Circular saws are one of the most versatile saws out there and can be found in virtually everyone’s toolshed. The sheer power and speed of circular saws give users the flexibility that is hard to find in any other type. They often have a very affordable price tag, but matching quality to price is usually harder than you would think. If you’re in the market for a new circular model, we’ve taken the liberty of rating the best of the year.
When considering what users look for in a high-quality circular saw we’ve combined experience and knowledge in creating this complete review. Looking at price, performance, size, ease of use, durability and much more, the following review details the best models out there.
This review focuses on the Top 10 Circular Saws in 2020 and shows you all the reasons why.
1. Makita 5007MGA Magnesium 7-14-Inch Circular Saw with Electric Brake – 10.0
Makita introduces a perfect electric circular saw that virtually has no limits in cutting. This 7-14-inch circular saw features an electric brake which assures better overall safety for the user which comes complete with 2 LED lights which helps to light up your line of sight. Coming in at under 11-pounds, users have come to appreciate the lightweight design and with a magnesium build quality, it proves it’s highly durable.
The Makita 5007MGA electric circular saw is the best option this year if you’re looking to take on some serious DIY or professionals grade projects. This highly versatile and extremely powerful 15.0 AMP motor delivers up to speeds to 5800 RPM. Large rubberized levers make it easy to make adjustments with only one hand and the easy to read numbers and settings are oversized making this model very user friendly.
Specs and Features
- Motor: 15.0 amp
- Power: 5800 RPM
- Cutting capacity: (2-1/2″ at 90°)
- Bevel: 0-56 degrees
- Weight: 10.6 pounds
2. Makita 5007NK 15 Amp 7-14-Inch Circular Saw – 9.9
Makita introduced some of the best circular saws as evidenced throughout this review and the 2nd one comes in with a near perfect 9.9 out of 10. The Makita 5007NK is among the best of the best which comes in with a very competitive price around $100. This 7/14-inch electric circular saw boasts a better design than competitors making it much more functional.
The Makita 5007NK is powered by a high power to weight ratio 15-amp motor that delivers consistent power throughout the cut. With an effortless model that is user friendly and is highlighted by a well-balanced design improving user control and handling. High praise goes to the cutting capacity, simple adjustments, and easy to read marking and bevel adjustments which helps this Makita circular saw claim the 2nd spot in this review.
Specs and Features
- Speed: 5800 RPM
- Motor: 15 amps
- Size: 7 ¼
- Bevel capacity: 4 stops between 0-56 degrees
- Warranty policy: 1 year limited
3. Makita 5007MG Magnesium 7-14-Inch Circular Saw – 9.9
Coming in slightly higher is the Makita 5007MG which is an upgrade from the one above. This circular saw features all magnesium parts for extreme durability and with its lightweight design users have come to appreciate cutting with it. Ripping with accuracy is improved with 2 LED lights which help to illuminate your cutting direction.
The 5007MG comes in two options including with one blade and a 10-pack for those planning on truly using it. Powered by 15-amps of power, speeds to 5,800 RPM, and weighing less than 11-pounds, this circular saw demonstrates great balance for a power tool. With improved performance and less weight than competitors in this price range, it proves that sheer cutting power doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Specs and Features
- Weight 6 pounds
- Dimensions 9 x 17.9 x 13.9 inches
- Origin China
- Warranty policy: 1-Year warranty and 30-Day Money-back guarantee
- Magnesium components
- LED lights
- Bevel capacity: 0-56 degrees
4. Makita 5007FA 7-14 Inch Circular Saw with Brake – 9.8
Makita makes this review once again, but this time with a circular saw with improved safety. The Makita 5007FA is a 7-14-inch model which has better safety features than most with an electric brake. This is a necessity for some and we tend to agree as there is no better consideration than being safe while you cut.
The Makita 5007FA is a corded model and is highlighted by a 15-amp motor that reaches speeds to 5800 RPM. Taking design and quality to a whole new level which starts with the improved location for the lower guard which improves accuracy and overall performance. For those looking for accurate cuts, there’s also 2 LED lights affixed which helps light up your cut.
Specs and Features
- Item Weight 3 pounds
- Product Dimensions 10 x 6 x 14.3 inches
- 1-year warranty
- Ideal for framers, builders, masons and siding contractors
- All-ball bearing construction
5. Makita SH01ZW 12V max Lithium-Ion Cordless 3-3/8″ Circular Saw – 9.6 .
The Makita SH01ZW is the complete package which features the cordless circular saw, 12-volt Lithium-Ion battery and charger which will have you cutting as soon as you unbox it. Weighing only 3.3-pounds, you won’t find a more powerful that comes in this light than this Makita classic. This power tool gives users everything they need and meets the needs of both enthusiasts and professionals alike.
This cordless model is a 3 3/8-inch circular small which is best suited for smaller projects. The efficient motor provides speeds to 1400 RPM for fast cutting action which is more than enough for plywood, drywall, particleboard and a wide array of other material. Extending functionality with a tilted cutting base and adjustable cutting depth helps this Makita cordless circular claim the 5th spot in this review.
Specs and Features
- Color: Black and White
- Net Weight:3 lbs.
