ShareWe may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more Circular saws are powerful, versatile, and can be very affordable. As a result, they are extremely popular. They are often the first saw owned by DIY enthusiasts and are found on jobsites around the world. Although the basic design is simple, youll find dozens of models on the market with various features. This can be very confusing for first-time buyers. Luckily, were here to outline the key features and functions to consider when finding the right tool for your specific needs. Here are the best circular saws on the market right now.Best overall: DeWalt DCS573B Flexvolt Advantage 20V Circular SawBest budget: Skil 5280-01 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular SawBest corded: DeWalt DWE575SB 15 Amp Circular SawBest heavy-duty: Skilsaw SPT77WML-01 15 Amp Worm Drive Circular SawHow we chose the best circular sawsI am a keen DIYer and have remodeled two of our homes from the ground up. I have owned multiple circular saws and occasionally pushed them to their limits. To add to my experience and ensure we had up-to-date technical information, we researched the current offerings from all the leading manufacturers.When putting together our collated selection of the best circular saws, we aimed to find tools for all needs and budgets. Some of our picks offer impressive performance but would be overkill for many, so we have also included models that would suit beginners or occasional users. In addition to performance and budget, we looked at construction materials to ensure durability, power source, any features that made them more user-friendly, and weightwhich can have a considerable impact if the tool is used for long periods.The best circular saws: Reviews & RecommendationsOur favorite circular saws offer something for everyone, from the DIY user on a budget to the demanding professional. We assigned each category so that new circular saw buyers could quickly identify the tools most likely to meet their needs, but all of our picks are tools wed be proud to keep in our storage shed.Best overall: DeWalt DCS573B Flexvolt Advantage 20V Circular SawDeWalt DCS573B Flexvolt Advantage 20V Circular SawProsRuns at 5,500 rpm for faster cuttingFlexvolt Advantage accepts 20V or 60V batteriesBrushless motor maximizes battery performanceConsPremium price tag and theres no bagAs is common, battery and charger are extraWhy it made the cut: A feature-packed circular saw from a brand renowned for durable construction and reliable performance.SpecsBlade Diameter: 7-1/4 inchesPower: 20V cordlessMaximum Depth of cut: 2-9/16 inchesWeight: 8.2 pounds (excluding battery)With so many good tools available, picking a single best circular saw is never easy, but the DeWalt is arguably the best all-rounder on the market. It has renowned durability and reliability on top of its impressive performance. It also offers numerous user-friendly features that suit both professionals and amateurs who are prepared to invest in quality.The DeWalt circular saw is a powerful 20V cordless model that runs at 5,500 rpm, providing faster cutting than many rivals. The brushless motor maximizes battery life. Thanks to the Flexvolt Advantage system, this saw can also use DeWalts high-capacity 60V batteries, which the manufacturer claims can result in a 77-percent power increase. In real terms, the larger batteries are more expensive, but those who use a circular saw every day should improve productivity considerably.The saw cuts to a maximum depth of 2-9/16 inches, with the blade at 90 degrees and 2 inches at 45 degrees. An LED light makes it easier to see cut lines and improves accuracy in low-light conditions. An electric brake stops the blade quickly, so its safe to put the saw down after a cut. A rafter hook, favored by framers and other carpentry trades, is also included. The aluminum sole helps keep weight down, but once a battery is added, the all-up weight will be around 9 pounds.Best budget: Skil 5280-01 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular SawSkil 5280-01 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular SawProsPacked with useful features at a competitive priceLaser makes accurate cutting easierDust blower clears the cut lineConsComplaints are rare, but there have been motor faultsWhy it made the cut: Skil is one of the best-known circular saw brands, and this model offers good capacities at a budget-friendly price.SpecsBlade Diameter: 7-1/4 inchesPower: 15 amp cordedMaximum Depth of cut: 2-7/16 inchesWeight: 8.7 poundsSkil was the first manufacturer to offer a hand-held circular saw way back in the 1920s, so they have unrivaled experience with this kind of tool. The Skil 5280-01 is their latest corded model and is a feature-packed circular saw at a very competitive price.The 15 amp motor delivers 