Should I Rent or Buy a Chainsaw? Pros, Cons, and Key Considerations

If you’ve got yard work, storm cleanup, or firewood cutting on your to-do list, you might be asking yourself: “Should I rent or buy a chainsaw?” Chainsaws are incredibly versatile tools, but not everyone needs to own one. The right choice depends on how often you’ll use it, what kind of cutting jobs you plan to tackle, and your budget. With chainsaw prices ranging from $100 to $500 and rental costs as low as $30 per day, the choice depends on your frequency of use, budget, and project needs.

In this guide, we’ll break down the advantages and disadvantages of renting versus buying a chainsaw, including key factors like cost, convenience, and long-term value.

Rent the chainsaw

Renting a Chainsaw: When Does It Make Sense?

Renting a chainsaw involves borrowing a tool from a hardware store, equipment rental company, or online platform like Home Depot or United Rentals for a set period, typically by the day or week. Rental options include gas-powered models like the Stihl MS 271 or electric models like the Greenworks 80V, suitable for various tasks.

Benefits of Renting:

• Cost-Effective for Infrequent Use: Daily rental costs range from $30-$60, ideal for one-off projects like storm cleanup or pruning.
• Access to High-End Models: Rent professional-grade saws (e.g., Husqvarna 455 Rancher) that cost $400-$600 to buy, offering more power for large tasks.
• No Maintenance Hassles: Rental companies handle sharpening, oiling, and repairs, saving you time and costs ($20-$100).
• Try Before You Buy: Test different models (gas, electric, or battery-powered) to find the best fit before investing.
• No Storage Issues: Avoid storing a chainsaw and its accessories, which require space and proper care to prevent oil leaks, per our article on chainsaw maintenance.

Renting is ideal for users needing a chainsaw once or twice a year.

Buying a Chainsaw: Is It Worth the Investment?

Buying a chainsaw means owning the tool outright, with options ranging from budget-friendly electric models like the Greenworks 40V ($100-$150) to powerful gas saws like the Stihl MS 661 ($600-$1,000). Ownership suits frequent users or those with ongoing projects, per 2025 Amazon reviews.

Benefits of Buying:

• Long-Term Savings: If used more than 3-4 times annually, buying a $150-$300 chainsaw (e.g., DeWalt 60V Max) is cheaper than repeated rentals ($30-$60/day).
• Convenience: Own a chainsaw for immediate use without scheduling rentals, ideal for frequent pruning or firewood cutting.
• Customization: Choose a model tailored to your needs (e.g., 12-inch bar for pruning or 20-inch for felling), and upgrade parts like bars or chains, per our article on shorter chainsaw bars.
• Resale Value: Quality chainsaws retain value and can be resold for 50-70% of the purchase price after years of use.
• Skill Development: Ownership encourages learning maintenance and cutting techniques, improving efficiency.

Buying is best for regular users or those with large properties requiring ongoing tree care, per FireAndSaw.com.

Cost Comparison: Renting vs. Buying

Rental Costs:

• Daily Rate: $30-$60 for gas or electric chainsaws.
• Weekly Rate: $100-$200, depending on the model and location.
• Additional Fees: Fuel ($5-$10), bar oil ($10-$20), or damage fees ($50-$200) may apply.
• Example: Renting a Stihl MS 271 (18-inch) for 3 days at $50/day totals $150, plus $20 for fuel/oil.

Purchase Costs:

• Initial Cost: Electric models ($100-$200, e.g., Greenworks 40V), battery-powered ($200-$400, e.g., Ego CS2005), or gas saws ($200-$600, e.g., Echo CS-590), per Amazon.
• Maintenance: Chains ($20-$50), bar oil ($10-$20), sharpening files ($5-$10), and occasional repairs ($20-$150) annually, as per our maintenance guides.
• Example: A DeWalt 60V Max ($350) with $50 annual maintenance breaks even after 6-7 rental days ($50/day).

If you use a chainsaw more than 5-6 times a year, buying is typically more cost-effective, per Consumer Reports.

