Switching from Gas to Battery is Easier with the Latest Generation of Battery-Powered String Trimmers

Even if you’re not quite ready to pull the trigger on an electric lawn mower, cordless string trimmers are a much easier jump for most homeowners to make. Even Pro lawn care crews have legitimate options to replace gas models. What’s the best battery-powered string trimmer for your needs? We got our team together to determine top picks for a range of priorities.

Want to see our top overall string trimmer picks, including gas models? Check out this article!

Best Battery-Powered String Trimmer Overall

Best for Professionals: Husqvarna 520iLX Battery-Powered String Trimmer

When we’re talking about the best all-day, everyday professional string trimmer for residential crews, we love Husqvarna’s 520iLX. What helps it rise above other solid picks from Stihl, EGO, and Greenworks Commercial is its combination of lighter weight, extremely low vibration, and thoughtful feature set in conjunction with excellent performance. Other professional brands hit several of the same elements, but none of them put them together as completely as Husqvarna.

Price: $299.99 bare tool

Best for Homeowners: EGO PowerLoad String Trimmer with Line IQ ST1623T

EGO started back in the day with surprisingly strong performance for a cordless string trimmer with eye-opening vibration control. Since then, it’s only gotten better as battery and motor technology have improved. Add to that, automatic line loading with EGO’s PowerLoad feature makes string trimmers with it the easiest to load we’ve ever used. For 2022, automatic line feeding takes it to another level, setting the bar very high for any other brand hoping to compete for the title of the best battery-powered string trimmer.

Price: Price: $299 with 4.0Ah battery and charger

Best Battery-Powered String Trimmer Power

Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Whisper Series Carbon Fiber Shaft String Trimmer RY402110VNM

In case you haven’t noticed, Ryobi has been absolutely unleashed in the last year. The 40V HP Brushless lineup has been impressive, taking the Home Depot-exclusive brand to a whole new level in OPE. For the latest flagship string trimmer, that means impressive cutting power.

The combination of advanced battery and brushless motor tech lets you spin line up to 0.105-inch with a 17-inch cutting swath. It’s fantastic when you’re reclaiming overgrown areas or simply have a lot of lawn to maintain. It gets even better, though, because this model is also part of the Whisper Series, boasting 60% quieter operation than a comparable gas model thanks to specifically focusing on the pitch of the sound.

Price: $329 with 6.0Ah battery and rapid charger

Best Lightweight Battery-Powered String Trimmer

Makita ConnectX String Trimmer CRU03

Makita packs 30cc gas power equivalence into a sub-10-pound package with the ConnectX string trimmer. By shifting the weight of the battery off of the tool and putting it on a harness, you also get incredible runtime thanks to the 1200Wh of capacity you’re wearing. Makita isn’t the only brand to offer a backpack battery, but this combination of weight and performance is special.

Price: $419 bare tool

Best Attachment-Capable Battery-Powered String Trimmer

Stihl Battery-Powered Kombi System KMA 135 R

When we tested cordless attachment systems, none of them had the overall performance that Sithl’s 36V KombiSystem did. It was the closest one to using a gas powerhead. Now it’s even better with the launch of the KMA 135 R powerhead.

Even though Stihl doesn’t use a universal attachment mechanism, the brand’s list of available attachments is deeper than we’ve seen from any other. Plus, there’s Stihl’s extensive dealer and service network to support you after the sale.

Price: $359.99 powerhead only

Best Budget Battery-Powered String Trimmer

SKIL 40V PWRCore Brushless String Trimmer LT4818-10

This year, we set a price limit on our best budget battery-powered string trimmer recommendation. Capped at $160 for the entire kit, we looked for something powerful that also included the battery and charger. The powerful Skil 40V PWRCore Brushless string trimmer really impressed us with its value.

This battery-powered trimmer really fills a need for a capable weed eater that doesn’t go overboard on weight or price. With more power than 18V/20V models, it’s a good fit for budget-minded individuals. It also carries a 5-year limited warranty.

Price: $159 with 2.5Ah battery and charger.

Best Line for Battery-Powered String Trimmers

Echo Black Diamond 0.095-Inch Trimmer Line

Echo Black Diamond trimmer line is denser than others and has sharper cutting edges in its design. For battery-powered string trimmers, you can use Black Diamond 0.095-inch line that cuts like it’s thicker without killing your runtime. There’s some reduction because of the increase in mass, but not as much as when it combines with the increased air resistance of thicker lines. It’s the line we prefer on our gas trimmers and with cordless models being as capable as they are today, we’re able to on those as well.

Price: $14.99 1-pound package (253 feet)

More Battery-Powered String Trimmer Options from Brands We Trust

Best DeWalt Battery-Powered String Trimmer: DCST972

DeWalt sports an impressive 17-inch cutting swath on its latest 60V Max brushless string trimmer. It’s a 2-speed attachment-capable trimmer using a universal connection system, opening up more options beyond DeWalt attachments. With 5800 RPM on the top end (4650 in low), there’s plenty of speed and you can swap out the 0.080-inch line that comes pre-spooled with 0.095-inch.

It’s a little beefier than some models with the 3.0Ah 60V battery pushing the total weight over 11 pounds. The trigger grip section is also a bit thicker than most, so you might not care for it if you have smaller hands. On the plus side, there are three points for the attachment detent to lock into, making it simple to convert the trimmer head into a string edger.

Price: $249 bare tool, $299 with 3.0Ah battery and charger

Best EGO Battery-Powered String Trimmer: ST1623T

There’s a reason we picked EGO’s Line IQ trimmer as our best overall for homeowners. It’s so easy to use with excellent performance and smooth operation, that it can make one of the worst tasks enjoyable.

Price: $299.00 with 4.0Ah battery and charger

Best Greenworks Battery-Powered String Trimmer: ST60L254

Greenworks’ Pro 60V line has a few options and we like the ST60L04 as the best overall balance of performance and price for trimming. It’s a smooth-operating trimmer with an easy-loading Load N’ Go head that uses 0.095-inch line and runs for more than half an hour on its 2.5Ah battery.

Price: $199.99 with 2.5Ah battery and charger

Best HART Battery-Powered String Trimmer: HLST051VNM

HART stepped up big time this year and now has a brushless 15-inch carbon fiber shaft model for its 40V line. It’s another attachment-capable option using a universal connection and is capable to whipping 0.095-inch line. Thanks to its carbon fiber shaft, the weight comes down a bit without sacrificing the strength you need for the job.

Price: $248 with 4.0Ah battery and rapid charger

Best Husqvarna Battery-Powered String Trimmer: 520iLX

From its lighter weight and smoother operation to its excellent performance, Husqvarna’s 520iLX is our pick as the best overall battery-powered string trimmer for professionals.

Best Makita Battery-Powered String Trimmer: GRU01

We realize not everyone is in a place to jump onto Makita’s ConnectX system. If you want high performance with wider OPE and power tool compatibility, give the 40V max XGT GRU01 a look. It has three speeds and tops out with a blistering 6500 RPM. Plus, there’s an Automatic Torque Drive feature that auto-adjusts the speed to match what you’re cutting. Even better, this one is just 10.4 pounds with a 4.0Ah battery, giving it an excellent blend of performance and weight.

Price: $289 bare, $439 with 4.0Ah battery and rapid charger

Best Milwaukee Battery-Powered String Trimmer: 2825-21ST

Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel Quik-Lok attachment system still holds the top spot for the best Milwaukee string trimmer in our books. Its 2-speed brushless design does an excellent job on a wide range of grasses. Even though it doesn’t use a universal connection, the available attachments have done a fantastic job over several years of service with our crew.

Now that there’s a new commercial lawn mower, whispers of further Milwaukee OPE expansion are in the wind, so keep your eyes open in case something new in the string trimmer department shows up.

