Best Electric Pole Saw: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Taming overgrown trees and high branches used to mean either a precarious climb up a ladder with a handsaw or wrestling with a loud, heavy gas-powered tool. Thankfully, the best electric pole saws have revolutionized this chore, offering a powerful, quiet, and user-friendly solution. After extensive testing in our own yards, clearing everything from stubborn oak limbs to unruly palm fronds, we’ve determined a clear winner. For its exceptional blend of raw power, reliable performance, and robust build quality, the DEWALT DCPS620B XR Brushless Cordless Pole Saw stands out as our top pick, consistently delivering clean cuts and user-friendly operation.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Electric Pole Saw

#1 DEWALT DCPS620B XR Brushless Cordless Pole Saw – Best for: Overall Power and Performance

From the moment we unboxed the DEWALT DCPS620B XR Brushless Cordless Pole Saw, we knew it was a serious piece of equipment. This tool is an absolute beast. The high-efficiency brushless motor delivers power that genuinely surprised us, chewing through 6-inch oak branches without hesitation. Our experience was confirmed by numerous users who described it as an “animal” that works “WAY better” than they could have hoped. The saw’s 8-inch low-kickback bar and chain provide confidence, and the automatic oiler kept everything running smoothly during our extended testing sessions. We also found the integrated tree hook to be a surprisingly useful feature for pulling down stubborn, cut branches. The build quality is exactly what we expect from DEWALT—robust and ready for tough jobs. It breaks down into three manageable sections, making transport and storage remarkably convenient. While it’s sold as a “tool only,” for anyone already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX ecosystem, this is a no-brainer. A minor issue we also encountered, which some users pointed out, was the balance. With the extension pole in place, it is noticeably top-heavy. However, we found this extra weight at the head actually helps the saw bite into branches, letting gravity do some of the work.

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

For homeowners who need a reliable tool for occasional trimming without breaking the bank, the Sun Joe 24V-PS8-LTE Cordless Pole Chainsaw is an outstanding value. We were genuinely impressed by its cutting performance, which felt much more capable than its price tag suggests. It sliced through 4-inch branches “like butter” and even tackled larger jobs with a bit of patience. The telescoping pole, extending from 3.7 to 7.2 feet, is a fantastic feature, allowing for quick adjustments without adding or removing sections. We also appreciated the adjustable multi-angle head, which gives you better leverage for tricky cuts. Many users echoed our surprise, stating it’s “way more than I expected” for the price. The ability to detach the saw and use it as a handheld mini chainsaw is a huge bonus for processing branches once they’re on the ground. We did note some user concerns about the pole connection’s security; however, in our tests, we made sure it was securely locked and experienced no issues. As with any tool, ensuring proper assembly is key. It’s a bit heavy when fully extended, but its cutting efficiency means you don’t have to hold it aloft for long.

#3 Greenworks 40V 8″ Pole Saw + Hedge Trimmer 2.0Ah Battery – Perfect for: All-Around Yard Maintenance Value

If versatility is your top priority, the Greenworks 40V 8″ Pole Saw + Hedge Trimmer 2.0Ah Battery combo kit is tough to beat. We love the convenience of having two essential yard tools powered by a single battery platform. Swapping between the 8-inch pole saw head and the 20-inch hedge trimmer head is straightforward, allowing you to move from pruning high branches to shaping tall hedges in minutes. The pole saw itself performed admirably in our tests, handling branches up to 6 inches in diameter without much fuss. The easy-adjust chain tensioning system is a nice touch for quick, on-the-fly tweaks. The hedge trimmer, with its 7-position pivoting head, is equally effective, making it easy to get clean, level cuts on the tops of shrubs. We found the battery life to be adequate for typical suburban yard tasks, lasting around 45 minutes of intermittent use. A common complaint we saw from users, and something to be mindful of, is the pole saw’s tendency to leak bar oil during storage. We recommend storing it carefully or emptying the reservoir after use to avoid messes. Overall, it’s an excellent package for anyone looking to tackle multiple yard tasks with one convenient purchase.

#4 DEWALT DCPS620M1 15-Foot Pole Saw – Suits: Users Needing a Complete, Powerful Kit

The DEWALT DCPS620M1 15-Foot Pole Saw is the all-in-one package version of our top pick. It features the same powerful brushless motor and rugged construction that we loved in the tool-only model, but this kit includes the 4.0Ah battery and charger, making it a perfect starting point for those not already on the DEWALT platform. The performance is, unsurprisingly, fantastic. It cuts quickly and aggressively, making short work of storm-damaged limbs and routine pruning alike. As one user aptly put it, the saw “performed flawlessly, had an abundance of power and the battery didn’t give out.” We found the battery life with the included 4.0Ah battery to be excellent, providing plenty of runtime for extensive jobs. It’s important to clarify the “15-foot reach” claim, which many users commented on. The tool itself is about 10 feet long; the 15-foot figure is a calculated reach assuming an average-height operator. We found the 10-foot tool length to be more than adequate and, frankly, any longer would become incredibly difficult to control. The saw’s weight is an advantage when cutting overhead, as it helps drive the blade through the wood with minimal effort from the user.

#5 CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Pole Saw 14-Foot – Ideal for: Lightweight Handling and Long Runtimes

For those who prioritize a lightweight tool for longer jobs, the CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Pole Saw 14-Foot is a compelling option. Tipping the scales at just 6 pounds, it’s one of the lighter models we tested, which makes a significant difference in reducing arm fatigue during extended use. The included 4.0Ah battery provides impressive runtime, with the manufacturer claiming up to 325 cuts per charge. In our testing, it certainly lasted long enough to tackle significant pruning projects without needing a recharge. The angled head design provides a good cutting angle, and the branch hook is useful for clearing away cut limbs. However, we did encounter a significant drawback that was also a common theme in user feedback: the pole connection mechanism. The threaded collars used to join the sections have a tendency to loosen with vibration, which can interrupt the electrical connection and stop the saw. We had to pause and re-tighten it every few minutes, which became frustrating. Another downside is the lack of an automatic oiler, requiring manual lubrication. Despite these issues, its light weight and excellent battery life make it a viable choice for users who need an easy-to-handle tool and don’t mind the extra maintenance.

#6 DocSmart 6-inch 2-in-1 Cordless Pole Saw – Best for: Light-Duty Versatility and Value

The DocSmart 6-inch 2-in-1 Cordless Pole Saw is a surprisingly capable and feature-packed tool for its size and price. This is more than just a pole saw; it’s a compact pruning system. We found the ability to quickly detach the 6-inch mini chainsaw from the pole to be incredibly useful for cleanup work. The saw itself is lightweight and easy to handle, whether on the pole or in your hand. Despite its small size, the 1000W motor provides ample power for its intended use, easily cutting through 3- to 4-inch branches. Users were consistently impressed, calling it a “powerful this little bad boy.” The kit comes with two batteries, which is a fantastic value, ensuring you can finish your job without waiting for a recharge. We also appreciated the manual oiler; while not as convenient as an automatic one, having to simply squeeze a bulb to lubricate the chain is far better than having no onboard oiler at all. One great, and often overlooked, feature is that the batteries are compatible with Makita tools, adding a layer of versatility for those who own other tools from that brand. This is a perfect solution for light gardening and pruning tasks around the home.

#7 Skil PWR CORE 40 Brushless Pole Saw Kit 10′ – Perfect for: Cutting Larger Diameter Branches

The Skil PWR CORE 40 Brushless Pole Saw Kit 10′ brings a bit more muscle to the party with its 10-inch bar and chain. This larger cutting capacity, combined with a powerful 40V brushless motor, allowed us to tackle thicker branches than most of the 8-inch models on our list. We found the telescoping aluminum shaft to be a great feature, allowing for quick length adjustments between 7.5 and 10 feet without fuss. The tool-less chain tensioning is another user-friendly design choice that we appreciated; a simple dial on the side makes it easy to keep the chain perfectly taut. The auto-lubricating mechanism worked well, keeping the larger chain running smoothly. While some users reported issues with battery or charger failure out of the box, our test unit performed flawlessly, and the battery provided decent runtime. As one satisfied user put it, the “reach is longer than expected and we have BIG trees. Power and quality of equipment is very good.” For those with mature trees that have branches in the 8- to 9-inch range, this Skil pole saw offers the extra capacity needed to get the job done safely from the ground.

