Trimming and pruning trees can be a tough job. You want a tool that can help you get the job done quickly and efficiently. That’s where a pole chainsaw comes in. The question is: which one should you buy?
There are dozens of models to choose from and the best isn’t always the most expensive. From Black and Decker to Dewalt, I’ll be providing a detailed review of the top four electric pole saws on the market today.
Editor’s Note: Our writers research and recommend the best products for your home, farm, and garden. Links to these products are included in this article where you can learn more about each product. We may receive commissions on purchases made through these links.
Comparing the Top Rated Electric Pole Saws
Before we dive into the details, here is a quick comparison chart so you can easily review the features of our top 4 models. The first two are corded and the second two are cordless.
Click any of the links in the table to jump to the product review in this article.
| Manufacturer/Model | Power | Weight | Pole Extension |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Joe Convertible Electric Pole Chain Saw (SWJ806E) | Corded – 7.5 Amp Electric | 8.4 lbs | 8.6 ft |
| SunJoe Electric Pole Chain Saw (SWJ800E) | Corded – 6.5 Amp Electric | 7 lbs | 8.7 ft |
| Black and Decker Cordless Pole Saw (LPP120) | Cordless – 20 Volts | 6.3 lbs | 6.5/10 ft |
| DeWalt 20V MAX XR 20 V Battery Chainsaw/Pole Saw Combo Tool Only | Cordless – 20 Volts | 8 lbs | 10 feet |
1. Sun Joe 2-in-1 8 inch Electric Convertible Pole Chain Saw
The Sun Joe 2 in 1 Convertible Pole Chain Saw is powerful, durable, and very affordable at under $100, depending on the current sales promotions.
Features at a Glance
- A telescoping pole that extends to 8.6 feet
- 7.5 amp electric motor
- Converts to a handheld chainsaw
- Auto oiler feature for smooth cutting
- Built-in safety switch to prevent accidents
Easy to use, this model features an 8-inch bar and chain with auto lubrication for easier cutting. Most users will be able to reach heights of up to 15-feet using the Sun Joe SWJ806E.
Weighing just 8.4 pounds, this is a lightweight tool that is easy to handle for people of all ages.
Want to remove the saw? This model features a 2-in-1 design that allows the saw to be removed without any tools. Why would you do this? This allows your branch and tree limb trimmer to be converted into a chainsaw that you can use to cut wood – it’s the perfect saw combo.
Using a powerful 7.5 amp motor, you’ll be able to cut through most branches with ease. Strong yet lightweight, the motor’s optimized design lessens arm fatigue and cuts with more precision.
Users will also receive a 2-year limited warranty from the date of purchase. If this model breaks, you can have it replaced or fixed for free.
What Others Are Saying
This electric pole saw has received some of the highest ratings. The majority of people said this tool exceeded their expectations.
Easy to use and assemble, you’ll easily be able to cut through branches up to 7.5 inches thick. Some users remarked that they cut larger branches by working slowly and cutting small wedges first. But the best practice is to remove tree limbs in short sections and not tackle too much at one time.
People from all age groups seem to love this tool and remarked how lightweight it was, even for some of the older homeowners.
The one concern is that this model may not be suited for larger jobs. This is a light to medium use tool for cutting down tree limbs from your yard. So for bigger jobs, it may be advisable to leave it to the professionals.
For me, this is one of the best electric pole saws on the market for smaller jobs. It’s affordable, powerful, and can even convert to a chainsaw if needed which is a great feature to have!
2. Sun Joe SWJ800E 8-Inch 6.5-Amp Telescoping Electric Pole Chain Saw
Next on my list is the Sun Joe SWJ800E. Very affordable at just under $80 at the time of this article, this is an exceptional model that is perfect for anyone on a tight budget. It’s powerful, comfortable to use, and even has automatic oil lubrication.
It has a little less power than the previous pole saw, but it also weighs a full pound less.
Features at a Glance
- Powerful, 6.5 AMP motor.
- Lightweight at just 7 pounds.
- Rubber handle provides comfort even when cutting through thick branches.
- An automatic lubrication system ensures easy cutting at all times.
- Plastic blade cover for safe storage options.
Sun Joe features a 6.5 AMP motor, which is less powerful than the past two models mentioned. Yet, it’s powerful enough to tackle most jobs with ease. The telescoping pole saw extends a maximum of 8-feet, which is 2-feet less than the Dewalt and Black and Decker. If it wasn’t for this, SunJoe may have been higher on my list.
A self-tension mechanism is present, so your chain will never get loose and fall off. An 80ml oil tank will help lubricate the chain when needed to ensure a smooth, long-lasting cut without the fuss.
Fully electric, this model will need to be plugged in during use. During initial tests, cutting through 4” thick branches was a breeze.
What Others Are Saying
Not only is this model affordable, but it has a lot of power that’s packed into just 7 pounds. Being corded, you’ll never have to worry about a battery running low or running out of gas.
The only downside is that cutting through 5” – 6” branches is a little tough for the SWJ800E.
Our conclusion? We think this is the best choice for a lightweight tree trimming tool.
3. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Pole Saw, 8-Inch (LPP120)
Black and Decker is known for two things: quality and durability. This model is slightly higher than the SunJoe corded models but is currently still priced under $150. However, there is one benefit – this is a cordless pole saw.
Normally, cordless models make me nervous because the battery life is always subpar. This is not the case with the LPP120. Featuring a 20-volt MAX lithium-ion battery, this model can cut through 100, 1.5” branches on a single charge. This is not quite commercial-grade longevity, but it is great for yards of all sizes.
Features at a Glance
- The cordless model ran on 20-volt lithium batteries.
- Lightweight, this model is just 6.3 pounds – a few pounds lighter than our last model.
- 8-inch cutting chain.
- 2-year warranty, so you have peace-of-mind.
- 6 ½ – 10-foot cutting extension.
Easy to maneuver, this model weighs just 6.3 pounds and has an 8-inch cutting chain. A maximum cutting diameter of 6-inches allows you to cut through most tree limbs – small and large – with relative ease.
An overhead reach of 14-feet is possible. The extension features both a 6 ½ and a 10-foot option.
Upon assembling this model, it’s very important to tighten the chain appropriately. If you don’t, your chain will eventually fall off. Extension replacements are available for this model, and Black and Decker includes a standard 2-year warranty.
What Others Are Saying
An amazing product. This saw has been reviewed hundreds of times and continues to receive great marks from consumers. The Black and Decker LPP120 is an exceptional saw that is lightweight and powerful.
What are some things people complained about? The one issue is that the battery’s charge starts to lessen over time. If you’ve ever used any battery-powered tool, you know that this eventually happens with batteries.
One way to prevent this is to keep the battery charged when not in use. If you leave the battery uncharged too long it will start to deteriorate. The manufacturer’s instructions do warn consumers to keep the battery fully charged to prolong its life, but how many people actually read the manual?
Another solution and one I recommend is to buy an extra battery. This will allow you to have a backup just in case one dies, or if you need to trim a large area. Another bonus is the 20-volt battery is compatible with a whole list of other Black & Decker cordless tools including power drills, cultivators, edgers, and hedge trimmers.
The Verdict? We think this is the best lightweight pole saw at a mid-range price point.
4. DeWalt 20V MAX XR 8 in. 20 V Battery Chainsaw/Pole Saw Combo (Tool Only)
The 20V Max XR Brushless Cordless Pole Saw is a lightweight but powerful battery-operated pole saw. Dewalt is another well-known brand in the outdoor power tool industry with a solid reputation for creating durable and reliable products.
It features a 10-foot pole extension with an estimated reach of 15 feet. The saw has an eight-inch bar and chain that can cut through branches up to 16 inches thick.
The limb hook is what sets the Dewalt tool apart from the other pole saws on the market. The hook makes it easy to remove pruned branches after cutting.
Another feature customers appreciate is the metal bucking strips that grip the branch while cutting, making it an efficient tree trimming tool. The sharp chain makes up cutting limbs easy and prevents splitting.
The Dewalt cordless pole saw is easy to use with an anti-vibration handle, automatic oiling feature, and a lightweight design. Recommended for homeowners as well as landscape professionals, this is one of our favorite cordless pole saws.
What Customers Are Saying
Reviews for the Dewalt 20V Pole Saw were very positive. Many customers purchased it to replace their old gas-powered pole saw and were happy with both the power and cutting ability. They loved the fact that it was lighter and easier to maintain. Here are a few of the standout features.
Very durable. One gentleman actually dropped the pole saw off his ladder, and while it was dented, the saw still worked perfectly.
Well balanced. The battery’s size and weight counterbalance the weight of the chainsaw.
Good battery life. The battery life was ample to complete most trimming jobs. One customer commented that he thought he would get tired long before the tool ran out of juice.
Portable. Easy to break down and lightweight enough to carry, even if you are climbing a ladder. It fits easily in the back of your truck.
Are there any drawbacks? One customer wished there was a tool bag for off-season storage. While none of the pole saws on our list have this feature, it’s not a bad suggestion.
Overall, this is a top-rated tool that many customers have chosen as a replacement for gas-powered pole saws. It has a mid-range price point, plenty of power to handle most tree pruning jobs, and some great features that make it easy to use.
Our Conclusion? We think this is the best all-around battery-operated pole saw.
Buyer’s Guide – How to Choose the Best Pole Saw
If you’re not sure which pole chainsaw will work best in your yard, you’ve come to the right place. We created this buying guide to help you find the best pole saw for you.
From power to price, reach and bar length, our guide will help you find the right pole chainsaw for your needs and your budget.
What is a Pole Saw?
A pole saw is exactly what it sounds like – a small chainsaw attached to a pole. Of course, they’re not quite as powerful as a full-size regular chainsaw, but they’re great for pruning and trimming. Equipped with a long pole, these saws can easily reach high into trees and hard-to-reach places to get the job done quickly and efficiently.
Pole saws come in a variety of types, including gas, electric, cordless and manual.
What’s the Alternative? Climbing Trees?
