Pole saws are excellent tools for keeping your garden in order, allowing you to prune trees and trim large shrubs without leaving the ground. Basic pole saws have been in use for centuries but modern electric saws are far more user-friendly.
Powered pole saws are commonly found in the tool collections of professional gardeners and anyone else who needs to tend to a large garden. This means there are many different models to choose from, which can be overwhelming if you haven’t purchased one before.
To help you choose, we have reviewed five of the best electric pole saws that are currently available. We chose these saws for their reach, cutting power, cutting angles, and whether they are cordless or corded.
- 8.7-foot pole
- Auto-lubrication
- Cuts branches up to 7.5 inches thick
- Battery-powered
- Auto-lubrication
- Interchangeable battery
- 110 cuts per charge
- Weighs 9.06 pounds
- Interchangeable battery
- Cordless
- Weighs 10.03 pounds
- Removable pole
Product Reviews
There are many pole saws to choose from, each designed to excel at different cutting tasks. After a lot of research, we have reviewed five of the best electric pole saws you can buy today, chosen for their cutting power, portability, angle adjustment, and how far they can reach.
Sun Joe SWJ800E 8-Inch Telescoping Pole Saw
Best Telescoping Pole Saw
Sun Joe is one of the leading names in pole saws, offering products with plenty of power at reasonable prices.
This telescoping model has an 8-inch cutting bar with automatic lubrication. The pole extends to a maximum of 8.7 feet, which should give you a total reach of about 15 feet, depending on your height.
The motor generates enough power to cut branches up to 7.5 inches thick. This means it isn’t one of the higher-capacity pole saws on the market but it should be powerful enough for the majority of cutting tasks you are likely to encounter in your garden.
What We Like
Value for Money
Sun Joe offers various pruning saws at reasonable prices, and this model is no exception. It costs a fraction of some saws that perform similarly.
Reach
This saw has a standard reach, extending up to 8.7 feet. When combined with an average user height, this should give you a total range of between 14 and 15 feet.
Auto-Lubrication
This saw has a reservoir that holds 2.7 fluid ounces of oil. It automatically lubricates the chain, so you won’t need to perform as much manual maintenance.
What We Don't Like
Build Quality Issues
This pole saw is very affordable, which usually means sacrifices have been made in some areas. Its components are not of very high quality, with customer reviews complaining that it wears out quickly.
Underpowered
The 6.5-amp motor means this saw is suitable for lighter cutting tasks. You won’t be able to use it to tackle larger-scale pruning jobs.
Product Specs
| Weight | 7 pounds |
| Blade length (inches) | 8 |
| Extended length (feet) | 8.7 |
| Battery/corded | Corded |
| Amps/volts | 6.5 amps |
| Warranty | 2-year |
| Price | $ |
Our Ratings
Greenworks 20672 Cordless Pole Saw
Best Cordless Electric Pole Saw
This cordless pole saw uses a 40V lithium-ion battery that also powers various other Greenworks tools. The saw itself has an 8-inch bar and a 3-piece aluminum shaft that extends to a maximum of 8 feet.
The battery has enough capacity to deliver about 65 cuts between charges, and the saw blade is automatically lubricated to keep it running smoothly. Unlike some power tool manufacturers, who force you to buy a battery and charger separately, Greenworks has included both as part of your purchase.
What We Like
Battery-Powered
Choosing a cordless pole saw will give you the freedom to work anywhere. If you have a large garden or want to take your saw to prune trees in other locations, you will be best served by choosing battery power.
Auto-Lubrication
Proper lubrication will keep the chain moving smoothly, which will make the saw cut more efficiently. Auto-lubrication means you won’t need to take the time to do this manually.
Multi-Use Battery
In addition to sawing, you can slot this tool’s battery into any other compatible Greenworks tool. If you own multiple power tools from the company, this means you should never get caught without power.
What We Don't Like
Limited Runtime
Battery power is convenient but it also means you are restricted by the battery’s runtime. If you have numerous trees to prune, you might need to take some breaks to recharge your saw’s battery.
Price
This tool costs twice as much as some corded pole saws. Cordless saws are generally more expensive, usually due to how expensive their batteries are.
Weight
The added weight of the battery means cordless pole saws are heavier. This could be an issue if you need to use it for extended cutting jobs.
