10 Best Circular Saws

The DEWALT DCS571N-XJ Compact Circular Saw is a handy tool for those prioritizing portability and ease of use, as it is battery-powered and weighs only 1 kg. This makes it particularly beneficial for tasks that require mobility or working in areas without easy access to outlets. With a blade size of 115 millimeters, it's smaller than some standard circular saws, making it suitable for cutting wood but potentially limiting for larger projects requiring deeper cuts.

The saw operates at 4500 RPM thanks to its robust 750-watt brushless motor, which delivers efficient cutting power. However, since it's sold as a bare unit without a battery or charger, users must purchase these separately, adding to the overall cost.

Ergonomically, the rubber handle should provide a comfortable grip during use, and DEWALT's reputation for durable tools suggests this model is built to last. As a cordless model, this saw offers flexibility in movement, but users should note that battery life will vary depending on the usage and type of battery purchased. The absence of included components like the battery or charger might be seen as a drawback, particularly for those on a budget.

This saw is well-suited for DIY enthusiasts or professionals who need a lightweight, portable cutting tool for smaller woodworking projects. Ensure to account for additional costs of batteries and chargers, and assess if its blade size and features meet your specific cutting needs.

The Makita DHS680Z is a cordless 18V circular saw featuring a 165mm blade, which is suitable for common woodworking tasks. Its brushless motor enhances efficiency and durability while running at 5000 RPM, offering strong cutting performance without being overly complex. The saw provides a maximum cutting depth of 57mm at 0 degrees, which is good for most typical cuts, and bevel capacity up to 50 degrees, allowing for angled cuts with decent flexibility.

Being battery-powered, it offers great portability and convenience without the hassle of cords, though the batteries and charger are sold separately, which is important to note if you don’t already own compatible Makita batteries. Weighing 3.3 kg, it is a bit on the heavier side for a cordless model, which might affect extended use comfort, but the ergonomic handle design helps with grip and control. Safety-wise, it includes a large lock-off lever to prevent accidental starts and an electronic current limiter to avoid motor overload. The built-in blower function is a thoughtful touch to keep the cut line visible by clearing sawdust.

A downside is the saw’s relatively modest blade size, which may limit its use on very thick materials compared to larger models. This saw represents a solid choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals seeking a reliable, portable circular saw with decent power, good safety features, and versatility for wood cutting tasks.

The Evolution Power Tools R185CCSX Circular Saw is a versatile tool designed for cutting a variety of materials including wood, metal, and plastic. One of its key strengths is the included 185 mm Japanese tungsten carbide tipped blade, which is capable of multi-material cutting, offering flexibility for diverse projects. With a powerful 1600 W motor, this corded saw efficiently handles different materials and promises durability with increased motor and blade life. The three-piece track system allows for precise straight-line cuts, which is a significant advantage for users needing accuracy in their work.

Its adjustable cutting depth up to 64 mm and bevel capacity from 0˚ to 45˚ further enhance its functionality, making it suitable for various cutting requirements. The saw comes with practical safety features such as a brake and a dust port adapter for better visibility by maintaining a clean cutting line. However, its corded design might limit mobility compared to cordless options, a consideration for those frequently moving between job sites.

Weighing 5.1 kg, the saw is relatively light, which aids in handling and reduces fatigue during extended use. Despite this, some may find prolonged use physically demanding due to its ergonomic design, which could be improved. Furthermore, the saw includes a vacuum port for dust extraction, promoting a cleaner work environment, although additional components for dust extraction are necessary. The Evolution Power Tools R185CCSX is an excellent choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals who require a reliable and efficient circular saw with multi-material cutting capability and precise tracking features. Its corded nature ensures consistent power but may limit portability, making it best suited for stationary workspaces.