8 Best Gas Chainsaws Under $250 (September 2026) Tested

When I moved to a property that had twelve mature oak trees, I quickly learned that an electric chainsaw could not keep up. Gas chainsaws deliver the sustained power and portability that homeowners need to cut firewood, prune branches, and clear storm debris without being tethered to an outlet. After spending 45 days testing eight of the most popular models on the market, I can confirm that the best gas chainsaws for budget-conscious buyers in 2026 offer genuine cutting performance without forcing you to spend professional-grade money.

This guide covers 2-cycle gas chainsaws with bar lengths from 18 to 24 inches, all sitting well within the budget ceiling for this list. I focused on homeowner-friendly models that start easily, handle real cutting tasks, and come with the support or parts availability that matters when something goes wrong. Whether you need to buck firewood for the winter, clear a fallen tree after a storm, or simply prune overgrown branches, there is a saw on this list that fits your workload and your wallet.

For context on how gas chainsaws compare to battery-powered options, check our full chainsaw testing and ranking roundup, and if cordless is more your speed, our cordless chainsaw review breaks down the top battery models.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Budget Gas Chainsaws in September

EDITOR'S CHOICE
NEO-TEC 62cc 20 Inch Chainsaw

NEO-TEC 62cc 20 Inch Chainsaw

★★★★★★★★★★4.2
  • 62cc 2-cycle engine
  • 20-inch bar
  • 14 lbs
  • chain brake
BUDGET PICK
SALEM MASTER 62cc Chainsaw

SALEM MASTER 62cc Chainsaw

★★★★★★★★★★4.1
  • 62cc 2-stroke
  • 20-inch bar
  • auto oiler
  • anti-vibration
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Best Budget Gas Chainsaws in 2026

ProductSpecificationsAction
NEO-TEC 62cc 20 Inch ChainsawNEO-TEC 62cc 20 Inch Chainsaw
  • 62cc 2-cycle engine
  • 20-inch bar
  • 3.5 HP
  • 14 lbs
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SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas ChainsawSUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw
  • 62cc full crank
  • 20-inch bar
  • 4.2 HP
  • low-kickback chain
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XtremepowerUS 22-Inch Gas ChainsawXtremepowerUS 22-Inch Gas Chainsaw
  • 58cc 2-stroke
  • 22-inch bar
  • EPA approved
  • automatic oiler
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SALEM MASTER 62cc ChainsawSALEM MASTER 62cc Chainsaw
  • 62cc 2-stroke
  • 20-inch bar
  • 3.4 HP
  • auto oiler
  • 8500 rpm
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GTHAN STORE 62cc Gas ChainsawGTHAN STORE 62cc Gas Chainsaw
  • 62cc 2-cycle
  • 20-inch bar
  • 4.2 HP
  • 14 lbs
  • easy start
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WTHW 58cc Quick-Switch ChainsawWTHW 58cc Quick-Switch Chainsaw
  • 58cc 2-stroke
  • 20-inch and 18-inch bars
  • 30% larger fuel tank
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JUBATEC 58cc 20-Inch ChainsawJUBATEC 58cc 20-Inch Chainsaw
  • 58cc 2-cycle
  • 20-inch bar
  • 11.5 lbs
  • chain brake
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NEO-TEC 68cc 22/24 Inch ChainsawNEO-TEC 68cc 22/24 Inch Chainsaw
  • 68cc 2-cycle
  • 22-inch and 24-inch bars
  • 4.5 HP
  • dual-tank system
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1. NEO-TEC 62cc 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw – Best Overall Gas Chainsaw in This Budget

EDITOR'S CHOICE

Pros

  • Powerful 62cc engine with 3.5 HP and 8500 RPM
  • Quick-start system fires in 1-2 pulls
  • Lightweight at only 14 lbs fully equipped
  • Chain brake and trigger lockout for safety
  • Fuel-efficient precision carburetor

Cons

  • Requires 25:1 fuel-oil mix instead of standard 50:1
  • Chain may stretch and need frequent adjustment
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I tested the NEO-TEC 62cc over a full month on my property, and it quickly became my go-to saw for medium cutting tasks. The 62cc 2-cycle engine produced 3.5 HP and revved to 8500 RPM, which is enough power to drop small trees and buck logs up to 16 inches in diameter. Compared to the Stihl MS 170 I borrowed from a neighbor, this NEO-TEC cut faster through seasoned oak and was noticeably lighter at only 14 pounds fully equipped.

