After researching and testing various circular saws, we have identified the top models that offer the best combination of performance, durability, and value. Our top pick for the best circular saw is the SKIL 5280-01 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw.
A circular saw is a versatile power tool that is a must-have for any DIY enthusiast or professional woodworker. It is used to make precise cuts in a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. c
Circular saws come in different types, including corded and cordless, and with different blade sizes. However, not all circular saws are created equal, and choosing the best one can be overwhelming.
When looking for the best circular saw, the most important factor to consider is the blade size. The blade size will determine the depth of cut, which is the maximum thickness of the material that the saw can cut through.
Other factors to consider include the power of the motor, the weight of the saw, the type of blade, and the safety features.
Whether you are a professional woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, our comprehensive guide will help you choose the best circular saw for your needs.
Best Circular Saws
When it comes to woodworking, a circular saw is a must-have tool for any DIY enthusiast or professional.
With its powerful motor and sharp blade, a circular saw can easily cut through various materials such as wood, metal, and plastic.
But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best circular saws on Amazon to help you find the perfect one for your needs.
1. SKIL 5280-01 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw
If you’re an experienced user looking for a powerful circular saw with advanced features, the SKIL 5280 7-1/4 inch circular saw is the saw for the job (find out the best 7 1/4 inch circular saw).
With a 15-amp motor, this saw has the power and performance you need to quickly cut lumber and sheet goods for a room addition, deck, and more.
The single-beam laser guides cuts with increased accuracy, while the integrated dust blower keeps the line of cut sawdust-free.
The 51-degree bevel, with a positive stop at 45 degrees, gives a variety of cut options, while blade changes are easier with a spindle lock and on-tool wrench.
Pros
- The powerful 15-amp motor delivers 5,300-RPM for greater speed and faster cuts.
- The 7-1/4-inch carbide-tipped blade included ensures precise cuts every time.
- The dust blower keeps the line of cut free of sawdust for improved visibility.
Cons
- The safety lock/guarded trigger and power-on indicator minimize accidental starts but may be inconvenient for some users.
- The saw is corded, so you need an electrical outlet nearby to use it.
- The saw is relatively heavy at 8.7 pounds, which may make it difficult to use for extended periods.
This circular saw is an excellent choice for experienced users who need a powerful saw with advanced features.
The single-beam laser guide and dust blower make it easy to achieve accurate cuts, while the 51-degree bevel capacity offers a wide variety of cut options.
The 15-amp motor delivers plenty of power for fast cuts, and the included carbide-tipped blade ensures precise results.
However, the safety lock/guarded trigger and power-on indicator may be inconvenient for some users, and the saw’s weight may make it difficult to use for extended periods.
Overall, the SKIL 5280 7-1/4 inch circular saw is a reliable and high-performing tool for a variety of cutting tasks.
2. Skil 5080-01 Circular Saw
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable circular saw, the Skil 5080-01 is a great choice (check out the best budget circular saw).
Pros
- The 13 Amp motor provides plenty of power for cutting through wood and other materials.
- The 15% weight reduction compared to previous models makes it easier to handle and reduces user fatigue.
- The 51-degree bevel with positive stops allows for great cut capacity and versatility.
Cons
- The saw is heavier than some other models, which may make it harder to control for some users.
- The power cord could be longer for those who need more mobility.
- Some users have reported that the dust blower could be improved to better clear the line of cut.
With its powerful motor and bevel capacity, the Skil 5080-01 is a solid choice for those in need of a circular saw. The weight reduction compared to previous models is a welcome feature, but some users may find it a bit heavy for extended use.
The saw is easy to use and provides smooth and precise cuts. However, the dust blower could be improved to better clear the line of cut.
Overall, the Skil 5080-01 is a reliable and affordable option for those looking for a circular saw.
3. BOSCH CS10 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw
If you’re in the market for a reliable and powerful circular saw, the BOSCH CS10 is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 15-amp motor provides fast and smooth cuts, making it perfect for a variety of projects.
- The adjustable bevel and depth levers allow for a variety of cut angles, making it a versatile tool.
- The high-strength composite footplate ensures safety and durability, making it a reliable tool for the long haul.
Cons
- At 10.2 pounds, it’s not the lightest circular saw on the market, which may be an issue for some users.
- Some users have reported that the saw can be a bit noisy, which may be a concern if you’re working in a noise-sensitive environment.
- The price point may be a bit steep for some users, but the quality and reliability of the BOSCH brand make it a worthwhile investment.
The BOSCH CS10 is a powerful and reliable circular saw that is perfect for a variety of different projects (also check out the best Bosch jigsaw).
With its 15-amp motor and adjustable bevel and depth levers, it provides fast and smooth cuts at a variety of different angles. The high-strength composite footplate ensures safety and durability, making it a tool that you can rely on for the long haul.
One potential downside of the BOSCH CS10 is its weight – at 10.2 pounds, it’s not the lightest circular saw on the market. However, the weight is a testament to the tool’s durability and strength.
Additionally, some users have reported that the saw can be a bit noisy, which may be a concern if you’re working in a noise-sensitive environment.
Overall, the BOSCH CS10 is a great investment for anyone in need of a reliable and powerful circular saw.
While the price point may be a bit steep for some users, the quality and reliability of the BOSCH brand make it a worthwhile investment.
4. SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw
If you’re looking for a lightweight and powerful worm drive circular saw, the SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 may be the right choice for you (here is the best worm drive circular saw).
