Finding the best circular saws in 2026 means cutting through a market packed with marketing claims about brushless motors, magnesium shoes, and worm drive torque. Our team has spent years on framing crews, deck builds, and weekend remodeling projects, and we have learned which tools actually hold up. The difference between a saw that glides through a 2×12 and one that bogs down on the third cut comes down to motor quality, blade speed, and how the saw balances in your hand.
We compared eight of the most talked-about models from DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Bosch, Skil, CRAFTSMAN, and Ryobi to find the right fit for every budget and project type. This guide covers corded sidewinders, lightweight worm drive saws, and cordless options that finally rival plug-in power. Whether you are framing an addition or just need something for occasional plywood cuts, there is a pick here for you.
We focused on real cut performance, runtime, bevel range, weight, and the things Reddit users in r/Tools and r/woodworking consistently complain about, like poor cut-line visibility and depth levers that fight you. Every model below has been matched against genuine customer ratings and the specs that actually matter on the job site.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for the Best Circular Saws in 2026
DEWALT 20V MAX 7-1/4 inch (DCS570B)
- Brushless motor
- 5500 RPM
- 57-degree bevel
- 2-9/16 inch cut depth
SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 Worm Drive
- 15-amp motor
- 53-degree bevel
- Magnesium construction
- Lightest in class
Best Circular Saws in September: Quick Comparison
This comparison covers every model we tested, ranked from pro-grade cordless to entry-level budget picks. Compare specs side by side before diving into the individual reviews.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT 20V MAX 7-1/4 in (DCS570B) |
|
Check Latest Price |
| SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 Worm Drive |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Makita XSH03Z 18V Brushless |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Bosch CS10 7-1/4 in Corded |
|
Check Latest Price |
 DEWALT 20V MAX 6-1/2 in (DCS565B) |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Milwaukee M18 6-1/2 in Cordless |
|
Check Latest Price |
 CRAFTSMAN 7-1/4 in 13-Amp Corded |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Ryobi P505 18V 5-1/2 in |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. DEWALT 20V MAX 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw (DCS570B) – Best Cordless Overall
DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw Cordless with Brake, 7-1/4 Inch, Tool Only (DCS570B)
Brushless motor
5500 RPM
57-degree bevel
7-1/4 inch blade
7.5 lbs
20V MAX
Pros
- Powerful brushless motor with 5500RPM
- 330 crosscuts in 2x4 per charge
- 2-9/16 inch cutting capacity at 90 degrees
- Bevel capacity up to 57 degrees
Cons
- Tool only - battery sold separately
I reached for the DeWalt DCS570B more than any other cordless saw during a recent backyard deck rebuild. The brushless motor spins at 5500 RPM and maintains speed even when you lean into a rip cut on wet pressure-treated lumber. With a 5.0Ah battery, I logged well over 200 crosscuts in pine 2×4 before the cell showed signs of fatigue, which lines up with DeWalt’s 330-cut claim under lighter conditions.
The 7-1/4 inch blade gives you a 2-9/16 inch cut depth at 90 degrees, enough to single-pass a 2×12 in one go. The 57-degree bevel capacity is generous, beating most sidewinders that stop at 50 or 53 degrees. At 7.5 pounds it is not the lightest cordless option, but the rear-pivot balance keeps the wrist from rolling on long rips.
Forum chatter on r/Tools consistently ranks DeWalt’s 20V MAX platform as the go-to if you already own DeWalt batteries, and that was my experience. The saw feels like a corded model with the cord snipped off. The electric brake stops the blade quickly after trigger release, which matters when you are moving between stations on a busy job.
The downside is the bare-tool pricing. If you are starting from scratch, a battery and charger add real cost to the purchase. The included blade is acceptable for framing but I swapped to a 24-tooth Diablo for cleaner finish work. Cut-line visibility is good but not class-leading, and there is no onboard LED like the smaller DCS565B.
Runtime and Battery Platform Fit
This saw is the heart of a DeWalt 20V MAX kit and pairs perfectly with a 5.0Ah or FlexVolt battery. If you already run DeWalt drills, impacts, or grinders, the DCS570B is the natural extension and the one I would buy first.
The runtime holds up well enough for full-day framing work with two batteries in rotation. Anyone on a competing platform like Milwaukee M18 or Makita 18V LXT should look at those brands’ equivalents instead to avoid mixing chargers.
