Best Circular Saw for Woodworking: What to Keep in Consideration?

Circular saw is the easiest to carry and use in remote locations compared to all other types of saws in the woodworking industry. These are cheap, lightweight, and compact. So, these are easy to maneuver, store, and carry around whenever needed. These are the reasons circular saw became popular among professions like framers, concrete formers, general contractors, and remodelers.

It is even more widely used among homeowners and DIY enthusiasts because of its simplicity. 

Considering the ever-growing demand for circular saws among different people, we decided to develop our best pick of topmost circular saws in the market. Here you will find saws of different features, power, quality, and price range.

We also suggested which one should be used for what purpose. If that is not enough to choose one for you, please don’t miss our tips to choose a circular saw. If you are still not sure about taking one, then read first if you really should have a circular saw for yourself.

Should You Choose a Circular Saw, Table Saw or Miter Saw?

If you are one who is wondering whether to buy a circular saw, table saw or a miter saw, then obviously you are on a budget now and don’t want to buy all three of these. I heard this question mostly from homeowners and beginners.

Because they don’t intend to run a carpentry service at their home by bringing all these saws at once. So, it is best to choose one which should be enough to do most jobs. So, which one should it be?

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Table Saw

It comes with a table where you can place a large board to cut in length or widthwise. It is made and used solely for this purpose only. So, it is necessary for carpenters who run a cabinet shop or earn a living making furniture, decks, and so on. 

Mitre Saw

It is best to do small jobs like trimming and fine finishing to small workpieces. It is mostly used while making veneer and crown moldings. Do you run a business replacing crown molding to people’s houses? Then this one is the one you need. It is also useful for people who love to add their personal touch on everything they own or whatever they do. This saw is lighter and cheaper than a table saw. 

Circular Saw

Unlike those first two saws, you have the freedom to take this saw to the workpiece; not the other way around. It is portable, lightweight, easy to use, and suitable to work overhead and small projects. It can provide more maneuverability than other saws can not. Homeowners and beginners or DIY enthusiasts on a budget out there, if you want to invest in one saw, then this one is it. It can do most of your jobs without breaking the bank or bringing home an arsenal or wood cutting tools. 

What to Keep in Consideration While Choosing a Circular Saw

Size, Cutting Capacity & Weight

These three are positively correlated. If the size of blades is higher, you can use this on thicker boards and the machine will be heavier too. The opposite happens when you pick a smaller one.

The smaller one is lighter, so easier to use on overhead and vertical surfaces. As you are investing in a circular saw once, you should determine the cutting capacity. In the long run, we all compromise with the weight, but not on the cutting capacity. 

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Bevel

The wider bevel it offers, the more versatile it becomes. I understand that not every project requires cutting wood from weird angles. It happens mostly in construction sites. However, if you are good at working in 45 to 50 bevel angles, then any saw is just fine for you. For versatile use, you should take one that offers more. 

Precision

You can’t compromise with the precision of the cuts, right? That is why you agreed to spend on a saw, not a hacksaw blade. So it is best to look for one saw that provides more features to ensure the accuracy of the cut. A laser beam, worm drive design, etc are some nice examples of the latest features to ensure accurate cuts. 

Speed and Power

Professions should pay close attention to the motor. What type of motor it is, how many amps it will draw, and how much speed it will produce all matters a lot. Because in the job site you will want a saw that will help to run the project faster, not slower. So, the more powerful the saw is, the better. 

View Our Recommended Circular Saws for Your Woodworking Project

DEWALT Circular Saw with Electric Brake, (DWE575SB)

• Weights 8.8 pounds;
• 5200 rpm no load speed;
• Bevel capacity: 57 degrees; Bevel Stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees.

For serious woodworking, you can’t rely on anything flimsy. In my experience, there is nothing better than this Dewalt circular saw. It is durable, efficient, and lightweight-exactly what we look for in a professional-grade saw. It is equipped with a 15 amps motor that produces an impressively 5200 RPM.

Moreover, this saw allows you to cut up to 57-degree bevel. It surely expands the usability of this tool not only for traditional woodworkers but also for framers, concrete formers, general contractors, remodelers, and many more. 

You will get a 7-1/4 inches superior quality blade with this, which you need to tighten up before use. How to do it? Just follow the instructions from the manual. Many users left negative reviews on the ‘design flaw’ of the blade attachments. No wonder they never paid attention to the manual.

