For homeowners, a reliable chainsaw is an essential tool for yard maintenance, storm cleanup, and firewood preparation. DeWalt has become a trusted name, offering a powerful and convenient alternative to gas-powered models with their cordless electric chainsaws. Their lineup provides options for every task, from light pruning to felling medium-sized trees, all without the noise, fumes, and maintenance of traditional saws.
Choosing the right DeWalt chainsaw depends on your property size, the type of cutting you do, and whether you already own compatible batteries. This roundup breaks down the key features of eight top models to help you find the perfect match. We’ll look at different bar lengths, battery platforms, and kit options to simplify your decision.
The Best DeWalt Chainsaws for Home Use
- DEWALT 60V FLEXVOLT 20″ Brushless Chainsaw – Bare Tool
- DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw, 12-Inch, Tool Only
- DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw, 16-Inch, Tool Only
- DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw Kit, 12-Inch, 5Ah Battery
- DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw Kit, 16-Inch, 5Ah Battery
- DEWALT 60V MAX FLEXVOLT Chainsaw, 16-Inch, Tool Only
- DEWALT 60V MAX FLEXVOLT Chainsaw Kit, 16-Inch, 9Ah Battery
- DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Chainsaw, 14-Inch, Tool Only
DEWALT 60V FLEXVOLT 20″ Brushless Chainsaw – Bare Tool
This 20-inch model is DeWalt’s most capable cordless chainsaw, designed for homeowners with larger cutting tasks. Its 60V FLEXVOLT battery platform delivers the power needed for cutting through thick logs and felling medium-sized trees. The long bar length provides excellent reach and capacity, making it a strong alternative to many gas-powered saws.
Key features focus on convenience and safety. The quick chain adjustment system uses an onboard wrench for fast tensioning without extra tools. For safe operation, it includes a chain brake for limited kickback protection. The automatic oiling system ensures continuous lubrication, which protects the bar and chain for long-lasting performance during extended use.
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw, 12-Inch, Tool Only
Ideal for light-duty yard work, this compact 12-inch chainsaw is perfect for pruning branches, cutting small trees, and other quick cleanup jobs. As a “tool-only” option, it’s an excellent choice if you already own DeWalt 20V MAX batteries. Its lightweight and maneuverable design reduces user fatigue, making it easy to handle for most homeowners.
The brushless motor provides efficient power and extends runtime from your existing batteries. Despite its smaller size, it is built with a sturdy construction and includes essential safety features. This model proves that you don’t need a large saw for everyday suburban yard maintenance, offering a practical and easy-to-store solution.
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw, 16-Inch, Tool Only
This 16-inch tool-only chainsaw strikes a great balance between power and versatility for general home use. It can handle a wider range of tasks than the 12-inch model, including cutting firewood, felling small trees, and post-storm cleanup. For users invested in the 20V ecosystem, it provides a significant upgrade in cutting capacity.
The brushless motor is designed for efficiency, maximizing the work you can get from a single battery charge. The 16-inch bar is a popular standard length, offering a good compromise between control and cutting ability. Its design maintains a relatively compact form while providing the performance needed for more demanding projects around your property.
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw Kit, 12-Inch, 5Ah Battery and Charger
This kit is the complete package for homeowners new to the DeWalt system or those needing a dedicated battery for their chainsaw. It includes the capable 12-inch chainsaw, a high-capacity 5Ah battery, and a charger. Having a dedicated battery ensures your chainsaw is always ready to go when you need it.
The 5Ah battery provides substantial runtime for a saw of this size, allowing you to tackle multiple pruning or cleanup jobs on a single charge. This all-in-one solution removes the guesswork, providing everything required to start cutting right out of the box. It’s a convenient and often cost-effective way to enter the cordless chainsaw market.
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw Kit, 16-Inch, 5Ah Battery and Charger
For those who need more cutting power from the start, this kit pairs the versatile 16-inch chainsaw with a 5Ah battery and charger. It’s an ideal starter set for homeowners with medium-sized properties who anticipate regular use for firewood preparation and tree maintenance.
The combination of the longer bar and the high-capacity battery offers a powerful and practical solution for common tasks. You benefit from the increased cutting ability of the 16-inch model while having a battery designed to support its power draw. This kit represents a ready-to-work package that can serve as the backbone of your yard tool collection.
DEWALT 60V MAX FLEXVOLT Chainsaw, 16-Inch, Tool Only
This tool brings 60V FLEXVOLT power to a 16-inch platform, creating a saw with exceptional performance for its bar length. It’s designed for the homeowner who wants maximum cutting speed and torque for demanding jobs but prefers the manageable size of a 16-inch bar. It uses the same batteries as the larger 20-inch model.
The high-output motor minimizes bogging down in tough wood, making cutting feel effortless. If you already own FLEXVOLT batteries for other DeWalt tools, this chainsaw is a logical and powerful addition. It delivers near gas-like performance with the quiet, low-maintenance benefits of a battery-powered tool.
DEWALT 60V MAX FLEXVOLT Chainsaw Kit, 16-Inch, 9Ah Battery and Charger
This premium kit provides the ultimate in runtime and power for serious homeowners. It includes the high-performance 16-inch FLEXVOLT chainsaw paired with a massive 9Ah battery and charger. The 9Ah battery offers extended use, allowing you to work longer between charges, which is perfect for large property cleanup or processing significant amounts of firewood.
