DeWalt‘s chainsaw range spans their 20V MAX platform (single-battery compact models) and 60V MAX FLEXVOLT (dual-battery professional models). The advantage is straightforward chain compatibility across the board — virtually every DeWalt chainsaw uses a standard 3/8″ low-profile (LP) pitch with .043″ gauge, making replacements easy to source. If you own a DeWalt chainsaw, getting the right chain is a matter of identifying your exact model and bar length.
DeWalt Chainsaw Model & Chain Compatibility Chart
| Model Number | Bar Length | Pitch | Gauge | Drive Links | Platform | OEM Chain |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DCCS620 | 12″ (300mm) | 3/8″ LP | .043″ | 45 DL | 20V MAX | DT20700 |
| DCCS670 | 16″ (400mm) | 3/8″ LP | .043″ | 56 DL | 60V MAX FLEXVOLT | DT20700 |
| DCM565 | 12″ (300mm) | 3/8″ LP | .043″ | 45 DL | 18V XR (UK) | DT20700 |
| DCMCS575 | 16″ (400mm) | 3/8″ LP | .043″ | 56 DL | 54V FlexVolt (UK) | DT20700 |
| DCCS690 | 16″ (400mm) | 3/8″ LP | .043″ | 56 DL | 60V MAX FLEXVOLT | DT20700 |
| DCCS690M1 | 16″ (400mm) | 3/8″ LP | .043″ | 56 DL | 60V MAX FLEXVOLT | DT20700 |
All DeWalt chainsaws in the current and recent lineup use the standard OEM part DT20700. The key variable is bar length — 12″ models use 45 drive links, whilst 16″ models use 56 drive links. Always confirm your bar length before ordering a replacement.
DeWalt 20V MAX vs 60V MAX FLEXVOLT Chainsaw Chains
The two main platforms differ in battery power and runtime, but chain compatibility is identical:
20V MAX Compact (DCCS620)
DeWalt‘s entry-level DCCS620 is a single-battery 12″ chainsaw designed for light-duty work. It’s lightweight, portable, and perfect for trimming branches, hedge cutting, and general maintenance. Runtime on a single 20V battery ranges from 30–50 minutes depending on wood density and load. Uses 3/8″ LP, .043″ gauge, 45 drive links — exactly the same chain as larger DeWalt models, just shorter to fit the 12″ bar.
60V MAX FLEXVOLT (DCCS670, DCCS690)
DeWalt‘s professional-grade DCCS670 and DCCS690 step up to 16″ bars with dual-battery 60V power. This gives significantly more cutting speed and torque — capable of handling logs up to 12 inches or larger. Runtime is 60–90 minutes per battery pair. Both models use the same 3/8″ LP, .043″ gauge spec as the DCCS620, but with 56 drive links to fit the longer bar.
The DCCS690M1 is a later variant with the same specifications.
UK-Market Models (DCM565, DCMCS575)
UK customers may see model numbers prefixed with DCM instead of DCS. The DCM565 is the UK equivalent of the DCCS620 (12″ compact), and the DCMCS575 is the UK version of the DCCS670 (16″ professional). Specifications are identical to their US counterparts, and they use the same OEM chain: DT20700.
DeWalt OEM Chain DT20700
DeWalt‘s OEM replacement chain is part number DT20700. This is supplied as standard on all DeWalt chainsaws and is also available as an aftermarket replacement. The DT20700 is a mid-range chain in terms of price and performance — solid durability, reliable edge retention, and widely available online and through DeWalt dealers.
Advantages: guaranteed fit, DeWalt warranty backing, consistent quality across all bars and models. Disadvantage: typically 15–25% pricier than budget alternatives, and sometimes 10–15% more than Oregon mid-range chains.
Popular DeWalt Chains for 12″ Bars (45 Drive Links)
For DCCS620 and DCM565 owners, the OEM DT20700 is the standard. When ordering online, always specify “45 drive links” to ensure the right fit. The bar on these compact chainsaws is 12 inches, and a 45-link chain is the only size that will fit.
