Which chainsaw is better, gasoline or electric, what to choose for your summer house, home and why?

Compare - identify the main differences

Electric and gasoline saws have almost the same cutting headset and operating principle. The saw chain slides along the ellipse of the bar, and the wood is cut by sharp teeth made of special alloys.

The difference is in the drive. Electro are driven by electric motors and consume electricity. The gasoline engine has a two-stroke internal combustion engine running on gasoline as its power plant. But this difference leads to the fact that these two units differ markedly in their properties in practical work.

In addition to the difference in energy sources, gas and electric saws have big differences in power characteristics.

As can be seen from the photo, on the left is an electric motor with a winding and an armature, and on the right is an internal combustion engine: piston, cylinder, crankshaft, etc.

The maximum power of electric chain saws is up to 2.5 kW. It is almost impossible to install a more powerful engine on such saws for the following reasons:

1. The power saw becomes heavy and cumbersome.
2. An electric motor with a power of about 5 kW requires a separate powerful cable and connection sockets. When starting, the electric motor, unlike electric stoves and heating elements, takes 3 times the rated power. That is, a 5 kW motor is 15 kW. All wiring and circuit breakers must be designed for this power.

Two-stroke internal combustion engines of powerful chainsaw models can develop power up to 6 kW.

There is a big difference in the speed indicators:

1. An electric motor of 3000 rpm is already considered high-speed.
2. The number of maximum (for all gas) rpm of the internal combustion engine on different models is from 12,000 to 15,000.

Such a difference in speed does not mean that the chain on an electric saw spins 4-5 times slower than at maximum on a chainsaw. Low speeds are partially mitigated by a higher gear ratio than chainsaws.

As a result, the electric saw turns the chain only 20-40% slower than a saw with an internal combustion engine. But, according to the laws of physics, while gaining speed due to a higher gear, the electric saw loses power.

Therefore, a consumer who replaces a 1.8 kW chainsaw with an electric saw of the same power will be disappointed by the poor performance precisely because of the low number of revolutions.

Chainsaw device. Visually there is practically no difference from the electric one.

There are fundamental differences in the drive design. Chainsaws have clutches. Therefore, the chain of a chainsaw running at idle speed does not rotate. Electric saws do not have clutches. The movement of the chain begins immediately after the soft start button is turned on.

The bar fastening and chain tensioning systems differ. On electric saws they are keyless. On most models of chainsaws, the tire is tightened in a more proven way, with nuts using a wrench. The tightening force of this type is visually controlled and is more reliable.

Oil pumps for supplying lubricant to the saw set operate on the same principle in both versions. Sometimes electric saws have pumps exactly the same as those on chainsaws.

Electric chain saw device

There is a difference in the layout of the mechanisms and the location of the center of gravity. All chainsaw models are thoughtfully balanced to ensure a comfortable grip. As a result, when lifted by the handle, all chainsaws are effortlessly in the working position, the tire or rear end does not hang down.

Holding a power saw in your hands requires more effort because the location of the cable at the back may vary. It either lies on the ground or hangs down and pulls the back of the power saw down.

The layout of electric chain saws comes in two types: with a transverse and longitudinal arrangement of the electric motor. With the first option, the left side is a little heavier due to the engine part hanging to the left. Holding such a power saw requires little effort, which can become tiring over long periods of use. The longitudinal version is centered along the axis, but the cable creates more noticeable inconvenience.

Differences between saws

To get a full understanding of the capabilities of electric and chainsaws, it is necessary to compare their key characteristics.

Power and performance

The power of electric saws rarely exceeds 2.5 kW, and for gasoline models it reaches 5–6 kW. But even with equal power, the power tool will be inferior in performance, since it must be turned off for 20 minutes after 40 minutes of operation (on average) to avoid engine overheating

Gasoline engines do not require such stops; they are capable of working continuously for 8 hours in a row (if you do not take into account devices in the lowest price segment)

The speed of gasoline models is on average a quarter higher than that of electric models. Accordingly, their productivity and speed are higher.

Saw set

The profile and pitch of the teeth of electric and gasoline saws are the same, only the number of cutters differs due to the difference in blade length. Powerful models running on petroleum products are equipped with tires up to 1 meter. However, such professional saws are used mainly in logging; ordinary household appliances are much more compact. Electrical devices are equipped with canvases no more than 0.5 m.

Preparing for work

Electric models are much easier to maintain. Before starting, you need to fill in the oil, secure the headset and plug in the device. Many electric saws are equipped with quick-release fasteners that help tighten the chain in seconds.

For gasoline models, the preparation process takes more time and effort. Before starting work, it is necessary to prepare the fuel mixture by combining oil and gasoline in the required proportions. It is not recommended to mix petroleum products ahead of time - this will deteriorate their working properties.

Comfort and safety of use

Gasoline saws are well balanced and maneuverable. Unlike electric models, the operator's movement is not limited by the cable.

