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8 Best Pole Saws In The Market Today
Pole saws serve as an extendable arm for you.
Even if you weren’t blessed with the height you wanted, fear not.
The pole saw is a great tool that can reach high trees so you can stop climbing up like a monkey to keep your yard trimmed.
For those of us that aren’t gymnasts, it can be dangerous to hold a chainsaw while balancing on a branch.
With a pole saw, you can easily get your work done on the ground.
There are many options on the market, and in this article we go over all the details you need to know before choosing the best one for you.
What is a Pole Saw?
The simple definition is a saw on a pole. There are powered options or manual options used mainly for tree trimming.
The powered saws are usually a chainsaw on a pole. Some are even detachable to use as two different tools.
The powered saw, unlike the manual one has a rotating chain powered with a motor.
Manual saws are usually a saw blade attached to a long pole that you have to power yourself.
Both of these are great options for you to reach high branches.
Pole saws are usually less powerful than normal chainsaws, but because of the task it is optimized for, this is actually a good thing.
If you had a pole saw that was as powerful as a regular chainsaw, you would have branches falling on you left and right.
A pole saw can be a great tool if you require a lot of pruning and trimming in higher, hard-to-reach areas.
Pole Saw Use
Pole saws are mainly used for trimming and pruning trees or shrubs
With a tool like this you can complete your work much more effortlessly.
The main purpose of a pole saw is to remove the need of using a ladder or stool.
You can get to out-of-reach branches without having to climb on anything.
This is much safer, since both a powered saw and manual saw can be dangerous to use.
If your foot were to accidentally slip, the saw could land on another part of your body.
If you are unable to reach the branch without a ladder, we suggest calling in a professional.
A pole saw can easily throw off your balance. Also, large branches falling from a tall height can lead to serious injuries.
Different Types of Pole Saws
There are four different types of pole saws.
There is the manual type without a motor, a corded-electric type, battery-powered, and gas-powered pole saws.
It is important to learn about all the different kinds, so you are able to choose the best one for your needs.
Manual Pole Saw
A manual pole saw is a saw blade attached to an extendable pole that does not come with a motor.
This gives you a lot of control, but also requires more work to cut.
It is comparable to a regular saw, but more optimal for trimming small branches that you can’t reach normally.
If you have a lot of thinner branches to trim that are hard to reach, this may be the tool for you.
If you have quite a bit of yard work to do, a powered pole saw is probably a better bet.
A manual pole saw usually cuts more jagged cuts, since you are the one making the strokes.
This is a great affordable option for those with less yard work.
Gas Pole Saw
Out of all the pole saw options, the gas-powered option is the most powerful.
The sharp chain teeth are powered with an engine.
This is the most common choice for professional landscapers or more advanced users.
Since it is powerful, it can get your work done in no time at all.
Some downsides of this option is the noise and the maintenance.
Since this tool runs on gas and consists of two different cycle engines it is loud to run.
This may not be optimal for home users that have to worry about their neighbors.
This option is also more geared for professional use since it requires a bit of maintenance.
The parts require consistent cleaning for efficient use.
They are also usually the heaviest option weighing around 14-30 lbs.
Although this is a powerful option, the maintenance and weight make it a less optimal option for home users.
Battery Pole Saw
A battery pole saw is the most convenient since you are not held back by the cord or oil.
They require little maintenance; however, they are usually the most expensive option.
They are still slightly less powerful than a gas saw, but can still get the job done.
Corded Electric-Powered Pole Saw
Corded electric saws are the most common type of pole saw.
They are relatively strong and do not require much maintenance.
The constant power from the cord also allows for longer use.
There is no need to worry about the battery or oil running out.
This type of pole saw is great for those that require trimming from small to medium-sized branches.
The corded-electric type is also not as loud, which is great for home users and professionals alike.
It is easy to start, usually with a simple pull of a trigger.
The one main downside of this option is the cord.
Especially for beginners, it can be hard to get used to.
With the cord in the way, it can be hard to maneuver around awkward angles.
Overall, if you are looking for a great all-around option, this is the one for you.
Depending on the work you need to do, you will find the right one for you.
Choosing Your Pole Saw
Type
Depending on the type of work you require, there is an option for you. Be sure to also note the amount of maintenance and noise you want to work with.
Pole Length
The pole length is important, since you don’ t want to be using a ladder with your pole saw. Check out the maximum reach of your saw before purchasing.
Bar Length
The length of the bar determines the diameter of material you can cut. A good rule to follow is to choose a size 2 in. bigger than your thickest branch.
Portability
The weight is important especially for beginner users. Heavier saws are harder to maneuver and can lead to serious injuries.
Price
There is a wide range of price points and depending on how often and how long you want to use it, you will find the perfect one for you.
Extras
Many poles saws come with extra features, but be sure to check all your boxes for the important features before looking at the extras.
Best Pole Saw Picks
Here we go through some of our top picks ranging from gas-powered to battery-powered pole saws.
TOP RATED
Worx 10 in. Corded Electric Pole Saw
The Worx Corded Electric pole saw features a 10-in. Bar, great for trimming branches up to 8 in. in diameter.
It is a great two in one product, with the chainsaw being detachable.
This is a great versatile product, if you need a tool that can get it all done.
It has a powerful 8 amp motor that gets through even harder woods.
Being two products in one, it is a lightweight tool weighing only 10 lbs.
