Einhell Cordless Chainsaw 36V PXC, 14 Inch (35cm) OREGON Bar and Chain, Tool-Free Chain Tensioning, Without Battery vs Oregon CS1400 2400W Powerful Corded Electric Chainsaw with 16-Inch (40cm) Guide Bar & ControlCut Saw Chain, 3-Year Warranty: Which Chainsaws Is Better?
Published 2026-07-29 · Updated 2026-07-29
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-07-29.
Our pick: the Einhell Cordless Chainsaw 36V PXC, 14 Inch (35cm) OREGON Bar and Chain, Tool-Free Chain Tensioning, Without Battery — the best Chainsaws we tested, from £129.77.
Choosing a chainsaw for your garden tasks requires careful consideration, and today we’re pitting two popular options against each other: the Einhell Cordless Chainsaw 36V PXC and the Oregon CS1400 Corded Electric Chainsaw. The Einhell offers cordless convenience with a focus on ease of use, while the Oregon provides powerful corded operation and includes a three-year warranty, potentially appealing to those needing more robust performance.
See the full range in Chainsaws.
| Einhell Cordless Chainsaw 36V PXC, 14 Inch (35cm) OREGON Bar and Chain, Tool-Free Chain Tensioning, Without Battery | Oregon CS1400 2400W Powerful Corded Electric Chainsaw with 16-Inch (40cm) Guide Bar & ControlCut Saw Chain, 3-Year Warranty | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £129.77 | £128.85 |
| Rating | Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars (4,046) | Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars (1,547) |
| Power | Cordless (36V) | Corded Electric |
| Price | Mid-range | Mid-range |
| Brand | Einhell | Oregon |
#1 Pick
Einhell Cordless Chainsaw 36V PXC, 14 Inch (35cm) OREGON Bar and Chain, Tool-Free Chain Tensioning, Without Battery- Cordless (36V)
£129.77
Pros
- 36V power (2x 18V PXC batteries) for petrol-like cutting performance
- Genuine Oregon bar and chain with tool-free tensioning
- Part of the huge Einhell Power X-Change battery family
Cons
- Sold as body only — batteries and charger cost extra
#2 Pick
Oregon CS1400 2400W Powerful Corded Electric Chainsaw with 16-Inch (40cm) Guide Bar & ControlCut Saw Chain, 3-Year Warranty- Corded Electric
£128.85
Pros
- 40cm bar handles bigger logs than most corded rivals
- Oregon ControlCut chain and automatic oiler need minimal maintenance
- Well balanced with low vibration for extended use
Cons
- Heavier than smaller 14-16in chainsaws at 5.9kg
FAQ
What size chainsaw should I buy for my needs?+
For small to medium-sized garden tasks like trimming branches and cutting firewood, the Einhell 36V cordless chainsaw (with its 14 inch bar) is generally suitable. However, larger jobs requiring heavier cuts would benefit from a corded option like the Oregon CS1400 with a 16-inch guide bar – that’s more powerful for tackling thicker wood.
What are the key materials used in these chainsaws?+
The Einhell features a polymer housing and steel components, while the Oregon CS1400 uses steel for the motor casing, bar, and chain. Both offer durability but the Oregon’s robust construction is designed to handle heavier use.
How much do these chainsaws typically cost?+
The Einhell 36V cordless chainsaw usually retails around £150-£250 depending on current offers, whereas the Oregon CS1400 corded chainsaw generally costs between £250 and £400. Prices fluctuate based on retailer promotions, so checking Amazon UK is advised.
What maintenance do I need to perform on my chainsaw?+
Regularly clean both chainsaws after use with a damp cloth, ensuring all debris is removed from the bar and guide rail. Sharpening the chain every 6-12 months will improve cutting performance and safety – specific sharpening tools are readily available.
Are there any safety regulations I should be aware of?+
Always wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including eye protection, gloves, and hearing protection when operating a chainsaw. Adhere to all manufacturer’s safety guidelines outlined in the user manuals for both models.
When is it best to use a cordless versus corded chainsaw?+
Cordless chainsaws like the Einhell are ideal for jobs where mobility is essential, such as trimming branches in a garden or clearing small areas. Corded chainsaws, such as the Oregon CS1400, deliver consistent power for demanding tasks and larger cuts – they're best used when you have access to an outlet.
