Pole Saws: Reach for the 6 Best of 2024

Pole saws help homeowners and professional arborists perform tricky and dangerous tasks. They permit you to cut overgrown tree limbs and branches without a ladder.

Pruning trees in your yard is, of course, a commonsense chore. Dead branches can fall from a tree at any time. That puts nearby people, buildings, and power lines at risk. That means removing dangerous limbs is not just a smart course of action, it’s a responsibility.

However, depending on the size of the tree and the location of the branches you need to prune, the task of pruning can be very dangerous. That’s when pole saws come in handy.

The Best 6 Pole Saws in the Market Today

Our Top Pick: DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Pole Saw

So, you’re in the market for the right pole saw for your yard and gardening needs? While that may sound like a simple enough undertaking, buying the right pole saw can be quite overwhelming, given the multitude of options available.

Don’t worry, though. We’re here to help. We did the initial research for you, tested a few candidates, and have arrived at a list of the six best pole saws in the market today. If you are looking to buy the best your budget can accommodate, read on.

1. Sun Joe SWJ803E Electric Pole Saw

The Sun Joe SWJ803E Electric Pole Saw is a tough, efficient tool designed to meet the needs of both homeowners and professionals alike. Sun Joe has built a solid reputation for manufacturing consistently reliable products over the years, and the SWJ803E is no exception.

The SWJ803E features a thoughtful and ergonomic design, as well. The pole saw’s telescoping pole extends from 5.8 ft. to 8.8 ft. for up to 15 ft. overhead reach. The good extension allows you to reach branches and limbs in high and hard-to-reach areas without the need for a ladder.

The pole is constructed from durable materials, which ensures stability and sturdiness during operation. This pole saw weighs around 8 pounds, and the head adjusts from 0° to 30°, so you won’t have to struggle to get the perfect angle for the job at hand.

Low Maintenance, High Power

Equipped with a robust 8-amp motor, the SWJ803E provides sufficient power for most cutting tasks around the yard. The 10-inch Oregon bar and chain, renowned for their cutting efficiency, provide smooth and precise cuts through branches up to 9.5 inches in diameter.

We liked the quick and tool-less chain tensioning system on this pole saw. The system simplifies maintenance with an auto-oiler that keeps the bar and chain fully lubricated during use. This keeps the saw performing at its optimum at all times.

We spent an entire afternoon pruning trees around our test yard with the SWJ803E and it never once failed us. We were quite impressed. The pole extended long enough over shrubs that we did not have to move around too much to get the job done.

Great Performance and Excellent Value

Considering its performance, safety features, and ease of use, we think the Sun Joe SWJ803E offers excellent value for money. It provides a cost-effective alternative to more expensive gas-powered pole saws while still delivering satisfactory results for most residential and light professional applications.

The electric motor also requires minimal maintenance. Regular checks on the chain tension and lubrication should be enough to keep this bad boy in top condition.

The integrated safety switch prevents accidental startups and ensures that the saw only operates when intended. The pole saw also features a protective blade cover for safe storage when not in use.

The SWJ803E’s sturdy build, sufficient power, great performance, and safety features earn it the top spot on our list. Whether you are a homeowner or a professional arborist, we say the SWJ803E is a worthwhile investment.

2. Makita EY402MP 10″ Pole Saw Couple Shaft Attachment

The Makita EY402MP 10″ Pole Saw Couple Shaft Attachment is an outstanding addition to Makita’s versatile lineup of power tools. This pole saw attachment is designed to be used with the Makita Couple Shaft power heads, allowing users to transform their existing multi-tool system into a highly effective and efficient pole saw. As long-time users of Makita tools, we were excited to test this attachment, and it did not disappoint.

One of the most impressive features of the EY402MP Pole Saw Attachment is its sturdy and durable construction. The 10-inch guide bar and chain are built to withstand rigorous use, making quick work of pruning branches and limbs.

The attachment’s engineering ensures that it remains well-balanced during operation, allowing smooth and controlled cutting. The adjustable telescoping shaft provides an impressive reach, extending from 58-1/2 inches to 92-1/2 inches. The robust locking system keeps the pole securely extended during use, adding an extra layer of safety and stability.

User-Friendly Power

The Makita EY402MP Pole Saw Attachment integrates seamlessly with Makita’s Couple Shaft power heads, further showcasing the brand’s commitment to providing a comprehensive and adaptable system. The attachment easily connects to the power head, and the tool-less installation process is both efficient and user-friendly.