Price: $229 powerhead and string trimmer attachment, $299 string trimmer kit with 8.0Ah High Output battery and rapid charger

Best Ryobi Battery-Powered String Trimmer RY402110VNM

For all the reasons we already stated and more, Ryobi’s 40V HP Brushless 17-inch string trimmer is something special.

Price: $329 with 6.0Ah battery and rapid charger

Best Skil Battery-Powered String Trimmer: LT4818-10

It’s tough to find a brushless string trimmer under $150 that includes a battery and charger. Skil is one option and it’s a compelling high-value pick. It’s capable of using 0.080-inch line and we whacked down some pretty tall grass in Josh’s backyard when we decided to reclaim it. It’s also a good pick if you’re looking for a lightweight trimmer—it’s just 9.3 pounds with a 2.5Ah battery.

Price: $149.00 with 2.5Ah battery and rapid charger

Best Stihl Battery-Powered String Trimmer: FSA 135 R

Stihl was already doing a great job in the professional battery-powered lawn care department, but the 135 line takes it a step further with even better performance and durability. Comparable to the power the FS 91 offers, it’s matching up with one of Stihl’s workhorse gas models. The trimmer works best with 0.095-inch line and has a 16.5-inch cutting swath. It also comes in both standard and bike handle models, giving you a great option for clearing large areas.

Best Battery-Powered String Trimmer Buying Guide | What We Look For

Cutting Power

Three primary factors go into cutting power: line speed, line thickness/mass, and motor torque.

The faster the line whips around, the better the tips cut grass. Most battery-powered string trimmers are fine in this category. As long as you’re getting at least 5000 RPM, you should be in good shape. The top models are capable of hitting 6500 RPM and there is a significant difference in how fast you can complete your trimming duties at higher rotational speeds.

Shifting the focus to the line thickness, the higher the line mass, the more force it’s able to cut through thicker grass with. It’s like the difference between getting hit by a 175-pound safety and a 225-pound linebacker at the same speed. More mass equals more cutting power.

Most cordless string trimmers take 0.080-inch line at a minimum. We recommend 0.095-inch for the best all-around performance. If you have tougher grass or deal with overgrowth frequently, a string trimmer with 0.105-inch line lets you power through even better. Just keep in mind that line diameter has a direct effect on runtime—thicker line takes more power to run.

Finally, a motor with higher torque helps the trimmer resist slowing down as the going gets tougher. Even though trimming grass seems like a low-demand task, grass does push back against the line, causing it to bend back and eventually start to bog the motor. Higher torque holds keeps the head spinning better in tough cutting situations, even when its highest RPMs are lower than low-torque gearing.

Cutting Swath

Having a large cutting swath helps you clear large areas faster or gives you a more generous border for your mower. You need more power to run wider, though, and runtime is always a consideration. That said, in the past couple of years, we’ve seen the technology come together to give us solid options. Look for a 15-inch cutting diameter for most situations. Recent 16- and 17-inch models are a great choice when you have larger areas to cut.

Runtime

The average homeowner on a 1/4-acre lot only needs about 15 minutes of consistent trigger time to cover trimming. Most cordless string trimmers are able to hit that at high speed without too much trouble.

Professional lawn care crews need much more, though. So do homeowners with large properties and farm/ranch acreage.

If your runtime needs are greater, look for a string trimmer that balances the efficiency of a brushless motor, uses 0.095-inch line, and possibly comes with a higher-capacity battery. Of course, you can always carry multiple batteries.

Also, consider learning how to trim at low speed when the grass isn’t as thick. Even though you have to slow down a bit, you’ll cut a significantly larger area.

Vibration

We highly value low-vibration string trimmers. We already have enough work to do managing the weight of such a long tool without vibration adding additional fatigue. The harmonics in some of today’s models are so good that hardly any vibration makes it up the handle… and they are a joy to use!

Weight and Balance

If you’re working all day on a lawn crew or even just putting the finishing touches on your own lawn, you want the lightest weight you can get without sacrificing the power you need. Bare weight isn’t everything—the battery can add a lot. If you can get a fully-loaded battery-powered string trimmer that meets your performance needs and comes in under 10 pounds, that’s a big win.

Balance is a consideration and the trimmers that have the best typically mount the motor on the trimmer head to counter the battery weight on the back. Many models also let you adjust the front handle to help dial in your fit.

If you’re after an attachment-capable model, you’re stuck with the motor in the back, and the balance shifts back. For those and trimmers that are simply heavier by nature, consider adding a shoulder strap to help you out.

Sound Level

Low noise is one of the major benefits of moving away from gas power. Cordless string trimmers we’ve tested range from decibels in the low 80s to the upper 90s (measured at our operator’s ear). Even at the top end, it’s an improvement over the majority of gas trimmers.

Your line selection plays a bigger part than it does on gas trimmers. Sometimes, switching the line you use can reduce the overall noise level or change the tone to a less irritating pitch.

Line Changes

When you have to change the line, it can be an easy or frustrating process. Manual loading is largely a thing of the past, though some trimmers still have manual heads. To make the process easier, look for models that have some type of fast-loading system (SpeedFeed, Rapid Load, etc). With these, you thread the line through the head to the middle, turn the head to load it, and go get on with the work.

Regardless of what comes on the trimmer, you can upgrade most to a quick-load head.

The best on the market right now is EGO’s PowerLoad design. It takes the fast-load concept and adds automatic winding and gives us the easiest, quickest line changes we’ve ever had.

Attachment Capability

Pro lawn crews typically have dedicated machines for string trimming, edging, and hedge trimming, but homeowners can save a lot of money by using interchangeable heads and tools that cover everything from blowing to brush cutting.

As we mentioned earlier, attachment systems require a top-mounted motor that affects the balance. It’s a trade-off you have to make for the convenience you gain.

One thing to keep an eye on is the attachment connection style. Models with a “universal” connection can use attachments from other brands, opening up far more choices. Recent multi-head systems including EGO, Milwaukee, and Stihl aren’t compatible with others, so you need to make sure they have everything you need before investing.

The post Best Battery-Powered String Trimmer Reviews 2022 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Boy, did we open a can of worms when we started searching and testing to determine the best battery-powered chainsaw models. Not that long ago, there weren’t that many cordless chainsaws, and even fewer had high enough performance to warrant replacing gas saws.

Fast forward to today and cordless chainsaws meet and even exceed gas performance all the way up to 20-inch models. The big change this year is we have battery options to replace farm and ranch chainsaws!

Best Battery-Powered Chainsaw for Pros

Sithl 20-Inch Battery-Powered Chainsaw MSA 300 C-O

Pros have more options than ever before and as of Spring 2022, that includes 20-inch cordless chainsaws. Of the three available, Sithl earns our pick as the best battery-powered chainsaw for professionals in a tight battle (DeWalt and Greenworks Commercial also have 20-inch models this year).

Stihl is introducing the AP 500 S battery along with the saw, giving the MSA 300 C-O an advanced power source to pull high performance from. Where it pulls away from the pack is intelligence. The saw has 3 performance settings so you have options when you want to prioritize runtime over power. It also has an LED screen that displays power status, mode, chain brake position, and has a low oil alert. For those of you managing inventory, it’s also Smart Connector A 2 compatible.

Price: TBA

Best Cordless Chainsaw for Home Use

EGO 56V 18-inch Cordless Chainsaw CS1800

In choosing the best battery chainsaw for home use, we didn’t want to sacrifice the power we enjoy from our professional saws. While there are a lot of options available, we tend to get the best balance of performance and weight in the 60V class.

Moving to an 18-inch bar, we put the EGO CS1800 on the top of the charts. It has excellent power and there’s plenty of runtime with available batteries up to 10.0Ah (a 5.0Ah pack comes in the kit).

In addition to its performance, EGO’s auto-tensioning system makes it super-easy to adjust the chain tension and access the bar and chain without the use of additional tools. There’s even an LED to help with post-storm cleanup when the power’s out and you can’t wait for sunrise.

