Introduction
Cordless chainsaws are often dismissed by experts, but the GreenWorks 40V chainsaw has managed to catch the attention of multiple professionals. While the idea of using cordless power for professional applications may seem unlikely, there are a few surprising advantages that we discovered during our review.
First and foremost, a cordless tool like the GreenWorks DigiPro 16″ Brushless Chainsaw is incredibly convenient for aerial work. When you release the trigger, the saw immediately stops, eliminating the noise of the engine. This feature is especially useful when you need to listen to instructions or communicate with others while working high above the ground. Additionally, restarting an air saw while standing on an elevator is far from ideal. In contrast, the push-button start of the GreenWorks chainsaw is an absolute blessing when you find yourself 25 feet in the air. Furthermore, this chainsaw requires significantly less maintenance thanks to its brushless motor and comes with an impressive 4-year warranty (though the warranty is reduced to 90 days for commercial use). After using a saw like this, you may start to see the advantages of wireless technology.
GreenWorks 40V Chainsaw Features
The GreenWorks 40V chainsaw boasts several noteworthy features. One of the most impressive is its powerful 4.0 Ah 40V G-MAX battery, which GreenWorks claims can cut through a wooden rope on a single charge. While we cannot outright dispute this claim, it is important to note that some woods are easier and quicker to cut than others. The runtime of the saw depends on the load and cutting speed combinations. Cutting harder materials or larger diameter workpieces will decrease the run time, while making quick cuts in softer, drier woods can yield a surprisingly high number of cuts on a single battery charge. In our testing, this chainsaw, just like the GreenWorks 40V trimmer, demonstrated ample runtime for real-world use.
Another standout feature of the GreenWorks 40V Chainsaw is its brushless motor. With an electronically commutated system, there is no loss of efficiency due to brush contact, resulting in cooler and quieter operation with less vibration that could potentially damage other electronic components over time. Additionally, brushless motors last longer and require minimal maintenance throughout the tool’s lifespan. This significant leap in technology was a welcome surprise when we first got our hands on this model.
The use of 16-inch Oregon steel bars and chains is another unique feature of the GreenWorks 40V G-MAX Chainsaw. Most cordless chainsaws on the market come with a maximum 14-inch bar. However, the GreenWorks chainsaw not only includes a longer bar but also demonstrates excellent durability during our testing phase.
GreenWorks 40V Chainsaw Specifications
- Model: 20322 (20312 with 4.0Ah battery)
- Battery (20312): 4.0 Ah 40V G-MAX
- Charger: G-MAX Model 29482
- Charging time: 120 minutes (4.0 Ah), 60 minutes (2.0 Ah)
- Motor: Brushless
- Bar: 16″ Oregon Steel
- Safety Features: On/Off Control (Auto Shutoff), Chain Brake, Hand Guards, Quick Release Trigger
- Included (20322): Chainsaw, 16″ Oregon Steel Bar and Chain, Sheath, Travel Bag, 40V 4.0 Ah G-MAX Battery (29472), G-MAX 29482 Charger
- Included (20312): Chainsaw, 16″ Oregon Steel Bar and Chain, Sheath, Travel Bag
- Compatible batteries: G-MAX 40V 29472 (4.0 Ah) and 29462 (2.0 Ah)
- Warranty: 4 years (consumer), 90 days (commercial)
- Price: $208.94 (kit with 4.0 Ah battery), $145.87 (chainsaw only)
Field Performance
Operating the GreenWorks 40V chainsaw is a breeze, with a negligible learning curve. The handle-mounted electronics rely on a simple on/off button for activation and deactivation. This battery-operated chainsaw is impressively quiet, producing noise only when the trigger is pulled. Cutting with this chainsaw is a delight, as the sound is mostly the motor’s whine and the blade tearing through the material. The 0.043″ gauge Oregon steel blade and chain system on the G-MAX DigiPro is designed to provide excellent cutting power with minimal strain on the motor. Although sharpening may be required more frequently, the increased runtime and ease of cutting larger diameter materials are worthwhile trade-offs.
During our tests, we put the GreenWorks chainsaw through its paces. We started by cutting freshly felled oak chips measuring 10 inches and larger in diameter. Despite our modest expectations, the GreenWorks chainsaw exceeded them. Even Jason, a professional lumberjack with decades of experience, was impressed. With the G-MAX 4.0 Ah battery installed, he effortlessly sliced through the oak, raising his eyebrows in surprise. While he may not be ready to switch from his gas-powered Stihl model, another colleague, Michael Springer, who has extensive experience with wood cutting and has reviewed various cordless chainsaws, swears by battery-powered saws when working at heights due to their convenience and safety.
We took the GreenWorks chainsaw to a property owned by my brother-in-law, where we tackled an old, wet, large diameter palm tree spanning five acres. As a baseline, we ran a pneumatic 18″ Poulan “Wild Thing” chainsaw alongside the GreenWorks G-MAX chainsaw. While the Poulan saw had a price advantage, the GreenWorks chainsaw proved to be slightly faster thanks to its narrower kerf bar and saw chain. Although the Poulan saw had the advantage of length, it required more effort to cut through thicker pieces of wood. On a single 40V G-MAX battery, we made over 14 full cuts in these dense palm trees, and the battery still had some power left. The GreenWorks chainsaw’s exceptional chip ejection system efficiently removed wet material, often piling it up to continue cutting. Occasionally, the saw would get stuck due to the density of the material, causing it to shut off. However, the quick and straightforward restart process saved us from potential motor damage or injury.
Conclusion
The GreenWorks 40V Chainsaw is a game-changer for professionals and homeowners alike. With its cordless convenience, impressive battery life, brushless motor, and excellent cutting performance, it offers a compelling alternative to gas-powered chainsaws. Whether you’re working at heights or tackling large diameter trees, this chainsaw proves to be a reliable and efficient tool. Upgrade to the GreenWorks 40V Chainsaw and embrace the power of wireless technology in your cutting endeavors.