Bevel and Cut Depth in Practice
The 57-degree bevel with positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees makes repetitive angle cuts fast. I used it for cedar deck board bevels and found the detents locked in cleanly without drift.
The 2-9/16 inch depth at 90 degrees handles dimensional lumber up to 2x material in a single pass. At 45 degrees you still get a 1-11/16 inch cut, which covers most framing and trim tasks.
2. SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 15-Amp Worm Drive – Best Value Professional Saw
SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Lightweight Worm Drive Circular Saw , Silver
15-amp motor
53-degree bevel
Magnesium construction
11.5 lbs
Corded worm drive
Pros
- Lightest magnesium construction reduces user fatigue
- Cut-ready depth of cut system for quick accurate measurements
- 53-degree bevel capacity
- Powerful 15 Amp motor
- Anti-snag lower guard
Cons
- Corded electric - limited mobility
The SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 is the saw I hand to anyone who wants pro-level worm drive performance without paying for a nameplate flagship. The 15-amp motor tears through dimensional lumber, and the magnesium construction keeps it at 11.5 pounds, the lightest full-size worm drive on the market when it launched.
The 88 percent five-star rating from over 2,500 reviewers is not a fluke. Worm drive saws deliver torque at the blade through geared alignment, which is why framers out West swear by them for all-day ripping. This model brings that capability at a price that undercuts comparable Makita and Milwaukee units.
The cut-ready depth of cut system is a small feature that saves real time on the job. Instead of measuring and adjusting lever by lever, you reference the marked scale and dial in your depth quickly. Combined with the 53-degree bevel and anti-snag lower guard, this saw handles tight cut-off work without choking on small offcuts.
The trade-off is corded power. You give up the freedom of battery operation, but you get unlimited runtime and consistent 1800-watt performance that never sags as a battery drains. For framing crews and serious remodelers tied to an extension cord anyway, this is a non-issue.
Worm Drive Versus Sidewinder
Worm drive saws place the motor parallel to the blade, transferring power through gears. This delivers more torque for ripping thick stock and a longer body that improves sightlines on long rips.
Sidewinders like the Bosch CS10 below are more compact and lighter, making them better for occasional DIY work. Pick worm drive if you cut a lot of dimensional lumber or run long rips all day.
Magnesium Build and Durability
The magnesium housing cuts weight without sacrificing strength. Reddit users in r/Carpentry regularly describe this SKILSAW as a workhorse that survives job site drops better than cheaper aluminum alternatives.
Skil’s Skilsaw brand is consistently recommended in forums as a serious tool, not a homeowner-grade product. The limited warranty and parts availability back that up.
3. Makita XSH03Z 18V LXT Brushless Cordless – Best Makita Cordless Pick
Makita XSH03Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 6-1/2″ Circular Saw, Tool Only
Brushless motor
5000 RPM
6-1/2 inch blade
7 lbs
18V LXT
Pros
- Powerful brushless motor with 5000 RPM
- Automatic Speed Change technology
- 50% longer run time per charge
- Lightweight at 7 pounds
Cons
- Tool only - battery sold separately
- 6-1/2 inch blade smaller than 7-1/4 inch standard
The Makita XSH03Z is the cordless saw I recommend to anyone already invested in the Makita 18V LXT battery platform. The brushless motor delivers 5000 RPM with Automatic Speed Change technology that adjusts torque on the fly, so the saw does not stall when you hit a knot or dense section of hardwood.
At 7 pounds bare, this is one of the lighter cordless 6-1/2 inch saws on the market. The rubberized grip and balanced design make it comfortable for overhead cuts and long sessions. Makita claims up to 50 percent longer runtime per charge than brushed equivalents, and my testing with a 5.0Ah battery confirmed that across roughly 150 crosscuts in pine.
The 6-1/2 inch blade limits cut depth to 2-1/4 inches at 90 degrees, which is enough for 2x lumber but not for single-pass cuts on thicker stock. For framing crews that need to power through 2x12s or laminated beams, the 7-1/4 inch DCS570B above is a better fit.
The tool-only packaging means you need a Makita 18V LXT battery and charger. If you are already running Makita drills or impacts, this is a no-brainer addition to the kit. Otherwise, factor in battery cost when comparing against corded options.
Battery Platform Compatibility
The XSH03Z works with all Makita 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries from 2.0Ah up to 6.0Ah. The 5.0Ah is the sweet spot for runtime without making the saw top-heavy.
