When searching for an 80cc professional chainsaw, you face tradeoffs between power, weight, battery life, and price. The Husqvarna 120i stands out for its reliable performance and ease of use, ideal for demanding jobs. The Stihl MS 261 offers unmatched durability for heavy-duty tasks, though at a higher cost. Meanwhile, the Greenworks 80V 16-Inch Chainsaw provides a quieter, electric alternative for those prioritizing low maintenance. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of these and other top picks, and learn what factors influence your best choice.
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- Power and durability are the key differentiators among these 80cc chainsaws, with gas-powered models generally offering more raw power for heavy-duty work.
- Battery-powered options are catching up in performance, providing quieter operation and lower maintenance, but often at a higher price and with limited runtime.
- The best models balance weight and ergonomics, especially for prolonged use, which is essential to prevent fatigue.
- Price varies significantly based on features like bar length, engine type, and included accessories, so buyers should prioritize their specific needs.
- Many top picks feature brushless motors for improved efficiency and longer lifespan, but this can come with a premium cost.
| 20 Inch Cordless Gas Chainsaw 52cc Power Gasoline Saw for Farm, Forest, Garden, and Ranch |  | Best Overall for Heavy-Duty Professional Use | Engine Type: Single Cylinder, Air-cooled, 2-Stroke | Ignition System: Self-reset Pull Start | Fuel Tank Capacity: 550ml/18.6Oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Greenworks 80V 16-Inch 2KW Brushless Chainsaw (Tool Only) |  | Best Value for Cordless Power on a Budget | Voltage: 80V | Bar Length: 16 inches | Power: 2KW | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Greenworks 80V 16-inch Cordless Electric Chainsaw with 2.5 Ah Battery and Charger |  | Best for Yard Work with Included Battery and Safety Features | Voltage: 80V | Bar Length: 16 inches | Battery Capacity: 2.5 Ah | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Greenworks 80V 18-inch Cordless Electric Chainsaw with 4.0 Ah Battery and Charger |  | Best for Heavy-Duty Yard and Storm Work | Voltage: 80V | Bar Length: 18 inches | Battery Capacity: 4.0 Ah | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Greenworks 80V 18″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw with 2.0Ah Battery and Rapid Charger |  | Best for Tree Felling, Liming, and Firewood Cutting | Bar Length: 18 inches | Battery: 2.0Ah | Motor Technology: Brushless | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Sihuird 60V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw with Dual Batteries and Charger |  | Best for Extended, Heavy-Duty Professional Use | Voltage: 60V | Blade Length: 18 inches | Battery: 2 x 6.0Ah | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 80cc professional chainsaw | Voltage | Bar Length | Motor Technology |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 Inch Cordless Gas Chainsaw | — | — | — |
| Greenworks 80V 16-Inch 2KW Bru | 80V | 16 inches | — |
| Greenworks 80V 16-inch Cordles | 80V | 16 inches | Brushless |
| Greenworks 80V 18-inch Cordles | 80V | 18 inches | Brushless |
| Greenworks 80V 18" Brushless C | — | 18 inches | Brushless |
| Sihuird 60V 18-Inch Cordless C | 60V | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
20 Inch Cordless Gas Chainsaw 52cc Power Gasoline Saw for Farm, Forest, Garden, and Ranch
This chainsaw stands out for its robust 52cc engine, delivering high power suitable for demanding forestry tasks. Compared with electric options like the Greenworks 80V models, it offers superior cutting capacity and runtime for continuous heavy-duty work, though at the expense of increased weight and maintenance. Its manual pull-start can be a drawback for some, yet its durable build and high-quality chain make it a reliable choice for professionals who need raw power and endurance. The ergonomic handle helps reduce fatigue during prolonged use, but the need for gasoline mixing and heavier weight make it less ideal for casual or occasional users.Pros:- Powerful 52cc engine for efficient, fast cutting
- Ergonomic, non-slip handle reduces operator fatigue
- Durable chains and bars built for professional use
Cons:- Requires gasoline and oil mixing, adding inconvenience
- Heavy weight may cause fatigue over long periods
- Manual starting can be challenging for some users
Best for: Professional loggers and farmers needing a reliable, heavy-duty chainsaw for frequent use in rugged environments
Not ideal for: Homeowners or hobbyists who prefer cleaner, quieter electric options for light cutting tasks
- Engine Type:Single Cylinder, Air-cooled, 2-Stroke
- Ignition System:Self-reset Pull Start
- Fuel Tank Capacity:550ml/18.6Oz
- Chain Fuel Tank Capacity:260ml/8.8Oz
- Chain Pitch:0.325#
- Power:2.2kw
- Speed:10500rpm
- Displacement:52cc
- Max Cutting Diameter:18.9inch
Our verdict“This chainsaw is best suited for professionals requiring maximum power and durability in tough outdoor conditions.”
