| Best Choice |
|
Craftsman CMES510 | CHECK LATEST PRICE | |
| Best Value |
|
Porter-Cable PCE300 | CHECK LATEST PRICE | |
| Premium Pick |
|
DeWalt DWE575SB | CHECK LATEST PRICE |
The time has come. The weather is nice, and you have the entire weekend to focus on your project. You take measurements, purchase your materials, and gather your tools, and of course, the most important tool is your circular saw. Whether you are a DIYer or a professional contractor, purchasing the right circular saw is critical to getting the job done right and done fast. The only thing you have against hand-powered saws is, well, almost everything. Sure, they have their niche, but they are a terrible choice for ripping boards and make plunge cuts an impossible pipe dream. When it’s time to get a job done and get it done right, you know that there is only one tool for the job. With your perfect circular saw only a click away, it’s time to stop shopping and start working. You got this.
The Best Circular Saws
Looking for an amazing combination of circular saw performance and cost? Then the Craftsman CMES510 is the way to go. This plug-in circular saw is a full-size option that can handle any 7.25-inch blade and features a 2.5-inch cutting depth. This beautiful beast produces a solid 5500-RPM blade speed thanks to the electric 15-amp motor positioned in the sidewinder configuration. The bevel capacity maxes out at 55 degrees, the saw features bevel detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees, two common cutting angles. The magnesium shoe helps users make cuts with smooth, gliding movements, and the integrated rafter hook allows users to easily hang this saw virtually anywhere. The Craftsman CMES510 also comes with an 18-tooth carbide-tipped blade and a three-year limited warranty.
The two biggest challenges this saw faces are its considerable heft (11.05 pounds) and its lack of a built-in dust blower.
- Plug-in circular saw
- 7.25-inch blade
- 2.5-inch cutting depth @ 90 degrees
- 15-amp motor, 5500 RPM
- 55-degree bevel capacity with detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees
- Magnesium shoe
- Brand Craftsman
- Model CMES510
- Weight 11.05 pounds
Wide bevel capacity with detents at common angles
Rafter hook
18T carbide-tipped blade included
Three-year limited warranty
No built-in dust blower
Heavy
Every so often, an absolute steal of a deal appears, and the Porter-Cable PCE300 is just such a deal. This full-size circular saw employs a plug-in motor and a sidewinder design to provide users with impressive cutting performance. The Porter-Cable sidewinder produces a saw blade speed of 5500 RPM thanks to its 15-amp electric motor. This saw will accept any 7.25-inch circular blade and features a cutting depth of 2.5 inches at a 90-degree cutting angle. Need to cut other angles? This saw has a bevel capacity of up to 45 degrees, allowing users to create a wide variety of cuts. The Porter-Cable PCE300 ships with a three-year warranty and a blade, and with a price tag well under $100, it is also quite affordable.
As might be expected, this unit lacks a dust blower, and while some of its components feel cheap, it is still well-loved.
- Plug-in circular saw
- 7.25-inch blade
- 2.5-inch cutting depth @ 90 degrees
- 15-amp motor, 5500 RPM
- 45-degree bevel capacity
- Brand Porter-Cable
- Model PCE300
- Weight 9.50 pounds
Inexpensive
18T carbide-tipped blade included
Three-year limited warranty
No built-in dust blower
Some cheap components
Not surprisingly, the DeWalt DWE575SB is a circular saw that delivers in virtually every area one might expect from a circular saw. This sidewinder circ saw was designed for use with 7.25-inch circular saw blades, and it features an impressive cutting depth at 90 degrees of 2 9/16 inches. Its 15-amp motor produces a respectable 5200 RPM, and its ToughCord cord protection system minimizes the chances of accidentally yanking the cord from the motor. This saw boasts a wide bevel capacity of 57 degrees with detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees. It uses a ball bearing design to increase longevity, an electric blade brake for quick transitions, and an integrated dust blower for convenience. The DeWalt DWE575SB is also very lightweight at only 8.8 pounds!
The only reason this circular saw does not win the top all-around pick is its price; this puppy is expensive.
