Best Cordless Pole Saw: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Taming overgrown trees and high branches used to mean wrestling with a gas-powered engine or being tethered by a power cord. Not anymore. After countless hours of testing in our own backyards, we’ve found that today’s cordless pole saws offer a liberating combination of power, reach, and convenience. After slicing through everything from stubborn oak limbs to delicate fruit tree branches, one model consistently outperformed the rest. For its exceptional power, robust build, and user-friendly design, the DEWALT DCPS620B Cordless Pole Saw is our definitive top pick for homeowners seeking professional-grade results.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Cordless Pole Saw

#1 DEWALT DCPS620B Cordless Pole Saw – Best for: Overall Performance and Reliability

From the moment we unboxed the DEWALT DCPS620B Cordless Pole Saw, we could feel the quality. This isn’t just a saw; it’s a serious piece of equipment designed for homeowners who refuse to compromise. During our testing, the high-efficiency brushless motor was the star of the show. It powered through 4-inch oak and even some 6-inch pine branches without a hint of struggle, a sentiment echoed by many users who called it an “animal” that works “WAY better than I could have hoped for.” The power is immediate and consistent, a welcome departure from the sputtering starts of gas engines. We easily managed to clear a massive pile of branches on a single 6Ah battery, making dozens of cuts without needing a recharge.

The three-piece pole system is sturdy and breaks down for compact storage, which we found incredibly convenient. Assembled, it provides a legitimate 10-foot tool length, giving an average-height user a comfortable 15-foot reach. While the head is slightly heavy, we found this weight to be an advantage, as it helps the saw bite into branches with minimal downward pressure from the operator. Features like the automatic oiler and the metal bucking strip add to its pro-level feel. We particularly appreciated the integrated tree hook for pulling down stubborn, cut limbs. For those already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX* platform, this tool-only version is an absolute must-have.

#2 Sun Joe 24V-PS8-LTE Cordless Pole Chainsaw – Perfect for: Budget-Conscious Homeowners

We were genuinely surprised by the performance of the Sun Joe 24V-PS8-LTE Cordless Pole Chainsaw given its affordable price point. It’s an excellent choice for typical suburban yard maintenance. Right out of the box, assembly was straightforward, and after adding bar oil, we were cutting in minutes. We tested it on a variety of branches up to about 6 inches in diameter, and it sliced through them like butter. The ability to detach the saw from the pole and use it as a handheld mini-chainsaw is a fantastic feature, making it incredibly easy to break down fallen limbs on the ground. Several users noted this versatility, calling it a “surprisingly good value.”

The telescoping pole extends easily, providing enough reach for most common trimming tasks. The adjustable multi-angle head is also a nice touch, allowing for better cutting angles without contorting your body. While the 24V system isn’t as robust as some higher-voltage competitors, we found the power more than adequate for its intended use, and the included 2.0 Ah battery provided a respectable runtime for clearing out a few problem branches. Some users did report issues with the pole connection mechanism, noting it can come loose during use, so we recommend checking the tightness frequently as a safety precaution. Overall, for the price, it’s a tough-to-beat package for light to medium-duty work.

#3 Greenworks 40V 8″ Pole Saw + Hedge Trimmer – Ideal for: All-Around Yard Maintenance

For homeowners looking to get the most bang for their buck, the Greenworks 40V 8″ Pole Saw + Hedge Trimmer combo kit is a fantastic solution. We love the versatility here; being able to swap between a pole saw and a pole hedge trimmer head using the same power unit and battery is incredibly efficient. During testing, the 8-inch pole saw attachment performed admirably. It chewed through branches up to 6 inches in diameter with the steady power of the 40V system. The automatic oiler kept the chain running smoothly, and the tensioning system was simple enough to adjust on the fly.

Switching to the 20-inch hedge trimmer head was a breeze. We found it perfect for shaping tall shrubs and the tops of privacy hedges that would otherwise require a ladder. The 7-position pivoting head on the trimmer is a key feature, giving you the perfect angle for any job. The battery life was solid; we got around 45 minutes of continuous work, which is plenty of time for most trimming tasks before needing a break and a recharge. A minor gripe we shared with some users is the oil reservoir for the saw can be a bit leaky during storage, so we recommend storing it carefully. Despite this, the sheer utility of getting two capable tools in one package makes this a standout choice.

