The best of chainsaws summarizes some key ideas on chainsaws and their energy efficiency. It also includes some links to customer reviews, and a small list of top manufacturers.

The Best Type of Chainsaw

Each type of chainsaws – gas, electric cordless and electric corded – has its own advantages and drawbacks. The best depends on the intended uses. If I need a powerful chainsaw for heavy outdoor duties, than a gas chainsaw is the best choice. But if I need a light chainsaw for small pruning and few demanding jobs than I should choose a cordless electric chainsaws. As to corded chainsaws, they are the best choice for indoor uses and for situations where the power output of cordless models is too low (and where there is an outlet close enough: within a range up to 100-150 feet/40-50 m). See, for more details: Gas vs. Electric Chainsaws and Electric cordless vs. Electric Corded Chainsaws

The most energy efficient chainsaws

Gas chainsaws are energy guzzling. The most energy efficient units – in the USA and Canada – are CARB (California Air Resources Board-certified) or EPA 50-state compliant (see: CARB and EPA 50-state emissions standards). Electric chainsaws pollute less and are better for the environment (and for your health) than gas chainsaws (choose a UL - Underwriters' Laboratories - compliant electric unit). 

Top chainsaw manufacturers

Black and Decker, Craftsman, Echo, Husqvarna, John Deere, Jonsered, Makita, Mcculloch, Partner, Poulan, Remington, Ryobi, Shindaiwa, Stihl are top gas and/or electric chainsaw manufacturers.

The best customer reviews for electric chainsaws

Here is a small list of top high-rated electric chainsaws, and their prices (at Amazon.com):