Chainsaw: Best Overall 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
This 40V 16-inch chainsaw is our best overall pick thanks to its ability to deliver fade-free power and retain memory even after charging, simplifying its use. Its DigiPro™ Brushless Technology gives it 2x more torque making it to mill faster by maintaining chain speed. The technology also makes the chainsaw quieter hence less disturbance during operation.
The brushless technology behind the motor extends its lifespan and reduces maintenance costs. Greenworks cordless saw comes with an automatic oiler, which extends its chain life, making it durable. Sunrise Global Marketing, LLC, manufacturers of this chainsaw, use stainless steel to make it sturdy, giving it a long lifespan.
This 16-inch chainsaw is easy to use thanks to its button push start-up feature. In addition, its tool-less chain tensioning technology enables you to adjust it easily. Greenworks chainsaw light, making it comfortable to use.
It also has a reduced kickback thanks to its metal bucking spikes and safety chain break making it safe to use even for beginners. The chainsaw has a hand guard and trigger, which you can release fast when you lose control of the tool, making it safe.
- 30% more torque
- Easy to handle
- Long battery life
- Safe and sturdy
- Electric control board failure
- Derailing chain
2. Makita XCU04PT Chainsaw: Best 16-Inch Chainsaw with Direct-Drive System
Makita XCU04PT Chainsaw has an outer rotor direct drive system that makes it highly efficient and long-lasting. This technology also gives this power tool a variable speed of 0-3,940 FPM, making the cutting process faster. Powered by two 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion batteries, this chainsaw has an extended run-time making it ideal for offsite work.
This chainsaw doesn’t require an engine oil change, air filter or muffler cleaning, or spark replacement, making it low maintenance. Its extreme protection technology makes it dust and water-resistant, increasing its durability. This model also has computer controls for efficient power management, giving it extended battery life and a longer lifespan.
Its tool-free chain adjustment feature makes adjusting the chain’s tension easy. In addition, the auto-oil lubrication makes using it less messy and prevents chain damage. The oiling system has a large oil reservoir that keeps enough of this lubricant. This power tool also has a variable speed trigger which enables controlling the chain speed control to suit your needs.
This tool comes with a front hand guard, which you can use to activate the chain guard, making it safe. Makita XCU04PT also has a built-in lock-off lever which prevents its chain from accidentally engaging. This feature also enhances its safety.
- Brushless motor direct-drive system
- High chain speed
- Auto power-off function
- Variable speed trigger
- Built-in lock-off lever
- Narrow bar
- Chain pops off
3. Worx Nitro Cordless Chainsaw: Best 16-Inch Chainsaw With Brushless Motor
Worx is a cordless 16-inch chainsaw with a brushless motor making it more efficient, 25% more powerful, and 50% longer operation time. In addition, this technology gives it a 10% longer lifespan since the magnets in its motor don’t have to touch other components for charge transmission.
This award-winning chainsaw features a 16-inch high-speed bar and chain, making it ideal for pro-level use. The one-step tool-less chain-tensioning technology enables fast and convenient chain adjustment for efficiency.
Worx Nitro cordless chainsaw comes with a dual slot charger for faster charging. In addition, its 2-20V Power Share PRO intelligent batteries provide heat and impact protection besides serving for an extended period. You will also find a charge level indicator on this chainsaw, enabling you to know the remaining run time.
With its balanced weight, Worx Nitro cordless chainsaw is also safe due to features such as a chain-break guard. The vibration in this 16-inch saw is low due to its bucking spikes making it safe and causing less fatigue during operation.
- Cost-effective
- High-speed chain
- Dual slot charger
- Chain break guard
- 2-20V Power Share Pro intelligent batteries
- Loose chain
- Made of plastic
4. Poulan Pro PR4016: Best Gas-Powered 16-Inch Chainsaw
Poulan Pro is your go-to chainsaw if you want portability, power, and a longer run time. This power tool features in this list of the best 16-inch chainsaws thanks to its engine that is 40cc and two cycles giving it power for medium-duty work.
Its ergonomic design makes it comfortable to use regardless of duration. In addition, it is lightweight and has an advanced anti-vibration system, minimizing user fatigue. You will also find an onboard scrench on this model from where you can easily access a tool-less chain tensioner.
Thanks to patented OxyPower technology, you can use this chainsaw with unmatched fuel efficiency. Additionally, it has a SuperClean air filter system that reduces gas consumption without sacrificing power. Poulan Pro also has an automatic oiler that is gear driven, lubricating the chain for long service and minimizing maintenance.
This 16-inch gas-powered chainsaw has a standard handle for easy maneuverability. It also has a low-kickback bar and chain, enhancing its safety. Furthermore, Poulan Pro complies with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), making it safe in all 50 states.
- Ergonomic design
- Anti-vibration
- Easily accessible controls
- The SuperClean air filter system
- OxyPower fuel efficiency technology
- Chain loosens
- Frail starter cord
5. Black+Decker Electric Chainsaw (CS1216): Best Corded 16-Inch Chainsaw
Black+Decker electric chainsaw is a corded power tool that will give you unlimited run time on your project. It comes with an extension cord retainer which prevents power interruption when working far from the power source. This chainsaw features a powerful 12 Amp motor making it easy to cut thick wood. It also has a 16-inch kickback bar which enables precision cutting for small cuts.
