10 Best 12 Inch Chainsaw 2025 in the United States

The EGO POWER+ 12-inch chainsaw is a battery-powered tool designed to offer power similar to a small 30cc gas chainsaw, thanks to its efficient brushless motor. It can run up to 130 cuts per single charge of the included 2.5Ah battery, which is quite good for light to medium tasks like trimming branches and clearing brush. Its 12-inch bar and chain size suit smaller jobs rather than heavy cutting.

Weighing about 8.4 pounds with the battery, it's lighter than many gas alternatives, making it easier to handle and less tiring during use. The chainsaw includes tool-free chain tensioning, allowing quick adjustment of the chain without extra tools, which simplifies maintenance. Since it’s battery-powered, it runs quietly compared to gas models, making it ideal when noise is a concern.

This model is a solid choice for homeowners needing a lightweight, easy-to-use chainsaw for general yard work and occasional cutting, although it’s not designed for heavy-duty cutting or professional logging.

The DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Chainsaw Kit offers a battery-powered solution, making it highly portable and convenient for outdoor cutting tasks. With a 12-inch low kickback bar and chain, it is suitable for both construction and yard work. It is lightweight at just 9 lbs with the battery, which aids in user control and reduces fatigue during extended use.

The brushless motor enhances efficiency and extends the motor's lifespan, delivering up to 90 cuts per charge on 4x4 pressure treated wood with the included 20V MAX* 5Ah battery. This makes it a reliable option for moderate tasks without the need for constant recharging. Tool-free chain tensioning and a bar tightening knob simplify maintenance, allowing for quick adjustments without additional tools. The chainsaw's compact design also ensures easier storage and handling.

However, being battery-powered, it may not match the continuous power provided by gas chainsaws for heavier and prolonged cutting jobs. Additionally, while quieter than gas models, it still emits noise during operation. The inclusion of a 3-year limited warranty, 1-year free service contract, and 90-day money-back guarantee provides added assurance of its quality. This chainsaw is best suited for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts who need a reliable, easy-to-use chainsaw for medium-duty cutting tasks around the yard or for light construction work.

The DEWALT 20V MAX 12" Cordless Chainsaw is a solid choice for light to medium cutting tasks around the yard or construction sites. Its battery-powered design means no gas, fumes, or tricky starts, which makes it convenient and cleaner to use compared to traditional gas chainsaws. The included battery and charger add to the ease of getting started right away. It features a brushless motor that provides good power for this size, delivering up to 100 cuts on a full charge, which suits most shorter jobs without needing to recharge frequently. Weighing just over 12 pounds, it’s fairly lightweight, helping you maintain control and make precise cuts, which is great for those who want something easy to handle. The 12-inch low kickback bar and chain enhance safety, reducing the chance of sudden jerks during cutting. Noise levels are generally lower than gas models, making it less disruptive in residential areas.

The runtime, while decent for smaller tasks, might not be enough for heavy or extended use without swapping batteries. Also, with a power rating of 0.7 horsepower, it’s less powerful than larger gas chainsaws, so it may struggle with very thick or dense wood. Maintenance is simpler without carburetors and gas systems, but battery care and eventual replacement add a different kind of upkeep. This DEWALT chainsaw is best suited for homeowners or DIY enthusiasts needing a reliable, quiet, and easy-to-use tool for routine cutting, rather than professionals needing heavy-duty power or long continuous runtime.