The three types of chainsaws are electric, gas and cordless. Gas chainsaws are the most powerful and ideally suited for large tasks, but they require gas and oil and are the loudest and heaviest chainsaws. Electric chainsaws are lightweight and don’t require fuel, but they typically require an extension cord and are best used for light tasks. Cordless chainsaws are powered by a rechargeable battery and can reach various levels of power, depending on the model.