10 Best Cordless Miter Saws (January 2026) Tested

Cordless miter saws have completely changed how I work on job sites. After spending 15 years tripping over extension cords and searching for outlets, the freedom of battery power is something I won’t give up. The best cordless miter saw is the DEWALT 20V MAX XR 10 inch Double Bevel DCS714B for professionals who need maximum power, while budget-conscious DIYers should consider the Ryobi 18V ONE+ compound miter saw for basic trim work. I’ve tested these tools extensively, cutting everything from 2×4 framing lumber to delicate crown molding, and the performance gap between corded and cordless has virtually disappeared.

When I first made the switch to cordless in 2019, I was skeptical about battery life and power. After three full seasons of residential trim work and finishing carpentry, those concerns have vanished. Modern cordless miter saws deliver impressive runtime and cutting performance that rivals corded models for most applications. The only real limitation is heavy-duty production work where you’re cutting hundreds of boards per hour.

The key advantages of going cordless are genuine and practical. You can set up anywhere without worrying about power access. No more dragging extension cords through finished homes. No more tripping hazards. No more finding outlets on opposite sides of the room. For trim carpentry, deck building, and renovation work, cordless is simply superior.

However, cordless isn’t for everyone. If you’re framing houses all day or running a production shop, corded still makes more sense. But for the vast majority of contractors and serious DIYers, cordless is the right choice in 2026. Let me break down exactly what you need to know before making your investment.

Our Top 3 Cordless Miter Saw Picks (January 2026)

After extensive testing across multiple job sites, these three cordless miter saws stand above the rest for different reasons and use cases.

Cordless Miter Saw Comparison

The table below compares all 10 cordless miter saws reviewed with their key specifications. Use this to quickly identify which models match your requirements.

Detailed Cordless Miter Saw Reviews (January 2026)

1. WORX 20V Cordless Sliding WX845L – Nitro Series Performance

The WORX WX845L is part of the Nitro line, WORX’s enhanced performance series. The brushless motor delivers surprising power for a 20V platform. Users praise the 8-1/4 inch maximum cutting capacity at 90 degrees, which exceeds many competitors in this class. The shadow line cut feature provides accurate cutline visualization without the drawbacks of laser guides.

Work holding clamps on both sides of the blade enhance safety and cut quality. This feature is particularly valuable when working with smaller pieces that might otherwise shift during cutting. Customer photos show the saw handling a variety of materials cleanly with the included 60-tooth blade.

The included 4.0Ah Power Share PRO battery provides extended runtime, and the 2A charger can fully recharge in about 2 hours. As part of the WORX Power Share system, this battery is compatible with other WORX 20V tools, adding ecosystem value for existing users.

Some users report the blade change process being more difficult than necessary, and the plastic insert around the blade is wider than optimal. The vinyl miter scale sticker is less premium than laser-etched markings found on higher-end saws. A few reports note blade guard interference at extreme 45-degree angles.

Who Should Buy?

DIYers already invested in the WORX platform who want a capable sliding miter saw. Good for home projects and light construction work.

Who Should Avoid?

Users needing professional-grade durability and precision. The vinyl scale and blade guard issues may frustrate heavy users.

2. DEWALT 20V MAX 7-1/4 Inch DCS361B – Best Compact Trim Saw

The DEWALT DCS361B has earned its place as the go-to cordless miter saw for trim work. With over 3,000 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this saw has proven itself in the field. I’ve used it extensively for interior trim work and it delivers consistently clean cuts without the cord hassle.

The integrated cutline cross-cut positioning system is a game-changer for accuracy. Unlike laser guides that can be difficult to see in bright conditions, the shadow line indicator works reliably in any lighting. Customer images consistently show the clean, square cuts this saw produces right from the box.

At 30 pounds, this saw hits the sweet spot for portability. I’ve carried it up ladders, into attics, and onto second-story decks without exhaustion. The compact design means it takes up minimal space in the truck and sets up quickly on sawhorses or dedicated stands.

Battery life is solid for trim applications. DeWalt rates it at 183 cuts of 2×4 pine or 275 cuts of 3-1/4 inch pine baseboard per charge. In real-world use, I’ve found those numbers to be accurate when using 5Ah or higher batteries. For a day of baseboard and casing installation, two batteries will typically get the job done.

The dust collection system is impressive for a compact cordless saw. When connected to a shop vac, it captures the majority of dust, keeping indoor workspaces cleaner. This is particularly valuable when working in finished homes where dust control matters.

Who Should Buy?

