10 Best Circular Saws for DIY Projects in February 2026 (Tested)

I spent three months testing circular saws in my home workshop, cutting through hundreds of feet of lumber and plywood. The right circular saw makes DIY projects faster, cleaner, and more enjoyable. The wrong one frustrates you with bogging down, rough cuts, and tired arms before the project is half done.

The DEWALT DWE575SB is the best circular saw for DIY projects in 2026. It combines professional-grade power with a lightweight design that won’t wear you out during long cutting sessions, plus the electric brake adds an important safety feature that beginners and experienced users alike will appreciate.

After testing 10 popular models across three major categories (corded budget options, premium corded saws, and cordless models), I found the DEWALT DWE575SB delivers the best balance of cutting power, weight, safety features, and long-term durability for DIY enthusiasts. Our team analyzed over 34,000 customer reviews to identify what actually matters in real-world use.

This guide covers everything from budget-friendly options under $50 to professional-grade saws that will last decades. I’ll help you match the right circular saw to your specific projects, whether you’re building furniture, framing a shed, or tackling home renovations.

Our Top 3 Circular Saw Picks (February 2026)

Circular Saw Comparison

This comparison table shows all 10 circular saws tested with their key specifications, power ratings, and ideal use cases. Use it to quickly narrow down which models match your project needs and budget.

Detailed Circular Saw Reviews (February 2026)

1. SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw 5280-01 – Best Budget Choice with Laser Guide

The SKIL 5280-01 stands out as the best budget circular saw that doesn’t compromise on essential features. When I tested this saw against models costing twice as much, I was impressed by how cleanly it cut through 2×4 lumber and 3/4-inch plywood. The 15-amp motor delivers 5,300 RPM, which is plenty of power for any DIY project you’re likely to tackle at home.

What really sets this saw apart is the single-beam laser guide. Most budget saws skip this feature entirely, but SKIL included it to help you see exactly where your cut line will be. Customer photos confirm the laser beam is bright enough to see in various lighting conditions, making it especially helpful for beginners still developing their cutting technique.

The 51-degree bevel capacity with positive stop at 45 degrees gives you plenty of flexibility for angled cuts. I found the depth and bevel adjustments straightforward, though not quite as smooth as the premium DEWALT models. The dust blower is another nice touch, keeping your cut line visible as you work.

At 8.7 pounds, this saw strikes a good balance between power and manageability. After spending a weekend building shelves with it, my arms weren’t nearly as tired as they’ve been with heavier saws. The spindle lock makes blade changes easy, and the 24-tooth carbide-tipped blade included cuts cleanly enough for most projects.

This saw earned its place based on more than 14,000 customer reviews with an impressive 4.7-star average. Real users consistently praise the combination of professional features at a budget price point. If you’re starting your tool collection or need a reliable backup saw, the SKIL 5280-01 delivers excellent value.

Who Should Buy?

This saw is perfect for DIY beginners, weekend warriors, and anyone working with a limited budget. It handles all common home projects from building furniture to framing walls, making it an ideal first circular saw.

Who Should Avoid?

Professionals who use a saw daily might want to upgrade to something more durable. If you already own premium DEWALT or Makita tools and want something that matches that build quality, consider spending more.

2. DEWALT DWE575SB – Best Overall Corded for Homeowners

The DEWALT DWE575SB earns my top recommendation because it nails every factor that matters for a DIY circular saw. I’ve been using DEWALT tools in my workshop for seven years, and this model represents everything I love about the brand: professional build quality, thoughtful features, and reliability that just works.

The electric brake is the standout safety feature that makes this saw worth the extra money. When you release the trigger, the blade stops in seconds instead of spinning down gradually. After testing saws with and without this feature, I can tell you it makes a real difference in safety, especially for beginners still learning proper cutting technique.

At only 8.8 pounds, this is among the lightest saws in its class. I spent a day cutting plywood for kitchen cabinets and noticed significantly less arm fatigue compared to heavier models. The durable high-grade aluminum smooth base provides accurate cuts, and customer images show the base holds up well even after years of job site use.

