Top Picks of The Best Electric Pole Saw
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
Editor's Choice  |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
Runner-up  |
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Runner-up  |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
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| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
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| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
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| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
Table of Contents
| Topic | Page |
| Quick Intro | 2 |
| Before You Buy – Electric Over Gas Powered – Corded vs Cordless – Important Features – Cutting Bar Length – Working Height – Weight – Self Lubricating System – Maintenance Tips | 3 – 5 |
| Best Electric Pole Saws – Best Corded Models – Sun Joe SWJ800E – Scotts PS45010S – Best 2 in 1 Models – Remington RM1035P Ranger II – WORX WG309 – Best Cordless Models – BLACK+DECKER LPP120 – Greenworks PS40B210 | 6 – 11 |
| FAQ & Conclusion | 12 – 13 |
Quick Intro
Maintaining trees and shrubs in your garden can be a fun pastime. A well maintained garden can make your property more appealing and pleasing to the eye. Being a green thumb may require you to have plenty of tools though and do a lot of the leg work especially if you have one or more trees to take care of. One of the tools you may want to consider investing in is a pole saw.
These are essentially pole chainsaws. They’re great for pruning branches higher up on a tree or cutting tree limbs on the ground to size. These are powerful tools that make your work safer, faster and more efficient.
Pole saws come in either electric or gas powered variants but for the sake of this article (and the environment) we’ll be going over electric models only. There are a wide variety of models in the market but we narrowed it down to 6 of the best ones we’ve found available online. Before we get to our reviews, here’s a short guide that we recommend you take the time to read especially if this is your first time buying a pole saw.
Before You Buy
Why Choose Electric Over Gas?
In truth, this depends on a lot of things like the size of your property, frequency of pruning, environmental concerns, health concerns and even community concerns (a.k.a, neighbors).
Back in the day, gas powered pole saws were the more powerful and popular variant by far. Gas pole saws can be used for hours on end as long as you have the fuel for them. That makes them great for professionals or homeowners who’ve a lot of property to maintain. The downside of gas powered pole saws is that they can be very loud, making them unappealing if you have neighbors or kids closeby. Being gas powered, they also emit fumes that can be harmful to your health, the health of those around you and to the environment.
In recent years, the push to make more eco-friendly alternatives has yielded some strong competition. Electric pole saw variants are becoming more and more popular with homeowners and professionals alike. The corded models can run for as long as you need them to and are only limited by how long your extension cord is. Battery powered models have more mobility but are limited by battery life and how many spare batteries you have. Electric pole saws are generally low maintenance and more economical compared to their gas powered relatives.
Electric pole saws are getting better and better every year and are slowly phasing out gas pole saws.
Corded vs Cordless
A corded electric pole saw is lightweight, user friendly and low maintenance. These models require a socket to function which may limit their range so an extension cord is a must when you choose to purchase one.
Corded electric pole saws can run for as long as you need them to and don’t have to worry about switching out batteries. You can easily find 2 in 1 corded models that turn your pole saw into a handheld chainsaw. Corded pole saws are also often the lightest variants and are some of the cheapest.
Cordless electric pole saws on the other hand, are more mobile and convenient. You can take them where you need them but keep in mind that you’ll eventually need to replace or recharge the battery. Although cordless pole saws are less powerful than a gas pole saw and corded models, you’d be surprised how much power most cordless models have. Most battery pole saws have enough fully charged battery life to cut 60 to 100 branches on average. Whether this is enough depends entirely on your needs and situation.
Some companies that make cordless pole saws have entire lines of products that can take the same battery type. This is a great incentive to invest in one brand of cordless tools and it could save you money.
Both variants have their strengths and are great to have in your gardening tool arsenal.
Important Features
Cutting Bar Length
The cutting bar is the business end of a pole saw. This refers to the saw blade and is where the chain goes around the guide bar.
The length of the cutting bar determines the thickness of the branches that can be cut. Most of the best pole saws have cutting bars anywhere between 6 to 10 inches.
