Let’s agree that pruning without the right tool is just a mess!
Especially at my age, it’s nowhere near sensible to climb ladders and hack those branches. That’s why I decided to bring in an electric pole saw into my tools arsenal. And soon after, I hit a dead-end.
My search led me to hundreds of options, making it extremely difficult to decide on a model. So, I narrowed in on the top 5 products that are worth considering.
Howdy! I’m Stacy, and today, I’ve reviewed the 5 best electric pole saws that are making all the right noise. As a bonus, I’ve also answered some questions you may have before purchase.
Now, let’s get into the deets!
Best 5 Electric Pole Saw Reviews
1. Sun Joe SWJ803E Electric Pole Saw
The Sun Joe SWJ803E is a great option when it comes to electric pole saws. It’s designed to minimize the danger involved with trimming overgrown trees, especially for those hard-to-reach areas. But there are more user-friendly features that make it a customer favorite.
Product Highlights
One of the first things that grabbed my attention was the adjustable head mechanism. And if you have used an electric pole saw before, you’ll know that very few units offer this luxury. The head can be bent to an angle of about 30 degrees, thereby providing easy access to the difficult corners.
At the heart of it lies a robust 8-Amp motor that deserves all the credit for the power generated. In fact, it can easily cut through branches up to 9.5-inch thick, so you don’t really have much to worry about in terms of cutting capacity.
On top of that, the telescopic pole can be extended between 5.8 and 8.8-feet without disturbing the balance. But in case you feel the need for manual adjustments, the comfortable grip won’t allow hand fatigue to creep in. Similarly, the ergonomic handle integrates the safety switch to prevent accidental starting.
Overall, the Sun Joe SWJ803E makes for a deal that’s simply hard to resist!
What I like about it
Specifications mean little without performance, and this electric pole saw follows that to the tee. I had specifically asked my husband to leave the taller branches untrimmed for testing the Sun Joe SWJ803E, and the awkward angles didn’t bother me at all.
Not only does the 10-inch Oregon bar and chain engage on the press of a switch, but the auto-oiler keeps it lubricated throughout the use. For someone like me who hates maintaining tools, this is nothing short of a blessing.
What not to like about it
The one thing I can crib about is that the chain doesn’t come installed. It may be challenging to get the right amount of tension for making the saw fully operational. So, I’d advise reading the assembly instructions carefully beforehand. But, I don’t see any other reason why the Sun Joe SWJ803E doesn’t qualify as the best electric pole saw.
Pros and Cons of Sun Joe SWJ803E Electric Pole Saw
Pros
Cons
- [VERSATILE]: Ideal for cutting overhanging limbs and thin logs
- [TELESCOPING]: Pole extends from 5.8 ft. to 8.8 ft. for up to 15 ft. overhead reach
- [MULTI-ANGLE]: Head adjusts from 0degree to 30degree
2. Worx WG309 Corded Electric Pole Saw
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There can’t possibly be a list of outdoor tools without mentioning Worx, and what better than the WG309 Corded Electric Pole Saw to include. Featuring a compact and lightweight design, this versatile unit takes care of multiple needs without compromising convenience.
Product Highlights
Not that I don’t trust Worx, but the positive customer feedback really got me interested in trying this product even more. Similar to its predecessor, the 8-Amp motor makes it capable of trimming large trees and wide branches.
The 8-feet telescopic pole is further enhanced by a 180-degree rotating handle that controls maneuverability with ease. Simply put, you can turn the entire saw on its side without having to move your body. In the absence of an adjustable head system, I feel this design facilitates smooth access to those weird angles and seemingly difficult corners.
However, its biggest advantage is its 2-in-1 use. Apart from the pole saw, you also get a regular chainsaw for splitting branches on the ground. All you have to do is pop off the detachable pole, and voila, it transforms!
Long story short, the Worx WG309 brings two tools at the price of one and is worth investing in.
