A circular saw is a compact tool that every woodworker or builder needs in his arsenal. These handy tools are perfect for portability and efficiency, plus they do not put excessive strain on your arm. However, all the above won’t be true if you don’t pick a substandard model.
I’ve spent hours testing and reviewing, and now I’m thrilled to share insights into the top-performing circular saws of 2023 with you. Let’s ensure your next choice is nothing short of excellent, shall we?
Reviews of the Best Circular Saws
1. SKIL 5280-01 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inches Circular Saw
The first saw on our list is the SKIL 5280-01. It has an impressive 15 amp motor and produces 5300 RPM, enough power to cut through dense wood, engineered wood, laminated lumber, and other materials. The 7-1/4-inch carbide-tipped blade on this circular saw is secured in place with a lock spindle that allows for quick circular saw blade changes. For more accurate cuts, the shoe is also perfectly parallel with the blade. This saw also has a 10 foot power cord.
Unlike other 45 degree bevel saws, the 5280-01 circular saw features a 51-degree bevel to accommodate various angles for beveled cuts. Although it’s a full-sized saw, the SKIL can help reduce fatigue on your arm, thanks to its anti snag features that also keep the saw on track. It also has a guarded trigger for added safety.
Another excellent feature in this 5280-01 Skil circular saw is the dust buster that gives you a clear line of sight and keeps it free of debris.
What I Like
- The 15 amp motor packs quite the punch.
- With a blade speed of 5300 RPM, I've achieved precise cuts even on the thickest materials.
- The 7-1/4-inch carbide-tipped blade is lightweight yet sturdy.
- The spindle lock is an absolute game-changer.
- It can easy make bevel cuts.
- The guarded trigger provides that extra layer of safety.
- The on-board dust buster keeps my workspace tidy.
- Precision has never been more achievable with the laser beam guide.
What I Don't Like
- I've noticed the blade can occasionally halt.
- Wished their customer service was a tad faster in responding.
2. WORX WORXSAW 4-½: Compact Circular Saw
Small handheld models are often featured on our list of best circular saws, and that’s because they are half the size and weight. The smaller size of the WORX WORXSAW 4 1/2 inch will allow for quicker and more efficient cuts with more control. Even with a corded power source, this circular saw’s performance is still impressive although it’s smaller than standard circular models.
Bevel cuts on this tool can be set from 0 to a 45 degree angle with the EZ depth gauge and the WORKXSAW 4 1/2 inch Compact Circular Saw is the best overall choice for cutting saw for lumber around 2 inches thick without weighing down your arm. With that angle of 45 degrees, this saw was designed with a left-sided blade that gives users a better visual of their cuts. And with a thinner circular saw blade, it can work harder than other saws.
In my extensive experience with tools, this is genuinely among the top lightweight circular saws available today. For homeowners like me, tackling basic projects, it’s a perfect match. It’s been a breeze cutting through particleboard, thin plywood, and similar materials with it. If you’re not on the hunt for something ultra-powerful, I’d highly recommend this one.
What I Like
- Its small, compact size is so handy.
- Truly, it's top-tier for quick jobs.
- I find it notably efficient and easy to maneuver around.
- Running at 3500 RPM, it delivers consistent performance.
- Its portability is a notable advantage.
- The left-sided blade design really improves visual tracking.
- Love that I can set bevel cuts anywhere from 0 to 45 degrees.
- It's the best cutting saw you can find for lumber.
What I Don't Like
- It doesn't pack the same punch as some full-sized blades out there.
- I did notice the rip fence has some plastic components.
3. BLACK+DECKER Circular Saw with Laser
The BLACK+DECKER 7 1/4 Lightweight Circular Saw with Laser Guide features a 12 amp to 13 amp motor and a lock spindle for easy blade switches. This pro-level circular saw is excellent for heavy duty jobs and isn’t a very hefty tool for those who don’t need something for long term.
The addition of the laser pointer guide will help you make more precise cuts on plywood or lumber by visualizing the path. The bevel adjustments are easily done for angled cuts with this circular saw. It’s nicely balanced, with easy to adjust blade height and angle.
You don’t only get the saw, but also a wrench for adjustments. This budget circular saw comes with a 2-year limited warranty.
What I Like
- The spindle lock makes blade changes straightforward.
- It truly shines on heavy-duty tasks.
- It came bundled with a hex key, blade, and the saw itself is of top-notch quality.
- I appreciate its lightweight design; less strain on the arms.
- It’s from a brand I’ve come to trust over the years.
- The 13 amp motor gets the job done.
- Its price point offers excellent value for the money.