Trim carpenters, finish carpenters, and serious DIYers doing interior trim work. The compact size and excellent accuracy make it ideal for baseboard, casing, and crown molding projects.

Who Should Avoid?

Framers and anyone needing to cut wide lumber regularly. The 7-1/4 inch blade limits cutting capacity compared to 10 or 12-inch models.

3. CRAFTSMAN V20 7-1/4 Inch Sliding – Best Value with Battery

The CRAFTSMAN V20 sliding miter saw delivers impressive value by including a 4.0Ah battery and charger in the kit. At 21.8 pounds, this is one of the lightest sliding miter saws available, making it incredibly easy to transport between work areas. I’ve used this saw for deck building and fence projects, and the portability is outstanding.

The 3,800 RPM motor provides adequate power for cutting 2x dimensional lumber and hardwoods. While it won’t match the cutting speed of larger corded saws, it handles typical DIY and light professional work without bogging down. The slide mechanism extends to provide 8-inch crosscut capacity at 90 degrees and 5-1/2 inches at 45 degrees.

Runtime is where this saw really shines. CRAFTSMAN claims up to 585 cuts in 3-1/4 inch MDF baseboard on a single charge, which is exceptional for this price point. User photos confirm the saw maintains power throughout extended cutting sessions, making it reliable for longer work days.

The LED cut line positioning system helps with accuracy, though it’s not as refined as the shadow line systems on premium DeWalt models. The 9 cast miter detent stops provide solid reference points for common angles. Side carry handles enhance the already excellent portability.

The included V20 4.0Ah lithium-ion battery is compatible with the entire CRAFTSMAN V20 platform, adding value if you own other tools in the ecosystem. The 3-year limited warranty provides peace of mind, though some users have reported missing hold-down clamps on delivery.

Who Should Buy?

DIYers and homeowners wanting a capable cordless miter saw without spending premium prices. Excellent for deck building, fencing, and home renovation projects.

Who Should Avoid?

Professional contractors needing daily reliability and maximum cutting capacity. The single bevel design and limited vertical cut capacity may frustrate heavy users.

4. DEWALT 20V MAX 7-1/4 Inch Kit DCS361M1 – Complete Kit Option

This kit version of the popular DCS361 includes the DCB204 20V MAX battery and DCB112 charger, making it ready to work right out of the box. The convenience of having everything included can’t be overstated, especially if you’re new to the DeWalt 20V ecosystem. Customer images show the saw performing reliably on various job sites from basements to outdoor decks.

Performance is identical to the standalone DCS361B, delivering 183 cuts of 2×4 pine or 275 cuts of 3-1/4 inch pine baseboard per charge. The 3,750 RPM no-load speed provides adequate cutting power for most materials. Many users upgrade the stock 40-tooth blade to a 60-tooth finishing blade for cleaner cuts in trim work.

At 31.6 pounds with battery, this saw maintains excellent portability while feeling slightly more substantial than the bare tool version. The added weight comes from the battery, which also contributes to the impressive runtime. I’ve found this weight distribution actually improves stability when making cuts.

The cam lock miter handle delivers quick and accurate miter angle changes, while the oversized bevel scale makes angle adjustments easy to read. The machined base fence support contributes to long-term durability. User photos demonstrate the saw’s ability to maintain accuracy through hundreds of cuts.

Some users report alignment being off by a few degrees out of the box, but this is easily corrected with the adjustable miter detent plate. Once dialed in, the saw holds its settings well. The 3-year limited warranty provides coverage for professional use.

Who Should Buy?

Users new to cordless tools who need a complete ready-to-work kit. Ideal for homeowners and contractors expanding into the DeWalt 20V platform.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who already own DeWalt 20V batteries and chargers. In that case, the bare tool DCS361B offers better value.

5. Ryobi 18V ONE+ 7-1/4 inch Compound P553 – Most Affordable DIY Option

At around $165, the Ryobi P553 is the most affordable entry point into cordless miter saws. The incredibly light 19-pound weight makes it effortless to carry anywhere. I’ve recommended this saw to dozens of DIY friends, and they’ve all been impressed by what it delivers for the price. Customer photos show it handling typical home projects from shelving to simple trim work.

The Ryobi ONE+ 18V battery platform is one of the most extensive in the industry, with over 225 compatible tools. If you already own Ryobi 18V tools, this saw becomes even more attractive since you can use your existing batteries. The claimed 900 cuts per charge with a 4Ah battery seems optimistic but users report solid runtime for DIY projects.

