Electric Chainsaw vs Petrol Chainsaw — Which Should You Buy?

The chainsaw market has changed dramatically in recent years. Electric chainsaws have closed the gap on petrol models significantly — and for most domestic and light professional users, electric is now the better choice. Here's an honest comparison to help you decide.

The Case for Electric Chainsaws

Electric chainsaws have come a long way. Modern corded electric models like the TEH TS1618 and TS1622 deliver serious cutting performance — 1750W and 2200W respectively — that matches many petrol models in the domestic and light professional class.

Advantages of electric chainsaws:

• Instant start — plug in and go, every time
• Zero fuel costs — just electricity
• No carburettor to clean, no fuel to mix, no spark plugs to change
• Significantly quieter than petrol equivalents
• No exhaust fumes — safe for enclosed spaces
• Lighter than equivalent petrol models
• Lower purchase price
• Automatic chain lubrication systems on quality models

Disadvantages of electric chainsaws:

• Limited by cable length — need an extension lead for larger gardens
• Cannot be used far from a power source
• Generally lower power than large professional petrol models

The Case for Petrol Chainsaws

Petrol chainsaws still have a place — particularly for professional forestry work, large land clearance, and remote locations without power access.

Advantages of petrol chainsaws:

• Complete freedom of movement — no cable
• Higher power output at the top professional end
• Suitable for remote locations

Disadvantages of petrol chainsaws:

• Requires fuel mixing (2-stroke), carburettor maintenance, spark plug changes
• Difficult to start, especially in cold weather
• Significantly louder
• Exhaust fumes — cannot be used indoors or in enclosed spaces
• Higher purchase price
• Heavier
• Higher running costs

TEH Electric Chainsaw Comparison:

Which Electric Chainsaw Do You Need?

TEH TS1618 — 1750W: Perfect for garden maintenance, pruning, cutting logs for a wood burner, and clearing storm damage. The 500 m/min chain speed handles softwood and medium hardwood with ease. Ideal for homeowners and occasional users.

TEH TS1622 — 2200W: The step up for anyone who cuts regularly or needs more power for larger diameter logs and denser hardwoods. The 100% copper motor runs cooler, lasts longer, and maintains consistent power under sustained use. The faster 800 m/min chain speed makes light work of demanding cutting tasks.

Safety First — Essential PPE for Chainsaw Use:

Never use a chainsaw without proper protective equipment:

• Chainsaw-rated helmet with visor
• Chainsaw trousers or chaps
• Chainsaw-rated gloves
• Steel-capped boots
• Hearing protection

Always read the manual before first use and never operate a chainsaw alone.

Browse our full chainsaw range at tehtools.co.uk