February 16

Best Corded Circular Saw + Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide

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My father taught me to use heavy-duty machinery as a child; since then, I love working with circular saws. 

Over the years, I have worked on numerous projects at home while helping neighbors furnish their household. So, I decided to make a guide highlighting corded circular saws and why homeowners and DIY enthusiasts will enjoy using them. 

I've had the opportunity to witness how circular saws have changed with time. Now, most modern-day units feature the perfect balance of power and durability, giving you the ability to work on different projects.   

But how will you choose from the many quality units available out there? I've narrowed down my best models that are taking the market by storm. Also, there's a comprehensive buyer's guide section where I've tried to address what features make circular saws outstanding.  

So, let's review the first product. 

SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw with Single Beam Laser Guide - 5280-01
DEWALT Circular Saw, 7-1/4 inch, Pivoting with up to 57 Degree Bevel, Corded (DWE575SB)
Makita 5007Mg Magnesium 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw
BLACK+DECKER 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw with Laser, 13-Amp (BDECS300C)
SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw with Single Beam Laser Guide - 5280-01
DEWALT Circular Saw, 7-1/4 inch, Pivoting with up to 57 Degree Bevel, Corded (DWE575SB)
Makita 5007Mg Magnesium 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw
BLACK+DECKER 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw with Laser, 13-Amp (BDECS300C)
$48.78
$138.99
-
$48.89
SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw with Single Beam Laser Guide - 5280-01
SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw with Single Beam Laser Guide - 5280-01
$48.78
DEWALT Circular Saw, 7-1/4 inch, Pivoting with up to 57 Degree Bevel, Corded (DWE575SB)
DEWALT Circular Saw, 7-1/4 inch, Pivoting with up to 57 Degree Bevel, Corded (DWE575SB)
$138.99
Makita 5007Mg Magnesium 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw
Makita 5007Mg Magnesium 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw
-
BLACK+DECKER 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw with Laser, 13-Amp (BDECS300C)
BLACK+DECKER 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw with Laser, 13-Amp (BDECS300C)
$48.89

Top 5 Corded Circular Saw Reviews

1. SKIL Circular Saw

SKIL Circular Saw

The SKIL Circular Saw has been making all the right noise so far, and a closer look reveals why. Its many functions offer a balanced output, leading to mostly positive reviews from customers. I assure you'll have a great time working with it.

Product Highlights

When buying a saw, one of the first things customers look at is its power. This saw has a 15 amp motor for faster cuts, thereby reducing the work time without compromising on efficiency. It delivers 5,300 rpm with a 7-¼-inch carbide-tipped blade; meaning, you get nothing short of the best. 

Furthermore, the spindle lock allows you to make easy blade changes for a smooth experience, highlighting its user-friendliness. You won't have to unnecessarily stop work, making it ideal for handling a wide range of tasks. In that regard, the 51-degree bevel capacity comes in handy, offering more variety and enabling you to work from different angles. 

Moving on, the ⅝-inch arbor, along with the six-foot cord, ensures that there are no maneuverability issues. The designers have quite rightly kept the weight down to 6.95 pounds, further adding to the flexibility while preventing fatigue.

What's There To Like About It?

The most noticeable feature about this model is the terrific power supplied by the motor, which translates into fast and efficient cuts. The large cutting capacity comes from its high spin rate whereby the blades produce 5,300 rpm, one of the highest going around. 

However, the increase in speed doesn't necessarily mean that users will find it difficult to control this saw. Rather, features like the spindle lock and bevel capacity enhance user-friendliness, providing more variety for you to get the best results. 

What's There Not To Like About It?

I feel that the carrying bag could be slightly bigger because right now, the saw forms a tight fit inside the bag. Meaning, there's no wiggle room, leading to unnecessary pressure on the components. Apart from that, some users have found that the laser is slightly inaccurate, so it would be best if you adjusted it before cutting.

Pros and Cons of SKIL Circular Saw

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • 5,300 rpm
  • Efficient dust blower
  • 15 amp motor
  • Carbide tipped blade

Cons

  • Laser accuracy is slightly off
  • Narrow carrying bag
Sale
SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw with Single Beam Laser Guide - 5280-01
  • Powerful 15-amp motor delivers 5 300-RPM for greater speed and faster cuts
  • 7-1 4-inch carbide-tipped blade included. Spindle lock for easy blade changes.
  • 51° bevel capacity with a positive stop at 45° for a wide variety of cuts

2. DEWALT Circular Saw

DEWALT Circular Saw

DEWALT is a well-known brand that has struck the right chord with customers, owing to its many quality products. This circular saw is no different, allowing you to make varied cuts, which is why it's on most people's wish list.

