Husqvarna has built an impeccable reputation for manufacturing the best models of chainsaws across the globe. Professionals turn to this dependable brand when buying a chainsaw for themselves.
In this guide, we will show you the best models Husqvarna has available today.
Quick Overview
Winner
Husqvarna 24-Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
Built for heavy and challenging sawmill work
Most powerful Husqvarna model here
Low vibration and noise level
Runner-Up
Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas-Powered Chainsaw
CARB-compliant due to lower emissions
Technology to prevent stalling
Comfortable to use for long days
Our Top 6 Choices For Best Husqvarna Chainsaws
| Best Husqvarna Chainsaws | Power | Bar Length | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Husqvarna 24-Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw | 3.62 hp | 24″ | Check Price |
| 2. Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas-Powered Chainsaw | 3.49 hp | 18″ | Check Price |
| 3. Husqvarna 450E SASII45020 Fully Assembled Gas Chainsaw | 3.20 hp | 20″ | Check Price |
| 4. Husqvarna 120i Battery-Powered Chainsaw | 2 hp | 14″ | Check Price |
| 5. Husqvarna T536Li XP Battery-Powered Chainsaw | 36V | 14″ | Check Price |
| 6. Husqvarna T435 Top Handle Chainsaw | 35.2 cc | 12″ | Check Price |
Top 6 Best Husqvarna Chainsaws
#1 – Winner – Husqvarna 24-Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
Quick Facts
Built for heavy and challenging sawmill work
Most powerful Husqvarna model here
Low vibration and noise level
Power and Performance
If you want the best gas-powered chainsaw for your work, the Husqvarna 460 Rancher is the champion model of choice.
It is built for heavy-duty cutting of large trees for a sawmill, re-assuring you that it has enough power to surpass any other model in this guide.
Its X-Torq technology is built into its power source: a monstrous 3.62 HP and 60 cc engine that will give you enough power for operating its 60.96 cm or 24-inch bar and chain in even the most challenging of situations.
Design and Added Features
Everything is contained in a sleek, balanced design weighing only 12.8 pounds or 5.81 kg.
It also has a full control choke, and spring assisted Air Purge Smart Start Technology. Some of its comfort and safety features include LowVib Technology and lower noise levels.
Finally, it also has a centrifugal air cleaning system that filters out and stops any sizeable chunks of debris and sawdust from clogging the air filter.
This helps prolong its engine life and lessen the maintenance required for its upkeep.
We can assure you that it does not get any better than the Husqvarna 460 Rancher.
Its performance and features are so incredible that it is unanimously well-loved by Husqvarna chainsaw reviews and professionals everywhere.
Is This the Best Husqvarna Chainsaw for You?
The Husqvarna 460 gas-powered chainsaw’s features and specs are perfect for anyone who regularly engages in heavy-duty work.
All of its safety features, combined with its comfortable design, will allow you to use this professional-grade chainsaw for hours with ease and comfort.
Here’s what you’ll love
Smart Start technology built-in
Powerful 60cc X-Torq engine
24-inch chain for challenging tasks
Easy access chain tensioning
Ergonomic handles
Anti-vibration technology
Easy to grip
Adjustable automatic chain oiler
Inertia chain brake
Chain catch
Low kickback
Quick-release air filter
Here’s what you might not like
Automatic oiler can be troublesome at times
Over-working and over-heating results in stalling
Expensive
#2 – Runner-Up – Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas-Powered Chainsaw
Quick Facts
CARB-compliant due to lower emissions
Technology to prevent stalling
Comfortable to use for long days
Power and Performance
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher Chainsaw is a robust choice for doing heavy-duty saw work. It is equipped with a 50.8 or 20-inch bar length.
Its fuel-efficient X-Torq technology is built into the 3.5HP 55.5cc chainsaw engine to give you a lot of power and torque to operate its 20-inch Bar without any stalling.
The X-Torq technology is why this chainsaw has been certified as compliant with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) due to its lower emissions.
This Husqvarna chainsaw is well-powered, comfortable to start, quieter than others, and has a low vibration. It is also lightweight and well-balanced to lessen fatigue during long days of chainsaw work.
Design and Added Features
Weighing only 12.8 pounds or 5.81 kg, you will not waste time starting this up because it has a full control choke and spring assisted Smart Start technology. It even has an Inertia-Activated Chain Brake, Bucking Spikes, and an Automatic (Adjustable Flow) Oiler!
