Circular saws are an essential tool for any DIY enthusiast or professional carpenter. They are versatile and can cut through various materials such as wood, metal, and plastic. Circular saws come in different types, including corded, cordless, and worm-drive saws. In this article, we will be discussing the best circular saws and what to consider when purchasing one.
When looking to purchase a circular saw, the most critical factor to consider is the type of saw that will best suit your needs. Corded saws are more powerful and are ideal for heavy-duty cutting tasks, while cordless saws are more portable and convenient for light-duty tasks. Worm-drive saws are designed for professionals and are more powerful than corded and cordless saws.
Another factor to consider when purchasing a circular saw is the blade size. The most common blade sizes are 6.5 inches and 7.25 inches. A larger blade size means a deeper cut, but it also means a heavier saw.
When choosing a circular saw, it’s essential to consider the safety features. Look for saws with blade guards and anti-kickback features to prevent accidents. Additionally, ergonomic handles and lightweight designs can reduce fatigue and improve comfort during extended use.
In this article, we spent hours researching and testing various circular saws to identify the best ones on the market. We will be discussing the features, pros, and cons of each saw to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a circular saw.
Best Circular Saws
If you are looking for a powerful and versatile tool that can make precise cuts through a variety of materials, a circular saw is a must-have in your toolkit. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. That’s why we’ve researched and tested the top circular saws available and compiled a list of the best ones to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, these circular saws will help you tackle any project with ease.
SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Lightweight Worm Drive Circular Saw , Silver Corded Worm Drive Circular Saw
If you’re looking for a lightweight and durable circular saw that will make your job easier, the SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The lightest magnesium construction reduces user fatigue for less down time
- Cut-ready depth of cut system helps with quick, accurate depth measurements
- 53° bevel allows users to complete a wider variety of cuts
Cons
- The anti-snag lower guard may not be suitable for larger cut-off pieces
- The blade material may not be as durable as other circular saws
- The corded electric power source may limit mobility in some situations
This circular saw is designed to be both lightweight and durable, making it easy to use for extended periods of time without experiencing fatigue. The cut-ready depth of cut system is a useful feature for quick and accurate depth measurements, which can save time and increase accuracy. The 53° bevel allows users to complete a wider variety of cuts, making it a versatile tool for any job site.
One potential downside of this saw is the anti-snag lower guard, which may not be suitable for larger cut-off pieces. Additionally, the blade material may not be as durable as other circular saws, so it may need to be replaced more frequently. Finally, the corded electric power source may limit mobility in some situations, so it may not be the best choice for jobs that require a lot of movement.
Overall, if you’re looking for a lightweight and durable circular saw that offers a range of useful features, the SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 is a great choice to consider.
SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw with Single Beam Laser Guide – 5280-01
If you’re an experienced user who needs a powerful circular saw with advanced features, the SKIL 5280 7-1/4 inch circular saw is the perfect tool for the job. With a powerful 15-Amp motor that delivers 5,300 RPM, this saw can quickly cut lumber and sheet goods for a room addition, deck, and more. The single-beam laser guides cuts with increased accuracy, while the integrated dust blower keeps the line of cut sawdust-free. The 51-degree bevel, with positive stop at 45 degrees, gives a variety of cut options, while blade changes are easier with spindle lock and on-tool wrench.
Pros
- The powerful 15-amp motor delivers 5,300 RPM for greater speed and faster cuts.
- The 7-1/4-inch carbide-tipped blade included and spindle lock makes blade changes easy.
- The 51-degree bevel capacity with a positive stop at 45 degrees provides a wide variety of cuts.
Cons
- The saw is heavy and may cause fatigue during prolonged use.
- The cord may not be long enough for some users.
- The laser guide may not be accurate enough for some users.
The SKIL 5280 is a great choice for those who need a powerful circular saw with advanced features. The saw is easy to use and provides fast, accurate cuts. However, the saw is heavy and may cause fatigue during prolonged use, and the cord may not be long enough for some users. Additionally, the laser guide may not be accurate enough for some users. Overall, the SKIL 5280 is a great tool for experienced users who need a powerful circular saw with advanced features.
