Best Circular Saws

Circular saws are versatile tools that can be used to make straight cuts, angled cuts, and bevel cuts, and they can also be equipped with specialized blades for cutting through specific materials. They are powerful and efficient, making them a popular choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

In this article, we will be providing in-depth reviews of the best circular saws available in 2023. Circular saws are essential tools for both professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts. They are versatile, powerful, and can make precise cuts in a variety of materials. We have analyzed multiple models in the market and have narrowed down the top 8 circular saws that cater to different needs and budgets. Let's dive in!

Top 8 Best Circular Saws of 2023:

1. DeWalt DCS570B 20V MAX XR Brushless 7-1/4" Circular Saw

Pros:

• Brushless motor for increased power and runtime
• Electric brake for added safety
• Bevel capacity up to 57 degrees

Cons:

• Battery and charger sold separately

The DeWalt DCS570B is an excellent choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts, thanks to its brushless motor that ensures maximum efficiency and extended runtime. The 7-1/4" blade provides a cutting depth of 2-9/16" at 90 degrees, making it suitable for various woodworking tasks. This saw has an electric brake that stops the blade quickly for added safety. Its bevel capacity goes up to 57 degrees, with detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees, allowing for easy and accurate angle adjustments.

Note that the DeWalt DCS570B is sold as a bare tool, which means that the battery and charger are not included. You will need to purchase them separately if you don't already have compatible DeWalt 20V MAX batteries.

2. Makita XSH04ZB 18V LXT Sub-Compact Brushless 6-1/2" Circular Saw

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design
• Brushless motor for longer runtime
• Dual LED lights for better visibility

Cons:

• Not as powerful as larger saws
• Battery and charger sold separately

The Makita XSH04ZB is an 18V sub-compact circular saw that offers excellent performance in a lightweight and compact package. It features a brushless motor that delivers longer runtime and increased power. The 6-1/2" blade provides a cutting depth of 2-1/4" at 90 degrees, which is suitable for most general-purpose cutting tasks.

This saw has dual LED lights that illuminate the cutting area, improving visibility and precision. It also comes with an electric brake and a built-in dust blower for added safety and cleanliness. The bevel capacity is up to 50 degrees, allowing for a variety of cutting angles.

As with the DeWalt saw, the Makita XSH04ZB is sold as a bare tool, so you will need to purchase the battery and charger separately if you don't already have compatible Makita 18V LXT batteries.

3. Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2732-20 18V 7-1/4" Circular Saw

Pros:

• Powerful brushless motor
• Magnesium shoe and guards for durability
• Integrated rafter hook

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than other models
• Battery and charger sold separately

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2732-20 is a powerful 18V circular saw that offers excellent performance and durability. The brushless motor delivers up to 5,800 RPM, providing the power needed for demanding cutting tasks. The 7-1/4" blade offers a cutting depth of 2-1/2" at 90 degrees, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

This saw features a magnesium shoe and guards for increased durability and reduced weight. The integrated rafter hook allows for easy storage on the job site. Its bevel capacity goes up to 50 degrees, with detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees, for easy angle adjustments.

As with the previous models, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2732-20 is sold as a bare tool, so you'll need to purchase the battery and charger separately if you don't already have compatible Milwaukee M18 batteries.

4. Bosch CCS180-B14 18V 6-1/2" Circular Saw Kit

Pros:

• Complete kit with battery and charger
• Electronic motor and cell protection
• 50-degree bevel capacity

Cons:

• Slightly lower cutting depth compared to 7-1/4" models

The Bosch CCS180-B14 is an 18V circular saw that offers excellent performance and comes as a complete kit, including a 6.3 Ah battery and a fast charger. The 6-1/2" blade provides a cutting depth of 2" at 90 degrees, which is slightly less than the 7-1/4" models but still suitable for most general-purpose cutting tasks.

This saw features electronic motor and cell protection, which prevents overheatingand overloading, ensuring a longer lifespan for both the tool and the battery. The bevel capacity is up to 50 degrees, allowing for a variety of cutting angles. The lower guard is designed to prevent snagging when making narrow cut-offs, improving both performance and safety.

5. SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 15-Amp 7-1/4" Lightweight Worm Drive Circular Saw

Pros:

• Powerful 15-amp motor
• Lightweight magnesium construction
• Worm drive for increased torque

Cons:

• Corded, limiting mobility
• No electric brake

The SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 is a corded, 15-amp circular saw that offers excellent performance and durability thanks to its worm drive mechanism, which provides increased torque and better cutting power. The 7-1/4" blade offers a cutting depth of 2-3/8" at 90 degrees, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

This saw features a lightweight magnesium construction that reduces the tool's overall weight, making it easier to handle and maneuver. The bevel capacity is up to 53 degrees, with a positive stop at 45 degrees for quick and accurate angle adjustments.

One downside of the SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 is its lack of an electric brake, which means the blade will take longer to stop after the trigger is released. Additionally, as a corded tool, it comes with some mobility limitations compared to cordless models.

