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Are you a woodcutting professional? Or Is this type of work your favorite hobby? We guess the answer is yes, and probably that’s why you visit this post.
Woodcutting is an engrossing hobby, but the initial investment in a good working tool to fulfill your kit can wear you out.
Also, heavy-duty projects do require exerted effort and a vast amount of time that otherwise can be limited when you have the best circular saw in hand.
Don’t hover around for the answer as we offer more than what you expect right in this post.
A circular saw, or some might prefer to call it a “skill saw” is a powerful tool which enables humans to make a variety of cuts, cross cuts, rip cuts, miter cuts, or a combination of those three. In fact, just about almost everything you’re about to expect from a saw can be explored all in this versatile fellow.
Such handy equipment can be mounted on the table or handheld, making it less bulky for professional carpenters or DIY enthusiasts.
A saw is all about its blade. As for a circular saw, the round, flat blade with its edged covered with sharp metal teeth uses a rotary motion to slide through different materials smoothly.
Types of circular saw
Worm Drive Circular Saw
This one is the most common performer to find on the market. However, its name never comes alone in conversation, but for the most part, it comes along with the name of its biggest rival the sidewinder saw.
A worm drive circular saw is different in that it is heavier and longer on the outlook. It is paired with larger teeth; thus, the power is optimized while the ability to handle heavy loads is more exceptional.
Sidewinder or In-Line Circular Saw
This player outperforms its worm drive counterpart in terms of the faster blade speed, the slender, and compact design.
If we have to pick a saw for extended use, the Sidewinder will have an advantage since it is lightweight and easy on the arm.
Biscuit Joiner
This tool is responsible for a variety of joints, including T-joints, edge, corner, etc. You use it to attach two pieces of wood together with no visible markings on both surfaces.
Metal cutting circular saw
This saw is tailored to cut metals. It ensures there is no risk involved in the usually dangerous metal cutting tasks. It is slower than a typical saw, but are carefully sealed off to prevent piles of damaging debris.
Chop saw
In the event of hard metalworking, a chop saw is an end in itself. Its visual look, which comes with no teeth like other ordinary saws, provokes a lot of arguments. It has a composite friction disc to cut through super heavy-duty materials.
On the flip side, it doesn’t last long, and the machine emits lots of heat when under operation. It uses much more energy, as well.
Cold saw
This saw is oddly cold because the saw itself doesn’t generate a lot of heat. Instead, it sends away heat to any debris, dust that builds up after cuts. Some saws of this type have a coolant system to help it stay cool most of the time.
Brush saw
Here is a garden tool that will act as a weed killer for your small yard. It comes with attachments, blades, and different trimmer heads for a multitude of applications.
Carbide saw
Carbide saw is a good choice when you have hard-to-access materials to work with since its teeth are made of cemented carbide. There are saws with both horizontal and vertical slide to choose from while the former is more common.
Slab saw
If you have to deal with solid materials, let this slab saw come into play, It is designed with special blades to cut concrete, tile, brick with more ease. Consider cooling the blade between cuts as it generates a lot of heat.
Flip-over saw
The apparent benefits of this saw are its space-saving, time-saving features. Along with these, it handles accurate crosscuts at a rapid speed from any angles. In short, it can do almost everything a typical saw can; thus, becoming the first choice of most craftsmen and professional woodcutters.
How To Choose The Best Circular Saw?
Power
Learning about the power of the saw gives you the feel-good factor before shelling out for one performer.
To get this information, make sure you glance through the specs for the amps rating. 15 amps or more is enough to prove the circular is qualified.
Next, check the RPM which stands for revolutions per minute. A saw from 4500 RPM is advisable.
A weak, fragile player will ask for regular maintenance, which puts you off from the hobby you pursue. On the contrary, a strong one will not complain at all even when it has to glide through super tough sheets of wood.
Weight
Not every craftsman chooses to mount the saw on the table when making cuts. Some will hold it on their own hand. In that event, weight becomes a significant factor and a major concern of the owners.
Similarly, you have to bargain for the scenario of traveling for work with a circular saw or moving it to and from the storage. Whatever, unless you want to break into a sweat, a lightweight saw is an ultimate option.
