10 Best 20-Inch Chainsaws of 2023

Photo: Shutterstock

The 20-inch chainsaw is one of the most practical power cutting tools on the market.

In fact, the bar length of 20 inches is ideal for cutting trees and branches of any diameter while remaining maneuverable.

Moreover, the chainsaw is very easy to use and extremely beginner-friendly.

Now, you do not have to pay hundreds of dollars for an arborist to cut your trees or branches. You can do it yourself!

Our 20-inch chainsaw review below contains a handpicked selection of some quality products. Let’s see which chainsaw you need to get!

10 Best 20-inch Chainsaws – Review

IMAGE	PRODUCT	FEATURES
	1. Husqvarna 455 (Durable & Long-lasting)	Durable and long-lasting High-performance motor of 55.5 cc Lighter than others at 12.8 lbs Comfortable handle and ergonomic design
	2. Remington RM4620 (Most Affordable)	Affordable and great value Comfortable handle with a thick foam padding Durable front guard for protection Requires only 1 yank for engine start
	3. Husqvarna 460 (Most Powerful)	The very powerful motor of 60.3 cc Excellent weight considering the performance Automatic oiler system for lubrication
	4. Echo CS-590-20 (Superior Performance to Weight Ratio)	Highly maneuverable Fairly lightweight at 13.2 lbs Beginner friendly and comes with a detailed user manual
	5. Craftsman S205 (Easy to Use by Absolute Beginners)	Easy to use by absolute beginners Ergonomic design to prevent fatigue Easy to perform maintenance
	6. Husqvarna 450 (Lightweight & Highly Maneuverable)	Very lightweight at 11.3 lbs Easy to maneuver Air filters do not clog easily
	7. Poulan Pro PR5020 (Excellent Price to Performance Ratio)	Great price to performance Emits 70% less toxic gases Efficient motor. Uses 20% less fuel
	8. Hitachi CS51EAP (Versatile & Heavy-duty)	Heavy-duty chainsaw Automatic oiler for lubrication Long warranty of 7 years
	9. Blue Max 8901 (Comfortable to Use)	Comfortable and ergonomic EPA approved. Environmentally friendly Contains 30% more chain teeth
	10. Tanaka TCS51EAP (Highly Efficient Motor)	Equipped with an efficient motor Does not suffer from downtimes Oiler system is easy to adjust

1. Husqvarna 455 – Durable and Long-lasting

Photo: Husqvarna

• Engine: 55.5 cc
• Weight: 12.8 lbs

The Husqvarna 455 is a performing and high-quality 20-inch chainsaw that is built like a tank. Indeed, this chainsaw is durable and can be used for heavy-duty cutting purposes.

One of the best things about this chainsaw is that it is equipped with a powerful engine of 55.5 cc. This engine makes this chainsaw powerful enough to be used in a professional setting.

Also, despite being this powerful, it still weighs only 12.8 lbs, which is lighter when compared to other models with similar or weaker engines.

Additionally, we like the fact that this chainsaw is equipped with an automatic oiler that will lubricate the chain while you are cutting.

And if you want to replace the chain, no problem. You can easily remove the chain from the bar using the easy to use-tensioning system.

When it comes to comfort, no problem there as well. This model has a comfortable and large handle that makes it a pleasure to hold and cut with. In fact, the whole design of this chainsaw is ergonomic, so it will help limit both hands as well as back fatigue.

If you are looking for a durable and long-lasting chainsaw for professional or amateur use, the Husqvarna 455 is an excellent choice. It is one of the most durable 20-inch chainsaws in this review.

The only problem we have with this model is that it is difficult to get a warranty. Also, it is quite expensive when compared to other solutions.

More Detailed: Husqvarna 455 Rancher Review

Pros:

• Durable and long-lasting
• Equipped with a performing engine of 55.5 cc
• Lighter than others at 12.8 lbs
• Comfortable handle with an ergonomic form factor

Cons:

• Difficult to get warranty
• It is expensive

2. Remington RM4620 – Most Affordable Solution

Photo: Remington

• Engine: 46 cc
• Weight: 16.6 lbs

Chainsaws tend to be expensive power tools that are outside the reach of many people who are on a short budget. Thankfully, there are products like Remington RM4620 which has a very attractive price.

Indeed, when based on price alone, this model is the best 20-inch chainsaw in this review. And despite having a relatively low price, it still packs some interesting features.

For one, this chainsaw has a decent engine of 46 cc. This is not the most powerful that you will find, but it is more than enough for casual use. Especially for cutting small trees and branches.