- Brand DeWalt
- Model DWE575SB
- Weight 8.80 pounds
Lightweight
Wide bevel capacity with detents at common angles
Ball-bearing design
Electric blade brake
Built-in dust blower
ToughCord system prevents cord pull-outs
Carbide-tipped blade included
Expensive
Makita is a known name in the power tool industry, and the Makita 5007F fails to disappoint users who are accustomed to Makita quality and performance. This circular saw features a sidewinder design that houses a 15-amp motor capable of generating blade speeds up to a mind-blowing 5800 RPM. It accommodates 7.25-inch blades able to reach a cutting depth of 2 3/8 inches, beating out most competitors, and can rotate 45 degrees for bevel cuts. The AC-DC power switch allows users to operate off of multiple power sources via the power plug, and the ball bearing design increases the saw’s life. Built into the saw are two LED lights and a dust blower for visibility. The Makita 5007F also ships with a 24-tooth carbide-tipped blade.
Unfortunately, this saw lives up to Makita’s reputation of quality, performance, and lofty prices. It also weighs 11.1 pounds, reducing its handiness.
- Plug-in circular saw
- 7.25-inch blade
- 2 3/8-inch cutting depth @ 90 degrees
- 15-amp motor, 5800 RPM
- 45-degree bevel capacity
- Aluminum shoe
- Brand Makita
- Model 5007F
- Weight 11.10 pounds
AC/DC power switch
Ball-bearing design
Two built-in LED lights
Built-in dust blower
24T carbide-tipped blade included
Expensive
Heavy
Looking for an opportunity to improve those circular saw cutting skills? Then pick up the Skil 5280-01 along with some lumber and get to work! This full-size plug-in circular saw accommodates 7.25-inch blades for any application and has a maximum cutting depth of 2 3/8 inches at a 90-degree angle. The 15-amp motor sits to the side of the blade in a sidewinder configuration and generates a solid 5300-RPM blade speed. At only 6.95 pounds, it is incredibly lightweight, and with a 51-degree bevel capacity (and a detent at 45 degrees), this handy little saw can tackle virtually any cut at any angle necessary. The built-in laser guide and dust blower make straight cuts simple, and Skil 5280-01 also includes a 24-tooth blade.
This saw does have a couple of shortcomings in the form of a short electrical cord and some components with somewhat lower quality.
- Plug-in circular saw
- 7.25-inch blade
- 2 3/8-inch cutting depth @ 90 degrees
- 15-amp motor, 5300 RPM
- 51-degree bevel capacity with detent at 45 degrees
- Brand Skil
- Model 5280-01
- Weight 6.95 pounds
Inexpensive
Very lightweight
Built-in laser guide
Built-in dust blower
24T carbide-tipped blade included
Short cord
Some cheap components
The Bosch CS10 is a boss among circular saws and easily earns a spot on this list of winners. This sidewinder circular saw was designed and built with the power user in mind. This boss runs with 7.25-inch blades to tackle a variety of jobs, and it features a cutting depth of 2 7/16 inches at a 90-degree angle. The sidesaddle motor runs on 15 amps of power and generates a blade speed of 5600 RPM. This saw has a bevel capacity of 56 degrees, and it includes two angle detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees. The Bosch CS10 also features a magnesium shoe for smooth operation, a rafter hook for temporary storage, a built-in dust blower, and a 24-tooth carbide-tipped blade.
As one might expect, the boss can be expensive, and the Bosch CS10 is no exception. Still, quality and performance are worth the extra cost.
- Plug-in circular saw
- 7.25-inch blade
- 2 7/16-inch cutting depth @ 90 degrees
- 15-amp motor, 5600 RPM
- 56-degree bevel capacity with detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees
- Magnesium shoe
- Brand Bosch
- Model CS10
- Weight 10.20 pounds
Built-in dust blower
Rafter hook
24T carbide-tipped blade included
Expensive
The Rockwell RK3441K stands out among small circular saws. This plug-in circ saw uses a worm drive design, positioning the electric motor in the handle. This design allows for easy one-handed use, and the placement of the blade on the unit’s left side makes for excellent visibility during cuts. The five-amp motor spins circular blades at 3500 RPM, and with a 4.5-inch blade capacity, it is ideal for intricate cuts. The 45-degree bevel makes angled cuts easy, and at 90 degrees, this saw boasts a 1 11/16-inch cutting depth. This lightweight circular saw includes a safety switch, a vacuum port, and a physical cutting guide. The Rockwell RK3441K also includes a 24-tooth carbide-tipped blade and a three-year manufacturer’s warranty.