Product Specs
| Weight | 15.3 pounds |
| Blade length (inches) | 8 |
| Extended length (feet) | 8 |
| Battery/corded | Battery |
| Amps/volts | 40 volts |
| Warranty | 4-year |
| Price | $$$ |
Our Ratings
Sun Joe SWJ803E 10-Inch Pole Saw
Best Electric Pole Saw for Tree Trimming
This large Sun Joe pole saw makes short work of thicker tree branches thanks to its 10-inch blade. Its head can also be adjusted to reach branches that would otherwise be awkward to cut.
It has a powerful 8-amp motor, which will help it slice through branches up to 9.5 inches thick. This saw is also corded, so you won’t need to worry about it running out of power during use. This all adds up to create an excellent saw for keeping your trees under control.
What We Like
10-Inch Blade
If you want to slice through thick branches, you will need a large blade. This 10-inch blade is an excellent option, sawing through 9.5-inch diameter limbs with ease.
8 Amp Motor
This motor’s amperage means it provides plenty of cutting power. 8 amps will be enough for tough jobs such as pruning trees.
Adjustable Head
The head pivots up to 30 degrees, giving you a wide range of cutting angles. This also means you will be able to cut branches that would otherwise be inaccessible.
What We Don't Like
Build Quality Issues
Sun Joe saws offer excellent value for money but they are not premium-grade tools. Many customers have reported issues with the chain falling off or the motor burning out.
Product Specs
| Weight | 7.9 pounds |
| Blade length (inches) | 10 |
| Extended length (feet) | 8 |
| Battery/corded | Corded |
| Amps/volts | 8 |
| Warranty | 2-year |
| Price | $ |
Our Ratings
Black + Decker Max 8-Inch Pole Saw
Best Battery Life
Black+Decker has been producing tools for more than a century, so it is no surprise that the company makes excellent corded electric pole saws. The pole extends up to 10 feet and the 8-inch blade has a maximum cutting diameter of 6 inches.
This saw might not be suitable for thick branches but it is excellent for pruning a large garden thanks to its long battery life. It can make about 110 cuts on a single charge, as long as the branches are no thicker than 1.5-inch pine, so it is ideal for keeping on top of your garden work.
What We Like
110 Cuts Per Charge
On a full charge, this saw can cut 110 thin branches, so there will be very little downtime. If you don’t need to make any heavy-duty cuts, you will be able to get a huge amount of cutting done without stopping.
Lightweight
Weighing just under 10 pounds, this electric pole saw is lightweight and maneuverable. This is especially important as the saw’s long battery life means you might need to carry it for a long time.
Interchangeable Battery
The interchangeable Black+Decker lithium-ion battery can be used in the company’s other power tools. If you also own a hedge trimmer, you will be able to use the same battery for various pruning jobs using two different tools.
What We Don't Like
Limited Warranty
The battery and charger are not covered by the warranty, despite being included with the saw.
Build Quality Issues
Black+Decker has used less durable materials in this pole saw, presumably to keep costs down.
Product Specs
| Weight | 9.06 pounds |
| Blade length (inches) | 8 |
| Extended length (feet) | 10 |
| Battery/corded | Battery |
| Amps/volts | 20 volts |
| Warranty | 2-year limited |
| Price | $ |
Our Ratings
Worx WG323 10-Inch Pole Chainsaw
Best Electric Pole Chainsaw
This Worx chainsaw has a removable pole, so it can be used for cutting high branches, as well as lower branches and shrubs. This makes it one of the most versatile outdoor saws you can buy, even more than a standard pole saw.
It is cordless, so it can be used anywhere, which makes it an ideal choice for larger gardens and other outdoor spaces. The blade is auto-tensioned and self-lubricating, so it requires minimum maintenance, and the pole extends to a maximum of 8.75 feet.
What We Like
Cordless
The battery pack is interchangeable with other Worx power tools. When you have finished removing branches, you can place the battery in another tool and keep working. This means you won’t need to keep track of multiple batteries.
Lightweight
Although this saw set is heavier than corded models, it is light for a battery-powered saw, weighing just 10 pounds. It is over 5 pounds lighter than some other cordless pole saws we have looked at.
Auto Tension and Lubrication
Saw chains are prone to coming loose, so this model’s auto-tension feature means it will need far less maintenance. Its self-oiling feature also helps by keeping the blade moving smoothly, improving efficiency.
What We Don't Like
Limited Power
Batteries have a finite amount of charge, which can be a problem if you are working on large-scale tasks. You might need to buy an extra battery or stop working to charge occasionally. This is the biggest drawback of a cordless saw.