Factors to Consider Before Deciding

Before choosing to rent or buy, think about these key questions:

1. How often will I use a chainsaw?
   • One-time project → Rent.
   • Seasonal firewood cutting or yard maintenance → Buy.
2. What type of work will I do?
   • Light trimming, pruning, and small logs → A small electric or battery chainsaw may be worth buying.
   • Large tree felling or hardwood cutting → Renting a powerful gas saw may be better.
3. Do I have the space and time for maintenance?
   • If not, renting takes the burden off your shoulders.
4. Am I comfortable using a chainsaw regularly?
   • If you’re inexperienced, renting first might let you test different saw types before committing to a purchase.

Renting vs Buying: Which Is Better?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Renting is great if you only need a chainsaw occasionally and don’t want the hassle of storage or upkeep. Buying, on the other hand, is more economical and convenient for regular users who want the freedom to cut whenever necessary.

If you’re on the fence, consider your budget, usage frequency, and project size. For many homeowners, investing in a mid-range battery or gas chainsaw pays off over time, while renting remains a smart option for one-off jobs.

Chainsaw Rental near Me

Are you in need of a chainsaw but don’t have one of your own? No problem! There are plenty of places that will rent you a chainsaw for a reasonable price.

Here is a list of some of the best options for chainsaw rental near you:

Home Depot

Home Depot is one of the most popular choices for renting tools and equipment. They offer a wide variety of tools for rent, including chainsaws. The prices vary depending on the type and size of the chainsaw, but you can expect to pay around $30 per day or $90 per week.

Lowe’s

Lowe’s is another great option for renting tools, including chainsaws. Prices start at around $35 per day or $105 per week. They also offer discounts if you rent multiple items at once or if you’re a AAA member.

Sunbelt Rentals

Sunbelt Rentals is a nationwide company that offers ToolFlex, which allows you to swap out different types of tools as needed without having to return your original rental first. Chainsaws start at around $40 per day with ToolFlex, or $120 per week without it.

Rent to Own Chainsaw

If you’re in the market for a chainsaw, you may be considering a rent-to-own option. Here’s what you need to know about rent-to-own chainsaws before you make your decision. Rent-to-own chainsaws can be found at many big box stores and online retailers.

The terms of each rental agreement vary, but typically, you’ll make weekly or monthly payments for a set period of time (usually 12 months). At the end of the rental period, you have the option to purchase the chainsaw outright or return it to the store. There are advantages and disadvantages to renting a chainsaw.

On the plus side, it’s an affordable way to get your hands on a quality saw if you don’t have the upfront cash to buy one outright. If you decide you don’t like the saw or need something different after all, no problem – just return it at the end of your rental period with no further obligation. On the downside, however, renting means that you’ll never actually own the saw – so if it breaks or needs repairs at any point during your rental period, you’re responsible for those costs.

Conclusion | Should You Rent or Buy a Chainsaw?

If you’ll only use a chainsaw once or twice a year, renting is the better option. You’ll save money, avoid maintenance, and still get the job done. But if you plan to use a chainsaw several times each season, buying your own tool is a worthwhile investment that provides convenience, cost savings, and reliability.

Ultimately, the decision depends on how often you cut, the type of work you’re doing, and your long-term needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is it better to rent or buy a chainsaw?

If you only need a chainsaw once or twice a year, renting is more cost-effective. But if you’ll use it regularly for firewood, pruning, or storm cleanup, buying is usually the smarter investment.

How much does it cost to rent a chainsaw?

Most chainsaw rentals cost between $30–$70 per day or $100–$200 per week, depending on the size and power of the saw.

Is it cheaper to buy a chainsaw instead of renting?

Yes—if you use it often. Renting several times a year can quickly exceed the cost of buying a quality homeowner-grade chainsaw, which usually costs $150–$300.

Should a beginner buy or rent a chainsaw?

Beginners may benefit from renting first to test different models. If you plan to use a chainsaw regularly, buying a lightweight electric or battery chainsaw is a good long-term choice.

What are the downsides of renting a chainsaw?

The main drawbacks are limited flexibility, rental deadlines, and inconsistent tool condition. Rentals also become costly if used frequently.

What are the downsides of buying a chainsaw?

Buying requires upfront investment, ongoing maintenance, safe storage, and responsibility for repairs—all things renters don’t have to worry about.