The 15-amp motor delivers plenty of power for even the toughest cuts. I tested it on pressure-treated 4x4s and hardwood lumber, and it never bogged down. The 57-degree bevel capacity exceeds most competitors, giving you more flexibility for angled cuts in projects like roof framing or detailed trim work.

This saw comes with a contractor bag instead of a hard case, which some users dislike. However, the bag is actually more practical for most DIYers. It’s lighter, easier to store, and you can toss extra blades or safety gear inside without worrying about fit.

Who Should Buy?

Homeowners who want a saw that will last decades, DIY enthusiasts tackling serious projects, and anyone who prioritizes safety. The electric brake alone justifies the investment if you’re new to power tools or work around family.

Who Should Avoid?

Those on a tight budget might prefer the SKIL 5280-01. If you need cordless freedom for working away from outlets, consider the DEWALT 20V MAX models instead.

3. DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Circular Saw – Best Cordless Freedom

Cordless circular saws have come a long way, and the DEWALT 20V MAX proves you don’t need to be tethered to an outlet anymore. I tested this saw while building a deck in my backyard, and the freedom to cut anywhere without extension cords was game-changing. No more dragging 50-foot cords across the yard or worrying about tripping hazards.

The 5,150 RPM motor delivers impressive cutting speed. When I compared it side-by-side with corded models, I couldn’t tell the difference in cutting performance through 2x lumber and plywood. The 6-1/2 inch blade might seem small compared to 7-1/4 inch corded saws, but it still cuts through 2x material at both 90 and 45 degrees.

The magnesium shoe provides durability while keeping weight down to only 6.95 pounds. After a full day of cutting, my arms appreciated every ounce saved. Customer photos confirm the magnesium base resists warping even after years of use, maintaining cut accuracy over time.

This is a bare tool, which means batteries and charger are sold separately. That’s actually an advantage if you already own DEWALT 20V tools. The battery ecosystem is one reason I recommend DEWALT cordless tools, and being able to share batteries between my drill, impact driver, and circular saw saves money and storage space.

Battery life is the trade-off with any cordless saw. Under heavy use, expect about 30-40 minutes of cutting per 5Ah battery. Serious DIYers should consider buying two batteries so you can keep working while one charges. The 50-degree bevel capacity gives you good flexibility for angled cuts.

Who Should Buy?

DIYers who already own DEWALT 20V tools, anyone working away from power outlets, and homeowners who value portability. Perfect for deck building, fence work, or projects in areas without easy electricity access.

Who Should Avoid?

If this is your first DEWALT 20V tool, the upfront cost of batteries adds up. Budget-focused DIYers might prefer the corded SKIL models. For all-day professional use, consider keeping a corded backup.

4. SKILSAW SPT67WL-01 Sidewinder – Lightest Professional Saw

The SKILSAW SPT67WL-01 bridges the gap between DIY and professional tools. Note the distinction: SKIL is the budget line, while SKILSAW represents their quality professional tools. This saw earns its place as the lightest professional circular saw in its class at only 8.6 pounds.

The Dual-Field motor is the real innovation here. It’s designed to dissipate heat more effectively than standard motors, which means it runs cooler and lasts longer. After testing it for several hours of continuous cutting, I noticed the motor housing stayed significantly cooler than other saws. This matters for longevity, especially if you plan on using this saw for years.

The solid magnesium base provides stability and accurate cuts. Customer images show the base maintaining its flatness even after years of job site use. When I tested this saw cutting 3/4-inch hardwood plywood, it produced some of the cleanest cuts of any model I tested.

The 10-foot power cord is longer than most competitors, which means less hanging up on sheet materials while you’re cutting. It’s a small detail that makes a real difference in actual use. The fence is exactly 5 inches wide at the blade, making setup for rip cuts quick and easy.

This saw earned a 4.8-star rating from nearly 500 customers, with 87% giving it 5 stars. Users consistently praise the balance and quality construction. If you want professional features without paying professional prices, the SKILSAW SPT67WL-01 delivers exceptional value.

Who Should Buy?

DIYers who want professional build quality, homeowners planning extensive renovations, and anyone who values a lightweight tool for overhead or extended cutting sessions.

Who Should Avoid?

Users with smaller hands may struggle reaching the blade guard lever. If you’re on a strict budget, the SKIL 5280-01 offers similar performance for less money.

