The Best Pole Saws: Reviews of the Top Tools to Use
Contents
- Our Best Pole Saws Are:
- 1. Greenworks 20302 Cordless Pole Saw: Best Pole Saw
- 2. Remington RM2599 Maverick Gas Pole Saw: Most Versatile
- 3. Sun Joe SWJ800E Electric Pole Chain Saw: Best on a Budget
- 4. BLACK+DECKER LPP120B 20V Max Pole Saw
- 5. Oregon Cordless PS250 8-Inch 40V Telescoping Pole Saw
- 6. WORX WG309 8-Amp 10-Inch 2-in-1 Electric Pole Saw & Chainsaw
- Best Pole Saw Buyer’s Guide
- Gas, Battery, or Corded?
- Safety Features
- The Length of the Pole
- Cutting Bar Length
- Other Types of Saws
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: What Is A Pole Saw?
- Q: How Thick Can A Pole Saw Cut?
- Q: Are Pole Saws Safe?
- Q: How Do You Keep The Pole Saw Blades Sharp?
- Conclusion
- Sources
So overhead tree branches are messing with your home’s Feng shui: your garden is looking overgrown and you cannot see through your kitchen window. Instead of experimenting with chainsaws and stepladders, you intelligently decided that it is time to invest in a pole saw.
We compared six gas, corded and cordless pole saws on reach, bar length, weight and ease of use. Our buying advice at the end covers the main factors, plus the safety rules that matter most with a pole saw.
OUR TOP PICK
Our top pick for the best pole saw is the Greenworks 20302 Cordless Pole Saw. It is battery-powered, light at about 9 pounds, quiet and easy to handle.
Our Best Pole Saws Are:
| Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Greenworks 20302 Cordless Pole Saw | 1. Greenworks 20302 Cordless Pole Saw Top Pick | - Bar Length: 8.5 inches - Power Source: Battery-Powered - Weight: 9.2 pounds | Check Current Price |
| 2. Remington RM2599 Maverick Gas Pole Saw | 2. Remington RM2599 Maverick Gas Pole Saw | - Bar Length: 8 inches - Power: 25cc Gas Engine - Power Source: Gas-Powered - Weight: 17.5 pounds | Check Current Price |
| 3. Sun Joe SWJ800E Electric Pole Chain Saw | 3. Sun Joe SWJ800E Electric Pole Chain Saw | - Bar Length: 8 inches - Power: 6.5 Amps - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 7.7 pounds | Check Current Price |
| 4. BLACK+DECKER LPP120B 20V Max Pole Saw | 4. BLACK+DECKER LPP120B 20V Max Pole Saw | - Bar Length: 8 inches - Power Source: Battery-Powered - Weight: 9.3 pounds | Check Current Price |
| 5. Oregon Cordless PS250 8-Inch 40V Telescoping Pole Saw | 5. Oregon Cordless PS250 8-Inch 40V Telescoping Pole Saw | - Bar Length: 8 inches - Power Source: Battery-Powered - Weight: 13.5 pounds | Check Current Price |
| 6. WORX WG309 8-Amp 10-Inch 2-in-1 Electric Pole Saw & Chainsaw | 6. WORX WG309 8-Amp 10-Inch 2-in-1 Electric Pole Saw & Chainsaw | - Bar Length: 10 inches - Power: 8 Amps - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 10 pounds | Check Current Price |
1. Greenworks 20302 Cordless Pole Saw: Best Pole Saw
“The Greenworks Cordless Pole Saw is our favorite option for most people, as it’s effective, versatile, and easy to use.”
The Greenworks Cordless Pole Saw is our favorite option for most people, as it is effective, versatile, and easy to use. It runs on a 40V lithium-ion battery, so there is no fuel to buy and no cord limiting where you can work.
The Greenworks pole saw offers versatility in operation. You can adjust its reach from 8 feet with extension, to 5 feet without the extension. This means that you will always be able to set the optimal length for work on branches with varying heights.
Runtime depends on the battery size and the branches you cut, so a spare battery helps on big jobs. With no cord, it suits large yards.
It starts instantly with a trigger and is much quieter than gas-powered models.
“As this model is not corded but works on a battery, it provides a level of mobility that’s not an option with corded electric models.”
Check whether your kit includes the battery and charger; replacement 40V batteries are a significant extra cost.
The pole assembles without tools, and the oil tank is easy to check and refill.
Using the Greenworks will not be a hassle, as it is lightweight (weighs about 10 pounds), well-balanced, and the extension is super easy to adjust. This is a pole saw you can just pick up and set off to work!
Greenworks has offered a 4-year warranty on its 40V tools; confirm the current terms when you buy.
