Home garden is your heaven on earth as you go there to relax, party, and have some quality time with your family. Trees and bushes in your backyard need constant pruning. During winter, you need logs for your indoor fireplace.
Relying on a hand saw only means saying welcome to muscle pain. Going with a gas-powered chainsaw is never a practical life choice as you will disrupt your home’s peace. Besides, your neighbor won’t like this constant noise coming out from cutting and trimming.
The ultimate solution is to invest money in a cordless chainsaw. This tool guarantees peace of mind with its quiet operation while bringing many safety features to help you prevent kickback and injury incidents.
The best part of this cordless is its portability. Whether you need a general-purpose chainsaw or something that can help you cut off pines in one go.
10 Best Cordless Chainsaw Reviews
I have composed a list of the top 10 best chainsaw reviews. Look into some tools that require less maintenance but make cutting, pruning, felling, and limbing operations effortless.
- Makita 36V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Chainsaw
- Greenworks Pro 80V Cordless
- Oregon Cordless 16-inch Self-Sharpening Chainsaw
- DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw
- EGO Power 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
- Milwaukee Electric Chainsaw Kit
- BLACK+DECKER 40V Max Cordless Chainsaw
- Worx 40V Electric Chainsaw
- CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Chainsaw
- WEN 40V Max Lithium-Ion Cordless Chainsaw
1. Makita 36V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Chainsaw
- 2 Free Batteries
- Star Protection computer controls
- Variable speed triggers
- Built-in L. E. D. on/off switch
People who need an excellent alternative to a gas-powered chainsaw should consider getting a Makita 36V battery-powered chainsaw. This cordless tool brings ultimate convenience features for landscapers and contractors as they can have a perfect balance cut of 14″ diameter tree easily with this 16″ brushless chainsaw.
No need to replace the spark plug or go through the hassle of an engine oil change. Power up this cordless chainsaw with two 18V LXT batteries and switch on this efficient outdoor power equipment. Once you charge it fully, the battery won’t get exhausted until you complete pruning and cutting off at least ten or twelve 10″ logs.
Front handguard engineering technology makes this device safe to use at home while its electric brake is there to offer maximum productivity. For different types of cuts, you can make the most of its variable speed functionality. Change speed from zero to three, 940 FPM as per need, and look at the digital display to determine what speed this chainsaw is currently running on.
Makita integrated Star Protection computer controls to boost up tool performance and extend battery life. Due to this technology, real-time communication happens between battery and tool. This data transfer would monitor conditions and protect the chainsaw from over-discharging, overheating, and overloading. If the operation is delayed, cordless automatically shut off to save battery power.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Offer perfect balance with a strong grip
- Good Battery Power
- Less maintenance required
Cons
- The thumb-controlled tension wheel doesn’t move quickly, need practice
2. Greenworks Pro 80V Cordless
- Silent operation, no more noise
- A variety of altitudes
- Powered by 80V 2Ah battery
- Suitable for bucking and cutting
The problem with cheap cordless tools is that their battery dies quite fast. If you fade up the charging battery again and again amid your cutting or bucking operations, you better keep your hand on the cordless Chainsaw from Greenworks.
This cutting equipment gets its power from 80V Lithium-ion batteries. With only a thirty-minute charge, you can have more than 150 cuts, no need to put it back on a charger while you are in the middle of the cutting or bulking process.
The manufacturer claims that this professional-level chainsaw offers equivalent performance to a 45cc gas engine, which is true as you can enjoy consistent power from its long-life battery and run a smooth cutting operation by pressing one button. And but of all, you don’t need to put on earmuffs as chainsaw cut wood without producing any annoying noise.
When it comes to getting the full hold and control, its durable metal wrap around the handle lets you enjoy an ergonomic grip. Chances of slip and trip are minimal. The electronic chain brake is designed to offer a safe operation to the user.
This cutting machine is made of durable metal and plastic. The battery and charger will come alongside this chainsaw. You can have multiple battery capacities, ensuring you set a standard 80V 2Ah battery to get excellent performance.
