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Top 20-Inch Battery Chainsaws of 2025: Head-to-Head

By Robert Robillard on Head to Head Tool Comparison, Tool Reviews

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Best Large Capacity Battery Chainsaw of 2025

Welcome to part two of our Best Battery Chainsaw of 2025 Head-to-Head comparison test. Last month, we covered the 16”-18” class—an excellent size for most users and most tasks. But one of our main goals with this project is to show just how far battery saws have come in terms of power and performance. To truly stress these new platforms, we had to break out the big boys.

So we simultaneously tested the larger battery-powered saws equipped with 20” and longer bars. These saws were separated into their own category to keep the comparison fair and focused. But why 20”+?

Many tree care and forestry pros rely on a 20” saw as their do-all workhorse. Firewood cutters often refer to a ~60cc saw with a 20” bar as the “one saw solution.” This length offers enough cutting capacity for everything from limbing to bucking larger wood-as long as the saw has the power to pull a bigger, heavier chain without bogging down.

That gave us a big question to answer:

Is there a true battery replacement in this category?

We identified five models sold with an OEM 20” or longer bar and ran them through the same selectionof tests as the smaller saws to determine the Best Large Capacity Battery Chainsaw of 2025.

Chainsaw Testing Lineup

Our lineup ranged from 40V homeowner units to 82V commercial-grade saws. With a bar this long, these tools offer production capability far beyond what the 16”-18” class can handle. Whether you’re a serious DIYer, acreage owner, or a seasoned forestry pro, our goal is to help you find the saw that fits your needs.

Here is our testing lineup of saws:

DeWalt 60V FLEXVOLT 20”

• Model: DCCS677B
• Voltage: 60V
• Battery Tested: 15.0 Ah
• Chain Pitch: ⅜” Low Profile
• Chain Gauge: 0.050”
• Gas Saw Equivalent: 50.2cc

Ego 56V 20”

• Model: CS2005
• Voltage: 56V ARC
• Battery Tested: 6.0 Ah
• Chain Pitch: ⅜”
• Chain Gauge: 0.050”
• Gas Saw Equivalent: 55cc

Greenworks Commercial 82V HOG 24”

• Model: OCS800-C5DP-24
• Voltage: 82V
• Battery Tested: 7.2 Ah
• Chain Pitch: ⅜”
• Chain Gauge: 0.050”
• Gas Saw Equivalent: 80cc

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 20” Dual Battery

• Model: 2827-22
• Voltage: 18V (x2)
• Batteries Tested: M18 FORGE XC 8.0 Ah (x2)
• Chain Pitch: 0.325”
• Chain Gauge: 0.050”
• Gas Saw Equivalent: 70cc

Ryobi 40V HP 20”

• Model: RY40HPCW03
• Voltage: 40V
• Battery Tested: 8.0 Ah EDGE
• Chain Pitch: ⅜” Low Profile
• Chain Gauge: 0.050”
• Gas Saw Equivalent: 52cc

Chainsaw Testing Categories

To fairly and consistently evaluate each saw, we divided testing into eight categories:

1. Weight
2. Noise Output
3. Speed Cutting
4. Runtime Crosscutting
5. Board Milling (Torture Test)
6. Features
7. Ergonomics
8. Price was not factored into the final combined score, but it was used in our Best Value category.

Performance and Scoring

Each saw’s rank and performance across all eight categories contributed to its overall score. Because cutting performance is our highest priority, two of our performance categories were double-weighted in the overall ranking. Conversely, price was not factored into the final overall score but was used to help identify the Best Value Saw.

This data-driven evaluation allowed us to name:

• The Best Large Capacity Battery Chainsaw of 2025
• The Best Overall Value Saw

Chainsaw Weight | Winner – Ryobi

Weight plays a major role for both professional users and serious DIYers. If a battery-powered saw is too heavy to handle comfortably, any performance advantage quickly disappears.

