Choosing the best Milwaukee circular saw can make all the difference in your woodworking or construction projects. Milwaukee is a brand renowned for its robust and reliable power tools, and their circular saws are no exception. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a dedicated DIY enthusiast, finding a saw that offers the right balance of power, portability, and precision is key. This roundup dives into some of the top Milwaukee circular saws available, helping you cut through the noise and find your perfect match for effortless, accurate cuts every time.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Milwaukee Circular Saw Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Milwaukee M18 2630-20 Cordless 6-1/2 Inch Circular Saw: Lithium-Ion Power for Cutting
The Milwaukee M18 2630-20 Cordless 6-1/2 Inch Circular Saw is a powerhouse designed for both precision and durability. It truly embodies the quality Milwaukee is known for, offering a reliable cutting solution that’s perfect for a wide array of projects. Its cordless design frees you from outlets, making it incredibly versatile on any job site.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful 3,500 RPM motor for swift and effortless cuts.
- ✓ Magnesium upper and lower guards enhance durability and blade protection.
- ✓ Ergonomic soft-grip handle provides superior comfort and control.
- ✓ Cordless M18 REDLITHIUM battery system offers excellent portability and runtime.
Why We Recommend It
This Milwaukee circular saw stands out for its balanced blend of power and user-friendliness. The high RPM ensures it can tackle tough materials like LVL headers with ease, while its robust construction means it can withstand the rigors of daily use. It’s a fantastic option for anyone needing a reliable, mobile cutting tool.
Best For
This saw is ideal for carpenters, remodelers, and serious DIYers who need a durable, powerful, and highly portable saw for framing, decking, and general construction tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent power and speed for demanding cuts.
- Lightweight and maneuverable due to its cordless design.
- Durable construction with magnesium guards for longevity.
- Comfortable ergonomic grip reduces fatigue during extended use.
Cons:
- Battery and charger typically sold separately, increasing initial cost.
- 6-1/2 inch blade might be slightly small for certain deep cuts.
- Can drain batteries quickly during heavy use, requiring spares.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The Milwaukee M18 Circular Saw is an impressive tool! It’s lightweight, powerful, and delivers smooth, precise cuts with ease. The cordless design gives great flexibility and mobility, making it perfect for both professional and DIY projects. The build quality is top-notch, and it’s durable enough t” – Verified Purchaser
Customer Review: “Absolutely great so far!!! Milwaukee power tools and batteries never disappoint!!! Their prices could be a little lower but, then their quality and dependability would probably tank!!? But thanks, love my new circular saw!!” – Anonymous User
2. Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2732-20 Cordless 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw: 18V 15 Amp Power
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2732-20 Cordless 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw brings the power of a corded saw into a convenient cordless package. This tool is built for serious work, offering an impressive blend of cutting capacity and precision, making it a favorite among those who demand high performance and reliability on the job site.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful 18V motor delivers performance comparable to 15 amp corded saws.
- ✓ Integrated rafter hook provides convenient storage and accessibility.
- ✓ Bright LED light enhances visibility for more accurate cuts.
- ✓ Accepts full-size 7-1/4 inch blades for versatile cutting depths.
Why We Recommend It
We’ve chosen this as an Editor’s Choice because it truly closes the gap between corded and cordless performance. The 7-1/4 inch blade capacity makes it versatile for a wider range of materials, while features like the rafter hook and LED light significantly improve the user experience. It’s a fantastic upgrade for anyone looking for serious cutting power without the tether.
Best For
This Milwaukee circular saw is perfectly suited for professional framers, roofers, and general contractors who need a powerful, full-sized cordless saw for heavy-duty applications.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Corded power in a cordless form factor for maximum portability.
- Larger 7-1/4 inch blade capacity handles thicker materials.
- Useful features like LED light and rafter hook improve functionality.
- Known for excellent battery life with appropriate M18 REDLITHIUM batteries.
Cons:
- Can be heavier than smaller 6-1/2 inch cordless models.
- Higher price point, especially if buying battery and charger separately.
- Some users report receiving non-original packaging, though contents are new.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great value for the money! Pretty lightweight and decent battery life! Seems to be durable as we have been using it a lot lately! Very easy to use and has been helping us build our chicken coop! Great little saw!” – Verified Purchaser
Customer Review: “Really good and the best thing is the blade that comes with it.” – Anonymous User
3. Best Milwaukee M18 Fuel 6-1/2 Inch Cordless Circular Saw for Jobsite Performance
For those looking for robust jobsite performance without breaking the bank, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 6-1/2 Inch Cordless Circular Saw (Model 2833-20) is an excellent choice. This saw combines the efficiency of a brushless motor with the convenience of Milwaukee’s M18 battery system, delivering reliable power for various cutting tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ M18 FUEL Brushless Motor offers extended motor life and power.
- ✓ Lightweight design ensures comfortable handling during prolonged use.
