Compact, mini circular saws are optimal tools that are very easy to maneuver. Aside from taking up much less space than a full sized saw, they also come at a lower price. However, without knowing exactly what to look for, buying a mini circular saw can either be a hit or miss.
Having spent countless hours evaluating numerous mini circular saws, I’ve dissected the features, performance, and reliability of each to ensure you invest wisely. I’m sharing my insights on the best mini circular saws based on a meticulous review, steering you toward a purchase that will assuredly deliver value and precision in your projects.
Reviews of the Top Mini Circular Saws
1. Genesis GCS445SE Compact Circular Saw
The Genesis GCS445SE is the most affordable option for users who want a compact saw but don’t want to spend a fortune. It may not have the powerful 5.8 amp motor of the Genesis GCS545C. Its 4.0 amp motor with a 3500 RPM[1] cuts through most materials easily. The carbide-tipped blade and the barrel grip provide excellent accuracy for long straight cuts with one-hand operation.
To add to the convenience of this 17-inch circular saw, the cutting depth gauge lever and bevel controls are right at your fingertips and adjustable on the fly. You can change different high-quality circular saw blades quickly and safely, thanks to the spindle lock, which the Genesis GCS545C 5.8 amp motor also has. The dust extraction is also effortless, owing to the vacuum adapter.
What I Like
- The vacuum adapter and built-in dust port simplify the cleanup process.
- The motor's strength, running at 3,500 RPM, never disappoints.
- I appreciate the spindle lock, as it makes blade changes both safe and swift.
- It's a robust circular saw, but surprisingly lightweight.
- The carbide-tipped blade ensures longevity.
- Its precision in cuts stands out.
- Barrel-grip for a seamless one hand operation.
- The 4 amp motor strikes a good balance of power.
- Given its features, the price point feels quite reasonable.
- The 2-year warranty offers peace of mind.
- It being ETL tested and certified speaks volumes of its safety standards.
- The adjustable depth and bevel cuts provide versatility.
What I Don't Like
- It's primarily designed for straight cuts, which might limit some projects.
- While it excels in cutting wood, it's less efficient with other materials.
2. Worx Worxsaw Compact Circular Saw
The Worx Worxsaw Compact Circular Saw is a very small and very lightweight design. If you are looking for a compact size first and foremost, then this saw is the product for you. It can still cut wood, metal, plastic and tile with ease thanks to the 3500 speed. The thinner blade size allows the saw to work for longer with less strain.
Having handled and tested various saws, I can vouch for this mini saw. Weighing in at just 4.4 pounds, I found it effortless to use over longer periods without feeling worn out. And with its blade positioned to the left, I had a clear, direct line of sight, which significantly improved my cutting precision. The cutting edge technology with the Worxsaw WX429L compact saw makes this one of the most coveted circular saws on the market.
What I Like
- Very compact size and lightweight design make it incredibly easy to handle.
- Its design offers a crystal-clear view of the blade.
- The cut line is straightforward to follow, aiding precision.
- Its portability proves to be an advantage on various job sites.
- I can effortlessly adjust the cutting depth to suit different materials.
- The thin saw blades enhance its performance and precision.
- Achieving precise straight-line cuts comes naturally with this tool.
- Its simplicity in use is refreshing and beginner-friendly.
- Particularly with lumber, it performs beautifully.
- Adjusting cuts between 0-45 degrees is quick and straightforward.
- Despite its size, it packs a punch in the power department.
What I Don't Like
- Due to its compact stature, it doesn't quite match the power of larger saws.
- Its optimization for metal or tile cutting leaves a bit to be desired.
3. HYCHIKA Compact Circular Saw
If you are looking for speed and power, look no further than the HYCHIKA Compact Circular Saw. With 20 years of power tool manufacturing, this brand will ensure that the best quality and service are given to you.
Compact mini circular saws usually come with an RPM of around 3500 just like the TACKLIFE TCS115A, but this small circular saw from HYCHIKA has an impressive 4500 RPM. The 4 amp copper motor is powerful and reliable and this saw can cut through hard material with ease. This is possible due to its smaller 3 ⅜ inch blade size that rotates after.
This product provides you with three blades, enhancing the versatility of any workshop. Naturally, you can adjust the cutting depth to your liking, and the built-in laser guide is a boon for those of us who value pinpoint precision.
Even though it has a weight of 7lbs – which isn’t particularly heavy in the grand scheme of things – I found the soft rubber handle to be a genuine fatigue-reducer after extended use. A bonus: the compact saw comes neatly packed in a carrying case. Makes transportation and storage a breeze.