Working Height
In some pole saws reviewed online, you’ll see the term working height to describe the actual length of the pole saw. This is not always true. Working height could be used to describe the length of the telescopic pole plus the length of your arm or the length of the telescoping pole plus the length of your arm and height.
Manufactures typically factor in 2 to 3 feet of arm length. So if the manufacturer states that it has a working height of 10 feet, this can mean that the actual length of the pole saw is 7 or 8 feet from the tip of blade down to the tip of the handle.
When products claim to have a reach of 13-feet, keep in mind that they are accounting for the height of the person using the saw, as well as the length of that person’s arm. This increases the reach length of the pole saw by around 5 to 7 feet.
Weight
One of the benefits of electric pole saws over gas pole saws is that they are relatively lightweight. On average, the best pole saws can weigh between 7 to 15 pounds.
This makes them manageable for a wide range of users but it should be remembered that these are dangerous tools and should be used with caution.
Self Lubricating System
Some of the best pole saws feature a self lubricating system that helps in keeping the chain lubricated at all times. This is an especially useful feature and greatly lessens the amount of effort for maintenance. If you choose to buy a model that has this feature, be sure to keep an eye out for leaks and the oil reservoir level.
2 in 1 Models
These are models that allow you to remove the chainsaw head and convert the pole saw into a handheld chainsaw. This gives you more variety in what you can do with a single model. Some other pole saws even come with interchangeable hedge trimmers, yard trimmers or a brush cutter. Choosing a 2 in 1 model can be a good way to save money instead of buying separate pieces of equipment.
Warranty
Before you make a purchase, always check for the warranty. Most electric pole saws are not a hundred percent perfect and buying a defective product can be a hazard.
All electronic devices come with warranty and even the best pole saws are no different. Depending on the manufacturer, warranties for this product last for a year or more ensuring that you can return or replace a faulty product.
Maintenance and Safety Tips
- Keep the pole chainsaw at the right tension. Most pole saws have an adjustment system.
- Always make sure the chain is lubricated before use. If your model has an auto lubricating system, keep an eye on the oil levels.
- For corded models, always check the wire for damage.
- For cordless, keep the batteries charged after every use and away from moisture.
- Keep debris out of the moving parts.
- Stand in the right spot when tree trimming. Make sure you won’t get hit by the falling branch once it is cut.
- Wear the proper PPE (personal protective equipment) such as gloves, a mask, a helmet, safety glasses and hearing protection.
- Do not use a pole saw in wet conditions.
- Be aware of the maximum cutting diameter of your pole saw
- Never use the tip of the cutting bar for cutting. The chain will be moving at thousands of rpm and the kickback will be substantial.
- Always be ready for potential kickback.
- Make sure that nuts, bolts, and screws are snug
- Ensure the trigger lock and trigger move normally prior to starting engine
- Check the chain to ensure it is fully intact and not damaged
Best Electric Pole Saws
Best Corded Electric Pole Saw Variants
Sun Joe SWJ800E
Specifications:
- Telescoping pole extends 8.7 ft
- 6.5 amp motor
- 6000 rpm
- 8 inch bar length
- 7 lbs
- Corded electric
Features:
- Auto lubricating system
- Plastic blade cover
- 2 year warranty
Overview:
Sun Joe features heavily in online marketplaces and has some of the top rated electric pole saws. This model from Sun Joe is a lightweight pole saw perfect for pruning tree branches around your property.
It provides adequate height for most trees found in a typical backyard, with the telescopic pole extending to a total length of 8.7 ft. It has a self lubricating system and easy chain tensioning, requiring just a turn of a screw, making this tool quite low maintenance.
Additional features include a plastic blade cover to keep the blade clean when in storage, a foam grip for comfortability and a safety switch to prevent accidental start ups.
For a homeowner looking for an easy to use, easy to maintain and affordable electric pole saw, this model is a great choice.
Check out the Sun Joe SWJ800E here.
