A circular saw can be a handy tool for you, whether you’re a pro or a DIYer. This power tool uses a spinning, circular blade to make precise cuts through a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. People involved in carpentry, plumbing, or any woodworking projects that need tools and cutting straight lines can benefit from this tool.
There are many different brands of circular saws available on the market, and how do you choose from among the best circular saws available in the market? It can be overwhelming to try and find the best one for your needs.
Whether you are a professional or a DIY enthusiast, there is a circular saw out there that will meet your needs and help you achieve professional-quality results. Read our circular saws review, based on the experience of our team of experts who tried and tested the products.
10 Best Circular Saws
- Best Overall – SKIL 5280-01 Circular Saw
“Powerful, High Accuracy Level, Greater Speed” - Best Compact – Worx WX429L Circular Saw
“Portable, Easy to Maneuver, Cost-Efficient” - Best Cordless – DEWALT DCS391B Circular Saw
“Powerful Motor, Remarkable Strength, Precise and Accurate Cutting” - Best Woodworking – Ryobi One P505 Circular Saw
“Easy to Use, Battery-Powered, Versatile and Powerful” - Best DIY – BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20B Circular Saw
“Value for Money, Easy to Use, Light, and Portable” - Best Lightweight – PORTER-CABLE PCC660B Circular Saw
“High Torque, Compact Design, Affordable” - Best Battery Powered – CRAFTSMAN CMES510 Circular Saw
“Heavy-Duty, No-Frills Design, Reasonably Priced” - Best Mini – DEWALT DCS571B Circular Saw
“Increased Convenience, Bevel Gear Design, Excellent Control” - Best Framing – Makita XSH06PT Circular Saw
“Remarkable Speed, Excellent Battery Life, Durable Motor” - Best Quality – Milwaukee 2830-20 Circular Saw
“Long Battery Life, Excellent Motor Power, Sturdy and Durable”
Best Circular Saw Reviews
When it comes to choosing the best circular saw, there are many brands available on the market. By reviewing our lists, here we provide the best circular saws based on their specific features. You can find the perfect circular saw that suits your needs and budget.
1) SKIL 5280-01 Circular Saw
SKIL 5280-01
With a lightweight design and easy-grip handle, this saw is comfortable to use for long periods of time. Perfect for DIY projects or professional use, the SKIL 5280-01 Circular Saw is a reliable choice for all your cutting needs.
Specification
- Weight – 7 lbs
- Blade Type – 7-¼”, 24-Tooth
- Blade Material – Carbide-Tipped, High Carbon Steel
- Cut Depth – 2-⅜”
- Speed – 5300 RPM
- Bevel – 51 Degrees
- Power Source – Electricity (Corded Saw)
Features and Benefits
The SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw is one of the highest-rated tools in its category. It brings a remarkable combination of power, accuracy, durability, and user-friendliness. This corded power tool comes at a reasonable price and is made of strong and durable materials.
Thus, it brings you the quality you’d expect from SKIL and can handle great impact and falls. You’ll love the laser guide that closely aligns with the blade kerf position and helps you get accurate cuts. It’s also easy to toggle on/off with the conveniently positioned switch and doesn’t need calibration.
It has a dust blower to keep the line of cutting clean – and safety features like the light indicator and guarded trigger, making it ideal for newbies. Altogether, it is the best overall circular saw for hobby projects and professional use.
Pros
- Ergonomically designed handle
- Easy-to-control laser beam guide
- No overheating after prolonged use
- Convenient placement of safety lock
- Spindle lock for easy blade change
Cons
- Loud at the time of turning on
- Motor placement too low
2) Worx WX429L Circular Saw
Worx WX429L
The Worx WX429L Circular Saw is a powerful and versatile tool for cutting through wood, plastic, and metal. The design and ergonomic handle make it comfortable to use for long periods of time, and it can be used easily while holding it in only one hand.
Specification
- Weight – 4.4 lbs
- Blade Type – 4-½”, 24-Tooth
- Blade Material – Carbide-Tipped, Metal
- Cut Depth – 2”
- Speed – 4100 RPM
- Bevel – 45 Degrees
- Power Source – Electricity (Corded Saw)
Features and Benefits
Are you looking for a small saw that doesn’t need the hassle of setting up? Then, the light and portable Worx WX429L is the best circular saw for a quick plunge, rip, bevel, or pocket cut. Owing to its 4-½” blade, this machine has a compact body, making it easy to carry around your job site.