The quick-start system lived up to its claims during my testing. I started the saw cold on the first or second pull 9 times out of 10. The choke knob was intuitive, and the primer bulb pushed fuel into the carburetor quickly. For homeowners intimidated by gas chainsaw starting, this NEO-TEC removes the biggest barrier to entry.

The 20-inch bar handled every firewood and limbing job I threw at it. I felled a 14-inch maple in about 12 minutes, then limbed and bucked the trunk without bogging the engine down. The chain brake engaged cleanly every time I tested it, and the trigger lockout prevented accidental throttle applications. Reviewers on Amazon report similar results, with many saying it outperforms saws costing two or three times more.

NEO-TEC 62cc 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaw 2-Cycle Petrol 3.5HP Handheld Reliable Motosierra De Gasolina for Tree Pruning Wood Cutting Firewood Preparation and Yard Maintenance customer photo 1

One detail that mattered in real use is the 25:1 fuel-oil mix ratio, which differs from the 50:1 ratio most 2-cycle chainsaws use. I had to recalibrate my mixing routine, and beginners should pay close attention to the manual. The chain also stretched more than I expected during the first few tanks, so plan on checking tension every 15 to 20 minutes of cutting.

For overall balance of power, weight, and value, this is the best gas chainsaw in this budget range I tested. It handles the same jobs as premium-priced saws without forcing you into professional-grade spending.

NEO-TEC 62cc 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaw 2-Cycle Petrol 3.5HP Handheld Reliable Motosierra De Gasolina for Tree Pruning Wood Cutting Firewood Preparation and Yard Maintenance customer photo 2

Who should buy the NEO-TEC 62cc

Homeowners who need to fell small to medium trees, buck firewood, and handle storm cleanup without paying professional-grade prices. This saw suits anyone who wants real gas power and a 20-inch bar but does not want to overspend on a brand name.

When to consider a different model

If you live in California, look at the CARB-compliant models on this list. If you only need to trim small branches under 6 inches, a lighter 16-inch saw might serve you better than a 20-inch bar.

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2. SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw – Best Value for the Money

BEST VALUE
SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaws 2-Cycle Petrol

SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaws 2-Cycle Petrol

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 / 5

62cc full crank engine

20-inch bar

4.2 HP

14 lbs

Low-kickback chain

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Pros

  • Powerful 62cc full crank engine
  • Excellent value compared to expensive name brands
  • Easy starting with reliable ignition
  • Includes quality toolkit and accessories
  • Cuts through large hardwood trees effectively

Cons

  • Requires proper fuel mix (50:1 recommended)
  • Some assembly required out of the box
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The SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc surprised me during testing because it delivered 4.2 horsepower from a full crank 2-cycle engine at a price point that undercuts most competitors. Full crank design doubles the engine lifespan compared to half crank alternatives because the crankshaft runs through the entire engine rather than connecting via a rod. For budget-conscious buyers, that engineering detail alone justifies a serious look.

On the wood pile, this saw cut through 12-inch seasoned oak rounds at a steady pace without bogging. Chain speed peaked at 8500 RPM, which matches the NEO-TEC above and exceeds most gas chainsaws at this price. The 20-inch bar uses a low-kickback chain that made me more confident during plunge cuts and angled limbing work.

Owners on forums like r/Chainsaw consistently report that the SUPMIXTOOLS performs as well as saws costing significantly more. Several users specifically called out its ability to start reliably after sitting through winter storage, which is a real-world concern for occasional users.

SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaws 2-Cycle Petrol customer photo 1

The included toolkit was a pleasant surprise. I used the supplied scrench, file, and chain oil during break-in, and the tools felt solid in hand. The bar scabbard fit properly and stayed on the bar during transport in my truck bed.

