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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Are you planning to cut the old rotting tree log in your barn and wondering how you can do it efficiently, safely, and swiftly? Are you wondering what is the best option for you for such a job?
You can certainly try an ax or a broad-blade double-handle long saw. But there is a better option that would make the task easier and faster. Enter the 18-inch chainsaw!
If you want to get the job done well and quickly, a chainsaw is your best option, without a doubt. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional, an 18-inch chainsaw will do wonders if you are careful enough. You can get started with a small one for smaller wood panels or logs. It will help you understand the balance and control of this powerful tool. Once you have mastered those, an 18-inch one will feel like a mustang on Nitrous Oxide.
But which 18-inch chainsaw should you buy, and what is the suitable parameter to select one? Is there one model that can do it all, or should you buy one specific to a particular task? Are there any budget options too? Don’t worry! We have got you covered. We will try to answer all your questions and more.
Our Top Picks for Best 18 Inch Chainsaws
Here are our top three picks from the list for the best 18-inch chainsaws you can try today.
1. GreenWorks GCS80420 18″ Chainsaw – Best Battery-Powered
GreenWorksTools has been in business since early 2002 and has only grown strong with its quality and reputation. Their GCS80420 is our top pick for this list. This electric chainsaw is more than capable of competing with most gas chainsaws in this price bracket.
This 18-inch chainsaw is proof that electric chainsaws can deliver good power while being lightweight. It comes with an 80V motor running on a 2Ah lithium-ion battery to generate 3.5 horsepower. To put that in perspective, it can cut any 8-inch wooden plank 150 times on a single charge. Therefore, it can last you a full day of wood cutting on a single charge. Though it still only weighs in at about 2.05 pounds. You can compare the power with a 42CC engine gas chainsaw.
Furthermore, it comes with a charger included. Although if you ever lose it, you can charge it with any charger that comes with the GBA or GCH models. All its controls are within reasonable reach, and you can start it with a push button.
- Quick Start
- Long battery life
- Lightweight and portable
- It comes with a charger included
- Automatic oiler
- The oil tank can leak sometimes
- Spare batteries are expensive
2. Husqvarna 445 18″ Gas Chainsaw — Overall the Best 18 Inch Chainsaw in 2023
Husqvarna group of industries is a 330-year-old name specializing in several different products. And the 445 is proof of their excellence and heritage. Moreover, this is, without any doubt, the best gas-powered chainsaw on our list.
The Husqvarna 445 comes in a traditional orange color with a rugged build and impressive ergonomics to maneuver it. This innovation is an excellent upgrade to conventional gas chainsaws. It comes with a 50CC 2.8 horsepower engine with X torque technology that reduces emissions by 60% and increases fuel efficiency by 20%. There is a dedicated air injector that increases the efficiency of the engine. Furthermore, there is also a centrifugal air cleaning system that catches any debris to improve the engine’s life.
The sturdy build, along with the over-body frame support, reduces the vibrations effectively and provides good handling. Consequently, this is definitely a tool for professionals looking to get the job done in minutes.
- Quick Start
- Inertia-activated chain brake to reduce any chance of kickback-related injury
- Durable Chassis with over-body padded handlebars
- Perfect for cutting small to medium-sized trees
- Simple Tensioning System
- X-Torque Engine technology
- Excellent weight-to-performance ratio
- It comes with a 2-year warranty
- Not suitable for Beginners
- Bar Cover Not Included
3. Echo CS-400-18 Gas Chainsaw — Best 18 Inch Chainsaw for the Money
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.
Their CS-400 18-inch chainsaw is one to admire. Powered by a 40.2 CC gasoline engine, this machine is no joke. Don’t get puzzled by its immense size, as it weighs in at just 10.1 pounds. And it provides you with 5.3 horsepower performance for smooth and powerful operations.
The double-cycle engine combined with the iconic Echo steel chains can do wonders in the right hands. You just pull it out of the box, give it a couple of pulls and get ripping. You also get a pull cord with a spring and spark plug to facilitate the motor. Therefore, this is undoubtedly a high-power machine if maintained well over time.
- It comes fully assembled right out of the box
- Engine Oil Included in the box
- Easy Start Technology with double cycle engine
- Instant Chain Brake
- High RPM for smooth and easy cutting
- Sturdy build for fewer vibrations
- Requires frequent maintenance
- A bit more expensive than most
4. WORX WG304.1 18-Inch Chainsaw
WORX is a Chinese company founded back in 1994 in Suzhou. Their WG304.1 is the best budget 18-inch electric chainsaw on our list. Don’t be fooled by the ‘Made in China’ statement, as this device is worth it for the price.