It’s also good to mention that the front guard of this chainsaw is heavy-duty and does an excellent job protecting your hands.

In addition, it has a large handle with a thick foam layer that is comfortable to hold. If you need to hold your chainsaw for an extended period, this is an excellent model because it will limit hand fatigue.

The only issues with this model are that you cannot use it for heavy-duty use because of its weaker 46 cc engine. Also, it can get hot quite quickly.

Pros:

• Most affordable chainsaw in this review
• Thick foam on the handle for comfort
• Solid front guard for protecting your hands
• Quick start system. Requires only 1 yank to start

Cons:

• The weaker engine of 46 cc
• Easily gets hot

3. Husqvarna 460 – Most Powerful 20-Inch Chainsaw

Photo: Husqvarna

• Engine: 60.3 cc
• Weight: 12.79 lbs

When it comes to power, the Husqvarna 460 is unbeatable. With its 60.3 cc 2-cycle engine, this model will be able to cut through any type of tree or branches with great ease. It can be used as a professional chainsaw for heavy-duty use.

And despite being so powerful, it is also not very heavy at 12.79 lbs. Which is truly remarkable. Additionally, it is equipped with a large front handle that is very comfortable to hold.

The handguard provides adequate protection from projectiles. We also like the fact that it is fitted with an automatic oiler system that will lubricate the chain while you cut for better efficiency.

When it comes to maintenance, no problem there. It uses a quick-release air filter system for easier maintenance. All in all, this model has a lot to please.

The only caveat we note with it is that the chain installation is difficult. Also, the user’s manual is not very detailed in case you are an absolute beginner.

Nevertheless, this unit is the most powerful 20-inch chainsaw in this review. We highly recommend it for those in search of a powerful and yet ergonomic model.

Pros:

• Very powerful with an engine of 60.3 cc
• Large and ergonomic handle
• Decent weight of 12.79 lbs despite its high power
• Automatic oiler system

Cons:

• The user’s manual is not very detailed
• Difficult to install the chain on the bar

4. Echo CS-590-20 – Superior Performance to Weight Ratio

Photo: Echo

• Engine: 59.8 cc
• Weight: 13.2 lbs

The Echo CS-590-20 is an excellent model when it comes to performance and weight. Indeed, with its weight of 13.2 lbs, it is very lightweight for a chainsaw. But it does not sacrifice performance because it has a large engine of 59.8 cc.

Another noteworthy feature is that this model is equipped with an anti-vibration handle that makes it more comfortable to hold for an extended period. And since it does not vibrate a lot, this increases your accuracy as well.

Best, if you have never operated a chainsaw before, then this unit is quite big enough in there. It comes with a detailed instruction manual on how to use it.

This model is most certainly the best commercial 20-inch chainsaw that you can get because of its powerful engine and lightweight. Of course, you can also use it for personal use.

However, a small disadvantage with this chainsaw is that the handguard is made from plastic and not very durable. Also, a few people have noted that they have difficulty starting this chainsaw after storing it for an extended period. You may need multiple yanks to get it started.

More Detailed: Echo CS-590-20 Review

Pros:

• Equipped with a powerful engine of 59.8 cc
• Lightweight at 13.2 lbs. Highly maneuverable
• Beginner-friendly. Comes with a detailed manual

Cons:

• The handguard is made from a thin plastic
• Sometimes has difficulty starting

5. Craftsman S205 – Easy to Use by Absolute Beginners

Photo: Craftsman

• Engine: 46 cc
• Weight: 17.7 lbs

The Craftsman S205 demarks itself from the competition by being extremely easy to use. So, it is an ideal model for absolute beginners who have never used a chainsaw before.

It is powered by a weaker engine of 46 cc. However, this engine is highly active and more than enough for casual use. It can cut any type of tree or branch of relatively small size with ease.

Moreover, both the rear handle as well as the front bar, are comfortable and ergonomic. You will not suffer from hand or back fatigue by holding this chainsaw for an extended period.

Also, when it comes to performing maintenance on this chainsaw, you will have no problem. Every vital part, like spark plugs or air filter, is easily accessible and does not require any tool.

All things considered, this model is one of the best 20-inch chainsaws for the money. The only problem we have with it is that it is a bit underpowered at 46 cc when compared to other models.

