Last updated on October 8th, 2021
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Circular saws are a very useful type of saw to have around, in our article we aim to look into some of the features to look out for, how they perform overall, any possible issues and finally, we reveal 8 of our best saws and we also review them in detail.
We also take comfort into consideration, how they feel in your hand, the type of shoe they have, for example, some models with steel shoes with rolled edges can be a problem if using thin straightedges like a rafter square for a saw guide, aluminium or magnesium shows seem much better and are our preferred choice. We also look at bevel capacity which on most saws is 45°, how easy it is to adjust as well as cutting performance and power overall.
Below we will start with our buyer’s guide with a few highlighted models mixed in to shake it up a little, make it a little more interesting. Before we do get into our guide, we might as well get straight to the point and let you know which is our favourite model, a great allrounder and affordable model, our ‘Best Pick’ is the DeWalt DEE560K Compact Circular Saw which will cut to a depth of 65mm at 90 degrees and 42mm at 45 degrees. It comes with a decent blade, is fairly quiet compared to some models and blows the sawdust away as you go. It lacks an electric brake and laser line light but these are the less essential features that most workers can do without and with 3 years warranty, it’s an amazing piece of kit.
BEST PICK
The top 8 recommended corded and cordless circular saws that we have included in our review are:
- DeWalt DWE560K-GB 65mm Compact Circular Saw – BEST PICK
- DeWalt 18v 165mm XR Lithium-Ion Circular Saw – BEST CORDLESS PICK
- Makita HS301DWAE 85mm Circular Saw – BEST SMALL CIRCULAR SAW
- Bosch GKS 190 Professional Circular Saw – RUNNER UP
- Makita DHS680Z Brushless 18v Circular Saw
- Makita HS7601J/2 190mm Circular Saw
- WORX WX423 85mm Compact Circular Saw
- Ryobi RWSL1801M 18v ONE+ Circular Saw
BEST CORDLESS PICK
BEST SMALL CIRCULAR SAW
Our Top 8 Circular Saws
1. DeWalt DWE560K-GB 65mm Compact Circular Saw
BEST PICK
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The DeWalt 65mm Compact Circular Saw comes with a very powerful high performance 1350w motor. The motor is powerful enough to cut through different basic materials with ease. It is a corded circular saw with a long 3 meter cable that will give you plenty of reach.
It is fitted with a 24 tooth blade that is perfect for undertaking most jobs, you may want to upgrade the blade to one with more teeth for smoother jobs such as trimming doors edges. This blade can cut up to a depth of 65mm which is reasonable enough for most standard jobs. This is enough to work through medium-sized projects with ease, stud work, floorboards, chipboard, that type of work. The blade is made of durable material so you can be sure that it will be effective, some models come with cheap blades but DeWalt have fitted a quality blade to this model. Working with low-end blades will give you rough cuts that will affect the overall neatness of the material.
This model is lightweight at just under 4kg, meaning that manoeuvrability will not be an issue and if you work all day long it shouldn’t tire you out. Heavier models switch manoeuvrability for power. In the end, you end up paying much more attention and effort just to gain control.
To make sure that you can work in a clean environment with the least amount of dust as possible, the DeWalt Circular Saw is compatible with the DeWalt airlock mechanisms for a secure connection to an extraction hose or it can be used as a blower to keep the cutting line clear. It is nice to use an extraction system but sometimes it can get in the way.
The blade on this model rotates at speeds of 5500rpm and this is quite fast in saw terms, this ensures precise cuts and less resistance when working with thicker materials. The speed of the blade will determine how fast and how neat your work will be, this combined with the blade quality really matter more than anything else for straight cuts.
It can make bevel cuts which is convenient when working from different angles. The bevel capacity of this circular saw is 45mm at 48 degrees and at 90 degrees it will cut down to an incredible 65mm as already mentioned.
It also features a lock-off mechanism, spindle lock and electric brake.
Pros
- Ideal for plumbers, stud work, lifting floor boards, carpenters, flooring, roofing. Basically it will coverage a wide range of jobs.
- Powered by a 1350w motor that produces a high cutting speed of 5500rpm for a superior cutting performance, even on dense wood.
- Includes a good quality blade that cuts to 65mm at 90 degrees that can be altered up to 45mm at 48 degrees for bevel cuts which is easy to adjust.
- Lightweight at just under 4kg with a long 3 meter cable.