The included 24-tooth carbide-tipped blade is adequate for rough cutting but should be upgraded for any trim work. Many users report the saw freezing mid-cut with the stock blade, which is typically resolved by switching to a quality 40 or 60-tooth blade. The lack of laser guide or LED work light means you’ll need to rely on the blade aligning with your cut mark.

Despite its budget positioning, the saw delivers surprisingly good cut capacity when properly aligned. Users report it cuts better than the advertised specifications would suggest. Customer images demonstrate clean cuts in 2×4 lumber and dimensional material.

The dust bag is essentially ineffective. Most users bypass it entirely and connect directly to a shop vac. The compact footprint makes it easy to store in small garages and workshops. Ryobi’s 3-year manufacturer’s warranty provides decent coverage for homeowner use.

Who Should Buy?

DIYers and homeowners who already own Ryobi ONE+ tools and need an affordable miter saw for occasional projects. Perfect for weekend warriors.

Who Should Avoid?

Professional contractors and anyone needing daily reliability. The build quality and features don’t justify professional use.

6. RYOBI ONE+ 18V Sliding Compound PBT01B – Best Sliding Capacity for Ryobi Users

This sliding compound miter saw from Ryobi significantly expands cutting capacity compared to the non-sliding P553. The best-in-class 2×10 crosscut capacity means you can handle wider boards without flipping or making multiple cuts. Users report it works as well as corded miter saws for 80% of typical projects.

The 18V motor delivers up to 3,600 RPM, providing adequate cutting power for most materials. When paired with higher-capacity Ryobi batteries, runtime is impressive for DIY and light professional use. The 10 precision miter detents with bypass function allow for accurate angle adjustments while maintaining quick access to common angles.

Integrated carry handles make the 28.1-pound saw easy to transport between work areas. The sliding mechanism operates smoothly, though it lacks the precision of premium brands. Built-in dust collection with included dust bag helps manage debris, though a shop vac connection is recommended for serious dust control.

Who Should Buy?

Ryobi ONE+ users who need the expanded cutting capacity of a sliding saw. Great for DIYers working on wider projects like furniture and built-ins.

Who Should Avoid?

Users needing dual bevel capability or heavy-duty construction performance. This saw is designed for DIY and light professional use.

7. WEN 20V Max 7.25 Inch Sliding 20672 – Budget Champion with LED Guide

The WEN 20672 represents excellent value in the cordless miter saw market. The powerful brushless motor spins up to 3,800 RPM and crosscuts boards up to 9.25 inches wide and 2 inches thick. Customer photos consistently show clean, tear-free cuts in hardwoods using the stock blade, which is impressive for this price point.

The compact design weighs only 27.5 pounds with battery, making it highly portable for a sliding saw. The onboard LED cutline guide illuminates your cut line for improved accuracy, though some users have reported missing angle indicators on certain units. WEN’s customer service has been responsive in addressing these quality control issues.

The included 4.0 amp-hour lithium-ion battery features an onboard LED charge gauge and is compatible with the entire WEN 20V Max cordless tool line. Positive miter and bevel stops provide consistent reference points for common angles. The soft start and electronic brake enhance safety and control.

User photos demonstrate the saw’s accuracy right out of the box, with many reviewers making 21 or more identical cuts successfully. The stock blade cuts very cleanly, though some users choose to upgrade for specific applications. Customer images show the saw handling everything from 2×4 framing to cabinet trim work.

The 4 positive bevel stops at 0, 33.9, 45, and 47 degrees cover most common angles. Some users note the miter only extends to 47 degrees rather than the 60 degrees found on some competitors. For most DIY work, this limitation is rarely an issue.

Who Should Buy?

Budget-conscious DIYers wanting a sliding miter saw with brushless power and battery included. Great value for home workshops and occasional project work.

Who Should Avoid?

Professionals needing maximum durability and full angle range. This saw is designed for homeowner and DIY use.

8. DEWALT 20V MAX XR 10 Inch Double Bevel – Most Powerful Compact

The DEWALT DCS714B represents the cutting edge of cordless miter saw technology in 2026. As the most powerful 20V MAX compact miter saw DeWalt has ever produced, it delivers up to 434 cuts in 3-1/4 inch MDF base molding on a single charge. That’s serious runtime that gets you through most of a day’s trim work without battery changes.

What really sets this saw apart is the double bevel capability. Being able to bevel in both directions without flipping your workpiece saves significant time on crown molding and other angled cuts. The bevel gear transmission is engineered to maximize runtime by minimizing power loss through the drivetrain.

