Best Circular Saws for Every Skill Level: 7 Picks from Budget to Pro

A circular saw is the first power saw most people buy, and for good reason. It rips plywood, crosscuts lumber, bevels boards, and handles rough framing. It's lighter than a table saw, more portable than a miter saw, and more versatile than either one. With a straightedge guide, a circular saw can produce cuts that rival a table saw for accuracy.

Here's what most buyers overlook: cutting depth and bevel capacity vary significantly between saws that look identical on the shelf. A 2-9/16 inch cutting depth clears dimensional lumber cleanly, while a 2-3/8 inch depth barely makes it through a 2x4 in one pass. That 3/16 inch difference matters more than the marketing suggests. Check the specs, not just the price tag.

We compared seven circular saws across corded, cordless, compact, and budget categories to find the best option for framers, woodworkers, and DIYers.

Quick Picks: Best Circular Saws at a Glance

• Best Overall: DeWalt DCS575B FLEXVOLT. 60V cordless power with 57-degree bevel and electric brake.
• Best Value: Makita 5007MGA. Magnesium construction, dual LEDs, and 56-degree bevel at a great price.
• Best Budget: SKIL 5280-01. 15-amp motor with laser guide for under $65.
• Best Cordless: Milwaukee 2732-20 M18 FUEL. Fastest cordless cutting with 750 cuts per charge.
• Best Corded: DeWalt DWE575SB. Lightest 15-amp saw at 8.8 lbs with 57-degree bevel.
• Best for Beginners: Craftsman CMES510. Magnesium shoe and metal guards at $99 with comfortable grips.
• Best Compact: Ryobi PSBCS01B. 6-1/2" brushless at just 5 lbs for tight spaces and overhead cuts.

What Actually Matters in a Circular Saw

Before the reviews, here's what separates a precise circular saw from one that wanders off your line.

Cutting depth at 90 degrees determines the thickest material you can cut in one pass. Standard 7-1/4 inch saws typically cut 2-3/8 to 2-9/16 inches deep. That range matters: 2-9/16 inches clears a 2x4 (which is actually 1-1/2 inches thick) with plenty of clearance, while 2-3/8 inches barely gets through at full depth. More depth means cleaner cuts with less effort.

Bevel capacity determines the maximum angle cut. Standard saws bevel to 45 degrees. Premium saws reach 50-57 degrees. If you cut compound angles for framing or trim, the extra bevel range eliminates the need for a second cut.

Weight affects accuracy and fatigue. A lighter saw is easier to control, especially for long rip cuts and overhead work. The difference between 8.8 lbs and 10.6 lbs doesn't sound like much until you've been cutting for four hours.

Electric brake stops the blade within seconds of releasing the trigger instead of letting it coast to a stop. It's a safety feature and a productivity feature: you can set the saw down sooner between cuts. Not all saws have one.

Base plate material affects durability and flatness. Magnesium and aluminum bases are lighter and more rigid than stamped steel. A flat, rigid base plate glides smoothly across the workpiece and produces straighter cuts.

Our Top Picks

DeWalt DCS575B FLEXVOLT 60V MAX 7-1/4" Circular Saw (Best Overall)

DeWalt DCS575B FLEXVOLT 60V MAX 7-1/4" Circular Saw (Best Overall)

Contractors and serious DIYers who want corded power without the cord

BrandDeWalt

TypeCordless circular saw

Power SourceCordless (FLEXVOLT 60V MAX, battery sold separately)

Voltage60V MAX

Weight8.2 lbs (bare tool)

Pros

• True corded-equivalent power from 60V FLEXVOLT system
• 57-degree bevel capacity exceeds most competitors
• Lightweight at 8.2 lbs for a full-size 7-1/4" cordless saw
• LED light, electric brake, and dust blower standard

Cons

• No rafter hook (a common contractor complaint)
• FLEXVOLT batteries are expensive ($100+ each)
• Battery and charger sold separately
• Some blade drift reported along straightedges

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The DeWalt DCS575B delivers what every cordless circular saw promises but few actually achieve: corded-equivalent power in a cordless package. The FLEXVOLT 60V MAX system provides more energy than 18V or 20V platforms, and it shows in cutting performance. The saw powers through pressure-treated 2x10s and hardwood plywood without the blade slowdown that plagues lower-voltage cordless saws.

At 5,800 RPM and 2-9/16 inches of cutting depth, the performance numbers match or exceed most 15-amp corded saws. The 57-degree bevel capacity with positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees provides more versatility than the standard 45-degree limit. The electronic brake stops the blade quickly after each cut.

At 8.2 lbs bare, it's lighter than most corded 15-amp saws. The integrated LED light illuminates the cut line, and the dust blower keeps sawdust clear. Up to 339 cuts per charge in 2x4 SPF lumber (with a 9.0 Ah battery) means you won't be swapping batteries constantly.

