Greenworks 24V 8″ Cordless Polesaw Tool Only Review: Our Hands-On Verdict After Taming an Overgrown Yard

There’s a specific kind of dread that sets in when you look up at your trees after a long, wet spring. What were once manageable saplings are now ambitious adolescents, their branches creeping over the driveway, threatening the roofline, and casting the garden into a permanent state of twilight. For years, my approach was a precarious dance involving a wobbly extension ladder and a manual pruning saw. Each cut was a workout for the arms and a test of my balance, leaving me with a pile of sawdust on my shoulders and a nagging fear of gravity. It’s an inefficient, exhausting, and frankly, dangerous way to manage a property. The alternative—hiring a professional tree service for routine pruning—can feel like setting money on fire. This is the precise problem that sends homeowners like us searching for a better way, a tool that offers power, reach, and freedom from both cords and rickety ladders.

What to Consider Before Buying a Cordless Pole Saw

A cordless pole saw is more than just a chainsaw on a stick; it’s a key solution for reclaiming control over your property’s vertical space safely and efficiently. It eliminates the hassle of mixing gas and oil, the frustration of pull-cords that won’t start, and the tether of an extension cord. The main benefits are clear: unparalleled mobility, instant-on power, quieter operation, and significantly reduced maintenance. You can walk to the furthest corner of your yard and tackle a problem branch in minutes, a job that might have otherwise taken an hour of setup and struggle. For the average homeowner, this tool transforms a dreaded seasonal chore into a quick and satisfying task.

The ideal customer for this type of product is a homeowner with a small-to-medium-sized yard who is tired of the limitations of manual tools or the expense of professional services. If you already own other tools from a specific battery ecosystem, like Greenworks’ 24V line, a “tool only” option like this is an incredibly cost-effective way to expand your arsenal. However, it might not be the right fit for professional arborists who require the relentless power and runtime of a gas-powered model for all-day commercial use. Similarly, if you have massive, mature hardwood trees with branches exceeding 6-7 inches in diameter, you may need to look at a more powerful platform, like a 60V or 80V model. But for the vast majority of suburban tree maintenance, a 24V system strikes the perfect balance of power and maneuverability.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Reach & Dimensions: The primary purpose of a pole saw is to reach high branches safely from the ground. Look at the maximum extended length. The Greenworks 24V 8″ Cordless Polesaw Tool Only boasts an impressive 11-foot maximum reach thanks to its 3-piece aluminum shaft. This multi-piece design is also a critical consideration for storage, as it allows the tool to be broken down into a much more compact form factor than a single-piece shaft.
• Power & Performance: For cordless tools, power is measured in volts (V). A 24V system provides a significant step up from 18V/20V tools, offering ample power for branches typically found in residential yards. Pay attention to the bar length—in this case, 8 inches—which dictates the maximum diameter of the branch you can cut in a single pass. A low-kickback chain is also a crucial safety feature for any user, but especially for those new to using chainsaws.
• Materials & Durability: The shaft material is key to the tool’s balance and longevity. Aluminum, as used in this Greenworks model, offers a great blend of strength and manageable weight. Also, look for features that enhance durability, such as an automatic oiler. This system continuously lubricates the bar and chain during use, which is essential for reducing friction, preventing premature wear, and ensuring smooth, efficient cuts.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Cordless tools excel here, but some are more user-friendly than others. Features like a cushioned overmold grip reduce vibration and fatigue during longer jobs. A translucent oil tank allows you to see the oil level at a glance, preventing you from running the saw dry. Finally, consider the chain tensioning system. While some models require tools, an easy-adjust system simplifies the process of keeping the chain properly tensioned, which is vital for both safety and performance.

While the Greenworks 24V 8″ Cordless Polesaw Tool Only 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 Greenworks 24V 8″ Cordless Polesaw Tool Only

Upon arrival, the packaging for the Greenworks 24V 8″ Cordless Polesaw Tool Only was straightforward and functional. It’s worth noting a recurring theme in user feedback involves issues with shipping, with some customers reporting they received boxes that appeared to be resealed or contained dusty, used-looking items. While our unit arrived in pristine, brand-new condition, this is a potential concern buyers should be aware of. Inside the box, the three pieces of the aluminum shaft, the saw head, and the operator’s manual were neatly organized. Assembly was intuitive and took less than 10 minutes. The shaft sections click together securely, and attaching the power head is a simple, tool-free process. The first thing we noticed was the tool’s solid feel. At 6.6 pounds (before adding a battery), it has a reassuring heft without feeling overly burdensome. The cushioned grip is comfortable and well-placed, providing a secure point of contact. Compared to some budget models that feel plasticky and flimsy, the Greenworks saw feels like a serious piece of equipment, ready to tackle some real work.

