Review: The 5 Best Pole Saws for High Branches

Do you ever look up at those high branches and wish you could reach them without a wobbly ladder? Trimming trees can feel like a big, tricky job. Those out-of-reach limbs often look messy or even dangerous hanging over your yard.

Choosing the perfect pole saw adds another layer of confusion. Should you pick gas, electric, or maybe even a manual one? Each type has different power levels and weights. You worry about buying a tool that’s too heavy to use or not strong enough for thick branches. Getting the wrong saw means frustrating, slow work and maybe even hiring someone else.

This guide cuts through the noise! We will break down what makes a pole saw great. You will learn the pros and cons of different power sources and understand the key features you truly need. By the end, you will feel confident picking the best pole saw for your yard work.

Let’s dive in and discover how to tackle those high branches safely and easily!

Top Pole Saw Recommendations

No. 1
Electric Tree Saw for Pruning High Branches, 2-in-1 6" Brushless Mini Chainsaw Cordless with Extension Pole 2 Batteries, Battery Powered Hand held Chain Saw & Pole Pruner for Trimming Tree Limbs
  • Versatile 2-in-1 Design: Telescoping mini hand saw features extendable pole up to 9 ft with 112° adjustable cutting head allows you to trim high branches and limbs safely without a ladder. This long reach trimmer saws and handheld cutter perfect for tree trimming, bush pruning, garden maintenance, orchards, farms, and parks
  • 1000W Brushless Motor: High-performance brushless motor runs at 3900 RPM for smooth, fast cuts. Effortlessly trims branches up to 4 inches thick.The brushless design reduces friction and heat, extending motor life by up to 50% compared to brushed motors, while improving energy efficiency by up to 30%. Includes 2 durable, heat-treated chains (one pre-installed) for long-lasting sharpness and reliable performance (Tips: Loosen the two nuts before tightening the chain.)
  • Portable & Cordless Convenience: Dual 2000mAh rechargeable batteries (4000mAh total), single battery delivers up to 30 minutes of runtime per charge with only 2 hours charging time. No cords, no limits—trim anywhere with ease. Compatible with Makita batteries for extra flexibility
  • Ready-to-Use & Ergonomic: No assembly required—just insert the battery and attach the pole. Lightweight at only 6.8 lbs with pole (3.26 lbs mini chainsaw) and includes a shoulder strap for easy handling. Non-slip handle provides comfortable, precise control—ideal for seniors and beginners to precise pruning with less strain or risk
  • Enhanced Safety & Auto-Lubrication: Features safety lock, splash guard, non-slip front handle, gloves, and protective goggles. Built-in automatic oiling system keeps chain lubricated—simply add up to 30ml of oil, prime the bulb, and start cutting safely
No. 2
Pole Saws for Tree Trimming, 7.3-27 ft Extendable Tree Trimmers Long Handle Pruner, Sharp Steel Blade and Scissors High Branches Trimming, Tree Pruner, Tree Saw (7.3-27 ft with Scissors)
  • Package Includes: Our pole saw and pruner set contains 7 long poles, 1 head with saw, 1 pruner head, 1 spare saw with sheath, and a carry bag. Its extandabe range is about 7.3 to 27 ft (2.24 m to 8.24 m).
  • Lightweight Material: All rods are made of high quality, thickened,epoxy resin and connected by aluminum alloy joints. The blades of the saw are made of alloy steel with 65 Mn, which performs much better than the carbon steel. Just in case you need to reach about 27 ft, its total weight of 7 poles and a head is 9.5 lb.
  • Intelligent Design: The tree pruner is included to cut all the crossing branches. The pulley system helps to change the pulling direction and makes the job much easier. The saw features a hook knife on its points and ends to remove twigs. Extra saw is provided just in case the blade got stuck on the branches while trimming. After work, all parts could be collected in one carry bag and ready for storage.
  • Conflicted Color: The reason that we choose the ugly yellow is meant to help others distinguish the poles from the trees. Others will easily recognize that you're trimming so that they won't accidentally rush into your working area.
  • Honest Suggestion: Even though the maximum weight of the 27 fts setting is within 10 lb, it does feel heavy and might not be easy to control if you're not strong. A perfect length to work with is 20 ft which is a using of 6 poles. Wearing back support is recommended while doing a long time trimming. Safe working.
No. 3