This device features a 15 Amp motor that can produce 3.5 horsepower while weighing only 11.3 pounds. Hence, this makes this machine ideal for regular users and professionals.
The WORX WG304.1 can do wonders with its high-quality chain, which ensures that the motor never stutters. It generates enough power to cut down a 38-inch truck easily if you know how to maneuver it correctly.
- The best option in this price range
- Can cut through 38-inch bark
- No stutter or kickback
- Minimal vibrations
- Sturdy build
- No push button start
- Pull cord Start
5. Oregon CS1500 Electric Chainsaw — Best Budget 18-Inch Chainsaw
Here is another budget option for people looking for a versatile and reliable 18-inch chainsaw to work miracles for them. The Oregon CS1500 electric chainsaw is considered the best budget chainsaw if you are looking for an all-American product. This power tool does stand to its reputation for good reason.
You get a 15Amp 120v motor that can generate enough horsepower to get you to go through wood like butter. It makes significantly less noise when compared to its immense size. Although weighing in at around 12.6 pounds, it is very easy to handle with its metal overhand bars and arm covers. You won’t need any special tools to tighten the belt, as it comes with a built-in adjustable lever. Plus, there is an automatic lubricator that keeps the chain smooth during operation.
The downtime is substantially reduced with its PowerSharp self-sharpening technology. It will only take 3-5 seconds to do that. Although, you will need a 220-volt power outlet to operate this beauty. You get a very competitive weight-to-power ratio for its price. Therefore, it is a must-try as you also get a 2-year manufacturer warranty which is always a bonus.
- It comes pre-assembled out of the box
- It comes with a 2-year warranty
- Silent between Cuts
- No pull cord mechanism
- Automatic lubrication for optimal performance without any stutters
- Zero emissions
- No carrying case or belt is included in the package
- The motor can overheat and stop working over extended use
6. Greenworks Pro 80V— Best Mobile 18-Inch Chainsaw
If you are looking for a chainsaw to work offsite with, Greenworks Pro 80V is where it’s at! This chainsaw is cordless and is ideal for working in places where you do not have access to a power source.
The Pro 80V is a powerful battery-operated chainsaw. It can easily rival a 45cc electric chainsaw. It is lightweight and portable, so you can take it anywhere and move it when you need to.
This machine utilizes the DigiPro brushless electric motor. The motor mentioned above ensures the chainsaw a significant amount of power. Consequently, power means you can do your work faster and more efficiently.
The Greenworks Pro 80V has an 18-inch bar made from a stainless steel alloy. And this makes the chainsaw durable. In addition, the chain has steel bucking chains that create deep cuts.
Moreover, the chain is razor sharp and has an automatic oiler which keeps it running smoothly. The speed at which you will work with this machine is impeccable.
- Brushless motor
- Portable
- Easy to assemble
- 4 hours of battery time
- Durable and sturdy
- Excellent for cutting thick logs
- It is expensive compared to the other machines on this list
- May arrive with unavailable pieces
7. Sun Joe SWJ701E Electric Chainsaw — Best Budget 18-Inch Chainsaw
The Sun Joe Electric chainsaw is an excellent bargain if you are looking for a chainsaw on a budget. It can provide you with the same benefits as most high-end and expensive machines on the market but at a fraction of the price. Let’s get into the specs!
The chainsaw can reach up to 18 inches making it great for most work. The length is a definite benefit. It is an electric chainsaw that is also environmentally friendly. In addition, it is light, thereby making it easy to maneuver.
It starts up relatively quickly, and the producers create it with safety in mind. Make no mistake; a chainsaw is a powerful tool that can cause injury. So the makers of this chainsaw make sure to put a safety guard on the device.
This machine also has an automatic oiler, ensuring the chain and other parts receive sufficient lubrication.
The SWJ701E is an efficient pocket-friendly chainsaw that will allow you to do basic cutting jobs around your property.
- It is inexpensive
- Includes a safety guard
- Environmentally friendly
- Self-lubricating
- Relatively lightweight and easy to move
- Not great for heavy-duty jobs
- The chain sometimes falls off easily
8. Poulan Pro PR4218 — The Most Convenient 18 Inch Chainsaw
The Poulan Pro is a machine that delivers what it promises. It is made for medium to light tasks. In addition, it is touted as outstanding for the user who wants to use it for lightwork around their property.
This device packs a punch for its size and can cut through very thick logs. The Poulan Pro comes with Oxypower capability, meaning it is more efficient when it comes to fuel consumption. Thereby making it great for the environment.
