Greenworks GD40CS18 40V Cordless Chainsaw with Brushless Motor

In-Depth Look

Cordless chainsaws have matured significantly in recent years, and the Greenworks GD40CS18 represents the capable end of the 40V consumer market. With a 40cm bar and brushless motor delivering 20m/s chain speed, it sits comfortably between light pruning saws and professional petrol models, making it well suited to garden maintenance and occasional firewood processing.

Motor and Cutting Performance

The brushless motor runs more efficiently than brushed alternatives. The 20m/s chain speed makes clean work of both green wood and seasoned timber. The 40cm bar length suits pruning, firewood and cutting up fallen branches. Felling trees is best left to trained people.

Safety and Oiling

The saw has a chain brake operated by the front hand guard. This is a critical safety feature for any chainsaw, and its inclusion here is reassuring. The automatic oiling system feeds bar oil from the 180ml tank to the chain during operation, keeping the cutting system properly lubricated without any manual pumping. A visible oil level window makes it easy to check when a refill is needed.

Battery Platform

This is a tool-only unit, so you will need a Greenworks 40V battery and charger. Check Greenworks’ list of compatible 40V batteries, as a larger capacity gives longer runtime. For those already invested in the Greenworks 40V platform through other garden tools, this is an efficient way to add a chainsaw without buying into a new battery ecosystem. For new buyers, the additional battery cost should be factored into the overall investment.

Verdict

The Greenworks GD40CS18 is a cordless chainsaw for domestic cutting tasks. The brushless motor, auto-oiler and chain brake are the main features. The main consideration is that the battery and charger are not included, so budget accordingly. For garden maintenance, pruning and firewood, it is a cordless alternative to the noise and maintenance of petrol. Felling trees is best left to trained people.

How It Compares

The Greenworks GD40CS18 is a 40V cordless chainsaw with a 40cm (16 inch) bar, brushless motor, 20m/s chain speed, an automatic oiler with a 180ml tank, and a chain brake. It weighs 3.81kg without a battery, and the battery and charger are sold separately. It is aimed at garden jobs such as pruning, cutting logs and cutting up fallen branches.

Stihl, Ryobi and Makita all make cordless chainsaws on their own battery systems. Ranges, bar lengths and battery platforms change regularly, so compare current models rather than rely on older listings. The sensible question is not which brand is best but which battery system you already own, because a tool-only saw is simpler to add if you already own compatible batteries and a charger.

Here is how the main types differ.

The product information says the cordless saw gives less sustained power than a comparable petrol saw for extended felling, and that is a fair guide. For a day of heavy tree work, a petrol saw or a professional arborist is a better answer. For tidying a garden, cutting up firewood in short sessions and light pruning, a cordless saw is quieter and easier to start.

Treat any chainsaw as a tool that demands training and respect. Work at ground level where you can see what you are cutting, and leave large trees, work at height and anything near buildings or power lines to a trained, insured tree surgeon.

Common Questions

How do I sharpen the chain and know when it is blunt? A blunt chain makes fine dust rather than chips, needs more pressure and may pull to one side. Sharpen with the correct round file size for your chain, and hold the angle marked on the chain, or have it sharpened professionally. Check the manual for the chain specification and for how to adjust tension safely, with the battery removed.

What bar oil does it need, and how do I check the auto-oiler is working? The saw has a 180ml oil tank and automatic oiler, with a window to check the level. Use bar and chain oil as the manual specifies. To check oiling, hold the running tip of the bar a short distance over a clean piece of paper or wood and look for a light line of oil. If none appears, stop and check the manual.

What safety kit and training should I have before using a chainsaw? Wear a helmet with visor, ear defenders, strong gloves, boots and chainsaw protective trousers, and check the standards the equipment meets. Training is strongly advisable, and do not use the saw above shoulder height. Follow the manual and current HSE guidance on chainsaw safety.

How big a tree or log can a 40cm bar handle safely? The bar length is the maximum reach of the cut, not a recommendation for felling. A garden saw like this suits small logs, branches and light pruning. Felling any tree, even a small one, carries real risk, so leave it to a trained professional if you are not experienced. Always follow the manual.