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Our Top 3 Picks for Pruning Trees
The best Chainsaw for Pruning trees is the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw, and its 10 Inches bar suits you if you want compact reach for branches.
You are not here to run a research project. You are here to find a Chainsaw that works and get on with it – these 3 are the ones we picked.
#1 – Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw
Best for: you want a 10-inch bar for close-in pruning and overhead branch work, with 5.0Ah capacity for longer sessions.
Why the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw is our #1 pick
- Listed at $199 in November 2026 – premium among those compared; the price moves, so check it
- 4.7 rating from 738 ratings
bar length: 10 Inches · battery voltage: 18V
For comparison on bar length, pick #2 states 6-inch and pick #3 states 12 Inches.
#2 – Greenworks 24V Mini Chainsaw
Best for: you want the lightest pruning saw here, with a 6-inch bar for small limbs and quick yard cleanup.
Why the Greenworks 24V Mini Chainsaw is our #2 pick
- Listed at $118.66 in November 2026 – entry among those compared; the price moves, so check it
- 4.6 rating from 470 ratings
bar length: 6-inch · battery voltage: 24V
Against the other picks on bar length, pick #1 states 10 Inches and pick #3 states 12 Inches.
#3 – Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Compact Chainsaw
Best for: you want a compact cordless saw with a 12-inch bar for larger branches and faster bucking around the yard.
Why the Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Compact Chainsaw is our #3 pick
- Listed at $179.99 in November 2026 – mid-range among those compared; the price moves, so check it
- 4.3 rating from 8,158 ratings
bar length: 12 Inches · battery voltage: 40V
To put that bar length in context, pick #1 states 10 Inches and pick #2 states 6-inch.
How New Hardware picked: we started from the 200 most-reviewed Chainsaw listings in our retail dataset, removed duplicates, accessories and off-category products, and 95 qualified. The picks on this page were selected from those 95 candidates against this topic’s requirements. The order of the picks reflects fit to this topic; each shows its rating and the number of ratings behind it, so you can weigh how much to trust it. Specifications come from manufacturer listings and ratings from verified Amazon buyer reviews (data checked November 2026).
What We Recommend and Why
Clean pruning comes from a saw that stays short enough to move around branches without dragging extra length into the cut.
Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw gives you that compact 10 Inches reach, plus an 18V battery platform and 5.0Ah capacity for lighter-duty yard work. Pick the Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Compact Chainsaw if you want more bar length, or choose the Greenworks 24V Mini Chainsaw if your priority is the lightest package and the lowest price at $118.66. We screened 95 Chainsaws at New Hardware and compared 10 in this page’s table for pruning trees, branch access, and overhead handling.
The three picks span $118.66 to $199, and the median price of the 10 products in our comparison is $173.87. That spread covers a budget mini saw, a midrange compact cordless model, and the Makita at the high end of the shortlist.
Find the necessary power specifications in the requirements section.
Visit the FAQ to find answers to common questions about tree pruning.
Dive into the detailed reviews for an in-depth look at every individual product.
What the Data Says About Chainsaws for Pruning Trees
- Top pick: Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw at $199 (bar length: 10 Inches).
- Also picked: Greenworks 24V Mini Chainsaw at $118.66; Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Compact Chainsaw at $179.99.
- We compared 10 Chainsaws, from $109 to $237.05, median $173.87.
- Best buyer rating in the comparison: Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw at 4.7/5 from 738 ratings.
- Cheapest in the comparison that can trim hedges and small branches around the yard: Black & Decker LCS1240B 40V MAX 12 in. at $109 (40V).
Full Comparison Table of Chainsaws for Pruning Trees
| Product | Price | Rating | bar length | battery voltage | weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw | $199 | 4.7 (738 ratings) | 10 Inches | 18V | 7.22 Pounds |
| Greenworks 24V Mini Chainsaw | $118.66 | 4.6 (470 ratings) | 6-inch | 24V | 3.4 lbs |
| Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Compact Chainsaw | $179.99 | 4.3 (8,158 ratings) | 12 Inches | 40V | 6 Pounds |
| Black & Decker LCS1240B 40V MAX 12 in. | $109 | 4.4 (3,654 ratings) | 12 in. | 40V MAX | 8.3 pounds |
| CRAFTSMAN V20 RP CMCCS630P1 | $169.75 | 4.6 (1,748 ratings) | 12 in. | Not stated | 9 Pounds |
| Ryobi P547 Chainsaw | $177.99 | 4.3 (484 ratings) | 10 Inches | 18-Volt | 6.8 Pounds |
| Greenworks 48V Chainsaw | $159.99 | 4.1 (599 ratings) | 14 Inches | 48 Volts | 11.44 pounds |
| SKIL PWR CORE 40 Chainsaw | $159 | 4.4 (825 ratings) | Not stated | 40V | Not stated |
| Greenworks 24V Chainsaw | $179.99 | 4.3 (2,316 ratings) | 10 Inches | 24V | 7.85 Pounds |
| DEWALT DCCS620B 20V Max Chainsaw | $237.05 | 4.5 (13,161 ratings) | 12 Inches | 20V MAX | 8.8 Pounds |
Prices are approximate and move frequently – check the current price before deciding. “Not stated” means the manufacturer listing does not give that figure – we do not estimate it.
