If you want a powerful, portable saw that can be used for various cutting tasks, you should consider adding a circular saw to your tool collection. With the right blade, a good circular saw can be used to cut materials including wood, metal, and even concrete.
These saws are among the favorite tools of handymen, carpenters, and other contractors, suitable for cutting fences, floorboards, frames, and numerous other tasks. This means you will be able to find models from most of the leading power tool brands, which can be overwhelming if you don’t know what to look for.
To help you find your ideal saw, after a lot of research, we have reviewed seven of the best circular saws that are currently available. We chose these saws for their cutting power, size, weight, and blade size.
- Motor provides 5,300 RPM
- 7 ¼-inch carbide-tipped blade
- Single-beam laser guide
- Small but still spins at 3,500 RPM
- Adjustable bevel to 45 degrees
- Cuts four material types
- Weighs just 5.99 pounds
- 4-amp motor
- Spindle lock
- Built-in water cooling
- Dust management system
- Makes smooth cuts
- High-torque motor
- No complicated settings
- Strong 20V battery
Product Reviews
The right circular saw will enable you to quickly make smooth, straight cuts with minimal effort, but there are numerous models to choose from. That is why we have reviewed seven of the best circular saws, chosen for their cutting depth and power, their size and weight, and whether they are corded or cordless.
DeWalt 7-¼-Inch Circular Saw with Electrical Brake
Best Circular Saw for Woodworking
The rougher a cut is, the more work it will require to smooth it later. This DeWalt saw is an excellent choice for woodworking as it is fitted with a 7 ¼-inch carbide-tipped blade that will quickly cut through the wood while minimizing splinters and rough edges.
It enables you to cut at different angles to a maximum depth of 2.55 inches at a standard 90-degree angle. The saw is equipped with an electrical brake that ensures the blade comes to a complete stop within three seconds of releasing the trigger.
This portable saw is made even easier to transport by the included case, so it is great for taking from place to place. It also has a built-in dust blower to ensure your cutting line is clear at all times, which can be helpful but might make a mess in your workshop.
What We Like
Electrical Brake
With circular saws, the blade usually slows down naturally until it comes to a stop after the trigger is released. However, this saw is equipped with an electrical brake that stops the blade within a couple of seconds. This will help you work more quickly and safely as you won’t need to wait as long for the blade to stop between cuts.
Durable
DeWalt has incorporated multiple smart features into this saw to increase its durability. Its power cord is enhanced by a ToughCord system that provides extra resistance, protecting it against cord pull-out. The saw itself features ergonomic handles and trigger actuation that should reduce wear and tear.
Compact
Despite its powerful 15-amp motor, this saw has a compact, lightweight design that is easy to carry and transport. Your purchase also includes a useful case to make carrying or storing the saw much easier.
Built-In Blower
When cutting, large amounts of sawdust can accumulate on the material, making it harder to see your cutting line. This saw features a built-in dust blower that keeps sawdust away from the area you are working on, so you won’t need to do it manually.
What We Don't Like
Powerful Blower
Although the integrated dust blower will make cutting easier, it might not be suitable for where you are working. It is very powerful, so you could end up simply blowing sawdust around your workshop. Some users complain that the blower only makes it take longer to clean up after using the saw.
Product Specs
| Motor Power | 15 amps |
| RPM | 5,200 |
| Maximum Cutting Depth | 2.55 inches |
| Blade Size | 7 ¼ inches |
| Weight | 8.8 pounds |
Our Ratings
Makita 7-¼-Inch Magnesium Circular Saw
Best Circular Saw for Beginners
This Makita saw is an excellent choice for beginners, thanks to its many user-friendly features. These features include an integrated electrical brake that ensures the blade comes to a full stop within three seconds when you release the trigger.
In addition to its brake, the saw also has a built-in blower, which removes sawdust from your cutting line, lights to ensure you can see what you’re doing, and an easy-to-read ruler that will help you make accurate cuts.
The saw’s handle is comfortable to hold and will ensure you have a secure grip throughout your work. The rubberized levers enable you to make quick, one-handed adjustments when required, so there won’t be much downtime between cuts.
What We Like
Powerful Saw
Whatever your experience level, it is important that your saw is powerful and this Makita model doesn’t disappoint. It is equipped with a 15-amp motor that delivers 5,800 RPM to make quick, smooth cuts.