What I like about it
I have never been fond of complicated tools, and that’s where the Worx WG309 is so likable. Irrespective of the fact that it performs a dual operation, the mechanism is surprisingly simple. For instance, the auto chain tension prevents over-tightening for reducing pressure on the motor. And there’s nothing extra to do to achieve this.
While at it, I tried trimming and chopping the branches (on the ground), and the 28 feet/second chain speed is adequate for both the tasks.
What not to like about it
Nothing more than a couple of things. Firstly, fully extending the pole can sometimes obstruct the view of the saw head, making it slightly difficult to judge its movement. Secondly, the chain takes up to 5 seconds to disengage after pressing the on/off switch. Hence, I had to be careful to hold the position of the saw till it completely halted operation.
Pros and Cons of Worx WG309 Corded Electric Pole Saw
Pros
Cons
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3. Scotts Outdoor Power Tools PS45010S Corded Electric Pole Saw
Another one of my favorite corded electric pole saws is this model from Scotts Outdoor Power Tools. Sporting a familiar design, it’s powered by a heavy duty 8-Amp motor that saves you from the trouble of climbing ladders for pruning.
Product Highlights
Honestly, I was quite surprised by the similarity in specifications with the Sun Joe SWJ803E. For one, the adjustable head offers 5 cutting angles to choose from. Hence, the far off branches are no longer out of reach. Moreover, the 9.5-inch long pole extends up to 15-inch when held at the waist.
Additionally, it’s equipped with an automatic oiling system for hassle-free lubrication of the chain every time you switch it on. Just keep an eye on the oil level window for refill purposes, and you’ll be good to go.
It doesn’t have an automatic tension adjustment system per se, but you can adjust it merely with your hands if needed. And since the pole isn’t that heavy, aged users (myself included) won’t find it very difficult to manage the saw when you need to work with the chain.
Complete with a padded grip and foam clutch, the Scotts Outdoor Power Tools PS45010S leaves little room for complaint.
What I like about it
I was impressed with how easy it was to control the adjustable head by merely pinching two buttons. During a good hour of pruning, not once did I observe the saw to shift position. So, that saves a lot of time.
Furthermore, the pole is furnished with adequate padding to ensure a firm grip, no matter where you hold it. Likewise, the foam clutch makes the pole capable of taking a blow or two if it brushes any part of the tree.
What not to like about it
I’d have liked the chain to be of better quality as it may lose sharpness, especially with tough trees like hawthorn. Plus, the instructions don’t specify the size of the chainsaw file to be used. So, there’s a fair bit of trial-and-error involved in figuring a compatible file.
Pros and Cons of Scotts Outdoor Power Tools PS45010S Corded Electric Pole Saw
Pros
Cons
- Scotts pole pruner with a powerful 8-Amp electric motor for cutting tree branches and limbs around your yard; Fully extended pole is 9'5" long
- Tree trimmer pole saw with 10" bar and chain with 30 degree/3-adjustable cutting head angles; Includes a blade cover for protection and easy storage
- Corded electric chainsaw with a pole that features an automatic oiling system with oil level window and tool-free tensioner chain adjustment
4. Greenworks 20192 Electric Corded Pole Saw
If you’re among the lucky ones who don’t require extensive pruning, my next recommendation may just be your ideal match. The Greenworks 20192 Corded Pole Saw has all the advantages of its more powerful counterparts, only with less amperage consumption.
Product Highlights
Now, before I get into the deets, let me break any misconceptions you might have after reading the above statement. Its 6.5-Amp motor provides the pole saw with adequate power of going about the job with ease.
Although it’s typically meant for cutting small branches and limbs, I could trim some of the longer and heavier branches with only two rounds. Other than that, the 8-inch cutting bar and chain are made from high-quality material for a long service life.
Another feature that I feel will particularly help first-timers is the tension chain adjustment. But even someone experienced like me won’t mind not having to bring the saw down to tighten the chain. For this, you’ll find a plastic knob located just below the bar.