We love the Centrifugal Air Cleaning System, which keeps large dust and debris out of the air filter. This lessens your work because your chainsaw will last longer despite fewer cleanings.
Is This the Best Husqvarna Chainsaw for You?
If you need a heavy-duty gas chainsaw for the yard or neighborhood, you cannot get any better than this.
This powerful saw can deliver reliable performance without tiring you throughout the day and is pimped out with every feature imaginable!
Here’s what you’ll love
Smart Start technology built-in
Powerful 60cc X-Torq engine
20-inch chain for challenging tasks
Tool-less chain tensioning
Ergonomic handles
Low vibration
Better grip
Great price value
Lightweight frame & well-balanced
Automatic (adjustable flow) chain oiler
CARB compliant & low emissions
Noise level control
Here’s what you might not like
Automatic oiler can be finicky
Overheating if fuel mixture too rich
More expensive than the 450E Husky
#3 – Husqvarna 450E SASII45020 Fully Assembled Gas Chainsaw
Quick Facts
Massive engine despite shorter bar
Easy to start
Protected air filter
Power and Performance
With its Smart Start technology, you can quickly get this up and running without wasting time pulling on a starter cord.
This Husky model’s engine’s high horsepower at 3.2 HP also includes its X-Torq technology, which supplies you with plenty of raw power to operate its 50.8 cm or 18-inch bar.
If you are someone who regularly does heavy-duty work, the Husqvarna 450E is a wonder of having. Its 18-inch bar length is powered by a robust 50.22 cc engine size that you can depend on during operation.
Because it has a shorter bar length and a massive engine, all that energy is used to power that short bar, giving it even more strength and efficiency. No energy is wasted on powering an unnecessarily long bar, making this perfect for someone who regularly uses their saw for felling small to medium trees, branches, or limbs.
It is a compelling gas chainsaw for all-around use with a versatile bar length. Moreover, it will not needlessly tire you out when you have to use it all day.
Design and Added Features
Despite its size and power, the 450E is pretty lightweight at just 11.3 pounds or 5.1 kg. It is also equipped with LowVib technology to make it easier and more comfortable to use.
Like the Husqvarna 460, it also features technology to protect its air filter. Its fuel consumption is efficient, and its exhaust emissions are also lowered, making it environmentally-friendly.
Is This the Best Husqvarna Chainsaw for You?
Despite its smaller size and bar length, this Husqvarna 18-inch gas saw is capable of heavy-duty work, even in difficult situations.
If you need a smaller and lighter saw that is still capable of the most difficult of cutting tasks, this is the Husky model for you.
Moreover, its excellent value makes this a compelling choice, as long as you are comfortable with the manual chain tensioning system.
Here’s what you’ll love
Smart Start technology built-in
18-inch blade makes it versatile
50.2cc X-Torq engine
Budget-friendly
Great to use for challenging situations
Easy access chain tensioning
Ergonomic handles
Low vibration
Better grip
Lightweight frame
Here’s what you might not like
Factory chain dulls pretty quickly
Manual chain tensioning can be challenging
#4 – Husqvarna 120i Battery-Powered Chainsaw
Quick Facts
Dual-mode chainsaw: normal and save mode
Battery compatible with other Husqvarna tools
Uses a keypad
Power and Performance
If you are looking for the best chainsaw performance for all-around use and with a battery-powered motor, look no further than the Husqvarna 120i.
It is equipped with an efficient 36V brushless motor that was developed in-house by Husqvarna. It is 25% more efficient than standard brush motors, which means the engine can provide you with high and consistent torque.
This chainsaw comes with a bar length of 14 inches or 35.56 cm, which is easily operated by its motor.
All Husqvarna battery-powered chainsaws use the same 36V li-ion battery pack that is compatible with all Husqvarna products.
It is also equipped with a dual-mode chainsaw, which will allow you to select between normal and save mode, depending on your need.
Chain tensioning is a breeze with its tool-less system. This Husqvarna chainsaw is also incredibly easy to start with, thanks to its intuitive keypad.
Keep in mind that this Husqvarna chainsaw was built for versatility and easy use, not power. So this is only appropriate for casual use and light-duty tasks.
Design and Added Features
It is designed for long-lasting professional performance and can also fit their other handheld machines. This allows you to swiftly transfer the same battery from a chainsaw to a trimmer, blower, and the rest of their products.
The power of this 36V Li-ion battery pack rivals that of regular gas-powered chainsaws, with the benefit of no direct exhaust fumes and emissions. Moreover, it can get as much work done in one charge as in one tank of gas in a gas chainsaw.