Greenworks 80V 16-Inch 2KW Brushless Chainsaw (Tool Only)
This Greenworks chainsaw offers strong power with its 80V brushless motor, making it a compelling alternative to gas models like the 52cc saw, especially for users prioritizing clean operation and low maintenance. Its 16-inch bar limits cutting capacity compared to larger saws, but it compensates with ease of handling and reduced noise. Being a tool-only purchase, it’s suitable for those who already own Greenworks batteries or are willing to invest in a complete system. The absence of a battery and charger can be a downside for new users, but for frequent DIYers, it delivers solid performance at a lower upfront cost. It’s a good pick if portability and quick startup are more important than raw cutting capacity.Pros:- Powerful brushless motor for efficient performance
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Cordless design enhances mobility and convenience
Cons:- Battery not included, requiring additional purchase
- Limited to tool-only, so compatibility and cost may increase
- Bar size restricts larger cutting projects
Best for: Homeowners and landscapers seeking a cordless chainsaw for light to medium tasks without the hassle of fuel or cords
Not ideal for: Professionals needing maximum cutting capacity or continuous heavy-duty use, as the bar length and battery life may fall short
- Voltage:80V
- Bar Length:16 inches
- Power:2KW
- Included:Tool only
Our verdict“This model is well-suited for users who prioritize portability and ease of use over maximum cutting capacity.”
Greenworks 80V 16-inch Cordless Electric Chainsaw with 2.5 Ah Battery and Charger
This chainsaw balances power and convenience, featuring an 80V brushless motor with a 16-inch bar, similar in performance to smaller gas-powered saws but with cleaner operation. The included battery and charger make it a ready-to-use package, ideal for homeowners tackling storm cleanup or pruning. Its safety features, including a mechanical chain brake, increase user confidence. Compared to the more powerful 18-inch models, it’s slightly less capable for big jobs but excels in ease of operation and maintenance. Its safety features and included accessories justify its slightly higher price point for casual users who want reliability without fumes or fuel mixing.Pros:- Powerful brushless motor with high torque
- Includes battery and charger for immediate use
- Safety features like mechanical chain brake
Cons:- Limited to yard or storm cleanup tasks
- Battery life may vary with workload
- Performance depends on battery charge level
Best for: Homeowners needing a reliable, easy-to-start chainsaw for yard maintenance and storm cleanup
Not ideal for: Professional forestry work or large felling projects, due to limited bar length and power
- Voltage:80V
- Bar Length:16 inches
- Battery Capacity:2.5 Ah
- Motor Technology:Brushless
Our verdict“Ideal for casual users who want a dependable electric chainsaw with safety features and included accessories.”
Greenworks 80V 18-inch Cordless Electric Chainsaw with 4.0 Ah Battery and Charger
This chainsaw offers an 18-inch bar and a powerful 80V brushless motor, making it a strong competitor to gas-powered models like the 52cc saw for yard and storm cleanup. Its larger bar allows for bigger cuts, and safety features such as the mechanical chain brake boost confidence for frequent use. The 4.0 Ah battery extends runtime, supporting longer sessions without frequent recharging. Despite its weight, it provides a cleaner alternative to gas, with easy maintenance thanks to side-access tensioning. It’s a versatile choice for users who need a substantial electric saw for demanding tasks but might find the weight an issue for prolonged use or less experienced operators.Pros:- Powerful performance comparable to a 50cc gas engine
- Safety features like mechanical chain brake
- Longer runtime with 4.0 Ah battery
Cons:- Battery-powered operation may require recharging during long jobs
- Potentially heavier than smaller electric chainsaws
- Limited to 18-inch bar size
Best for: Home landscapers and storm cleanup crews needing a powerful cordless saw with extended runtime
Not ideal for: Light-duty pruning or occasional users who prefer smaller, lighter tools
- Voltage:80V
- Bar Length:18 inches
- Battery Capacity:4.0 Ah
- Motor Technology:Brushless
Our verdict“This chainsaw suits users who want a high-powered, cordless option for demanding yard work and storm cleanup.”
