Are Electric Chainsaws Loud? A Complete Guide

When most people think of chainsaws, they imagine the ear-splitting roar of a gas-powered saw echoing through the forest. But what about modern electric chainsaws? Many homeowners and professionals are now turning to corded and battery-powered chainsaws for their convenience, lighter weight, and quieter operation. Still, the question remains: Are electric chainsaws loud?

In this article, we’ll dive into how loud electric chainsaws really are, how they compare to gas models, and what you should know about noise levels, hearing protection, and safety.

Understanding Chainsaw Noise Levels

Chainsaw noise is measured in decibels (dB), with higher values indicating louder operation. Prolonged exposure to noise above 85 dB can cause hearing damage, per OSHA 2025 guidelines, making noise levels a critical factor. Electric chainsaws—both corded (e.g., Oregon CS1500) and battery-powered (e.g., Greenworks 80V)—are generally quieter than gas-powered models (e.g., Husqvarna 455 Rancher), producing less vibration and no engine combustion noise. However, their loudness varies based on motor power, chain speed, and cutting conditions. these differences helps users select a chainsaw that balances performance with noise considerations.

Gas Chainsaw V.S. Electric – SHOCKING OUTCOME ! ! !

How Loud Are Electric Chainsaws?

Electric chainsaws typically produce 70-90 dB during operation, significantly quieter than gas chainsaws, which range from 100-120 dB. Here’s a breakdown based on type and model:

• Corded Electric Chainsaws: Models like the Oregon CS1500 (15-amp, 18-inch bar) generate 80-85 dB, comparable to a vacuum cleaner, per Home Depot reviews. They’re ideal for suburban use where noise restrictions apply.
• Battery-Powered Chainsaws: Models such as the Greenworks Pro 80V (18-inch) and Ego CS2005 (56V, 20-inch) produce 70-80 dB, similar to a loud conversation. These are among the quietest options, perfect for noise-sensitive areas.
• Comparison to Gas Chainsaws: Gas models like the Echo CS-590 (59.8cc) emit 100-110 dB, akin to a rock concert, requiring ear protection for extended use.

For context, normal conversation is 60 dB, and a lawnmower is 90 dB. Electric chainsaws are quiet enough for daytime use in most neighborhoods without disturbing others.

Factors Affecting Electric Chainsaw Noise Levels

Several factors influence how loud an electric chainsaw is:

• Motor Power: Higher voltage or amperage (e.g., 80V or 15-amp) increases chain speed, slightly raising noise levels. The Greenworks 80V is louder (80 dB) than the 40V model (70 dB).
• Bar Length: Longer bars (e.g., 18-20 inches) require more power to drive the chain, producing more noise than shorter bars (12-14 inches).
• Chain Type: Low-kickback chains (ANSI B175.1-compliant) used in most electric saws reduce vibration and noise compared to aggressive chains on pro gas models.
• Cutting Conditions: Cutting dense hardwoods (e.g., oak) or dull chains increases motor strain, amplifying noise.
• Maintenance: Poorly lubricated chains or worn sprockets, as discussed in our article on chainsaw sprockets, can cause grinding sounds, increasing perceived loudness.

Proper maintenance, like sharpening the chain every 2-3 hours and using quality bar oil, keeps noise levels low.

Electric vs. Gas Chainsaws: Noise Comparison

Electric chainsaws have a clear noise advantage over gas models:

• Noise Output: Electric saws (70-90 dB) are 20-40 dB quieter than gas saws (100-120 dB). A 20 dB difference feels twice as quiet to the human ear.
• Vibration: Electric models produce less vibration due to brushless motors, reducing overall noise and user fatigue.
• Idle Noise: Gas chainsaws emit noise even at idle (80-90 dB), while electric saws are silent when not cutting, making them less disruptive.
• Environmental Impact: Electric saws eliminate exhaust noise and fumes, enhancing user comfort and neighbor relations.

For urban or noise-restricted areas, electric chainsaws are the go-to choice, often exempt from local noise ordinances (typically 85-90 dB limits).

Why Electric Chainsaws Are Quieter?

There are several reasons electric chainsaws are less noisy than their gas-powered counterparts:

1. No Combustion Engine

Gas chainsaws rely on two-stroke combustion engines, which create loud mechanical and exhaust noise. Electric motors are much quieter because they have fewer moving parts and no exhaust system.

2. Reduced Vibration

Electric motors generate less vibration, which not only makes the tool more comfortable to use but also reduces the secondary noise caused by rattling parts.

3. Lower Power Output in Some Models

Many battery-powered chainsaws are designed for light to medium-duty tasks such as trimming, pruning, and cutting firewood. Because they aren’t as powerful as heavy-duty gas saws, they naturally produce less noise.

Situations Where Quieter Chainsaws Make a Difference

The reduced noise of electric chainsaws makes them particularly appealing in certain situations:

1. Residential Neighborhoods – If you live in a quiet community with noise restrictions, an electric chainsaw is far less likely to disturb your neighbors.
2. Early Morning or Evening Work – Electric saws allow you to do yard work at more flexible hours without creating the same disturbance as a gas model.
3. Indoor or Enclosed Spaces – While cutting indoors isn’t common, some construction or demolition projects may involve indoor use, where lower noise is a big advantage.
4. User Comfort – Lower noise and vibration mean less fatigue for the operator, making electric chainsaws friendlier for beginners and casual users.