This saw only allows for single-handed use and is rather expensive. Still, be sure to purchase a new one, as older runs used bad bolts to secure the blade.
- Plug-in circular saw
- 4.5-inch blade
- 1 11/16-inch cutting depth @ 90 degrees
- 5-amp motor, 3500 RPM
- 45-degree bevel capacity
- Left-side blade placement
- Brand Rockwell
- Model RK3441K
- Weight 5.00 pounds
Lightweight
Safety switch
Vacuum port for shop vac integration
Physical guide included
24T carbide-tipped blade included
Three-year manufacturer’s warranty
Expensive
One-handed operation only
Limited power and cutting depth
An old run had bad blade bolts
Sometimes, a rechargeable, battery-powered circular saw, such as the Black & Decker BDCCS20B, is just what the doctor ordered. This handy saw ships with a 5.5-inch, 12-tooth blade and employs a rechargeable 20-volt battery. For added convenience, this saw is compatible with any battery in the Black & Decker 20v Max battery system. The sidewinder design places the electric motor in line with the blade for maximum power, but unlike most such designs, the blade is located on the left side of the unit for optimum visibility. To achieve maximum flexibility for detailed cuts, this saw features a 45-degree bevel capacity with detents at both ends of the spectrum for quick, accurate adjustments. The compact, lightweight Black & Decker BDCCS20B comes with a two-year limited warranty and a 12-tooth blade.
Last but not least, this saw’s major drawback is the lack of a battery and charger.
- 20-volt battery-powered circular saw
- 5.5-inch blade
- Works with the Black & Decker 20v Max battery system
- 45-degree bevel capacity with detents at 45 and 90 degrees
- Left-side blade placement
- Brand Black & Decker
- Model BDCCS20B
- Weight 6.00 pounds
Lightweight
Uses interchangeable, rechargeable batteries
Compact design
12T blade included
Two-year limited warranty
Battery sold separately
The M18 brushless motor delivers plenty of power at 5,000 RPMs. This means you’ll have 40 percent more power and up to 30 percent more run-time than other brushed saws. If you have a lot of cutting to do, this saw is durable and powerful enough to last. The 7 1/4-inch blade is a nice standard size that’s large enough for the majority of cutting. It stands out with additional features like Redlink Intelligence advanced overload protection that defends against tool and battery damage during heavy use.
The biggest drawback of this circular saw is that the battery and charger are sold separately. You’ll need to buy these to be able to use the saw. It’s also heavy at over eight pounds, which can make it tiring to use.
- M18 brushless motor
- LED light
- 5000 RPM
- 7 1/4-inch blade
- Brand Milwaukee
- Model 2631-20
- Weight 8.81 pounds
Redlink Intelligence advanced overload protection
40 percent more power than cordless circular saws
30 percent more run-time
Battery and charger sold separately
Heavy
Lacks safety features
Best Circular Saws Buying Guide & FAQ
In the world of portable power saws, circular saws (also known as circ saws) rule their kingdoms with absolute authority. These beasts deliver smooth cuts with speed and precision, making cuts that one could only accomplish with a fixed-position saw. Need to rip a board? Want to make a beveled edge? How about making a plunge cut? A circular can complete all of these jobs but has the flexibility to do so in virtually any location and environment.
Construction sites and workshops are a circular saw’s natural habitat, but not all saws belong in the same environment. Some are designed for large, heavy-duty projects while others are smaller, perfect for fine-tuned jobs. With so many features to consider, we took some time to help you get to the meat of things in a hurry.
Why Do You Need a Circular Saw?
A circular saw is a powerful tool, capable of many things no other saw can accomplish. Thanks to a simple design and electric motor, these saws can cleanly rip boards, make difficult plunge cuts, and execute precise beveled cuts all without breaking a sweat. This level of versatility and speed give the circular saw impressive cutting prowess, something a reciprocating saw could never even dream of achieving.
