If you like to take on your own home and yard repair, you most likely already have a good selection of tools to help you get various jobs done. One handy product to have as part of your power arsenal is a chainsaw. Whether you have one already or not, once you begin using them you usually will discover having more than one size for various projects can come in handy from time to time.

A 16-inch chainsaw is an excellent balance between small, more compact chain lengths and larger, longer chains made for heavier, more professional work. These have the capabilities of taking care of the building jobs you may have as well as the power and side to cut down decent sized trees and keep things well maintained around your yard. Our handpicked selection of 16-inch chainsaw reviews can be found below.

5 Best 16-inch Chainsaw Comparisons

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Greenworks 16-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw

  • Weight: 10.2 lbs
  • Power source: cordless, 40 volt
  • Warranty: 4 years

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Zombi ZCS5817 16-Inch 58-Volt Lithium Cordless Electric Chainsaw

  • Weight: 16 lbs
  • Power source: cordless, 58 volt
  • Warranty: 5 years

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Remington RM4216 Rebel 42cc 16-inch Gas Chainsaw

  • Weight: 14 lbs
  • Power source: gas, 42cc
  • Warranty: 2 year

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Husqvarna 435E 16" 40.9cc Gas-Powered Chain Saw

  • Weight: 9 lbs
  • Power Source: gas, 40.9cc
  • Warranty: up to 4 years

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STIHL MS 271 FARM BOSS

  • Weight: 12.3 lbs
  • Power Source: gas, 50.2cc
  • Warranty: 1 year

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Why a 16” Chainsaw is Worth Having

Bearded brutal lumberjack wearing plaid shirt sawing tree with chainsaw for work on sawmill. Wooden sawdust fly apart

As mentioned, chainsaws are most definitely worth having around if you are the DIY type. These are powerful, easy to use machines that require a minimum of maintenance. Many people initially avoid them due to the hazards they present, but over 95% of injuries caused by saws are due to operator error and poor judgment. With a little knowledge of how a chainsaw works and some basic safety rules, you will become comfortable with their use and power in no time.

Chainsaws make short work of just about any woody materials you may have. Whether you need clean cuts for building materials, are looking to trim and clean up your trees and shrubs, are cutting firewood, or need to clear out and shape any trees you may have - a chainsaw is your tool. With a large variety of sizes and models to choose from, there is something for any job you can think of.

A 16-inch saw is just about the perfect size for most homeowners as it can handle all the above mentioned jobs and still stay within a fairly compact model design. The use of a saw can save you a lot of time and money in the long run as it works quickly, and the initial investment is easily covered if you do not have to hire certain jobs out.

How to Choose the Best 16 inch Model

In order to choose the best model for your needs, you need to take into consideration a few details to help you make a decision on your purchase. Most 16 inch saws are fairly comparable to one another concerning power and size, but personal preferences can make or break a deal.

A hand wearing gloves holds the tip of a chainsaw

Saw Use

Look for the consumer reviews that help highlight the uses each model has been used for, and pay attention to any troubleshooting they may have had to gain an idea of how well they run. Also, consider what you prefer concerning mobility and overall power. If you want a cordless model, then you need to consider if a battery run or gas powered is best for you. If you plan on using your saw regularly, then a gas operated model may be more efficient over time.

Maintenance

Maintenance responsibilities should also be taken into account. Electric models require bar and chain maintenance, but very little in the way of anything else. Gas models need a basic knowledge of how a 2-stroke engine runs to troubleshoot any problems that arise- and keep it running smoothly. Luckily, simple engines generally have simple engine fixes and you can keep it running for longer than an electric engine. Once an electric engine fails, it usually is less expensive to replace it than have it repaired.

Top 5 Best 16-inch Chainsaw Reviews

The following saws are some of the best rated for homeowner use. The highlight a wide range of styles and power sources to provide you with a good overview of what type of 16-inch saws exist.

Greenworks 16-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw

Greenworks 16-Inch 40V Cordless Chainsaw
  • Weight: 10.2 lbs
  • Bar Length:16 inch
  • Power source: cordless, 40 volt
  • Warranty: 4 years

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The Greenworks Company designs and manufactures environmentally friendly products that provide durable power and usefulness compared to similar counterparts. Their series of power tools include chainsaw options including this 16 inch, 40-volt cordless design that uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can last through 150 cuts.

The brushless motor is designed for maximum torque to handle heavier cut loads and includes safety features such as an electric chain brake and low kickback design. It also has a 70% vibration reduction to keep you from feeling fatigue quite as quickly. An automatic oiler ensures a smooth cutting surface and uninterrupted work time.

Pros:

  • Can handle larger cuts with ease when needed
  • Battery lasts longer than expected
  • Very lightweight and easy to maneuver

Cons:

  • Oil drains in storage
  • May not last more than a few years of regular use

Who Should Buy This:

Made for light to moderate workloads, this option provides lightweight durability for excellent use around the home and yard. It runs up to 50% quieter than other electric options, making it perfect for residential areas.