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers the best performance
- Uninterrupted 150 cuts of 16”each
- 30 min required to charge a battery fully
Cons
- Too Heavy to Hold
3. Oregon Cordless 16-inch Self-Sharpening Chainsaw
- Self-Sharpening Chainsaw
- Built-in Lubri-Tec oiling system
- No-load chain speed 2796 fpm
- Long battery life
If you are looking for a chainsaw for a beginner, go with Oregon as it starts quickly. No need to pull some cords when a trigger is there to activate the machine. Set 40V MAX battery, and this premium battery fuel up the motor with zero emissions.
Once the battery is fully charged, you can have 200-400 cuts without requiring a need to charge the battery again. Its brushless motor delivers an efficient combination of speed and torque.
People who don’t like downtime will like Oregano’s built-in PowerSharp system; this exclusive feature would sharpen the chain in seconds. A dull chain often slows down the cutting, trimming, and bucking process. When you want to complete your job in seconds, you can turn on this system, sharpen the saw in seconds and pull off a lever again.
You don’t need to do much maintenance as Oregano designed this powerful machine with a built-in Lubri-Tec oiling system, which keeps the chain’s oil intact. Thereby, less friction during any cutting process will increase the blade’s run time.
Holding this machine for longer won’t be a challenge as with a battery, the weight is only 12 pounds. Its innovative brushless motor delivers excellent performance and power.
Pros
- Lightweight, 12 pounds
- Silent operation
- Activates with a trigger
- Easy to use and hold
Cons
- You may experience stalling sometimes
4. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw
- Low kick-back Bar and chain
- Tool-free chain tensioning
- Bar tightening knob
- 25.2 feet/second Chain speed
Are you new to the wood-cutting world? Want to buy a chainsaw that is easy to hold and doesn’t bring many safety issues? I think you should consider a 12” Bar length MAX XR Chainsaw by DEWALT. With only 8.8 pounds weight, it can offer an excellent grip through its ergonomically designed rear hand. This low kickback 12″ Oregon Bar and chain is suitable to complete your outdoor cutting tasks at an incredible speed.
The machine has its auto oiling system that keeps the saw chain and guided Bar lubricated; less friction boosts brushless motor life’s run time, performance, and life. This chainsaw will show you the oil level indicator. In case it’s less than 10, you need to remove the battery from the chainsaw and refill the oil reservoir.
Once you are done with the operation, make sure you empty the oil tank as well. Besides, you need to use high-quality chain and Bar oil; cheap quality oils will affect this cutting tool’s performance.
If you want to cut small to midsize trees and branches, you can have a one-hand cutting operation with this well-designed cordless chainsaw. Although a 20V battery seems like nothing but you can have more than 50 medium-sized tree logs cuts without charging it all over.
Also Read: Best Miter Saws
Pros
- One-hand operation
- Compact Design
- Light Weight
- Strong handle grip
- Efficient brushless motor
Cons
- You may experience stalling sometimes
5. EGO Power 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
- Super efficient brushless motor
- Double Guard Bar
- Weather-resistant construction
- Tool-less chain tensioning system
If you are a serious woodcutter who often needs to deal with softwood, hardwood, branches, logs, and other stuff, get all the trimming and cutting power from EGO Power. This 16” inch cordless chain saw is designed with a brushless motor that delivers the same efficiency and performance, which people expect from a gas-powered chainsaw.
Enjoy a smooth cutting experience of 14 to 16 inches logs at 6800 RPM with its 16″ BAR & CHAIN and without noise, fuss, or fumes. Its low kickback design delivers ultimate safety.
The weather-resistant construction of this chainsaw makes investment in this product long-lasting. EGO managed the user’s safety concern well by integrating features of Double Guard Bar and Narrow-Kerf Sprocket Nose. You can enjoy better grip and control with its chain kickback brake. Low maintenance makes this product an apple of the landscaper’s eye as they have to deal with Tool-less chain tensioning systems.
Although this chainsaw is getting its fuel from Li-ion batteries, you won’t have to underestimate its efficiency because the brushless motor has an innovative direct drive system, which means this cordless chainsaw offers the same power efficiency you usually get from a gas chain saw.