It is made with comfort in mind, which is seen in the handle and the vibration reduction. It starts up relatively quickly, and it is made from durable steel.
- Reasonably priced
- Lightweight
- Environmentally friendly due to less fuel consumption and emission
- Comes with an extra chain
- Made from strong and durable material
- Sometimes has carburetor issues
- May require extra maintenance
9. BLACK+DECKER CS1518 Electric Chainsaw — Best Electric 18 Inch Chainsaw
If you are looking for the best electric chainsaw that is also inexpensive, the Black + Decker chainsaw is your safest bet.
It has a 15 Amp motor; in addition, it has an 18-inch bar and chain. This chainsaw starts up efficiently, and as long as you have an outlet close by, you can work non-stop. The Black Decker allows you to work for more extended periods due to its 5.5 m/s² vibration.
This device is quieter than a gas chainsaw, and based on customer reviews, it is a powerful and capable tool.
- Reasonably priced
- Pretty powerful
- Surprisingly quiet
- Low kickback feature
- Low vibration capability
- Not versatile at all
- Material not as durable
10. EGO Power+ CS1800 — Best Crackerjack 18 Inch Chainsaw
The Ego Power is the dream chainsaw. It has a substantial notable power and chain speed, making any work a breeze. This chainsaw is great for heavy-duty jobs, is durable, and requires little maintenance.
It cuts through to large logs like butter due to the 56V motor and the chainsaw that spins around 11,000 RPM.
In addition, it is reasonably priced, cordless, and has LED lights.
- Reasonably priced
- Powerful 56V motor
- Great chainsaw that spins at 11,000 RPM
- LED lights for working in dark places
- Overload protection
- Does not come with a battery and charger
- Chain guard may be faulty
Conclusion
You can buy the Oregon CS1500 if you want a budget option to get started with a reasonably powerful chainsaw. It will do almost any task that any other chainsaw would do. You can also get an Echo CS-400 in the same neighborhood, and it would do just perfectly.
Whatever chainsaw you choose, you need to keep some things in mind. Firstly, it is a powerful tool with virtually no safety once you go towards the blade. So be safe and keep others safe when operating any such instruments. Use these tools in a designated place where you have no frequent visitors. Always use a facemask and glasses before any wood-cutting or chipping operation. Above all, always use a well-ventilated area for any woodwork. Now that you have the basics let’s get started with your first 18-inch chainsaw.
Factors To Consider Before Buying
Before buying an 18 inch chainsaw, there are some factors you need to consider to ensure you get the best one for your needs. Here are some of the important factors to consider:
Power
The power of the chainsaw is a critical factor that determines its performance. You need to consider the engine size and power output to determine if it’s enough for the tasks you have in mind.
Bar Length
18 inch chainsaws have a standard bar length of 18 inches, but you need to make sure it’s the right size for your needs. Consider the size of the trees you will be cutting to determine if an 18 inch bar length is the right fit for you.
Weight
Weight is an essential factor to consider when buying a chainsaw. A heavy chainsaw can be tiring to use and can cause fatigue, especially when used for extended periods. Consider the weight of the chainsaw to ensure it’s comfortable for you to use.
Chain Brake
A chain brake is a safety feature that can prevent accidents. It automatically stops the chain if it detects a kickback, reducing the risk of injury. Consider buying an 18 inch chainsaw with a chain brake to ensure your safety.
Brand Reputation
When buying a chainsaw, it’s essential to consider the brand reputation. Research different brands and read reviews from previous customers to ensure you are buying a quality chainsaw from a reputable manufacturer.
FAQs
What is an 18 inch chainsaw best used for?
An 18 inch chainsaw is suitable for a wide range of tasks, including felling small to medium-sized trees, trimming branches, and cutting firewood.
What safety features should I look for when buying an 18 inch chainsaw?
When buying an 18 inch chainsaw, look for safety features like a chain brake, anti-vibration features, and automatic oiling system. These features can help reduce the risk of accidents and keep you safe while using the chainsaw.
What type of fuel do 18 inch chainsaws use?
Most 18 inch chainsaws use gasoline as fuel. However, some models can also use electric power or battery power. Consider the fuel type that suits your needs and budget when buying an 18 inch chainsaw.
How often should I sharpen the chainsaw chain?
It’s recommended to sharpen the chainsaw chain after every use or when you notice that the chainsaw is struggling to cut through wood. A dull chain can cause the chainsaw to work harder and may cause damage to the chainsaw or the operator.