DEWALT Circular Saw, 15 Amp, 57 Degree Bevel, Electric Brake, Corded (DWE575SB) Circular Saw Only
If you’re looking for a powerful and lightweight circular saw, the DEWALT DWE575SB is a great option.
Pros
- The electric brake stops the blade quickly after the trigger is released, making it safer to use.
- At only 8.8 pounds, it’s one of the lightest saws in its class, making it easy to handle and maneuver.
- The 15 amp motor is powerful enough to handle even the toughest applications.
Cons
- The dust blower could be more effective at keeping the cutting line clear.
- Some users may find the corded design less convenient than a cordless saw.
- The price point may be higher than some other circular saws on the market.
The DEWALT DWE575SB is a reliable and efficient circular saw that can handle a variety of cutting tasks. With a bevel capacity of 57 degrees and a depth of cut capacity of 2-9/16 inches, it’s versatile enough to use for a range of projects. The ball bearing lower guard provides long life in harsh environments, and the durable high-grade aluminum smooth base ensures accurate cuts.
One of the standout features of the DEWALT DWE575SB is its electric brake, which stops the blade quickly after the trigger is released. This makes it safer to use and reduces the risk of accidents. Additionally, the saw is lightweight and compact, making it easy to handle and maneuver. The 15 amp motor is powerful enough to handle even the toughest applications, and the 57-degree beveling capacity with positive stops at 45 degrees and 22.5 degrees adds to its versatility.
While the dust blower could be more effective at keeping the cutting line clear, this is a minor issue that doesn’t detract from the overall performance of the saw. Some users may find the corded design less convenient than a cordless saw, but the tradeoff is the increased power and reliability that comes with a corded tool. Finally, the price point may be higher than some other circular saws on the market, but the quality and durability of the DEWALT DWE575SB make it a worthwhile investment for serious DIYers and professionals alike.
Vistreck Mini Circular Saw
If you are looking for a compact circular saw that delivers high cutting speed and precision, the Vistreck Mini Circular Saw is a great option.
Pros
- The powerful 3700 RPM copper motor makes cutting wood and PVC tube a breeze.
- The 0°-45° bevel cutting and 23-48cm variable depth adjustments allow you to customize your cuts for various woodworking projects.
- The precise laser device and dust extraction hose ensure a clean and accurate cut.
Cons
- The left-sided blade design may take some getting used to if you are used to right-sided circular saws.
- The power switch may be harder to release when using it one-handed.
- The sliding attachment is not very sturdy and may need additional support for accurate cuts.
This mini circular saw is lightweight and easy to handle with its rubberized barrel grip design. It also comes with a guide fence, blade hexagon wrench, and user manual for added convenience.
The laser guide and guide fence provide a straight line for cutting wood and PVC tube, making your work more efficient and precise. The dust extraction hose also helps keep your work environment clean.
Overall, the Vistreck Mini Circular Saw is a great value for its price and features. If you need a compact circular saw for your woodworking projects, this is definitely worth considering.
DOVAMAN Circular Saw
If you’re looking for a compact circular saw that can handle a variety of materials, the DOVAMAN Circular Saw might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- With six included blades, you’ll be able to tackle a wide range of cutting needs for woodworking, plastic, soft metal, and tile.
- The built-in laser guide and edge guide help you make more precise cuts.
- The extra metal auxiliary handle and larger base provide added stability during cutting.
Cons
- Some users with small hands have found the power button and trigger switch arrangement to be awkward.
- The grip may be a bit large and heavy for those with small hands.
- The laser guide runs on batteries, which may need to be replaced frequently.
This saw is easy to use and offers a range of cutting options. The six included blades make it a versatile choice for DIY projects or professional work. However, the power button and trigger switch arrangement may not be ideal for those with small hands.
The built-in laser guide and edge guide are helpful features that allow for more precise cuts. The extra metal auxiliary handle and larger base also provide added stability during cutting, which is especially useful when working with larger pieces of material.
Overall, the DOVAMAN Circular Saw is a solid choice for those who need a compact saw that can handle a variety of cutting needs. Just be aware of the potential issues with the power button and trigger switch arrangement if you have small hands.
Worx WX429L 4 Amp WORXSAW 4.5″ Electric Compact Circular Saw
If you’re looking for a compact circular saw that’s both powerful and portable, the Worx WX429L 4 Amp WORXSAW 4.5″ Electric Compact Circular Saw is worth considering.