This chainsaw has a low-kickback bar and chain, making it stable during use. In addition, this feature reduces vibration, resulting in clean cuts and less fatigue. Its tool-free tensioning feature makes it efficient since you can adjust the chain without taking the chainsaw apart.
Its automatic oiling system continuously lubricates the chain, making it easy to maintain. This lubrication system has a clear window that lets you view the oil level to maintain it, reducing the risks of chain damage. In addition, this feature eliminates the need for periodic oiling, which exposes the power tool to damage.
Black+Decker electric chainsaw has a lock-off button that prevents accidental activation, making it safe. It also has a front hand guard that protects you from dangerous flying debris. The power tool also comes with a sheath that prevents accidents when not used.
- Unlimited run time
- 550 watts horsepower
- Easy to assemble
- Less noise
- Push start button
- No chain break
- Oil leak
6. Milwaukee 2727-20 M18 FUEL: Best Battery-Powered 16-Inch Chainsaw
Milwaukee M18 FUEL™ 16″ chainsaw delivers power that cuts through wood easily owing to its 5.3 horsepower delivered by REDLITHIUM™ battery. The battery also gives this chainsaw an extended run-time to enable you to finish your project. Its POWERSTATE™ brushless motor also contributes to the power by maintaining speed under heavy loads.
The chainsaw has a switch trigger making it easy to start. The technology behind this masterwork enables it to reach full throttle in under a second after starting it. As a result, it gives you unmatched control and productivity. Its variable speed trigger also gives you complete control to regulate it depending on the wood you are cutting.
This chainsaw’s REDLINK PLUS™ intelligence also ensures maximum performance, enhancing efficiency. In addition, this technology protects the chainsaw from overloading and overheating, besides discharge giving it a long lifespan.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL™ 16″ chainsaw has a multi-angle handle placed ergonomically, enabling you to hold it horizontally and vertically. This feature comes in handy when cutting rough blocks of wood. Better yet, this chainsaw is sturdy, giving you long service, and it’s low maintenance thanks to its automatic oiling system.
- POWERSTATE™ brushless motor
- REDLINK PLUS™ intelligence
- Lightweight
- Variable speed trigger
- Ergonomic
- Flimsy bar
- Leaking chain oil
7. DeWalt FlexVolt DCCS670X1 Chainsaw: Best 16-Inch User-Friendly Chainsaw
DeWalt FlexVolt DCCS670X1 is a user-friendly tool with a brushless motor making it ideal for low to medium-level duty. This technology also allows more torque, enhancing performance and making your work easy. Its advanced electric motor is less noisy, enabling you to work without wearing earplugs.
It has a 3Ah battery producing 60V power, which is long-lasting to enable you to finish your work without recharging. This DeWalt FlexVolt chainsaw features a thin aluminum alloy and steel bar, which is rust and corrosion free, making it sturdy and durable. The chain lubricates automatically, making it easy to maintain. Its transparent oil window lets you easily monitor the oil level, preventing damage.
This chainsaw comes with tool-free maintenance, making it convenient. It also has a bar retention knob which allows you to adjust the retention if the saw isn’t penetrating deep enough.
DeWalt FlexVolt DCCS670X1 has a sudden chain break which prevents kickback, making it safe. In addition, this feature prevents accidental starts, and you can use it to stop this power tool if it gets out of your hand.
- Safe
- Portable
- Long battery life
- Bar retention knob
- Bar and chain low kickback
- Engaging bar lock
- Cheesy plastic housing
8. Craftsman CMECS600 Chainsaw: Best Electric 16-Inch Chainsaw
This electric chainsaw is also efficient for low or medium-level wood cutting thanks to its powerful 12-amp motor. Craftsman CMECS600 uses an electric code that varies between 50 ft to 100 ft giving you unlimited run time on your project. Furthermore, it has an extension cord retainer to help elongate the power cord. This tool has a start button making it easy to start and operate.
Thanks to its tool-free chain tensioning feature, you can conveniently adjust the chain tension mess-free. In addition, this power tool has an auto-oil feature which keeps the chain lubricated when in use. The automatic oiling system has an oil view window which enables easy level check, preventing chain damage.
Cutting using this chainsaw is comfortable thanks to its low-kickback bar. Its chain also grips the wood perfectly, making the process seamless. Craftsman CMECS600 also has an ergonomic design making it maneuverable.
This chainsaw is lightweight, making it portable and easy to handle. It also comes with a front hand guard, which prevents accidental hand contact with the chain. In addition, it has a guide bar scabbard that enhances its safety.