Electrical Brake
It is dangerous if your saw’s blade keeps spinning after you use it, which is why this model is fitted with an electrical brake that stops it within a few seconds. The brake also means there will be less of a delay as you wait for the blade to stop before making the next cut.
Clear Ruler
When sawing, it can be difficult to read the ruler as sawdust builds up on it. That shouldn’t be an issue with this saw, thanks to the easy-to-read ruler markings. These will make it easier to keep track of what you’re doing.
Comfortable Handle
One of the most important aspects of any saw is a secure grip. This will make sawing safer and should also help you cut more accurately. In addition to the main grip, the saw’s other levers are rubberized for safe, easy adjustment with one hand.
What We Don't Like
Relatively Heavy
One major advantage of magnesium construction is a lightweight product. However, this saw doesn’t take full advantage of that. It weighs 10.6 pounds, which is almost twice the weight of some other circular saws. This still isn’t particularly heavy, but it can start to take a toll if you use the saw for a long time.
Product Specs
| Motor Power | 15 amps |
| RPM | 5,800 |
| Maximum Cutting Depth | 2 ½ inches |
| Blade Size | 7 ¼ inches |
| Weight | 10.6 pounds |
Our Ratings
Skil 7-¼-Inch Circular Saw With Laser Guide
Best Corded Circular Saw
If you want a powerful circular saw with an indefinite power supply, this Skil saw is an excellent option. It is very straightforward to use and allows you to easily set the bevel angle to complete your task quickly and accurately.
It features a powerful 15-amp motor that spins a 7 ¼-inch carbide-tipped blade at up to 5,300 RPM. Despite this impressive power, it is still relatively light, so you should be able to use it for large projects without your arm getting too tired.
Thanks to a 6-foot power cord, you will still have some freedom to move around while using this saw. The saw’s laser guide will help you make accurate cuts.
What We Like
Powerful Motor
Skil saws provide excellent cutting power and this model doesn’t disappoint. Its 15-amp motor delivers 5,300 RPM, which will help you cut quickly and precisely.
Large Blade
This circular saw has a 7 ¼-inch carbide-tipped blade, which is excellent for cutting both wood and steel. The size of the blade provides enough depth adjustment to cut through a wide range of material sizes.
Additional Features
This saw is equipped with a few smart features to make your cutting tasks easier and more accurate. A built-in blower keeps sawdust away from your cutting line so it won’t obstruct your view.
It also has a single-beam laser guide that will help you move the saw where it needs to go. An anti-snag lower guard helps prevent snags when making narrow cut-offs.
What We Don't Like
Laser Alignment
Although the laser guide can be very helpful, it might not be aligned when you receive your saw. This can lead to uneven cuts. However, you can manually adjust the laser, so you might just need to spend some time aligning it.
Product Specs
| Motor Power | 15 amps |
| RPM | 5,300 |
| Maximum Cutting Depth | 2 ⅜ inches |
| Blade Size | 7 ¼ inches |
| Weight | 8.7 pounds |
Our Ratings
Worx Worxsaw Compact Circular Saw
Best Compact Circular Saw for Construction
If you want a compact saw that is easy to transport from place to place and won’t place a strain on your arm, this Worx Worxsaw is a great option. Although it is small, its blade still spins at 3,500 RPM, so you will have plenty of cutting power.
It is powerful enough to cut material that is up to two inches thick with a single pass. You can use the saw vertically, but it also works horizontally. This means it is not only small and convenient, but it is also versatile.
What We Like
Small But Powerful
Choosing a compact tool often means sacrificing power but the 4.5-inch blade of this Worxsaw still spins at up to 3,500 RPM. The blade is thinner than average, which reduces the stress on the saw and should increase its lifespan.
Adjustable Bevel
This saw allows you to cut at an angle thanks to its bevel which is adjustable from 0 to 45 degrees. Its lever enables you to easily make quick adjustments.
Cuts Four Material Types
This tool is designed primarily to cut wood but it is surprisingly versatile. It is also suitable for cutting some metals, plastics, and tiles. It can cut 2x4s in a single stroke, so it will be very helpful for carpenters and other woodworkers.
