If you plan on indulging in woodworking, a circular saw is an essential tool. It will help you take on multiple projects with ease.
I love gardening and have always wanted to create new fences and garden furniture on my own. That is why I started looking for a saw that would work well. My husband told me about the different variants available and how they differ from each other. There are differences in speed, blade size, cutting depth, and length, to name a few.
Hi! I am Stacy Smith, and today I will take you through the 5 best cordless circular saws currently in the market. The pros and cons have also been detailed down so that you can make an informed choice.
So, let’s dive in!
Top 5 Cordless Circular Saw
1. Dewalt 20V MAX Circular Saw DCS570B
I will start with the Dewalt Circular Saw DCS570B, which is known for its consistent performance and brushless motor. It can maintain its speed well under load and is a lightweight gadget to choose. I found this to be one of the finest options to own.
Product Highlights
The efficiency of a saw is partially determined by the kind of blade it has. This one sports a long blade of 7 1/4 inches and provides deep cuts of 2 9/16 inches. I was able to work with wood efficiently, thanks to this.
Also, it ranks high on safety as it features a brake that will immediately stop the blade and prevent any kind of damage or wrong cuts in case of emergencies. Moreover, there are LED lights that will allow you to have a clear range of vision. And I was able to work in the dark owing to this.
To top it all, it features a motor speed of 5,200 rpm, which will help in dealing with work very quickly. I was pretty impressed with the fact that it boasts of a runtime of 100 cross cuts in pine.
What’s There To Like About It?
What I liked best here is how the bottom plate is aligned. It is placed perfectly for anybody to see exactly where the blade is falling. This helped me cut in the exact position as required.
It is also very quiet, and you will not be disturbing anyone even in the next room. My husband was able to sleep peacefully while I worked all night.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
I was very happy with the safety switch, but I believe it could be placed in a better location as I have ended up pressing it at the wrong time more than often. To avoid issues, I will recommend taking the batteries out and keeping them separate when not in use. That way, even if the switch is turned on, the machine would not be affected.
Pros and Cons of Dewalt 20V MAX Circular Saw DCS570B
Pros
Cons
- Power - Brushless motor provides 5500RPM maintaining speed under load
- Runtime - 330 crosscuts in 2x4 (pine)
- Capacity - 7-1/4' Blade provides 2-9/16' Cutting Capacity at 90 degrees
2. Black & Decker 20V MAX BDCCS20B
Next up is a product from one of my favorite brands that is Black & Decker. It has been producing wonderful gadgets for many years, and the 20V MAX BDCCS20B is an example of its finesse and expertise. I was very impressed with the large number of features packed inside this compact body.
Product Highlights
I will begin with the high torque motor, which is attached to a 5.5-inch blade. This will help you slice through different materials easily. You can also adjust the depth as it features a tool-free depth of cut to help you with everyday tasks.
Secondly, it allows for bevel adjustment from 45 to 90 degrees, and that will let you work from multiple angles. This is a very important feature when it comes to circular saws, and Black & Decker has nailed it well. I was able to make accurate cuts at the exact angles, thanks to this saw.
Also, weighing only 6 pounds, this is one of the most lightweight tools that I have seen. It can be transported easily, and you can carry it in any work bag. With dimensions of 14.13 x 8.25 x 8.88 inches, it will literally fit into the smallest of space with ease.
What’s There To Like About It?
First of all, I really liked its build and the design. The red and black color complements each other and stands out. Coming to the effectiveness, I found it perfect for small to medium-sized jobs. It helped me cut through thin sheets of plywood with ease.
Also, the customer service is outstanding for this brand. I have always been able to reach out to them in times of need, and the process has gone very smoothly.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
I found that the blade changing process was a tad problematic as it was difficult to slide the blade in. Every time I tried to do so, I feared getting hurt from the sharp edge of the blade. It is best to watch YouTube videos on installation, and you will learn that the bolt tightening process is different from other machines. Once you see it, you should not be facing any more issues.
Pros and Cons of Black & Decker 20V MAX BDCCS20B
Pros
Cons
- Versatile 5-1/2 In. Blade – Fast-cutting blade is ideal for a range of DIY tasks.
- Angled Cuts - level detents at 45 and 90 degrees for angled cuts.
- Tool-Free Depth Adjustment – For quick and easy adjustments without extra tools.
3. Makita SH02R1 12V Max CXT
If you are looking for great power, then the Makita SH02R1 12V Max CXT will fit your needs very well. Weighing just 3.5 pounds, it features a 12V max CXT 2.0Ah battery, and it works brilliantly well. I was very happy to see the superior ergonomics that it boasts of.
