Finding the best circular saw can truly transform your woodworking and DIY projects. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a weekend warrior, a reliable circular saw is a foundational tool for making precise, quick cuts through various materials. With so many options on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, testing and evaluating the top contenders to help you find the perfect saw to meet your needs and budget. Get ready to make those demanding cuts with confidence!
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Circular Saw Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw with Single Beam Laser Guide
The SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw is a powerhouse designed for both precision and robust performance. Its strong motor and helpful laser guide make it an excellent choice for a wide range of cutting tasks. You’ll appreciate the durability and consistent results this saw provides, making it a valuable addition to any workshop.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful 15-amp motor delivers 5,300 RPM for faster, more efficient cuts.
- ✓ Single Beam Laser Guide ensures accurate, straight cuts every time.
- ✓ 51° bevel capacity with a positive stop at 45° for versatile angled cuts.
- ✓ Spindle lock allows for quick and easy blade changes.
- ✓ Includes a durable 7-1/4-inch carbide-tipped blade to get you started.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this Skil circular saw for its exceptional balance of power, precision, and user-friendly features. The laser guide is a game-changer for maintaining accuracy, and the robust motor handles tough materials with ease. It’s built to last and provides great value for its performance.
Best For
This saw is ideal for DIY enthusiasts, home renovators, and even light-duty professional use who need a reliable and accurate corded circular saw for various cutting applications.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- ✓ High-speed motor makes quick work of demanding cuts.
- ✓ Laser guide significantly improves cutting accuracy.
- ✓ Wide bevel capacity adds versatility to projects.
- ✓ Durable construction ensures long-term reliability.
Cons:
- ✓ Can be a bit heavy for extended overhead use.
- ✓ Corded design limits portability without an extension.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Upgraded from an alternative brand’s battery powered saw. The Skil Saw is always consistent with power output and cut accuracy. Highly recommend for beginner to advanced projects.While saw has some weight to it, it’s easy to maneuver and handle, and gives confidence in each cut. Solid quality feel t
Customer Review: This is such a great saw. Very inexpensive, and does a good job at getting things done.
2. DEWALT 20V Cordless Circular Saw, Portable Sidewinder Style with 6-1/2-Inch Blade and 50-Degree Bevel
The DEWALT 20V Cordless Circular Saw is a fantastic option for those who prioritize mobility and convenience without sacrificing power. Its portable design makes it incredibly versatile for job sites or projects away from power outlets. You’ll find it handles tough cuts with surprising ease, thanks to its efficient motor and ergonomic grip.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 5150 RPM motor delivers impressive power and speed for demanding cuts.
- ✓ High-strength, lightweight magnesium shoe ensures long-term accuracy and durability.
- ✓ Optimized rubber overmolded comfort grip provides excellent balance and control.
- ✓ 6-1/2-inch blade is versatile for common cutting applications.
- ✓ 50-degree bevel capacity allows for angled cuts.
Why We Recommend It
As our editor’s choice, this Dewalt circular saw stands out for its superior cordless performance and robust build. The freedom of movement it offers is invaluable, and it doesn’t compromise on the power needed for challenging tasks. It’s a reliable tool that makes both small and large projects more manageable.
Best For
This cordless circular saw is perfect for contractors, framers, and serious DIYers who need portability and power for working on various job sites or projects where power outlets are not readily available.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- ✓ Excellent portability and maneuverability thanks to its cordless design.
- ✓ Powerful motor handles tough materials efficiently.
- ✓ Lightweight magnesium shoe adds durability without extra bulk.
- ✓ Comfortable grip reduces fatigue during prolonged use.
Cons:
- ✓ Battery and charger sold separately (in many configurations), adding to initial cost.
- ✓ Battery life can be a limiting factor for very long projects.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I really like this saw and rechargeable system. Is it possible to love a saw? I have several tools that use the 20-volt batteries, including the 20-volt rotary hammer and 3 different chargers, as well as the 12-volt vehicle charger so I can recharge the compatible hand-held flashlight and flood li
Customer Review: Bought for my bro he love it great lasting heavy duty everything about it he loves
3. DEWALT Corded Circular Saw, 7-1/4 Inch, with Pivoting Base and 57-Degree Bevel
For those mindful of their budget but unwilling to compromise on quality, the DEWALT Corded Circular Saw is an outstanding choice. This 7-1/4 inch saw combines a powerful 15-amp motor with a remarkably lightweight design, making it perfect for tough jobs without causing excessive fatigue. Its pivoting base and generous bevel capacity add to its versatility.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Among the lightest saws in its class at just 8.8 lbs, reducing user fatigue.