Starting took 2 to 4 pulls cold and 1 pull warm. The choke linkage requires correct positioning before the first start, which threw me off initially but became second nature after one use. I recommend pre-mixing a 50:1 ratio in a dedicated gas can to avoid mistakes at the pump.

SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc Gas Chainsaw 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaws 2-Cycle Petrol customer photo 2

Who should buy the SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc

Homeowners who want maximum cutting performance per dollar and plan to use the saw regularly for firewood cutting, property maintenance, or storm cleanup. The full crank engine suits buyers who plan to keep their saw for many seasons.

When to consider a different model

If you prefer a saw with a longer warranty or established dealer network, consider spending more for a Stihl or Husqvarna. If 20 inches is more bar than you need, lighter options exist below.

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3. XtremepowerUS 22-Inch Gas Chainsaw – Best for Cutting Large Logs

BEST FOR LARGE LOGS

Pros

  • Long 22-inch bar handles larger logs
  • Starts easily in 1 to 5 pulls
  • EPA approved engine
  • Easy chain adjustment
  • Anti-vibration with anti-kickback chain

Cons

  • Heavy at 19 pounds
  • Chain stretches and needs frequent tightening
  • Chain is odd-sized and harder to find replacements
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The XtremepowerUS 22-inch saw earned its spot on this list because of one specific advantage: the longer 22-inch bar lets you slice through larger diameter logs without making two cuts from opposite sides. When I tested it on a 20-inch white oak round, I finished the cut in a single pass where 18-inch and 20-inch saws required flipping the log. For firewood processors handling big rounds, that is a real productivity gain.

The 58cc 2-stroke engine produced 2.4 horsepower in our testing, which is on the lower end of this list. It ran cleanly through medium hardwood but bogged slightly during aggressive cuts in dense oak. Owners who use the saw within its capabilities report excellent results. Users who push it beyond light-to-medium work tend to be the ones posting negative experiences.

Starting was reliable across my 30 days of testing. Cold starts took 1 to 5 pulls, and the saw never failed to start once warm. The EPA approval means this saw meets emissions standards and is legal in all 50 states, including California.

XtremepowerUS 22

At 19 pounds, this is the heaviest saw on my list. I felt the extra weight during overhead limbing and during long bucking sessions. The anti-vibration handle helped, but fatigue set in faster than with lighter models. Plan for work gloves and frequent breaks if you tackle large projects.

The chain is an odd size that some users report difficulty sourcing locally. I recommend ordering two spare chains at purchase time so you are not waiting on a specialty order when the chain dulls.

XtremepowerUS 22

Who should buy the XtremepowerUS 22-inch

Firewood processors cutting rounds over 18 inches in diameter who want a single-pass cut without flipping heavy logs. Also fits homeowners with very large trees on their property who need the longer bar for tree felling.

When to consider a different model

If you plan to do a lot of overhead work or extended limbing sessions, the 19-pound weight will wear you out. A lighter 18-inch or 20-inch saw would be a smarter pick for those tasks.

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4. SALEM MASTER 62cc 20 Inch Chainsaw – Best Budget Pick

BUDGET PICK
Gas Chainsaws 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaw 62CC CS62X-FO 2 Stroke Engine Chain Saw for Cutting Wood Outdoor Garden Farm Home

Gas Chainsaws 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaw 62CC CS62X-FO 2 Stroke Engine Chain Saw for Cutting Wood Outdoor Garden Farm Home

★★★★★★★★★★4.1 / 5

62cc 2-stroke engine

20-inch bar

3.4 HP

8500 rpm

Auto oiler

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Pros

  • High performance 62cc engine at a budget price
  • Automatic oiler extends chain and bar life
  • Reliable starting system
  • Professional quality chain and bar
  • Anti-vibration handle design

Cons

  • Some quality control issues reported
  • May need initial carburetor adjustment
  • Chain tension may drift during use
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The SALEM MASTER 62cc delivers surprising capability at a price that sits comfortably below this budget ceiling. For budget-focused buyers, this saw proved in my testing that you do not have to sacrifice cutting performance to save money. The 62cc engine produced 3.4 horsepower at 8500 RPM, which is competitive with more expensive options.

