Using a cordless circular saw to make precision cuts through wood is more desirable than the corded alternatives, which can come a real pain with the cord getting in the way all the time and generally causing additional hassle.
The best cordless circular saw is the DEWALT DCS575T1, which includes a brushless motor that delivers 5,800 RPM for easier and finer quality cuts.
Factors such as battery power, depth of cut, additional features and more will play a big part in your purchasing decision. Cordless circular saws are fairly durable power tools and will last many years, therefore its worth while paying the extra.
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Best Cordless Circular Saws For The Money
| Cordless Circular Saw | Blade Speed | Blade Size |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DCS575T1 | 5,800 RPM | 7 1/4 Inch |
| Makita XSS02Z | 3,700 RPM | 6 1/2 Inch |
| Bosch CCS180B | 3,900 RPM | 6 1/2 Inch |
| Hitachi C18DGLP4 | 4,500 RPM | 6 1/2 Inch |
| Milwaukee 0740-20 | 3,200 RPM | 6 7/8 Inch |
If you are only planning on using a cordless circular saw for woodworking, the blade you choose is not really an issue and you can get away with a less powerful motor. However, if you are planning on cutting anything else, be sure to pay particular interest into the size of the blade and the power that is required to cut through such material.
The majority of DIY’ers will more than likely be using these saws for woodworking and the recommendations in this article are ideal. If you are looking for an easy to use circular saw, cordless is the best choice over the corded alternatives.
With the advancement in lithium-ion batteries and compact motors, its never been a better time to upgrade. Below is a list of the best cordless circular saws that offer powerful cutting capabilities and excellent battery life.
DEWALT DCS575T1 Brushless Circular Saw
Dewalt offer a range of circular saws that are both corded and cordless but the DCS575T1 is the one to go for and includes all the latest technology that provide a more accurate and safe cut.
It is a 7 1/2 inch circular saw that uses Dewalt’s latest battery technology, which is known as the FLEXVOLT and it has the ability to automatically change voltage.
With this battery, it is able to deliver 5,800 RPM and bring the power of a corded saw but remain cordless. In terms of the battery life, you can expect approximately 339 cuts per charge.
To ensure that you are able to pull off accurate cuts every time with this cordless circular saw, it has high grade aluminium shoes for maximum stability. It also has a versatile bevel cut capacity up to 57 degrees that stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees.
Other clever features include an electronic brake that stops the blade once the trigger is released, an LED light for clear sight of the cutline and much more. It is a durable circular saw that is built to last with its brushless motor for an increased runtime.
The DEWALT DCS575T1 is the best cordless circular saw as its high performing, has an excellent battery and includes Dewalt’s reputable 3 year limited warranty for peace of mind.
Check it OutMakita XSS02Z Cordless Circular Saw
The Makita cordless circular saw is a cheaper alternative to the Dewalt model above but offers just as much in terms of performance and features. It is a 6 1/2 inch circular saw that is powered by Makita high torque motor to deliver 3,700 RPM.
It has been designed to be compact and offer the user a better chance of cutting materials in a range of angle whilst maintaining a smooth and accurate cut. In terms of the battery, it uses a 18V lithium ion battery that has one of the fastest charge times according to Makita, which means you will spend less time waiting around.
For those that are concerned with comfort, the Makita XSS02Z uses an ergonomic rubberised soft grip handle for a comfortable grip when handling the saw. Overall, it is the best cordless circular saw for the money and is built to last with clever technology such as the Star Protection Computer Controls, which protect the motor against overloading, over-discharging and over-heating.
Check it OutBosch CCS180B Cordless Circular Saw
The CCS180B model by Bosch is a popular cordless circular saw that uses a 6 1/2 inch saw blade that can cut through material as thick as 2 inch and at 90 degrees. It is fairly lightweight at 6.6 LBS and uses a compact motor that delivers 3,900 RPM.
To ensure that it is easy to use, the blade is located on the left for a clear view of the cut line and there is also an adjustable bevel and depth gauge for consistent locking and improved accuracy. There is also an anti-snag lower guard for easing into the cutting material and an electric brake that stops the blade quickly.
As its is developed by Bosch, it has been built to a high standard and much durable than similar priced alternatives. Overall, it is a top rated cordless circular saw with the backing of the technology of Bosch to provide an accurate and durable tool.
