Last updated on October 3, 2021
YThe best-corded circular saw runs on a 15amp motor. Consider an 8.25-Inch blade if you need to rip timber or a 7.25-inch blade for a lighter tool.
Make sure to have easy-to-adjust blade angles and a magnesium base for smooth gliding over your wood.
It helps for a saw to be lightweight and easy to handle.
There are 2 different designs of circular saws, a sidewinder, and a worm-drive more on this below.
Best sized circular saw [7.25-inch]
#1 Best circular saw
Makita 5007MGA 10.6 lbs, 7.25-inch 15-amp
- The 15-amp motor spins blades at 5,800 RPM.
- Well-balanced and lightweight due to magnesium components.
- Comfortable rubber handle.
- Large rubber levers allow for one-handed adjustments.
- Has large and easy-to-read number and ruler markings.
- Has a brake for the blade when the power switch is released.
- The most popular circular saw for carpenters being in the 15Amp range.
- None.
#2 Best light-weight circular saw for DIY
Makita HS7600 lightweight 8.6 lbs, 7.25-inch 10.5-amp
- Well-balanced with an easy and lightweight design that weighs only 8.6 lbs.
- Has an easy-to-use safety button.
- Has a lower guard design that allows for a more efficient bevel and narrow cuts.
- Super affordable tool.
- Awkward cuts become easy with this small lightweight saw.
- A bit slow for ripping heavy amounts of timber.
#3 Most lightweight circular saw
Dewalt DWE575SB electric brake 7.25-inch 15-amp 8.8lbs
- An extremely light and well-balanced saw tool weighing in at only 8.8 pounds.
- Has a ball-bearing equipped lower guard that prevents dust from entering the inside of its motor.
- While being this lightweight it still has a 15Amp motor.
- Has a high-grade aluminum shoe that helps ensure accurate cutting.
- Has a built-in dust blower.
- Tough cord connection to the body.
- The blade can take a while to stop spinning completely.
-
Blade wobble can cause inaccurate cutting from too much vibration.
#4 Another electric saw
Hitachi C7SB2 lightweight 10.1lb, 7.25-inch 15-amp
- Bevel capacity ranges from 0° to 55°.
- 2nd lightest weight circular saw with a 15Amp Motor.
- Has a heavy-duty die-cast aluminum base.
- For trades, you can have the power you need for ripping timber in a lightweight 10.1lb saw.
- Has front and side scales for accurate settings.
- The cutting depth lever ensures precise measurements.
- The handle is a bit slippery.
#5 The Bosch small circular saw
Bosch CS10 10.2lbs 7.25-inch 15 amp
- Bevel and depth levers allow for a good range of cutting angles.
- Cut-line is clearly visible for maximum accuracy.
- Has a strong composite-material footplate.
- Pretty lightweight still at 10.2lb.
- Has a hook for hanging the tool on framing.
- The blade tends to go out-of-square easily.
#6 Another Bosch power saw
Bosch CS5 120-volt 7.25-inch 15-amps 10 lbs
- The left-blade design allows for a clear line of sight when cutting.
- Has an anti-snag lower guard that lets you cut without having to adjust the guard.
- Great for making bevel cuts.
- Blade takes a while to stop spinning.
- The handle is a bit slippery.
#7 Milwaukee crosscut saw
Milwaukee 6390-21 7.25-inch 15-amp 10.4 lbs
- Makes smooth and even cuts with most materials.
- Light-weight 10.4lb, for its 15Amp motor.
- Has an eight-position Tilt-Loc handle that improves comfort and handling.
- One-touch spindle lock allows for easy blade changes.
- The base plate has not much upturn, making it less durable.
- The shoe isn’t exactly parallel to the blade, and no adjustment control is provided.
#8 The Skilsaw power saw
Skilsaw SPT67M8-01 sidewinder 7.25-inch 15-amp 12.15lbs
- Allows for clear visibility of the cut line.
- 15-amp dual-field motor runs cool for longer tool life.
- Has a maximum cutting capacity of 2 7/16” at 90°.
- Has a maximum bevel capacity of 56°.
- The shoe base isn’t precisely flat.
- A bit too heavy at 12.15Lbs.
#9 Best Skil electric saw
Skil 5480-01 11.8 lbs 7.25-inch 13-amp
- Lighter than the previous Skilsaw model (5400-01).
- Wider foot improves stability.
- Has an anti-snag lower guard that prevents hanging up when making narrow cuts.
