A pole saw, which at its most basic is nothing more than a chainsaw on the end of a pole, is for trimming or pruning limbs and branches even higher than 15 feet.
You might have been disappointed by conventional pole saws, but newer designs make up for some of the lack of control.
The best models have high quality cutting features similar to those on the best chainsaws. But you wouldn’t know for sure that it is the best choice unless you do a little research.
With that said, my selection of the best electric pole saw took into account all the important features you would want a pole saw to have.
Our Top Electric Pole Saws Are:
| Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Sun Joe SWJ807E-BLK Pole Chainsaw |  Top Pick |
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| 2. Ryobi One+ Cordless Electric Pole Saw |  |
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| 3. Greenworks GMAX Cordless Pole Saw |  |
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| 4. Scotts Outdoor Power Tools Corded Electric Pole Saw |  |
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| 5. Earthwise PS44008 Corded Electric Pole Saw |  |
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| 6. Black + Decker LPP120B Pole Saw |  |
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| 7. Worx WG309 Electric Pole Saw |  |
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| 8. Wen 4021 Electric Pole Saw |  |
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| 9. Oregon PS250 Cordless Pole Saw |  |
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1. Sun Joe SWJ807E-BLK Pole Chainsaw — Best Overall
The Sun Joe SWJ807E-BLK Pole Chainsaw takes the danger and difficulty out of trimming your overgrown trees and tough to reach branches.
Specs
- 10-inch cutting bar and chain
- Powered by a robust 8-amp motor
- Converts to a handheld chainsaw with ease
- Automatic oiler with window to gauge oil level
- Ergonomic non-slip foam grip handle
- Safety switch for safe operation
Stand safely on your yard and simply adjust the telescoping pole to gain up to 8.8 feet of overhead reach for easy trimming of overhanging limbs and branches.
Later, when the logs are down and there is wood that needs to be cut, you can quickly convert it into a handheld chainsaw and cut the logs into your desired pieces.
This machine is powered by a heavy-duty 8-amp motor, which is a great feature because it can handle the most stubborn tree limbs.
But the thing is, the chainsaw comes apart easily without warning, and that’s disappointing. I guess they must have sold me a used product.
Pros
- Easy to power the motor with a single push of a button
- It is easy to convert the machine from pole to handheld saw
- Pole can be extended up to 8.8 feet for overhead cutting
- Automatic oil lubrication prevents kickbacks
- It is an effective choice for cutting hardwood
Cons
- Possible for the chainsaw to separate from the pole accidentally
- Could be better with a more efficient chain tension system
Conclusion
The Sun Joe SWJ807E-BLK Pole Chainsaw comes with a reliable warranty for worry-free operation season after season.
Overall Rating – 4.6
2. Ryobi One+ Cordless Electric Pole Saw — Best Angled Cutting Head
Power through your yard tasks easily with the Ryobi One+ Cordless Electric Pole Saw. A power tool that is engineered to be easy to use and reliable.
Specs
- 8-inch bar and chain
- Angled cutting head
- Extends up to 9.5 feet
- In-line motor design
- Automatic oiling system
With a 6.5- to 9.5-foot extension pole, the Ryobi One+ gives you the freedom to prune or trim branches at different overhead lengths.
It features an in-line motor design that generates more than enough power for cutting through the toughest overhead tree branches and limbs.
The 8-inch bar and chain design are accompanied by an angled cutting head, which is a great combination for cutting in tight spaces.
Another great feature is the auto bar and chain oiling system that offers you extra convenience and the view window for tracking oil levels.
My only issue is the battery, which does not last long enough. This may limit your ability to work on many branches on a single charge.
Pros
- Automatic oil keeps the chain running smoothly
- Angle cutting head allows for precision pruning in tight spaces
- Pole saw extends easily for overhead reach
- Battery and charger are included in the package
- Strong motor that cuts through four-inch diameter limbs
Cons
- Battery life is not long-lasting
- Be on the lookout for defective products
Conclusion
This product offers great value for the price. The battery life is not very impressive, but it may be sufficient for a thirty-minute cutting job.
Overall Rating – 4.6
3. Greenworks GMAX Cordless Pole Saw — Best 8-Inch Cutting Bar & Chain
The Greenworks GMAX is the ultimate battery-powered outdoor equipment that tackles pruning and limb trimming easily.
Specs
- 8-inch cutting bar and chain
- 40-volt Li-ion battery system
- Eight feet pole length
- Easy-adjust chain tension
- Up to 65 cuts per charge
This heavy-duty cordless machinery is powered by the GMAX 40-volt battery that delivers superior cutting performance.
This model comes with an 8-inch bar and chain, which is a good feature because it makes trimming branches easy and effective.
It’s equipped with a unique chain tension system that allows you to easily tighten or loosen the chain without the need for special tools.