Scotts PS45010S
Specifications:
- Telescoping pole extends 9.5 ft
- 8 amp motor
- 10 inch bar length
- 7 lbs
- Corded electric
Features:
- Auto lubricating system
- 3 year warranty
- Adjustable chainsaw head
- Plastic blade cover
Overview:
This model from Scotts boasts a quite powerful 8 amp motor and superior telescopic pole length putting it a foot above the competition in its class.
This pole saw can extend a maximum of 9.5 ft providing more than enough height for pruning trees in a yard and features a unique adjustable chainsaw head. With a push of two buttons, you can lock the head into 5 possible angles providing more adaptability and flexibility. Its 8 amp motor is strong enough to cut through thick branches smoothly and efficiently. It also features a self lubricating system and a tooless tension system for easy maintenance.
Additional features include a foam cover on the parts of the pole you’ll need to hang on to while in operation, a plastic blade cover for safe storage and a great 3 year warranty.
Check out the Scotts PS45010S here:
Best 2 in 1 Models:
Remington RM1035P Ranger II
Specifications:
- 8 amp motor
- Telescoping pole can extend 10 ft
- 10 inch bar length
- 12.5 lbs
- Corded electric
Features:
- Wrap around handle
- Auto lubricating system
- Removable chainsaw head
- 2 year warranty
Overview:
This corded electric pole saw 2 in 1 model from Remington offers the user great functionality and versatility.
In its pole form, the RM1035P Ranger II features a far reaching 10 ft maximum pole extension making it one of the longest electric pole saws and a flip and lock mechanism for easy and quick height adjustment. It features a non-slip hand grip and is made of aluminum offering a sturdy yet lightweight design.
The chainsaw head has a tooless and an easy to operate tension adjustment mechanism along with a self lubricating system. It also features a 10 inch bar length great for cutting stronger and thicker branches.
With a press of a button and a little detaching and reattaching, you can switch it to the handheld configuration where you’ll have more flexibility when cutting logs and thick branches on ground level. The grip features a wrap around handle bar that gives the user better control and a shield for protection against flying debris when cutting.
Check out the Remington RM1035P Ranger II here
Greenworks PSPH40B210
Specifications:
- 40V battery operated
- Extends up to 9 feet with extension pole
- Detachable head
- 8 inch bar length (chainsaw)
- 20 inch dual action blade (hedge trimmer)
- 11 lbs
Features:
- Comes with one 2.0Ah battery and charger
- Auto lubricating system for chainsaw head
- 4 years warranty
Overview:
This great 2 in 1 electric pole saw model also happens to be the first pole saw with rechargeable batteries on our list. Unlike other 2 in 1 models, it features an interchangeable hedge trimmer instead of a chainsaw. This increases the variety of yard work you can do.
This GreenWorks battery powered pole saw itself has desirable features that the user would benefit from. These include a split shaft design that extends the length upto 9 feet, an 8 inch bar, auto lubricating and easy tension adjustment system. This makes it great for tree trimming and cutting thick branches.
The hedge trimmer head has a 20 inch dual action blade and can pivot into 7 different angles. This provides the user with a greater range and more maneuverability.
One perk of being battery operated is that you can carry it with you where it is needed and this particular company sells upto 60 other products that all use the same battery. This means that if you choose to buy more yard tools from them, you’ll only need to buy 1 kind of battery and just interchange them as you see fit.
Check out the Greenworks cordless pole saw PSPH40B210 here
Best Cordless Pole Saw Models:
BLACK+DECKER LPP120
Specifications:
- 20V battery operated
- 6.5 to 10 feet with pole extension
- 8 inch bar length
- 10.33 lbs
Features:
- 2 year warranty
- One 20V Lithium Ion battery and charger included
- Plastic blade cover
Overview:
This cordless model from Black+Decker is a great choice for homeowners looking for a durable and reliable pole saw.
With a bar length of 8 inches and a variable length of 6.5 and 10 feet making this model great for pruning most trees you’ll have in your backyard.
