Best Circular Saw in 2023 – with Helpful Buying Guide

If you are in the store for buying your very first power tool, the tool you are looking for is a circular saw. You can call it the most basic power saw there is. As you are new to the woodworking scenario, you might find it quite tough finding the best circular saw.

Well, you shouldn’t worry too much as we are here to tend to your needs. You might be a DIY lover looking for a tool for your dream projects, a homeowner tending to your house for small repair works, or a full-time woodworking professional – there are a lot of options in the market.

So, we have decided to not only review the best circular saw but also give a buying guide that would ultimately help you find the perfect option.

So, let’s begin!

Comparison Table Of Best Circular Saw

10 Best Circular Saws Review

1. SKIL 5280-01 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw

When it comes to power tools, Skil is a name that you can trust with your heart. We have seen that from time to time.

Skil 5280-01 sits on top of the list as we think it is the best bang for the buck! You are getting every single feature out of this circular saw that you could wish for at an amazing price point.

Talking about the main features of the saw, the first thing you would love is the power factor. The circular saw is loaded with a 15-amp powerful motor that can offer you a whooshing no-load speed of 5,300 RPM.

It comes with the popular blade size of 7-¼” that has 24 carbides tipped teeth. So, you can expect great results not only with woods and plywood but also with metals and ceramic.

Certainly, one of the best buying factors could be the large bevel capacity of 51⁰ is offering multiple bevel adjustments. The 5/8” arbor size is another standard cut factor.

This Blade-Right design is also corded so you can have the assurance of higher power output. Another plus side is that the cord length is six feet.

You cannot expect your circular saw to be flexible enough if it weighs too much. It looks like Skil is well aware of that fact as they have made this saw weighing only about 7 pounds.

Even the moon has its dark sides! So, has the Skil 5280-01. The first negative side would be the missing electric brake.

Secondly, we didn’t like the steel made base plate everyone knows that aluminum or manganese is the best material for base plates.

Other than these two downsides, we don’t think you have anything to worry about.

Pros

• Powerful motor
• Standard blade size with carbide tipped finish
• Wider bevel angle and arbor size
• Fairly lightweight
• Great pricing with superior value

Cons

• Electric brake missing
• Steel made base plate

2. Teccpo TACS22P Professional Circular Saw

Yes, Teccpo is quite an unfamiliar name in the market, but this newborn brand is becoming quite popular among homeowners and DIY lovers. Teccpo has started its journey for even less than a year and already crossed $1.5 million in sales revenue from its products.

So, what does this new player has to offer to the woodworking community? We would say – a lot.

When it comes to sheer power delivery, Teccpo TACS22P is fairly powerful. Even with the 10-amp mediocre motor, it can give an output of 5,800 RPM. The highest RPM count in our list today.

So, what is the size of this saw?

You will get 7-¼” typical blade coming along the saw. The blade material is also very sturdy as it is a 24T carbide-tipped blade.

You will probably not have any difficulty working with woods and similar materials. Although, the manufacturers have suggested working with woods only and avoid harder materials like metal or ceramic.

You can easily make depth cuts of 2-7/16″. However, such a saw should have had more cut depths – it can help get things done, but it doesn’t give you the extra.

The beveling experience in this saw is quite impressive. You are going to get the standard 45⁰ as the maximum bevel angle.

The users have praised the saw highly because of the design and the feel of the saw. Apart from the basic handle, you will get an extra soft auxiliary handle that gives better control while working.

Of course, there is a dust outlet if that is a concern of yours. What we loved is the additional guarded trigger you cannot see in many models out there.

What is the downside then?

The Teccpo TACS22P is missing the electric brake, and some even can miss the laser guiding mechanism. We still don’t know how the saw can offer such output of 5,800 RPM with a mediocre 10-amp motor.

Overall, you will be happy using the product. As it is from a brand new company, they are doing their best to satisfy their customers without making a single compromise to quality.

