TaskStar 8 Inch Cordless Pole Saw Review: The Ultimate 2-in-1 Yard Tool?

There’s a moment every homeowner with a bit of property knows well. You step outside, coffee in hand, to admire your handiwork, only to have your eyes drawn upward. There it is: that one rogue branch, dead and dangling precariously over the driveway. Or maybe it’s the cluster of new growth on the old oak tree, now thick enough to block the afternoon sun from the garden. For me, it was a beautiful maple whose lower canopy had grown so dense it felt like a perpetual twilight on my back patio. Dragging out the heavy, teetering extension ladder and firing up a roaring gas-powered chainsaw felt like preparing for battle—a noisy, fume-filled, and frankly, slightly nerve-wracking ordeal for a few simple cuts. Leaving it meant risking property damage in the next storm. This is the weekend warrior’s dilemma: the need for a solution powerful enough for real work but agile and safe enough for the average person to handle without a crew.

What to Consider Before Buying a Cordless Pole Saw

A cordless pole saw is more than just a tool; it’s a key solution for reclaiming control over your property’s vertical space safely and efficiently. It eliminates the precarious balancing act on ladders, the tangled mess of extension cords, and the deafening roar and maintenance headaches of gas engines. Its main benefit is empowerment—giving you the ability to prune high branches, clear sightlines, and maintain tree health from the safety of solid ground. It transforms a daunting, day-long project into a manageable, even enjoyable, afternoon task.

The ideal customer for this type of product is a homeowner with a small to medium-sized yard dotted with mature trees and shrubs that require regular trimming. They value convenience, low noise, and minimal maintenance. They are DIY-ers who are comfortable with basic tool operation but don’t need the industrial-grade power (or cost) of a professional arborist’s gas saw. Conversely, this tool might not be the right fit for someone managing a large, wooded estate or a commercial landscaping business where hours of continuous, heavy-duty felling is required. For those users, a high-cc gas-powered model is likely a better, albeit more demanding, alternative. For ground-level log bucking, a dedicated, larger electric or gas chainsaw would be more appropriate.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Reach & Versatility: The “reach” of a pole saw isn’t just the length of the pole; it’s the pole length plus your own height and arm extension. Look for an adjustable telescoping pole that allows you to tailor the length to the job. A model like the TaskStar 8 Inch Cordless Pole Saw, which also converts to a handheld chainsaw, offers incredible versatility, letting you tackle high limbs and low-level brush with a single tool.
• Power & Performance: Battery voltage (V) and amp-hours (Ah) are your key indicators of power and runtime. A brushless motor is a significant upgrade, offering more power, higher efficiency, and a longer tool lifespan than older brushed motors. Pay attention to the bar length (8 inches is great for branches up to 7 inches in diameter) and chain speed (measured in feet per second), as these directly impact how quickly and cleanly the saw cuts.
• Materials & Durability: The pole should be made of a lightweight yet rigid material like aluminum or fiberglass to minimize flex when fully extended. The chainsaw housing should be high-impact plastic, and the bar and chain should be made from quality steel. A tool that feels solid and well-balanced in your hands, without excessive rattling or loose fittings, is a sign of good construction.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Look for features that make your life easier. An automatic oiler, or at least a simple-to-use manual one, is non-negotiable for preserving chain life. Tool-free chain tensioning is a huge time-saver. Consider the overall weight, as even a few extra pounds can feel significant when you’re holding it at an angle for extended periods. Having two included batteries is a massive plus, effectively doubling your work time.

While the TaskStar 8 Inch Cordless Pole Saw 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 TaskStar 2-in-1 Powerhouse

Pulling the TaskStar 8 Inch Cordless Pole Saw from its box, the first thing we noticed was its thoughtful modularity. This isn’t just a pole with a saw on the end; it’s a complete system. The powerhead—the 8-inch mini chainsaw itself—feels dense and solid, a reassuring sign of the brushless motor within. The extension pole sections are crafted from sturdy, lightweight aluminum, with locking collars that engage with a satisfying click. Assembly was intuitive and took less than five minutes, requiring no tools beyond what was provided. The package is impressively complete: you get the saw unit, the extension pole, two hefty 4.0Ah batteries, a charger, an extra chain, basic safety goggles, gloves, and a blade sheath. Many brands make you buy a second battery separately, so including two is a standout feature that immediately boosts the tool’s value proposition. Compared to premium brands, the plastics may feel a bit less refined, but the core components—the motor, bar, and chain—feel ready for serious work. It’s a design that prioritizes function and value, which we found quite compelling. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a better sense of the complete package.