Build Quality Issues
Some customers complain that the oil tank is prone to leaking. This can make a mess of the saw and render the auto-lubrication feature useless.
Product Specs
| Weight | 10.03 pounds |
| Blade length (inches) | 10 |
| Extended length (feet) | 10 |
| Battery/corded | Battery |
| Amps/volts | 20 volts |
| Warranty | 3-year |
| Price | $$$ |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Weight | Blade length | Extended length | Battery/corded | Power | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Joe SWJ800E Telescoping Pole Saw | Telescoping | 7 lbs | 8 inches | 9 feet | Corded | 120V | 2-year |
| Greenworks 20672 Cordless Pole Saw | Cordless | 15.3 lbs | 8 inches | 8 feet | Battery | 40V | 4-year |
| Sun Joe SWJ803E 10-Inch Pole Saw | Tree Trimming | 7.9 lbs | 10 inches | 8 feet | Corded | 120V | 2-year |
| Black + Decker Max 8-Inch Pole Saw | Battery Life | 9.06 lbs | 8 inches | 10 feet | Battery | 20V | 2-year limited |
| Worx WG323 10-Inch Pole Chainsaw | Chainsaw | 10.03 lbs | 10 inches | 10 feet | Battery | 20V | 3-year |
How Electric Pole Saws Work
An electric pole saw is essentially a small chainsaw mounted on the end of an extendable pole. The saw itself is powered by either a battery or a cord connected to an electrical outlet. Both types have advantages and disadvantages.
A pole saw will help you reach much further than a normal saw, enabling you to cut large bushes and high tree branches without needing to climb a ladder. This makes them much safer, especially as you will be working with a power saw and stability is critical.
Pros
- Safe to use
- Adaptable
- Relatively affordable
- Easy to store
- Increases your cutting reach
Cons
- Specialist tool
- Limited power
- Unsuitable for thicker branches
How to Choose an Electric Pole Saw
Choosing the best electric pole saw requires thinking about your specific needs and how each tool will address them. Here are some of the main points you should keep in mind:
Double Check the Reach
When a manufacturer lists the reach of a pole saw, it doesn’t always tell the whole story. In many cases, the average user height is included, so a pole that is stated to have a reach of 15 feet might only extend to a maximum of 9 feet. Instead of taking the reach at face value, you should look for the pole length and add your height to it to determine how far it will actually reach.
2-in-1 Pole Saws
If you choose a saw that can be removed from its pole, it will be far more versatile and can be used for a wider range of cutting jobs. Not all pole saws have this feature and it is typically found on more expensive models.
You are unlikely to find a pole saw that can compete with the power of a standard chainsaw but it should still be strong enough for the majority of gardening jobs.
Adjustable Cutting Angles
Look for a saw that allows you to adjust the blade’s angle to reach awkward spots. This will allow you to cut branches that would have been impossible to access with a blade that only cuts in a straight line. Most adjustable heads can swivel up to 30 degrees.
Self-Oiling Chains
Like any machine, it is important to keep moving parts lubricated so they can move unrestricted and function smoothly and efficiently. Some pole saws have self-oiling chains, which means far less manual maintenance. You will still need to service your saw occasionally but it won’t be anywhere near as frequent.
Self-Tensioning Chains
Chain tension has a major impact on how your saw will function. It needs to be tight enough to keep it from falling off the saw during use but not so snug that the saw struggles to spin smoothly. Some saws have self-tensioning chains, removing the guesswork involved with tensioning them yourself.
Manual Versus Electric
Manual pole saws are much cheaper and you won’t need to worry about running out of power. The only maintenance they require is an occasional sharpening.
Although they don’t need as much maintenance, they require much more strength and stamina to use. Sawing can be challenging at the best of times and it is even worse when the saw is at the end of a pole. If you find sawing difficult, a manual pole saw probably won’t be a good option.
Reach Further
An electric pole saw is easy to use and, as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions, will complete the work of a manual pole saw in seconds instead of several minutes.
Reach
How long you need your pole saw to be will depend on the size of the plants you need to cut and how tall you are. If you can afford it and it isn’t too heavy, it is usually best to simply buy the longest pole saw you can. This means you won’t end up in a situation where you need to cut something that is out of reach.
Cordless Vs. Corded
Cordless pole saws give you the freedom to make cuts anywhere you need, without needing to stay within range of an electrical outlet. If you have a large garden or need to use your saw away from home, a cordless pole saw will be the more convenient option.
