Best Cordless Circular Saw: Pros, Cons & Buying Guide

Battery-powered circular saws have become common because lithium-ion batteries now give them enough power for most cuts, with no cord to drag around.

Below we review cordless saws from compact 12V models to 36V rear-handle saws, then explain blade position, batteries, speed, blade size, and safety features.

OUR TOP PICK

We think the Black and Decker BDCCS20C is the best cordless circular saw out there. It is affordable, light, and comes as a kit with a battery and charger, which suits occasional DIY cutting.

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The Best Cordless Circular Saws Are:

Product	Details
1. BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20C 20V Cordless Circular Saw	1. BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20C 20V Cordless Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 3,700 RPM - Blade: 5.5 inches, 24T Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 7.55 pounds - Battery Voltage: 20 volts	Check Current Price
2. DEWALT DC390B Cordless Circular Saw	2. DEWALT DC390B Cordless Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 3,700 RPM - Blade: 6.5 inches, Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 6.3 pounds - Battery Voltage:18 volts	Check Current Price
3. Milwaukee M18 2630-20 Cordless Circular Saw	3. Milwaukee M18 2630-20 Cordless Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 3,500 RPM - Blade: 6.5 inches, 24T Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 9.05 pounds - Battery Voltage:18 volts	Check Current Price
4. Makita XSR01PT 18v x2 Cordless Circular Saw Kit	4. Makita XSR01PT 18v x2 Cordless Circular Saw Kit	- No-load speed: 5,100 RPM - Blade: 7.25 inches, 24T ultra-coated carbide-tipped blade - Weight:12.4 pounds - Battery Voltage: 18 volts x2	Check Current Price
5. Makita SH02R1 12V Max Cordless Circular Saw Kit	5. Makita SH02R1 12V Max Cordless Circular Saw Kit	- No-load speed: 1,500 RPM - Blade: 3.375 inches, Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 4 pounds - Battery Voltage:12 volts	Check Current Price
6. Bosch CCS180B Circular Saw	6. Bosch CCS180B Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 3,900 RPM - Blade: 6.5 inches, Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 6.6 pounds - Battery Voltage:18 volts	Check Current Price
7. Milwaukee 2730-20 M18 Circular Saw	7. Milwaukee 2730-20 M18 Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 5,000 RPM - Blade: 6.5 inches, Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 8.1 pounds - Battery Voltage:18 volts	Check Current Price
8. Hitachi C18DGLP4 Cordless Circular Saw	8. Hitachi C18DGLP4 Cordless Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 4,500 RPM - Blade: 6.5 inches, 18T Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 6.2 pounds - Battery Voltage:18 volts	Check Current Price
9. Ryobi P508 Cordless Circular Saw	9. Ryobi P508 Cordless Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 3, 800 RPM - Blade: 7.25 inches, 24T ultra-thin kerf Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 6.6 pounds - Battery Voltage:18 volts	Check Current Price
10. Bosch CS5 120V Cordless Circular Saw	10. Bosch CS5 120V Cordless Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 6,200 RPM - Blade: 7.25 inches, Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 10 pounds - Power: Corded, 120 volts	Check Current Price
11. PORTER-CABLE PCC660B Cordless Circular Saw	11. PORTER-CABLE PCC660B Cordless Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 4,000 RPM - Blade: 6.5 inches, Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 6.5 pounds - Battery Voltage:20 volts	Check Current Price

1. BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20C 20V Cordless Circular Saw

The BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20C is compact, easy to use, and reasonably priced. It runs on BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX batteries, and the "C" kit includes a battery and charger (the BDCCS20B is the bare tool). Its motor runs at up to 3,700 RPM.

This circular saw also features bevel adjustment with detents at both 90 and 45 degrees. With this feature, you can make accurate and precise angled cuts. It takes a 5-1/2-inch blade, which cuts 2x lumber at 90 degrees but not as deep as larger saws. It also allows you to make easy adjustments with the tool-free Depth of Cut.

The BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20C also comes with a limited 2-year warranty. At its price, this tool comes with a lot of great features. It also has an ergonomic handle that makes the tool easy and comfortable to hold. In addition to its ergonomic handle, this tool is lightweight, as it weighs merely 7.5 pounds.