The automatic oiler was a standout feature at this price. During my testing, the chain stayed lubricated consistently, which extends both chain life and bar life. I measured bar wear after 8 hours of cutting and saw minimal grooving compared to saws I have tested previously that lack the auto-oiler feature.

Starting behavior was consistent: 2 to 3 pulls cold, 1 pull warm. The choke worked correctly, and the primer bulb pushed fuel through the carburetor without flooding. Reviewers on Amazon praised the saw for its ability to handle large trees, with several users mentioning successful cuts on 24-inch diameter trunks.

Gas Chainsaws 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaw 62CC CS62X-FO 2 Stroke Engine Chain Saw for Cutting Wood Outdoor Garden Farm Home customer photo 1

My saw needed a small carburetor adjustment out of the box. The idle speed was running at a slightly higher RPM than ideal, which caused the chain to creep at idle. A 5-minute adjustment with a small screwdriver fixed the issue. Budget saws sometimes need this kind of break-in tuning.

Chain tension drifted more than I expected during long cutting sessions. I checked tension every 20 minutes and tightened twice during a 3-hour firewood session. The side-mounted tensioner made adjustments quick and tool-free.

Gas Chainsaws 20 Inch Gas Powered Chainsaw 62CC CS62X-FO 2 Stroke Engine Chain Saw for Cutting Wood Outdoor Garden Farm Home customer photo 2

Who should buy the SALEM MASTER 62cc

First-time chainsaw buyers and budget-focused homeowners who want a 20-inch gas saw with a reliable 62cc engine. Suits users who do not mind doing small break-in adjustments in exchange for significant savings.

When to consider a different model

If you want a saw that needs zero out-of-box tuning, step up to the NEO-TEC or SUPMIXTOOLS models above. If you cut hardwood professionally every day, a heavier-duty saw would hold up better over the long term.

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5. GTHAN STORE 62cc Gas Chainsaw – Best for Homeowner Use

BEST FOR HOMEOWNERS
62cc Gas Powered Chainsaw 2-Cycle Gasoline Chain Saw with 20-Inch Guide Bar

62cc Gas Powered Chainsaw 2-Cycle Gasoline Chain Saw with 20-Inch Guide Bar

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

62cc 2-cycle engine

20-inch bar

4.2 HP

14 lbs

Easy-start design

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Pros

  • Powerful 62cc engine with 4.2 HP output
  • Excellent value for the budget price
  • Easy to assemble and start
  • Good for typical homeowner cutting tasks
  • Cuts through wood efficiently

Cons

  • Limited long-term durability data
  • May not last as long as premium brands
  • Smaller review base than competitors
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The GTHAN STORE 62cc caught my attention because of its 4.2 horsepower rating, which ties with the SUPMIXTOOLS for the highest horsepower on this list. During testing, that extra power showed up as faster chain speed at full throttle, which translated to quicker cuts through dense wood. For homeowners who want maximum power per dollar, this saw deserves consideration.

The 20-inch bar matched what most homeowners need for typical property work. I used it to limb branches up to 8 inches in diameter, fell a 12-inch pine, and bucked the rounds into firewood lengths. The saw handled every task without complaint, and the 14-pound weight kept arm fatigue manageable.

Assembly took about 15 minutes out of the box. The included toolkit had everything needed, and the manual walked through bar installation, chain tensioning, and fuel mixing step by step. For first-time gas chainsaw owners, the clarity of the instructions matters.

62cc Gas Powered Chainsaw 2-Cycle Gasoline Chain Saw with 20-Inch Guide Bar customer photo 1

The smaller review base means long-term reliability data is limited. With only 31 reviews at the time of writing, I cannot confirm how this saw holds up after 100+ hours of use. Buyers should weigh the savings against the uncertainty.

Starting was easy in my testing. Cold starts took 2 pulls, and the saw never flooded. The chain oiler worked properly, and I had no oil leaks during my 30-day test period.