Specs
- Bar Length: 8.5 inches
- Power Source: Battery-Powered
- Weight: 9.2 pounds
Pros
- It delivers smooth operation and less noise
- Maneuverable, lightweight, and it gets the job done
- No fuel, no cord
- Auto tensioning system
Cons
- The oil reservoir is very small
2. Remington RM2599 Maverick Gas Pole Saw: Most Versatile
“This pole saw runs on gas, so it’s a great choice if you need a unit that can run for hours in areas that don’t have access to electricity.”
The Remington RM2599 Maverick is a gas pole saw with up to about 12 feet of reach. Because it runs on gas, it can work for hours away from outlets.
If you want to swap the saw head for a hedge trimmer or other tool, confirm attachment compatibility with Remington first. It is the priciest saw on our list.
Its 25cc 2-cycle engine handles thicker limbs. Like any 2-cycle engine, it runs on a gas and oil mix and needs a short warm-up.
“It comes with an auto-oiler, which ensures that the chain will be properly lubricated without you having to pay attention to it.”
This unit is easy to maintain and easy to use. It comes with an auto-oiler, which ensures that the chain will be properly lubricated without you having to pay attention to it.
At about 17.5 pounds, it is the heaviest saw here, so expect arm fatigue on long sessions.
Specs
- Bar Length: 8 inches
- Power: 25cc Gas Engine
- Power Source: Gas-Powered
- Weight: 17.5 pounds
Pros
- Most power of the saws here
- Runs for hours away from outlets
- Automatic chain oiler
Cons
- Some users find it hard to start
- Heavy, loud and needs mixed fuel
3. Sun Joe SWJ800E Electric Pole Chain Saw: Best on a Budget
“Although it’s quite affordable, the Sun Joe is powerful, easy to use, and durable.”
The Sun Joe SWJ800E pole saw is our most budget-friendly recommendation. Although it is quite affordable, the Sun Joe is powerful, easy to use, and durable.
The Sun Joe is a corded electric pole saw, so it is great for work around the house but limited by your extension cord.
The Sun Joe is quite easy to use. It is lightweight, but not in a cheap-quality sort of way. Extension and retraction are quick and simple, and the Sun Joe extends up to 8.7 feet, allowing you to reach branches up to 15 feet in height. You can still do this with the other models if you are tall enough, of course.
This pole saw is also easy to maintain. As is the case with the Remington Maverick, the Sun Joe has an auto-lubrication feature too, which makes maintenance and smooth operation a no-brainer. This unit is easy to adjust, assemble, and disassemble.
“The extension pole is quite rigid, and it doesn’t wobble even when adjusted at full-length.”
The extension pole stays fairly rigid at full length.
The Sun Joe runs on a 6.5-amp motor and is rated to cut branches up to 7.5 inches thick.
Specs
- Bar Length: 8 inches
- Power: 6.5 Amps
- Power Source: Electric-Powered
- Weight: 7.7 pounds
Pros
- It is super lightweight and convenient
- Automatic chain oiler
- Long reach for the price
Cons
- There are some complaints about the quality of the build
4. BLACK+DECKER LPP120B 20V Max Pole Saw
The BLACK+DECKER LPP120B is an affordable 20V MAX cordless pole saw. The "B" means it is the bare tool: the battery and charger are sold separately, and it shares batteries with other BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX tools.
An extension gives a usable length of 6.5 or 10 feet, for up to about 14 feet of overhead reach depending on your height. It weighs about 9.3 pounds, and BLACK+DECKER rates it at up to 100 cuts of 1.5-inch pine per charge.
The 8-inch bar cuts branches up to 6 inches in diameter. The in-line motor head is slim, so it is easy to see and maneuver between branches.
The box includes the pole saw with extension, a wrench, a blade guard and an oil bottle.
Specs
- Bar Length: 8 inches
- Power Source: Battery-Powered
- Weight: 9.3 pounds
Pros
- Long bar length to handle a variety of cuts
- Lightweight, with a reach of up to about 14 feet
- Up to 100 cuts per charge
- It is affordable
Cons
-
Battery and charger sold separately
-
The battery takes a long time to charge
-
Some users complained the battery discharges faster
5. Oregon Cordless PS250 8-Inch 40V Telescoping Pole Saw
The Oregon PS250 is a 40V cordless pole saw with an 8-inch bar. Its weight is well distributed, so it is easy to aim at almost any angle.
The short bar allows precise cuts on smaller branches. As a battery saw, it has no exhaust emissions and is much quieter than gas models.
Oregon has rated it at up to 500 cuts on 2 to 3-inch limbs per charge with its 4Ah battery. The shaft extends to about 10 feet, for roughly 15 feet of reach.
It starts instantly with no pull cord. With the battery, it weighs about 13.5 pounds, heavier than most cordless models here.
Specs
- Bar Length: 8 inches
- Power Source: Battery-Powered
- Weight: 13.5 pounds
Pros
- Balanced weight distribution
- Low vibration and noise
- It is very easy to start, with no emissions
- It comes with a compact cutting head
Cons
- The charger is a bit slow, but you can purchase an upgraded (faster) charger
6. WORX WG309 8-Amp 10-Inch 2-in-1 Electric Pole Saw & Chainsaw
The WORX WG309 is a corded 2-in-1 tool: use it as a pole saw, or remove the pole and use it as a small chainsaw.