The FLEXVOLT batteries are backward compatible with all DeWalt 20V MAX tools, which means the battery investment serves your entire tool collection. The trade-off is battery cost: FLEXVOLT batteries run $100+.

Makita 5007MGA 7-1/4" Magnesium Circular Saw (Best Value)

Makita 5007MGA 7-1/4" Magnesium Circular Saw (Best Value)

Woodworkers and contractors who want premium corded performance with magnesium durability

BrandMakita

TypeCorded circular saw

Power SourceCorded (120V)

Voltage120V, 15 Amp

Weight10.6 lbs

Pros

• Full magnesium construction for durability and reduced weight
• Dual LED lights eliminate cut line shadows
• 56-degree bevel with three positive stops
• Electric brake and carrying case included

Cons

• Heavier at 10.6 lbs compared to the DeWalt DWE575SB (8.8 lbs)
• Aggressive sawdust dispersion (poor dust management)
• No laser guide
• Higher price than basic corded saws

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The Makita 5007MGA is built from magnesium throughout: shoe, blade guard, and motor housing. Magnesium is lighter than steel and more durable than aluminum, which makes this saw tougher than most while maintaining reasonable weight. The shoe stays flat and true even after years of jobsite abuse.

Two built-in LED lights illuminate the cut line from both sides, eliminating shadows that a single light creates. The electric brake stops the blade immediately. The 8-position adjustable handle lets you find the most comfortable grip angle for different cutting positions.

At 5,800 RPM with 15 amps, the motor matches the DeWalt DCS575B's speed with unlimited corded runtime. The 56-degree bevel capacity with three positive stops is the most bevel stops of any corded saw in this roundup. The 2-1/2 inch cutting depth handles dimensional lumber with room to spare.

The carrying case is included, which is a nice touch that most circular saws skip. The 24-tooth carbide blade is adequate for framing but should be upgraded for finish work.

SKIL 5280-01 15-Amp 7-1/4" Circular Saw (Best Budget)

SKIL 5280-01 15-Amp 7-1/4" Circular Saw (Best Budget)

DIYers and homeowners who want a capable circular saw without spending much

BrandSKIL

TypeCorded circular saw

Power SourceCorded (120V)

Voltage120V, 15 Amp

Weight~8.7 lbs

Pros

• Under $65 for a 15-amp circular saw with laser guide
• Laser guide helps beginners make straighter cuts
• Carrying bag and 24-tooth blade included
• Lightweight and easy to handle

Cons

• No electric brake (blade coasts after trigger release)
• Depth adjustment uses a wrench, not quick-release
• Plastic construction won't survive heavy professional use
• 5,300 RPM is lower than premium 5,800 RPM saws

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The SKIL 5280-01 is the circular saw that proves you don't need to spend $200 for a functional tool. For around $62, you get a 15-amp motor, a laser guide for cut line reference, a dust blower, a 24-tooth carbide blade, and a carrying bag. That feature list at this price is exceptional.

The laser guide projects a line ahead of the blade, showing where the cut will go. It's helpful for beginners who haven't developed the muscle memory for freehand cutting. The single-beam laser works well indoors and in shade, though it's hard to see in direct sunlight.

The 15-amp motor at 5,300 RPM handles hardwood and plywood without complaint. The spindle lock makes blade changes easy. The anti-snag lower guard prevents the retractable guard from catching on the workpiece during angled cuts.

The compromises at this price: no electric brake (the blade coasts after you release the trigger), the depth adjustment uses a wrench rather than a quick-release lever, and the plastic construction won't survive years of jobsite abuse. For homeowners and occasional users, those trade-offs save $150+ over premium alternatives.

Milwaukee 2732-20 M18 FUEL 7-1/4" Circular Saw (Best Cordless)

Milwaukee 2732-20 M18 FUEL 7-1/4" Circular Saw (Best Cordless)

Professional contractors who need the highest-performing cordless circular saw available

BrandMilwaukee

TypeCordless circular saw

Power SourceCordless (M18 18V, battery sold separately)

Voltage18V

Weight9.05 lbs (bare tool)

Pros

• Fastest cordless cutting performance in independent testing
• 750 cuts per charge with HD12.0 battery is class-leading runtime
• Integrated rafter hook (missing on many competitors)
• M18 platform cross-compatibility with 250+ tools

Cons

• Heavy at 9.05 lbs bare (12+ lbs with battery)
• No positive bevel stops at 22.5 or 45 degrees
• Blade lock mechanism can be difficult to engage
• Premium price ($225 bare, $400+ with battery kit)

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The Milwaukee 2732-20 tops cordless circular saw head-to-head tests with the fastest rip cuts among all models compared. The POWERSTATE brushless motor delivers 15-amp corded performance, and REDLINK PLUS intelligence adjusts power output based on load to prevent motor stalling and optimize battery life.

