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Expert Picks for January 2026
Stop paying $50 per cut at the hardware store. We compared circular saws for homeowners ready to rip plywood, cut deck boards, and finally tackle those shelving projects themselves.
DEWALT
Professional-grade saw with safety features that pros demand. The electric brake stops the blade in seconds.
7-1/4"
15 Amp
2-9/16" at 90°
57° max
"A circular saw with a good straightedge guide can do 90% of what a table saw does for a fraction of the cost and space."
"For plywood and sheet goods, a circular saw with a track system is actually MORE accurate than most jobsite table saws."
| Product | Award | Rating | Price | Blade Size | Cut Depth | Speed | Bevel Range | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DWE575SB Circular Saw DEWALT | Best Overall | ★ 4.7 (8.9k) | $129 | - | - | - | - | View |
 XSS02Z 18V Circular Saw Makita | Best Premium | ★ 4.6 (5.4k) | $179 | - | - | - | - | View |
 SPT77WML-01 Worm Drive SKILSAW | - | ★ 4.8 (3.4k) | $189 | - | - | - | - | View |
 M18 FUEL Circular Saw Milwaukee | Best Value | ★ 4.6 (6.8k) | $199 | - | - | - | - | View |
 CMES510 Circular Saw CRAFTSMAN | Best Budget | ★ 4.3 (12.3k) | $79 | - | - | - | - | View |
The great cordless debate is over—modern brushless circular saws match corded power for all but the heaviest continuous use. Users love the freedom from cords but note that battery life varies significantly by cut intensity.
DEWALT
Professional-grade saw with safety features that pros demand. The electric brake stops the blade in seconds.
7-1/4"
15 Amp
2-9/16" at 90°
57° max
Makita
Cordless freedom without sacrificing power. Perfect for sites without power or overhead work.
6-1/2"
18V LXT
2-1/4" at 90°
5,000
SKILSAW
The saw that built the West Coast. Unmatched power for framing and heavy construction.
7-1/4"
15 Amp
2-5/8" at 90°
4,300
Milwaukee
Corded power in a cordless package. The brushless motor delivers impressive performance.
7-1/4"
18V
2-9/16" at 90°
5,800
CRAFTSMAN
Budget-friendly option that gets the job done. Good for occasional use and DIY projects.
7-1/4"
13 Amp
2-7/16" at 90°
5,500
Watch expert reviews and comparisons to see these circular saws in action.
15:22 Wood Workers
Decide corded vs cordless first. For cordless, match your battery system. Get 7-1/4 inch blade capacity. Ensure it has an electric brake.
For cutting 2x lumber at any angle, yes. 6-1/2 inch works for plywood and straight cuts through 2x4s. Smaller saws limit your options.
Circular saw. It's more versatile—you can make the same cuts a miter saw makes with proper guides, plus rip cuts miter saws can't do.
Carbide-tooth blades for wood, metal-cutting blades for steel, and masonry blades for concrete. More teeth = smoother cuts.
Yes. It stops the blade quickly for safety and lets you set the saw down sooner, improving productivity.
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