There’s no doubt about it - every woodworker has and needs a circular saw for most DIY projects.
You can try out some alternatives, but the bottom line is that circular saws will give you the best and accurate straight cuts.
It doesn’t matter what you’re working with - lumber boards, metal, concrete, or plastic - a circular saw will tremendously improve your work.
On the other hand, traditional circular saws are bulky, make a lot of noise, and they’re limited to a certain area since they usually get their power straight from the source.
Naturally, the power tool industry has grown, and we have many cordless and wireless devices, one being the cordless circular saw.
As you're able to see from the title of our article, we’ll focus on some of the greatest products out there and try to section out the best cordless circular saw.
Also, we’ll throw in some useful information about circular saws, in general, and present you with the options on today’s market.
Stay tuned!
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Top 9 Cordless Circular Saw Reviews
There are a lot of power tools that woodworkers use to cut wood and metal, but none makes the cuts look smooth and fresh like the SKIL 20V 6-1/2 Inch Cordless Circular Saw.
Skil is a well-known manufacturer and distributor of power tools from Illinois, Naperville, and you can find many of their circular saws on the market.
However, we’ve chosen the CR540602 for this article for a couple of reasons, one being its incredible battery.
This circular saw has a 2.0 Ah PWR-core battery - a Skil-patented lithium-ion battery that provides the user with a 25% increased run time than he’d normally get with a standard circular saw battery.
Furthermore, the overall battery life is almost twice as long than it is with most battery-powered devices.
This unit measures 11.73 x 7.28 x 10 inches, has a 2-inch blade, and weighs only 7.78 lbs, which is extremely lightweight, even for a handheld circular saw.
This enables the user to cut with ease with no extra parts that could improve the overall balance of the saw.
The blade is carbide-tipped, meaning that it holds up to heat and friction much better than standard stainless steel blades.
Moreover, they’re incredibly durable and can last much longer in terms of the overall lifespan.
The blade can also make bevel cuts anywhere between 0 and 50 degrees and has a depth adjustment of 2-⅛ inches.
Overall, this is a rather wholesome power tool that even features a revolutionary temperature management system that automatically controls the temperature of the battery and lowers the efficiency when the temperature levels rise above the recommended.
We couldn’t find a negative feature, which is why we rate this one as the best cordless circular saw on the market right now.
- Temperature management system
- Depth and bevel capacity
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Increased battery life
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If you’ve ever owned a circular saw or any power tool for that matter, you’ve undoubtedly heard the name DeWalt.
They are one of the largest names in the industry, and we had to include one of their products in this list.
So, here’s the DEWALT DCS391B 6-1/2-Inch 20V MAX Circular Saw review.
As the heading suggests, the reason this is our most reliable pick stems from the fact that it comes from a well-trusted manufacturer that’s produced power tools for years.
Moreover, DeWalt DCS391B uses proprietary parts developed in their facilities that make their products truly impressive.
For example, many electric cordless tools feature the 20V MAX Li-ion battery known for its incredibly long lifespan and efficiency.
This DeWalt DCS391B cordless circular saw has a lot more to offer than just the battery.
It has a 5150 RPM motor, which is way over the average for circular saws.
Furthermore, it differs from other cordless saws since it can create bevel cuts in the angle range between 0 and 50 degrees.
The blade and the motor are supported by a state-of-the-art magnesium shoe whose structure proves to be more durable than most cordless saws’ shoes.
When you put that together with the quality materials that the manufacturer put into the design and the rubberized grip on the saw, the DeWalt DCS391B becomes one of the best high-power tools on the market.
It’s really the shades that separate this cordless circular saw from the Skil one, but the main reason we’ve put it in second place is the overall design features that make it a bit hard to use at first.
The safety switch and depth adjustment gauge are located on hard-to-reach angles when you’re using the saw with one hand, and that’s our only overall complaint.
Aside from that, it’s as good as it gets!
- Excellent battery life with the 20V MAX
- Quality stainless steel blade
- Perfect for construction work and job site projects
- Durable structure
- Awkward design
Not all of us can afford high-performance circular saws, especially the models from premium manufacturers.