Not only can a circ saw create both straight and angled cuts without blinking, it does so in impressive fashion. Even in a perfect world, power saws like the reciprocating saw cannot make aesthetically satisfying cuts, but even in the real world, a circular saw will create smooth, precise cuts with incredible efficiency, thanks to rigid materials and superior engineering.
Some might argue that a circular saw is unnecessary when one has a fixed-blade saw, such as a table saw. Maybe in a pristine carpenter’s shop, that might be true, but in the world of construction and DIY jobs, working men and women will find themselves making countless cuts in difficult locations and at awkward angles with a circular saw simply because no other saw can do the job. If it is necessary to select only one power saw, make it a circular saw.
- Make both straight and angled cuts.
- Create smooth, precise cuts with maximum efficiency.
- Make cuts in places a fixed-blade saw could never dream of reaching.
Types of Circular Saws
Circular saw types are defined based on their drivetrain setup and orientation. Like a car or truck, circ saws rely on their own versions of a motor, transmission, and driveshaft to maximize blade performance. Each type, sidewinder, and worm drive delivers both power and torque to the blade in a different way, each with its pros and cons.
Sidewinder
Sidewinder circular saws are by far the most common variant in most of the United States. This design features a side-mounted motor that is directly in line with the driveshaft. The blade is usually mounted on the right side of the unit, turning the motor into a barrier between the blade and the user. These saws are large and bulky compared to worm drive saws, but they are usually well-suited for use on larger jobs.
On the plus side, sidewinder circ saws deliver high RPM ratings, usually between 5000 and 6000 RPM. The blade’s position on the right side of the saw provides an extra layer of protection for right-handed users
On the negative side, the sidewinder design decreases cutting line visibility due to the motor’s placement. Also, despite higher RPMs (think horsepower), these units deliver less torque per RPM.
Worm Drive
Worm drive circular saws are commonly available with small blades, often in the 4.5-inch range, and they use a rear-mounted motor, usually located in the handle. To drive the blade, this design uses a series of gears to transmit power to the blade. Due to their often smaller blade size, worm drive circ saws are best for smaller projects.
One advantage of using worm drive saws is their increased torque levels, resulting in more efficient power use than their sidewinder counterparts. While the drive system puts out lower RPM levels than a sidewinder, the resulting torque per RPM is a definite advantage.
On the flip side, worm-drive circ saws usually top out around 4500 RPM with many settling in near 3500 RPM. This makes their torque efficiency particularly valuable when competing against a sidewinder saw. Worm drives also tend to be heavier than the equivalent sidewinder.
The Most Important Features of Circular Saws
Circular saws are minor engineering miracles that, while relatively simple, rely on a large number of features to make them powerful, efficient, and safe. In addition to power and motor considerations, buyers should spend time understanding features such as cutting depth, safety switches, braking systems, and more. After all, what good is a circular saw that only produces 1000 RPM without a load?
Blade Considerations
The most common circular saw blades measure 7.25 inches in diameter. These blades can complete large jobs rather quickly. The other common blade size is 4.5 inches and is best for smaller jobs.
Cutting depth, another key consideration, measures the distance a blade can travel below the shoe (the contact surface between the saw and the material being cut) rather than the thickness of material a blade can cut. Users should allow roughly a 1/4-inch difference between the shoe and the material being cut so the blade can cut properly. For example, a saw with a 7.25-inch blade will have around a 2.5-inch cutting depth, allowing users to effectively cut materials around 2.25 inches thick.
Buyers should also consider the saw’s bevel angle which gives users the ability to consistently cut at various angles. Larger saws often feature detents to easily identify commonly-used angles.
Power Considerations
Circular saws usually run on electrical power, yet this gives rise to a handful of factors buyers must consider before whipping out their wallets. The most obvious consideration is a circ saw’s power source. Electric saws are usually powered via an electrical cord, so cord length is an important factor in this category. On the flip side, some saws run on rechargeable batteries instead. Finding one that uses a versatile power pack can be a major advantage.