Price: $259 bare, $349 with 5.0Ah battery and charger

Most Powerful Cordless Chainsaw

Greenworks Commercial 82V 20-Inch Chainsaw

In late 2021 at GIE, DeWalt, Geenworks Commercial, and Stihl all announced new 20-inch battery-powered chainsaws with the power to take on the farm and ranch class. All three also claimed to have the most powerful and as the dust settled, Greenworks Commercial’s had the highest-rated power.

The caveat here is that we haven’t been able to fully test these saws yet. They’re too new. We got our hands on them at GIE, though, and no matter which one you choose, you’re in for a treat! Once we get a chance to use for a more thorough test, we’ll be sure to share our experience. Learn more at the links below.

• DeWalt 60V Max 20-Inch Chainsaw DCC677 (March 2022)
• Greenworks Commercial 20-Inch Chainsaw
• Stihl 20-Inch Chainsaw MSA 300 C-O (Summer 2022)

Best Battery Top Handle Chainsaw

Makita 18V X2 (36V) Top Handle Chainsaw XCU08

Top handle chainsaws are an arborist’s and lineman’s best friend. The differences in design give these saws a very different feel while you’re cutting and we generally only recommend them for experienced chainsaw users.

Our choice for the best battery top handle chainsaw is the Makita XCU08. It’s a legitimate gas replacement that has the muscle to hang with traditional names such as Stihl and Husqvarna. The best part is that it comes in with a lower price tag.

The saw comes stock with a 14-inch bar, but you can also order the XCU09 if you want the same saw with a 16-inch bar instead.

Price: $339 bare, $449 with two 5.0Ah batteries and charger

Best Battery Pole Saw

Makita 18V X2 LXT Telescoping Pole Saw XAU02

When it comes to the best battery pole saw, multi-head systems are an excellent platform. However, most professional crews prefer dedicated tools to attachment systems. If that sounds like you, check out Makita’s XAU02. It’s a 9- to 13-foot telescoping system that reaches significantly higher than most of its competition.

Its performance is impressive, using two 18V batteries with its 10-inch bar to cut at speeds up to 3940 fpm (20.0 meters per second). In terms of overall power, it’s the equivalent of a 30cc gas engine, and Makita’s internal testing shows it cutting faster than a 31.4cc gas competitor.

What helps set this model apart is a torque boost mode. You can do most of your cutting on a battery-saving standard setting and then kick it up to full power for thicker or harder braches.

Price: $499 bare

Best Small Battery-Powered Chainsaw

Choosing the best small cordless chainsaw isn’t just a matter of choosing something lightweight with a 10- or 12-inch bar anymore. The introduction of battery pruners with a 4- to 6- inch bar and chain ups the ante. So we picked one of each for you.

DeWalt 20V Max Compact Cordless Chainsaw DCCS620

DeWalt launched a line of light-duty OPE for its popular 20V Max platform as a way to give contractors the ability to clear jobsites using the batteries they already have. Those same OPE tools are great for homeowners that need occasional or limited use equipment.

The name says it all: DeWalt’s 20V Max compact cordless chainsaw features a highly-manageable 12-inch bar and chain that works with one of the deepest lines of cordless power tools available. For dedicated lawn care, you might look to the FlexVolt 60V Max line, but this saw is just right for limbing and light felling around your home.

Price: $179 bare, $249 kit with 5.0Ah battery and charger

Best Battery Pruner

Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hatchet 6-inch Pruner 2527

As the only current member of Milwaukee’s OPE line to use the M12 battery platform, the M12 Fuel Hatchet does a couple of things better than its limited competition.

First of all, we like that it’s a 6-inch bar and chain rather than 4-inch. Even though it’s only 2 more inches, it gets you into cutting branches you might normally turn to a heavier standard-form chainsaw for.

We also like that this model has an auto-oiler, something that’s missing on Stihl’s model. Combined, this makes it the best cordless chainsaw for those looking for a truly compact pruning tool.

Price: $189 bare, $269 with 4.0Ah battery and charger

Best Value Cordless Chainsaw

Greenworks 60V Pro 16-Inch Battery-Powered Chainsaw C60L212

We were thrilled with the performance improvement in Greenworks’ 2nd-generation 60V Pro chainsaw. Capable of cutting faster than 42cc gas saws, it’s a fantastic all-around chainsaw for property maintenance and storm cleanup.

In addition to its higher performance, it has a more professional-grade feel with metal bucking spikes, dual captured bar nuts, and excellent balance. If your priorities include getting a lot of bang for your buck, this is the chainsaw for you!

Price: $229.99 bare, $299.99 with 2.5Ah battery and charger

Best Budget Battery-Powered Chainsaw

Skil PWRCore 40 14-Inch Cordless Chainsaw CS4555-10

Just because you’re on a sub-$200 budget doesn’t mean you can’t get a quality brushless chainsaw. Skil’s PWRCore 40 system includes a 14-inch brushless chainsaw that finds an excellent balance between performance, design, and price.

We tested this saw cutting oak and it did an excellent job of confidently melting through branches up to 12 inches thick. With auto-oiling and a tool-free chain adjustment system, it’s very easy to use as well. Best of all, the kit is just $199.99.

Price: $199.99 with 2.5Ah battery and charger

See Also: Can battery power cut it? Read our article: Why use a battery-powered chainsaw

More Recommendations from Brands We Trust

Best DeWalt Cordless Chainsaw

Without a doubt, DeWalt’s 60V Max 20-inch cordless chainsaw (DCCS677) is the best model in Yellow’s lineup. As one of three battery-powered 20-inch chainsaws announced launching in the spring of 2022, it’s in a very elite class.

In designing the saw, DeWalt’s development team used the largest brushless motor in any tool they have, period. Along with a list of features that verify its professional pedigree, it’s also the first DeWalt chainsaw to come with a case.

Price: $349 bare, $449 with 4.012.0Ah battery and charger, $499 with 5.0/15.0Ah battery and charger

Best Hart Battery-Powered Chainsaw

Hart makes a strong statement with its 16-inch brushless chainsaw (HLCS021). For starters, a 16-inch chainsaw is no joke—you need a stronger motor than most DIY saws use.

A 360° tour around this model reveals a big step forward for Hart. Dual bar nuts are a nod to Pro-style design while the scrench conveniently stores on the handle. There’s an automatic oiler and the saw comes with a hard plastic case for storage. Overall, this is a much more capable cordless chainsaw than we saw from Hart’s initial offerings.

Price: $274 with a 4.0Ah battery and fast charger

Best Echo Cordless Chainsaw

Echo is moving away from its original cordless line to a new 56V Force system (the two systems are not compatible). Along with the initial launch, there are two chainsaw offerings: a homeowner-grade 18-inch model and a Pro-focused 12-inch top handle.

The top handle is our choice as the best Echo battery-powered chainsaw. As part of the X-Series, the DCS-2500T oozes professional design. It starts with a muscular brushless motor and builds out the drop protection (including a quickdraw harness ring) you expect from a professional gas top handle saw. It’s definitely not your least expensive top handle option, but it is designed with the demands of professional tree care use in mind.

Price: $429.99 bare, $499.99 kit with 2.5Ah battery and charger

Best Husqvarna Cordless Chainsaw

In the end, Husqvarna’s 540i XP is one of the best cordless chainsaws for professionals. Though not as powerful as the Greenworks Commercial 82V, its balance of 40cc power and weight makes it an excellent all-rounder for cordless cutting.

We also like the option to use a standard battery pack or switch over to a battery backpack for extended cutting.

Price: $589 bare (14-inch bar), $599 bare (16-inch bar)

Best Greenworks Cordless Chainsaw

Take the Greenworks model we recommended as the best value cordless chainsaw earlier, flip out the 16-inch bar for an 18-inch, and you get our favorite Greenworks chainsaw for homeowners. With performance that rivals a 42cc gas engine, its 18-inch bar offers excellent capacity you’ll get plenty of runtime from the 4.0Ah battery that comes in the kit.