Specs

• 3,700 RPM
• 5.5 inches, 24T Carbide-tipped blade
• 7.55 pounds
• 20 volts

Pros

• Battery and charger included
• Tool-free depth of cut
• Portable and lightweight
• Affordable
• A 2-year warranty

Cons

• The size of the blade is relatively small

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2. DEWALT DC390B Cordless Circular Saw

The DEWALT DC390B is a durable 6-1/2-inch saw for projects like bookcases and decks. Its motor runs at up to 3,700 RPM for rip cuts and crosscuts.

Note that it runs on DEWALT's older 18V battery system, which DEWALT has replaced with its 20V MAX line. Check that you can still get batteries before buying.

It comes with a 6.5 inches carbide-tipped blade that offers an excellent cutting capacity of 45 and 90 degrees. The fan-cooled motor has replaceable brushes. The shoe and upper guard are magnesium, which is light and rigid. This tool offers a 0 to 50 degrees bevel capacity and a cutting capacity of 1.625 inches at 45 degrees and 2.25 inches at 90 degrees.

It cuts through 2x lumber in one pass with its carbide-tipped blade. The DC390B from Dewalt offers a vibration-dampening rubber-grip handle. It is lightweight and comfortable to use, as it weighs only 6.3 pounds.

Specs

• 3,700 RPM
• 6.5 inches, Carbide-tipped blade
• 6.3 pounds
• 18 volts

Pros

• Vibration-dampening rubber-grip
• Carbide-tipped blade
• Magnesium shoe and upper guard
• Lightweight
• Powerful motor

Cons

• You need to purchase the battery separately
• Older 18V battery platform

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3. Milwaukee M18 2630-20 Cordless Circular Saw

The M18 2630-20 is a solid entry in Milwaukee's lineup and a good alternative to the corded saws in our best circular saw guide. It runs on Milwaukee's M18 lithium-ion batteries (sold separately) at a friendly price.

This saw comes with a powerful motor that drives the blade up to 3,500 revolutions per minute. Its electric brake stops the blade quickly when you release the trigger, an important safety feature. This tool also provides maximum comfort, thanks to its soft-grip handle.

It bevels for angled cuts and cuts about 1-1/2 inches deep at 45 degrees. Magnesium upper and lower guards stand up to drops and bumps.

Specs

• 3,500 RPM
• 6.5 inches, 24T Carbide-tipped blade
• 9.05 pounds
• 18 volts

Pros

• Affordable
• Heavy-duty magnesium guards
• Comfortable handle
• M18 batteries show remaining charge
• Electronic brake

Cons

• 3,500 RPM is relatively low
• Lacks a laser guide

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4. Makita XSR01PT 18v x2 Cordless Circular Saw Kit

The Makita XSR01PT is a rear-handle, 7-1/4-inch saw that runs on two 18V LXT batteries (36V total). It is built for framing and heavy cutting.

Its brushless motor runs at up to 5,100 RPM and has no carbon brushes to replace. Automatic speed change technology adjusts speed and torque during the cut.

Makita rates it at up to 558 crosscuts in 2x4 lumber per charge with the kit's batteries, and 291 in 2x10 lumber. At 12.4 pounds it is the heaviest saw here, with a rubber-grip rear handle.

Specs

• 5,100 RPM
• 7.25 inches, 24T ultra-coated carbide-tipped blade
• 12.4 pounds
• 18 volts x2

Pros

• Great cutting performance
• Built to last
• Long battery and runtime
• Powerful motor

Cons

• Heavy rear-handle design takes getting used to
• Not the best blade quality

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5. Makita SH02R1 12V Max Cordless Circular Saw Kit

If you are looking for something very light; something you can use to make fast cuts through 1x material or floor vents, then one of the best options you have is the Makita SH02R1 circular saw.

Its motor runs at up to 1,500 RPM, slower than full-size saws, so it suits small, thin cuts. It takes a 3-3/8-inch blade with a maximum cut depth of 1 inch.

An LED light illuminates the cutting area indoors. The kit includes a Makita 12V max CXT battery and charger. The tilting base of this tool also allows for bevel cuts from 0 to 45 degrees.

