EGO Power+ CS1600 16-Inch 56V Chainsaw: In-Depth Review and Customer Opinions

EGO Power+ is a brand of cordless power tools and outdoor equipment owned by the Chervon Group. Founded in 1993, Chervon is a global manufacturer headquartered in China that designs and builds professional power tools and other equipment.

In 2013, Chervon launched EGO as a new 'lithium' battery-powered tool brand specifically for the North American market. EGO Power+ aims to provide high-performance cordless tools comparable to gas-powered models, enabled by their industry-leading Arc-Lithium battery technology. Their tool lineup includes lawn mowers, string trimmers, blowers, chainsaws, and more.

EGO Power+ cordless tools are designed and built exclusively for use with the brand's 56V lithium-ion battery system. This proprietary battery platform provides extended run times, fast charging, and durability over a wide temperature range. EGO claims their Arc-Lithium batteries can outperform similarly spec'd 18V batteries used by other brands.

The EGO Power+ CS1600 chainsaw reviewed here demonstrates the capabilities of EGO's cordless outdoor power equipment line. With its powerful brushless motor and long-lasting 56V battery, this chainsaw is designed to take on demanding yard work and landscaping tasks.

Overview

The EGO Power+ CS1600 is a 16-inch cordless chainsaw that runs on a 56V lithium-ion battery. It has a brushless motor that delivers high chain speeds for fast cutting.

Key specs:

• Voltage: 56V
• Bar length: 16 inches
• Chain pitch: .043 inches
• Chain gauge: 0.050 inches
• Weight (without battery): 10 lbs
• Battery runtime: Up to 150 cuts per charge (2.5Ah battery)

Overall, the CS1600 combines a powerful battery and motor with a decent 16-inch bar length to deliver solid cutting performance in a lightweight package. It's designed as an all-day use chainsaw for tasks like storm cleanup, tree felling, and firewood cutting.

Design

The EGO Power+ CS1600 chainsaw has an ergonomic and lightweight design that promotes ease of use. At 13.3 lbs, it has a balanced feel that reduces arm fatigue during extended cutting sessions.

The body uses a combination of hardened plastics and rubberized grips that provide a secure and comfortable hold. Both the rear handle and the front handguard are overmolded, allowing you to easily wrap your fingers around them. This gives you more control over the saw during vertical or horizontal cuts.

The CS1600 features a 16-inch bar and chain which can tackle logs up to 28 inches thick. The bar length is optimal for home use, providing enough reach without being overly cumbersome. Despite the powerful motor, the saw doesn't feel front-heavy or awkward to maneuver.

The wraparound front handle has an ambidextrous design, making the chainsaw suitable for both left and right-handed users. All the controls are within easy reach of your fingers and intuitively positioned. This further enhances the tool's usability and safety.

Overall, the thoughtful design of the EGO Power+ CS1600 makes it comfortable and manageable to use, even for extended yard work sessions. The balanced weight distribution and ergonomic handles let you make smooth, accurate cuts without excess strain or fatigue.

Motor & Cutting Performance

The EGO Power+ CS1600 chainsaw is equipped with a powerful 56V brushless motor that provides exceptional cutting performance for a cordless saw. It has a maximum power output of 1800W, which rivals many gas-powered chainsaws.

The powerful motor enables a high chain speed of 12.5m/s for fast, smooth cuts through wood. This is comparable to many medium-duty gas saws. The saw uses a 16" bar and chain which provides a generous cutting capacity of 40cm, enabling you to cut larger logs and branches with ease.

The brushless motor is also very efficient, producing instant torque without loss of power as the battery drains. This enables consistent cutting performance even in lengthy use on a single charge. With the high chain speed and large bar, the CS1600 makes quick work of medium-sized trees, logs, and storm debris clean-up.

Battery & Runtime

The EGO Power+ CS1600 chainsaw comes equipped with a high-capacity 56V 5.0Ah lithium-ion battery. This battery provides ample power and long runtimes on a single charge.

According to EGO, the 5.0Ah battery can deliver up to 45 minutes of total runtime when used with the 16" bar and chain on the CS1600 model. This is sufficient to complete most residential cutting tasks, taking down small trees, and storm cleanup. However, for extended use or larger jobs, having a second battery on hand is recommended.

Charging the battery is straightforward - it simply slides onto the rapid charger, which fully replenishes the battery in about 50 minutes. This quick charge time makes it easy to get back up and running with a fresh battery.

The battery itself is sturdy and features LED charge indicators so you can check the remaining runtime. It fits neatly into the saw's frame as well. The lithium-ion construction means it holds a charge well when not in use.

Overall, the battery and runtime performance of the EGO Power+ CS1600 chainsaw is very solid. The capacity enables generous cutting time per charge, and the rapid charger means you're never waiting too long before the next use. This hassle-free battery experience adds to the saw's appeal.

Features

The EGO Power+ CS1600 chainsaw comes equipped with several useful features that make it easy and safe to operate.

• Chain Brake: This important safety feature stops the chain instantly if kickback occurs. It helps prevent potential injuries.

