There are various power saws to choose from, and many of them will be suitable for more than one type of task. However, when you want to cut high branches on trees, a pole saw will be the best tool for the job.
These saws are mounted on long poles, greatly extending your reach while keeping your feet planted safely on the ground. A good pole saw can transform the way you work outdoors, but there are many different models to choose from and it is important to make sure you select one that is safe and effective.
To help you make the right choice, we have reviewed seven of the best pole saws that are currently available. We chose these saws for their cutting power, fuel source, and how much reach they provide.
- Lightweight at 7 pounds
- Beginner-friendly
- Telescoping pole
- 110 cuts per charge
- Weighs under 10 pounds
- Interchangeable battery
- 5-in-1 kit
- Includes protective equipment
- Very versatile
Product Reviews
Pole saws are among the most popular power tools for outdoor use, which means there are now many different models to choose from, made by some of the leading names in tools today. After a lot of research, we have reviewed seven of the best pole saws that are currently available, chosen for their user-friendliness, reach, cutting strength, and how they are powered.
Greenworks 20672 Cordless Pole Saw
Best Battery Pole Saw
This Greenworks cordless pole saw is powered by a lithium-ion battery, which should retain its charge for longer. Its efficient battery extends its running time, with Greenworks claiming that you can make about 65 cuts per full charge.
At 15.3 pounds, this pole saw is as heavy as some gas-powered models, which is unusual for a battery-powered saw. It has a 3-piece aluminum pole that can reach 8 feet, and an 8-inch cutting bar and chain for tackling thick branches.
It also has an automatic oiler that lubricates the bar and chain when required to preserve the saw for longer. Battery-powered saws are already low-maintenance, so this feature makes it even easier to care for.
What We Like
Automatic Oiler
This saw automatically lubricates its bar and chain with oil. The result is less wear and tear on the moving parts, and a saw that can operate more efficiently.
65 Cuts Per Charge
The manufacturer claims this saw will make about 65 cuts per charge, which should be plenty for most gardens. This long battery life means it is also suitable for removing thicker limbs.
3-Piece Pole
The pole comes in three sections, which enables you to choose the length you want. This is handy for adjusting the height from low to high branches.
Warranty
This Greenworks pole saw has an excellent 4-year warranty. That is twice as long as many of its competitors.
What We Don't Like
Heavy
This saw is quite heavy, especially for a battery-powered tool. At over 15 pounds, it weighs as much as some gas-powered pole saws.
Price
This pole saw isn’t cheap, which is probably due to its excellent battery and long pole.
Product Specs
Reach | 8 feet |
Pole Type | Three-piece adjustment |
Blade Size | 8 inches |
Weight | 15.3 pounds |
Suitable Uses | Medium size branches and general garden use |
Cost | $$ |
Warranty | 4-year |
Our Ratings
Sun Joe SWJ800E 8-Inch Pole Saw
Best Value for Money
This Sun Joe corded pole saw offers excellent value for money and is available for half as much as some of its cordless equivalents.
Despite its low price, it still provides plenty of features. It has a telescoping pole that extends to 8.7 feet, an 8-inch blade head, and a 6.5-amp motor that cuts branches up to 7.5 inches thick.
It also lubricates its blade automatically, significantly reducing the amount of maintenance it requires. At 7 pounds, this saw is about half as heavy as the average gas-powered model. It is protected by a 2-year warranty, so you will have plenty of time to ensure it works properly after buying it.
What We Like
Lightweight
This pole saw weighs just 7 pounds, which means it can be used for a long time without too much effort. As a result, you should be able to take fewer breaks, speeding up your work overall.
Low Price
This saw is very budget-friendly, so much so that we chose it as our best-value option. This makes it a great option for beginners or people who only need to do some light pruning without breaking the bank.
Telescoping Pole
The telescoping pole is easy to adjust and can be extended to give you a maximum reach of 8.7 feet.
What We Don't Like
Short Power Cord
The power cord is very short and Sun Joe recommends using an extension cable of no longer than 25 feet. This means you will be restricted in where you can use this saw, especially if you have a long garden.
