DeWalt vs Makita chainsaw - which one to get?

Hey all, I'm in the market for a new chainsaw for general yard work and some light logging. I've been going back and forth between DeWalt and Makita, both cordless 18V/20V class. I've got one battery system already, but I'm open to switching if one is clearly better. What's your experience? Need something reliable that'll last through a weekend of cutting without dying on me.

I've been using the Makita 18V chainsaw for about 2 years now as my main sidekick for pruning and storm cleanup. It's a beast, cuts through oak like butter. The oiler is a bit finicky, but once you get it adjusted, it's solid. Battery life is decent - I get about an hour of continuous cutting with the 5Ah. I've heard DeWalt's is good too, but I've seen some complaints about the chain tensioner stripping. If you're already invested in one brand, go with that, but if you're starting fresh, Makita has the edge in build quality IMO.

I'll throw my 2 cents - I've owned both (I'm a reno nut, I have both sets for different jobs). The DeWalt is lighter and more ergonomic, great for over-the-head stuff. But the Makita cuts faster and the brake is more positive. For heavy limbing, I'd take Makita, but for all-day use, my wrists prefer the DeWalt. Also, check the bar length - sometimes you need a longer bar for bigger logs, and Makita has a 16" option that overlaps well. If you're comparing like for like, it's a toss-up. Maybe watch a few comparison vids? They'll show you real-world kickback which is scary.

Thanks guys, appreciate the input. I was leaning Makita but worried about battery, since I have a bunch of DeWalt tools. Socket, you mentioned bar length - I'll need to handle some 12-14 inch logs, so I guess 16" is good. But honestly, I might just get a gas saw for the real work and use an electric for small stuff. But that's another topic. I'll check that tension adjustment issue, Tim. Thanks!

No problem, Luke. If you do go Makita, grab the 5Ah battery, you'll want the extra juice. And remember to use bar oil properly - too much and it's messy, too little and you'll smoke the chain. Post pick after you get it! Always cool to see new tool day posts.