Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Best Circular Saw for Your Workshop

Are You a DIY Enthusiast or a Professional Woodworker?

If you’re passionate about woodworking or managing a professional shop, investing in high-quality tools is essential. Opting for reliable, well-performing equipment ensures safety, efficiency, and precision. While specialized tradespeople excel in their niches, a versatile toolkit allows for greater flexibility and adaptability in various tasks.

The Power and Versatility of Circular Saws

A circular saw is a highly versatile, motorized handheld power tool that can often replace larger, more cumbersome equipment like table saws or hacksaws. Whether you’re cutting through lumber, drywall, or metal, a suitable blade makes it possible. With specific blades, you can also tackle materials such as tile or brick. As you become more experienced, you’ll discover that a circular saw can perform a myriad of cuts, including plunge and miter cuts, expanding its utility in your workshop.

Top Circular Saws to Consider for Your Projects

This guide lists the most recommended corded and cordless circular saws available on the market today. The selection is based on performance, durability, and user reviews, ensuring you choose tools that meet professional standards without sponsorship influence.

Table of Contents

• Best Circular Saws
• Additional Notable Circular Saw Models
• Circular Saw FAQs

Best Circular Saws in 2023

Here are some of the most highly regarded circular saws you should consider for your workshop or DIY projects:

• Bosch CCS180B
• DeWalt DCS5736
• Skil 5280-01
• Hart HPCS25
• Ryobi P507 One+
• Makita GSR01M1
• Black & Decker BDCCS20B
• Craftsman CMES500

Detailed Overview of Each Model

Bosch CCS180B

The Bosch CCS180B features a sleek gray and blue design with a left-sided blade, enhancing visibility and safety during operation. Weighing approximately 6.5 pounds, it offers a comfortable grip thanks to ergonomic rubber coatings and an accessible safety button located conveniently on the handle. The saw includes a blade brake for quick stops and a left-positioned blade for improved cut line visibility, especially in drywall and particleboard. Its battery indicator requires removal of the battery for checking the charge.

DeWalt DCS5736

Equipped with a 20V battery, the DeWalt DCS5736 can operate on either standard 20V Max or the more powerful dual 20/60V FlexVolt batteries. This flexibility allows for extended cutting sessions—running through multiple 2x4s without recharging. Known for smooth cuts and high accuracy, this saw is ideal for professionals seeking cordless convenience without sacrificing performance.

Skil 5280-01

This model emphasizes safety and durability, featuring a full metal plate and blade guard. The ergonomic grip and easy access safety trigger facilitate comfortable use. It also comes with a laser guide to assist in precise cutting and a blade lock for quick blade replacements. However, the saw lacks an electric brake, so caution is advised after releasing the trigger as the blade may continue spinning momentarily.

Hart HPCS25

Designed for homeowners and light-duty professionals, the Hart HPCS25 delivers sufficient power for typical woodworking tasks, including cutting 4×4 lumber. It includes a spindle lock button for quick blade changes and a safety latch suitable for both right- and left-handed users. Although it may trip under excessive load, it performs reliably for standard project needs.

Ryobi P507 One+

The Ryobi P507 is a robust tool capable of handling various cutting tasks. Despite an uncomfortable handle seam and slight imbalance when powered by a battery, it offers excellent cutting performance. It’s especially advantageous if you already own other Ryobi ONE+ tools, as it shares batteries and chargers, making it a cost-effective addition to your arsenal.

Makita GSR01M1

This model combines innovative ergonomic design with powerful cutting capabilities. Its lightweight build and intuitive controls make it comfortable for extended use. The saw includes a high-quality, durable blade, reducing the need for replacements. It’s an excellent choice for professionals and serious DIYers seeking precision and ease of use.

Black & Decker BDCCS20B

With a compact 5.5-inch blade, the Black & Decker BDCCS20B is highly portable, ideal for small cuts and trimming. However, its limited cutting depth restricts it to thinner materials, and it may struggle with thicker or denser substrates. It includes a charger and battery, making it suitable for light tasks and quick jobs.