Unlike other models however, this pole saw requires that you manually oil the chain and adjust the tension with a screw. This means you’ll need to pay a little more attention towards maintaining this model.
It also features a long lifespan 20V battery and comes with a charger. Black+Decker is another great example of a company that has a wide range of battery powered products that all share the same battery. So if you happen to be in the market for battery powered power tools, you’ll want to consider looking at their line of products.
Check out the BLACK+DECKER LPP120 here
DEWALT DCPS620M1
Specifications:
- 20V battery operated
- Extends upto 10 feet with pole extension
- 8 inch bar length
- 9.8 lbs
Features:
- Comes with one 20V Max Lithium Ion battery and charger
- Tensioning wrench
- Auto lubricating system
- 3 year warranty
Overview:
This model from DEWALT features an efficient brushless motor that delivers up to 96 cuts per charge, a well balanced design and durable pole shaft that extends up to 10 ft., an auto oiling feature for added convenience and time saving and It also features metal bucking strips for a durable cutting grip and a tree hook allows you to easily remove pruned branches.
Its aluminum build makes this model durable yet lightweight enough to operate for extended periods of time. It also features an ergonomic handle and a comfort grip to put less strain on you as you operate it. It however, does not feature a built in chain tension adjustment system and requires you to do this manually with a tension wrench so be sure to regularly check the tension when using this.
DEWALT offers a wide range of battery operated products and all share the same battery. If you already have DEWALT tools or are in the market for one, be sure to check out their other battery powered products.
Check out the DEWALT DCPS620M1 here
FAQs
Q: What are some pole saw accessories?
A: As seen in the article above, a pole saw can come with many accessories depending on the brand. Some come with a sheath for the whole guide bar length pole. Battery powered models for example, can come with a charger or spare battery. You can even find a shoulder strap online for your pole saw. A shoulder strap is good for resting your arm in between tasks.
Q: Can a pole saw be dangerous?
A: Absolutely yes, a pole saw can cause serious harm to the user or others when an accident happens. Kickback can cause the chainsaw to fly backwards towards the user. Even falling branches can be dangerous as well.
Q: How thick of a branch can a pole saw cut?
A: The longer the pole saw head, the thicker the branch you can cut. The maximum thickness you can safely cut with a pole saw is between 7 and 9 inches. Anything thicker and you need to proceed with caution.
Q: Can a pole saw cut down a tree?
A: In theory, yes you can. Although, it has to be a small tree. A pole saw is not nearly as powerful as a dedicated chainsaw and was designed with cutting branches in mind.
Q: Can I use a pole saw with a ladder?
A: A pole saw was technically meant to remove the need for a ladder. That being said, it is possible for you to use a ladder with a pole saw for those branches that you really can not reach but we do not recommend you should.
Q: How long should the chain last?
A: The chain on a pole saw should last an average of 5 years with proper maintenance. This obviously could change depending on how heavy of a job you’re putting the pole saw through and how frequently you use it.
Q: How can you tell the pole saw chain is worn out?
A: There are some tell-tale signs that your chain is worn out. For example, smoke starts emanating from the wood you’re cutting and uneven cuts. This can happen for a number of reasons and is naturally going to happen the more often you use the pole saw.
Q: How expensive is a pole saw?
A: Depending on the manufacturer, pole saws can cost anywhere from $50 to $200. Buying additional accessories will add onto these prices.
Q: How do you sharpen the chain on a pole saw?
A: You could take your pole saw to a store to have them sharpen it for you or you could buy a sharpening kit. Here’s a video for reference. https://youtu.be/7CdS4HrNRk4
Conclusion
There we have it, our list of the best electric pole saws available online. From the corded models, 2 in 1 and the cordless variants. We hope that this article has helped you in choosing which model is right for you and that you leave here a little more knowledgeable on pole saw operation and features.
As technology progresses, electric powered alternatives to most gas powered tools will become better and more reliable and we hope that we proved that here in this article. Being eco-friendly is just one of many ways we can give back to our planet and we hope you consider making the change. Happy gardening!