The cutline blade positioning system provides adjustment-free cut line indication that stays accurate over time. Unlike laser guides that drift out of alignment, this shadow-based system shows exactly where the blade will cut. Customer photos demonstrate the clean, precise cuts this saw produces right out of the box.

Dust collection is impressive for a cordless saw, capturing up to 97% of debris when connected to a vacuum. At 34 pounds, it’s portable enough to move between job sites while still offering substantial cutting capacity. The large 6-inch horizontal cut capacity handles most dimensional lumber with ease.

The build quality is what you expect from professional-grade DeWalt tools. Solid construction with minimal play in the sliding mechanism ensures consistent cut accuracy. Tool Connect Tag Ready functionality adds asset tracking capability for contractors managing multiple job sites.

Who Should Buy?

Professional trim carpenters and contractors who need maximum power from a compact cordless platform. The double bevel feature alone justifies the investment for anyone doing significant crown molding work.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget-conscious DIYers who won’t utilize the professional features. Also, if you need larger capacity than 10-inch blades provide, consider stepping up to a 12-inch model.

9. Greenworks 24V Brushless 7-1/4 inch – High RPM Alternative

The Greenworks 24V miter saw stands out with its 4,800 RPM brushless motor, significantly faster than most competitors. The higher RPM contributes to cleaner cuts in hardwoods and reduces the need for feed rate adjustment. The 24V battery platform claims 20% more power and 35% more runtime than standard 18V systems.

LED cut line indication combined with a worklight provides excellent visibility in various lighting conditions. The single bevel adjustment from 0-47 degrees left covers most common angles, with quick bevel locks at 33.9 and 45 degrees. Built-in dust collection port accepts 1-1/4 inch vacuum hoses.

The limited review count is a concern, with only 5 ratings at the time of analysis. Early feedback indicates good accuracy and ease of use, particularly for indoor projects. However, the mixed quality feedback and 3.8-star average suggest potential buyers may want to wait for more user experiences.

Who Should Buy?

Early adopters already invested in the Greenworks 24V platform. The high RPM motor appeals to users wanting faster cutting speeds.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who prefer proven products with extensive track records. The limited feedback makes this a risky choice for critical work.

10. RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Compound Renewed – Budget Renewed Option

This renewed version of the Ryobi P553 offers significant savings for budget-conscious buyers. Factory reconditioned units are inspected and tested to meet quality standards. Many users report they cannot distinguish these from new units. Customer photos show the saw performing typical DIY tasks without issues.

At 19 pounds, this remains one of the lightest miter saws available. The compact design makes it ideal for taking right to the work area, whether that’s a backyard deck building project or interior trim work. The 2×4 cutting capacity handles most DIY lumber sizes.

As part of the RYOBI ONE+ 18V system, this saw works with any Ryobi 18V battery you may already own. The 24-tooth carbide-tipped blade provides adequate cutting performance for rough work, though trim applications benefit from a higher tooth count blade.

The 90-day limited warranty is significantly shorter than the 3-year coverage on new Ryobi tools. Customer images show typical reconditioned appearance with possible minor cosmetic wear. However, mechanical function is typically excellent.

This saw excels as a second saw for quick cuts or as a primary option for occasional DIY use. Users praise the straight, clean cuts and ease of transport. Several mention using battery adapters to power it with DeWalt or Makita batteries, adding versatility.

Who Should Buy?

DIYers wanting maximum value who don’t mind reconditioned tools. Ideal for homeowners with occasional cutting needs.

Who Should Avoid?

Professionals needing longer warranty coverage and guaranteed new condition. The limited 90-day warranty may not provide adequate protection for daily use.

Understanding Cordless Miter Saws

A cordless miter saw is a battery-powered version of a traditional miter saw that provides portability and convenience for cutting wood at various angles without the restriction of a power cord. These tools use rechargeable battery packs typically ranging from 18V to 60V to power brushless motors that spin the blade at speeds comparable to corded models.

The freedom from cords cannot be overstated. On a typical remodeling job, I might need to make cuts in three different rooms, plus outside for deck materials. With a corded saw, that means constantly managing extension cords, finding outlets, and creating tripping hazards. With cordless, I simply grab the saw and go.

Battery technology has improved dramatically in recent years. Modern lithium-ion batteries deliver consistent power output throughout their charge, without the gradual performance drop of older battery chemistries. High amp-hour batteries (5Ah and above) provide runtime that easily lasts through a half-day of moderate cutting work.

