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Greenworks Pro 80V Review

This battery chainsaw has a battery that charges ultra-quick to keep you plugging away at your project
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greenworks pro 80v battery chainsaw review
Credit: Greenworks
Price:  $400 List
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Manufacturer:   Greenworks
By Ross Patton ⋅ Review Editor  ⋅  Mar 30, 2021
76
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#3 of 12
  • Saw Performance - 35% 9.0
  • Ease of Use - 30% 6.0
  • Battery - 25% 8.0
  • Noise - 10% 6.0

Our Verdict

If you're in the market for a professional-grade battery chainsaw, we recommend the Greenworks Pro 80V. This saw cuts like a dream and it has a commendable runtime. Most of all, it has an insanely quick battery recharge time, meaning that you can spend less time watching the battery meter and more time getting your job done. The runtime and charge time coupled with several features such as a long bar, metal bucking spikes, a conveniently located battery compartment, an upright oil tank, and an easy-to-use chain tensioning system has made this version one of our favorites.
REASONS TO BUY
Phenomenal charge time
Long bar
Metal bucking spikes
REASONS TO AVOID
Heavy
Noisy

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greenworks pro 80v battery chainsaw review
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Price $400 List
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Overall Score Sort Icon
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Star Rating
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Pros Phenomenal charge time, long bar, metal bucking spikesPhenomenal sawing performance, quite for high performance, simple operation, boost modeTop-notch cutting performance, long-lasting battery, easy chain tensioning system, affordableSpectacular battery life, two chain speed settings, barely consumes bar and chain oilCompact, light, quiet, affordable
Cons Heavy, noisyLong charge time, priceySo-so wind-up timeNot the strongest cutting power, plastic chain tensioning system, electronic controls slow down sawingMediocre battery life, slow at making cuts
Bottom Line This battery chainsaw has a battery that charges ultra-quick to keep you plugging away at your projectA top-tier battery-powered model that cuts even faster with a setting that increases power deliveryOne of the best options if you're looking for bar length, battery life, and tool-free chain tensioningA good degree of performance and an exceptional battery life at a reasonable priceThis cordless electric chainsaw is our favorite 20V model for small, quick projects around the yard
Rating Categories Greenworks Pro 80V Husqvarna Power Axe... Ego Power+ CS1800 Husqvarna 120i Worx WG322
Saw Performance (35%)
9.0
9.5
9.0
6.0
6.0
Ease of Use (30%)
6.0
8.0
8.0
6.0
7.0
Battery (25%)
8.0
7.0
8.0
8.0
4.0
Noise (10%)
6.0
8.0
6.0
7.0
9.0
Specs Greenworks Pro 80V Husqvarna Power Axe... Ego Power+ CS1800 Husqvarna 120i Worx WG322
Model Number GCS80420 350i CS1800 120i WG322
Bar Length 18 inches 18 inches 18 inches 14 inches 10 inches
Measured Weight 15 lbs, 2 oz 14 lbs, 6 oz 12 lbs, 4 oz 10 lbs, 11 oz 6 lbs, 10 oz
Measured Battery Weight 3 lbs, 8 oz 4 lbs, 2 oz 3 lbs, 8 oz 2 lbs, 12 oz 1 lbs, 10 oz
Included Battery Size 2 Ah 7.7Ah 5 Ah 4.2 Ah 2 Ah
Nominal Voltage 80V 36V 56V 36V 20V
Measured Runtime 27 minutes 51 minutes 60 minutes 40 minutes 22 minutes
Measured Run Time Eco Mode n/a n/a n/a 54 mins n/a
Measured Battery Charge Time .5 hr 2.75 hr 1.5 hr 2 hrs 3 hr
Measured Average Cutting Time 5.32 seconds 7.07 seconds 5.876 seconds 13.486 seconds 38.382 seconds
Measured Wind Up Time 1.15 seconds .25 seconds 1.25 seconds .5 seconds 2 seconds
Measured Decibel Reading at 48in 86.8 dBa 82.1 dBa 88.8 dBa 85.9 dBa 80.0 dBa
Control Type Electronic button, side safety, and brake Electronic button, palm safety, and chain brake Side safety w/ chain brake Electronic button, side safety and brake Thumb safety
Chain Replacement and Tensioning Type Tool free Tool free Tool Free Tool free Tool free
Metal Bucking Spikes Yes Yes Yes No No
Oil Conservation 6 9 8 8 8
Bar & Chain Tank Location and Type Top Side Side, Screen Side, flip-up Top
Measured Body Dimesions 14x9x7.5 inches 18.5 x 8 x 6 inches 16x9x8 inches 19x7x7 inches 13x8x7.5 inches

Our Analysis and Test Results

Founded in 2017, Greenworks is a brand that exclusively specializes in lithium-ion power tools. They have been on the cutting edge of battery technology since day one, which is clearly evident with their release of the Pro 18V. This 18-inch model winds up quickly, has a solid battery life, and great cutting performance. Where the Greenworks Pro 18V truly shines is its incredibly fast battery charge time.

