If you’re looking for a capable and affordable chainsaw for your property, you’ve likely come across the Worx WG779. This review will give you a clear, honest look at what this electric chainsaw can and cannot do. We aim to provide a comprehensive and unbiased worx wg779 review to help you decide if it’s the right tool for your needs.
This 20-inch 80V cordless chainsaw from Worx is part of their Power Share battery system. It promises big power without the gas, oil, and pull-starts. But how does it really handle in the garden or on a woodlot? Let’s get into the details.
Worx WG779 Review
The first thing you’ll notice is the build. It feels lighter than a comparable gas saw, which is a major plus for reducing fatigue. The 20-inch Oregon bar and chain are serious, suggesting it means business. The overall design is ergonomic, with good balance, though the handle can feel a bit plasticy to some users.
Key Features and Specifications
Before we judge performance, let’s look at what you’re getting.
* Power Source: 80V MAX Lithium-ion battery (2.0Ah or 4.0Ah options).
* Bar Length: 20 inches.
* Chain: Oregon low-kickback chain with a 3/8-inch pitch.
* Tool-Free Chain Tensioning: A handy dial on the side for quick adjustments.
* Automatic Oiling: A built-in pump that lubricates the bar and chain.
* Weight: Approximately 12.8 lbs without the battery.
* Safety Features: Chain brake, hand guard, and safety switch.
The battery ecosystem is a big selling point. If you already own other Worx 80V tools, you can swap batteries instantly. This flexibility is a huge advantage over gas.
Performance in Real Garden and Yard Tasks
This is where the rubber meets the road. I put the WG779 through typical homeowner jobs.
Cutting Power and Speed
For an electric saw, the power is impressive. It starts instantly with a trigger pull—no choking or yanking. It plows through softwoods like pine and spruce with ease. Hardwoods like oak and maple are manageable, especially with a sharp chain, but you need to let the saw do the work and not force it.
It won’t outpace a high-end gas saw in raw speed, but for most cutting sessions under an hour, you won’t feel underpowered. The chain speed is good, and it maintains power well as the battery drains.
Battery Life and Runtime
Runtime is the most common question. With the included 4.0Ah battery, here’s what I found:
* Light Duty: Trimming branches (4-6 inches) – up to 60 minutes.
* Medium Duty: Felling small trees (8-12 inch diameter) – 30-40 minutes of continuous cutting.
* Heavy Duty: Bucking larger logs – Expect 20-30 minutes.
Having a second battery is highly recommended for bigger projects. Charging the 4.0Ah battery takes about 90 minutes.
Handling and Ease of Use
The light weight makes it easy to control, reducing arm and shoulder strain. The balance is good, though the long bar can make it feel a bit front-heavy when held horizontally. The automatic oiling system works well, but remember to check and fill the oil reservoir before each use—it’s easy to forget.
The tool-free chain tensioning is a fantastic feature. A simple turn of a dial keeps the chain at the right tightness, which is crucial for safety and performance.
Pros and Cons: A Balanced View
No tool is perfect. Here’s a straightforward list based on hands-on experience.
Pros:
* Zero emissions and very quiet operation compared to gas.
* Extremely low maintenance: no spark plugs, air filters, or fuel mixtures.
* Instant start every time, regardless of weather.
* Much lighter and less fatiguing than gas counterparts.
* Integrates with the Worx 80V battery platform.
* Excellent safety features for beginners and pros alike.
Cons:
* Runtime can be limiting for very large jobs without extra batteries.
* The battery and charger are a significant extra cost if you don’t own them.
* Not quite as powerful as a 50cc gas saw for the toughest professional work.
* The plastic components in some areas may not feel as rugged as all-metal parts.
Who Is The Worx WG779 Best For?
This saw isn’t for everyone, but it’s ideal for a specific set of users.
* Homeowners with 1+ Acres: Perfect for storm cleanup, cutting firewood, and managing wooded lots.
* DIY Woodworkers: A great option for milling or cutting your own lumber if your needs are moderate.
* Eco-Conscious Users: If you want to reduce noise pollution and your carbon footprint.
* Those Who Hate Maintenance: If mixing gas and cleaning carburetors sounds awful, this is your saw.
* Existing Worx 80V Owners: The most logical and cost-effective expansion of your toolkit.
It’s probably not the best choice for professional loggers or those who need to cut all day, every day. The battery swap cycle, while simple, isn’t as fast as refueling a gas can.
Essential Maintenance Tips
Even low-maintenance tools need some care. Follow these steps to keep your WG779 running smoothly for years.
1. After Each Use: Clean sawdust off the body and bar. Check the chain sharpness.
2. Chain Care: Sharpen the chain regularly with a round file. A dull chain makes the motor work harder and drains the battery faster.
3. Lubrication: Always use high-quality bar and chain oil. Fill the reservoir before starting. In cold weather, use a winter-grade oil.
4. Battery Health: Store batteries in a cool, dry place. Don’t leave them on the charger or fully depleted for long periods.
5. Long-Term Storage: For winter, clean the saw thoroughly, oil the chain, and store the battery at about a 50% charge.
Safety First: Operating Tips
A chainsaw is a powerful tool. Always respect it.
* Wear Proper Gear: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots are non-negotiable.
* Check Before Cutting: Ensure the chain tension is correct and the bar is properly oiled.
* Mind Your Stance: Keep a solid, balanced footing with your weight distributed.
* Beware of Kickback: Never let the tip of the bar touch anything, especially when the chain is moving. This is the primary cause of kickback.
* Plan Your Cuts: Always have a clear path to move away from falling branches or a rolling log.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Worx WG779 powerful enough to cut down a tree?
Yes, absolutely. It can fell trees up to the length of its bar (20 inches) in diameter. For larger trees, you’ll need to use proper notching and felling techniques.
How does it compare to a gas chainsaw?
It’s quieter, lighter, and needs far less maintenance. It has slightly less peak power than a mid-range gas saw but makes up for it in convenience and instant start.
What’s the biggest disadvantage?
The main limitation is runtime on a single battery. For extended cutting sessions, purchasing a second battery is a wise investment to avoid downtime.
Can I use other Worx batteries with it?
You can use any Worx 80V MAX battery. A higher Ah rating (like 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah) will give you longer runtime than a 2.0Ah battery.
Is the automatic oiling reliable?
It is generally very reliable. Just make sure you keep the oil tank filled. If the oil empties, it can quickly damage the bar and chain due to excess friction.
Final Verdict
The Worx WG779 is a standout tool in the cordless chainsaw market. It successfully brings serious cutting power into the electric realm without the hassles of gas. For the vast majority of property owners, it offers more than enough capability for typical tasks like cutting firewood, clearing land, and handling storm damage.
Its strengths—ease of use, low maintenance, and quiet operation—far outweigh its limitations for the target audience. The need for spare batteries for big jobs is the main compromise.
If you’re looking for a powerful, eco-friendly alternative to a gas chainsaw and your cutting needs are substantial but not all-day-every-day professional, the WG779 is an excellent choice. It delivers on its promises and represents a smart investment for a well-equipped garden shed or homestead. Just be sure to factor in the cost of an extra battery for the biggest projects, and you’ll have a reliable partner for years of clean cutting.