Product Highlights
Now I was very confused about the kinds of materials that it would actually be able to deal with. But to my surprise, this one can cut through plywood, MDF, particleboard, pegboard, drywall, and melamine, to name a few. Considering how lightweight and compact it is, I found this to be an incredible option.
Moving on, you can aim to cut faster with this device. It has a 1,500 rpm motor which runs at a stable speed. This is accompanied by a 3 ⅜-inch blade that comes with a 1-inch cutting depth.
You can use it for a wide range of cutting projects because of this. The cutting depth angle can be adjusted from ⅝ inches at 45 degrees to 1 inch at 90 degrees.
Lastly, I found the grip to be great. It is made of rubber and gives ample space to hold. You will also not face hand fatigue after using this saw.
What’s There To Like About It?
I was impressed with the built-in dust blower that helped me get rid of all the dust and debris from my work area. This will increase your accuracy, while allowing you to see better.
Another feature that stands out is the battery protection circuit. This will keep the battery safe and protect it from over-discharging, overloading, and overheating. It is very important in making the product durable and in reducing lag.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Now for most gadgets, the blade is usually on the left side, and I have always been used to working that way. But for this one, the blade is on the right side, and that is slightly problematic to get adjusted to. Also, the handle is slightly flimsy; I would have preferred a thicker and sturdier one.
Pros and Cons of Makita SH02R1 12V Max CXT
Pros
Cons
- Makita-built motor delivers 1,500 RPM for faster cutting
- 3-3/8" blade delivers a maximum cutting depth of 1" for a wide range of cutting applications
- Adjustable cutting depth from 1" at 90° and 5/8" at 45°
4. Craftsman V20 6-1/2-Inch Cordless CMCS500M1
If you were looking for a product with a high-functioning motor, then the Craftsman V20 6-1/2-Inch Cordless CMCS500M1 will serve you well. It is equipped with a metal shoe for better durability. Also, it is part of the new V20 cordless system.
Product Highlights
I found this tool to be on the heavier side, with a weight of 10.2 pounds. However, this makes it sturdier to rip 2x the material. A 6 ½-inch blade accompanies it, and together it can cut through hard materials easily. The blades are made for crosscutting and will do the job at a quick speed.
Secondly, it comes equipped with a safety brake. Now, this brake is one of the fastest that I have seen to date, and it will switch off the spinning of a blade in under one second. I was able to prevent wrong cuts thanks to this.
Also, this is a cheap option where you get good speed and multiple features at a less expensive rate. Furthermore, I was very pleased with the kind of customer service that this brand provides. You will immediately get a response, and the waiting time is minimal.
What’s There To Like About It?
I was delighted with the straight and accurate cuts that can be achieved with this saw, and you can work nonstop because the battery lasts long. The battery is included in the pack, and you do not have to buy it separately. Also, once it is exhausted, it only takes 30 minutes to charge, and you can get back to your work again.
To add on, it has a molded and contoured handle, which provides a very comfortable grip.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Now in most cases, safety switches have to be pushed sideways. But here, it is placed in a very odd way where you have to push it to the front. When I tried doing it, it moved the saw a little, and that caused some damage to the track saw jig.
Pros and Cons of Craftsman V20 6-1/2-Inch Cordless CMCS500M1
Pros
Cons
- HIGH PERFORMANCE: 4,000 RPM for aggressive fast cutting
- CROSS CUTTING CAPABILITIES: Cordless Circular saw accepts 6-1/2-in blades for cross cutting or ripping 2X material
- TOOL-FREE: Beveling shoe pivots up to 50° for angled cuts
5. SKIL 20V 6-1/2 Inch CR540603
Do you want a tool for woodworking only? The SKIL 20V 6-1/2 Inch CR540603 will be a great addition and will help all DIY enthusiasts with their projects. This has been my go-to woodcutting tool for a year now, and it shows brilliant performance.
Product Highlights
This product comes with an advanced temperature management system, which works in keeping the battery and the body of this machine cool. This will help power your projects without any fear of overheating.
Next, I was very pleased with the carbide-tipped blade, which comes along with 24 teeth. The tool has a thin blade, which will make the process of cutting smooth and easy to achieve.
Coming to the bevel cutting capacity, you can shift from 0 to 50 degrees easily, and that will help you cut at different angles. The cutting depth is also adjustable with a maximum capacity of 2 ⅛ inches at 90 degrees.
To top it all, this one has a handle that is easy to grip and will provide you with a comfortable hold. It is perfect for dual-handed operations, so you can be left-handed or right-handed and still use this product easily.
What’s There To Like About It?
I was able to make straight and confident cuts every time I used this product. The saw line visor would guide me in the process and this made my work so much simpler.
