Battle Tested Greenworks 80V 16 vs 18 Chainsaw Review

 

When it comes to choosing between the Greenworks 80V 16 vs 18 Brushless Cordless Chainsaw, the decision often comes down to cutting power and handling. Both are strong tools, but the 16-inch feels lighter for yard jobs, while the 18-inch gives extra reach for bigger logs. 

I’ve used both in my own yard, and the difference shows when trimming branches versus cutting firewood. After years of testing cordless tools, I’ll break down which one is worth it for your work, so you can make a smart choice without guesswork.

Greenworks 80V 16” Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

I’ve been using this chainsaw for a while, and it has made yard work faster and easier. It feels powerful yet simple to handle, even during long cutting sessions.

What I Like

Over time, I’ve found some features that make this chainsaw a real game changer. Here’s what stands out for me:

• Instant Start with No Hassle – No pulling cords or dealing with gas fumes. Just push a button and it’s ready. This has saved me so much time, especially when working in the heat. 
• Brushless Motor Power – It cuts through thick logs with the same confidence as a gas chainsaw. I like how it never struggles, even on dense hardwood. 
• Automatic Oiler – The chain stays lubricated without me worrying about it. That means smoother cuts and less downtime. 
• Safety Chain Brake – Gives me peace of mind. I’ve had chainsaws kick back before, so knowing there’s extra safety built in helps me focus on the job. 
• Compatible Battery System – Since I already own other Greenworks 80V tools, swapping the same battery between them makes yard work easier and more cost-effective. 

What Could Be Better

Like any tool, there are a few things that could improve. None of these are deal breakers, but here’s what I’ve noticed:

• Battery Runtime – The 2.5Ah battery works well for small and medium jobs, but on bigger trees, I sometimes need a second battery. Having a backup battery would make long projects smoother. 
• Weight Balance – It feels solid, but after a long session, I can notice the weight in my arms. A bit more balance would make it even more comfortable. 
• Chain Durability – The chain works well, but it needs regular tension checks. It’s not a big issue, but first-time users should know this is normal with most chainsaws. 

My Personal Experience

I’ve been using Greenworks tools for over two years now, and this chainsaw is one of my most reliable helpers. It has earned my trust because it always delivers when I need it.

Design

The design feels modern and practical. The handle grip is comfortable, and I like how the buttons are placed where my fingers naturally rest. Compared to old gas chainsaws, this feels cleaner and smarter. It’s like moving from an old flip phone to a smartphone—once you get used to it, you don’t want to go back.

Performance

This chainsaw has surprised me with how well it handles big jobs. I’ve cut through fallen oak branches that I thought would need a gas saw. The motor doesn’t roar loudly, but the cutting power is there. What makes it special is that I can focus on the work instead of worrying about gas, fumes, or starting issues. It gives me steady power that feels dependable.

Build Quality

Greenworks has a reputation for making tough outdoor tools, and this chainsaw proves it. The body feels sturdy, and even after plenty of use, nothing feels loose or cheap. Yes, I check the chain often, but that’s normal maintenance. Overall, it gives me the sense that this is a tool built to last. I like that it’s part of a brand ecosystem, so I know if I expand into other tools, the same batteries will fit.

Greenworks 80V 18” Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

I’ve been testing this chainsaw for a while, and it has quickly become one of my go-to tools for cutting, pruning, and storm clean-up. It feels strong, easy to handle, and far less hassle than my old gas saws.

What I Like

I’ve spent a lot of time working with this chainsaw, and a few things always stand out. Here’s what makes me reach for it whenever I need to cut wood:

• Power without gas hassles – The brushless motor gives me the feel of a gas saw but without fumes, pull cords, or messy oil mixing. That makes yard work smoother and less stressful. 
• Quiet operation – I can work early in the morning without worrying about waking up the whole neighborhood. 
• Easy to handle – Despite its strength, the saw feels well-balanced, so I don’t get as tired when limbing or pruning for longer periods. 
• Automatic oiler – I love not having to stop often to check the chain. The oiler keeps it running smooth, saving me time. 
• Safety features – The chain brake gives me peace of mind, especially when I’m working on bigger cuts. 
• One battery system – Since it works with other Greenworks 80V tools, I get more value from my batteries. 

