Greenworks 40v (20312) Chainsaw Review 2024

Get ready to discover the Greenworks 20312, a battery-powered chainsaw that brings exceptional performance to the table without the headaches of dealing with gas. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or someone who loves tackling DIY projects, this chainsaw has got you covered. Join me as we explore the features and benefits of the Greenworks 20312, and see why it’s a top choice for hassle-free cutting power.

Greenworks 40v Specs

• Power Source: Battery-powered
• Battery Voltage: 40V
• Bar Length: 16 inches
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch
• Brushless Motor: Yes
• Chain Speed: Up to 11 meters per second (36 feet per second)
• Auto-Oiling System: Yes
• Tool-less Chain Tensioning: Yes
• Weight (without battery): Approximately 5.7 kilograms (12.6 pounds)

Personal Experience

Standing there with the GreenWorks 40V chainsaw in my hand, I noticed it’s pretty intuitive to operate. The only exception might be the handle-mounted electronic system which needs to be engaged via an On/Off button. This button actually serves as a quick stop for the motor. Interestingly, it’s a momentary switch, meaning the actual act of turning the saw on and off is managed by the internal electronics. This also means if I forget about it, the saw will turn itself off after a while. Being electric and battery-powered, the only time it makes a sound is when I squeeze the trigger. The moment I let go, it’s as silent as if I’m using a hand saw.

Using it felt oddly satisfying. Like with most battery-operated chainsaws, there’s a brief period of getting used to it. But what really took me by surprise was its quiet operation. Mostly, all I heard was the motor humming and the sound of the blade tearing through the wood. This chainsaw boasts a steel Oregon blade and chain from the G-MAX DigiPro, measuring .043″ in gauge. It reminded me of a thin kerf miter saw blade, optimized to maximize cutting power while reducing the strain on the motor. A smart move for a battery-operated tool. Sure, it might need sharpening more frequently, but considering the extended battery life and efficient cutting on larger pieces, I’d say it’s a fair trade.

My first real test with this beast had me cutting through 10-inch and even wider chunks of fresh water oak – a tree that had been taken down earlier in the day. Considering the freshness and moisture in the wood, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I even handed the chainsaw to my friend Jason, who’s been in the tree-cutting business for years. I could tell he was skeptical about the tool’s capability. But as soon as I loaded it up with the G-MAX 4.0 Ah battery, his expression changed. We both watched, impressed, as the saw powered through 10-11″ sections of fresh water oak. The battery’s performance was equally impressive, only dropping a bar after several substantial cuts. Now, I wouldn’t say Jason is ready to ditch his gas-powered models, but another buddy of mine, Michael, mentioned that when he’s up in the air, he prefers battery-operated chainsaws for their safety and convenience.

I remember clearly: we made over a dozen cuts on a large palm tree, all on one battery charge. Later, on a separate occasion, the true test came when we worked on my brother-in-law’s property. We were tasked with cutting through old, sopping wet, massive palm trees. These trees were massive – about 24 inches across and almost pulpy in consistency. We had a gas-powered 18-inch Poulan “Wild Thing” chainsaw for comparison. Even though it was cheaper, the GreenWorks chainsaw outperformed it, possibly due to its slender kerf bar and chain. While the Poulan had an advantage in reach, it seemed to require more effort to get through the thick chunks.

On just one 40V G-MAX battery charge, we accomplished over 14 complete cuts through these massive trees. Considering the wetness and density of these trees, I was truly amazed at how effective the sawdust ejection system was on the GreenWorks chainsaw. It would occasionally get overwhelmed and shut off if pushed too hard, but restarting was as easy as releasing the trigger, cycling the power button, and getting back to it. This seemed like a designed safety measure, ensuring neither the tool nor the user got hurt.

Performance Metrics

The Greenworks 20312 stands tall in several critical performance categories:

1. Power: For a battery-powered chainsaw, the 20312 is impressively robust. The DigiPro brushless motor is designed to deliver performance equivalent to a 45cc gas engine. The chainsaw consistently delivers clean, fast cuts, managing diameters up to 10 inches without breaking a sweat.
2. Battery Life: This model comes with an 80V Lithium-Ion battery that can offer up to 150 cuts on a 4×4 lumber on a single charge. During my experience, this equated to approximately 45 minutes of continuous runtime – more than sufficient for my tasks.
3. Noise and Vibration: Operating at a significantly lower noise level than a gas chainsaw, the 20312 offers a much quieter work environment. Additionally, the chainsaw’s low-vibration design increases comfort and reduces fatigue during extended use.

Chainsaw Evolution

Chainsaws have seen an impressive evolution since their inception in the late 19th century. Initially created for medical applications, they’ve come a long way and are now crucial tools in industries such as lumber, construction, and landscaping.

