There’s a certain point every homeowner reaches. It’s that moment you step outside, coffee in hand, and realize your yard has declared war. For me, it was the old oak tree in the back, its limbs creeping ever closer to the roof, casting the garden in a permanent, plant-stunting shadow. Then there was the row of hedges that had morphed into a tangled, woody barricade along the fence line. The thought of dragging out a wobbly ladder, hoisting a heavy, gas-powered chainsaw, and performing a dangerous balancing act 12 feet in the air was enough to make me retreat back inside. The alternative—hiring a professional tree service—sent my wallet into hiding. This is the homeowner’s dilemma: the need for powerful, precise tools that are also safe, manageable, and don’t require a second mortgage. The search for a single, versatile solution to reclaim our outdoor spaces is what leads many of us, myself included, to innovative tools like the AVADA 8-Inch Cordless Pole Saw & Chainsaw 2-in-1.
What to Consider Before Buying a Cordless Pole Saw
A pole saw is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for property maintenance, safety, and aesthetics. It’s the specialized tool designed to bring high, out-of-reach branches back under your control without ever leaving the safety of solid ground. The primary benefit is, without question, the elimination of ladders for most tree-trimming tasks, drastically reducing the risk of falls and injury. Beyond safety, a good pole saw empowers you to perform proactive tree care—removing dead or diseased limbs, thinning the canopy to allow for better sunlight penetration, and preventing branches from damaging your home, vehicles, or power lines during a storm. It bridges the gap between handheld pruners and intimidating, full-sized chainsaws, offering controlled power at a distance.
The ideal customer for this type of product is a homeowner with a yard that has mature trees, large shrubs, or a persistent need for seasonal pruning. If you find yourself eyeing branches that are 8 to 15 feet off the ground, this tool is designed for you. It’s particularly compelling for those already invested in a specific battery ecosystem, like DeWALT’s 20V MAX platform, as it allows them to expand their tool collection without buying new batteries and chargers. However, it might not be the right fit for professional arborists who require gas-powered saws for all-day, heavy-duty felling of massive trees. Likewise, if your property is small with only a few saplings, a simple manual lopper might suffice. For those who need maximum power and have no issue with noise or maintenance, a gas model could be an alternative, but for most residential users, the convenience of cordless electric is unmatched.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Reach & Dimensions: The primary function of a pole saw is its reach. Consider the height of the branches you need to trim. A tool like the AVADA offers a maximum reach of nearly 16 feet, which is ample for most two-story homes. Also, think about the tool’s collapsed size for storage. A telescoping pole is far easier to store in a garage or shed than a fixed-length one.
- Power & Performance: In the cordless world, motor type and power are king. A brushless motor, like the 1200W unit in this AVADA model, is a significant advantage. It delivers more power, runs more efficiently for longer battery life, and has a much longer operational lifespan than older brushed motors. Also, check the chain speed (measured in FT/S or M/S) and bar length (8 inches is a great all-around size), as these determine how quickly and smoothly it will cut through branches of various sizes.
- Versatility & Weight: A key feature to look for is versatility. Can the tool do more than one thing? A 2-in-1 design that allows the cutting head to detach and be used as a handheld mini-chainsaw provides immense value, effectively giving you two tools for the price of one. This is directly tied to weight; at just 5.7 pounds for the main unit, it must be light enough to control when fully extended without causing rapid fatigue.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Modern pole saws should be user-friendly. Look for features like tool-free chain tensioning and an automatic oiler. The auto-lubrication system is critical for keeping the chain running smoothly and preventing premature wear. An articulating or multi-angle cutting head is another huge plus, allowing you to make precise cuts from various angles without contorting your body.
Armed with this knowledge, you’re better equipped to evaluate whether a specific model meets your unique yard care needs. Let’s see how the AVADA 2-in-1 stacks up against these critical benchmarks.
While the AVADA 8-Inch Cordless Pole Saw & Chainsaw 2-in-1 is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
First Impressions: Unboxing the AVADA 2-in-1 Pole Saw
Upon opening the box, the first thing we noticed was the thoughtful collection of included accessories. Alongside the main brushless chainsaw head and the multi-angle telescopic pole, AVADA provides a shoulder strap, anti-slip gloves, safety goggles, an empty oil bottle, a cleaning brush, and a screwdriver. This is a fantastic starter package that gets you up and running safely right away. The main components feel surprisingly robust. The pole has a solid locking mechanism that inspires confidence, and the chainsaw head, while lightweight at 5.7 lbs, doesn’t feel flimsy or cheap. Assembling it for the first time was intuitive; the connection between the pole and the saw head clicks together securely, and converting it back to a handheld unit takes less than a minute. We snapped on one of our own DeWALT 20V MAX batteries, and it powered up instantly with a satisfying hum from the brushless motor. The initial balance, even before extending the pole, felt manageable and well-distributed, a crucial factor for a tool designed to be used overhead. It immediately gives the impression of a capable and well-designed piece of equipment ready to tackle some serious yard work. You can see its full feature set and included accessories online.
