Woodworking and construction workers will deal with lumber and various types of wood a lot, so it’s a must to get the right power tool. There are so many types of saws to choose from for wood but how do you avoid one that won’t get the job done? Our team has sourced and tested the best ones available today.
Reviews of the Top Electric Saws for Cutting Wood
1. CRAFTSMAN CMECS600
Among the most common uses of a chainsaw is to cut through wood. The Craftsman CMECS600 has a very powerful 12-amp motor that helps the bar get through tougher materials.
The 16-inch bar and chain will yield a lower kickback rate and allow more versatile applications with thicker wood. There is no priming required for the chain and there is a built-in oiler window within the auto-oiling system.
Lastly, the tool-free tensioning system makes the chain easily adjustable for convenient use and an ideal cutting performance. The product is also backed by a 3-year limited warranty standard to Craftsman products.
What We Like
- Powerful 12-amp motor
- No priming
- Auto-oiling system
- 3-year limited warranty
- Toolless tensioning system
- Large 16-inch bar
- Lightweight for the size
What We Don't Like
- Has some plastic parts
- Not for intricate cuts
2. DeWalt DWS780
We then have the miter saws, which are excellent for various cuts. The DeWalt DWS780 is a pricey product compared to the other corded electric saws for cutting wood, but there are so many features onboard the price is an excellent deal.
There is an integrated cutline blade positioning system that gives adjustment-free cut line indication, XPS Technology, an LED light, and a very efficient dust collection system.
The miter saw can create miter and bevel cuts that are all easily adjustable for you to get the cut you want.
What We Like
- Compact and lightweight
- LED light
- XPS Technology
- Integrated cutline blade positioning system
- Miter and bevel cuts
- Easily adjustable
- 3,800 RPM
What We Don't Like
- High price
- Comes with a 32-tooth blade, not 60
3. BLACK+DECKER BDEJS300C
For rough and aggressive cuts, our contracting team’s first and second suggestions are great. However, if you’re looking for a power tool with more finesse, the BLACK+DECKER BDEJS300C is our experts’ top choice.
The jigsaw can make curved cuts for more details on your workpiece. Not only can it get through wood, but metals are no match for the jigsaw blade either. There is a variable speed motor onboard that maxes out at 3000 RPM, plus the power tool is very compact and lightweight.
You can even make angled beveled cuts up to 45 degrees with this small saw.
What We Like
- Best for intricate cuts
- Variable speed motor
- 3000 RPM
- Compact and lightweight
- Creates bevel cuts
- Has a wire guard
- Tilting base plate
- Quick clamp
- Affordable
What We Don't Like
- Better for small to medium jobs
- No speed control
4. PowerSmart Mini Circular Saw
A circular saw is arguably a staple in every woodworker’s workshop and toolbox. Our team landed on the PowerSmart Mini Circular Saw as our best electric saw for cutting wood and portability. You can easily find an excellent full-sized version, but mini models are hit and miss, which is why our team chose to highlight this specific one.
It’s a powerful workhorse that delivers 3500 RPM, and is ideal for wood, soft metal, plastic [1], and even tile. The handheld unit works with a laser beam guide for accurate cuts and it also comes with adjustable depth settings. The mini circular saw is a great choice for those who have limited space and need a more mobile unit.
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What We Like
- Small and compact
- 3500 RPM
- Great for wood and others
- Laser cut guide
- Adjustable depth
- Safety button
- Can make bevel cuts
What We Don't Like
- Less powerful than a full-sized model
- May not be the best for large projects
Electric Saws for Cutting Wood Buyer’s Guide
Size and Weight
Do you need a portable model and do you have the space for a full-sized one? Where you work and the type of project you do will impact the size and weight of the electric saw that you pick.
Saker mini chainsaw model, for example, weighs only about 11 kilograms and has a length of 4 inches, making it easy to transport from one location to another.
Motor Power
Our woodworking team says an RPM of 3000 to 3500 is best for handheld compact models while rotations per minute of up to 5500 may be necessary for larger models depending on your task.
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Our Top Pick For an Electric Saw for Cutting Wood:
Craftsman CMECS600
Among all of the best electric saws for cutting wood, the Craftsman CMECS600 stood out to our experts. It comes with a powerful motor that delivers enough strength for tougher wood. The larger bar reduces the chances for any kickback and there is an auto-oiling system plus tool-free tensioning for your convenience.
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