Product Highlights

I'll start by discussing the lightweight and compact design, giving this saw an edge over other models. It weighs only 8.8lbs, making it easy to hold and maneuver the 7-¼-inch blades. As a result, you won't feel fatigued, which, in turn, allows you to make varied cuts to complete tough projects quickly. 

Apart from that, the ergonomic design is perfect for a retired school teacher like me, allowing me to work for as long as possible. However, the significant addition is that of the 15 Amp motor delivering sufficient power to cut through thick wood without much effort. 

Once your work is complete, simply release the trigger to stop the blade. This helps keep users safe and saves you the trouble of having to turn off the power switch. Moreover, users have loved the smooth and precise cuts, thanks to the aluminum base, reducing vibrations. 

Finally, the dust blower keeps the workbench clean, making it low-maintenance.

What's There To Like About It?

One of the best things about this model is the attention to safety. The designers have quite rightly added the necessary precautionary functions since this is a heavy-duty device that can cause serious damage if misused. That said, I loved the trigger release mechanism instead of the usual power switch. 

What's more, the dust collection keeps the workbench clean, which has several benefits. Your vision remains unobstructed while cutting, and also after work, there's no need to spend additional energy cleaning up.

What's There Not To Like About It?

A common problem among users is that the blade wobbles slightly, which isn't ideal. Despite the many functions, you might find it troubling to get accurate cuts initially. Also, this unit leads to substantial dust production, which you might find frustrating. The problem lies in the manner the debris comes out of the sides, so it takes longer for the collection port to clean up.  

Pros and Cons of DEWALT Circular Saw

Pros

  • 15 Amp motor
  • 7-¼-inch blades
  • Safe
  • Aluminum base
  • Low-maintenance

Cons

  • Produces a lot of debris
  • Blade may wobble
DEWALT Circular Saw, 7-1/4 inch, Pivoting with up to 57 Degree Bevel, Corded (DWE575SB)
  • DEWALT 7 1/4 circular saw is among the lightest saws in its class (8.8 lbs.)
  • Electric brake of the corded circular saw stops the blade after trigger is released
  • 15 amp motor of the compact circular saw delivers power for even the toughest applications

3. TACKLIFE Circular Saw

No products found.

This saw has quickly climbed the charts to cement its place among the top brands. And, thanks to the many exciting functions, it makes short work of most materials. Plus, the manufacturers have included the necessary safety features for greater convenience.

Product Highlights

While most products focus on power and durability, TACKLIFE has developed a patented metal handle for optimum comfort. No longer will you feel fatigued, and it's also suitable for single-handed operations. Hence, you can clamp down harder while cutting for more stability to make your projects stand out. 

Other than that, the 5.8 Amp motor produces 3,500 rpm allowing you to cut through wood, plastic, plasterboard, tiles, and PVC pipes. So, it's incredibly versatile, and the six blades permit a variety of cuts for precise output. And speaking of flexibility, the bevel cutting enables you to adjust the blades between 90 degrees and 45 degrees. 

Furthermore, the left-sided blade design delivers a clean line of sight while the parallel guide attachment proves useful for straight cuts. You'll also love that it's safe, with the engineers adding a double-protection switch to prevent accidental running.

What's There To Like About It?

Although it has many quality functions, I would suggest purchasing this unit because of its outstanding versatility. All the features work in tandem, allowing you to cut through different materials with relative ease. Furthermore, due to the precise output, you can tackle a variety of projects.  

Some other likable aspects include the bevel cutting, owing to which you can make cuts between 45 and 90 degrees. Plus, the unique left-sided design offers uninterrupted cutting by keeping your line of sight free.

What's There Not To Like About It?

Many users felt they had to buy a saw clamp for additional stability, which raises the overall cost of the unit. Perhaps, the designers could consider adding a clamp with this model in the future. Besides, it doesn't come with a bag or case, and although it's compact, it might not be easy to store the unit.

Pros and Cons of TACKLIFE Circular Saw

Pros

  • Double-protection switch
  • 3,500 rpm
  • Adjustable bevel cutting
  • Stable performance
  • Patented metal handle

Cons

  • No bag or carrying case
  • No clamps

No products found.

4. Makita Circular Saw

Makita Circular Saw

Another well-known brand that has generated substantial buzz in the market with its circular saw is MAKITA. Besides the usual functions, it comes with two LEDs, making it easier to work for extended periods. And not surprisingly, this saw has most bases covered.