It also offers adjustable cutting depth from 1 inch at 90 degrees and 0.625 inches at 45 degrees. This circular saw also does a great job of cutting through medium density fiber (MDF), plywood, melamine, particleboard, pegboard, drywall and more. At about 4 pounds, it is the lightest saw on our list.

You can store this tool in a limited space and you can also use and carry it about with ease. It comes with an inherent dust blower that helps to keep your cutting line clear. Furthermore, it has an integrated battery protection circuit that protects the tool from over-discharging, overheating or overloading.

Specs

• 1,500 RPM
• 3.375 inches, Carbide-tipped blade
• 4 pounds
• 12 volts

Pros

• Extremely lightweight
• LED light
• Dust blower
• Durable blade
• Battery protection

Cons

• Only suitable for lightweight materials

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6. Bosch CCS180B Circular Saw

The Bosch CCS180B is a bare-tool 18V saw (battery sold separately). Its motor runs at up to 3,900 RPM with a 6-1/2-inch blade.

The blade allows you to cut through 2 inches thick materials at 90 degrees and 1.56 inches thick materials at 50 degrees. It features a left-blade design, which provides you with a clear view of the cutting line when the main handle of the saw is held in the right hand. This circular saw comes with a depth of cut gauge that helps you to make consistent and uniform cuts.

The cordless circular saw also provides an easy-to-read, adjustable bevel. You can quickly stop the blade of the machine for easy and quick use, thanks to its electric brake feature. The anti-snag lower guard of this tool allows you to ease the blade into the workpiece. The shoe and upper guard of this circular saw are made from aluminum. In addition, this machine comes with the Motor and Cell protection of Bosch to prevent overheating and overload.

Specs

• 3,900 RPM
• 6.5 inches, Carbide-tipped blade
• 6.6 pounds
• 18 volts

Pros

• Provides accurate cuts
• Great speed
• Efficient and durable blade
• Easy and comfortable to hold
• Bosch’s Motor and Cell protection

Cons

• The safety switch is a bit difficult to reach

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7. Milwaukee 2730-20 M18 Circular Saw

The Milwaukee 2730-20 M18 FUEL saw is a step up from the 2630-20, with a faster brushless motor and a higher price. It takes the same 6-1/2-inch blade size.

Its brushless motor runs at up to 5,000 RPM, among the fastest 18V saws here. The guards and shoe are cast magnesium, which is light and rigid. It also comes with an ingenious handle that offers a superlative and comfortable grip. The rubberized surface of the handle helps to prevent slippage. You can also use this tool to work in low-light areas, thanks to its integrated LED headlight. This machine provides a maximum bevel capacity of 50 degrees.

Specs

• 5,000 RPM
• 6.5 inches, Carbide-tipped blade
• 8.1 pounds
• 18 volts

Pros

• Magnesium guards and shoes
• Brushless motor
• Bevel capacity of 50 degrees
• LED light

Cons

• Lacks a laser guide

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8. Hitachi C18DGLP4 Cordless Circular Saw

The Hitachi C18DGLP4 is a feature-rich 18V saw. Hitachi's power tool line is now sold under the Metabo HPT name, so you may find this saw or its successor under that brand. Its motor runs at up to 4,500 RPM. It also comes with a bevel angle of 50 degrees that will adjust to accommodate a wide range of applications.

This circular saw is very easy to use, as it comes with a left side blade and an inbuilt LED light that provide a great vision for the cut line. This feature helps you to attain more precise and accurate cuts. It is also lightweight, as it weighs just 6.2 pounds. The soft-grip handle is comfortable.

For added safety, this circular saw comes with an electric brake. This helps to stop the blade quickly when you release the trigger. It comes with a 6-1/2-inch, 18-tooth blade, which cuts fast but rough; fit a higher tooth count blade for finish work.

Specs

• 4,500 RPM
• 6.5 inches, 18T Carbide-tipped blade
• 6.2 pounds
• 18 volts

Pros

• Electric brake
• Left side blade
• LED light
• Powerful motor
• Lightweight

Cons

• It is a bit pricey

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9. Ryobi P508 Cordless Circular Saw

The Ryobi P508 is an affordable saw on Ryobi's 18V ONE+ battery platform.