Pros

• One of the best pricing
• Great efficiency of 5,800 RPM
• Very lightweight
• Very ergonomic design feels very good on hand
• Dust outlet
• Has a guarded trigger

Cons

• Comes from a new company without much recognition
• Has a 10-amp motor only
• Electric brake missing

3. TACKLIFE 7-1/4″ Classic Circular Saw

Unlike Teccpo, Tacklife is an old name in the power tool industry. Tacklife has earned its name for making a quality product at an affordable price point so that everyone can have one.

Well, power will not be the strongest suit of this saw. Still, it packs a 12.5-amp motor with 1,500W power output. You can expect a maximum of 4,700 RPM no-load speed from it.

There is good news for you guys; this saw has two separate blades – a 24T for cutting woods and a 40T blade for tiles, soft metals, and plywood.

The cut depths are okay too. You will get about 2 ½” cuts at 90⁰ and about 1-4/5” cuts at 45⁰.

But let us assure you that this tool is loaded with features – you can enjoy higher precision with laser guiding and a scale ruler.

Then there is the aluminum guard and the iron shoe. That will enable the saw to have an extended life.

Tacklife PES01A is lighter than most other options out there. However, it is still heavier than the two models we have discussed already. The 10.8 pounds weight seems quite optimum.

Does it have any special unique feature to offer the users?

Yes, it does have a unique offer for the users – the Double Safety Switch. With the double switch, you can enjoy one-handed usability and still have a safe operation.

The downsides?

It doesn’t have the good dust blower. We have found quite some complaints about the poor-quality dust blower and certain other issues.

Pros

• Great build quality
• Fairly cheaper option
• Amazing design and completely ergonomic
• Good motor with an optimum no-load speed
• Laser guide and scale ruler for higher precision
• Double Safety Switch for better safety

Cons

• Issues with the dust blower
• Missing electric brake

4. Makita 5007F Circular Saw

The name Makita doesn’t need an introduction. They are one of the best brands with extreme popularity.

There are two Makita circular saws on our list today, and both of them could be on the top of the list. However, they pricier compared to other options so we couldn’t put them in the first place.

Makita 5007F is a powerhouse loaded with the 15-amp powerful motor. The no-load speed is also freaking high – 5,800 RPM.

Makita knows what a professional user would want from a circular saw. They have made the cut depths quite deep – 2-3/8” at 90⁰ and 1-3/4” at 45⁰.

There is no doubt that Makita is a premium brand and Makita 5007F is a premium circular saw. So, it is not surprising that it has an aluminum base (The best one there can be).

You will also like the LED lights illuminating the cut pathway. Also, the standard dust blower will clear the path so that you can see while you are cutting.

Although, the very much desired electric brake is still missing from it. Also, you should expect a variable speed control mechanism that the saw lacks.

Some may feel that the price is too high. Still, it prices almost half of the price of the likes of DeWalt.

Pros

• Superior motor with a high no-load speed
• Comes with the highest quality aluminum base
• Larger than average cutting capacity and cut depths
• Two LED lights for better accuracy
• Comparatively lightweight

Cons

• Missing electric brake
• Lacks the variable speed control mechanism

5. BLACK+DECKER Circular Saw BDECS300C

The tag “Made in China” is not the same; it was even a decade or two ago. Now, people can trust on the products more. Even iPhones are now made in China these days.

Black & Decker power tools are also made in China now. So, this product, Black & Decker BDECS300C has the level of build quality like the rest.

Let’s talk about the specs now. The circular saw is powered by a 13-amp motor that has a maximum no-load speed of 5,300 RPM. You can call it a decently powerful circular saw.

The blade is the typical 7-1/4” one that can offer a depth cut of 2 ½” at 90 degrees. One of the best things about this saw is the weight – weighing only 7 pounds.

For the quick blade changing, there is a spindle lock feature. Also, you will get a hex tool for easier winding and unwinding.

There is no doubt that you will fall in love with the pricing of this product. It is one of the best entry-level circular saws in the market now.

The laser guiding mechanism is a big plus – there is no doubt about that.