- The blade spinning at 5300 RPM produces efficient cuts.
What I Don't Like
- I do wish it had an integrated dust blower.
- It's a tad inconvenient that the saw has to be running for the laser guide to kick in.
4. DEWALT 7-1/4-Inches Circular Saw with Electric Brake
Like the famous Dewalt DWE575SB, the Dewalt 7 1/4 Circular Saw also comes with an electric brake that stops the blade once you let off the trigger. This costs a bit more, but it’s worth your money. With its 1/4 inch blade and a patented 15 amp motor, I’ve effortlessly managed cuts of any depth, be it plywood or lumber. Trust me, it’s got the power where it counts.
The Dewalt circular saw, like the Dewalt DWE575 model, offers more beveling capacity with a maximum of 57 degrees. This is highly precise and comes with its own carrying case. To help you keep your workspace clean, the dust buster will clear the way for these power tools to give you a clear view.
What I Like
- Despite being full-sized, this circular saw is refreshingly lightweight and compact.
- 57-degrees bevelling angle is handy for different applications.
- I appreciate the included carrying case for easy transportation.
- The ball bearing lower guard is a neat addition.
- Its built-in dust blower keeps my workspace clearer.
- The electric brake is dependable. It stops the blade as soon as I release the trigger.
- The materials used are sturdy and long-lasting.
- A bonus is that it comes with some useful accessories.
What I Don't Like
- I did miss having illumination during cuts.
- The lock nut can be a tad on the tight side.
5. TECCPO Mini Circular Saw with Laser
This corded circular saw option that has a lot of power for its small size and light weight. At 3700 RPM, these small saws are excellent power tools for those moving from site to site. Not only that, the smaller blade size is coupled with its lightweight body offers exceptional portability. When I’m ripping plywood, slicing board pieces, or cutting framing, the maneuverability this tool provides is genuinely top-notch.
The circular saw comes with extra blades for cutting that are suited for different materials. This tool features a double safety switch and a guided laser so you can easily cut in a straight line. As a small handheld saw design, the TECCPO Mini Circular Saw features an ergonomic handle and is easy to maneuver. It doesn’t have the same power as a full-sized saw, but if you’re doing basic home improvement projects, this tool is a good choice.
What I Like
- Its ergonomic design sits comfortably in hand.
- For its capabilities, it's pleasantly small and lightweight.
- It comes with 3 circular saw blades.
- Running at 3700 RPM, it's quite efficient.
- With its 4.8 amp power source, I've experienced solid cutting power.
- It's become a staple in my portable toolset.
- The double safety switch gives me added peace of mind.
- Getting straight cuts has become easier thanks to its laser guide.
What I Don't Like
- Attaching blades can be a tad tricky.
- I did wish it had a spot for wrench storage.
6. Makita 5007Mg Magnesium 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw
The Makita 5007Mg Circular Saw is excellent to make quick and accurate cuts and is made of magnesium components to make the frame lighter than most other saws. It’s one of the most powerful corded circular saws out there with a 5800 RPM and 15 amp motor as its power source. It also has an exceptional scale that is easy to read. The Makita also has a 3-3 / 8 inch blade has a maximum cut depth of 1 inch at 90 degrees. I recommend upgrading to a better blade, though.
Any circular saw is useless if you can’t see the cut. The Makita saw features two LED lights on board to illuminate the path when you’re cutting plywood. This saw has a large cutting capacity and the bevel is adjustable up to 56 degrees. Other than the depth of cut and extra features, the Makita saw is also covered by a 1-year warranty. Overall, it’s one of the best circular saws of 2023.
What I Like
- The dual LED lights come in handy, especially in low-light conditions.
- With a 56-degree bevel capacity, it offers decent flexibility.
- Changing blades is no hassle.
- Its power certainly stands out among circular saws I’ve used.
- The 3 3/8 inch blade has proven to be effective.
- The frame’s durability is built to last.
- A built-in dust blower and an easy-to-read scale make operations smoother.
- That 10-foot power extension cord offers a lot of reach.
What I Don't Like
- I've noticed that I need to adjust its height to make it fit into its case.
- Occasionally, the handle can get in the way of my sight line.
7. GALAX PRO 10 A 5800 RPM Hand-Held Circular Saw
The GALAX PRO 10 A is another well-balanced power corded circular saw with a powerful motor that won’t require you to spend a lot. The design of this saw is very similar to the Bosch CS10 and it’s also very easy to maneuver. The hand-held design allows you to make straight cuts without worrying about the weight. This tool is great for cutting plywood sheets, trimming deck boards, and cutting framing lumber.
