Husqvarna Power Axe 225i Review: A Lightweight but Capable 14-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

Husqvarna Power Axe 225i Review

The Husqvarna Power Axe 225i is a 14-inch cordless chainsaw designed for homeowners who want the convenience of battery power without sacrificing too much cutting capability. At around $449 with a 4Ah battery and charger included, it’s not the cheapest cordless option out there, but it brings Husqvarna’s pedigree in chainsaw design to the battery-powered world.

Key Specs & Features

• Battery: 40V lithium-ion, 4Ah included
• Bar Length: 14 inches
• Motor: Brushless, with Boost mode (+25% power on demand)
• Runtime: Up to ~2 hours with mixed use (varies with load)
• Weight: 10.5 lbs (about 15% lighter than comparable saws)
• Design: Balanced pass-through battery system
• Chain Adjustment: Tool-free knobs
• Extras: Active cooling system, ergonomic grip, warning light indicators

Husqvarna also uses an interchangeable battery system, so if you already own Husqvarna battery tools, you can swap packs between them.

Performance & Usability

Performance is where this chainsaw surprises. While no battery saw is going to match the raw grunt of a pro-level gas unit, the Power Axe 225i handles small and mid-size wood cutting with ease. Boost Mode gives you that extra kick when you hit tougher cuts, and the ergonomic build makes it comfortable for longer sessions.

At 90 dB or less, it’s quiet enough that most users won’t bother with ear protection — a far cry from the scream of a 2-stroke engine. Assembly is minimal: add bar oil, charge the battery, and you’re ready to work.

Unique Test / Real-World Use

A user with 50 years of gas chainsaw experience put this saw through its paces on 6–8 inch elm trees. It didn’t miss a beat, and they noted it worked as well as their small gas saw but without the hassle of fuel and starts.

Another homeowner managed to fill the back of a Toyota 4Runner with cut wood on a single battery charge, and others consistently praised its light weight, quiet operation, and easy tool-free chain adjustments.

The only recurring complaint? Bar oil runs out fast — you’ll need to top it off almost every battery cycle.

Value & Context

At $449, the Husqvarna 225i isn’t cheap — especially when spare batteries cost nearly $200. But for homeowners looking for a balance of performance, brand reliability, and user-friendly design, it’s worth the premium.

Compared to bargain cordless saws, you’re paying for long-term build quality, ergonomics, and consistency. It’s not meant for logging or felling large trees, but it excels in yard work, pruning, storm cleanup, and firewood prep.

Final Thoughts

The Husqvarna Power Axe 225i is an excellent cordless chainsaw for homeowners who value light weight, comfort, and reliable performance over brute force.

If you want a gas-free saw that feels balanced, cuts efficiently, and won’t wear you out, the 225i is a great pick. Just be prepared to budget for extra batteries if you plan on heavy cutting sessions.