8 Best Pole Saws In 2024 - Electric, Gas and More

• Has a long-lasting battery
• Ideal for cutting longer branches
• Allows easy maneuverability

CONS

3. Best Electric Pole Saw - DEWALT 20V MAX XR Pole Saw, 15-Foot Reach

The BLACK+DECKER is our favorite pole as it checks all the boxes the best pole saws do - high extensibility, decent runtime, and comfortable use. It also has the right blade length and maximum cut diameter capability to prune small to medium-sized branches.

How We Chose The Best Pole Saw

Choosing the best pole saw can be tricky, especially if it's your first purchase. So, we look at some essential factors to ensure the correct selection every time.

Length of Cutting Bar

The cutting bar is the straight plastic or metal bar in a pole saw extending from the end of the pole. It supports the saw chain, driven by a motor or manual chain drive.

The cutting bar is vital in the pole saw's functioning as it provides support and stability for the saw chain. Its length will determine the maximum diameter of branches the pole saw can cut. Plus, the cutting bar guides the saw, preventing it from jumping off or binding the bar.

The length of the cutting bar depends on the brand and the specific model. Most cutting bars have a length of 6 to 12 inches.



Longer cutting bars are better if you want to cut thicker branches. But if you plan to prune smaller branches in tight spaces, opt for a smaller cutting bar length.

Branch Height

The branch height is an important consideration for choosing the best pole chainsaw. You must ensure that the branches you want to cut are not beyond the reach of the pole saw.

For instance, if you want to reach branches at a 12-foot height, you'll need a pole saw with an extension pole of that height. Most saws have a telescoping pole that can be extended. But ensure the extended height is at least a few inches more than your needs.

Also, if the tension pole extends too far above your head for long periods, it can cause fatigue. So, you should opt for a telescoping pole with just the optimal maximum reach.

Suppose your tree is 12 feet high. The best pole saw for you will have a maximum extension of 10 to 12 feet. It should also be adjustable so you can prune lower branches too.

If the extension pole is too short, you'll have to use a ladder to reach higher branches. That can be dangerous and time-consuming.

Job Duration

Make sure you know how to use a pole saw, and what you need a pole saw for:

• Tree Pruning: A pole saw can be used to remove overhanging or dead branches to promote healthy tree growth.
• Tree Trimming: Pole saws are some of the best tree trimming tools. You can use a pole saw to shape the trees for better aesthetics. Shaping also helps prevent the branches from obstructing or damaging nearby buildings and power lines.
• Landscaping: A pole saw can help remove unwanted shrubs or branches to improve the aesthetic value of your garden.
• Hedge Trimming: A pole can cut overgrown hedges to promote good growth.

Most of these jobs take 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the tree. But larger jobs can take a few hours, such as pruning a tall tree.

It's essential to choose the pole saw based on the job duration. If you plan to do longer-duration jobs, select a lightweight pole saw. It will allow you to work long hours without getting tired. Plus, make sure the pole saw has a decent runtime.

Use a chain-driven manual pole saw if you don't want to worry about the battery running out. But remember that these pole saws can be physically taxing since you need to operate the chain manually.

Or, you can use cordless pole saws for longer jobs as they are generally less heavy and don't require you to deal with wires getting in your way.

A pole saw with a short run time will be ideal for shorter-duration jobs. They are suitable in this regard since they offer 75 to 100 cuts per charge.

Weight

Types of Pole Saws

There are three main types of pole saws; gas-powered, electric, and manual. They all have distinct characteristics, advantages, and shortcomings. Learning how to use a pole saw has a bit of a learning curve but it shouldn't be too difficult for the average homeowner.

Gas Powered

Gas powered pole saws have a gasoline engine that provides the power the pole saw needs to operate. These pole saws typically have a chainsaw blade and a long pole that allows you to reach high branches.

The pole is often collapsible. So, you can adjust its length based on the height of the branches.