However, this saw is a tiny beast. I only recommend this for professional use. Not because a beginner can’t handle this; instead, this machine is easy to use for its simple design. But it is so expensive that not a DIYer would want to invest in it. 

Positives

• Lightweight;
• Durable;
• Perfect flawless cuts;
• Built-in dust blower;
• Suitable for metal, plywood and other tough materials;

Negatives

• Pricey option.

BLACK+DECKER Affordable Circular Saw (BDECS300C)

• Weights 7 pounds;
• 7-¼ inches blade;
• Comes with a laser guide; 
• 2.5″ depth at 90⁰.

If you are on a tight budget, but can’t compromise with the performance, then have a look at this saw from Blak+Decker. It is cheap because it doesn’t come with any fancy and lacy features. Instead, it is a basic and simple circular saw that can do the job without any mess. 

It is a 7-¼ inches circular saw and comes with a blade, but please add the price of a high-quality blade with the price of this saw. Because the ‘all-purpose’ blade included with the package is a good-for-nothing.

When you replace the blade, the saw will show you a miracle. Upon triggering up, the included laser light will make a linear guide ahead of the saw so that you can cut it accurately. The good thing is, the laser is powered by electricity, not any battery. So, as long as the circular saw survives, the laser will keep guiding you the right path. 

I strongly recommend wearing a pair of safety gloves while operating this saw. Because the guard it comes with is somewhat flimsy. Besides, there is no guard on the trigger. An accidental power-up can lead to injuries if you are not prepared with safety measures. And yes, no matter how cheap this machine is, it is still backed by a long warranty.

Positives 

• Cheap price;
• Accurate cuts;
• Long warranty;
• Lightweight.

Negatives

• Poor blade.

WORX 4-1/2″ Compact Saw – WX429L

• 3500 rpm;
• 0-45-degree bevel ;
• 4-1/2” blade;
• Cuts through nominal 2-inch lumber

If you have a youngster, passionate about woodworking, don’t discourage them from using power tools. Most parents don’t allow using power tools because those are made for adults and way too big for teens. Here is a smaller version of big size circular saws.

This saw from Worx is specially made to handle small jobs and small people who are enthusiastic about doing everything all by themselves. It has a 4-½ inches thin blade to cut boards up to 2 inches thick. In my opinion, it is the best tool to work with wooden pallets and crates. 

From the features, you know that this saw does not produce more than 3500 RPM. so, you get the idea that it is slower than more powerful versions. It is good in the sense that this slower speed makes it also safer to use for beginners. You will get a 24T carbide-tipped blade, parallel guide, vacuum adapter, allen key, etc with this package. 

Now, can you use it for large projects? I think yes, as long as the material is 2 inches thick. It is a nice addition to a wood worker’s toolbox because you don’t need to carry around bulky saws to do smaller jobs. 

Positives 

• Suitable for small grip;
• Compact and light;
• Easy to maneuver;
• Suitable for small projects.

Negatives

• Cuts slower.

SKIL Circular Saw with Single Beam Laser, 5280-01

• Speed: 5,300-RPM;
• 7-1/4-in carbide-tipped blade;
• 51-degree bevel capacity;
• Weight: 6.95-lb.

You must be thinking, this is from SKIL, it would be expensive. Actually no, this time SKIL has brought a circular saw that looks and acts like a pro-quality saw, but costs half of that. It features solid 5300 no-load RPM and a 7-¼ inch carbide tip blade. The best is, it offers 51-degree bevel capacity whilst other saws offer only 45. For this reason, it will expand your workability with this saw. 

It is surprising how this feather-light saw includes a dust blower in it. It provides better visibility as the dust is cleaned up as they form and you can have all the control to your workpiece. A single beam laser is like a cherry on a cake, it will make every cut a perfectly straight cut. The only problem is, customer service is not always responsive.

If any defect found or any issue occurs to the saw, you may need to claim a repair to the closest SKIL customer service center. So, it is best to invest in this saw if you are living in a big city where SKIL has a repair shop. Other than that, you have to cross your fingers and rely on luck. 

Positives 

• Higher bevel capacity;
• Improved safety measures;
• Lightweight;
• Reasonable price.

Negatives

• Poor customer service.

SKIL Worm Drive Circular Saw, SPT77WML

• Up to 53° bevel;
• 11.6 lbs weight.
• Maximum cutting capacity 2-⅜ inch ;
• 5,300RPM speed.