Popular DeWalt Chains for 16″ Bars (56 Drive Links)
For DCCS670, DCCS690, DCMCS575, and DCM565 owners using the longer bar, the OEM DT20700 with 56 drive links is the specification. Again, always confirm 56 links when ordering — a 45-link chain will be too short, and a longer chain will bind.
Oregon Cross-Reference for DeWalt Chainsaws
If you prefer to source premium aftermarket chains, Oregon makes drop-in replacements for all DeWalt models. The cross-reference is straightforward:
| Bar Length | Drive Links | DeWalt OEM | Oregon Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12″ | 45 | DT20700 | Oregon R45 |
| 16″ | 56 | DT20700 | Oregon R56 |
Oregon R45 and R56 chains have earned a strong reputation for durability and sharp-tooth longevity. Many professionals prefer Oregon over generic aftermarket alternatives because the tooth design and hardening process hold an edge significantly longer, especially in abrasive conditions like sandy wood or building-site debris.
Buy Oregon R45 on Amazon — for 12″ DeWalt chainsaws
Buy Oregon R56 on Amazon — for 16″ DeWalt chainsaws
OEM vs Aftermarket Chains for DeWalt Chainsaws
When your chain dulls or breaks, you have three main replacement options:
Option 1: OEM DeWalt DT20700
Direct from DeWalt dealers or authorized online retailers. Guaranteed fit, DeWalt warranty coverage, mid-range price. Best for: users who value certainty and warranty backing, and don’t mind a slight premium for convenience.
Option 2: Premium Aftermarket (Oregon, Stihl, Carlton)
Oregon, Stihl, and Carlton all manufacture 3/8″ LP chains compatible with DeWalt saws. These brands use higher-grade steel and sharper tooth geometry, which typically means longer edge retention and faster cutting performance. Price is typically 20–30% higher than OEM, but many professionals find the improved performance worth the investment.
Best for: tradespeople and frequent users who benefit from sharper edges and longer chain life.
Option 3: Budget Aftermarket (Generic or Amazon Own-Label)
Generic 3/8″ LP, .043″ chains from unbranded suppliers or Amazon private label. Cheapest option — often 40–50% less than DeWalt OEM. Trade-off: tooth steel can be softer, edges dull faster, and fit tolerances may be slightly loose or tight compared to premium alternatives.
Best for: occasional users or one-off jobs where cost is the primary concern.
Our take: DeWalt OEM is reliable and warrantied. Oregon R-series chains offer better performance for regular use. Budget chains are acceptable for light or emergency cutting.
Popular DeWalt Chainsaw Chain Replacements on Amazon UK
Buy DeWalt DT20700 on Amazon — the original OEM option, available from multiple sellers.
Buy Oregon Chainsaw Chains on Amazon — R45 and R56 in stock for both DeWalt bar lengths.
Buy Opuladuo Chains on Amazon — a popular budget-to-mid-range alternative with good reviews.
Buy ZENTOP Carbide Chains on Amazon — premium budget option with reinforced teeth.
DeWalt Chainsaw Range — Choosing the Right Model
DeWalt‘s chainsaw lineup is tiered by battery platform and bar length. Which model suits you depends on your cutting tasks:
20V MAX DCCS620 — Compact & Portable
Best for: light-duty work — branch trimming, small log cutting, hedge maintenance, general garden work. Single 20V battery, 12″ bar. Lightweight and quiet. Runtime 30–50 minutes per battery. Entry price point.
60V MAX DCCS670 — Professional Mid-Range
Best for: medium to heavy-duty felling and bucking, handling logs up to 12″ diameter, all-day site work. Dual 60V batteries deliver professional-grade cutting speed. 16″ bar. Runtime 60–90 minutes per battery pair. Mid-to-premium price.