Product Highlights

The Makita Circular Saw comes with 7-¼-inch blades along with magnesium components, promising a long lifespan. These components are powered by a 15-amp motor for seamless experience. And I loved how the functions deliver a balanced performance, making it highly popular and user-friendly.  

What's more, you can use the two LEDs for uninterrupted vision and a clear line of sight for low-light situations. In that regard, you should note that the settings are easy to read, thanks to the clear markings. Another component that needs mention is the built-in dust blower, providing accuracy by keeping the workbench clean for clear vision. 

Apart from that, the blade wrench comes in handy for fast and efficient blade changes, offering a smooth experience. It's well supported by the bevel capacity, enabling you to get positive stops between zero and forty-five degrees. 

Finally, this saw has a large cutting capacity of 2-½-inch at ninety degrees.

What's There To Like About It?

Right off the bat, my attention was drawn to the two LEDs, something rarely seen in other models. So, you can conveniently work in low-light situations, thereby extending working hours. Moreover, these lights add to the safety and offer quality viewing, which I consider essential. 

Now, the powerful motor improves blade rotation and supports the bevel capacity in delivering positive stops. Hence, you can work from different angles without compromising on cutting capacity or efficiency. 

What's There Not To Like About It?

I should tell you that it's slightly heavy, which is understandable given its powerful motor. So, you'll need time to adjust to this change, but this isn't something major. Additionally, the LEDs don't offer the best illumination, meaning they are ideal only if there's sufficient natural light. I think it's safe to say that they don’t work as stand-alone lights. 

Pros and Cons of Makita Circular Saw

Pros

  • 7-¼-inch blades
  • Two LEDs
  • Built-in dust blower
  • Large cutting capacity
  • 15 Amp motor

Cons

  • LEDs need to be brighter
  • Slightly heavy
Makita 5007Mg Magnesium 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw
  • Magnesium components create a lightweight saw (10.6 pounds) that is well balanced and jobsite tough
  • Powerful 15.0 AMP motor delivers 5,800 RPM for proven performance and jobsite durability
  • Two built in L.E.D lights illuminate the line of cut for increased accuracy

5. BLACK + DECKER Circular Saw

BLACK + DECKER Circular Saw

Since this is a list of circular saws, there's no way that I could have left out BLACK+DECKER. It's a simple tool, making it convenient for different users to get the desired output, and I found there's a lot to like about it. 

Product Highlights

First and foremost, this is another lightweight model, weighing only seven pounds, which has several benefits. You won't feel fatigued, and controlling the unit will be easy, delivering hassle-free operation. In that regard, the spindle lock proves useful, allowing for easy blade changes for faster output. 

Rest assured, you can use this model for extended periods daily. Plus, the durable construction enhances longevity, providing more reliability during tasks. 

Now, let's talk about the power produced by the 13 Amp motor. While it's slightly less than other models, it still delivers high rotations per minute for a fantastic cutting capacity. But that doesn't mean it compromises on precision, thanks to the laser guide, which proves useful in making clean cuts. 

Moving on, the bevel adjustment allows you to work from different angles to handle a wide range of tasks. As a result, this product offers high maneuverability making it a valuable acquisition for most people.

What's There To Like About It?

There's nothing flashy or eye-catching about this model, but I love that it has stuck to the basics to deliver the desired output. The lightweight design supported by the spindle lock allows users to have maximum control over their projects. So, you can make fast, precise cuts along with blade changes for a smooth experience. 

Besides, it reduces stress and fatigue, thanks to the ergonomic design, which is ideal for people like me. Also, the durable construction proves reliable.

What's There Not To Like About It?

Coming to the not so good points, I have a few concerns regarding the guard, which appears flimsy. I'm not sure whether it would hold up well after regular use. Besides, many users feel that a trigger guard is necessary since you might accidentally press the trigger.

Pros and Cons of BLACK + DECKER Circular Saw

Pros

  • 13 Amp motor
  • Reliable
  • Bevel adjustment
  • Lightweight
  • Spindle lock

Cons

  • Flimsy guard
  • No trigger guard
BLACK+DECKER 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw with Laser, 13-Amp (BDECS300C)
  • LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN – Helps keep you comfortable and in control while minimizing muscle fatigue.
  • POWERFUL MOTOR – Circular saw’s 13 Amp motor delivers effective and efficient cutting for most applications.
  • LASER GUIDE – Illuminates the cut line for enhanced accuracy.

Buyers Guide

Now, let’s progress to the buyer's guide section, where I'll tell you how to choose the right model from two similar units. Here, I've narrowed down some of the essential aspects of the best corded circular saw, distinguishing it from other standard units. 