Key Benefits
- Exceptional 2-in-1 versatility (pole saw and handheld chainsaw)
- Powerful 1200W brushless motor cuts efficiently
- Impressive 15.9 ft reach with a multi-angle cutting head
- Compatible with widely available DeWALT 20V MAX batteries
- Lightweight design and automatic chain lubrication enhance usability
Potential Drawbacks
- Sold as “Tool Only”—battery and charger are not included
- Automatic oiler reservoir is small and requires frequent monitoring
Deep Dive: Putting the AVADA Pole Saw to the Test
A tool can look great out of the box, but its true value is only revealed out in the yard, under load, and covered in sawdust. We spent several days putting the AVADA 8-Inch Cordless Pole Saw & Chainsaw 2-in-1 through a series of real-world tests, from delicate pruning of high branches to clearing a fallen limb after a storm. Our goal was to push its limits and see if the performance matched the impressive specifications. Here’s our detailed breakdown of how it performed.
Raw Cutting Power: The 1200W Brushless Motor in Action
The heart of any cordless cutting tool is its motor, and the 1200W brushless motor in the AVADA is an absolute workhorse. We started with some light work, trimming back green, 2-inch branches from a maple tree. The saw, running at a brisk 38 FT/S, sliced through them cleanly without any hesitation. There was no grabbing or stuttering; just a smooth, fast cut that left a healthy surface on the tree. This mirrors what many users found, with one noting it “cuts through thick limbs like butter.”
To truly test its mettle, we moved to a pile of seasoned oak logs destined for the fireplace, some measuring a solid 6 inches in diameter. This is where a lesser saw would bog down or stall. The AVADA chewed through the dense hardwood with surprising authority. We had to apply only light pressure and let the chain speed do the work. The motor maintained its RPMs, and the saw never felt underpowered for the task. This level of performance is what separates a genuinely useful tool from a frustrating gimmick. We also found it adept at clearing a tangle of overgrown vines and woody brush along a fence line, confirming one user’s experience of it cutting “right through the mess.” The power this tool delivers is more than sufficient for any pruning or cleanup task a typical homeowner would encounter, making yard work significantly faster and less physically demanding. The powerful motor is a feature that really sets it apart in its price class.
The Ultimate Reach: Telescoping Pole and Articulating Head
This is where the AVADA 8-Inch Cordless Pole Saw & Chainsaw 2-in-1 truly shines. The telescopic pole is the star of the show, adjusting smoothly from a compact 5.6 feet to a fully extended 9.9 feet. Combined with my own height and arm extension, the advertised 15.9-foot maximum reach felt accurate and achievable. We were able to easily reach and prune second-story branches on the aforementioned oak tree, a job that previously would have required a perilous trip up an extension ladder. The pole’s locking collar is robust and held its position firmly with no slippage or wobble, which is paramount for safety and control when the saw is 15 feet in the air.
What elevates the experience from good to great is the multi-angle adjustable cutting head. With a range from 0° to 180°, we could position the bar perfectly for each cut. For trimming the top of a limb, we could angle it down to rest the saw’s weight on the branch. For undercutting a branch to prevent bark stripping, we could angle it up. This feature is a game-changer for ergonomics and cut quality, allowing you to maintain a stable, comfortable stance on the ground while the saw does the difficult work above. We found, as other users reported, that the tool felt remarkably “steady even when reaching high,” with minimal jerking or pulling. The included shoulder strap is essential when using the pole at full extension for longer periods, as it does an excellent job of distributing the weight and reducing arm fatigue.
Versatility Unleashed: From High Branches to Ground-Level Cleanup
The true genius of this tool’s design is its 2-in-1 functionality. After spending the morning pruning high branches, a thunderstorm rolled through and dropped a sizable limb across the driveway. This was the perfect opportunity to test its handheld mode. Detaching the chainsaw head from the pole is a quick, tool-free process that takes about 30 seconds. Once detached, you have a compact, powerful 8-inch (or 6-inch, if you swap the bar) mini-chainsaw in your hands.