You can make bevel and miter cuts with the easy to adjust lever that can also set the cut depth. The GALAX PRO circular saw is safe to use with its motor housing and won’t start up without you unlocking it first with the safety button. It also features a parallel guide to assist your cuts and an integrated dust blower to keep the path clear.
What I Like
- The gear housing has proven its durability over time.
- Achieving both bevel and miter cuts has been straightforward.
- The blade takes on a tough demeanor.
- Whether it's plywood or denser materials, the cuts are spot on.
- The safety lock button and double trigger add a comforting layer of security.
- The 10 amp motor paired with a 5800 RPM blade speed proves to be a reliable combo.
- Lightweight and sporting a soft grip, it's comfortable to use.
- The plastic lower blade guard is efficient and lightweight.
- It's reasonably priced.
What I Don't Like
- Its lightness might compromise balance for some tasks.
- Relying on extension cords can occasionally limit mobility.
(You can also compare Miter Saw versus Circular Saw to see how it compares to other brands.)
8. SKIL SPT67M8-01 Sidewinder Circular Saw
Unlike other options, SKIL SPT67M8-01 features a left SIDEWINDER blade, which means you have the blade mounted next to the saw motor side. This feature enhances cutting line precision and visibility. You can also count on the durability of this direct drive circular saw because this unit is constructed with magnesium frames that effectively reduce user fatigue.
During the cut, I enjoyed high torque and speed settings, all thanks to its powerful dual-field engine. This motor type includes cooling technology, so you wouldn’t need to worry about sudden overheating in the middle of your DIY project.
This sidewinder model can also execute a variety of cuts suited for different applications because it has a bevel range of up to 56 degrees. You can lock into the stops for easy adjustments when making bevel cuts for various home projects.
What I Like
- The adjustable cutting depth offers a good deal of flexibility.
- With a maximum cutting capacity of 2-7/16 inches, it does its job well.
- It's been my go-to whether I'm dealing with softwoods or hardwoods.
- The 15-amp motor has consistently proven reliable and robust.
- I find the positive stops at 0 and 45 degrees quite handy.
- Sporting a lightweight yet durable magnesium design, it’s a treat to handle.
- Tipping the scale at just 10.6 pounds, it's impressively lightweight.
What I Don't Like
- Its cord does restrict mobility somewhat.
- The gears demand regular lubrication, which is a small maintenance task to keep in mind.
9. BOSCH CSW41 Worm Drive Circular Saw
Worm drive saws are excellent at heavy-duty work. Since BOSCH CSW41 features a worm drive design, users can expect highly accurate cutting during use. The blade on this tool is on the left side, so you’ll have no reason not to see the cutline.
Matched with its worm drive feature is its 15-amp engine. Because of this, it can provide more torque to accomplish most tough cutting applications. This worm drive circular saw weighs 13.2 pounds, making it capable of running up to 5300 RPM at high-speed configurations.
If you intend to use this worm drive circular saw to slice small wood pieces, its anti-snag lower guard will provide you with smoother operations so the blade doesn’t bind to thinner materials.
What I Like
- It delivers exceptional cutting performance, especially for heavy construction tasks.
- At a no-load weight of 13.2 lbs, it's manageable for such a robust tool.
- I’ve reaped the benefits of its high-power 15-amp brushless motor.
- I've found the on-board multi-function wrench incredibly handy.
- The blade sports an extensive 7-inch diameter, which is generous.
- The included 8 ft electric cord provides a good range.
What I Don't Like
- It does require regular lubrication to keep it in peak condition.
- If you're looking for framing blades, be prepared for an extra expense.
10. DEWALT DCS570B 20V Max Cordless Circular Saw
If mobility is what you seek, buying a cordless saw like DEWALT DCS570B 20-volt should be at the top of your list. Although this unit is battery-powered, it’s powerful enough to maintain consistent speed operations around 5500 RPM. It also has outstanding accuracy, and the battery life is superb.
You can execute at least 330 crosscuts on 2×4 pine wood boards, as long as this cordless circular saw is fully-charged, handled carefully, and maintained appropriately. But the more amp hours you put into the unit, the more cuts you can do.
This circular saw has a bevel capacity of 57 degrees and 2-9/16-inch cutting depth, so it’s versatile enough to tackle intricate cutting jobs. Overall, it’s on of the best cordless options in my books, maybe even better than some of its corded counterparts.
What I Like
- Being cordless and weighing just 7.5 pounds, it's a breeze to handle.
- Equipped with a 20-volt battery, it packs quite a punch.
- With a no-load operational speed of 5500 RPM, it gets the job done efficiently.
- That 2-9/16-inch cutting depth at a 90-degree angle is versatile.