Check it OutHitachi C18DGLP4 Cordless Circular Saw
Hitachi is another big brand in the power tools industry and their circular saw is targeting DIY’ers that are on a budget but want high performance. The C18DGLP4 model by Hitachi does exactly that and even comes with a lifetime tool warranty.
It is a 6 1/2 inch cordless circular saw that is lightweight at 6.2 LBS and includes a soft grip handle, which improves manoeuvrability and comfort. It even features a built-in spotlight and electric brake, which for a cheap cordless circular saw is fairly impressive.
In terms of its cutting abilities, it has a 50 degree bevel angle that adjusts to meet all woodworking applications and the blade is positioned on the left side for easy operation of the saw. If you are after a cheap cordless circular saw, the Hitachi C18DGLP4 would be the best buy.
Check it OutMilwaukee 0740-20 Metal Cutting Circular Saw
Not all circular saws are designed for one material only and in order to cut tougher materials such as metals, certain aspects of the saw must be altered. The Milwaukee 0740-20 is a cordless circular saw for cutting metal and it does this using a 6 7/8 inch blade and a powerful 28V motor that delivers 3,200 RPM.
Milwaukee claim that this 0740 model is capable of cutting 2 inch galvanised metal in a single pass and for more control when cutting metal, the saw comes with tactile grip. It uses a LED illumination with a clear guard so that you can feed the material into the saw with a clear line of site for maximum precision.
To increase the lifespan of this cordless circular saw, there is built-in overload protection to prevent any unnecessary damage. It also features an electric brake for safety when using this tool because even professionals make critical mistakes from time to time.
Overall, it is the best cordless circular saw for cutting through metal and has the speed and power of a corded saw. The only downside to the 0740 model is that it is an expensive saw and if you are only planning on cutting wood, we advise to stick with one of the other alternatives.
Check it OutCordless Circular Saw Buying Guide
A cordless circular saw is one of the most important tools for a woodworker. It is more convenient to use, quieter and smaller than the corded counterpart. A cordless circular saw makes for a more accurate cutting, and it is perfect for different cutting purposes.
There are various kinds of such saws on the market such that making a good choice may not be easy. Below are some factors that you should consider before spending large amounts on a random saw from your local shop.
Corded Vs Cordless Circular Saw
A cordless circular saw is more portable compared to the corded circular saws. Moreover, the cordless saws are better because you can penetrate to all extensions. If you are using a corded circular saw, there are areas it cannot reach, and using a cordless circular saw can solve the problem.
This implies that you can use it even in confined places, and this is not the case with a corded saw. Furthermore, you will specialize in cutting wood and wood byproducts. A cordless circular saw remains the most suitable for all these.
You can use a cordless saw in places corded could not reach, because they rely on a battery. Depending on the battery capacity, you can use it to cut different sizes of wood. It can cut most difficult trees as well.
Cutting Capacity
If you want to cut a bevel, you can look for a cordless saw that offers a maximum depth of 0 degree. Moreover, you have to consider the cutting capacity even when the saw is not used to cut a bevel. You have to consider the possibility of setting the base plate. Because of that, look for adjustment of 45 to 90 degrees.
Speed and Control
Speed is determined by the motor rating and when you are making your choice, look for the higher motor rating. When it is faster, it will result in what is known as a high blade RPM rating. When the number is higher, it is better in terms of control.
Most importantly, if you are using a higher speed motor, you can insert bigger blades as well, and you can achieve a better and a more accurate cut. When you are looking for a cordless circular saw, the blade speed is indispensable you should not ignore it.
Best Brand Cordless Circular Saw
There are different kinds of cordless circular saws on the market, and the most prominent amongst them are DeWalt, Bosch, Makita, as well as Hitachi. Various models of these brands are available on the market, and you have to choose from any of these models.
Consider the depth of cut for each of the brands. Cut depth varies from one manufacturer to the other. As said before look for those that can offer the cutting depth of 0 degree.
Battery
Battery is one of the biggest factors to consider when purchasing a cordless circular saw. A weak or low capacity battery will result in constant recharging of the battery, which is often forgotten and can delay your woodworking job in hand.
It is best to look for a lithium-ion battery that is a minimum of 18V. This will ensure you have enough power to cut fast and through a range of different types of wood.