5. SKIL 5080-01 Entry-Level Circular Saw – Best First Saw for Beginners

The SKIL 5080-01 is the saw I wish I’d bought when I started DIY projects. It’s designed specifically for beginners and home workshop use, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use rather than professional-grade features. The 6.95-pound weight makes it one of the lightest full-size saws available, which beginners will appreciate as they develop their cutting technique.

The 13-amp motor provides more power than SKIL’s previous 5380 model while being 15% lighter. This is a smart upgrade that makes the saw more manageable without sacrificing cutting ability. I tested it on standard 2×4 lumber and plywood, and it handled everything easily without bogging down.

The 51-degree bevel capacity with positive stops gives you plenty of cutting options. The spindle lock makes blade changes easy, even for first-time users. SKIL improved the dust blower from previous models, and it does a better job keeping your cut line visible.

This saw is priced to be accessible, making it perfect if you’re just starting your tool collection. The included 18-tooth carbide blade is adequate for basic projects, though you’ll want to upgrade to a 24-tooth blade for cleaner cuts in plywood.

Customer reviews from nearly 5,000 users consistently mention this saw as an excellent entry-level option. Users praise its simplicity and effectiveness for home projects. The metal shoe is a step down from aluminum found on premium saws, but for occasional DIY use it’s perfectly adequate.

Who Should Buy?

First-time circular saw buyers, beginners building their tool collection, and DIYers who only need a saw occasionally. Perfect for weekend projects around the house.

Who Should Avoid?

Professionals who need a saw for daily use should invest in something more durable. If you’re planning extensive projects, consider spending more for a DEWALT or Makita.

6. DEWALT DWE575 Standard Model – Best Compact Professional Corded

The DEWALT DWE575 is the standard version of the DWE575SB, trading the electric brake for a lower price point. In my testing, I found this saw offers the same lightweight performance and cutting power at a more accessible cost. If you can live without the electric brake, you’re getting the same core saw that professionals trust.

At 8.8 pounds, this saw is incredibly light for its power class. The 15-amp motor delivers plenty of cutting power for even tough materials like pressure-treated lumber and hardwoods. The clear line of sight is excellent, with the blade visible from almost any cutting angle.

The 53-degree bevel capacity is slightly less than the SB model’s 57 degrees, but still more than adequate for virtually all DIY projects. The 2-9/16 inch depth of cut at 90 degrees handles standard lumber thicknesses easily. I found the aluminum base provides stable support for accurate cuts.

The ToughCord protection system is a thoughtful feature that provides three times the durability against cord pull-out. After experiencing frayed cords on cheaper saws, I can tell you this design detail extends the tool’s life significantly.

This model earns high marks from over 2,000 reviewers, with users consistently praising its balance and durability. If you want DEWALT quality but don’t need the electric brake, this saw saves money without sacrificing performance.

Who Should Buy?

DIYers who want professional quality at a lower price, experienced users comfortable without an electric brake, and anyone upgrading from budget saws to something that will last.

Who Should Avoid?

If safety is your top priority, spend extra for the DWE575SB with electric brake. Beginners might benefit from the extra safety features as well.

7. DEWALT 20V Brushless Cordless DCS565B – Best Brushless Efficiency

Brushless motors represent the future of power tools, and the DEWALT DCS565B shows why. The brushless design means no friction-generating brushes inside the motor, which translates to more power, longer runtime per battery charge, and extended motor life. After testing both brushed and brushless DEWALT cordless saws, the efficiency difference is noticeable.

The 4,950 RPM motor delivers fast, accurate cutting. I tested this side-by-side with the brushed DEWALT 20V model, and the brushless motor maintained consistent speed through difficult cuts where the brushed version would slow down. This consistency results in cleaner cuts and less strain on the batteries.

The built-in LED light is surprisingly useful. It illuminates your cut line, which makes a big difference when working in dim garages or under covered porches. Customer photos show how effectively the LED lights up the work area without being blindingly bright.

The electric brake is a welcome safety feature that stops the blade quickly after releasing the trigger. The rafter hook provides convenient storage when working on ladders or scaffolding. Tool-free depth and bevel adjustments make it fast to switch between different cut types.

