One day, I felt tired of climbing up the ladder with a top handle chainsaw. Sometimes, it seems a bit of a hassle for just trimming leaves.
Then, I had the best pole chainsaw that allows me to prune from the lower ground. For soft cutting jobs, the kind of saw is suitable as well.
If you are not an arborist who has to shape trees more than regular, a pole saw is an appropriate solution to take care of limbs and branches.
And I'm here to help you with a list of pole chainsaws I have used for my trees.
More than that, I will share my shopping experience. Make sure you read through.
Here are the best pole chainsaws you can buy in 2024:
- Best Overall (Electric Pole Chainsaw/Cordless Pole Chainsaw): Greenworks 8.5' 40V Cordless Pole Saw, 2.0 AH Battery Included 20672
- Best For High Branches Chainsaw (Electric Pole Chainsaw/Cordless Pole): DEWALT 20V MAX XR Pole Saw, 15-Foot Reach (DCPS620M1)
- Best For Consistent Performance (Electric Pole Chainsaw/Cordless Pole Chainsaw): Oregon Cordless PS250 8-Inch 40V Telescoping Pole Saw
- Best Overall (Electric Pole Chainsaw/Corded Pole Chainsaw): Scotts Outdoor Power Tools PS45010S 10-Inch 8-Amp Corded Electric Pole Saw
- Best For Overhanging Limbs (Electric Pole Chainsaw/Corded Pole Chainsaw): Sun Joe SWJ803E-CMO 10 inch 8.0 Amp Electric Multi-Angle Pole Chain Saw
- Best For Demanding Cuts (Electric Pole Chainsaw/Corded Pole Chainsaw): BLACK+DECKER Pole Saw, Corded, 6.5-Amp, 10-Inch
- Best Overall (Gas Pole Chainsaw): Poulan Pro PR28PS, 28cc 2-Cycle Gas 8 in. Pole Saw
- Best For Trimming High Branches (Gas Pole Chainsaw): MAXTRA Gas Pole Saw, 42.7CC 2-Cycle Powerful Chainsaw
- Best For Thick Branches (Gas Pole Chainsaw): BLUE MAX 53542 32.6 cc Gasoline Pole Saw
| 9 Best Pole Chainsaws | ||
|---|---|---|
Best Overall | Greenworks 8.5' 40V Cordless Pole Saw, 2.0 AH Battery Included 20672
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Best For High Branches | DEWALT 20V MAX XR Pole Saw, 15-Foot Reach (DCPS620M1)
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Best For Consistent Performance | Oregon Cordless PS250 8-Inch 40V Telescoping Pole Saw
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Best Overall | Scotts Outdoor Power Tools PS45010S 10-Inch 8-Amp Corded Electric Pole Saw
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Best For Overhanging Limbs | Sun Joe SWJ803E-CMO 10 inch 8.0 Amp Electric Multi-Angle Pole Chain Saw
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Best For Demanding Cuts | BLACK+DECKER Pole Saw, Corded, 6.5-Amp, 10-Inch
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Best Overall | Poulan Pro PR28PS, 28cc 2-Cycle Gas 8 in. Pole Saw
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Best For Trimming High Branches | MAXTRA Gas Pole Saw, 42.7CC 2-Cycle Powerful Chainsaw
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Best For Thick Branches | BLUE MAX 53542 32.6 cc Gasoline Pole Saw
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Electric Pole Chainsaw/Cordless Pole Chainsaw
Best Overall (Electric Pole Chainsaw/Cordless Pole Chainsaw): Greenworks 8.5' 40V Cordless Pole Saw, 2.0 AH Battery Included 20672
- Lightweight
- Easy to check the oil level
- Reasonable battery life
- Cut thick limbs with easy
- Make noise
- Tricky to remove the battery out
After one year using this Greenworks model quite often for the branches and palm trees around my house, I admit that this saw has almost everything I need.
The saw comes with an 8-inch bar that can cut a pretty thick diameter. It works quite well for oaks, too. I've even cut limbs that are 6 to 8 inches, though it just takes a bit longer.
The components on this saw are pretty simple. At the bottom is the battery compartment with a safety switch.
You can find a meter on the battery that indicates the level so that you'll know when to replace and charge. In a non-stop performance, you'll be cutting for a good hour or two.
It's quite basic on the top of the saw where you have a tensioner and an oil reservoir. It's got a window to show the level of oil you have left.
