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10 Best Chainsaws Under 500 for 2018 for Gardening and Professional Use

By Kencoul

According to Wikipedia, chainsaw is a portable saw that is designed for tree limbing and felling. The device commonly consists of an engine, drive mechanism, guide bar and a cutting chain.

The most popular chainsaw types are gasoline and electric, (battery powered) ones. The tools of both types may be in the same price category while the cost depends on the brand, safety features, weight and power capacity.

Selecting the best chainsaw under 500 for the specific needs, customers also consider the frequency of its use, size of the trees to cut, the tool weight and ergonomics. The selection task was challenging, as I had to compare the technical characteristics thoughtfully. The operator's experience in timber harvesting also matters.

Meanwhile, but for all possible safety measures and features, an operator can be injured, even but for proper and reliable protection. That's why it's essential to wear gloves (mitts), helmets with ear defenders, goggles or visors, special boots, trousers and jackets.

The chainsaw use is recommended only is a good mood. Avoid using alcohol, and be very careful while working. Additionally, please, study my chainsaw review to select the best tool for your hobby or professional logging application.

The tools that are produced by the famous Hitachi Power Tool Group are top-quality, reliable and energy efficient. They are based on innovative PureFire technology, meeting the highest possible emissions standards.

Meanwhile, they are still powerful, lightweight, easy to use and affordable. So, this product is known as the best chainsaw under 300 USD. Please, visit the manufacturer's website for additional information.

Power and Capacity

The chainsaw is heavy-duty, powerful, great for tough and quick jobs, commercial and hobby shaping and pruning. It is designed for handling small jobs, but hard woods can be cut. Thus, the tool is suitable for arborists and for lopping limbs.

Safety Features

A protective cover for the chain and the bar for easy and secure transport is included. Thus, additional accessories are not necessary. Oregon chain and sprocket nose bar provide additional control and easy cutting, reduce kickback.

Durability

The product comes with 1-year rental, 2-year commercial, 7-year consumer warranty. It is made of heavy-duty materials. Thus, the engine is more reliable than other chainsaw brands.

Vibration and Noise level

The chainsaw is equipped with an advanced anti-vibration system that increases the tool durability.

Ease of Use and Weigh

The tool is extremely compact and lightweight. It comes with a reliable, two-stroke, commercial grade engine that delivers powerful, clean performance.

The chainsaw is convenient, easy to use and maintain; fuel consumption is low. Start and warm up is easy thanks to half throttle choke that is equipped with purge primer bulb.

Chainsaw adjustment is convenient and quick due to chain tensioning (side access) and gear-driven oiler (automatic). Ergonomic top handle enables the operator to carry the saw easily. The tool is equipped with an integrated, secure lanyard ring for work at heights.

Please, study the owner's manual before you start using the chainsaw.

Product Information:
  • dimensions: 11.8*15.4*11.2 in.;
  • weight: 12.4 pounds;
  • bar length: 14";
  • displacement: 32.2 mL (cc);
  • max power: 1.2 kW;
  • horsepower: 1.6;
  • guide bar type: sprocket nose;
  • oil tank volume/capacity: 180 mL;
  • fuel tank volume: 290 mL;
  • chain gauge: 0.05";
  • chain pitch: 3/8".

This saw is produced based on the similar technology that the previous one. But it's more powerful, larger and suitable for full tree jobs such as firewood cutting, etc. Meanwhile, it's pretty affordable and recognized as the best chainsaw under $400.

Power and Capacity

hp is sufficient for various household and professional applications. The 40 cc, two-stroke engine is commercial grade and powerful enough. The tool provides power, ease and cutting precision.

Safety Features

Low-emission technology is meant to reduce fumes, making the product environment-friendly and safe. Chain tensioner that is side-access and inertia-activated chain break make the chainsaw operation easy and convenient.

Durability

7-year manufacturer warranty is provided for homeowner. Hard tool use for rental applications comes with one-year warranty. The chain is CARB compliant. The case is made of metal.

Vibration and Noise level

Anti-vibration system is available for user's comfort.

Ease of Use and Weight

S-start technology simplifies the start, requiring 50% less pull force, using a purge primer bulb. Kickback is reduced. The saw is lightweight and convenient.

The instructional manual and safety instructions are enclosed. Please, read them attentively.

Product Information:
  • dimensions: 11*20.9*13 in.;
  • weight: 15.9 pounds;
  • bar length: 18";
  • displacement: 40 mL (cc);
  • oil tank volume: 240 ml;
  • fuel tank volume: 380 ml;
  • max. engine power: 1.8 kW;
  • horsepower: 2.4;
  • chain gauge: 0.05";
  • chain pitch: 0.325".

The product is produced by Hitachi-Koki Co., Ltd, and it is really made in Japan. That's why studying multiple expert Tanaka chainsaw reviews, I realize that the tool is top-quality and reliable. Please, find more information on the product page.

Power and Capacity

The saw is designed for homeowner use. It is designed for firewood, tree branches, logs cutting, small trees trimming. The engine is commercial grade, 2 stroke.