At only 6.3 pounds, this is one of the lightest cordless saws available. The compact design makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The optional dust chute is mentioned in reviews, but many users report it’s not very effective. Most sawdust exits the side of the saw rather than going into a collection system.

Who Should Buy?

DEWALT 20V system users looking to upgrade, DIYers who want maximum efficiency, and anyone who values the latest tool technology. Perfect if you already own other DEWALT 20V tools.

Who Should Avoid?

If this is your first DEWALT cordless tool, remember to budget for batteries. Budget-focused buyers might prefer the less expensive brushed model.

8. Makita 5007MGA Magnesium Circular Saw – Best Premium Construction

The Makita 5007MGA represents professional-grade construction that will likely outlast its owner. The magnesium components create a durable yet manageable saw at 10.6 pounds. I’ve worked with Makita tools for over a decade, and this model exemplifies why the brand has such a strong reputation among professional carpenters.

The 15-amp motor spins at 5,800 RPM, which is among the fastest speeds in its class. This high RPM translates to cleaner cuts with less splintering, especially when using quality blades. When I tested this saw on hardwoods, it cut through material that made other saws strain.

The twin LED lights are positioned to illuminate the cut line from both sides. This thoughtful design feature provides excellent visibility in any lighting condition. Customer images show how effectively the LEDs light up the workspace without creating shadows on the cut line.

The electric brake stops the blade quickly for safety and productivity. The large cutting capacity of 2-1/2 inches at 90 degrees handles thick lumber easily. The 0-56 degree bevel capacity with positive stops at 22.5, 45, and 56 degrees makes angle cuts fast and accurate.

The included case is a point of contention among users. While it protects the saw during storage and transport, the design forces you to kink the cord at the strain relief. Some users also find the rip fence too short to be truly useful for wider rip cuts.

Who Should Buy?

Professional contractors, serious DIYers planning extensive projects, and anyone who wants a saw that will last a lifetime. Perfect if you appreciate premium build quality.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget-focused buyers will find better value elsewhere. If you only use a saw occasionally, the premium construction might be overkill.

9. Makita HS7600 Circular Saw – Best Balanced Lightweight Option

The Makita HS7600 proves you don’t always need a 15-amp motor for excellent cutting performance. This saw’s 10.5-amp motor delivers 5,200 RPM while drawing less power, which means it won’t trip 15-amp breakers when you’re running other tools. After burning out three breakers in my garage workshop with more powerful saws, I learned that sometimes less is more.

The standout feature is the balance. Makita positioned the motor and weight distribution to create a saw that feels natural in your hands. After a day of cutting, I noticed significantly less arm fatigue compared to poorly balanced heavier saws. The ergonomic rubberized grip adds to the comfort during extended use.

The heavy gauge aluminum wraparound base provides durability and straight cuts. Customer photos confirm the base maintains its flatness even after years of use. The easy-to-read markings on depth and bevel scales make adjustments quick and accurate.

The flat motor housing design provides stability when changing blades. The on-board blade wrench storage means you’re never searching for the right tool. The lower guard design improves performance when making bevel and narrow cuts.

At 8.6 pounds, this saw hits the sweet spot for weight vs. power. The 2-1/2 inch cutting capacity at 90 degrees handles standard lumber easily. This saw earns consistent praise for its balance and ease of use, making it popular among framers who appreciate a lighter tool for all-day use.

Who Should Buy?

DIYers who value balance over raw power, homeowners with 15-amp circuits, and anyone who wants a comfortable saw for extended cutting sessions.

Who Should Avoid?

Professionals who need maximum cutting power might prefer a 15-amp model. If you regularly cut thick hardwoods or pressure-treated lumber, consider a more powerful option.

10. Milwaukee M18 Cordless Circular Saw – Best for M18 Battery Ecosystem

The Milwaukee M18 circular saw is an excellent choice if you’re already invested in the Milwaukee M18 battery ecosystem. I’ve tested multiple Milwaukee M18 tools over the years, and the ability to share batteries across your entire tool collection is one of the smartest investments a DIYer can make.

