Product Review: RYOBI RY40550 16 in. 40-Volt Brushless Lithium-Ion Cordless Chainsaw, 4 Ah Battery and Charger Included
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Introduction
If you’re searching for a reliable, lightweight solution for yard work, the RYOBI RY40550 is a contender worth considering. This Ryobi cordless chainsaw promises gas-like power with the convenience of a battery powered chainsaw. In this review I’ll cover features, real-world performance, pros and cons, and where to buy RYOBI RY40550 with confidence.
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What is this product?
The RYOBI RY40550 16 in. 40-Volt Brushless Lithium-Ion Cordless Chainsaw, 4 Ah Battery and Charger Included is a mid-sized cordless electric chainsaw engineered for homeowners and property maintenance. It blends a brushless motor with a 16″ bar and a 40V 4Ah lithium battery to deliver cutting performance comparable to small gas saws without fumes or complicated maintenance.
Who is it for?
- Homeowners needing a compact chainsaw for pruning, limbing, and light storm cleanup.
- Gardeners who prefer quieter operation over traditional gas models.
- Anyone looking for a reliable cordless electric chainsaw with the convenience of a kit that includes battery and charger.
Key Features
From the manufacturer’s “About this item”:
- Brushless Motor Delivers GAS-LIKE POWER
- Variable Speed Throttle Provides Ultimate Power and Control
- 16″ Bar and Chain
- (1) OP404 – 40V Charger
- (1) OP40404 – 40V 4Ah Battery
- (1) RY40505BTL – 40V Brushless 16″ Chain Saw
Detailed Description
The RYOBI RY40550 delivers fast cutting speed and higher torque thanks to its 40V 4Ah lithium-ion battery and brushless motor design. The design focuses on usability: side access chain tensioning for quick adjustments, an automatic oiler to keep the bar lubricated, an on-board tool storage area for convenience, and a mechanical chain brake for safety.
A few highlights for shoppers searching for the Ryobi RY40550 16 inch 40V brushless cordless chainsaw with 4Ah battery and charger:
- Runtime: Expect solid runtime for pruning and small to medium cutting tasks — see “Ryobi 40V brushless chainsaw runtime with 4Ah battery” in the FAQs for typical expectations.
- Maintenance: Tool-free access and simple tensioning make routine tasks quick, and the saw is backed by a 5-year limited warranty (battery 3-year warranty).
- Control: Variable speed throttle helps manage power for different cutting needs — ideal in a compact chainsaw for homeowners.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Brushless motor gives improved efficiency and longer motor life.
- Includes 4Ah battery and charger — great value for a kit (Ryobi chainsaw kit with 4Ah battery and charger).
- Quieter and cleaner than gas — ideal as a quiet battery chainsaw for suburban yards.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver for pruning and limbing — the best compact cordless chainsaw for pruning and limbing in many homeowners’ opinions.
- Good safety features: chain brake and automatic oiler.
Cons
- Not intended for heavy commercial logging — best for homeowner tasks.
- Run time depends on battery size; heavy cutting may require a spare battery.
- 16 inch bar limits reach compared to larger saws if you need very large tree felling capacity.
Who Should Buy This Product
Buyers who should consider the Ryobi cordless chainsaw include homeowners, weekend warriors, and anyone who wants a low-maintenance lithium ion chainsaw that performs like a gas model for routine property tasks. If you want to buy RYOBI RY40550 as a kit, this model includes the 4Ah battery and charger, making it a solid value for first-time buyers or those upgrading from older cordless tools.
Comparison with Similar Products
Compared with other 40V and 36V cordless saws, the RYOBI RY40550 stands out for its combination of price and included accessories. Many competing brushless chainsaws either omit the battery/charger or cost significantly more for a complete kit. If you’re weighing options, compare runtime, included battery capacity (4Ah vs 2Ah/6Ah), and warranty length.
- Vs. gas chainsaws: Quieter, easier to maintain, no fuel mixing; slightly less continuous power for extended heavy cuts.
- Vs. other cordless brands: Ryobi often offers better bundled value (battery + charger) at a competitive RYOBI RY40550 price.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Ryobi 40V brushless chainsaw run with a 4Ah battery?
Runtime varies with cutting load. For light pruning and limbing, expect multiple small jobs per charge. Heavy cutting or sustained felling will drain the battery faster; consider a spare 4Ah or higher-capacity battery for long sessions. (See product details and user reports for more precise runtime numbers.)
How to replace chain on Ryobi RY40550?
Replacing the chain is straightforward: release the chain tension via the side access tensioner, remove the bar cover, slide off the old chain and bar, fit the new chain onto the bar and sprocket, then tension and test. Always disconnect the battery before maintenance and follow the manual for torque and safety instructions.
Where can I get the best deal / is RYOBI RY40550 for sale online?
Look for bundled deals labeled Ryobi chainsaw kit with 4Ah battery and charger and compare marketplaces. For convenience and often competitive pricing, check the Amazon listing linked below for current RYOBI RY40550 price, shipping, and customer reviews.
Final Verdict Best Cordless Chainsaw
The RYOBI RY40550 is a compelling choice if you need a 16 inch chainsaw that balances portability, power, and price. As a 40-volt chainsaw with a brushless motor and included 4Ah battery and charger, it delivers dependable performance for homeowners who want an efficient, low-noise, and low-maintenance tool. If your priority is an affordable compact chainsaw for pruning, limbing, and general property upkeep, this model is worth the purchase.
Related reads: Top cordless chainsaws for homeowners