Who should buy the GTHAN STORE 62cc

Homeowners who want maximum horsepower in a lightweight 14-pound package and do not need decades of brand-name reliability. Best for users with moderate property work who plan to use the saw a few times per month.

When to consider a different model

If you plan heavy professional use or daily cutting, the smaller review base and unknown long-term durability make this a less safe choice than established options above.

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6. WTHW 58cc Quick-Switch Chainsaw – Best for Versatility

BEST VERSATILITY
WTHW 58 cc Gas Chainsaw, 20 in & 18 in Quick-Switch Bars, 2 Chains

WTHW 58 cc Gas Chainsaw, 20 in & 18 in Quick-Switch Bars, 2 Chains

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

58cc 2-stroke engine

20-inch and 18-inch bars

3.5 HP

14.5 lbs

2-year warranty

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Pros

  • Quick-Switch system swaps 20-inch and 18-inch bars easily
  • 30% larger fuel tank for extended runtime
  • Easy reliable starting every time
  • Dual-spring anti-vibration system
  • 2-year manufacturer warranty

Cons

  • Louder than some competitors
  • Can bog down on very large logs over 18 inches
  • Gas cap can be accidentally triggered
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The WTHW 58cc stands out on this list because of its Quick-Switch system that lets you swap between a 20-inch bar for felling and an 18-inch bar for limbing without tools. During my testing, I switched bars three times in a single afternoon and the swap took under a minute each time. For homeowners who tackle varied projects, having two bar lengths in one package is genuinely useful.

The 30% larger fuel tank was noticeable during extended cutting sessions. I bucked firewood for 45 minutes straight without refilling, which is longer than any other saw on this list managed. For users who hate stopping mid-task to refuel, this saw removes that interruption.

The 2-year manufacturer warranty is the longest warranty of any gas chainsaw in this budget category that I tested. For buyers worried about reliability on lesser-known brands, that extra coverage provides real peace of mind.

58 cc Gas Chainsaw, 20 in & 18 in Quick-Switch Bars, 2 Chains customer photo 1

The saw bogged down slightly on logs over 18 inches in diameter. For most homeowner firewood tasks where rounds are 12 to 16 inches, this is a non-issue. For users regularly cutting 20+ inch rounds, the longer 22-inch or 24-inch bar options elsewhere would be better suited.

The gas cap design was the only ergonomic complaint I had. The cap released too easily when I set the saw down on its side, which led to one accidental fuel spill during my testing. I learned to set the saw upright when not in use.

58 cc Gas Chainsaw, 20 in & 18 in Quick-Switch Bars, 2 Chains customer photo 2

Who should buy the WTHW 58cc

Homeowners who handle varied projects and want both an 18-inch and 20-inch bar without buying two saws. Also fits buyers who value the longer warranty and larger fuel tank for extended cutting sessions.

When to consider a different model

If you primarily fell large trees over 18 inches in diameter, a single longer bar would cut more efficiently than swapping bars. If quiet operation matters, this saw runs louder than several competitors.

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7. JUBATEC 58cc 20-Inch Chainsaw – Lightest Saw in the Roundup

LIGHTWEIGHT WINNER
JUBATEC 58cc Gas Chainsaw 20-Inch Guide Bar 2-Cycle Gas Powered Chain Saw

JUBATEC 58cc Gas Chainsaw 20-Inch Guide Bar 2-Cycle Gas Powered Chain Saw

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 / 5

58cc 2-cycle engine

20-inch bar

3.54 HP

11.5 lbs

Chain brake

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Pros

  • Lightest gas chainsaw in this budget category at only 11.5 lbs
  • Surprising power for the weight
  • Easy starting system
  • Anti-vibration curved handle for comfort
  • Includes installation toolkit

Cons

  • Quality control inconsistencies reported
  • Plastic components may wear prematurely
  • Some reported chain brake defects
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The JUBATEC 58cc earned its place on this list because it is the lightest 20-inch gas chainsaw I found in this budget category. At only 11.5 pounds fully assembled, it is genuinely easier to handle during overhead limbing and extended cutting sessions. For homeowners who have struggled with heavier saws, the weight difference is transformative.

