A chainsaw or electric saw is suitable for sawing logs, boards, and tree trunks in the garden. Choosing the right tool from these two options can be difficult. These saws are similar not only in appearance, but also in design. When choosing what is more suitable for completing your tasks - a gas or electric saw, you need to study the main characteristics of these devices, as well as their pros and cons.
Principle of operation
When comparing which chain saw is better: gasoline or electric, you should first analyze the operating principle of the tools. The heart of the chainsaw is a two-stroke engine, powered by a fuel mixture of gasoline mixed with oil. Starting is carried out by a manual starter. After starting, the power unit idles, but the chain does not move until a special button is pressed.
Operating an electric saw requires connection to a power source. The tool is connected to the network and, after pressing the “Start” button, the saw chain begins to move. In this case, there are fewer preparatory steps, but the disadvantage is the “attachment” to the wire.
Top 5 cheap reliable models
Today, the store sells a large number of cheap cordless saws; their main disadvantage is the low battery capacity. Despite this drawback, there are inexpensive models, where Greenworks and Bosch brands are considered the most reliable.
Greenworks G24CS25 2000007
Battery: 2 Ah.
Price: 7,500 rub.
The cheapest model on the list. It is chosen for simple work, for example, for preparing firewood. Thanks to its light weight, your hands do not get tired while working. Starts instantly with the press of one button, stops in one second. Equipped with a rubberized handle and a shield to protect your hands. The saw set can be adjusted without additional tools. The battery is discharged within 40 minutes during operation. From additional oil, you need to periodically add oil into the transparent oil tank. The disadvantages include a rough cut.
Greenworks G40CS30 20117
Battery: 4 Ah.
Price: 8,700 rub.
This saw model is designed for sawing trunks and trimming branches. Equipped with high-quality silicon steel tires that make a neat cut. The chains are automatically lubricated; you just need to add oil to a special tank in time. There is a fuse and a protective shield. The vibration is so weak that your hands do not shake after work. The battery can operate autonomously for up to 60 minutes. If the saw accidentally jumps, the motor stops automatically.
Bosch UniversalChain 18 0.600.8B8.001
Battery: 2.5 Ah.
Price: 8,800 rub.
This is a powerful and compact model that can be packed in a backpack. Due to the small size of the saw, it is comfortable to work in a small space. The chain can be installed and removed without additional tools. On the case itself there is a battery charge indicator so that you can recharge or change it in time. It has a uniquely shaped tip that allows you to cut boards and branches lying on the ground.
Bosch AdvancedCut 18 0.603.3D5.100
Battery: 2.5 Ah.
Price: 9,000 rub.
This model with a tire length of 6 centimeters is indispensable for work in the country or in the workshop. Equipped with a powerful and wear-resistant brushless motor. Thanks to special technology, vibration is practically not felt. Due to its light weight, it is comfortable to work with. This model does not require lubrication, sharpening or regular chain tensioning. The sharp blades do not get stuck in materials, making it safe to work with. They can cut not only wood, but also other soft materials, such as laminate.
Design features of chainsaws
A chainsaw or chainsaw, regardless of the manufacturer, has similar design features and differs only in the manufacturer, build quality and parts. A diagram of the general structure of the instrument is shown in the figure, from which you can familiarize yourself with the main components.
General structure of a gasoline saw Source smallengines.ru
As already mentioned, the power unit in them is a two-stroke, single-cylinder with natural cooling. Carburetor fuel supply system with contactless electronic ignition. Exhaust gases are removed from the combustion chambers through a compact muffler.
Internal structure of a gasoline saw Source rukoyat.ru
Scope of application
When choosing a device, take into account the operating features. If you plan to use the equipment at home, where the amount of work will be small, there will be no need to constantly saw; using both options is approximately equally convenient.
For gardening work, a gasoline saw is better. It doesn't weigh too much, works in different weather conditions, and is mobile. The radius of its movement is not limited. The electric option will be limited by cable length; In addition, it is unsafe in wet weather, in the morning with dew.