About the downsides, we must warn you that this saw doesn’t have much safety features. We have even seen complaints about this inability to cut hardwoods.

Pros

• Great cheap option
• Reliable and powerful motor
• Standard blade and beveling capacity
• Spindle lock mechanism
• Laser guide system

Cons

• Issues with security features
• Blade can be swayed sometimes
• Not so good with hardwoods

6. WORX WORXSAW WX429L Compact Circular Saw

We just fell in love with the saw. There is no doubt that every DIY specialist will love this handheld circular saw. It gives a user maximum flexibility and comfort while cutting.

Why you ask?

By definition, this is a compact circular saw weighing about half than the traditional ones. Rather than having a 7 ¼” large blade, it comes with a 4” blade that can even bevel at 45 degrees.

There is a parallel guide that would ensure proper straight cuts. Even the saw is quite small; you can make 2″ depth cuts comfortably.

If you are asking for our option, we love these compact designs much more than the typical ones.

However, we want to make ourselves clear on one thing. Yes, the saw is quite comfortable and simpler in looks and feel. But if you are a professional carpenter generally working on heavy stuff, you should avoid this one.

The saw is more targeted for homeowners for small tasks and DIY specialists.

Pros

• Compact design
• Weighs almost half the regular ones
• Better single-handed experience
• Good depth cutting ability
• Easy depth adjustment system
• Quite powerful for the size

Cons

• Not suitable for tougher jobs
• Not as powerful as the larger saws

7. Makita 5007MG

Again, we back with another Makita saw. This one almost identical to the one we have already mentioned, Makita 5007F.

So, what are the differences?

So far, we have found a few differences. The first one would be the magnesium base construction of Makita 5007MG. While on the other hand, Makita 5007F has the aluminum base.

We must remind you; magnesium is even better than aluminum for base construction which will cost more.

Then, 5007MG is a bit lighter than 5007F due to the magnesium base construction. Although, the difference is almost negligible – the difference is only 0.4 pounds.

Lastly, it offers a higher depth cutting of 2 ½”.

Other than these two things, you are buying an identical one – having the same motor, same design, and same features.

Pros

• Superior motor with the highest amp and RPM count in this class
• Magnesium base construction
• Suitable for even the toughest jobs
• A pair of LED light better visibility
• Higher depth cutting ability

Cons

• Bit more expensive
• Electric brake missing

8. TACKLIFE TCS115A Circular Saw

Remember the compact circular saw from WORX? Well, Tacklife has to offer even a better compact saw to you guys – Tacklife TCS115A.

What kind of benefit can you expect from it?

First of all, you will get a better motor of 5.8-amp. Although, they both have almost the same no-load speed output of 3,500 RPM.

Then, you will get six different blades with it – two 24T TCT, two 60T HSS, and two pieces of diamond grit blades! So, no matter what you working material is, you can smoothly cut everything without any hassle.

It comes with a fantastic Double Safety Switch for added safety. You will probably fall in love with the firm metal made handle. The laser guide system is another thing we like about this saw.

Well, there is a downside of this saw too. You will get a smaller depth cutting facility of only 1-11/16″.

Pros

• Compact design
• Powerful motor
• Six different blades for different cutting material
• Double safety switch
• Laser guiding mechanism
• Lightweight and flexible

Cons

• A bit pricey
• Lower depth cutting ability

9. SKILSAW SOUTHPAW SPT67M8-01

This is another premium option from Skilsaw. It has the premium 15-amp motor offering a great no load speed.

However, the main feature of the saw is not the power factors. It is the all magnesium construction build that makes the saw very durable yet extremely lightweight.

Another fact that would amaze you is the unique motor construction. It comes with a dual field copper winded motor that ensures better cooling and long tool life.

Every other feature is pretty much the same compared to other 7 ¼” circular saws. But the wider 56 degrees bevel capacity will give you more flexibility.