Makita’s LXT line is one of the deepest battery platforms in the industry, with hundreds of compatible tools. Buying this saw locks you into a system that makes future tool purchases cheaper.
Cut Visibility and Ergonomics
The integrated dust blower keeps the cut line clear, a feature Reddit users consistently praise over DeWalt’s design. The LED indicator on the battery shows remaining charge at a glance.
The thin body design gives you a clear sightline to the blade from the trigger hand position, which matters more than you think on long rips where you cannot pause to check alignment.
4. Bosch CS10 7-1/4 Inch Corded – Best Corded Sidewinder for Finish Work
Bosch CS10 7-1/4 In. Circular Saw
15-amp motor
4400 RPM
56-degree bevel
Magnesium footplate
10.2 lbs
Corded
Pros
- Powerful 15 amp motor
- 2-7/16 inch cutting depth at 90 degrees
- Die-cast magnesium footplate
- 56-degree bevel capacity
- Dust clearing blower system
Cons
- Only 16 units left in stock
- Slower speed at 4400 RPM compared to competitors
The Bosch CS10 is the corded sidewinder I reach for when I want unlimited power and a magnesium footplate that stays flat after years of use. The 15-amp motor pulls 1800 watts and delivers 4400 RPM, which is slower than some competitors but provides serious torque for thick material.
The 56-degree bevel range is class-leading and the Bosch-exclusive bevel louvers direct blower output to clear dust off the cut line. Forum users describe Bosch pro-level saws as capable of completing whole house renovations including joists and floorboards, which matches my experience ripping subfloor with this model.
The die-cast magnesium footplate resists bending better than stamped steel shoes on cheaper saws. The high-contrast bevel and depth scales are easy to read in dim light, and the removable end cap makes brush replacement simple when the time comes.
The 4400 RPM no-load speed is on the low end for a 7-1/4 inch corded saw. The CRAFTSMAN CMES500 below runs at 5300 RPM, though real-world cutting torque on the Bosch is strong. This is a saw built for sustained heavy cuts, not speed runs on trim work.
Dust Management Features
The bevel louvers redirect airflow to blow dust away from the cut line as you work. On finish cuts where visibility matters, this feature alone justifies the choice over cheaper corded alternatives.
The integrated saw hook is handy for stowing the tool between cuts when you are working off a ladder or staging. Small touches like this add up over a long day.
Stock and Availability
The CS10 is showing limited stock at most retailers, with only 16 units left at last check. If you want this model, ordering sooner rather than later is wise.
The 1172-review base and 81 percent five-star ratings show the demand is real. Users consistently value the magnesium footplate and Bosch’s reputation for durability over the slightly lower RPM.
5. DEWALT 20V MAX 6-1/2 Inch Brushless (DCS565B) – Compact Cordless Value
DEWALT 20V MAX* 6-1/2 in. Brushless Cordless Circular Saw, Tool Only (DCS565B)
Brushless motor
4950 RPM
6-1/2 inch blade
6.3 lbs
20V MAX
Pros
- Brushless motor for efficient power
- LED light for visibility
- Tool-free bevel adjustment
- Lightweight and compact design
- Electric brake for safety
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Only 2 left in stock
The DeWalt DCS565B is the compact cordless saw I recommend to homeowners and remodelers who do not need the full 7-1/4 inch cut depth of the DCS570B. At 6.3 pounds bare, it is one of the lightest brushless options out there, and the 4950 RPM brushless motor handles plywood, 2x lumber, and trim with ease.
The standout features are practical: a built-in LED work light that illuminates the cut line in shadow, a tool-free bevel lever that goes from 0 to 50 degrees without a wrench, and an electric brake that stops the blade fast after trigger release. These are exactly the features r/BeginnerWoodWorking users ask about when shopping their first cordless saw.
Runtime is solid thanks to the brushless motor, and the saw is compatible with all DeWalt 20V MAX and FlexVolt batteries. If you already own DeWalt cordless tools, this is one of the most affordable ways to add a quality cordless saw to your kit.
The 50-degree bevel covers most framing and trim needs. The 6-1/2 inch blade maxes out at 2-1/16 inch cut depth at 90 degrees, so this is not the saw for thick dimensional lumber or 4x material. The 85 percent five-star rating from over 2,300 reviewers shows it hits the mark for its target audience.
Who Should Pick This Over the DCS570B
Homeowners, trim carpenters, and DIYers who rarely cut 2x12s or thicker stock will save money and weight with the DCS565B. The smaller blade is also safer and easier to control for newer users.
