Best gas chainsaws under 200 dollars that every homeowner and pro needs
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The first time approaching, it may confuse you because of complicated and unknown information. Also, it could be a waste to blind buy a random chainsaw that does not suit your type of usages. Besides, cutting with chainsaws is a tough job that requires a specific product for each one.
So if you’re struggling with choosing the best chainsaw within a budget, follow me through this ultimate buying guide and the list of 5 best gas chainsaws under 200.
| Image | Product | Features | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Editor’s Choice Remington RM4218CS |
| |
 | Best For Beginners Craftsman S165 |
| |
 | Most Lightweight Husqvarna 120 Mark II |
| |
 | More Powerful For Heavier & Larger Trees Poulan PR5020 |
| |
 | Powerful Yet Cheaper COOCHEER 20’’ |
|
Remington RM4218CSEditor’s Choice
Pros
- Excellent performances
- Easy to start
- Ergonomic design
- Powerful 42cc engine
- Less maintenance
- Safe and easy to use
Cons
- Heavier than other models
If you ever struggled to start a gas-powered chainsaw, give this Remington RM4218CS a try. The powerful 42cc 2-cycle gas engine is what you wish for completing light to medium-duty cutting jobs.
Its sprocket bar decreases the heat and friction to improve durability and lifespan. One outstanding feature that I love is the ergonomic, clean-cut design. Compared to the engine quality, this Remington chainsaw has a good price to buy.
If the chain could ever get off the bar, a hook locates at the bottom to reduce any accident for the users. Besides, for maximum safety, it comes with depth gauges, guards links to protect your hands and reduce kickbacks.
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2-Cycle |
| Engine Size (cc) | 42 |
| Bar Length (in.) | 18 |
| Maximum Cut Diameter (in.) | 16 |
| Fuel, Tank Capacity (oz.) | 102 |
| Weight (lb.) | 20.2 |
| Handle Type | Rear |
| Highlight Features | Heavy-duty bar & chain, High-output engine, 3-point anti-vibration system, quick-start technology, Ergonomic design |
I would recommend the Remington RM4218CS for those who are looking for a powerful, smart-designed, safe, and professional chainsaw for all your daily usages.
Craftsman S165Best For Beginners
Pros
- Lightweight and ergonomic balanced design
- Easy to use and maintain
- Low kickback and vibration
- High output engine
- An oil bottle with a protective carrying case
Cons
- Harder to start when the weather is hot
With only $160, the Craftsman S165 gas chainsaw delivers steady power, a 42cc 2-cycle engine, and 16’’ bar chains. The full wrap handle covered by soft polyester features a 3-point anti-vibration system to offer a smooth and comfortable cutting experience.
Inertia-activated chain brake automatically stops offering safety and preventing any dangerous injury. You can use this machine for a long time with no issue thanks to its automatic oil system to keep it lubricated all the time.
While it is professional to use for heavy duties, it is also easy to use and maneuverable that surpasses the beginner’s expectations. You can get used to the heavy cutting jobs, but it’s lightweight enough to make a difference when you run it for hours.
Although Craftsman products mostly in the low to mid-range level, some chainsaws such as the S165 model are good enough to even use in heavy-duty and professional works.
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2-Cycle |
| Engine Size (cc) | 42 |
| Bar Length (in.) | 16 |
| Maximum Cut Diameter (in.) | 16 |
| Fuel, Tank Capacity (oz.) | 12.416 |
| Weight (lb.) | 21.6 |
| Handle Type | Rear |
| Highlight Features | High-output Engine, 3-point Anti-vibration System, Easy-to-use, Automatic Chain Oiler-Carrying Case |
Craftsman S165 is not a perfect product, but what people love is it is extra-easy to use, lightweight, cut fast, and worth the money.
Husqvarna 120 Mark IIMost Lightweight
Pros
- Come assembled
- Easy to move
- Smooth operation
- Lightweight and worth the money
- Low noise
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy work
- May stall sometimes
Husqvarna has led the industry, and the Husqvarna 120 Mark II keeps coming with innovative technologies that would surpass your expectations. While the 38.3cc is compact for pruning and most light-duty jobs, it’s still powerful enough for professional work when needed.