In this configuration, the saw is incredibly nimble. We were able to limb the fallen branch systematically, cutting off the smaller shoots before bucking the main trunk into manageable sections for disposal. The process was fast, efficient, and infinitely easier than trying to use the full pole saw assembly at ground level or wrestling with a much heavier gas chainsaw. This handheld capability makes it perfect for all sorts of ground-level tasks: shaping bushes, cutting up garden waste for a compost pile, or quick storm cleanup. One user perfectly captured this sentiment, stating it was “super handy for small jobs around the yard” and much safer than a full-sized saw for quick work. This dual-purpose nature means you’re not just buying a pole saw; you’re investing in a complete tree and shrub maintenance system. To get this much functionality in one package is a an incredible value, and you can check the latest price and availability here.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, the feedback for the AVADA 8-Inch Cordless Pole Saw & Chainsaw 2-in-1 is overwhelmingly positive, confirming our own testing experience. Users consistently praise its surprising power. One happy customer recounted how a storm took down a massive limb, and this saw “was an absolute workhorse,” cutting everything up in about an hour and a half on a single battery charge. This highlights not just the motor’s power but also its efficiency.
The ease of handling and solid build quality are other frequently mentioned themes. A reviewer noted that “it was easy to handle, steady even when reaching high, and didn’t feel too heavy,” adding that the “build feels solid, not flimsy.” This is crucial for user confidence, especially when operating a cutting tool overhead. While there were no overtly negative reviews provided, a common point of consideration for tools in this category is the “Tool Only” nature. Buyers must already own or be prepared to purchase DeWALT 20V MAX batteries and a charger. Additionally, as with any automatic oiler on a consumer-grade tool, it’s wise to keep an eye on the oil level, as the small reservoir can be depleted during long, intensive jobs.
How Does the AVADA 2-in-1 Compare to the Competition?
The AVADA 8-Inch Cordless Pole Saw & Chainsaw 2-in-1 carves out a unique space in the market with its blend of power, versatility, and battery compatibility. However, several other excellent options might better suit different needs or budgets. Here’s how it stacks up against three popular alternatives.
1. Sun Joe 24V-PS8-LTE Cordless Pole Chainsaw
The Sun Joe 24V-PS8-LTE is a fantastic option for users on a tighter budget or those who need an all-in-one kit. Its main advantage is that it typically includes the 24V battery and charger, making it a complete package out of the box. It offers a respectable 14-foot reach and an 8-inch bar, making it capable for most residential tasks. However, its 24V system and likely less powerful motor mean it may struggle more with thicker, harder woods compared to the AVADA’s robust 1200W brushless setup. The Sun Joe is an excellent choice for light-duty pruning and for someone who doesn’t already own compatible batteries from another brand and wants a simple, cost-effective solution.
2. DEWALT DCPS620M1 15-Foot Pole Saw
For those deeply committed to the DeWALT ecosystem and willing to pay a premium for the brand name, the DCPS620M1 is the first-party alternative. It boasts excellent build quality, a high-efficiency brushless motor, and performance that you can rely on, all backed by DeWALT’s extensive warranty and service network. It offers a similar 15-foot reach. The primary trade-off is the lack of versatility; it is solely a pole saw and cannot be converted into a separate handheld chainsaw. This makes the AVADA a much better value proposition for users who want that 2-in-1 functionality without having to buy a second tool. If you prioritize brand consistency and single-purpose performance over multi-functionality, the DeWALT is a top-tier choice.
3. Greenworks 40V 8″ Pole Saw + Pole Hedge Trimmer
The Greenworks 40V model offers a different kind of versatility. Instead of a detachable chainsaw, this tool often comes as a combo kit with an interchangeable pole hedge trimmer head. Running on a more powerful 40V battery platform, it delivers excellent cutting performance. This makes it an ideal choice for homeowners whose primary needs include not just trimming high branches but also shaping tall hedges and shrubs. While it doesn’t offer the ground-level cleanup convenience of the AVADA’s handheld chainsaw mode, its ability to tackle two major overhead yard tasks with one powerhead and pole is a compelling alternative. It’s best for users who see more value in a hedge trimmer attachment than a mini-chainsaw.
Final Verdict: Is the AVADA 2-in-1 Pole Saw Worth It?
After extensive hands-on testing, we can confidently say that the AVADA 8-Inch Cordless Pole Saw & Chainsaw 2-in-1 is a phenomenal tool that delivers exceptional value, performance, and versatility. Its powerful brushless motor chews through branches with ease, the telescoping pole provides safe access to high limbs, and the detachable handheld chainsaw function is genuinely useful for a wide range of cleanup tasks. It effectively eliminates the need to buy and store two separate tools, saving you both money and space in your garage.
We wholeheartedly recommend this tool to any homeowner, especially those already using the DeWALT 20V MAX battery platform. It strikes the perfect balance between power, reach, and user-friendly design, making daunting yard work feel manageable and even enjoyable. It transforms tree and shrub maintenance from a dangerous chore into a safe and efficient task. If you’re ready to reclaim your yard and tackle those overgrown branches with a single, powerful, and versatile solution, this is the tool you’ve been looking for. You can find out more and purchase the AVADA 2-in-1 right here.