52CC Gas Powered Pole Chain Saw, 12" Guide Bar & 9.5FT Extendable Max Reach, Gas Pole Saws with Anti-Vibration Handle, Auto-Oiling & Quick Release, EPA Certified for Tree Trimming and Pruning
  • 【Powerful & Efficient Cutting Performance】-Experience professional-grade power with our 52cc 2-stroke engine. This gas pole saw delivers a fast 49.2ft/s chain speed, cutting through 10-inch thick limbs in about 8 seconds for effortless tree trimming. Its high torque ensures consistent performance, making quick work of your toughest pruning jobs.
  • 【65% Less Vibration for Reduced Fatigue】-Tackle longer yard projects in comfort. Our anti-vibration handle system effectively reduces up to 65% of operational shock and vibration. Paired with the included ergonomic shoulder strap, this pole saw minimizes arm and shoulder fatigue, transforming strenuous tree trimming into a more manageable task.
  • 【Adjustable Reach with Quick-Release Convenience】-Safely prune high branches without a ladder. The durable aluminum shaft easily extends from 6.9ft to a full 9.5ft reach. The innovative quick-release mechanism allows for tool-free assembly and disassembly in seconds, making setup, storage, and transport remarkably simple for any homeowner.
  • 【Complete Kit for Versatile Yard Maintenance】-Ready to use right out of the box. This comprehensive kit includes the power head, shaft, 12-inch cutting bar, chain, tool kit, fuel mixing bottle, and shoulder strap. Ideal for pruning fruit trees, clearing storm damage, or general tree trimming, it offers the freedom and power of gas without the hassle of cords.
  • 【Worry-Free Operation with Auto-Lube & Clear Guidance】-Built for reliability and ease of use. The automatic chain oiler ensures smooth, long-lasting cutting while protecting your investment. This EPA-certified chainsaw runs on a standard 1:25 fuel mix (oil:gas), with clear instructions provided. It's a dependable, professional-grade tool designed for safe and proper operation.
No. 4
VEVOR Manual Pole Saw, 7.3-27 ft Extendable Tree Pruner, Sharp Steel Blade and Scissors High Branches Trimming, Branch Trimmer with Lightweight 8 Fiberglass Handles, for Pruning Palms and Shrubs
  • Cut High or Low: Are you ready to cut into any task? This manual pole saw can be adjusted to various heights with its 8 poles, ranging from 7.3 to 27 ft (2.24 m to 8.24 m). It is designed for trimming high branches, but can also be used as a hand-held saw to prune lower branches, brushes, and logs.
  • Double Lock Design: Our pole tree pruner features double-lock joints, which makes locking effortless and firm. Weighing in at 13 lbs (5.9 kg), this pole reduced weight by 10% can be used for extended periods without causing fatigue. You don't need to worry about the pole bending or breaking during use.
  • Top-notch Blade: The tree pole saw blade is crafted from rust-proof and long-lasting 0.05" / 1.2 mm thick carbon steel with teflon coating. The blade features a hook knife on top, which can remove twigs when pulled back, and a hook knife on the bottom to remove stuck branches during cutting and trimming, ensuring efficiency.
  • Choose How You Operate: In addition to the saw blade, our extension saw tree trimmer includes sharp Mn steel scissors for cutting twigs and leaves. The compound 11.5ft/3.5m nylon rope is strong enough for easy use, and the pulley system saves you labor. Get ready to enjoy a hassle-free trimming experience.
  • Effortless to Store: The saw sleeve ensures your safety by preventing cuts when the tool is inactive. Additionally, we provide a storage bag for all accessories to prevent loss. Our extended pole tree trimmer is a must-have tool for outdoor trimming work.
No. 5
2-in-1 Electric Pole Saws Compatible with Dewalt 20V MAX* Battery, 10 Inch Cordless Chainsaw for Tree Trimming, 14.5 FT Max Reach Extension Pole for Outdoors Pruning with 1×4.0ah Battery
  • Compatible With Dewalt 20V MAX* Batteries: 10-inch cordless pole saw is compatible with Dewalt 20V MAX batteries such as DCB200, DCB201, DCB203, DCB204, DCB205, DCB206, DCB230, DCB240, DCB260,DCB246, DCB248, DCBP520, DCB606 and other models. Plug and play, works seamlessly with Dewalt 20V batteries, saving money without sacrificing quality.
  • Versatile 2-in-1 Design: The removable chainsaw head can be used on its own as a 10 inch chainsaw or mounted on a telescoping pole to be used as a pole saw without any tools. With a telescopic pole saw for pruning high branches and a handheld chainsaw for ground work, it will fulfill all your cutting needs.
  • Adjustable 180° Telescopic Pole: The 180° rotatable head provides excellent cutting flexibility, and the extension pole can be extended from 5.7 to 8.5 feet and up to 14.5 feet (based on a 6-foot tall person extending the pole saw to shoulder level). Trimming branches in different locations is easy and effortless without having to rely on unstable ladders.