- ✓ Electric brake stops the blade quickly after the trigger is released for safety.
- ✓ Powerful 15-amp motor handles the toughest applications with ease.
- ✓ Pivoting base and 57-degree bevel capacity allow for a wide range of cuts.
- ✓ Durable construction ensures reliability for daily use.
Why We Recommend It
This DeWalt circular saw is our top pick for budget-conscious buyers because it delivers premium performance without the premium price tag. Its lightweight design and electric brake are features often found in more expensive models, making it a truly exceptional value. You get the power and durability you expect from DeWalt at an accessible price.
Best For
This corded circular saw is ideal for budget-conscious homeowners, apprentices, or anyone needing a reliable, powerful saw for general construction, framing, or renovation tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- ✓ Excellent power-to-weight ratio makes it easy to handle.
- ✓ Electric brake enhances safety by stopping the blade quickly.
- ✓ Wide bevel range (57 degrees) increases cutting flexibility.
- ✓ Outstanding value for money with professional-grade features.
Cons:
- ✓ Cord limits mobility compared to cordless models.
- ✓ Blade changes, while possible, could be smoother.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Super great product. If you do any construction type work then you need to buy this immediately if not sooner. Gets my wood cut up fast. Has the power and functionality to get to cutting quick! Just open the box, plug it in and you’re gonna have full cutting capabilities quick. Fully recommend this
Customer Review: It has been at least 50 years since I bought a circular saw. I make furniture, so I do not use a circular saw often. My 50 year old Craftsman is still going strong, but I needed a saw to dedicate to a track system and the manufacturer recommended the Makita and the Dewalt. I chose the Dewalt beca
4. Skil 13-Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw, ideal for a variety of demanding cutting tasks
The Skil 13-Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw is a versatile and user-friendly tool, perfect for a wide variety of demanding cutting tasks around the home or workshop. It’s an upgrade from previous models, offering more power and a lighter design that reduces user fatigue. This saw is truly a reliable partner for many projects.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Enhanced 13-amp motor provides more power and performance.
- ✓ 15% weight reduction compared to older models for easier handling.
- ✓ 51-degree bevel capacity with positive stops for accurate angled cuts.
- ✓ Ergonomic design for comfortable use over longer periods.
- ✓ Built for durability, offering consistent performance.
Why We Recommend It
This Skil circular saw is an excellent recommendation for its improved power and lighter weight, making it easier to manage during projects. It offers a great balance of features for its price point, proving to be a highly dependable tool for general cutting needs.
Best For
This circular saw is best for homeowners, hobbyists, and light-duty professionals who need a dependable, easy-to-handle tool for framing, decking, and various cross-cutting tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- ✓ Improved motor delivers efficient cutting power.
- ✓ Lighter weight reduces strain and fatigue during use.
- ✓ Good bevel capacity for versatile cutting angles.
- ✓ User-friendly adjustments for depth and angle.
Cons:
- ✓ Still a corded model, requiring a power outlet.
- ✓ Included blade may need an upgrade for finer cuts.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Love you his saw. Light weight and well made. Easy to use and adjustable for a variety of cuts. It’s a good value for the money and useful around the house. Heavy construction use, probably not. But for at home applications, worth the money. My experience circulating saw broke and I saw th oh a one
Customer Review: This is my first circular saw, and I have to say, the experience has been a pleasant one. Everything from adjusting the cutting depth and angles to installing the blade was straightforward and easy to understand. The saw powers up quickly, and the cutting action is smooth and efficient.For the first
5. SKILSAW 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Lightweight Worm Drive Circular Saw, built for heavy-duty tasks
The SKILSAW 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Lightweight Worm Drive Circular Saw is engineered for those who demand maximum power and durability for heavy-duty tasks. The worm drive motor provides exceptional torque, making it a favorite among professionals. Despite its robust capabilities, the lightweight magnesium construction ensures it won’t weigh you down.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Legendary worm drive gearing provides superior torque and cutting power.
- ✓ Lightweight magnesium construction reduces user fatigue.
- ✓ Cut-ready depth of cut system for quick and accurate depth adjustments.
- ✓ 53° bevel capacity allows for a wider variety of specialized cuts.
- ✓ Durable construction built to withstand rigorous job site conditions.