Product Specs
Reach | 8.7 feet |
Pole Type | Telescoping |
Blade Size | 8 inches |
Weight | 7 pounds |
Suitable Uses | Medium size branches and general garden use |
Cost | $ |
Warranty | 2-year |
Our Ratings
Black + Decker Max 8-Inch Pole Saw
Best Electric Pole Saw
Black+Decker has been one of the leading names in power tools for generations, so it is no surprise that this electric pole saw lives up to that lofty reputation.
The pole extends to 10 feet, and the 8-inch blade can chop as many as 110 times between charges, using 1.5-inch pine branches as an example. This means a great deal of pruning before you need to recharge the battery.
This pole saw has a maximum cutting diameter of 6 inches, so it won’t be suitable for removing thick branches. However, it is a great option for general pruning in the garden.
What We Like
110 Cuts Between Charges
This saw can cut about 110 small branches before it needs to be recharged, which means less downtime. Its power efficiency also means you won’t use as much energy to charge the battery.
Lightweight
At just under 10 pounds, this electric pole saw is lightweight and maneuverable. You will be able to work for longer without placing a significant strain on your body.
Interchangeable Battery
The lithium-ion battery is interchangeable with other cordless Black+Decker power tools. This means you can swap in another battery if this one runs out, and any extra batteries you purchase can also be used for other B+D tools.
What We Don't Like
Battery and Charger
The battery and charger are not covered by the saw’s warranty, which is unusual as they are part of the product.
Build Quality Issues
This saw is affordable, but it seems Black+Decker has used cheaper materials in its construction, resulting in some durability issues.
Product Specs
Reach | 10 feet |
Pole Type | Telescoping |
Blade Size | 8 inches |
Weight | 9 pounds |
Suitable Uses | Medium size branches and general garden use |
Cost | $ |
Warranty | 2-year |
Our Ratings
Maxtra Gas Pole Saw
Best Gas Pole Saw
This Maxtra gas-powered pole saw is a heavy-duty tool that will tackle thick, dense branches. It has a 3.6-foot extender pole that can reach up to 15 feet. The blade can also be adjusted from 90 degrees up to 180 degrees, ideal for making awkward cuts.
The saw blade is 10 inches long and powered by a 42.7cc engine, enough to cut through tough wood. As it is a gas pole saw, you will have the freedom to take it anywhere. This makes it an excellent option if you have a large garden or need a saw for large-scale work.
What We Like
High Power
This Maxtra saw will rip through most wood and makes short work of cutting tasks. Its gas-powered engine is far more powerful than electric pole saws.
Go Anywhere
Gas-powered saws provide greater freedom than other power saws. You can take them to the far end of your garden, however large it is, or even to work in other locations. Unlike a battery saw, you won’t need to plug it in to refuel it, as long as you have a can of gas with you.
12-Month Warranty
A one-year warranty means you can buy this saw with confidence and ensure it works properly. Reviews also praise the quality of Maxtra’s customer service.
What We Don't Like
Price
Gas-powered pole saws are generally the most expensive type and this saw is no exception. It costs three times more than some of the other power saws on this list.
Product Specs
Reach | Up to 16 feet |
Pole Type | Rotating Extender pole |
Blade Size | 10 inches |
Weight | 22 pounds |
Suitable Uses | Medium-sized branches and more difficult cutting tasks |
Cost | $$$ |
Warranty | 1 year |
Our Ratings
Hosko Hand Pruning Saw
Best Manual Pole Saw
In contrast to the power saws we have reviewed, this Hosko product is a manual pole saw, which means you will need to use your arm strength to move it back and forth and cut wood.
As it is a manual saw, you never need to worry about it running out of fuel or adding to your electrical bills. It can be taken absolutely anywhere, making it very versatile. This versatility is enhanced further by the fact that the saw can be detached from the pole, meaning you won’t need to carry an extra handsaw for pruning.
This saw has a 22.8-inch pole, helping you reach high branches. It has a single-sided barb design for more efficient sawing, which is particularly important when you will be cutting by hand.
What We Like
Simple to Use
Using this manual saw is as straightforward as it gets. You can simply take it from the box and start cutting.
No Maintenance
Other than sharpening the blade occasionally, this saw won’t require any maintenance to keep it cutting effectively.