And despite its small size, it doesn’t compromise on power, thanks to its 4-amp motor and 4100 RPM speed. Its slim and ergonomically designed body, along with the 6.5’ cord, lets you maneuver easily. Tilting the blade to make bevel cuts with this machine is just a one-handed operation, making it even more comfortable to work with it.
You’ll love the left-sided alignment of the blade, which gives you a clear view of the cutline. Plus, it has a dust port to hook up a vacuum cleaner to look your cutting area and your view of the material clear.
Pros
- T-shaped parallel guide for perfectly straight cuts
- Spindle lock for quick and safe blade change
- Easy to adjust depth using level and handle
- Clean cutting with the very little issue of sawdust
- Reliable and long-lasting tool at a great cost
Cons
- It could be a little sturdier
- No instructions to line up blades
3) DEWALT DCS391B Circular Saw
DEWALT DCS391B
With its high torque motor and durable construction, this saw can tackle even the toughest cutting jobs with ease. Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, the DEWALT DCS391B is a great choice for your next project.
Specification
- Weight – 7.1 lb
- Blade Type – 6-½”, 16-Tooth
- Blade Material – Carbide-Tipped, High-Speed Steel
- Cut Depth – 2-¼”
- Speed – 5150 RPM
- Bevel – 50 Degrees
- Power Source – 20V Lithium-ion Battery (Cordless Saw)
Features and Benefits
If you need to move around a lot on your job site or have outdoor projects, you need a cordless tool. The DEWALT DCS391B is the best cordless circular saw that doesn’t get limited by a cord or needs power outlets. This small circular saw has a compact size that makes it a popular choice for those who move around a lot.
Yet, it’s strong enough to handle the power of its 5150 RPM motor, delivering impressive speed during prolonged use. When you need to make cuts at various angles, it is a reliable tool, with the ability to go from 45 degrees to 90 degrees smoothly.
You’ll also love the magnesium shoe with a flat head, offering great strength and grip. Another great feature is the rubberized over-molding on the handle for superior comfort while working long hours. Don’t miss the brake blade emergency stop to halt the blade as soon as you release the trigger.
Pros
- Wide handle with a secure grip
- Powerful and long-lasting battery
- Blade aligned to give a clear cutting-line view
- Brushless motor for greater torque and power
- Superior quality assurance by a trusted brand
Cons
- Does not include a battery or charger
- Not ideal for delicate project
4) Ryobi One P505 Circular Saw
Ryobi One P505
The Ryobi One P505 Circular Saw is perfect for both professional and personal use. With a high-quality motor and precision blade, it can easily cut through a variety of materials. This saw also features a convenient cordless design, allowing you to do comfortable operations.
Specification
- Weight – 5.3 lb
- Blade Type – 5-½”, 18-Tooth
- Blade Material – Carbide-Tipped, High-Speed Steel
- Cut Depth – 1-9/16”
- Speed – 4700 RPM
- Bevel – 50 Degrees
- Power Source – 18V Lithium-ion Battery (Cordless Saw)
Features and Benefits
Are you a DIYer working heavily with wood – or do you like to handle all the woodwork around your home? Then, try the Ryobi One P505, the best woodworking circular saw on the market. It can also be a part of your pro toolkit, as long as you use it for backup and not heavy-duty tasks.
This circular saw is actually a member of the ONE+ series of tools, which means you can use the same battery for all of them. One of the best features of this tool is the GRIP ZONE overmold, an upgrade in Ryobi tools. Its rubber material creates sufficient friction with your hand to give you a secure grip – without compromising comfort.
It’s ready to be used, straight out of the box, with no need for setup. Altogether, this handy saw brings you an incredible combination of convenience, durability, and speed, making it one of the best-selling tools in its category.