This lightweight chainsaw is easy to use and much less noisy than most other chainsaws on the market. Its motor is responsible for the noise reduction and increases the life of this Husqvarna chainsaw.
It only weighs 6.5 lbs. or 2.95 kg. It is one of the quietest chainsaw models available, producing only 98 dB when in use.
Is This the Best Husqvarna Chainsaw for You?
If you frequently use your chainsaw for felling small trees and pruning, this is the chainsaw for you.
It can last long enough for you to finish your task, is easy to maneuver, and is lightweight for easy use. This is excellent for beginners who want an easy to use chainsaw for light-duty tasks.
Here’s what you’ll love
Highly efficient brushless motor
Dual-mode design
Quick and easy chain tensioning
Lightweight and ergonomic
Relatively quiet
Here’s what you might not like
For light-duty tasks only
#5 – Husqvarna T536Li XP Battery-Powered Chainsaw
Quick Facts
Easy maintenance
Effortless operation
Dual-mode operation: normal and save mode
Motor output: 36V
Power and Performance
Just like the Husqvarna 120i, this Husqvarna chainsaw model uses the same 36V Li-ion battery that is also compatible with all the other battery-powered products manufactured by Husqvarna.
This model also uses the same brush motor in the 120i that delivers 50% more efficiency than traditional brush motors.
Design and Added Features
The Husqvarna T536Li XP chainsaw can perform just as well as other gas-powered chainsaws from the same or different brands. It is the lightest Husqvarna chainsaw on this list and does not need fueling.
It only weighs 5.29 lbs. or 2.4 kg. with a bar length of 14 inches or 35.56 cm.
Moreover, it is made of fewer parts, making maintenance a lot easier.
Similar to the 120i, it has a dual-mode feature that lets you choose between save and normal modes, depending on whether you want to get a longer run-time out of it or more power.
The keypad requires barely any effort to operate, making this a convenient Husqvarna chainsaw to choose from.
Note that this Husqvarna chainsaw does not come with a battery and charger in the kit, so this will cost you extra.
Is This the Best Husqvarna Chainsaw for You?
Suppose you are a carpenter, contractor, or logger looking for a battery-powered Husqvarna chainsaw that can rival the power of other gas Husqvarna chainsaw models.
In that case, the Husqvarna T536Li XP is the best Husqvarna chainsaw for you.
Here’s what you’ll love
Highly efficient brushless motor
Intuitive keypad for easy operation
TechLite bar is 18% lighter than a conventional blade
Rope attachment for hoisting sawde
Flip-up tank cap is easy to open
Belt eye allows easy connection to the harness
Inertia-activated chain brake
Retained bar nuts to prevent loss
Long battery life
Dual-mode design
Easy to operate keypad
Low maintenance
Here’s what you might not like
Battery and charger not included
#6 – Husqvarna T435 Top Handle Chainsaw
Quick Facts
10,000 RPM for fast pruning
Top handle chainsaw
Very affordable
Power and Performance
If you frequently need to hoist up your chainsaw with rope, the Husqvarna T435’s included sturdy rope attachment point will be convenient for you.
With its 2.0 HP engine, this top handle Husqvarna chainsaw will give you speeds of up to 10,000 RPM to make pruning fast and easy. It comes with a 30.48 cm or 12-inch bar length.
Design and Added Features
Moreover, it comes with advanced features expected in the best Husqvarna chainsaws, such as LowVib, X-Torq, a side-mounted tensioner, and a quick-release air filter.
With a weight of only 7.5 lbs. or 3.4 kg., this is perfect for pruning work. Note that it produces a 112 dB noise level.
Its Air Purge technology will remove air from the fuel system and carburetor to make starting this chainsaw quick and easy.
Last but not least, it has a relatively affordable price tag compared to other gas-powered Husqvarna chainsaw models!
Note that since this is a top handle chainsaw, it requires skill and experience to operate safely.
Is This the Best Husqvarna Chainsaw for You?
For arborists and others who typically need a chainsaw for pruning orchards and vineyards, this Husqvarna chainsaw is for you.
It is lightweight and only has a top handle for easy operation. It is also easy to hoist up in trees with a rope attachment.