Detachable Saw
The saw can be detached from the pole, so you can also use it as a hand tool. The threads are universal and should fit any standard extension pole.
Won’t Malfunction
There are no moving parts, so you won’t need to worry about this saw malfunctioning. You should be able to use it for years to come.
What We Don't Like
Requires Physical Strength
Although this saw is lightweight, it requires physical strength and endurance to use as it is a manual saw. This means it won’t be suitable for people with limited strength and dexterity.
Slower Work Rate
As you are sawing manually, it is inevitable that you won’t be able to cut as quickly as if you were using a power saw. This shouldn’t be a problem for occasional cutting but could be an issue if you have a large garden.
Product Specs
Reach | 12 feet |
Pole Type | Telescoping pole |
Blade Size | 12 inches |
Weight | 4 pounds |
Suitable Uses | Small to medium-sized branches and general garden pruning |
Cost | $ |
Warranty | 100% returns policy |
Our Ratings
Maxtra Gas Pole Saw
Best Pole Saw for Thick Wood
This Maxtra gas-powered pole saw has a 10-inch saw blade and is capable of cutting through branches that are 7 to 9 inches thick, depending on the type of wood. It is mounted on an extender pole that can reach a maximum length of 11.4 feet letting you cut branches as high as 15 feet.
This saw will cut through the majority of tree limbs with ease thanks to its powerful 42.7 cc engine, which provides a maximum speed of 7,500 RPM.
What We Like
Cordless
Gas power means this saw can go anywhere, without needing access to an electrical outlet. On a full tank, it will keep cutting long after a battery would go flat.
Very Powerful
If you are struggling to cut a particularly tough branch, this powerful pole saw should make short work of it. With a 42.7 cc engine that produces 7,500 RPM, it should rip through even the densest types of wood.
Works Quickly
Gas pole saws are the best option when you want to make numerous cuts quickly. They make rapid cuts and will keep working for a long time on a full tank of gas, so you will be able to prune your garden in relatively little time.
What We Don't Like
Weight
The powerful engine adds weight to this pole saw, bringing it to a total of about 18 pounds. This is heavy even for a gas-powered saw, so it won’t be suitable for everyone.
Expensive
This saw is expensive, and it might be unnecessary unless you need one that can cut through the toughest branches. You are unlikely to need a saw this powerful for general garden pruning, so you could save money by choosing another option.
Product Specs
Reach | 11.4 feet maximum |
Pole Type | Telescoping pole |
Blade Size | 10 inches |
Weight | 18 pounds |
Suitable Uses | 6 to 9-inch branches and heavy-duty work |
Cost | $$$ |
Warranty | 1-year |
Proyama 5-in-1 Multi-Functional Gas Trimming Tool Set
Best Pole Saw for Commercial Use
This Proyama multi-purpose gas pole trimming set contains everything you need to shape trees, whether you are an amateur or a professional. It includes a hedge trimmer attachment, a pole saw, a string trimmer, and a brush trimmer.
You will even receive safety gloves, a face shield, a hard hat, and ear defenders to ensure you have the necessary protective equipment.
This saw has a 26 cc engine and a pole that extends up to 11.4 feet. The blade itself is a substantial 12 inches, so it should be able to handle whatever you ask of it.
What We Like
5-in-1 Kit
This kit is a complete solution for heavy-duty garden cutting and trimming. Whatever you need to do to your trees, this set should have an attachment that is suitable for the task.
Protective Equipment
If you are looking to start working as a commercial gardener or groundskeeper, this kit contains all the personal protective equipment you need. These include a hard hat, face shield, and ear defenders.
Excellent Value
You should be able to find this pole saw at a similar price to others in its class, despite having numerous accessories. This makes it an excellent option if you want a complete pole saw solution without breaking the bank.
What We Don't Like
Heavy
When mounted on its pole attachment, this saw weighs about 18 pounds. That is a lot of weight to carry around, especially if you need to work for hours at a time. Consider whether or not you are up to the task physically.
Confusing Instructions
This might not be a deal-breaker if you know what you are doing, but the instructions are not well translated into English. Considering how careful you need to be when using a pole saw, this could be a major drawback.