Pros
- Left-aligned blade for clear-cut line view
- Front pommel designed for both-hand operations
- Spindle lock button for convenient blade change
- Additional side handle for better control
- Transparent blade guard for proper view
Cons
- Not for challenging professional needs
- Does not come with battery or charger
5) BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20B Circular Saw
BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20B
A portable yet powerful tool for accurate cutting needs, the BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20B makes working easy. The compact design allows for convenient use and storage, making it an essential tool for your home. It’s equipped with a high-torque motor - and has a dedicated trigger that makes speed adjustments convenient. It’s the best budget buy.
Specification
- Weight – 5.3 lb
- Blade Type – 5-½”, 18-Tooth
- Blade Material – High-Speed Steel
- Cut Depth – 1-5/8″
- Speed – 3700 RPM
- Bevel – 45 Degrees
- Power Source – 20V Lithium-ion Battery (Cordless Saw)
Features and Benefits
If you’re a hobbyist looking for your first circular saw, look no further than the BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20B 20V circular Saw. This compact design is super-convenient to use – and is also an affordable saw that fits smoothly into a newbie’s budget.
If you have been using a hand saw for your DIY projects, this is an excellent upgrade to speed up the process. It can also be a part of a pro’s toolkit to tackle small tasks. One of the features that we love is the easy blade and depth adjustment without the need for extra accessories.
As a battery-powered portable tool, it lets you move around your studio and outdoors without needing a power socket. It’s designed with an interchangeable battery system to allow you to use the same battery that powers various other tools you use. It’s not designed as a heavy-duty tool – but it’s the best DIY circular saw, offering excellent value for money.
Pros
- Quick charging of the battery
- Easy to use, carry and store
- Pocket-friendly circular saw
- Easy-to-access handle placement
- Quality and durability provided by a trusted brand
Cons
- No electric brake for safety
- Battery and charger not included
6) PORTER-CABLE PCC660B Circular Saw
PORTER-CABLE PCC660B
The PORTER-CABLE PCC660B is the perfect saw for several hours of continuous work, weighing only 6.5lb. Whether you're building a deck or working on a home renovation project, this circular saw is sure to be a valuable addition to your tool collection. Despite its light and portable body, you’ll get an impressive speed of 4000 RPM.
Specification
- Weight – 6.5 lb
- Blade Type – 6-½”, 6-Tooth
- Blade Material – High-Speed Steel, Carbide Teeth
- Cut Depth – 2-⅛”
- Speed – 4000 RPM
- Bevel – 50 Degrees
- Power Source – 20V Lithium-ion Battery (Cordless Saw)
Features and Benefits
If you have back-to-back projects to handle, and you don’t want your arms to get tired, the PORTER-CABLE PCC660B 20V Circular Saw is for you. This 6-½” saw is meant for light/medium-level tasks – but weighs only 6/5 lb, making it the best lightweight circular saw.
One of its best features is its contoured handle with an overmold to give you a comfortable and secure grip. You’ll also love that its performance is similar to some heavy-duty circular saws on the market, which can cost a fortune. It is equipped with a brushless motor for incredible power and torque.
And its 4000 RPM speed can give you aggressive cutting performance, pivoting up to 50 degrees for your unique projects. This PORTER-CABLE is a must-have tool if you are a serious DIYer or need a reliable tool to help you around your job site when there’s no power outlet nearby. Overall, it is a versatile tool with various applications.
Pros
- Well-balanced and easy-to-manage body
- Incredibly quiet while functioning
- Ideal for unconventional cutting needs
- Easy-to-adjust bevel shoe
Cons
- Not for heavy ripping
- Battery and charger not included
7) CRAFTSMAN CMES510 Circular Saw
CRAFTSMAN CMES510
With a 15-amp motor capable of providing a speed of 5500 RPM, CRAFTSMAN CMES510 is a coveted circular saw. With a sleek design and lightweight construction, this heavy-duty tool can cater to various cutting needs thanks to its tool-free beveling ability of 55 degrees.
Specification
- Weight – 11.05 lb
- Blade Type – 7-¼”, 18-Tooth
- Blade Material – Metal, Carbide-Tipped
- Cut Depth – 2-⅛”
- Speed – 5500 RPM
- Bevel – 55 Degrees
- Power Source – 20V Lithium-ion Battery (Cordless Saw)
Features and Benefits
For anyone looking for a circular saw with a large blade, CRAFTSMAN CMES510 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw is a versatile choice. It brings you a combination of speed, power, portability, and convenience, making it the best battery-powered circular saw at a reasonable price. This tool packs a tremendous speed of 5500 RPM because of its powerful motor.