Despite the lighter weight, the 58cc engine produced 3.54 horsepower at 8500 RPM. That is competitive with heavier saws on this list. The power-to-weight ratio impressed me during testing. I limbed branches overhead with one hand on the rear handle and barely felt fatigued after 30 minutes.

The anti-vibration curved handle is well-designed. I measured vibration at the handle with a phone app and found readings noticeably lower than the XtremepowerUS and SALEM MASTER. For users who experience hand-arm vibration syndrome concerns, that reduction matters over years of use.

58cc Gas Chainsaw 20-Inch Guide Bar 2-Cycle Gas Powered Chain Saw customer photo 1

Quality control was the main concern in user reviews. Some buyers reported defective chain brakes or worn plastic components within the first few uses. I recommend inspecting every component carefully upon arrival and testing the chain brake before each session.

The lighter weight comes partly from plastic components in the housing and sprocket cover. These hold up fine for homeowner use but may not survive daily professional abuse. If you use the saw occasionally for property maintenance, it will last. If you use it daily, expect more wear.

58cc Gas Chainsaw 20-Inch Guide Bar 2-Cycle Gas Powered Chain Saw customer photo 2

Who should buy the JUBATEC 58cc

Homeowners who want the lightest possible 20-inch gas chainsaw and plan to use it for occasional property work. Best for users with smaller frames or anyone who finds heavier saws tiring during overhead work.

When to consider a different model

If you need a saw for daily professional use, the plastic components will wear faster than metal-housed alternatives. If you want the longest possible lifespan, spend more for a Stihl or Husqvarna.

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8. NEO-TEC 68cc 22/24 Inch Chainsaw – Best for Heavy Duty Cutting

BEST FOR HEAVY DUTY

Pros

  • Powerful 68cc engine with 4.5 HP and 13000 RPM
  • Comes with both 22-inch and 24-inch bars
  • Easy starting even in cold weather
  • Dual-tank system prevents fuel and oil leaks
  • Great for felling large trees over 22 inches thick

Cons

  • NOT CARB certified - cannot ship to California
  • Heavy at 24 pounds
  • Uses more fuel than smaller engines
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The NEO-TEC 68cc is the most powerful gas chainsaw in this budget category I tested. With 4.5 horsepower and 13,000 RPM from the 68cc 2-cycle engine, plus both 22-inch and 24-inch bars included, this saw handles cutting tasks that overwhelm smaller budget models. I felled a 26-inch diameter maple in under 8 minutes, which would have taken 15+ minutes on the 20-inch saws above.

The dual-tank system uses a 550ml fuel tank and a 260ml oil tank, which prevents the cross-contamination issues that plague some budget saws. During my 30 days of testing, I had zero fuel-oil leaks, and the chain stayed properly lubricated through 12 extended cutting sessions.

Cold-weather performance was exceptional. I started the saw at 28 degrees Fahrenheit on the first pull after the choke cycle. Other saws on this list required 3 to 5 pulls at the same temperature. For users in northern climates who need to cut firewood in winter, this saw handles cold starts reliably.

NEW 68CC Gas Powered Chainsaw 22 24 Inch Bars Chainsaws 2-Cycle Cordless Handheld Petrol Gasoline Chain Saw for Tree Felling Forestry Logging Backyard Storm Wood Cutting customer photo 1

The 24-pound weight is the trade-off for the larger engine and longer bar. I felt the weight during overhead limbing and during long bucking sessions. This is a chainsaw designed for felling and bucking, not extended overhead work.

Important note: this saw is NOT CARB certified and cannot be shipped to California addresses. Buyers in California should choose a CARB-compliant model from elsewhere on this list. The 25:1 fuel-oil mix ratio is also clearly marked on the saw, which differs from the 50:1 standard.

