Whether you’re felling medium trees or processing firewood, a 20-inch chainsaw offers the perfect balance of power and maneuverability. Here are the top performers across gas, electric, and battery-powered categories:
1. Husqvarna 460 Rancher (Best Overall Gas)
✔ Engine: 60.3cc X-Torq
✔ Power: 3.5 HP
✔ Weight: 13.2 lbs
✔ Special Features: Air Injection, Smart Start
✔ Price: $549
Why Buy? Professional-grade power with homeowner-friendly features. Cuts through 20″ hardwood effortlessly.
2. Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf (Best Value Gas)
✔ Engine: 59.8cc
✔ Power: 3.9 HP
✔ Weight: 14.3 lbs
✔ Special Features: Decompression valve, 5-year warranty
✔ Price: $469
Why Buy? Most power per dollar in its class. Ideal for firewood processing.
3. DeWalt DCCS670B (Best Cordless)
✔ Power: 60V FlexVolt
✔ Chain Speed: 80 ft/s
✔ Weight: 12.3 lbs (without battery)
✔ Special Features: Brushless motor, tool-free tensioning
✔ Price: $599 (with 9.0Ah battery)
Why Buy? Gas-like performance without fumes. 100+ cuts per charge.
4. Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss (Most Reliable)
✔ Engine: 50.2cc
✔ Power: 3.0 HP
✔ Weight: 12.3 lbs
✔ Special Features: Easy2Start, reduced vibration
✔ Price: $579
Why Buy? Legendary Stihl durability. Perfect for weekly farm use.
5. Greenworks Pro 80V (Best Battery Alternative)
✔ Power: 80V brushless
✔ Chain Speed: 65 ft/s
✔ Weight: 14.5 lbs
✔ Special Features: Automatic oiler, instant start
✔ Price: $449 (with 4.0Ah battery)
Why Buy? Massive torque for cordless saw. Great for eco-conscious users.
6. Poulan Pro PR5020 (Budget Gas Pick)
✔ Engine: 50cc
✔ Power: 2.8 HP
✔ Weight: 15.4 lbs
✔ Special Features: Spring-assisted start
✔ Price: $299
Why Buy? Affordable entry into 20″ cutting. Good for occasional use.
7. Makita XCU08PT (Lightest Cordless)
✔ Power: 36V (18Vx2)
✔ Chain Speed: 56 ft/s
✔ Weight: 10.8 lbs
✔ Special Features: Star Protection, 4-stroke motor
✔ Price: $499 (with two 5.0Ah batteries)
Why Buy? Excellent balance for arborists. Compatible with Makita 18V system.
Performance Comparison Table
| Model | Type | Cut Speed (20″ pine) | Runtime | Noise Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Husqvarna 460 | Gas | 8 sec | 50 min/tank | 105 dB |
| Echo CS-590 | Gas | 7 sec | 55 min/tank | 106 dB |
| DeWalt 60V | Battery | 9 sec | 90 cuts | 92 dB |
| Stihl MS 271 | Gas | 10 sec | 45 min/tank | 104 dB |
| Greenworks 80V | Battery | 11 sec | 70 cuts | 94 dB |
| Poulan Pro | Gas | 12 sec | 40 min/tank | 108 dB |
| Makita 36V | Battery | 13 sec | 60 cuts | 89 dB |
Buying Guide: What to Consider
Power Needs
- Gas saws: Best for heavy, frequent use (3+ hours/week)
- Battery saws: Ideal for 1-2 hour sessions (quieter operation)
- Electric: Only for very light duty near power sources
Maintenance Factors
✔ Gas models require more upkeep (spark plugs, filters, fuel mix)
✔ Battery models need chain care but no engine maintenance
✔ All require regular chain sharpening and bar cleaning
Best Use Cases
- Firewood processing: Echo CS-590 or Husqvarna 460
- Farm/ranch work: Stihl MS 271
- Arborist work: Makita XCU08PT (lightweight)
- Eco-friendly option: DeWalt 60V or Greenworks 80V
Price vs Performance Graph
[Visual showing gas saws offering most power per dollar, battery saws having higher upfront but lower operating costs]
Final Recommendations
🏆 Best Overall: Husqvarna 460 Rancher
💸 Best Value: Echo CS-590
🔋 Top Cordless: DeWalt DCCS670B
🛠️ Most Durable: Stihl MS 271
💰 Budget Pick: Poulan Pro PR5020
Pro Tip: Always buy from authorized dealers for warranty support. For battery models, invest in extra chains and at least one spare high-capacity battery.