Greenworks 80V 18″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw with 2.0Ah Battery and Rapid Charger
This model provides a solid mix of power and convenience with an 18-inch bar and a 2.0Ah battery, making it a good fit for felling and limbing tasks. Its brushless motor delivers increased torque compared to smaller batteries, and automatic oiling ensures smooth operation. The included rapid charger and lightweight design make it easier to handle during extended jobs, though the smaller battery limits the number of cuts per charge—up to 150 on a single battery. Compared to larger battery packs like the 4.0 Ah version, it’s more compact but offers less runtime. It’s a practical choice for users who value quick startup, easy maintenance, and moderate cutting capacity.Pros:- Powerful brushless motor with increased torque
- Automatic, quick oiling for smooth operation
- Includes rapid charger for fast turnaround
Cons:- Limited to 18-inch bar size, restricting larger cuts
- Battery capacity limits overall runtime
- Performance depends on battery charge level
Best for: Homeowners and small-scale woodcutters needing a reliable chainsaw for firewood and tree work
Not ideal for: Heavy-duty forestry or commercial use where longer runtime and larger bar capacity are needed
- Bar Length:18 inches
- Battery:2.0Ah
- Motor Technology:Brushless
- Includes:Rapid charger
Our verdict“This chainsaw is ideal for users who need a manageable, efficient tool for tree felling and limbing with quick setup and maintenance.”
Sihuird 60V 18-Inch Cordless Chainsaw with Dual Batteries and Charger
The Sihuird 60V 18-inch cordless chainsaw stands out for its powerful brushless motor, delivering high RPM and torque that easily handles large cutting jobs. Compared to the Greenworks 80V options, this model offers a slightly larger blade and dual batteries, which significantly extends runtime and reduces downtime during demanding tasks. However, its weight increases due to the dual batteries, making it less suitable for prolonged use by users seeking lightweight equipment. The tool-free chain tensioning simplifies maintenance, while safety features like the chain brake provide peace of mind during intense work. Still, the higher price and complexity make it less attractive for casual homeowners or occasional users. This saw makes the most sense for professionals or serious DIYers who need extended runtime and high power without sacrificing safety.
Pros:- Powerful brushless motor with high RPM and torque for tough cuts
- Includes two 6.0Ah batteries, enabling longer work sessions
- Tool-free chain tensioning for quick adjustments
- Enhanced safety features like chain brake
Cons:- Heavy weight caused by dual batteries, potentially tiring for extended use
- Higher price point compared to simpler models
Best for: Professional tree cutters, landscape contractors, or serious DIYers who require sustained power and longer operation times.
Not ideal for: Homeowners who only need light trimming or occasional cutting, due to its weight and cost.
- Voltage:60V
- Blade Length:18 inches
- Battery:2 x 6.0Ah
- Motor Type:Brushless
- Chain Speed:42.58 ft/s
- Warranty:3-year tool, 2-year battery
Our verdict“This chainsaw is best suited for professionals and heavy-duty users who prioritize power and runtime over weight and cost.”
How We Picked
To determine the best 80cc professional chainsaws, I evaluated each model based on several key factors: cutting performance, build quality, ease of maintenance, battery life (for electric models), and overall value for professional use. I looked for products that balance power with user comfort, ensuring they can handle demanding tasks without excessive fatigue. The ranking also considers durability, brand reputation, and included features like safety mechanisms and accessories. By focusing on these criteria, I aimed to identify options that meet the needs of serious users while offering a range of price points and power sources.Factors to Consider When Choosing 80cc Professional Chainsaws
Choosing the right 80cc chainsaw involves understanding several critical factors that impact performance, safety, and longevity. Beyond raw power, consider usability features, maintenance needs, and your specific work environment. A well-informed decision prevents buying a tool that underdelivers or becomes a burden during extended use.Engine Type and Power
The engine type—gas versus electric—fundamentally affects how you use the chainsaw. Gas engines typically provide more power and longer runtime, making them suitable for heavy, continuous work like felling large trees. Electric models, especially those with high-voltage batteries, are quieter, require less maintenance, and generate no emissions, perfect for smaller tasks or environments with strict noise regulations. Match the engine type to your workload to avoid over- or under-investing in power.
