Portable Cordless Pole Saws for Easy High Branch Trimming
The Greenworks PRO 80V is our top pick for most homeowners. It offers the best combination of reach, power, and battery runtime. It cuts through 8-inch branches with ease, yet its main limitation is the higher price and weight compared to smaller 20V models.
Trimming high branches used to mean climbing ladders or hiring a pro. Cordless pole saws make this job safer and faster. They let you reach up to 15 feet while keeping both feet on the ground.
We looked at the most popular models from trusted brands. Our selection covers different voltage classes, bar lengths, and price points. Each saw excels in specific scenarios, from light pruning to heavy limb removal.
The shortlist, ranked
Greenworks PRO 80V Cordless Pole Saw
This 80V model offers the highest cutting power in our lineup. It features an 8-inch bar and 10-foot reach, making it ideal for thick branches. Owners report it feels well balanced and starts reliably. The main drawback is its weight and price.
Pros
- Cuts through 8-inch branches with ease
- Long runtime on a single charge
- Automatic oiler keeps chain lubricated
Cons
- Heavier than lower voltage models
- Charger and battery sold separately
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Pole Saw
This 20V model is a great addition to any DEWALT collection. It uses the same batteries as other DEWALT tools. The 10-inch bar is longer than most, and it handles branches up to 6 inches thick. Users say it is easy to assemble and operate.
Pros
- Uses shared DEWALT 20V batteries
- Long 15-foot reach
- Brushless motor for efficiency
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- May struggle with very thick branches
Black+Decker 20V MAX Cordless Pole Saw
This 20V saw is the most affordable choice. It has an 8-inch bar and 12-foot reach, perfect for light trimming. It comes with a battery and charger, so it is ready to use. Owners say it is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Pros
- Includes battery and charger
- Very affordable price point
- Lightweight design reduces fatigue
Cons
- Less power for tough cuts
- Battery runtime is shorter
Sun Joe SWJ802E 24V Cordless Pole Saw
At just 6.3 pounds, this 24V pole saw is the lightest we compared. It still offers a 9.5-inch bar and 12-foot reach. The tool includes a battery and charger. It is ideal for elderly users or those with limited strength.
Pros
- Extremely light and easy to handle
- Includes battery and charger
- Good cutting capacity for its size
Cons
- Battery life is average
- Not for heavy duty use
Worx WG309 20V Power Share Cordless Pole Saw
The Worx WG309 features a unique rotating head that adjusts to multiple angles. This makes it easy to cut branches at awkward positions. It has a 10-inch bar and 15-foot reach. It is compatible with all Worx 20V batteries.
Pros
- Rotating head for versatile cutting angles
- Long 15-foot reach
- Compatible with Worx Power Share batteries
Cons
- Battery sold separately
- Chain tensioning requires a tool
Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Pole Saw
This 18V pole saw is part of the Ryobi ONE+ system. It uses the same battery platform as over 300 Ryobi tools. The 8-inch bar and 10-foot reach are sufficient for most pruning tasks. It comes with a battery and charger.
Pros
- Shares batteries with Ryobi ONE+ tools
- Includes battery and charger
- Easy to start and operate
Cons
- Shorter reach than some competitors
- Not as powerful as higher voltage models
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Pole Saw
This 20V CRAFTSMAN saw is a reliable option for those already in the V20 system. It has an 8-inch bar and 12-foot reach. The tool is well built and comes with a 5-year warranty. It does not include a battery or charger.
Pros
- Backed by a 5-year warranty
- Uses CRAFTSMAN V20 batteries
- Good reach for average sized yards
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- Average cutting performance
How to pick the right one
Compared at a glance
| # | Model | Bar Length | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Greenworks PRO 80V Cordless Pole Saw | 8 inches | Best overall for power and reach | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | DEWALT 20V MAX XR Pole Saw | 10 inches | Best for DEWALT tool owners | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Black+Decker 20V MAX Cordless Pole Saw | 8 inches | Best budget-friendly option | 8.8 | Check price |
| 4 | Sun Joe SWJ802E 24V Cordless Pole Saw | 9.5 inches | Best lightweight option | 8.5 | Check price |
| 5 | Worx WG309 20V Power Share Cordless Pole Saw | 10 inches | Best for versatility | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Pole Saw | 8 inches | Best for Ryobi tool owners | 8.6 | Check price |
| 7 | CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Pole Saw | 8 inches | Best for CRAFTSMAN tool owners | 8.3 | Check price |
Common questions
Can a cordless pole saw cut through thick branches?
Yes, but the maximum branch thickness depends on the bar length and motor power. Most cordless pole saws can cut branches up to 6 to 8 inches thick. For thicker branches, you may need a more powerful saw or a different tool.
How long does a battery last on a cordless pole saw?
Battery runtime varies by voltage, amp-hour rating, and the thickness of the wood you are cutting. On average, you can expect 30 to 60 minutes of continuous cutting on a full charge. Heavier use will drain the battery faster.
Do I need to buy a battery and charger separately?
Some models, like the Black+Decker and Sun Joe, come with a battery and charger. Others, like the Greenworks PRO and DEWALT, are sold as bare tools. Check the product listing to see if the battery and charger are included.
What is the safest way to use a pole saw?
Always keep both feet on the ground and maintain a stable stance. Position yourself to avoid falling branches. Wear eye protection, gloves, and long sleeves. Make sure the saw is off when adjusting the chain or handling the bar.
Can I use a pole saw to prune high branches without a ladder?
Yes, that is the primary purpose. With a reach of 10 to 15 feet, you can access high branches from the ground. This is much safer than using a ladder, which is a leading cause of injuries from tree trimming.
What is the difference between an 8-inch and a 10-inch bar?
The bar length determines the maximum diameter of the branch you can cut. A 10-inch bar can handle slightly thicker branches than an 8-inch bar. However, longer bars can make the saw heavier and may require more power.
How do I maintain the chain on a pole saw?
Keep the chain sharp and properly tensioned. Check the tension before each use, as a loose chain can derail. Apply bar and chain oil regularly, especially if the saw does not have an automatic oiler. Clean the bar groove after use.
Are cordless pole saws as powerful as gas models?
Cordless pole saws are generally less powerful than gas models, but they are sufficient for most residential trimming tasks. They are quieter, lighter, and easier to start. For heavy professional use, a gas saw might be better, but for homeowners, cordless is often preferred.
Can I use a pole saw to cut down small trees?
A pole saw is not designed for felling trees. It is meant for trimming branches. For small trees, you would need a chainsaw. Attempting to cut down a tree with a pole saw is dangerous.
What is the warranty on these pole saws?
Warranties vary by brand. CRAFTSMAN offers a 5-year warranty, while others have 2 to 3 years. Check the product details for specific warranty information. Always register your tool to ensure coverage.
Final word
For most homeowners, the Greenworks PRO 80V is the best choice because it delivers the power and reach you need for tough branches. If you are on a budget, the Black+Decker 20V MAX offers good value. If you already own DEWALT tools, the DEWALT 20V MAX XR is a smart addition. Choose the Greenworks if you want maximum performance; otherwise, pick based on your battery platform and budget.
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.