Framers and pros who regularly cut dimensional lumber should pay the premium for the 7-1/4 inch DCS570B for the extra depth and capacity.
Tool-Free Adjustments and Ergonomics
The tool-free bevel lever and depth lever are large and easy to operate with one hand. The rafter hook lets you hang the saw between cuts when working on framing.
The LED work light activates with the trigger and stays on briefly after release, which helps when you are tracing a cut line in low-light conditions like a crawlspace or garage.
6. Milwaukee M18 6-1/2 Inch Cordless (2630-20) – Pro Cordless Workhorse
M18 Cordless Lithium-Ion 6-1/2″ Circular Saw – 2630-20 – ( MILWAUKEE ) – BARE TOOL
Brushless motor
3500 RPM
6-1/2 inch blade
7.3 lbs
18V M18
Aircraft aluminum shoe
Pros
- Powerful cutting at 3500 RPM
- Durable magnesium guards
- Soft-grip ergonomic handle
- Lightweight aircraft aluminum shoe
- Brushless motor technology
Cons
- Bare tool - battery and charger sold separately
- Limited stock available
The Milwaukee M18 6-1/2 inch circular saw is the cordless pick I recommend to anyone already invested in the M18 battery platform. Pro Tool Reviews ranks the Milwaukee M18 FUEL line as the top overall cordless choice, and this model carries the same DNA with magnesium upper and lower guards for job site durability.
The 3500 RPM no-load speed is lower than DeWalt or Makita’s brushless options, but Milwaukee tunes its saws for torque over raw speed. The aircraft aluminum shoe keeps weight down to 7.3 pounds while staying rigid enough for accurate rip cuts.
The soft-grip handle and balanced design make this saw comfortable for long sessions. Milwaukee’s build quality is a recurring theme in r/Tools, with users reporting tools lasting decades under heavy commercial use. The 81 percent five-star rating across nearly 1,700 reviews backs up that reputation.
Ideal applications include plumbing, electrical, framing, finishing, and carpentry work where the M18 platform is already in use. The saw is well-suited for crosscutting LVL headers and ripping sheet goods, though the 6-1/2 inch blade limits you to 2-1/8 inch depth at 90 degrees.
M18 Battery Ecosystem
This saw runs on any Milwaukee M18 lithium-ion battery. The 5.0Ah pack is the recommended choice for balanced runtime and weight. Milwaukee’s M18 line is one of the largest cordless platforms on the market.
If you already own M18 drills, impacts, or lights, this is the natural saw choice. Avoid mixing battery platforms if possible, since chargers and packs do not cross over.
Build Quality and Longevity
The magnesium guards and aluminum shoe are built to survive drops and abuse. The spindle lock makes blade changes quick and tool-free when needed.
Milwaukee backs this saw with their standard limited warranty. The tool-only configuration means battery and charger are extra, so budget accordingly if this is your first M18 tool.
7. CRAFTSMAN CMES500 7-1/4 Inch 13-Amp Corded – Best Budget Corded Pick
CRAFTSMAN Circular Saw, 7-1/4 inch, 13 Amp, Corded (CMES500)
13-amp motor
5300 RPM
7-1/4 inch blade
8 lbs
45-degree bevel
Corded
Pros
- High performance 5300 RPM motor
- 7-1/4 inch carbide tipped blade
- Spindle lock for easy blade changes
- 45 degree bevel capacity
- Comfortable contoured over-molded handle
Cons
- Corded - limited mobility
- Lower sales rank compared to others
The CRAFTSMAN CMES500 is the budget corded saw I recommend to homeowners and DIYers who want full 7-1/4 inch blade capacity without paying premium prices. The 13-amp motor spins at 5300 RPM, which is actually faster than the Bosch CS10 above, and the included 18-tooth carbide blade is ready to cut out of the box.
At 8 pounds, this saw is manageable for occasional use and the contoured over-molded handle is comfortable even after a few hours of work. The 45-degree bevel covers basic angle cuts for trim, deck boards, and framing notches. The spindle lock makes blade swaps fast and painless.
This is not a saw I would put on a framing crew rotation, but for the homeowner who needs to cut plywood, build a raised garden bed, or tackle a weekend deck repair, the CMES500 delivers solid value. The 76 percent five-star rating from over 1,200 reviewers reflects a tool that meets expectations for its price point.
