What Are The 10 Best Cordless Circular Saws Of 2020?

Best Cordless Circular Saws
In the sphere of woodwork lovers and DIY masters, the use of circular power saws has been remarkably on the rise. At first, I thought it was a case of jammed up hype about a new product until I laid my hands on one of these power tools. Circular power saws offer the best when it comes to power, portability, safety, and other advantages that would be hard to find on other wood cutting power tools. As it usually is with power tools, there is more than one of these in the market and I had to look at them all and settle for one that suits me most. While doing this research, I got to learn a lot more than I knew about a circular saw. Here is a review of the 10 best circular saws in 2020.

Our Top Picks for Best Cordless Circular Saws

1. DEWALT DC390B 18-Volt Cordless Circular Saw

DEWALT DC390B - cordless circular sawsIf you are shopping for a circular saw that will cater for both domestic and commercial purposes for your projects, then the Dewalt DC390B cordless saw is your best fit. A power tool from one of the best companies in the world, you will find the Dewalt DC390B useful as you can use the same battery for other products from the same company.

Key Features of the Dewalt DC390B Cordless Circular Saw

  • The Dewalt DC390B runs on a powerful 18-v Lithium ion battery that can be used with other tools from the Dewalt Company. This battery provides a formidable power with a maximum 3,700 RPMs allowing you to handle both rip-cut and crosscut operations easily.
  • This tool also boasts of a blade that is 6 ½ inch and tipped with carbide. The blade offers dual capacity, allowing for cuts at both 450 and 900.
  • The tool weighs 7.8 pounds making it one of the lightest in circular saw flagships of the Dewalt Company. It is also portable and very easy to use. You can comfortably use it for prolonged periods without fatigue.
  • The handle of the Dewalt DC390B is ergonomically designed to allow for better gripping and comfort while on use. The tool is well balanced to ensure that the user endures minimal fatigue while using it.
  • The Dewalt DC390B is a compact tool, and smaller than many other tools in the market today. Its small size offers the user a wide range of cutting options in difficult angles and limited workspaces.
  • When it comes to durability, the Dewalt DC390B boasts of the magnesium shoe incorporation, which prolongs the lifetime of the tool through resistance to wear and tear. You can use the brake shoe for a long time without requiring a replacement. The motor of this tool is also fan-cooled and comes with easily replaceable brushes. This immensely contributes to the longevity of the Dewalt DC390B.

Commonly Asked Questions about the Dewalt DC390B

  • Does this tool come with a guide rail? No, you can opt to purchase a guide rail separately or you can simply make use of a few clamps and a straight edge.
  • Is the Dewalt DC390B left handed? Yes, it is set up this way since it would be very difficult to use it as a right-handed saw.

Things I liked about this product

  • It is cordless and you can therefore easily work with it outdoors.
  • You can use both Li-ion and NICAD batteries and chargers from the Dewalt Company.
  • It is light in weight and you can easily handle it on one hand.

Things I did not like about this product

  • The tool is not shipped with the battery. You will have to buy one separately.
  • The tool requires that you press on the safety button as you pull the trigger when cutting. I think this can affect the grip while using it for prolonged periods.

2. BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20B 20-Volt Max Circular Saw

cordless circular sawI loved the Black+ Decker BDCCS20B due to its powerful yet small and compact outlook. For DIYers and home users, you will love its light weight without worrying over how to store it. The Black+ Decker BDCCS20B comes with a super high torque motor, which enables you to work efficiently.

Key Features of the Black+ Decker BDCCS20B

  • I first noted that the Black+ Decker BDCCS20B came with a handy adjustment for the bevel, allowing you to operate and cut up to 900. Only a handful of companies offer this feature. The small and compact size of the saw allows for the prominence of this feature.
  • The saw is cordless, making it of great advantage for DIY users around the house. You do not need to move around with cords.
  • Unlike other saws, the Black+ Decker BDCCS20B has a tool-free depth of cut allowing you to adjust the depths of your cut with ease.