(If you like to know more about its performance, here’s a full review of the Hychika Mini Circular Saw.)
What I Like
- Its 4 amp motor packs a commendable punch.
- Receiving three blades with it is a definite plus.
- The 4500 RPM offers robust performance.
- Its versatility stands out in the workshop.
- Weighing relatively light, it's comfortable to handle.
- The compact design makes it easy to manage and store.
- I've achieved precise cuts consistently.
- The laser guide is a feature I've found invaluable for precision.
- Being able to adjust the cutting depth offers great flexibility.
- The soft rubber handle paired with its ergonomic design enhances handling.
- The dust collection adapter is practical and keeps the workspace tidy.
- The extended power cord provides a greater working radius.
- Safety is paramount; the switch adds to that.
- The power indicator is a nice touch to know when it's active.
- It operates quieter than your typical full-size saw blade.
What I Don't Like
- If you're left-hand dominant, you might find it a tad less accommodating.
- It's corded, which may limit mobility for some projects.
4. TECCPO Mini Circular Saw
The small and compact saw design has a 4.8 amp copper motor and an RPM of 3700. You can expect this circular saw to be able to cut line through through most materials with its blade size options, which is why it’s one of the best compact circular saw designs.
If you’re afraid of long cutting errors that are irreparable, the outfitted laser cutting guide will safely guide towards a flawless and straight line. For safety, this mini saw is constructed with a heavy gauge iron wraparound base and an aluminum cover. For more protection, the TECCPO Mini Circular Saw features a double safety button. It is suitable for straight cutting, plunge cutting, and flush cutting depth of 1 inch cutting capacity.
The best thing about investing in circular saws is the compact and ergonomic build, which you can also expect from this product.
For other compact and easy-to-use options, you can check our review of Versacut and Rotorazer here.
What I Like
- The 4.8 amp copper motor is undoubtedly robust.
- A no-load speed feature brings in an additional layer of convenience.
- With 3700 RPM, it performs proficiently across tasks.
- The double safety button adds an appreciated extra security layer.
- The inclusion of a laser guide significantly aids accuracy.
- Having an adjustable cutting depth up to 1 inch provides versatility.
- Its lightweight and compact nature make it an easy tool to maneuver.
- The availability of 3 blade size options adapts to various needs.
- The saw comes decked with a vacuum adapter, among other accessories.
- The 2-year quality guarantee assures me of its durability.
- The safety trigger elevates user protection.
- The ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue during prolonged use.
What I Don't Like
- Switching the blade can be somewhat confusing initially.
- The visibility during use could stand to be improved.
5. Rockwell RK3441K Compact Circular Saw
The Rockwell RK3441K is a handheld compact circular saw that offers the maneuverability you wish you had with a full size circular saw. The rear motor location will help balance the weight of the saw in your hand, giving you more precise cuts.
How deep do you wish to cut with this mini circular saw? Adjusting the depth is a breeze, thanks to its intuitive cut and bevel adjustment levers. This mini saw seems to cater more to right-handed folks, given the clear blade view on the left.
When using it, I could see precisely where the blade made contact, which greatly minimized errors and enhanced precision. All in all, it ranks high on my list of top-performing mini circular saws.
What I Like
- The ultra-compact design of this circular saw really stands out.
- Its rear motor placement aids in achieving a balanced weight distribution.
- I appreciate the flexibility the adjustable cutting depth offers.
- The option to adjust bevel cuts is undeniably handy.
- The visible blade on the left enhances precision during cuts.
- Its built-in vacuum port is invaluable for keeping a clean workspace.
- The in-line grip design improves handling and control.
- It excels when working on wood and lumber materials.
- A blade diameter of 4.5 inches strikes a good balance between size and capability.
- At 3500 RPM, it offers reliable performance.
- The ease of dust extraction is a feature I've come to value.
What I Don't Like
- Left-handed folks might find the visibility less accommodating.
- The arbor size might pose challenges for certain applications.
6. TACKLIFE TCS115A Circular Saw
I understand the skepticism around mini circular saws, especially when it comes to power. But after testing the Tacklife mini circular saw, I can vouch for its performance. Clocking in at 3,500 RPM, it stands shoulder to shoulder with some full-sized models I’ve come across in the market.
The powerful motor can work with 6 different types of blades making the saw suitable to tear through wood, plastics, tiles and more. For versatility, the Tacklife TCS115A Circular Saw gives 45-degree cuts and 90-degree bevel cuts.
There is also a double protection switch that will keep you safe by preventing the handheld tool from accidentally opening.