It is extra convenient with its auto chain lubrication system as well as the auto chain tension.
WIth this saw you truly have effortless cutting that requires very little maintenance.
The saw also features an 8-in extension pole, which is slightly less than others, but still reaches most places with your added height.
If you need a tool that can get all your cutting needs filled, be sure to check this one out.
Pros
Cons
Maxtra 15 ft. Gas Powered Pole Saw
The Maxtra gas pole saw is a powerful tool that features a 2 stroke engine.
With a gas-powered tool there is no need to worry about the cord dangling around.
The saw pole can be adjusted from 8.2 ft. to 11.4 ft. which is a great reach that can get all those high branches.
The pole comes with a convenient quick release connector for easier adjustment. The saw blade is 10 in. for a maximum cutting diameter of 8 in.
The saw is slightly heavier weighing 22 pounds which may not be optimal for beginner users.
The saw comes with a shoulder strap, in case you need some help shouldering the weight.
This helps to reduce the engine vibration as well as your fatigue.
If you need a powerful saw that can get the job done, this may be a good investment for you.
Pros
Cons
TrimmerPlus 8 in. Gas Powered Pole Saw
This TrimmerPlus gas powered pole saw features an 8 in. bar with an automatic chain oiler. 8 in. is slightly smaller, but is great for smaller to medium-sized branches.
A smaller blade gives you more control and is usually lighter.
The pole is able to extend up to 11 feet with the attachment.
The pole is not telescoping, so it may be a hassle for some to constantly attach and detach the extension pole.
This saw remains stable even at its full height. This saw stands out since it is compatible with many other products even from other brands.
If you are looking for a powerful gas saw that works with your other tools, look no further.
Pros
Cons
Sun Joe 8 in. Corded Electric Pole Saw
The Sun Joe Corded Electric Pole saw has a powerful 6.5 amp motor that cuts branches effortlessly.
The saw features a smaller 8 in. bar length great for branches up to 6 in. in diameter.
This is a great affordable option that requires little maintenance.
The saw comes with an auto-lubrication system for the chain as well as a telescoping pole.
The pole extends up to 15 ft. which is an incredible reach for such a lightweight product. The telescoping function allows for easier adjustment and storage.
If you are looking for a great affordable electric option that still has exception power, check this saw out.
Pros
Cons
Greenworks 8.5 ft. 40V Battery Pole Saw
The Greenworks Battery Pole Saw is a slightly bigger investment, but gets the job done with ease.
It comes with a 2.0 amp lithium-ion battery and charger for long lasting use.
This saw requires little maintenance and can be used simply by charging the battery.
The saw features an automatic chain oiler as well as an easy to adjust chain tensioning.
It is not automatic, but is actually a valuable feature for those that like to customize the chain tension.
The telescoping pole is able to reach up to 11 ft. A feature that sets this saw apart is the angled cutting head.
This can eliminate the need to hold your saw at awkward angles, which could lead to serious injuries.
If you are looking for a great battery saw that still packs a punch, check this one out.
Pros
Cons
Oregon 8 in. 40V Telescoping Cordless Pole Saw
This Oregon Cordless pole saw is another great battery option for those that do not want to deal with oil or a cord.
This is a high-quality tool that comes with a long lasting 2.6Ah battery that can last a whole day’s work.
The saw consists of a 8 in. bar great for timing smaller branches The compact cutting head allows for easy maneuvering and getting in those harder to reach areas.
A great feature that sets this saw apart is its mid-mount motor.
This allows for a more balanced tool that can be great for beginners and professionals alike.
The telescoping pole reaches up to 15 ft. and only weighs 13.5 lbs.
If you are looking for a heavy-duty product that is easy to use and can last, look no further.
Pros
Cons
Black+Decker 10.5 ft. 20V Battery Pole Saw
This Black+Decker Battery Pole Saw comes with a 2.0 Amp battery that works with a range of Black+Decker tools.
The 20V Lithium ion battery allows for smooth running, without having to worry about the bulky cord.
The telescoping pole reaches up to a maximum of 14 feet that is conveniently adjusted.
The saw features a strong 8 in. bar that has a compact design.
This allows you to get into narrow areas with ease. It has simple and easy to use design that can be great for any level of user.
It is more affordable than most battery-powered products, but still gets the job done without you having to break a sweat.
Pros
Cons
WEN 8 in. Telescoping Corded Pole Saw
The Wen corded electric pole saw weighs only 7.2 lbs which is great limit user fatigue.
The saw features a 8 in. chain and also includes a blade cover and shoulder strap.
Even though this tool is light, it is beneficial to have a shoulder strap to help stabilize the saw.
The Wen saw also features a 6-amp motor that runs the chain up to 36 ft. per second.
The telescoping pole on this saw is easily adjustable and reaches a maximum length of 12 feet.
It is slightly shorter than other saws, but proves to stay stable during cutting.
A great feature of this saw is the angled cutting head that allows you to cut in a multitude of angles.
If you are looking for a high-quality lightweight saw that does not need to extend aver 12 ft. this is the perfect one for you.
Pros
Cons
Conclusion
With all the options on the Pole Saw Market, it can be hard to find one that works for you.
Our top overall pick is the Worx 10 in. Corded Electric Pole Saw since it is the most versatile product.
It can be a chainsaw and a pole saw at an affordable price. It gets the job done without you having to hop from tree to tree.
When choosing a pole saw be sure to find one that checks all your boxes.