Price: $279.99 bare, $429.99 with 4.0Ah battery and charger

Best Makita Cordless Chainsaw

Makita’s cordless chainsaw didn’t take long to get dialed in really well and they make some of the best cordless chainsaws in the industry. The XCU08 top handle we recommended earlier is a sold choice for arborists.

For a rear handle design, go for the XCU04. It’s a 16-inch 36V (18V X2) model that’s reasonably lightweight at 11.1 pounds with batteries. Like Makita’s other cordless chainsaws, expect smooth cutting and exceptional balance. Its 32cc gas equivalence isn’t quite as strong as some of the competition, but its refined design makes up for it and then some.

Price: $299 bare, $329 with two 5.0Ah batteries and dual-port rapid charger

Best Milwaukee Cordless Chainsaw

Milwaukee had one of the first really great cordless chainsaws and the M18 Fuel 2727 is still an excellent choice. It sports a brushless motor that runs its 16-inch bar and chain to levels that exceed 40cc gas power. It has a quality build with metal bucking spikes and dual captured bar nuts.

Even though other brands have pushed the power boundary forward, we still highly recommend this saw. Now that Milwaukee has raised the bar with its self-propelled lawn mower, there are whispers beginning to ask if there’s a new high-performance chainsaw in the works for later this year.

Price: $329 bare, $499 with 12.0Ah battery and charger (also available with a 14-inch bar for $319)

Best Ryobi Cordless Chainsaw

Ryobi’s launch of HP Brushless tools has been impressive and it’s a game-changer for the 40V lawn care and landscaping line. The 40V HP Brushless 18-inch chainsaw is a fantastic example. With cutting performance far ahead of any other chainsaws we’ve tested from Ryobi, it earned our respect and recommendation.

While it’s not completely Pro-style with its plastic bucking spikes, property owners looking for a high-performance cordless option to replace gas can rely on Ryobi.

Price: $189 bare, $349 with 5.0Ah battery and charger

Best Battery Chainsaw Buying Guide | What We Look For

Performance is King

Thanks to advanced brushless motors, electronics, and batteries, voltage no longer tells the entire story. However, cutting speed with the torque to get through thick hardwood species is the number one priority for us.

Runtime is (Sort of) a Big Deal

Ideally, a battery-powered chainsaw balances cutting speed and power with runtime. Larger batteries are certainly helping. Advancements in battery technology are as well. Denser cells with more robust connections are able to more efficiently transfer energy from the battery to the chain, giving you higher performance without a drop in runtime that makes the saw irrelevant.

The other side of the conversation involves rapid chargers. Most brands offer them now and several include them as a standard part of the kit. With today’s cordless technology, two batteries and a rapid charger can be enough to keep you running continuously all day.

Triggered

Most chainsaws are similar in form and share all of the same basic operational features. Where the best cordless chainsaws differ in form is primarily in their switches and triggers.

All of the saws have a UL or similar test lab certification on them, but they’re not all the same. In use, some of the saws in our test have more defined two-step triggers while others can be easily activated with a single grasp around their lockout button and trigger. At the end of the day, we expect our chainsaws to have a trigger mechanism that will keep us from accidentally activating the motor, and all of our recommendations meet that requirement. From there, it’s just a matter of the feel or function you prefer.

The true two-step lockouts aren’t difficult to operate in normal conditions. In odd positions, such as reaching around a tree while limbing, sometimes the mechanical lockouts can be tricky to slide.

For select cordless chainsaws, the first of two (or sometimes three) stages of starting is an electronic power button.

Some electronic switch saws can be run with a single grab once powered on. You just have to be mindful of the auto timeout feature. It can be frustrating the pull the trigger to no effect when you thought the saw was ready.

Ease of Adjustment

Chainsaw bars need to be adjusted nearly every time you use the saw. A new chain stretches out pretty quickly. You need to snug it up at least a few times as it breaks in.

If your chain gets tight rather suddenly, it usually means the bar is not getting oil. Don’t loosen it until you make sure the saw is oiling properly.

Pro Tip: Get into the habit of loosening your chain at the end of the day. Cold weather can cause it to tighten as it cools and damage parts.

A saw’s bar will be designed for either tool-free adjustment or will require a screwdriver-wrench combination tool called—yep, you guessed it—a scrench. Tool-free adjustment is the quickest and easiest with plastic knobs and/or dials built into the saw. They loosen the bar, move the bar forward or back to properly tension the chain, and lock the bar down tight again.

Dual Studs vs Tool-free Adjusters

Saws with tool-free adjusters use a single stud to attach the bar to the saw, but manual adjusting models typically have two mounting studs. Some old-school users view dual studs as an indication that the saw is geared toward professionals, but we don’t think that’s a hard, fast rule. Not for modest-sized saws anyway. However, the biggest and strongest chainsaws made all have dual stud bar mounts.

Pro Tip: Be sure to snug the nuts evenly because torquing down on only one can loosen the other.

Aw, Nuts!

Lost bar nuts are a frequent occurrence during regular use in the field. To prevent this, some saws have the added feature of captive nuts that won’t come all the way off the cover no matter how much you spin them.

Pro Tip: Keep a spare nut on hand if the ones on your saw aren’t captuve—it’s not unusual to lose one in the field!

To keep your adjustment tool close at hand, look for models that have storage slots built into the saws.

Your preferences may vary, but I can appreciate both adjustment methods. We like the speed and convenience of tool-free adjustments for my small saws. For big saws, we feel more confident securing the business end of these powerful tools down with a wrench.

It’s not a deal-breaker either way for the saws in our test unless the mechanism itself is flawed. The best battery-powered chainsaw for you is the one that instills a sense of both confidence and convenience.

Bars and Chains

Most chainsaw brands don’t try to reinvent the wheel by making their own bars and chains. Instead, many use quality Oregon components, though Stihl makes their own bars and chains. Most cordless chainsaws use 3/8-in. pitch, 0.043-in. gauge chains while stronger models are moving up to 0.050-in. gauge.

Oiling Systems

Bar and chain oil is the lifeblood of a chainsaw as the saw cannot run without it for very long. Most saws oil readily, but we occasionally run across models that have issues after a while. If a saw oiled well out of the box, it usually just needs a good cleaning to unclog it.

Oil Visibility

Most battery-powered chainsaws have translucent windows that let you check if there’s oil in the tank, and most let you estimate the level pretty well. If yours has a small window or none at all, be sure to stop and check the oil level frequently. About every hour of working time or anytime you notice a change in performance is a good rule of thumb.

Oil Caps

The ease of filling the oil reservoir is a noteworthy convenience factor when considering the best battery-powered chainsaw. We don’t like having oily fingers, so being able to fill the tank while leaving our work gloves on is our preference. Look for oil caps with lugs that are easy to turn with gloves on and/or flip-up tabs that provide an even better grip.

Spills & More Spills

Chainsaws often leak oil while sitting because daily heating and cooling shrinks and expands a plastic tank like a rudimentary pump. Some saws are messier than others.

Wherever you store your saw, put a piece of cardboard underneath it to collect any oil. You can switch it out as needed and whenever an Amazon order arrives.

Be careful when filling your chainsaw. Some have a large section of the cap that goes inside the tank and displaces a surprising amount of oil when you fill it anywhere close to the top. Wiping gooey oil off a chainsaw is an annoying waste of time.

Another cause of spills is an oil tank with a filler neck that is too narrow. Bar and chain oil is thick and tacky. It can pour like molasses in the cold, so it easily “piles up” and overflows in a narrow neck.

Pro Tip: Only poke a small hole in the foil of your oil container or use a (clean) syrup bottle to dispense oil into your chainsaw’s reservoir.

Providing another challenge, plastic filters at the inlet of its tank can constrict the diameter.

Caps that cross-thread easily can also make the oil-fill process more of a chore.