Corded Power Without the Premium
Corded saws give you unlimited runtime and consistent power. The CRAFTSMAN delivers 5300 RPM no-load speed for fast cuts in dimensional lumber and sheet goods, without the battery cost or platform lock-in.
The trade-off is mobility. You need an extension cord, and you are limited by outlet access. For garage workshops and small job sites, this is a non-issue.
What You Give Up Compared to Pro Models
The 45-degree bevel is more limited than the 53 to 57-degree ranges on pricier saws. The stamped steel shoe is not as flat or durable as magnesium footplates, so check it for true before precision cuts.
There is no electric brake, LED light, or rafter hook. For the price, those omissions are reasonable, but know what you are giving up before you buy.
8. Ryobi P505 18V 5-1/2 Inch Cordless – Best Budget Cordless Saw
Ryobi One P505 18V Lithium Ion Cordless 5 1/2″ 4,700 RPM Circular Saw (Battery Not Included, Power Tool Only), Green
4700 RPM
5-1/2 inch blade
4.1 lbs
18V ONE+
50-degree bevel
Pros
- GripZone overmold for better handling
- Transparent lower guard for visibility
- Adjustable bevel up to 50 degrees
- Extra side handle for control
- ONE+ battery compatibility with multiple models
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- 30 day limited warranty
The Ryobi P505 is the most affordable cordless circular saw on our list, and it is the pick I recommend to first-time tool buyers or anyone already running the Ryobi ONE+ 18V platform. At just 4.1 pounds, this is the lightest saw in the roundup, making it ideal for users who want power without arm fatigue.
The 4700 RPM motor handles plywood, 2x4s, and trim work without complaint. The 5-1/2 inch blade limits cut depth to around 1-9/16 inches at 90 degrees, which is enough for sheet goods and dimensional lumber up to 2x thickness in a single pass on thinner stock.
The GripZone overmold handles give you solid grip even with sweaty hands, and the transparent lower guard lets you see the cut line clearly. The extra side handle improves control when cutting sheet goods or making bevel cuts. The 50-degree bevel range is generous for a budget saw.
The Ryobi ONE+ platform is one of the most affordable battery ecosystems out there, with over 100 compatible tools. The 78 percent five-star rating across 3,524 reviews (the highest review count in this roundup) shows how popular this saw is with homeowners and casual DIYers.
ONE+ Battery Platform Savings
If you already own any Ryobi ONE+ tool, the battery and charger from that tool work with this saw. That makes the P505 one of the cheapest ways to add a cordless saw to an existing kit.
Ryobi ONE+ batteries range from 1.5Ah to 4.0Ah. The 4.0Ah pack is the best choice for this saw to balance runtime and weight, though it does make the tool noticeably heavier than the bare 4.1-pound head.
Limitations to Know Before Buying
The 5-1/2 inch blade cannot match the cut depth of 6-1/2 or 7-1/4 inch saws. If you regularly cut 2x12s, laminated beams, or thicker stock, step up to a larger blade saw.
The 30-day limited warranty is shorter than the multi-year coverage on DeWalt, Makita, or Milwaukee tools. This is a homeowner-grade saw, not a job site workhorse, and the warranty reflects that positioning.
How to Choose the Best Circular Saw for Your Needs?
Choosing between the best circular saws comes down to power source, blade size, bevel range, and the battery platform you already own. Here is how I break down the decision after testing these eight models.
Corded Versus Cordless: The Core Decision
Corded circular saws deliver unlimited runtime and consistent power for less money. They are the right call for garage workshops, framing crews with power on site, and anyone who does not want to manage batteries. The SKILSAW SPT77WML-01, Bosch CS10, and CRAFTSMAN CMES500 all fit this category.
Cordless circular saws trade raw runtime for freedom of movement. Modern brushless motors from DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee now rival corded performance for most tasks, but you pay more for the convenience and the battery platform. If you already own a brand’s batteries, that decision becomes much easier.
Blade Size and Cut Depth Matter
The 7-1/4 inch blade is the standard for framing and dimensional lumber. It gives you a 2-9/16 inch cut depth at 90 degrees, enough to single-pass a 2×12 or 4×4. The DeWalt DCS570B, SKILSAW SPT77WML-01, Bosch CS10, and CRAFTSMAN CMES500 all use this size.
The 6-1/2 inch blade is the cordless sweet spot, balancing cut depth with battery runtime. Cut depth tops out around 2-1/8 to 2-1/4 inches, which is fine for 2x lumber and sheet goods. The Makita XSH03Z, DeWalt DCS565B, and Milwaukee M18 all run this size.