The saw’s adjustable height feature can extend as far as 8 feet high, making it suitable for cutting hard to reach limbs and branches.
However, the chain adjustment screw is poorly positioned and there isn’t enough room for adjustment without hitting yourself.
Pros
- It starts and stops instantly and effortlessly with a push of a button
- Automatic oiler ensures bar and chain function optimally
- Telescoping pole extends easily for hard to reach places
- Runs on Li-ion battery; so, there are no fumes or emissions
- Easy to track oil level with the translucent oil tank
Cons
- Poorly positioned chain adjustment screw
- Charger and battery are sold separately
Conclusion
With this model, you get smooth operation, less noise, superior maneuverability, and long-lasting battery life.
Overall Rating – 4.5
4. Scotts Outdoor Power Tools Corded Electric Pole Saw — Most Ergonomic Handle
If you want to do it yourself and take care of those branches that are a little bit high to reach, the Scotts Outdoor Power Tools Electric Pole Saw is what you should buy.
Specs
- Corded electric design
- Features a powerful 8-amp motor
- 10-inch bar and chain
- Three-position rotating cut head
- Automatic oiling system
This amazing pole saw is powered by a little 8-amp motor that delivers impressive cutting power for trimming limbs and tree branches around your yard.
It comes with a 10-inch Oregon bar and chain along with a 30-degree cutting head, which prevents kickback and allows for fast, clean cuts.
Maneuvering this machinery will not be a problem, thanks to its long power cord and ergonomic rubber over molded handle.
At its fully extended length, this corded pole saw can reach up to 9 feet 6.4 inches, allowing you easy access to the highest limbs and branches.
But the electrical pins were wrongly installed on the cutter side. It appeared the shipment was defective. I had no choice but to request for a replacement.
Pros
- Copper motor delivers sufficient cutting power
- Easy to customize the cutting angle with the 3-position rotating cutter head
- Never have to worry about oiling the chain and bar
- Hard to reach limbs and branches aren’t a problem with the telescoping handle
- Easy to obtain replacement bar or chain
Cons
- Possible to receive a defective pole saw
- Integrated safety button is a little bit hard to push
Conclusion
The Scotts Outdoor Power Tools Electric Pole Saw is a versatile unit that quickly and easily adjusts to three cutting angles.
Overall Rating – 4.5
5. Earthwise PS44008 Corded Electric Pole Saw — Best Adjustable Cutting Head
Clear the overgrown jungle in your backyard with the Earthwise PS44008 Corded Electric Pole Saw. It easily reaches out to overhead branches and limbs.
Specs
- 8-inch bar and chain
- 5-amp motor
- 3 position cut head
- Lightweight fiberglass telescoping pole
- Automatic oiling
It’s powered by a 6.5-amp motor, which is a good feature because it delivers the cutting power you need for trimming those overhanging branches in your yard.
It has a telescoping handle that will stretch as far as 9 feet and 3 inches, allowing you easy access to branches up to fifteen feet high.
I really appreciate the three-position rotating head, considering how easy it is to cut limbs and branches at your desired angle.
It has an ergonomic rubber molded handle accompanied by a safety switch, which allows you consistent hand placement and a quick way to switch off the trigger.
I was disappointed by the misleading product description from the manufacturer. They stated tool-free tension adjustment, just to find out that I needed a tool to tension the saw.
Pros
- Comes with low kickback 8-inch bar and chain
- Allows you to cut in three different positions
- Extendable handle allows you to cut up to 15 feet high
- Safety switch reduces occurrence of accidents
- Automatic oiler ensures the chain system is always lubricated
Cons
- Some misleading product info from the manufacturer
- A little bit heavy for a pole saw
Conclusion
This is a good quality electric pole saw for the money, considering the cutting power and versatility it offers.
Overall Rating – 4.5
6. Black + Decker LPP120B Pole Saw — Most Lightweight Design
If you are looking for a lightweight design that is extremely easy to maneuver overhead, you should look no further than the Black + Decker LPP120B Pole Saw.
Specs
- Lightweight fiberglass pole
- 8-inch bar and chain
- Overhead reach of up to 14 feet
- Up to 100 cuts on a single charge
- Interchangeable cordless battery
This nine-pound pole saw features an 8-inch bar and chain, which provide an optimum cutting diameter of six inches and has low kickback.
The telescoping locking mechanism features a large grip area for smooth operation. I know it’s a small thing, but the direction is clearly marked for locking and unlocking.
You can adjust the pole saw for any length between 6 and 9 feet, providing you with an impressive overhead reach of up to 14 feet for effective pruning and trimming.
It comes with a manual adjustable oiling system, and there is a window on the side of the tank for tracking the oil level.
Unfortunately for me, the first shipment I received was a disaster. The chain kept coming off; so, I had to request for a replacement.