Benefits of Quieter Electric Chainsaws

The lower noise levels of electric chainsaws offer several advantages:

• Neighborhood-Friendly: At 70-85 dB, electric saws are suitable for early morning or evening use without disturbing neighbors, unlike gas saws.
• Hearing Protection: While OSHA recommends ear protection above 85 dB, many electric saws fall below this threshold, reducing the need for muffs during short sessions.
• User Comfort: Lower noise and vibration reduce fatigue, making electric saws ideal for prolonged tasks like pruning or firewood cutting.
• Eco-Friendly Operation: Battery-powered models like the Ego CS2005 produce zero emissions, aligning with eco-conscious preferences.

These benefits make electric chainsaws, particularly battery models, a top pick for homeowners in urban settings.

Drawbacks of Electric Chainsaws

Despite their quieter operation, electric chainsaws have limitations:

• Power and Runtime: Battery models (20-40 minutes per charge) and corded saws (limited by cord length) may not match the continuous power of gas saws for heavy tasks.
• Cutting Capacity: Electric saws with 12-18 inch bars are best for logs up to 14 inches, while gas saws handle larger trees (20+ inches), per our article on chainsaw bar length.
• Initial Cost: Battery-powered saws like the Greenworks 80V ($350-$400) can be pricier upfront than entry-level gas models ($200), though they save on fuel costs.

For professional logging, gas chainsaws remain the standard due to their power, despite higher noise levels.

Top Quiet Electric Chainsaw Models for 2025

Based on 2025 reviews from Home Depot and TechGearLab, here are top electric chainsaws known for low noise:

• Greenworks Pro 80V 18-inch: 80 dB, comparable to a 42cc gas saw, with a brushless motor and 20-30 minute runtime. Priced at $350-$400.
• Ego CS2005 20-inch (56V): 75-80 dB, ideal for medium tasks like felling small trees, with up to 90 cuts per charge. Costs $300-$350.
• Oregon CS1500 18-inch (corded): 80-85 dB, self-sharpening chain, perfect for homeowner use near power sources. Priced at $100-$150.
• Greenworks 40V 12-inch: 70 dB, lightweight (8 pounds) for pruning, great for beginners. Costs $100-$150.

These models balance quiet operation with solid performance.

Tips to Minimize Electric Chainsaw Noise

To keep noise levels low, follow these tips:

• Maintain the Chain: Sharpen every 2-3 hours to reduce motor strain and noise, per our chainsaw file guide.
• Use Proper Lubrication: Apply biodegradable bar oil every 10-15 minutes to minimize friction and grinding sounds, per Oregon manuals.
• Choose Low-Kickback Chains: These reduce vibration and noise, enhancing safety and comfort, per Home Depot.
• Cut Efficiently: Use proper technique (avoid forcing the saw) to prevent excessive motor noise, per YouTube tutorials.
• Use in Optimal Conditions: Avoid dense hardwoods with underpowered models to reduce strain and noise.

Final Thoughts

Yes, electric chainsaws are loud, but they’re much quieter than gas-powered models. While they typically produce noise levels of 85–100 dB, this is a noticeable reduction compared to the 100–120 dB of gas saws. For homeowners, hobbyists, and anyone working in noise-sensitive areas, this difference makes electric chainsaws a more user-friendly choice.

Still, hearing protection remains essential, especially for extended cutting sessions. If you want a chainsaw that balances performance, convenience, and reduced noise, an electric chainsaw could be the perfect fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are electric chainsaws quieter than gas chainsaws?

Yes. On average, electric chainsaws produce 85–100 dB, while gas chainsaws reach 100–120 dB. That makes electric saws noticeably quieter, though they are still loud enough to require hearing protection.

Do I need ear protection when using an electric chainsaw?

Absolutely. Even though they are quieter than gas models, electric chainsaws still exceed 85 dB, which is the threshold where prolonged exposure can cause hearing damage.

How loud is an electric chainsaw compared to everyday sounds?

An electric chainsaw is roughly as loud as city traffic or a leaf blower (85–95 dB). Gas chainsaws, by contrast, can be as loud as a motorcycle or rock concert (110+ dB).

Can I use an electric chainsaw in a residential area without disturbing neighbors?

Yes. Electric chainsaws are far more suitable for residential neighborhoods due to their quieter operation. They’re ideal for trimming, pruning, and light cutting without creating as much disturbance.

Which is quieter: a corded electric or a battery-powered chainsaw?

Both are quieter than gas models, but battery-powered chainsaws tend to be slightly quieter because they often have smaller motors designed for lighter-duty tasks.

What makes electric chainsaws less noisy?

Electric saws are quieter because they have no combustion engine, fewer moving parts, and reduced vibration, which all contribute to lower sound output.

Do You Need Hearing Protection for Electric Chainsaw?

If you’re going to be using an electric chainsaw, it’s a good idea to invest in some hearing protection. The loud noise generated by the saw can cause serious damage to your ears if you’re not careful. There are a few different types of hearing protection available, so make sure you choose something that will work well for you and that you’re comfortable wearing.

Are Cordless Chainsaws Quiet?

Cordless chainsaws are not as loud as their gas-powered counterparts, but they’re still pretty noisy. If you’re looking for a quiet saw, you might want to consider an electric model. However, cordless chainsaws have several advantages over electric models, including more power and portability.