What Could Be Better

Even with all its strengths, there are a few things I think could be improved. These don’t stop me from using it, but they’re worth sharing honestly:

• Battery runtime on heavy jobs – For larger trees or lots of firewood, I sometimes need a second battery. A higher-capacity option would make it even more unstoppable. 
• Bar size options – While 18 inches is great for most work, having a quick way to swap to a longer bar (like 20 inches) would add flexibility. 
• Oil usage – It goes through chain oil fairly quickly, which means I keep an extra bottle nearby. Not a deal-breaker, but something to know. 

My Personal Experience

I’ve been using this chainsaw for over two years, and it has become one of my most trusted outdoor tools. It’s not just about cutting wood—it’s about how easy it makes the work compared to my old gas saws.

Design

The design feels clean and modern. Greenworks kept things simple, so even if you’re not used to chainsaws, you can figure it out fast. The side tensioning system is a small detail, but it saves me from fumbling with tools mid-job. It feels like a product made with the user in mind, not just the specs.

Performance

Here’s where the chainsaw impressed me the most. I’ve used it for pruning, storm clean-up, and even cutting down medium trees. Each time, it powered through without hesitation. The torque is close to a 50cc gas saw, but I don’t need earplugs or a fuel can. It gives me confidence that I can finish the job without stress.

Build Quality

The build feels solid in my hands. The body is sturdy, and the materials don’t feel cheap or flimsy. After two years, nothing rattles or feels loose. Even the bar and chain have held up well with regular use. Compared to gas saws I’ve owned, it feels like less maintenance and more reliability.

Greenworks 80V 16 vs 18 Brushless Cordless Chainsaw: Detailed Comparison

I’ve been testing both the Greenworks 80V 16″ and 18″ chainsaws in real work around the yard. Both impressed me, but in different ways. The 16″ feels like a nimble hatchback. The 18″ feels more like a sturdy SUV. Both can get the job done, but each shines in its own way.

Bar Length & Cutting Capacity: Greenworks 80V 16 vs 18 Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

The 16″ bar is light and quick. It works well for trimming, pruning, and cutting small logs. The 18″ bar adds more reach and power. It is better when you need to cut thicker wood or take down a medium tree.

Feature	Greenworks 80V 16″	Greenworks 80V 18″
Bar Length	16 inches	18 inches
Cutting Capacity	Logs up to 10–12″	Logs up to 12–16″
Best For	Pruning, limbing	Tree felling, firewood

Rating: 16″ – 8.5/10 | 18″ – 9/10

Battery Compatibility & Runtime: Greenworks 80V 16 vs 18 Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

Both run on the Greenworks 80V system. That means one battery works with 75+ tools. The 16″ model comes with a 2.5Ah battery. It runs shorter, but still enough for small jobs. The 18″ comes with a 4.0Ah battery. It lasts longer and helps with heavy cuts.

Feature	Greenworks 80V 16″	Greenworks 80V 18″
Battery Included	2.5Ah	4.0Ah
Compatibility	75+ tools	75+ tools
Runtime	10–20 mins	20–30 mins

Rating: 16″ – 7.5/10 | 18″ – 8.5/10

Motor Type & Power Output: Greenworks 80V 16 vs 18 Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

Both chainsaws use a brushless motor. This gives more torque, better life, and less noise than gas. Power feels close to a 50cc gas saw. In my use, both models cut fast and clean through most wood.

Feature	Greenworks 80V 16″	Greenworks 80V 18″
Motor Type	Brushless	Brushless
Power Output	Like 50cc gas saw	Like 50cc gas saw
Torque	High	High

Rating: 16″ – 9/10 | 18″ – 9/10

Weight & Handling Comfort: Greenworks 80V 16 vs 18 Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

The 16″ feels easier in the hands. It is light and good for trimming high branches. The 18″ has more weight, but that also helps it stay firm on big logs. If you want less strain, the 16″ is easier. If you want steady cuts, the 18″ works better.

Feature	Greenworks 80V 16″	Greenworks 80V 18″
Weight	~9.2 lbs	~9.5 lbs
Handling Comfort	Easy, light tasks	Strong, steady on logs

Rating: 16″ – 9/10 | 18″ – 8/10

Chain Speed & Performance: Greenworks 80V 16 vs 18 Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

The chain speed is strong on both saws. The 16″ cuts fast on small and mid-size wood. The 18″ handles larger cuts in one pass. Both perform close to a gas saw in real work.