Pros
- Less Kickback incident
- More grip and control
- Battery charges faster
Cons
- Battery and Charger not included; buy separately
6. Milwaukee Electric Chainsaw Kit
- Stainless Steel Material
- Lithium-ion Battery Included
- Oregano Blade and Chain
Do you need a powerful chainsaw to cut off big trees and branches? You can purchase Milwaukee Electric tools and chainsaw kits. The good thing about this product is that you won’t have to buy anything as everything you need will come in the package, from the battery to the charger. It requires oil for lubrication of the bar and chain, and again, you won’t buy it from outside as a tool kit is included.
People don’t like to use a conventional chainsaw as it makes so much noise. However, you won’t have the same noisy experience with the Milwaukee Chainsaw kit as it is designed with an Oregon chain and bar length. No need to wear earmuffs as the whole cutting operation through this tool is effortlessly and noise-free.
In case you want to enjoy the excellent performance, you better keep two to three 12 Ah batteries closely; one is included. When you unpack the product, you notice that the blade is tensed already for quick operation, but you can tighten the nut for getting desirable tensions and a smooth angle.
Pros
- Powerful Machine
- Five years on material and artistry
- 5-year warranty on material and workmanship
- Long Battery Life
Cons
- Chain Comes off Easily
7. BLACK+DECKER 40V Max Cordless Chainsaw
- Lightweight
- General-purpose Chainsaw
- Full wrap-around handle
- Low-kickback bar and chain
Do you need a general-purpose chainsaw? It’s good to have a fully functional Cordless Chainsaw from Black DECKER. This 12″ powerful machine gets its fuel from a 40V Max Lithium-ion battery. Once the battery is fully charged, you can see its indication as a green LED.
It will contain a chainsaw, battery charger bar, and chain Scabbard when you unpack the box. This robust battery is long-lasting; you won’t have to repurchase it even when you want this Chainsaw for severe cutting and pruning.
A chainsaw is integrated with an automatic oiling system, so when the chain or blade gets dry, automatic lubrication decreases friction while boosting up the runtime. The cordless machine is designed with 12 inches Oregon low-kickback bar and chain so that you can experience smooth cutting with less kickback.
When it comes to grip, there is a wrap-around bale handle that allows you to have full control over the angle and orientation of cutting and pruning. It’s easy to try various tips. Holding this lightweight chainsaw design offers excellent maneuverability.
When you need to work in tight spaces, this handy tool will offer. In case you need to make some adjustments in chain tension, a tool-free chain tensioning feature is there to add an extra ounce of comfort into your life.
Pros
- Battery level indicators
- Automatic oiling system
- Tool-free tension adjustment
- Long battery life and runtime
Cons
- Chain loose quickly, needs frequent re-adjusting
8. Worx 40V Electric Chainsaw
- Dynamic and powerful brushless motor
- Quick stop chain brake
- Toll-free Chain tightening
- Safety Features
Do you need a reliable chainsaw that offers the same functions and features as a gas-powered chainsaw? You better invest your money into Worx 40V Electric Chainsaw. Its efficient brushless motor will let you cut off logs and handle pruning tasks throughout the years. WorX designed this Chainsaw with a quick stop chain brake so that you can enjoy complete control. This brake would prevent accident cuts.
When adding fuel to its powerful blade and chain, you can use two 20V batteries, as this equipment is compatible with both batteries. A battery expansion option is also available.
No matter what your cutting task is, you will never have to adjust the chain tension due to its automated chain tensioning. Depending on each job, this machine adjusts the chain’s pressure and always has precise and straight cuts.
Investment in this Chainsaw will help you reap benefits for years. Automated chain lubrication provides oil to the chain and blade, enhancing its functioning power and life.
When you have to deal with 8 to 10 inches logs regularly, you think of buying cutting equipment that cuts fairly well only when you give it proper time. Inside a pack, you can have Chainsaw, chain, 2×20 V batteries, 20V Dual Charger, Blade protection cover, and Chain bar.
The battery level indicator shows you how much battery is left, so you can put it back on charge when the level is down. This indicator is a big plus because you won’t have to guess how many hours this battery will remain functional.
Pros
- Easy to Operate
- Powerful Chainsaw
- Automated chain lubrication
- Battery level Indicator
- Charger and Battery Included
Cons
- The chain comes off easily
9. CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Chainsaw
- Auto Oil System
- Minimal Maintenance
- 3 Year Limited Warranty
If you need a chainsaw solely for felling and pruning, you can’t have your eyes off this 12-inch Cordless Chainsaw; this powerful machine will handle 6-8 inches diameter tree cutting but not more than that. For offering you an exact angle for cutting, this 20V Chainsaw brings a bubble level.