It also has a bigger 8.96-oz fuel tank than the 240 model makes the runtime longer. They have redesigned the Mark II to offer lots of outstanding functions including vibration dampening increase, quick throttle response, and lighter weight.
If you hate cleaning the dirty air filter, the Air Injection technology helps to remove most of the dust and debris particles to extend its lifespan. The Air Purge system is a lifesaver for those who prefer an easy-to-start gas chainsaw because it removes air from the fuel system to decrease starting pulls.
Although it’s lightweight, you will soon feel fatigued after hours of hard work. Luckily, it has a Low-Vib® system that reduces the vibration level. The X-Torq technology decreases emissions and noise to 109 dB to give you a smooth process.
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2-cycle |
| Engine Size (cc) | 38.2 |
| Bar Length (in.) | 14 |
| Maximum Cut Diameter (in.) | 10 |
| Fuel, Tank Capacity (oz.) | 8.96 |
| Weight (lb.) | 10.7 |
| Handle Type | N/A |
No one can deny the general quality of the Husqvarna 120 Mark II chainsaw. It is the lightest of the best gas chainsaws under $200 and it’s value for the money.
Poulan PR5020More Powerful For Heavier & Larger Trees
Pros
- Easy to start
- Powerful 50cc engine can cut through hardwood and thick brush
- Extra-long 20’’ bar chain
- Reduce emission and fuel consumption
- Easy access chain tensioning for fast actions
Cons
- Heavier and louder than other models
- Not suitable for milling
Poulan PR5020 is the greatest chainsaw for heavy duties with a powerful 55cc engine and a 20’’ bar chain. You may think the 20’’ bar chain is bulky, but it features an advanced anti-vibration system to help use it smoother.
Some people would choose an electric chainsaw instead because it is more environment-friendly. However, the Poulan patented OxyPower Engine controls efficient fuel consumption. It reduced emission by less than 70% and fuel consumption by less than 20% compared to other competitors.
One outstanding feature I would like to share with the beginners is it decreases 30% pull force to start the equipment. When needed, you can also replace the new bar chain that is easy according to the user reviews.
You can clean the air filter and access the spark plug without screwing the cover. It also has an advanced anti-vibration system to reduce fatigue, just as what we expected in powerful products like this one. Plus, they extend the body parts and construction warranty to 3 years.
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2-cycle |
| Engine Size (cc) | 50 |
| Bar Length (in.) | 20 |
| Maximum Cut Diameter (in.) | 40 |
| Fuel, Tank Capacity (oz.) | 14.4 |
| Weight (lb.) | 17 |
| Handle Type | Rear |
| Highlight Features | Extra-Long Bar Length, Powerful 50cc Engine, Easy To Start, Durable |
$200 is an amazing price to purchase this powerful, environment-friendly, easy-to-start Poulan PR5020 gas chainsaw from a credible brand such as Poulan.
COOCHEER 20’’Powerful Yet Cheaper
Pros
- Extra-long 20’’ bar & chain
- High-quality imported steel chain and ABS plastic
- Various additional accessories
- Durable and powerful
- Reduce fuel consumption
- Cheap price for its size
Cons
- The instruction of assembling is a bit confusing
- Small fuel tank
If you need a powerful chainsaw like Poulan PR5020 but you have a tight budget, this COOCHEER 20” gas chainsaw may be what you’re looking for.
The 62cc engine of this COOCHEER chainsaw can beat many gas chainsaws in the market at a good price. Plus, its high-quality imported steel chain is more durable 5 times than the ordinary chains. The bar chain also allows 27-33cm cutting diameter in high temperature.
Besides impressive performance, this chainsaw can reduce fuel consumption by 20%. The bar features a cover to prevent your chain from rust and unintended cuts when not using. The material of body parts is high-quality ABS plastic so it could last longer and more durable at high temperatures.
COOCHEER designs the handle to be comfortable, balance, slide-free, and stable for users to survive the strong vibration of heavy duties. While it is easy to start, it also features the safety valve throttle switch to prevent any accidental starts.