Most large, plug-in circ saws, particularly sidewinder designs, will feature a 7.25-inch blade which usually requires 15 amps of power to run properly, while smaller 4.5-inch units will use between 4 and 6 amps. Battery-powered saws will tend to focus on battery voltage, usually around 20 volts, rather than amps. The combination of blade size with amp/volt ratings will directly affect the unit’s power (RPM) and torque outputs.
Safety Features
You should always look for safety features when buying equipment, especially if it has a sharp blade. Look for a fixed blade guard that covers the top of the blade. An adjustable or removable blade guard on the bottom helps you cover the blade when not in use. It should also have an emergency stop and trigger safety. This will prevent unwanted triggering and enable you to stop the saw immediately. The braking system will also stop the saw blade from spinning when you are no longer using the saw.
Pay attention to the size of the handle and the location of the safety trigger. You should be able to easily reach the safety trigger without moving your hand on the handle. Saws with handles that are too fat won’t allow for this and can be dangerous to operate.
Weight
A heavy saw will always feel heavy when you pick it up. However, a well-balanced saw will distribute the weight and make it easier to maneuver. This offsets the strain on your hand and arm. Corded saws tend to be lighter because they don’t require batteries. Cordless versions tend to be heavier because they require batteries for power. The bigger the batteries, the heavier the saw. Batteries can also have a negative impact on the balancing of the saw, making them harder to use.
Accuracy
Higher-quality circular saws achieve better accuracy. This is done through a combination of features. Look for good blade visibility, a flat shoe that’s parallel to the blade, accurate cutline markers, and smooth guard retraction. You will also see some saws with a laser guideline. This helps guide you while cutting for the greatest accuracy. The markers should be thin to give you the greatest accuracy and least amount of wiggle.
Homeowner or Contractor-Grade Saw?
When buying a circular saw, you’ll see homeowner- and contractor-grade machines. They perform the same functions but have several differences that are worth considering. If you only plan on using your circular saw for the occasional home project, then you will do fine with a homeowner-grade saw. If you plan on using your saw on a consistent basis or give it heavy use, then you’ll want to consider upgrading to a professional-grade saw.
Consider your budget when comparing the two types of saws. Contractor-grade circular saws come with more features and functions, but they also come with higher price tags. You’ll want to buy the best saw that your budget can afford. Buying a saw over your budget or needs results in you spending more than necessary for a tool that you’ll never fully use.
How We Selected Circular Saws
When choosing the best circular saws, we considered the quality of their build, features, durability, and ease of use. The ideal circular saw should reliably perform while having features that make cutting easier. It should have an adjustable blade that lets you make a variety of cuts for faster working.
Standout saws on our list have additional features that help the saws better than basic durability and functionality. Lightweight saws are easier to hold and create less fatigue in your arm. Some have laser lights that help you to guide the saw blade in a perfectly straight line. Others have ergonomically shaped handles for reduced hand fatigue.
Best Circular Saws FAQ:
Knowing your circular saws can be a bit of a challenge, and even after a bit of research, some questions may still arise. Whether it be determining amperage, cutting depth, or corded vs. cordless, taking the time to ask a few questions can go a long way in saving a buyer’s wallet and sanity.
Amp requirements vary by blade size. Most full-size saws require 15 amps, while smaller saws usually require between 4 and 6 amps of power.
Full-size saws have a cutting depth of around 2.5 inches for 2.25-inch cuts. Smaller saws usually have a cutting depth between 1.5 and 2 inches.
Most users will be better suited to sticking with a corded circular saw. Cordless saws are niche products best used for awkward cuts in hard-to-reach locations.
Our Top Pick
The Craftsman CMES510 is an excellent choice for individuals who want a great all-around circular saw. It generates a solid 5500 RPM blade speed and boasts an impressive 55-degree bevel capacity and detents at two common angle settings. The magnesium shoe decreases both weight and friction, and the three-year warranty helps sweeten the deal. For most users, the Craftsman is an excellent balance of price, build, and performance.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to circular saws, the Craftsman CMES510 is the all-around champ, but when pennies matter, the Porter-Cable PCE300 is another great option. Both come with a three-year warranty, so when push comes to shove, no one can go wrong with either option.
Sources:
- Circular Saw – Wikipedia