We were quite pleased with this tool. Using it was actually quite fun. We suggest that you always cut in high gear. When you do, the excellent blade Makita provides slices through with ease, even on hardwoods.

The ergonomic handle and grip reduce user fatigue during prolonged use, while the lightweight construction enhances maneuverability and control. These aspects are particularly crucial for professionals who spend extended hours working in the field.

Durable and Safe

This Makita tool’s automatic chain oiler keeps around 3.5 ounces of bar oil.  The system keeps the chain sufficiently lubricated for smooth operation and increased longevity.

This addition, along with the durable build of the guide bar and chain, ensures minimal maintenance requirements and consistent performance over time.

The included chain guard provides an extra layer of protection, preventing debris from flying toward you during operation. The chain brake engages instantly in the event of kickback, preventing potential accidents.

Our final verdict? The Makita EY402MP 10″ Pole Saw Couple Shaft Attachment is an exceptional tool that showcases Makita’s commitment to quality, performance, and user satisfaction. Its robust construction, impressive cutting capabilities, and seamless integration with Makita’s Couple Shaft power heads make it a valuable asset for any professional landscaper or homeowner.

Overall, we highly recommend the Makita EY402MP 10″ Pole Saw Couple Shaft Attachment to anyone seeking a reliable and efficient solution for pruning and tree maintenance tasks.

3. DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Pole Saw

If you’ve been around power tools for a while, then you’ve probably heard the name, DeWalt. The DeWalt Industrial Tool Company is an American worldwide manufacturer of power tools and hand tools for the construction, manufacturing, and woodworking industries. The company has been around for nearly a hundred years.

The DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Pole Saw is a high-performance outdoor tool that exemplifies the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation. This pole saw features a robust and thoughtful design that speaks both to functionality and user comfort. Constructed from high-quality materials, the saw even looks and feels durable, like it’s built to withstand all the rigors of outdoor use.

The pole on the XR extends an impressive 10 feet. That should be enough to grant you access to higher branches and limbs without the need for a ladder.

This pole saw also features a fantastic auto-oiling 8″ bar and chain system. You can switch to a 10″ bar and chain if you like but note that the stock setup is designed to produce lower kickback and fast cutting.

Since you will be using an 8″ bar, you can cut branches up to 16″ wide when you cut from both sides. The head is angled and has the bar set to the left side to help give you a better line of sight.

We thought it was rather amazing that, despite the saw’s extended reach, the weight distribution remained well-balanced throughout our testing. That said, you can operate the saw with or without the middle pole extension depending on the job at hand.

There is also a metal bucking strip to help with your grip and a tree hook to grab. This is for any branches that hang in the tree after being cut.  The rubberized grip lets you hold the saw in a variety of grip angles.

Powered by the reliable 20V MAX* XR Lithium-Ion battery system, the XR delivers impressive cutting performance that rivals some gas-powered alternatives. This pole saw’s extension mechanism operates smoothly, allowing you to adjust the length without much fuss.

The battery’s long-lasting charge allows for around 96 cuts, according to DEWALT. Frankly, we lost count and completed all the cutting tasks in our test yard on a single charge with some power left in the battery. The efficient motor design ensured consistent power throughout our testing.

The 20V MAX* XR Pole Saw is equipped with several safety features to mitigate potential risks. The saw features a trigger lock to prevent accidental startups, reducing the chance of injuries during handling. You also get a protective blade cover as a secure storage solution when you put the pole saw away.

Quiet Low Maintenance

One of the significant advantages of this pole saw is its quiet operation. This is mainly due to the motor’s battery-powered mechanism. Unlike gas-powered models, the XR pole saw produces minimal noise. This should help to reduce disturbances in residential neighborhoods or noise-sensitive environments.

The maintenance requirements are also relatively low, as there is no need for fuel mixing or engine maintenance. Like the Sun Joe SWJ803E Electric Pole Saw, regular checks on chain tension and lubrication should be enough to keep this pole saw performing optimally.

Our final verdict? The DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Pole Saw is yet another investment that provides exceptional value for money. While it may carry a higher upfront cost compared to corded or lower-end battery-powered options, we think its performance, durability, and extended reach justify the price tag.

4. EGO PS1001 Telescopic LED Cut Line Indicator Pole Saw

The EGO PS1001 Telescopic LED Cut Line Indicator Pole Saw is a cutting-edge outdoor tool that exemplifies EGO’s commitment to innovation and quality. Known for producing high-performance battery-powered equipment, EGO has earned a reputation for delivering reliable and efficient outdoor tools. We think the PS1001 is a worthy testament to that reputation.