However, there are still some companies that’ll produce and sell solid saws for a low cost, such as Porter-Cable.
So, here’s our budget pick, the PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw.
Some of you may know that Black+Decker is a strong power tool company that’s been and is dominating the market for years now.
What you might not know is that they’ve purchased Porter-Cable and combined it with DeWalt in an attempt to create a strong household name in the woodworking business.
With Porter-Cable quality tools and the prowess of DeWalt’s brand, you can assume that most of their products have tremendous cutting power, quality blades, strong 20 Volt batteries, and a long lifespan.
When it comes to this Porter-Cable cordless saw and its features, you have to know right off the bat that it features a high-performance DeWalt motor that delivers a constant 4000 RPMs for tremendous cutting power.
Even though the speed is not as high as you’d expect from DeWalt products, it’s perfect in combination with a 6.5-inch blade with carbide teeth.
The saw is set to cut at 2-⅛ inches of depth, and the beveling shoe will allow you to pivot the saw to a 50-degree angle.
Speaking of angles, Black+Decker did its duty in terms of making this cordless circular saw a user-friendly tool.
Not only is it ergonomic and lightweight, but the contoured handle is molded in a way that’ll make it easy for you to access and maneuver the device from all possible angles of cutting.
Now, the speed and the overall power might be a bit lower than with the DeWalt and Skil model, but it still has a powerful motor that can cut through most wood and can be used all around your house.
Anyhow, thanks to these lowered specifications, you can buy this cordless saw for an extremely low price.
- Quality features and a lightweight design
- DeWalt’s top-performance motor and the 20V battery
- Trusted seller and manufacturer
- User-friendly features and ease of use
- Lowered specs compared to other Black+Decker saws
The previous saws are generally used by professional contractors for heavy-duty tasks on the field.
However, if you’re an enthusiast and you wish to experiment in your woodworking shed with different projects, we highly recommend the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 5-1/2-Inch.
Even though most complex woodworking assignments and projects will require a stronger saw with a long blade, you can still make ends meet with a smaller tool such as this one.
On the other hand, one of the benefits of owning a smaller circular saw is the battery life, especially in this case since the battery you’ll get is a 20V MAX that is a part of the Black+Decker system.
This means you can share the battery with all of your Black+Decker electric tools, including the ones for the garden.
Another great thing is the overall mobility and maneuvering abilities you’ll get since this cordless saw measures 14.25 x 8.38 x 9.25 inches and weighs only 7.55 lbs.
Combine that with the quality pivoting shoe, and you get a cordless circular saw that’s perfect for light-duty tasks.
There are no tools needed to set the depth adjustment, as well as the bevel adjustment, which has detents at 45 and 90 degrees.
The motor is a bit slower - it runs at 3000 RPMs, but it is still more than enough to power through most materials.
Moreover, it has a variable speed trigger and an electric brake for safe use.
Of course, this is a budget pick, so you can expect that the cuts won’t be as fine as with some premium models.
Also, the accuracy’s room for errors is minimal, but it’s still visible, so you should consider a stronger model if you’ll be working with smaller materials that require delicate cuts.
Otherwise, we believe that this saw is perfect for everyone, beginners and experts.
It’s safe, as much as saws can be, it’s strong, and the battery life is phenomenal!
- Compact and lightweight design
- Part of the Black+Decker system
- Electronic brake
- Affordable
- Perfect for light-duty tasks
- Less fine cutting edges
- Small accuracy errors
Most of the cordless circular saws that you’ll see on this list can be purchased in two ways - as a bare tool and a kit, but you’ll mostly find bare tools since many manufacturers prefer selling batteries, cases, and spare parts individually.
Well, here’s a full kit, the Makita SH02R1 12V Cordless Circular Saw.
As a bare tool, this cordless circular saw is not that impressive, but you’ll be glad to own thanks to the abundance of things you’ll get in the pack.