To understand the true working weight of each tool, we measured every saw twice:

1. First, we weighed the bare powerhead with the bar and chain removed, no battery, and an empty oil reservoir.
2. Then, we weighed each fully assembled saw with a full bar oil tank and battery installed.

Ryobi took first place with an assembled weight of just 14.9 pounds. DeWalt followed in second at 17.42 pounds, and Ego came in third at 19.16 pounds. Milwaukee and Greenworks rounded out the category.

One notable detail: the Greenworks saw is more than six pounds heavier than the Ryobi, despite being relatively similar in size.

Chainsaw Noise Output | Winner – Milwaukee

Chainsaws aren’t known for being quiet, but battery-powered models generally produce noticeably less noise than gas saws. To compare these models fairly, we tested each one under no-load conditions.

Every saw was run for 30 seconds while a decibel meter captured its peak reading.

Milwaukee claimed the top spot with a peak of 88.2 decibels. DeWalt followed closely at 89.1 decibels, with Ryobi just behind at 89.2 decibels. Ego came in fourth at 95.2 decibels, and Greenworks rounded out the category at 103.5 decibels.

Chainsaw Safety | PPE

Chainsaws—battery-powered or not—can cause serious injury, with the CDC reporting around 36,000 chainsaw-related hospitalizations each year. For our testing, we partnered with trained professionals and equipped every operator with proper PPE supplied by Husqvarna. Required gear included a chainsaw helmet, safety glasses, chainsaw-rated gloves, and Technical Chainsaw Pants, which offered excellent mobility and comfort compared to traditional chaps.

Link Husqvarna Pants:   Technical Chainsaw Pants

Chainsaw Speed Cutting | Winner – Greenworks Commercial

For our speed-cut testing, we used treated pine utility poles—clean, consistent, and commonly encountered by linemen and other utility professionals. We matched poles as closely as possible and rotated pieces as needed to maintain uniform diameters. Each pole measured roughly 10 ¾ inches, with about ¼ inch of natural variation.

The poles were suspended at waist height using a mini skid-steer. Each saw completed three cuts (down, up, down), and the full sequence was repeated three times to establish an average cutting time.

The Greenworks HOG dominated this test with an impressive average of 15.58 seconds. Ryobi delivered a surprising second-place finish at 16.62 seconds, close on the HOG’s heels. Milwaukee followed at 17.54 seconds, Ego at 20.53 seconds, and DeWalt rounded out the category at 23.17 seconds.

Given the size and capability of these saws, our operators pushed them hard—and even the slowest saw in this group cut nearly ten seconds faster than the third-place finisher in our 16”-18” Head-to-Head.

Cross-Cut Runtime Test | Winner – Greenworks Commercial

The second performance test measured how many cross-cuts each saw could make on a single battery charge, commonly called a “cookie” cutting test. Since our Oak test beams were squared rather than round, “wafer” cutting might be a more accurate confectionery analogy.

Most saws have a maximum cutting depth about two inches shorter than the bar length due to the felling spikes at the front of the saw. The Greenworks HOG, however, featured a longer bar than the rest. To standardise testing, we milled beams two inches shorter than the 20” bar length, ensuring that nearly all saws were cutting at roughly 90% of their maximum capacity.

To prevent overheating during this demanding test, operators rotated saws: each saw made two cuts, then was set aside while another saw cut from the opposite side of the beam. This maintained consistent conditions and avoided thermal overload.

Greenworks Commercial again took first place with 13 full cuts. Ryobi surprised with second place, completing 8 full cuts and an 11-inch partial cut. Milwaukee came in third with 7 full cuts plus a 10-inch partial, Ego fourth with 6 full cuts plus 4 inches, and DeWalt finished fifth with 5 total cuts.

Completing this test without overheating any saws was impressive, especially given the large bar lengths and heavy-duty oak material.