Environmental Sidetrack: Try Biodegradable Bar and Chain Oil

The other part of this cleaner, greener, lithium-ion-powered story is you can pair your battery chainsaw with a biodegradable bar and chain oil made of vegetable-based ingredients, such as Stihl Bio Plus. Those barrels of useful wood waste also contain a few gallons of oil from the saws.

Aside from having to landfill all of your petroleum-preserved sawdust, it’s just good practice to minimize your exposure to petroleum oil on your skin, clothing, and the atomized portion that you breathe in.

Naked? Don’t Use a Cordless Chainsaw Like This Guy!

Back on Track… Bucking Spikes

For pushing a saw through wood more efficiently, chainsaws come fitted with bucking spikes (a.k.a. bumper spikes, felling spikes, or dogs). These spikes sit against the body of the saw alongside the bar and anchor the saw in place while the bar pivots through the cut.

The spikes allow you to apply a lifting motion of the rear hand instead of pushing downward. Holding the saw tight to the wood, the motor can exert its maximum pulling power. This saves you from some of the cutting vibrations and especially the jerking common to holding a saw away from your work.

Our battery-powered saws all have some semblance of spikes. Most aren’t as long or as sharp as those on large gas saws, but actual steel spikes are becoming more common. We prefer those to the simple plastic ridges on other models.

Pro Tip: Applying leverage with spikes adds control, but go easy and listen to the pitch of the motor. You can overload battery chainsaws with too much pressure, and the weaker models stall easily.

Balance

While it’s true that the comfort and feel of a tool are largely subjective, it’s also true that some designs work better than others. Most Pros and experienced homeowners can immediately tell.

For the best battery-powered chainsaw, a balanced feel in your hands and the ability to cut straight without introducing a twisting motion to overcome are both important ergonomic factors.

Holding a saw with your left hand on the front handle in front of you should have the saw balancing fairly flat. Being a bit front-heavy is okay, but a rear-heavy saw lifts the cutting end of the saw up towards you and requires more effort and vigilance to use and carry safely.

Cutting Sideways

Determining a good feel for felling cuts while holding the chainsaw sideways is more about the comfort of applying force to the front and rear handles as you grasp it from the side, and also the ease of operating the trigger while sideways.

Handles

In general, chainsaws with thicker handles are more comfortable to grasp in use because have more surface contact and soften that contact with your hand. Of course, rubber handle surfaces help too, not only for padding but also for the increased grip they provide.

Trigger Comfort

Most cordless chainsaw triggers are large enough for two fingers to fit on them. Some have an extra-long trigger with more room to vary your grip stance for comfort. The best feeling triggers retract flush with the handle instead of leaving a raised bump your fingers have to push against.

Weight

The dry weight of the best battery chainsaws can swell to well over 15 pounds. Experience shows that a saw’s weight is less important than proper balance overall as you only feel the full weight when you’re NOT cutting.

But carrying around and positioning a heavy saw can certainly be more taxing over a long workday. The catch with these saws is that the batteries are a major part of the weight. So the stronger, longer-lasting saws with high-capacity battery packs and longer bars that we prefer end up being the heaviest.

Battery Selection

While we do the majority of our testing with the kitted batteries, it’s worth looking at the full range a manufacturer has available for your cordless chainsaw. If you end up investing in the entire lineup, you’ll likely want to consider the biggest batteries you can buy for it to get all of your lawn chores done efficiently.

You might also want a lower-capacity battery to shave some weight when you don’t have a lot of work to complete.

“Current” State of Affairs

Voltage

Higher voltage means more power, right? There’s certainly an argument for that, but it doesn’t tell the whole story.

Power is measured in watts and that comes from multiplying the voltage times the current. You can make a 36V chainsaw with the same power as a 56V model. The lower voltage simply has to produce more amps (current) to get there.

That’s why you see chainsaws with 40cc gas performance at 18V, 36V, and 60V. It’s all about the combination of volts and amps.

Watt-Hours

Another thing that is interesting to note is the discrepancy between the amp-hour and watt-hour ratings on some of the batteries in our tests for their given voltage. We’ve covered the subject of battery voltage, storage capacity, and current output many times. To review simply:

Volts x Amp Hours = Watt Hours

It’s the same basic equation we use for power, just applied to energy storage instead of output. It’s an easy way to compare the available energy of one battery to another when they have different voltages.

We’re increasingly finding that manufacturers—perhaps to simplify things for consumers—are rounding amp-hours. Some calculate their watt-hours with maximum voltage while most use nominal. Unfortunately, this makes some comparisons more challenging and adds to potential confusion.

“Nominal” Differences

When you charge a lithium-ion battery, it will reach its maximum voltage. Shortly after putting it to use, it settles into a slightly lower voltage—its nominal voltage. The nominal voltage is where the battery spends most of its working life and is roughly 90% of the maximum voltage.

Brands have to choose which one to display. When you see numbers such as 60V Max, that’s a battery that settles into a 54V nominal voltage. When you don’t see “Max” on the battery and packaging, you’re usually looking at a battery that is displaying its nominal volts.

We say “usually” for a reason. Some brands market their maximum voltage but don’t make it clear.

Some European countries regulate stated voltages more stringently, and it seems that it could only serve to help if the simple math all added up.

Buy Into a System

One other consideration for these saws is the system of battery-powered OPE to which they belong. Like other cordless tools, you can purchase some of our best battery-powered chainsaws as bare tools at significant savings over the kit. If you’re already invested in one of these systems, the overall winner may not interest you as much as seeing which model from your brand is the best in the lineup. Though not the best overall, it might be the best balance of performance and value for you.

Look at the Entire Model Lineup

If you haven’t bought into a system yet and may pick up more outdoor power tools in the future, check out the entire lineup from a brand. Make sure they can fulfill your wish list before going after just the chainsaw. For many users, the saw functions as a secondary tool when compared to the hours you spend with a string trimmer or mower.

Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews

Ever check out a “review” site and you can’t tell if they actually tested the tools or if they’re just “recommending” the Amazon top sellers?

That’s not us. We only recommend what we’d actually use, even if we don’t earn a commission from it. It’s all about giving you a legitimate recommendation and our honest opinion of each product.

We’ve been in business since 2008 covering tools, writing reviews, and reporting on industry news in the construction, automotive, and lawn care industries. Our Pro reviewers work in the trades and have the skills and experience to know whether tools can perform well in the field.

Each year, we bring in and review more than 250 individual products. Our team will put our hands on hundreds of additional tools at media events and trade shows throughout the year.

We consult with innovators in the technology and design of tools to gain a broader grasp of where these products fit and how they work.

We work with more than two dozen professional contractors around the United States who review products for us on real job sites and consult with us on testing methods, categories, and weighting.

We’ll provide more than 500 pieces of new content this year absolutely free for our readers—including objective evaluations of individual tools and products.

The end result is information you can trust because of the editorial, scientific, and real-world professional experience we collectively utilize each and every time we pick up and test a tool.

The post Best Battery Chainsaw Reviews 2022 | Best Cordless Chainsaws appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Brushless Update Gives Ryobi’s 18V Pruning Shears A Greater Cutting Capacity

Getting your yard whipped back into shape can be a daunting task for the best of us. This goes tenfold when your pruning tasks have to be done using a hand tool. Enter the Ryobi 18V brushless pruning shears. These shears improve the brand’s existing cordless pruner with a brushless update. We’ll go over this tool’s features to see how they compare to others on the market.

Ryobi 18V Brushless Pruning Shears: The Big Deal

The Ryobi 18V brushless pruner replaces a manual tool, so your hands will thank you at the end of the day. Its 2-inch cutting blades feature a bypass design—just like manual shears—giving you clean and complete cuts.

These shears have a cut capacity of up to 1 inch. For reference, the brushed Ryobi P2540VNM pruning shears had a cut capacity of 3/4-inch. This extra capacity comes in handy when you have branches and limbs a bit on the thicker side.