At 5,800 RPM, it matches the fastest corded saws. The 2-1/2 inch cutting depth at 90 degrees handles dimensional lumber comfortably. Up to 750 cuts per charge with an HD12.0 battery provides unmatched cordless runtime. The integrated rafter hook (absent on the DeWalt DCS575B) is a feature carpenters appreciate.

The magnesium shoe and guards provide professional durability. The electric brake stops the blade quickly. The LED light and integrated dust port with vacuum adapter round out the package.

The M18 battery ecosystem is one of the largest available, cross-compatible with 250+ tools. For contractors already invested in Milwaukee M18, this circular saw is the logical choice.

DeWalt DWE575SB 15-Amp 7-1/4" Lightweight Circular Saw (Best Corded)

DeWalt DWE575SB 15-Amp 7-1/4" Lightweight Circular Saw (Best Corded)

Users who want the lightest, deepest-cutting corded circular saw available

BrandDeWalt

TypeCorded circular saw

Power SourceCorded (120V)

Voltage120V, 15 Amp

Weight8.8 lbs

Pros

• Lightest 15-amp corded saw at 8.8 lbs
• Deepest cutting depth at 2-9/16" for clean dimensional lumber cuts
• 57-degree bevel capacity is the widest for any corded saw here
• ToughCord system and 10-foot cord for durability and reach

Cons

• No laser guide for cut line reference
• 5,200 RPM is lower than 5,800 RPM competitors
• Aluminum shoe (less durable than magnesium over time)
• No carrying case included

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The DeWalt DWE575SB holds two records in this roundup: lightest corded saw at 8.8 lbs and deepest cutting depth at 2-9/16 inches. That combination means less fatigue and cleaner cuts through dimensional lumber. The extra depth clears 2x material with room to spare, reducing the chance of an incomplete cut.

The 57-degree bevel capacity is the widest of any corded saw here, with positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees. The electric brake stops the blade after each cut. The ToughCord system reinforces the cord at the connection point, preventing the most common failure mode for corded tools.

The high-grade aluminum shoe is flat and rigid. The on-board wrench storage keeps the blade-change tool accessible. The 10-foot cord (longer than most competitors at 6-8 feet) gives you more working room without an extension cord.

At $139, it undercuts the Makita 5007MGA while offering more cutting depth, less weight, and a wider bevel range. The Makita wins on construction quality (magnesium vs. aluminum) and features (dual LEDs, carrying case). The DeWalt wins on the specs that matter most: weight, depth, and bevel.

Craftsman CMES510 15-Amp 7-1/4" Circular Saw (Best for Beginners)

Craftsman CMES510 15-Amp 7-1/4" Circular Saw (Best for Beginners)

Beginners who want a capable, comfortable circular saw without overspending

BrandCraftsman

TypeCorded circular saw

Power SourceCorded (120V)

Voltage120V, 15 Amp

Weight9 lbs

Pros

• Magnesium shoe and metal guards at $99 is outstanding value
• Rubber overmold on both grips for secure, comfortable handling
• 55-degree bevel with detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees
• Tool-free bevel adjustment for easy experimentation

Cons

• No electric brake (blade coasts after trigger release)
• No laser guide for cut line reference
• Included 18-tooth blade is too coarse for clean cuts
• 8-foot cord is shorter than some competitors

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The Craftsman CMES510 delivers features that typically require spending $150+: a premium magnesium shoe, metal upper and lower guards, 55-degree bevel capacity with two detents, and rubber overmold on both the main handle and front grip. At $99, this combination of materials and features is exceptional.

The rubber overmold on both grips matters for beginners. A circular saw vibrates, and a secure grip is a safety grip. The magnesium shoe won't bend or warp the way stamped steel does, ensuring the saw sits flat on the workpiece for accurate cuts.

The 15-amp motor at 5,500 RPM provides strong, fast cutting. Tool-free bevel adjustment means beginners can experiment with angled cuts without hunting for a wrench. The spindle lock simplifies blade changes.

The missing features are predictable at this price: no electric brake, no laser guide, and an 8-foot cord that's shorter than the DeWalt's 10-foot cord. The included 18-tooth blade is coarse; upgrade to a 24-tooth or 40-tooth blade for cleaner results.