- Compatible with the DeWalt airlock mechanisms for a secure connection to extraction hose for use with dust extractors.
- Lightweight design and comes with dust management mechanisms for user friendliness.
- Includes a high performance 24-tooth blade and a carry box for easy transportation and storage.
- For safety, it comes with a rip fence and spindle lock.
- Comes with 3 years warranty when you register online.
Our recommendation
The DeWalt 65mm Compact Circular Saw comes with a lightweight structure that is good for manoeuvrability, this makes it incredibly easy to use, even for those of who are not experienced with circular saws.
We love the fact that it comes with a decent blade and this makes all the difference, giving a you great start out of the box. The 65mm cutting depth is suitable for cutting through most materials with ease and perfect for most jobs making it a great allrounder.
It comes with a steel base, usually we prefer aluminium or magnesium, but the steel shoe seems to be good quality on this particular model so we made the exception. The blade cover is made from aluminium which we like as this helps to keep the tool lighter and easier to use.
The storage box will facilitate easy storage and portability which is an added benefit when you consider a lot of models don’t include a carry case and just come in a cardboard box.
Overall, this model is probably one of the best corded circular saws we have reviewed if not the best. It is not the cheapest model we have reviewed but its certainly worth the extra investment. It’s extremely well made and a brilliant option for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.
If you are looking for a similar alternative, then we recommend that you also consider the Bosch GKS 190 Professional Circular Saw (reviewed below) as this has a slightly deeper cutting depth of 70mm and may be a good alternative to those who are loyal to Bosch.
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2. Bosch GKS 190 Professional Circular Saw
RUNNER UP
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The Bosch GKS 190 Professional Circular Saw is a heavy-duty tool ideal for DIY enthusiasts and professionals. The powerful 1400w motor provides enough power to handle bulk projects with ease. It has been designed for heavy-duty use in real work environments so it can cope with day to day work, every single day.
The tungsten carbide blades has 16-teeth for neat precise cuts and will cut most materials with ease.
Thanks to the powerful and reliable motor, the blade runs at 5500rpm which is fairly fast in comparison to cheaper models, making it perfect for sawing through both dense hard to cut hardwood with ease.
This model is equipped with a spindle lock that prevents the blade from moving unnecessarily when changing the blade, and this allows for a much easier change of blade. The steel base is strong and will provide you with enough support as you manoeuvre through materials it is nice and straight, it definitely does a great job.
Keep in mind that steel bases can be a little more vulnerable to damage which can effect the overall cutting performance. Avoid dropping the saw to avoid irreversible damage, although that is easier said than done on a busy job. The base will also offer you stability as you work around your bevel cuts. You can work from 0-56 degrees which are easy and straight forward to set. Those who are in need of the bevel feature should always confirm the maximum bevel degree.
Dust blowers are essential in making sure that your line of visibility is clear. This model comes with a turbo dust blower to achieve just this, ensuring you have a clear view of your cutting line at all times and it can be attached to a dust extractor as well should you prefer.
It also comes with a chip deflector that also help to keep those pesky bits away from your line of sight. When you need to replace the blade, you do not need any tools. Many models provide a tool that aids in the replacement of blades but the toolless blade changes are always more convenient.
Finally it comes with a nice carry box for transportation and storage.
Pros
- Perfect for a range of jobs for the home user and professionals alike.
- It comes with a TCT blade with 190mm diameter that has a cutting depth of 70mm for optimal cuts.
- It has bevel capacity of 56 degrees.
- Features a powerful 1400W motor for maximum performance with speeds up to 5500rpm.
- It includes a spindle lock and a steel base for stability and control.
- It comes with a turbo blower for debris removal to ensure you can always see the cutting line.
- Keyless blade change for added convenience means no tools are needed.
- Comes with strong carrying case for storage and transportation.
- 3 years warranty when you register online.
Cons
- The storage box is also quite big compared to the size of the tool so it will take up a fair bit of shelf space.
Our recommendation
The Bosch GKS 190 Professional Circular Saw is one powerful tool and probably on par with our ‘Best Pick’ so it is a great alternative to those who are loyal to the Bosch brand. It has a beast of an motor that is able to handle heavy-duty work too.
The blade rotation speed is high enough to offer neat cuts and it cuts through wood quickly without missing a beat.