The last wonderful thing is beside the chainsaw itself, you are free to use additional accessories with no extra fee! It includes 2 chains, an extra start pull rope, an extra spark plug, a plastic mixing bottle, an installation tool kit, a guide bar cover, and a carrying bag.
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2-cycle |
| Engine Size (cc) | 62 |
| Bar Length (in.) | 20 |
| Maximum Cut Diameter (in.) | 27-33 |
| Fuel, Tank Capacity (oz.) | 18.6 |
| Weight (lb.) | 15.4 |
| Handle Type | |
| Highlight Features | Powerful 62cc Engine, Extra-Long 20’’ Bar, High-Quality Imported Steel Chain, Easy-To-Start, Ergonomic & Slip-Free Handle |
To be honest, at this price, the COOCHEER 20’’ chainsaw is all I would ask for! It is more powerful and durable than many expensive chainsaws in the market.
FAQs
Both gas and electric chainsaws own pros and cons. What to choose depends on your choice.
Gas chainsaws vs Electric chainsaws
- Although some gas chainsaws are lightweight, it is still heavier than electric chainsaws.
- The electric chainsaw has almost no noise unless pulling the throttle trigger.
- Electric chainsaws are only suitable for light and medium duties, while gas chainsaws with powerful engines and extra-long bars can cut large trees and do heavy work.
- Gas chainsaw bars are much longer (Maximum 72’’) than electric chainsaws (Maximum 18’’).
- Gas chainsaws allow you unlimited runtime, you only need to refill the fuel tank to keep running it. Corded electric chainsaws limit your working area and cordless chainsaws require you to recharge for a few hours to continue using for 30 mins to 1 hour.
- Electric chainsaws are easier than gas chainsaws to maintain because it does not require fuel mixture, oil lubrication, and filter cleaning.
- Gas chainsaws do not include cords so you can bring and use them anywhere you want.
Yes, and No.
You can change a longer bar for your chainsaw. However, some chainsaws have different designs to fit their bar sizes. So you need to use a bar that matches the sprocket configuration of the chainsaw.
The more powerful your chainsaw is, the longer the bar you could use. However, only choose the size within the recommendation.
Although you didn’t use the chainsaw often, replace the chain when it has these issues.
Worn or broken teeth: It is obvious to hit some rocks or embedded nails when cutting. It can damage your chain, making it work less effectively.
Constantly adjust the chain tension: The cutting force depends on chain tension. Through time, it could lose the ability to stay tight and connect the teeth to the bar. A loose chain can also create dangerous kickbacks and severe injuries.
It smokes when cutting: If your chainsaw smokes even you lubricate it often, replace the chain right away.
Cuts unevenly or rattles: When you have adjusted the tension but it still can’t cut in the exact ways you want, replace the chain.
I found some local stores where you can sharpen a chain with only $6 to $10 and others cost $20 including dressing the bar.
It is normal if your blade gets hot when cutting. However, be careful if it produces smoke or gets overheated.
For the best performances, do 3 types of maintenance: daily, weekly, and monthly.
Daily
- Clean the outside and the chain brake.
- Check the lubrication hole and clean the bar groove.
- Lubricates the sprocket tip if any.
- Check to ensure no fuel leaks from the engine, tank, or fuel lines.
- Clean the air filter.
Weekly
- Check that it does not damage the vibration damping.
- Clean or replace the spark arrestor screen on the muffler.
Monthly
- Check the clutch center, clutch drum, and clutch spring.
- Clean the spark plug.
- Check fuel hose for cracks or other damage. Replace if needed.
- Empty the fuel tank and clean the inside.
- Empty the oil tank and clean the inside.
- Check all cables and connections.
Conclusion
Some people think it’s hard to own a powerful gas chainsaw when it costs more than electric chainsaws. However, I brought you the list of the 5 best gas chainsaws under $200 and they are all great at doing heavy work.
Gas chainsaws let you use for an unlimited time, strong at cutting large trees. The COOCHEER chainsaw even comes with accessories with no extra fee. So I guess those are the reasons to buy a gas chainsaw.
Thanks for reading and I will get back to you soon with the next topic!