Mini chainsaws like the popular Milwaukee M12 are the ideal tools for working on light-duty pruning projects around the yard.
Mini saws generally he a chain bar measuring less than 10 inches long, and most commonly 4 or 6 inches long. They can be held in one hand and usually weigh between 2 and 3 lbs.
On the other hand, small chainsaws are slightly larger, with chain bars measuring 10 – 16 inches long. Though heier, they are more powerful than mini saws and are perfect for use in trees or for pruning thicker branches.
But what are the best small and mini chainsaws? I’ve been testing many of them, and these are my recommendations.
Best mini chainsawsStihl GTA 26 Garden PrunerStihl's handheld battery powered mini chainsawComes with 4" blade, 1 chain, bar oil, blade cover, and bag/caseWeighs only 2.6 lbs with a small compact sizeView On Acme ToolsView On Ace HardwareMilwaukee M12 ChainsawThe best premium and powerful mini chainsaw for pruningHas grip for both hands making it safer12v battery - part of the M12 lineView On AmazonView On Acme ToolsKIMO Handheld Mini ChainsawBestselling "budget" mini sawSuitable for light-duty tasksBattery and 6-inch blade includedView On AmazonView On Home DepotFirst, determine whether you need a mini pruning chainsaw or a small chainsaw that can be used for light tasks.
We he a few acres of land with a lot of trees, shrubs, and bushes that require constant maintenance.
The mini saws that I’ve tested (links to my full reviews):
Denqir Mini ChainsawORHFS Mini ChainsawASJMREYE Mini ChainsawDEWALT 20V ChainsawImoumLive pole and mini chainsawThese cheap saws don’t perform as well as the Milwaukee Hatchet M12 or STIHL GTA 26, which are far better, but it depends on how much you want to spend.
Here is more info about these top small and mini chainsaws.
2. Milwaukee M12 – Best Mini ChainsawVIEW ON AMAZON →Chain Bar Length: 6 inchesPower Source: BatteryWeight: 4.1 poundsMilwaukee’s M12 FUEL Hatchet is the ultimate mini electric chainsaw due to its ergonomic design, high-performance motor, and durable casing.
With its compact and lightweight 4.1-pound construction, the saw gives you better control, access, and maneuverability in hard-to-reach areas, such as when landscaping.
A PowerState brushless motor that delivers enough power to cut through hardwood. RedLink Plus intelligence keeps the motor and battery in communication to give you unmatched performance and productivity.
As a result, the tool cuts 3-inch hardwoods up to 120 times on a full charge. In addition to that, the saw features a variable speed trigger with instant throttle response for better control and cutting performance.
An automatic oiler keeps the chain lubricated to maximize durability and productivity. It has a translucent oil reservoir for easy monitoring of the fluid level so that you keep your tool oiled at all times.
However, some users complain of a short-lived battery, but you can solve this by buying more to interchange as you work.
The Milwaukee M18 Chainsaw is also worth checking out. It’s the next size up with a 16″ bar.
Pros:
The automatic oiler is a top featureCompact and lightweightPowerful and efficient brushless motorRedLink Plus intelligenceVariable speed trigger with instant throttle responseCons:
Short-lived batteryCosts more than the cheap models2. Kimo Mini ChainsawVIEW ON AMAZON →
Chain Bar Length: 6 inchesPower Source: BatteryWeight: 3.1 poundsThe KIMO Mini Chainsaw is our bestselling model in this category.
It’s very similar to many of the other options in this price range, but for whatever reason, it sells the most units. It has well over 1500 reviews, and it’s one of the top results in Amazon search for ‘mini chainsaw’!
The KIMO saw comes with two 20V 2-amp-hour batteries. You always want at least two batteries so one can be charging while you’re using the other. It only comes with a single chain, but you’ll also get a bar cover, screwdriver, charger, and oil bottle (without any oil/lubricant).
Pros:
A bestseller that has been well tested in the fieldComes with two batteriesBar cover included (which you don’t get with other models)Lightweight and easy to useCons:
Only comes with a single bar and chain4-star erage review, not as good as some other options3. RYOBI ONE+ HPVIEW ON AMAZON →
The RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless 6-inch Compact Pruning Mini Chainsaw Kit is a small, battery-powered chainsaw made for light work like pruning branches or cutting small limbs. It’s part of RYOBI’s 18V system, and it comes as a bare tool or with a battery and charger.
This model uses a brushless motor, which makes it a bit faster and more efficient compared to older brushed models. It’s also really compact — noticeably smaller than a regular chainsaw — so it’s easier to handle, especially if you’re working up in trees or squeezing into tight spaces.
It has a 6-inch chain, and the chain tension can be adjusted without needing any tools, which is handy. Plus, it’s designed to run without bar and chain oil, so there’s less mess and maintenance to deal with.