Product Specs
Reach | 11.4 feet maximum |
Pole Type | Telescoping pole |
Blade Size | 12 inches |
Weight | 18 pounds |
Suitable Uses | 6 to 9-inch branches and heavy-duty work |
Cost | $$$ |
Warranty | 1-year |
Our Ratings
Product | Best | Reach | Pole Type | Blade Size | Weight | Suitable Uses |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Greenworks 20672 Pole Saw | Battery | 8 ft | Three-piece adjustment | 8″ | 15.3 lbs | Medium size branches & general garden use |
Sun Joe SWJ800E Pole Saw | Value for Money | 8.7 ft | Telescoping | 8″ | 7 lbs | Medium size branches & general garden use |
Black + Decker Max Pole Saw | Electric | 10 ft | Telescoping | 8″ | 9 lbs | Medium size branches & general garden use |
Maxtra Pole Saw | Gas | 16 ft | Rotatable Extender pole | 10″ | 22 lbs | Medium size branches & heavier cutting tasks |
Hosko Pole Saw | Manual | 22.8 ft | Telescoping pole | 12″ | 4 lbs | Small to medium-sized branches & general garden pruning |
Maxtra Gas Pole Saw | Thick Wood | 11.4 ft | Telescoping pole | 10″ | 18 lbs | 6 to 9-inch branches & heavy-duty work |
Proyama 5-in-1 Gas Trimming Tool | Commercial Use | 11.4 ft | Telescoping pole | 12″ | 18 lbs | 6 to 9-inch branches & heavy-duty work |
What Are Pole Saws Used For?
Pole saws are power saws mounted on a long pole, giving them much greater reach than standard saws, particularly chainsaws. This makes them suitable for cutting objects that would otherwise be out of reach, particularly high branches, without needing to climb a ladder.
Using a power saw on a ladder is always dangerous, but particularly so when working outdoors on uneven ground. A pole saw also makes it possible for people with limited mobility to make cuts that would otherwise be impossible for them to reach.
Types of Pole Saws
You will have four main types of pole saws to choose from:
Electric pole saws are the most common type and can be found in garages and storerooms around the world. They are generally less expensive than other pole saws with alternate power sources and they emit zero emissions.
These types of pole saws are among the easiest to use. Simply plug them into an electrical outlet and you can start cutting.
Pros
- Convenient
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- Relatively safe
- No emissions
Cons
- Limited range
- Reduced power
- Suitable for light pruning
Battery
Battery pole saws are also electrical saws but they allow you to go anywhere, which is important for any outdoor tool. This is especially true if you have a large garden and it also means you won’t accidentally cut the cord or become tangled.
The only downside is that you will need to remember to charge the battery before you can use the saw. For this reason, it is a good idea to keep a spare battery charged so you won’t have to worry about running out in the middle of a job.
Newer pole saws typically use lithium-ion batteries, which are more efficient and can be charged faster.
Pros
- No power cord means a longer reach
- Can access distant corners of your garden
- Doesn’t release any emissions
Cons
- Batteries have a limited life
- Need to be charged frequently
- Battery increases the price
Gas
Gas pole saws are the most heavy-duty type, with greater cutting power and a longer reach. They are suitable for cutting through thick, tough branches and don’t need charging, which is why they are used by professionals working outdoors.
The size and torque of these saws make them the best option for serious garden work. However, their motors and gas tanks mean they are heavier than electrical saws, so they require some strength to use, especially for prolonged periods.
Pros
- Powerful
- Cuts thicker branches
- Can go anywhere
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
- Need to buy fuel
Manual
The manual pole saw is the safest, most eco-friendly type. It isn’t powered, so you will need to rely on your upper body strength to cut with it, which means these saws are more suitable for light pruning rather than thick tree branches.
There are obvious downsides of a manual pole saw; they can be exhausting to use and cut far more slowly than their powered equivalents.
Pros
- Least expensive type
- Very safe
- No fuel source required
- Can be used anywhere
- Very environmentally friendly
Cons
- Requires physical strength
- Tiring to use
- Slower cutting rate
- More suitable for small-scale pruning
How to Choose a Pole Saw
There are many pole saws to choose from, with varying cutting power and reliability. To narrow your search, you should pay special attention to the following aspects: