The circular saw is one of the most common woodworking and cutting tools in any shop. Professionals and hobbyists alike depend upon this tool for cutting straight edges into various types of wood, tile and lightweight metals. Whether you are trimming crown molding or cutting plywood, DEWALT Circular Saws have plenty of options for you.
If you’re looking for a circular saw primarily for woodworking, a track saw helps guarantee precision. The portable track helps bring the accuracy of your workshop with you anywhere, and features like onboard dust removal keep the air and workspace clean. Some lightweight circular saws are easier to move around between work sites. If you know your saw is going to have to stand up to a lot of heavy wear and tear, a worm drive circular saw can give you a bit more power and durability.
There’s an application for DEWALT circular saws in almost every carpentry trade. Most blades are carbide tipped, making them strong enough to cut through smaller pipes and aluminum siding. Circular saws are used to cut straight edges, but can be used together with DEWALT jig saws for all types of woodworking, like fabricating custom cabinetry.
Most saws feature preset bevel detents for the popular and common angles in woodworking. Some circular saws also include integrated dust blowers to keep the work surface clear of debris while you’re cutting. DEWALT portable band saws provide more versatility and can cut into deeper cuts of metal for a wide range of options on any worksite. Some band saws and circular saws include laser guide lights to illuminate the work surface in low light conditions.
DEWALT CIRCULAR SAW PERFORMANCE
During the test runs in our shop, the Power Detect circular saw delivered some interesting results. The brushless motor churns out 5500 RPMs and with a standard 5.0Ah battery, the performance feels very similar to the DCS570. It’s capable of cutting nearly any wood you come across, but you need to watch how hard you’re pushing to avoid stalling the blade.
When you pop an 8Ah battery on, things change. The Power Detect electronics sense it can ask for more power and kicks into a noticeably higher level. To put that in perspective, we ran this saw with both batteries on the PTR Test Track.
- Cross cutting: five cross cuts (2 x 10 PT)
- Bevel cutting: five 45º bevel cross cuts (2 x 10 PT)
- Miter cutting: five 45º miter cuts (2 x 10 PT)
- Compound cutting: three 45º miter/45º bevel compound cuts from each side of the lumber (6 cuts total, 2 x 10 PT)
- Power drive: one 4-foot rip cut (double-stacked 3/4-inch OSB subfloor)
- Along the way, we had to switch in and out of a 45° bevel twice.
With the 5.0Ah battery, the saw needed 2 minutes, 14 seconds. That’s not a bad time, but it’s not great, either. Switching to the 8.0Ah battery took 36 seconds off the total, dropping to 1 minute, 38 seconds! That puts it right in line with the times we saw from DeWalt’s FlexVolt Advantage, FlexVolt, and Worm Drive Style models.
Working more closely in some tougher cuts, it does feel like there’s not quite as much torque at the top end as those other models. For the majority of your standard framing cuts, it cuts very well, though.
What Should You Consider Before Buying A Circular Saw?
Circular Saw Power Sources
Where and how you use your circular saw will help determine the power supply you need. Two types are available:
- Cordless circular saws are convenient when working in areas where extension cords are difficult to use. Since they’re smaller than most corded saws, they work well in confined spaces. Cordless saws are best suited to cutting wood and wood products due to the limitations of their batteries. While they can cut tough materials, the extra power needed for those applications drains batteries quickly. Cordless saws typically range in size from 5-3/8 to 6-1/2 inches.
- Corded circular saws don’t depend on batteries for power and are better suited for tough cutting jobs like masonry, steel and continuous wood cutting. Corded saws are available in many sizes; the most common is 7-1/4 inches. A corded circular saw requires a suitable extension cord. Follow the device manufacturer’s recommendations for compatible extension cords and see Power Cord Safety Tips.
Power Rating
Manufacturers use different terms to describe the power rating of the circular saw. The corded circular saws use a power rating that’s shown in amperage. If you need a circular saw for occasional use and smaller jobs, then get a 12-amp one. On the other hand, if you’re on the hunt for basic performances, then we suggest you search for a circular saw that has a rating of at least 15 amps.
The cordless circular saws are measured in the voltage of their batteries. Most individual circular saws will deliver 16, 18, 20 volts. If you want a powerful circular saw, then get one with a 20-volt power rating.
Blade Size
Circular saws are also classified by the diameter of the blade they have. The most popular and helpful size for home workers and DIYers is 7 1/4 inches. Circular saws of this size will be able to easily cut through 3-inch thick materials. If you need a circular saw for lighter tasks, then get a 6 1/2-inch, or get an 8 1/4-inch model if you need one for heavier-duty tasks.
Speed
Last but not least, you should keep an eye on the motor speed of the circular saw. The speed is measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). So if you need a circular saw with more power speed, then you should look for high RPMs. Usually, we suggest that you take a circular saw with anywhere between 3 000 to 5 000 + RPMs.
Our Picks Of The Best DeWalt Circular Saws
1. Dewalt DCS573B 20V MAX Brushless Lithium-Ion 7-1/4 in. Cordless Circular Saw with FLEXVOLT ADVANTAGE
What is Flexvolt Advantage Technology ? DEWALT 20v tools now have the ability to run off 60v Flexvolt batteries providing us with more power than paired with the 20v batteries. You may be saying duh, but the power boost is substantial! The DEWALT Flexvolt Advantage Technology provides these new tools with a major power boost, giving us the ability to work them to their full potential. The DEWALT DCB573B 7-1/4″ Circular Saw gives the user over 75% more power when paired up with a 6.oAh Flexvolt battery.
We have been evaluating the DEWALT DCB573B on deck construction job sites. We ran the saw on both a 6.0Ah Flexvolt battery as well as the 20V 8.0Ah battery. There was a noticeable difference in power from one to the other. We started off cutting with the 60V and were able to make it the whole day on just one battery. After cutting forty 2″x10″ joists we switched over to the 20V to finish up the mid-span and picture frame blocking and noticed the decrease in power and speed. Once we cut a bunch of blocking we switched back to the 60V to complete the task.
If considering purchasing this saw, you do not have to worry about which DEWALT platform you are on. You have the option to select either the 20v or the 60V Flexvolt platform. Need more power use the Flexvolt battery or simply need to make a few cuts pick the 20v battery. Having the option keeps the end-user from having to spend additional money on another battery.
Features:
- UP TO 77% MORE POWER when paired with FLEXVOLT batteries
- FASTER CUTTING: Powerful brushless motor delivers 5500 RPM for faster cutting
- Maximum depth of cut of 2-9/16 in. at 90 Degrees
- Maximum depth of cut of 2 in. at 45 Degrees
- ELECTRIC BRAKE stops the blade after the trigger is released
- INCREASED VISIBILITY: Bright LED increases visibility and cut accuracy
- EASY STORAGE: Integrated rafter hook for quick and easy storage
2. Dewalt DWE575 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw Kit
The DEWALT DWE575 might be a small, lightweight circular saw but it’s packed with lots of great features. Of particular note on this new model is the depth of cut (2-9/16″ vs 2-7/16″ on my older models), 57° beveling capacity which is better than my older models at 50°, and the Toughcord.
Not only does this new lightweight saw come with some cool features but most importantly it’s full of power. One of my pet peeves with circular saws are ones with wimpy motors. I was pleasantly surprised with the DWE575 and it’s powerful motor. The powerful 15 amp motor had no trouble cutting plywood, framing lumber and even ripping a piece of 2×8 pressure treated lumber.
I’m very pleased with the new DEWALT DWE575 Lightweight 7-1/4″ Circular Saw. My only gripe with this model is the fact that it doesn’t come with a case and it doesn’t have an electronic brake. However, I just found out they are also selling the DWE575SB which includes a case and the electronic brake. So all is good in the world!
This is definitely a great saw for day to day construction and really reminds me of the very popular 007 Makita Circular saws that are still popular today on jobsites. For years I’ve been using the DEWALT DW364 which weighs over 12 lbs and only had a 2-7/16″ depth of cut. So the new version is almost 25% lighter, same amount of power, and some added functionality with the deeper cut and wider bevel angle. I predict this new saw will become a very popular saw on the jobsite.
Features:
- Among one of the lightest saws in its class at 8.8 lbs.
- 15 amp motor, powerful enough for even the toughest applications
- 2-9/16 in. depth of cut capacity provides additional versatility of applications
- 57 degree beveling capacity with stops at 45 and 22.5 degrees
- Anti-snag ball bearing lower guard provides smooth guard operation and long life in harsh environments
- Toughcord provides longer durability against cord pull outs
- Integrated dust blower function cleans the line of sight during cutting
- Durable high grade aluminum smooth base for accurate cuts
- Clear line of sight aids in blade visibility from any angle
- On-board blade wrench storage allows for easy access to the wrench
3. Dewalt DCS571B ATOMIC 20V MAX Brushless 4-1/2 in. Circular Saw
This Brushless 4-1/2 in. Circular Saw (Tool Only) comes with 1 Blade, Rip Fence, and Dust Port Adaptor. The DCS571 features a bevel gear design allowing users to cut 2x material at 90 Degrees and 1x material at 45 Degrees. With convenient on-board blade key storage, users can change blades with minimal hassle. Elongated handle optimizes reach for rip cutting OSB and plywood. Using a DCB205 Battery (sold separately), you can cut up to 339 linear ft. of 3/4 in. OSB.
There are 3 solid ways to cut with the DeWalt DCS571B. When you’re making longer cuts or want to get the best accuracy, use a two-hand grip. The light, narrow, long design makes micro-adjustments simple as you follow your cutline.
The pair of one-hand positions are particularly helpful when you need to hold your material with one hand and cut with the other. In both the “normal” and choked up position, your hand is lower than on a traditional circular saw, making it easier to glide the saw forward, keep the shoe on the material, and make adjustments to stay on your cutline.
Features:
- Brushless Motor allows you to cut up to 339 linear ft. of 3/4 in. OSB using DCB205 Battery (sold separately)
- Removable Auxiliary Handle for increased control
- Hang Hook for increased convenience
- On-Board Blade Key Storage for hassle-free blade changes
- 1-1/2 in. Finger Trigger allows users to choke-up on tool if necessary for their application
- Bevel Gear allows users to cut 2x material at 90 Degrees with a 4-1/2 in. blade
- Electronic Blade Brake stops blade quickly for safety and productivity
- Bevel Lever gives user the ability to bevel at 45 Degrees to cut 1x dimensional lumber
- On-board Dust Port for dust control
4. Dewalt DCS391B 20V MAX Lithium-Ion 6-1/2 in. Cordless Circular Saw
Right off the bat, the Dewalt 20v circular saw comes accompanied with a slew of features such as a powerful 5250 RPM rotary motor, speed, precision and accuracy. Obviously, what makes it worth it is the unbelievable price factor – i.e. somewhere in the neighborhood of $100.
But there are a few lacking areas where Dewalt could have implemented a better set of features to make it the “ultimate” cutting saw.
In case you didn’t know, the DCS391B is the revised model that was released some time after the 390B unit made its debut appearance in the market. Dewalt practically took in all the feedback, made major adjustments and released the new model in an attempt to offer a certain degree of leverage to woodworkers, construction people and homeowners.
While it is true that this mini circular saw, despite of a compact design, carves through plywood like a hot knife through butter, the stock blade does not do well under high pressure. The performance of this skill saw varies according to the thickness of the actual material. With a 6 ½ Inch blade, the saw carves through standard length plywood sheets for up to 20 – 25 times on a single battery charge.
This is definitely a huge improvement over competitor models and the DEWALT DCS390 edition itself. Let’s take a look at some of the key highlights of this product in detail.
Features:
- 5,150 RPM motor delivers power and speed to make the most demanding cuts with ease
- Optimized rubber overmolded comfort grip delivers optimal balance and control
- 6-1/2 in. carbide-tipped blade for cutting 2 times material at 90-deg. and 45-deg. and more cuts per charge
- High strength and lightweight magnesium shoe provides jobsite durability for long-term cut accuracy
- 0-50-deg. bevel capacity allows for aggressive bevel cuts for a multitude of applications
5. Dewalt DCS574W1 20V MAX XR POWER DETECT Brushless Lithium-Ion 7-1/4 in. Cordless Circular Saw Kit (8 Ah)
DEWALT recently released a new line of brushless and cordless tools that operate with new Power DetectTM battery technology. The DEWALT DCS574W1 7-¼ in. circular saw kit is a massive improvement to its predecessor, the DCS570 7-¼ in. circular saw kit. It is just as light but even more powerful, giving more reason “to cut the cord.”
The DEWALT DCS574W1 7-¼ in. circular saw is a lightweight, powerful solution. Like many young carpenters, the circular saw that I learned on was an old school corded worm drive Skilsaw that nearly made me fall over because of its weight.
One feature that could use improvement is the markings for the depth of cut are difficult to read without any contrasting font, especially when sawdust builds up. A nice improvement would be to add indexing notches to improve the ease and efficiency of switching the depth of cut.
Overall, the DEWALT DCS570 7-¼ in. the circular saw offers a significant improvement to an already powerful circular saw.