Deep Dive: Putting the TaskStar Pole Saw to the Test

A tool’s true character is only revealed in the thick of the work it was designed for. We spent several weekends with the TaskStar 8 Inch Cordless Pole Saw, tackling everything from delicate pruning of high fruit tree branches to clearing thick, storm-damaged limbs from a cluster of pines. Our goal was to push it beyond simple trims and see how its core features held up under sustained, real-world use.

The 2-in-1 Advantage: From Treetop to Workhorse

The standout feature of this tool is undeniably its dual personality. In its pole saw configuration, it’s a confident and capable reacher. The telescoping pole locks securely, extending from a compact 4.6 feet to a formidable 8 feet. When you factor in your own height, the advertised 15-foot reach is entirely realistic. We were able to cleanly sever a 5-inch-thick pine branch nearly 14 feet off the ground without ever setting foot on a ladder. The ability to rotate the head is a game-changer. One user perfectly captured this, saying they “love that I can adjust the angle of the saw, it means I don’t have to be a contortionist to get the best cutting angle.” We wholeheartedly agree. Tilting the head allowed us to make clean, flush cuts from a comfortable stance, which is not only easier but significantly safer. But the magic happens when the job is done up high. With a simple twist of a locking mechanism, the chainsaw unit detaches. Suddenly, you have a potent handheld mini chainsaw. We used it to buck the larger branches we’d just cut down into manageable lengths for the woodpile. It’s light enough for one-handed operation on small brush, just as many users noted, with one calling it “the most useful gardening tool that I could ever have.” This versatility is what sets the TaskStar 8 Inch Cordless Pole Saw apart from its dedicated, single-function competitors. It’s two high-value tools in one well-designed package.

Brushless Power and Cutting Performance

Let’s talk about power. The heart of the TaskStar is its brushless motor, rated at 1000 watts. In practice, this translates to a chain speed of 26.2 feet per second that doesn’t bog down under load. We tested it on a variety of wood types, from soft, green pine to seasoned, tough oak. On branches up to 5 inches, the saw sliced through with an assertive growl, pulling itself through the wood with minimal pressure required. We pushed it to its 8-inch capacity on a fallen log, and while it took more patience and a steady hand, it completed the cut without overheating or stalling. This level of performance in a battery-powered tool at this price point is genuinely impressive. One user noted it made “quick work of a 2 1/2 in branch using one hand with hardly any pressure,” which perfectly mirrors our experience with smaller limbs. However, a crucial aspect of performance is chain maintenance. As several users pointed out, the chain requires frequent tensioning during the first hour of use. This is normal for any new chainsaw as the chain breaks in and stretches slightly. The tool-free tensioning knob on the side makes this a quick, 30-second adjustment. We found ourselves checking it after every 10-15 cuts initially, but it held its tension much better after that break-in period. This is an essential habit to form for both safety and optimal cutting performance.

Battery Endurance and Oiling System

A cordless tool is only as good as its battery life, and this is where the TaskStar kit truly shines. Including two 4.0Ah batteries is a massive win for the user. We charged both batteries fully before starting our work. The first battery lasted for about 45 minutes of near-continuous cutting—pruning, limbing, and bucking. During that time, we made well over 50 cuts on branches ranging from 1 to 6 inches in diameter. When the first battery died, we simply swapped in the fresh one and put the depleted one on the charger. By the time the second battery ran out, the first was nearly fully charged again. This setup allows for virtually uninterrupted work for anyone who isn’t running the tool commercially. This experience aligns with user reports of getting a lot of work completed before needing a swap. The lubrication system, however, deserves a specific note. While advertised with “Auto Lubrication,” it functions more like a semi-automatic system. It features a translucent oil reservoir and a small, rubber primer bulb. Before making a series of cuts, you press the bulb a few times to manually push oil onto the bar and chain. We could see the oil seep out as intended. While not a “set it and forget it” true automatic oiler like on a premium gas saw, we found it to be perfectly effective. It gives you direct control and prevents the leakage issues some auto-oilers suffer from during storage. As one user wisely advised, you simply have to get in the habit of giving it a few pumps before you start cutting. You do need to provide your own bar and chain oil, so be sure to pick some up when you order your TaskStar pole saw.

