Table of Contents
Looking into the Homelite Chainsaw line?
Not sure if it’s worth the buy?
If so, you’ve landed on the right page.
These saws might not be quite as powerful as the ones designed for professionals or landscaping and landscape care, but not everyone needs chainsaws that powerful.
In this overview, I’ll be taking a close look at this brand, its best and worst features, and I’ll give you a review of some of the most popular Homelite chainsaws and what they’re good for.
Homelite Brand Overview
Homelite has a reputation for affordable and effective chainsaws designed for the average homeowner’s needs. That means that these saws are suitable for a little light tree trimming and other household tasks, but they aren’t necessarily designed for cutting through cord after cord of firewood.
That means that these chainsaws are a reasonable option not just for homeowners but also for beginners. Putting a powerful chainsaw in the hands of an inexperienced user can be dangerous, but the risk is lower if you’re using a slightly less powerful model.
The other good news is that Homelite chainsaws can handle heavy workloads with a little bit of patience. As long as you’re willing to give the saw breaks from time to time and don’t try to force the saw through material too quickly, these saws work relatively well.
Homelite also gives users the option to get a corded saw instead of sticking to the traditional gas-powered models. Corded saws are a little easier to maintain and more reliable on the job. The length of the power cord limits them, but that isn’t too much of an issue for most homeowners.
But the real benefit of buying Homelite is that these chainsaws tend to be incredibly affordable. That’s a massive benefit for people who don’t know how much they’ll be using their chainsaw or how often they’ll need a chainsaw. Homelite chainsaws are a great option if you’re worried that spending a ton of money on your chainsaw won’t be worth the cost.
If you’re looking for a hard-working chainsaw, though, Homelite might not be the right brand. These chainsaws are great budget picks but not hugely powerful. There are other affordable brands like Remington and Worx that tend to perform a little better, and upgrading to an even more powerful option, like Husqvarna, is a good idea if you already know you’re going to use your chainsaw regularly.
Pros and Cons Of Homelite Chainsaws
If you’re just looking for a quick overview of Homelite as a chainsaw brand, this is the section for you. These pros and cons are about the brand as a whole rather than the specific chainsaws. If you’re looking for more information about the chainsaws they produce, we’ll cover that information a little further down.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Available as an electric chainsaw
- Good bar lengths for homeowners
- Designed for regular maintenance and home care
- Low maintenance
- Easy to assemble
- Fast and ready to go within 10 minutes out of the box
Cons:
- Less powerful than gas-powered chainsaws
- A little slower to cut than comparable models of chainsaw
- Maintenance needs can be less clear than other chainsaws
- Takes longer than other chainsaws for similar tasks
Overall, Homelite is a good affordable chainsaw..
Homelite Chainsaw Buying Guide
Homelite’s offerings right now are pretty light when it comes to chainsaws. They pretty much have two lengths on the market. But that doesn’t mean you should dismiss this brand when it comes to effectiveness for its price.
Here’s what you need to know about Homelite chainsaws and what they’re best for.
14” Homelite Chainsaw
14” chainsaws are on the smaller end of effective sizing for a chainsaw, but that doesn’t mean they’re a terrible option. These chainsaws are easier to store, often easier to take care of, and don’t take up much space between uses. This is a good option if you’re looking for a chainsaw for occasional or sporadic use.
Like most chainsaws, this model does need oil and has a clear choice reservoir viewer to help you know when it needs a top-up.
The electric model is a little more environmentally friendly but not as powerful as a traditional gas-powered model. You’ll also have to navigate with the power cord to wherever you need to the chainsaw, which can make some projects a little tricker.
But, in exchange for dealing with a power cord, you won’t have to deal with mixing gas or the fumes of a gas-powered engine.
Features
- 2-year warranty
- 14” bar
- Tool-less chain tightener
- Ergonomic design
- Safe-T-Tip
Pros
- Comes fully assembled
- Easy to use
- Designed to prevent kickback
- Low maintenance
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not as powerful as similar models
- Warranty is a little shorter than we’d prefer
- May need more breaks or to work more slowly than other chainsaws
16” Homelite Chainsaw
The 16” version is primarily similar to the 14” bar, but just a little longer. It’s got a 12-amp motor, an effective chain with good bite, and overall effectiveness for use.
This model is a little more versatile than the smaller model, though, thanks to the extra length. 16” is generally considered better for trimming trees and other tasks, partially because it’s better for thicker branches and easier to control.
Like the 14” model, this design comes with a carry case and blade scabbard, which makes it a lot easier to store and take from project to project.
Features
- 12 amp motor
- 16” bar
- Toolless chain tensioner
- 2-year warranty
- Ergonomic Design
Pros
- Easy to use
- Ergonomic design reduces hand and arm fatigue
- Carry case for easier storage and travel
- Designed for home tasks
- No need to mix gas or check gas levels
- Environmentally friendly
- Lightweight design
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty work
- 2-year warranty is a little shorter than we’d prefer
- Cuts more slowly than comparable models.
Those two chainsaws are the main chainsaws Homelite offers, though they also have a range of chainsaw accessories for you to choose from. Hopefully, this article helped you decide if Homelite is the right model for you or if you should consider going with a different model.
Happy sawing!
Your pal,
Chainsaw Larry