When it comes to adjusting tensions on your chain, you don’t need any tool; thereby, you will have to go through minimal hassle and maintenance. This high capacity 4.0 Ah battery pack will help you have 50 cuts, only when dealing with 4×4 inches pines. I told you before; this device is designed for smaller amounts, pruning, and timbering.
The optimal efficiency is guaranteed via its auto oiling system that provides adequate oil to black and chain. Storing this Chainsaw in your car truck and moving it around won’t be difficult as its 12-inch compact design doesn’t take much space. When you travel around often, keep this handy tool in your car to not have to worry about roadblocks. Inside this pack, you will include a battery, charger, and Chainsaw.
Pros
- High capacity battery pack with extended runtime
- Tool-free tensioning
- Part of the V20 cordless system
- Suitable for cutting in small spaces
- Battery and charger included
Cons
- You can’t cut medium to big size trees with it
10. WEN 40V Max Lithium-Ion Cordless Chainsaw
- 6-Inch Oregon Chain and guide bar
- Chain Brake for Safety
- Tool-Free Chain Tensioning System
- Brushless Motor
Many people don’t like to work with gas-powered chainsaws due to too much noise, emissions. Moving around with cords is always an issue. Therefore, you better spend money on a cordless chainsaw by WEN, 40V Max.
It is designed with 16-inches Oregon Chain and guide bar, so cutting a medium-size tree with 14-16″ would be an effortless operation. There is a chain brake to ensure user safety.
People prefer wireless over gas-engine Chainsaw because it requires tools to adjust chain tension. However, the manufacturer has brought a tool-free chain tensioning system that would make the adjustment process super comfortable.
There is a brushless motor known to offer excellent performance without getting heat up. The engine gets its power from a long-running 4Amp lithium-ion battery. Inside a pack, you will get a 40V MAX charger, so nothing needs to buy separately.
Pros
- Good performance
- Charger included
- Two-Year Warranty
Cons
- The battery doesn’t last long
Three Types of Chainsaw
Every Chainsaw is designed with an engine that gets power in three different ways.
Gas Chainsaws
Mostly professional-grade chainsaws get their power from gas engines measured in cubic centimeters(cc) and cubic inches (cu. in). If you plan to deal with big trees in a forest or your backyard, definitely the most effective type is a gas chainsaw. It’s more powerful and used by experts.
The higher number of cubic centimeters means the more powerful an engine will be and the faster you can cut a tree or log. Typically, 24-46cc gas chainsaws are suitable for home use. Keep in mind that the higher cc also means a heavier chainsaw, as power also adds some weight. So, you must be physically fit and healthy to run a 46cc gas chainsaw.
Electric Chainsaws
If you need an easy-to-operate chainsaw or it’s your first time with this cutting tool, you better opt for an electric chainsaw. They are easier to manage. Their power is measured in Amps (A). The higher number of Amps means your Chainsaw is more powerful.
Battery Powered Chainsaws
Many cordless chainsaws are powered by batteries, whose power is measured in Voltage or Volts. The higher the volts, the more powerful a chainsaw will be. Homeowners like to spend money on battery-powered chainsaws, as they are super portable and capable of generating the same cutting power as traditional gas chainsaws.
Chainsaw Buying Guide
As soon as you tap into a home gardening tools shop, you come across a wide variety of chainsaw tools. If it’s your first time buying a chainsaw, it’s better to read the chainsaw buying guide and get an idea of what factors you should consider before buying one.
Guide Bar length
In the market, you can find chainsaws with a wide variety of guide bar lengths. You may wonder what it is. The length shows the active cutting area; you can measure this length from the chain to where it enters the housing.
This length tells you precisely what length of wood you can cut with a chainsaw in a single pass. For example, if you have 16 inches guide bar length, it lets you cut 16-inch diameter wood in one go.
If you want to use a chainsaw at home, it’s better to go with a smaller chainsaw’s guide bar length. A 16 or 18 inches bar length is good enough. Even when you want to cut a 30” diameter tree, you can do that in two steps.