Visibility
Carrying out woodcutting jobs in low light conditions is needless to say life-threatening. Also, for precise crosscuts, you need to see the blade clearly.
The handheld circular saw can impair visibility, and you might have to move your head a bit leftward or rightward to better control the blade.
However, this is not the case in high-end models which are packed with a crevice or a window to optimize blade visibility.
Stability
Hold the saw in your arm and ask yourself how does it feel? Whether or not the guard is quite slack, or is the whole set balanced enough?
Handle
Handle decides the gripping you will receive when holding the tool. Start with a rubber grip handle. Does it come with smooth black rubber to offer more grips? If yes, you may want something similar.
The size of the handle shouldn’t be underestimated as well. Provided that you want to feel confident with your woodcutting job, a large or oversized handle can give the tangible feeling of reliability and safety.
Saw blade and saw teeth
Then a crappy blade is a more severe problem than a crappy knife in your kitchen as woodcutting work is notoriously risky.
You have to make sure a top-graded blade is what your saw needs to slice through different material neatly and smoothly.
As for saw teeth, the more of them means, the better and easier the final cuts.
Depth and Bevel adjustments
The bigger the lever, the easier it is to adjust depth and bevel. There are depth and bevel scales which are cast or stuck on the saw. Check whether or not you can read these scales clearly.
Safety
Safety is what people crave in the best circular saw.
Working with a robust circular saw is a matter of life and death if the safety features are not followed strictly.
In the saw, the saw guard must be in good working condition; otherwise, you may feel the slackness in your cut.
An electronic brake can also add to users’ peace of mind. This brake stops your saw from working right after the trigger is released.
1 – BLACK and DECKER BDCCS20C 20V MAX 5-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw
You are hunting for the best cordless circular saw under $100? Here it is!
TheBLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 5-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw – model BDCCS20C is a fabulous device that delivers superior value for money.
Although you will receive no battery in the package, the tool can work with any Black & Decker 20V Max battery systems. This cordless saw has an array of interesting features such as bevel adjustment at not only 45 but also 90 degrees to make precise angle cuts.
In fact, the compact saw is straightforward to use and requires not much experience to get used to it after the first use.
Moreover, you will love the fast torque motor and the robust 5.5-inch blade that can cut through wood smoothly. 3,700 RPM is not too much but sufficient for the majority of home improvement works.
Since the tool runs on battery, you cannot expect it to be as powerful as corded models. Besides, under heavy loads, this household tool can merely work in less than 2 hours.
Of course, a cordless saw can only offer you things as such. No one will use this in professional and heavy-duty construction projects.
But for your peace of mind, the product comes with a limited 2-year warranty.
Pros
High torque motor
Compact design
Adjustable bevel
Adjustable cutting depth
Cons
Low-capacity battery
2 – DEWALT DCS391B 20-Volt MAX Li-Ion Circular Saw – I Highly Recommended
Another product deserves to be considered as the best cordless circular saw under $100 is from DEWALT.
DEWALT is a respected name in the world of woodcutting tools, so no wonder why users have always sent it flattering words and remained steadfastly loyal to the products it introduces on the marketplace.
Among a series of robust performers, DEWALT DCS391B 20-Volt MAX Li-Ion Circular Saw stands out as a perennial favorite for fervent hobbyist and professionals as well. Why is that?
Firstly, it is an all-around tool capable of facilitating plenty of tasks, including both “home projects” and “grandiose plans.” It specializes in cutting plywood furniture, and other wood materials as you may ask it to. Undoubtedly, with 460 MWO, 5, 250 RPM motor, the circular saw is empowered to slide through the most demanding materials for beautiful cuts.
While the power is exceptional and the speed is uncompromising, this mighty performer doesn’t cause arm fatigue but is on the contrary easy to the hold. It comes with a brake – an essential part that makes sure the machine starts and stops at the touch and release of the trigger. This means it is incredibly safe for home use with small projects.