  • Automatic Oiling And Power Display: Enjoy smoother cuts and longer chain life with our chainsaw’s instant auto-lubrication. The transparent oil tank makes maintenance effortless, while the intelligent power display eliminates battery worries, keeping you in control for smarter, stress-free operation!
  • True Brushless Motor: Our 10-inch cordless 2 IN 1 pole saw is powered by a high-efficiency second-generation brushless motor for powerful performance and reliable operation. Higher efficiency, lower energy consumption, stable and non-decaying power, and longer service life!
No. 6
Seesii 2 in 1 Cordless 8 inch Pole Saw & Mini Chainsaw with 2 Battery, Power Electric Polesaw for Tree Trimming, Chain Saw with Extension Pole, Limb Branch Cutter Pruner PS800
  • 2-in-1 Cordless Pole Saw & Battery Powered Mini Chainsaw Combo: This 2-in-1 cordless pole saw combines a handheld mini chainsaw and an extendable pole saw in one compact combo tool. Designed for residential yard work such as tree trimming, branch pruning, limb cutting, and light wood cutting, it’s a practical electric saw solution for everyday outdoor use
  • Telescoping Extension Pole for Long Reach Tree Pruning: The telescoping extension pole adjusts from 6 ft to 10 ft, helping you reach higher tree branches and limbs for trimming and pruning without climbing. The adjustable cutting angle supports controlled operation when working on trees, hedges, and extended wood branches around the yard
  • 8-Inch Guide Bar for Typical Branch & Limb Cutting: Equipped with an 8-inch guide bar and durable chain, this cordless pole saw is suitable for cutting small to medium tree branches and limbs commonly found in residential yards. Designed for routine pruning and trimming tasks rather than large tree trunks
  • Extended Cutting Power - Double the Battery: Seesii pole saws now feature two 21V lithium batteries, delivering double the runtime. With each 4000mAh battery lasting up to 50 minutes, you can tackle any cutting task without interruption
  • 8 Safety Features - Your Safety First: Your safety is priority with the Seesii pole chainsaw: (1) Security lock (2) Safety baffles(3) Control handle (4) Reinforced pole (5) Anti-slip handle (6) Shoulder strap (7) Gloves (8) Goggles. Use confidently
No. 7
3-in-1 Electric Pole Saws for Tree Trimming, 8 Inch & 6 Inch Mini Chainsaw Cordless with 2x4.0Ah Battery, Battery Powered Pole Chain Saw, 16 Ft Reach, Telescopic Chainsaw Tree Trimmer Branch Cutter
  • 3-in-1 Cordless Chainsaw & Pole Saw: Both the 8-inch and 6-inch guide bars are designed for versatile use—easily operated as a handheld mini chainsaw or attached to the telescopic pole for extended reach. This lightweight cordless chainsaw is ideal for tree pruning, branch trimming, firewood cutting, and overall garden maintenance.
  • Extended Reach Telescopic Pole Chainsaw : Up to 16 FT. This battery-powered pole chainsaw allows you to safely trim high branches while standing on the ground. With an adjustable telescopic pole offering up to 10 –16 feet of reach, it’s perfect for pruning tall trees in yards, orchards, and farms - no ladder, no risky climbing required.
  • 180°Adjustable Cutting Head for Versatile Angles: The rotatable saw head adjusts from 0° to 180°, allowing you to cut overhead branches, side limbs, and hard-to-reach areas with ease - no ladders or awkward positioning required.
  • 2×4000mAh Dual Batteries: Includes two high-capacity batteries (4000mAh each), delivering up to 80 minutes cutting time, Keep Working Without the Wait. Perfect cordless battery chainsaw for outdoor work, camping, and everyday pruning without frequent recharging.
  • Powerful Brushless Motor: The 6” & 8” cordless mini chainsaw is equipped with a 900W brushless motor, this mini chainsaw cuts through 6-inch wood in just 6 seconds. It runs faster (27 FT/S and 36ft/s), reducing noise and heat, it will greatly improve your work efficiency make cutting/trimming tasks more easier! With fewer moving parts, it ensures stable performance and a longer lifespan than a general one.
No. 8
DEWALT 20V MAX* XR® Brushless Cordless Pole Saw (Tool Only-Battery & Charger not included) (DCPS620B)
  • Extension pole for up to 15 ft. Reach
  • Durable cutting grip to easily remove pruned branches with metal bucking strip and tree hook
  • Brushless motor for up to 96 cuts per charge on a 4 in. x 4 in. pressure treated pine wood (with dcb204)
  • 8 in. low-kickback, full-complement bar and chain
  • Auto oiling for low maintenance