Why We Recommend It
If you’re tackling serious construction or demanding woodworking, this Skilsaw worm drive circular saw is the tool you need. Its powerful worm drive system makes effortless cuts through thick materials, while the lightweight design keeps you productive. It’s a professional-grade saw that delivers consistent, high-performance results.
Best For
This worm drive circular saw is best for professional contractors, framers, and serious woodworkers who require maximum power, torque, and durability for cutting dimensional lumber, engineered wood, and other heavy-duty materials.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- ✓ Unmatched torque and power from the worm drive motor.
- ✓ Lightweight design for a worm drive saw, reducing arm strain.
- ✓ Excellent for repetitive, deep, and heavy-duty cuts.
- ✓ Built to last in tough working environments.
Cons:
- ✓ Typically heavier and larger than sidewinder saws.
- ✓ Can be more expensive than standard circular saws.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I have been doing some DIY home improvement projects. I watched a lot of videos by professional contractors and DIYers and learned about a lot of techniques and tools. In terms of carpenter work, a good circular saw is essential for efficiency. I use hand saws for small projects, but circular saw sa
Customer Review: As a full time builder in the northeast for the last 16 years, Iv only used sidewinder saws since I started. That is all I have ever seen around here. But after doing a lot of online research and hearing all the west coast guys taking about the mag 77 I just wanted to try one out. I liked the idea
Complete Buying Guide for Circular Saws
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for the best circular saw, several key factors come into play. We look at motor power (measured in amps for corded saws or voltage for cordless), as this dictates how easily the saw cuts through different materials. Blade size and type are also crucial; a 7-1/4 inch blade is standard and versatile, but other sizes exist. Consider the bevel capacity, which determines the range of angled cuts you can make. Safety features like electric brakes and blade guards are paramount. Finally, ergonomics and weight influence comfort and control during extended use, especially for a portable circular saw.
Budget Planning
Your budget plays a significant role in your choice of circular saw. Entry-level models can be quite affordable, often around $50-$100, and are great for occasional DIY tasks. Mid-range saws, typically $100-$200, offer better power, features like laser guides, and improved durability for more frequent use. Professional-grade saws, especially worm drive circular saws or high-end cordless options, can exceed $200-$300, providing superior power, precision, and longevity for demanding job site conditions. Remember to factor in the cost of extra blades and, for cordless models, batteries and chargers.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best circular saw for you depends on your specific projects and preferences. Corded saws offer consistent power for heavy-duty tasks, while cordless saws provide unmatched portability. Sidewinder saws are generally lighter and more common, while worm drive saws deliver incredible torque for tough materials. By considering power, blade size, ergonomics, and your budget, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and find a circular saw that becomes a trusted workhorse in your toolkit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a sidewinder and a worm drive circular saw?
A: A sidewinder (or direct drive) circular saw has the motor mounted parallel to the blade, making it lighter and more compact. A worm drive saw has the motor mounted perpendicular to the blade, using gears to deliver more torque, which is ideal for heavy-duty cutting, though they tend to be heavier and longer.
Q: What blade size is best for a general-purpose circular saw?
A: For most general-purpose tasks and DIY projects, a 7-1/4 inch blade is the most common and versatile choice. It offers a good balance of cutting depth and availability of various blade types for different materials.
Q: Are cordless circular saws as powerful as corded ones?
A: Modern cordless circular saws have significantly improved in power, with high-voltage batteries (e.g., 20V, 40V, 60V) allowing them to handle many tasks traditionally reserved for corded models. However, for continuous, heavy-duty cutting through very thick or dense materials, a corded saw still generally offers more consistent, sustained power without battery limitations.
Q: What safety precautions should I take when using a circular saw?
A: Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Ensure the blade guard is functioning correctly. Keep your hands clear of the blade path and maintain a firm grip on the saw. Use a stable work surface and secure your material. Never force the saw, and allow the blade to reach full speed before starting a cut.
Q: Can I cut metal with a circular saw?
A: Yes, with the right blade. You’ll need a specialized metal-cutting blade (carbide-tipped for ferrous metals or abrasive for softer metals) designed for your circular saw. Standard wood-cutting blades are not suitable and can be dangerous or damage the saw.
Choosing the best circular saw is a significant step towards enhancing your project capabilities and enjoying your work more. We hope this detailed roundup of top-rated circular saw reviews, coupled with our comprehensive buying guide, has provided you with the insights you need. Remember, the right tool makes all the difference, so invest wisely in a saw that meets your specific demands. Ready to make some precise cuts? Click on any of our “Check Price on Amazon” buttons to find the perfect circular saw for your toolkit today!
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