We love that it has a wider bevel capacity of 56 degrees for those who use this feature. You will appreciate the robustness of this model and its a good alternative to our Best Pick and it offers a little more power and an extra 5mm of cutting depth too. Don’t forget it also comes with 3 years warranty if you register online.
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3. Makita HS301DWAE 10.8v Li-ion CXT Circular Saw
BEST SMALL CIRCULAR SAW
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The Makita HS301DWAE Circular Saw is another new model belonging to Makita’s latest 10.8v CXT ‘Slide’ range which stands for (Compact Exteme Technology). What we really like as well is that this is a powerful but compact sized model. The set we have reviewed comes complete with two 10.8v – 2.0Ah Li-Ion batteries that deliver up to 1,500 rpm, sufficient for quickly cutting everything from MDF, plywood, melamine, drywall and anything up to 25mm.
These batteries are easy to attach to the main body by simply sliding across the contact panel and locking them into position, they are designed to be compact and they certainly are. It also features a 4-stage battery charge gauge to help you keep an eye on the available charge which we like.
This circular saw comes with an 85mm blade that cuts to different depths at various angles, including 25.5mm at the usual 90 degrees, 16.5mm at 45 degrees, not forgetting bevel cuts ranging from 0 to 45 degrees which makes it a very versatile tool. Obviously, wood sawing produces sawdust and too much of it becomes a nuisance so it is good to find that Makita’s included blower function works great to blow away dust from the cutting line so you can always make neat and accurate cuts.
This tool has a relatively smaller body than its DHS680Z counterpart and it’s very lightweight (at just 1.8kg) making it easy to manoeuvre and handle. A soft ergonomic grip handle also means comfort in use without wrist fatigue. The box contains some handy accessories including a hex wrench, dust nozzle, carry case and DC10WC charger. The supplied charger will charge the batteries in about 70 minutes, ensuring that you don’t waste too much time should you need to pause your work.
Pros
- Quickly cuts everything from MDF and drywall to laminate up to 25mm.
- Boasts a small and lightweight design for high manoeuvrability and handling.
- Includes an ergonomically designed handle with soft grip for maximum comfort during operation.
- Features a blower function that blows debris away from the cutting line.
- Uses a slide type Li-Ion battery that slots into the main tool body effortlessly.
- Equipped with current protection circuit, designed to protect the battery from overcharging, overheating or a current overload.
- Makes bevel cuts up to 45 degrees.
- Supplied with carry case, dust nozzle, charger, 2 x 2.0 Ah batteries, TCT saw blade and hex wrench, with onboard storage for the hex wrench.
Our recommendation
This one is a definite yes and is a great looking saw, especially for cutting laminate and plywood. Many buyers are amazed by the power of such a small tool. This tool continues to receive positive feedback and it is probably one of the best small circular saws out there at the moment.
The 10.8V Li-Ion batteries lasts long to ensure you complete your tasks and they recharge pretty quickly at around 70 minutes. Thanks to its blower function and supplied dust nozzle, this circular saw guarantees a neat finish and clean working surface.
If you are looking for a circular saw for light applications such as flooring, ripping lengths of ply or laminate, then the Makita HS301DWAE 10.8v Li-ion CXT Circular Saw is well worth considering. The only downside is that is doesn’t seem to come with a Rip Fence / guide rail which we perhaps think maybe it should. Other than that, it is probably the best small circular saw we have ever reviewed.
If you looking for a more budget friendly mini circular saw and don’t require a cordless model then the WORX WX423 85mm 400W Compact Circular Saw is worth looking at (which we review further down) and it is also a great little saw but it doesn’t do bevel cuts.
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4. Makita DHS680Z Brushless Cordless Circular Saw
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The Makita DHS680Z Brushless 18v Circular Saw is the first brushless circular saw made by Makita and it’s the latest model of Makita’s line of 18v Li-Ion cordless tools. With a new cutting edge brushless motor plus some new integrated features, the Makita DHS680Z looks set to become one of the most popular cordless circular saws on the market and our first impressions says it certainly will be.
The featured brushless motor is highly efficient and has remarkable advantages over the non-brushed options. First of all, the lack of brushes within the motor ensures that power isn’t wasted on creating the heat and friction that is the case with brushed motors. Consequently, the battery lasts longer per charge and the energy produced by the battery is very efficient, enabling the circular saw to attain higher capacities, thus this tool will be able to cut longer, faster and into harder materials much more easily.