Like those on their Line IQ string trimmer, EGO made the telescopic shaft on this pole saw using carbon fiber. This makes the tool both lightweight and durable. According to the company, this design reduces the weight of the PS1001 pole saw by up to 30% compared to similar tools.

The telescoping carbon fiber shaft of this cordless electric pole saw goes out up to 16 feet. When paired with the 10-inch bar with a 1/4-inch chain, you’ll get some truly formidable length.

The pole is adjustable. You can either extend or retract the shaft if you need more or less reach. That should help allow better balance as you won’t be forced into a longer length than you need. EGO also offers a lifetime warranty on the carbon fiber shaft.

Remarkable Performance for the Price

Powered by EGO’s renowned 56V ARC Lithium battery system, the PS1001 delivers remarkable cutting performance that rivals some of the gas-powered pole saws we have tried. The 10-inch bar and chain will slice through branches up to 8 inches in diameter, making this suitable for a variety of residential and light professional applications.

But what we really liked about this pole saw is the industry-first LED Cut Line Indicator.  This sets this pole saw apart from competitors, enhancing the user experience and cutting accuracy.

The engineers over at EGO included this feature to help users cut precisely even when working in low-light conditions like shaded canopies. We thought this a particularly smart innovation and we did find it quite useful.

Clean, Efficient, and Powerful

The PS1001 pole saw features a safety lock button that prevents accidental startups, reducing the risk of injuries. Additionally, the pole saw is equipped with a chain kickback brake, which halts the chain’s motion in case of kickback.

Tool-free tensioning provides fast, precise chain tension. This means you can get back to work faster after any interruptions.

This DeWalt pole saw makes up to 100 cuts on a single charge with the included 56V 2.5Ah ARC Lithium battery. It also features a high-efficiency brushless motor that delivers long runtimes, low vibrations, and an extended motor life.

So, what do we think, overall? When you consider the fact that there are no gas or oil mixtures required thanks to the electric motor on this pole saw, the great performance of the 2.5Ah battery, the equally great performance of the saw, and add EGO’s 5-year tool and 3-year battery warranty, then you’ve definitely got a cutting-edge winner on your hands.

5. WEN 4019 Electric Telescoping Pole Saw

The WEN 4019 Electric Telescoping Pole Saw is an outdoor tool designed for homeowners who are looking for something a budget-friendly alternative to the pricey and more popular models out there. 

The pole saw is part of WEN’s extensive line of power tools. The company has been designing and distributing high-quality and affordable power tools since 1951 and made its mark by helping bring tools and electricity together – or putting the power into power tools.

The WEN 4019 Pole Saw features a functional and straightforward design suitable for light to medium tree trimming tasks. With a telescoping pole that extends up to 9 feet, the saw’s construction emphasizes lightweight materials, making it easy to maneuver and use.

While the 4019 may not be as rugged as some high-end models, we say the build quality of this pole saw is adequate for residential use. The 6-amp motor provides sufficient power for typical pruning and trimming jobs around the yard.

The 8-inch Oregon bar and chain combination allows for precise cuts through branches up to 6 inches in diameter.

Great for Light to Moderate Pruning Tasks

While it was not as powerful as some of the higher-end pole saws we tried for this article, it performed admirably on light to moderate tasks during our tests. This makes it an excellent option for homeowners with Japanese Maple, Dogwood, or Fringe Trees in their yard – which only need occasional trimming.

The WEN 4019 Pole Saw incorporates some basic safety features to protect users during operation. The saw features a safety switch that prevents accidental startups and a blade cover for safe storage. But, as with any power tool, you should always follow safety guidelines and wear appropriate protective gear when you use this pole saw.

What we liked about the WEN 4019 pole saw was its user-friendly design. The lightweight construction and adjustable telescoping pole made it easy to handle and maneuver.  Assembly was also a straightforward and simple process right out of the box, which is always a plus.

Affordable Reliability and a Straightforward Design

The electric motor of the WEN 4019 operates at a moderate noise level, making it less disruptive compared to gas-powered alternatives. Maintenance requirements are minimal. Like most other pole saws, you simply need to check the chain tension and lubrication regularly to keep the saw in good working condition.

Our verdict? The WEN 4019 Electric Telescoping Pole Saw offers exceptional value for money, particularly for users with occasional or light tree trimming needs. Its affordable price point and functional features make it an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners looking for a reliable pole saw without breaking the bank.