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Electric models are divided into 2 groups depending on the method of engine placement:

1. Longitudinal (shaft rotation axis is parallel to the tire). They are distinguished by good balancing, long length and small thickness;
2. Transverse (the axis of rotation of the shaft is perpendicular to the tire). The models are short in length, however, they have an imbalance due to the protruding motor housing. The operator has to make additional efforts to align the cut line, which during prolonged work can lead to premature fatigue;

Gasoline models can be used regardless of weather conditions. Electric - only in good, dry weather. It is unsafe to use such a tool during rain or immediately after it stops.

The likelihood of injury from a safety violation is the same in both cases and does not depend on the type of device.

Summary comparison table

For those who want to get a quick answer to the differences between these tools, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the table; it briefly explains the main differences between a gasoline saw and an electric one.

Comparison table

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Cost of operation

This concept includes the cost of energy (electricity and gasoline consumed), consumable parts and repairs.

In practice, the cost of electricity and gasoline for sawing 10 cubic meters. Firewood with approximately the same footage is cut the same way.

Cutting accessories - tires and chains for electric and chainsaws cost approximately the same.

Electric saws also use oil to lubricate the chain and saw unit. Its consumption and cost in these two types of saws are approximately equal.

An internal combustion engine is a much more complex mechanism than an electric motor. Therefore, it has a higher probability of breakdowns and repair costs.

But breakdowns are also possible with electric saws, and high-quality chainsaws break down extremely rarely. Therefore, it is almost impossible to calculate the comparative cost of repairs and take them into account in the cost of operation.

Advantages and disadvantages of gasoline

The main advantage of a chainsaw is not only higher power and performance. More:

1. Independence from the availability of power grids and autonomy. This is a self-sufficient tool that can work in the taiga, forest plantations, gardens and anywhere. Of course, if you have a canister of fuel.
2. In rainy weather, in damp places there is no need to think about electrical safety.

The disadvantages include:

1. Noise power during operation up to 110 decibels.
2. Emission of toxic exhaust gases, making it impossible to work indoors.

A relative disadvantage is the higher price compared to an electric saw of similar power . The difference can be up to 40%. The main thing here is to compare similar saws not only by characteristics, but also by manufacturers. You should not compare Stihl gasoline saws with Carver electric saws - these are 2 brands that are completely different in cost, the latter is, in principle, 2-3 times cheaper.

Comparative characteristics

The consumer market offers a wide range of electric saws and chainsaws. Each representative of this kind of instrument has their advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, you need to approach the choice of saw responsibly. It’s best to consider the pros and cons of saws based on specific characteristics:

• Mobility. In this category, the undeniable advantage of a chainsaw is that, unlike a power tool, it does not require connection to a power source. Even if an electric saw is purchased for domestic use, the cord can become a serious obstacle for processing the area. Whereas a chainsaw can be safely put in the car for a trip to the forest or fishing.
• Power. A power saw is a tool that does not require heavy loads. You can use it to trim branches or saw a board, but this saw is not suitable for denser materials and heavy loads. If you work too hard, the tool's motor may fail and overheat or break.

Household chainsaw
Household chainsaws also do not have very high power, but manufacturers create more durable professional or semi-professional tools for long and intense work.

If the craftsman’s work involves cutting thick and dense wooden materials, then it is optimal to use a chainsaw. And for construction, during which they work with thin boards, it is more convenient to use an electric saw, which has greater accuracy.

When choosing the power of an electric saw, it is better to provide some reserve. This will smooth out current instability during operation.

Duration of work. In recommendations for operating electric saws, manufacturers indicate the need not to exceed a load period of 20 minutes. After this time, the engine should cool down. Whereas chainsaws can work continuously for 8 hours.

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Many saws are equipped with a thermal control system that will shut down the tool if it overheats.

• Ambient conditions. For the electric version of the instrument, there are restrictions on the permissible humidity level.
• Comfort. From this point of view, it is more convenient to use an electric saw. It is much quieter and has less vibration. In addition, the person is not disturbed by exhaust gases, providing comfort. If you plan to work indoors, then an electric saw is the best choice. Also, the electric saw does not require refueling, which speeds up the process.
• Financial questions. Cost is an important factor for many consumers. The price of an electric saw is lower than its gasoline version of the tool. It is also cheaper to operate because electricity costs less than gasoline.

In this video you will see a comparison between a chainsaw and an electric saw.

Pros and cons of electric

The undoubted advantages include the following points:

1. Always ready to work. There is no need to mix gasoline with oil, store and pour fuel into the tank, and start it by pulling the starter. Work begins with the press of a button.
2. The electric motor operates more stable than the internal combustion engine, which sometimes stalls at idle.
3. Low noise during operation.
4. Environmentally friendly, no exhaust gases, the ability to work in enclosed spaces.

The disadvantages of electric saws are the following:

1. Working with large hardwoods can be limited by lack of power and rpm.
2. The radius of application is limited by the length of the portable cable.
3. The electric motor overheats quickly. Every 40 minutes of operation at medium load, it must be allowed to cool for about 20 minutes. In hot weather - even more often.
4. The need to monitor electrical safety. For example, on construction sites where active work is underway, the cable may be accidentally damaged.

