LiTHELi 20V Cordless Pole Saw with Battery Review: The Surprising Powerhouse for Taming Your Treetops

I remember staring up at the old oak in my backyard, a beautiful but unruly giant. One particular branch, thick as my arm, had grown low over the driveway, forcing an awkward dip-and-duck maneuver every time I walked to the car. For weeks, I’d considered my options: a wobbly ladder and a handsaw (a recipe for disaster), calling in a professional (a hit to the wallet), or wrestling with my old, frustrating manual pole pruner. That last experience, a sweaty, curse-filled afternoon of yanking a stuck blade 15 feet in the air, was still fresh in my mind. Neglected high branches aren’t just an eyesore; they’re a hazard, threatening to fall in a storm and damage property or, worse, people. Reclaiming your yard from the vertical wilderness requires the right tool—one that offers reach, power, and safety, without the noise, fumes, and maintenance of a gas engine. It was time for a modern solution.

What to Consider Before Buying a Cordless Pole Saw

A pole saw is more than just a chainsaw on a stick; it’s a key solution for safely and efficiently managing tree growth from the ground. It empowers homeowners to perform essential pruning that promotes tree health, clears sightlines, and removes dangerous deadwood without the expense of an arborist or the peril of a ladder. The primary benefit is unparalleled reach combined with cutting power, turning a once-daunting task into a manageable weekend project. When you can trim branches from a stable position on the ground, you dramatically reduce the risk of falls and injury, making yard maintenance a far more pleasant and secure activity.

The ideal customer for this type of product is a homeowner with a yard full of mature trees, fruit trees that require regular pruning, or properties that have suffered storm damage. It’s for the DIY enthusiast who values independence and wants to maintain their property themselves. If you’re managing a half-acre lot with a dozen trees, a tool like the LiTHELi 20V Cordless Pole Saw with Battery is a game-changer. However, it might not be suitable for those who are professional loggers or arborists clearing vast tracts of land, as they typically require the unrelenting torque and runtime of gas-powered models. Likewise, if your property only has small shrubs or very young trees, a simple pair of loppers might suffice.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Reach & Weight Distribution: The maximum reach is a primary spec, but it’s not the whole story. Consider the tool’s length both collapsed and fully extended. More importantly, how is the weight distributed? A pole saw that is excessively “top-heavy” due to the motor and cutting bar can be extremely fatiguing and difficult to control accurately, especially at full extension. Look for a balance between maximum reach and manageable handling.
• Cutting Performance: The key metrics here are voltage (V), bar length (in inches), and chain speed (ft/s). A higher voltage generally translates to more cutting power. An 8-inch bar is a versatile sweet spot for most residential tree limbs (typically 3-6 inches in diameter). A faster chain speed, like the 28 ft/s on this Litheli model, means quicker, cleaner cuts with less effort and reduced chance of the chain binding.
• Battery System & Runtime: A cordless tool is only as good as its battery. Look at the battery’s capacity (measured in Amp-hours, Ah) and the manufacturer’s claims for cuts-per-charge. A 2.5Ah battery is a solid starting point for most jobs. Also, consider the charging system—does it require a bulky proprietary dock, or does it offer modern conveniences like USB-C charging? A versatile battery that can be used with other tools from the same brand adds significant value.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Features like tool-free chain tensioning and automatic oiling systems are massive quality-of-life improvements. An auto-oiler keeps the bar and chain lubricated for smooth operation and longevity. Tool-free tensioning allows for quick adjustments on the fly without needing to hunt for a screwdriver. Also, check for safety features like a dual-action trigger to prevent accidental startups.

Ultimately, the right pole saw feels like an extension of your own capability, making a high-up job feel grounded and in control.

While the LiTHELi 20V Cordless Pole Saw with Battery is an excellent choice for many homeowners, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition, especially heavy-duty gas models for larger jobs. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Sleek Design Meets Thoughtful Engineering

Unboxing the LiTHELi 20V Cordless Pole Saw with Battery was a pleasant surprise. Where many outdoor power tools are bulky and utilitarian, this one has a clean, modern aesthetic with its white and grey color scheme. As one user aptly put it, it’s almost “too pretty for a tool.” But beneath the slick exterior, we found a well-constructed piece of equipment. The aluminum pole sections feel substantial and durable, and the plastic components are high-quality without adding excessive weight.

Assembly was refreshingly simple and intuitive; we had the bar and chain installed and were ready to go in minutes, no instructions needed. The locking system that connects the pole sections is a standout feature. The threaded collars screw on tightly, creating a remarkably secure connection that, as we later confirmed in testing, eliminates much of the wobble that plagues other multi-section pole saws. The U-Battery Plus system is another highlight. It resembles a sleek power bank more than a traditional tool battery and slides into the handle with a satisfying click. The inclusion of USB-C charging right on the battery itself is a modern touch we wish every brand would adopt. It was immediately clear that this tool was designed with the user experience in mind, from setup to storage. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a better sense of its design.