Among our top picks, Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Compact Chainsaw is the value leader, and its $179.99 price for 40V matters for pruning trees because voltage helps frame cordless cutting power.
The Full Review of Each Pick for Pruning Trees
The 3 picks below are reviewed in the same order as the cards above.
Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw
Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw fits pruning trees because its 10-inch bar keeps the cut reach compact, which helps around branches and overhead work. Its 18V platform and 5.0Ah battery capacity make it the strongest battery package in this group for lighter pruning jobs, while the 7.22-pound weight keeps it in a manageable class for ladder work.
What we like: The 10-inch bar is the key pruning figure here, since it favors control over reach. The 18V battery voltage is enough for yard pruning and overhead branch work, and the 5.0Ah rating gives more runtime than the smaller packs in this group. Battery runtime matters here because it helps you compare how long a saw can stay on pruning duty per charge, and this model has the largest pack among the three picks.
Keep in mind: Battery not included, so the purchase is not ready to use without the right LXT pack. The 18V setup suits lighter pruning, but it is not the choice for buyers who want a longer bar or a more aggressive cutting setup.
Greenworks 24V Mini Chainsaw
Greenworks 24V Mini Chainsaw made the list for pruning trees because the 6-inch bar is the shortest here, which makes it the most compact option for small branches and tight spaces. Its 24V battery and 3.4-pound weight suit quick pruning jobs, especially if you want a one-handed tree saw for lighter yard work.
What we like: The 6-inch bar is the main advantage for close-in pruning, since it keeps the saw small around twigs and small limbs. The one-click chain tightening also matters for pruning work, because it keeps adjustment simple when you are moving from branch to branch.
Keep in mind: The 2.0Ah pack limits battery runtime, so this is not the pick for long pruning sessions or heavier cleanup. If you want a regular chainsaw feel for larger limbs, the 6-inch bar is too short for that job.
Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Compact Chainsaw
Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Compact Chainsaw is the middle-ground pruning choice, with a 12-inch bar that gives more reach than the mini saw without pushing into a bulky setup. Its 40V battery platform and 6-pound weight make it the most substantial cordless option here for yard pruning and overhead cuts.
What we like: The 12-inch bar gives more usable reach for larger branches, while still staying in a compact pruning size. The 40V battery voltage is the highest in this group, and the automatic oiler and tool-less tensioning add practical value for repeated pruning sessions. If you want a cordless chainsaw for branches around the yard, this one gives the most reach of the three picks.
Keep in mind: The 2.0Ah battery is the weak point for battery runtime, so this is not the longest-running option for extended cleanup. If your priority is one-handed trimming of very small branches, the mini saw is easier to carry and swing.
See which model fits your specific needs in the audience checklist.
Consult the buying guide to understand the key factors for choosing a saw.
View the comparison table for a side-by-side look at all the featured models.
What to Look For in a Tree Saw for Pruning Trees
Bar Length For Branch Access
Look for 10 to 12 inches for branch access, because that span keeps the saw compact around limbs and overhead cuts. The Makita states a 10-inch bar, and the Greenworks compact model uses 12 inches, so both stay in the pruning range that favors control over reach. A 6-inch bar, like the mini model’s, suits smaller cuts, while 14 inches starts to push the tool toward broader work. For pruning tree branches, the shortest bar that still spans your usual limb diameter is the cleaner choice.
One-Handed Control Around Limbs Depends on Weight
Choose the lighter saw when one-handed control around limbs matters, because weight changes how long you can guide the nose accurately. The Greenworks mini weighs 3.4 lbs with battery, while the Makita lists 7.22 pounds and the 12-inch Greenworks lists 6 pounds. That spread is the main separator here, not voltage alone. A top-handle design on the Makita also suits overhead branch work, but the lighter mini is easier to keep moving around tight limbs.