Pros:
Easy to useGood battery lifeLightweightQuiet operationFast cuttingCompact sizeCompatible batteriesCons:
Chain falls offWeak torqueChain tension issuesHard to get repairs4. Seesii Mini Cordless ChainsawVIEW ON AMAZON →
The Seesii Mini Chainsaw Cordless 6-inch is a lightweight, battery-powered chainsaw designed for small-scale tasks like pruning, trimming, and cutting branches up to approximately 6 inches in diameter.
Weighing just 2.62 lbs, it’s easy to handle with one hand, making it suitable for users of various experience levels. The chainsaw comes fully assembled and includes two 2.0Ah batteries, a fast charger, two chains (one pre-installed), a storage case, gloves, safety glasses, and maintenance tools.
Its brushless motor provides efficient cutting, and the tool features a safety lock to prevent accidental starts. However, it requires manual chain oiling, as it lacks an automatic lubrication system.
Pros:
Lightweight and easy to handleCuts through 4–6 inch branchesComes with two batteriesIncludes comprehensive accessory kitSuitable for beginnersCons:
Manual chain oiling requiredNot designed for hey-duty tasksSome reports of battery issuesSafety features could be improved5. CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Pruning Saw
VIEW ON AMAZON →
The CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Pruning Chainsaw (CMCCS320D1) is a compact, battery-powered tool designed for light-duty pruning and yard maintenance.
It features a 6-inch bar and chain capable of cutting branches up to 4 inches in diameter. Powered by a 20V MAX 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery, it delivers up to 85 cuts per charge.
The chainsaw is 50% more compact and 14% lighter than previous models, enhancing maneuverability. Additional features include an integrated tip guard for improved control during upper cuts, bolt lock chain tensioning for easy adjustments, and compatibility with the VERSATRACK Wall Organization System for convenient storage.
The kit includes the chainsaw, battery, charger, sheath, and wrench.
Pros:
Lightweight and compact designEasy to handle and maneuverSuitable for small to medium pruning tasksBattery provides adequate runtime for light-duty workIntegrated tip guard enhances safetyCompatible with VERSATRACK™ storage systemCons:
Manual chain oiling requiredMay struggle with thicker branches or hey-duty tasksSome users reported motor issues under hey loadChain tensioning requires a tool6. Makita XCU14Z Pruning SawVIEW ON AMAZON →
The Makita XCU14Z is a compact, battery-powered 6-inch pruning saw designed for trimming branches and small trees.
It features a brushless motor for efficient cutting and is part of Makita’s 18V LXT battery system. The saw offers tool-free chain adjustment and a retractable guard for safety. According to Makita, it can make up to 140 cuts in 2-inch cedar using a 2.0Ah battery (sold separately).
Pros:
Lightweight and easy to handleEfficient battery usageSharp and durable chainTool-free chain adjustmentSuitable for small to medium pruning tasksCons:
Struggles with very small twigsChain may come off if not properly tensionedBattery and charger not includedHigher price point compared to similar tools7. Imoum Pole Saw Mini ChainsawVIEW ON AMAZON →
Chain Bar Length: 8 inchesPower Source: BatteryWeight: 7.9 poundsThe IMOUMLIVE 8-inch brushless chainsaw is a versatile tool, featuring an additional rotatable, multi-angle cutting extension bar for various work scenarios.
It can be used either as a standalone chainsaw for low branch trimming or with the extension pole for overhead work, combining two tools in one. The extension pole is adjustable in length from 6.2 ft to 10.6 ft, enabling a reach of up to 16.6 ft when held at shoulder level by a 6-foot tall person.
The chainsaw is powered by a high-power brushless motor, offering a longer lifespan, higher output power, lower energy consumption, and higher work efficiency compared to traditional brushed motors.
It also includes an upgraded lubrication system for smooth operation and a tool-free chain tension system for easy adjustment. Ergonomically designed with a comfortable rubber handle, the chainsaw comes with CE/FCC/ETC certifications for safety and reliability.
Additionally, IMOUMLIVE offers a 12-month warranty with free repair and replacement, and promises prompt customer service. This 2-in-1 pole saw series has applied for a global invention patent, highlighting its innovative design.
We tried and tested this product – see our Imoum Pole Saw review for more details.
Pros:
Lightweight and easyVersatile 2-in-1 toolStrong brushless motorLong adjustable reachGood accessory bundleCons:
Chain tension needs monitoringNot for hey-duty cuttingBattery drains quickly under loadPole can flex slightly8. STIHL GTA 26ON ACME TOOLS →
The STIHL GTA 26 is another compact, battery-powered garden pruner designed for pruning trees and shrubs, cutting garden waste, and small woodwork projects.
Weighing approximately 2.7 lbs with the battery, it features a 4-inch guide bar and a 10.8V lithium-ion battery from STIHL’s AS System. The tool offers a chain speed of 26.3 feet per second and includes features like a retractable chain guard, low-vibration chain, ergonomic rubber grips, and an LED battery indicator.
While it lacks an automatic chain oiler, requiring manual lubrication, it compensates with its portability and ease of use. The GTA 26 is suitable for homeowners and gardeners seeking a reliable tool for quick cutting tasks.