Performance Under Pressure: A Deep Dive into the LiTHELi Pole Saw

A tool can look great on the shelf, but its true worth is measured in sawdust and completed tasks. We put the LiTHELi 20V Cordless Pole Saw with Battery through a gauntlet of real-world yard work, from delicate pruning of fruit trees to tackling thick, storm-damaged limbs on a century-old oak. Over several days of testing, we analyzed its cutting ability, handling at various lengths, battery endurance, and overall usability. Here’s our detailed breakdown.

Cutting Power That Defies its 20V Rating

Going into this review, we were admittedly skeptical. In the world of cordless power tools, 40V and even 80V systems often dominate the conversation around serious cutting power. We expected the 20V LiTHELi to be suitable for small twigs and little else. We were wrong. This saw has some serious bite. The combination of its 8-inch carbon steel bar and a chain speed of 28 ft/s allows it to work with an efficiency that feels like it belongs to a higher voltage class. Our first test was a 4-inch thick maple branch—the saw powered through it in about 7-8 seconds with minimal pressure, leaving a clean cut.

Emboldened, we moved to the main event: a gnarled, 6-inch thick oak limb that had been taunting us from 15 feet up. The saw chewed through the dense hardwood without bogging down. This experience directly mirrors that of one user who, despite being a long-time gas chainsaw user, was blown away by its performance on a 150-year-old ginkgo tree, stating it “cut through like butter.” We found the same thing. For the average homeowner, this saw provides more than enough power to handle 95% of pruning tasks. From rogue apple tree limbs to clearing low-hanging branches over a driveway, the LiTHELi 20V Cordless Pole Saw with Battery delivers performance that consistently punches above its weight class.

The Balancing Act: Reach vs. Handling

With a maximum pole length of 11.5 feet, this saw provides a functional vertical reach of around 17 to 17.5 feet for an average-height user. This is a significant extension that allows you to safely tackle high branches from the ground. The three-piece pole system is fantastic. Without the middle extension, the saw measures about 7.7 feet, which we found to be the sweet spot for balance and control. At this length, it’s nimble, easy to aim, and feels very secure, thanks to the robust locking collars that minimize flex.

However, once you add the middle extension to reach the full 11.5 feet, the physics of the tool change. As many users noted, and as we confirmed, it becomes noticeably top-heavy. The weight of the motor, bar, and chain at the end of such a long lever creates significant torque that requires strength and proper posture to manage. This is not a flaw unique to LiTHELi; it’s an inherent challenge for all pole saws. What’s crucial is how you manage it. The included shoulder strap is not an optional accessory—it’s essential for use at full extension. By clipping it on and adjusting it properly, you can use your core and shoulder to support the weight, taking the strain off your arms. One user with arthritis found it heavy after a while, which is an important consideration. Our advice: use the shortest pole length necessary for the job. But when you need that maximum reach, the LiTHELi provides it, and with the help of the strap, it remains a manageable, if demanding, tool.

Battery Innovation: More Than Just Power

Battery life is often the Achilles’ heel of cordless tools, forcing you to quit mid-job or invest heavily in multiple batteries. The LiTHELi’s 20V 2.5Ah battery, however, is a marathon runner. We spent a solid afternoon trimming six mature trees, making dozens of cuts ranging from 2 to 5 inches in diameter. After about an hour and a half of consistent work, we checked the battery’s indicator lights and were shocked to see it was still showing over 50% charge. This aligns perfectly with a user who worked for two hours and saw the same result. The manufacturer’s claim of 70 cuts on 3×3 lumber feels, if anything, a bit conservative.

But the real innovation here is the U-Battery Plus platform itself. Ditching the clunky charging cradle for a simple USB-C port is brilliant. You can charge the battery with the same cable and wall adapter you use for your phone or laptop, reducing clutter in the garage. Even better, the battery doubles as a portable power bank, capable of charging your mobile devices in a pinch. This dual-functionality adds incredible value and is a feature that really sets it apart in a crowded market. It’s a thoughtful, modern approach to battery design that makes the entire ownership experience more convenient.

Maintenance Matters: The Oiler and the Tensioner

Long-term performance depends on proper maintenance, and the LiTHELi 20V Cordless Pole Saw with Battery includes features to make this easier. The automatic oiling system is a must-have, keeping the chain running smoothly over the bar to prevent overheating and premature wear. We appreciated the translucent window on the oil reservoir, which lets you see the oil level at a glance, preventing you from accidentally running it dry. You do need to provide your own bar and chain oil, which is standard practice but something new buyers should be aware of.