If the previous SKIL circular saw seems suspicious to you, then this Worm Drive will surely amaze you. It is highly powerful and modern. There are differences between worm drive and circular saw. The worm drive saw offers a narrow profile tool that you can work within a packed and confined area. These can withstand tough and heavy lumber and engineered lumber better than the circular saw.

Needless to say, for these superior features, this type of saw weighs more. And this SKIL worm drive does! It weighs almost 12 pounds. Not a good option for the overhead applications. So, for contractors and construction workers, this one is not a good option. Rather, for framing, decking, siding, and other applications, it is hard to find any other competitors for this saw. 

You can cut up to 2-⅜ inch boards at 90 degrees with ease. There is a convenient depth adjustment included. With this, you can easily set the depth of cut and ¼, ⅛ or 1 inch to make the performance accurate for variable purposes. This one is pricier than a regular circular saw, but also outlasts any saw you have ever used before. 

Positives 

• Pro-quality;
• Powerful;
• Wider bevel angle;
• Long-lasting.

Negatives

• Heavy.

Rockwell Versacut Circular Saw Kit, RK3440K

• 3-3/8-inch blade for a maximum cutting depth of 1-1/16 inches;
• Speed- 3,500 rpm;
• Only 4 pounds weight;
• Kit complete with three blades and a case.

From the features, you get the idea that the capacity of this saw is somewhat limited. For small to medium jobs where you have to mend boards and lumbers of up to 1-1/16 inches, this one should be enough. Anything larger than this size will require special treatment. 

Even in the compact and tiny body, this saw offers a laser guide for accuracy and precise guidance. That is because its target users are homeowners, beginners, and non-professionals. So that they can get the best out of their tool without ruining the workpiece. 

In this complete set, you will get the machine, three blades and a hard case to carry all these. I know a circular saw is a tool that goes bad easily due to poor maintenance and storage. A hard case is a must-have to preserve the quality and it enhances the carrying capacity. For these reasons this one has enlisted so that you can find an all in one circular saw.

Positives 

• Laser guide for accuracy;
• Cost-effective;
• Excellent dust collection;
• Suitable for small projects.

Negatives

• Not for demanding jobs.

PORTER-CABLE Cordless Circular Saw, PCC660B

• 4000 RPM speed;
• 6-1/2″ Carbide Tooth Blade with 2-⅛ inch cutting capacity;
• 50 degrees beveling;
• 6.5lbs weight.

No matter how good your current saw is, you will always need a cordless saw to do particular jobs around the house where a power cord can’t be used. Do I need to mention how short the cord is made for corded circular saws? These are powerful, no doubt, but are not the best choice when it comes to cutting boards in your backyard, roof, or an overhead application. This is true for contractors as well. 

So, this is a cheap cordless circular saw from Porter-Cable. It comes with a short life battery and a garbage blade. So, add the bill of a 24 tooth thin kerf blade to replace the useless 18 tooth blade. And, don’t forget to use a high-quality 20v battery if you need to run the saw for longer than 20 minutes. These don’t seem alluring I know, but this machine is truly useful for its portability. 

Though it is somewhat underpowered for tough jobs, you can still upgrade it to make the performance better. It provides an impressive 4000 revolutions for aggressive cutting needs. Don’t expect too much from this saw. It is a great tool for cordless usage, but it should not be used as a primary saw on a professional ground for a daily basis. 

Positives 

• Portable cordless design;
• Long warranty;
• Visibility of cutting;
• Suitable for odd jobs.

Negatives

• Underpowered for professional use. 

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DEWALT 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw (DCS391B)

• 0-50°(degree) bevel;
• 6.5-Inch carbide-tipped blade;
• 5150 RPM motor;
• Cutting capacity: 2-1/8″ to 1-5/8″.

If you ask me which one cordless circular saw will overpower any electric saw then I would recommend you this Dewalt cordless saw. It is so powerful that it can put the rest of the corded designs in shame. Thanks to its impressive 5150 RPM speed. I would also love to mention the depth adjustment and brake system of this unit. These two features add versatility and safety to this portable saw. 

There is no battery or charger included with it. Yet it weighs almost 7.1 pounds. It will weigh even more when you add the battery. I recommend using a Dewalt battery with it to get the most out of it. You can use any 20v lithium ion battery, but don’t blame me for lack of power or short battery life. 