5,300 rpm for rapid cutting. Maximum depth is 2-7/16 inches at 90 degrees and 1-15/16 inches at 45 degrees. A single-sided laser is provided, which many beginners find invaluable for accurate working. In addition, a front-facing dust blower clears the cut line to maintain visibility.An indicator light on the top of the handle lets you know power is on, and a trigger guard with a safety lock helps prevent accidental starts. Conveniently, the wrench for blade changing is kept on the saw. The sole is steel rather than aluminum, which helps keep costs down but adds a little weight, though its no heavier than many cordless competitors. The Skil circular saw would make a great value-for-money addition to the homeowners DIY tool kit, and the low price even includes a carry bag.Why it made the cut: This is a complete, high-quality, high-performance kit designed to satisfy the most demanding professional.Best corded: DeWalt DWE575SB 15 Amp Circular SawProsDurable, reliable, and versatile all-rounderIntegral blower for line-of-sight visibilityBall bearing lower guard for durabilityConsExpensive for a corded sawNo LED or laser guideWhy it made the cut: This tool meets the high standards expected of the brand and is one of the best general-purpose circular saws available.SpecsBlade Diameter: 7-1/4 inchesPower: 15 amp cordedMaximum Depth of cut: 2-9/16 inchesWeight: 8.8 poundsBefore the introduction of cordless tools, the DeWalt DWE575SB circular saw might easily have been our best overall pick. It has the brands renowned durability and reliability, and its 15 amp motor means it can deliver consistent cutting performance while battery-powered competitors are taking a break for recharging.Blade speed is 5,200 rpm with a maximum depth of cut of 2-9/16 inches at 90 degrees and 1-9/10 inches at 45 degrees. It will cut bevels at up to 57 degrees, which gives it greater versatility than many rivals.The DeWalt corded circular saw does not have LEDs or a laser for guidance, but it does have a blower to keep the cut-line free from dust. Theres also an electric brake to stop the blade quickly. The lower blade guard runs on ball bearings, which might not seem much, but they should ensure smooth, snag-free operation for the life of the saw. With its aluminum sole, the DeWalt DWE575SB is also relatively light and easy to handle.Best heavy-duty: Skilsaw SPT77WML-01 15 Amp Worm Drive Circular SawSkilsaw SPT77WML-01 15 Amp Worm Drive Circular SawProsThe unrivaled power delivery of worm driveCut-Ready system for rapid adjustmentErgonomic handles reduce effortConsBigger and heavier than mostNot recommended for inexperienced usersWhy it made the cut: While most rivals have similar cutting depths, none can match this circular saw for consistent power delivery.SpecsBlade Diameter: 7-1/4 inchesPower: 15 amp cordedMaximum Depth of cut: 2-3/8 inchesWeight: 11.5 poundsSkil produces two ranges of power tools. Those under the Skil brand are largely intended for DIY use. The Skilsaw brand is for professional tools, and the SPT77WML-01 worm drive circular saw falls under that category.In the hands of experienced users, this tool has one main advantage: the worm drive. In a nutshell, this is direct gearing between motor and blade arbor (the shaft that holds the blade), which effectively transmits almost all of the power available. So, while actual cutting capacities are little different from many competitors, the Skilsaw delivers consistent performance even when sawing through the toughest materials.The Skilsaw worm drive circular saw uses the brands own Dual-Field motor specifically designed for circular saws. It drives the blade at 5,300 rpm. Maximum depth of cut at 90 degrees is 2-3/8 inches, and at 45 degrees is 1-15/16 inches. The Cut-Ready system has pre-set markings allowing for rapid depth adjustment to suit commonly used materials like 24 or 1/2-inch plywood. Handles are ergonomically positioned to put the operators force at the optimum position behind the saw to minimize effort. Nevertheless, even with the magnesium she and frame, the Skilsaw SPT77WML-01 does weigh 11.5 pounds. This bulky and comparatively heavy circular saw is not recommended for beginners.What to consider before buying a circular sawAt first glance, most circular saws look very similar, and the key differences may not be obvious. The following section explains these in detail so potential buyers are fully informed when making their choice:Power and driveCorded tools are almost always 15-amp because its the maximum power delivery available from a standard electrical outlet. Cordless tools vary considerably. 