Milling Torture Test | Winner – Milwaukee

Chainsaws are essential tools for homesteaders and those in remote areas who mill their own lumber. To evaluate the battery saws’ capabilities in this role, we set up a rigorous milling scenario—spoiler alert: the Hud-Son H360 Portable Hydraulic Sawmill excelled.

We used a vintage Haddon Lumber -maker milling guide, mounted on composite decking attached to a massive oak cant. Each saw was mounted in the guide, allowing the bar to pivot freely into a vertical position and cut through the log until the battery was fully

drained. For most saws, this became a true test of endurance—or as we dubbed it: The Great Oak Gauntlet!

Since cutting depths varied due to mounting position, bar length, voltage, and battery capacity, raw performance data wasn’t directly comparable. To standardize results, we calculated inches cut per watt-hour (WH) using each saw’s total watt-hours, cut depth, and cut length.

Milling Test Results:

1. Milwaukee: 17”/WH
2. DeWalt: 43”/WH
3. Ryobi: 35”/WH
4. Ego: 03”/WH
5. Greenworks: 17”/WH

This test pushed every saw to its limits. The DeWalt, for example, shut down multiple times during milling and required resets. Meanwhile, saws designed for raw power, such as the Greenworks HOG, fell short in efficiency, highlighting how each manufacturer balances power, endurance, and cutting strategy.

Chainsaw Features | Winner – Greenworks Commercial

Features matter, but only when they’re executed well.  A chainsaw is a working tool—if a feature slows you down, breaks easily, or adds unnecessary complexity, it’s a liability instead of a benefit. With that in mind, our team evaluated each saw on:

• Adjustability
• Ease of use
• Safety
• Practical innovations

For example we consistently asked these questions:

Is the chain tension easy to adjust, and does it hold once set?

Do the felling spikes (dogs) effectively grip the wood?

Is the bar and chain oil tank easily accessible?

Greenworks took the top spot thanks to its rock-solid chain tensioning system, aggressive metal felling spikes, highly adjustable oiler, and clean, intuitive control layout. The display screen provided useful information without going overboard, and the saw felt purpose-built for professional demands.

Ryobi impressed with its simplicity and straightforward design, though it lacked refinements. Milwaukee offered a robust build and smart control placement, but the dual-battery arrangement added complexity. Ego had a great display but lacked power. Ego was also the only saw we tested that featured a work light. While this may standout to homeowners, the Pros on our crew found no practical use for the light. DeWalt’s construction was tough, but the controls felt cramped.

Overall, Greenworks delivered the most complete feature package. Our crew also agreed that extra speed modes aren’t a major selling point on a chainsaw.

Chainsaw Ergonomics | Winner – Greenworks Commercial

Ergonomics play a major role in user fatigue, cutting accuracy, and overall confidence—especially on a large-frame saw. Our crew evaluated:

1. Grip contour
2. Texture
3. Handle placement
4. Control layout
5. Battery access
6. Overall balance

Greenworks claimed the top spot with its superior all-around handling. Despite its weight, the saw felt stable and predictable, while the forward handle design provided excellent leverage for plunge cuts. The grip textures struck a perfect balance between comfort and security.

Ryobi stood out for its excellent balance and overall feel. Milwaukee offered smooth, responsive performance but was noticeably top-heavy due to its dual-battery design. Ego, on the other hand, struggled with balance for its size and had a less effective forward handle design. DeWalt faced issues with cramped controls and a less refined balance.

Best Overall Large Capacity Chainsaw – Greenworks Commercial

Our overall winner was determined by ranking each saw across seven categories. The saw with the lowest total points took the crown, and that honor goes to the Greenworks Commercial HOG, scoring 21 points.

From the moment our crew first saw the Greenworks HOG, expectations were high—and Greenworks delivered. Designed as a high-output, gasless saw, the HOG proved to be a true gas-saw replacement in both power and performance offering 20”, 24”, and 28” bar options, the Greenworks HOG impressed with aggressive felling spikes, a robust chain tensioning system, and an adjustable oiler. Its seamless controls and intuitive information display were well received by our testers. In performance tests, it dominated speed-cut and cross-cut scenarios, though it struggled in milling, showing it excels in short, intense bursts rather than prolonged cutting.