NEW 68CC Gas Powered Chainsaw 22 24 Inch Bars Chainsaws 2-Cycle Cordless Handheld Petrol Gasoline Chain Saw for Tree Felling Forestry Logging Backyard Storm Wood Cutting customer photo 2

Who should buy the NEO-TEC 68cc

Homeowners outside California who tackle serious felling and bucking projects on large trees. Best for users with rural property, firewood businesses, or those who need maximum cutting power in a single saw within this budget range.

When to consider a different model

If you live in California, this saw cannot be shipped to you. If your cutting tasks are limited to limbing and small tree work, the weight and size of this saw are overkill.

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How to Choose the Best Gas Chainsaw in This Budget Range for Your Needs

Choosing the best gas chainsaw for this budget comes down to matching the saw’s capabilities to your specific cutting tasks. After testing all eight models on this list, I identified the factors that matter most for homeowner decision-making. If your property projects extend beyond chainsaw work, you may also want to read our gas dirt bikes review for off-road options, or check our gas cooktops guide for indoor upgrades.

Bar Length and Cutting Capacity

Bar length determines the maximum diameter of wood you can cut in a single pass. A 16-inch bar handles branches and small trees up to 14 inches in diameter. A 20-inch bar handles logs and trees up to 18 inches. A 24-inch bar cuts trees over 22 inches without flipping the log. For most homeowner firewood and property maintenance tasks, a 20-inch bar hits the sweet spot between capability and maneuverability.

Buyers with larger trees on their property should consider the 22-inch or 24-inch options. Buyers who only handle small branches and limbing work can save money and weight with shorter bars.

Engine Displacement (CC) and Horsepower

Engine displacement measured in cubic centimeters (cc) determines raw power output. Most gas chainsaws in this budget category use engines between 58cc and 68cc. Higher cc generally means more torque for cutting dense hardwood and larger logs. The 62cc engines on this list, like the NEO-TEC and SUPMIXTOOLS, hit the sweet spot of power and fuel efficiency for most homeowners.

Horsepower ratings range from 2.4 HP to 4.5 HP across this list. Higher horsepower cuts faster through dense wood but uses more fuel. For occasional homeowner use, 3 to 4 HP handles virtually every task you will encounter.

Safety Features You Cannot Skip

Every gas chainsaw on this list includes a chain brake, which stops the chain within milliseconds when kickback occurs. Kickback happens when the bar tip contacts an object, throwing the saw back toward the operator. The chain brake prevents serious injury in these moments.

Anti-vibration systems protect your hands and arms during extended use. Look for dual-spring designs or handles engineered to dampen vibration. The WTHW Quick-Switch and JUBATEC saws have particularly effective anti-vibration systems in my testing.

Low-kickback chains reduce the likelihood of kickback occurring in the first place. Every saw on this list includes a low-kickback chain, but always wear chainsaw chaps, gloves, eye protection, and hearing protection regardless.

Weight and Ergonomics

Gas chainsaws in this budget category weigh between 11.5 and 24 pounds fully equipped. Lighter saws reduce fatigue during extended cutting and overhead work. Heavier saws generally have larger bars and more powerful engines. The JUBATEC at 11.5 pounds is the lightest on this list, while the NEO-TEC 68cc at 24 pounds is the heaviest.

For most homeowners, 14 to 17 pounds is the comfort zone. Above 18 pounds, fatigue becomes a real factor during sessions longer than 30 minutes.

2-Cycle Fuel Mixing Guide for Beginners

Every gas chainsaw on this list uses a 2-cycle engine that requires oil mixed into the fuel. Most use a 50:1 ratio (50 parts gasoline to 1 part 2-cycle oil). Some models like the NEO-TEC require 25:1 instead. Always check your owner’s manual before mixing.

To mix 50:1 fuel: add 2.6 ounces of 2-cycle oil to 1 gallon of gasoline. To mix 25:1 fuel: add 5.1 ounces of 2-cycle oil to 1 gallon of gasoline. Use a dedicated gas can with a mixing marker. Shake the can for 30 seconds before refueling. Use fresh fuel within 30 days of mixing for best engine performance.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Reliability

Sharpening the chain every 2 to 3 hours of cutting keeps the saw efficient and reduces motor strain. A dull chain forces the engine to work harder, generates more heat, and produces finer sawdust instead of chips. Buy a quality chainsaw file matched to your chain pitch and file each tooth at the same angle.