Here’s what you’ll love
Lightweight
Well-balanced
Relatively higher RPM
Quick and convenient chain tensioning
Easy filter cleaning and replacement
Sturdy rope attachment point
Here’s what you might not like
Not as powerful as other options
Types of Chainsaws Manufactured by Husqvarna
Based on Power Source
Gas – Powered
Most people think of chainsaws, and the gas-powered model immediately comes to mind. These are the most powerful type of chainsaws, perfect for heavy-duty chainsaw work.
Advantages
Some of the most powerful saw models available on the market are gas-powered. They can easily cut through any wood without any issue, as long as they are correctly maintained.
Unlike corded electric chainsaws, you can take this with you anywhere. All you need to remember is to load it up with enough fuel mix.
Chainsaw manufacturers are more careful of their gas chainsaws because they know how catastrophic unintentional accidents can be. This is why gas chainsaws tend to have more safety features included.
Disadvantages
These models require more upkeep than battery-powered or corded electric models. You will need to maintain a clean air filter, use the right mix of gasoline and oil, and replace the spark plugs regularly.
They are also carbureted and require adjustments to fuel and air mixtures, making them demanding if you do not know how to use your chainsaw.
Gas chainsaws are also noisier and heavier, making them unsuitable for use in neighborhoods. Due to their extra power, they tend to be more expensive.
This Is Best Suited For
If you have a large property and/or have a job that frequently needs to use heavy-duty small chainsaws to handle the thickest and hardest of woods, a gas-powered model may be the best one for you.
Corded Electric
The more popular choice for casual chainsaw users and homeowners who occasionally need to do yard work is an electric chainsaw.
Advantages
Electric chainsaws have many models available on the market. It takes very little for one to maintain these models, besides a quick cleaning and maintenance of the bar-lube levels.
They tend to be lighter and less noisy compared to gas models. Moreover, they also usually cost less and are very easy to start-up.
Disadvantages
The main disadvantage of electric saws is how limited your use can be. You need a reliable power source to utilize this machine, which may not always be available when you are working, especially outdoors.
Even so, they still cannot match the most powerful gas chainsaw models in terms of capacity, torque, and engine power.
This Is Best Suited For
This is best suited for those working in small yards that do not require prolonged, frequent, heavy-duty chainsaw use.
This is also a compelling choice for suburban homeowners because they are quieter or those who work anywhere with a nearby reliable power source.
Battery-Powered
If you want the convenience of being able to take your chainsaw around with you anywhere but do not want to spend as much for a gas chainsaw, a battery-powered Husqvarna chainsaw may be the best middle-ground for you.
Advantages
The best feature of battery-powered chainsaws is that it offers a lot of flexibility.
They are also low maintenance, just like a typical electric chainsaw, while still giving you the portability of a gas-powered equivalent.
With present-day technology, there are plenty of powerful options for battery-powered chainsaws that are also less noisy than a gas-powered model.
The low cost of maintenance needed for this model and its portability make them some of the best options for homeowners and casual sawyers.
Disadvantages
The disadvantage with battery-powered chainsaws is that they depend on batteries, which tend to be expensive. So, keeping a few on hand to make sure you do not run out of power in the middle of your work can cost as much as the saw itself.
Moreover, while there are options that are arguably capable, they just cannot compare to the power you can get from a gas chainsaw, which is why professionals generally prefer gas saws.
This Is Best Suited For
Battery-powered chainsaws are best suited for homeowners who have a sizable property and only plan to utilize their saw occasionally.
It is also for those who only need a portable saw once in a while. This is not for those in need of heavy-duty chainsaws.
Based on Class / Intended Use
Professional Husqvarna Chainsaws
As with any brand, professional-grade chainsaws are the most powerful models in their line-up. They are designed to deliver massive amounts of power and torque for maximum performance.
They are designed with the user’s comfort in mind because professionals typically operate their chainsaws all day. That is why they have excellent ergonomics, low or anti-vibration, and noise reduction technology.
These can cut the most and the fastest among these three classes of chainsaws. They also cost and weigh the most and are the noisiest among these three due to their massive engines.
This Is Best Suited For
This type of chainsaw is best for professionals who use their chainsaws full-time or part-time, such as arborists or lumberjacks.
These are too noisy for use in the suburbs or anywhere where there are a lot of people.
All Around Husqvarna Chainsaws
Professionals may also use all around chainsaws because they are meant to be robust and still deliver excellent performance. However, its abilities are not as much as those in professional-grade chainsaws.
They are mostly intended for part-time work such as woodcutting.
This Is Best Suited For
This is best for professionals who need more versatility in their arsenal, as well as homeowners and ranchers who require more cutting power than in the last class discussed below.