Earlier models were large, and heavy, and needed two individuals to operate them. They were also tethered to external power sources, limiting their mobility. The introduction of gas-powered chainsaws was a game-changer, offering portability but at the expense of weight, noise, and air pollution.

Electric chainsaws offered a solution to the pollution and noise but were limited by their power cords. This evolution has led to the development of battery-powered chainsaws like the Greenworks 20312. These offer the power of gas chainsaws with the convenience of electric models – the best of both worlds.

Ideal Uses for the Greenworks 20312

The Greenworks 20312 is an ideal tool for various applications due to its power, convenience, and eco-friendly nature. Here are some scenarios where this chainsaw excels:

1. Tree Felling: With its power equivalent to a 45cc gas engine, the 20312 can handle small to medium-sized trees effectively.
2. Branch Pruning: This chainsaw’s cordless nature makes it perfect for pruning tree branches around your yard, as you won’t be limited by power cords or need to deal with gas fumes.
3. Firewood Cutting: The chainsaw’s battery provides enough runtime for cutting multiple logs into firewood on a single charge.
4. Disaster Cleanup: In the aftermath of a storm, the 20312 can be a valuable tool for quick and efficient cleanup of fallen branches and trees.

Unique Selling Propositions

The Greenworks 20312 isn’t just another battery-powered chainsaw. Several features set it apart from its competitors:

Brushless Motor Technology: One of the Greenworks 20312’s most notable features is its DigiPro brushless motor. Unlike traditional motors that generate power through physical contact, brushless motors use magnets to create a powerful, efficient spin. This reduces friction and heat, leading to a longer lifespan and better energy efficiency. What this translates to in practical terms is that the Greenworks 20312 delivers a performance akin to gas chainsaws but without the accompanying noise, fumes, and constant need for maintenance.

Battery Efficiency: Powering the DigiPro motor is a robust 80V Lithium-Ion battery. This battery stands out for its incredible efficiency, allowing you to work for longer periods on a single charge. Perhaps even more impressively, the battery can be fully charged in a mere 30 minutes, significantly reducing downtime. This means you can get back to your work quickly, saving valuable time and effort.

Advanced Safety Features: Greenworks has taken great care to equip the 20312 with a suite of safety features. The chainsaw boasts a low kickback chain, a vital feature that reduces the risk of accidental kickbacks, one of the most common hazards when operating chainsaws. It also includes a chain brake, which can quickly stop the chain if a kickback occurs, and metal bucking spikes for additional stability during cutting tasks. These safety measures collectively provide a safer operating environment, allowing you to work with confidence and peace of mind.

Comparisons and Competitors

The chainsaw market is flooded with a myriad of options, each claiming to be the best. Major players like Husqvarna and DeWalt often surface as competitors to Greenworks. However, it’s crucial to make an informed decision by understanding how these brands measure up against the Greenworks 20312.

Husqvarna

Offers an extensive range of both gas and electric chainsaws. A model like the Husqvarna 120i might appear similar to the Greenworks 20312 with its cordless design. But when we delve into the specifics, the 20312 offers better power output with its 80V battery compared to Husqvarna’s 40V. Also, the fast charging capability of the 20312 (30 minutes) puts it ahead of the 120i, which takes approximately an hour for a full charge.

DeWalt

Another well-regarded brand has models like the DeWalt DCCS670X1. While this chainsaw boasts a 60V battery and comparable brushless motor technology, it doesn’t match the runtime provided by the 20312’s efficient 80V battery.

Pros and Cons

As with any tool, it’s essential to understand the strengths and weaknesses that the Greenworks 20312 brings to the table. Below, I’ll walk you through the most notable pros and cons I’ve found during my time with the chainsaw.

Pros:

1. Powerful Performance: The Greenworks 20312 is equipped with a DigiPro brushless motor powered by an 80V Lithium-Ion battery. This provides a strong cutting force that rivals many gas-powered chainsaws in the market. Whether you’re dealing with thick tree limbs or challenging hardwood, the 20312 delivers consistent power to handle demanding tasks. It’s an impressive feat, especially considering it’s an electric chainsaw, which historically couldn’t match the performance of their gas counterparts.

2. Superior Battery Efficiency: One of the standout features of the Greenworks 20312 is its highly efficient battery system. It offers a long runtime that allows you to carry out significant tasks without needing to pause for recharging frequently. Even better, the battery can be fully charged in just 30 minutes, so you spend less time waiting and more time working.

