Gasoline-powered chainsaws use a two-cycle engine (requiring mixing of oil and gas). Mobility and power are the main advantages of gas. Disadvantages include the bother and smell of mixing oil and gas, pull cord starting and the additional overall maintenance needed. Electric saws are great for smaller yard chores. They're quieter than their gas-powered cousins, lightweight, easy to start and require less maintenance. However, they have less power than gasoline-powered saws. They also add the bother of dragging a cord around behind you.
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Gasoline-powered chainsaws use a two-cycle engine (requiring mixing of oil and gas). Mobility and power are the main advantages of gas. Disadvantages include the bother and smell of mixing oil and gas, pull cord starting and the additional overall maintenance needed. Electric saws are great for smaller yard chores. They're quieter than their gas-powered cousins, lightweight, easy to start and require less maintenance. However, they have less power than gasoline-powered saws. They also add the bother of dragging a cord around behind you.