What We Don't Like
Slow and Steady
If you want to make cuts quickly or work professionally, this saw probably won’t be suitable for your needs. You will need to be slow and steady while cutting or the blade could get stuck or splinter the material.
Lacking Safety Features
This saw doesn’t meet the safety standards we expect from a circular saw. While it does have a safety trigger, it is on the handle next to the release trigger, so it is too easy to accidentally confuse the two.
Product Specs
| Motor Power | 4 amps |
| RPM | 3,500 |
| Maximum Cutting Depth | 2 inches |
| Blade Size | 4 ½ inches |
| Weight | 5.6 pounds |
Our Ratings
Genesis GCS445SE 4-½ Inches Compact Circular Saw
Best Budget Circular Saw
This Genesis saw is an excellent budget-friendly solution for small DIY projects. Weighing under 6 pounds, it is small and lightweight but still effective. It is equipped with a 4 ½-inch 24T blade that makes it ideal for cutting wood, drywall, or even thin aluminum.
The ergonomic handle is designed to be comfortable to hold and provide a strong grip when operating it with one hand. The saw can also be used to cut at a 45-degree angle, so it is suitable for cutting frames and other pieces that fit together.
What We Like
Lightweight
At just 5.99 pounds, this saw is easy to carry and work with for hours at a time. The barrel grip allows for one-handed operation by providing a secure grip. As you won’t need to hold it as hard, you are less likely to suffer cramps while using it.
Powerful Motor
Despite being a budget-friendly choice, this model doesn’t compromise on power. It has a 4-amp motor that spins its blade at up to 3,500 RPM. This blade speed means you can use it to make smooth cuts.
Safety
To make the saw safer, it has a spindle lock that will allow you to replace the blade quickly.
What We Don't Like
Best for Small Jobs
Although this saw cuts effectively, you will need to be careful not to overuse it. It will be better suited for smaller jobs as it doesn’t have the torque of larger, more powerful saws.
Product Specs
| Motor Power | 4 amps |
| RPM | 3,500 |
| Maximum Cutting Depth | Not specified |
| Blade Size | 4 ¼ inches |
| Weight | 5.99 pounds |
Our Ratings
Skilsaw 15-Amp Worm Drive Saw
Best Circular Saw for Concrete
This Skilsaw was designed specifically for cutting tough materials such as concrete, stone, granite, and asphalt. As a worm drive saw, it has more cutting power than most of its competitors.
The 15-amp dual-field motor runs coolly and helps extend the saw’s lifespan. It features multiple guides and gliders to help you quickly cut clean lines.
It is also equipped with features that keep your cutting line clear by removing dust, with a vacuum port. A water attachment has a valve that allows you to release water onto the cutting line to prevent overheating while cutting the toughest materials.
What We Like
Wet and Dry
When cutting hard materials such as concrete or stone, blades will overheat quickly without taking precautions. Fine dust will also be released into the air. To prevent that, this saw has a water valve that can be controlled while cutting. You simply need to connect a standard hose to the water feed attachment.
Water and power tools don’t mix, but you won’t need to worry about electrocution thanks to the GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter) built into the cord. This ensures water and electricity are kept apart at all times.
Dust Management System
This saw is fitted with an integrated dust management system to keep your cutting line clear. It has a dual-size vacuum connector where you can attach your standard job-site vacuum.
Precise Cuts
Skilsaw’s worm drive powertrain is held in high regard and will help you stay on track while cutting. The saw is also fitted with an adjustable plunge lock and a retractable front pointer that guides you but retracts to fit into small spaces.
What We Don't Like
Shallow Cuts
Despite being very effective, this saw will only cut to a depth of 2 inches. This will be a problem if you need to cut thick pieces of material.
Product Specs
| Motor Power | 15 amps |
| RPM | Not specified |
| Maximum Cutting Depth | 2 inches |
| Blade Size | 7 inches |
| Weight | 16.9 pounds |
Our Ratings
Black+Decker 5½-Inch Cordless Circular Saw
Best Cordless Circular Saw
The Black+Decker V20 is a lightweight, compact cordless circular saw. It is powered by a 20V lithium-ion battery and includes a charger to ensure you can keep it charged. Its 5½-inch blade is easy to adjust to cut different angles and depths.
