Which is better for pruning tree limbs?

The 12 in. 20V MAX. At 11 lb with a 12 in. bar it is easier to control overhead, and its 10.5 in. max cut covers most branches.

Which handles firewood and larger logs?

The 16 in. 60V MAX. The longer Oregon bar and 15 m/s chain speed cut bigger diameters than the 12 in. saw's 10.5 in. maximum.

Do I need to buy a battery for the 12 in. saw?

Yes. The 12 in. saw is bare tool only, so add a 20V MAX battery and charger unless you already own them. The 16 in. kit includes a FLEXVOLT battery.

Is the 16 in. saw worth the extra money?

If you cut logs or fell small trees, yes. At $299 at Ace Hardware as of November 3 it includes a FLEXVOLT battery that also powers 20V MAX tools; the $159 Distritech saw as of November 3 has no battery.

Both use brushless motors. The 60V saw adds auto-oiling and a bar retention knob for proper clamping, which helps bar and chain life; the 20V saw is the simpler, lighter machine.

Can one battery run both saws?

Only the 60V kit's FLEXVOLT battery. It is backwards compatible with 20V MAX tools, but a plain 20V MAX battery cannot run the 60V saw.

DEWALT 20V MAX 12" Cordless Chainsaw, Bare Tool Only vs DeWalt 60V MAX Brushless Cordless 16 in. Chainsaw Kit

Buy the 12 in. 20V MAX if you want a light limbing saw and already own DEWALT 20V batteries. Buy the 16 in. 60V MAX if you cut firewood or felled trunks and need more bar and power. The 12 in. bare tool is listed at $159 at Distritech as of November 3; the 16 in. kit is listed at $299 at Ace Hardware as of November 3.

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