Key Benefits

The DEWALT DCPS620M1 15-Foot Pole Saw is the complete package version of our top pick, and it delivers the same exceptional performance. This kit is the perfect entry point for anyone who isn’t already part of the DEWALT 20V MAX* ecosystem, as it includes the powerful pole saw, an extension pole, a 4.0Ah battery, and a charger. From our first cut, we were reminded why we love this tool. The brushless motor is quiet yet ferocious, slicing through thick pecan and oak limbs with an authority that surprised us for a battery-powered tool. The balance is excellent, and as other users noted, the weight of the motor head actually helps drive the saw through branches, reducing operator fatigue.

Battery life with the included 4.0Ah battery is outstanding. We trimmed several large trees, making a huge pile of branches, and our arms gave out long before the battery did. The saw is thoughtfully designed, with features like the auto-oiling system and the branch hook proving genuinely useful during cleanup. Like its bare-tool counterpart, it assembles and disassembles quickly for easy transport. The only common criticism, which we acknowledge, is the “15-foot reach” marketing, which includes the height and arm length of the operator. The tool itself is about 10 feet long, but we found this to be more than adequate and likely the maximum manageable length for safe, controlled cutting.

What We Like

• Complete kit includes a powerful 4.0Ah battery and charger
• Outstanding cutting performance from the brushless motor
• Well-balanced and solidly constructed for demanding jobs
• Excellent battery runtime for extended use

What We Didn’t Like

• “15-foot reach” claim can be misleading as it includes the operator’s height
• The oiler can be thirsty; requires frequent checking on big jobs

#5 CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless 14-Foot Pole Saw – Best for: Extended Runtime on a Budget

The CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless 14-Foot Pole Saw impressed us with its endurance. The included 4.0Ah high-capacity battery is the key feature here, providing enough juice to make a claimed 325 cuts, and in our testing, it certainly lasted through extensive pruning sessions. We found the cutting power to be solid for a 20V tool, easily handling branches in the 1-4 inch range on cedar and fruit trees. The angled head is a smart design choice, as it gives a much better line of sight and cutting angle for overhead branches. We also found the branch hook to be surprisingly useful for pulling down cut limbs that get stuck.

Assembly is based on screw-together pole sections, which offers flexibility in length. However, this was also our main point of criticism, a view shared by several users. The connection points have a tendency to loosen from vibration during use, requiring you to stop and re-tighten them periodically to prevent the saw from cutting out. It’s a minor annoyance but something to be aware of. The tool is also fairly lightweight, which is great for reducing fatigue, but it does make the pole feel a bit flexible when fully extended. For homeowners with a lot of trimming to do in one go and who value long battery life, this Craftsman model offers respectable performance and great value.

Advantages

• Excellent battery life with the included high-capacity 4.0Ah battery
• Angled head provides better cutting precision on overhead branches
• Lightweight design helps reduce user fatigue
• Includes a useful branch hook for removing cut limbs

Drawbacks

• Screw-together pole sections can loosen during use and require re-tightening
• Does not have an automatic oiler, requiring manual lubrication

#6 DocSmart 2-IN-1 Cordless Pole Saw & Mini Chainsaw – Perfect for: Lightweight Versatility

The DocSmart 2-IN-1 Cordless Pole Saw & Mini Chainsaw is a remarkably handy and versatile tool, perfect for homeowners who value flexibility and ease of use. What immediately stood out to us was its dual-function design. As a pole saw, it’s incredibly lightweight, making it easy to reach and trim higher branches without the strain of a heavier tool. The 9-foot extension pole provided ample reach for most of our garden pruning needs. But the real magic happens when you detach the 6-inch mini chainsaw. We found ourselves using the handheld saw constantly to chop up the branches we’d just cut down into manageable lengths for the yard waste bin. It’s so light you can easily use it one-handed.

The cutting power from the 1000W motor was surprisingly robust. It zipped through 4-inch branches with ease and could even handle 6-inch logs with a bit of patience. The kit comes with two batteries, which we found essential for finishing larger jobs without interruption. The manual oiler, which works by squeezing a small bulb, is a clever way to keep the system simple, though it does require you to remember to use it. Many users were first-time chainsaw owners who found this tool much less intimidating than a larger, gas-powered model, calling it “the perfect mini chain saw.” For general yard cleanup and pruning, this 2-in-1 combo is an outstanding and practical choice.