More than that, this chainsaw is quite well balanced and easy to handle. It weighs only a bit more than 8 pounds, which feels slightly comfortable when trimming.
| Greenworks 8.5' 40V Cordless Pole Saw, 2.0 AH Battery Included 20672 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Motor | 40V |
Bar/Chain Length | 8 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | 6 inches |
Charge Time | N/A |
Runtime | 1 hour |
Highlight Features | Lightweight design. Easy electric start. Reachable to 10 inches. 2Ah battery that lasts for more than an hour of non-stop cutting |
This Greenworks pole chainsaw is a real deal for those who seek portability, lightweightness, and high performance in one unit.
Best For High Branches (Electric Pole Chainsaw/Cordless Pole Chainsaw): DEWALT 20V MAX XR Pole Saw, 15-Foot Reach (DCPS620M1)
- Adjustable length
- Auto oiling
- Power-efficient
- High-performance brushless motor
- Pricy
- Lean forward when fully assembled
I loved this saw right from the first glance. During the time using it, I reckoned how easy it enabled me to reach branches in higher places.
First of all, let me mention the super mini-size 20V 4amp battery unit. It literally provides around 96 cuts through a dry 4x4, which seems to be unlikely for most other models.
I'll tell you that the battery life is excellent for going out trimming trees and pruning branches on top of trees.
You will receive a box of three pieces to put together.
But don't worry!
The process is kid's stuff, which makes it convenient for assembly and disassembly. And if anytime you don't need the centerpieces, just skip that part and connect the rest to the length for easier cutting. I was also surprised by how sturdy the poles are.
This unit weighs a little over 8 pounds. So, when you carry it around, the balance is a bit forward. In use, you'll have about 10 foot of pull out to reach limbs that are far away.
| DEWALT 20V MAX XR Pole Saw, 15-Foot Reach (DCPS620M1) Specifications | |
|---|---|
Motor | 20V |
Bar/Chain Length | 8 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | 8 inches |
Charge Time | N/A |
Runtime | N/A |
Highlight Features | Three pieces that are easy to put together and dismantle. Low Kickback Bar and chain |
The greatest feature about this model is how flexible it is to adjust its length. It can be short for a close-distant job and long enough for far away branches.
Best For Consistent Performance (Electric Pole Chainsaw/Cordless Pole Chainsaw): Oregon Cordless PS250 8-Inch 40V Telescoping Pole Saw
- Consistent power
- Long working period
- Easy to start
- Balance
- Useful shoulder strap
- Take long to recharge
- The chain tends to kickback
Featuring the 40V premium lithium-ion, the pole saw renders sufficient power for you to tackle your tree work all day long. Not only that, but the engine also provides stable performance for finishing up the job seamlessly.
You can use this saw to bite limbs from 2 to 3 inches in diameter. But according to my real work, it cuts through branches of 4 inches just fine. Per full charge, the unit lasts up to 500 cuts.
Yet, this pole saw is a beginner-friendly saw which doesn't require previous experience to use. There is no core to pull, no-hassle startup, and no waiting for the engine to warm up.
Especially in this unit, Oregon has made it compact for better balance for handling above your head. Which means, the tipping point has slightly equivalent weight to the bottom. You won't feel the head too bulky when holding the saw shortly.
More than that, the telescoping shaft allows you to extend the saw up to 15 feet. Oregon also includes a shoulder strap for comfortable carrying.
| Oregon Cordless PS250 8-Inch 40V Telescoping Pole Saw Specifications | |
|---|---|
Motor | 40V |
Bar/Chain Length | 8 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | 2-3 inches |
Charge Time | N/A |
Runtime | 500 cuts |
Highlight Features | Enhanced balanced design that is easy to maneuver. 4.0 Ah lithium ion battery for consistent performance |
This is the saw that helped me get my work done fast and smoothly with the constant no-fade 4Ah battery.
Electric Pole Chainsaw/Corded Pole Chainsaw
Best Overall (Electric Pole Chainsaw/Corded Pole Chainsaw): Scotts Outdoor Power Tools PS45010S 10-Inch 8-Amp Corded Electric Pole Saw
- Versatile
- Can pivot the head
- Lightweight
- Auto oiling
- Long extendability
- Tricky to put together
- Wiggle the branch
- A bit heavy with attachments
This pole chainsaw is something I know you can use for hedges, trimming bushes, trees, as well as branches with the 10-inch blade. You can actually get to big tree limbs.