Pros
- The Worx WX429L is lightweight and easy to operate with one hand, making it ideal for longer cutting sessions.
- It has excellent depth-of-cut for slicing up to 2″ stock lumber, and can cut 2x4s in a single pass. It’s also capable of cutting metal, tile, and plastic.
- The left-sided blade optimization gives you a clear line of sight on anything you’re cutting.
Cons
- The blade could last a bit longer, and may need to be replaced more frequently than other circular saws.
- The redundant safety trigger can be a bit of a pain to use when you’re concentrating on cutting.
- It’s only good for 1/2 thickness wood.
The Worx WX429L is a great choice for those who need a compact circular saw that’s both powerful and portable. It’s perfect for working in small spaces where a full-size circular saw is too large or heavy to maneuver safely. The thinner blade makes for less strain on the tool, so it can work harder, and the EZ-SET DEPTH GAUGE lever lets you go from 0-45 degree bevel settings with quick adjustment. The Worx WX429L is also engineered with cutting-edge technology, and above modern efficiency standards, so you can build a cost-effective tool collection that’s been designed to last.
This circular saw is ideal for those who need to make quick, efficient cuts and want the convenience of a lightweight, portable tool. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, the Worx WX429L is a great investment.
WESCO Mini Circular Saw
If you’re looking for a compact circular saw that’s easy to maneuver, the WESCO Mini Circular Saw is a great option.
Pros
- The 6.0A pure copper motor provides a high cutting speed of 5,200 RPM, making it ideal for cutting tile, wood, decorative metal, and DIY projects.
- The adjustable 90° and 45° bevel cuts allow for flexible cutting, and the maximum depth of cut is 1-1/8″ (28mm) at 45° and 1-11/16″ (42.8mm) at 90°, making it suitable for cutting different thicknesses.
- The double switch design and ergonomic handle make this mini saw easy and safe to use with one hand.
Cons
- It may not be suitable for heavy-duty cutting tasks.
- Some users have reported that the blades wear out quickly.
- The included blades may not be suitable for all types of cutting tasks.
Overall, if you’re looking for a compact circular saw that’s easy to use and provides good cutting performance, the WESCO Mini Circular Saw is a good choice. It’s especially useful for DIY projects and smaller cutting tasks.
DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Circular Saw, 4-1/2-Inch, Tool Only (DCS571B)
If you’re looking for a powerful and convenient circular saw, the DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Circular Saw is a great option.
Pros
- The brushless motor allows for an impressive amount of cutting with a DCB205 battery (sold separately).
- The removable auxiliary handle provides increased control.
- The compact design comes with a hang hook for added convenience.
Cons
- The battery and charger are sold separately.
- The vacuum adapter can slip off during use.
- It kicks back a lot when cutting on an uneven surface.
The DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Circular Saw is a great tool for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. With a bevel gear design, this saw allows for cuts of 2x material at 90 degrees and 1x material at 45 degrees. The elongated handle optimizes reach for rip cutting OSB and plywood. The on-board blade key storage ensures hassle-free blade changes, while the electronic blade brake stops the blade quickly for safety and productivity.
This cordless circular saw is powered by a DCB205 battery (sold separately) and can cut up to 369 linear feet of 3/4-inch OSB. The 1-1/2-inch finger trigger allows users to choke-up on the tool if necessary for their application. The bevel lever gives users the ability to bevel at 45 degrees to cut 1x dimensional lumber. The on-board dust port ensures dust control during use.
In conclusion, the DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Circular Saw is a powerful and convenient tool for all your cutting needs. Whether you’re a professional or a DIY enthusiast, this circular saw is sure to impress.
GALAX PRO Cordless Circular Saw
If you’re looking for a compact and versatile circular saw, the GALAX PRO Cordless Circular Saw is a great option. With its powerful motor and two blades, this saw can tackle a variety of materials from wood to soft metal and even tile. The adjustable cutting angle and laser guide make it easy to achieve precise cuts, while the safety features and ergonomic design ensure a comfortable and secure grip.
Pros
- The two included blades (24 teeth wood saw blade and 60 teeth metal saw blade) can be easily changed with the hex key, providing versatility for various cutting applications.