Some users note that the saw set of electric saws fails faster than that of gasoline ones. In fact, this happens due to the oversight of the users themselves. Often people simply forget to add oil to the saw lubrication tank.

When the chainsaw inevitably needs to be refueled, oil is added simultaneously, almost automatically. On electric saws, it is enough to miss this moment once, and after only half an hour of working on a dry groove, the tires, sprockets and chain may fail.

An experienced user can determine the presence of lubricant without even checking the oil level. A lubricated chain has a matte oil sheen. When you turn it by hand with the engine off, you feel a soft move and muffled sounds. An ungreased, dry chain shines with a light metallic sheen, and during operation it makes specific light ringing and knocking noises.

Chainsaw: features, pros and cons

To fully appreciate the advantages and disadvantages of the tool, you need to familiarize yourself with its design, key characteristics and functions.

Chainsaw device

All chainsaws have a similar design and work on the same principle. Main external components of the tool:

1. A housing that hides the gasoline engine and the main mechanisms that ensure its operation. Its top cover is removed, providing access to the fuel system and air purification unit. The engine in chainsaws is a single-cylinder two-stroke. Its dimensions and dimensions affect the power and determine the purpose of the tool.
2. Two handles (front and back). On the back there is a power and start lock button.
3. Tumblr. Located next to the rear handle, it is responsible for turning the ignition system on and off.
4. Saw unit. It includes a bar on which the chain is tensioned, the chain itself, as well as a rotation transmission mechanism, a chain tension system and bar fastenings, closed with a lid.
5. Starting system. Includes a starter and a hand pump button located on the side of the housing.
6. Two hermetically sealed necks. One is filled with fuel mixture, the other with chain lubricant.
7. Inertia brake. Provides instant tool stop and protects the operator from injury.

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The location, shape and appearance of structural elements may vary depending on the model. Nevertheless, this design is typical and is widely used in the manufacture of chainsaws.

The principle of operation of a chainsaw

The chainsaw is equipped with an internal combustion engine and is connected through a gear system to a saw chain. The engine and chain are connected by a clutch key, which are metal blocks tightened by springs. When you press the starter button, the engine starts running at speeds of up to 2700 rpm. (idling). As the speed increases, the clutch key springs are stretched by centrifugal force and the pads are pressed against the inner surface of the clutch disc. It begins to rotate along with the gear to which the chain is attached, making 10 thousand or more revolutions per minute.

To ensure safety, there are 2 options for stopping the chain:

1. The engine turns off. Stopping takes 1–2 seconds.
2. The inertia brake is activated. When you press the lever, a fixed steel ring clamps the clutch disc, stopping the tool in 0.2 seconds.

A two-stroke engine does not require lubrication; it is enough to use a high-quality fuel mixture.

Benefits of chainsaws

The main advantage of the tool is its autonomy. A gasoline-powered saw does not require an external power source and can be used far from civilization. This device is capable of operating at low temperatures, as well as in conditions of high humidity, during rain.

Chainsaws are suitable for bucking trees in remote areas and logging sites, and are useful when setting up a temporary shelter or a tourist camp.

Disadvantages of chainsaws

The disadvantage of such devices is a complex starting system and time-consuming maintenance. Before starting work, it is necessary to prepare a gasoline-oil mixture in the proportion specified by the manufacturer. The owner has to monitor the tension of the saw chain, the cleanliness of the filters and breather on the tank lid (responsible for equalizing pressure), and monitor the oil level, which ensures the uninterrupted operation of the headset. A large number of working units increases the likelihood of equipment failure.

What problems is benzos best suited for?

A chainsaw is more convenient than an electric saw for working at a distance of more than 10-20 m from an electrical outlet (one 10 or 20 meter extension cord). It is not always convenient to unwind and rewind extension cords over long distances, even if they are available. Especially if there is little work.

A chainsaw is also appropriate for large amounts of work, especially with large-section wood. In everyday life, this is most often the preparation of firewood.

For working in “wild nature” conditions or at a distance from power grids, a chainsaw without a choice is the only option (electric in this case is not a competitor).

When should you choose electric?

The place where it is used, where a chainsaw cannot replace it, is enclosed spaces. For example, a carpentry workshop.

In addition to chain saws, there are many models of circular (circular) hand-held electric saws. This is an excellent tool for carpentry and joinery work. It is adjustable for depth and angle cutting. But the cutting depth of the most popular models is no more than 50-60 mm.

For larger cross-section workpieces, electric chain saws are used.

A power saw is better suited for work at odd hours or even during business hours when the roar of a chainsaw is highly undesirable.

Before purchasing, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the current rating of electric chain saws. The article provides an overview of the most popular and reliable tools today. The characteristics, pros and cons of the tools are given.

An electric chainsaw can also help when you need to get a small (or even one-time) job done in the most economical way possible. The most inexpensive electric chain saw on the market today costs only 1,800 rubles. (The most expensive is about 20 thousand).

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.