Craftsman CMES500

The Craftsman CMES500 exemplifies quality and durability, benefiting from Craftsman’s legacy of reliable tools. Slight inaccuracies in the shoe alignment mean extra caution during precise cuts, but with careful handling, it performs well. Its lightweight design simplifies handling during extended work sessions, offering excellent value for both hobbyists and professionals.

Other Recommended Circular Saws

1. Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2732-21HD
2. Flex FX2141R-1J
3. Ridgid R8653B
4. Skilsaw SPT67WM-22
5. Makita 5007MGA
6. DeWalt DCS577X1
7. Skil 5280-01
8. Bosch GKS18v-25GCB14
9. DeWalt DCS391B
10. Metabo-HPT C3607DWA

Frequently Asked Questions about Circular Saws

Which Brand of Circular Saw Offers the Best Performance?

The market features several reputable brands, each excelling in different areas:

• Overall Best: Bosch GKS18v-25GCB14
• Most Powerful Cordless: DeWalt DCS5736
• Most Powerful Corded: Skilsaw SPT67WM-22
• Best Value Corded: Skil 5280-01
• Best Value Cordless: Hart HPCS25
• Budget-Friendly Option: Craftsman CMES500
• Best for Rear-Handle Design: Makita GSR01M1
• Best for Cutting Power in Rear-Handle Models: DeWalt DCS577X1

What Is the Ideal Size for a Circular Saw?

The most common and practical size for DIY projects and general home use is a 7-1/4-inch blade. This size offers a broad range of compatible blades, enabling you to cut through various materials, including thick wood, with ease.

What Are the Two Main Types of Circular Saws?

There are primarily two types: worm drive and sidewinder. Worm drive saws deliver higher torque, making them suitable for challenging, thick materials like hardwoods. Sidewinder or conventional circular saws tend to spin blades faster and are generally more affordable, ideal for lighter tasks and quick cuts.

What Features Should You Prioritize When Buying a Circular Saw?

Look for features that enhance accuracy and ease of use, including precise cutline indicators, clear blade visibility, smooth guard retraction, and a flat, parallel shoe. A thin-kerf blade that aligns with your cut line will help achieve cleaner, more accurate results.

What Are Some Practices to Avoid with a Circular Saw?

• Never force or hold the lower guard in an open position during operation.
• Avoid placing your hand under the shoe or guard for safety reasons.
• Do not over-tighten the blade-locking nut, which can damage the tool or blade.
• Refrain from twisting the saw during cuts or when checking alignment, as it can lead to inaccuracies.

What Is the Most Versatile Saw to Have in Your Workshop?

The table saw is arguably the most adaptable woodworking tool, especially for crosscuts and rip cuts. It’s recommended as your first large power tool. Following that, a miter saw is excellent for precise angle cuts, making it a versatile addition to your collection.

Which First Saw Should You Purchase?

For beginners, a circular saw is a practical choice, although it requires careful handling due to its power and potential hazards. It’s suitable for cuts up to 12 inches wide, which suffices for many projects. Larger cuts can be made by professionals at hardware stores, so owning a circular saw is more relevant when tackling complex or larger projects.

Why Are Japanese Saws Considered Superior?

Japanese saws employ thin blades that create narrow kerfs, resulting in less material waste and sawdust. They require less effort to operate, providing longer, more accurate cuts with reduced fatigue. For beginners, mastering the Japanese cutting technique simplifies woodworking and enhances precision.

What Is the Most Versatile Saw for Home Use?

A miter saw stands out as highly versatile, capable of making straight, bevel, and angled cuts. Its flexibility significantly expands your woodworking capabilities and is highly recommended for various projects around the house.

Should You Opt for a Circular Saw with More or Fewer Teeth?

Generally, blades with more teeth produce finer, smoother cuts, ideal for finishing work. Blades with fewer teeth cut faster but result in rougher edges, suitable for framing and rough cuts. A common, balanced choice is a 24-tooth blade, offering good performance for most general tasks.