If you’re looking for the best router table out in terms of performance and precision then our top recommendation would be DEWALT DWE575SB Lightweight Circular saw. It delivers great on performance, high bevel capacity and a solid depth of cut.
However, if you’re on a budget and looking for something that gives you the best bang for your buck then the Hitachi C7ST is a good option for you.
When it comes to power tools, a circular saw is pretty high on the list of must-haves for DIY enthusiasts and carpenters alike. Whether you want to frame a house or build furniture, you will need a reliable one with power and portability.
That’s why we have narrowed down the best options available in the market today. If you are looking for a powerful circular saw that will handle all your projects, small and big, this review roundup will help get you started.
Product Name | RPM | Weight | Bevel Capacity | Depth of Cut | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
DEWALT DWE575SB (Top Recommendation) | 5,200 | 8.8 pounds | 0°-57° | 2 9/16 Inches at 90° | |
Makita Magnesium 5007MGA (Editor's Choice) | 5,800 | 10.6 pounds | 0°-56° | 2 1/2 inches at 90° | |
Milwaukee 6390-21 | 5,800 | 10.4 pounds | 0°-50° | 2 7/16 Inches at 90° | |
Hitachi C7ST (Best Value for Money) | 6000 | 9.5 pounds | 0°-45° | 2 7/16 Inches at 90° | |
SKILSAW SPT67WL-01 | 5300 | 8.6 pounds | 0°-56° | 2 7/16 Inches at 90° | |
Bosch CS5 | ~6200 | 10.0 pounds | 0°-56° | 2 7/16 Inches at 90° | |
Hitachi C7BMR | 5800 | 10.5 pounds | 0°-55° | 2 3/8 Inches at 90° |
Dewalt has a reputation for creating terrific tools, and their model DWE575SB is no exception. Packed with a lot of power and smooth performance into a lightweight package, it has become one of the most popular circular saws in the market today.
Design and Build
Its simplified design and ease of use make it an ideal choice, both for professional and novice craftsmen. The DEWALT DWE575SB features a compact size which is far smaller when compared to other competing models. Also, it is the lightest high power circular saws on the market, at just 8.8 pounds.
Moreover, its exceptionally small length makes it much easier to handle, particularly when maneuvering it in those confined working spaces. And as far as the cord is concerned, the model offers you with 3 times better resistance, thanks to patented tough cord protection system.
Cutting
The DEWALT DWE575SB does not disappoint you when it comes to cutting. It offers you with high performance and innovative features aimed at simplifying all your cutting applications.
To suit a wide variety of applications, this circular saw offers a high bevel capacity of 57 degrees with 22.5- and 45-degree detents, and a 2 9/16-inch depth of cut capacity, which is best in class. Also, on-board blade wrench storage allows for easy storage and convenience for blade changes.
Also, the on-board blade wrench storage allows for easy storage and convenience for blade changes.
Performance
Despite its compact design, the DEWALT DWE575SB offers exceptional power. This is made possible due to a powerful and high-performance motor.
At 15 amp, it maxes out at 5,100 RPM that can easily tackle the heavy-duty cutting applications. You also don’t have to worry about compatibility as the unit can run both on 120-volt electricity and generators.
Safety Features
As far as the safety is concerned, the DWE575SB features an electric break that allows for the saw blade to stop after few seconds from the time the trigger is released. This feature allows users to start repetitive cuts faster.
Drawbacks
The only two minor drawbacks of the product are that firstly it does not come with a rip fence and secondly it’s quite expensive when compared to the similar models.
Overall, the DEWALT DWE575SB is a great circular saw that combines power with versatility along with a compact design. And it’s not just one of the lightest; it’s also one of the most efficient.
Perhaps the best one on our list, the Makita Magnesium 5007MGA combines a well-balanced design, great power, and cutting capabilities to give you a solid power tool. The saw is easily maneuverable with its balanced, lightweight design.
Design and Build
While this circular saw is not the lightest one available, weighing at 10.6 pounds it is light enough to be highly maneuverable and controllable at the time of making cuts. The tool also boasts of a well-balanced design and feels quite comfortable to hold and handle.
As the levers are rubberized, it ensures secure handling and helps reduce vibration. The magnesium construction delivers the ideal combination of durability and light weight.
Although most likely you will use this saw with an extension cord, it comes with an 8 1/2-foot cord that allows you enough room to make a quick cut when an extension is not handy.