The other major advantage of a brushless motor is that because it has no moving parts within itself, there are minimal chances of anything wearing away or getting damaged which is often the case. Therefore, the motor is sure to remain in top notch condition for longer compared to a brushed equivalent.
Another impressive feature of this circular saw is the automatic speed control. This feature allows a built-in computer chip to determine the most efficient cutting speed for the material that you are working on, technology at its best. It increases or reduces the speed of the circular saw, ensuring that the tool only uses the appropriate amount of energy depending on the task at hand ensuring it runs very efficiently to prolong the battery life.
This circular saw also includes a battery state indicator that uses 3 LED lights to show the amount of battery charge left. Leaving jobs half way as a result of your tool running out of power can be frustrating, especially if it will take long time to get it started again. So the battery charge indicator of this circular saw ensures you will never be caught without power when you need it.
A soft start feature ensures the tool will start smoothly each and every time, whilst a large lock off lever ensures the switch will only turn on when you need it, thus ensuring safety during operation. There’s a current limiter that prevents overheating especially if the saw is rotating at high speeds when cutting tougher materials. In addition, the tool features a job light that illuminates the work piece in dark conditions and has a blower function to clear dust from the cutting line.
When it comes to the construction, this circular saw is compact and lightweight at only 3.3kg, making it easy to handle. The grip is truly ergonomic and with a soft rubber that feels comfy in your hand.
Powered by an 18V Lithium-Ion LXT battery (not included), this circular saw cuts up to 57mm material depth at 90 degrees, 41mm at 45 degrees and 37mm at 50 degrees, using its 165mm blade which also seems good quality. This model has an impressive cutting speed of 5,000 rpm (no load speed) for a cordless model, considering the DeWalt model reviewed next runs at 3700 rpm. Makita offers a standard 1 year warranty on this product, but can be extended to 3 years upon registration online. It is important to note that registration should be done within 30 days of purchasing this tool.
Pros
- Features an automatic speed control that allows its integrated computer chip to match cutting speed to the job at hand.
- Includes a battery charge indicator that features 3 LED lights which will illuminate the amount of charge you have left, so you will never be caught unaware.
- It has a soft start button for safe and controlled operation.
- It has a blower function to blow dust off the cutting line.
- A larger than average base provides improved stability on the working surface.
- Features an electronic current limiter that protects against overload.
- Has a twin LED job light that will allow total visibility of the work piece.
- It has a compact and lightweight design plus an ergonomic soft grip handle to give you full control and comfort.
Our recommendation
This circular saw has earned several positive reviews and many tradespeople really love the integrated brushless motor as the extra torque stands out when they are compared to previous models. Apart from getting around tasks more efficiently, the brushless motor enjoys an extended lifespan and it is worth paying the extra for. The Lithium-Ion batteries used to power this tool are also highly resistant to overheating and will last longer through jobs as well. You will need to order batteries separately if you don’t already have any of the 18v cordless tools to borrow the batteries from.
There are indeed many useful features of this tool that make it very convenient to use. These include the battery charge indicator, automatic speed control, soft start function, current limiter, lock off lever and the LED visibility light, you name it this model seems to have it. The build quality is great and you will find the tool a breeze to handle. Performance-wise the 5000rpm speed will power the blade through both soft and tough materials and the cutting depths at various angles are excellent.
Without any major issues to point out, we are convinced the Makita DHS680Z Brushless 18v Li-ion Circular Saw is a great buy for a joiner who is looking for top of the line tool. The only downside is that it is a little expensive, especially when you consider that you may also need to buy batteries and a charger separately. Other than the price its hard to find a better cordless model.
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5. Makita HS7601J/2 190mm Circular Saw
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The Makita HS7601J/2 – 190mm Circular Saw is an excellent affordable model that comes at a reasonable price. The double insulation is only there to make sure that you have enough control when cutting but reducing the vibrations and sound, and this it does this very well. This lightweight corded circular saw enables you to handle working with different materials thanks to its high manoeuvrability. It comes with a rear angular guide that becomes useful in making sure you have the right cut.
This model has a bevel capacity of 0-45 degrees to a depth of 46mm. You can utilise this to make different shapes and quick cuts. Aluminium bases are known to be better than their steel counterparts. This means you will have more weight at the base for better support and more importantly, they are stronger than steel shoes.