- Powerful 12-Amp motor
- 100 ft electric cord
- Low kickback
- Easy to assemble
- Enhanced safety
- Fragile tool-free chain tensioning
- Cuts slowly
9. Ryobi Cordless: Best 16-Inch Chainsaw with a Mechanical Chain Brake
Ryobi cordless 16-inch chainsaw features a brushless motor that produces more torque. The electric motor is also less noisy, making it less disturbing. Moreover, this chainsaw has a highly responsive variable speed trigger, making it easy to control.
It is powered by an RYOBI 40-Volt Lithium-ion, which is compatible across tools from this brand, making it economical. This power tool has a long battery life, making it suitable for medium-level clearing jobs. It will take around an hour to fully charge it, minimizing downtime. Lubrication is automatic in this power tool, preventing chain damage and making the process less messy.
You will find handling this tool easy, thanks to its padded handle. In addition, Ryobi 16-inch chainsaw is lightweight and ergonomic, enhancing comfort. You will find a side chain tension adjustment on it that enables convenient chain tensioning. It also has onboard tool storage, giving easy access to the tool you may need.
Ryobi cordless 16-inch chainsaw has hand protection against debris and accidental contact with the chain while in motion. In addition, it has a lockout switch, which prevents accidental start-up. Furthermore, its mechanical chain brake helps stop the chain automatically to prevent injuries.
- Superior run-time
- Mechanical chain brake
- Side access chain tensioning
- Variable speed throttle
- Stable
- Powers off
- Leaking oil tank
10. Oregon CS300 Cordless: Best 16-Inch Self-Sharpening Chainsaw
Oregon CS300 is another cordless 16-inch chainsaw you will find efficient thanks to its brushless motor, which provides high power and torque. This tool’s 40V MAX power ensures you do the work with zero emissions.
Its superior battery technology gives a 6.0Ah battery providing constant no-fade power during use. This battery technology also ensures that this power tool has longer run times. Furthermore, Oregon is lightweight, making it less tiring to use for a long time.
This chainsaw has a built-in, patented PowerSharp self-sharpening feature which prevents downtime. In addition, it has an automatic oiling feature with a 4.1 oz tank which ensures that the chain is lubricated and lasts longer. Its tool-less tensioner makes adjusting the chain convenient.
Oregon CS300 is among the pro-grade chainsaws that are silent between cuts making it less disturbing. It’s also easy to assemble, making it ideal for users of any experience level. Furthermore, this power tool has an overload protection feature that automatically shuts it off if you push too hard to avoid damage.
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
- Self-sharpening
- 3.6 horsepower
- Overload protection
- Low battery life
- Slow on hardwoods
Conclusion
An efficient chainsaw like the 16-inch one is a must-have for homeowners and any professional whose work entails felling trees, cutting firewood, and furniture wood. Unfortunately, the market is awash with chainsaws from different brands, complicating the choosing process.
We have compiled this review of the best 16-inch chainsaws after testing several and experiencing their use firsthand. In addition, we also interview season users who have experience handling the power tools. We went a step further to check customer reviews to learn about the experience of other independent users. Using the information you have read here is best to get an efficient, safe chainsaw that will easily cut trees.
Factors To Consider Before Buying
1. Bar length and cutting capacity
The first thing to consider when buying a 16-inch chainsaw is the bar length and cutting capacity. The 16-inch bar is ideal for cutting through medium-sized trees and branches, but if you plan to cut larger trees, you might want to go for a longer bar.
2. Power and engine size
The power and engine size of a chainsaw determine its performance. If you plan to use your chainsaw for heavy-duty tasks, you might want to consider a model with a larger engine size and higher horsepower.
3. Weight and ergonomics
The weight and ergonomics of a chainsaw are important considerations, especially if you plan to use it for extended periods. Look for a model that is lightweight and ergonomically designed to reduce fatigue and increase comfort.
4. Safety features
Safety features are critical when it comes to operating a chainsaw. Look for models with safety features such as anti-kickback chains, chain brakes, and safety switches to minimize the risk of accidents.
5. Maintenance and durability
Finally, consider the maintenance and durability of the chainsaw you’re considering. Look for models that are easy to maintain and durable enough to withstand heavy use over time.
FAQs
What is a 16-inch chainsaw best used for?
A 16-inch chainsaw is best used for cutting medium-sized trees and branches, as well as general yard work and landscaping tasks.
Can a 16-inch chainsaw cut through hardwood?
Yes, a 16-inch chainsaw can cut through hardwood, but it may take longer and require more effort than a larger chainsaw with a longer bar.
What safety gear do I need when using a 16-inch chainsaw?
When using a 16-inch chainsaw, it’s important to wear safety gear such as eye protection, hearing protection, heavy-duty gloves, and sturdy work boots with non-slip soles.
How often should I sharpen the chainsaw chain?
The chainsaw chain should be sharpened whenever it becomes dull or starts to pull to one side. Depending on how often you use the chainsaw and the type of wood you’re cutting, you may need to sharpen the chain after every use or every few uses.
What type of oil should I use in my 16-inch chainsaw?
You should use a high-quality bar and chain oil designed specifically for chainsaws in your 16-inch chainsaw. This type of oil is specially formulated to provide maximum lubrication and protection for the chain and bar.