Common Questions about the Black+ Decker BDCCS20B

  • How do you replace the blade of the Black+ Decker BDCCS20B? There are two steps to follow when replacing the blade.
    1. Press the spindle lock button and hold it in place- This will stop the washer of the metal clamp from rotating with the blade bolt.
    2. Insert an Allen wrench on to the blade bolt and turn clockwise to remove the blade bolt and clamp washer to install the blade.
  • Does it come with the battery? No, you will have to buy the battery and charger separately.
  • Does it come with a guide for straight cutting? No, but you can use a straight piece of wood and some clamps to improvise a saw guide.

Things I liked about this product

  • It is small at 5 ½ inches, which makes it easy to handle and operate.
  • Its blade is thin and of high quality enabling you to make precise grooves.
  • You can use other 20v batteries from Black and Decker on your Black+ Decker BDCCS20B

Things I did not like about this product

  • The battery only offers 20volts of power. This is incomparable to what you would have the saw do if it was powered on AC with 120 volts.
  • The left-handed aspect of this tool might not auger well with people who are not used to working with the left hand.

3. PORTER-CABLE PCC660B 20V Max Circular Saw

PORTER-CABLE PCC660B - cordless circular sawIf you are out looking for a circular saw on a budget, then you may want to check out the Porter Cable PCC660B circular saw. The saw comes packed with a 6.5-inch blade, and a super light feel at only 6.5 pounds. Besides enjoying a great balance in the tool and a 500 bevel, you also get to enjoy the 4000 RPMs speed that will have your work all done fast.

Key Features of the Porter Cable PCC660B

  • The Porter Cable PCC660B is built for durability and dependability. Created with a nice fit and rounded edges, this tool feels sturdy while working with it. It is a greater fit when working on your DIY projects but you should keep off the heavy-duty stuff.
  • This tool has a powerful 20v battery for its power, which seamlessly delivers maximum torque. You can enjoy loading this tool with work for a full day.
  • Ergonomics are a great part when looking at the handling and comfort of a tool. The Porter Cable PCC660B does not disappoint as it has a contoured handle made of rubber. This cuts down the vibration immensely.

Common Questions asked about Porter Cable PCC660B

  • What is the maximum depth of cutting at 450? The saw has a cutting depth of slightly over 2 ¼ inches deep.
  • Does it have a laser guide? No, this tool has no laser guide.

Things I liked about this product

  • The motor is quite strong for such a small tool. You will love how it goes through your 2 x 4s.
  • It is a budget tool and delivers more value than its actual price.

Things I did not like about this product

  • The quality feels cheap. There are many plastic components on the tool.
  • There have also been complaints that the shoe bends and warps easily.
  • You cannot also use it for a prolonged period as it heats up quite fast.

4. Milwaukee M182630-20 Circular Saw

Milwaukee M182630-20 - cordless circular sawMilwaukee is a renowned company for its great mastery in making high performance tools and the Milwaukee M182630-20 does not disappoint in any way. The 18v is a budget tool but comes with impressive electric brakes as a safety feature.

Key Features of the Milwaukee M182630-20

  • You will love the electronic brakes, which come into action as soon as you are done with cutting.
  • Magnesium guards add to the safety features of this tool. The guards also come in handy to prevent breakage that might result from bumping and dropping the tool.
  • There is an ergonomic handle to enhance the whole user experience giving you a balanced feel for prolonged use.
  • You can easily adjust the bevel and depth of the saw to suit your cutting needs. The depth can go up to 1 ½” and the bevel will go up to 450, offering you all the versatility you are looking for in your woodwork cuts.
  • The tool is cordless and works well with the 18v lithium ion batteries.

Common Questions asked about the Milwaukee M182630-20

  • Why is the saw left-handed? Most people love that it is left handed because it allows you to have a field view of how you are cutting.
  • Does it have a dust blower? No, the tool is a handy high quality equipment meant for only small use and is inexpensive for it to have this feature.

Things I liked about this product

  • Cordless tools always come loaded with the advantages of portability and ease of storage
  • The tool is a budget pick, despite its full pack of features
  • It has a 450 bevel that gives you a wide range of cutting angles.

Things I did not like about this product

  • The grip of the saw is not as ergonomic as one would have expected with such a high performance tool.
  • The tool weighs about 9 pounds, which is 2 pounds extra for a tool that sells as compact.

5. Makita XSS02Z Circular Saw

Makita XSS02Z - cordless circular saeIf you are out looking for a seedy tool that gets your work done in sheer force, then you might want to look at the Makita XSS02Z Circular Saw. Packed with an impressive 5,000RPMs speed, there is too much to get done once this tool is powered on. Here is a review of the experience I had with this tool.

Key Features of the Makita XSS02Z

  • Comfort and safety are first in the line of features for the Makita XSS02Z Circular Saw. For a powerful 5,000 RPMs tool, Makita has done well with a rubberized grip that is hard to lose. The rubber is also useful in minimizing the level of vibrations, which make it hard to keep a clean cut all through. This tool also comes with a dust blower to help you manage your wood shaving with relative ease.
  • Cutting through the planks is one of the most important aspects of a saw. This tool has a fit-in LED torch to help you project your cutting path.
  • They have also added one of the many things that most circular tool owners keep asking for, a rafter tool. The battery is also fitted with a LED indicator to help you know how fast the battery is draining.

Common Questions asked about the Makita XSS02Z

  • Does it come with a battery? No, this is a bare tool and therefore does not come with a battery.
  • Is there a dado blade for this saw? No, it would be nice if you did not use a dado blade with this tool.

Things I liked about this product

  • The 5000RPMs speed is a definite power up from other circular saw sellers out there. Not many saws come close to 5,000RPMs.
  • With the Makita XSS02Z Circular Saw, you can comfortably get a 10-inch cut with a 45-900
  • Not only do you get a 30-day free repairs warranty, also the perk gets better with Makita’s use of super durable Grade A tool parts.

Things I did not like about this product

  • For a cordless tool, the high speed that Makita offers on this tool greatly affects the battery performance.
  • The tool is still on the brushless motor design, which is like an old game to other companies that have adopted the use of a more durable ball bearing design.

6. Makita XSH03Z Circular Saw

Makita XSH03Z - cordless circular sawMakita is a definite answer to users looking for speed and strength in their power tools. The Makita XSH03Z is an obvious response when you are out looking for a powerful cutting tool for cutting and ripping through lumber. The tool also comes packed with a range of features that are hard to go by.

Key Features of the Makita XSH03Z

  • The first and most forthcoming feature is the max 5000 RPMs to expect with this tool. Enjoy seamless cutting with the Makita XSH03Z.
  • You will also love the new speed change technology that responds automatically by adjusting the torque and speed during operation.
  • The tool has an ergonomic advantage to it, being only 13 ¾ “long. Much can be done with this tool, and in minimal fatigue.
  • With its massive power output, the Makita XSH03Z only weighs 7.3 pounds, which makes it light to hold in the hand for a prolonged period. The cutting and bevel capacity is considerable, owing to the 45-900 bevel range.

Common Questions asked about the Makita XSH03Z

  • Does it have a blade brake? Yes, this tool comes with a brake that stops the blade immediately when the trigger is released.
  • Does the saw have a depth adjustment? Yes, the saw has a depth adjustment capability and a quick release.
  • Is the saw meant for left-handed users only? the build of this saw allows a user to hold the main handle with the left hand and the small front handle with the right handle. The Weight of the saw is therefore shifted centrally while still allowing you to see the cut line.

Things I Liked About this Product

  • The saw is well balanced and therefore easy to use.
  • The saw is light in weight and the cordless aspect makes it easy to use around the house without having to worry about power cords.

Things I did not like about this product

  • The Makita XHS03Z is a little pricier than its competitors, without any extra features to show for it.
  • The high speed has a heavy toll on the longevity of the battery.
 Compare prices on Amazon here

7. Ryobi One P505 18v Lithium Ion Cordless Circular Saw

Ryobi One P505 cordless circular sawThe Ryobi brand has continually proven to provide high quality power tools at friendly budgets and the Ryobi One P505 is one of their best. Although the tools may not be as packed with features as their competitors, it remains to be a great fit for DIYers and light home users.

