Hedge trimmer vs. electric chainsaw: running cost
A hedge trimmer is cheaper to run: about $1 a year versus $4 for an electric chainsaw at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $3 difference.
| Hedge trimmer | Electric chainsaw | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 500 W | 1,800 W |
| Watt range | 300–700 W | 800–1,800 W |
| Typical use | 30 minutes a day, 1 days a week for 5 months a year | 30 minutes a day, 1 days a week for 6 months a year |
| Energy per year | 5 kWh | 23 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 9.0¢ | 32¢ |
| Cost per day | 0.6¢ | 2.3¢ |
| Cost per month | $0.20 | $0.70 |
| Cost per year | $1 | $4 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $2 | $10 |
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What drives the difference
- Hedge trimmer: Corded hedge trimmers draw 3-5 A (400-600 W) and are used occasionally, so annual cost is minimal.
- Electric chainsaw: Corded chainsaws are typically 12-15 A (up to 1,800 W) motors; real draw depends on cutting load.
Ways to cut either cost
Battery hedge trimmer
Short charging sessions only when needed.
See options on Amazon Chain sharpener
A sharp chain cuts faster with less energy.
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Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a hedge trimmer or an electric chainsaw?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), an electric chainsaw costs about $4 a year versus $1 for a hedge trimmer. That's $3 more, or 4.3× as much.
How many watts do hedge trimmer and electric chainsaw use?
A hedge trimmer typically draws 500 W (range 300–700 W). An electric chainsaw draws 1,800 W (range 800–1,800 W). Watts alone don't decide cost. Hours of use, cycling and standby matter just as much.
Rates: EIA, 12 months ending 2026-07. Methodology.