The Peektook Mini Chainsaw has become one of the best-selling bargain electric cordless chainsaws in no time at all. Designed for occasional yard work and trimming light foliage, this small device offers a temptation of affordability, mobility, and surprising strength given its small frame.
From a twenty-year legacy, the Peektook brand produced by Nantong Benyi Electronic Technology Co., Ltd in China has made this chainsaw an economical choice for homeowners and DIY’ers as a handy alternative to clunky old-fashioned chainsaws.
Not Without Critics
But despite its popularity, it’s not without controversy. While many buyers are pleased with its performance and user-friendly design, others have raised concerns about durability, battery consistency, and build quality. Like many budget-friendly tools, its success hinges on managing expectations and understanding both its strengths and limitations. In this review, we’ll explore the Peektook Mini Chainsaw’s core features, practical usability, and what real-world customers are saying both good and bad.
Key Features
At the heart of the Peektook Mini Chainsaw is a 6-inch cutting blade, powered by a 1000W brushless motor, which cuts at 34.5 feet per second. Utilizing a brushless motor is a significant improvement over cheaper brushed motors, giving more efficiency, less heat generation, and longer working life. Brushless motors are also quieter and require less maintenance, and this is particularly important to occasional users who want a tool that "just works."
Batteries & Accessories
The saw comes with two 21V lithium-ion batteries, rated 2Ah each. With the batteries fully charged, users can expect to have approximately 30 to 60 minutes of run time total, depending on the weight of the cutting task. The tool also includes two chains (one installed as standard), and a handy starter pack consisting of safety glasses, gloves, oil pot (no oil included), brush, screwdriver, and charger enough to utilize straight away without further outlay. The presence of a 12-month guarantee is some recompense to those worried about cost tool longevity.
Single Handed Use
Ergonomics is in full force here. Weighing only at 2.2 lbs, the mini chainsaw is within an affordable weight, nearly unique in nature, and stored inside a tight enough to reach inside spaces that would be difficult to access. This is a feature that has impressed users of overgrown garden corners or heavy shrubbery. The Peektook comes in red, yellow, or blue-and thus very attractive-and within reach of users intimidated by larger chainsaws.
Safety Recommendations
Neither has safety been overlooked. Chainsaw features two-button start to prevent accidental starting up and includes handle guard and blade guard to restrict injury risk. These safety measures are especially beneficial to novice operators or older gardeners who require a safer method of handling tree limbs and chopping firewood.
Positive Reviews
The Peektook Mini Chainsaw has attracted considerable positive comment from customers across a broad range of needs, from general garden trimming up to smallholding maintenance and even small firewood preparation. Being one of the top-seller mini chainsaws on Amazon in the value category, this 6-inch cordless saw appears to please many customers not only with its use but also its thoughtfully designed use and value for money.
Ease of Use for All, No Matter Age or Capacity
Another recurring theme among the positive reviews is that the Peektook Mini Chainsaw is so simple to use, especially for older adults or individuals with reduced strength or mobility. One customer, who is in their 80s, praised the chainsaw for its lightweight and compact size, saying it was much easier to handle than a regular full-size saw. Similarly, a disabled user highlighted how pleased they were to find a product that was light, intuitive, and even manufactured by a company that includes disabled employees, this personal touch resonated deeply.
One Handed Operation
The curved shape of the saw, weighing around 2.2lbs, can be grasped for hours without resulting in fatigue. Various reviewers even stated that they were able to grasp the chainsaw using one hand for hours without experiencing pain. This has proven especially useful in confined spaces, such as when working on ladders or above fences, where larger saws would be clumsy or hazardous.
Surprisingly Powerful for Its Size
For all its small construction and entry-level price tag, the Peektook Mini Chainsaw has surprised many by the prowess of its cut. Purchasers report using it to cut down branches of up to 6 inches in thickness with ease, and in others, even slightly larger. One reviewer explained how the chainsaw was employed to fell massive conifers that were downed by a storm, impressive work for something so diminutive.
Some reviewers shared the view that the Peektook is "surprisingly efficient," "cuts through branches like a hot knife through butter," and "better than it needed to be." These recommendations suggest that the 1000W high-speed brushless motor delivers as promised.
Complete Kit, Ready to Use
Buyers have always praised the completeness of the package. The inclusion of two batteries, two chains (with a pre-installed one), gloves, goggles, a bottle of oil (though it comes empty), brush, screwdriver, and charger gives high value and equips users to remove their machines from the box and run them. The instruction guide has been cited as clear and helpful many times, and buyers appreciate safety features like the double-button start system preventing accidents.