A gasoline saw should also be chosen for work in the forest. There is no way to connect a cable; it is necessary to cut a large number of trees, so the electric option will quickly become unusable. In addition, weather conditions may also be unfavorable.
For construction work, the electric option is well suited. If the work is carried out indoors in a small number of rooms, this technique will be more convenient. It works more quietly, which will be more convenient for people around and neighbors. In addition, when using it, exhaust gases will not occur.
Electric saws are most often made for short-term work on construction or summer cottages, and for domestic use. If you plan to perform a large amount of work using the device, give preference to gasoline options.
Design features of electric saws
The main design difference between gas and electric saws is the different types of drive and power units. Obviously, but electric ones use an electric motor that can be installed longitudinally or transversely. The type of viscous coupling depends on this. In the first, rotational motion is transmitted through a gearbox; in transverse motion, this is carried out directly.
General structure of an electric tool Source breakeven.ru
Healthy! In fact, the design of the models can be called identical: the operation of the engine rotates the sprocket, which in turn pulls the saw chain.
Reliability
A chainsaw is a safer device because there is no risk of getting an electric shock during operation. The electric option cannot be used for work in wet weather or with high indoor humidity. You are equally likely to get injured by the cutting part of the device when using an electric or gasoline saw.
It is important to buy a quality tool. Poor quality equipment can cause injury. This is true for both options.
High-quality gasoline saws last longer than electric ones. Since these devices are more powerful, developers make them more durable. Chainsaws are wear-resistant, designed to withstand heavy loads, and are suitable for long-term work. Mechanical damage to these devices is less likely than breakdowns of power saws.
The service life depends on the quality of the device and compliance with the rules of its operation: if you do not take care of the tool, the likelihood of failure will increase for both options.
Detailed comparative characteristics
Let's look at more detailed design and operational characteristics of petrol and electric saws using specific examples. Let's analyze the differences in power, productivity, saw equipment and the complexity of maintenance and work with them.
Difference in power, performance
In terms of power, gasoline saws are confidently in the lead. The average characteristic of electric saws is no more than 3 kW. Chainsaws have a power unit of over 6 kilowatts or more. However, when comparing models with similar volumes, the performance of electric ones will be inferior. The difference is that, when working at an average load, the electric motor must “rest” every 30-40 minutes. The pause is necessary to cool the engine. There is no such problem in gasoline models, unless you take budget options for household use as an example.
Healthy! Professional and semi-professional can cut without long stops for 6-8 hours.
Another indicator is the number of revolutions of the saw chain. In most cases, for gasoline it is 25-30% higher. This also affects performance differences. In addition, the constant presence of an electrical cable underfoot also distracts the operator, which affects the time and volume of work performed.
Healthy! When comparing a chainsaw with an electric analogue with identical technical parameters, the performance of the former will be higher.
Equipment
There is no difference in equipment between petrol and electric saws. All models can be used with chains suitable for both one and the other. The only thing you need to pay attention to when choosing accessories is the labeling.
The abbreviated designation of the type of saw chain for gasoline and electric saws is read according to the principle shown in the example. As a visual aid, let’s look at the decoding of the “15″ 0.325″ 1.5 mm 64” model:
- 15″ – 15 inches or 38 cm. Tire length. The value may vary depending on the dimensions on a particular instrument.
- 0.325 – pitch between teeth. This value is the most common in compact models for household use. The value of 0.375 (3/8) is used in models with an engine power of more than 3.5 horsepower.
- 1.5 – chain groove. The thickness of the leading links, cutting ends, which determine the width of the cut.
- 64 – number of chain teeth. This value directly depends on the length of the bus and the chain itself.
How to read saw chain markings Source samdelkin.ru
Important! Both saw versions can be used with the same accessories. Therefore, there is no winner in this category.
Preparing for work
According to this indicator, an electric saw is superior to a gasoline saw. Before you start using it, you need to do the following:
- Install the saw chain.
- Add oil.
- Insert the plug into the socket.
- After this, the tool is ready for use. The movement of the chain will begin after pressing the trigger.