While it may not boast the same power and advanced features as a higher-end pole saw, its telescoping pole and straightforward design should provide ample utility for light to moderate pruning needs.

6. Greenworks 40V 8″ Cordless Pole Saw and Hedge Trimmer

The Greenworks 40V 8″ Cordless Pole Saw and Hedge Trimmer is a valuable addition to any gardening and yard maintenance arsenal. This versatile Greenworks tool combines the services of two tools: a pole saw and hedge trimmer, offering a convenient and efficient solution for maintaining trees, shrubs, and hedges.

Out of the box, this pole saw comes in three pieces: the handle, an extension, and the cutting head.  Also included in the box are a 2.0Ah battery and battery charger. The 40V battery is interchangeable with other Greenworks tools, further enhancing its practicality and value.

Assembly is easy. The tubes that fit together are similar to a rounded trapezoid. The shape makes it impossible to attach a section of the pole in the wrong direction.

The cutting head on this pole saw comes fully assembled. You’ll find that the bar and chain are already attached to the motor drive assembly. But you’ll need a small Philipps screwdriver to adjust the chain tension on the bar. The 8-inch cutting bar on the pole saw is adequately sized for most pruning tasks, and we found its performance quite impressive.

Light and Easy

This Greenworks pole saw will cut through branches up to 6 inches in diameter with ease, making quick work of overhead trimming without the need for a ladder. The pole extends to a generous length, giving you a total reach of approximately 10 feet. That should be enough to permit an average-sized adult to tackle tall trees and hedges without straining the back.

Switching between the pole saw and hedge trimmer functions are seamless. The tool features a tool-less conversion feature. The hedge trimmer attachment is 8 inches, as well, and its dual-action blades are sharp and efficient.

We appreciated this pole saw’s relatively lightweight construction. At just under 10 pounds, it is easy to handle and maneuver, reducing fatigue during prolonged use. The ergonomic grip and comfortable balance further contribute to a pleasant user experience.

It Might Get Loud

One minor drawback we encountered with this pole saw was the noise level. Like most power tools, this Greenworks tool emits a moderate amount of noise during operation. While it’s not excessively loud, it may be worth considering noise-canceling ear protection, especially for extended use.

Overall, the Greenworks 40V 8″ Cordless Polesaw and Hedge Trimmer are a fantastic investment for homeowners and gardeners alike. Its dual-functionality, cordless design, and reliable performance make it a valuable addition to any gardening toolkit.

While there are minor considerations such as noise levels, the benefits far outweigh any drawbacks. And yes, we highly recommend this tool to anyone seeking a convenient and effective solution for their tree pruning and hedge trimming needs.

“Both the trimmer and saw cut very well and are simple to change from one to the other,” says one satisfied Amazon customer. “Right out of the box I used the pole saw to trim some hard-to-reach branches in my backyard. When positioned properly, it cuts through branches quickly and effortlessly.”

Basic Pole Saw Safety Tips

Before using any pole saw, it is crucial to ensure that it is the correct tool for the task at hand. Ensure that the pole saw is designed for the intended application and that its specifications match the job’s requirements.

Inspect the pole saw thoroughly before every use. Check for any signs of damage, loose parts, or chain wear.

Wearing the right personal protective equipment. This includes safety goggles, hearing protection, gloves, and appropriate clothing that covers the arms and legs, among others. Eye protection is especially crucial to shield against flying debris and wood chips.

Before starting, clear the work area of any obstacles, debris, or potential hazards that might impede your movement or compromise stability. Identify any overhead power lines or obstructions that may pose a danger and maintain a safe distance from them.

Establishing a secure and stable footing is essential when operating a pole saw. Ensure that the ground is level and free from slippery surfaces. Position yourself in a manner that allows for proper balance and control throughout the operation.

Be sure to familiarize yourself with the pole saw’s operation and features. Read the user manual carefully. Paying close attention to safety instructions and guidelines. We recommend that you practice handling the tool at ground level before elevating it to gain confidence and control.

When using a pole saw, always position the cutting end below shoulder height. Keeping the cutting end at a safe level minimizes the risk of kickback and improves stability.

Always cut on the pull stroke to avoid being off balance when the saw retracts. Additionally, maintain a firm grip on the handle and avoid overreaching, as it may lead to loss of control.

To avoid kickbacks, remember never to force the blade into the branch. Do not cut multiple branches at once. Maintain a sharp chain and keep the chain’s depth gauges correctly adjusted.

We here at OBN always stick to the “Safety First” motto. We hope you do, too.

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