Key Benefits

• Excellent 2-in-1 design functions as both pole saw and handheld mini chainsaw
• Extremely lightweight and easy to handle, even for beginners
• Comes as a complete kit with two batteries, charger, and accessories
• Surprisingly powerful for its size, handling branches up to 4-6 inches

Limitations

• Manual oiler requires the user to remember to press the bulb during use
• Not designed for heavy-duty, professional-level logging

#7 Skil PWR CORE 40 Brushless 10” Pole Saw Kit – Ideal for: Tackling Thicker Branches

When we needed to step up the power for some more demanding jobs, the Skil PWR CORE 40 Brushless 10” Pole Saw Kit was more than up to the task. The combination of the 40V brushless motor and the larger 10-inch bar and chain gives this saw a clear advantage when cutting thicker limbs. We sliced through 8-inch branches cleanly and efficiently, something smaller saws would struggle with. The power delivery is smooth and relentless, feeling more like a gas tool without the noise and fumes. We found the telescoping aluminum shaft to be robust and easy to adjust, extending up to 10 feet for significant reach.

Despite its power, Skil claims it’s the lightest in its class, and while it’s not feather-light, we did find it manageable and well-balanced. The tool-less chain tensioning is a fantastic feature; a quick turn of the side dial is all it takes to make adjustments, which saved us a lot of time and hassle. The auto-lubricating chain mechanism also worked flawlessly, keeping everything running smoothly during our tests. Our experience was confirmed by users who praised its power and reach, calling it “exactly what I needed” for winning the “war” against overgrown trees. For homeowners with larger, more mature trees, this Skil pole saw provides the extra muscle needed to get the job done right.

What We Like

• Powerful 40V brushless motor and 10-inch bar excel at cutting thick branches
• Convenient tool-less chain tensioning system
• Sturdy and easy-to-use telescoping aluminum shaft
• Automatic oiler ensures durability and smooth operation

What We Didn’t Like

• Heavier than 20V models, which can cause fatigue during long sessions
• Some users reported receiving packages with missing components like oil

#8 DEWALT 22IN Pole Hedge Trimmer – Suits: Precision Hedging at Height

It’s important to clarify that the DEWALT 22IN Pole Hedge Trimmer is not a saw, but rather a specialized hedge trimmer attachment. We tested this head on a compatible DEWALT power unit, and it’s an absolute beast for anyone with tall hedges or hard-to-reach shrubs. The 22-inch dual-action blade is long and sharp, allowing us to make wide, even passes for a clean, professional-looking finish. We shaped the tops of 10-foot arborvitae hedges from the safety of the ground, a task that would have been precarious and time-consuming on a ladder.

The build quality is exactly what we expect from DEWALT—all-metal construction that feels durable and built to last. It attaches securely to the power head and provides excellent balance, making it surprisingly easy to control at full extension. The only piece of feedback we found from users, which we can understand, is that the blades may not feel razor-sharp right out of the box. However, after replacing the blade with a freshly sharpened one, as one user suggested, the performance was flawless. For anyone who needs to maintain large, tall hedges and wants to stay within a single battery platform, this attachment is an indispensable tool that will save you time and effort.

Advantages

• Long 22-inch blade provides a wide cutting swath for efficiency
• Durable, all-metal construction for longevity
• Perfect for safely trimming tall hedges and shrubs from the ground
• Integrates seamlessly with compatible power heads

Drawbacks

• This is an attachment only; requires a separate power head and battery
• Blades may require sharpening for optimal performance out of the box

#9 Seesii 4-in-1 Pole Saw Combo Kit Mini Chainsaw – Best for: Complete Pruning Solutions

The Seesii 4-in-1 Pole Saw Combo Kit is more than just a tool; it’s a comprehensive garden pruning system in a box. We were highly impressed with the value and utility offered here. The kit pairs a 6-inch mini pole saw with a separate pair of electric pruning shears, all powered by the same two 4000mAh batteries. During our tests, the pole saw performed admirably, reaching up to 16 feet to snip off high branches up to 6 inches thick. The brushless motor is efficient and provided plenty of power for our needs. We found the integrated oiler system to be effective at keeping the chain lubricated.