With regard to a chainsaw, everything is much more complicated. In addition to the above manipulations, you will need the following:
- Prepare the fuel mixture (mix 9-grade gasoline and special oil in certain proportions) and pour it into the saw’s gas tank.
- Switch the “Start” mode on the tool body.
- If necessary, switch the switch (or press the rubber cap several times) for the first start.
- Start the engine using the rope starter. After this, the chainsaw will start and stall after 1-2 seconds.
- Returning the switch to the desired position, start the engine in a manner similar to that described earlier. After starting the unit, the gasoline saw is ready for work.
Installing a chain on a tool bar Source smallengines.ru
Advantages and disadvantages
Electric saw
The main advantages of electric saws:
- a large selection of models for any task;
- relatively low noise compared to gasoline saws;
- environmental friendliness and availability of electricity as a cheaper resource, when compared in cost with gasoline; as you know, powerful chainsaws love to “drink” gasoline and the owner cannot influence the degree of fuel consumption during long-term operation;
- it is safer to work with an electric saw, especially in enclosed spaces - there is no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning during long-term use;
- modern manufacturers produce saws that can operate reliably under conditions of overload and long-term use; many of the semi-professional models function no worse than saws in the “pro” category;
- An electric saw is a good and reliable assistant in small private households; in the absence of professional tasks for cutting or harvesting wood, there is simply no point in taking a chainsaw.
Electric chain saw device
The main disadvantages of electric saws:
- the electric saw operates within the limits of the power cable or battery life (that is, the tool will require recharging or constant proximity to a power source);
- professional electric saws are somehow inferior in power to gasoline ones;
- From time to time, cordless saws need to change the battery, and some models of electric saws are sold without a battery, which automatically increases their overall cost.
Chainsaw
The main advantages of chainsaws:
- high power, endurance, ability to withstand frequent use and heavy loads;
- autonomy of the chainsaw (until fuel runs out), which is maintained by filling a new portion of gasoline or an oil-gasoline mixture;
- a huge selection of gasoline saws of different power, purpose, for different volumes of work;
- simple operation and maintenance of the chainsaw;
- the ability to operate a chainsaw remotely from a source of electricity (unlike electric saws), autonomy.
Chainsaw device
The main disadvantages of chainsaws:
- the presence of harmful exhausts (the good thing is that on modern models of chainsaws this disadvantage is minimized);
- It is recommended to use a chainsaw only outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning;
- high cost of professional chainsaws;
- expensive spare parts, especially when it comes to chainsaws from the world's top manufacturers.
Summary
Summing up the results of the comparative test of electric and gasoline saws, the results are as follows:
- In terms of design characteristics, they have significant differences. It is inappropriate to talk about the advantages of this or that model, since everyone has their own preferences in this regard. Some prefer an electric motor, others a proven internal combustion engine.
- The performance of chainsaws is far superior in all respects. Here, the time of continuous operation and the power of the tool were taken into account.
- The advantage of electric saws is the minimum of preparatory work and the absence of filters, carburetors and other attributes, problems with which are familiar to everyone who has ever encountered them.
- From a safety point of view, gasoline ones are in the lead due to the same mobility and the absence of an electrical cable.
Which saw to choose for the garden and home Source 1001krep.ru
Owner reviews
Dmitry, Chernivtsi:
“Guys on the forums write different things, it’s doubtful to believe all the advice. Of course, you need experience. I’ll tell you about my experience too: I have two electric saws on my farm, the domestic Dnipro and the German Shtil. I’m very pleased with these tools, a chainsaw is essentially only needed to cut wood in the forest for firewood or just pieces of wood for a fire, and in my opinion it’s not an essential item for a household, although it’s nice to have it. The electric saw is better in all respects. Power up to 1500 W is enough, and there is no fuss with gasoline.”
Gennady, Boyarka:
“As a chainsaw owner, I will say that the tool is not the most trouble-free, but the power is worth it. I use the Swedish Husqvarna 236, its power is 1400 W. To be honest, even with a strong desire, I can’t name a single significant drawback, because the Husqvarna saw is quality and has no headaches during maintenance; it works well. And when the opportunity arises and the budget allows, I also want to buy an electric saw from the same manufacturer, even though they are expensive compared to gasoline ones.”