Safety Features

The tool is not CARB compliant, so it may produce fumes. Chain brake system is available.

Durability

2-year warranty for domestic use is available.

Vibration and Noise level

Anti-vibration system is advanced, 4 point.

Ease of Use and Weight

The petrol chain saw is compact and lightweight. That's why it's great for landscapers and arborists.
An owner's manual is enclosed for your information. Please, watch the video to know how to fix this or the similar model chain saw:

Product Information:
  • dimensions: 10.9*11.8*17.5 in.;
  • weight: 13.2 pounds;
  • bar length: 14" (350 mm);
  • displacement: 32.2 CC(ml);
  • oil tank volume: 150 mL;
  • fuel tank volume: 230 mL;
  • max power; 1.2 kW;
  • chain pitch: 3/8";
  • chain gauge: 0.05.

Studying the relevant Dolmar Chainsaw reviews, I found out that the manufacturer is old and reliable, producing chain saws since 1927. In 1991 the Dolmar Company was acquired by Makita Group. That's why the tools are really durable, strong and powerful.

Additionally, the product is very affordable. It's perfectly balanced and really safe.

Power and Capacity

Great power for little price! The chain saw model is mid-range, but it is recommended for professional use. Mid-sized trees stripping and felling can be performed with it. The torque (RPM) is high. Resistance is reduced thanks to spring assisted started and optimized engine management.

Safety Features

The saw comes with an integrated chain brake. Its balance is great that is important for the operator's safety. Half-throttle lock is automatic.

Durability

The handlebar and crankcase are made of metal.

Vibration and Noise level

Vibration damping is available.

Ease of Use and Weight

The chainsaw is lightweight and perfectly balanced. Its design is ergonomic and perfect. The automatic oil pump is adjustable. The air filtering system is perfect (Airmaster) and its toolless maintenance is enabled. Chip flow is optimum.

The safety manual is available on the manufacturer's site and it is certainly enclosed to the product packaging. A video for the similar product, Dolmar PS350 is available online:
It seemes to me helpful to opt for the model or start using it properly, without risk.

Product Information:
  • weight: 12.1 lbs.;
  • displacement: 50cc.;
  • bar length: 18"
  • max. power: 2.4kW;
  • max engine speed: 13,800 rpm.;
  • oil tank volume: 270 ml;
  • fuel tank volume: 470 ml;
  • chain gauge: 0.05";
  • chain pitch: 3/8".

The product is not the most affordable, bit it's incredibly powerful, durable and reliable. It comes with multiple beneficial features. That's why it's testing that is available in an online video commercial is really impressive.

Power and Capacity

The chain saw is very powerful, especially at a high torque. It is designed for professional application and large trees logging. Thanks to big fuel tank volume, up to 30 min. of seamless operation is enabled.

Safety Features

Fumes are reduced thanks to advanced air pre-cleaning system (centrifugal type). Emissions are low; fuel consumption is up to 20% less due to innovative stratified air scavenging technology. Therefore, dirt particles are reduced at the earliest stage, guaranteeing environment-friendly operation and users' benefits.

Durability

The handle bar and the crankcase are made of metal that ensures prefect durability and the product's long life.

Vibration and Noise level

Vibration damping is allowed.

Ease of Use and Weight

Easy start and restart, easy-to-clean filter systems are provided. Resistance is reduced by means of a primer pump and a spring assisted starter. Oil pump is adjustable. The chain brake is supported by revolutionary SafetyMatic technology. Engine control is empowered by Touch&Stop system. Cold starting, operation and stop positions are clearly defined.

Please, study the manual for safe and reliable operation.

Product information:
  • net weight: 13.22 lbs. (6.0 kg);
  • displacement: 61 cc;
  • power: 3.4 kW;
  • oil tank volume: 480 ml;
  • fuel tank volume: 800 ml.;
  • max. engine speed: 13,800 rpm;
  • chain gauge: 0.05";
  • chain pitch: 3/8".

The brushless chainsaw is the most powerful and heavy-duty among all battery-powered tools. It's very aggressive and safe. So, I would call it the best chainsaw for logging. I like its ergonomic compact design and performance.

Power and Capacity

The saw is suitable both for construction and trees cutting applications. The battery charge is sufficient for 70 cuts (6" *6" pine wood). Oregon chain and bar are incorporated as these brand parts are the most reliable and durable.

Safety Features

Kick back is low, as the protection is empowered by the chain brake.

Durability

3-year warranty (limited) is provided by the manufacturer. Continuous lubrication is enabled by the auto-oiling system.

Vibration and Noise level

Low noise level.

Ease of Use and Weight

Chain tensioning is tool-free. Bar tightening knob is available for the user's or operator's comfort. The chainsaw is perfectly lightweight, especially for such a powerful and efficient tool.

A battery, a charger and a hard bar cover are included.

The instructional manual that is offered by Dewalt company is useful and detailed.

Product Information:
  • dimensions: 10*35*9 in.;
  • weight: 12.2 pounds;
  • battery type: 3.0AH, Lithium Ion (FlexVolt);
  • max voltage: 60V.

