Best Circular Saws – Complete Reviews With Comparison

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There are few tools more useful for cutting things down to size than a circular saw.

However, with so many options out there it can be tough to decide which one is right for you.

How much power will you need? What kind of angles will you want? How heavy should it be?Considering these questions and more can help you in finding the ideal option for all of your cutting needs.

We’re going to take a look into 4 popular options as well as provide a brief shopping guide to assist with narrowing down the competition to the choice best for you.

Best Circular Saw Reviews

Comparison Chart

SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Magnesium Left Blade Sidewinder Circular Saw Skilsaw – SPT67M8-01
DEWALT 20V MAX* 5-1/2-Inch Circular Saw, Metal Cutting, Tool Only (DCS373B)
41D5OVJcX S. SL500
PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX* 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw, Tool Only (PCC660B)
4134rVKOQyL. SL500
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* POWERCONNECT 5-1/2 in. Cordless Circular Saw, Tool Only (BDCCS20B)

1. SKILSAW Southpaw

If you are looking for something a little larger, with a decent amount of power, this is an ideal choice.

Product Highlights

This saw is an ideal choice for those who need something a little different from the standard models. It’s a saw with a design that is perfect for left-handed individuals. This allows you to get a greater level of control, thanks to the ability to use the device easily with ​your dominant hand.The construction is also entirely magnesium, so the saw is quite durable. And most users claim that they don’t experience problems with overheating. The dual-field motor design contributes to the cooling effect. You also get plenty of torque with this model.

What’s to like about the SKILSAW Southpaw

Many appreciate the lightweight design of this saw. While it is an option that may offer less fatigue, it’s also a very solid choice. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about frequent breakage or the device feeling flimsy in your hands. It’s a durable machine that can handle your needs.At the same time, this is also an option that is very powerful. It’s going to be able to get through a wide variety of materials with little trouble. And you will also get plenty of bevel options for when you need to cut something with a bit of an angle on it.

What’s not to like about the SKILSAW Southpaw

Overall, there are very few complaints had by customers who have purchased this saw. Most of the complaints tend to be small. For example, not all users may be a fan of the blade that is included with the purchase, so you may consider checking to make sure it’s what you want.Another minor issue includes storage.  There is no included case such as ​ other models might have, nor a hook or spot for mounting a hook to keep it up and out of the way.

PROS

  • Lightweight
  • Very powerful
  • Durable

CONS

  • Blade may not be up to all standards
  • No hook included
  • No case

2. DeWalt DCS373B

If you don’t mind paying a bit more for a truly powerful device, this one is well worth a look.

Product Highlights

While this is the most expensive saw on this list, it’s also one that promises a lot of power. With a 3,700 rpm motor, it’s hard to find something that this powerful little machine won’t cut through. It’s also battery-powered, which means you won’t need to worry about dragging around a cord.On top of that, it’s a saw that is quite durable and reliable, offering safety as well as a sight-line window to make sure you can easily see what you’re doing. It’s also ​provides a high level of control and balance, so that it remains steady while you’re completing your cutting tasks.

What’s to like about the DeWalt DCS373B

Users typically appreciate how lightweight this option is, claiming that they can use it for longer periods of time without too much fatigue. It’s also a device that is easy to use — so even if you’re new to using a circular saw, it won’t take too much time to figure out what you’re doing.Due to the power it offers, you’ll be able to get the job done pretty quickly. Customers tend to appreciate the efficiency it allows as they go through their tasks. In addition, the included battery can be shared with others of the same brand, making it easier to always have a full battery on hand.

What’s not to like about the DeWalt DCS373B

As with other models, this one has few complaints. Some find that the blades aren’t the ideal size — so the cuts made by this saw may be more shallow than expected or preferred. Make sure that you take note of the size while you’re shopping so that you get the idea of what to expect.Also, purchasing doityours023e-20nt blades can get somewhat expensive. ​So look at the prices and make sure you are okay with the cost. It can also help to get an idea of how long each blade is likely to last.

PROS

  • Lightweight
  • User friendly
  • Functions quickly

CONS

  • Blade size may not meet all expectations
  • Cut depth can be a little too shallow
  • Blades can be expensive

3. Porter-Cable PCC660B

41D5OVJcX S. SL500

If you’re looking for an option more suited to your budget, this is an option worth a look.

Product Highlights

If you are looking for a lot of power at a low price, this saw is well worth checking out. It offers a motor capable of up to 4,000 rpms. And with the right blade attached, it can handle just about anything you need it to, including pivoting up to 50°.Thanks to the molded handle, you’ll also get a high level of control to ensure your cuts are nothing short of perfect. Though it’s a lightweight device, it really packs a punch as far as power tools. In addition, many users are very pleased with the price.

What’s to like about the Porter-Cable PCC660B

This saw provides you with an option that is very portable, so you’ll be able to easily take it wherever you need to work. Weighing under 8 lbs., it’s also not a problem to use for longer periods of time. This makes it a very convenient little tool that makes cutting a lot easier.​You may need to try out a few blades to find the right one — but once you’ve found it, this little machine can power through a wide variety of materials. The saw itself is quite powerful, so it’s just a matter of making sure the blade can match that power.