Well, climbing trees is one option, but it’s not always the safest option. Pole saws are the most common tool used to prune and trim, but loppers can also be used. And depending on how large the loppers are, you may just find yourself having to climb trees to get the job done.
Of course, chainsaws can also be used, but these typically aren’t the best option for pruning or trimming – unless the branch is within reach. Climbing a tree gets a bit dangerous with a chainsaw in tow.
Choosing the Best Pole Saw for the Job
The right pole saw for you will depend on a variety of things. Type, power, chain size, reach and price are all things that need to be considered before you buy a new pole chain saw.
Understand the Types of Pole Saws
There are many different types of pole saws you can use to trim trees. Some are manual and others are electric or gas-powered. We’ll go over the 3 larger categories that need a bit of power to operate.
Corded
An electric pole chainsaw is generally lightweight, easy to use, and virtually maintenance-free. As you may have guessed, these saws plug into an electrical socket, so there’s no need to worry about a battery dying or running out of gas.
Electric models are quieter, but you’re limited by the length of the cord. For small yards, corded electric models are a good option.
Cordless
A cordless pole saw is the most convenient option. There’s no electrical cord or fuel to worry about. For small yards, a single battery charge is typically all you need to get the job done.
The only issue with cordless models is that they’re not quite as powerful as electric or gas, and they tend to be a bit heavier than other options.
Gas Powered
This is the most powerful option and the tool of choice for professional landscapers. Gas is a great option if you have a tough job or a large yard.
Know How Much Power You Need
What do you plan on using the pole saw for? The type of job you’ll be using it for will determine how much power you need.
If you need to cut stronger, thicker branches, a gas-powered saw is your best option. These are the most powerful type of pole saw, so they’ll be able to make quick work of thicker, larger branches.
If you have a smaller yard but still need a fair amount of power, the higher amp electric models are a good choice. They’re lightweight and easy to use. Just keep in mind that you’ll be limited by the length of the cord.
For small yards with lighter jobs, a cordless pole saw pruner is a great choice. Cordless models don’t pack as much power as corded or gas models, but they’re more than sufficient for most jobs. And you won’t have to worry about tripping over cords, or mixing gas and oil.
Choose the Right Bar Length
Pole saw bars are measured in inches and they refer to the length of the surface that the saw’s chain travels around. Most have an 8” bar, but you can find models with 12” bars too. Because longer bars require more power, you’ll only find larger 12” bars on gas-powered models.
Generally speaking, the longer the bar is, the better its ability to cut through thick tree limbs.
How can you know what length you’ll need? First, find and measure the largest tree limb you plan to cut. You’ll want to look for a saw with a bar and chain size that’s greater than this limb.
Choose an Electric Pole Saw with Enough Reach
The one advantage a pole saw has over loppers or regular chainsaws is that they provide an extended reach. Naturally, the length of the pole is an important factor to consider.
Most pole saws have telescopic poles that allow for easy storage and length adjustment. The maximum extension of most pole saws can range anywhere between 8 and 12 feet.
Determine how much reach you’ll need to trim the highest branch. And make sure you look at the maximum extension – not pole reach. Pole reach often takes into account the height of the user, so you may see manufacturers advertising a pole reach of 14 feet or more.
Price & Accessories
Of course, the price is another factor you’ll need to consider. Corded electric pole saws tend to be the most affordable option. Gas is the most expensive, but it’s also the most powerful. Cordless saws are priced somewhere in between gas and corded electric.
Accessories are another thing to consider. Models that come with a pole saw attachment may double as a string trimmer. I highly recommend reading through some electric pole saw reviews to help you find a reliable, affordable model.
How to Use a Pole Saw Safely
Cutting branches that are high out of reach can be dangerous, but learning how to use a pole saw properly and taking the necessary safety precautions can prevent accidents and injuries.
Here are a few basic tips to keep in mind.
- Make sure your saw is in good working condition before you start using it.
- Make sure the work area is clear and that limbs have a clear retreat path.
- Wear snug-fitting clothes, heavy-duty gloves, safety glasses, protective footwear, earplugs, and a safety hat. If you have long hair, make sure it’s covered and out of reach of the saw.
- Apply light pressure when cutting, and don’t force the chain.
Frequently Asked Questions
With a 10 foot telescoping shaft and a 15-foot reach, the DeWalt 20V MAX XR can reach some of the tallest branches.
Average prices range from about $65 to $400 depending on the power, reach, and included attachments.
If you want a dual-purpose tool, look for the pole saws that come with a hedge trimmer attachment. One example is the Greenworks 8.5′ 40V Cordless Pole Saw with Hedge Trimmer Attachment.
If you use your pole saw without the attachment, it may do the job, but the cuts will be rough and you may not get the desired effect. But in a pinch, it can work.
Which is the Best Electric Pole Saw?
If I had to pick just one model, it would be the Sun Joe Convertible Polesaw. I really like the fact you can remove the pole and use the chainsaw independently to cut the tree branches into smaller pieces.
And, it is lightweight and easy to handle, making it a very practical tool to clean up the backyard.
For more time-saving tricks in the garden, visit us at www.TheImpatientFarmer.com.