Pros
- Super lightweight design that’s easy to hold overhead
- Handle adjusts easily and the extension parts lock securely into place
- Cordless maneuverability and decent battery life
- Allows for about 100 cuts before the battery runs out
- Has an ergonomic handle and trigger for superior handling and operation
Cons
- Possible for the chain to come off on a defective saw
- It doesn’t have an automatic oiling system
Conclusion
It does a great job for the money, which is to trim and prune limbs and branches without having to climb a ladder.
Overall Rating – 4.4
7. Worx WG309 Electric Pole Saw — Best Auto Tension System
The Worx WG309 Electric Pole Saw is perfect for all your needs around your property. Whether you need to prune some trees, clean up after storms, or just regular maintenance.
Specs
- 10-inch bar and chain
- 8-amp motor
- 8-foot extension pole
- Auto-lubrication and auto-tension
- Ergonomic comfort grip
This is a versatile machine that you can use as a pole saw for overhead pruning or as a chainsaw for cutting logs on the ground.
The telescoping pole safely extends your cutting length up to 10 feet, allowing you to reach higher branches and limbs without climbing a ladder or the tree.
The unit has automatic chain lubrication accompanied by an automatic tension system, which eliminates kickback to ensure smooth operation.
Another good feature is the Worx 6.0 AH MAX lithium 20-volt battery, which will offer you roughly four and a half hours of runtime for your application.
My main problem with the first model I received was the loose chain. It kept coming off even after proper tensioning. I had to return it and request a new one.
Pros
- Long extension pole that makes overhead trimming a breeze
- Converts easily into a chainsaw for ground applications
- Automatic lubrication maintains optimum chain operation
- Has a durable chain brake for stopping the chain if kickback occurs
- Fitted with a convenient front handle for chainsaw operation
Cons
- Chain tension may fail to work on a defective model
- Not the safest choice for vertical overhead cuts
Conclusion
This is one of the most versatile units on today’s market, considering how easy it converts into a chainsaw for cutting logs and branches on the ground.
Overall Rating – 4.4
8. Wen 4021 Electric Pole Saw — Easiest to Assemble
If you are in search of an easy to assemble pole saw that delivers great overhead cutting performance, look no further than the Wen 4021 Electric Pole Saw.
Specs
- 8-inch guide bar and chain
- Lightweight design that weighs about 8 pounds
- 5 amp motor
- Emission-free operation and tool-free chain tension
- Telescoping pole and adjustable center handle
This Wen pole saw is equipped with a powerful 6.5-amp motor that revolves the chain up to thirty-six feet per second for consistent overhead pruning and trimming.
It comes with an ingeniously made telescoping handle that will extend out to nine and a half feet, allowing you to trim even the most awkwardly positioned branches.
It comes with a high-quality Oregon chain that is designed to produce clean cuts. The automatic oiling system keeps the chain properly lubricated to boost optimum performance.
Another feature that you will find useful is the built-in safety switch, which ensures the trigger doesn’t start on its own so as to minimize accidents.
The only complaint I have is with the tensioning system. It has a very short service life. This is something the brand should improve on.
Pros
- Easy assemble and tool-free chain adjustment
- Oregon bar and chain are easy to replace
- Automatic oiler ensures the chain runs smoothly
- No accidents, thanks to the built-in safety switch
- Adjustable center handle improves handling
- Angle adjustment switch allows for customized cutting
Cons
- It’s possible for the chain tensioner to malfunction
- Could be better with a longer telescoping handle
Conclusion
This is a great pole saw for inexperienced users and professionals alike, considering its easy assembly and decent overhead cutting performance.
Overall Rating – 4.3
9. Oregon PS250 Cordless Pole Saw — Most Ergonomic Design
The Oregon PS250 gives you the power, speed, and precision you need to prune or trim vines, limbs, and high branches.
Specs
- Mid-mount motor design
- 40-volt max lithium-ion battery
- 2- to 10.1-foot extension
- Adjustable collar
- Branch hook included
The Oregon PS250 high-speed chain delivers superior power for fast trimming and pruning of overhead branches, limbs, and vines.
It is powered by a 40-volt max lithium-ion battery that provides constant no-fade power, resulting in long runtime for all your cutting applications in your yard.
Forget about power cords and gas emissions. Powering the Oregon PS250 is remarkably easy with a push of a trigger just below your index and middle finger.
You will not need any additional tools to extend the telescopic handle from 7.2 to 10.1 feet, which provides you with an extended overhead reach of up to 15 feet.
My major disappointment is the design of the shaft, which kept on sliding out of the handle the last time I used the pole saw.
