The nice thing about the pole saw is that virtually any homeowner will be able to find some sort of use out of it. They are versatile, effective, and extremely reliable at what they accomplish.
However, there are also several other factors to consider. For one thing, they are ludicrously dangerous. What else would expect from a tool that is basically just a chainsaw on a stick? They are also subjective to a range of different considerations. Different products will be used to perform different tasks. The homeowner that needs to trim a shrug will not be buying the same saw as the contractor that needs to clip branches from a proud oak tree.
With all of these things to consider, how will anyone be able to make a buying decision? Fortunately, I can help with that. I’ve spent a ton of time working with the best cordless pole saw recently. The goal has been to connect you with the best products on the market. Read on for some pole saw reviews!
What to Look For When Buying Cordless Electric Pole Saw
Now that you know what is out there, here are a few buying considerations that should help to make your decision easier.
Power Source
What sort of power source are you looking for? There are three main options, each with its own pros and cons:
Gas
Gas-powered saws are extremely powerful. They can operate for long periods of time, and then instantly reactivated simply by filling up the tank. However, they also come with cons. They are pricey, noisy, and bad for the environment.
Battery Powered
Battery-driven units are usually powerful and they have tons of workability because they lack a cord. The main issue is the life of the battery. Even the best batteries will only last for thirty minutes or so.
Worst of all, battery life tends to diminish sharply when you work with tougher workpieces, which pretty much always happens in the world of pole saws.
Corded
Corded units can run forever but they are limited in range. You can only go as far as the power cord will let you.
Reach
How much access does the pole saw you are considering have? This will ultimately be determined by how long the pole is. However, the length of the pole does not actually denote the reach. Typically maximum reach is several feet higher than the total length of the pole (accounting for the height of the user operating the tool).
Before you select a unit it will be in your best interest to determine the maximum length you need to reach. It is unsafe to overextend a pole so be careful in your measurements.
Weight
Because this tool tends to be held above your head (often for extended periods of time) it is best to look for something that is lightweight.
However, you don’t want this factor to come at the cost of the tool’s durability. Ideally, you will be able to find something that provides the optimal combination of portability and durability.
Versatility
If you are an average homeowner, chances are pretty good that you won’t be using your pole saw more than once or twice a year. In order to enhance the workability, many tools will feature a 2 in 1 (or, for that matter 3 in 1) component.
Pole saws convert pretty naturally into chainsaws and any manufacturers to capitalize on this by featuring a removable pole. In doing so, they give you the opportunity to enhance the overall workability of the saw.
Battery Life
Most homeowners are going to be investing in battery-driven pole saws. This means that the battery life will weigh heavily on your user experience.
Ideally, you will need to get something with a battery life of at least thirty minutes. That’s the bare minimum of an effective tool.
However, better units may go as high as 45 minutes to one hour of consecutive operation.
Keep in mind that these are just estimations. Once you start using the saw on harder woods that estimate can go down substantially.
Best Battery Operated Pole Saw
1. Ryobi One+ 8 in. 18-Volt Cordless Electric Pole Saw
The Ryobi treats the user to nearly ten feet of length. With this level of height, you should have no trouble accessing even very high branches. It is also completely cord-free. This is a battery-powered saw which means that you can easily move around your workpiece (which in this case is a tree).
It also features an excellent motor that will make it powerful enough to work with a range of moderate-sized bushes, trees, etc.
There is only one problem: battery life. At best it is designed to operate for about thirty minutes or so. However, when you start working with tougher materials this expectancy can go down significantly.
Additional Specification:
- Weight: 7.4 Pounds
- Voltage: 18.0 Volts
- Chain: 8 Inch
- Best For: Precision Pruning
- Pruner Extends: Up to 9.5 ft.
What We Like:
What We Didn’t Like:
2. Greenworks 8.5 40V Battery Pole Saw
The Greenworks features an 8.5 pole that will give you access to a wide range of different trees and branches. As an electric tool, it produces no emissions which makes it a great product for people that want to cut back on their carbon footprint.