- A two-point line of sight makes it easier to cut straight lines.
- The blade tends to move out of position.
- Hard to see and set angles.
- Base-plate is weak and poorly designed.
- A little bit slippery front handle.
#10 Best DIY circular saw
Craftsman CMES510 11.05 lbs 15-amp 7.25-inch
- Has a 15-amp motor that spins the blade at 5,500 RPM.
- Can make accurate bevel cuts up to 55°.
- The spindle lock mechanism allows for quick and easy blade changes.
- A contoured handle allows for comfortable handling.
- Might as well get a pro brand as there is not much price difference.
Best ripping circular saw [8.25 Inch blade]
#1 Big Makita circular saw
Makita 5008MGA Magnesium 11.4 lbs 15-AMP 8.25-Inch
- Bigger 3” cutting depth.
- Can cut bevels up to 50°.
- Has positive stops for 22.5° and 45° angle settings allowing for quick adjustments.
- Has an electric brake that stops the blade quickly.
- Blade wrench attachment allows for quick changing of the carbide-tipped blade.
- Lightweight 11.4lb 15 Amps Saw.
- A popular choice for builders.
- For small cutting jobs, the smaller Makita is easier to use.
#2 Big Dewalt 15 amp power saw
DEWALT DW384 12.75lbs, 8.25-Inch 15-Amp Saw with Brake
- Produce’s a lot of torque.
- Has a 50° degree bevel capacity.
- Has a heavy aluminum base and an electric brake.
- Rear depth adjustment allows you to keep your hand behind the tool in all settings.
- Needs a bit of adjustment to get the shoe squared with the blade, also making setting angles hard.
- Uncomfortable front handle.
- Heavy tool at 12.75lbs.
Best worm drive circular saw
#1 Best Makita worm drive circular saw
Makita 5477NB 7.25-inch 15-amp worm drive hypoid saw
- Cheaper and lighter than other worm-drive saws.
- Has a powerful 15-amp motor.
- Has an innovative hypoid gear system that enhances power and improves surface contact.
- Gears are sealed in an oil bath for low-maintenance operation.
- More torque than a sidewinder.
- The blade’s hex wrench can fall out.
2# The worm drive Skilsaw
Skilsaw SPT77WML-22 lightweight worm drive 7.25-inch 15-amps skill saw
- Magnesium construction results in a lightweight unit with reduced fatigue.
- A Cut-ready system allows for quick and accurate depth adjustment.
- Has a 53° bevel capacity.
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Has an anti-snag lower guard that prevents cut-off pieces from getting in the way.
- Needs frequent lubrication for optimum performance.
- Heavier than the Makita worm-drive saw.
#3 Best Hitachi worm drive saw
Hitachi C7WDM 7.25-inch 15-amp worm drive
- A durable worm drive gear system prolongs tool life and improves cutting results.
- Has a three-position rafter hook for convenient storage.
- Has easy to move bevel and depth adjustment levers.
- A bit heavier than other worm drive saws.
#4 The Bosch worm drive saw
Bosch CSW41 7.25-inch 15-amp worm drive
- Comfortable design improves handling and control
- Magnesium construction results in a durable yet lightweight tool.
- Designed for enhanced accuracy and precision.
- Has a powerful 15-amp motor.
- Heavier than comparable worm drive saws.
What should you know about circular saws?
Circular saws are power tools that can be used to cut a wide variety of materials, from wood and plastic to masonry, and even metal like aluminum sheets or extrusions.
Circular saws, however, are mostly used for cutting ply-wood, flooring, and framing timber. Handheld circular saws come in corded and cordless varieties.
Models that are attached to the chassis are typically powered by electricity, but you can also find gasoline-driven or hydraulic-powered models as well.
They can cut different materials depending on the blade you use. Blades designed for cutting wood can make crosscuts across the grain or rip cuts along the grain.
Every decent circular saw has adjustable base plates that you can tilt at an angle to cut bevels. You can always check this guide out if you think you need to switch to a miter saw.
Lighter saws are generally easier and safer to use. You only really need a bigger saw if you have to rip timber frequently.
For the DIYer
For most DIY users and even some professionals, a compact circular saw should be enough to get most jobs done, more easily.
DIYers can use circular saws for a variety of cutting tasks. Most models marketed for DIY users are the sliding or “pull-through” types, which provide sufficient power in an easy-to-handle unit.
You could also purchase a hinged-blade saw that allows you to make wider cuts than you would be able to do with a standard design.