This battery-powered saw comes with two 12V batteries that have a slide-style design.
Generally, most circular saws come with a pod-style battery, but the advantage of owning these two is the ease of replacement.
Naturally, a 12V battery won’t last as long as a 20V MAX, so it makes sense to have two of them for a replacement to avoid charging one constantly.
The bare tool weighs 3.5 lbs, measures 14.5 x 8 x 10.2 inches, and rotates the blade at 1500 RPMs.
It’s not much, but this is a home device that you’ll use for smaller DIY projects that require tuning and smaller cuts.
However, the blade is made from a quality steel alloy, and it can cut through 1-inch stock made from various materials, including plywood, particle boards, and MDF.
It is a compact circular saw that many people order due to its small dimensions and quickness with which it can cut through the material.
It even has a built-in dust blower that’ll clear all the debris from the work surface.
Since you’ll be investing in a Makita product if you decide to buy this one, you’ll also get a 3-year warranty on the bare tool and the batteries.
The flaw is the lack of higher functions of this saw - it’ll be good for lighter projects, and that’s it.
However, that’s no real reason to miss out on this fantastic offer for a saw that’ll always find a use.
- Full kit with two batteries. a fast charger, and LED light
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Strong blade
- 3-year limited warranty
- Low specs
There’s no need to buy a cordless saw that stands out from the rest with its fancy features and bulky size.
If you’re getting a compact cordless circular saw, you should always strive for ergonomics, which is why we’ve included the POPOMAN 20V Cordless Mini Circular Saw in our list.
Popoman cordless circular saws are not that well-known around the web, but they should be solely due to their overall quality.
They have all the necessary features that constitute a quality saw and more, such as fast charging and state-of-the-art laser guiding systems.
This model, the MTW80B, made its way to our list thanks to the special combination of parts that makes it perfect for every woodworker.
The 3500 RPM motor gives the device its raw strength, while the power comes from the 20V (2.0Ah) battery, whose charging time is significantly reduced thanks to the fast charger.
Moreover, the package includes two blades that have a blade size of 115 mm - one is made from hardened steel that could be used for metal cuts aside from wood, and the other blade has tungsten carbide tips, known for their durability.
They are removed with tools, but they come in the package, and the process is thoroughly explained in the manual.
We mentioned that it has a laser guiding system, but we should also add that the parallel guide goes along the workpiece edge and lets the user have a clear view of the cut line.
Naturally, you’ll be able to make beveled cuts from 0 to 45 degrees, where the cutting depth ranges from 34.9 to 42.9 mm.
As for the complaints, we don’t have any major flaws to report.
The design could include an auto-shutoff button for the laser guide in the future, and the battery could be improved to a slightly longer running time, but those are just some small details.
Aside from this, it’s an excellent circular saw for all enthusiasts out there.
- High-torque motor
- Depth and bevel adjustments
- Wide range on the cutting depth
- Excellent performance
- Weak battery
- No auto-shutoff button for the laser guide
Even though cordless circular saws can cost a lot, it still makes sense to purchase a slightly more expensive product than the average if the price reflects the quality.
Therefore, we have a product to present to you, the CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Circular Saw Kit.
Craftsman was a stand-alone brand that was acquired by Black+Decker, like most quality companies.
Even though this decreases the number of competitive firms, it helps develop and upgrade products to perfection.
Of course, no cordless circular saw is perfect, but some offer much more than you’d expect, such as this one.
This cordless circular saw features a 20V lithium-ion battery, the same as DeWalt and Porter-Cable products, that can be used for various applications and purposes if you own more Craftsman tools and devices, such as gardening trimmers, pruners, or saws.
The battery can be charged relatively fast, and it has a long lifespan.
The powerful motor operates at 4200 RPMs which is fast enough for making accurate cuts on wood, but also lighter metals with the right blade.
Luckily, the blade that Craftsman put into this cordless circular saw has tremendous cutting power and great durability.
Speaking of durability, the entire thing is designed in a way to endure damage and debris with ease.