6. Ryobi P508 One+ 18V Brushless 7-1/4" Circular Saw

Pros:

• Brushless motor for increased power and runtime
• Compatible with Ryobi One+ 18V battery system
• LED light for improved visibility

Cons:

• Not as powerful as some competitors
• Battery and charger sold separately

The Ryobi P508 One+ is an 18V circular saw that features a brushless motor for increased power and runtime. The 7-1/4" blade provides a cutting depth of 2-7/16" at 90 degrees, making it suitable for a variety of applications. Its bevel capacity goes up to 56 degrees, with detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees, allowing for easy and accurate angle adjustments.

This saw also includes an LED light for improved visibility, an electric brake for added safety, and a dust blower to keep the cutting area clean. As part of the Ryobi One+ system, it is compatible with all Ryobi 18V batteries.

As with many other models on this list, the Ryobi P508 One+ is sold as a bare tool, so you'll need to purchase the battery and charger separately if you don't already have compatible Ryobi 18V batteries.

7. Metabo HPT C7SB3 15-Amp 7-1/4" Circular Saw

Pros:

• Powerful 15-amp motor
• Integrated dust blower
• Lightweight and ergonomic design

Cons:

• Corded, limiting mobility
• No electric brake

The Metabo HPT C7SB3 is a corded, 15-amp circular saw that offers excellent performance and a lightweight design. The 7-1/4" blade provides a cutting depth of 2-3/8" at 90 degrees, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. The bevel capacity is up to 55 degrees, allowing for a variety of cutting angles.

This saw features an integrated dust blower to keep the cutting area clean, as well as an ergonomic design and a soft grip handle for comfort during extended use. The downside of the Metabo HPT C7SB3, like other corded models, is its limited mobility and the lack of an electric brake.

8. RIDGID R8653B GEN5X 18V 7-1/4" Circular Saw

Pros:

• Sightline blower for improved visibility
• Magnesium construction for durability
• Compatible with RIDGID 18V battery system

Cons:

• Not as powerful as some competitors
• Battery and charger sold separately

The RIDGID R8653B GEN5X is an 18V circular saw that offers good performance and durability. The 7-1/4" blade provides a cutting depth of 2-7/16" at 90 degrees, making it suitable for a variety of applications. Its bevel capacity goes up to 56 degrees, with detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees, allowing for easy and accurate angle adjustments.

This saw features a sightline blower that clears dust and debris for improved visibility, as well as a magnesium construction for increased durability. As part of the RIDGID 18V system, it is compatible with all RIDGID 18V batteries.

Overall, the RIDGID R8653B GEN5X 18V 7-1/4" Circular Saw is an excellent choice for anyone in need of a reliable and powerful circular saw. Its lightweight design, powerful motor, and range of safety features make it a versatile tool that can handle a variety of cutting tasks. Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, this saw is sure to impress.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Circular Saw

A circular saw is an essential power tool for any DIY enthusiast, professional woodworker, or construction worker. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which circular saw is best for you. In this buying guide, we will discuss the essential factors you should consider when purchasing a circular saw.

Types of Circular Saws

There are two main types of circular saws:

Sidewinder (or Inline) Circular Saws

This type of saw has a motor mounted on the side of the blade, providing direct power transfer. Sidewinders are lightweight, compact, and usually less expensive than worm drive saws. They are perfect for most general cutting tasks.

Worm Drive Circular Saws

These saws have a motor located behind the blade, with gears transferring power to the blade. Worm drive saws are heavier, more powerful, and provide greater torque than sidewinders. They are ideal for heavy-duty tasks and cutting through thick materials.

Blade Size

Blade size is a crucial factor to consider when purchasing a circular saw. The most common blade size is 7-1/4 inches, which can cut through materials up to 2 inches thick. There are also smaller sizes, such as 6-1/2 inches, and larger sizes, like 10 inches, for specific applications.

Power Source

Circular saws can be powered by electricity (corded), battery (cordless), or gasoline (gas-powered). Each type has its pros and cons:

Corded Circular Saws

These saws provide consistent power and are typically more potent than their cordless counterparts. However, they require access to a power outlet and can limit mobility.

Cordless Circular Saws

Battery-powered saws are portable and convenient, but they may lack the power needed for some heavy-duty tasks. Battery life is also a concern, so consider the runtime and availability of backup batteries.

Gas-Powered Circular Saws

These saws are potent and suitable for heavy-duty tasks, but they are also noisy, heavy, and require regular maintenance.

Safety Features

Look for circular saws with safety features such as:

• Electric brakes: These quickly stop the blade when the trigger is released, reducing the risk of accidents.
• Blade guards: These protect your hands from the blade while it's in motion.
• Lock-off switches: These prevent accidental start-ups.

Ergonomics and Ease of Use

Choose a circular saw that is comfortable to hold and operate. Look for features like rubberized handles, adjustable cutting depth and angle, and easy-to-read markings.

Price and Warranty

Circular saws come in various price ranges, depending on their features and build quality. Determine your budget and find a saw that offers the best value for your money. Additionally, consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer as an indication of quality and reliability.

Conclusion

Circular saws are a versatile and powerful tool that can be used for a wide range of cutting tasks. When buying a circular saw, it is important to consider factors such as the type of blade, the power source, the size and weight of the saw, and the safety features.

It is also important to choose a circular saw that is appropriate for the specific cutting task at hand, as different types of saws are designed for different materials and cutting styles.

Ultimately, the best circular saw for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. By doing your research and carefully considering your options, you can find a high-quality circular saw that will serve you well for years to come.