What I Like
- The capability to make bevel cuts adds a layer of flexibility.
- With 3,500 RPM, it certainly doesn't lag in performance.
- The 5.8 amp motor ensures it's a powerhouse.
- Its compatibility with 6 different blade types is a commendable feature.
- A 2-year warranty gives me peace of mind.
- The safety switch reinforces user security.
- The laser guide has consistently aided my precision.
- Its metal handle genuinely reduces fatigue during prolonged use.
- The overall balance in its design enhances user experience.
What I Don't Like
- It's a bit on the larger side compared to most mini circular saws I've tried.
- It's not my first choice for one-handed operations.
Compact Circular Saws Buyer’s Guide
There are many features for best compact circular saws on the market that I have yet to cover. These characteristics are important if you need a compact circular saws. Let’s take a closer look at some important features in this buying guide.
Corded or Cordless Compact Circular Saw?
There are both corded and cordless circular saws available. The best cordless circular saws bring more convenience and even more maneuverability and easy navigation. However, the downside is cordless saw such as the Makita SH02R1 12V max CXT with the weight 3.5 pounds and the 6 pounds lithium ion powered Black and Decker BDCCS20B runs on battery power(Lithium Ion).
While wielding the Makita SH02R1, a 12V max, 1,500 RPM handheld circular saw, I observed its notable cutting capacity: 1 inch at 90 degrees and 5/8 inch at 45 degrees, which might suggest it’s the apex of miniature handheld saws. However, my exploration into the realm of cordless circular saws has offered a refreshing viewpoint. It’s pertinent to note, from my observations, that going cordless with compact circular saws usually implies a steeper price in comparison to their corded contemporaries.
It comes down to weighing the cost and benefits between the two product options. Corded circular saws have their benefits too, so don’t write them off just yet. Corded circular saws can come with a long power cable to still give you a wide range of movement. There is also no risk it will run out of power halfway through a cut.
You won’t need to make sure the corded compact saws are fully charged before engaging, which means it’s also a time-saving option. I won’t sugar coat the fact that a power cord getting in the way and can be a tripping hazard, but if you’re careful, corded compact saws can offer their share of benefits too.
If you do opt for cordless circular saw options, I suggest finding compact battery-powered saws that have a long battery life to extend the length of the operation.
Using cordless circular saw on a wood is easy, you just need to know how to use circular saw in ripping a narrow wood here.
Motor Power
Circular compact saws are all about the motor power, right? Especially when you want to know how cut through tough and hardy wood materials, motor power is important. The power of circular saws consists of both the speed and the power of the blade. As you can imagine, a faster spinning blade, say with an RPM of 3500 on average to 4500 amount of power can help you cut through your pieces more quickly and much more easily.
When your mini saw cuts through the material like when you are using a circular saw in cutting a laminating floor, it will also lessen the strain on your arm and particularly your wrist. When purchasing a best small saw kit, the motor power and type of motor will be listed to give you a good idea if it can complete jobs with ease.
Since I’m addressing the best compact circular saws, I remind you that if you need significant power, a regular sized saw will always be more powerful. With compact circular saws, you will mostly find motor amps, which is the equivalent of motor power. Sometimes you will even see a 3- 6 amp motor available in the market.
The higher the number of amps, the more powerful your motor is. Is it always better to go for a more powerful saw? it really depends on the material you are cutting.
Ease of Use
Cordless saws are small, lightweight and simple to navigate. Their ergonomic pattern makes them easy to use. However, I will say there are many saw options that aren’t the best for left-handed users.
This is due to the visibility of the blade. Many design models have visibility on the left side of the saw, which makes it difficult for left-handed people to see.
Since most small circular saws have a one-hand operation, if you are a left-handed person using a chainsaw, keep in mind that the design of the tool is one that doesn’t discriminate between dominant hands. The position of the controls and placement of the levers will also affect the usability of the tool.
Don’t forget about the grip handle and the different materials used. For example, a rubber grip will greatly decrease operation fatigue and allow you to work for longer hours. Some even features an LED light to illuminate the cutting area. You can check the Makita SH02R1 with built-in LED light.
A thoughtfully designed product will be the embodiment of ease, versatility and convenience. It can also include the best circular saws with dust blower in the line.
Cutting Guide Depth & Bevel
You may have noticed I mentioned the maximum depth and the bevel cuts a lot in my reviews of the best mini circular saws. The cutting depth made by 6 ½ or 7 ¼ circular saw blade will impact the versatility, so pay attention to the maximum cutting depth.