Experts suggest you choose a chainsaw with 2” longer than the wood you want to cut. So, use an 18” inch bar length for dealing with a 16” tree; it’s how you will enjoy the safest cutting.
Suitable Bar Length for Homeowners: A person who needs a chainsaw for light cutting can opt for a bar length of 14”. For medium-duty tree cutting and pruning, you should invest money in bar lengths of 14-20 inches. However, when you have to deal with professional-level cutting, go with a chainsaw with a bar length range of 22-36 inches.
Handling Bar length: If you never used Chainsaw before, you better buy one with a smaller size. It’s because dealing with more oversized bars is a challenge. Besides, it increases the risks of injury. There is an occurrence of kickback with a chainsaw, and you can’t avoid it if you are a newbie.
Follow Guidelines: When you purchase a chainsaw, look at recommended bar length sizes mentioned by manufacturers; you should follow their guidelines. In case you still have some confusion, it’s better to consult with an authorized seller who can tell you what bar length would work best for your specific condition.
Battery Type
Cordless chainsaws are designed with either lithium-ion batteries or nickel-cadmium batteries. Li-ion battery-powered chainsaws are more efficient as batteries can be charged quickly and offer better engine power than traditional nickel-CAD, which takes more than 12 hours to recharge. However, you can recharge a Li-ion-based battery within one or two hours.
Engine Power
Cordless chainsaws are designed with either brushless motors or standard motors. Homeowners prefer brushless motors as they are super-efficient and create less friction. You can run this tool for a long time without any need to recharge the battery. A brushed DC motor is less efficient as it causes more friction, and you need to recharge it more often.
Variable Speeds
These days, you can find cordless chainsaws with either single speed or variable speed functions. A single-speed doesn’t offer more control as it cuts at the same speed. For pruning and cutting, the same speed function will be on.
However, variable speed is a desirable feature of a modern chainsaw as it lets you change the blade’s speed based on different types of cuts. You can optimize chain speed through a pressure-sensitive trigger.
Handle Design
These days, you can find chainsaws with double handles. One rear handle comes with a trigger and a safety switch. The trigger will activate blade action, while the safety switch will help you shut off the saw when you lose grip.
The curvy front handle is designed to offer you a firm grip. Usually, these handles are made of rubber to provide smooth control. Make sure to buy a chainsaw that has an ergonomic handle design so that you can hold the chainsaw at different positions and angles.
Size and Weight
The weight of the chainsaw is dependent on its bar length and the material used to create it. If you are a beginner, go with a lightweight tool to enjoy a smooth cutting operation. A heavy-weight chainsaw is challenging to manage.
You may lose its grip accidentally, and risks of danger boost up. Buy a lighter-weight chainsaw first, get used to operating this tool, and then proceed with a professional-grade chainsaw.
Blade Guard
The chainsaw blade is quite sharp, and when you are not using it, it’s better to cover the blade with a blade guard. Through this guard, you can prevent accidental cuts and injuries during transport and storage.
Many manufacturers offer blade guards alongside a chainsaw, while others offer it separately as an accessory. You can save money by buying a tool that accompanies its guard.
Chainsaw Safety
An inexperienced person shouldn’t buy a professional-grade chainsaw as it would be a dangerous tool to use for it; it’s better to buy a small, lightweight cordless chainsaw with an anti-kickback chain.
A consumer-grade chainsaw often brings this chain for enhancing safety features for its user. You should wear protective gear when working with a chainsaw to avoid injuries and accidents.
3 Benefits of Using an Electric or Cordless Chainsaw
Here are three reasons why homeowners prefer the electric version of chainsaw over the gas one.
- Quiet Operation: People don’t like to work with gas chainsaws as it produces more noise. Neighbors complain about it as they get disturbed by its heavy cutting noise. When you have to work in a noise-sensitive environment, cordless chainsaws prove quite helpful. You don’t need protective ear gear with many of them. Working for extended hours without disturbing people around you is possible through the quiet operation of the electric version.
- Less Kickback: This situation is a common outcome of using a chainsaw. A blade tip runs into an object that forces it back and becomes a cause of kickback at the operator. It results in injury if you are not ready for it. A good thing about electric chainsaws is that they are less potent than gas ones, and kickbacks are fewer with them. You can also get a cordless tool with an anti-kickback blade so that you can prevent injury.