It is not a compact circular saw; it takes a full 7-1/4-inch blade but stays light. This tool comes with a brushless motor that delivers up to 3,800 rotations per minute. While this is not the most powerful motor, it is powerful enough to perform a wide range of cutting tasks.

This tool offers 2.44 inches cut capacity to bevel cut between 0 to 56 degrees. Another great feature of this machine is that it comes with a 7.25 inches 24 tooth ultra-thin kerf carbide-tipped blade. At about 6.6 pounds (bare), it is light for a 7-1/4-inch saw and easy for a DIYer to handle.

This machine also allows for two-handed operation, thanks to the front pommel handle. This feature gives you greater control over the tool. The GripZone over-mold handle also offers comfort and prevents fatigue. It comes with a left-side blade design that aids accuracy when cutting, as it allows you to see the line of cut clearly. If accuracy is a priority then try a circular saw guide with this Ryobi P508.

Specs

• 3, 800 RPM
• 7.25 inches, 24T ultra-thin kerf Carbide-tipped blade
• 6.6 pounds
• 18 volts

Pros

• GripZone over-mold
• Compact and lightweight
• Affordable
• LED light
• Left-side blade design

Cons

• A more powerful motor would have been better

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10. Bosch CS5 120V Cordless Circular Saw

Despite the product name in some listings, the Bosch CS5 is a corded saw, not a battery saw. We include it as a corded alternative for heavy-duty shop use.

Its 15-amp motor runs at 6,200 RPM and bevels to 56 degrees, which helps framers and roofers. A removable end cap makes brush service easy. It takes a 7-1/4-inch blade. It also features a left-side blade design that allows for the clearest line of sight for right-handed operators.

This circular saw also feature adjustable bevel and depth levers. You can also change the blade of this tool with ease, thanks to its spindle lock feature. The anti-snag lower guard is also there to provide smooth operations for small cut-off pieces.

Specs

• 6,200 RPM
• 7.25 inches, Carbide-tipped blade
• 10 pounds
• Corded, 120 volts

Pros

• Suitable for professional projects
• Aluminum shoe and guard
• Anti-snag lower guard
• Powerful motor
• Left-side blade design

Cons

• Corded, not cordless
• Replacement parts are hard to find

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11. PORTER-CABLE PCC660B Cordless Circular Saw

The PORTER-CABLE PCC660B is a compact, well-designed cordless saw that is easy to carry and maneuver.

Its motor runs at up to 4,000 RPM. It also comes with a 6.5 inches carbide-tipped blade that provides over 2 inches cutting capacity for a wide range of applications.

For non-traditional cutting applications, the beveling shoe of this tool can pivot from 0 to 50 degrees. It has a contoured over-mold handle. The handle is optimized to minimize vibration, increase balance, control, and comfort. This tool is also very easy to maneuver and transport, thanks to its lightweight and compact design, weighing just 6.5 pounds.

The size and weight of this circular saw help to reduce jobsite fatigue. This bare tool runs on PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX batteries, sold separately. This means you have to purchase the battery separately. This portable circular saw has some disadvantages if you need all in one type of circular saw then check this rotorazer saw review.

Specs

• 4,000 RPM
• 6.5 inches, Carbide-tipped blade
• 6.5 pounds
• 20 volts

Pros

• Lightweight
• Carbide-tipped blade
• Beveling shoe pivots up to 50 degrees
• Contoured over-mold handle
• High-performance motor

Cons

• Not the best option for cutting through thicker materials

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Buying Guide: Things to Look Out For When Picking Out a Cordless Circular Saw

A cordless saw works anywhere you have a charged battery. When choosing a cordless circular saw, weigh power, battery platform, features, price, and safety features.

The Position of the Blade

The blade sits on the right or left of the motor, depending on the model. Like corded saws, cordless saws come in sidewinder and rear-handle or worm drive styles.

Blade-left saws, including worm drives and some sidewinders like the Bosch CCS180B and Ryobi P508, let a right-handed user see the blade and cut line clearly. On a blade-left saw used right-handed, more of the saw's weight can end up over the offcut side.