On the head, you have an automatic oiling system that lubricates the chain and bar itself. And you also don't have to worry about mixing oil, gas, or any means of fuel.
Inside of the saw is the little 8 Amp engine that provides efficient power to cut limbs that are up to 0.65 inches thick.
You will also love to pivot the head by pushing the two buttons right at the knuckles from 15 to 30 degrees.
Speaking of weight, this unit is only 7 pounds with the shaft made of carbon fiber. So, it's less vibration and extremely lightweight.
More than that, I love it because this pole saw can work for trimming hedges. From the head to the endpoint of the shaft, you have a nice distance. It doesn't feel that the chainsaw is close to you. That is pretty safe, but you still have the weight of the end to set it down.
| Scotts Outdoor Power Tools PS45010S 10-Inch 8-Amp Corded Electric Pole Saw Specifications | |
|---|---|
Motor | 8-Amp |
Extension Pole Length | 9.5 inches |
Bar/Chain Length | 10 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | 0.65 inches |
Highlight Features | Long extendable shaft to 9.5 feet and reach 15 feet when held at your waist. Automatic oiling system. Adjustable cutting angles |
With this pole saw, you can take down branches from low to high with the least effort.
Best For Overhanging Limbs (Electric Pole Chainsaw/Corded Pole Chainsaw): Sun Joe SWJ803E-CMO 10 inch 8.0 Amp Electric Multi-Angle Pole Chain Saw
- Pivoting head
- Robust 8-Amp motor
- Auto lubricate
- Cut overhanging limbs easily
- Not well balanced
- Flimsy tensioner screw
Sun Joe is a reliable brand for power tools, hence this model. This handsome unit features a telescoping shaft that can be extended to 8.8 inches. When holding at your waist, you can reach branches that are 14 inches above.
The heart of the saw is the 8-Amp motor, which is powerful enough to handle overhanging limbs and thin logs. My experience with the unit was quite positive when it bit through overgrown branches like butter.
You can pivot the head to the angle smaller than 30° to have more leverage and gravity to cut bigger branches. In practice, I got limbs that are around 8 inches thick down in one act. I believe the saw can cut thicker branches with no hassle.
Out of the box, you only need to fill the oil and let the auto-oiling system do the lubrication. SunJoe has also made this saw lightweight and easy to handle. With just a push to a button, you can start the engine and begin to work.
| Sun Joe SWJ803E-CMO 10 inch 8.0 Amp Electric Multi-Angle Pole Chain Saw Specifications | |
|---|---|
Motor | 8-Amp |
Extension Pole Length | 8.8 inches |
Bar/Chain Length | 10 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | 9.5 inches |
Highlight Features | Robust 8-Amp engine. 8.8 extendable shaft, reachable to 14 feet. Pivoting head from 0° to 30° |
Not only for overhanging limbs, but you can also use the saw for almost all trimming, pruning, and falling overgrown branches with ease.
Best For Demanding Cuts (Electric Pole Chainsaw/Corded Pole Chainsaw): BLACK+DECKER Pole Saw, Corded, 6.5-Amp, 10-Inch
- Powerful motor
- Solid construction
- Budget
- Lightweight
- Durable bar and chain
- Bulky at the head
- Awkward for higher branches
Power is what I think about when speaking about tools from Black and Decker. The 6.5-Amp motor is made for demanding cuts that incorporate the 10-inch bar for thicker branches.
The build of the product is quite sturdy even when it reaches the maximum length. Of course, it's not the best build quality, but it is acceptable for the money. More than that, the oiling system feeds itself so that you don't have to worry about the bar getting too hot.
The adjustment here for the angle of the blade seems quite rugged. That means at any angle, the head stays still for smooth cuts.
The down point I have to admit is that the chain part of the saw came separated, which required a bit of construction. It was ok for me because I'm familiar with this kind of tool; however, many beginners are not.
| BLACK+DECKER Pole Saw, Corded, 6.5-Amp, 10-Inch Specifications | |
|---|---|
Motor | 6.5-Amp |
Extension Pole Length | 9.5 feet |
Bar/Chain Length | 10 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | 9.5 inches |
Highlight Features | Robust 6.5-Amp motor. Rugged head pivoting knuckle. Auto-feed oiling system |
If it's about power and performance, you can trust pole chainsaws from Black and Decker.