This Makita model incorporates an aluminium base and an aluminium cast cover.
This circular saw comes with a 190mm blade that has a cutting depth of 66mm. This cutting depth is enough to work through most basic materials without unnecessary challenges and is perfect for every type of timber from 40mm doors to boards of plywood and stud work.
The Makita HS7601J/2 Circular Saw produces a rotation speed of 5200rpm comparable to the other models by DeWalt and Bosch. This speed is quite fast in comparison to some of the other cheaper brands though. The high-quality blade travelling at this speed will facilitate easier and more precise cuts. We love the fact that it comes with its own high-quality storage box instead of the usual cardboard box so you can travel with it should you need to as well as protecting the saw.
To make sure that the debris from the material you are working on is effectively disposed of you can attach a dust extractor or vacuum. These can be attached to the back.
Pros
- Lightweight high quality construction and double insulation for ease of use.
- It comes with a rear angular guide and a bevel capacity of 45° at 46mm and a straight 90 degree cut at 66mm.
- Strong aluminium base plate and cover for safety purposes.
- It comes with a 190mm diameter blade and a cutting capacity of 60mm.
- Fitted with a brushed motor for maximum performance and a sturdy box for portability and storage.
- Includes a rail guide and exhaust port to dispose of the debris into a vacuum.
- It operates at a speed of 5200rpm for faster and neater cuts.
- 3 years warranty when you register online for full peace of mind.
Cons
- Blade may be a little course for some finer jobs, get a 80+ teeth blade should you need to undertake neat work or cut plywood.
Our recommendation
The Makita HS7601J/2 190mm Circular Saw is a good all round product for both DIY users and professionals.
We love the fact that it can operate at higher speeds compared to a model like the Evolution RAGE1-B Multi-Purpose Circular Saw, this is really what separates the top-rated models from the run of the mill models.
Overall, we think that it is not too expensive but it will serve you well. It comes with a 1 year warranty but this can be increased to 3 years as long as you register online within 30 days, so that is well worth doing.
If we had to choose between the Bosch and the Makita models in our reviews, we would probably lean towards the Makita model. When we first reviewed circular saws, our ‘Best Pick’ was between this model and the DeWalt model. The DeWalt won because they had a slightly better price so this is a good runner-up alternative.
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6. WORX WX423 85mm 400w Compact Circular Saw
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The WORX WX423 85mm Compact Circular Saw is a tidy little-corded circular saw perfect for home DIY use. It is desigend to handle smaller jobs thanks to its compact size. Its blade diameter of 85mm is quite small compared to the other brands in this review, but this is a small saw that has been designed for smaller tasks. It has a cutting depth of 27mm which is not as much as the larger saws in this review. That is why this circular saw is adapted to light work where a small circular saw is just what is needed. It also comes with an ergonomic design for comfort.
The grip is firm and comfortable to use, even for longer periods of time. The weight is also evenly distributed making it a joyful tool to use and at around 1.4kg it certainly is light. DIY enthusiasts will love this tool for its versatility as it will cut a range of materials.
This model comes with a tungsten-carbide blade which is popular for its abrasiveness. It is harder than the regular HSS blades and the 24- toothed TCT blade will be able to cut through basic materials like wood, tiles, plastic and metal, amongst others.
The fact that it is lightweight and has a powerful motor shows that it does cut through most materials effortlessly. It is a corded circular saw, so all you need to do is plug it in and away you go.
In terms of operating speeds, it runs at around 3700 rpm. This speed is not the highest but it matches the size of the saw and is much faster than the cordless Makita model. However, to be clear, it is not a match on the Makita model even though it is faster.
The 3 year guarantee is an assurance from the manufacturer that the product is built to last but remember to register it online to take advantage of the full 3 years warranty. If anything happens to the circular saw you can use the warranty and have it fixed or replaced.
The design is attractive to the eyes and it doesn’t take up a lot of storage space. As we said, it’s a neat little handheld circular saw.
Pros
- Ergonomic lightweight design, small, compact and easy to use with one hand.
- Compact structure for easy handling and better blade visibility.
- The cutting blade measures 85mm in diameter that has a cutting depth of 27mm.
- 24-tooth tungsten-carbide tip blade and a powerful 400w motor for maximum performance.
- Spindle lock and lock-off mechanisms for stability and safety purposes.