Cutting
The Makita Magnesium 5007MGA is capable of making cuts at a maximum depth of 2.5 inches at a 90-degree angle and 1 3/4 inches at a 45-degree angle. Due to this maximum depth, you can cut through any 2x material with ease.
This circular saw has a bevel capacity of 56 degrees with positive stops at 22.5 degrees and 45 degrees for easy back-and-forth adjustments. It means you can cut angles at any degree below this number.
Included with the purchase is a 7-1/4 inch carbide tipped framing blade, a hex blade wrench, a rip fence, and a tool case. The 24T blade comes with “M” shaped design and with two cutting points; it ensures faster and cleaner cuts than traditional versions.
Performance
Due to its raw power and speed, this circular saw is a very easy tool to handle. The 15-amp saw produces up to 5,800 rpm, which is good enough to cut through various materials smoothly, quickly, and cleanly.
Like other competitors, it runs off standard 120-volt electricity, and you can also run it off of a generator in case portable power is required.
Safety Features
When it comes to safety, Makita has not overlooked this feature. This saw has an electric brake that stops when the user releases the trigger.
It also has a LED light which is of great convenience especially when you are working late at night. The sawdust will never block your view of the cut line.
Drawbacks
The only con about the product is about its tool case. It’s quite small for the saw to fit in easily. Also, as there aren’t many storage spaces around the unit, storing a spare blade can become a concern.
When looking for a useful, powerful, and efficient circular saw, one should definitely consider the Makita Magnesium 5007MGA. It has enough power and features to make it one of the best ones in the market.
Packed with a lot of power, Milwaukee 6390-21 is a well-balanced and durable circular saw. Let’s see why it is at par with the best ones in the market today.
Design and Build
The most revolutionary concept for circular saws in years is the TILT-LOK handle on the Milwaukee 6390-21. It has an eight position cushioned top handle which provides optimized comfort and control in a wide variety of applications.
It weighs in at 10.4 pounds which is one of the lightest-weight saw in its class. Outfitted with an aircraft aluminum shoe, this corded tool definitely is built with the user in mind.
Cutting
The Milwaukee 639021 is one of the most accurate saws available in the market today. It makes really neat cuts and it slides through just about any material with ease.
Easy-access depth and bevel adjustments, a complete 50-degree bevel capacity, and a clear sight line make it easy to get a precise cut every time. Its total cutting capacity is 13.75 inches.
Performance
This Milwaukee circular saw comes with a high power 3.25 HP motor (15 Amp) which can produce 5,800 RPMs. It starts smoothly, cuts evenly, and handles virtually any material with ease.
From crown molding to larger materials, this powerful tool is certain to provide you with incredible accuracy as well as ease of use.
It also provides for easy replacement of the cutting blade, which is made possible by a 5/8-inch spindle. Again just like its competitors, it can run off standard 120-volt electricity and generators too.
Safety
The blade guard is strong and you will be able to set it down with confidence.
Drawbacks
There are no major drawbacks about the product except for the fact that it has an expensive price tag. But those who value long-term savings will definitely consider this tool.
Overall, this tool is an excellent choice for those looking for a powerful and highly precise saw. It is not only sturdy and durable but also remarkably simple to use and set up.
No matter whether it’s your first saw or you are looking to replace your old one, the Milwaukee 639021 is worth considering.
Hitachi has been known for quality products and C7ST is no exception. Powerful and well-built, you won’t really find much you can’t do with the Hitachi circular saw.
Design and Build
It is a very well-made corded tool. At 9.5 lbs it is lightweight and still very strong and durable. Made of steel and aluminum, the one-piece base offers easy to read front and side scales for accurate measurements. The soft grip handle and the low center of gravity design make this saw easy to handle.
Cutting
The Hitachi C7ST comes with a standard tungsten carbide tipped (TCT) 24-tooth blade that powers through tough cuts with ease and has a 1-7/8-Inch depth of cut at 45-degree and a 2-7/16-Inch depth of cut at 90-degree. For those looking for a more fine and finished edge can upgrade to a 60 tooth blade or higher.
It will not only give you precise 90-degree cuts but bevels ranging from 0 to 45 degrees with most materials.
Performance
Designed to rip through tile, granite, marble, concrete, brick, and other similar materials, the Hitachi C7ST is equipped with a powerful 15 amp motor that spins the blade at 6000 RPM. It ensures precise and accurate cuts that will not only improve your experience but will also make woodworking a fun activity.
