Cut Above the Rest: Reviews of The Top Pole Saws & Buyer’s Guide

Best Pick: Greenworks 8 Inch 40V Cordless Pole Saw with Hedge Trimmer Attachment

The Greenworks 8 Inch 40V Cordless Pole Saw gets our vote for the best pole saw on the market because of its versatility, ease of use, durable construction, and handy features that it offers. Of course, it functions as a standard pole saw, but it can also doubles as a trimmer. You’ll be able to keep your trees and hedges trimmed and your yard looking great with this single tool.

The Greenworks 8 Inch 40V Cordless Pole Saw with Hedge Trimmer Attachment is a multipurpose tool. It not only functions as a standard pole saw, but it can also be used as a hedge trimmer.

It features an 8-inch pole saw blade that can be used for pruning and trimming branches. The telescopic pole is feet to the long and can be extended to 8 feet, so that you can easily reach super high branches with ease. You’ll be able to clip branches without having to strain or worry about injuring yourself.

A 20-inch steel dual action durable blade, which provides optimal performance, and it’s powered by a G-Max 40V Lithium-ion battery system, which comes complete with a 2Ah battery and a charger. The battery has a run time of approximately 350 yards on a single charge. That’s a lot of yard that you’ll be able to cover without having to worry about stopping to recharge in the middle of the job.

Greenworks 40V 8" Pole Saw + Pole Hedge, 2.0Ah Battery (Gen 1)

• 40V COMBO KIT: This pole saw + pole hedge trimmer combo kit allows you to keep your trees and hedges trimmed and healthy, enhancing your curb appeal
• 8” BAR AND CHAIN (POLESAW): For easy trimming of branches
• 20” BLADE (POLE HEDGE): Dual action blade for optimal performance and trimming of tall hedges. 7-position pivoting head for trimming at multiple angles
• EASY ADJUST TENSIONING: For quick tightening of the polesaw chain
• AUTOMATIC OILER: Applies oil to the bar and chain to ensure durability and extend the life of the chain

$239.99

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It boasts an automatic oiler, which means that you won’t have to worry about the messy job of applying oil to the chain and you can be sure that the chain will always be properly lubricated. The oil tank is clear, so you can easily keep tabs on the amount of oil it’s holding and add more when you need to, which eliminates worrying about running out of oil while you’re in the middle of a job.

The pole saw also features an easy to adjust chain tensioning system, so you’ll always be able to enjoy optimal performance. A 3-piece aluminum shaft can be adjusted to a variety of lengths. Switching between the saw and the trimmer is a breeze; the attachments easily come off and connect to the tool so you can switch between jobs while you’re working in your yard.

Because it doubles as a pole saw and a trimmer, you won’t have to worry about purchasing two separate tools.

This Greenworks pole saw makes up to 60 cuts on 4×4 lumber, so you’ll be able to breeze through trimming and pruning. With an 8-position pivoting head, you’ll have no trouble tackling those randomly placed branches and limbs. Made of durable, yet lightweight material, this pole saw and trimmer combination is easy and comfortable to use for prolonged periods of time.

Overall, we were very impressed with the Greenworks 8 Inch 40V Cordless Pole Saw with Hedge Trimmer Attachment. This pole saw doubles as a hedge trimmer, eliminating the need for two separate tools. You can prune and trim your trees and hedges with this single tool. It’s durably constructed, works

Runner-Up Pick: Black and Decker LPP1200 20V Lithium-Ion Pole Saw

Our runner up pole saw is from Black and Decker, one of the most trusted makers of appliances and power tools.

Their LPP1200 20V Lithium-Ion Pole Saw is reasonably priced and packs a lot of power. It offers a great battery life and can easily cut through 100 pieces of 1 to ½ inch pieces of wood on a single charge. The pole is extendable; it stands at 6.5 feet and can be extended out to 10 feet with an overhead reach of 14 feet.