Zombi ZCS5817 16-Inch 58-Volt Lithium Cordless Electric Chainsaw

Zombi ZCS5817 16-Inch 58-Volt Lithium Cordless Electric Chainsaw
  • Weight: 16 lbs
  • Bar Length: 16 inch
  • Power source: cordless, 58 volt
  • Warranty: 5 years

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Zombi products have been building a very strong name in the industry despite being a fairly new brand overall. Their 59-volt lithium cordless electric chainsaw is no exception to the durable quality they produce and is able to power a 16-inch chain at 62.3 feet per second. This runs similarly to a gas powered model in comparison and can cut smoothly through various woods with ease. Because it is designed with a brushless motor, this provides better efficiency. Plus, the auto oiling feature allows you to work without pause.

Includes are safety features to address kickback, and a chain brake is included as part of the handguard and wrap around handle style for easy maneuverability. It is highly portable with 3-hour battery life with moderate to heavy workloads. It is fairly heavy overall as a cordless, but the heft is well balanced.

Pros:

  • Powerful, portable cutting
  • Incredibly powerful for an electric option
  • Surprisingly long lasting battery

Cons:

  • Oiler may not put out enough oil
  • Batteries add extra weight

Who Should Buy This:

If you want a powerful, cordless electric option, this is an excellent option. Comparable to gas-powered versions of similar size, this tool can handle long work hours and heavy materials.

Remington RM4216 Rebel 42cc 16-inch Gas Chainsaw

Remington RM4216 Rebel 42cc 16-inch Gas Chainsaw
  • Weight: 14 lbs
  • Bar Length: 16 inch
  • Power source: gas, 42cc
  • Warranty: 2 year

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Remington is a well-known name in the landscaping industry with products backed by the MTD brand design. Their 42cc, 16-inch chainsaw has a solid reputation and is designed for efficient and powerful home use. Designed to handle a heavy workload, the Rebel series saw has easy tension control and an automatic oiler to keep you working worry free.

Safety features include a chain brake, balanced weight, a 5 point anti-vibration system, and a low kickback bar and chain provide lower fatigue and a more comfortable work experience. The easy startup keeps your arm from tiring and the cushioned wrap-around grip allows you to balance weight as you move. The product comes with a protective case for safe storage and to help keep it clean.

Pros:

  • Reliable start and use
  • Cuts smoothly and is well balanced
  • Perfect size for year round property maintenance

Cons:

  • Leaks oil when stored
  • A little heavy overall

Who Should Buy This:

This is a model made with homeowners in mind, making it perfect for property maintenance and regular firewood cutting. This is an excellent compact, gas-powered saw for suburban use.

Husqvarna 435E 16" 40.9cc Gas-Powered Chain Saw

Husqvarna 435E 16 40.9cc Gas-Powered Chain Saw
  • Weight: 9 lbs
  • Power Source: gas, 40.9cc
  • Bar Length: 16”
  • Warranty: up to 4 years

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Husqvarna is a long trusted brand name and is considered one of the best manufacturers and experts of chainsaws in the world. This company has been around for centuries and have offered residential products for well over 100 years. Durable and powerful, the 435E 40.9cc gas powered saw model is no exception to their design. Capable of handling a 13 inch to 18-inch bar and chain, this saw can be used in many different scenarios from light to heavy workload completion.

Equipped with an X-Torq system to lower fuel consumption and emissions, this saw is cutting edge in technology. The easy smart start system requires an easy start pull, and a LowVib and inertia activated chain brake help you work safely. The wrap around bar and slim overall design provide superb maneuverability in and around the area you are working in.

Pros:

  • Easy, reliable start
  • Smooth, quick, easy to control cuts
  • Handles various bar lengths

Cons:

Must manually adjust chain tension

Who Should Buy This:

Powerful and versatile, this is a tool that can last you years with proper care. If you need a saw that can handle multiple bars and chain lengths for various jobs, this is one you may want to consider.

STIHL MS 271 FARM BOSS

STIHL MS 271 FARM BOSS
  • Weight: 12.3 lbs
  • Power Source: gas, 50.2cc
  • Bar Length: 16” - 20”
  • Warranty: 1 year

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Stihl is another brand name synonymous with expertise in the chainsaw industry. The MS 271 Farm Boss was created to be an option with high performance, high tech, and high fuel efficiency to help you get your job done quickly. With an engine that provides a 20% longer run time between refueling and exhaust emissions cut to 50% of previous versions, this is a more environmentally friendly product as well. A pre-separation air filter system also allows you to use your filter up to 5 times as long.

Safety features include an easy access side access chain tensioner, anti-vibration system, a quick stop chain brake, toolless caps, bumper spikes for more control, and a protective hand guard. These details make it a more comfortable tool to use and provide you with peace of mind concerning long term use. The saw can handle a 16 inch to 20-inch bar and chain, making it more convenient overall.

Pros:

  • Cuts well through heavy, thicker materials
  • Very dependable and powerful with the ability to hold a larger bar
  • Easy to maintain

Cons:

  • Slightly difficult to start at times

Who Should Buy This:

This saw is a great option for powerful reliability when heavy cutting situations arise. This is a dependable, efficient choice for larger jobs.

Conclusion

Whether you are looking for a good saw for general landscape maintenance, or want a powerful, longer lasting product for a variety of light and heavy jobs, these choices provide you with some of the most popular options. 16-inch chainsaws are a popular homeowner pick to handle just about anything you may need it for. The size is perfect for dependable electric power sources as well with very little loss of power in comparison to their gas counterparts.

If you have a favorite 16-inch chainsaw you’d like to share with us, please let us know below. And, as always, please share!