Also, a high strength magnesium shoe stabilizes the tool for a long-term cut with perfect accuracy while a ball bearing lower guard adds to the durability for prolonged use. The 0 Degree-50 Degree bevel capacity makes successful cuts with the most challenging materials to fit with various applications.
If only more effort were made to augment the quality, and perfect the design of this equipment. It lacks a blade wrench and the saw shoe seems not to be on track at times.
Pros
Comfortable as a cordless tool
Powerful performance
Easy on the arm
Durable for long-term cuts
Safe to use thanks to the electric brake
Cons
Rather expensive
Lacking in a blade wrench
Unreliable saw shoe
3 – SKIL CR540602 20V 6-1/2 Inch Cordless Circular Saw
The SKIL 20V 6-1/2 Inch Cordless Circular Saw – model CR540602 is a wise choice for any hobbyist and DIYer.
Equipped with a robust 20V battery system, the motor can provide up to 4,500 RPM and combine with six 6.5-inch blades to create an impressive cutting depth.
In our tests, this saw can cut to the depth of 2 1/8” at a square angle and 1 3/4″ at 45 degrees.
Furthermore, there is also an intuitive saw guide included so any beginner can perform exact cuts.
Thanks to the PWRCore system that always gives out the most performance (even when its battery is nearly running out), this SKIL CR540602 can ensure the equal quality from the first to last cut.
Unfortunately, although the temperature management system (TMS) of the PWRCore system can prevent the battery from overheating, this can also lead to significant power loss.
With a low weight of 7.66 pounds, it is super easy to carry and manipulate, which also means it is for light-duty tasks.
Nonetheless, for compactness, the saw body is mainly made of plastic and rubber but little steel. Anyway, as the manufacturer has traded the firmness for the lightweight and mobility, the product is quite flimsy.
Pros
Extremely cheap.
Very lightweight.
Always maintain the high performance for light-duty work.
When you are in for a woodcutting task, no machine can substitute the position of a good, no-frills cordless saw. That said, we recommend the reliable Milwaukee M18 2630-20 circular saw to get things done for you.
There is an electronic brake to stop the blade from running as soon as you are done with your task. This feature does away with the unnecessary waste of time waiting for the blade to slow down before it finally stops and allows you to focus on your task more.
Bevel and depth adjustment is easy to take in. You may be able to adjust the depth up to 1 1/2″ and the bevel up to 45 degrees for various applications. Besides, the machine knows how to generate productivity even in the slippery environments by supplying a soft, anti-grip handle for a firm hold.
The magnesium guards on the blade keep the tool intact and in a good working condition despite shocks and impacts; thus, keep on with your cuts no matter what. A heavy-duty 18-volt lithium ion powerhouse, with a powerful motor capable of driving the blade up to 3500 RPM will carry things out at a fraction of time and human effort.
Being a potent player, this Milwaukee M18 circular saw features a slender, compact design for comfort and portability. The Aircraft aluminum shoe works for precise cuttings as well.
Makita XSS02Z is an economical choice; we guarantee you. Comparing it with other models from the same brand, and you will see this guy doesn’t lag in terms of performance; plus, it earns an advantage of being budget-friendly.
Why did we decide to choose this contestant as among the best cordless circular saw under $200
There must have been some improvements that show up in this set. Obviously, the brushless motor comes first with a more robust look. This time, you will be able to get 3,700 RPM for faster and more efficient cutting. When the producer optimizes the brushless motor, they know this will accompany two extra benefits: run time and job site durability.
Everything available amounts to an accurate cutting with a secure feeling even when you are working in a harsh condition. It is able to cut 2X material at 45 degrees while still keeping precision as the priority objective to obtain.
Especially, when the saw endures too much stress, it will divert the power so that the engine has more torque. The indicator lights were added to complete the whole set. This means as you pull the trigger, the LED lights will turn on and illuminate the job site.
No arm fatigue or body aches to suffer from since it is lightweight – measuring only 7.3 lbs.
We believe in more and more improvements that will soon be made. The cover plates which are in plastic could be better.
Pros
High-torque motor
Compact design
Heavy gauge
Precise, smooth cutting
Lightweight and affordable
Cons
The cover plates need further improvement.