This helps to beat some of the best circular saws on the market, whether corded or cordless. The machine is equipped with a magnesium shoe that allows tool-free beveling without adding extra weight to the device. Plus, it pivots up to 55 degrees, making it ideal for any non-traditional cuts you have in your mind.
The device comes with a simple but practical rafter hook. That means you can safely hang the machine when it’s not in use, or you’re in the middle of your operations on the job site.
Pros
- No-frills, user-friendly circular saw
- Metal guard on the top and bottom for durability
- Contoured handle with overmold for comfort
- 22.5/45-degree detents for easy angle adjustment
Cons
- No electronic brake
- Battery and charger not included
8) DEWALT DCS571B Circular Saw
DEWALT DCS571B
DEWALT DCS571B meets the need for a small, lightweight, and portable tool. Its high-performance brushless motor delivers efficient, long-lasting performance, and its compact size allows for easy maneuverability and storage. It performs efficiently at a remarkable speed of 4500 RPM and makes one-handed cutting super-easy.
Specification
- Weight – 6.6 lb
- Blade Type – 4-½”, 24-Tooth
- Blade Material – High-Speed Steel
- Cut Depth – 1-9/16”
- Speed – 4500 RPM
- Bevel – 45 Degrees
- Power Source – 20V Lithium-ion Battery (Cordless Saw)
Features and Benefits
The DEWALT DCS571B ATOMIC 20V Circular Saw is enormously popular among newbies and hobbyists because of its compact size and user-friendly design. It is also considered a helpful tool for pros who need a saw on them while working away from a power outlet.
What makes it the best mini circular saw is the combination of power and speed in a small package, thanks to its powerful motor. You will get a wide variety of tasks completed in a short time at a speed of 4500 RPM. Its 1-½” trigger is S-shaped and gives you complete control while maintaining your grip on the handle.
The trigger also makes choking up much easier when you need a better feel for the cut. For increased safety and convenience, the device comes with an electronic brake that can halt the blade quickly. You’ll also love the dedicated chamber for the blade tool so that you don’t lose it or have to look during blade replacements.
Pros
- Brushless motor for more torque
- Hook to hang the tool in the middle of the work
- Removable auxiliary handle for more control
- Dust port to use vaccum for a cleaner workspace
- Excellent quality from a trusted manufacturer
Cons
- Expensive compared to competitors
- Battery and charger not included
9) Makita XSH06PT Circular Saw
Makita XSH06PT
The Makita XSH06PT circular saw is a heavy-duty tool for professionals looking for speed and power. With a brushless motor and electronic speed control, this saw delivers smooth and efficient performance. It is easy to handle and maneuver, while the built-in dust blower helps to keep the work easy.
Specification
- Weight – 21.21 lb
- Blade Type – 7-¼”, 24-Tooth
- Blade Material – High-Speed Steel
- Cut Depth – 2-11/16”
- Speed – 6000 RPM
- Bevel – 56 Degrees
- Power Source – Dual 18V Lithium-ion Battery (Cordless Saw)
Features and Benefits
Do you need a saw designed to prioritize speed and power to clean cuts? Makita XSH06PT, with a massive speed of 6000 RPM, is the best framing circular saw for your professional needs. Thanks to its large 7-¼” blade with 24 teeth, it delivers its performances with minimal splintering and in minimal time.
What makes it a great tool for carpenters working on various job sites is its prolonged run time – without the need for power cords. This circular saw is powered by two 18V batteries, giving it the ability to last twice as long as regular cordless saws.
Plus, it comes with LXT batteries and a Rapid Optimum Charger for 3times fast charging to reduce your wait time. Its brushless, high-torque BL motor has a 50% more run time to ensure excellent durability. Also, it comes with Star Protection Computer Controls for protection against overloading and overheating.
Pros
- 22.5/45/56-degree stops for easy angle control
- Advanced battery technology for longer battery life
- Tool-free angle adjustment lever
- Battery and charger included
- Durable materials and long-lasting motor
Cons
- Expensive because of high quality
- Heavy
10) Milwaukee 2830-20 Circular Saw
Milwaukee 2830-20
Milwaukee 2830-20 is a cordless circular saw that matches the power and battery life of a corded tool. The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver and handle, while the built-in dust blower helps to keep the work area clean.