For the builder
For builders, a circular saw is the most commonly used tool, particularly for cutting wood. Smaller models are usually sufficient for cutting relatively thin pieces of wood.
For ripping large amounts of timber, it may be necessary to get a more powerful saw with a bigger cutting blade. Although you can get away with only using a small circular saw, paired with a table saw for ripping jobs.
Circular saws can even be used to cut tiles and masonry, provided they have sufficient power and are fitted with the right kind of blade. For even more versatility, builders can use combination blades that are capable of making rip cuts and crosscuts.
Makita also makes an 8 ½” saw that is almost as light as their 7 ½” model at close to the same price. And if you are looking for a worm drive (more on this later), Makita makes some of the best models around as well.
Features to think about
- Power. Corded power saws are powered by electricity and are usually more powerful than cordless models. For most DIY uses, however, many battery-operated cordless saws provide sufficient power.
- Base plate. Base plates are usually made of magnesium or steel. Magnesium plates are lighter than steel, but also stronger and more durable, and are less likely to be damaged when the tool is dropped.
- Motor size and design. Bigger motors generally provide more cutting power, although they may be more difficult to handle. You should be able to find a cordless mini circular saw that provides a good balance between power and easy handling. For prolonged cutting jobs you might want to opt for a plug-in model. And for ripping timber you should get a bigger-sized saw.
- Blade size. Bigger blades allow you to cut thicker workpieces. But don’t just fit a larger blade onto your existing saw. Circular saws are designed to accommodate only a specific range of blade sizes to ensure safety and optimal performance. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when choosing new blades.
- Weight. The most powerful circular saws tend to be quite heavy, so you will have to consider the added weight if you need to do a lot of cutting overhead. Heavier models will be difficult to hold up for longer periods, so you might want to compromise a bit on power and get a lighter unit for long periods of overhead work.
Before you buy a circular saw…
1. Consider durability
Whether you got for a handheld or a fixed-rail model, a corded or a cordless, your circular saw should be durable enough to handle a wide variety of jobs without breaking down.
When you have to work with hard and dense woods a lot, a more durable model will really come in handy.
2. Get the right brand.
Some of the best circular saws on the market are made by Makita, DeWalt, Bosch, Hitachi, and Skilsaw.
It’s always better to buy a professional model from a reliable manufacturer instead of a DIY model from a lesser-known brand.
Branded saws may cost more at the outset, but you will get a lot more value for your money, and it should last a lifetime with care.
3. Don’t think too hard about the price.
Don’t settle for the cheapest circular saw you can find, also considering you can get a pro brand for a cheap price anyway if you get a smaller saw.
Saving pennies now will only end in tears when you have to replace or get replacement parts down the line. Get the best model you can afford in your price range, and your circular saw will reward you with years of reliable service.
4. Opt for a brushless motor.
Brushless motors are more efficient than standard motors, so go for these models if you have a choice.
With standard brush-equipped motors, there is often a lot of friction when the brushes rub against the mechanism.
This can prevent cordless motors from reaching maximum efficiency.
5. Pick the right base-plate material.
Go for a magnesium base plate if possible. Magnesium base plates are a lot stronger than stainless steel and are less likely to get warped or broken.
Also, look for a circular saw with an adjustable plate that allows you to cut at an angle if you plan on making bevel cuts.
How much power should you go for?
Always choose a circular saw in a size that is suitable for your needs. If you regularly have to rip through thick slabs of timber, get a bigger and heavier saw by all means.
But if you don’t plan on ripping timber that often, you will find that many smaller saws are more than adequate for DIY and professional use cross-cut, with a small amount of ripping.
Smaller saws are lighter, easier to use, and are safer because they have less power it is easier to control “kickback”.
Even if it does jamb and kick back on occasion, they are easier to control because of their lighter weight and smaller motor.
They are also less likely to cause strain and hand fatigue, so you could use them for longer periods.
I recommend getting a 10-11AMP circular saw for most DIY applications. They provide sufficient power for most cutting jobs but are easy to handle for tradies and even for beginners.
Difference between a worm drive & sidewinder saw
Circular saws come in two designs: sidewinder and worm drive saws. Sidewinder saws are the most commonly used and seen.
Their blades are positioned right next to the motor, which turns the blade directly. Sidewinder saws generally have higher RPM than worm drive saws.
Worm drive saws have the blade set in front of the motor, with the blade operated by a threaded worm drive running along the shaft.