6 – Makita SH02R1 Cordless Circular Saw Kit
Enjoy a new solution from the circular saw reviews with an ultra-compact Makita SH02R1 featuring less weight and more power to use in floor vents. Besides its suitability in the restrained area, this saw is empowered to make the finest cuts with better ease through plywood, MDF, pegboard, particleboard, melamine, and drywall.
Also, its 3-3/8-inch blade with the maximum cutting depth of 1 inch can cut through 3/4-inch plywood neatly. Given this lightweight design and the potent cutting capacity, the saw is promising to be used in a variety of applications. The saw also has a tilting base for beveling cuts from 0 to 45 degree.
For added convenience and no more job intervention because of the low-quality battery, the producer has taken a step forward to equip its circular with an onboard L.E.D. charge level indicator, and two 12V max batteries.
It weighs only 3.5 pounds, which means you merely need to tuck it in the tool bag and bring it along with no hassle.
Unfortunately, the biggest beef from users is directed towards the nonvariable speed features of this all but perfect power tool.
Pros
Improved slide style battery
Ergonomic grip
Compact and lightweight
Superior performance
Cons
Lacking in variable speed cutting
7 – DEWALT DCS578B 60V MAX Circular Saw – Best cordless circular saw under $300
For sheer flexibility, this DEWALT DCS578B 60V MAX Circular Saw takes some beating. What is special about this guy comes from the battery, which is accredited with the “World’s first battery that automatically changes voltages to fit with changes in tools.”
This one is a cordless saw, but the 7-1/4″ full-size blade works no different from a corded one. The nominal voltage is 18 V, whereas in reality without a workload, the battery can reach up to initial 20 volts at best.
Another similarity of this and a corded saw is that given the power and the speed of this system, the sound it sends out is precisely what a corded saw does. It can easily deal with traditional framing lumber and rip to pieces the whole sheets of 3/4″ plywood.
The shoe plate comes across as a high standard compared to the previous version. Brushless motor is upgraded for better run time with greater job site durability. The electric brake stops the blade immediately after you release the trigger. Be ready to use it with the maximum 1600 watts.
It would be of a more valuable offer if the producer added a rafter hook. Also, this cordless saw might not do well with overhead use.
The PORTER-CABLE PCE300 is an all-around power tool that you must have in your kit. It doesn’t surrender to any types of applications. Besides, it is the best corded circular saw under $50 to go with.
The powerful 15-amp motor which delivers 5,500 RPM can work harmoniously with all of your projects. There is a heavy-duty steel shoe to add to the durability of the set as well as supporting accurate cuts with an optimum line of sights.
The metal upper and lower guards justify the built quality of this circular saw. It definitely lasts a lifetime. What else? The saw can adapt well in the hand of any users because most of them get the hang of it immediately. The spindle Lock and depth adjustment make this saw super convenient to use.
The saw weighs 9.5 lbs, featuring the 7-1/4″ blade diameter and a maximum depth of cut at 90 degrees. There is a magnesium shoe version available for purchase if you desire to use besides the existing steel shoe.
On the flip side, the saw is not suitable for industrial use. Its switch is not durable enough while the steel shoe quality still needs improvement.
Pros
Versatile and durable
Affordable
Powerful motor
Relatively lightweight
Cons
Not suitable for industrial use
Flimsy switch and poor-quality shoe
2 – SKIL 5280-01 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw
Compared to other performers, which are all the best corded circular saw under $100, this SKIL 5280-01 15-Amp is the best seller with massive numbers of reviews and consistently high ratings. It was born to belong to experienced house owners who are seeking a top-graded tool to tackle various projects.
The beauty of this saw lies in the single-beam laser that guides users to perform specific cuts with precision. The dust blower is inserted to maintain a clear and dust-free cutting space.
Faster cuts are possible thanks to the improved 15-amp motor that delivers 5,300-RPM with the depth of cut at 2-3/8 inch. The blade modes are adjustable, so you can change it easily to find the best for your individual needs.