- Item Weight: 1.5 pounds
- Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required
- Number of Handles: 1
- Blade Diameter: 3-3/8″
- Voltage: 12 volts
- Product Dimensions: 12 x 8 x 8 inches
- No Load Speed: 1,400 RPM
- Overall Length: 11-3/4″
6. Makita 5005BA 5-12-Inch Circular Saw with Electric Brake – 9.5
Coming in with a 9.5 out of 10 is the Makita 5005BA which has become a top-seller with all-positive customer reviews on Amazon. Featuring the blade on the left side which makes for easier access and quick and simple blade changes is something users have raved about. The left sided blade also improves visibility while cutting which gives you a clear view of the entire cut.
The Makita 5005BA circular saw is a corded model and is powered by an efficient 8.0-amp motor. Safety isn’t an issue as it features an electric brake and a lock off button which prevents accidental starts. Weighing less than 7-pounds, this 12-inch circular saw is lightweight and durable sporting Makita’s high-end build quality.
Specs and Features
- Weight: 6.8 pounds
- Dimensions: 8 x 10 x 10 inches
- Origin: Japan
- Motor: 8.0 amps
- Maximum power: 8000 RPM
- Accessories: Combination blade, Rip fence, and Socket wrench
7. Milwaukee 6470-21 15 Amp 10-1/4-Inch Circular Saw – 9.5
Milwaukee introduced one of the most sophisticated circular saws out there, and boasts a price tag that reflects this. The 6470-21 is an electric model that’s powered by a 15-amp motor which gives users a clean, smooth cut. All types of tasks can be completed with this 10 ¼-inch circular saw that’s easy to use for enthusiasts and durable enough for professionals.
The Milwaukee 6470-21 has a maximum output power of 2,300-watts which is more than enough to handle some of the toughest cutting tasks. Featuring a 3.1-HP peak power and complete with an electric brake which assures safety for all users. Out of the box, you’ll get the saw, steel case, and rip fence which provides better accuracy for users.
Specs and Features
- 17-1/2″ length
- 8 lbs weight
- 120V AC input
- 5 Year warranty
- 2-wire power cord
- RPM 5,200 (no load)
- 15 amperes motor
- 5/8″ spindle
- Spindle Lock Yes
- 2-3/4 Inch Depth of Cut at 45 Degrees
- 3-13/16 Inch Depth of Cut at 90 Degrees
- 1-3/4 Inch Depth of Cut at 60 Degrees
8. SKILSAW SPT70WM-01 15 Amp 10-1/4″ Magnesium SAWSQUATCH Worm Drive Circular Saw – 9.4
For those looking for a true SkilSaw, this model outperforms the competition and is highly recommended for multi-purpose use on heavy-duty projects. This high-end corded circular saw is all you’ll need and will last for years while cutting 4x faster and smoother than the competition. Powered by a Dual-Field 15-amp motor, it’ll prove be the last SawSquatch Worm Drive you’ll ever want to own.
The SkilSaw SPT70WM-01 offers superior durability thanks to the magnesium construction. Out of the box you’ll get a 10-1/4-Inch SKILSAW blade which provides accurate and quick cuts and with a 51-degree bevel you can expect to take on a wide array of projects. The high-output motor gives off speeds to 4600 RPM which is more than you’ll need.
Specs and features
- Item model number: SPT70WM-01
- Power Source: corded-electric
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Wattage: 1800
- Amperage Capacity: 15 A
- Cord Length: 8 Feet
- Speed: 4600 RPM
- Warranty Description: 1 year limited
9. Hitachi C18DSLP4 18-Volt Lithium-Ion 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw – 9.4
Hitachi sneaks into this review with this cordless 6 ½-inch circular saw which comes in with a very competitive price. Hitachi power tools is one of the biggest names in the business as they continually introduce advanced tools which are typically at the top of everyone’s list. The C18DSLP4 is no different as it’s distinguished with a 9.4 out of 10 rating.
This Hitachi cordless circular saw runs off Lithium-Ion batteries and is extremely lightweight for a heavy-duty model coming in at just over 6-pounds. Its lightweight design is complimented with a soft grip handle for improved user comfort and it’s outfitted with a 50-degree bevel to adjust to any cutting task. Other features include an electric brake, spotlight, and side mounted blade which makes it easier to adjust and change.
Specs and features
- Item Weight: 7.1 pounds
- Style: Bare-Tool, Circular Saw
- Power Source: Battery
- Warranty Description: Lifetime Lithium Ion Tool Warranty
- Voltage: 18 volts
- Product Dimensions: 12.2 x 7.7 x 10.5 inches
- Item Package Quantity: 1
10. SKIL 5680-02 15 Amp 7-1/4-Inch SKILSAW Circular Saw with Laser – 9.3
The 5680-02 from SkilSaw rounds out this review while scoring a 9.3 out of 10 which is quite impressive considering there are well over 100 circular saws out there. This corded model boasts an efficient 15-amp motor and is highlighted by a laser that lights up the way. The laser improves the accuracy of cuts which is the biggest problems with circular saws.
The Skil 5680-02 7 ¼-inch circular saw has received some of the highest praise from consumers on Amazon. This easy to use electric circular saw has improved accuracy than most with its 51-degree bevel adjust with a positive stop at 45 degree. Safety was a concern from Skil as this model is outfitted with advanced features including a safety lock and guided trigger which minimized accidental starts.
Specs and features
- Item Weight: 13.9 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 15 x 9.5 x 12 inches
- Item model number: 5680-02
- Color: Red
- Power Source: corded-electric
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Horsepower: 2.5 HP
- Included Components: case
- Warranty Description: 30-day money back guarantee, 1 year warranty
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Conclusion
Hopefully, we answered all of your questions about the best circular saws available in 2020, and if not, feel free to tell us all about it in the comments section below.