- Managing up to 330 cuts per charge is pretty impressive.
- It's proven itself reliable for a variety of cutting tasks.
- The battery life is respectable, offering extended use.
- I like the ability to adjust its power output for different needs.
What I Don't Like
- Availability can sometimes be an issue.
- It's worth noting that the battery is sold separately, which can add to the cost.
Circular Saws Buyer’s Guide
Circular saws are handheld tools for quick cuts, but like any power tool, there are some things to consider before you purchase one.
To ensure you get the right circular saw for your projects, I have compiled a list of important features to want in the top saw. It’s more than the cut line and the material of the saw blade. While most circular saws would work fine for small to medium jobs, you should also take into account the design of the saws, the motor power, and the type of cut you like.
Corded or Cordless Circular Saw?
There are two types of circular saws, and they are corded and cordless circular saws. What’s the difference between them?
Yes, having a cordless circular saw such as Dewalt DCS391B will bring more convenience and higher portability compared to corded models. However, cordless or battery-powered circular saws have a shorter performance period and less amperage [1] in some cases.
Older cordless tools were inferior compared to the more conventional corded saws and were outperformed in terms of speed and power at every turn. However, newer cordless saw models have lithium ion batteries that last longer, are less heavy and won’t jam the blade. If you prioritize flexibility in movement, I suggest going for battery-powered models over corded models. I suggest buying extra batteries, though. A spare battery and charger could come in handy for cordless saws.
Brushless motors have a lot to do with the smooth cutting operation, but we’ll talk about the its power in a bit. The lithium ion batteries are very efficient and can extend the hours you get out of your cordless circular saw.
In the end, deciding between a cordless circular saw and a corded saw is more about the power and speed, but also the convenience factor. If you are someone who works on a construction site without needing to relocate often, then I suggest the traditional corded circular saws as they have better power and higher speeds. However, if you require a lot of movement and move from site to site, then battery-powered or high-powered cordless saws are the best for you. When searching for the best cordless circular saws, consider how heavy the job is and whether you would be operating it for extended periods. Look at the battery life as well.
Motor Power
In my experience, motor power is a critical factor when it comes to the cutting speed and material capacity of your saw blade. Smaller saws often have lower amperage due to their size constraints. The compact design limits the space available for a larger motor, which ultimately leads to a somewhat reduced power output.
For example, regular-sized 7-¼ inch circular saws should be able to yield 12 amp to 15 amps on average with blade speeds of 5000 to 5500 RPM as a rule of thumb. If you can find circular saws of that size with more power and faster RPM, then you’re in luck.
One thing to keep in mind is the speed doesn’t necessarily dictate the material you can cut through, you can cut a laminating floor with a saw in the same level of speed. The material you can cut through is determined by the construction of the circular saw blade. That being said, most circular saws cut metal, wood, slate, plastic, fiberglass, laminate flooring, and other materials — as long as you have the proper blade type.
You may also come across what’s called a high-powered worm drive circular saw, which are longer lasting, more powerful and have more torque. The motor in a worm drive circular saw can be found in the rear, and it has a number of worm gears near the blade. These gears have a spiraling worm shape, hence why it’s called the worm drive design. Size-wise, a worm drive circular saw is also typically larger. Thus, you’ll find that these are pretty heavy saws that are made for heavy-duty construction work. The blade spins slower, though.
While I didn’t include a lot of worm drive saws in my list, a good model would be the Makita 18V X2 LXT circular saw. It has a blade brake, dust blower, and variable blade speed.
Cutting Depth & Bevel
Some adjustable features include the cutting depth adjustment and bevel capacity. Depending on what you’re cutting, or how you cut thick wood using a circular saw, you want the freedom to adjust these features to give yourself an easier time. It’s not only about having the option to adjust the depth and the bevel, but also how easy it is to do so. A saw that can do repeated cuts at its depth of 2-9/16 inches is good enough.
For example, some circular saws have buttons for the setting but others integrate lever controls for depth adjustment. In my experience, the levers are easier to control and access when you’re in a hurry.
Regarding the bevel feature, I find it crucial for making angled cuts, and having a circular saw that provides a broad range of angle options is quite beneficial. Typically, you’ll find the most common setting goes up to 45 degrees, but there are models that can go even higher, reaching up to 57 degrees. Some circular saws even offer stops at intermediate angles, like 22.5 and 45 degrees, which adds to their versatility, especially when you need angles greater than 45 degrees.