Reach Under Dense Canopy With the Shortest Bar
Use the shortest bar that still reaches the branch diameter you cut, because dense canopy work rewards compact reach. The 6-inch mini is the tightest option here, the Makita uses 10 inches, and the Greenworks compact model uses 12 inches. Shorter bars move more easily between leaves and stems, while longer bars give more span for thicker limbs. The Stihl MS 261 C-M is the benchmark pro gas saw for cutting speed, balance, and durability, and the three picks here lean shorter and lighter than that reference.
Low Kickback For Close Cuts
Prioritize low kickback for close cuts when you work near trunks or tight branch unions, because the safety chain matters more there than extra reach. The 12-inch Greenworks states a low kickback safety chain, and the mini model adds safety baffles and a security lock. The Makita lists a captured bar nut and lateral chain tensioning, which help setup, but it does not state a low-kickback chain. Branch diameter capacity matters here too, since a smaller bar usually keeps the cut closer to the limb size you actually need.
Battery Runtime For Repeated Trimming
Hold out for more battery capacity if you plan repeated trimming, because runtime separates quick cleanup from longer yard sessions. The Makita’s 5.0Ah pack gives the strongest runtime figure here, while both Greenworks picks state 2.0Ah packs. For a lightweight saw used for pruning and campsite cleanup, 2 to 5Ah usually covers about 2 hours, and the Makita’s 5Ah lands near the workable end of that span; the 2Ah packs fall short. The pruning saw chain, which affects cut speed and control in branches, matters too, but runtime still decides how often you stop to swap or charge.
For a detailed breakdown of a classic model, view the full MS 170 spec breakdown to see its performance.
Understanding your equipment is vital, so learn how to choose the correct chain pitch for your specific needs.
What Each Job Takes, Worked Out for These Picks
Each row is a job this page’s buyers ask about, worked out from each pick’s listed battery voltage and battery capacity and a typical need for the job.
| What you want to do | What it takes | How each pick does |
|---|---|---|
| Trim hedges and small branches around the yard | at least 18 to 20V | Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw: only at the easier end (18V); Greenworks 24V Mini Chainsaw: yes (24V); Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Compact Chainsaw: yes (40V) |
| Prune overhead branches from a ladder | at least 18 to 20V | Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw: only at the easier end (18V); Greenworks 24V Mini Chainsaw: yes (24V); Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Compact Chainsaw: yes (40V) |
| Run a lightweight saw long enough for pruning and campsite cleanup | 2 to 5Ah for 2 hours, 60% usable – about 3.5 to 8.5Ah of battery capacity | Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw: about 1 to 3 hours; Greenworks 24V Mini Chainsaw: about 0.5 to 1 hour; Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Compact Chainsaw: about 0.5 to 1 hour |
What each job takes is a typical figure, not a manufacturer claim, and every result is worked out from the pick’s listed specifications. Check your own job against them before you order.
Who Buys Chainsaws, and What It Really Costs
Who buys a Chainsaw, and what each one needs
- Homeowners with overgrown yard trees — need a saw with a 10 in bar length for light pruning and storm cleanup
- Rural property owners — need a saw with a 16 in bar length for limbing and small firewood
- Orchard workers — need a saw with a 16 in bar length for branch cleanup and shaping trees
- Landscape maintenance crews — need a saw with an 18 in bar length for larger limbs and faster bucking
- Volunteer trail crews — need a saw with a 10 in bar length for clearing fallen branches and tight cuts
- Woodlot hobbyists — need a saw with an 18 in bar length for cutting larger limbs without moving into a heavier class
What a chain saw really costs, and where to buy one
What to budget for on top of the chain saw
- Bar-and-chain oil — needed to lubricate the bar groove and chain during use
- Replacement chain — needed when the cutting teeth wear down or get damaged
- Extra battery pack — needed for cordless saws when the included pack runs out before the job is done
- Compatible charger — needed to recharge the battery system between cutting sessions
- Personal protective equipment — needed for safe handling, including eye, hand, and leg protection
What you can leave out of the budget
- Longer bar — you can skip it for pruning because extra reach adds weight and can slow tight cuts
- High-capacity spare battery — you can skip it for short yard jobs if one battery already covers the work
- Heavy-duty firewood splitting gear — you can skip it because pruning uses the saw, not a splitter
- Large storage case — you can skip it if the saw is kept in a small shed or garage and moved short distances
Where this kind of product is normally sold
- Home improvement chains — broad return windows and easy accessory bundling, with warranty help handled at the store level
- Farm and ranch retailers — practical selection for property work, often with battery and oil add-ons in one trip
- Outdoor power equipment dealers — setup help, parts support, and warranty handling that suits buyers who want service after purchase
- Online marketplaces — wider price spread and easy comparison shopping, but return rules and seller support vary by listing
- Tool rental and sales counters — useful for buyers who want to compare handling in person and ask about chain and bar compatibility
Homeowners looking for battery power should see our comparison of cordless chainsaws for homeowners to find the right fit.