This design produces more torque, making them better for cutting hard and dense materials than standard circular saws.
I like sidewinders better as they are more lightweight, worm drives are good for faster cuts and ripping timber, but I prefer to use a table saw for ripping timber while using the sidewinder as a lighter more portable saw.
What’s the best circular saw for beginners
If you are just starting out with circular saws, it’s a good idea to go with a smaller model that packs enough power to remain useful as your needs grow.
Having a corded circular saw is always a good choice since you don’t have to worry about running down the battery.
But for many jobs, a cordless saw is sufficient, safer, and easier to use.
As I mentioned previously, a corded small 10-11AMP circular saw provides a good balance between power, performance, and easy handling.
It is also light enough to use for longer periods without strain, and you can regain control much more easily when the saw kicks back if you come across a knot in the wood you are cutting.
Remember to never attempt to cut curves with a circular saw it can end with a kickback.
To safely go about cutting curves in wood or metal, you want to use the best cordless jigsaw tool. Here’s a guide that details out when is it time to use a jigsaw.
#1 Best circular saw overall
Makita’s 5007MGA is an 7 ¼” model that weighs a surprisingly light 10.6 pounds.
Like most premium Makita products, the 5007MGA combines impressive power and performance with a host of useful features that make it a great choice for DIYers as well as building and construction professionals.
#1 Best circular saw for power and blade depth
The 5008MGA has a powerful 15-amp motor that is rough and ready for even the most demanding industrial applications.
Powerful enough to cut through thick slabs of timber, it is nevertheless easy to handle even if you’ve never picked up an electric saw before.
The 5008MGA also has a 3” cutting capacity, making it a great choice for framers and roofers that demand the best circular saw that money can buy.
Its best to have both a lightweight saw or a cordless small circular saw for general portable cutting jobs and a bigger circular saw like the 5008MGA for ripping cuts.
#1 Easiest to use and control circular saw
The Makita HS7600 is a lightweight and remarkably well-balanced model that combines state-of-the-art features and outstanding power and performance.
Designed for professional framers and builders, it is easy enough to use even by beginners and DIYers due to its lightweight design and excellent balance.
It is compact enough to take with you to remote job sites and is built to handle the rigors of outdoor use.
The HS7600 is driven by a powerful 10.5 amp motor and has a sturdy aluminum base. It can cut up to 2 ½” at a 90° angle, and a bevel range of 0° to 45°.
If you are looking for an all-around circular saw that could handle pretty much any framing, building, or carpentry job, the HS7600 is a serious contender even though it’s small and lightweight to use.
What is the best worm-drive saw
Makita makes some of the best worm drive saws on the market. Their models are lighter and cheaper than other brands, alongside that is an excellent performance with the“Makita”.
Their higher torque also makes them more efficient for cutting hard pieces of wood, and they are usually a bit more accurate than standard circular saws.
#1 Best value worm drive saw
The Makita 5477NB matches precision magnesium components with a unique hypoid gear system that maximizes the amount of power that the motor puts out.
Despite its 15-amp motor that spins the blades at 4,500 RPM, the 5477NB is well-balanced and easy to handle, like the best Makita circular saws.
The hypoid gear system is arguably the 5477NB’s best feature. This design allows for better surface contact, resulting in the transfer of more power over a wider area.
This results in a more powerful saw tool that is also as durable as it gets. The 5477NB’s hypoid gears are sealed in an oil bath as well, so you could expect reliable performance with hardly any maintenance necessary.
Corded vs. Cordless saws
The choice between corded and cordless circular saws often comes down to convenience.
On the one hand, corded models allow you to keep working without having to worry about a battery running out of juice.
But you also have to consider whether or not being tied to a power outlet is worth this advantage.
With cordless models, you do have to keep an eye on your battery level and make sure that you always have a spare battery pack or two with you when working in remote locations.
Some chargers can charge up your battery within 15 minutes so you could go on working, but keep in mind that chargers and spare batteries will also add to the cost.
Power doesn’t usually factor into the equation, as many cordless saws from Makita and DeWalt have the power that performs fast sharp cuts.
Keep your blades sharp and your batteries charged, and your cordless saw should be able to handle most jobs that a corded model can, with the convenience of not having to run a lead. Here’s how you can change your circular saw blades.
For a builder having both corded and, cordless crosscuts saw is standard.
When you need to have a big circular saw
Although I generally recommend that DIY’ers get a smaller circular saw, sometimes you need to have a bigger tool to handle bigger jobs.