The Black and Decker LPP120 20-Volt Lithium-Ion Pole Saw is a cordless pole saw that is charged by a 20 volt rechargeable battery. The battery retains its charge for a long period of time; enough to cut through 100 pieces of wood that measure between ½ inch and 1 inch on a single charge; that’s a lot of pruning you can get done before you run out of power.

The 8 inch bar and chain has the ability to cut into branches that measure up to 6 inches in diameter, too; however, do note that when you’re cutting into thicker branches, you’ll run through the battery faster, as larger branches require more energy to cut through.

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BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Pole Saw, 8-Inch, Cordless (LPP120)

• BLACK+DECKER electric lawn and garden equipment including electric pole saw releases zero emissions in your yard, helping to reduce your carbon footprint.
• 20V MAX* Lithium Ion battery of the electric pole saw has a long lifespan and retains its charge 5 times more than similar Nicd batteries while idle.
• 20V MAX* Lithium Ion battery of the tree trimmer pole saw provides up to 100 cuts of 1 1/2-inch pine branches per charge.
• 8-inch cutting bar and chain allows for a maximum cutting diameter of 6 inch
• Center extension allows for a useable Length of 6.5 ft. or 10 ft. and provides overhead reach of up to 14 ft.

$162.82

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The pole stands at 6.5 feet, but it can be extended out to 10 feet, giving you an overhead reach of up to 14 feet. With that type of length, you’ll be able to reach those high branches with ease. With this pole saw, you will be able to get your landscaping done faster and more efficiently without having to exert a great deal of energy.

This Black and Decker pole saw features an inline power head, which allows for easy maneuverability and visibility while you’re cutting between branches. It can also be disassembled and it’s lightweight, too, which allows for easy storage and transport.

Budget Pick: WEN 4019 6-Amp 8-Inch Electric Telescoping Pole Saw

If you’re looking for a reliable pole saw that won’t break the bank, then the WEN 4019 6-Amp 8-Inch Electric Telescoping Pole Saw is definitely an option that we highly recommend.

Featuring a 6-amp motor, which provides enough power to rotate the chain 36 feet per second and a telescoping pole that can be extended from 5.3 feet to 7.3 feet and offers up to 12 feet of overhead reach, you should have no trouble keeping your landscape maintained with this budget-friendly tool.

The 8-inch Oregon saw chain can cut through all types of limbs and branches with ease. An automatic oiling system will keep the chain lubricated so you don’t have to worry about the mess.

A safety switch that can be adjusted for proper operation for both lefties and righties reduces the risk of accidents. There’s even a scabbard, which keeps the chain protected when you’re moving between jobs.

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WEN 4019 6-Amp 8-Inch Electric Telescoping Pole Saw, Corded electric - Black&orange

• Telescoping pole adjusts anywhere from 5.3 feet to 7.3 feet for up to 12 feet of overhead reach
• 6-Amp motor rotates the chain up to 36 ft per second
• Weighs in at a mere 6.7 pounds to limit user fatigue during operation
• Design allows for tool-free chain adjustments and emission-free operation
• Includes an 8-inch saw chain, a blade cover, a shoulder strap, and a two-year warranty

$56.89

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This pole saw weighs in at just 6.7 pounds and comes equipped with a shoulder strap, too, which will help to keep arm fatigue to a minimum. The intuitive design allows for easy chain adjustments and doesn’t require any tools.

It’s eco-friendly, too, as it doesn’t produce any emissions. A blade cover, a two year warranty, and a budget-friendly price tag round out the perks of the WEN 4019 6-Amp 8-Inch Electric Telescoping Pole Saw.

Considering the features that this tool offers and the price it’s sold for, we think that the WEN 4019 6-Amp 8-Inch Electric Telescoping Pole Saw is a great choice. It provides reliable power and can cut through all types of branches and limbs with ease – even super-high ones – with minimal arm fatigue. While it may not be suitable for commercial use, it should definitely get the residential landscaping done.