Consumer/Recreational Husqvarna Chainsaws
Consumer chainsaws are meant for the average Joe (or Jane). They are far more comfortable to use, have a simple design, are compact, and lightweight. These models are designed for home users who are not experts or experienced sawyers.
These are excellent for light-duty work and cutting branches or small trees.
This Is Best Suited For
If you are a beginner to woodcutting and want to try your hand at learning to operate a chainsaw, we suggest you choose consumer or recreational Husqvarna chainsaws.
Do not jump too far ahead, as a lack of proper control and knowledge in chainsaw handling can be very dangerous.
Husqvarna vs. Stihl Chainsaws
When it comes to the highest-end models of chainsaws available on the market, Husqvarna and Stihl are the two brands that are in constant competition with one another.
They produce the highest quality chainsaws made to last you a lifetime. All their models are jam-packed with features and are made with high-quality materials, design, and engineering.
Husqvarna is based in Sweden, while Stihl is based in Germany. You can spend days arguing with fellow chainsaw enthusiasts about which of these two brands are better without even coming to a consensus.
Both of these companies manufacture gas and corded electric chainsaws. Below is a quick comparison of the standard features in the chainsaws manufactured by Husqvarna and Stihl.
Standard Features in Stihl Chainsaws
Features and Performance
- STIHL OILOMATIC Chain – uses their own chain across all products
- Ematic Bar with polymer ramp tank for holding bar oil which helps reduce oil usage by up to 50%
- Spark Arrester Muffler lessens noise and reduces sparks
- Master control lever operates starting throttle lock, choke, and on/off switch
- Air filter cover is easy to clean and remove
- Easy to start system
- Decompression valves for easy starting
Design and User Experience
- The front handle ensures a secure grip and ergonomic design
- Protected spark plugs
- The large starting handle is easy to grip
- Anti-vibration system to minimize fatigue
- Translucent fuel tank for easy monitoring
Safety Features
- Bumper Spikes that help prevent pull-in incidents and offer better control
- STIHL Quickstop Chain Brake System (manual or automatic)
- Front Hand Guard for safety
- No rough edges all over the saw to lessen snagging
- STIHL Quickstop Plus – an extra chain-breaking feature that activates after you release the rear handle
Common Features in Husqvarna Chainsaws
Features and Performance
- Centrifugal Air System minimizes wear and extends the operation periods between the filter cleanings
- Snap-lock cylinder cover for quick changing and cleaning of spark plugs
- X-Torq for lower fuel consumption
- Side-mounted chain tensioner for quick and easy chain adjustment
- Three-piece crankshaft makes it more durable and capable of handling the most formidable tasks
- Air Purge for removing from the carburetor and fuel system, making the machine easy to start
- Smart Start lets you launch the chainsaw quickly and with little effort
Design and User Experience
- LowVib- anti-vibration dampeners that absorb vibration and reduce fatigue
- Felling marks for more precise tree felling
- Visible fuel level lets you check and monitor the fuel level quickly
Safety Features
- Inertia activated chain brake to help combat kickback occurrences
- X-Torq minimizes fuel emissions and harmful exhausts
Top Picks
Winner
Husqvarna 24-Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
Among all Husqvarna chainsaw reviews, the 460 Rancher has consistently ranked as #1 or at least a part of the top 3 among Husqvarna chainsaws.
This is no surprise, as this professional-grade gas-powered chainsaw has an excellent air cleaning system and a monstrous engine that is good enough for even the most challenging of chainsaw work, including heavy-duty ones. Its 24-inch bar also makes this suitable for almost all tasks.
If you want the best Husqvarna chainsaws, the 460 Rancher is your best option.
Runner-Up
Husqvarna 455 Rancher Gas-Powered Chainsaw
This Husqvarna chainsaw offers the best Husqvarna features at a value-friendly price. While it may not be the cheapest, we think it has the best intersection of features, performance, power, and price.
It has all of the top-of-the-line specs without being the most expensive.
Plus, it has a 20-inch bar that most chainsaw users will find more than enough. Its engine is also powerful enough for even heavy-duty tasks. This is the best chainsaw you can get if value is what you are after.
Final Words
There are many chainsaw models available. However, experts agree that Husqvarna chainsaws are the best available on the market.
If you are settled on getting yourself a chainsaw, go for the best available! There is a Husqvarna chainsaw for you, no matter your budget or need.