Pros
- Included battery delivers constant no-fade power
- Starts instantly with a push of a button
- Has a superior overhead reach of up to fifteen feet
- Features low kickback cutting bar and chain
- Easy to remove limbs with the branch hook
Cons
- It’s possible for the shaft to slide out of the handle
- A defective model may come with an overheating motor
Conclusion
The Oregon PS250 comes with an ergonomic design that has low kickback and low vibration, making your work more efficient.
Overall Rating – 4.3
Top-Rated Electric Pole Saws Buying Guide
Make sure you find a pole saw that’s right for your application. Don’t worry, you got this. There are two types of pole saws to consider: electric and gas-powered.
Gas-Powered Pole Saws
It is possible that a gas-powered pole saw may be the best choice if you have serious trimming or pruning to do after a heavy storm.
But it is quite disappointing to mention that gas-powered pole saws are noisy. So, they may not be the best choice for a quiet suburban garden. Since gas-powered pole saws have two-cycle engines, they need a special gas-oil mixture to power them. This may be a challenge for some users.
Electric Pole Saws
As much as gas-powered models generate more power, they are not as convenient as electric models. According to most electric pole saw reviews, they are easier to use, without the hassle of having to keep two-cycle gas on hand.
They are great for you if you have an occasional need for a pole saw to trim, prune, or cut limbs, branches, and vines. With an electric pole saw, you can go as high as 15 feet above your head to trim or prune branches and limbs.
What To Look For In An Electric Pole Saw
Here are a few things I insist you consider during your search:
Pole Length And Material
The whole idea of using a pole saw is to be able to reach the furthest branches and limbs, saving you the trouble of climbing trees or ladders. Electric pole saws come in different lengths, which can range from 7 to 15 feet. But the most important decision is choosing between a manual and a telescoping pole.
Between the two, I would prefer a telescoping pole because you can conveniently adjust it to suit your needs. Extending poles allow you to reach branches and limbs up to 15 feet high.
Apart from the pole length, you must also choose a durable pole material. The most popular materials on the market are fiberglass and steel. Fiberglass poles are extremely lightweight and very suitable for trimming the highest branches, but they are not as durable as steel poles.
Corded Vs Battery-Powered
Corded Electric Pole Saw
Most electric pole saw reviews would argue that corded electric pole saws offer a longer runtime. But here are my thoughts concerning corded models. Corded pole saws have more power, which is what you need for heavier trimming and pruning tasks. They can tackle slightly larger limbs and branches.
But, they are not the most portable choice because they keep you tethered to a limited space. It is even worse when the power cord is too short. Your control over the pole saw may also be limited because a power cord can easily get tangled, especially when clearing limbs and branches after a storm.
Cordless Electric Pole Saw
Cordless models are powered by rechargeable batteries. One of the things that I admire most about battery-powered pole saws is portability and convenience.
I don’t have to worry about the power cord being too short or the effects of a blackout. There isn’t a single time a cord will be tangled in the branches or limbs. But the thing is, cordless electric pole saws generate significantly less cutting power compared to corded ones.
You should prepare yourself for regular charging of the battery whenever it runs out. This can be a problem if you have a time-consuming trimming job. But the biggest blow you would experience with cordless pole saws is the cost of battery replacement. The battery will one day expire and you will need that replacement.
Bar and Chain Length
According to our electric pole saw reviews, these machinery come in a range of cutting bar and chain lengths.
The bar length that you need depends on what kind of cutting jobs you will be doing. A general rule is that the diameter of the branch should be no bigger than twice the length of the bar.
For example, a 10-inch bar will be able to handle branches and limbs of up to about 20 inches in diameter.
Chain Oiling System
The oiling system is extremely important if you are to maintain optimum cutting performance. The better the bar and chain are kept lubricated, the longer the chain and bar will last.
There are two types of oiling systems: automatic and adjustable. Automatic oilers deliver oil to the bar and chain at a given amount and time interval.
Adjustable oilers; on the other hand, allow you to adjust the amount of oil with respect to the cutting job, and you must be consistent.
Safety Features
The bar and chain may be high up on the branches, but you are still vulnerable to injuries. To stay safe, there are some things you should know.
Kickback is a major concern. It occurs when the tip of the saw contacts a branch and lurches back at you. We found in our testing that some of them kick back more than others.To guarantee your safety, I strongly suggest you choose a model that is fitted with a low kickback bar and chain combination.
Final Thoughts
Our overall best electric pole saw is the Sun Joe SWJ807E-BLK Pole Chainsaw. With this model, you get both a pole saw and a chainsaw. It comes with an ingeniously made telescoping pole that easily extends from 6.2 to 8.9 feet. Not to mention that it has an overhead reach of 15 feet.
But what I like most about this 2-in-1 pole saw are the safety features it comes with, including a built-in safety switch and a handguard. With this information, you are now fully equipped to engage the market. Just make sure you choose the ideal pole length and pole saw design.