- Instant Power: It is easier to start cutting with an electric tool than a gas-powered one. When you want a quick and most efficient cut, a cordless chainsaw will offer instant power.
What can be the perfect choice for the individuals that are willing to make quick cuts? Those associated with cutting up firewood or limbing fallen trees are the quick cuts made using an electric chainsaw.
Personal Strength
Before you decide to buy a chainsaw, you should be physically fit and healthy to hold one. A heavy-duty chainsaw requires a more robust grip and hold than a lightweight one. Experts believe that a chainsaw becomes your extension.
Therefore you must be fully capable of controlling it. If you are physically fit, it’s not a challenge to hold a 12-14 pounds chainsaw. However, you can hurt your muscles and arm if you can’t have a good grip on a heavy-duty chainsaw. So, you better take into consideration your physical strength and fitness while shopping for a chainsaw.
Conclusion
Cordless Chainsaw is a gift of modern technology to landscapers, artisans, and other people who want to enjoy a cordless cutting and pruning experience. No need to deal with the mess, fumes, and annoying noise when a battery-powered device works to do the same job quietly.
People who care about the environment prefer cordless devices or gas-powered ones to control emissions and save the earth. I pinpointed the best chainsaws that can deliver excellent performance with innovative features and well-designed motors.
By looking into their pros and cons, it will be easier to select a cordless that is confined within your budget limit and meets your essential requirements.
FAQ’s
What are the Best Chainsaw?
Here is a list of the top rated chainsaws as per our ratings in 2021;
- Makita 36V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Chainsaw
- Greenworks Pro 80V Cordless
- Oregon Cordless 16-inch Self-Sharpening Chainsaw
- DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw
- EGO Power 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
- Milwaukee Electric Chainsaw Kit
- BLACK+DECKER 40V Max Cordless Chainsaw
- Worx 40V Electric Chainsaw
- CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Chainsaw
- WEN 40V Max Lithium-Ion Cordless Chainsaw
When is a 16 or 18-inch chainsaw suitable?
A 16 or 18-inch chainsaw is known as a general-purpose chainsaw. You can handle occasional light cutting and pruning with it. Besides, this tool is entirely sufficient for handling moderate jobs. It is an ideal homeowner tool through which one can cut thick tree branches and logs.
Which Chainsaw is easy to operate?
In case you never used a chainsaw before, you should opt for electric chainsaws as they are easier to start than gas chainsaws. Once you charge their battery, you need to plug it in, and it would help you manage small to moderate cutting tasks.
Electric chainsaws aren’t just more comfortable to start than their gas counterparts; they’re easier to maintain. All you need to do is plug them in or charge up the battery, and you’re ready to go.
How big of a tree can an 18-inch chainsaw cut?
You can cut medium-size trees like 16-18 inches with this Chainsaw.
How big a tree can a 20 chainsaw cut?
If you have a 20-inch chainsaw powered by gas, it would be suitable for feeling large hardwood trees. Trees 30-36 inches in diameter can easily be cut via it.
How to Avoid Kickback?
Kickback is a natural occurrence for chainsaw users. If you follow some simple tips, you can reduce its chances of happening to a great extent. Keep in mind the following points:
- Don’t touch the bar guide tip to branches, logs, or trees.
- Cut only one piece of wood at one time.
- Ensure that the Chainsaw is fully powered before you start using it.
- Newbies should get anti-kickback chains for consumer-grade chainsaws.
- Follow manufacturer guidelines for maintaining correct chainsaw tensions.
- Check specifications and keep your chain sharpened based on those specs.
- Not comfortable working with a chainsaw? Train yourself by enrolling yourself in the Chainsaw safety course.
What Protective Gear do you need with a Chainsaw?
Chainsaw could be dangerous tools without protective gear. If you think that you can skip protective equipment and go without it, then you are mistaken.
You must have to put on safety pants, cut-resistant safety boots, head protection, safety boots, gloves, and hearing protection when using a chainsaw. You can spend money on a head protection system that brings hearing protection, an eye protection visor, and a hard hat.
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