Voting for the best cordless saw with Aliexpress
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Comparison table
| Comparison | Electric saw | Chainsaw |
| Ease of use | Quite soft to use. But given the cord that constantly pulls, there are some inconveniences in work. | Much more convenient to use. The greater the power, the greater the weight of the tool. |
| Mobility | Operation depends entirely on the availability of an outlet. | You can work anywhere, provided there is fuel. |
| Noise level | It works quietly, the noise is less than 100 dB. | Quite noisy, noise over 100 dB. |
| Weight (in kg) | From 30 to 45 | From 30 to 100 |
| Service price | Quite low, considering the fact that this model does not have a carburetor or an electric motor. | Relatively high, considering the fact that there are many components in tools with internal combustion engines. |
| Cost of use | Low. Costs are associated only with payment for electrical energy. | High. The price of gasoline is much higher than that of electrical energy. In addition, oil needs to be added. |
| Reliability level | High. There is practically nothing to break. | Low. |
| Tool price | The cheapest model can be purchased for about 2000-3000 rubles. | The most budget model will cost 4000-5000 rubles. |
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Selection by chain revolution
If you still cannot decide for yourself the question of which is better - a chainsaw or an electric saw, you should pay attention to the speed of the chain. For a chainsaw they are 30% higher. Productivity will increase by the same amount. Productivity will increase even more if you take into account the possibility of a person moving around the construction site and along a log or board with a chainsaw. In the case of an electric saw, this will be significantly difficult due to the presence of a cable. When comparing options of the same power, the performance of a gasoline unit will be slightly higher.
Price
The cost of an electric device will be much less than one running on gasoline. The price difference is explained by the simplicity of such a device. Its manufacture does not require the use of expensive materials, nor is there a need for a large number of different parts. In addition, due to the smaller size of the electric saw, less raw materials are required for its manufacture. If a person plans to use the tool infrequently, an electric one will be a more economical option.
A gasoline-powered device is better suited for long-term use. Chainsaws are more durable, so they are better suited for regular use: the device will not break down often and will not need to be constantly replaced.
It is recommended to buy only good quality products. This will protect the sawyer from injury and prevent the need to replace or repair damaged tools too quickly.
Converting petrol to electric
Sometimes, our visitors ask us questions about converting from one type of chain saw to another, both from a chainsaw to an electric saw, and vice versa. Theoretically, and practically, this is possible (we have come across such options), but you need to understand that any alteration is prohibited by the manufacturer .
We strongly do not recommend doing such tuning, because... Is it dangerous. Such a tool may cause damage or injury to the operator.
As an example, we suggest watching a video on the topic of remodeling. The author of the video made an electric saw from a Druzhba chainsaw and an engine from a washing machine.
Band machines
The band saw machine has a fairly simple design, consisting of a body, an electric drive and 2 large-diameter pulleys. A band saw is placed on these pulleys and then tensioned using a special mechanism.
The band saw machine can be either stationary or tabletop.
Due to the fact that the machine is equipped with an endless circular saw of small width, the unit is used for oblique and straight cutting of materials, for sawing wood at an angle and cutting out shaped parts. To choose the right band saw, you need to know that there are 3 classes of these units, which differ in their technical characteristics.
- Household ones are, as a rule, small desktop devices. They have a power of 350 to 1000 W and are capable of sawing soft wood with a height of no more than 60 mm. As for hardwood, household units will not be able to cut them. Household tape machines are widely used at home for modeling, making various wood crafts and souvenirs.
- Semi-professional. They are used in small workshops and are installed not on the table, but on the floor. They have a power of 1000 W and a cutting height of 100 mm and above. This type of band saw is used for the production of furniture, dissolving wooden blanks into boards, for shaped cutting of wooden parts, etc. Semi-professional band saws are suitable for processing hard wood and non-ferrous metals.
- Professional. They have a power of 3 kW, are powered by a 380 V network and are installed in industrial enterprises. The cutting height of such units can reach 300 mm.