Sun Joe SWJ803E 10 Inch 8.0 Amp Electric Multi-Angle Pole Chain Saw

With the Sun Joe SWJ803E 10 Inch 8.0 Amp Electric Multi-Angle Pole Chain Saw, taking down those difficult to reach branches will be a breeze – and it won’t break the budget!

Featuring a telescopic pole that can be easily adjusted from 5.8 to 8.8 feet for up to 14 feet of overhead reach, you’ll be able to stand with two feet firm on the ground while you tackle those high branches.

The Sun Joe SWJ803E is powered by an 8 amp electric motor, which is combined with a multi-angle head that adjusts from 0 to 30 degrees and a 10 inch Oregon bar, this pole saw can cut through limbs that are up to 9.5 inches thick, making it ideal for cutting overhead limbs and thinner logs.

Thanks to the auto-oiler feature, you can have confidence knowing that the chain will always be properly lubricated, and peace of mind knowing that you won’t have to deal with the mess of having to manually oil it yourself.

Sun Joe SWJ802E 9 FT 6.5 Amp Electric Pole Chain Saw with Adjustable Head, Green

• [VERSATILE]: Ideal for cutting overhanging limbs and thin logs
• [TELESCOPING POLE]: Extends to 9.4 ft providing up to 15 ft of overhead reach
• [ROTATABLE HEAD]: Multi-angle head cuts at 0, 15 and 30 angles. 8 inch Oregon cutting bar and chain with automatic lubrication
• [POWERFUL]: 6.5-amp motor cuts branches up to 7.5-Inch thick. Oil Tank Capacity: 2 fluid ounces
• [CSA APPROVED]: Full 2-year warranty. Blade Length inches : 8. No Load Speed (rpm): 6000

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Since the Sun Joe SWJ803E is an electric pole saw, you’ll have a reliable source of power and you won’t have to worry about the hassle of refiling it with gas or battling with a pull chain to get it started. Just plug it in, press the start button, and the pole saw will instantly start up.

Another benefit of the electric operation: there aren’t any unpleasant fumes to deal with, smoke to choke on, or the added expense of tune-ups. To ensure safe operation, a built-in safety switch prevents accidental startup.

However, while an electric pole saw does have a reliable source of power, there is a downside; you do have to be connected to a power outlet, which can limit your movement, so it may be better suited for a smaller yard, and you do have to be mindful of the power cord so that you don’t trip over it.

These downsides aside, overall, we think the Sun Joe SWJ803E 10 Inch 8.0 Amp Electric Multi-Angle Pole Chain Saw is a great buy. It’s sturdy, reliable, powerful, easy to use, and affordably priced. It’s also backed by a two year warranty.

WORX WG309 8 Amp 10 Inch 2-in-1 Electric Pole Saw and Chainsaw with Auto-Tension

The WORX WG309 is a pole saw and chainsaw in one, and while it’s a bit pricier than other pole saws, when you consider the price of a stand-alone pole saw and chainsaw, if you need both tools, it’s actually more cost-effective than purchasing them separately.

Thanks to the robust 8 amp electric motor, this pole saw/chainsaw combo provides a reliable source of power; just connect it to a heavy-duty extension cord, plug it into a power outlet, and you’re ready to go!

There’s no need to worry about refilling it with gas, battling with a rip cord to get it started. However, do keep in mind that because you do have to be connected to a cord and an outlet, movement may be a bit constricted and it’s better suited for smaller yards.