For daily professional use, there is no competitor of this circular saw. Its 6.5-inch carbide tipped blade can slay any hardwood and other tough materials like butter under a hot knife. This unit is pricey for its quality. It is even pricier if you don’t have any lithium battery and have to purchase a battery for it separately.

Positives 

• Portable cordless design;
• Highly powerful;
• Adjustable depth.

Negatives

• Battery & charger not included.

Bosch 7-1/4-Inch Worm Drive Circular Saw, CSW41

• 5,300 no-load RPM;
• Worm drive design;
• 53° bevel;
• 13.2 lbs.

Professional woodworkers can’t compromise with accuracy and power when it comes to choosing a tool for their projects. It is also important that the tool can handle large and heavy loads with no issues and it is easy to maintain. This saw from Bosch meets all those categories undoubtedly. Not only that, but it also features a worm drive design that especially helps to cut easily for right-handed people. 

This is a large circular saw with a large cutting capacity. The blade is 7.25 inches and can handle hardwoods up to 3 inches. This high cutting capacity makes it suitable not only for carpenters and cabinet makers. It is also a favorite tool for contractors and frame makers.

This is a super expensive electric circular saw. Why wouldn’t it be? It is large, heavy, and powerful. For professionals, a 7 ¼ inch saw like this one is a must have. For homeowners and DIYers, this will outlast all your expectations. 

Positives 

• High cutting capacity;
• Precise and accurate cutting performance;
• Easy to use;
• Versatile.

Negatives

• Overpriced.  

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Ryobi One+ Cordless Refurbished Circular Saw, P508

• Size: 7 ¼ inches;
• Speed: 3,800 RPM;
• 0-56° bevel cutting capacity. 
• 6.6 pounds.

If you have ever used any product from the Ryobi one+ series, then you already know how versatile and well built all those tools are. The best thing is, one battery and charger from one+ series will fit one any tool of that category. This refurbished saw is no different. It is recommended for its certified and tested quality and a cheaper price. The real deal is more pricey than this one.

I believe one should not waste money by spending on any tool when they can purchase the same quality for a cheaper price. No matter if it is new or used. 

However, this saw can make cuts from 0 to 56-degree bevel. In my experience, it is the widest bevel angle you can ever find for a circular saw. Besides, the 7 ¼ inches high-quality blade prolongs its cutting capacity and depth. This runs on one+ battery, so its portability is a bonus. 

Anyone can tell the difference using a power tool made using a brushless motor and regular motor. The brushless motor in this saw minimizes the noise and vibration to a noticeable extent and also makes it maintenance free. Use this saw for worry-free woodworking. 

Positives

• Compatible to one+ series battery and charger;
• Portable;
• Noise Free;
• Lightweight.

Negatives

• Nothing to mention.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is a Circular Saw Really Great for Woodworking?

This is one of the most valuable devices you have as a woodworking or general DIY aficionado. From separating huge sheets to making small and complex cuts, you can similarly attach them to practically any type of use.

What Features Should I Look for in a Circular Saw for Rip Cuts on Narrow Boards?

When looking for a circular saw for rip narrow boards, consider a saw with a powerful motor and adjustable cutting depth to ensure clean and precise cuts. Look for a lightweight and maneuverable design for easy handling, and a laser guide for accuracy. A sturdy, stable base will also aid in smooth, straight cuts.

What’s the Difference Between a Circular Saw and a Skill Saw?

All skill saws are circular saws. 

They all have circular edges that turn quickly to chomp through the wood. In any case, not all skill saws are circular saws. The circular saws can be internal combustion, have sidewinder or half and half plans, or even be fixed to spiral arms, which portable saws normally aren’t.

How Much Power Does a Circular Saw Take?

A common circular saw needs 2,400 watts to start up, its “beginning wattage,” and 1,200 all through activity, its “running wattage.” A little circular saw 7.5″ in distance across will run at more like 900 watts, as indicated by gauges.

Conclusion

Circular is an essential tool for woodworking. No matter if you are a beginner, intermediate, or pro level woodworker, you will always need one to do jobs around the workshop. To avoid the hassle of using a poor quality saw, it is better to invest some time to compare different options. In the long run, it saves your money from dealing with a loss by ending up with a product that you can’t make any use of.

Remember, it is not only a matter of several bucks that costs the tool itself. Moreover, it is the matter of the materials and time the poor quality tool ruins. 

So, I always suggest taking some time and paying attention to the features and quality of the tool you want to buy. If it seems to be enough to do the job, go for it.

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