Second Battery
Others also mention that the second battery is very handy for bigger work, and it doubles the overall runtime of the tool, giving 30 to 60 minutes depending on the cutting level. This isn't ground breaking in a power tool by any means, but for its class and price, it's more than sufficient especially considering that one battery can supposedly cut up to six full 60-litre bags of firewood.
Great Value for a Bargain Price
Value for money is probably one of the strongest selling points of the Peektook Mini Chainsaw. Most reviewers confess they had low expectations for the price but were thoroughly impressed. Some reviews rate the saw as "a great bit of kit for the money," "brilliant value," and even "better than the big-name brands."
This is complemented by the fact that replacement chains are inexpensive, having little cost. This has minimal long-run maintenance expenses, hence making the product very appealing to price-sensitive consumers.
Customer Service and Warranty Satisfaction
Many reviewers have left positive experiences with the seller. Timely responses, considerate communication, and easy solutions to battery or charger issues gave customers a feeling of being helped. The 12-month warranty, coupled with the speedy after-sales support, has given purchasers more confidence in the product.
Versatility in Use
From trimming hedges and cutting trees to splitting firewood and removing storm debris, the Peektook chainsaw has served in countless scenarios. Residents of smallholdings and those who visit open areas frequently have found this chainsaw to be a definite time saver. Some reviewers highlight the way this chainsaw replaces handsaws for difficult or repetitive jobs, reducing strain on the body and shortening the work process greatly.
One of them reported they initially bought it for their husband with the intention to only use it intermittently but ended up using it more than their previous petrol chainsaw on everyday tasks. That is indicative of just how handy and reliable the equipment is.
Mixed Reviews
While the majority of customers loved the Peektook mini chainsaw for its price and convenience, others gave a more balanced review, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of the product. These varied reviews assist in creating a clearer picture of what users can realistically achieve from the product especially regarding performance over the long term, durability, battery life, and customer support.
More Suitable for Light Duties, Not Heavy Duty
One of the themes that occur in many of the reviews is that the Peektook mini chainsaw works well for small, intermittent use such as pruning saplings, rose bushes, or thin branches up to about 2 inches thick. One reviewer said, "Only good enough for about 2" branches, anything above that and the chain keeps coming off." Others agreed that for pruning small limbs, it is a handy tool, but not suitable for heavy woodcutting activity.
Best application is hedge cutting, little tree cutting, light cutting as it struggles with bigger branches and excessive chain wear rate.
Longevity and durability issues
Some customers complained that the product stopped working after a few months of usage despite frequent or light usage. Overheated motors, loose chains, and faulty batteries were some of the problems most often cited.
"Only just burnt out mine though after 8 months in winter so probably only lasted around 2–3 months of on-and-off use." / "Burnt out after three months!" / "Worked perfectly for a few weeks and then suddenly died."
This implies that although the tool could work fine in the short term, it could not be designed with durability over a long period of time in mind. Some issues are burnt-out motors, non-charging batteries, saws stopping working abruptly and might not last for a period of over a few months of normal usage
Battery Life Often Disappoints
Complaints about batteries were common. A few users complained that the batteries last for around 15–20 minutes per charge, which can be annoying in extended periods of gardening. For others, one or both batteries completely failed after minimal use.
"15 minute batteries only last for each even after being charged… annoying." / "The chainsaw is fine, but both the batteries don't charge, so it's now useless." / "It's good kit to use to cut logs for the fire but battery life is appalling."
This may make the tool less than reliable, especially where work is more than expected. Problems with batteries include short life, premature failure, no or slow charging. You must have moderate battery expectations and not perform long jobs.
Chain Tensioning and Build Quality
Some reviewers mentioned issues with the chain loosening repeatedly while being used. Others mentioned that the chain either dropped off or wouldn't cut properly even after it was reattached, indicating possible misalignment or tensioning defects.
"Chain loosens when you are cutting wood so much so I can hardly use it." / "It cut well at first and then the chain came off… It would not cut afterwards."
This issue decreases overall trust in the build quality and consistency of performance. The mechanical issues are loosening of the chain, breaking loose, erratic cutting so there need to be frequent tension checks but may not always be helpful.
Mixed Feelings About Support from Manufacturer
Several of the customers mentioned that the offer to get a free battery or saw chain when registering the product was never delivered upon. This left some consumers feeling ripped off, even if they liked the product itself.
