A cordless chainsaw in Kenya is a battery-powered cutting machine designed for pruning trees, cutting branches, preparing firewood, farm maintenance, landscaping and other wood-cutting jobs without using petrol or a mains electricity cable.
In 2026, cordless chainsaws in Kenya range from small 6-inch pruning saws to professional 14-inch and 16-inch brushless chainsaws. Current prices start at about KSh 3,465 for small 6-inch models, while branded 12-inch TOTAL machines cost around KSh 23,465 to KSh 25,999. A heavy-duty TOTAL 40V 16-inch kit is currently about KSh 43,500.
For demanding professional work, the Husqvarna 540i Xp stands out with a 36V battery system, 1.8kW output, 24m/s chain speed and 14-inch bar. Husqvarna states that its performance can be comparable to a 40cc professional petrol saw when fitted with the recommended BLi300 battery.
Cordless Chainsaw in Kenya Summary
| Model | Battery | Bar | Chain Speed | Approx. 2026 Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WakeView Mini Chainsaw | Claimed 48V | 6″ | Model dependent | KSh 3,465–5,999 | Budget pruning |
| Generic/Makita-style Chainsaw | Various | 12″ | Model dependent | KSh 9,991–15,400 | Home and farm use |
| TOTAL TGSLI20662 Pruner | 20V | 6″ | Model dependent | KSh 12,400–19,000 | Best compact pruner |
| TOTAL TGSLI201262 | 20V | 12″ | Model dependent | KSh 23,465–25,999 | Best value full chainsaw |
| TOTAL TGSLI401682 | 40V, 20V+20V | 16″ | 14.5m/s | KSh 43,500 | Heavy-duty cutting |
| Husqvarna 535i XP | 36V | 14″ | 20m/s | Dealer quote | Professional use |
| Husqvarna 540i XP | 36V | 14″ | 24m/s | Dealer quote | Top professional choice |
Current Kenyan marketplace prices vary widely because some products include batteries and chargers while others may be sold as bare tools. Always compare the full kit rather than price alone.
1. Husqvarna 540i XP Professional Cordless Chainsaw
The Husqvarna 540i XP is our top professional cordless chainsaw in Kenya for demanding users.
It is designed for professional tree care and combines a high chain speed with a powerful 36V lithium-ion battery platform.
Husqvarna 540i XP Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Husqvarna |
| Model | 540i XP |
| Battery Voltage | 36V |
| Output Shaft Power | 1.8kW |
| Bar Length | 14″ on Kenya-listed version |
| Chain Speed at Maximum Power | 24m/s |
| Chain | SP21G |
| Bar Nose | Sprocket nose |
| Weather Protection | IPX4 |
| Battery Chemistry | Lithium-ion |
| Battery | Not included on listed version |
| Charger | Not included on listed version |
Husqvarna Kenya describes the 540i XP as a high-performance rear-handle battery chainsaw for professional tree care. It is suitable for cutting small and medium-sized trees and provides performance comparable to a 40cc professional petrol chainsaw when paired with a BLi300 battery.
Best For
- Professional tree care
- Landscapers
- Contractors
- Farm maintenance
- Arborists
- Frequent cutting
- Small and medium trees
Its 24m/s chain speed is significantly higher than many low-cost cordless chainsaws.
2. Husqvarna 535i XP 36V Cordless Chainsaw
The Husqvarna 535i XP is another professional option.
It is slightly less powerful than the 540i XP but remains a serious battery chainsaw for contractors, carpenters and tree-care professionals.
Husqvarna 535i XP Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery Voltage | 36V |
| Output Shaft Power | 1.45kW |
| Bar Length | 14″ |
| Chain Speed at Maximum Power | 20m/s |
| Chain | SP21G |
| Nose Type | Sprocket nose |
| Battery System | Husqvarna BLi-X 36V |
| Battery Chemistry | Li-ion |
| Battery | Not included |
| Charger | Not included |
These specifications come directly from Husqvarna Kenya.
Best For
- Professional pruning
- Carpentry
- Contractors
- Tree maintenance
- Farm work
- Frequent wood cutting
Husqvarna also highlights retained bar nuts and reduced maintenance as useful features for professional work.
3. TOTAL TGSLI401682 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
For buyers who want a powerful full-size chainsaw kit at a lower price than many professional forestry machines, the TOTAL TGSLI401682 is one of the most interesting options.
It uses two 20V batteries together to create a 40V system.