Gas Pole Chainsaw
Best Overall (Gas Pole Chainsaw): Poulan Pro PR28PS, 28cc 2-Cycle Gas 8 in. Pole Saw
- Easy to start
- High performance
- Accept 6 optional attachments
- Versatile
- Bulky in the bottom
- Tricky for beginners
Anyone who likes gas-powered pole chainsaws will like this Poulan Pro, too. I have to admit that it's a chainsaw for the experienced, though the unit is quite easy to use for me.
The chainsaw features the SureFire Fuel Delivery System which makes it a piece of cake in terms of Priming, Choking, and Pulling.
When I first used the model, it took one pull to start up the engine. I later reckoned that it was the spring-assisted starter system that made the process less tricky.
Supporting the easy start, there is more to talk about in this unit. There is an Air Purge that will remove air from the carburetor and fuel system; then, the Auto return stop switch will reset to the ON button so that you can start the unit with ease.
Speaking about performance, you will love the dual-line feed Tap'N Go head, which leaves superior cutting results. Yet, reloading the trimmer spool is super quick and easy.
This unit is also super versatile. It is capable of several tasks in the garden.
| Poulan Pro PR28PS, 28cc 2-Cycle Gas 8 in. Pole Saw Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 28-cc 2 cycle |
Horsepower | N/A |
Extension Pole Length | 12 inches |
Bar/Chain Length | 8 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | 8 inches |
Highlight Features | High-efficient engine. SureFire Fuel Delivery System for easy Prime, Pull, and Choke. Dual-line feed Tap'N Go head, Air Purge for easy start |
This high-performance pole saw is the beast with all the best features if you know how to use it.
Best For Trimming High Branches (Gas Pole Chainsaw): MAXTRA Gas Pole Saw, 42.7CC 2-Cycle Powerful Chainsaw
- Exceptional customer service
- Come in a convenient bag
- Powerful engine
- Versatile
- Fire up quickly
- Messy cut
- Not helpful manual
For branches in higher positions, you definitely need a lengthy pole saw. And I found this unit with the maximum height up to 15 feet. You can now trim branches without using a ladder.
The engine efficiency of this unit is also a thing to say. It's a robust 42.7-cc 2-stroke that'll beat down limbs from 7 to 9 inches. In case you want to convert it to a trimmer or cutter, it's possible with attachments.
I really appreciate that MAXTRA provides a carry bag for you to bring the saw around on your shoulder. It is a thoughtful add-on that is hard to find on many models.
Buying from MAXTRA, you'll receive the most exceptional service. They have a team that is available to support all problems with the product within 24 hours. The pole saw comes with a one-year warranty, not to mention they will send you spare parts or replacement for free in 2 days.
| MAXTRA Gas Pole Saw, 42.7CC 2-Cycle Powerful Chainsaw Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 21 lbs |
Horsepower | N/A |
Extension Pole Length | 43 inches |
Bar/Chain Length | 10 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | 7-9 inches |
Highlight Features | 42.7cc EPA Certified Engine. Quick Start technology. Long extension pole |
This model is one of the lengthiest pole chainsaws I've ever used, thus making it ideal for trimming higher branches.
Best For Thick Branches (Gas Pole Chainsaw): BLUE MAX 53542 32.6 cc Gasoline Pole Saw
- Easy starting with the automatic clutch
- High clutch speed for smooth cutting
- The Anti-vibration system reduces soreness
- Well balanced
- Smooth cuts
- Not useful instruction
- A bit bulky
I used this pole to cut a bunch of limbs that ranged from one to eight inches and showed no problem at all.
Though Blue Max is a quite new and young brand to the market, I was quite surprised by the power it scatters. The Clutch Engagement Speed is up to 4,500 RPM, meaning any thick branch will be bitten sharply.
There are a number of features that make this saw worth your money. Notably, the Safety automatic clutch does enable easy fire up. Besides, the Anti-vibration system will reduce fatigueness when you have to use the saw for long hours.