The 51 degree of bevel capacity allows a wide array of cuts at different angles while the arbor measures 5/8 inches in size, with the cord length totaling up to 6 feet.
This corded saw is among the most lightweight model working hard at its full potential while not causing arm fatigue. For secure transportation to and from the job site, it comes with a carrying bag.
However, the base plate is made of steel; thus, it seems a little bit flimsy and unstable.
Pros
Straight cuts thanks to single-beam laser
Guarded trigger
Lightweight
Portable
Cons
Flimsy plate
3 – SKILSAW SOUTHPAW SPT67M8-01 7-1/4 In. Circular Saw
Another equal opponent in the race to be the best corded circular saw under $200 is the SKILSAW SOUTHPAW 7-1/4 In. Circular Saw – model SPT67M8-01.
It is the solely all-magnesium left blade SIDEWINDER™ circular saw in the SKILSAW collection.
Engineered for professionals, the world-class 15-amp Dual-Field™ motor is super robust at 5300 rpm but hardly heats up and prolongs tool life better.
In addition, the rugged all-magnesium construction is lightweight and contributes to motor heat dissipation as well.
With the blade positioned on the left, you can benefit from a better vision for both blade and cut-line to ensure precision.
Not to mention, with the 56° accuracy beveling capacity, you can quickly cut from a wide array of angles.
An important piece of information is that this saw is built for left-handed people. As the majority of us are right-handed, products designed with the minority in mind as such are appreciated by the rest.
Indeed, left-handed woodworkers can skip preparing all the complex adjustments to utilize this corded-electric saw.
Lastly, the SKILSAW SOUTHPAW SPT67M8-01 is a very user-friendly tool.
It is an energy-saving appliance at a budget-friendly price. The ergonomic design helps to reduce weight and direct dust mite away from users remarkably.
Pros
Lightweight and cool.
Premium-quality materials.
Provide high torque and great cutting depth.
Cons
Not intended for right-handed users.
No electronic braking on the blade.
4 – DEWALT DWE575SB Lightweight Circular Saw
We suppose when it comes to DEWALT, there is no serious doubt about the performance and quality as every single product is made to please. And this DEWALT DWE575SB is no exception.
The Dewalt DWE575SB 7-1/4-inch circular saw guarantees a safe collaboration with its users. The electric brake is straightforward in the way it works to stop the blade when you desire.
This saw is a valuable and rare offer on the market because not many products in this high class manage to impress users with the weight they accommodate, whereas the DEWALT DWE575SB does, with 8.8 pounds in total.
A ball bearing lower guard and an aluminum shoe provide users with adequate power and durability to carry out cuts. To augment the durability, there is patented tough cord protection. Storage and transportation are as easy as breeze as well since there is a carrying case, with an onboard blade wrench storage.
The only defect in this compact friend is that the blade tends to wobble; thus, making users reluctant when performing important cuts.
Pros
Tough cord protection
Simple, yet smart design
Resistant and durable
Powerful 5,100 RPM
Cons
Unstable blade
5 – DEWALT DWS535B 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw
DEWALT 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw – model DWS535B is great for heavy-duty cutting works.
The most notable part is the ultra-strong blade that can cut through any stiff material. It’s powerful and hardwearing, and we have never seen it get bogged down, even under the most difficult circumstances.
Unfortunately, it is rather weighty. So if you are seeking a circular saw to complete your DIY projects in a more slight way, opt for something else.
But if you need the best corded circular saw under $200 to handle thick objects in your construction sites, it is a wise choice.
Nonetheless, pay attention to the name of the model because the DWS535B and the DWS535 look quite the same, and you are prone to mistake them. In this case, “B” stands for “brake,” and you must prefer the DWS535B.
If you do not know what you can benefit from this wonderful brake, let us tell you that it can prevent circular saw kickback very efficiently.
As such, there will be fewer accidents, and you are very safe. This is very critical, especially when we are going to use this heavy saw for heavy-duty projects.
Pros
Extremely powerful and durable.
We can remove the blade conveniently with the better-angled wrench.
This Makita-built model 5007MG is famous for its ease of use and versatile power. We will not spoil much, so discover it yourself right now.