The high-torque motor allows you to make smooth, quick cuts into a variety of different materials. It is best suited to smaller projects due to its limited battery life, but it is excellent for DIYers looking to make some home improvements.
The circular saw is covered by a two-year warranty, which is more than most power tool brands offer with their products.
What We Like
High-Torque Motor
The high-torque motor provides enough power to cut through most types of wood. This will also help you make smoother cuts, so it is an excellent saw for beginners and experienced users alike.
Easy to Use
Whatever project you are working on, this Black+Decker circular saw will probably come in handy. It is simple to use and doesn’t have any complicated settings. Its bevel adjustment also makes it easy to cut angles at 45 or 90 degrees, so it is suitable for cutting frames.
Compact
Size is particularly important when choosing a cordless saw as the battery could be quite large. This saw’s compact design makes it an ideal choice for working in tight areas where a cord can’t follow. It is also very easy to transport and store.
Strong Battery
This circular saw is fitted with a 20V lithium-ion battery, which provides enough power to cut most wood effectively. One helpful aspect of Black+Decker power tools is that they now use a universal battery system.
The universal system means you can swap your batteries from one tool to another. If you own multiple Black+Decker tools, you might have multiple batteries charged at any time.
What We Don't Like
Only Suitable for Small Jobs
Despite being a high-quality saw, the relatively short battery life means this model is unsuitable for large-scale jobs unless you have a couple of extra batteries.
Product Specs
| Motor Power | Not specified |
| RPM | Not specified |
| Maximum Cutting Depth | Not specified |
| Blade Size | 5½ inches |
| Weight | 7.55 pounds |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Motor Power | RPM | Maximum Cutting Depth | Blade Size | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt 7-¼-Inch Circular Saw | Woodworking | 15 amps | 5,200 | 2.55″ | 7 ¼” | 8.8 lbs |
| Makita 7-¼-Inch Magnesium Saw | Beginners | 15 amps | 5,800 | 2 ½” | 7 ¼” | 10.6 lbs |
| Skil 7-¼-Inch Circular Saw | Corded Saw | 15 amps | 5,300 | 2 ⅜” | 7 ¼” | 8.7 lbs |
| Worx Worxsaw Compact | Compact Saw | 4 amps | 3,500 | 2″ | 4 ½” | 5.6 lbs |
| Genesis 4-½” Compact Circular Saw | Budget Saw | 4 amps | 3,500 | N/A | 4 ¼” | 5.99 lbs |
| Skilsaw 15-Amp Worm Drive Saw | Concrete | 15 amps | N/A | 2″ | 7″ | 16.9 lbs |
| Black+Decker 5½-Inch Circular Saw | Cordless Saw | N/A | N/A | N/A | 5½” | 7.55 lbs |
What Is a Circular Saw?
A circular saw has an electrically-powered disk-shaped blade and is designed to cut wood, plastic, metal, or concrete, depending on the specific blade. Most saws also allow you to adjust the cutting depth so they are suitable for different tasks.
These saws are operated very similarly to other electrical handheld saws — they have easy-grip handles with the on/off trigger nearby. They also have an arbor nut that holds the blade in place and a guard that protects you while you operate the saw.
What Is a Circular Saw Used For?
Circular saws are usually used to cut large pieces of wood for home improvement projects such as cutting planks for fences or decking. However, they also have various other applications, thanks to the variety of circular saw blades that are available. With the right blade, you can cut concrete, tiles, bricks, or asphalt.
Handheld circular saws are small and portable, so they are ideal for working on construction sites. In the hands of an experienced user, they can cut curves as well as straight lines, so they are more versatile than they might seem.
Cordless vs. Corded Circular Saws
When choosing power tools, particularly handheld ones, you will need to consider whether to choose a cordless or corded model. This will be influenced by whether cutting power or freedom of movement is your priority, as well as whether or not you have easy access to an electrical outlet.
There is no universal answer to the question of which type is better as it depends on your personal requirements. To help you answer that question for yourself, let’s look at a comparison of corded and cordless circular saws.
Mobility
The main advantage of cordless circular saws is that they can be used anywhere, without needing to stay close to a power outlet. This is particularly helpful on renovation or building projects when you don’t have access to electricity yet.