Safety Features
Just like everything else, safety features are not overlooked by Hitachi. The low center of gravity and blade guard helps to keep your hands safe while delivering accurate cuts. Other noteworthy features include an integrated dust blower for a clear line of sight and a dust chute to expel dust.
The only weak point of the saw is the lever for retracting the safety guard which is made from plastic and is not very sturdy. It would have been better if it was made from aluminum. The tool also lacks a depth of cut scale and motor brake.
To sum it up, the Hitachi C7SB2 circular saw is competitively priced with a lot of power. It is well-built and sturdy, and should give years of reliable service.
From the company that invented circular saws, the SKILSAW SPT67WL01 is a sturdy little model with all the makings of awesomeness ready to deal with whatever job you throw at it. Let’s take a look at its features.
Design and Build
We really think that appearance is an important component to every tool in the workshop, and it looks like SKILSAW agrees with us. That’s why their corded model SPT67WL01 looks and feels premium.
From the spring in the blade guard down to the clicking of the trigger switch every inch of it stands out in the crowd.
While it’s not the lightest saw on the market, it comes close to 8.6 pounds. This is due to its durable magnesium footplate and guard, and lightweight resin housing.
Cutting
The SKILSAW SPT67WL01 has a maximum cutting capacity of 2-7/16 in. at 90 degrees with a maximum 56 degrees bevel capacity featuring a positive stop at 0 and 45 degrees. The product is most suitable for applications such as framing, ceilings, decking, and siding.
It also works well with soft, hard and engineered woods. Included with the unit is an on-tool multi-function wrench for changing the blade and brush, and a 24-tooth carbide SKILSAW blade.
Performance
When it comes to power, the SPT67WL01 features an integrated worm drive inspired technology with best-in-class Dual-Field motor invented specifically for the saws.
The combination of this unique motor along with lightweight housing results in a saw that lets you power through the toughest days, year after year.
The 15 Amp motor ensures power for each demanding cut while keeping it cool during use even when delivering 5,300 RPM.
Safety Features
An integrated dust blower keeps the line of cut clear for aiding in accurate cuts.
There is also a blade lock and a wrench for changing blades integrated into the footplate to ensure that you don’t have to go hunting for tools when you need to change out.
Drawbacks
The SKILSAW SPT67WL01 does not feature an electric brake which can turn into a safety hazard.
Overall, the SKILSAW SPT67WL01 is a back to basics, no-frills power tool. There is nothing very fancy or overly extravagant about the product. It’s just designed to cut and get things done.
When talking about top circular saws, Bosch CS5 is a strong contender, and you will want to own it for everything from its reliable performance to high-end design.
Design and Build
This circular saw weighs only 10 pounds which can give you ease when carrying and controlling it. And as Bosch CS5 has a left-blade design, it improves the line of sight that helps users to make precise cuts. It also has a 9-feet cord which allows you to move freely while working.
Cutting
No doubt, it is a powerful tool that can rip through material cleanly and quickly. It allows you to make a maximum depth cut of 2 7/16 inches at a 90-degree angle. At a 45-degree bevel cut, this circular saw can make a maximum depth cut at 1 7/8 inches. You can make a maximum bevel cut of 56 degrees, which is awesome. Moreover, it has the fastest spinning blade on the market, ensuring a smooth cutting experience.
Performance
The Bosch CS5 boasts of 15 amp motor, causing the blades to spin up-to a maximum speed of 6,200 rpm, which is the fastest out of all the other circular saws. Whether you are cutting plywood or ripping 2X lumber, this powerful circular saw will be more than suited to do the job.
Safety Features
This impressive tool comes with several key safety features that make it an even more practical purchase. Firstly, it has an anti-snag lower guard, allowing you to make cuts without advancing the guard.
Secondly, it comes with an improved spindle lock, so that you can easily change blades and ensure new blades remain safely locked in place.
Moreover, other than the fully visible blade, it directs excess sawdust away from the cut line, which adds another layer of visibility.
Drawbacks
Unfortunately, the Bosch CS5 lacks positive bevel stops that would have allowed you to adjust the bevel accurately and quickly.
Overall, this circular saw deserves serious consideration from professionals and DIY guys alike because of its awesome power. It’s a no-frills tool but has everything you need for simple and fast use.