Key Features of the Ryobi One P505

  • The Ryobi One P505 spots an ergonomic grip zone overmold to assist with a firm grip on the tool and thus improve handling. There is also an extra side handle to give you enhanced control of the tool while on operation.
  • The bevel is also adjustable, up to 500 giving you the flexibility of cutting on a range of different angles.
  • The lower guard is made of transparent polyurethane, to ensure maximum visibility of your cuts while working.
  • The tool runs on 18v lithium ion batteries and is compatible with a wide range of other 18v batteries.

Common Questions asked about the Ryobi One P505

  • Does this tool come with a laser? No, it does not have a laser guide.
  • What difference is there between the P505 and P506? The P505 is a recent model, which came out in the year 2016. The P506 came out a little earlier in the year 2012.
  • Does the blade stop instantly when you release the trigger? No, the tool does not have electrical brakes like other competitor tools have. However, Ryobi has creatively supplemented this feature with a plastic cover that immediately slides down, to cover the blade and thus protect your fingers.

Things I liked about this product

  • A cordless circular saw is always an advantage due its ease of use, anywhere, anytime.
  • It is compact, light in weight, and packs a high speed of 4700RPMs.
  • I loved the rubber grip zone, which makes the tool comfortable to use over a long period.

Things I did not like about this product

  • The tool has no extra feature to assist with making straight line cuts.

8. DEWALT DCS570B 7 ¼” 20v Circular Saw

Dewalt DCS570B cordless circular sawDewalt is a great company and a high quality dependable manufacturer of woodworking power tools. The DEWALT DCS570B is in many ways identical to the DCS575 and is an ergonomous tool that you will enjoy using.

Key Features of the DEWALT DCS570B

  • The DEWALT DCS570B has a brushless motor providing a maximum speed of 5200 RPMs.
  • The tool also has an electronic blade brake that quickly stops the blade after releasing the trigger. This is an important safety feature to prevent injury and it helps you resume your cutting fast when dealing with intermittent stops.
  • You will love the contoured ergonomic handles of the DEWALT DCS570B. The support handle, also known as the pommel helps to relieve the strain on your wrist if you are using the tool for a long while.
  • It is easy to make adjustments with the DEWALT DCS570B. The depth of cut is easily adjustable while the bevel permits up to 570
  • Unless you may not be so much into this feature, I loved the rafter hook on my DEWALT DCS570B. It makes it easier bearing the tool when climbing ladders.

Common Questions asked about the Dewalt DCS570B

  • Does it have a laser or LED light to guide the cut line? No,
  • What is the power of this tool? The DEWALT DCS570B is one of the most powerful compact circular saw tools with a max speed of 5200 RPMS and is powered by a 20v Lithium ion battery.

Things I liked about this product

  • The rafter hook is a sure win for Dewalt on this tool.
  • I loved the electrical braking system. It allows you to power up the tool almost immediately, rather than waiting for the blade to stop before restarting it.
  • The tool also earned my respect for its brushless motor with a maximum speed of 5200RPMs.

Things I did not like about this product

  • The tool is quite pricey for its compact size and no extra features.
Check out our in-depth review of the Dewalt DCS570B 20V Brushless Cordless Circular Saw.

9.   RYOBI P506 One+ 5 ½” 18V Li-Ion Cordless Circular Saw

Ryobi P506 One+ cordless circular sawThe Ryobi P506 comes fully packed with great features, which are no match for its budget friendly price. Here are some of the key features you will find on the Ryobi P506 One Plus.

Key Features of the Ryobi P506 One+

  • An easy-to-grip ergonomic handle that allows easy control and handling, even on slippery conditions.
  • Unlike other pricey tools, the Ryobi P506 One Plus has a laser guide to help you in following the cut line.
  • Adjustments are easy to make for depth and bevel angles. The bevel angle can adjust between 00 to 50 0.
  • The Ryobi P506 One Plus uses an 18v Li-ion battery, and is compatible with many Ryobi batteries.