• Tool-less Chain Tensioning: The side-access chain tensioning knob allows you to adjust chain tension without tools. This makes it easy to maintain the proper tightness.

• Automatic Oiling: The automatic oiler provides a steady supply of bar and chain oil for smooth cutting and prolonged bar and chain life. No need to manually pump oil.

• Brushless Motor: The high-efficiency brushless motor provides more torque, runtime and longevity compared to a standard brushed motor. It's optimized for cutting performance.

• Variable Speed Trigger: The trigger provides variable speed control so you can match the blade speed to the cutting task. More control than just an on/off switch.

• Built-In Lockout: The lockout switch prevents accidental starting. It's an important safety feature when transporting or storing the saw.

• LED Charge Indicator: The LED battery indicator lets you check the charge level at a glance before starting work. No surprises mid-cut.

• Battery Fuel Gauge: The battery has a fuel gauge so you can monitor the remaining runtime. Again, helps avoid an unexpected power loss.

• Charger Included: The charger is included so you can charge the battery conveniently at home between uses. No need to buy separately.

Safety

The EGO Power+ CS1600 chainsaw has several key safety features to protect the user while operating this powerful tool.

Kickback Protection

The CS1600 utilizes a reduced kickback bar and chain design. This helps minimize the chance of dangerous kickbacks that can occur if the tip of the bar contacts wood while cutting. The low kickback chain has depth gauges that limit how much it can dig into the wood.

Hand Guard

A large hand guard is located in front of the front handle for added protection. This heavy-duty guard helps protect the operator's hand and fingers from debris and contact with branches or logs while cutting.

Chain Brake

A chain brake is built into the chainsaw to stop the chain instantly if kickback occurs. This inertial activated brake engages when sudden forward momentum is detected. Having a fast-acting chain brake reduces the risk of injury if kickback was to happen while operating the saw.

The combination of an advanced low kickback chain, hand guard, and quick engaging chain brake provides peace of mind that EGO designed the CS1600 with user safety as a top priority. These features help instill confidence for first-time chainsaw users or professionals alike.

Maintenance

The EGO Power+ chainsaw requires some routine maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Here are a few key maintenance tasks to keep in mind:

Chain Sharpening

The chain on the EGO Power+ will naturally dull over time and use. It's important to periodically sharpen the chain to maintain optimal cutting performance. Use a round file and file guide to sharpen each cutter along the top plate at the correct angle. Refer to the user manual for detailed chain sharpening instructions. Sharpening every 5-10 hours of use is a good rule of thumb.

Bar Oil Fill

The EGO Power+ has an automatic chain oiling system, but you'll need to periodically check and fill the bar oil tank. Use a good quality bar and chain oil, and avoid any oils that could gum up the oiling system. The oil tank is transparent so you can easily check the oil level. Top it off as needed to keep the chain lubricated.

Air Filter Cleaning

Over time, dust and debris can build up in the air filter which reduces airflow to the motor. Every 25 hours or so, remove and clean the air filter with warm soapy water. Allow it to dry completely before reinstalling. This simple maintenance keeps the filter free of obstructions so the engine can breathe freely.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Powerful 16" bar and chain can cut through thick logs and branches
• Brushless motor provides excellent torque and chain speed
• Automatic oiler provides consistent lubrication to the bar and chain
• Long run time of up to 150 cuts per charge
• Fast charger recharges battery in just 30 minutes
• Weighs just 12 lbs for easier control and less fatigue
• Tool-less chain tensioning for quick and easy adjustments
• Weather resistant construction for outdoor use
• 5 year warranty provides peace of mind

Cons

• Expensive initial purchase price
• Chains may need frequent sharpening or replacing
• Not recommended for extended use on very hard woods
• May lack power for larger diameter cuts
• Battery and charger sold separately

Verdict

The EGO Power+ CS1600 chainsaw is an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a powerful, efficient cordless electric chainsaw. Its 56V lithium-ion battery provides outstanding power that rivals gas chainsaws, while being lighter, quieter, and free of emissions.

The CS1600 makes quick work of most cutting tasks around the yard thanks to its high chain speed, 16-inch bar, and PrecisionCut cutting system. It's packed with useful features like the automatic oiler, kickback brake, and built-in LED light. The weather resistant construction also makes it suitable for outdoor use in any season.

Runtime is ample, providing up to 150 cuts per charge depending on wood size. The rapid charger juices back up in under an hour. EGO's Arc-Lithium battery technology also helps deliver fade-free power.

Build quality is high across the board, with a balanced and ergonomic design that reduces fatigue. The soft grip handle and low vibration motor add to the comfort. It's on the heavier side at 14 lbs, but that's expected for a powerful, non-gas chainsaw.

For most homeowners without massive cutting needs, the EGO Power+ CS1600 chainsaw earns our top recommendation thanks to its potent battery performance, smart features, and rugged build. It's an investment, but delivers outstanding cutting power in a cleaner, quieter package.

Overall rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars