Picking out the ideal chain can be quite challenging, especially if you’re unfamiliar with all the different options out there. But don’t worry – with a little bit of guidance, you’ll be able to cut through the confusion and find the chain that suits your needs.
In this guide, we’ll be taking a closer look at some of the best chainsaw chains available in the market, including the EGO AC1800 18-inch chainsaw chain and the Oregon 3-Pack S62 AdvanceCut chainsaw chain. These chains offer exceptional features, such as durable construction, easy installation and adjustment, efficient cutting performance, and smooth and quiet operation.
Wondering how to determine the ideal chainsaw chain for your needs? This article will provide you with the answers as we uncover our top picks for the best chainsaw chain and highlight the essential factors to consider to make an informed decision.
| Image | Product | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | EGO Chainsaw Chain |
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 | Oregon Chainsaw Chains |
| Check Current Price |
 | Husqvarna Chainsaw Chain |
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 | SUNGATOR Chainsaw Chain |
| Check Current Price |
 | STIHL Chainsaw Chain |
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The 5 Best Chainsaw Chains of 2023
Table of Contents
With an endless array of chainsaw chain options available, it can be difficult to select the ideal chain. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 chainsaw chains on the market to make the decision process easier for you.
EGO Chainsaw Chain
- Durable construction
- Easy to install and adjust
- Efficient cutting performance
The EGO AC1800 18-inch Chainsaw Chain is a reliable, high-quality replacement chain compatible with EGO Power+ 18-inch chainsaws.
One of the best features of this high-quality chainsaw chain is its durability. The chain is constructed with high-quality materials designed to withstand heavy use and maintain their sharpness for longer periods.
Another great feature of the EGO AC1800 Chainsaw Chain is its ease of use. The chain is designed to be simple to install and adjust, allowing for quick and easy maintenance.
In terms of performance, the EGO AC1800 Chainsaw Chain definitely delivers. The chain is sharp and cuts through wood quickly and efficiently, allowing you to complete any outdoor projects easily.
Additionally, the chain operates quietly and smoothly, making the overall experience of using your chainsaw much more enjoyable.
Overall, the EGO AC1800 18-inch Chainsaw Chain is a highly recommended option for anyone needing a reliable replacement chain for their EGO Power+ chainsaw. Its durability, ease of use, and superior performance make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced chainsaw users alike.
Oregon Chainsaw Chains
- Versatile compatibility
- Low-kickback chain for added safety
- Efficient cutting performance
The Oregon 3-Pack S62 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain for the 18-Inch bar is a reliable and efficient product compatible with a wide range of chainsaw brands.
One of the best things about this product is its versatility. The Oregon S62 chain is compatible with a variety of chainsaw brands, including Husqvarna, Echo, Poulan, Craftsman, and more.
This makes it an excellent choice for users who own multiple chainsaws or those looking for a replacement chain that will fit a range of different models.
Another great feature of this product is the low risk of kickback. This means the chain is less likely to cause kickback while in use, making it safer and more user-friendly.
One potential downside to this product is its price. While the Oregon S62 chain is competitively priced compared to other chainsaw chains on the market, it may be more expensive than some alternative options.
All in all, the Oregon 3-Pack S62 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain with a bar size of 18-Inch is an outstanding choice for anyone searching for a perfect chain replacement. Its versatility, low-kickback chain, and efficient performance make it an excellent and reliable chain for your chainsaw.
Husqvarna Chainsaw Chain
- Low-vibration design
- Low-kickback chain
- Durable construction
The Husqvarna chainsaw chain is a high-quality product that offers impressive performance at an affordable price point. This chain features both a low-kickback and low-vibration design, making it much safer and more user-friendly, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries while in use.
Durability is another standout feature of this high-quality chainsaw chain. The chain is constructed from high-quality materials designed to withstand regular use and heavy-duty cutting tasks, meaning that the chain will last for a long time, even with frequent use.
One of the most impressive aspects of this product is its value for money. The Husqvarna chainsaw chain is priced very competitively compared to other chainsaw chains on the market, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for an affordable yet perfect chainsaw chain replacement.
In terms of drawbacks, some users may find that the chain requires more frequent sharpening than other chains they have used in the past. Additionally, the chain is designed specifically for use with Husqvarna chainsaws, which may limit its compatibility with other brands and models.
SUNGATOR Chainsaw Chain
- Compatible with several leading chainsaw brands
- Made from high-quality materials
- Comes in a convenient pack of three
The SUNGATOR 3-Pack 18-Inch Chainsaw Chain is a top-rated product in the market, and for good reason. Designed to be compatible with several leading chainsaw brands, including Craftsman, Ryobi, Homelite, Poulan, and more, this product is a versatile and reliable choice for those needing a new chainsaw chain.