#8 DEWALT 22IN Pole Hedge Trimmer – Suits: DEWALT Attachment-Capable System Owners

It is crucial to note that the DEWALT 22IN Pole Hedge Trimmer is not a pole saw, but rather an attachment designed to work with a compatible DEWALT power head, such as those found in their string trimmer systems. For those already in that ecosystem, this is an excellent addition for high-reach hedge maintenance. We attached it to our power head and were immediately impressed by the 22-inch dual-action blade. It provides a long, clean cutting swath that makes quick work of shaping tall hedges and shrubs. The build quality is typical DEWALT—sturdy, with robust metal components that feel like they can withstand professional use. It adds a good amount of reach, easily allowing you to trim the tops of 8- to 10-foot hedges while standing safely on the ground. A key piece of feedback from users, which we would endorse, is that the blade may not be perfectly sharpened from the factory. A quick touch-up with a file can significantly improve cutting performance. If you need to manage tall hedges and already own a compatible DEWALT power head, this attachment is a high-quality, effective solution.

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

The Seesii 4-in-1 Pole Saw Combo Kit Mini Chainsaw is an incredibly versatile package for the homeowner who does a bit of everything. This kit goes beyond a simple pole saw, including a set of powerful electric pruning shears, making it a comprehensive solution for garden and tree maintenance. The 6-inch mini chainsaw, powered by a 600W brushless motor, performed surprisingly well in our tests. It’s lightweight, and as one user noted, it “works amazing” and cuts through 4-inch branches with ease. The two included 4000mAh batteries provide substantial runtime, a huge plus for larger projects. We were particularly impressed with the included electric pruning shears, which sliced through branches up to an inch thick effortlessly, saving a ton of hand strain compared to manual loppers. The adjustable extension pole provides up to 16 feet of reach, which is among the highest in our roundup. The integrated lubrication system is a welcome feature, ensuring the chain stays oiled during operation. This is a fantastic all-in-one kit for anyone looking to tackle a wide variety of pruning tasks, from high limbs to delicate rose bushes.

#10 Milwaukee 49-16-2720 M18 FUEL QUIK-LOK 10 in. Pole Saw Attachment – Ideal for: Milwaukee M18 System Users

For professionals or serious DIYers already invested in the Milwaukee M18 FUEL ecosystem, the Milwaukee 49-16-2720 M18 FUEL QUIK-LOK 10 in. Pole Saw Attachment is the clear choice. This is an attachment that clicks into the M18 FUEL QUIK-LOK Power Head, and it embodies the performance and durability Milwaukee is known for. In our tests, this attachment packed some serious power. The 10-inch bar and chain combination sliced through thick 4-inch branches instantly and had the torque to handle even larger limbs without bogging down. This sentiment was echoed by users, with one noting that what would have been an “all-afternoon job with my old manual pole saw took no longer than 90 minutes.” We found the design details to be top-notch: the automatic oiler is reliable, the chain tensioner is easy to access, and the translucent oil reservoir makes it simple to monitor fluid levels. The padded grip and integrated branch hook are thoughtful touches that improve control and functionality. If you rely on the M18 platform, this attachment will seamlessly expand your capabilities and deliver the professional-grade performance you expect.