3. User Comfort: Another noteworthy advantage of the 20312 is the comfort it provides during operation. Unlike many gas-powered chainsaws, it operates with significantly less vibration. This not only reduces fatigue during extended use but also enhances control, allowing for precise, clean cuts. Furthermore, the noise level is substantially lower than gas models, making it more comfortable to use for prolonged periods.

Cons:

1. Weight: The Greenworks 20312, while packed with features, comes with a certain degree of heft. Weighing in at 10.8 pounds, it’s heavier than some of its competitors in the battery-powered segment. This weight could potentially cause fatigue during long periods of use, particularly for those unaccustomed to handling heavier chainsaws.

2. High Chain Oil Consumption: Another consideration is the chainsaw’s automatic oiler. While this feature does keep the chain lubricated during operation, which is vital for the longevity of the chainsaw, users have reported that it tends to use a lot of chain oil. This could lead to more frequent refills than you may expect, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users.

Conclusion

Having used and thoroughly examined the Greenworks 20312, I can confidently say it’s an exceptional chainsaw that stands its ground in both professional and residential scenarios.

The powerful performance it brings to the table cannot be overstated. Thanks to its robust DigiPro brushless motor and high-capacity 80V Lithium-Ion battery, the 20312 delivers cutting power that can easily rival many gas-powered chainsaws. This strength doesn’t come at the cost of efficiency, however. With quick charging and long-lasting battery life, you can get more work done with fewer interruptions, making your tasks more manageable and less time-consuming.

One of the key advantages of the Greenworks 20312 is the convenience it offers. As a battery-powered chainsaw, it eliminates many of the common pain points associated with gas chainsaws. You don’t have to worry about mixing fuel, dealing with difficult starts, or conducting regular engine maintenance. Instead, you get a chainsaw that’s ready to work whenever you are, with a simple push of a button.

But perhaps the most significant selling point of the 20312, especially for those considering making the switch from gas to battery-powered chainsaws, is the quiet and clean operation. Gone are the days of putting up with the deafening roar of a gas engine and choking on exhaust fumes. With the 20312, you get a much quieter, emission-free operation, making for a more pleasant, user-friendly experience.

This isn’t to say that the Greenworks 20312 is without its shortcomings. It’s weight and high chain oil consumption are worth considering when deciding if this chainsaw is right for you. However, given its performance, efficiency, and user-friendly features, these drawbacks can be seen as minor inconveniences rather than deal-breakers.

In conclusion, the Greenworks 20312 presents itself as a worthy contender in the realm of battery-powered chainsaws. If you value power, efficiency, convenience, and environmentally friendly operation, the 20312 is well worth your consideration. It is a testament to how far battery technology has come, proving that you can have a powerful, effective chainsaw without the noise, fumes, and maintenance of gas models. So, if you’re looking to break free from the limitations of gas chainsaws, the Greenworks 20312 could indeed be the perfect fit for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Greenworks 20312 Chainsaw

1. How long does the battery of the Greenworks 20312 last on a full charge?

The battery runtime of the Greenworks 20312 can vary depending on the intensity of the tasks performed. However, on average, you can expect around 30-40 minutes of continuous use on a full charge.

2. How long does it take to fully charge the battery?

One of the standout features of the Greenworks 20312 is its quick charge time. The 80V Lithium-Ion battery can reach a full charge in approximately 30 minutes.

3. Is the chainsaw heavy to use?

The Greenworks 20312 weighs in at 10.8 pounds, which is slightly heavier than some other battery-powered chainsaws. Some users may experience fatigue during extended use due to this weight.

4. Does the chainsaw come with a battery and charger?

Yes, the Greenworks 20312 comes with an 80V 2AH Lithium-Ion battery and a charger included in the package.

5. Does the automatic oiler consume a lot of chain oil?

Some users have reported that the automatic oiler on the Greenworks 20312 tends to use more chain oil than expected, leading to more frequent refills. However, this ensures that the chain is consistently lubricated during operation, which is crucial for its longevity and smooth operation.

6. Is the Greenworks 20312 suitable for professional use?

Absolutely! The Greenworks 20312 delivers a robust performance that rivals many gas chainsaws, making it suitable for both professional and residential use. It’s particularly useful for professionals looking for a quieter, emission-free alternative to traditional gas chainsaws.

7. What safety features does the Greenworks 20312 have?

The Greenworks 20312 comes with several safety features, including a low kickback chain, an effective chain brake, and metal bucking spikes. These features significantly improve the safety of the chainsaw during operation.

Your input is invaluable! Kindly spare a moment to share your personal experiences and thoughts regarding the Greenworks 40V (20312) Chainsaw in the comments section below. Your insights have the power to greatly aid fellow users as they navigate the realm of chainsaws. Let your review be a guiding beacon for those seeking information in 2024 and beyond.