It is also very moderately priced. If you want a good tool at a great price this will be a compelling choice to consider.
Unfortunately, power is a bit of an issue. This will be really great for treating thinner of foliage and bushes but if you have tougher trees to contend with this simply will not get the job done.
Additional Specification:
- Battery: 2.0 AH
- Weight: 8.36 Pounds
- Voltage: 40-Volt
- Chain: 8-Inch
- Pruner Extends: 8.1 ft.
What We Like:
What We Didn’t Like:
3. BLACK+DECKER 20V Battery Operated Pole Saw
The Black and Decker gives you a great opportunity to receive a good product at an outstanding price. Black and Decker is well known both for its high levels of quality and it’s generally very affordable price tags.
This unit is no exception. For a very fair rate, you get a workable piece of gear with a range of applications.
The moderately powered motor will be able to work with small branches as well as a wide range of foliage. Perhaps best of all though, it is also a part of Black and Decker’s interchangeable battery system. If you have any Black and Decker tools you will be able to change out the batteries for a versatile range of use.
Unfortunately, it does suffer a flaw that is very common to Black and Decker tools. Of these, the biggest is very limited battery life. This tool will not last for very long, especially when it is pitted against hardwoods. You can, however, use it effectively on a wide range of smaller foliage.
Additional Specification:
- Best For: Hard Works
- Weight: 10.33 pounds
- Voltage: 20-Volts
- Chain: 8-Inch
- Reach: Up to 14 ft.
What We Like:
What We Didn’t Like:
4. Oregon Cordless 8-Inch 40V Telescoping Pole Saw
The Oregan is a great tool for the pros. My favorite feature had to have been the telescopic design concept of the pole. You can extend the pole outwards to access high branches, then collapse the pole when you need to get up close and personal on some precision cuts. In that sense, it gives you the best of both worlds.
I was also quite partial to battery life. You get between 30-45 minutes of operational use out of this uni which should be more than enough to help you achieve your goals. The eight-inch blade also couples very nicely with the motor. With those components working in harmony, this saw is able to work well even on notably tough branches.
The only real issue is the price. Given the quality, it should be no surprise that this unit costs a bundle. Still, if you have lots of landscaping tasks, the money will be well spent.
You can also watch this video. This video will show you how to assemble Oregon Cordless Pole saw PS250. This video was created by our friend Oregon Products.
Additional Specification:
- Best For: Fast Cutting
- Weight: 13.5 pounds
- Voltage: 40-Volts
- Chain: 8-Inch
- Reach: Up to 15’
What We Like:
What We Didn’t Like:
5. Sun Joe SWJ800E Telescoping Electric Pole Chain Saw
The Sun Joe features a unique 3 in 1 design concept that will serve to vastly expand what you can do with it. Of course, it can be used to trim branches on trees but it can also break down for scrubbing, or even serve as a very small chainsaw.
It’s also an extremely lightweight tool. This component is especially handy when you are up on a ladder trying to trim a high-up branch. Finally, the ten-inch blade lends itself well to working with materials in a range of different sizes.
The only major con is the simple fact that this unit is somewhat fragile. A drop, or even too much wear and tear will probably be the end of it.
Additional Specification:
- Best For: Sawing Overhead Limbs and Logs
- Weight: 7.7 pounds
- Voltage: 24-Volts
- Chain: 8-Inch
- Reach: About 20 ft.
What We Like:
What We Didn’t Like:
6. MAXTRA 42.7CC 2-Cycle Cordless Gas Pole Saw
The Maxtra will be a great option for people that need power. As a two-cycle gas-driven unit it is specifically optimized for working with really tough materials. There are other benefits to buying gas as well. For instance, unlike other tools on our list, when this bad boy runs out of juice, you simply fill up the tank and keep going. There is no reason to wait for hours while the battery recharges.