Finally, the 3-piece aluminum shaft can be extended up to 8-feet according to the desired height.
What I like about it
The overall quality of the pole saw assures longevity like nothing else. And despite being a novice at assembling tools, I could put on the extension pole without any help from my husband. So, installation isn’t a concern.
Much like the Sun Joe SWJ830E, the automatic oiler keeps the chain lubricated to prolong its service life. I’m not sure how much oil the chain draws, but I don’t think frequent refills will be necessary with light to medium duty workload.
What not to like about it
The aluminum pole is built quite sturdily, meaning it’ll invariably affect the balance when you extend it fully. To counter this, I’d advise holding the pole to a chest level, but again, that can put significant strain on your limbs. I also observed a little oil leak when the unit is idle and kept vertically.
Pros and Cons of Greenworks 20192 Electric Corded Pole Saw
Pros
Cons
- 6.5 Amp Electric Motor starts withing seconds and gets the job d1. 8-Inch Oregon bar and chain for trimming down limbs in hard to reach areas
- Easy adjust chain 10sioning system for quick tigh10ing of the chain
- Automatic oiler applies oil to the bar and chain to ensure durability and extend the life of the chain
5. Ryobi One+ Cordless Electric Pole Saw
Before I end the list, it only makes sense to include what I think is the best cordless pole saw for homeowners. The Ryobi One+ Cordless Electric pole saw delivers a powerful performance while dealing with intense pruning.
Product Highlights
It goes without saying that cordless electric pole saws are life saviors for compact lawns and patios. And contrary to what I’ve heard, these units are now way inferior in terms of torque generation. The 8-inch cutting bar is powered by an 18V battery to effortlessly cut through branches with diameters of up to 6-inch.
To take care of safety, the unit is equipped with a lockout button that prevents accidental starts. A heads up: this unit button must be depressed alongside the switch trigger to make the pole saw functional.
I also liked the brand’s attention to detail, viz., the shoulder strap. If you don’t feel like getting a carrying bag, the strap relieves your shoulder from fatigue when you’re on the move with the unit.
Don’t expect this Ryobi One+ Cordless Pole Saw to be completely noise-free. But having used gas-powered saws, the low noise operation was good for the ears.
What I like about it
With both the battery and saw attached at two ends of the pole, the unit weighs as less as 8 pounds. Furthermore, the even weight distribution aids in cutting thick branches without throwing the user off balance. I didn’t experience any problem with the grip either.
The telescopic pole can be extended between 6.5 and 9.5 feet, offering a total overhead reach of about 12 to 15 feet. In addition, the 2Ah battery can be used with other 40V battery-powered Ryobi power tools.
What not to like about it
There are a few things that can cause minor inconvenience. Firstly, the chain tends to lose tension frequently during continuous pruning, so make sure you tighten it when required. Plus, the brand recommends checking the oil indicator every 20 minutes for refill purposes. In hindsight, the chain appears to use more oil than regular.
Pros and Cons of Ryobi One+ Cordless Electric Pole Saw
Pros
Cons
- Brand New in box; The product ships with all relevant accessories
- Works with all Ryobi ONE+ tools and batteries
- BATTERY AND CHARGER NOT INCLUDED
Buyers Guide
I based my selection of the above-mentioned products on some crucial factors, and in the following sections, I’ll talk about those to help you take a pick.
1. Motor Amperage
Most people judge the power of an electric pole saw according to the motor amperage, and that’s not totally wrong. The amperage denotes the upper limit of the energy that the motor can absorb for generating power. If the motor exceeds the said limit, it’ll overheat and eventually burn out.
In this regard, low amperage motors have lower energy transmission limits and tend to heat up faster if overused. On the other hand, high amperage motors can absorb more energy and generate more power without overheating.