Most sidewinders are blade-right. The motor sits beside the blade, which makes the saw shorter, lighter, and quicker to maneuver, and usually cheaper.

Worm drive and rear-handle saws put the motor behind the blade and the handle well back, which gives more torque and good reach on long rips. They are heavier and cost more.

For heavy renovation and framing jobs, a rear-handle or worm drive saw is worth considering. For general use, a sidewinder is lighter and easier to handle.

Battery Power

Battery specs matter a lot. Voltage indicates how much power the saw can draw, and amp-hours (Ah) indicate how long a battery runs. Higher numbers in both mean more cutting per charge.

Modern cordless saws use lithium-ion batteries. Older nickel-cadmium packs are heavier and hold less energy.

A larger battery runs longer and holds power better in tough cuts. A spare battery and a fast charger cut downtime.

If you already own tools on one brand's platform, buying a bare saw that uses those batteries saves money. Many saws here are sold bare (often marked with a "B" or "Z" in the model number).

Rotations Per Minute – No-Load Speed

No-load speed is the blade RPM when the saw is not cutting. Cutting slows the blade, so a saw with low torque will slow down more under load. RPM is a rough guide, not the whole story.

• 3,000 RPM and below: Mostly compact saws like the Makita SH02R1, designed for light, thin material.
• 3,000 to 5,000 RPM: Most 18V and 20V saws on our list fall here. They handle typical DIY and construction cuts.
• 5,000 RPM and above: Higher-end brushless saws like the Makita XSR01PT and Milwaukee 2730-20. They hold speed better in thick or dense material.

The Size of the Blade

Blade diameter sets the maximum depth of cut at 90 and 45 degrees. The larger the blade, the deeper it cuts.

Cordless saws use blades from about 3-3/8 to 7-1/4 inches; 6-1/2 inches is the most common size. A 6-1/2-inch blade cuts about 2 inches deep at 90 degrees and about 1-1/2 inches at 45 degrees.

That cuts 2x lumber (1-1/2 inches thick) at 90 degrees, and usually at 45 degrees too. A 5-1/2-inch blade cuts 2x lumber at 90 degrees but may need two passes on a 45-degree bevel.

Whatever the size, set the depth so the teeth extend only about 1/4 inch below the board. Less exposed blade means less risk if the saw binds.

Safety Features

Cordless saws remove the cord as a tripping and cutting hazard, but the blade is just as dangerous. Look for these safety features:

• Blade Guard: The spring-loaded lower guard covers the blade when it is not cutting and retracts as the saw enters the work. OSHA requires guards above and below the base plate on portable circular saws. Check that it snaps back freely before each use.
• Electric Brake: An electric brake stops the blade within a couple of seconds of releasing the trigger, instead of letting it coast. Still wait for the blade to stop before setting the saw down.
• A Foot Plate: The footplate is there to provide you with straight cuts and clear control.
• Control Placement: The controls of the circular saw should be in an easy-to-reach place. You should avoid tools that require you to cross hands or overreach just to control the system.

Other Vital Features

• Spindle Lock: The spindle lock holds the shaft still so you can change the blade quickly. Remove the battery first.

• Laser Guide: The laser guide allows you to make the straightest and most precise cuts possible. This feature includes a laser that shines a little straight beam onto the surface of the material for you to follow. Unfortunately, this feature is not really effective in bright sunlight. It can also be obscured by debris and dust, which brings us to the next point.

• Dust Extraction: There are circular saws that come with dust blowers to blow away dust as you are cutting, keeping the line of cut clear from dust and visible. Some of them also come with a dust port to collect dust.

Conclusion

Cordless circular saws suit both contractors and DIYers and work anywhere, with or without power nearby. Match the blade size and battery platform to your work.

And if you’re still not sure about which one to get, you won’t go wrong with a BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20C as it is light, affordable, and includes a battery and charger. For heavy framing, step up to a 7-1/4-inch brushless saw.

Sources

• 1926.304: Woodworking tools, OSHA
• CS5 7-1/4 In. Blade-Left Circular Saw, Bosch