Top 7 Chainsaws Under $200 That Work Like a Dream

Introduction

For many people, the first thing that comes to mind when they hear "chainsaw" is “hacksaw,” and the first thing that comes to their mind is “expensive.” However, the good news is that several low-priced, reliable options are available. Light-duty and medium-duty users, such as homeowners and those who use chainsaws only on the weekends to cut firewood, will be pleased that there are reliable chainsaws under $200 options that can surprise you in terms of performance. Although there are advanced models available for professionals who use the chainsaw for heavy cutting and carving of wood, for the less demanding users who simply want something that starts, is easy to use, cut, and will work well for light to moderate tasks, “bang for your buck” chainsaws are easy to find if one knows the model to look for.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the importance of budget chainsaws, how to select one, and discuss seven models that outperform expectations. Additionally, I’ll share valuable chainsaw tips and the correct procedures for using a chainsaw safely and effectively. So, you can make well-informed decisions when purchasing and using a chainsaw well within your budget. Let’s get started.

Understanding Why Budget Chainsaws are Vital

Taking a risk, a budget chainsaw is a less expensive option. Cheaper options over the years have gotten a bad rap for “cutting corners” in build quality, and for good reason, but in 2023, there are low-saws under $200 that no one will blink over. Optics aside, many users will find comfortable levels of performance and make use of better engineering and increased consumer demand. In short, users are looking for better features in low-priced chainsaws, and chainsaw manufacturers are providing value.

Furthermore, not everybody uses a commercial-grade chainsaw. Most homeowners, along with DIY enthusiasts, require a tool for:

Occasional yard work
Firewood cutting
Fallen branch clearance
Light storm cleanup

Unlike professional-grade tools that may start at $500, these compact tools provide a $100-$200 safe and smart first investment for learning the chainsaw cutting technique. They are compact, easy to manoeuvre, and often come fully assembled or have tool-free features.

In short, affordable chainsaws do much more than cutting wood; they eliminate the lengthy process required to master the chainsaw.

How to Pick the Right Chainsaw (Simplifying Your Options)

It isn't too difficult to select the best chainsaw for yourself. However, the best one for you must be the proper one for your tasks. Most important considerations are these:

Power Source

Electric (corded): Best for small yards, lightweight, and low-maintenance.
Battery: Quiet and portable. Best for short, effortless tasks.
Gas: Makes the best heavy-duty cuts, but is heavier and louder.

Bar Length

A balance of control and cutting capacity for home use would be best achieved with 12’’ to 16’’ bars.

Safety Features

Look for chain brakes, low kickback bars, and anti-vibration handles.

These are vital during your initial learning phase.

Maintenance Should be Effortless

Automatic oilers and tool-free chain tensioning provide enhanced ease of use, which is highly appreciated.

Follow chainsawtips for their periodical sharpening and maintenance reminders.

Recollect that all chainsaws require maintenance over time, unlike regular chainsaws, which require no extra features.

The Best 7 Affordable Chainsaws $200 That Function Well

Let’s get to the core of the guide. All of these models are highly rated, priced below $200, and good for most DIY enthusiasts. Each provides an overview of benefits, drawbacks, and important aspects.

1. BLACK+DECKER LCS1020B 20V Max Cordless Chainsaw

Price: Roughly $130 (no battery or charger included)

Bar Size: 10 inches

Best suited for: Quick cleanups and light home trimming

Key Points:

No tools required for blade tensioning.
Weighing just 7.2 lbs, it is easy to carry.
Other 20V tools are compatible.

Pros:

Easy to carry.
Guided beginner use.
Emits minimal sound and fumes.

Cons:

Battery and charger are separate purchases.
Limited to light to moderate use, not designed for thick logs.

BLACK+DECKER LCS1020B – Great for novices and fast home activities.

2. WORX WG322 20V Power Share Cordless Chainsaw

Price: Around $145 (comes with battery)

Bar Length: 10 inches

Best suited for: Light trimming and fast cleanups

Key Points:

The chain is automatically lubricated.
No tools are needed for chain tension.
WORX Power Share compatible.

Pros:

Good for light use.
Easy to use and store.

Cons:

Limited to light trimming and home tasks.

WORX WG322 – Less than $200 lightweight battery chainsaw designed for home tasks.

3. Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw (20262)

Price: Around $180 (comes with battery and charger)

Bar Length: 12 inches

Best suited for: Yard work and pruning

Key Points:

The Oiler comes with the tool.
The oil tank is semi-transparent.
Combined with G-MAX batteries.

Pros:

Even quieter than competitors.
More efficient saws offer great safety features.

Cons:

Weaker plastic casing.

Greenworks 20262 – Ideal battery saw for small to mid-sized yards.

4. Craftsman CMECS600 16-Inch Electric Chainsaw

Price: ~$90

Bar Length: 16 inches

Power Source: Corded electric

Key Points:

12-amp motor
Auto oiling system
Built-in chain brake

Pros:

Powerful for its price
Long bar for bigger branches
Easy to use for beginners

Cons:

Requires an extension cord
Not suitable for remote jobs

Craftsman CMECS600 – Budget electric saw for extended reach

5. Ryobi P546 10-Inch 18V One+ Cordless Chainsaw

Price: ~$130 (tool only)

Bar Length: 10 inches

Power Source: Battery

Key Points:

Push-button oiler
Wrap-around handle
Part of the Ryobi ONE+ system

Pros:

Incredibly lightweight.
Versatile battery system
Ideal for pruning and post-storm clean-up

Cons:

Small bar limits the cutting depth
Sold without battery

Ryobi P546 – Compact tool for quick jobs

6. Sun Joe SWJ599E 14-Inch Electric Chainsaw

Price: ~$65

Bar Length: 14 inches

Power Source: Corded electric

Key Points:

9-amp motor
Safety switch to prevent accidental starts
Great for beginners

Pros:

Most affordable on the list
Perfect for novice users
Light but capable

Cons:

Limited power
Not ideal for hardwood

Sun Joe SWJ599E – Entry-level chainsaw with solid basics

7. Poulan PL3816 Gas Chainsaw

Price: ~$190

Bar Length: 16 inches

Power Source: Gas

Key Points:

38cc 2-cycle engine
Anti-vibration handle
Primer bulb for easy starts

Pros:

Cuts through thick limbs
Durable for tougher jobs
More powerful than electric options

Cons:

Heavier and louder
Requires fuel mixing

Poulan PL3816 - Affordable gas-powered chainsaw for heavy-duty work

Safety tips and maintenance: Sharp blades enhance accuracy.

For any chainsaw, the price does not determine safety. Before starting, cutting through wood, limbs, or anything else, these tips are critical:

Before starting, check the chainsaw, chaps, and other equipment.
Examine chains and blades for correct tension, check lubrication levels, and assess barrel alignment.
Examine gaps for cracks or loose components.
Safeguard your equipment
Safety goggles and chaps, gloves, and hearing protection.
Chaps, gloves, and hearing protection.
Keep your grip even and maintain a solid stance.
Tools must be cleaned by wiping off oils and other residues.
The chain must be sharp and lubricated.

Knowing how to handle a chainsaw not only protects the user but also enhances the life of the equipment.

Conclusion

You don’t need to overspend to get great performance. The models above prove that chainsaws can be lightweight, capable, and built for real work, even under $200 in cost. Whether you prefer battery, corded, or gas-powered, there's a budget-friendly saw here with your name on it.

If you’re just starting, dive deeper into our guides on how to use a chainsaw like a pro. The right tool is out there, and it won’t break the bank.

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