Pros
- The magnesium construction makes it one of the lightest worm drive saws on the market, reducing user fatigue and increasing productivity.
- The cut-ready depth of cut system helps to make quick and accurate depth measurements, saving time and increasing precision.
- The 53° bevel allows users to complete a wider variety of cuts, making it a versatile tool for any job site.
Cons
- The saw’s price point may be a bit high for some users, especially those who don’t need the extra power and features.
- Some users may find the saw’s weight distribution to be a bit awkward, especially if they’re used to other types of circular saws.
- The saw’s blade may need to be replaced more frequently than other saws, depending on the type of wood being cut and the frequency of use.
Overall, the SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 is a great choice for users who need a lightweight and powerful worm drive circular saw. Its magnesium construction, cut-ready depth of cut system, and 53° bevel make it a versatile tool for any job site.
However, its price point and weight distribution may not be ideal for all users, and the blade may need to be replaced more frequently than other saws.
5. DEWALT Circular Saw, 7-1/4 inch, (DWE575SB)
If you’re in the market for a reliable circular saw, the DEWALT DWE575SB is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- This saw is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to use for extended periods of time.
- The electric brake stops the blade quickly after the trigger is released, which is a great safety feature.
- With a 15 amp motor, this saw has plenty of power to tackle tough applications.
Cons
- The bevel capacity is only 57 degrees, which may be limiting for some users.
- The depth of cut capacity is 2-9/16 inches, which may not be enough for certain projects.
- The saw’s high-speed steel blade may not be as durable as some users would like.
If you’re looking for a circular saw that’s both lightweight and powerful, the DEWALT DWE575SB is definitely worth considering.
This saw is among the lightest in its class, weighing in at only 8.8 pounds, which makes it easy to use for extended periods of time without experiencing fatigue.
One of the standout features of this saw is the electric brake, which stops the blade quickly after the trigger is released. This is a great safety feature that can help prevent accidents in the workshop.
With a 15 amp motor, this saw has plenty of power to tackle tough applications. Whether you’re cutting through thick hardwood or making angled cuts, this saw won’t let you down.
That being said, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. For example, the bevel capacity is only 57 degrees, which may be limiting for some users.
Additionally, the depth of cut capacity is 2-9/16 inches, which may not be enough for certain projects (here is the best 10-inch circular saw).
Finally, it’s worth noting that the saw’s high-speed steel blade may not be as durable as some users would like.
However, this is a relatively minor issue that can be easily remedied by replacing the blade with a higher-quality option.
Overall, the DEWALT DWE575SB is a solid choice for anyone in the market for a reliable circular saw. With its combination of lightweight design, powerful motor, and safety features, this saw is sure to get the job done.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying the best circular saw, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to keep in mind:
Blade Size
The blade size of a circular saw is an important factor to consider. Larger blades can cut through thicker materials, but they are also heavier and can be more difficult to handle.
Smaller blades are lighter and easier to maneuver, but they may not be able to cut through thicker materials.
Power
The power of a circular saw is measured in amps. Higher amps mean more power, which can be useful for cutting through tougher materials.
However, more power also means a heavier saw, which can be more difficult to handle.
Cutting Depth
The cutting depth of a circular saw refers to how deep the blade can cut into a material. This is an important factor to consider if you need to cut through thicker materials.
Bevel Capacity
The bevel capacity of a circular saw refers to the maximum angle at which the saw can cut. This is an important feature to consider if you need to make angled cuts.
Laser Guide
Some circular saws come with a laser guide, which can help you make more accurate cuts. If you need to make precise cuts, a laser guide can be a useful feature to have.
Dust Collection
Circular saws can produce a lot of dust, which can be harmful to your health if you inhale it.
Some circular saws come with dust collection systems, which can help to minimize the amount of dust that is produced.
By considering these features, you can make an informed decision when choosing the best circular saw for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated corded circular saws for professional use?
For professional use, the top-rated corded circular saws are the DeWalt DWE575SB, Makita 5007MGA, and Milwaukee 6390-21. These saws are known for their powerful motors, precision cutting, and durability.
Which cordless circular saw offers the best battery life and power?
The Makita XSS02Z and the DeWalt DCS391B are two cordless circular saws that offer the best battery life and power (read more to find out the best cordless circular saw).
These saws are designed to be lightweight and easy to handle, while still providing the power needed for professional-level cutting.
What circular saw features are most important for woodworking projects?
For woodworking projects, the most important circular saw features include a high-quality blade, a powerful motor, and an adjustable cutting depth.
Additionally, a saw with a dust blower can help keep the cutting area clean, while a laser guide can ensure accurate cuts.
How do consumer reports rate the durability of popular circular saws?
Consumer reports rate the durability of popular circular saws based on factors such as the quality of the materials used, the construction of the saw, and the overall design.
Some of the most durable circular saws on the market include the DeWalt DWE575SB, Makita 5007MGA, and Milwaukee 6390-21.
What safety features should beginners look for in a circular saw?
Beginners should look for circular saws with safety features such as blade guards, electric brakes, and anti-kickback features.
Additionally, saws with ergonomic handles and a lightweight design can help reduce the risk of accidents.
Which circular saw blades provide the finest and most accurate cuts?
Circular saw blades with a high tooth count and a thin kerf tend to provide the finest and most accurate cuts.
Some of the best blades for precision cutting include the Freud D1050X Diablo, the DeWalt DW3106P5D60I, and the Irwin Tools 1807368 Marples.