Top-Rated Electric Chainsaws for Cutting Cedar Trees: An Actionable Guide

Cedar trees are a beautiful addition to any landscape, but they can be challenging to handle when it comes time to trim or remove them. Due to their dense, fibrous wood, selecting the right chainsaw for cutting cedar trees is essential for both efficiency and safety. Electric chainsaws offer a great option for those who want to avoid the noise, maintenance, and pollution of gas-powered chainsaws while still tackling tasks like cutting cedar trees.

In this guide, we'll explore the key considerations when selecting an electric chainsaw for cedar trees and review the top-rated models that combine power, performance, and ease of use.

Key Considerations for Cutting Cedar Trees with Electric Chainsaws

1. Motor Power and Cutting Capacity

Cedar trees are known for their strong, fibrous wood, which can make them difficult to cut. Therefore, the power of the chainsaw motor plays a critical role in determining how efficiently it can handle the task.

• Amp Rating: For smaller cedar trees or branches, electric chainsaws with motors in the range of 10 to 14 amps are usually sufficient. However, for larger trees or thicker branches, you might want to opt for a chainsaw with a motor rating closer to 15 amps or higher. This will provide the extra cutting power needed to tackle the denser wood of cedar trees.

• Bar Length: A chainsaw with a longer bar (16 inches or more) is recommended for cutting larger cedar trees. The bar length determines the diameter of wood that the chainsaw can cut through in one pass. A longer bar allows you to handle larger branches and trunks with greater ease.

2. Corded vs. Cordless Chainsaws

When choosing an electric chainsaw for cutting cedar trees, you'll need to decide whether you want a corded or cordless model. Each type has its own advantages and drawbacks:

• Corded Chainsaws: Corded electric chainsaws provide consistent, uninterrupted power as long as they're plugged in, making them ideal for longer tasks like cutting cedar trees. They are typically more affordable than cordless models and don't require you to worry about battery life. However, the mobility is limited by the length of the power cord, which may be a problem if you're working in large, open spaces.

• Cordless Chainsaws: These chainsaws are powered by rechargeable batteries, offering more mobility since you're not tethered to an electrical outlet. The downside is that they can run out of battery quickly, especially when cutting dense wood like cedar. Look for models with high-capacity batteries, or consider purchasing extra batteries if you plan on cutting a lot of cedar.

3. Weight and Balance

The weight and balance of a chainsaw are important for both comfort and control, especially when cutting through thick cedar trunks or branches. For larger trees, the added weight can lead to fatigue, so you'll want a chainsaw that feels manageable in your hands.

• Weight: While most electric chainsaws weigh between 6 to 15 pounds, it's important to find one that feels comfortable for you to handle. A chainsaw that's too heavy can strain your arms and shoulders during long cutting sessions, whereas a too-light chainsaw may lack the power needed for cutting through dense cedar wood.

• Balance: A well-balanced chainsaw makes it easier to control and reduces the likelihood of strain. Look for chainsaws with ergonomic handles and weight distribution that allows you to cut more comfortably for extended periods.

4. Safety Features

When cutting down or trimming cedar trees, safety should always be a top priority. Electric chainsaws often come equipped with various safety features designed to minimize risks:

• Chain Brake: Stops the chain immediately if kickback occurs, preventing serious injuries.
• Low-Kickback Chain: A feature that helps prevent the chainsaw from jerking backward when cutting into a dense wood like cedar.
• Safety Guards: Ensure that your hands and other body parts are kept away from the moving chain.
• Hand Guards: Help protect your hands from flying debris and accidental chain contact.

5. Maintenance Requirements

Maintaining your electric chainsaw is important to keep it running smoothly and ensure it works efficiently when tackling tough tasks like cutting cedar trees.

• Automatic Oiler: An electric chainsaw with an automatic chain oiler helps keep the chain lubricated during operation, reducing wear and tear and ensuring smooth cutting.
• Tool-Free Chain Tensioning: Allows you to easily adjust the chain tension without the need for extra tools. This feature is especially useful when dealing with the dense and fibrous wood of cedar trees.