I also liked the expandable pole. The default length is eight feet, but it can be extended up to eleven feet to provide lots of access to even high-up branches.
These things said, there are a couple of issues. For one thing, it is extremely noisy. It can also be fairly difficult to start.
Additional Specification:
- Best For: Easy to Operate
- Weight: 22 pounds
- Voltage: 24-Volts
- Guide Bar: 10-Inch
- Reach: 14-15 ft.
What We Like:
What We Didn’t Like:
7. Sun Joe 6.5-Amp Telescoping Electric Pole Chain Saw
If you are a homeowner with a moderate range of needs this will be a decent product to work with. It is extremely affordable, lightweight and easy to use. I especially appreciated the fact that the blade essentially maintains itself. The chain oil automatically leaves you with very little to do.
You also get a fair amount of reach with this product. When extended to full length it should be able to access fifteen-foot branches.
These things said there are limits to what it can accomplish. This is not a very powerful piece of equipment. If you are looking to trim smaller branches or hedges this will be a good piece of gear to get your hands on. Otherwise, you may be better served to invest with something that has a little bit more power.
However, that is pretty much where the utility of this saw ends. It’s just not tough or powerful enough for professional use. That said, though not the best worm drive circular saw, it gives plenty of bang for the buck.
Additional Specification:
- Best For: Handle Most Stubborn Tree Limbs
- Weight: 7 pounds
- Motor: 6.5-amp
- Cutting Bar: 8-inch
- Reach: 15 ft.
What We Like:
What We Didn’t Like:
8. WEN 40421 40V Max Lithium-Ion Cordless Pole Saw
For the average homeowner, the Wen will be an enticing possibility. The tool is lightweight, durable, and powerful enough to work with woods of moderate hardness. It also features a telescopic design concept that provides a good combination of reach and portability.
Unfortunately, not everything about this tool’s access threshold is perfect. Its maximum range of reach is fourteen feet—less than that of many of the budget picks on our list. Given the fact that this is a pricey tool, I would expect a little bit more. Still, if you can make do with the limited access you are sure to find plenty to like.
Additional Specification:
- Best For: Easily Adjusts Anywhere
- Weight: 8.8 Pounds
- Voltage: 40-volts
- Guide Bar: 10-inch
- Reach: 14 ft.
What We Like:
What We Didn’t Like:
9. WORX WG309 8 Amp 10″ 2-in-1 Electric Pole Saw
The Worx is a great two-in-one pole saw that doubles as a chainsaw. This factor means that you may get good use out of it even when you aren’t trimming trees.
The tool is completely cordless and features a moderately powerful 8-amp motor that will be good for working with a range of different materials.
These things said I am a little bit worried about the quality of the pole. It is very thin which can have major implications for its long-term durability. While this factor does make the unit feel very lightweight, it also makes it feel very flimsy. Consequently, pros probably will want to steer clear of this one.
Additional Specification:
- Best For: Controlled Cuts
- Weight: 10 Pounds
- Motor: 8-Amps
- Chain Pitch: 3/8-inch
- Reach: 10 ft.
What We Like:
What We Didn’t Like:
10. CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Pole Saw
We end the list with the Crafstman. At fourteen feet long (thanks to an optimal pole extending attachment) this may be the largest unit on our list today. That means it will be particularly good for people with high-up branches that need addressing.
It also features a comfortable grip and a hook that is designed to lock onto branches making them easier to clip. The package is rounded out by a generous three-year warranty that will keep you covered in the event of unexpected repairs.
The only real issue is that it isn’t super powerful. If you need something with lots of juice you will probably look elsewhere.
Additional Specification:
- Best For: Cutting Precision
- Weight: 5.97 Pounds
- Voltage: 20-volts
- Warranty: 3 Year Limited
- Reach: 14 ft.
What We Like:
What We Didn’t Like:
Why Should I Use a Cordless Pole Saw?