Pros

• All magnesium build
• Best-in-class 15-amp motor with 5,300 RPM speed
• Wider bevel angle
• Dual field copper winded motor
• Extremely lightweight
• Ergonomic design

Cons

• No electric brake
• No laser guide system

10. Ryobi P506 One+ Cordless Circular Saw

Finally, we want to talk about the only cordless option on the list today – Ryobi P506 One+.

As it is a cordless option, you will not get as much powerful motor like the corded options. It only has a 4-amp motor. But we think it is the price to pay if you are looking for a cordless saw.

However, it has a beast of a razor motor that offers 40% better performance (up to 4,700 RPM).

The Saw runs by an 18V powerful Li-ion battery. As it is a One+ series, the batteries are replaceable with almost all the Ryobi batteries.

The look and feel of the saw are absolutely stunning with a better grip and ergonomic design.

Pros

• More flexibility due to the cordless option
• Great pricing, fairly cheap
• Fast charging capability
• Outstanding 4,700 RPM no-load speed
• Fine design and ergonomic features
• Great sawdust blower

Cons

• Not suitable for tough professional tasks
• Lesser quality shoes
• Higher torque speed might reduce battery life

Buying Guide for The Best Circular Saw

It is quite normal to get confused seeing so many great options at the market. If you are new into the whole woodworking scenario, getting confused is quite expected. Some may think that choosing the circular saw with the best power rating would be the best option.

In reality, there are a lot of critical factors that you should think about.

First of all, you need to think about the projects you usually do or planning to do. As professional carpenters need a type of circular saw while a DIYer will need a completely different variant.

So, how can you be sure you are getting the best circular saw within your budget?

Well, you are in luck, we are giving out the secrets of choosing the best circular saw. We only wish that you could get the best thing that could serve you for the years to come.

Here are the factors you need to consider –

Should You Choose a Cordless Option?

A circular saw is either corded or cordless – you have to choose between either of them.

Of course, a cordless will help you get more flexibility and freedom while working. You will not have to look for power outlets everywhere – you can easily take the circular saw outside and start working on your projects.

However, there is a great shortcoming of the cordless saws. As they are battery powered, you cannot expect to get too much power out of it.

So, how does that affect you?

You will more likely have less smooth cuts due to the lack of a more powerful motor. Also, your saw will be heavier as there are batteries that are making the weight go up.

On the other hand, with a corded circular saw, you can get more power and a more powerful motor. So, you will have a more raw power that can cut down the toughest of the woods.

A corded circular saw can have a longer lifetime and durability. Other than that, with a corded version typically comes with larger blades that can offer more cut depths.

So, what is the bottom line here?

If you are a DIY specialist and looking for more freedom and flexibility and don’t mind having a slightly less powerful motor, a cordless option could be the choice for you.

Oppositely, if you are a professional woodworker looking for power and durability, you know the option you should get yourself – a corded circular saw.

Which Side is the Blade on?

A newcomer in the woodworking industry might neglect the fact – in which side the blade of the saw is on.

While on the other hand, a veteran woodworker can say how much impact the position of the blade has on a circular saw has.

Well, while you are cutting, you need to see where the blade is cutting so that you can maintain an accurate cut all along the way. However, you will only handle the saw with your dominant hand, right?

So, if you are a right-handed person, you will feel the blade-left circular saws to be more comfortable working. It’s a simple ergonomics!

But wait! Shouldn’t the tracking shoe on the saw help you maintain a straight cut even if you are not looking?

Yes, with the tracking shoe, you don’t need to look at the workpiece and blade – it would be smooth no matter you look or not.

However, it is more natural to look while cutting. You can call it a natural human instinct.

Hold your horses! There is a chance that the debris coming out of the workpiece while cutting might hit your face while you are cutting with blade-left saw being a right-handed person.

Still, using the dominant hand while working is a natural course, and it will always be more comforting this way.

So, before you buy to make sure you are choosing the correct saw that suits your style of cutting. Otherwise, you will be another grumpy face behind the blade with disappointment with a simple saw!

Remember to choose the blade-left option if you are a right-handed person or vice versa.

Does Your Circular Saw Have the Correct Blade Size?