The 3,500 RPM motor might seem lower than competitors, but don’t let that fool you. Milwaukee designed this motor for torque rather than speed, which means it maintains cutting power through difficult materials. When I tested it cutting through LVL headers and other engineered lumber, it powered through without bogging down.

The magnesium upper and lower guards provide superior durability while keeping weight down to 8.45 pounds. Customer images show how these guards protect the blade while standing up to job site abuse. The aircraft aluminum shoe provides lightweight durability and accurate rip cuts.

The soft-grip handle ensures comfort during extended cutting sessions. After spending a day framing with this saw, my hand and wrist felt significantly better than when using saws with harder grips. Milwaukee clearly considered ergonomics in the design.

Like most cordless saws, battery life is the main consideration. Under heavy use, expect to go through batteries fairly quickly. Serious users should invest in at least two high-capacity batteries for continuous work. This saw is perfect for plumbing, electrical, framing, finishing, and general carpentry tasks.

Who Should Buy?

Anyone who already owns Milwaukee M18 tools, DIYers who value ergonomics, and homeowners who want a cordless option that shares batteries with other tools.

Who Should Avoid?

If you’re not already in the Milwaukee ecosystem, consider DEWALT 20V for broader availability. Budget-focused buyers should consider corded options for better value.

Understanding Circular Saws for DIY Projects

A circular saw is a handheld power tool with a rotating circular blade that cuts through wood, metal, and other materials using rapid spinning motion. It’s one of the most versatile tools for DIY projects, capable of making straight cuts, bevel cuts, and plunge cuts in lumber and plywood.

Circular saws use an electric motor to spin a circular blade with sharp teeth at high speeds typically between 4,000-6,000 RPM. The blade protrudes through a flat base plate called a shoe, which you guide along the material. As the blade rotates, it cuts through the workpiece with each tooth removing small amounts of material.

For DIY enthusiasts, circular saws are essential because they combine portability with power. Unlike table saws that are stationary, circular saws can go to the workpiece. This makes them perfect for cutting lumber on sawhorses, trimming deck boards in place, or breaking down plywood sheets too large for table saws.

When choosing between saw types, you’ll encounter sidewinder saws where the motor sits alongside the blade, and worm drive saws where the motor sits behind the blade. For most DIY projects, sidewinder saws like those in our reviews are lighter, easier to control, and perfectly adequate for virtually any home project.

Check out our power tools guides for more information on choosing the right tools for your workshop.

Buying Guide for Circular Saws

Choosing the right circular saw for your DIY projects means understanding which features actually matter and which are marketing fluff. After testing these saws extensively and analyzing customer feedback from over 34,000 reviews, I’ve identified the key factors that will make or break your satisfaction with a purchase.

Corded vs Cordless: Which Power Source Fits Your Projects?

Corded circular saws provide unlimited runtime and consistent power without battery concerns. They’re ideal for workshop use, projects near outlets, and anyone who doesn’t want to worry about battery life. Professional contractors often prefer corded saws because they can work all day without stopping.

Cordless circular saws offer freedom from extension cords and work anywhere on your property. They’re perfect for deck building, fence work, or projects far from power outlets. Modern cordless saws like the DEWALT 20V MAX deliver impressive cutting power that rivals corded models for most DIY applications.

The downside to cordless is battery life and cost. Cordless saws typically cost more upfront, especially when you factor in batteries and chargers. Under heavy use, expect 30-60 minutes of cutting per battery charge. If you choose cordless, consider buying two batteries so you can keep working while one charges.

Blade Size: Matching Your Saw to Your Projects

The 7-1/4 inch blade is the standard for DIY circular saws. This size cuts through 2x lumber at 90 degrees and handles virtually any home project you’ll encounter. All the corded saws in our reviews use this blade size.

The 6-1/2 inch blade found on cordless models offers slightly less cutting depth but reduces weight and improves battery life. These saws still cut through 2x material at both 90 and 45 degrees, making them fully capable for DIY work while being lighter and more maneuverable.

Compact saws with blades under 6 inches are designed for one-handed use and tight spaces. While handy for specific tasks, they can’t cut through a 2×4 at 90 degrees in a single pass. For a first circular saw, stick with at least a 6-1/2 inch blade.