TOTAL TGSLI401682 Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | TOTAL |
| Model | TGSLI401682 |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Voltage | 40V, using 20V + 20V |
| Bar Length | 16″ / 40cm |
| Chain Speed | 14.5m/s |
| Chain Brake | Quick chain brake |
| Lubrication | Automatic |
| Batteries | 2 × 4.0Ah |
| Charger | Dual-port charger |
| Charger Input | 220–240V, 50/60Hz |
| Chain | 16″ included |
| Guide Bar | 16″ included |
The current Kenyan listing includes two 4.0Ah batteries and a dual-port charger, making this a complete kit rather than a bare chainsaw.
TOTAL TGSLI401682 Price in Kenya
The current listed price is approximately:
KSh 43,500
down from KSh 47,000 on the listing checked.
Best For
- Farms
- Firewood
- Medium tree cutting
- Heavy pruning
- Landscaping
- Property maintenance
The 16-inch bar gives this model much more cutting capacity than small 6-inch pruning chainsaws.
4. TOTAL TGSLI201262 20V 12-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
The TOTAL TGSLI201262 is a good middle choice between a mini pruning saw and a large 16-inch cordless chainsaw.
Current Kenyan listings show the machine with:
- 20V cordless platform
- 12-inch bar
- Rechargeable operation
- Portable design
Current prices are approximately KSh 23,465 to KSh 25,999.
Best For
- Homeowners
- Farmers
- Medium branches
- Firewood preparation
- Garden maintenance
- General property work
A 12-inch machine is easier to carry than a large forestry chainsaw while providing more cutting capacity than a 6-inch mini saw.
5. TOTAL TGSLI20662 20V Cordless Pruner Saw
If your main job is pruning branches rather than cutting logs, the TOTAL TGSLI20662 is a better choice.
This is a compact 20V brushless pruning chainsaw.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | TOTAL |
| Model | TGSLI20662 |
| Voltage | 20V |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Bar Length | 6″ / 15cm |
| Application | Pruning |
| Current Price | KSh 12,400–19,000 |
Current Jumia Kenya listings show prices from approximately KSh 12,400 to KSh 19,000, depending on seller and package.
Best For
- Fruit trees
- Small branches
- Hedge maintenance
- Garden work
- Coffee farms
- Smallholder farms
- Landscaping
A 6-inch pruning saw is lighter and easier to control than a full-size chainsaw.
6. 12-Inch Makita-Style Cordless Chainsaws
Kenyan marketplaces currently have many 12-inch battery chainsaws advertised using Makita or Makita-style branding.
Current prices are roughly:
KSh 9,991 to KSh 15,400.
Many packages include:
- Two batteries
- Charger
- 12-inch bar
- Chain
- Tool accessories
Important Buying Note
Check the exact manufacturer before assuming that a marketplace listing using the word “Makita” is an official Makita product.
Some listings use phrases such as “Makita Accessories,” “Makita-style,” or compatibility wording.
For professional use, verify the model number, warranty, battery specifications and authorized seller.
7. WakeView 6-Inch Mini Cordless Chainsaw
For buyers looking for a low-cost pruning tool, a mini cordless chainsaw can be enough.
Current Jumia Kenya listings show the WakeView 6-inch cordless chainsaw with two batteries and two replacement chains at prices from approximately KSh 3,465 to KSh 5,999.
Best For
- Small branches
- Garden pruning
- Fruit trees
- Light farm work
- Occasional home use
Do not expect a small 6-inch saw to perform like a professional 14-inch or 16-inch chainsaw.
Cordless Chainsaw Prices in Kenya 2026
| Type | Approximate Price |
|---|---|
| Basic 6″ Mini Cordless Chainsaw | KSh 3,465–6,500 |
| Dual-Battery Mini Chainsaw | KSh 5,000–10,000 |
| 12″ Makita-Style Cordless Chainsaw | KSh 9,991–15,400 |
| TOTAL TGSLI20662 6″ Pruner | KSh 12,400–19,000 |
| TOTAL TGSLI201262 12″ | KSh 23,465–25,999 |
| TOTAL TGSLI401682 16″ Kit | Around KSh 43,500 |
| Husqvarna Professional Battery Chainsaw | Ask dealer for current kit price |
Current marketplace listings show that the cordless chainsaw in Kenya market now covers everything from inexpensive pruning tools to professional battery-powered forestry equipment.
6-Inch vs 12-Inch vs 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
Choosing the correct bar length is more important than simply buying the largest saw.
| Bar Size | Best Application |
|---|---|
| 4–6″ | Small branches and pruning |
| 8″ | Medium pruning |
| 10–12″ | General farm and home cutting |
| 14″ | Larger branches and professional work |
| 16″ | Firewood and heavier cutting |
A small saw is lighter.