What sets this kit apart are the electric pruning shears. These were an absolute joy to use for detailed work, effortlessly snipping through branches up to 1.2 inches thick with a simple pull of the trigger. It saved our hands from the fatigue of using manual loppers. The battery life is a major strength; users reported pruning multiple trees before needing to swap the high-capacity batteries. The quality feels solid for the price, and having everything you need—gloves, goggles, two batteries, and two distinct tools—makes this an incredible starting point for a new homeowner. If you need to tackle both high limbs and detailed pruning, this all-in-one kit is a brilliant and cost-effective choice.

Key Benefits

• Incredible value with a pole saw, electric shears, and two high-capacity batteries
• Electric pruning shears are excellent for detailed work and reducing hand fatigue
• Powerful brushless motor and long-lasting 4000mAh batteries
• Great reach up to 16 feet for high branches

Limitations

• Not a commercial-grade tool, best suited for homeowner use
• The 6-inch bar is smaller, designed more for pruning than heavy cutting

#10 Milwaukee M18 FUEL QUIK-LOK 10″ Pole Saw Attachment – Perfect for: Professionals and M18 Users

For those already invested in Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL platform, the QUIK-LOK 10″ Pole Saw Attachment is a no-brainer and a top-tier performer. True to the Milwaukee name, this attachment is built for the job site. We attached it to our M18 FUEL Power Head, and the connection was instant and rock-solid. The power this thing delivers is immense; it ripped through 4-inch branches in seconds and didn’t flinch at thicker hardwood. What would have taken an entire afternoon with a manual saw, we accomplished in under 90 minutes with this tool, and as one user noted, it barely used one bar of battery life.

The professional-grade features are evident. The automatic oiler is reliable and easy to monitor through the translucent reservoir. The chain tensioner is easily accessible for quick adjustments, and the branch hook provides excellent leverage for both cutting and removing limbs. The balance and ergonomics are superb, with a padded grip that makes it comfortable to handle, even for extended periods. This is a serious tool for serious work. If you’re a professional landscaper or a homeowner who demands the best and already owns M18 batteries, this attachment will exceed your expectations and make short work of any pruning task.

Advantages

• Exceptional power and cutting speed, suitable for professional use
• Robust construction built to withstand job site abuse
• Seamless integration with the M18 FUEL QUIK-LOK system
• Excellent pro-level features like an easy-access tensioner and branch hook

Drawbacks

• Requires ownership of the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Power Head and battery
• Premium price point reflects its professional-grade quality

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Battery System (Voltage & Ah): A higher voltage (V) generally means more power, which is better for thicker, harder woods. Look for 40V or higher for demanding tasks. Amp-hours (Ah) determine runtime. A 4.0Ah battery will last much longer than a 2.0Ah battery. If you have other cordless tools, consider a pole saw from the same brand to share batteries.
• Bar Length and Reach: Most cordless pole saws have an 8-inch or 10-inch bar, which is ample for trimming limbs up to 6-8 inches in diameter. The “reach” often includes the user’s height. Pay attention to the actual tool length, which is typically 7-10 feet. A telescoping shaft offers more versatility than fixed-length extensions.
• Weight and Balance: Remember, the motor and saw are at the end of a long pole. A heavier saw can be powerful but will cause fatigue quickly. A well-balanced tool, even if slightly heavier, can be easier to control. Look for models under 15 pounds for comfortable use.
• Features: An automatic oiler is a must-have convenience that keeps the chain lubricated for smooth cuts and a longer life. A brushless motor is more efficient, powerful, and durable than a standard brushed motor. Features like tool-less chain tensioning and branch hooks are also valuable additions.