Features:
- POWER DETECT Up to 54% more power.
- Maximum depth of cut of 2-9/16 in. at a 90 degrees.
- Maximum depth of cut of 2 in. at a 45 degrees.
- Electric Brake stops the blade after the trigger is released.
- Integrated LED for increased visibility and cut accuracy.
- Integrated rafter hook for quick and easy storage.
6. Dewalt DW9153 6-1/2 in. 90 Tooth Circular Saw Blade
5-3/8-inch blade with 10mm arbor, 30 teeth FTG. Ultra thin kerf blade design – yields more cuts per charge by minimizing battery drain. Heavy duty tungsten carbide tips maintain sharp cutting edge for longer life. For cutting aluminum extrusions, brass, copper, and other non-ferrous metals. Use with DeWalt cordless 5-3/8-inch trim saws.
Circular saw blades vinyl, paneling carbide construction grade, series 20. 5/8 inch round arbor 6 1/2 inch diameter. 90 teeth Ultra thin kerf..059 inches, cordless saw blades are engineered to optimize the cutting performance of all DeWalt 5-3/8 inches and 6-1/2 inches cordless saws. Anti-stick rim reduces friction and gum-up. Alternate set teeth. Use for cutting thin materials.
Featuring tungsten carbide teeth for maximum durability and a thin kerf for fast, smooth cuts, DeWALT? Small diameter construction saw blades power through a variety of building materials with ease. Ribbed heat vents allow blades to run at cooler temperatures, reducing blade flexing and binding.
Anti-stick coating minimizes friction and gum up. Ultra thin kerf.. 59 inches, cordless saw blades are engineered to optimize the cutting performance of all DeWalt 5-3/8″ and 6-1/2″ cordless saws. Anti-stick rim reduces friction and gum-up. Alternate set teeth. Use for cutting thin materials.
Features:
- Heavy duty tungsten carbide tips maintain sharp cutting edge/longer life
- Ultra-thin kerf blade design
- 10mm arbor, 3-degree hook angle, .059 kerf, 30t carbide, 5-3/8″ diameter
- For cutting non-ferrous metals
- One year warranty, One year service contract, 30 day no-risk trial
- Anti-stick rim reduces friction and gum-up
7. Dewalt DW3106P5 2 Pc 10 in. Series 20 Circular Saw Blade Combo Pack
The DEWALT DW3106P5 60 Tooth Crosscutting and 32 Tooth General Purpose 10 Inch Saw Blade Combo Pack is a terrific option for those who need a great crosscutting blade and a general-purpose blade for all the various projects that you are working on.
This combo pack is so popular that it has even become a number-one bestseller. This article will provide you with some information about the features, pros, cons, frequently asked questions, and final verdict!
Packed with a thin kerf for fast, smooth cutting and computer-balanced plate for helps to reduced vibration, DeWALT large diameter construction saw blades power through a range of materials with ease. An exclusive wedge shoulder design places more steel behind each tip for helps to increased durability and accuracy, while an anti-stick coating minimizes friction and gum up.
Features:
- Thin kerf for fast and smooth cutting action
- Computer-balanced plate reduces vibration for improved accuracy and better finish
- Exclusive wedge shoulder design puts more steel behind each tip for increased durability and accuracy
- Tougher tungsten carbide stays sharper longer
- Thin kerf for fast and smooth cutting action and The arbor size is 5/8”
- Computer-balanced plate reduces vibration for improved accuracy and better finish
- Durable tungsten carbide maintains a true edge
- Best used for miter saw and slide miter saw jobs
FAQs
What are circular saws used for?
A circular saw is an essential DIY tool that uses a moving blade to make straight, accurate cuts. While circular saws are traditionally used to cut 2x4s, plywood, and other lumber, they can be outfitted with different blades to cut masonry, metal, and other materials.
Why does my circular saw get stuck?
If your blade is binding to its cutting material, the problem could be your cutting angle or blade. Check to make sure your blade is straight, sharp, and secure before using your circular saw.
What’s the difference between a circular saw and a miter saw?
While both a circular saw and a miter saw use a sharp, rotating blade to cut lumber and other materials, their difference in design impacts how they’re used. For example, circular saws are handheld tools that are used to make quick cuts, which makes them ideal for cutting 2x4s or plywood. Miter saws are stationary tools that make precise, angled cuts using a movable arm, which is useful for cutting decorative pieces like crown molding or baseboards.