Power: Understanding Amps, Volts, and RPM

For corded saws, amps indicate power draw. Most DIY saws range from 13-15 amps. Higher amps generally mean more cutting power, but the difference isn’t as dramatic as manufacturers suggest. A well-designed 13-amp saw can outperform a poorly designed 15-amp model.

For cordless saws, voltage indicates battery power. 18V and 20V systems are the standard for DIY tools. Higher voltage systems like DeWalt’s FLEXVOLT (60V) exist but are overkill for most DIY projects.

RPM measures blade speed, typically ranging from 3,500-5,800 RPM. Higher RPM generally means cleaner cuts, but blade quality matters more than small RPM differences. The Makita 5007MGA at 5,800 RPM produces exceptionally clean cuts, but the DEWALT DWE575SB at 5,200 RPM cuts just as well with a quality blade.

Weight and Ergonomics: Comfort During Extended Use

Weight matters more than you might expect. After a day of cutting, a heavy saw will tire your arms and affect cut quality. The saws in our reviews range from 6.3 pounds (DEWALT Brushless Cordless) to 10.6 pounds (Makita 5007MGA).

Balance is equally important. A well-balanced saw like the Makita HS7600 feels lighter than its actual weight because the weight distribution works with your natural cutting motion. Poorly balanced saws feel awkward and cause fatigue regardless of their stated weight.

Ergonomic features like soft grips, well-positioned safety switches, and comfortable trigger designs make a real difference during extended use. The Milwaukee M18 stands out for its comfortable grip, while the SKIL 5080-01 is designed specifically for easy handling by beginners.

Essential Features Worth Paying For

Electric brakes stop the blade quickly after releasing the trigger, adding an important safety feature. If you’re new to circular saws or working around family, I consider this feature worth the extra cost. The DEWALT DWE575SB and brushless DCS565B both include this safety feature.

Laser guides project a line showing where your cut will be, which is especially helpful for beginners. The SKIL 5280-01 includes a laser guide at a budget price. Some experienced woodworkers dislike lasers because they can be slightly inaccurate, but for most DIY projects they’re helpful.

LED lights illuminate your cut line, improving visibility in dim conditions. The DEWALT brushless cordless and Makita 5007MGA include LED lights that make a real difference when working in garages or under covered porches.

Bevel capacity indicates how far you can angle the blade for angled cuts. Most DIY projects require 45-degree bevels maximum, but greater capacity offers flexibility for advanced projects. The DEWALT DWE575SB offers 57 degrees, which exceeds most needs.

Matching Your Saw to Your Project Type

For furniture building and cabinetry, prioritize cut quality and precision. A saw with good balance like the Makita HS7600 or SKILSAW SPT67WL-01 will give you cleaner cuts with less splintering. Consider upgrading to a 40-tooth or higher blade for plywood work.

Framing and deck building require power and durability. The DEWALT DWE575SB or Makita 5007MGA handle tough lumber like pressure-treated 2x4s without bogging down. Cordless options work well for deck building where you’re moving around the yard constantly.

General home repair and improvement projects need versatility. The SKIL 5280-01 offers professional features at a budget price that handles virtually any home project. It’s the perfect first saw if you’re not sure what projects you’ll tackle.

For more tool recommendations and deals, check out our guides on power tool set deals and Makita tool deals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After three months of testing and analyzing over 34,000 customer reviews, the DEWALT DWE575SB stands out as the best circular saw for DIY projects in 2026. It combines professional-grade build quality, essential safety features like the electric brake, and a lightweight design that won’t wear you out during long projects.

If you’re working with a limited budget, the SKIL 5280-01 delivers impressive performance at a fraction of the cost. For those who already own DEWALT 20V tools, the cordless DCS391B provides excellent freedom from extension cords while sharing batteries with your existing tools.

Whatever saw you choose, remember that the right blade matters as much as the saw itself. Invest in quality carbide-tipped blades, and your circular saw will serve you well for years of DIY projects. Check out our DeWalt tool deals and Ryobi deals for current promotions.

For comparisons with other saw types, see our guides on table saw deals and miter saw deals to understand which cutting tools best match your project needs.