The size of the blade is a crucial factor, and it is dependent on which type of work you typically do with your saw.

With a miter or compound saw, you will get a 10” or a 12” blade (in most cases). But 10” is too much for a circular saw as you are moving the saw around while the workpiece remains stationary.

So, what is the ideal blade size here?

The most common blade size for a circular saw would be the 7-¼“. Most of the saws in the market come with this particular size.

Remember, we have used the phrase “in most cases.” You could even get a 6-½” blade – the option is in your hands. But make sure whether your saw is compatible with that particular size or not.

With a 7-¼” blade you can easily get cut depths from 2-3/8” to 3”. Such depth of cut ensures that you can cut through plywood of any size.

There is a big plus of using the typical 7-¼” blades. As they are the common option, the price cheaper than other sites. Even a 6-½” blade is pricier than the 7-¼” blade.

Till now we have been talking about the larger and more typical sizes. You can find more compact circular saws in the market like the WORX WORXSAW WX429L that we have already talked about in the list of best circular saws.

These compact saws tend to have even smaller blade sizes. Typically, these variants come with a 4” blade. These even weigh about 50% less than the traditional 7-¼” circular saws.

As we have mentioned already, they are more suitable for DIY lovers.

Can You Bevel It?

Beveling is an important feature that you should look for in a circular saw. Even if you don’t need the beveling capability out of the saw for your next project, you will need it sooner or later.

Why should you even miss out on an important feature like beveling?

Typically, a circular saw comes with a maximum bevel capacity of 50⁰ which means you can tilt the blade head at 50⁰ at most.

Beveling can make your cuts more versatile. Oh, you should never forget about another thing – the bevel adjustment feature. You need to make sure you can adjust the beveling angle quite easily.

Two Different Saw Construction

You can find two different kinds of construction or design for a circular saw – Sidewinders and Worm Drives.

A sidewinder is a design where the blade and the motor are placed side by side. The blade can be placed on both the left or right side of the motor.

That’s where the name Blade-Left and Blade-Right came. We think you already know how should you pick the blade side.

If you don’t even want to go through the hassle of choosing a left or right side blade option, there is a third option for you – the worm drives.

These saws don’t have the motor placed on any of the sides; rather they have it on the right angle to the blade.

Another key difference between the sidewinders and the worm drives is the shape. Typically, a worm drive option is slightly longer than the sidewinders. Also, they tend to be a bit more powerful due to the gear positioning.

Features to Look for

There are certain special features that you should definitely look for making that final decision. Here they are –

Electric Brake: An electric brake is like an emergency brake for a circular saw. With an electric brake, you can stop the blade from whirling just within 2 seconds.

Some professional and experienced users might not feel this feature to be so desirable. However, for a novice user, this feature could be a lifesaver (sometimes literally!).

Laser Guiding System: Wouldn’t it be sad if you end up making inclined cuts and ruining a good workpiece?

Well, a laser guiding system can save you in such cases. If you are someone struggling to make straight cuts at times, you should get a saw with laser guides.

Although, you could even attach a separate laser guide. So, it isn’t mandatory to buy one with a pre-attached laser guide.

No matter what, a laser guide system is a great thing to have even for professional users.

Blade Guard: The number one rule for using a power tool is – “Safety First.” You may never know what kind of nasty accident you could fall into on the brink of an eye.

A blade guard is a great safety feature that covers the naked blade when you are not using the saw.

Dust Blower or Dust Collecting Port: Everyone knows that woodworking can get messy quite soon. If you don’t have a dust-collecting port attached to the saw, you might be covered by wood particles sooner than you would know.

A dust port or a blower would be a smart option for keeping things clean.

Conclusion

That’s all folks! We think we have helped you even a little bit to remove your confusion. Ultimately, you are the one making the decision of buying the best circular saw. The truth is there is no saw labeled with “the best” tag on it. It completely depends on what kind of work you are doing and which saw you are feeling comfortable with. So, go ahead and choose the one you like.

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