Performance Comparison


greenworks pro 80v battery chainsaw review - the greenworks pro 80v possesses several of our favorite elements in...
The Greenworks Pro 80V possesses several of our favorite elements in a chainsaw, and it has a lighting-fast charge time.
Credit: Jason Peters

Saw Performance


We weighted saw performance at 35% of our total score. For this first metric, we purchased a pile of Douglas Fir 4x4s from the lumber yard that we stacked on a sawbuck to create a repeatable test using the same type and size of dimensions of wood for each saw. We timed five cuts per model in order to get an average cutting speed for each one. The Greenworks Pro 80V showed fantastic results during this assessment — we measured an average time of 5.3 seconds per cut.


For the second half of the saw performance metric, we took the saws to a tree service job site to let the local crew get a feel for each model and provide us with some professional feedback. All agreed that the Greenworks Pro 80V performed similar to a two-stroke chainsaw, and the boys were impressed with the fact that an electric version could power an 18-inch chain. This model is less prone to binding and stalling than most of the other models that we've tested.

greenworks pro 80v battery chainsaw review - this model made quick work of large pine logs at the job site.
This model made quick work of large pine logs at the job site.
Credit: Jason Peters

Ease of Use


For the ease of use metric we combined quantitative and qualitative analysis, this section accounts for 30% of our total score. We weighed and measured each saw in the lab before using our team of power tool specialists to note any details that help the user operate the device or tend to make it more of a pain. After carefully analyzing the Greenworks Pro 80V, we determined that this model deserves a 6 out of 10 for this metric.


The Pro 80V has several attractive features. We love that the bar & chain oil tank is oriented in an upright position with the cap on top. Most old-school chainsaws have the cap located horizontally near the bottom of the saw which makes it fairly awkward to fill and deal with. The tool-free chain tensioning system on this model is very elementary and requires little to no practice or training. Lastly, we are always fans of metal bucking spikes. This element aids immeasurable aids in cutting compared to plastic spikes or a complete lack of spikes.

One drawback we discovered is the redundant power button. The Pro 80V is already equipped with a thumb safety, a chain brake, and a throttle, so another button to push before the saw is operable can become annoying as it detracts from productivity.

greenworks pro 80v battery chainsaw review - although the power button is in a convenient location, we don't see...
Although the power button is in a convenient location, we don't see much of a use for it.
Credit: Jason Peters

This model did score some extra points for the location of its battery compartment. We have found that batteries that load into the top of the saw body are easier to use than those whose compartments are located on the sides or underneath the device.

greenworks pro 80v battery chainsaw review - battery compartments that are located on top of the saw body make it...
Battery compartments that are located on top of the saw body make it easy to attach and remove the power bank.
Credit: Jason Peters

The Greenworks Pro 80V is one of the heaviest saws that we've gotten our hands on. Tipping the scale at more than 15 pounds, be prepared to use a little extra gusto while wielding this model. Although it's not the ideal chainsaw for pruning a small tree, we should mention that the weight can aid in performance and reduce effort while handling jobs like bucking logs down to firewood size.

greenworks pro 80v battery chainsaw review - the greenworks pro 80v is heavy, but in some instances, the added...
The Greenworks Pro 80V is heavy, but in some instances, the added weight can help you cut.
Credit: Jason Peters

Battery


The battery metric comprises 25% of our total score. For this portion of our assessment, we began by fully charging each battery regardless of how much juice it came with from the factory. We then constructed a bench that allowed us to clip the throttle on each saw and time how long they could run with a chain installed, under no load. We were cautious about bar oil levels and stopped each device every 15 minutes to top the tanks off. Once the batteries were dead, we measured the charge time with the old trusty stopwatch.


The Greenworks Pro 80V ran for a commendable 27 minutes. Keep in mind, this is running nonstop. Realistically it will run for a solid couple of hours of making cuts. Although this isn't the longest-lasting battery we've tested, we'd still recommend this model for professional and heavy-duty use.


The main reason we gave the Greenworks Pro 80V an 8 out of 10 for this metric is its charge time. At a mere 30 minutes, you will barely have time to rest and eat a snack before it's time to get back to work. If you purchase two batteries to alternate between, this machine could be running all day.

greenworks pro 80v battery chainsaw review - although this battery is massive, it charges in 30 minutes.
Although this battery is massive, it charges in 30 minutes.
Credit: Jason Peters

Noise


For the final 10% of our score, we measured noise levels. One of the greatest benefits of going with a battery chainsaw is the reduction of noise when compared to two-stroke versions. For those with neighbors close by, it's nice to know that you aren't bothering anyone during their free time. Unfortunately, the Greenworks Pro 80V did not score very well for this metric. Earning a 6 out of 10, this model produces 86.8 decibels of noise from a few feet away. If volume levels are a concern for you, it'd be wise to go with a different model.


Value


Compared to the most expensive models, the Greenworks Pro 80V is absolutely affordable. Greenworks manufactures a ton of power tools — if you plan to buy a lawnmower, string trimmer, leaf blower, or another yard tool, you could increase your value by buying other tools that use the same battery and charger.

greenworks pro 80v battery chainsaw review - with a lightning-fast wind-up time, great performance, and a great...
With a lightning-fast wind-up time, great performance, and a great battery system the Milwaukee M18 Fuel is one of our favorites.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman

Conclusion


The Pro 18V is one of our favorite battery chainsaws. We are always fans of metal bucking spikes and chain brakes, as these features aid in both safety and performance. It cuts well, it has a commendable battery life, and it has a ridiculously fast charge time. If you want a professional-grade saw but are sick of mixing gas and sucking fumes, this model is a fantastic choice.

Ross Patton
 

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