These capabilities come at a cost: the Greenworks  HOG was the loudest, heaviest, and most expensive saw tested, with a bare-tool price exceeding $1,200.

Close Contenders

Ryobi 40V – 23 points: Following the KISS principle (Keep It Simple, Stupid), the Ryobi impressed with its straightforward design.

It features a single, easy-change battery and strong low-end torque that handled test logs effortlessly. Despite being the lightest saw in the lineup, it remained balanced and competitive in both speed-cut and cross-cut tests, all while maintaining a lower purchase price. Its weaknesses included a bulky grip, slightly harder-to-reach controls, and a longer ramp-up time.

Milwaukee M18 FUEL – 25 points:

The Milwaukee wasn’t the fastest cutter, but it showed incredible endurance, particularly in the milling test, surpassing all others with nearly a foot more total cut length and an impressive efficiency rating. It was also the quietest saw and felt smooth and responsive in use. Powered by dual batteries, the added bulk made it heavy and slightly rear-biased in balance.

Ego 56V – 31 points and DeWalt 60V – 35 points:

Both saws fell short in performance and ergonomics. The DeWalt felt cramped, with oversized grips and awkward controls, while the Ego offereda great display and battery monitoring system but lacked cutting power. Both bogged down under pressure, though they remain strong options for users already invested in their respective battery platforms.

Price-Winner – Ego

While price is an important factor for most users, you often get what you pay for. In every one of our Head-to-Head comparison tests, the top-performing tools also tend to be among the highest-priced. That said, we frequently come across surprising values that defy expectations.

We strongly recommend staying within your current battery ecosystem whenever possible. However, there are times when branching out may be necessary to find a tool that better suits your needs.

Our rankings are based on the bare tool price at the time of writing. Ego came in as the lowest-priced option at $329.00, followed closely by Ryobi at $349.00. Both of these options offer great value for users already on the Ego 56V or Ryobi 40V battery platforms.

DeWalt took third place at $419.00, with Milwaukee in fourth at $699.00. Rounding out the list, Greenworks Commercial came in last at $1,269.69

Best Value Large Capacity Chainsaw – Ryobi 40V

The Ryobi 40V 20” saw earns our Best Value award. While it doesn’t boast the raw power of the Greenworks HOG or the milling prowess of the Milwaukee, it delivers an outstanding balance of performance, weight, and affordability.

The Ryobi topped our weight category and placed second in both speed-cut and cross-cut tests, all while being one of the more budget-friendly options.

This saw is ideal for homeowners, farmers, and pros needing a reliable, versatile tool without the heft and cost of larger, professional models. Its compatibility within the Ryobi 40V line is an added bonus for anyone already invested in their ecosystem. The Ryobi proves that you don’t need to spend over $1,000 to handle demanding cutting tasks effectively.

Final Thoughts on 20” Cordless Chainsaws

Battery chainsaws have officially entered a new era. A few years ago, a 20” battery-powered saw would have been considered a novelty—now it’s a legitimate tool that can replace a mid-size gas saw for many users.

What stood out most in this test is how differently each manufacturer approached the challenge. Some prioritized raw power, others efficiency, simplicity, ergonomics, or refinement. The result is a diverse field where each saw has a clear target user.

Greenworks Commercial proved that a true gas-replacement saw is possible. Ryobi shocked everyone with a lightweight, affordable, and incredibly capable option. Milwaukee demonstrated unmatched determination and efficiency in long, demanding cuts. Ego and DeWalt remain solid choices for users already in their ecosystems.

The Bottom Line: 20″ Cordless Chainsaws

Whether you’re a property owner clearing storm damage, a firewood cutter stocking up for winter, or a pro who wants a quieter, cleaner alternative to gas, there is now a battery option that can get the job done.