Specification
- Weight – 13.5 lb
- Blade Type – 7-¼”, 24-Tooth
- Blade Material – High-Speed Steel
- Cut Depth – 2-½”
- Speed – 5800 RPM
- Bevel – 45 Degrees
- Power Source – 18V Lithium-ion Battery (Cordless Saw)
Features and Benefits
If you’re looking for a circular saw that can serve you for several years to come, Milwaukee 2830-20 Rear Handle Circular Saw is your guy! This tool is from the house of Milwaukee, one of the top power tool manufacturers on the market.
M18 Fuel lives up to the quality standard set by the brand, is made of high-quality materials, and is the best-quality circular saw available. And the tool promises the performance required for all pro projects that need a framing saw. This device is engineered with a high-power motor for a speed of 5800 RPM.
Plus, it is powered by the M18 REDLITHIUM High Output HD12.0 battery for prolonged performance. Thus, it eliminates the need for a corded saw in terms of power and battery life. This circular saw is also equipped with the REDLINK PLUS Intelligence for protection against overheating and overload.
Pros
- Additional rear handle for better grip and control
- All-day run time with only a single charge
- Electric blade brake for safety and convenience
- Magnesium guards and shoes for lightweight body
- Multi-sized rafter for easy storage
Cons
- Expensive due to high quality
- Battery and charger not included
If you would like to get reviews of other power tools, kindly visit our Guide page.
What to Consider When Choosing a Circular Saw?
Now you know about the best circular saws that will serve your cutting needs in various products. But it’s also essential for you to know the factors and characteristics to consider in this tool. Knowing them will help you do your own research.
Based on Types
Circular saws can be divided into two major categories, the worm-drive circular saw, and the sidewinder circular saw. The sidewinder is the perfect tool for lightweight, repetitive jobs, while the worm drive is a must for professionals.
The motor orientation in the direct-drive sidewinder saws is on the side, and these tools are light and easy to control. But the gear-driven worm-drive saws have the motor positioned in the back and remain more stable during demanding tasks.
Ergonomic Design
An ergonomically designed circular saw is easier to use. Check the saw’s handle and body to determine if the device will be easy to hold and maneuver without adjustments from the user’s side. An ergonomic design will eliminate discomfort and exhaustion.
Size
A compact circular saw provides greater portability when you have to move around the job site – or travel a lot. It will also ensure less exhaustion during prolonged work – and greater maneuverability. But larger size signifies more power and stability required in pro-level tasks.
Power
The power of a circular saw’s motor is identified by its wattage or amperage rating. The higher power the device packs, the more effective it will be. The motor power helps drive the saw’s blade in a circular motion or torque – and impacts the tool’s speed
Speed
If your circular saw’s blade spins at high speed, the machine will deliver greater stress distribution and balance. Another important benefit of a high-speed saw is that it will offer more cutting accuracy. The tool will also vibrate less and work quietly.
Battery
The corded vs. cordless circular saw debate can be settled by your requirement. A battery-powered circular saw is portable, with a need for electricity. So you won’t be limited by the cord’s length or power source. But batteries need to be charged frequently, which can interrupt your work.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Are Circular Saws Safe to Use?
Injuries caused by circular saws are quite common as the tool’s design entails that your body and hands are close to it. But they mostly happen if the user needs to be better aware of the tool’s proper use or opt-out of safety guarding. You should also look for saws with safety features.
2) Are Worm Gear Circular Saws Better?
Although worm gear circular saws are quite heavy, they are designed for serious on-site use. Compared to sidewinder circular saws, worm gear saws have advantages like greater torque, accuracy level, and power. But sidewinders are great for prolonged but light usage.
3) What Cutting Activities Can a Circular Saw Perform?
A circular saw can be used to cut straight lines on different materials like wood, stone, plastic, tiles, and metal. It can also be used for making rip cuts, miter and beveled cuts, cross cuts, plunge cuts, and more. It is a great addition to the toolkit of both hobbyists and professionals.
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