- It comes with a vacuum adapter for a clean working environment and a cutting speed of 3700rpm.
- It comes with a 3-year guarantee for full peace of mind.
Cons
- It cannot handle tough materials that are a little thick, even if the thickness is in the recommended range.
- It cannot execute bevel cuts.
Our recommendation
The WORX WX423 85mm 400w Compact Circular Saw is perfect for any small jobs around the home or basic DIY jobs that the larger saws would simply be too large to attempt.
The handheld circular saw is very well priced. For DIY enthusiasts that are working on small projects, they will find a great companion in this product.
The secret to using this product is to understand where its limits lie. We think it would be an asset in the long run and is a great little saw for anyone looking for a versatile model for small cutting jobs.
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7. DeWalt 18v 165mm XR Cordless Circular Saw
BEST CORDLESS PICK
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The DeWalt 18V 165mm XR Lithium-Ion Circular Saw operates on Lithium-Ion batteries. These batteries have the ability to store energy for extended periods of time. They are also easily rechargeable using the included charger. This model is part of the DeWalts amazing XR Lithium-Ion technology.
This technology is aimed at providing the circular saw with a longer running time compared to regular batteries. The batteries power the DeWalt PM58 motor. This motor is cooled by fans to make sure that damage that would be incurred by overheating are kept at bay. This brush engine will offer you more value for money as they are less expensive than a brushless motor.
This model comes with a 4-tooth tungsten carbide blade. These blades are durable and offer precise cuts. The blade has a diameter of 165mm which in turn has a cutting capacity depth of 55mm. The depth is sufficient to work on different materials within the recommended thickness.
To control the blade as you work, the manufacturers have provided an electric brake. Electric brakes are popular for their instantaneous action, the blade will stop immediately when you let go of the trigger to avoid over cutting.
The DeWalt 18V 165mm XR Lithium-Ion Circular Saw comes with a wider bevel cut range. This model can offer you bevel cuts up to 50°. Most circular saws offer a bevel capacity of 45°. We are pleased to see the extra bevel capacity that has been provided. When working at the speed of 3700rpm, you have to make sure that the saw is in position. That is why this model comes with a magnesium shoes, they are more durable and are less weighty than the aluminium shoes. You will be able to enjoy the power behind this heavyweight machine.
The ergonomic design provides stability and comfort as you work. Make use of the 1- year warranty or 3- year warranty when you register online.
Pros
- Includes two 18V 4Ah Lithium-Ion batteries to provide maximum performance and sawing time.
- It comes with the DeWalt PM58 brushes that are replaceable – an engine which is cooled by fans for a longer running time.
- It comes with a TCT blade with a165mm diameter and a cutting depth of 55mm to make sure that you get precise cuts.
- It also comes with an electric brake and a bevel cut up to 50°.
- The 24- toothed blade provided rotates at a speed of 3700rpm for precise cuts.
- It comes with an effective spindle lock and tools for easy blade change.
- There is a magnesium shoe for precise cuts and an ergonomic design for comfortability.
Our recommendation
The DeWalt 18V 165mm XR Lithium-Ion Circular Saw definitely has some advantages. It offers you enough power to cut through different materials while maintaining the quality of the blade. The advance bevel cut also endears us to this product. It comes with an electric brake that is convenient when you need to stop the saw immediately. However, it is quite bulky due to the battery packs.
It is also constructed to handle heavy-duty work with ease. Overall, it is a very impressive piece of kit and comes with everything needed unlike most models that come as a bare tool and no batteries. Although it is quite an expensive pick, you will struggle to find a better cordless circular saw.
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8. Ryobi RWSL1801M ONE+ Cordless Circular Saw
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The Ryobi RWSL1801M 18V One+ Circular Saw is the perfect saw to accomplish any medium-sized project. The machine comes with a 150mm blade that has a cutting depth of 45mm. This depth is adequate when dealing with materials that are not too stubborn. The speed of this circular saw is estimated at 4700rpm, paired with 18 tooth tungsten carbide blade makes it a force to be reckoned with. The TCT Kerf blade is thin to facilitate easy and precise cuts. This blade is strong enough to withstand pressure without snapping.
This classic machine has a user-friendly handle that guarantees the user is comfortable whilst working. This ergonomic and balanced design will allow you to work for extended hours with ease. The spindle lock is usually employed to facilitate the easy change of blades during operation.