What’s not to like about the Porter-Cable PCC660B

For some users, this saw can feel somewhat ​lightweight — which can be frustrating if you prefer more heft in your saws.​ ​Finally, it’s important to make sure you don’t overdo it with this machine. Though it has a lot of power, it isn’t an infinite resource. As a result, it can sometimes overheat and cease working if the job is too difficult. ​

PROS

  • Powerful saw
  • Perfect with the right blade
  • Highly portable

CONS

  • Motor can overheat
  • Check assembly for possible missing pieces
  • ​Not as sturdy as some saws

4. BLACK + DECKER BDCCS20B

4134rVKOQyL. SL500

If you’re on a tighter budget, this is a really good option.​

Product Highlights

It might not have the same amount of power as other options out there, but it’s still a very handy tool to have around. The blade is smaller than other options, so make sure it’s going to handle what you need.You will be able to handle bevel angles up to 90° — which is a lot more than some of the other options out there. Because it uses a battery, you also won’t need to worry about being near an outlet. Instead, just recharge the battery and you’ll be ready to handle a decent amount of work.

What’s to like about the BLACK + DECKER BDCCS20B

This is one of the best choices out there for those who are on a tighter budget. The cost is a lot lower than other models, and it still offers enough versatility to be useful around the house. Many users find that they can easily handle many of their smaller jobs with this device.On top of that, the battery life is often long enough to get through quite a bit of work before it needs a recharge. In addition, the compact design makes it easy to take just about anywhere you need to, ensuring you can easily get work done in a number of locations.

What’s not to like about the BLACK + DECKER BDCCS20B

Some customers order this saw only to find that it ​​has minor mechanical issues. Consequently, it’s a good idea to test it out as soon as you get it so that any potential problems can be addressed quickly. It’s also worth looking it over to make sure there’s no damage or other problems.In some other cases, users have found that the battery runs out much more quickly than expected. This typically happens during times when it’s being used on more difficult jobs. Keep in mind that this is a less-powerful tool, and it can also overheat if put under too much strain.

PROS

  • Budget friendly
  • Very handy
  • Long battery life

CONS

  • Motor can overheat
  • Can arrive ​with minor problems
  • Battery ​life may be short

Buyer’s Guide

There are several things you should be looking at when purchasing a circular saw. Below, we discuss them in detail.

Blade Diameter

The diameter of the blade can help to give you a good idea as to how deeply the device can cut. Therefore, while you’re shopping you’ll want to be thinking about what type of items you’ll be cutting and how thick they are.

Smaller devices may not be able to saw all the way through thicker wood very easily, but they can handle thinner sections very well. If you’re unsure about what diameters work well for what you’re cutting, you can also check with a professional to get an idea.

Cord Length

If you’re choosing an option with a cord, it can also be helpful to think about where you want to saw versus where an available outlet might be.

It’s important to make sure you have enough extra cord that you can saw without accidentally pulling the cord from the wall or having any limited motion. In some cases, using an extension cord can also be useful for this purpose. You might also look into battery options if you’d prefer not to use a cord.

Arbor Size

As mentioned earlier, not all blades are going to be able to handle all sizes of wood. Consequently, you’ll need to consider the thickness of the wood or materials you want to cut. There are plenty of handy guides available that will tell you what kind of blade can handle which wood thickness. There are also professionals you can check with if you’re not certain.

Bevel Capacity

If you need to do some beveling, it’s going to be important to know the angle you want to bevel at. Some devices may be able to bevel up to 90°, while others cannot handle a bevel angle at all. Make sure you get a device that will be able to do what you want, that way you can avoid the frustration of finding out your chosen saw doesn’t bevel at all.

Voltage

For the most part, voltage plays a role with regard to saws that are battery powered. It’s a good idea to compare the voltages available and get a sense for the power they offer as well as battery life. If the battery is a rechargeable option, you’ll want to make sure that you also get a charger to avoid frustration in the middle of your tasks.

Corded or Cordless?

Another choice you’ll need to make is between a corded or cordless model. There are benefits to both, such as freedom from a cord or not having to worry about a battery dying in the middle of a job. Consequently, it’s a good idea to think about which benefits are more necessary to you and the jobs you’ll be doing. That will give you a good idea of the direction to take.

Circular Saws F.A.Q.

How to use a circular saw?

To begin with, you’ll want to understand your saw as well as the features it offers. Then, make sure you have proper safety gear on for using the device. Make sure the material you’re cutting is even and well-supported. Then, line up the saw where you want it and at the correct depth, and remove the blade cover before you get going.

How to use a circular saw without a table?

While the best way to use a saw is with a table, you can use boards or other materials to keep your surface steady while you work. Make sure to look up some in-depth how-to articles or videos that can guide you through the process safely and effectively.

Can you cut metal with a circular saw?

You can, but it’s not a good idea to use the same saw for both wood and metal. The options tend to be a little different depending on what you’re cutting. In addition, there are different saw blades that you’ll need to use for metal so that you’ll get the safest, most effective results.

Can you cut tile with a circular saw?

Yes, however it will be important to make sure the saw you choose can get the job done on tile, as it can be a more difficult material. Furthermore, make sure you’re using the correct blade so that you can get the ideal cuts without ruining the saw, blade or tile.

Why does my circular saw kick back?

This is most often due to the blade jamming on something. In some cases, it may just be a small jam that the saw can deal with while in other circumstances it’s a good idea to stop the saw and make sure there isn’t anything happening that’s going to cause a serious problem.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for the best circular saw on this list, the SKILSAW Southpaw is going to be your best option – however, this saw is designed for left-handers. It comes at a middle-of-the-road price that will allow you to get great value. It also offers a 15 amp motor to get through just about anything you need, and a decent level of bevel ability as well.

Keep in mind as you shop that the other options in this list are perfectly viable as well. What matters most is finding the best option for your specific needs; you might find that a different model does that better in specific situations.

2 thoughts on “Best Circular Saws – Complete Reviews With Comparison”

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