Sale

Worx WG309 8 Amp 10" Electric Pole Saw

• [UP HIGH OR DOWN LOW] It’s really 2-tools-in-1: A pole saw for trimming branches from trees, and a regular chainsaw for projects on the ground.Please refuel before use, but oil is sold separately.
• [POWERFUL MOTOR] At 8 Amps, you’ll get consistent performance and reliability from this streamlined machine. Rated Voltage: 120V~60Hz
• [AUTO CHAIN LUBRICATION] The automatic oiler will always have the chain operating at peak efficiency, for faster, more controlled cuts
• [COMPACT and LIGHTWEIGHT] At only 10 lbs., this saw is designed to be held up high and to be maneuverable once it gets up there
• [DO IT YOURSELF. DO IT BETTER. DO IT WITH WORX.] WORX tools are engineered with cutting-edge technology, and above modern efficiency standards, so you can build a cost-effective tool collection that’s been designed to last

$99.99

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The 8 foot telescopic extension pole offers 10 feet of overhead reach, so you’ll be able to reach those high branches without having to stand on a ladder. Once you’ve finished cutting down your limbs, remove the detachable pole and you can use the tool as a standard chainsaw to cut through those felled limbs.

No tools are needed for chain tensioning, as this tool features a patented auto tension chain system means extends the life of the bar and chain, so you won’t have to chain them out as frequently as you would have to on other pole saws.

An auto lubrication feature oils the chain each time you use it, so the chain will stay properly lubricated without having to worry about the hassle or mess of manually oiling it.

An ergonomic comfort grip handle provides makes it easy to grip and is meant to prevent straining the hands; however, while it is advertised as being “lightweight”, it weighs about 10 pounds, so it can be a bit cumbersome, especially after extended use, and arm fatigue and neck pain could become a problem.

The handle rotates, too, which allows for more efficient pruning. The 10 inch bar can cut tackle limbs that measure up to 9.5 inches in diameter. With that said, however, the performance of the WORX WG309 8 Amp 10 Inch 2-in-1 Electric Pole Saw and Chainsaw with Auto-Tension is outstanding. Reliable power, minimal maintenance, great reach, and excellent performance, this pole saw is definitely worth considering, especially if you need a pole saw and chain saw.

While the price may be a bit higher than a stand-alone pole saw, since you get two tools in one, the higher price actually works out.

Pole Saw Buyer’s Guide

A pole saw (also referred to as a pole pruner) is kind of like a mini-chainsaw that sits on a pole that can be extended. This power tool is intended for landscaping purposes and is used to prune trees and hedges. If you like to do your own landscaping or you’re thinking about starting up a landscaping business, you’ll definitely want to have a pole saw in your tool box.

If you’re planning on purchasing a pole saw, it goes without saying that you want to be sure you purchase the best one for your needs. In order to do so, there are some important factors that you should take into consideration when you’re shopping. In this section of our guide, we highlight some of the key factors that should be considered before you commit to a pole saw.

The Type

There are three main types of pole saws: corded electric, battery-operated, and gas-powered; the latter two options are cordless.

A corded electric pole saw provides reliable operation, as you’ll never have to worry about running out of battery power or gas. However you do need to be sure that you have a direct power source to connect an electric cord to, which can limit your range of motion.

Additionally, the cord can be kind of a nuisance if you aren’t mindful. Battery-powered pole saws are cordless, so you won’t be tethered down to one location and can move around with ease.

On the downside, however, the battery does need to recharged and it could lose its power while you’re in the middle of a project. A gas-powered pole saw is also cordless, so you’ll have a great range of motion; and, of the three options, they’re usually the most powerful.

But, you do have to reload it with gas, which you could run out of in the middle of a job, and you’ll have to constantly purchase gas, which can become costly; plus, refilling it can be a bit messy if you aren’t careful.

To determine which type of pole saw will work best for you, consider your specific needs. Generally, corded electric pole saws are best suited for smaller yards, as you won’t have to travel far distances and can remain connected to your power source.

Cordless pole saws are best for larger yards, as you’ll be able to move about freely; however, battery powered models are best suited for residential use, as they usually aren’t as powerful as gas models, which is why gas powered pole saws are usually the best choice for commercial landscaping.

The Overhead Reach of the Pole Saw

The term ‘overhead reach’ refers to the length of the tool and the length of your arms. On average, the overhead reach maxes out at 10 to 12 feet; anything taller than that can be difficult to control and can increase the risk of injuries.