Bar Length and Cutting Capacity
The bar length determines the maximum diameter of wood you can cut efficiently. For professional use, especially in forestry or large-scale land clearing, an 18-inch bar offers versatility and power. Shorter bars (around 16 inches) are lighter and easier to maneuver but limit your capacity. Choosing the right length balances ease of handling with cutting needs, preventing overexertion or inefficient work.
Weight and Ergonomics
A chainsaw’s weight directly impacts fatigue, especially during prolonged use. Look for models with ergonomic handles, anti-vibration features, and balanced weight distribution. Electric options tend to be lighter, but some gas models are more cumbersome due to engine size. Prioritize comfort and control to maintain safety and productivity over extended periods.
Maintenance and Durability
Durability hinges on build quality, engine robustness, and ease of maintenance. Brushless motors in electric models extend lifespan and reduce the need for repairs. Gas models with quality components and accessible parts make routine maintenance manageable. Investing in a durable tool prevents downtime and reduces long-term costs, but premium models often come at a higher upfront price.
Price and Value
While high-end models offer better performance and longevity, they also come with a higher price tag. Consider your workload frequency and intensity to evaluate whether the extra investment is justified. For occasional or lighter tasks, a mid-range model might suffice. Conversely, heavy-duty, daily use warrants spending more on a top-tier, durable chainsaw to ensure reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a battery-powered 80cc chainsaw practical for heavy-duty work?
Battery-powered chainsaws have improved significantly, with some capable of handling demanding tasks. However, they generally still fall short of gas-powered models in raw power and runtime, especially for large-scale felling or continuous cutting. For lighter or intermittent use, a high-voltage electric model offers convenience and quieter operation. For extensive heavy-duty work, a gas-powered 80cc chainsaw remains the more reliable choice.
How important is bar length when choosing an 80cc chainsaw?
Bar length is critical because it determines what size of wood you can cut efficiently. An 80cc engine paired with an 18-inch bar offers a good balance for most professional tasks, including felling large trees. Shorter bars are easier to handle and lighter but limit capacity, while longer bars increase cutting reach but add weight and reduce maneuverability. Match the bar length to your typical workload for best results.
Should I prioritize electric or gas models for professional use?
Gas models tend to deliver more power and longer runtimes, making them better suited for demanding, continuous work. Electric chainsaws are quieter, cleaner, and require less maintenance, which can improve efficiency in environments where noise and emissions matter. If your work involves frequent, heavy-duty tasks, a gas chainsaw usually offers better performance, though electric options are increasingly capable for many professional applications.
What safety features should I look for in a professional chainsaw?
Safety features like chain brakes, anti-vibration handles, and low-kickback bars are essential in professional chainsaws. These mechanisms reduce fatigue and improve control, especially during heavy or prolonged use. Look for models with easy-to-access safety controls and clear instructions. Investing in a chainsaw with comprehensive safety features minimizes risk and enhances overall productivity.
How much should I expect to spend on a quality 80cc professional chainsaw?
Prices vary widely based on engine type, brand, and features. Entry-level professional models typically start around $600, while high-end, fully equipped options can exceed $1,200. Consider this an investment in reliability and performance—spending more often means better durability, power, and safety features, which pay off during demanding jobs. Assess your workload to determine the appropriate budget for your needs.
Conclusion
For those tackling heavy-duty forestry tasks regularly, the Husqvarna 120i offers a reliable gas-powered solution with robust performance. Beginners or occasional users will find the Greenworks 80V 16-Inch Chainsaw offers sufficient power with the benefit of electric convenience. Professionals seeking durability and premium features should consider investing in the Stihl MS 261. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate mid-range models that balance cost and capability, while those prioritizing quiet operation may prefer electric options. Choose based on your workload intensity, comfort preferences, and maintenance willingness to make the best investment.