A large saw provides greater cutting capacity but normally requires more battery power and better handling.
What Is a Brushless Cordless Chainsaw?
A brushless chainsaw uses an electronically controlled motor without traditional carbon brushes.
Brushless motors can provide:
- Better efficiency
- Lower maintenance
- Good power-to-weight performance
- Less brush wear
- Better battery use
The TOTAL TGSLI401682 and TGSLI20662 are current examples of brushless battery saws.
Why Chain Speed Matters
Chain speed tells you how quickly the chain moves around the guide bar.
Compare these two professional models:
| Chainsaw | Chain Speed |
|---|---|
| Husqvarna 535i XP | 20m/s |
| Husqvarna 540i XP | 24m/s |
The 540i XP provides the higher listed chain speed.
However, chain speed alone does not determine overall cutting performance.
Motor power, chain sharpness, chain design, wood type, battery output and operator technique also matter.
Best Cordless Chainsaw for Farm Use
For general farm work, a 12-inch to 16-inch cordless chainsaw provides a good balance.
A 12-inch machine can handle:
- Branches
- Small logs
- Fence posts
- General pruning
For more demanding work, the TOTAL TGSLI401682 provides a 16-inch bar, brushless motor and 40V dual-battery system.
Best Cordless Chainsaw for Pruning
For pruning, a large 16-inch saw may be unnecessary.
The TOTAL TGSLI20662 6-inch 20V pruner is easier to handle around small branches and fruit trees.
Mini saws are especially useful for:
- Mango trees
- Avocado trees
- Fruit orchards
- Coffee farms
- Garden trees
- Small branches
Best Cordless Chainsaw for Firewood
For firewood, choose a larger saw.
The TOTAL TGSLI401682 is better suited to this work than a 6-inch mini saw because it provides:
- 16-inch guide bar
- 40V dual-battery system
- Brushless motor
- 14.5m/s chain speed
- Two 4.0Ah batteries
- Automatic chain lubrication
For professional cutting, Husqvarna’s 535i XP and 540i XP provide higher listed chain speeds.
Cordless Chainsaw vs Petrol Chainsaw
| Feature | Cordless Chainsaw | Petrol Chainsaw |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel | Battery | Petrol/oil |
| Starting | Easy | Pull start common |
| Noise | Lower | Higher |
| Exhaust at Point of Use | None | Yes |
| Maintenance | Lower | Higher |
| Weight | Model dependent | Model dependent |
| Long Continuous Work | Battery dependent | Easy to refuel |
| Professional Cutting | Excellent on premium models | Excellent |
| Home Use | Excellent | Good |
A battery chainsaw is particularly attractive for users who want simple starting and less routine engine maintenance.
A petrol saw still has advantages where long working hours and quick refuelling are important.
Cordless Chainsaw vs Electric Chainsaw
A corded electric chainsaw needs a nearby electrical supply and extension cable.
A cordless saw works anywhere the charged battery can go.
This makes a cordless chainsaw in Kenya more practical for:
- Farms
- Orchards
- Remote compounds
- Forest edges
- Gardens
- Construction sites
How to Choose the Best Cordless Chainsaw in Kenya
1. Choose the Correct Bar Length
Do not buy a 6-inch mini chainsaw if you regularly cut large logs.
For small branches, however, a lightweight mini saw may be much easier to use.
2. Check the Battery System
Common battery platforms include:
- 20V
- Dual 20V / 40V
- 36V professional systems
A larger voltage number alone does not guarantee better performance.
3. Check Battery Capacity
Battery capacity is commonly stated in Ah.
Examples include:
- 2.0Ah
- 4.0Ah
- 5.0Ah
At the same voltage, a larger Ah battery normally stores more energy.
4. Check Whether Batteries Are Included
This is very important.
The TOTAL TGSLI401682 kit includes two 4.0Ah batteries and a dual-port charger.
The Kenya-listed Husqvarna 535i XP and 540i XP versions do not include a battery or charger.
Compare the total cost of a complete working kit.
5. Look for a Brushless Motor
A brushless motor is a strong choice for frequent use because of efficiency and reduced brush maintenance.
6. Check Chain Speed
Higher chain speed can help provide faster, smoother cutting when the rest of the saw is properly matched.
7. Look for Automatic Lubrication
A chainsaw chain needs proper lubrication.
The TOTAL TGSLI401682 includes an automatic lubrication system.