The housing is solid, it has a metal shoe for extra durability, and the handle is molded with soft-grip contours for easier handling.
According to some standards, this could easily be the best cordless circular saw, but there are some issues with it.
For example, the alignment is not the best, and you’ll often have to check it and adjust everything manually since there have been cases of the alignment messing up.
- Black+Decker subsidiary
- Powerful battery
- Powerful motor
- Durable build
- Bad alignment
We’re all looking for two things in a cordless circular saw - precision and sturdiness.
It takes time to find both in a single product that costs just the amount we want, but if you’re ready to compromise, you can find a solid saw with great accuracy, such as the Ryobi P507 One+ 18V Cordless Circular Saw.
Ryobi offers a wide selection of the best cordless circular saws, but the P507 is special for a multitude of reasons, so that's why we’ve decided to include it in these reviews.
The 4700 RPM motor can provide the strength and speed of a corded circular saw while still maintaining maneuverability, thanks to the lack of cords and a lightweight design.
The unit measures 11 x 10 x 6 inches, and it weighs only 5 pounds as a bare tool, meaning it won’t be perfect for heavy-duty tasks, but you’ll be able to do all light-duty projects around the house.
Ryobi is a known manufacturer of power tools, especially the ones for gardening, but it can hold its ground in the woodworking department as well.
Moreover, the 18V battery provides the user with a long enough lifespan while still being able to share the battery with other cordless circular saws from the Ryobi line and other power tools that support the dimensions of an 18V battery.
The build is a bit flimsy, in the sense that some of the housing parts are made of plastic, but it’s ABS plastic that it’s quite enduring the face of debris, heat, and friction.
The rest of the main components are made from steel alloys and hold up to everything that was advertised.
On the other hand, our number one complaint is the blade that comes in the package.
The overall durability didn’t prove to be as high-quality as you’d expect from a brand like Ryobi.
The best cordless circular saws offer better quality, but it’s not that big of a deal since you can order a different blade and still use this incredible circular saw.
- Lightweight and durable
- Accuracy
- Perfect for light-duty tasks
- Ryobi’s 18V battery
- Low-quality blade
Finally, our reviews have led us to the last product that undoubtedly deserves to be the best cordless circular saw with the others on this list.
It’s solid, cuts smoothly, and it’s safe for beginners.
So, let’s see what the reviews have brought this time with the GALAX PRO DC-20V Cordless Circular Saw.
If you take a look at this saw’s photos, you’ll see that the design differs a lot from the previous circular saws.
It has an innovative design with a great build that allows for bevel and depth adjustments from accessible points.
The brushless motor has a 3800 RPM speed that rotates the 18-toothed carbide blade.
What we absolutely love about this cordless circular saw are the safety features integrated into the design, such as the comfortable and ergonomic grip on the handle and extra protection for the users with the stable cutting process.
Furthermore, the accuracy of this thing is quite phenomenal, considering it’s coming from a little-known manufacturer of power tools.
A rip guide is added to help the user make more accurate lines, and this unit doesn’t feature the upper guard due to its design.
It has a lower guard that gives the user a clear view during the cutting, which would normally not be possible with an upper guard.
The charging process can be achieved in less than an hour if the battery’s not entirely drained out, but the 2.0 Ah lithium-ion battery should be enough to finish your projects.
However, you can use different batteries, so you’ll have to buy a replacement from Galax if the one from the package dies on you.
Overall, it’s a great cordless circular saw with fantastic features, a solid battery life, and a strong brushless motor.
Maybe it could’ve been a bit more affordable, considering you’ll have to buy spare parts directly from Galax, but it’s still a good deal.
- Good for heavy-duty projects
- Safe for everyone
- Quality features
- 2.0 Ah battery
- Price
What Makes the Best Battery-powered Circular Saw? Buyer’s Guide
These were our top picks for the current title of the best cordless circular saw on the market.
We’ve used our knowledge, research, and experience to compile the list, but that won’t mean a lot to you if you’re starting out and want to know more yourself.
So, we’ve decided to put in a buyer’s guide with some useful information to help you in the future.