- The laser guide helps ensure a parallel cut and a professional finish.
- The vacuum adaptor allows you to hook up with a vacuum, keeping your workspace clean and free of sawdust.
Cons
- The maximum depth of cut at 90° is 1-11/16”, which may not be sufficient for some applications.
- The battery could last longer, especially when using the saw for extended periods.
- The hose attachment that comes with the saw is not very sturdy and may collapse on itself.
This saw is perfect for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike who need a compact and versatile saw for their projects. The GALAX PRO Cordless Circular Saw is easy to use, and the laser guide ensures precise cuts every time. The safety features and ergonomic design make it comfortable to use, and the included vacuum adaptor keeps your workspace clean.
In summary, if you need a compact and versatile circular saw, the GALAX PRO Cordless Circular Saw is a great option. Its powerful motor, adjustable cutting angle, and laser guide make it easy to achieve precise cuts, while the safety features and ergonomic design ensure a comfortable and secure grip.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best circular saw for your needs, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some key features you should look for:
Blade Size
The size of the blade is an important consideration when choosing a circular saw. The most common blade sizes are 7-1/4 inches and 6-1/2 inches. A larger blade will generally cut deeper, but it will also be heavier and more difficult to maneuver. Consider the types of materials you will be cutting and choose a blade size that is appropriate for your needs.
Power
The power of a circular saw is measured in amps. The higher the amp rating, the more powerful the saw will be. A more powerful saw will be able to cut through tougher materials more easily. However, a higher amp rating also means a heavier saw. Consider the types of materials you will be cutting and choose a saw with an appropriate power rating.
Bevel Capacity
The bevel capacity of a circular saw refers to the angle at which the saw can cut. A saw with a larger bevel capacity will be able to make more angled cuts. This is an important consideration if you will be doing a lot of angled cutting.
Depth Adjustment
The depth adjustment of a circular saw allows you to adjust the depth of the cut. This is important if you will be cutting materials of varying thicknesses. Look for a saw with easy-to-use depth adjustment controls.
Safety Features
Safety should always be a top priority when using any power tool. Look for a circular saw with safety features such as a blade guard and a safety switch. A blade brake is also a useful safety feature that can help prevent accidents.
By considering these features, you can choose the best circular saw for your needs. Remember to always follow safety guidelines and use your saw responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for when choosing a circular saw for home projects?
When choosing a circular saw for home projects, you should consider the power, blade size, and adjustability of the saw. Look for a saw with a powerful motor that can handle the types of cuts you need to make. Blade size is also important, as larger blades can cut through thicker materials. Finally, look for a saw with adjustable depth and bevel settings so you can make precise cuts.
How do I determine the appropriate circular saw blade for different materials?
The appropriate circular saw blade for different materials depends on the type of material you are cutting. For wood, use a blade with a high tooth count for a smoother finish. For metal, use a blade with a lower tooth count and carbide tips for durability. For masonry, use a diamond-tipped blade for precision and longevity.
What safety precautions are essential when operating a circular saw?
When operating a circular saw, it is essential to wear eye and ear protection, as well as gloves and a dust mask. Always keep your hands and fingers away from the blade, and use a push stick to guide the material through the saw. Finally, make sure the saw is properly secured and the blade is sharp and in good condition.
Can a worm drive circular saw be beneficial for specific applications, and if so, which?
A worm drive circular saw can be beneficial for specific applications, such as cutting thick, dense materials. The worm drive design provides more torque and power, making it easier to cut through tough materials. However, worm drive saws are generally heavier and more expensive than other types of circular saws.
What are the advantages of a cordless circular saw versus a corded one?
The main advantage of a cordless circular saw is its portability and convenience. You can use it anywhere without being tethered to an outlet. However, cordless saws may have less power and shorter battery life than corded saws. Corded saws are generally more powerful and can handle tougher materials.
How does the blade size affect the cutting capacity and usability of a circular saw?
The blade size of a circular saw affects both the cutting capacity and usability of the saw. Larger blades can cut through thicker materials, but they are also heavier and less maneuverable. Smaller blades are more versatile and easier to handle, but they may not be able to cut through thicker materials. It is important to choose the right blade size for the specific task at hand.