18- and 20-volt are common (they are effectively the same thing), but compact circular saws may be 12-volt, and heavy-duty models can be 36-volt or even 60-volt. With cordless tools, its also worth checking the Ah (amp hour) battery rating. The higher the figure, the longer the battery will maintain performance. So, for example, a 4Ah battery will run twice as long as a 2Ah battery.The motors revolutions per minute (rpm) are another performance indicator because higher speed usually means faster cutting. However, its important to combine this with adequate power; otherwise, the blade might stall when taking bigger cuts or in tough material.Most circular saws have sidewinder drive where the motor is fixed in line with the arbor (the shaft that holds the blade). The alternative is worm drive, where the motor sits behind the blade and is connected via worm gears. The latter typically transmits more power but increases the size and weight of the saw.Blade size and capacitiesA blade of 7-1/4 inches is the most popular size, but depending on configuration, the maximum cutting depth can vary. It may not be enough to make a difference for most users, but its worth checking.There are also mini circular saws popular with hobbyists, which usually have a 4-1/2 inch blade, though even smaller versions are available. At the other end of the scale, there are a number of 10- and 12-inch circular saws. The largest we have seen has a 16-5/16 inch diameter blade and is capable of slicing through 6-inch beams. So, whatever size the material needs to be cut, theres a circular saw capable of doing the job.All circular saw blades are made of high-speed steel (HSS). Many have teeth that are tungsten carbide tipped (TCT). Tungsten carbide is harder and stays sharper for longer. These blades are a little more expensive, but most users find them worth the extra expense.Weight and materialsA half-pound difference in the weight of a circular saw might not seem much, but it has an impact if youre using it all day. The material used for the shoe (the bottom plate) can make a considerable difference.Steel is often used on low-cost circular saws. It is strong and inexpensive, but there is a weight penalty. Aluminum is lighter and often the choice of good quality saws. The best material is magnesium (actually magnesium alloy), which is both strong and light but also expensive. As a result, it is usually only found on circular saws aimed at professional users.Other featuresLED work lights ensure the cut line can be seen clearly. LEDs might also be used as charge indicators on cordless circular saws.Lasers can help improve accuracy. They track the path of the blade, so alignment is easier.An electric brake is a nice feature. It brings the blade to a stop almost immediately. This can prevent motor damage if the blade jams in the workpiece and means users dont need to wait to put the saw down once the cut is finished.Some circular saws have a dust port, so a shop vac or other extraction can be attached.FAQsQ: Whats the difference between a circular saw and a miter saw? A circular saw is a hand-held tool thats taken to the workpiece, whereas a miter saw usually sits on a bench or stand, and the work is taken to it. Miter saws can cut thicker material than circular saws, and can create compound angles, but they cannot cut sheet material like plywood or OSB. Professionals and keen DIYers will often have both. Q: What safety gear do I need with a circular saw? As with all powered saws, some protective eyewear should be worn, and a dust mask is also a good idea. The blade guard will prevent most accidents, so it should never be removed or jammed open. Q: What is kickback and how do I avoid it? Kickback happens when the blade binds in the material, and either the workpiece or the saw gets thrown up by the rotating blade. It can cause serious injury. With a circular saw, it often happens when the saw strays off the cut line, and the user tries to twist the tool slightly to correct the problem. Rather than trying to continue with the existing cut and risk injury, it is better to start again from the other side of the material. Final thoughts on the best circular sawsBest overall: DeWalt DCS573B Flexvolt Advantage 20V Circular SawBest budget: Skil 5280-01 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular SawBest premium: Makita XSH06PT 18V X2 LXT Circular Saw KitBest corded: DeWalt DWE575SB 15 Amp Circular SawBest heavy-duty: Skilsaw SPT77WML-01 15 Amp Worm Drive Circular SawBest compact: Milwaukee 2530-20 M12 Fuel Circular SawAll of the circular saws described are very good tools and are unlikely to disappoint their owners. However, with its combination of performance, durability, and reliability, the DeWalt DCS573B is the standout choice. That said, its not the cheapest circular saw on the market. For those with a more limited budget, the Skil 5280-01 is a perfectly competent alternative.If youre looking for other cutting tools, check out our lists of the best miter saws and the best table saws. The right tool makes the job much simpler.