Ryobi PSBCS01B ONE+ HP 18V Brushless 6-1/2" Circular Saw (Best Compact)

Ryobi PSBCS01B ONE+ HP 18V Brushless 6-1/2" Circular Saw (Best Compact)

DIYers who need a lightweight saw for overhead cuts, tight spaces, and general home projects

BrandRyobi

TypeCompact cordless circular saw

Power SourceCordless (ONE+ 18V, battery sold separately)

Voltage18V

Weight~5 lbs (bare tool)

Pros

• Ultra-lightweight at ~5 lbs for fatigue-free overhead and extended use
• 2-1/4" cutting depth handles 2x lumber (only 1/4" less than full-size)
• Compatible with 300+ Ryobi ONE+ 18V tools
• LED worklight and tool-free adjustments

Cons

• No 45-degree bevel stop (must dial in manually)
• 6-1/2" blade has fewer retail options than 7-1/4"
• 4,900 RPM is slower than full-size saws
• Not suitable for heavy framing or thick hardwoods

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The Ryobi PSBCS01B weighs about 5 lbs bare, which is roughly half the weight of a full-size 7-1/4 inch circular saw. That weight difference is transformative for overhead cuts, tight spaces, and extended use. If you're installing shelving, cutting plywood panels, or trimming boards for a project, this compact saw handles the work without wearing you out.

The brushless motor delivers surprising torque for a compact saw. The 2-1/4 inch cutting depth at 90 degrees is only 1/4 inch less than a full-size 7-1/4 inch saw, which means it handles 2x lumber in a single pass. The thin-kerf 24-tooth blade removes less material per cut, which requires less motor effort and extends battery life.

The Ryobi ONE+ ecosystem is the largest 18V battery platform available, with over 300 tools sharing the same batteries. If you own any Ryobi 18V tool, you already have batteries that work. The LED worklight illuminates the cut line, and tool-free depth and bevel adjustments make setup fast.

The limitation is the 6-1/2 inch blade. Maximum cutting depth is reduced, and fewer blade varieties are available at hardware stores compared to the standard 7-1/4 inch size. For heavy framing and thick hardwoods, a full-size saw is the better tool.

Circular Saw Buying Guide: How to Choose

Match the saw to your work

• Occasional home projects and DIY: The SKIL 5280-01 ($62) or Craftsman CMES510 ($99) handle everything a homeowner needs.
• Regular woodworking and carpentry: The DeWalt DWE575SB ($139) or Makita 5007MGA ($219) deliver professional corded performance.
• Professional framing and jobsite work: The DeWalt DCS575B ($205) or Milwaukee 2732-20 ($225) provide cordless pro-grade power.
• Lightweight and compact needs: The Ryobi PSBCS01B ($99) at 5 lbs is ideal for overhead and tight-space cutting.

Corded vs. cordless

Cordless circular saws have reached performance parity with corded models. The DeWalt FLEXVOLT and Milwaukee M18 FUEL deliver the same RPM and cutting depth as their corded counterparts. The main reasons to choose corded today: lower upfront cost (no battery investment), guaranteed unlimited runtime, and slightly lighter weight (no battery).

Invest in a good blade

The stock blade on every circular saw in this roundup is a basic 18-24 tooth ripping blade. For cleaner cuts in plywood and finish work, upgrade to a 40-tooth combination blade ($15-25). For the smoothest crosscuts, use a 60-tooth blade. The blade upgrade costs less than a nice lunch and improves every cut you make.

Common Questions

What size circular saw blade do I need?

A 7-1/4 inch blade is the standard for full-size circular saws and covers 95% of home and professional needs. A 6-1/2 inch blade works for a compact saw. Larger blades (8-1/4 inch, worm drive) exist for specialty applications but are uncommon.

Left blade vs. right blade: does it matter?

Most circular saws are right-blade (blade on the right side). Left-blade saws (worm drive, some sidewinders) put the blade on the left. For right-handed users, a left-blade saw provides better cut line visibility because the blade is on the waste side. It's a preference, not a requirement.

Can a circular saw replace a table saw?

For ripping and crosscutting, a circular saw with a straightedge guide produces results comparable to a table saw. It can't replace a table saw for dado cuts, repeated identical cuts (where a fence is essential), or high-volume production work. Many woodworkers use both.

How do I cut straight with a circular saw?

Clamp a straightedge (a factory-edge piece of plywood or a commercial guide rail) to the workpiece. Run the saw's base plate along the straightedge. This produces cuts that rival a table saw for straightness. Mark the offset distance from the blade to the edge of the base plate and use that measurement to position the guide.

Final Thoughts

For most users, the DeWalt DCS575B FLEXVOLT at $205 (tool only) is the circular saw to buy. It delivers corded power without a cord, cuts deeper than most competitors, and bevels to 57 degrees. If you're in the DeWalt ecosystem, it's the obvious choice.

For the best corded value, the DeWalt DWE575SB at $139 is the lightest 15-amp saw with the deepest cutting depth. You can't beat that combination at the price.

For budget-conscious buyers, the SKIL 5280-01 at $62 delivers 15 amps and a laser guide for less than the cost of a nice dinner. And for anyone who values lightweight maneuverability above all, the Ryobi PSBCS01B at $99 and 5 lbs opens up overhead and tight-space work that heavier saws make miserable.