The Ryobi 40V chainsaw lineup offers a cordless alternative to gas-powered saws, delivering impressive cutting performance without the noise, fumes, or maintenance hassles. Whether you’re a homeowner tackling firewood or a DIY enthusiast maintaining your property, Ryobi’s 40V brushless chainsaw models provide a great balance of power and convenience.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ Best Ryobi 40V chainsaw models
✔ Performance & battery life
✔ Chain replacement & maintenance
✔ Pros, cons, and who should buy one
Top Ryobi 40V Chainsaw Models
1. Ryobi RY40580 (18-inch, Brushless)
Key Features:
- 40V Lithium-Ion battery (4.0Ah or 6.0Ah options)
- Brushless motor (more power, longer runtime)
- 18-inch Oregon bar & chain (good for medium-duty cutting)
- Tool-less chain tensioning (easy adjustments)
Best For: Firewood cutting, storm cleanup, and medium-duty property maintenance.
2. Ryobi RY40570 (16-inch, Brushless)
Key Features:
- 40V Brushless motor (efficient & powerful)
- 16-inch bar (lighter & easier to handle)
- Automatic oiler (keeps chain lubricated)
Best For: Pruning, light firewood, and homeowners needing a compact saw.
3. Ryobi RY40480 (14-inch, Non-Brushless)
Key Features:
- 40V motor (good for occasional use)
- 14-inch bar (best for small branches & trimming)
- More affordable than brushless models
Best For: Light yard work, small projects, and infrequent users.
Ryobi 40V Chainsaw Performance & Battery Life
Power & Cutting Ability
- Brushless models (RY40580, RY40570) perform similarly to a 30-35cc gas saw.
- Cuts up to 12-14-inch logs comfortably (18-inch model handles larger wood).
- Struggles with very hard or thick hardwood compared to gas saws.
Battery Runtime
| Battery | Estimated Runtime* |
|---|---|
| 4.0Ah | ~30-45 mins (moderate use) |
| 6.0Ah | ~60-75 mins (longer jobs) |
*Varies based on wood density & cutting speed.
Tip: Having a second battery extends cutting time.
Ryobi 40V Chainsaw Chain Replacement
The Ryobi 40V chainsaw chain is replaceable, and you can choose from:
- Oregon 91VXL (for 18-inch model)
- Oregon 90PX (for 16-inch model)
How to Replace the Chain:
- Release tension (tool-less adjuster).
- Remove old chain and align new one on the bar.
- Re-tension and check lubrication.
Sharpening Tip: Use a 5/32-inch round file or an electric chainsaw sharpener.
Pros & Cons of Ryobi 40V Chainsaws
✅ Pros
✔ No gas, no fumes, low noise (great for neighborhoods).
✔ Brushless motor = longer life & better efficiency.
✔ Easy to start (no pull cord!).
✔ Compatible with other Ryobi 40V tools (share batteries).
❌ Cons
❌ Not as powerful as gas saws for heavy-duty logging.
❌ Battery runtime limits long cutting sessions.
❌ Bar oil can leak if stored horizontally.
Who Should Buy a Ryobi 40V Chainsaw?
✔ Homeowners needing a clean, low-maintenance saw.
✔ DIYers cutting firewood, pruning, or storm cleanup.
✔ Eco-conscious users avoiding gas-powered tools.
Not Ideal For:
❌ Professional loggers needing all-day power.
❌ Cutting very thick hardwood frequently.
Final Verdict: Best Ryobi 40V Chainsaw?
- Best Overall: RY40580 (18-inch brushless) – Best power & versatility.
- Best for Light Work: RY40480 (14-inch) – Budget-friendly & compact.
- Best Balance: RY40570 (16-inch brushless) – Great mix of power & handling.
Where to Buy Ryobi 40V Chainsaws
- Home Depot (official retailer)
- Amazon (check for deals)
- Ryobi’s website (bundles with batteries)
Keywords Used:
- Ryobi 40V chainsaw
- Ryobi chainsaw 40V
- 40V Ryobi chainsaw
- Ryobi 40V brushless chainsaw
- Ryobi 40V chainsaw chain
Conclusion
The Ryobi 40V chainsaw is a great cordless option for homeowners and DIYers who want a clean, quiet, and easy-to-use saw. While not as powerful as gas models, its brushless motor, decent runtime, and low maintenance make it a smart choice for light to medium cutting tasks.
Ready to ditch gas and go cordless? The Ryobi 40V lineup is worth considering! 🔋