Also, Skil’s customer care is very responsive, and I had all my doubts solved by them within no time. Initially, the call was not received, but I got a call back immediately after, and they heard me through.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
I was slightly disappointed with the battery as it does not last long. This can be problematic if you work with it for long hours at a stretch. So, I would suggest purchasing it for small projects that will not exhaust the battery within just a few hours of use.
Pros and Cons of SKIL 20V 6-1/2 Inch CR540603
Pros
Cons
- CUT THROUGH WOOD WITH EASE—This cordless circular saw is the go-to wood-cutting tool for DIY projects around the house.
- Longer run time & battery life—the PWR core 20 Lithium battery has an innovative temperature management system to keep battery cool and powering on through your project.
- FAST AND CLEAN CUTS—Make your cuts fast and accurate with the tool’s thin-kerf, carbide-tipped blade, with 24 teeth.
Buyers Guide
A circular saw can be a very handy addition to the toolbox, but you will have to make a careful choice. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast, craftsman, or an amateur looking for a woodworking tool, the best cordless circular saw will ensure that your projects go well.
There are crosscuts to consider, blade sizes to measure, and slope capacity to be determined, among other considerations. Angie helped me understand the different factors, and I will be sharing them with you in this section. Read carefully to know all about the various features, and you should be able to make the right choice.
1. Reliability
Choosing a reliable gadget should be on the top of your mind always. Now, first of all, see whether the tool is for right-handed or left-handed use. You do not want to have one which is inconvenient.
Secondly, make a note of what kind of materials you are dealing with. My friend Angie told me that different equipment works with different materials. Smaller devices may not be a good fit for cutting steel or for masonry. On the other hand, a bulkier product may work very well with hard materials.
If you are planning to take on smaller low budget projects, then a lightweight model will work out well. It is easier to carry, and you will be getting good results.
2. Motor
Next, you will have to check the horsepower of the motor and see the speed at which it runs. Remember that this is essential for steady work, and you would also want to get done with the job quickly. Circular saws are generally used by people who take on woodworking projects frequently. Hence, time is a concern, and the speed needs to be checked.
Coming to the brakes, some have electric brakes that can be immediately stopped while others do not. I prefer electronic brakes as they work wonders in emergency situations by preventing wrong cuts and moves. Moreover, you will be able to have a lot more control over the motor and work process, thanks to this feature.
3. Blades
A circular saw is as good as its blade, and that is something that you already know. It might rank high when it comes to other features, but the blade is the game changer. That said, I will suggest looking for one that is above 4 inches in height. This will allow you to work with different types of materials.
Also, it is best if the bevel cuts range from 0 to 45 degrees. This will allow you to make large rip cuts, and you’ll be able to work at angles too. The saw base generally allows for adjusting the depth of cut, and that is needed to ensure minimum kickback.
Moving on to the diameter, most blades range from 14 to 61 cm, and you can choose depending on the work at hand.
4. Warranty
Please make sure that you check the warranty period of the device before purchasing it. This is essential because, in case a part malfunctions, you might be able to get it repaired or replaced within that time.
Since this is an electrical gadget, any part of it might stop functioning, so it is best to have a longer warranty backing it up. This will save you a lot of money in the long-run.
5. Handle
Ensure that you have a comfortable handle that can be easily gripped. This will prevent any form of hand fatigue, especially if you are a professional and have to work for long.
Frequently Asked Questions
I will discuss a few frequently asked questions in this section, and that should resolve any queries that you may have. Read on carefully to find out all about them.
This depends on the kind of finish you are looking for. If you want a fine finish, then a larger number of teeth will work better. But if you are looking for a rugged finish, then you will need lesser teeth. Also, for small jobs and quick work, you will need lesser teeth.
No saw blades cannot be interchanged; you will have to stick to the machine that the blade comes with. Separate companies have different dimensions for blades, and hence they will not fit.
Yes, check the power and the speed of the product and its battery capacity. If it fits your needs, then you will be able to use it for all purposes.
My Final Recommendations
With this, I have reached the end of this article, and I hope you have got a clear idea as to which circular saw you want to choose. Remember to go through the product description carefully before purchasing. The best cordless circular saw should fit your hands comfortably and work quickly.
Now before I sign off, let me take you through my favorites. The Dewalt 20V MAX Circular Saw DCS570B is an excellent choice if overall performance is concerned. But the Black & Decker 20V MAX BDCCS20B is a great option if you want a beautifully designed product.
On the other hand, the Makita SH02R1 12V Max CXT is one of the lightest and most portable options available today. It is now time to take your leave.
Happy shopping!