Weight and Balance
You will want to ensure you are able to handle the circular saw easily with another balance for a precise cut. If you cannot handle the circular saw very well, it could affect the performance. Because of that, before you make your choice, you have to handle different products to know how they feel in your hands. In the process, select those with the best ergonomic design. When you can handle the saw comfortably, then you can easily cut even the most difficult and lengthy wood.
Safety Features
Most importantly, it is important you are safe while using the cordless circular saw. One of the safety features to consider includes spindle lock. This is good; it ensures that the blade does not move when you are using it.
You should also look for a cordless circular saw with a snag free blade guard as it can help you when your saw stops in the middle of your cut. When the blade guard is there, you can easily retract the blade.
Another safety feature to look out for when you are making your choice is the safety switch also known as a lockout switch. It will ensure that there are no accidental starts when you are using the product. This is very important, because in its absence you have to wait so long for the blade to stop spinning.
Sturdy Base Plate
Ensure that the saw uses a durable base plate, which does not destroy easily. It is recommended that you use cast magnesium or cast aluminum. These are better and durable. They do not destroy easily.
Base Plate and Blade Connection
The connection between the plate and blade must be stable for an accurate cut. The pivot point is where the handle and the motor of the circular saw meet. From here, you can make an adjustment when it is necessary to do that. Because of that, you must ensure that you do not get a saw, which pivot point is in line with its blade guard.
When you push down its angle, it will shift the motor. When this becomes the case, it will result in an ugly bevel, which will not be good for what you want to achieve. It is recommended that while you are making your choice, you have to consider all those products, which its pivot points are in line with its rear handle.
Bevel Adjustment
Depending on the type of job you want to do, you have to consider a smooth bevel adjustment very necessary. This has to influence the choice you make. If you want to engage in framing work, especially roofs and other related jobs, you must not ignore the issue of smooth bevel function, as it is indispensable in this kind of product.
Furthermore, it should be easy for you to read the bevel gauge level when you are using the saw. This can assist you as you can read and determine what you do. You will be sure of achieving a precision cutting with this.
When it comes to adjustment, knob or the lever plays critical roles. Because of that, you must opt for those that can turn smoothly, and which can lock very well and secure when you use them. For the safety of the user, this aspect is necessary.
When you use a cordless saw, think of how best to use the bevel stops, as well as the detent. These have to be at the commonly used angles like 45 degrees and 22.5 degrees and so on. Furthermore, if you want to override the detents, it should not be difficult for you to do that. You can set it to higher angles if you want.
Depth Adjustment
When you use this kind of circular saw, there is the need for depth adjustment, which should be easy to do for most saws. To do that adjustment, you need to loosen the bevel and then adjust the plate the way that suits your purpose. If you are using a saw with an inboard, it may not be easy to achieve that. It is important that you adjust the depth when you want without hassles.
Cut-line Visibility
One of the major purposes of using a cordless circular saw is to achieve an accurate and precise cutting. It is necessary that you look for a saw that can assist you in achieving that without difficulties. Consider only those that can achieve that clear-cut line visibility. Compare various products and choose those with cut line marker. Apart from that, the line marker must align perfectly with the blade cutting edge. At least, you can achieve 45 degrees and 90 degrees cut without difficulties.
Look for those with indicator marks on its two sides. With this, it is possible to cut in any direction of your choice whether it is left or right position.
It may not be easy to discover a cordless saw with cut line markers in all positions. Because of that, choose those with windows where you can see those clear-cut lines as you use the product. Furthermore, ensure that the windows are located where the saw handle or saw guards will not obstruct it. Ensure that you view what you are doing and achieve a perfect cut without hassles.
Additional Extras
There are other features, which you can look out for in the cordless circular saw to facilitate your work. Onboard storage is a great feature because it makes tool changing convenient and easy.
Furthermore, consider such other extras like LED. This is good, because it provides enough illumination, especially to your cutting area. If you have such illumination, you can easily follow the cut line. This can guide you as you cut to avoid mistakes. In the same way, you can always consider a product with a battery gauge.
Conclusion
Using a cordless circular saw to improve your woodworking is a worthwhile investment, regardless what other says. The correct tools make a huge difference to your efficiency and the finish you desire. Looking for a range of features is highly recommended. Sticking to the reputable brands is highly recommended as they will always come with excellent warranty and generally be more durable than cheaper alternatives from less well known brands