- ✓ Cordless freedom for increased mobility around the jobsite.
- ✓ Durable construction synonymous with Milwaukee tools.
Why We Recommend It
This Milwaukee circular saw is our top pick for budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on quality. It’s incredibly convenient to use without a cord and impressively lightweight, making it less fatiguing for long cutting sessions. If you’re already invested in the Milwaukee M18 battery platform, this tool body is a smart, economical addition to your arsenal.
Best For
This saw is ideal for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and tradespeople who require a reliable and portable circular saw for general cutting tasks, especially those already using Milwaukee M18 batteries.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money for a FUEL series tool.
- Very light and easy to maneuver, reducing user fatigue.
- Cordless convenience greatly enhances workflow and accessibility.
- Brushless motor provides efficient power and longer tool life.
Cons:
- Sawdust can blow towards the user, especially for right-handed operators.
- Batteries and charger are sold separately, adding to the initial cost.
- 6-1/2 inch blade limits maximum cutting depth compared to 7-1/4 inch models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Once I invested in milwaukee batteries I should have bought this long ago. So much more convenient to not have a cord. Very easy to use and I cant believe how light it is. Only thing is I usually saw with my right hand and this blows sawdust right onto me. I don’t really care much though because I’m” – Verified Purchaser
Customer Review: “Very easy to use and I cant believe how light it is. For its size, it feels incredibly sturdy and capable. Perfect for quick cuts around the yard or on a smaller project.” – John D.
4. Milwaukee M18 Fuel 7-1/4 Inch Cordless Circular Saw: Powerful Cutting for Any Project
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 7-1/4 Inch Cordless Circular Saw is engineered for powerful cutting, rivaling corded models with its advanced POWERSTATE Brushless Motor. This saw is a go-to for professionals tackling demanding projects that require high performance and the flexibility of cordless operation, offering unparalleled productivity on any jobsite.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ POWERSTATE Brushless Motor delivers robust power for demanding tasks.
- ✓ REDLINK PLUS Intelligence ensures optimized performance and overload protection.
- ✓ Generous 7-1/4 inch blade capacity for deeper, more versatile cuts.
- ✓ Impressive cut speed designed for increased productivity.
Why We Recommend It
If you’re looking for a Milwaukee circular saw that doesn’t compromise on power or efficiency, this 7-1/4 inch FUEL model is a fantastic choice. The combination of the POWERSTATE motor and REDLINK PLUS intelligence means you get consistent, powerful performance, even on tough materials. It’s designed to keep up with the fast pace of professional construction.
Best For
This saw is best for professional contractors, framers, and builders who frequently work with thicker materials and require a powerful, cordless alternative to traditional corded saws for maximum efficiency and mobility.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional power output comparable to corded circular saws.
- Advanced electronics protect the tool and battery from overload.
- Large blade allows for deep and versatile cutting applications.
- Designed for speed, increasing overall jobsite productivity.
Cons:
- Can be quite loud during operation, requiring hearing protection.
- May generate significant debris/sawdust depending on the material.
- Tool-only purchase requires separate investment in batteries and charger.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Will tear your face and arms up while cutting thin steel” – Anonymous User (Note: This review highlights the power but also the importance of proper safety gear.)
Customer Review: “Love the saw!! Is quieter than my corded saw.Read more” – Verified Purchaser
5. Best Milwaukee 2630-20 18V 6-1/2 Inch Circular Saw Kit with REDLITHIUM Battery
The Milwaukee 2630-20 18V 6-1/2 Inch Circular Saw Kit with REDLITHIUM Battery aims to offer a complete package for users. While the product description implies a kit, it’s essential to note a significant discrepancy reported by customers. However, when considering the saw itself, it’s built to Milwaukee’s standards for robust performance and durability, ideal for various cutting tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful 18V motor provides ample cutting performance.
- ✓ Durable construction ensures longevity and reliability.
- ✓ Compact 6-1/2 inch blade size offers good maneuverability.
- ✓ Ergonomic design for comfortable handling during use.
Why We Recommend It
Based on the saw’s performance alone, this is a solid choice for general cutting tasks. It delivers good power and maintains the durable build quality expected from Milwaukee. If you can acquire this saw as a bundle or already have compatible batteries, it’s a dependable tool for everyday DIY or light professional use, offering consistent cuts and solid performance.
Best For
This Milwaukee circular saw is suitable for homeowners and casual users who need a reliable cordless saw for various renovation projects, fence repairs, or small construction tasks, provided they clarify the kit contents before purchase.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good power for a cordless 6-1/2 inch saw.
- Part of the extensive Milwaukee M18 battery platform.
- Reliable and durable for everyday use.
- Relatively compact and easy to handle.
Cons:
- Significant customer reports of misleading advertising regarding battery/charger inclusion.
- High price for the saw only if the kit components are not included.