When it comes to pruning or trimming those stubborn, endless branches & bushes, going cordless is the best option that you can avail. Being head to head with the latest technological tools and automatons is something that we all fancy. Then why stay as Neanderthals when it comes to using hi-fi tools to reshape your garden?
Bid adieu to those heavy, wired chainsaws which make you dread just the thought of having to trim your trees. Say goodbye to pulling out your ladder and wires to risk it all just for a few neat cuts and say no to those harmful fuel emissions from your previous chainsaw cutters.
Here are a few of the countless goodness you’ll be getting, using cordless pole saws:
- Energy efficient – going cordless saves you lots of energy and time by allowing you to easily access those direful areas with the click of a switch. Extends both the tool’s battery.. and yours!
- Going Green Adaptation – by saying no to corded fuel operated chainsaw trimmers, you are actually being proactive and considerate to the environment. How?
Well, you are now restraining yourself from draining the earth’s precious fuel resources and preventing excess noise pollution (as cordless battery operated pole saws are the quietest…shhh)
So well done! You are unknowingly doing your part in reviving Mother Nature to its glory. - User-friendly attribute – The comparatively small size and lightweight design of cordless pole saw cutters makes them an on-the-go tool.
There are no wires tethered to them, making them highly portable. (No strings attached! Pun intended.) This feature has quickly become an eye grabber amongst the elderly and people who travel a lot. - Versatile and easily adjustable – the flexible pivoting attributes available in most cordless saws provide you a much better clarity and control in those strenuous stretches.
With additional features like telescoping shaft and detachable sections in some models, there’s no question that a cordless pole saw is the ultimate all rounder.
And oh, did I mention that you can change the heights and angles in just a few seconds without the chaotic intertwining of wires? - Low key maintenance – the only work you’ll have to do manually with cordless pole saws is #1 switch it on and off and #2 sharpen the chains occasionally.
The automated oiling system present in most cordless pole saws make them a ready-to-go option with little to no maintenance required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best battery-powered pole saw?
While there is a subjective element to this decision, there are some companies that are very well known for their ability to produce great saws. For example, Greenworks is established in the battery-powered saw game.
What is the longest pole saw available?
Saws tend to top out at around fourteen feet though there are many exceptions to this.
Which is the best pole saw?
The best pole saw provides users with an optimal blend of range and power. However, every user will be looking for different things making it very difficult to say which is best. The goal of this guide is to help you figure out which is best for you.
Does Stihl make a pole saw?
Yes, they do.
Conclusion
In this era of cutting-edge technology, you are bound to be in pace with the latest tools and their upcoming versions. The introduction of cordless pole saws has really conceptualized the idea of “work smarter, not harder”.
The growing shades of greys are overtaking the world at an alarming rate, thanks to the non-stop pollution and unhealthy dispensing modes. The idea of nipping off these grayscales and converting them to sprouting green buds is the motive as well as the emergency need of the hour.
We have 2 choices; either get ready for the gruesome battle with nature or be conscious of our carbon footprints and take the necessary precautionary measures for a better, healthier planet.
No matter how big or small your contribution towards reversing climate change is, it always has a positive reaction.
Every single step you take forward, towards a greener environment is also one step backward from our next generation experiencing Mother Nature’s rage. A cordless pole saw is justly the right choice that will contribute towards that while minimizing labor and energy consumption.
With every product having its fair share of pros and cons, it is advised to do in-depth research before inculcating it in your daily life. And I hope that this page has done it well on your behalf.
Which of these pole saw reviews sold you on a product? Did you like the high level of quality provided by our top choice the Ryobi One+ 8 in. 18-Volt 9.5 ft. Cordless Electric Pole. Or perhaps the goal is to snag a great deal.
If a restrictive budget is forcing you to look for value above all else, consider a product like the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Pole Saw. Fortunately, all of the products on this list are really good at what they do. If you choose from our list of products chances are pretty great you will get something you love.