"They advertise an extra battery and saw chain as a gift… but never respond." / "I believe this is too good to be true… could be a scam."
On the other hand, some positive remarks were made on customer support in responding promptly to complaints and refunding or replacing products, although these were typically reactive and not proactive.
Customer service experience is not the same as some users positively noted responsiveness, while others were not even offered follow-up. You have to establish the expectations around promotional offers and warranty registration.
Buy It for Light Duty, But Don't Expect It Long-Term
Overall, these mixed reviews suggest that the Peektook mini chainsaw can be a handy little garden tool, especially at its affordable price. However, it may not hold up to heavy-duty or frequent use, and its mechanical and battery parts are not always reliable.
✅ Ideal for Light garden pruning, limited strength or mobility users, short-term usage
⚠️ Not recommended for Trimming heavy branches, heavy usage or users seeking durable tools
Negative Reviews
Despite a number of decent reviews online, users have also been disappointed and frustrated, and even alarmed by the Peektook mini chainsaw. These reviews provide some insight into potential problems that reach far beyond mere annoyances. From transient motors and battery failure to safety concerns and no customer service, most customers recommend not buying it because these are the most frequently reported complaints.
Burnouts and Motor Failures
One of the most problematic issues that have been reported consistently is that the chainsaw dulls very quickly, at times after a few tries or even on its first application. Several users reported smoke emitted from the motor and total mechanical breakdown after following instructions for cutting small branches.
"Motor seized with white smoke after fewer than 10 uses." / "Burnt out after 1st use." / "40 light cuts, it died outright. Clearly not powerful enough to cut 6-inch wood as stated."
These early failures point to major design flaws or poor-quality materials being used in essential parts like the motor and internal wiring.
Battery Complaints - Short Life and Unpredictable Charging
The second most frequent issue raised is with batteries. The majority of reviewers complained that the batteries would not even charge for a couple of months or a couple of usages. Other reviewers said that even when the batteries were "fully charged," they barely maintained the chainsaw running even for a couple of minutes.
"12 months old and even though the product has been used hardly at all, batteries are showing as charged but won't power saw." / "Worst of time, batteries won't last two minutes when utilized." / "Now can't charge the batteries… support won't reply."
This puts the tool in a position where it becomes completely useless much earlier than it is meant to achieve its lifespan.
Safety Issues and Overheating
Some reviewers posted legitimate safety issues, including overheating motors and loose chains while in use. Some noted a complete lack of overheating protection that caused smoking motors or even fire hazards.
"Appears to have no overheating protection… motor would start to smoke." / "Use extreme care… the chain often becomes loose. This can be dangerous."
Chainsaw safety comes first, and minor design flaws are enough to hurt. Such issues point towards this model not being meant for safety-conscious customers or inexperienced users of power equipment.
Poor Build Quality and Chain Tension Issues
The most common complaint was that the chain would stretch or loosen rapidly and, in many cases, would become unusable after only a few cuts. While tension adjustments are needed on all chainsaws, the Peektook model is particularly susceptible to this condition and some users claimed that the chain would become totally non-adjustable within minutes of operation.
"Second use… chain extended beyond adjustment in 2 minutes." / "Chain always comes loose even with care… won't tighten." / "Chain loose… I don't have the hand strength to fix it."
This makes the tool frustrating to work with and calls into question its construction.
No Real Warranty or After-Sales Support
One of the most infuriating issues for others was either a lack of customer service or a seeming workable guarantee. Although a 12-month guarantee was advertised, numerous users were unable to contact the manufacturer, with emails not going through and addresses of listed companies being offshore.
"Don't put your hat on the warranty!" / "Tried to reach seller… email did not register, seller is overseas." / "Terrible customer service, Amazon will not assist either."
Others received used or incomplete products, suggesting improper handling and quality control.
Questionable Quality Control and Shipping Issues
Some customers complained of partial orders or items that appeared to have been used or return orders. At times accessories that were indicated were left out of the package.
"Second-hand incomplete order." / "Box was shabby and contained no gloves." The experiences reflect a lack of professionalism in fulfilling orders.
A Risky Purchase with Serious Drawbacks
The complaints reflect a product with issues of reliability, safety, and services. Although numerous of these early buyers were amazed, most had significant problems within weeks or months of operation and were provided with no meaningful support by the manufacturer. Unless you are purchasing a temporary or novelty garden tool, the Peektook mini chainsaw could be a gamble instead of an bargain.