Common Questions asked about the Ryobi P506 One+

  • Does the saw have a beveling capability at 450? Yes, it has.
  • Can a rip cut guide fit on this tool? Yes, it has a hole, which can easily fit just as it does on the skil saw.

Things I liked about this product

  • The battery of the Ryobi P506 One Plus has a fast charging capability and lasts longer than you may expect.
  • The tool is budget friendly and the ergonomics are above average.

Things I did not like about this product

  • The saw has a weak shoe, which may affect its durability.
  • The high RPM output drains the battery quite fast.

10. DEWALT DCS391B 20-Volt MAX Li-Ion Circular Saw

Dewalt DCS391BThe Dewalt DCS391B is the ideal woodworking tool that you need to handle all of your woodworking projects. This power tool is a combination of power, safety, durability, and efficiency- all bundled up into one compact and portable saw. Offering you precision and accuracy wile handling it, you will love the Dewalt DCS391B for its pre-set functionality that allows you to work non-stop once it goes on.

Key Features of the Dewalt DCS391B

  • The Dewalt DCS391B is a powerhouse offering an immense 459MWO and an unbeaten speed cutting of 1550 RPM. The sheer power and speed allows you to deal with all types of cutting seamlessly, without the need for another power tool in your project.
  • Durability is key for every power tool in the workshop and the Dewalt DCS391B offers just that. It comes equipped with a lightweight and super strength shoe made of magnesium to provide a durable experience of accurate cutting.
  • The bevel capacity is at its best, a 0-50­0. The wide range offers you a chance to get aggressive with the bevel cuts. It also allows you to explore a wide range of applications.
  • User comfort is guaranteed with the Dewalt DCS391B model. Grip is enhanced with a rubber overmold, which ensures that balance, and control is optimised while the tool is in use.
  • Precision cutting is well taken care of with the Dewalt DCS391B as the blade, which is tipped with carbide, can cut at both 900 and 450.
  • While using the Dewalt DCS391B you can use it both indoors and outdoors as its portability is enhanced with a powerful 20 volts Li-ion battery

Commonly Asked Questions

  • Does the Saw have a Brake? The answer is no. The blade stops cutting after you switch the power button off.
  • How is the blade inserted? It is easy. The saw comes with an Allen wrench, which is close to the handle on the right. To remove it, push the button for locking the blade in, to stop the blade motion. You can then use the Allen wrench to loosen the bolt until the clamp comes off. The bolt is reverse threaded and opens by turning clockwise.

Things I liked about this Product

  • The Dewalt DCS391B feels very safe while using it
  • It is compact in its design and super light in weight
  • The blade is carbide tipped

Things I did not like about this product

  • The Dewalt DCS391B is cordless and uses a Li-ion battery for power.

Buying Guide for Cordless Circular Saws​

With all the different cordless circular saws in the market today, buying can be a tough choice to make. While specs can be a great way to tell you what you should go for, at times it is just hard to find what fits you and what does not. If you are looking forward to having a long-term project, or if you often find yourself in need of a saw in your DIY and home projects, then you may want to grab a cordless circular power saw. The following are points that draw a baseline for what you should be looking for in a circular saw.

  1. Ensure that the saw you go for the tool that fits into your budget first.
  2. Consider the cut line indicator. This indicator is very important in helping you make your cuts perfectly.
  3. A clear sight of the blade must be visible. A great circular saw ensures that there is a viewing window in between the front handle and the blade.
  4. Ensure that you pick a circular saw whose bevel lever is easily reachable and comfortable to operate. Look for those whose bevel angles are engraved onto the cast.
  5. Consider the base plate of the saw. A good base plate should have a straight edge to ride against the cutting guide.
  6. Consider the blade retraction guard. You do not want a retraction guard that sticks on your piece of wood. It should have a blunt or curved edge to prevent sticking
  7. Consider the placement and operation of the adjustment lever. The adjustment lever should be easy to operate and reach even when the saw is running.

However, it is important to note that none of the tools can fit perfectly into the considerations above. Rather, it is important for you to get one that fits your use and comfort based on the criterion above. Keep in mind that you can always forego some functionalities than others, which is why you should pick out the circular saw that fits most of our needs.

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