In contrast, corded saws will need to be used near an electrical outlet, or within the length of your extension cable. This might mean having to make the required cuts in your workshop rather than on-site.
If you usually only work on projects in your workshop, you won’t need to worry about mobility as much. In this case, a corded saw is probably the best way to go.
Maximum Power
A corded circular saw can operate indefinitely, as long as it is plugged in. You won’t need to worry about the battery running out or the saw slowing down as it drains.
In contrast, cordless saws are battery-powered. As you use the saw, the battery will steadily drain, becoming weaker and eventually stopping completely. You will need to wait for the battery to recharge before you can use it again. It will help to have multiple batteries but this will be expensive and you will still need to charge them.
Cordless saws are usually significantly heavier than corded saws due to the extra weight of their batteries. This can make them harder to use for a long time without your hand and arm getting tired.
Blade-Left vs. Blade-Right
Generally, placing the blade on the right or left side of the saw is to make the tool more suitable for right-handed or left-handed people. This probably makes it seem like an obvious choice when choosing your saw, but you might find that you are more comfortable using a blade on the opposite side.
Blade-Right
Right-handed circular saws are designed for you to hold the main handle with your right hand while your left hand holds the auxiliary handle. As the blade is on the right side, you won’t have to cross your arms while operating it. The base will sit over the piece you are cutting on the left side, while cut-offs will fall to the right.
Blade-Left
If you are right-handed and use a left-bladed saw, you will probably encounter some issues due to everything being the other way around.
One problem is that your left arm will need to cross over the right to grab the auxiliary handle. This means the blade is likely to be directly under your crossed arms, which is dangerous and you will have less control over the blade.
Still, if you feel comfortable using a left-bladed saw, there are some advantages. As the blade is on the left side, you will have a much clearer view of the line you are cutting. The majority of cordless saws are actually left-bladed, so it will be easy to find one.
Key Features to Look For
You will have plenty of options when choosing a circular saw, as they are among the most popular power tools on the market. This might seem daunting, but there are a few things you can consider that will help you narrow your search.
Blade Size
With a full-sized saw, you will have a larger blade that provides a greater cutting depth. As a result, you will be able to cut through thicker pieces of material with very little effort.
However, not all projects require a 7-inch blade, so it is worth considering the sort of work you will use it for. If you will be cutting thick pieces for items such as fence posts, choose a large blade. On the other hand, if you are cutting thin sheets of material, a small blade will probably be more suitable.
Blade Material
Any material you cut with a circular saw will probably be relatively hard, so you need a blade that will cope. Blades are especially vulnerable to breaking when cutting through tougher materials, such as tiles or concrete.
Choose The Right Blade
Adjustability
For added versatility, the ability to adjust the blade’s height and cutting depth can provide much smoother results. When choosing a saw, try to find out how easy it is to adjust, which is often mentioned in user reviews.
Size and Weight
Circular saws are usually handheld and portable, so it is important to consider the weight when choosing one. If you are working on a large project or work as a carpenter, you might need to use your saw for several hours at a time, so a lighter model will reduce the strain on your hands and wrists.
Magnesium is often used in handheld power saws as it is both lightweight and durable. Any proper product listing will include a saw’s weight, so it will be easy to compare each model to its competitors.
User-Friendliness
Ergonomics are important when choosing a circular saw — it needs to feel well-balanced, to help you make smooth, accurate cuts. This means the weight should be centered in the middle of the saw to make it easier to handle.
You should also consider where the handle is located. Some saws have the handle at the top while others have it at the rear. It is up to you to decide which type you think you will be more comfortable with.
If you have already used circular saws, you should have a sense of what works for you. However, if you haven’t, consider visiting your local hardware store to hold a few different saws. This will give you a better sense of how they handle and which handle placement will suit you best.
How to Use a Circular Saw
If you are new to using circular saws, it won’t take long for you to get to grips with them. However, there are a few things you should know before you get started.
Stay Safe
Before picking up your saw, make sure you have the necessary protective gear:
- Goggles: Goggles will protect your eyes from any debris that is launched while sawing, but a good pair will also keep dust out of them.
- Ear guards: Handheld saws might not be as powerful as large table saws but cutting can still be very loud, especially when working on metal and other hard materials.