What It Takes to Run One, and What to Verify
What you need before a pruning saw will run
Makita XCU06Z states 18V and 5.0Ah, but battery not included, so you need a compatible 18V LXT battery and charger. Greenworks 24V Mini Chainsaw states 24V and 2.0Ah, and Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Compact Chainsaw states 40V and 2.0Ah, so each needs its matching battery system before it can cut.
- Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw needs an 18V LXT battery, and the listing says battery not included. You also need a charger for that battery system.
- Greenworks 24V Mini Chainsaw works with a 24V battery, so a spare battery has to match 24V if you want longer pruning sessions. Its 2.0Ah pack is the runtime limit in the data.
- Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Compact Chainsaw works with a 40V battery, so any spare battery or charger has to match that voltage. Its 2.0Ah battery is smaller than Makita’s 5.0Ah pack.
- Makita XCU06Z has an automatic oiler, so you still need bar and chain oil. That oil lubricates the cutting system during use, and the chain oil reservoir capacity is not stated.
What to verify when your tree trimming chainsaw arrives
Cover differs by seller and country, so you should verify the parts and fit before your return window closes.
- Check that the bar length matches what you ordered: 10 inches on the Makita, 6-inch on the Greenworks mini, and 12 inches on the Greenworks compact. A wrong bar size changes what branch diameter the saw can span.
- Confirm the battery voltage on the carton and tool body. The Makita is 18V, the Greenworks mini is 24V, and the Greenworks compact is 40V, so a mismatch can leave you with the wrong battery system.
- Look for the chain and bar condition, especially on the two Greenworks models with shorter bars. A bent bar or damaged chain is more likely to disappoint on a pruning saw than on a larger cutting tool.
- Verify the oiler parts on the Makita, since it states an automatic oiler. That matters because the cutting system depends on oil during use, and the reservoir capacity is not stated.
The first thing to do is fit the battery, confirm the chain moves freely, and check that the oiler feeds before you make the first cut.
Chainsaws for Pruning Trees: The Questions This Choice Raises
What weight is manageable for overhead pruning without getting exhausted?
For overhead pruning without getting exhausted, the lighter chainsaw is easier to keep moving through repeated cuts. The Greenworks 24V Mini Chainsaw weighs 3.4 lbs with the battery, and the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw weighs 7.22 pounds; that gap matters when you are holding the saw above shoulder height.
What safety features should I look for on a chainsaw for pruning trees?
For chainsaw pruning trees, look for a chain brake or low-kickback design, because both reduce risk during close-in cuts. The Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Compact Chainsaw states a low kickback safety chain, and the Greenworks 24V Mini Chainsaw states a security lock, anti-slip handles, and safety baffles.
Which tree pruning saw suits a small yard and quick branch work?
The tree pruning saw that suits a small yard and quick branch work is the Greenworks 24V Mini Chainsaw. Its 6-inch bar is the shortest here, and its 3.4 lbs weight keeps the tool compact for short pruning jobs around branches.
Which pruning saw is the better pick for longer sessions?
For longer pruning sessions, the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw is the stronger fit because its 5.0Ah battery is the largest capacity in this group. That capacity is the one figure here that gives it the most runtime margin, while the Greenworks 24V Mini Chainsaw and Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Compact Chainsaw both state 2.0Ah.
Check the setup and warranty notes for information on assembly and manufacturer support.
Review the scope to see exactly which types of saws are included in this list.
Browse our top picks to see the best-performing models ranked at a glance.
Beginners should start by viewing the different types of chainsaws explained to understand which power source suits them.
Safety is paramount when working with heavy machinery, so review the safety standards and certifications required for these tools.
Who Should Skip These Chain Saws
If you are reaching for a saw to clean up larger limbs or firewood, these three picks are the wrong tier. The 10-inch, 6-inch, and 12-inch bars suit pruning and overhead branch work, not the 16-inch and 18-inch reach that marks heavier cutting jobs.
For that work, move to a larger gas chainsaw or a longer-bar cordless model. If your job also depends on bar-and-chain fit, match the chain pitch and gauge before you order, because the wrong pair will not run correctly. For broader cutting needs, start with best chainsaw for cutting firewood.