The saw comes with a laser mechanism fitted on the sides. This laser acts as a guide for precision cuts even when working in badly lit areas. You can attend to your bevel cuts whenever you need as long as it is within the range of 0-50°, this can be set without any tools making it quick and easy to do.
The Ryobi RWSL1801M 18V One+ Circular Saw comes with a blower. As stipulated before, the function of the blower is to make your line of sight clear. You can now work without small bits of material getting in the way. If these featured fail to work as expected, you may take advantage of the warranty. The two-year warranty will be effective in maintaining or fixing the circular saw in the unlikely event it developed a fault.
Pros
- Powered by 18V Lithium-Ion batteries for maximum output speed of 4700rpm. (Batteries are not included).
- It comes with a 150mm TCT Kerf blade that has a cutting length of 45mm at 90° and has a bevel capacity of 50° which can be set without any tools.
- It is ergonomically designed for comfortable handling.
- Includes a spindle lock that makes blade changing easy, edge guide and hex key for ease of use.
- It comes with a dust blower, side fence and laser cutting guide for straight cuts.
- It comes with a 2-year warranty for extra peace of mind.
Our recommendation
The Ryobi RWSL1801M 18V One+ Circular Saw is a light model best suited for DIY enthusiasts and home users. However, it has the ability to produce compact power and will cut through most materials with ease. Cutting through harder materials and wood may drain the battery much faster.
We are happy that the saw is ergonomically designed and the laser function is a really nice addition to this model.
It is not adaptable to handling bulk assignment and it should be left for home projects.
For a better model in the same range, we would recommend the Makita DSS610Z 18V Cordless Li-ion Circular Saw. It has more power behind it. If you need a basic circular cordless saw you can happily settle for this one.
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What to consider when choosing the best circular saw
A quick visit to your local B&Q or search on Amazon will quickly reveal the sheer number of circular saws you can pick from. Bosch, DeWalt, Ryobi and Makita, all sell circular saws and each brand stocks a large number of different circular saws which can make choosing the right circular saw a little more difficult. Not to mention, we just named four of our most trusted brands, and there are a lot more brands out there, some good, some terrible.
In our guide below, we try and focus on models that are in the 5,200 to 6,200 rpm range and we look at both electric corded models (often these run at higher rpm and are more affordable), as well as cordless circular saws which can be expensive if you need to purchase the battery and charger as well. If you already have some related tools there is a good chance the batteries will be compatible and this may save you some money as you could just invest in the bare tool without the battery and charger.
There are many brands that offer high-quality circular saws. Things might get confusing but that is expected. Now that you are spoilt for choice, you have to be aware of the small differences that make these products differ from each other. Now let’s dig a little deeper and explore the factors that you need to consider when choosing a circular saw.
Corded vs Cordless
Do you need the freedom of no cord but limited run times, or the higher power of a corded model but restricted by the length of the cord?
Your circular saw has two options when it comes to how it is powered. You can select either a corded electric model, often more powerful and better at cutting through thick dense wood but you are tied down by the cord. Alternatively you can have the freedom of a cordless circular saw but you are restricted by the battery run time however, you have the advantage of working anywhere you don’t have a plug socket to plug into.
In general, the higher the wattage that is consumed, the higher the power provided that converts to a higher rpm which is the speed of the saw blade. Many corded circular saws are adapted to handling bulky work. They can cut through ceramic, masonry, steel and even the most sense of woods. With the power that they produce, expect them to weigh a tad more than their cordless counterparts, that being said, some cordless models now have large capacity batteries for longer run times which weigh more, and this means that they are sometimes just as heavy as corded models.
With modern technology and batteries, cordless circular saws are now often powered by the latest lithium-ion batteries. These offer longer run times and shorter charge times, often charging fully within 60 minutes. The fact that they use batteries makes them more portable and gives you the freedom to work from anywhere. The power they produce is limited because they are working on rechargeable batteries, for example, a good cordless model will work around 3700rpm.
In general, they can only handle small to medium-sized jobs although some expensive models are now starting to become powerful and robust enough for larger jobs, but this feature comes at a cost. It’s advisable to have a spare battery, if not several, unless you only use it for an hour every now and again.