Stay tuned!
1. Motor
The power of cordless saws comes from the motor, so let’s make a couple of distinctions to clear out any confusion.
Motors for these saws are divided into two main categories - brushed and brushless motors.
The way they function is a bit different since brushed motors utilize brushes - wound wire coils that act as an electromagnet.
They redirect the current against the permanent electromagnets in the motor to achieve a two-way current and supply the device with power.
Brushless units, on the other hand, use permanent magnets and sensors that track the position of the rotor.
They are generally more expensive and require less maintenance, but they operate at high speeds and have a great power output ratio.
You don’t need to know more about this if you’re a beginner, but the main thing to know is that classic saws will usually come with brushed motors, and you should go for them.
Brushless units are generally used by professionals, so you should leave that to when you’re more experienced.
2. Build
The three main components of a cordless circular saw are the housing, motor, and blade.
The housing plays a huge part in the overall quality of a circular saw since there’s a lot of pressure from the motor on the entire unit, and you need steady housing for the most accurate job.
Therefore, you should be aware of what to look for.
A standard housing will usually include depth and bevel adjustments on the sides, a gauge, an ergonomic handle with a soft-grip design, and a metallic or plastic shell.
Some are bulkier than others, but we’d recommend going for a compact model since cordless saws are generally handheld, and the increase in size won’t do you any good.
3. Warranty
Even though corded circular saws are more expensive than cordless models, they still come with warranties to protect the users from possible design flaws and errors.
Of course, we’re always looking to get the best deal, whatever the device might be, but it’s good to know what to expect from these units.
In general, they’re sold as bare units, but you’ve seen some kits on this list.
Bare tools will usually get you a 1-year limited warranty, but the more advanced products come with 2 or 3-year deals, depending on the manufacturer.
You can expect such deals from Black+Decker and its subsidiary companies, such as DeWalt or Porter-Cable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cordless circular saws worth it?
Absolutely yes. They offer the user the ability to cut without the limitations of cords and space while still giving you an abundance of maneuverability and power.
Moreover, they cost less than corded saws, which is why this might be a great investment for beginners.
What is the largest cordless circular saw?
Based on our research, Makita has some of the largest models on the market, specifically the Makita XCH10.
It has a 9 1/4-inch blade, the unit measures 10.98 x 14.13 x 15.7 inches, and it delivers some massive cuts.
Do cordless circular saws have enough power?
As you’ve seen from the products we’ve covered in the reviews, most of the best saws have 2.0 Ah batteries that can give you a runtime of a couple of hours, while the charging time is usually about an hour.
DeWalt’s saws are known for their 20V MAX batteries that offer the users extended run time that’s in a league of its own.
Why are battery-powered circular saws left-handed?
It is generally considered that left-handed devices, unlike pencils and pens, give the user more visibility of the working surface and more mobility since your view won’t be blocked by your own hand.
Final Thoughts
We hope that you’ve found some useful words and information in our article and that you know enough to make a choice of what your next best cordless circular saw will be.
We’ve covered 9 products, and they all belong to this list, but our absolute favorite is the SKIL 20V 6-1/2 Inch Circular Saw.
Of course, companies like DeWalt, Makita, and Black+Decker never disappoint, so you try out their circular saw products and find the one that suits you.
Overall, choosing any saw out of these nine will be a smart investment!
- CUT THROUGH WOOD WITH EASE - This cordless circular saw is the go-to wood-cutting tool for DIY projects around the house.
- LONG RUNNING TIME & BATTERY LIFE - The PWR CORE 20 Lithium battery has an innovative temperature management system to keep battery cool and powering on through your project.
- FAST AND CLEAN CUTS - Make your cuts fast and accurate with the tool's thin-kerf carbide-tipped blade, with 24 teeth.
- MORE CONFIDENT CUTS - The saw line visor helps keep the cut straight.
- QUICK BEVEL ADJUSTMENT - A bevel cutting capacity from 0-50 degrees means you can reach the most commonly cut angles.