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

Key Factors to Consider

Choosing the right electric pole saw involves balancing power, reach, and usability. Here are the key factors we considered during our testing:

• Power Source (Cordless vs. Corded): All the saws on our list are cordless (battery-powered). This offers unparalleled freedom of movement without being tethered to an outlet. The tradeoff is finite runtime, but modern lithium-ion batteries, especially in the 20V to 40V range, provide ample power for most residential tasks.
• Bar and Chain Length: This determines the maximum diameter of the branch you can cut in a single pass. Most pole saws feature 8-inch or 10-inch bars, which are ideal for pruning limbs up to 6-8 inches thick. A longer bar means more cutting capacity but also more weight at the end of the pole.
• Maximum Reach: Consider how high your branches are. Manufacturers often quote a “maximum reach” that includes the height of an average user. Pay closer attention to the actual length of the tool when fully extended. A telescoping pole offers more versatility than one that uses fixed extension sections.
• Weight and Balance: A pole saw is a tool of leverage. Even a lightweight saw head can feel heavy at the end of a 10-foot pole. A well-balanced tool will be easier to control and less fatiguing to use. Lighter is often better for extended use, but don’t sacrifice build quality.
• Features: Look for an automatic oiler, which keeps the bar and chain lubricated for smooth cutting and longevity. A brushless motor will typically offer more power, longer runtime, and greater durability than a brushed motor. Tool-less chain tensioning is a convenient feature that makes adjustments quick and easy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What power cord length and gauge are recommended for electric pole saws?

Since all the models on our list are cordless and battery-powered, you don’t need to worry about power cords for operation. The only cord involved is for the battery charger. These typically use standard household outlets and do not have special requirements.

Are electric pole saws powerful enough for large properties with many trees?

Absolutely. Modern high-voltage (20V, 40V, and up) cordless pole saws with brushless motors, like our top pick from DEWALT, offer performance that rivals some gas models. For large properties, we recommend having at least two high-capacity (4.0Ah or greater) batteries, so you can have one charging while the other is in use, ensuring continuous operation.

What are the key safety considerations when using a corded electric pole saw?

While our guide focuses on cordless models, general pole saw safety is paramount. Always wear safety glasses or goggles and sturdy gloves. Ensure you have stable footing and are aware of your surroundings, especially falling branches. Never stand directly underneath the limb you are cutting. Be mindful of the saw’s kickback potential and hold the tool firmly with both hands.

Do electric pole saws require much maintenance compared to other types?

Electric pole saws require significantly less maintenance than their gas-powered counterparts. There’s no mixing fuel, no spark plugs to change, and no carburetors to clean. The primary maintenance tasks are keeping the chain properly tensioned, ensuring the bar and chain oil reservoir is full, and cleaning off sawdust and debris after each use.

Can electric pole saws be used safely in wet or damp conditions?

No. It is never safe to operate any electric power tool, corded or cordless, in wet or damp conditions. Water can damage the motor and battery and poses a significant risk of electric shock. Always wait for dry conditions before undertaking any tree trimming.

What is the main difference between corded and cordless electric pole saws?

The main difference is the power source and mobility. A corded pole saw offers unlimited runtime but limits your range to the length of your extension cord. A cordless (battery-powered) pole saw offers complete freedom to move around your property but has a finite runtime determined by the battery’s charge.

Which electric pole saw offers the best balance of power and lightweight design?

From our testing, the CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Pole Saw 14-Foot is exceptionally lightweight, making it easy to handle. However, for the best balance of truly impressive power and manageable weight, our top pick, the DEWALT DCPS620B XR Brushless Cordless Pole Saw, provides a fantastic blend. While slightly heavier, its cutting efficiency means you spend less time holding it up to make a cut.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous hands-on testing and evaluation, we are confident in naming the DEWALT DCPS620B XR Brushless Cordless Pole Saw as the best electric pole saw for most homeowners. It strikes the perfect balance of raw cutting power, durable construction, and user-focused design. Its brushless motor slices through thick branches with an authority that instills confidence, while features like the auto-oiler and easy-to-assemble sections make it a pleasure to use. While it may be a “tool-only” offering, for those seeking serious, reliable performance to tame their trees, its power and quality are simply unmatched in this category. It’s a tool that pays for itself in saved time, effort, and professional trimming fees.