Ease of Use
Most DIYers and woodworking professionals appreciate a power tool that’s easy to use, so the ease of use is another vital consideration. Having a dust port surely is important but the weight is also a very big indicator of how easy the circular saws, either a 6 ½ and 7 ¼ circular saw variety, are to maneuver. You want ones that are as light weight as possible so the circular saws don’t put undue strain on your limbs.
Like the Skil 5280-01 Skil saw, Circular saws that are light weight also equate to easy handling. You’ll be able to work longer hours on your DIY projects without feeling fatigued. It just makes the job easier. You can even operate some saws with just one hand. I will dive into the materials you may find in your saws in the next section.
The blade change should also be simple. The cleanup should be easy, too there are impressive circular saws with dust port or dust blower that can guarantee a fast sawdust cleanup. Dust collection ports and a vacuum adapter help with visibility as well.
Size and Design
Larger full sized models are heavier and bulkier but they are more powerful, has an easy to read scale, and can get the job done faster as opposed to a more compact handheld model. The other size factor to consider is the blade. There is a very extensive range of blades and some circular saws can come with a few options for different materials.
Aside from listing the blade size, manufacturers can also label what each blade is good for, and you can always buy a new blade if you’re working with different materials. You will come across plywood blades and all-purpose among others. There are also diamond blades for concrete and masonry. You may also see the tooth count on the blade, which is also a great indicator for the materials they can cut through. The higher the tooth count, the harder the material the blade can handle. And the higher the teeth per inch (TPI) rating, the more polished the finish will be.
If you want to know other materials that these saws can cut, you can check my page on how to cut plexiglass using the circular saw power tool.
It helps if the design of the saw is ergonomic, whether it’s a full-size, front-handle, rear-handle, or barrel-handle. For the material, there are a few ubiquitous ones in circular saw manufacturing, and they are steel, aluminum and magnesium. Steel was once the most popular type, but manufacturers have started to trade it for the lighter aluminum and magnesium options.
Sure, aluminum is lighter, but it’s not as durable as steel and also more expensive. I like magnesium for its lightweight properties and higher durability, but this quality is more on the expensive side.
Another nifty feature you may want on board is a built-in rafter hook. This allows you to hang the saw from a rafter or ladder.
If you want to make your saw more convenient to usewhen woodworking, you can check some ways to convert circular saw to table saw without costing you much.
Safety Features
If you know how to use a circular saw when cutting concrete blocks, then you are aware of its corresponding safety measures. There are important safety features to look for that can not only keep you from injury but also facilitate your work include a LED light, laser guide for the cut line, and blade guard for a straight cut.
Having LED work lights will give you clear visuals of the cut path so slicing through lumber would be accurate. The laser guide will allow for a precise cut line and reference point, but I still suggest utilizing a blade guard to make sure the cut is straight. Spring loaded blade guards cover the blade once it’s lifted from the material, thus reducing injury risks.
Then there is the consideration of the shoe material (steel, aluminum, magnesium shoes). This is the base plate that rides on the material. Steel shoes can bend, so an aluminum or magnesium shoe has square edges but the magnesium shoe is what I recommend as it’s much lighter. Not only that, the magnesium shoe is the strongest among the three, and can slide smoothly over lumber.
Additionally, remember to wear proper eye and ear protection. Make sure to check for nails or screws before cutting, and mark your lines clearly if there’s no guide.
The warranty isn’t a safety feature of the saw itself, but more of a safety feature to protect you as a buyer. If you end up with a faulty product that was damaged upon delivery or if your parts need replacing or fixing, an extensive warranty helps.
As you probably saw on our top list, we have products with a very basic 1-year warranty and others that have at least 2 years.
FAQ
What is the best circular saw for home use?
The best saw for home use is the WORX WORXSAW 4-½ circular saw. It’s a small handheld model that is great for easy home improvement jobs. It’s very lightweight, still packs a lot of power and is highly portable for all job site areas.
What size circular saw is best?
The best size for this saw is 7-¼ inches. This also happens to be the most common size and is the best suited for a variety of jobs. It can cut through many materials and is still lightweight and easy to use.
My Top Pick For a Circular Saw:
5280-01 from SKIL
My top choice for the greatest lightweight circular saw is the SKIL 5280-01. The 15 amp motor power with carbide blade tips can cut through tough materials. Even if you have the blade fully submerged in wood (or whatever cutting material you’re working with), it can easily handle the task. It has safety features too, like a guarded trigger.
This tool includes a high level of adjustability from cutting depth to the bevel degrees. Maneuvering is easy as the saw is incredibly light for its size and the dust buster will keep your cutting area free from debris.
To keep your space tidy after a long day’s work, you can use the best small shop dust collection we listed here. Read next!
You've probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
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