The tool-free chain tensioning system is a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, the large, easy-to-grip knob makes on-the-fly adjustments incredibly simple. There’s no need to carry a separate tool into the yard with you. However, we found—and several users confirmed—that the chain tends to loosen more frequently than on saws with a traditional nut-and-bolt tensioning system. One user reported having to “address the belt” every few minutes, which feels like an exaggeration based on our testing, but the core issue is valid. We found ourselves giving the knob a quick twist to tighten the chain every 10-15 cuts during heavy use. It’s a minor inconvenience that takes only a few seconds to fix, but it’s a trade-off for the “tool-free” convenience.

What Other Users Are Saying

Our findings are consistently echoed in the broader user community. The overwhelmingly positive sentiment centers on the saw’s surprising power and exceptional battery life. One reviewer, a self-proclaimed “gas chainsaw” loyalist, was completely won over, stating, “Don’t be fooled by this electric saw. This has some serious power.” This sentiment was shared by another user whose husband was initially “ify” about the purchase but became a convert after it “cut some decent sized limbs off of 6 trees and it never gave him any issues and the battery lasted.”

The most common critique, which we also identified, is the weight and balance at full extension. A detailed review noted that it becomes “unwieldy because it is so top heavy,” a fair point that highlights the physical demands of operating any long pole saw. The other recurring issue is the chain tensioner. The most critical review we saw found it frustrating, claiming they had to “stretch it” every few minutes, calling it “not worth the time or the price.” While our experience wasn’t that extreme, it validates that the tensioner’s design requires more frequent attention than some competing models, a crucial piece of feedback for potential buyers to consider when they check the latest price and availability.

How Does the LiTHELi Compare to the Alternatives?

The LiTHELi 20V Cordless Pole Saw with Battery exists in a competitive market. To understand its place, it’s essential to compare it against some popular alternatives, each catering to a slightly different user need.

1. RYOBI 18V 8″ Cordless Pole Saw

The RYOBI 18V pole saw is a direct competitor, but with a key distinction: it’s often sold as a “bare tool.” This makes it an incredibly cost-effective option for anyone already invested in RYOBI’s extensive 18V ONE+ battery platform. However, for a new buyer, the cost of a separate battery and charger must be factored in. Being an 18V tool, its power is generally a step below the 20V LiTHELi, making it better suited for lighter-duty pruning of branches under 4-5 inches. The Ryobi is a solid, reliable choice for existing RYOBI users with modest trimming needs, while the LiTHELi offers a more powerful and complete, all-in-one package for newcomers.

2. Skil PWR CORE 40 10” Pole Saw Kit

The SKIL PWR CORE 40 represents a significant step up in both power and features. Running on a 40V system with a brushless motor and a longer 10-inch bar, it’s designed for more demanding jobs and can handle thicker branches with greater speed. The angled head is a premium feature that provides better cutting ergonomics for certain angles. This extra performance and capability come at a higher price point. This tool is the better choice for users with large properties, denser hardwoods, or those who simply want a more powerful, semi-professional tool and have the budget for it. The LiTHELi, by contrast, is a better value for typical residential use.

3. V-MODEST 2-in-1 Cordless Pole Saw 8-inch & 6-inch

The V-MODEST saw competes on versatility and value. By including two bar-and-chain sets (8-inch and 6-inch) and two 4.0Ah batteries, it offers a highly adaptable package right out of the box. The rotatable head and impressive 15-foot extension also add to its appeal. This saw is for the budget-conscious buyer who wants maximum flexibility and runtime without purchasing extra accessories. While it packs in features, the LiTHELi may offer a more polished user experience with its superior pole-locking mechanism and innovative USB-C battery charging, making it a choice between LiTHELi’s refined design and V-MODEST’s feature-packed value proposition.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the LiTHELi 20V Cordless Pole Saw with Battery?

After extensive hands-on testing and analysis, we can confidently recommend the LiTHELi 20V Cordless Pole Saw with Battery as an outstanding tool for the vast majority of homeowners. It masterfully bridges the gap between underpowered entry-level models and expensive, high-voltage systems. Its cutting performance is shockingly effective, its battery life is superb, and its innovative, user-friendly features like the secure pole locks and USB-C chargeable battery make it a pleasure to use. While it is not without its flaws—namely the top-heavy feel at full extension and a slightly fussy chain tensioner—these are manageable trade-offs for the power and convenience it provides.

If you’re a homeowner tired of wrestling with manual pruners or staring up at overgrown branches you can’t safely reach, this pole saw is your solution. It offers the power, reach, and runtime to transform your yard maintenance routine from a dreaded chore into a satisfying task. For its price, performance, and thoughtful design, it represents exceptional value. If you’re ready to take control of your treetops with a powerful, modern, and convenient tool, we highly recommend you add the LiTHELi 20V Cordless Pole Saw to your arsenal today.