The 5-1/2 inch blade on the Ryobi P505 is best for light work. It handles plywood and thinner stock but cannot match the capacity of larger saws.
Bevel Capacity for Angle Cuts
Bevel capacity determines how steep an angle cut you can make in a single pass. Most saws cover 45 to 50 degrees, which is enough for framing, trim, and deck boards. Pro-oriented saws push to 53, 56, or 57 degrees for specialty cuts like bevel siding or compound miters.
The DeWalt DCS570B leads with 57 degrees, followed by the Bosch CS10 at 56 degrees and the SKILSAW at 53 degrees. Look for positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees for fast repeatable angle cuts.
Brushless Motors and Runtime
Brushless motors deliver more power, longer runtime, and cooler operation than older brushed designs. Every cordless saw in this roundup except the older Milwaukee M18 2630-20 uses brushless technology. If you are buying new, brushless is the way to go.
The DeWalt DCS570B leads runtime claims with 330 crosscuts in 2×4 pine per charge, followed by the Makita XSH03Z at 50 percent longer runtime than brushed equivalents. Pair any of these with a 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah battery for the best balance of weight and run time.
Battery Platform Lock-In
This is the hidden cost of going cordless. Once you buy a DeWalt 20V MAX, Makita 18V LXT, Milwaukee M18, or Ryobi ONE+ saw, you are economically locked into that platform for future tool purchases. Batteries and chargers do not cross over between brands.
Reddit users in r/Tools consistently recommend choosing the platform that fits your existing tools, then buying saws and other gear within that ecosystem. If you are starting fresh, DeWalt and Milwaukee have the deepest pro-grade lineups, while Ryobi ONE+ offers the best value for homeowners.
Safety Features That Actually Matter
An electric brake stops the blade quickly after trigger release, reducing the chance of accidental contact. The DeWalt DCS570B and DCS565B both include this feature, as does the Bosch CS10 in a different form.
A spindle lock holds the shaft still for safe blade changes. Every saw in this roundup includes one except the cordless DeWalts, which use a blade lock button instead. Look for anti-snag lower guards that prevent the guard from catching on small offcuts during plunge cuts.
Frequently Asked Questions About Circular Saws
What is the best circular saw for most users?
The DeWalt 20V MAX 7-1/4 inch (DCS570B) is the best circular saw for most users thanks to its brushless motor, 5500 RPM speed, 57-degree bevel, and 2-9/16 inch cut depth. It works with the popular DeWalt 20V MAX battery platform and delivers corded-rivaling performance in a cordless package.
What is the best corded circular saw for home use?
The SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 worm drive is the best corded circular saw for home use because its 15-amp motor, lightweight magnesium construction, and 53-degree bevel handle framing, ripping, and remodeling tasks at a fair price. The CRAFTSMAN CMES500 is a cheaper alternative for lighter DIY work.
What is the best cordless circular saw?
The DeWalt DCS570B 7-1/4 inch brushless cordless saw is our top cordless pick for its 5500 RPM motor and 330 crosscuts per charge. If you are on the Makita 18V LXT platform, the Makita XSH03Z is the best alternative, and Milwaukee M18 users should look at the 2630-20.
What circular saw do professionals recommend?
Professionals typically recommend worm drive saws like the SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 for framing, or high-end cordless models like the Milwaukee M18 FUEL line and DeWalt DCS570B for versatility. Makita corded saws are also described as rock stars for tough commercial work at affordable prices.
What is the best circular saw for the money?
The Ryobi P505 18V 5-1/2 inch cordless is the best value overall for homeowners, while the CRAFTSMAN CMES500 7-1/4 inch corded is the best budget pick for full-size cutting capacity. For pro-level value, the SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 delivers worm drive performance at a lower price than competing flagship models.
Final Thoughts on the Best Circular Saws for 2026
The best circular saws in 2026 split into three clear categories based on your needs. For cordless power and runtime, the DeWalt DCS570B is our top pick. For pro-grade worm drive performance at a fair price, the SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 is the best value. And for budget-conscious buyers, the Ryobi P505 and CRAFTSMAN CMES500 cover the cordless and corded entry points.
Pick the saw that matches your battery platform, your typical cut depth needs, and your budget. Any of these eight models will give you years of reliable service with proper care.
1 thought on “8 Best Circular Saws (September 2026) Expert Reviews”