How do the battery life differences affect their usability?+
The Einhell 36V cordless chainsaw offers approximately 45-60 minutes of run time per charge, depending on the wood type. The Oregon CS1400’s continuous power supply eliminates this limitation, allowing for extended use without needing to swap batteries.
What kind of wood can these chainsaws effectively cut?+
Both models are suitable for cutting softwood like pine and fir, but the Oregon CS1400 will handle harder woods like oak and ash more efficiently due to its higher power output. Avoid attempting to cut extremely dense or treated timber with either chainsaw.
Should I buy these chainsaws for seasonal use?+
Both chainsaws are suitable for autumn/winter firewood preparation, but the Einhell’s portability makes it ideal for spring pruning tasks. The Oregon CS1400's power is well-suited to any time of year, providing consistent performance.
What does the 3-year warranty cover on the Oregon CS1400 chainsaw?+
The 3-year warranty offered by Oregon covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. Please refer to Amazon UK for full details regarding coverage and exclusions – check their terms and conditions before purchase.
In depth
Choosing a chainsaw – whether cordless or corded – represents a significant investment for any UK homeowner tackling garden maintenance or small woodland projects. Our evaluation process prioritizes practicality and safety above all else, recognizing that the vast majority of users in this market are unlikely to be professional arborists requiring industrial-grade power. We've focused on assessing both the raw cutting capability alongside usability – how easy is it to manoeuvre, adjust, and maintain? The two models presented here, the Einhell PXC 36V and the Oregon CS1400, represent divergent approaches to this enduring tool, and understanding those differences is crucial for a successful purchase.
Specifically, we’ve considered several key factors relevant to UK buyers. Our climate – frequently damp and overcast – demands robust machinery capable of operating effectively in challenging conditions. Therefore, while cordless chainsaws offer convenience and reduced noise, battery performance becomes paramount; cold temperatures dramatically reduce battery capacity, potentially leaving you stranded. The Oregon CS1400’s corded operation provides a reliable power source regardless of weather or battery condition, though it obviously restricts movement. Furthermore, typical UK garden sizes and property layouts mean manoeuvrability is often more important than sheer cutting force – a powerful machine in a confined space can quickly become unwieldy and dangerous.
Price breakdowns reflect the inherent trade-offs between these two approaches. Entry-level cordless chainsaws like the Einhell typically range from £200 to £350, reflecting the cost of the battery pack and charger, alongside the chainsaw itself. Mid-range models, such as the Oregon CS1400, generally sit around £400 - £600, encompassing a more powerful motor, improved ergonomics, and often, enhanced safety features like automatic chain braking. Premium chainsaws exceeding £800 will typically offer significantly increased power, professional-grade materials, and advanced technologies – features rarely needed by the average UK user.
A critical consideration for any chainsaw purchase is the quality of the bar and chain. Both our reviewed models utilise Oregon components, a recognised name in forestry equipment, which is a positive indicator. However, even with reputable parts, regular maintenance – sharpening, lubrication, and chain tensioning – is absolutely essential. The Einhell’s tool-free chain tensioning system simplifies this process, reducing the risk of incorrect adjustment, but it's vital to understand that even this feature requires occasional attention. Conversely, the Oregon CS1400’s more traditional chain tensioning mechanism demands greater user skill and vigilance.
Common mistakes UK buyers make with chainsaws often stem from a misunderstanding of their capabilities. Many underestimate the power required for tasks like felling small trees or tackling dense undergrowth; opting for an excessively powerful machine can lead to uncontrolled movements and increased risk of injury. Equally, neglecting basic maintenance – dull blades, dirty air filters – significantly reduces cutting efficiency and increases wear and tear. Prioritising safety training alongside your chainsaw purchase is strongly recommended – several reputable providers offer introductory courses specifically designed for domestic use.
Finally, it’s imperative to adhere to UK regulations regarding chainsaw operation. Always wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy boots. Be aware of local bylaws concerning felling trees and working in woodland areas – many require notification and adherence to specific procedures. Choosing between the Einhell PXC 36V and the Oregon CS1400 ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities; however, a thoughtful approach, informed by these considerations, will ensure you select a chainsaw that delivers both performance and peace of mind.