It’s a top-tier choice for those who want the most capable cordless experience without stepping up to the 20-inch bar. The combination ensures you have the endurance to match the saw’s powerful output. This kit is an investment for users who plan to use their chainsaw frequently and for extended periods.
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Chainsaw, 14-Inch, Tool Only
The 14-inch model fills a useful niche between the compact 12-inch and standard 16-inch saws. It offers more cutting capacity than the 12-inch model for slightly larger branches and logs, while remaining more lightweight and nimble than the 16-inch version. This makes it an excellent general-purpose saw for a wide array of tasks.
Its brushless motor provides efficient operation, making good use of 20V battery power. For homeowners who find the 12-inch bar a bit short but don’t regularly need a full 16 inches, this model is a perfect compromise. It provides added versatility without adding excessive weight or size.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best DeWalt Chainsaw for Your Home
So, you’re thinking about getting a DeWalt chainsaw. Good call. Their 20V and 60V FlexVolt cordless platforms are a game-changer for us homeowners who want power without the hassle of gas and maintenance. But with a few models out there, picking the right one can be tricky. Let me walk you through what I look for.
First, figure out what you’ll actually be doing. Are you just pruning apple trees and cutting up fallen branches after a storm? Or are you planning to buck a decent-sized oak that came down? For light-duty stuff, a 12-inch or 14-inch bar on a 20V Max battery is often plenty. It’s lightweight, easy to handle, and gets the job done without wearing you out. For bigger projects—felling small trees, cutting firewood from logs over 10 inches thick—you’ll want to step up to a 16-inch or even 18-inch bar, and that usually means moving into the 60V FlexVolt lineup for the extra torque and runtime.
Speaking of power, battery voltage is key. DeWalt’s 20V Max system is incredibly versatile; if you already have other tools, those batteries swap right in. The 5Ah or 6Ah packs are ideal for a chainsaw. For more demanding work, the 60V FlexVolt batteries are beasts. The cool part? They’re backward compatible with all your 20V tools. So, if you invest in a 60V chainsaw, that same battery can run your drill or leaf blower. Think about your existing tool ecosystem and future needs.
Don’t overlook the “little” features that make a big difference. An automatic oiler is non-negotiable in my book—it keeps the bar and chain lubricated while you cut, extending the life of your saw. A tool-free chain tensioning system is another huge plus, letting you quickly tighten the chain with no wrenches needed. Also, check the weight. A lighter saw is easier to control, especially when you’re working overhead on limbs.
Finally, consider the kit. You can often buy the saw as a “bare tool” if you have batteries and a charger, which saves money. But a kit with a high-capacity battery and charger might be the better value if you’re starting fresh. Remember, the best DeWalt chainsaw for homeowners isn’t necessarily the biggest or most powerful; it’s the one that matches your most common tasks, feels good in your hands, and fits into the tool family you already own.
FAQ
Are DeWalt cordless chainsaws powerful enough for cutting firewood?
Absolutely, but it depends on the model. The higher-end 60V FlexVolt models with a 16-inch or 18-inch bar are absolutely capable of cutting firewood from hardwoods like oak and maple. They have the torque and battery capacity to get through logs. For smaller amounts or softer woods, a 20V Max with a 12-inch or 14-inch bar will work fine. The key is using a high-capacity battery (5Ah or higher) and having a spare to swap in.
How long does the battery last on a DeWalt chainsaw?
Runtime varies wildly based on the battery size (Ah rating), the power of the saw (20V vs. 60V), and what you’re cutting. You might get 30-45 minutes of mixed cutting on a 20V 5Ah battery with a 12-inch bar, while heavy, continuous cutting on a 60V model will drain it faster. For most homeowner jobs like cleaning up a fallen tree, one or two batteries is usually enough. It’s always smart to have a charged spare ready to go.
Do I need to oil a DeWalt battery chainsaw?
Yes, but not the motor. The chain and bar still require lubrication to prevent wear and overheating. All DeWalt chainsaws have an oil reservoir for bar and chain oil. Most have an automatic oiler that applies it while you cut. You must keep this reservoir filled with the proper bar and chain oil. Checking the oil level should be part of your pre-use routine, just like checking the battery charge.
What safety gear should I use with a chainsaw?
Never skip safety gear. At a minimum, you need: certified chainsaw chaps or pants to protect your legs from a potential cut; sturdy, non-slip boots; safety glasses or a full-face visor; and hearing protection (chainsaws are loud, even electric ones). Heavy-duty work gloves are also a good idea. Taking a few minutes to suit up properly is the most important step before you even touch the saw.
Can I use any 20V DeWalt battery on their chainsaws?
Technically yes, they are all compatible, but I strongly recommend using only high-capacity batteries. A small 2Ah or 3Ah battery will work for a minute, but it will die quickly and may not deliver the consistent power the saw needs, which can strain the tool. For the best performance and to avoid damage, stick with 5Ah, 6Ah, or higher capacity packs. This is especially true when looking for the best DeWalt chainsaw for homeowners experience, as runtime and power are crucial.
How do I maintain my DeWalt chainsaw?
Maintenance is much simpler than a gas saw. After each use, clean out sawdust from the bar groove and air vents. Regularly check the chain tension and sharpen the chain with a round file and guide—a sharp chain is safer and works better. Keep the battery contacts clean. Periodically, check for loose nuts and bolts. Always refer to your manual for specific lubrication points and maintenance schedules.