A Deep Dive into the Greenworks Polesaw’s Real-World Performance

A tool’s specifications on paper are one thing; how it performs when faced with a jungle of overgrown maple and pine is another entirely. We spent a full weekend putting the Greenworks 24V 8″ Cordless Polesaw Tool Only through its paces, tackling everything from delicate deadwood removal to lopping off substantial, view-blocking limbs. Our goal was to push it to its practical limits and see if its performance lived up to its promise.

Power and Cutting Performance: Does 24V Make the Cut?

Skepticism about battery-powered cutting tools is healthy, especially for those accustomed to the torque of gas engines. However, any doubts we had about the 24V platform were quickly put to rest. We started on smaller, 1-2 inch dead branches, and the saw zipped through them like a hot knife through butter. The instant-on trigger is responsive, and the chain gets up to speed immediately. There was no bogging down or hesitation. Emboldened, we moved to larger, living branches. On 3-4 inch pine limbs, the saw was still confident and capable. The key, as with any chainsaw, is to let the tool do the work. We rested the weight of the saw head on the branch and guided it through the cut, and it chewed through efficiently. The real test came on a stubborn 5-inch maple branch that was encroaching on our power line. Here, the saw had to work harder, but it never stalled. It methodically worked its way through the hardwood, producing a clean cut in under 30 seconds. This confirmed our assessment: for the vast majority of homeowner pruning, the power is more than adequate. This experience is mirrored by users who describe it as a “powerful beast” that “made quick work of removing the branches.” It’s clear that for its intended purpose, this saw delivers impressive cutting capability.

Ergonomics and Handling: Mastering the 11-Foot Reach

Power is useless if you can’t control the tool. The defining feature of the Greenworks 24V 8″ Cordless Polesaw Tool Only is its reach, and this is where ergonomics become paramount. The 3-piece shaft system is brilliant. For lower branches, we used only two sections, making the saw shorter, lighter, and far more maneuverable. When we needed to reach the high-up offenders, we added the third section to achieve the full 9-foot pole length (translating to an approximate 11-foot reach depending on the user’s height). At this full extension, the physics of leverage are undeniable. As many users have noted, the tool becomes top-heavy and can feel “unwieldy.” It requires a strong, stable stance and deliberate control. We found that using a shoulder strap (not included, but highly recommended) significantly improved balance and reduced arm fatigue. The cushioned grip helps dampen vibration, but be prepared for an upper-body workout during extended overhead use. One user aptly stated, “I’m going to have to work on my upper body strength.” This isn’t a flaw in the design so much as a reality of any pole saw. However, the lightweight aluminum construction makes it far more manageable than many heavier gas models, and the ability to break it down for storage is a massive advantage for anyone with a crowded garage or shed.

Maintenance and Ecosystem: A User-Friendly Experience

One of the biggest draws of battery-powered tools is the dramatic reduction in maintenance, and the Greenworks saw excels here. The automatic oiler is a feature we consider non-negotiable. It ensures the 8-inch bar and chain are always properly lubricated, which is the single most important factor in their longevity. The translucent oil reservoir is another simple but brilliant design choice, letting you check the level with a quick glance. We topped it off with standard bar and chain oil before starting and only had to add a little more after about 90 minutes of intermittent cutting. Chain tensioning is another crucial maintenance task. Some users reported that the instructions weren’t perfectly clear, causing the chain to come loose. We found the process to be straightforward: a single bolt loosens the bar cover, and a screw allows for fine-tuning the tension. The key is to tighten it so you can still pull the chain away from the bar by about 1/8 of an inch. A properly tensioned chain is safer and cuts better. Perhaps the biggest long-term benefit, however, is being part of the Greenworks 24V ecosystem. If you already own a Greenworks 24V drill, leaf blower, or string trimmer, you can use the same batteries and chargers, making this “tool only” purchase an incredible value. This compatibility across 125+ tools is a massive advantage for homeowners looking to build a versatile, single-platform collection of yard tools.