- Mask: You should always wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth, especially when cutting indoors. Dust from certain types of wood, such as MDF, has been linked to health issues including cancer (1).
- Gloves: Gloves aren’t mandatory but they will protect your hands from splinters or shards of the material you are cutting.
Keep In Mind
Mark the Material
Before cutting, mark your lines so you can cut them accurately without any guesswork. Use a tape measure or a ruler and a pencil to make your lines. Use the pencil to mark two lines leading to the main line, forming a V. This will help you stay on track and create an even more accurate cut.
The scrap side of the board can be marked with an X to indicate that you should cut on that side of the line. Cutting on the wrong side of the line can result in a ⅛-inch difference, which could be a major problem if your project requires precision.
Watch the Blade
Every circular saw is fitted with a guide that indicates where the blade will cut but these aren’t always accurately aligned.
As you are cutting, the guide might become covered in sawdust or the shoe might be bent, which will make it harder to see what you are doing. Try to watch the blade itself and the cutting line as you go. You can keep sawdust out of the way with a built-in blower or the old-fashioned way by blowing it on it with your mouth.
Secure the Board
Before cutting angles, make sure you clamp the material securely so you can have both hands on the saw. Keep your off-hand’s thumb on the guard’s retracting lever, and retract the guard if the saw seems to meet resistance.
Circular Saw Tips
Good Side Down
Circular saws tend to splinter the side that is facing up and leave the underside relatively smooth. If you need a clean cut, such as when you are cutting thin metals or veneered plywood, place the good side so it faces down. This will leave any splinters and rough edges out of sight.
Water Cooling
When cutting stone materials, use a diamond blade as they are stronger and less abrasive than standard blades. They were once quite expensive but have become more affordable in recent years.
To keep the blade cool, you can ask an assistant to slowly trickly water from a garden hose or bottle onto the cut. This will also trap dust and speed up the cut. Some high-end circular saws have built-in water cooling systems for this purpose.
Warning
Cut Pipes
Circular saws can be used to cut any type of pipe, except for cast iron. When cutting ABS, PVC, or copper pipes, use a fine-tooth carbide blade. Use a metal-cutting blade for steel pipes.
Circular Saw FAQs
What Is the Difference Between a Skill Saw and a Circular Saw?
Skill saws and circular saws are actually the same saw type; the terms are synonymous. They are both portable and can be used for the same projects.
Skill saws gained their name from the brand Skilsaw, which was a trailblazer and the leading handheld saw brand for decades. Skilsaw products are still among the best saws you can buy.
Can You Sharpen a Circular Saw Blade?
If you don’t want to buy replacements constantly, sharpening your saw blades will help you complete cutting tasks quickly and safely. A dull blade will make rough cuts as well as force the motor to work harder, which will increase the stress on it and shorten its lifespan.
How to sharpen blades depends on the specific blade type. Certain blades, such as carbide-tipped ones, need to be taken or sent to a professional sharpener. Standard steel-toothed saws can be filed at home (3).
There are three types of blade sharpeners that can be used at home:
- Hand file
- Crank sharpener
- Automatic sharpener
How Many Amps Does a Circular Saw Need?
Most modern circular saws require 15 amps of electricity to function. However, compact saws might require fewer, and more powerful ones might need a stronger supply. Every model is different, so you should check the product description before you buy.
How Deep Can You Cut With a Circular Saw?
How deep you can cut with a circular saw depends on the size of the blade. The most common blade size is 7 ¼ inches, which can cut to a depth of about 2 ½ inches.
How to Cut a 45-Degree Angle With a Circular Saw
With the right tool, cutting a 45-degree angle using a circular saw is relatively straightforward. All you need to do is set the saw to the correct bevel — in this case, 45 degrees. Draw your line and make your cut — ensure the blade is parallel to the line you are cutting from the start.
Can I Use My Circular Saw to Cut Metal, Stone, or Laminate?
You can use your circular saw to cut metal, stone, or laminate, as long as it is powerful enough and you have an appropriate blade. The more torque your saw has, the tougher the material it will be able to cut.
When cutting laminate flooring, keep the smooth side down. This will ensure that any rough edges or splinters are facing down and your floor will be much smoother as a result (4).