Unsurprisingly, heavy duty pruning is best done with an electric pole saw equipped with a high amperage motor, such as 8-Amp or higher. If you require occasional trimming, I’d suggest opting for a unit with a 6-Amp motor.
2. Cutting Head
The cutting head of an electric pole saw mainly has three variations- straight, bent, and flexible. Straight heads are ideal if you deal with trimming a lot of high branches on the crown section of the tree. Without one, you’ll find it difficult to position the saw for initiating clean cuts.
Alternatively, bent cutting heads will come in handy for slightly lower branches. Upon placing the saw on the tree branch, the gravity will make it easier to get smooth cuts.
And undoubtedly, flexible heads provide the best of both worlds. The range of adjustment and head position will depend on your requirement. Homeowners usually prefer models with up to 30-degree adjustments for having optimum positions and angles at their disposal.
3. Saw Size
There’s no rocket science here- a larger saw or blade will cut more wood, thereby saving more time. Moreover, you can also cut thicker branches with an 8 or 10-inch blade as compared to a 6-inch saw.
4. Telescopic Pole
Almost every electric pole saw on the market today comes with a telescopic pole. Much like the adjustable head, a telescopic pole design ensures that you can have the desired reach. I usually look at the overall reach than the extension range as it gives me a better idea of the height. For instance, an overhead reach of around 15 feet should be good for most tall trees.
That said, extending it fully can hamper your balance, so make sure it has a quality construction for maximum stability. At the same time, a heavier build will make it difficult to hold the pole saw for too long. I found the 8-pound poles to have the ideal mix of stability and comfort.
5. Grip
No matter how powerful the motor or how flexible the head is, your preferred electric pole saw will not yield satisfactory results if you can’t grip it properly. And with long hours of pruning, it’s not unusual to get sweaty or fatigued palms. So, do check out for features like padded grip and foam clutch to prevent it from slipping.
6. Automatic Oiler
Automatic oiler systems save you from the hassle of lubricating the chain after or before every use. Additionally, the oil level window will tell you when it’s time for a refill. However, there may be some leakage, especially while using the pole saw, which is nothing too alarming.
7. Corded Vs. Cordless
If you ask me, I’m slightly inclined towards the corded models because they have an uninterrupted power source. But cordless pole saws with powerful batteries can retain charge for a considerable time to help you get through the work without any break. Plus, they are great for smaller gardens.
Best Electric Pole Saw FAQs
Apart from saving you the trouble of climbing ladders for pruning trees, electric pole saws don’t emit hazardous fumes like their gas-powered counterparts. Not only do such models pollute the environment, but continuous exposure to all that smoke can have detrimental effects on your health. Besides, features like safety switches prevent accidental startup of the saw.
Since the pole needs to be held up straight, it sports a lightweight yet durable build that takes care of both balance and sturdiness. The most common materials include aluminum and fiberglass.
Even in case of cordless electric pole saws, the design is such that the pole doesn’t weigh too heavy with the battery on. This is one aspect that you should check before making the purchase. Anything above 8 pounds will tire your limbs way before you can finish pruning.
Electric pole saws don’t require as much maintenance as the gas models, but there are a number of things to be taken care of. The lubricating oil, in particular, can sometimes leak during operation or storage. And the chain needs sharpening depending on the intensity of use. Other than that, you don’t need to put in a lot of effort to keep it functional for a prolonged period.
Branches that have a diameter of more than 8-inch should be pruned by professionals for safety issues.
Our Final Recommendation
That brings me to the end of today’s guide!
But before I take your leave, there are two more things that I’d like to do. The first one is to advise you on not rushing through a decision. Carefully consider your requirements before you settle on a product- after all, why would you waste your hard-earned bucks?
And while you’re at it, allow me to assist you a step further by naming my top picks. The Sun Joe SWJ803E is my favorite corded model, and the Ryobi One+ Pole Saw has my backing in the cordless category.Â
Hopefully, I’ve been able to answer all your queries. Stay tuned for more such content.
Till next time, take care!