Feature	Greenworks 80V 16″	Greenworks 80V 18″
Chain Speed	Quick and sharp	Quick, longer reach
Performance	Best on small logs	Best on bigger logs

Rating: 16″ – 8.5/10 | 18″ – 9/10

Durability & Build Quality: Greenworks 80V 16 vs 18 Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

Both feel tough and built to last. The body is strong, and the bar feels solid. The weak point is the chain. Some users say it pops off if not set right. With care and good oiling, both should last for years.

Feature	Greenworks 80V 16″	Greenworks 80V 18″
Build Quality	Strong build	Strong build
Chain Reliability	Chain may slip	Chain may slip

Rating: 16″ – 8/10 | 18″ – 8/10

Ease of Maintenance (Chain Tensioning, Oiling): Greenworks 80V 16 vs 18 Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

Both have side chain tensioning. That makes it simple to adjust. The auto oiler does the work for you. You still need to check oil now and then. Both are easy to keep in shape.

Feature	Greenworks 80V 16″	Greenworks 80V 18″
Chain Tensioning	Easy, tool-less	Easy, tool-less
Oiling	Auto oiler	Auto oiler

Rating: 16″ – 8.5/10 | 18″ – 8.5/10

Noise & Vibration Levels: Greenworks 80V 16 vs 18 Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

Both are much quieter than gas saws. Noise is low and easy to live with. The 16″ feels smoother since it is lighter. The 18″ has a bit more rumble, but still less than a gas saw.

Feature	Greenworks 80V 16″	Greenworks 80V 18″
Noise	Low	Low
Vibration	Light	A bit stronger

Rating: 16″ – 9/10 | 18″ – 8.5/10

Safety Features: Greenworks 80V 16 vs 18 Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

Both have a chain brake. This stops the chain in a kickback. That makes them safer for new users. The start is easy, but not risky.

Feature	Greenworks 80V 16″	Greenworks 80V 18″
Chain Brake	Yes	Yes
Kickback Control	Good	Good

Rating: 16″ – 9/10 | 18″ – 9/10

Price & Value for Money: Greenworks 80V 16 vs 18 Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

The 16″ costs less and still cuts well. It is a good choice if you want value. The 18″ costs more but comes with a bigger battery. That gives you longer runtime and better use for heavy work.

Feature	Greenworks 80V 16″	Greenworks 80V 18″
Price	Lower	Higher
Value	Great for light tasks	Best for long jobs

Rating: 16″ – 9/10 | 18″ – 8.5/10

Best Use Case (Home Use vs Heavy-Duty Work): Greenworks 80V 16 vs 18 Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

The 16″ is best for pruning, storm clean-up, and small firewood. The 18″ is better for felling medium trees and cutting more wood at once. Both are good, but for different needs.

Feature	Greenworks 80V 16″	Greenworks 80V 18″
Best Use	Home, light jobs	Yard work, firewood
Skill Level	Easy for anyone	Better for steady hands

Rating: 16″ – 9/10 | 18″ – 9/10

Final Thoughts: Greenworks has built a strong name with its 80V tools. Both chainsaws give you gas-like power without gas problems. The 16″ is light and easy. The 18″ is strong and long-lasting. Pick the one that matches your yard and your arms.

FAQs for Greenworks 80V 16 vs 18 Brushless Cordless Chainsaw

What is the main difference between the Greenworks 80V 16 and 18 chainsaws?

The 16-inch model is lighter and easier to handle, while the 18-inch offers more cutting reach and handles larger logs better.

Which chainsaw has better runtime, the 16-inch or the 18-inch?

Both use the same 80V battery system. Runtime depends on battery size, but the 16-inch usually runs longer because it needs less power.

Is the Greenworks 80V 18-inch too heavy for home use?

It’s heavier than the 16-inch but still manageable for most homeowners. The weight pays off with stronger performance on bigger cuts.

Which model is better for firewood cutting?

The 18-inch is better for firewood and large tree jobs. The 16-inch works best for trimming, pruning, and lighter yard maintenance.

Do both models support tool-less chain tensioning?

Yes, both chainsaws have tool-less chain tensioning and automatic oiling, making maintenance quick and easy for users.

 

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