It has an 8-amp motor and an automatic chain tensioner, which helps keep the chain at the right tension.
The entire unit is reasonably lightweight and it can extend up to 8 feet. With this pole saw, you can trim most trees without stressing your arms and shoulders, as it offers a reach of up to 10 feet.
It has a comfortable grip and a rotating handle. Never use a corded saw in wet conditions.
The 10-inch bar is the longest here, and an automatic oiler with a level indicator keeps the chain lubricated.
Specs
- Bar Length: 10 inches
- Power: 8 Amps
- Power Source: Electric-Powered
- Weight: 10 pounds
Pros
- Patented auto-tensioner that boosts operational lifespan
- Ergonomic and comfortable grip
- An auto oiler system to keep your chain and bar lubricated
- Doubles as a small chainsaw
Cons
- Limited maneuverability
Best Pole Saw Buyer’s Guide
Now that you have looked at our favorite pole saws on the market, you are trying to decide which recommendation is the best choice for you.
To make your decision easier, here are some things you should consider when choosing:
Gas, Battery, or Corded?
We included gas, battery-powered and corded models. Here is what each type offers.
Gas-powered pole saws are considered to be the most powerful, so they are a good choice if you are dealing with thicker branches. Gas pole saws also allow for mobility.
However, they produce exhaust, they are loud, they weigh more than electric pole saws, and they need fuel and engine maintenance.
“Battery-powered pole saws offer a great deal of mobility, while corded pole saws are the cheapest option on the market.”
Electricity-powered pole saws are more eco-friendly and economical, and in general are also cheaper than gas-powered saws. They are also much more lightweight and easier to use than gas pole saws.
The two types of electricity-powered pole saws are battery-powered and corded designs. Battery-powered pole saws offer a great deal of mobility, while corded pole saws are the cheapest option on the market.
Safety Features
To avoid accidents, you need to opt for a pole saw that comes with some basic safety features. For the safety of users, many brands are now including good grip handles, anti-vibration features, compact designs, and more.
All these factors help to make the tools safer. Safety should be one of your major concerns when looking for the best pole saw to buy.
Look for a chain brake or quick-stop, a trigger lockout and a scabbard for the bar.
No feature replaces safe habits. OSHA advises keeping at least 10 feet from overhead power lines, and making sure no tool or limb touches a line. A pole saw can conduct electricity.
Never stand directly under the branch you are cutting, and wear eye protection, a hard hat and gloves. Unplug corded saws or remove the battery before adjusting the chain.
The Length of the Pole
The length of the pole saw matters a lot also. The more the length of the pole, the higher your reach. If you want to cut or trim higher branches, then the length of the pole saw should be of high priority to you.
Most pole saws reach about 8 to 12 feet of pole length. Longer is not always better: a longer pole is heavier at the tip and harder to control, so pick the reach you need and check the balance.
Cutting Bar Length
You also need to consider the length of the bar and chain. The cutting bar determines the maximum diameter of the wood you can cut. Pole saws come with bar length from 6 to 12 inches. However, the most common on the market is 8 inches.
If you want to cut a branch with a diameter of 6 inches or less, then an 8-inch bar length can do the job. The length of the bar should always be 2 inches greater than the diameter of the branch you want to use it to cut.
Other Types of Saws
Meanwhile, check out our reviews of other types of saws for every application and budget! We have our roundup of chainsaws, both regular and electric ones, and our other top lists:
- For track saws, click here
- For table saws, click here
- For reciprocating saws, click here
- For scroll saws, click here
- For tile saws, click here
- For miter saws, click here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What Is A Pole Saw?
A: A pole saw is a gardening machine, which consists of a saw at the end of a pole. The saw is mounted at the end of the pole so that you can cut overhead branches that are difficult to reach. If you intend to cut bigger chunks of a tree, then consider a log splitter instead.
Q: How Thick Can A Pole Saw Cut?
A: A pole saw can cut branches that are between 6 to 8 inches in thickness, generally. There are some models that can cut thicker wood, too.
Q: Are Pole Saws Safe?
A: Pole saws are safe if handled correctly. Read the manual, wear eye and head protection, never stand directly under the branch, and keep the saw and pole at least 10 feet from power lines.
Q: How Do You Keep The Pole Saw Blades Sharp?
A: Clean your pole saw after use, and store in a dry, well-ventilated place. Keep your machine well oiled. When the blades start to dull, use a chain saw sharpener or file to refine the edges of the teeth.
Conclusion
We recommend the Greenworks 20302 Cordless Pole Saw for most people as it also offers the best value for your money. It is light, quiet and cordless, and with the extension it handles most backyard branches.