Pros:

• Easy to use by absolute beginners
• Ergonomic form factor. Does not cause hand or back fatigue
• Spark plugs and filters are easily accessible for maintenance

Cons:

• A little underpowered with an engine of 46 cc

6. Husqvarna 450 – Lightweight and Highly Maneuverable

Photo: Husqvarna

• Engine: 50.2 cc
• Weight: 11.3 lbs

The most distinguishing factor of the Husqvarna 450 when compared to other models in this review is its lightweight. Indeed, at 11.3 lbs, this chainsaw is the lightest as well as the most maneuverable model that you can purchase.

Despite being lightweight, it can still be used as a heavy-duty chainsaw because it is equipped with a powerful engine. The 50.2 cc engine will have no problem cutting through any type of tree or branch with great ease.

Additionally, it is equipped with a small engine system that does not require a lot of yanks. The overall design of this chainsaw is also excellent because dust and debris will not find their way in the air filter during operation.

Also, performing maintenance in this model is very easy because it uses a snap-lock cylinder cover system. Pretty neat!

The only problem we find with this model is that it may start leaking oil and fuel if it is used in an awkward position for an extended period. Other than that, this model is one of the best 20-inch chainsaws with its 11.3 lbs weight.

Pros:

• Very lightweight at 11.3 lbs. Highly maneuverable
• Equipped with a performing engine of 50.2 cc
• Efficient design. Air filters that do not get clogged
• He uses a snap-lock system for easy maintenance

Cons:

• It may start leaking if used in an awkward position

7. Poulan Pro PR5020 – Excellent Price to Performance Ratio

Photo: Poulan Pro

• Engine: 50 cc
• Weight: 15.5 lbs

The Poulan Pro PR5020 has one of the best prices to performance ratio so far. This model is equipped with a decent 50 cc motor that is powerful enough to cut through anything. It is one of the most competitively priced chainsaws that are equipped with an engine of this caliber.

What we like is the efficiency of the engine. It uses 20% less fuel and produces 70% less harmful gas animations, which makes this model very environmentally friendly.

We find an excellent built construction that is durable and long-lasting. You can use this model as a heavy-duty chainsaw. Also, the front bar is large and ergonomic, so it will not cause hand fatigue when used for an extended period.

Moreover, there is good air ventilation to the side of this chainsaw so that it can run cool during operation. And despite being one of the best professional 20-inch chainsaws on the market, this model still has a few caveats.

For one, it is more difficult to start than other models. It may need a few yanks. Also, the chain tightening system is a bit difficult and awkward to use.

More Detailed: Poulan Pro PR5020 Review

Pros:

• Superior price to performance ratio
• Efficient. Uses 20% less fuel
• Environmentally friendly. Emits 70% less harmful gases
• Good air ventilation for a cool operation

Cons:

• Not the best-tightening system
• A bit difficult to start

8. Hitachi CS51EAP – Versatile and Heavy-duty

Photo: Hitachi

• Engine: 50.1 cc
• Weight: 17.64 lbs

If you are looking for a powerful and heavy-duty chainsaw for a wide range of cutting applications, then the Hitachi CS51EAP is an excellent choice.

Indeed, this model is used by many professionals and considered one of the best heavy-duty 20-inch chainsaws on the market. It has a powerful 50.1 cc engine that will not stall when cutting any type of material.

Additionally, it is equipped with an adjustable oiler. This system will allow you to quickly and easily adjust the oil level on the chain. Best, you can also purchase this model in different sizes to suit your needs.

Above all, this heavy-duty chainsaw comes with a 7-year consumer warranty if you use it for personal use. Very impressive!

The only caveat with this model is that it heats up more quickly than average. It also suffers from frequent downtimes, especially if used for an extended period. This is mostly because of the excess heat generated by the chainsaw.

Pros:

• Heavy-duty. It can be used as a professional chainsaw
• Versatile. It can cut a wide range of trees and branches
• Easy to use adjustable oiler system
• Long warranty of 7 years

Cons:

• It can get a bit hot
• Suffers from frequent downtimes

9. Blue Max 8901 – Comfortable to Use

Photo: Blue Max

• Engine: 45 cc
• Weight: 18.19 lbs

If you are the type of person to use a chainsaw for an extended period, then the Blue Max 8901 is an excellent choice. This model is equipped with a large handle with a thick rubber coating on it. This makes it very comfortable to hold and will prevent hand fatigue.

Additionally, one interesting feature that we like about this unit is its highly efficient motor that, despite being only 45 cc, produces 35% higher performance. Also, this model has a quick start ignition system, so you will need only 1 yank to start.

Furthermore, it has an automatic oiler that will automatically lubricate the chain for you. Also, this model has 30% more teeth on the chain, which means that it can cut trees and branches more efficiently. Not to mention that this product is EPA approved, so it is environmentally friendly.