If you have to do a lot of ripping timber along the grain, for instance, you really want to have the power of a bigger saw at your disposal.
Cutting against the grain doesn’t really require a lot of grunt, but if you are going to be doing a lot of ripping along the grain, you will appreciate the added power that a good heavy-duty model provides.
For ripping jobs where accuracy is critical you would be better off with a fixed circular saw that attaches to your work surface instead of a handheld model.
However, you could use a hand-held skill saw using a straight-edge and clamps to use as a guide.
In some cases, you are much better at doing your ripping timber work with a faster and more accurate tool like a portable table saw.
Tips for using a circular saw
1. It is a must to have a residual current device (RCD) when operating a circular saw or any other power tool.
These devices help protect you from electric shocks if you accidentally cut the power cable or if there is a short in your saw.
You could get an RCD for your fuse box, which provides protection for all connected power sockets.
At the very least, you should also have an RCD for the outlet where you will plug in your circular saw.
2. Practice safe working habits.
Try to keep the cable away from the blade as much as possible. Or better yet, go for a cordless model if you don’t need to have a lot of power on tap.
Wear safety goggles and a dust mask when using your circular saw when cutting man-made materials.
Many builders don’t bother wearing protective eyewear when cutting framing, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Make sure to keep your clothing away from the blade as well.
3. Use wood clamps.
Before you begin cutting, check to see that your workpiece is supported and fixed securely.
Also, make sure that excess wood you cut off will fall away from the saw freely.
Have good quality wood clamps on hand so they are there when you need them.
4. Don’t try to force the blade back into line if you make a mistake.
It’s safer to turn the motor off, allow the blade to stop spinning completely, and start over again where you marked off the cut line.
Most importantly never go backward with your saw, only forwards as doing so can cause the saw to kickback unexpectedly .
Irwin and Bessy both make great wood clamps you should have a pair of quick grip clamps to act as an extra hand or two to securely hold your work while making a power cut.
What does history say
Historical accounts vary as to who exactly invented the circular saw. The earliest known use of the tool dates to the late 18th century when rip saws were used to make lumber out of logs. Before then, logs were made with a hand-operated pit saw or powered saws that cut in an up-and-down motion.
Here’s a bit of trivia: circular saws were also commonly known as “buzz saws”, due to the sound that the blade made when cutting through wood.
The sound was noticeably different from that produced by the up-and-down saws that were more common in those days. Think about that the next time you fire up your circular saw! But the most common name is a circular saw and Skilsaw and both are used interchangeably sometimes [1].
Comparing the top electric saws
| Makita 5008MGA
|
Makita 5477NB
|
5007MGA
|
Makita HS7600
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amps: | 15 | 15 | 15 | 10.5 |
| Weight: | 11.4 lbs | 14.3 lbs | 10.6 lbs | 8.6 lbs |
| Blade Size: | 8 ¼” | 7 ¼” | 7 ¼” | 7 ¼” |
Conclusion
Makita is the clear winner in this roundup, with three of its models winning the “best of” spots in three different categories.
The Makita HS7600 is a solid all-arounder that delivers excellent performance in almost any application.
The 10.5 amp motor cranks out sufficient power for most jobs, and it is especially well-suited for framing work.
The Makita 5008MGA is no slouch either. An 8 ¼” model that weighs in at a modest 11.4 pounds, it has a 15-amp motor that can cut through even hard and heavy timber slabs with ease.
If sheer power is what you are looking for in a circular saw, the 5008MGA is your guy.
Finally, check out the Makita 5477NB for another fine Makita model that delivers superior bang-for-the-buck.
With its powerful 15-amp motor and innovative hypoid gear design, the 5477NB is a lot more efficient than any other worm-drive circular saw in its class.
I also recommend getting a smaller Dewalt, or Makita cordless circular saw, they are more portable and easier to use to make quick cuts for your simple jobs. Or could be used as a “one-and-only” for DIY’ers.
Makita 5007MGA review
Pros:
- Lightweight for a 15Amp saw.
- A popular choice for tradespeople.
- Easy to set angles and depth.
- Cutting is noticeably more smooth and quicker than the smaller version.
- Can cross-cut and do heavy-duty ripping jobs, with more grunt and a deeper blade depth.
Cons:
- None
#1 Best 15 amp circular saw for builders
More information:
- Skil saw or circular saw? discussion, retrieved from, https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-difference-between-a-circular-saw-and-a-skill-saw
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