It is constructed with premium steel and is designed to withstand heavy-duty use without breaking or snapping easily. This means that it can handle tough jobs like cutting through thick logs or trees with ease, making it a valuable tool for any professional or homeowner.
One of the best features of the SUNGATOR 3-Pack 18-Inch Saw Chain SG-S62 is that it comes in a convenient pack of three, making it an excellent value for money.
This is especially useful for those who use their chainsaw regularly and need to replace the chain frequently. With three chains in a pack, users can easily rotate them to extend their lifespan and ensure they always have a sharp chain on hand when needed.
Another great advantage of this chain of chainsaws is that it is easy to install. Users do not need any special tools or expertise to fit it onto their chainsaw, which is a significant plus for those who prefer to do their own maintenance rather than rely on professional services.
Overall, the SUNGATOR 3-Pack 18-Inch Saw Chain SG-S62 is a highly recommended product for those in need of a new chainsaw chain. Its compatibility with several leading chainsaw brands, high-quality construction, and excellent value for money make it a top choice among users.
STIHL Chainsaw Chain
- High-quality chain and steel construction
- Oil-resistant coating for corrosion protection
- Quick and efficient cutting
- Require frequent sharpening
- Can be noisy during use
The STIHL Oilomatic Rapid Micro RM3 18-Inch Saw Chain is designed for those needing a reliable and durable chainsaw chain that can handle tough jobs. The chain is made from high-quality steel and features an oil-resistant coating that helps prevent corrosion and prolongs the chain’s lifespan.
With 74 links, it is designed to fit a variety of different chainsaws, making it a versatile option for those who own multiple chainsaws. One of the standout features of this chainsaw chain is its speed and efficiency.
The chain is designed to cut quickly and smoothly, making it an excellent option for those who need to get through large amounts of wood quickly. Additionally, the chain is designed to minimize the amount of kickback, which can help to keep the user safe while using the chainsaw.
Another benefit of the STIHL Oilomatic Rapid Micro RM3 18-Inch Chain is its affordability, being one of the most budget-friendly options on the market.
This makes it an excellent product for those who need a reliable chainsaw chain but do not want to spend a lot of money. Despite its affordability, the chain still offers a high level of performance and durability.
In short, the STIHL Oilomatic Rapid Micro RM3 18-Inch Chain is a high-quality chainsaw for those needing a reliable and perfect chain replacement. Its cutting speed, efficiency, and affordability make it a standout product in the market, and its oil-resistant coating and kickback-minimizing design make it a safe and durable option as well.
How to Choose the Best Chainsaw Chain
Knowing which chainsaw chains are the best available is essential, but finding the ideal one for your particular needs can be tricky. Here are some crucial points to keep in mind when selecting the ideal chain for your chainsaw:
1. Determine the Chainsaw Chain Types
When it comes to chainsaws, there are several different types available on the market, and each one requires a specific type of chainsaw chain. Understanding the different chainsaw chain types and their corresponding chains is crucial to ensure you select the correct chain for your saw and achieve the best possible results.
2. Electric Chainsaws
Electric chainsaws are powered by electricity and are generally the most lightweight and compact of all chainsaws. They are suitable for light-duty tasks, such as pruning and trimming small branches and cutting firewood. They are quieter than gas-powered chainsaws, do not emit any fumes, and require minimal maintenance.
The chainsaw chains for electric chainsaws are typically smaller in size and have a smaller chain pitch size and gauge. This is because electric chainsaws typically have shorter bars and less powerful engines than gas-powered chainsaws.
3. Gas-Powered Chainsaws
Gas-powered chainsaws are the most common chainsaw chain types and are often used for heavy-duty tasks such as felling trees, cutting large branches, and milling lumber. They are powered by a gasoline engine, which gives them more power and flexibility than electric chainsaws.
Gas-powered chainsaws are also more durable and long-lasting than electric chainsaws.
The chainsaw chains for gas-powered chainsaws are generally larger in size than electric chainsaws and have a larger pitch and gauge. This is because gas-powered chainsaws have longer bars and more powerful engines, which require a larger and more robust chain to handle the added strain.
4. Battery-Powered Chainsaws
Battery-powered chainsaws are a relatively new type of chainsaw that is becoming increasingly popular. They are powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and are typically more lightweight and quieter than gas-powered chainsaws.
They are also more environmentally friendly and require less maintenance than gas-powered chainsaws.
The chainsaw chains for battery-powered chainsaws are similar to those for electric chainsaws. They are typically smaller in size and have a smaller chain pitch size and gauge to accommodate a shorter chain bar and less powerful engines of battery-powered chainsaws.
5. Measure the Chain Pitch Size
Measuring the chain pitch size is an essential step when selecting the correct chain of a chainsaw. The chain pitch is the distance between the links on the chain and is an important factor to consider when choosing a new chain. Selecting the wrong pitch can lead to poor performance, increased wear and tear on the chain and the chainsaw, and potential safety hazards.
To measure the chain pitch, you must have a ruler or measuring tape and access the chainsaw chain. The process is relatively simple and can be completed in just a few steps.
6. Locate Three Rivets on the Chain
Start by locating three rivets on the chain. These are the small metal pieces that hold the links together. Choose any three rivets, but ensure they are spaced evenly apart along the chain.
7. Measure the Distance Between the Rivets
Next, use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the distance between the first rivet’s center and the third rivet’s center. This is the overall distance of the three rivets.
8. Divide the Distance by Two
To calculate the chain pitch, divide the overall distance of the three rivets by two. This will give you the pitch measurement you need.
- Note: The pitch measurement may not always be an exact number, as some chains have pitches that fall in between standard measurements. In this case, it is best to round up to the nearest standard pitch size.
Once you have determined the chain pitch, you can use this information to select the perfect chain replacement. Chainsaw chains are available in a variety of pitch sizes, and choosing the correct one is crucial for optimal performance and safety.
9. Check the Gauge
Checking the chainsaw chain gauge is another crucial step in selecting the correct chainsaw chain. The gauge refers to the thickness of the drive link, which is the small protrusion on the underside of the chain that sits in the bar groove.
The gauge measurement is crucial because it determines the type of chain bar that the chain can fit, and using a chain with an incorrect gauge can cause damage to the chainsaw, the chain, or both.
To check the gauge of the chainsaw chain, you will need to use a gauge tool, available at most hardware or chainsaw supply stores and specifically designed to measure the gauge of chainsaw chains.
10. Determine the Length
Determining the length of the chainsaw chain is a critical step in choosing the ideal chain for your saw. The length of the chain is essential for ensuring that it fits the bar correctly, and selecting a chain that is too long or too short can cause damage to the chainsaw or create safety hazards.
There are two primary methods for determining the length of the chainsaw chain: counting the number of drive links on the old chain or measuring the bar length.
11. Counting the Number of Drive Links
To count the number of drive links, you will need to remove the old chain from the chainsaw and lay it flat on a surface.
The drive links are the small protrusions on the underside of the chain that sits in the bar groove. Count the number of drive links on the chain to determine its length. Once you have determined the length of the old chain, you can select a new chain with the same number of drive links.
12. Measuring the Bar Length
Another method for determining the length of the chainsaw chain is to measure the length of the bar. The bar is the long, narrow metal piece that the chain sits on and is measured from the tip to the point where it meets the chainsaw body.
To measure the bar length, use a tape measure or ruler and measure from the tip of the bar to the point where it meets the chainsaw body. Once you have determined the bar length, subtract two inches to get the proper chain length.
13. Determine the Chain’s Durability
The durability of a chainsaw chain is an important factor to consider when selecting a chain for your saw. Chainsaw chains are made from various materials, each with different levels of durability and resistance to wear and tear.
14. High-Carbon Steel Chains
High-carbon steel chains are among the most common chainsaw chains on the market. These chains are made from steel with a high carbon content, which gives them excellent strength and durability.
High-carbon steel chains can withstand heavy use and maintain their sharpness for a long time. These chains are also relatively affordable and widely available.
15. Nickel-Plated Steel Chains
Nickel-plated steel chains are another popular option for chainsaw chains. These chains are made from high-quality steel and are coated with a layer of nickel for added durability and corrosion resistance.
These chains are particularly useful in damp or wet conditions where other chains may rust or corrode. They are also known for their excellent resistance to wear and tear.
16. Chrome-Plated Chains
Chrome-plated chains are less common than high-carbon steel or nickel-plated steel chains. These chains are made from steel coated with a layer of chrome, making them highly resistant to corrosion and wear.
17. Carbide Chains
Carbide chains are the most durable chainsaw chains available. These chains are made from a combination of high-carbon steel and carbide, a hard and durable material that is resistant to wear and tear.
However, carbide chains are relatively expensive and may not be necessary for everyday use.
Jake is a chainsaws expert with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field. He is a licensed professional by the National Chainsaw Program, which attests to his skills and expertise in the safe and efficient use of chainsaws.