Most professionals prefer gas powered pole saws for longer run time. They are also more powerful compared to their electric counterparts. But these pole saws can also be noisier and heavier. You also need to maintain a gas powered pole saw for it to work efficiently.

Why Use Gas Powered Pole Saws?

• Power and Speed: Gas pole saws are generally powerful enough to cut through thick branches. They're also faster than manual chainsaws, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications.
• Versatility: Gas pole saws come in different lengths. Many also have additional tools, such as pruners and hedge trimmers.
• Mobility: Since gas pole saws are not connected to a power outlet, you can take them anywhere without maneuvering wires. That allows you to use these pole saws to cut branches in hard-to-reach areas.

An electric pole saw is a saw powered by electricity. Unlike a gas saw with a gasoline engine, an electric pole saw has a battery. The battery provides the power to operate the pole saw.

Most electric models have sufficient battery life to make 80 to 100 cuts per charge. The battery volt rating indicates the energy or electric potential it has. A higher battery voltage rating means longer run times and more power. 

The average battery voltage rating for electric saws is 20V. But you’ll find a rating of 40V to 80V in higher-end models. 

Electric saws are lighter than gasoline saws. They're also easier to use, making them suitable for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners. Most electric pole saws can perform basic yard work like tree maintenance, landscaping, and hedge trimming.

When choosing an electric pole saw, you should consider its motor power. The motor power is measured in amps and can range from 6 to 12 amps. A higher motor power value means the saw has a higher cutting power. 

Most electric saws also have safety features for safe operations. For example, they may have a chain brake that stops the chain if kickback occurs. 

There are two main types of electric pole saws; cordless and corded pole saws.

• Corded: Corded electric pole saws have a power cord that you plug into a power outlet. It provides continuous power to the pole saw as long as it's plugged in. But corded electric pole saws can hinder mobility since you must take the wire everywhere.
• Cordless: Cordless electric pole saws are powered by rechargeable batteries. These models offer more portability since you don't need to stay close to an outlet. However, you can only work with cordless pole saws for as long as the battery lasts.

Why Use Electric Pole Saws?

• Convenience: They minimal operational effort. One, you do not have to saw manually or use a ladder. Two, you don't need to use gas and oil.
• Lightweight: They are some of the best pole saws in terms of weight. That makes them ideal for long-duration jobs.
• Cost-Effective: Even the best battery pole saw will be more pocket-friendly than an average gasoline pole saw. These pole saws do not require oil or gas, reducing maintenance costs.

Manual

Manual pole saws do not run on electricity or gasoline. Instead, they are chain-driven. They contain a saw blade attached to a handle or a long pole.

The cutting blade is serrated or curved and allows you to cut through branches. Meanwhile, the long pole can be up to 20 feet long, letting you reach tall and thick branches.

To use a manual pole saw, you hold the pole in a comfortable grip. Then, you extend the blade to the branch you want to cut. Use a sawing motion to move the blade through the branch until it cuts right through.

Some manual pole saws come with telescoping poles. You can adjust the length of these poles based on how high or low the branches are.

Do not that manual pole saws require some skill and strength. Plus, you need to wear personal protective equipment to keep yourself safe from falling branches. If you're a newbie or your arm strength isn't great, a manual pole saw might not be your best choice.

Why Use Manual Pole Saws?

• No External Power Needed: When use a gas or electric, you need an external power source, such as gasoline or electricity. But a manual pole chainsaw does not require any of these. So, it's easier on the pocket and more eco-friendly.
• Easily Portable: With a manual pole saw, you do not have to worry about wires or a heavy engine. These pole saws are lighter and easily portable.
• Quiet Operation: Most pole saws, especially gas powered models, make a lot of noise when you use them. But manual pole saws operate quietly. That makes them good for residential areas where you do not want to disturb your neighbors.
• Affordable: Manual saws are more affordable than electric or gasoline saws. They're a good choice if you're on a budget but need a dependable pole saw.

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