To activate the blade, these shears feature a safety “lock-out trigger” that you engage before squeezing the switch trigger. To open the blade (if it’s closed), you simply squeeze the switch trigger. Once the blade is opened (its normal resting position), place a branch you want to trim within the open shears and squeeze the trigger until the blade closes completely. The blades will remain closed until you release the trigger.

Tool-free Removable Blade

For super-easy sharpening, Ryobi included a tool-free blade removal system. For a homeowner, this is a really nice feature. Both the Milwaukee M12 brushless pruning shears and the DeWalt 20V cordless pruner require a tool to remove and/or change the blade.

Simply flip up the tab on the blade-change knob and unscrew it to release the blade. Now, you can sharpen or replace the blade as needed. When you replace the blade, simply reverse the process and flatten the tab. Locking pins built into the tab keep it from accidentally moving or loosening during use.

Additional Features

• Included plastic sheath protects blades from coming in contact with any materials while in storage
• Soft-grip handle design for extra comfort
• LED work light located underneath the blades helps you see in low-light conditions

Ryobi 18V Brushless Pruning Shears Price

These pruning shears retail for $179 for the bare tool. There’s also a kit option that includes a 2Ah battery and a charger for $209. The kit seems like a good deal for just $30 more. Like with all Ryobi products, you can find both versions exclusively at The Home Depot. Ryobi also backs your purchase with a 3-year warranty.

Looking for the bare tool? Get it here.

Specifications

• Model: Ryobi P2505BTLVNM (bare) / P2550VNM (kit)
• Length: 11.5 in
• Width: 2 in
• Weight: 1.8 lb
• Blade length: 2 in
• Max cutting capacity: 1 in
• Voltage: 18V

The post Ryobi 18V Brushless Pruning Shears appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Z Turf Releases Z-Spray Spreader Sprayers In Four Different Sizes

Landscaping Pros need a spreader sprayer that can keep up with the wide range of properties they service. It’s important to use machines that are both versatile and maneuverable to keep up with production demands. The Z Turf Z-Spray stand-on spreader sprayers took concepts from earlier Z-Spray models and included some new innovations to help Pros stay on top of their goals. We’ll go over the new lineup so you get an idea of what each model can help you and your team accomplish.

Z Turf Z-Spray Stand-On Spreader Sprayers: The Big Deal

Z Turf tells us that they had four main priorities while designing the new and improved Z-Spray models. They focused on machine dynamics, operator comfort, innovation, and durability. On top of that, the lineup includes four models/sizes. As a professional, that lets you choose the right machine for your particular needs.

Here’s a breakdown of the 2023 Z-Spray spreader sprayers:

Operation and Design

The Junior, Mid, and Max models feature zero-turn mobility. This gives you more control over where you can place seeds and/or fertilizer. Conversely, the LTS spreader sprayer differs by using lean-to-steer maneuvering. It also holds less material in its hopper, making it a great choice for light-duty tasks.

Z Turf tells us that these machines simultaneously spread seeds and apply granular and liquid fertilizer, saving you precious time. Also included is an ergonomic operating system with one-handed steering capabilities. This makes it so that you can use one hand to steer the machine and the other to adjust the spread and spray of the product.

The design of these machines places the heaviest components low and central within the stainless-steel frame. This new design helps you keep the machine balanced, regardless of how much material you carry in the hopper and tanks. Additionally, the Mid and Max models include a heavy-duty engine air filter.

The Z Turf Z-Spray Stand-On Spreader Sprayers have spray widths adjustable from 2 to 8 feet in 2-foot increments except for the Max model which can spray up to 10 feet wide. As for the spread width, expect 3 to 25 feet in the Junior, Mid, and Max models, and 4 to 22 feet in the LTS.

Additional Features

• Floating operator platform
• Commercial-grade parts
• Ceramic spray nozzles
• Fast ground speeds
• Optional accessories available (hose trays, etc)
• Needs only annual maintenance

Price

The prices for these spreader sprayers vary based on which model you prefer.

• Z-Spray LTS: Starts at $12,999
• Z Turf Z-Spray Junior: Starts at $16,099
• Z-Spray Mid: Starts at $17,199
• Z-Spray Max: Starts at $17,699

Each model includes a 1-year limited warranty from Z Turf.

The post Z Turf Z-Spray Stand-On Spreader Sprayers appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Worx Gives Your Hands a Break While You Whip Your Yard Into Shape

With a repetitive task like pruning, using manual options can be a pain—literally. Between muscle cramps and calluses, the whole thing can make you want to give up before you’re finished. In this situation, cordless pruning shears can be a lifesaver. The Worx Nitro 20V Pruning Shears represent the brand’s first venture into the realm of a truly cordless large pruning solution. Let’s dig deeper to see how they stand out.

Worx Nitro 20V Pruning Shears: The Big Deal

Worx gave these pruning shears a compact, lightweight design, weighing just 1.5 pounds without a battery. They have the capacity to cut branches up to 1 inch in diameter.

Notably, the Worx Nitro 20V Pruning Shears feature two cutting modes—similar to the Milwaukee M12 pruning shears. Rather than feature a dedicated mode button, however, the Worx 20V pruning shears switch modes by pressing the rear safety trigger while simultaneously depressing the front (ON/OFF) trigger. After 2 seconds, you should hear a beep and you can release the front trigger. This causes the blades to swap between the maximum (1″) cut opening and the small (0.6″) cut opening in order. To revert, just repeat the process.

These pruning shears operate like a traditional bypass hand pruner but don’t require the hand strength needed for manual solutions. A two-finger trigger operates the blade. After engaging the rear safety trigger, squeezing the front operating trigger closes the blade. Releasing the operating trigger returns the blade to the open position.

As for the blade itself, it’s made from titanium-coated carbon steel and features a non-stick surface. As well as being corrosion-resistant, the non-stick design resists sap and makes cleanup and maintenance easy.

The Worx Nitro 20V Pruning Shears feature a brushless motor. Along with the 20V 2.0Ah MAX lithium battery, the tool generates 9,000 to 12,000 N of clamping torque. We would like to know how many cuts you can expect to get per charge, however that information doesn’t seem to be available at the time of writing.

Additional Features

• Soft-grip rubber overmold handle
• Compact and lightweight design
• One-handed operation

Worx Nitro 20V Pruning Shears Price

You can find these pruning shears as a bare tool for $89.99. They’re also available as part of a kit including a 20V 2.0Ah MAX lithium battery and a one-hour quick charger for $129.99. You can find this tool at your favorite Worx retailer.

Specifications

• Model: Worx WG330
• Voltage: 20V
• Cutting diameter: 1 in
• Weight: 1.5 lbs bare; 2.38 lbs w/ 2.0Ah battery

The post Worx Nitro 20V Pruning Shear/Lopper appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

HART 40V Battery-Powered Auger Digs Through Soil Fast

We recently got the opportunity to meet up with our friendly neighborhood rancher, Eli Mosley, to put up a few fence posts in one of his cow pastures. It’s amazing how we get “invited” over when he has work to do… Typically, this is a backbreaking process involving either post-hole diggers or even a shovel and more than a few blisters. This time, we brought along the HART 40V battery-powered 8-inch earth auger to help lighten the load.

Using The HART 40V Battery-Powered Auger

The ground we were working in wasn’t typical soft Florida sugar sand, so we kicked it up to high gear, and the auger’s brushless motor powered through the soil with ease at 200 RPM. To help turn the bit, the motor produces up to 53.98 ft-lbs of torque.

Along with the 3-inch posts, Eli needed to set a few new 8-inch corner posts. This style of post needs to be set a bit deeper than the others because of the amount of tension they endure from the barbed wire. The auger quickly chewed through the dirt and we used all 31 inches of the bit leaving behind a perfect post hole in a matter of seconds.

During one of the holes, we managed to snag a root which ended up triggering the anti-kickback feature. It immediately stopped rotation after the handle jerked about 45°. One thing we appreciate HART adding to this auger is a strip of foam padding on the left handle to cushion you in the event of a bind-up.