Pros
- Can be used anywhere
- Ideal for large gardens
- No trip hazards
Cons
- More expensive
- Heavier
- Limited battery life
Corded pole saws are the most reliable option. They don’t have limited energy, which means they won’t suffer any reduction in performance as long as they are plugged in. You will need to stay within range of a power source but this won’t be a major issue if you have a small garden, or you can simply use an extension cord.
Pros
- No loss of power
- Cheaper
- Lighter
Cons
- Limited range
- Trip hazard
- Needs a power source
Electric Pole Saw FAQs
What Are Pole Saw Shafts Made Of?
Most pole saw shafts are made of tubular steel or aluminum. Aluminum is lighter and more resistant to corrosion but both materials are lightweight and durable, which makes them excellent options.
You might find fiberglass poles on some cheaper models. These poles are lightweight but they are also less robust and could end up bending or even snapping over time.
Do Electric Pole Saws Emit Smoke?
If your electric pole saw is emitting smoke, something is wrong, and you should turn it off immediately. If you use your pole saw correctly and it is in full working order, you shouldn’t see any smoke at all.
Which Is Better, a Gas or Electric Pole Saw?
Much like deciding whether to get a corded or cordless saw, this depends on your specific needs. Gas pole saws are ideal if you are pruning a vast area, as they can be refueled quickly. They are also more powerful than electric saws, which makes them better for professionals.
The only downside of gasoline saws is you will need to purchase fuel and the unit requires more maintenance. You will need to consider the greater cost of fuel when buying one.
Corded pole saws are cheaper and have less power, so they are better suited to domestic gardens that require moderate pruning. You will need to accept that you are more limited in terms of what you can cut and how far you can travel with the saw.
What Is the Longest Electric Pole Saw?
As a general rule, electric pole saws are shorter than manual saws. An electric motor adds weight, which unbalances the saw and makes it less comfortable to use for prolonged periods.
For this reason, the maximum length of an electric pole saw is usually about 10 feet. Manual pole saws can reach as far as 21 feet, more than double the distance.
How Thick of a Branch Can an Electric Pole Saw Cut?
Electric pole saws can typically cut branches between three and eight inches thick. They are popular for quickly and easily trimming small branches on trees. They get their name from their long, telescoping poles which allow you to reach higher branches without using a ladder.
The thickness of the branch it can cut will depend on the type of electric pole saw you have and the power it produces. Most models can easily handle light to medium-sized branches up to 4 inches in diameter with minimal effort.
Larger branches may require more powerful models and more time to cut through them, but they can be trimmed easily with the right electric pole saw.
Do Electric Pole Saws Need Bar Oil?
When operating an electric pole saw, it’s important to remember that the bar and chain must be adequately lubricated to work properly. Without proper lubrication, the parts will wear out faster, making them less efficient and less reliable.
Bar oil is specifically designed for use on these types of saws. It should be used regularly to protect the parts within.
Most electric pole saws will have a built-in reservoir where you can add bar oil directly, which helps ensure that it is being evenly distributed and that your saw will continue to perform its best operationally.
Can You Use Electric Pole Saw in Rain?
Using an electric pole saw in the rain is not advisable, as this can be dangerous. The risk of electric shock or slip-and-fall accidents increases significantly when the saw is exposed to wet surfaces.
Water can seep into the casing and damage components, leading to costly repairs or even making the pole saw unusable. It’s best to save your pruning and trimming projects for dry days to ensure your safety and your power tool’s longevity.
How Do You Sharpen an Electric Pole Saw Blade?
Sharpening an electric pole saw blade can be done fairly easily with the right tools. First, remove the blade from the saw and then put it in a vice.
Next, use a round file or grinding wheel to sharpen the cutting edges of the blade until you get the level of sharpness you want. You can also use a medium-grit file.
Once you are sure that all teeth have been equally sharpened and that they all meet at the same angle, replace the blade onto the pole saw and securely fasten it in place.
Which Electric Pole Saw Is the Lightest?
The Sun Joe SWJ800E electric pole saw is the top choice for those seeking a lightweight tool. It features an 8.7 to 15-foot extension pole and a 6.5-amp motor that offers 000 rpm for effective cutting power.
With an 8-inch bar, it can take on thick branches easily and quickly and perform precision cuts where needed. It operates at 108 dB so it is no louder than other pole saws. At the same time, it provides plenty of power and ensures comfortable use.
Additionally, its auto-lubrication feature makes maintenance easy and helps the saw run smoothly over time. This product stands out among others and will deliver the results you seek in yard work.