We suggest looking for a pole saw that features a telescopic pole, which means you can adjust the length and in turn, the overhead reach of the tool. Telescopic pole saws are more versatile than stationary models, so if you plan on pruning trees and shrubs of varying heights, a telescopic pole saw may be a better option for you.

However, be sure that you choose a model that features a powerful locking feature to prevent the pole from collapsing accidentally.

The Length of the Cutting Bar

A pole saw’s cutting bar length indicates the maximum diameter of branches that it will be able to cut through. Cutting bar lengths range from six to 12 inches, with eight inches being the most popular.

To determine what length you’ll need, consider the diameter of the branches that you will be cutting and choose a cutting bar that’s at least two inches longer than that measurement.

For instance, if you plan on cutting branches that are six inches in diameter, you would need an eight inch cutting bar.

The Weight of the Pole Saw

The weight of the pole saw is important. You’ll be using this tool overhead, and the heavier it is, the more muscle you’ll need to operate it and the faster your arms will tire out.

Pole saws can range in weight from around six pounds up to 20 pounds. Obviously, the lighter model, the less arm fatigue you’ll experience and the less elbow grease you’ll need to use to wield it.

Usually, gas-powered pole saws are the heaviest, and electric and battery powered models are lighter.

Features and Accessories

You’ll want to consider the features and accessories that a pole saw offers. Some are bare bones and just come with the pole saw and a chain; however, there are models that offer a variety of features and accessories.

For example, some models are self-lubricating, are outfitted with advanced safety features, and come with extra chainsaw blades, shoulder straps, and protective covers for the blade. Consider what type of features will best suit your needs when you’re shopping.

The Price

Lastly, it’s important to consider the price of the pole saw. These tools can range in price from under $100 to several hundred dollars. Usually, gas-powered models are the most expensive.

Additionally, those that feature a range of features and accessories tend to have a higher price tag. Determine how much you want to spend before you start shopping so you don’t over-extend your budget.

Pole Saw FAQs

In this section, we provide answers to some of the questions that consumers most frequently ask about pole saws.

What can I use a pole saw for?

A pole saw, as mentioned, is a power tool that is specifically designed to cut through the limbs and branches of trees and shrubs. These tools can be used for a variety of reasons, including cutting down overgrown or dead branches, trimming and pruning trees, and even brush clearing.

Why should I buy a pole saw?

A pole saw simplifies landscaping projects. Sure, you could use a standard saw to prune your trees, but the job will go a lot faster and will be a lot easier when you use a pole saw.

Can I use a pole saw while standing on a ladder?

While technically, you could use a pole saw while standing on a ladder, for your safety, this is not recommended. Pole saws are power tools that feature fast-moving chainsaws. To ensure the safest operation possible, you should stand on solid, stable ground.

How do I maintain a pole saw?

To ensure proper functioning, increase your safety, and extend the life of the pole saw, proper maintenance is essential. The blade does need to be lubricated regularly, otherwise it won’t move as easily and could become jammed.

We suggest looking for a self-lubricating model to simplify this task. You’ll also want to check the tool to make sure that all parts are tight and secure. Inspect the blade before each use to check if it needs to be sharpened or changed out. You should also wipe down the blade after each use to keep it clean.

Are there any safety precautions I should take?

As mentioned, you should stand on solid, stable ground while operating a pole saw. Other precautions that you should take to increase your safety include wearing protective gear, such as goggles, gloves, and footwear; make sure the ground isn’t slippery and that there aren’t any divots or ditches in the ground that you could trip in.

Keep a safe distance from the branch to avoid having it falling on top of you; make sure that there aren’t any obstructions in your path, such as wires or power lines.

Conclusion

With the right pole saw, you’ll be able to get your residential or professional landscaping jobs done with ease. If you’re shopping for a pole saw, it’s important to choose one that will best suit your needs. Whether you intend on purchasing one of the pole saws we recommended or you opt to buy a different model, be sure to take the above-mentioned factors into consideration when you’re shopping to steer you in the right direction.