It would be best if you made a note of the following points for future reference. So, without further ado, let's dive in. 

1. Durability

Of all the factors contributing towards constructing a piece of great machinery, durability would be at the top of the list. It's not possible to raise the standard or quality of a tool without having sufficient sturdiness.

For that, the designers need to use quality materials for construction, ensuring your circular saw can withstand the demands of daily use. Also, have you ever thought about why most brands use a carbide-tipped blade? Well, it gives the blade strength, allowing you to cut through different materials. 

Another advantage of having a durable unit is that you get a fantastic return on investment. The saw proves reliable, while the rust-resistant body reduces wear and tear to last a long time. 

2. Power

Once you've found a sturdy model, it's time to look at how much power the saw is likely to generate. You may have noticed that most of the products I've mentioned use a 15 or 13 Amp motor, which is sufficient for completing work quickly. You may have to cut through PVC pipes or tiles in some cases, meaning the saw must be powerful. 

More power guarantees more blade rotations, ensuring you can cut the material in the desired shape. If sturdiness provides stability, power improves the range of tasks you can handle. It drives all the other functions, proving highly efficient to complete numerous projects with ease. 

3. Accuracy 

Along with power, it's necessary to have accuracy while making cuts to make your projects stand out. I realize that a circular saw is predominantly a piece of heavy-duty machinery, but you may also have to deal with light-scale work. Consequently, the engineers must include the necessary controls to manage the power during different tasks. 

I also suggest that you don't fall for the common myth that more power amounts to better performance. To get the best results, there must be harmony between the available functions and how you use them to generate the necessary output. 

4. Price 

Another important factor that is vital for buying the best corded circular saw is price. There's no use burning a hole in your pockets, nor can you afford to compromise on quality. 

Having said that, I believe it would be best if you can be a little flexible with your budget. This is because the top brands usually look to keep the price slightly higher, owing to the many quality functions. It would help if you looked for saws that have struck the right balance between price and the number of functions. 

The cost shouldn't be extraordinarily high, which might prevent several users from making the purchase. Rather, reasonable price and relevant functions make the best combination. 

5. Ease Of Use 

Apart from all these factors, most users look at the ease of use before finally making up their mind. I feel that manufacturers need to remember there are retired individuals like me who might take time to understand the latest functions. 

Plus, there's no point in having numerous features, but rather, it's essential to stay true to the basic purpose of the model. In that regard, all the information should be available in an uncomplicated manner to help you understand how the various components work. 

Furthermore, the designers should include diagrams detailing the different steps, which makes it easy to understand. Having a pictorial representation is better than a series of steps. 

6. Safety 

Lastly, but equally important, is safety while working. If you become casual at times, like me, you might get hurt while working with heavy machinery. Although I've never had an accident, some people like to purchase a unit having more safety measures. 

For instance, a blade guard and trigger guard are a must as they prevent you from accidentally starting the unit, keeping your hands safe. Also, while working, the saw shouldn't be susceptible to overheating, so there must be a function to control that. 

Other than that, you should also buy gloves and use goggles to prevent stray pieces of debris from causing harm.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Corded Saws Better Than Cordless Models?

Both corded and cordless saws have their advantages, but corded saws offer more sustained power, which is why they are still in demand. However, if you frequently work in areas with no power outlet, then a cordless model is the most suitable option for you.

2. Are Corded Saws More Powerful?

Yes, corded saws are more powerful than their cordless cousins. This is because cordless saws derive energy from their batteries, which can't match the high output of corded models. But in recent times, the state-of-the-art technology has allowed certain cordless saws to rival corded versions.

3. What's The Maximum Cutting Depth Of A Circular Saw? 

While the cutting depth varies depending on the power source, most standard circular saws deliver a cutting depth of 2.5 inches. You can also change the depth of cuts to work on different projects.

My Final Recommendation

I’ve reached the final section of my guide, and hopefully, you’ve got a better idea regarding corded circular saws. 

Having covered most of the features in the buyer’s guide section, I thought about how else I could assist you. So, before signing off, I’m going to highlight my favorite models in different categories to help you choose the best corded circular saw

After careful consideration, I’ve found that the SKIL Circular Saw is one of the top products, given the balanced functions and stable output. Secondly, the DEWALT Circular Saw offers reliability and proves extremely user-friendly in reducing stress and delivering more control. 

Finally, the No products found. is highly adjustable, allowing you to get accurate results. That’s all for now; I’ve to catch The Joe Gardener Show. 

Take care, bye!  


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