The chainsaw is definitely not the most powerful. However, it's very good for yard maintenance and any household application. The operator's manual, provided by the manufacturer is the most detailed and it is recommended for reading before you start working.

Power and Capacity

The motor is highly efficient. The battery charge is good for up to 100 cuts.

Safety Features

Chain brake reduces kickback. Chain tension adjustment is enabled.

Durability

5-year warranty is offered by the manufacturer. The tool's life and run time is extended due to brushless motor type.

Vibration and Noise level

The construction is water resistant (IP4). No noise, fumes or fuss.

Ease of Use and Weight

The chainsaw is lightweight and perfect by design. A reversible bar is available.

A video review can be found online:

Product information:
  • dimension: 9.8*9.4*30.1 in.;
  • weight: 13.4 lbs;
  • max speed: 6,800 rpm;
  • bar length: 14";
  • battery type: 2.5AH;
  • voltage: 56V;
  • chain gauge: 0.043";
  • chain pitch: 3/8".

The product is pretty compact and lightweight. But it's light powered. Therefore, it's suitable only for garden applications, such as birch trimming, branches pruning, etc. Additionally, it's very affordable.

Power and Capacity

The buttery charge is sufficient for 60 cuts (4" *4" pine wood).

Safety Features

Low kickback features are ensured by Oregon-brand chain and bar.

Durability

Constant lubrication is enabled by an automatic system. The battery holds a charge during a year and a half.

Vibration and Noise level

Low noise level.

Ease of Use and Weight

The chainsaw is lightweight and perfect by design. A reversible bar is available. The handle is comfortable. Adjustments are fast and easy because of the tool-less, convenient chain tensioning. Battery charge indicator is available.

Please, find the Instruction manual on the manufacturer's product page.
Several impressive video reviews are available online.
Product information:

  • dimensions: 9.63*8.81*28.56 in.;
  • weight: 8.3 lbs.;
  • bar length: 12";
  • battery type: 2.0AH (Lithium Ion);
  • max voltage: 40V.

Oregon chain saws are top-quality and lightweight, but they are suitable only for small projects and light tasks. The product is quite affordable. So, for garden trimming and other occasional works, it can be the best chainsaw under 500 USD.

Power and Capacity

The chainsaw is based on a brushless motor. It cuts up to 400 branches (2-3 in. in diameter) on a single charge.

Safety Features

The saw is well-balanced and it comes with an advanced, tool-less tension system.

Durability

3-year warranty (limited) is provided. Lithium ion battery guarantees the product's long life time

Vibration and Noise level

Instant, cold start, no emissions. Low vibration.

Ease of Use and Weight

The saw is self-sharpening. It is lightweight and much quieter than gas tools.
Please, read The instruction manual. Find it within the parcel (product packaging) or on the manufacturer's (Oregon) website.
A high-resolution video is available on the same product page and on Youtube.

Product information:
  • dimension: 12.13* 11.13* 16 in.;
  • weight: 12 lbs.;
  • battery: 4.0AH (lithium ion);
  • bar length: 16 in.;
  • charger: C600;
  • no load speed: 2,796 rpm;
  • nominal voltage: 40V;
  • oil tank volume: 120ml (4.1oz);
  • chain gauge: 0.05";
  • chain pitch: 3/8".

GreenWorks is a relatively new, Chinese-based company. Meanwhile, it's leading now and it produces powerful, efficient, attractive and reliable tools. Additionally, this chainsaw is feature-rich and affordable. So, I would call it the best chainsaw under $200. Please, check The manufacturer's site for additional information.
A video commercial can be also useful.

Power and Capacity

30% more torque and great performance thanks to the motor type.

Safety Features

A chain brake (electronic) is available to prevent accidental kick-backs. A safety switch button and hand guard protection is available.

Durability

Bucking spikes are made of metal (steel). 4-year warranty for the saw is provided. The battery operation is covered by 2-year warranty. The motor is digital controlled, brushless, for quiet operation and long runtime. The automatic oiler ensures enhanced durability and long life.

Vibration and Noise level

70% less vibration, quiet operation thanks to brushless motor design.

Ease of Use and Weight - 5

Rear handle guarantees perfect control and operator's control.

Product information:
  • dimensions: 9* 31 *8.5 in.;
  • weight: 10.36 lbs.;
  • bar length: 16";
  • voltage: 40V;
  • battery: 4AH (Li-ion);
  • chain gauge: 0.05";
  • chain pitch: 3/8".


Thus, chainsaws are multifarious. The gas-powered ones commonly make more noise than electric ones. However, they are more powerful and suitable for professional use.

Studying a Mcculloch chainsaw review, I realize that the manufacturer's reputation and history are incredibly important. The safety features are essential for this type of tools, as well as ease of use and convenience.

So, I have highlighted 10 various chainsaws that are different by power, weight and capacity. Meanwhile, all of them are safe, reliable and eco-friendly. The tools come with easy-to-adjust chains and bars, being suitable for professionals and not experienced users.


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