60V MAX DCCS690 / DCCS690M1 — Professional Premium
Later-generation variants with incremental refinements to the DCCS670. Same power, bar length, and chain specifications. If you’re comparing prices, the DCCS670 is often available at a slight discount versus the newer DCCS690M1.
Watch: Video Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What chainsaw chain does a DeWalt DCCS620 use?
The DeWalt DCCS620 uses a 3/8″ low-profile (LP) chain with .043″ gauge and 45 drive links. OEM part number is DT20700. Oregon R45 is the aftermarket equivalent. When ordering, always specify “45 drive links” to ensure correct fit for the 12″ bar.
Is the DeWalt DT20700 chain compatible with all DeWalt chainsaws?
The DT20700 is compatible with all current DeWalt chainsaws, but you need to ensure the drive link count matches your bar length. For 12″ bars, order the 45-link version. For 16″ bars, order the 56-link version. Both use the same part number but different lengths.
Can I use an Oregon chain on my DeWalt DCCS670?
Yes. Oregon R56 chains are fully compatible with the DeWalt DCCS670 (16″ bar, 3/8″ LP pitch, .043″ gauge, 56 drive links). Oregon chains often outperform OEM in terms of edge retention and cutting speed.
What’s the difference between the DCCS620 and DCM565?
Model numbering difference only. DCCS620 is the US designation, whilst DCM565 is the UK equivalent. Both are identical 20V MAX 12″ chainsaws using the same 45-link chains. If you’re in the UK and see a DCM565, it’s the exact same saw as the DCCS620 marketed elsewhere.
Are DeWalt and Makita chainsaw chains interchangeable?
Both DeWalt and Makita cordless chainsaws use 3/8″ LP pitch with .043″ gauge, so the pitch and gauge are identical. However, you must still match bar length and drive link count. A DeWalt 12″ 45-link chain will not fit a Makita 16″ bar that needs 52 links. Always confirm these specs before assuming cross-compatibility.
How often should I replace my DeWalt chainsaw chain?
Depends on usage frequency and wood conditions. Light users (a few times a year) might replace a chain every 1–2 years. Regular weekend workers typically replace chains once per season. Professional or daily users may replace 2–3 times annually. A sharp chain is safer and faster — sharpen regularly or replace when dulling is noticeable.
Can I sharpen a DeWalt DT20700 chain instead of replacing it?
Yes. You can sharpen using a round file (5/32″ diameter for 3/8″ LP pitch) or take it to a dealer for professional sharpening. DeWalt chains sharpen well, as do Oregon and other quality brands. Budget chains may not sharpen effectively if the steel is low-grade. A sharp chain lasts significantly longer than a dull one.
What is 3/8 LP vs 3/8 full-pitch chainsaw chain?
3/8″ LP (low-profile) is lighter and has a smaller tooth than standard 3/8″ full-pitch. DeWalt chainsaws use 3/8″ LP specifically. Full-pitch chains won’t fit DeWalt sprockets or bars. Always order “3/8 LP” to avoid confusion.
Is the DeWalt 60V MAX DCCS670 any good?
Yes. The DCCS670 is a solid professional cordless chainsaw that compares well with Makita 36V models and Milwaukee M18 saws. For detailed brand comparisons and battery compatibility, visit our chainsaw compatibility hub.
Can I use the DeWalt 20V battery on the 60V DCCS670?
No. The DCCS670 requires two 60V or two 54V FlexVolt batteries (in the UK). A single 20V MAX battery will not fit the dual-battery slot and will not deliver enough power. Always use the correct battery platform for your saw.
Where can I find my DeWalt chainsaw’s exact bar length?
Check the user manual (usually in the box or downloadable from DeWalt’s website) or look at the label on the chainsaw body. Bar length is printed in both inches and millimetres. The manual also specifies the OEM chain part number and replacement intervals.
For more information on chainsaw compatibility across all major brands, visit our chainsaw chain and bar compatibility hub. Want to compare DeWalt battery options? Check out our DeWalt 20V MAX platform page and DeWalt FLEXVOLT platform guide.
