If you check with Ben Meadows or Forestry Supply you will see that you can go much higher with a pole saw- some offer additional extensions and it is not unusual to go higher than that- I’ve done it often.
If I’m working lower and often higher than that I prefer to be on top of the cut because it takes so much less arm and shoulder strength and is much quicker- but then, I’m a tree monkey. Pole saws will sometimes cause the branch to rip off bark as it breaks free which can require two cuts to avoid.
I own one of the pricey ARS models, which would only be worth it if you were going to use it a lot over the years, but you might be able to come up with a good one at a tool rental service. For onetime use that might be your best bet.
A tricut Japanese style blade makes the job twice as easy. Silky and ARS make the best when they are manufactured in Japan and not China.