Below is an example of one of our favourite cordless picks, the DeWalt 18v XR Cordless Circular Saw. However, it is nearly three times more expensive than the cordless alternative chosen as our ‘Best Pick’, but it does come with two 4Ah batteries as well as a fast charger. It has and does everything a professional tradesperson would need, a magnesium base for better control, a cutting depth of 55mm, it can produce bevel cuts up to 50°, electric brake and a spindle lock so that you can change the blade easily. However, it does not come with a case which is a little disappointing.
Type of blade
There are different types of blades available and in general, the more teeth the smoother the cut will be, which is better for cutting doors etc. It usually pays to buy high-quality blades and pay a little more as the blades do most of the work, anyone who uses a type of circular saw will tell you that the blades really do make all the difference.
Carbide tip blades
These blades are harder than the high-speed steel blades. The carbide or tungsten teeth give it the extra edge. They can work with ease when dealing with difficult materials. If you are working on a hardwood project, these blades are highly recommended.
High-speed steel
These blades are among the strongest. They cost more than regular steel blades but provide a longer service.
Masonary blades
They are usually adapted to dealing with masonary related materials. They are made of abrasive material and are slightly thicker to ensure fast and precise cutting.
Specialised blades
There are blades on the market that are designed for only specific jobs. These blades tend to cost much more than regular blades. You can get some with aluminium oxide tips that are known to handle tougher than normal materials.
Steel, Aluminium or Magnesium Shoe?
The shoe basically refers to the base of the circular saw. The right shoe makes sure that the saw remains in position whilst cutting. This support feature is crucial to the accuracy of your circular blade. There are three possible recommendations for the right shoe type, the best circular saws have either an aluminium or magnesium shoe, they are strong, won’t bend as easily as steel, are lighter and generally better. Steel shoes are usually fitted to cheaper models which we have tried to not recommend because we only ever look to recommend quality products.
Extra features some models have
What we mean by extra features, is that not all these features can be found on all models. Some of these features are employed just to make your work a little bit easier. These features include:
LED lights
These lights are added just to make sure that you have better visibility of the area that you are working on. Not really essential for most jobs and certainly not a deal-breaker.
Laser cutting guide to help with accuracy
These features can be found on saws that are preferred by DIY enthusiasts or the less experienced for the extra guidance it can offer. We don’t think it is really needed and most professionals will probably agree with us, but it can be handy to have.
Electric brakes
The addition of electric brakes becomes convenient when you need to stop suddenly. The electric brake makes sure that the motion of the blade is suspended immediately instead of the traditional continuous spinning. Again, this is not a feature we think is essential but some people prefer a saw with a brake.
Dust blowers and ejectors
When you are working you need all the visibility you can get. The dust blower makes sure that the small pieces of debris are cleared from the surface as you cut. Some models can be attached to a collection bag and can be connected to a dust extractor or vacuum. Something we did notice is that if you are right-handed and the blade is on the right-hand side, it can blow the sawdust towards you. Not a big issue but worth considering and many people overlook this.
Budget
Without a doubt, the more money you budget, the better saw you will get, there are lots of cheap saws out there and they often come with cheap blades that seriously affect performance. If you want a basic but quality circular saw, £90 will get you a good corded model ideal for DIY projects while an extra £40-£50 will get you a high performance corded model.
As for the cordless circular saws, they will end up costing you more money with most bare tools cost in excess of £100 before you have purchased the batteries and charger. With a battery and charger, expect to pay anywhere around £250 for a good model. Also, circular saws that have extra features will definitely cost more. Look at the budget that you are working with and select accordingly. We have chosen only the best saws to recommend below so have a read through and see what you think.
Final Conclusion
From what we have seen, the differences between these models is mostly minor. However, these minor differences can affect the quality of your work and what the saw can actually cut through.
Take your time to observe these differences and most importantly power. Remember to work within a budget so that you do not overspend on features you do not need such as battery charge indicators and laser guides. They are nice little features but they are not essential.
Our favourite model is the DeWalt DWE560K-GB Compact Circular Saw as its performance is excellent and it is even one of the most affordable too. With this model you really cannot go wrong.
As for cordless models, we really like the DeWalt 18V 165mm XR Lithium-Ion Circular Saw and the Makita DHS680Z Brushless 18v Circular Saw as both models are at the top of their game in terms of performance and reliability.
Whether you need a cordless circular saw or a corded model, we hope we have given you a few good models to choose from. If you have any questions or want to comment on any models you might have, feel free to comment below.
Last update on 2024-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