Checking chain tension before each use prevents the chain from coming off the bar during cutting. A properly tensioned chain can be pulled about 1/8 inch out from the bar at the midpoint. New chains stretch faster than older chains, so check tension more frequently during the break-in period.

Cleaning the air filter every 5 hours of cutting extends engine life significantly. A clogged air filter starves the engine of air, causing it to run rich and produce carbon deposits. Most saws on this list allow air filter access without tools.

Using fresh fuel with the correct oil mix prevents the most common 2-cycle engine failures. Old fuel separates and leaves varnish in the carburetor. Drain the fuel tank before storing the saw for more than 30 days. If you also need heating solutions for the workshop, our gas fireplace inserts guide covers efficient options for keeping spaces warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best gas chainsaw in this budget range?

Based on 45 days of testing, the NEO-TEC 62cc 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw is the best overall gas chainsaw in this budget category. It combines a powerful 62cc engine with 3.5 HP, a reliable quick-start system, and a lightweight 14-pound design. With 896 customer reviews averaging 4.2 stars, it has the strongest track record of any budget gas chainsaw available.

What is the best gas chainsaw for a tighter price point?

The SALEM MASTER 62cc 20 Inch Chainsaw and SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc are both excellent gas chainsaws at a tighter price point. The SALEM MASTER offers a 62cc engine with automatic oiler at a budget-friendly rate. The SUPMIXTOOLS delivers a full crank 62cc engine with 4.2 HP and includes a quality toolkit.

Which brand of chainsaw is the most reliable?

Among budget gas chainsaws in this category, the NEO-TEC brand has the strongest reliability track record with 896 reviews averaging 4.2 stars. For professional-grade reliability, Stihl and Husqvarna lead the industry but typically cost significantly more. Within the budget category, brands with higher review counts and longer warranties tend to be more reliable long-term.

What cc gas chainsaw do I need?

For most homeowner tasks like cutting firewood, pruning trees, and storm cleanup, a 58cc to 62cc gas chainsaw provides the right balance of power and weight. Smaller cc engines work for light limbing only. Larger cc engines above 68cc handle felling large trees but weigh significantly more and use more fuel.

How do I mix 2-cycle oil for a gas chainsaw?

Most gas chainsaws in this category use a 50:1 fuel-to-oil ratio, which means 2.6 ounces of 2-cycle oil per gallon of gasoline. Some models like the NEO-TEC require a 25:1 ratio instead, which uses 5.1 ounces of oil per gallon. Always check your owner manual before mixing. Use a dedicated gas can, shake for 30 seconds after mixing, and use the fuel within 30 days.

Final Verdict: The Best Gas Chainsaw in This Budget Range in 2026

After 45 days of testing all eight gas chainsaws on this list, the NEO-TEC 62cc 20 Inch Gas Chainsaw stands out as the best overall choice. It pairs a powerful 62cc engine with a lightweight 14-pound design, a quick-start system that fires in 1 to 2 pulls, and a strong safety system including chain brake and trigger lockout. With 896 customer reviews and a 4.2-star average, it has the most established track record of any saw in this budget range.

For budget-focused buyers, the SALEM MASTER 62cc delivers similar capability at a lower price with a reliable automatic oiler. For users who want maximum horsepower and a proven full-crank design, the SUPMIXTOOLS 62cc earns the best value badge. For homeowners with serious felling needs who live outside California, the NEO-TEC 68cc brings professional-grade cutting power with both 22-inch and 24-inch bars included.

Whatever gas chainsaw you choose from this list, always wear protective gear including chainsaw chaps, gloves, eye protection, and hearing protection. Read your owner’s manual before first use, mix your fuel at the correct ratio, and check chain tension before every cutting session. With proper care, any of these best gas chainsaws for budget-conscious buyers will give you years of reliable cutting for firewood, property maintenance, and storm cleanup.

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