You install auger bits with a standard pin-based quick connection, so other brands of bits are compatible if you want to add other sizes. For fencing and landscape planting, we recommend adding a 4-inch bit.

HART 40V Battery-Powered Auger Design Notes

Size and Weight

This tool tips the scales at 38.25 pounds and stands 44 inches tall with the 8-inch auger bit that comes in the kit. That’s right on par with what we see with gas models even with a 4.0Ah battery. Even though you’re getting a ton of weight savings over gas, there’s no pull cord, gas, or maintenance to deal with. Just pull the trigger and you’re off to the races.

Ergonomics

The look and feel of this auger remind me a lot of its gas counterparts. This makes the transition to a battery-powered auger incredibly smooth. The large side handles allow you to maintain a very secure grip, even in tougher soil. There’s a little bit of play in the connection between the bit and drive, but that’s typical of earth augers.

Controls

The control switch is located on the right handle. There are high and low speeds as well as reverse. The trigger features a small safety to help prevent accidental activation during transport. To engage the auger, select the mode you want to work in, position both hands on the handles to control the drive, and pull the trigger to get started.

Pro Tip: If you know you’re going into harder soil, rocky soil, or dealing with roots, it can be helpful to go ahead and position the left handle cushion against your leg/hip for additional control.

HART 40V Battery-Powered Auger Price

HART’s auger is available as a kit that includes an 8-inch auger bit, 4.0Ah battery, and charger for $396. Hart includes a 5-year limited tool warranty as well as a 3-year limited battery warranty with the kit.

The Bottom Line

After putting the HART 40V 8-inch auger to the test we were pleased with how much it sped up our hole-digging process. It easily tackled an array of soil types and didn’t show signs of letting up. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking to replace your old gas auger or just want to retire your post-hole diggers.

Hart 40V Battery-Powered Auger Specifications

• Model: Hart HLAUG01
• Power Source: Hart 40V battery
• No-Load Speed: 200 RPM
• Max Torque: 53.98 ft-lbs
• Digging Capacity: 30 holes per charge (with 40V 4.0Ah battery)
• Gearbox: Low/High/Reverse
• Weight: 38.25 lbs.
• Height: 44 in.
• Max Bit Diameter: 10 in.
• Anti-Kickback Protection: Yes
• Max Auger Depth: 31 in.
• Warranty: 5-year (tool), 3-year limited (battery)
• Price: $396 (kit)

The post HART 40V Battery-Powered 8-Inch Earth Auger Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Cordless Hedge Trimmer Has Incredible Capacity

Over the last year, Ryobi has been diving head-first into high-performance cordless OPE. Joining the Whisper Series is the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 26-Inch cordless hedge trimmer. This trimmer has many familiar features but it’s the performance that’s raising eyebrows around here.

Pros

• 1.5-inch cut capacity
• Dual-action36-inch blades
• 180° rotating handle
• Hedge Sweep attachment

Cons

• May seem heavy if you’re used to smaller hedge trimmers

Ryobi 40V Cordless Hedge Trimmer Performance

Cut Capacity

One of the most noticeable features of this cordless hedge trimmer is the ridiculous 1 1/2-inch cut capacity Ryobi’s 40V brushless motor opens up. The only other battery-powered hedge trimmer we could find with the same cut capacity is the Stihl HSA 94 R on the Pro side of the market. Most tend to top out around 1-inch while there are a few 1 1/4-inch options available.

This is a big deal for a couple of reasons. One, it has the ability to handle larger branches while trimming. Two, this larger tooth spacing allows more material to smoothly pass through so the bar is less likely to bind up while making passes.

Regardless, it made trimming our hedges quick and easy.

There are two speeds to use with the 26-inch dual-action blades. If you’re not worried about conserving battery, the 3200 SPM top speed is the way to go. If you want to make that battery last longer, drop it down to the 2800 SPM low speed.

Dual-Action

This hedge trimmer utilizes a two-blade system that greatly reduces felt vibrations. On some trimmers, one set of blades remains fixed while the other moves. Ryobi runs both blades back and forth like scissors. In this way, both edges of both blades constantly cut materials between the teeth.

Moving the blades in opposite directions absolutely squashes vibration. Because one moves forward while the other moves backward, the net movement evens out resulting in a much smoother cutting experience. Plus, with no vibrating gas engine to worry about, you end up with a very ergonomic tool.

Noise Level

This 40V hedge trimmer is a member of Ryobi’s Whisper Series which cuts down the noise level of outdoor power equipment. While the motor is noticeably quieter than others on the market, it’s difficult to reduce the actual blade noise on a tool like this. Measuring from our operator’s ear, our SPL meter clocked this cordless hedge trimmer at 82 dB on low and 87 dB on high. That said, it’s still dramatically quieter than any of the gas alternatives.

Hedge Sweep

Ryobi carries over its Hedge Sweep that we’ve seen on previous models. It slides on a raised track on the top of the bar and helps to direct and clear clippings away from the top of hedges and shrubs. The best part is you don’t need to remove it when you want to replace the scabbard.

If for some reason you don’t like it, it’s removable.

Ryobi 40V Cordless Hedge Trimmer Design Notes

Size and Weight

The Ryobi 26-inch hedge trimmer measures 43 inches from end to end and weighs 11.3 pounds with its 2.0Ah battery. While it’s not the lightest trimmer on the market, it does have a really nice balance with that battery pack.

Handle Adjustment

We’re seeing more brands adding a pivoting handle feature to their hedge trimmers and makes good sense to us. It’s a simple feature that allows you to comfortably work at a variety of angles and makes it very easy to shape up your hedges and landscaping.

To adjust the angle, pull back on the release button, and rotate the handle. There’s 180° of total rotation with detents at 45° and 90° in both directions.

Ergonomics

Good handle spacing and weight distribution are key for using longer tools safely and effectively. It’s pretty clear that Ryobi had their 2.0Ah battery in mind when working on their design but we also found it feels pretty good with a 4.0Ah pack as well.

Both horizontal and vertical cutting is very easy and the wide front handle gives you plenty of grip options. Combine that wide front handle with the versatility of the multi-position handle and you’ve got a real winning team.

Ryobi 40V Cordless Hedge Trimmer Price

The Ryobi 40V 26-inch hedge trimmer retails for $329 and comes with a 2.0Ah battery, a charger, and a removable hedge sweep. Along with the accessories, Ryobi includes a 5-year tool warranty and a 3-year battery warranty.

The Bottom Line

The Ryobi 40V 26-Inch cordless hedge trimmer has plenty of power, cut capacity, and blade length to get the job done quickly and efficiently. With its larger capacity and excellent top speed, it cuts more like a professional-grade trimmer without the Stihl price tag.

Click here to see what’s NEW from Ryobi!

Ryobi 40V Cordless Hedge Trimmer Specifications

• Model: Ryobi RY40660
• Power Source: Ryobi 40V battery
• Cut Capacity: 1.5 in.
• Weight: 9.44 lbs (bare), 11.25 lbs (with 40V 2.0Ah battery)
• Tool Length: 43 in.
• 2-Speed Motor
• Bar Length: 26 in.
• No-Load Speed: 2,800 SPM (low), 3,200 SPM (high)
• Warranty: 5-year tool, 3-year battery
• Price: $329 (kit)

The post Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 26-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

EGO 16-Inch Battery-Powered Chainsaw Gets a Performance Upgrade

2022 has been a big year for EGO and its line of 56V battery-powered lawn care equipment. They’re pushing the boundaries out further, but considering EGO already has a 16-inch battery-powered chainsaw, it’s fair to wonder what’s changing.