The Hitachi C7BMR is a powerful tool which is quite capable of smooth and efficient cuts. It provides both power and stability that any professional or DIY needs from their tool to get the job done the right way.
Design and Build
This corded circular saw has a great all metal casing that helps to keep everything together and makes the tool stout and sturdy.
It features Internal Double Insulation (IDI) technology that enables the aluminum housing to be intertwined with an injection molded inner nylon core to combine the durability of an all metal body tool with the double insulation advantages of a tool with plastic housing.
The D-shaped elastomer covered handle gives you a solid grip and added comfort, making it an easy tool to use all day long. And as far as the weight is concerned, the Hitachi C7BMR weighs in at 10.5-pounds making it easy to move around.
Cutting
The Hitachi C7BMR is a powerful circular saw that allows you to make bevel cuts up-to 55 degrees, which is convenient. It is capable of cutting a maximum depth of 2 3/8 inches at a 90-degree angle, and up-to 1 27/32 inches deep at 45 degrees.
It means you can cut through 2x material at bevel angles less than 45 degrees. The saw comes complete with a 7-1/4-inch 24-tooth TCT blade with a 5/8-inch arbor that powers through hardwoods with ease and a 10mm wrench to change the blade.
Performance
A powerful 15-amp motor with a maximum 1,710-watt output produces a no-load speed of 5,800-RPM and can easily cut through tile, marble, granite, concrete, brick, and other similar materials. In fact, the cutting is so smooth and effortless that it makes this tool easy to handle in the middle of a cut.
Safety Features
A blade guard protects your hands during angled cuts, and spindle lock steps up the safety even further.
Drawbacks
This circular saw has some difficulty removing excess sawdust from the cutting area on larger cuts, but this issue is not persistent on quick, small cuts. Also, it lacks positive bevel stops, which is quite a convenient feature to help you quickly adjust the blade to common cutting angles.
Overall, the Hitachi C7BMR is a powerful circular saw that is capable enough of ripping through tough materials. And its impressive five-year warranty against manufacturer defects really sets it apart as one of the best corded circular saws.
A good circular saw should be powerful enough to slice through everything from the wet firewood to densest of hardwood without bogging down. Buy a good one now and you can be at peace for years to come. Here are some tips to keep in mind when you begin shopping.
The Type of Circular saw that’s best suited for you…
Circular saws have long been available in two styles: sidewinders and worm drivers.
The former is the most recognizable style to many. Its handle is set higher over the blade which has been traditionally located on the right side of the saw. Moreover, they are great because they are compact and have the motor sitting right next to the blade. Not to mention they are also the cheaper version of this tool. This type is the best choice for a home workshop.
On the other side, worm drivers are a little more expensive but they also have a little more power. They tend to be heavier and have more torque output than sidewinders.
Motor Power
The general rule of thumb with power tools is the higher the amperage is the better, but it also depends on what type of work you are planning to do. Usually, 15-amp saws are the standard.
Cordless vs. Corded : Which one fits your workspace?
Irrespective of the styles mentioned above, circular saws are cordless or corded. Cordless saws are lightweight and portable as they are battery driven but have a limited run time. On the contrary, corded circular saws have an unlimited run time but are pretty heavy and always require a power source.
Design
Design features separate which circular saws can do an average job and which can do a great job. It helps to determine how well-balanced the tool is, how the dust chutes and blowers are implemented, and the visibility. A well-designed saw keeps the dust off the blade so that the work does not get affected. On the other hand, a dust blower helps you make a precise cut. Some of the saws have both these features while some have only one.
Blades
Most saws these days come with a carbide-tipped all-purpose wood cutting blade. While this might be the only blade you would ever need, there are many other types of blades available for different jobs. You can buy them for cutting wood, tile, concrete, and metal. If your job requires a lot of clean cuts, consider a blade with a higher number of teeth.
Bevel Capacity
This feature is also quite important as it determines how sharp your cut can be. The majority of the saws these days have a bevel stop to allow you to lock at a particular degree. When the saw is locked at specified degree, it is guaranteed that the cut will be at that degree. It’s certainly a handy feature if you need to be precise.
Safety Features
When buying a circular saw, the focus should not only be on the power and performance. Safety features such as trigger locks, electric brakes, and a blade guard should be on priority. But you must not rely on them alone and must take safety precautions including protective glasses, work gloves, and ear covers.