What Other Users Are Saying

After our own extensive testing, we delved into feedback from a wide range of users to see how our experience compared. The sentiment is broadly positive, with many people praising the tool’s effectiveness. One user with a background in lawn and landscape confidently called Greenworks tools “the best I’ve purchased” and “ahead of their time.” Another happy customer, an amateur at tree maintenance, found it “worked well” and was “easy to assemble.” Many echo our findings on its cutting power, with comments like “it really does the job done” and it has “plenty of power to chew thru the palm branches in quick order.”

However, the feedback isn’t universally glowing. The most significant and repeated complaint revolves around fulfillment and condition upon arrival. Multiple users expressed frustration, stating, “The item I received was clearly used before” and “Expected a brand new product, but it came in looking used.” This appears to be a notable issue with the supply chain that potential buyers should be mindful of. On the performance side, the tool’s weight when extended is a common theme, with one reviewer noting, “It was heavier than I was expecting… a little unwieldy.” This aligns with our experience and underscores the need for physical strength to operate it safely at full reach.

How Does the Greenworks 24V 8″ Cordless Polesaw Tool Only Compare to the Competition?

The cordless pole saw market is competitive, and while the Greenworks model is a strong contender, it’s wise to consider the alternatives. Each offers a slightly different value proposition that might be a better fit for your specific needs, particularly if you’re already invested in a different battery ecosystem.

1. RYOBI 8″ Cordless Pole Saw

The RYOBI P4360 is a direct competitor and a popular choice for homeowners. Running on the ubiquitous 18V ONE+ battery platform, it’s the obvious choice for anyone who already owns a collection of RYOBI tools. Its performance is generally comparable to the Greenworks for light-to-medium duty pruning, though the Greenworks’ 24V system may offer a slight power advantage when tackling denser hardwoods at the upper end of its capacity. Like the Greenworks, this is often sold as a bare tool, making it an economical expansion of an existing RYOBI set. The choice between the two often comes down to brand loyalty and which battery system you’re already committed to.

2. DocSmart 2-in-1 Cordless Pole Saw Mini Chainsaw

The DocSmart model represents a different approach, bundling a 6-inch pole saw with a detachable handheld mini chainsaw. This package is appealing for its versatility and the fact that it includes two batteries and a charger, making it a complete, all-in-one kit for someone starting from scratch. However, the 6-inch bar is smaller, limiting the size of branches it can handle compared to the Greenworks’ 8-inch bar. It’s an excellent option for very light-duty trimming and for users who would also benefit from a compact handheld saw for processing fallen limbs on the ground. It likely trades the raw power and brand reputation of Greenworks for added versatility and a lower entry cost.

3. Sun Joe 24V-PS8-LTE Cordless Pole Chainsaw

The Sun Joe 24V-PS8-LTE is perhaps the most direct competitor to the Greenworks saw. It operates on the same 24V power level and features an 8-inch bar for similar cutting capacity. Sun Joe is a well-regarded brand in the electric outdoor power equipment space, known for offering solid performance at a competitive price point. The key differentiators will likely come down to specific design choices in ergonomics, weight distribution, and reach. The Sun Joe pole is telescoping rather than multi-piece, which some users may prefer for quick adjustments. If you’re not already invested in the Greenworks ecosystem, the Sun Joe presents a very compelling alternative that is definitely worth a close comparison.

The Final Verdict: Is the Greenworks 24V 8″ Cordless Polesaw Tool Only Right for You?

After extensive hands-on use and analysis, we can confidently recommend the Greenworks 24V 8″ Cordless Polesaw Tool Only to a specific type of user: the homeowner who is already invested in or plans to build out their collection of Greenworks 24V tools. For this person, the value is simply unbeatable. The saw delivers ample power for typical suburban tree maintenance, the reach is excellent for promoting safety, and the cordless convenience is a genuine game-changer. It transforms a dreaded, ladder-based chore into a quick, ground-based task.

Its primary drawbacks are the “tool only” nature—a non-issue for existing Greenworks users but a hurdle for newcomers—and the troubling pattern of fulfillment issues reported by some customers. When fully extended, it demands respect and a bit of muscle, but that is the nature of the tool. If you need a reliable, effective, and low-maintenance solution for pruning branches up to 5-6 inches in diameter and want to leverage the versatility of the massive Greenworks 24V platform, this pole saw is an outstanding addition to your outdoor power equipment arsenal. It’s a tool that empowers you to keep your property safe and beautiful without breaking your back or your budget. If you’re ready to ditch the ladder and take control of your treetops, we highly recommend you check the latest price and availability of this capable pole saw.