What are you planning to cut through and what jobs are you going to undertake? If you are planning to cut hard glass, here are the simple ways on how to cut plexiglass with the use of a circular saw.
One drawback of deep cuts with a circular saw is the accuracy. In general, the deeper the cut, the less precision you will get if your blade isn’t fast or powerful enough.
Another factor that will influence the depth of cut is the blade design, such as a worm drive blade. The blade design encompasses the size and thickness of the blade.
Then there is the bevel cuts, which is ideal for more intricate work. This can also be adjusted, usually with a lever just like the depth of cut. To know if your saw is multifaceted enough to meet all your project needs, keep in mind the blade design and adjustments.
Blade options for circular saw here:
Versatility
Many of the above features I mentioned will impact the versatility of the best compact circular saw kit. Cutting through different materials will require different blades, so make sure your package comes with multiple blade options to switch in and out of. For instance, if you want to know how to cut concrete blocks with the use of circular saw, you should also know the right blade to use. It will make your work so much easier.
Saws such as a 150 RPM motor Dewalt DCS391B are for cutting, but many people forget about the clean up afterwards. No matter what you are cutting with your one-handed mini saw, whether it’s wood, plastic, metal or tile, there will be dust and debris.
When selecting a tool, it’s worth considering those that come with handy accessories, much like the TACKLIFE TCS115A. Such add-ons can streamline your workflow and keep your space tidier. I’ve seen that while some circular saws are accompanied by a carrying case, others aren’t. And let’s not forget the real game-changers: features like dust ports and vacuum adapters.
The price of these cutting tools are considered affordable. One thing is for sure, they are much more pocket-friendly compared to the regular size saws. The price range is usually under a hundred but can run past that. I say that the price tag won’t always dictate the quality of the tool.
The cuts it makes, ease of use, and many other considerations are what matter. I don’t advise choosing any product based solely on the price and since this cutting tool is considered a dangerous object, I advise to shell out a higher cost for the safety features.
Safety Features
Power tools like Dewalt DCS391B It’s great to have a tool that’s easy to use, but you definitely want it to be safe as well. When looking for the best mini circular saw, make sure it has a safety lock or electric brake.
A safety lock keeps the blade in place when the saw is not in use. While an electric brake will stop the blade in its tracks with one click of the trigger in case of emergencies.
Many accidents happen in the workshop due to accidental cuts whether you are using a circular saw or table saw tools. To ensure that the blade is aimed accurately, a laser guide will come in handy. A laser cutting guide will help you cut along and make straight lines with clean precision. You can check DEWALT 7-1/4-Inch since it it has a better laser cutting guide.
The laser will be projected in front of your blade to form a cutting line and guide the blade along. Many of my product options on my list come with a laser guide. For something that’s a bit harder to cut through tile compared to wood, the laser guide will really come in handy.
Then you have a shaft lock, which is essential for blade replacement. You will need a compact size circular saw with different blades to make cuts on separate materials, and a shaft lock will allow you to switch between blades quickly and easily. This way, it will minimize the accidents than potentially happen when you’re trying to change blades.
One factor I always emphasize, beyond the saw’s physical attributes or performance metrics, is the manufacturer’s warranty or guarantee. Generally, the broader and lengthier the warranty, the more confidence I have in the product.
Given the intricate makeup of these electrical tools, a malfunction in a single component can jeopardize the entire unit. That’s precisely why I hold the parts warranty in such high regard.
If the saw doesn’t do the job you expected or arrives damaged or faulty, you want a satisfaction guarantee to kick in for a no-hassle return or exchange.
FAQ
What is a mini circular saw used for?
A mini circular saw is used for small projects and is perfect for confined spaces. They are handheld, compact, lightweight and can harness enough power and speed to cut through materials such as sheet metal, tile and wood among others.
Can a mini circular saw cut a 2x4?
Yes, mini saws can cut a 2×4. For example, the Worx Worxsaw is the prime example of a circular saw that can cut 2x4s in one go. The compact size of the circular saw allows for a single pass with minimal effort.
My Top Pick for a Mini Circular Saw:
Genesis GCS445SE
My top pick for the best compact mini circular saw is the Genesis GCS445SE. This amazing cutting tool is fast, powerful and accurate. You are offered more maneuverability with a better balance for improved control and less strain on your arm.
The settings are easily accessible and the spindle lock allows for quick and safe blade transition. As for cleanup, the GCS445SE has a built-in vacuum port for your convenience.
If you prefer a table saw to a circular saw, here’s how to make a circular saw to table saw conversion kit. Read next!
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
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.
