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
I can’t seem to figure out from the marketing, is there an engine or design change from the 18″ model other than the spikes and no headlight? The 18″ claims 45cc power.