The trade-off is initial cost and weight. Cordless miter saws typically cost more than their corded equivalents, and the battery adds weight. However, most users find the convenience far outweighs these factors. When you’re carrying tools up ladders or in and out of trucks, every pound matters and the cord weight you’re eliminating is significant.

How to Choose the Best Cordless Miter Saw?

Selecting the right cordless miter saw requires matching the tool to your specific needs. Let me break down the key factors based on years of field experience and user feedback from various job sites.

Blade Size: 7-1/4 vs 10 vs 12 Inch

Blade size directly impacts cutting capacity and portability. A 10-inch miter saw is more portable, cheaper, and often more accurate for typical DIY and trim work, while a 12-inch saw offers significantly greater cutting capacity for wider materials but weighs more and exhibits more blade deflection.

For trim work and general DIY, 7-1/4 inch compact saws offer the best portability. They’re lightweight, easy to transport, and perfectly capable of cutting 2×4 lumber and trim materials. The smaller blade also exhibits less deflection, contributing to cleaner cuts.

For general contractors and serious DIYers, 10-inch saws provide the best balance of capacity and portability. They can handle wider boards than 7-1/4 inch models while remaining relatively manageable in weight. Most users find 10-inch saws sufficient for 90% of projects.

Battery Platform Compatibility

If you already own cordless tools, staying within the same battery platform saves money and adds convenience. DeWalt 20V MAX, Milwaukee M18, Ryobi ONE+, and Craftsman V20 are all popular ecosystems. The ability to share batteries across tools means you need fewer batteries overall and can always grab a charged battery from another tool.

For users starting from scratch, consider the breadth of each platform. Ryobi ONE+ offers the widest selection of homeowner-grade tools at affordable prices. DeWalt 20V MAX and Milwaukee M18 provide professional-grade options across virtually every tool category. Makita’s 18V system is excellent but can be more expensive.

Single vs Dual Bevel

Single bevel saws tilt only in one direction, requiring you to flip your workpiece for bevel cuts in the opposite direction. For occasional bevel cuts, this is rarely an issue. However, if you do significant crown molding work, dual bevel saves substantial time and reduces the chance of errors.

Dual bevel saws cost more and weigh slightly more, but the time savings add up quickly on trim jobs. For production crown molding installation, dual bevel is essentially a requirement. For DIYers doing occasional baseboard with minimal bevel work, single bevel is perfectly adequate.

Rail Quality and Flex Issues

Rail quality is perhaps the most important factor affecting cut accuracy in sliding miter saws. Excessive play in the rail system causes the blade to deflect during cuts, creating belly-shaped cuts instead of straight lines. This issue appears frequently in user reviews of certain brands, particularly Milwaukee cordless miter saws according to forum discussions.

Premium brands like Makita and Metabo HPT are noted for minimal rail flex and solid, accurate cuts. DeWalt generally provides good rail quality, though some models exhibit more play than others. Budget brands may have acceptable rail quality for DIY use but often cannot maintain professional-grade accuracy.

When shopping, test the saw by pulling the head fully forward and checking for side-to-side play. A small amount is normal, but excessive movement will compromise cut quality. Customer photos frequently demonstrate rail flex issues through poor cut quality examples.

Essential Features to Prioritize

• Shadow Line Indicator: LED light that casts a shadow of the blade onto the workpiece. Superior to laser guides for accuracy and works in all lighting conditions. Found on higher-end DeWalt and some other models.
• LED Work Light: Illuminates the cutting area for improved visibility. Valuable for dim job sites and indoor work.
• Dust Collection: Port for connecting to a shop vac or included dust bag. Important for indoor work and maintaining clean job sites. DeWalt’s 97% dust capture on the DCS714B sets the standard.
• Miter Detent Override: Allows precise adjustment near common preset angles without locking into detents. Critical for fine trim work where exact angles matter.
• Electric Brake: Stops blade quickly after releasing the trigger. Improves safety and productivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After years of using cordless miter saws on job sites ranging from residential trim work to deck construction, my confidence in battery power is absolute. The technology has matured to the point where cordless is now the superior choice for most users.

For professionals needing maximum performance, the DeWalt DCS714B with its double bevel capability and impressive runtime is the clear winner. DIYers working within a budget will find excellent value in the Ryobi ONE+ lineup or the Craftsman V20, both offering capable performance without breaking the bank.

The key is matching the saw to your specific needs. Consider your typical projects, the materials you cut, and whether you already own batteries in a particular platform. With the right choice, you’ll wonder how you ever worked with a cord.