Considerations

• Before deciding between an electric or gas log splitter, determine how often and where it will be used. Electric splitters require a source of power, so an electrical socket or generator must be available. Larger gasoline- or diesel-powered splitters will require fuel and a vehicle to tow or transport them.
  
  Also consider the size and type of wood to be split. Smaller pine logs can easily be split with a less powerful electric splitter, but thick logs, or tougher hardwood logs, will likely require a gasoline-powered splitter.
  
  

Cost

• New electric splitters cost between $275 and $500, while gasoline splitters start at $500 and can go up to several thousand dollars, depending on how powerful a machine you need.
  
  Electric splitters are cheaper to run, since they use household electricity. Normal maintenance costs--lubrication and cleaning--are also lower.
  
  Gasoline splitters require not only a constant supply of fuel, but will use oil and need general engine care, raising the cost of running them.
  
  

Mobility

• Gasoline splitters are heavier and more difficult to move than an electrical splitter, but even electric splitters can weigh around 100 pounds. Determine whether the splitter will be moved frequently, or if it can sit in one place.
  
  Moving a gasoline or diesel splitter will almost certainly require a vehicle that can tow the machine. Since gasoline splitters are more likely to be used in remote areas, you will need a four-wheel drive truck, a tractor, or similar rugged vehicle.
  
  

Home use

• An electric splitter is ideal for home use as long as you have an electric outlet available. If you only split wood a few times a year, and the wood is not too thick or hard, the electric splitter should be able to handle the load. Many people set the splitter up permanently in a basement or outbuilding.
  
  Another advantage of the electric splitter for home use is lessening the noise - the electric splitter is far quieter than its gasoline-powered relative.
  
  

Remote use

• If you need to bring the splitter to a remote area to cut trees or clear a plot of land, you will almost certainly need a gasoline splitter. The gas splitter can run anywhere as long as you bring a fuel supply.
  
  The gasoline splitter is better for the varied types of logs you are likely to find when clearing land. It is also faster than an electric splitter, which is important for commercial use.
  
  

Warning

• Both electric and gas splitters can be safer than using an axe, but they must be handled properly. Read the manufacturer's instructions and use all recommended safety procedures and equipment, such as protective glasses.