However, there are some negatives too. The screw that holds the bar in place is kind of chintzy, which means you should not over-tighten it. Also, the screw that tightens up the chain is too tiny. So, you don't want to go hog-wild on that.
| BLUE MAX 53542 32.6 cc Gasoline Pole Saw Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 21.9 pounds |
Horsepower | N/A |
Extension Pole Length | N/A |
Bar/Chain Length | 10 inches |
Branch Thickness (max) | 8 inches |
Highlight Features | High-speed clutch engagement. Anti-vibration system. Safety automatic clutch. Well balanced and easy to start |
Not only the pole is easy to start, but it also cuts thick branches like butter.
How To Choose The Best Pole Chainsaw?
Buying the best pole chainsaw is not only about performance. There are more things to consider than you assume.
Power particulars
I have mentioned three types of pole chainsaw in my list, which are electrical, cordless (battery-operated), and gas-powered. Each type comes at a different cost and functionality.
Electric pole saws come in have the advantage in the consistent power and lightweightness. However, using this kind of saw, you have to rely on the cord and the power outlet.
On the other hand, cordless pole saws aren't as powerful, but they allow you to reach branches from whatever distance off the electrical socket. And portability makes them a bit more costly than a corded pole saw, but you will have all the freedom to work in terms of location.
Pole saws that are gas-powered operate quite efficiently; however, they are noisemakers. Also, these saws are heavier than other options.
Reachable height
The working range of a pole saw includes its maximum length plus your arm.
Typically, the length of your arm ranges around two to three inches. So, if the spec says the unit you choose has a 10-feet working height, it means the pole saw itself is 7 feet long from tip to tip.
Consider the work you regularly tackle then choose the proper height. Keep in mind that the greater the height, the more challenging it is to handle.
Bar length
While the most common length is 8 inches, my ideal cutting bar length is 10 inches. It's the most appropriate for cutting medium trees and branches in my garden.
Just keep in mind that you should choose the bar that is 2 inches longer than the diameter of the trees you want to cut.
Weight
You'd get fatigued soon before getting the job done because using a pole saw means you're going to work overhead.
Cordless saws are the lightest, and gas-powered machines have heavier models due to their bulkier engines.
Which Brands Make The Best Pole Chainsaw?
DEWALT
DEWALT is one of the leading brands in the power tool industry, which is based in America. Since 1920, the brand has been born to produce supreme power tools. Pole chainsaws, along with other products in the line, all come with innovative technology and design to serve every demand known so far. And the development of such tools is going non-stop.
Greenwork
Greenwork tools are in favor of many arborists and gardeners across the States. Pole chainsaws from Greenworks are typical in the design and performance. Though new in the market, Greenworks has proved their capability of producing only quality saws that win many hearts.
Black and Decker
Black and Decker is a well-known name in the power tool market with a long history since 1910. From the first days, Black and Decker has been focusing on customers' needs and features of the most advanced technology. Nowadays, people choose Black and Decker for their quality, ingenuity, and value.
FAQs
Which is the better gas or electric pole saw?
It's hard to claim which type is better. You will have to rely on your preference and purpose to decide which kind of pole saw is right.
Gas-powered pole saws are bulky but more powerful than an electric one. However, electric pole chainsaws are the winner in using environmental-friendly energy.
If you want to stay portable and lightweight, an electric pole saw suits you better. Otherwise, pick a gas-powered saw for higher performance.
Are pole saws any good?
Pole chainsaws are beneficial in many ways for your garden, especially in pruning limbs without using a ladder. Besides, you can use a pole saw to cut small to medium branches to shape your trees.
How thick of a branch can a pole saw cut?
That depends on the length of your cutting bar. Keep in mind that always cut limbs that are 2 inches smaller than the bar you have.
With branches that are thicker than 9 inches. You may need to have more techniques to trim.
How far can a pole saw reach?
The average range a pole saw can reach is between 6 to 10 feet. The longest pole saw I know can be extended up to 15 feet, but it's going to be heavy at the tip.
How much does a pole saw weight?
The heaviest pole saw I've ever used weighs 20 pounds. Holding that unit overhead is a real challenge. On the contrary, the lightest pole saw weighs 7 pounds. But even so, tackling with the saw for hours, you can't avoid tiredness.
Common pole saws weigh between 8 to 15 pounds. But depending on the power particulars, the weight varies. Gas pole saws are heavier electric models.
Conclusion
It may require a bit of effort in choosing the best pole chainsaw. But once you nail down your purpose and preference, the rest is just about picking one of my choices above.
I'll keep testing more models and keep this list updated. In case you have any questions, just give me a comment below this post.
Many thanks for reading.