Bottom Line - You Might Get Lucky… But Most Didn't. Not for anyone who needs dependability, safety, and assistance especially when using sharp moving equipment.
✅ The Benefits of the Peektook Mini-Chainsaw (Pros)
1, Lightweight and Easy to Use - Most users loved how light and easy it is to use, which is ideal for people who don't have much strength or experience. Ideal to use one-handed, especially in small gardens or constricted areas.
2, Convenient for Small Tasks - Ideal for the trimming of thin branches, saplings, rose gardens, and cleanups in the garden. Slightly better than the hand saw for quick cutting light-duty applications.
3, Easy to Install and Operate - Usually comes with accessories (glasses, gloves, screwdriver, oil can). Buyers find it easy to install and operate straight out of the box.
4, Low Cost - One of the cheapest battery-powered chainsaws on the market. Often summed up as value for money for one-off short-term work.
5, Some Positive Customer Service Examples - There were several instances where customers were provided with full refunds or replacements on writing reviews although only after prolonged effort or public protest.
❌ Negatives of the Peektook Mini-Chainsaw (Cons)
1, Unreliable Motor and Burnouts - Frequent complaint of the motor burning out after only a few uses even with proper usage. Every now and then, smoke from the tool or it just died off when it was used for the first time.
2, Battery Failure - Batteries would not hold a charge after some very light use (sometimes after weeks or months). Some batteries lasted only longer than 15 minutes on each charge and replacement batteries are difficult to find or are unreliable.
3, Chain Problems - Chain would loosen or stretch, often within a few minutes of cutting. Chain tensioner either too weak or useless for heavy use. Chain was found by some to be completely non-adjustable following short use.
4, No Overheat Protection or Safety Features - There were a number of references to smoke or overheating in reviews that suggest there is no protection built in. Safety risk from loose chains and sudden shutdowns during cutting.
5, Short Lifespan - Of the "satisfied" users, it's usually assumed that it won't survive. Many stated that this is good for only a single job and not for repeated use.
6, Issues With Warranty and Customer Service - Claims on warranty hardly ever received any kind of response; the email addresses would not function and bounced back. Some users indicated that the manufacturer would only reply if a 5-star review was posted. Support was thin, patchy, and practically non-existent for foreign customers.
7, Misleading Promotions and Free Gift Scams - Free chain or battery in exchange for registration but never received it. Messages with offers of cash back for another are a scam warning sign.
8, Inconsistent Packaging and Quality Control - Some came used, battered, or in pieces (e.g., missing gloves or manual). Some appeared to have been returned merchandise.
Who It Is For
The Peektook Mini Chainsaw is perfect for weekend home gardeners or handy people who want an ultra-lightweight, low-cost tool for easy and quick pruning. If you're working with small branches, rose bushes, saplings, or light firewood on occasion and don't expect professional-strength ruggedness, the chainsaw will do just fine especially if it will be used to do one task or for a few seasonal uses. It's also ideal for people who find normal chainsaws too heavy or too intimidating and they would prefer something small and easy to use with one hand.
Who It Is Not For
This chainsaw is not for anyone who wants long-term performance, professional-level durability, or safe operation under stressful conditions. If you're cutting thicker branches, working regularly in the garden, or need a tool that can survive repeated use, the Peektook won't fulfil your needs. It's not the best for customers who desire good customer service, warranty delivery, or solid safety features because most have complained that this product doesn't quite deliver in these areas. To customers looking for peace of mind, battery life that lasts long, and the best build quality, a more popular brand is a far better bet.
Final Verdict
The Peektook Mini Chainsaw is a compelling option for shoppers looking for a light, easy-to-manage, and affordable tool to do small pruning and general garden care. It cuts fairly well on small twigs and dead wood, and most shoppers view it as handy for situations that would involve manual sawing.
Trade-offs
But its functionality is highly paid in kind. Durability is questionable, with the majority of the units reportedly malfunctioning after being used only a few times. The battery drains fast, the chain loosens constantly, and customer service especially when it comes to warranty claims has been unreliable or in the majority of cases non-existent for consumers.
Occasional Cutting
If you're purchasing this wee chainsaw for the one task or light casual trimming, it may be worth the bargain price. But if you're thinking of using this as a long-term gardening item or something very close to professional level, you'll be frustrated by what it can't do.
Final Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3 out of 5 stars)
Suitable for light, short-term use - just don't expect it to last or perform more than basic tasks.
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