Top-Rated Electric Chainsaws for Cutting Cedar Trees

1. Makita UC4051A 16-Inch Electric Chainsaw

• Power: 15 Amp Motor
• Bar Length: 16 inches
• Weight: 10.1 lbs
• Price: $179.99

Why It's Great for Cedar Trees: Makita is known for producing high-quality tools, and the UC4051A is no exception. With a powerful 15-amp motor and a 16-inch bar, this chainsaw is designed to handle larger tasks, including cutting through the dense wood of cedar trees. The motor is powerful enough to cut through thick trunks and branches with ease.

The UC4051A features a tool-free chain tensioning system, automatic chain lubrication, and an ergonomic handle for better control, making it a great choice for users who want an easy-to-operate chainsaw for larger cutting jobs. The anti-vibration technology reduces fatigue during extended use, allowing you to work for longer periods.

Pro Tip: Make sure to regularly check the oil reservoir and keep it topped up for smoother cuts, especially when working with tougher woods like cedar.

2. Greenworks 16-Inch 12 Amp Corded Chainsaw

• Power: 12 Amp Motor
• Bar Length: 16 inches
• Weight: 8.1 lbs
• Price: $119.99

Why It's Great for Cedar Trees: The Greenworks 16-inch 12 Amp corded chainsaw is a budget-friendly option for those who need a reliable tool for cutting smaller to medium-sized cedar trees. The 12-amp motor and 16-inch bar offer enough power to cut through branches and trunks with ease, while the lightweight design (8.1 lbs) makes it easier to control.

The chainsaw comes with an automatic oiler for smooth operation and tool-free chain tensioning, ensuring that you can maintain it with minimal effort. The ergonomic handle and reduced vibration design also add to the overall comfort and control, especially when working on larger cutting projects.

Pro Tip: To get the best performance, avoid using the chainsaw for extended periods without letting it rest. Frequent short breaks will help prevent overheating.

3. WORX WG304.1 18-Inch 15 Amp Corded Chainsaw

• Power: 15 Amp Motor
• Bar Length: 18 inches
• Weight: 11 lbs
• Price: $129.99

Why It's Great for Cedar Trees: If you need a little extra cutting power for larger cedar trees, the WORX WG304.1 is an excellent choice. The 15-amp motor paired with an 18-inch bar gives you the power and reach to take on thicker trunks and larger branches. It also features a low-kickback chain, which makes it safer to use when cutting into the dense wood of cedar trees.

The WORX WG304.1 comes with an automatic chain oiler, tool-free chain tensioning, and a comfortable ergonomic handle. The 11-pound weight might be a bit heavier for some, but it's balanced well for better control during operation.

Pro Tip: To make your cuts cleaner and more efficient, ensure that the chain is properly tensioned and lubricated before starting each project.

4. Ryobi 18-Inch 13 Amp Corded Chainsaw

• Power: 13 Amp Motor
• Bar Length: 18 inches
• Weight: 10.1 lbs
• Price: $129.99

Why It's Great for Cedar Trees: The Ryobi 18-inch 13 Amp corded chainsaw is another solid option for cutting through cedar trees. With an 18-inch bar, it's able to handle medium to large branches, and the 13-amp motor delivers enough power to get the job done.

This chainsaw is designed with an automatic oiler for smooth cuts and tool-free chain tensioning for easy maintenance. The ergonomic handle ensures that the saw remains comfortable and easy to maneuver during extended use, which is particularly useful when cutting thicker cedar wood.

Pro Tip: If you plan on cutting large amounts of cedar, consider investing in extra oil and sharpening tools for better maintenance.

Conclusion

Cutting cedar trees with an electric chainsaw requires the right combination of power, comfort, and safety. Electric chainsaws are an excellent choice for beginners and homeowners alike, offering an efficient and eco-friendly solution for tree trimming and removal. Whether you go for a corded or cordless model, make sure to select a chainsaw with enough power to handle the dense, fibrous nature of cedar wood.

The chainsaws reviewed in this guide are among the best-rated for cutting cedar trees, offering a mix of performance, ease of use, and value for money. With the right tools in hand, you'll be ready to take on any cedar tree cutting project with confidence and safety.