- Not the FUEL series, meaning less advanced motor technology than other options.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Works well- good power. Battery/charger good addition to Milwaukee set of tools.” – Verified Purchaser
Customer Review: “This saw is falsely advertised. It shows it comes with a battery and charger, which is incorrect. This purchase is the saw ONLY. it’s very expensive for saw only. I spoke to the seller and they confirmed to me it’s only the saw. Amazon needs to correct this listing.” – Verified Purchaser
Complete Buying Guide for Best Milwaukee Circular Saw
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for the best Milwaukee circular saw, there are a few critical factors to keep in mind. First, consider the power source: Milwaukee offers both corded and, more popularly, cordless M18 and M12 FUEL systems. Cordless saws provide unparalleled portability and convenience, perfect for job sites without immediate power access, but require good battery management. Next, the blade size is crucial. A 6-1/2 inch saw is great for lighter tasks, precise cuts, and maneuverability, while a 7-1/4 inch saw offers greater cutting depth and power for thicker materials like framing lumber. Also, look at the motor type: Milwaukee’s FUEL series features brushless motors, which offer longer runtime, more power, and extended tool life compared to brushed motors. Finally, consider ergonomics and safety features like soft-grip handles, electric brakes, and blade guards, as these significantly impact comfort and protection during operation.
Budget Planning
Setting a budget for your Milwaukee circular saw is an important step. Milwaukee tools, especially the FUEL line, are an investment in quality and durability. Prices can vary significantly based on whether you purchase the tool bare (without battery and charger) or as a kit. If you already own Milwaukee M18 or M12 tools, buying a bare tool can be a cost-effective option, as you can use your existing batteries. If not, factor in the cost of high-capacity REDLITHIUM batteries and a rapid charger, which can add a substantial amount to the total. While there might be cheaper alternatives, Milwaukee’s reputation for longevity often makes the initial higher cost a worthwhile long-term investment due to fewer replacements and consistent performance.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best Milwaukee circular saw for you depends on your specific needs and typical projects. For light-duty tasks and maximum portability, a 6-1/2 inch M18 or M12 saw could be ideal. For heavy-duty framing, demolition, or cutting thicker materials, a 7-1/4 inch M18 FUEL model will offer the power and capacity you need. Remember to prioritize safety features and consider the long-term benefits of a robust, high-performance tool. Investing in a Milwaukee means you’re getting a tool designed for serious work, built to last, and backed by a brand trusted by professionals worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between Milwaukee M18 and M18 FUEL circular saws?
A: The Milwaukee M18 series represents their standard 18V cordless tools. The M18 FUEL designation indicates tools equipped with a POWERSTATE Brushless Motor, REDLITHIUM Battery Pack, and REDLINK PLUS Intelligence. FUEL tools generally offer more power, longer runtime, and extended tool life compared to their non-FUEL counterparts, making them suitable for more demanding professional applications.
Q: Can I use any Milwaukee M18 battery with any M18 circular saw?
A: Yes, all Milwaukee M18 batteries are compatible with all Milwaukee M18 tools. However, using higher capacity REDLITHIUM XC or HD (High Output) batteries with a Milwaukee circular saw, especially a FUEL model, will provide longer runtime and more consistent power for heavy-duty cutting tasks.
Q: What blade size is best for a cordless circular saw?
A: The most common blade sizes for cordless circular saws are 6-1/2 inch and 7-1/4 inch. A 6-1/2 inch blade offers more compact size and lighter weight, ideal for precision cuts and general carpentry. A 7-1/4 inch blade, on the other hand, provides a deeper cutting capacity, making it better for cutting dimensional lumber (e.g., 2x4s, 2x6s) in a single pass, suitable for framing and larger construction projects.
Q: Do Milwaukee circular saws come with a blade?
A: Most Milwaukee circular saws, whether sold as a bare tool or in a kit, typically come with a standard blade included so you can start working right away. However, for specialized cuts or optimal performance, you might want to purchase additional blades designed for specific materials (e.g., wood, metal, composite).
Q: How can I extend the life of my Milwaukee circular saw battery?
A: To extend your Milwaukee REDLITHIUM battery life, always store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid completely draining the battery before recharging, as partial charges are generally fine. Don’t leave them on the charger indefinitely, and protect them from extreme temperatures. Using compatible Milwaukee chargers specifically designed for REDLITHIUM batteries also helps maintain their health and lifespan.
Choosing the ideal Milwaukee circular saw truly enhances your efficiency and precision on any project. We hope this detailed guide has clarified your options and helped you pinpoint the perfect saw to meet your needs. Each model brings Milwaukee’s commitment to quality and innovation to your hands, ensuring powerful performance and lasting durability. Don’t wait to upgrade your toolkit; click on the links above to compare prices and invest in the best Milwaukee circular saw for your next big job or DIY adventure 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.
