I saw a 40v (I think) Ryobi at a pawn shop for a really good price. And for your use I would have bought it.
It was nice and light, and sturdy enough. Extendable pole. Not sure how long but was at least 8 feet.
It was $50, I think.
But I needed the longest reach possible and the ability to cut 6 or 8 or 10 inch limbs. So I got a 2-stroke with extra 4 foot extension.
I used a fiberglass manual operated pole saw with rope lopper for years and they work pretty well for smaller stuff. The lopper is particularly handy, and fast.