What Other Users Are Saying

Scouring feedback from other users, a clear picture emerges that confirms our own findings. The overwhelming sentiment is positive, with people frequently expressing surprise at the tool’s power and versatility for its price. One user summed it up perfectly: “This saw is awesome.” Another highlighted its user-friendliness by sharing a video of their 11-year-old grandson safely trimming a limb, stating, “It cuts very well the chain is of good quality and stays sharp and the batteries last a long time.” The value proposition is a recurring theme, with one reviewer comparing it favorably to high-end brands, noting that while the chains might not be premium, “one could buy 8 of these units for the same price” as a similarly equipped Stihl.

On the critical side, the most common piece of feedback, which we also experienced, is the need to frequently tighten the chain during initial use. One meticulous user advised to “ALWAYS REMOVE BATTERY WHEN DOING ANY MATIENCE” and to keep the manual handy for reference—excellent advice for any chainsaw operator. Another point of minor confusion was the oiler, with one user stating, “It is not automatic oiling. There is a bulb… You press it several times and you will see oil coming out.” This isn’t so much a flaw as a feature that requires understanding, but it’s a valid point for those expecting a fully passive system.

How Does the TaskStar 8 Inch Cordless Pole Saw Compare?

The TaskStar 8 Inch Cordless Pole Saw carves out a fantastic niche in the market, but it’s important to see how it stacks up against other popular options. Depending on your needs for brand ecosystem, budget, or specialized features, one of these alternatives might be a better fit.

1. Seesii 4-in-1 Pole Saw Combo Kit Mini Chainsaw

The Seesii kit takes the combo concept a step further by including both a 6-inch mini chainsaw powerhead and a separate cordless pruning shears unit that can share the same batteries and extension pole. This is an incredible value for gardeners who need to switch between cutting woody branches and trimming green stems. However, the Seesii’s chainsaw has a smaller 6-inch bar, giving the TaskStar the edge for tackling thicker limbs. If your primary need is general-purpose gardening with some light-duty tree trimming, the Seesii 4-in-1 is a compelling package. If you need more cutting capacity for branches over 4-5 inches, the 8-inch bar on the TaskStar is the superior choice.

2. DEWALT DCPS620M1 15-Foot Reach Pole Saw

The DEWALT DCPS620M1 represents a step up in terms of build quality and brand ecosystem. It’s a dedicated pole saw, lacking the 2-in-1 functionality of the TaskStar. Its brushless motor and high-quality construction are designed for prosumers and contractors already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX battery platform. It features a true automatic oiler and a robust metal bucking strip for improved leverage. The trade-off is a significantly higher price point, and the kit typically includes only one battery. For those who prioritize rugged, professional-grade construction and battery compatibility with a whole suite of other tools, the DEWALT is a top-tier choice. For the homeowner seeking maximum versatility and value, the TaskStar is more practical.

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

The Sun Joe 24V-PS8-LTE is a strong contender in the budget-friendly category. Like the DEWALT, it is a dedicated pole saw, not a 2-in-1 convertible. It offers a similar 8-inch bar and telescoping reach. Being part of Sun Joe’s 24V iON+ system, its battery is compatible with a wide range of other affordable yard tools. However, its 24V system and included 2.0Ah battery generally provide less power and significantly less runtime than the TaskStar’s dual 4.0Ah battery setup. The Sun Joe is an excellent option for homeowners with very light trimming needs and a strict budget. For those who need to tackle more substantial jobs or want to avoid frequent battery swaps, the TaskStar’s superior power and endurance make it worth the modest extra investment.

Final Verdict: Is the TaskStar 8 Inch Cordless Pole Saw Worth It?

After extensive testing and analysis, our conclusion is a resounding yes. The TaskStar 8 Inch Cordless Pole Saw is an exceptionally versatile and powerful tool that delivers incredible value for the modern homeowner. Its genius lies in the 2-in-1 design, which seamlessly combines a capable 15-foot reach pole saw with a handy and powerful mini chainsaw. This eliminates the need to buy and store two separate tools. Powered by a robust brushless motor and fueled by two generous 4.0Ah batteries, it has the muscle and the stamina to handle a full afternoon of serious yard cleanup, from high, thick branches to ground-level brush and log processing. While it has minor quirks, like the manual oiler and the need to tension the chain during break-in, these are easily managed and are vastly outweighed by its performance, flexibility, and outstanding all-in-one kit.

If you’re a homeowner tired of wrestling with ladders, gas engines, or underpowered tools, this is the solution you’ve been looking for. It’s the perfect blend of power, reach, and convenience. For tackling that suburban jungle and keeping your property looking its best, we can wholeheartedly recommend it. You can check the latest price and secure your own TaskStar 2-in-1 Pole Saw right here.