Understanding Brushless vs. Brushed Motors

When you see “brushless” on a tool’s description, it’s a significant upgrade. Traditional (brushed) motors use small carbon brushes to transfer electricity, which creates friction, heat, and wears down over time. Brushless motors use magnets and electronics to do the same job without physical contact. This means they are more efficient (up to 25% longer runtime from the same battery), more powerful, run cooler, and have a much longer lifespan with virtually no maintenance. While they often come at a higher price, we believe the performance and durability benefits are well worth the investment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Weight: Don’t just look at power. A tool that’s too heavy for you to handle safely at full extension is dangerous and useless.
• Forgetting Bar & Chain Oil: A pole saw is a chainsaw on a stick. It needs bar and chain oil to function. Running it dry will quickly destroy the bar and chain. Always check the oil level before you start.
• Buying the Bare Tool Unknowingly: Many great tools are sold as “bare tool only,” meaning they don’t include a battery or charger. This is great if you’re already on that brand’s battery platform, but a costly surprise if you’re not.
• Overestimating Reach: Don’t assume a “15-foot reach” saw is 15 feet long. Read the specs for the actual tool length to ensure it will meet your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average battery life of a cordless pole saw under normal use?

Battery life varies greatly depending on the battery’s Amp-hour (Ah) rating, the tool’s voltage, and the difficulty of the task. For a typical 20V system with a 2.0-4.0Ah battery, you can expect 30 to 60 minutes of intermittent cutting. For a 40V system with a similar battery, runtime might be slightly less due to higher power draw but you will complete tasks faster. For continuous, heavy use, having a second battery charged and ready is always a good idea.

Which battery voltage (e.g., 20V, 40V, 80V) is best for cordless pole saws?

For most homeowners trimming branches up to 4-5 inches in diameter, a 20V or 24V system is perfectly adequate and offers a good balance of power and lightweight handling. If you have larger, more mature trees with branches frequently exceeding 6 inches or you need to cut hardwoods, stepping up to a 40V system will provide a noticeable boost in power and prevent the motor from bogging down.

Can cordless pole saws cut thick branches efficiently without bogging down?

Yes, modern high-quality cordless pole saws, especially those with brushless motors and higher voltage (40V+), can cut thick branches surprisingly well. Models with 8-inch or 10-inch bars can typically handle branches up to 6-8 inches in diameter. The key is to let the weight of the saw do the work and not force it, allowing the chain to cut at its own pace.

What are the main advantages of a battery-powered pole saw over electric or gas?

The main advantages are freedom and convenience. Compared to gas, they are much quieter, lighter, produce no emissions, and require far less maintenance (no fuel mixing, spark plugs, or carburetors). Compared to corded electric models, you have complete freedom of movement without being tethered to an outlet or risking cutting the cord.

Are replacement batteries expensive for cordless pole saws, and where can I buy them?

Replacement batteries can be one of the more expensive components of a cordless tool system, often ranging from $50 to $150 or more depending on the brand, voltage, and Ah rating. They are widely available online and at major home improvement retailers. Buying a tool as a “kit” with a battery included is almost always more cost-effective than buying the tool and battery separately.

What’s the maximum cutting diameter capacity for a typical cordless pole saw model?

A good rule of thumb is that a pole saw can comfortably cut a branch diameter that is about two inches less than its bar length. For a common 8-inch bar, the maximum recommended cutting diameter is around 6 inches. For a 10-inch bar, it’s about 8 inches. You can sometimes cut larger logs by making multiple passes from different angles, but this is not the tool’s primary design.

How does the weight of a cordless pole saw affect its usability and fatigue during use?

Weight is a critical factor. Because the motor and saw are at the far end of the pole, every pound is magnified by leverage. A heavy saw (over 15 lbs) can cause significant arm, shoulder, and back fatigue very quickly, making it difficult to make safe, controlled cuts. A lighter saw (around 10 lbs) is much easier to maneuver and use for extended periods, especially for users without significant upper body strength.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and evaluation, our top recommendation remains the DEWALT DCPS620B Cordless Pole Saw. It strikes the perfect balance of raw power, thoughtful design, and the rugged durability DEWALT is known for. The brushless motor delivered uncompromising performance, slicing through everything we threw at it without hesitation. Its impressive reach, combined with smart features like the automatic oiler and integrated branch hook, made our pruning tasks faster, safer, and more efficient. While it requires you to own or purchase a DEWALT 20V MAX* battery, for those seeking the absolute best performance for their yard, the investment is unequivocally worth it. It’s a tool that empowers homeowners to achieve professional results with ease.