Pros

• More power than the previous 16-inch model
• Flip-top oil reservoir cap
• Metal bucking spikes
• Tool-free chain tensioning with easier adjustments than the previous design

Cons

• No significant drawbacks

EGO 16-Inch Battery-Powered Chainsaw Performance Upgrades

This isn’t EGO’s first rodeo in the 16-inch chainsaw class. The original model was one of the first available and it’s still one of our favorite battery-powered chainsaws to use. While the bar size isn’t changing, the saw is getting a performance upgrade. Its brushless motor is now capable of producing power equivalent to a 40cc gas engine with chain speeds up to 20 meters per second (65.6 fps or 3937 fpm).

In our use, we could tell the difference. The original model was very good…for a battery-powered chainsaw. Even back then, EGO was pushing the performance boundary further than most and leading the pack. With this new power level, though, it’s a more apples-to-apples shift if you’re used to using a gas chainsaw in the 16-inch class.

EGO Battery-Powered 16-Inch Chainsaw Design Upgrades

One feature we’re excited about is the addition of metal bucking spikes. The original 16-inch only had plastic nubs, and the metal spikes grab wood much more effectively.

EGO also swapped out the oil reservoir cap for a flip-top design, making it easier to open and tighten.

The sprocket cover shifts to a flip design and the auto chain-tensioning adjuster switches from a dial to a knob. The process is still the same, though. Loosen the cover (you don’t have to remove it completely), turn the bar tensioner dial to adjust the chain tension, and then tighten the cover back up.

It’s a very convenient system compared to using a scrench. However, several people on our team still prefer the security of bar studs with captured nuts. You can’t please everyone, I guess. As a tool designed for the light to medium tree maintenance and cleanup homeowners typically deal with, EGO’s tool-free system is just fine.

Additional Features

• Makes up to 130 cuts in 4×4 with 2.5Ah battery
• Includes a low kickback chain
• Brake indicator
• Safety lockout button
• Automatic oiling
• Compatible with all EGO 56V batteries

EGO 16-Inch Battery-Powered Chainsaw Price

With a 2.5Ah battery and charger, you can pick up the EGO CS1611 kit for $269. If you want more capacity, there’s a kit with a 4.0Ah battery for $299 (EGO CS1613). The bare tool (EGO CS1610) runs $219 if you’d like to use the EGO batteries you already have.

Regardless of which configuration you choose, EGO backs the chainsaw with a 5-year warranty.

The Bottom Line

The 16-inch class is the sweet spot for homeowners dealing with seasonal tree maintenance and storm cleanup. With the improved performance, EGO makes an excellent chainsaw even better and solidifies its chainsaw line. If you’re looking for the best balance of performance, design, and price in EGO’s lineup, the updated 16-inch chainsaw is the way to go.

To see what we thought of the original EGO battery-powered 16-inch chainsaw, click “Next Page” below!

Specifications

• Model: EGO CS1611
• Power Source: EGO 56V battery
• Bar Size: 16 inches
• Chain: 3/8 x 0.43
• Weight: TBA
• Warranty: 5 years
• Price: $219 – $299

The post EGO 16-Inch Battery-Powered Chainsaw Review CS1611 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Ditch Your Manual Shears For Milwaukee’s M12 Brushless Pruning Shears

Taking some of the work out of repetitive tasks like pruning can be a lifesaver. With how rapidly the crepe myrtles grow around Central Florida, you can get hand cramps maintaining these trees with manual pruning shears. The Milwaukee 2534 M12 Brushless Pruning Shears present a truly ergonomic solution for repetitive trimming tasks. We’ll walk you through everything we know about this tool so you can see if this cordless product makes sense to add to your landcaping tool arsenal.

Milwaukee M12 Brushless Pruning Shears: The Big Deal

The Milwaukee M12 Brushless pruning shears deliver fast and controlled pruning, even on big branches. In fact, it has the power to cut through branches up to 1-1/4 inches in thickness. Having used my share of manual pruners on branches that large, a battery-powered solution really eliminates a lot of hand fatigue.

Milwaukee added a feature to this tool that really gives it additional, and innovative, functionality. A mode selection button lets you select between larger or smaller branches. This not only helps the tool know how much power to supply but also reduces the time it takes to wait for the jaws to open when working with smaller branches. Placing the tool into the “half-wide” mode lets you make smaller, repetitive cuts. It increases your speed by around 40%.

With an M12 CP2.0 battery, you can expect the Milwaukee M12 Brushless Pruning Shears to perform over 1000 cuts per charge in branches up to 1/2-inch thick. A battery-powered tool like this reduces muscle effort by up to 75% compared to manual pruning shears.

Performance Notes

We got a lot of trigger time with these shears at a media event in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. One of the things we noticed immediately was how the blade reacts to the trigger. When you pull the trigger, the blade engages. Let go of the trigger and the blade opens up immediately. That means that if you don’t want to complete a full cut you can just release the trigger and the blade retracts. It really provides you with more control over cut capacity in any application. It also feels very natural and intuitive.

We made dozens of cuts on both thin and thick branches using both modes as applicable. The tool has an immediacy to it that very much mimics a manual hand shear. I also love the in-line ergonomics of the tool. Having tested and used the DeWalt 20V pruner, the Milwaukee M12 brushless pruning shears take up a lot less space and give you easier access when trimming trees and large bushes.

They also weigh less, have more features, and demonstrated just as much power and nearly the same capacity. Overall, I really like this design lot better. Milwaukee clearly spent a lot of time researching the best way to design a tool that would eliminate the need for carrying around manual handheld shears.

And that’s exactly what we believe this tool does.

Additional Features

• Lightweight, inline design
• Built-in hand guard
• Replaceable blades

Milwaukee M12 Brushless Pruning Shears Price

This product releases in Spring 2023 and should retail for around $249 as a kit with a compact CP2.0 M12 battery and charger. For anyone looking for a professional solution for small branch pruning, the Milwaukee 2534 should provide a really solid solution.

Specifications

• Model: Milwaukee 2534-21
• Cut capacity: 1-1/4 in
• Platform: M12
• Price: $249 (kit w/CP2.0 battery)

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Milwaukee M12 Sprayers Let You Complete Spraying Tasks with Newfound Convenience

Using traditional handheld pump sprayers can become laborious and tiresome. Whether you’re killing weeds with chemicals, spraying pesticides, or disinfecting a large area, Milwaukee M12 Handheld Sprayers should come in handy. Find out how introducing a battery into the equation could save you time and increase your productivity.

Milwaukee M12 Handheld Sprayers: The Big Deal

The Milwaukee handheld sprayers offer pressure control without the need for manual pumping. Thanks to their inclusion in the M12 battery system, you have instant, constant, and adjustable pressure at your fingertips.

Compared to the Milwaukee M18 Switch Tank, the M12 sprayer drops the pounds…over 16 of them just based on tank size. The 2528-21G1 1-gallon model and 2528-21G2 2-gallon sprayer let you have the right sprayer for the size of your particular job.

Milwaukee also gives you variable pressure settings. These let you choose your pressure level and feature settings from 20 to 80 PSI. You control the pressure with the 3-mode pressure adjustment knob. Additionally, at the maximum 80 PSI, the Milwaukee M12 Handheld Sprayers can deliver up to 17 feet of vertical spray.

We asked Milwaukee Tool about runtime expectations. They told us that an M12 RedLithium CP2.0 battery will deliver up to 80 gallons. That is a phenomenal amount of work.

Other battery-powered sprayers exist on the market. However, with this one, you have the added convenience of it being part of the M12 series. This is especially useful if you already own tools from Milwaukee’s M12 platform.

Additional Features

• Onboard measuring cup for quick measurement
• Strainer filters debris from entering the tank
• Vertical and horizontal wand storage

Milwaukee M12 Handheld Sprayer Price

The 1-gallon model will retail for $189 as part of a kit. For just $10 more, the 2-gallon version’s kit retails for $199. Look for the Milwaukee M12 handheld sprayers starting in November 2022 at your favorite Milwaukee retailer.

Specifications

• Models: 2528-21G1 (1-gallon) and 2528-21G2 (2-gallon)
• Variable flow rate
• Removable tank
• Price: $189 (1 gal), $199 (2 gal)

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