Top Brushless Pole Saws for Effortless Tree Trimming
The Greenworks Pro 80V Brushless Pole Saw stands out as the top pick for most homeowners, offering a powerful 10-inch bar, exceptional battery life, and a lightweight design that makes overhead cuts feel effortless. Its main limitation is the higher price point, but the performance justifies the cost for those who want a reliable, long-lasting tool.
Trimming high branches no longer requires a ladder or a heavy gas-powered saw. Brushless pole saws provide the power and efficiency needed to maintain your trees safely from the ground. They offer longer runtime, more torque, and greater durability than their brushed counterparts, making them a worthwhile investment for any homeowner.
In this roundup, we evaluated the most popular brushless pole saws on the market, considering their cutting capacity, reach, battery life, and user reviews. Whether you have a small yard or a large property, there’s a saw here that will meet your needs without the hassle of cords or gas.
Before you buy
The shortlist, ranked
Greenworks Pro 80V Brushless Pole Saw
This powerful pole saw features a brushless motor that delivers efficient cutting with minimal vibration. Its 10-inch bar and 80V battery provide ample power for medium to large branches, and the lightweight design reduces fatigue during extended use.
Pros
- Long runtime with 80V battery
- Lightweight and well-balanced
- Tool-free chain tensioning
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Higher initial investment
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Pole Saw
If you already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries, this pole saw is a smart addition. It offers a 10-inch bar, a durable build, and a comfortable grip, making it ideal for trimming branches up to 8 inches thick. The brushless motor ensures efficient power usage and longer tool life.
Pros
- Works with existing DEWALT batteries
- Excellent cutting performance
- Adjustable head for various angles
Cons
- Battery not included
- May be heavy for some users
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Brushless Pole Saw
Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL pole saw is built for demanding tasks. Its POWERSTATE brushless motor delivers incredible speed and torque, while the 10-inch bar handles thick branches with ease. The REDLINK PLUS intelligence system optimizes performance and protects the tool from overloading.
Pros
- Superior cutting speed
- Durable construction
- Weather-resistant design
Cons
- Requires M18 batteries (sold separately)
- Heavier than some competitors
Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Pole Saw
The Ryobi 40V HP pole saw delivers reliable performance at a more accessible price point. It features a 10-inch bar and a brushless motor that provides up to 20% more runtime than previous models. The adjustable head and telescoping shaft make it versatile for different cutting angles.
Pros
- Great value for the features
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Compatible with Ryobi 40V batteries
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Not as powerful as higher-voltage models
Worx Nitro 20V Brushless Pole Saw
The Worx Nitro 20V pole saw is perfect for quick trimming tasks. Its compact design and lightweight construction make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The 8-inch bar is sufficient for smaller branches, and the brushless motor ensures efficient performance.
Pros
- Very lightweight and easy to use
- Tool-free chain adjustment
- Battery gauge on tool
Cons
- Smaller bar limits branch size
- Battery and charger sold separately
Black+Decker 20V MAX Brushless Pole Saw
Black+Decker’s 20V MAX pole saw is designed for simple, hassle-free trimming. It features a 10-inch bar, auto-tensioning system, and a pivoting head for versatile cutting. The brushless motor provides consistent power and extended battery life.
Pros
- Automatic chain tensioning
- Pivoting head for easy cuts
- Comfortable grip
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- May struggle with thick branches
CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless Pole Saw
The CRAFTSMAN V20 pole saw offers a comfortable and balanced design, making it a pleasure to use for extended periods. Its 10-inch bar and brushless motor provide ample power for most pruning tasks. The adjustable head allows for precise cutting angles.
Pros
- Comfortable grip and balance
- Adjustable cutting head
- Low vibration
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Average build quality
How they compare
| # | Model | Bar Length | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Greenworks Pro 80V Brushless Pole Saw | 10 inches | Best overall for most homeowners | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Pole Saw | 10 inches | Best for DEWALT tool owners | 9.1 | Check price |
| 3 | Milwaukee M18 FUEL Brushless Pole Saw | 10 inches | Best for heavy-duty use | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Pole Saw | 10 inches | Best value for the price | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Worx Nitro 20V Brushless Pole Saw | 8 inches | Best for compact design | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | Black+Decker 20V MAX Brushless Pole Saw | 10 inches | Best for small to medium yards | 8.5 | Check price |
| 7 | CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless Pole Saw | 10 inches | Best for ergonomic handling | 8.3 | Check price |
Questions worth asking
What is a brushless motor and why is it better?
A brushless motor uses electronic commutation instead of brushes, which reduces friction, heat, and energy loss. This results in longer runtime, more torque, and a longer motor lifespan compared to brushed motors.
Can a pole saw cut thick branches?
Pole saws are designed for branches up to a certain thickness, typically 6 to 8 inches, depending on the bar length and motor power. Attempting to cut thicker branches may strain the saw and result in poor performance.
Do I need to buy a battery and charger separately?
Many pole saws are sold as bare tools, meaning you must purchase a battery and charger separately. However, if you already own compatible batteries from the same brand, you can save money by buying the tool only.
How long does the battery last on a single charge?
Battery runtime varies based on the saw, battery capacity, and cutting conditions. On average, you can expect 30 to 60 minutes of continuous use. Heavy cutting will drain the battery faster.
Can I use a pole saw to trim branches above my head?
Yes, pole saws are designed for overhead trimming. They typically have an adjustable head that can be angled to make cuts easier. Always ensure you have a firm stance and are not overreaching.
Are brushless pole saws worth the higher price?
Brushless pole saws generally cost more upfront, but they offer better performance and durability. If you have frequent trimming needs, the investment pays off in the long run due to fewer replacements and lower maintenance.
What safety gear should I use when operating a pole saw?
You should wear safety glasses, gloves, long sleeves, and sturdy footwear. A hard hat is advisable if you are trimming near falling branches. Avoid loose clothing that could get caught in the saw.
How do I maintain the chain on my pole saw?
Regularly check the chain tension and adjust it as needed. Keep the chain sharp by using a file or sharpening tool. Lubricate the chain with bar oil before each use to reduce friction and prevent overheating.
Our pick
For most homeowners, the Greenworks Pro 80V Brushless Pole Saw is the best choice because it strikes an ideal balance between power, reach, and ease of use. Its 80V battery delivers exceptional runtime, and the tool is lightweight enough for comfortable overhead work. If you are already invested in a particular battery platform, choose the model that matches your existing system to maximize value.
Sierra Daniels
Sierra's background is in landscape design and nursery retail. She focuses on lawn and garden equipment, outdoor furniture and gear durability, weighing published specs against how materials actually hold up outside.