8. Check for a Chain Brake
The TOTAL 40V saw includes a quick chain brake.
A chain brake is an important safety feature on full-size chainsaws.
Battery Runtime Explained
It is difficult to give one accurate runtime for every cordless chainsaw.
Runtime changes with:
- Battery capacity
- Wood hardness
- Wood diameter
- Chain sharpness
- Cutting pressure
- Motor efficiency
- Temperature
- Number of cuts
Manufacturers may therefore describe battery performance by number of cuts under defined test conditions rather than simply giving minutes.
For longer jobs, keeping a second charged battery or battery set available can reduce downtime.
Do Cordless Chainsaws Need Chain Oil?
Yes, most full-size cordless chainsaws still require bar and chain oil.
The motor may be electric, but the chain and guide bar still experience friction.
Correct lubrication helps:
- Reduce friction
- Reduce bar wear
- Reduce chain wear
- Control heat
- Improve cutting performance
Use the lubricant recommended by the chainsaw manufacturer.
How to Maintain a Cordless Chainsaw
Keep the Chain Sharp
A dull chain cuts slowly and puts extra load on the motor and battery.
Check Chain Tension
The chain must not be excessively loose or excessively tight.
Follow the manufacturer’s tensioning procedure.
Keep the Bar Clean
Clean the bar groove and oil passages regularly.
Check Chain Oil
Never assume that a battery saw does not need lubrication.
Clean the Saw
Remove sawdust and wood chips after use.
Remove the Battery Before Maintenance
Take out the battery before adjusting the chain, cleaning around the bar or carrying out maintenance.
Cordless Chainsaw Safety
A chainsaw can cause severe injury within seconds.
Wear appropriate protective equipment, which may include:
- Chainsaw protective trousers or chaps
- Safety boots
- Gloves
- Eye protection
- Hearing protection
- Helmet where falling material is a risk
Use both hands on a full-size chainsaw unless the exact professional saw and task are specifically designed and approved otherwise.
Understand Kickback
Kickback can happen when the upper part of the guide-bar nose contacts wood or another object, or when the chain becomes pinched.
The saw can move suddenly toward the operator.
To reduce risk:
- Avoid cutting with the bar tip.
- Maintain a firm grip.
- Keep the chain sharp.
- Maintain correct chain tension.
- Use the correct chain and bar.
- Do not remove safety equipment.
- Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions.
Do Not Cut Above Shoulder Height
Cutting above shoulder height reduces control and increases injury risk.
Use suitable pruning equipment or professional tree-care methods for elevated branches.
Do Not Use a Chainsaw From an Unstable Ladder
A chainsaw produces forces that can cause loss of balance.
For high tree work, use appropriate professional equipment and trained tree-care workers.
Never Touch the Chain With the Battery Installed
Remove the battery before:
- Adjusting the chain
- Cleaning the bar
- Removing trapped wood
- Changing the chain
- Performing maintenance
This prevents accidental startup.
Benefits of a Cordless Chainsaw
A cordless chainsaw in Kenya offers:
- No petrol required
- No extension cable
- Fast starting
- Lower routine maintenance
- Lower noise than many petrol saws
- No exhaust emissions during use
- Easy transport
- Good farm mobility
- Excellent pruning ability
- Wide range of sizes
Common Buying Mistakes
Buying Based Only on Voltage
Do not assume a cheap “88V” chainsaw is automatically stronger than a properly specified 36V professional machine.
Compare real performance data.
Choosing the Wrong Bar Length
A 6-inch saw and a 16-inch chainsaw are designed for very different jobs.
Ignoring Battery Cost
A cheap bare tool can become expensive after adding batteries and a charger.
Buying Without Checking Replacement Chains
Make sure replacement chains and guide bars are available.
Ignoring Chain Lubrication
Full-size battery chainsaws still need proper bar and chain lubrication.
Buying a Mini Saw for Large Trees
Mini chainsaws are pruning tools.
Use an appropriately sized chainsaw for larger timber.
Which Cordless Chainsaw Should You Buy?
Best Professional: Husqvarna 540i XP
Choose the 540i XP if professional performance is the priority. It provides 36V power, 1.8kW output, 24m/s chain speed and a 14-inch bar on the Kenya-listed version.
Best Professional Value: Husqvarna 535i XP
The 535i XP offers 36V power, 1.45kW output, 20m/s chain speed and a 14-inch bar.
Best Heavy-Duty Kit: TOTAL TGSLI401682
The TOTAL provides a 40V dual-battery system, 16-inch bar, 14.5m/s chain speed, brushless motor, automatic lubrication, quick chain brake, two 4.0Ah batteries and dual charger for around KSh 43,500.
Best Value Full Chainsaw: TOTAL TGSLI201262
For users who do not need a professional forestry saw, the 12-inch TOTAL currently costs approximately KSh 23,465 to KSh 25,999.
Best for Pruning: TOTAL TGSLI20662
Its 6-inch bar, 20V platform and brushless motor make it suitable for pruning and garden work. Current prices range from about KSh 12,400 to KSh 19,000.
Best Budget: 6-Inch Mini Cordless Chainsaw
Budget 6-inch machines currently start around KSh 3,465. They are suitable for occasional pruning rather than heavy tree cutting.
Final Recommendation
For most homeowners and farmers searching for a cordless chainsaw in Kenya, choose the saw according to the size of wood you actually need to cut.
For pruning small branches, a 6-inch cordless pruner is light, affordable and easy to carry.
For general farm work, firewood and medium branches, a 12-inch cordless chainsaw provides greater cutting capacity.
For heavier cutting, the TOTAL TGSLI401682 is one of the strongest complete kits currently listed in Kenya. It provides a 16-inch bar, brushless motor, 40V dual-battery system, 14.5m/s chain speed, automatic lubrication, quick chain brake, two 4.0Ah batteries and a dual-port charger.
For professional tree-care work, the Husqvarna 540i XP is the top performance choice in this comparison, offering a 36V platform, 1.8kW output and 24m/s chain speed.
How much is a cordless chainsaw in Kenya?
A cordless chainsaw in Kenya costs from about KSh 3,465 for a small 6-inch model to more than KSh 43,500 for a heavy-duty branded kit. Professional machines can cost more once the correct battery and charger are included.
Which is the best cordless chainsaw in Kenya?
For professional work, the Husqvarna 540i XP is one of the strongest options, with 36V power, 1.8kW output and 24m/s chain speed. For general heavy farm use, the TOTAL TGSLI401682 offers a good complete 16-inch kit.
What is the best cordless chainsaw for farm use?
A 12-inch to 16-inch cordless chainsaw is suitable for many farm jobs. The right size depends on the diameter and type of wood you regularly cut.
Is a 6-inch cordless chainsaw good?
Yes. A 6-inch chainsaw is useful for pruning small branches, fruit trees and garden maintenance. It is not designed to replace a full-size chainsaw for large logs.
Is a 12-inch cordless chainsaw good for home use?
Yes. A 12-inch machine provides a useful balance between portability and cutting capacity for general home and farm work.
Which cordless chainsaw is best for firewood?
For regular firewood preparation, a larger 14-inch or 16-inch chainsaw is generally more practical than a 6-inch pruning saw.
How much is a TOTAL cordless chainsaw in Kenya?
The TOTAL TGSLI201262 12-inch model is currently around KSh 23,465 to KSh 25,999, while the 40V TGSLI401682 16-inch complete kit is currently listed at about KSh 43,500.
Does a cordless chainsaw need oil?
Most full-size cordless chainsaws require bar and chain oil even though they do not use petrol engine oil. Follow the manufacturer’s lubrication instructions.
Is a brushless cordless chainsaw better?
A brushless motor can provide good efficiency, lower motor maintenance and strong performance. It is especially useful for frequent cutting.
How long does a cordless chainsaw battery last?
Runtime depends on battery capacity, wood size, wood hardness, chain condition and cutting load. For longer jobs, having a second charged battery is useful.
Is a cordless chainsaw better than a petrol chainsaw?
Cordless chainsaws are easier to start, quieter and require less engine maintenance. Petrol chainsaws remain useful for long working periods where quick refuelling is important.
Can a cordless chainsaw cut a tree?
A properly sized cordless chainsaw can cut suitable trees, but tree felling is hazardous. Large or difficult trees, trees near buildings or power lines, and work requiring climbing should be handled by trained professionals.
What size cordless chainsaw should I buy?
Choose around 6 inches for pruning, 10 to 12 inches for general home and farm work, and 14 to 16 inches for larger cutting jobs. Always stay within the manufacturer’s approved cutting capacity.
Does Husqvarna make cordless chainsaws in Kenya?
Yes. Husqvarna Kenya lists professional battery models including the 535i XP and 540i XP.
What should I check before buying a cordless chainsaw?
Check the bar length, battery voltage and capacity, chain speed, motor type, chain brake, lubrication system, battery and charger package, replacement chain availability, warranty and local spare parts support.