The only real problem with this model is its small engine of 45 cc. This is not the best 20-inch chainsaw for the money when it comes to performance. However, for small-time and casual use, it performs brilliantly.

Pros:

• Large and ergonomic handle. Comfortable to use
• Contains 30% more teeth on the chains
• EPA approved. Environmentally friendly

Cons:

• The smaller engine of 45 cc

10. Tanaka TCS51EAP – Highly Efficient Motor

Photo: Tanaka

• Engine: 50.1 cc
• Weight: 17.64 lbs

The Tanaka TCS51EAP is equipped with a 50.1 cc engine. This is not the highest performing engine in this review, but it is certainly one of the most efficient that you will find.

Indeed, the manufacturer has tweaked this model for maximum efficiency. So much so, it produces a clean glass output, consumes less fuel, and does not sacrifice performance for any type of cutting.

This unit has a short warm-up time, and you will not notice downtimes even under heavy-duty use. It has an adjustable oiler system for you to quickly and easily lubricate the chain. And it comes with an impressive 7-year warranty for personal use and 2-years for commercial purposes.

For safety purposes, the front guard is thick and heavy-duty. It will protect your hands against any type of projectiles while cutting.

This is no doubt a brilliant model and one of the best commercial 20-inch chainsaws that you can get. The only issue we find with it is that its price could have been a bit better.

Pros:

• The very efficient motor that consumes less fuel
• Short warm-up time and no downtimes
• Oiler system is easy to adjust

Cons:

• The price could have been better

How to Buy the Best 20-Inch Chainsaw

Photo: sawinery.net

1. Engine

The engine of the chainsaw is perhaps the most important component. It is part that provides torque to the chain area.

Consequently, you need a chainsaw that is fitted with an engine that is appropriate for your particular use.

If you need a heavy-duty chainsaw for heavy-duty cutting applications, then you need a chainsaw that is equipped with an engine of at least 55 cc.

On the other hand, for casual or small-time cutting, even if a 40 cc chainsaw will perform just fine.

In addition to the size of the engine, you should also consider its efficiency. Some models offer a chainsaw that has an oil-free design.

Which means that you do not have to perform regular maintenance on it. This is the preferred type of engine to choose in a chainsaw.

2. Bar Length

The bar length of the chainsaw usually dictates the diameter of a tree or branch that it can cut.

In general, a chainsaw with a 20-inch bar length has the sweet spot size for cutting any type of material, whether it is a small branch or a large tree.

3. Sturdy Design

You don’t want your chainsaw to break on you. Therefore, you must ensure that it is made from quality materials and sturdy enough when used.

Always go with a chainsaw that is made from metal and ABS plastic. This combination will guarantee that you have a durable and long-lasting chainsaw that will last for years to come.

4. Vibration

In order to get a more comfortable cutting experience with the chainsaw, it must not vibrate too much.

Many high-quality 20-inch chainsaws use complex technologies to dampen the vibrations produced in a wire cutting.

Check if the manufacturer makes any mention of vibrations and how they tried to minimize vibrations in their chainsaws.

5. Ease of Use

One of the distinguishing factors of the chainsaw when compared to other cutting tools on the market, is its ease-of-use.

Indeed, you do not need any advanced skills to operate the chainsaw. Even absolute beginners can start cutting like a professional right away with this tool.

A few factors that make the chainsaw easy to use are a large starting pull handle that requires few yanks for the chainsaw to start. Additionally, it must have a front handguard for protection while cutting.

It should also be equipped with a large rear handle as well as a padded front handle that is comfortable to hold and maneuver.

6. Maintenance

Performing regular maintenance on your 20-inch chainsaw is very important because it will make your chainsaw more long-lasting.

Therefore, you must choose a model that is easy to open and perform maintenance on.

For starters, ensure that it has an oil cap that allows you to quickly and easily drain the oil reservoir. Also, you should be able to easily replenish oil back.

7. Safety

Since the chainsaw can be a very dangerous tool, it must come with safety features like a safety switch and a front handguard.

The front handguard is a thick protector at the front of the handle that will protect your hands from projectiles.

As for the safety switch, it will prevent the chainsaw from starting when engaged. This is an excellent safety feature, especially if you have kids around.

Conclusion

For cutting trees and branches fast and easily, few cutting tools can match the performance of the 20-inch chainsaw.

This tool has the perfect bar length to cut both big and small-diameter trees while remaining maneuverable.

Moreover, you will save a lot of money by purchasing your own chainsaw as arborist services usually cost more than the price of the chainsaw itself.