The Complete Buyer’s Guide to Choosing the Best Pole Saw

A pole saw makes trimming high branches easy and safe. You do not need a wobbly ladder anymore! This guide helps you pick the right tool for your yard work.

Key Features to Look For

When buying a pole saw, several features really matter. These features decide how well the saw works and how long it lasts.

1. Power Source: Corded, Cordless, or Gas

  • Cordless (Battery Powered): These offer the most freedom. Look for a good battery voltage (like 40V or higher) for longer runtimes.
  • Corded (Electric): These are lighter and always have power, but the cord limits how far you can move.
  • Gas Powered: These are the strongest. They are best for very thick branches or big yards, but they are heavier and need more upkeep.

2. Reach and Adjustability

The pole length is very important. Measure the highest branches you need to cut. Good pole saws offer telescoping poles, letting you adjust the length easily. Look for poles that extend at least 10 to 16 feet.

3. Cutting Performance

Check the bar length. A longer bar lets you cut bigger branches in one pass. Also, look at the chain speed (measured in feet per minute or FPM) for gas models; faster speed usually means quicker cutting.

Important Materials and Build Quality

The materials used affect the saw’s weight and toughness.

Pole Construction

Most quality pole saws use **aluminum** or **fiberglass** for the pole. Aluminum is lightweight and strong. Fiberglass is often used in electric models because it does not conduct electricity, making it safer around overhead power lines.

Cutting Components

The bar and chain must be high quality. A good **hardened steel** chain stays sharp longer. Always check reviews to see how often users need to replace the chain.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Small details make a big difference in your sawing experience.

Improving Quality (What to Want)

  • Lightweight Design: You hold the saw above your head, so lighter is always better.
  • Comfortable Grips: Rubber or foam grips reduce hand fatigue.
  • Automatic Oiling: This feature keeps the chain lubricated without you needing to stop and do it manually.

Reducing Quality (What to Avoid)

  • Flimsy Locking Mechanisms: If the pole locks feel loose, the saw might collapse while you are using it, which is dangerous.
  • Weak Plastic Housing: Too much plastic means the saw might break easily if dropped.
  • Poor Balance: A saw that is too heavy at the motor or battery end will strain your arms quickly.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about what you will use the saw for most often.

Light Trimming (Small Trees, Thin Branches)

A lightweight, battery-powered pole saw is perfect here. You can move around the yard quickly without being tied down.

Heavy Duty Work (Thick Limbs, Large Yards)

For serious work, a gas pole saw offers the power you need. If you prefer electric but need more power than a standard battery, a corded model works well if your work area is near an outlet.

Safety First

No matter which saw you choose, always wear safety glasses. Never stand directly under a branch you are cutting. The saw should feel balanced so you can control the cut.


10 Frequently Asked Questions About Pole Saws

Q: What is the difference between a pole saw and a pole pruner?

A: A pole pruner usually has a curved blade and a cutting mechanism (like a rope or lever) to snip small branches. A pole saw uses a real chainsaw bar and chain to cut thicker wood.

Q: How high can a standard pole saw reach?

A: Most adjustable pole saws can reach between 12 to 18 feet high when fully extended, depending on your height.

Q: Do battery-powered pole saws have enough power?

A: Yes, modern high-voltage battery saws (40V and up) cut very well for most residential trimming tasks. They are much quieter than gas saws.

Q: How often should I sharpen the chain?

A: You should check the sharpness before every use. If the saw starts pushing the wood instead of cutting smoothly, it needs sharpening or replacement.

Q: Can I use a pole saw to cut down a whole tree?

A: No. Pole saws are designed for pruning high, existing branches. They are not safe or powerful enough for felling entire trees.

Q: What is “oil-free” on a pole saw?

A: This usually refers to the mechanism that advances the cutting head, not the chain itself. Chains still need oil to run smoothly; look for a model with an automatic oiler for the chain.

Q: Is fiberglass safer than aluminum near power lines?

A: Yes. Fiberglass poles are non-conductive, making them the preferred, safer choice if you work anywhere near overhead electrical wires.

Q: What is the best way to store my pole saw?

A: Store it in a dry place. If it is battery-powered, remove the battery before storage. Keep the bar and chain covered if possible.

Q: How do I prevent the saw from binding in the wood?

A: Always let the saw reach full speed before touching the wood. Cut small branches first, and always cut from the top or bottom without forcing the saw through the limb.

Q: Are replacement parts easy to find?

A: For well-known brands like Ryobi, EGO, or Stihl, replacement bars, chains, and batteries are usually easy to find online or at local hardware stores.

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