In terms of power, the 15.0-amp motor will deliver 5,800 rpm which promises not to let you, professional users, down. The well-balanced magnesium components play a pivotal role in forming the overall lightweight circular saw, at 10.6 lbs. The saw has a large cutting capacity 2-1/2 inches at 90° and bevel capacity from 0 to 56 degrees. That’s job site tough!
The design is for an ultimate grip for those using gloves. There are two LED lights incorporated to offer a clear view of the blade and to accommodate the most accurate cuts.
Users expect more from such a versatile performer, not just a one-year warranty as it comes with right now.
Pros
Versatile power
Ergonomic grip
Easy to use
Smooth, accurate cuttings
Cons
Limited warranty
7 – Makita HS0600 10-1/4″ Circular Saw
Here we have the Makita 10-1/4″ Circular Saw – model HS0600 as our best corded circular saw under $300.
When it comes to performance, this saw can cut up to 4x lumber within just a single pass. The vast cutting and bevel capacity allows users to cut 2-3/4 inch at 45 degrees and 3-13/16 inch at 90 degrees.
What’s more, you do not need to worry about accuracy owing to the innovative gearing with ball and needle bearing design.
For your maximum safety, the manufacturer included an electric brake as well as a customizable top guide to align notches with cutting lines for higher precision, too.
Due to the blade wrench attached directly to the saw, you can use the saw conveniently and change blades in minutes.
For extra convenience, the motor housing is flat, while adjustment knobs and levers are big, well-designed, and smartly-placed.
Regarding power, the Makita HS0600 runs on a 15-AMP motor to create 4,300 RPM, which is strong enough to cut timber, beams, and engineered lumber.
Pros
Large cutting capacity: 2-11/16″ at 45 degrees, 3-13/16″ at 90 degrees, and bevel cuts up to 50 degrees
Aluminum base, Magnesium die-cast blade guard and blade case for added firmness.
High accuracy.
Excellent design delivers optimal comfort.
Double insulated
Cons
A bit tricky to use.
Poorly balanced.
Feature harsh torque upon start-up.
The blade is pricey.
8 – Makita SP6000J 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Circular Saw
Makita SP6000J 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Circular Saw is designed for accurate cuttings and the delivery of true power that professional users demand. That’s why producing industrial-quality saws is what this Makita brand is renowned for.
But it is just a part of the reason why this one is one of the best-corded circular saw around $300?
This saw combines a powerful 12-amp motor and variable speed control dial to support a splinter-free mirror finish. No matter what type of applications you work on, the versatile speed can also guarantee a smooth and precise final cut. The large cutting capacity, coupled with magnesium components is for proven performance and durability of the circular saw.
Additionally, the built-in limiter will prevent the motor from burning out. The bevel adjustment with a large scale makes the adjustment a breeze.
The only con that we come up with is the difficulty in cutting the pieces that are narrower than the track itself.
Pros
Industrial-quality cuts
Precise Cuts
Durable
Easy adjustments
Cons
Limited performance
Conclusion
Our comprehensive review and buying guide have come to an end, and we do hope to get you enlightened and educated on the key details about our topic: the best circular saw for the money.
If you want to use the circular saw freely with no restriction of power cords, we suggest the DEWALT DCS391B 20-Volt MAX Li-Ion Circular Saw. Believe us; you will get what you pay for this performer. If you need someone to care for your home projects, call for this guy. Similarly, as long as heavy-duty jobs are concerned, this circular saw can handle for you as well. What you will be amazed at is the final beautifully cut pieces of wood.
BLACK and DECKER BDCCS20C
PORTER-CABLE PCE300
DEWALT DCS391B
SKIL CR540602
Milwaukee M18 2630-20
SKIL 5280-01
SKILSAW SOUTHPAW SPT67M8-01
Makita XSS02Z
Makita SH02R1
DEWALT DWE575SB
Makita 5007MG
DEWALT DCS578B
DEWALT DWS535B
Makita HS0600
Makita SP6000J
You are hunting for the best cordless circular saw under $100? Here it is!
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