Pros:
Lightweight and easy to handlePrecise cutting with 4-inch barErgonomic design with rubber gripsLED battery charge indicatorLow vibration for comfortable useCons:
Manual chain oiling requiredShort battery runtime (approx. 20–25 minutes)Not suitable for hey-duty tasksLimited to light pruning and small cuts9. DEWALT 20v MAX XRVIEW ON AMAZON →
Chain Bar Length: 12 inchesPower Source: BatteryWeight: 9 poundsThis small electric chainsaw delivers up to 90 cuts on pressure-treated 4×4 wood using a fully charged 20V, 5Ah battery.
Several factors make this kind of performance possible. First of all, it has a durable and efficient brushless motor that maximizes runtime by consuming less power.
The tool is perfect for construction work (demolition, cutting beams, etc.) and outdoor cutting.
I’ve been using this saw primarily for pruning trees, but even took down a horse chestnut tree with it recently. I climbed the tree and took off all the branches before dealing to the trunk with a larger chainsaw.
A tool-free chain tensioning and bar tightening knob makes it easy to optimize the bar clamping force for every cut, and if there is a kickback, a chain brake will automatically activate to stop the spinning.
Pros:
Durable and efficient brushless motorLow kickback bar and chainTool-free chain tensioning & bar tighteningChain brake for kickback protectionCons:
Battery and charger bought separatelyNot hugely powerful10. STIHL GTA 40The STIHL GTA 40 Mini Chainsaw is a compact, battery-powered pruner designed for professional tree and shrub care. Released in the UK in 2024, it’s part of STIHL’s AS System and offers a blend of power and precision suitable for both ground and in-tree tasks.
The GTA 40 features a 6-inch bar and chain, powered by a 21.6 V AS 2 lithium-ion battery, delivering a power output of 0.41 kW. Weighing just 1.4 kg without the battery, it boasts an ergonomic design with a soft rubberized handle and upper grip to prevent slipping, ensuring comfortable handling during extended use.
Additional features include automatic chain lubrication, side-mounted chain tensioning, and an LED charge-level indicator. The GTA 40 is IPX4 certified, making it splash-resistant and reliable in wet conditions.
It’s suitable for various applications, including tree and shrub maintenance, wood processing on construction sites, and crown reduction tasks.
Pros:
Compact and lightweight designPowerful EC motor for efficient cuttingAutomatic chain lubrication systemErgonomic handle for comfortable useSplash-resistant (IPX4 certified)Suitable for professional applicationsCons:
Battery and charger sold separatelyLimited to light-duty tasksHigher price point compared to some competitorsUses for mini chainsawsYou can check out this video to see some of the different uses for mini chainsaws. Check out our YouTube channel for other videos as well.
I really do use mine for a wide variety of tasks around my immediate yard but also the hobby farm at large.
Mini chainsaws are suitable for light-duty work, such as:
Pruning small branchesCutting back suckering limbsTrimming bush undergrowthCutting bambooLimbing small treesPruning fruit treesCutting back dense/wooded shrubsThey are very versatile tools, though I hen’t tried them out on butchering yet, as I did this Black + Decker reciprocating saw.
Small chainsaws, such as my DEWALT 20v or the Husky 120, are better at pruning thicker branches and can even be used for light firewood duty.
Small, light top handle chainsaws are perfect for arborists when climbing trees to prune thick branches. They can also cut down small trees and do a bit of firewood as well.
Small saws always find a happy home on construction sites and farms as well – especially for fencing posts and those sorts of things.
Mini Chainsaw FAQsWhat is the smallest chainsaw?
When comparing small and mini chainsaws, the latter is smaller, with some hing chain bars as small as 4 inches.
The Denqir Mini Chainsaw which I’ve shared above is one of the smallest models you can buy, coming with both a 4 and 6 inch bar.
What is the best mini chainsaw?
It all depends on your project.
If you are cutting thick branches, you need a powerful tool with a long chain bar. Otherwise, a tiny one will do.
The Milwaukee M12 is certainly one of the best out there, but it comes at a price!
Is a 12-inch chainsaw too small?
No, depending on your project, it’s not.
It is somewhere in the middle of the size scale when considering small and mini chainsaws.
However, size is relative here because it depends on the project requirements. I like my 12-inch chainsaw for light work.
What do you use a mini chainsaw for?
It is ideal for light-duty work, such as landscaping, pruning small branches (orchards), trimming trees in your yard, cutting bamboo, etc.
Are mini chainsaws pointless?
No, definitely not!
If your project requires a light-duty tool that is easily maneuverable among tiny tree branches, a mini chainsaw is perfect for the job.
Best small handheld chainsawThe Milwaukee M12 FUEL or STIHL GTA 26 is the ideal tool if you he the budget. The KIMO saw is a good cheap alternative.
With their small and compact construction, these saws come in handy when dealing with light pruning and landscaping work.
Lastly, if none of these options he suited what you need, check out this selection of the best battery-powered chainsaws for some more alternatives.