In the arsenal of the homeowner must be equipment only from the best manufacturers. This review contains information that will help you decide and tell you how to choose an inexpensive, but high-quality cutter.
A circular saw is an indispensable tool for installation work. With a powerful motor and a fast rotating disc blade, it cuts heavy-duty building materials.
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Compete in the versatility of the tasks performed with a circular, perhaps only a jigsaw can. For heavy work, such as cutting lumber or large plywood panels, a turntable or bed is useful.
A circular, hand saw has two limitations:
Despite some disadvantages, a disc cutter must be in the arsenal of a professional carpenter. This is the only tool that is equally good for both concrete and wooden structures in the country, and most importantly, it will do all the work in the shortest possible time.
The circular saw is similar to a high-speed table saw, and the ability to install it permanently actually makes the functionality of these tools the same. There is one thing that the tool does better than any other so-called "plunge". This is an advanced but simple technique in which the blade "bites" into the material from above to make inside cuts, without cutting the edge.
The disc cutter is ergonomic, with a D-handle on top with a smooth trigger, and a holder on the side for a more confident grip. Safe use is guaranteed by a protective cover. The blade, sliding up and down, regulates the depth of cut.
There are two main types of engine:
For domestic use, the standard one is better because it is small-sized, more maneuverable, easier to use than a worm gear.
The dimensions of the tool depend on the size of the disk. The most common diameter (18.5 cm) cuts to a depth of about 6 cm, mini saws can use 8 cm blades. In all cases, the depth of cut is less than half the diameter because the torch rotates on a mandrel in the center of the blade.
There are larger tools - 25.5 cm and less common - 41.5 cm, called a beam saw. This is professional level equipment for loggers. Please note that smaller blades fit larger saws, but you cannot use a 25.5 cm disc on a 20 cm cutter.
Small tools are good for thin material like plywood; trim, sheathing, or occasional woodwork, but for other jobs (including masonry sawing), the standard 7 ¼" tool is the best choice.
To determine the criteria for choosing equipment, you need to clearly understand the essence of the upcoming work, for each there is a suitable knife:
Like most electric tools, there are circulars: wired (networked), as well as battery-powered.
The trade-off, which of the models is better to buy, is very simple: network ones offer constant, high power. Rechargeable - convenience, there is no extension cord that needs to be wound up, and the need to look for an outlet will be a thing of the past. If you need to make a few cuts in a remote area where there is no power, a cordless tool is the only option.
For a conventional cutter, the power rating can vary from 5 to 15 amps. The larger it is, the cleaner the cuts, and the blade is more durable.
The battery power is calculated in volts. The standard value is 18W. In addition to voltage, ampere hours (Ah) are often listed, which determine the capacity of the battery (how quickly it will drain), ranging from 5 to 9. Note that some manufacturers offer additional batteries with higher voltage, capacity.
Below is a rating of quality tools (budget, compact, battery) based on customer reviews. He will help you navigate the average prices, tell you which company equipment is better to buy.
This powerful, professional cutter with many useful features will cut through thick wood with ease. Thanks to its good balance and compactness, you won't have any problems with clean cuts, and an experienced carpenter knows that a quality cut is the main factor in buying a particular model.
As for the design, it is rather conditional. In addition, the 5007N has tapered stops so you can handle a variety of angles without much effort. The 15 A motor speeds up to 5800 rpm, guaranteeing durability and efficiency. Makita models have long gained popularity among professionals and amateurs in woodworking.
Accuracy is increased thanks to two built-in LED lights that are designed to calibrate the cut line. Work in a slope, with some stops, is possible up to 56 ⁰.
If we talk about the disadvantages, the biggest one is the lack of dust control. In other words, many people complain about getting sawdust in their face, which is not a very pleasant experience.
The benefits are many, the most obvious being build quality. The case is made of durable and reliable materials, so you can not worry about sudden malfunctions. In addition, the presence of conical stops, LED indicators, smooth running, also adds pluses.
The machine is quite easy to set up and use, even if you are not a carpenter. However, be sure to read the manual regardless of previous experience, because while most mechanisms work on the same principle, each has its own characteristics. The Makita 5007N is a worthy investment for both professionals and enthusiasts.
Technical indicators:
Options | Characteristics |
---|---|
Design | manual |
Number of speeds | 1 |
Cutting height | 6.4 cm |
Disc diameter | 18.5 cm. |
Tilt angle | 56 deg. |
Rotational speed | 5800 rpm |
Functions and features | spindle lock |
The weight | 5 kg. |
Guarantee | 1 year |
The magnesium construction makes the tool comfortable to handle, regardless of experience. The DWS520K is easy to use, lightweight, powerful and suitable for a wide range of applications.
Dewalt is a well-respected brand among electrical users and has a long history of producing top-notch circular saw blades. Needless to say, this one is just as good in quality as the brand's other units.
The motor rotates the cutter at 4800 rpm. in idle mode. The spindle lock at the top allows you to change the blade in minutes, greatly reducing downtime.
The model has many useful features, for example, the "Toughcord" system protects the cord four times better than any other, and allows you to safely use the tool. The equipment is well balanced.
If you're looking for a machine that can cut anything like a hot knife through butter, the DWS520K might be a good choice. This is an affordable car, without pretensions to universality.
Technical indicators:
Options | Characteristics |
---|---|
Design | manual |
Power | 1300 W |
output power | 690 W |
Cutting height | 5.5 cm |
Disc diameter | 16.5 cm |
landing hole | 2.0 cm |
Tilt angle | 47 deg. |
Rotational speed | 4000 rpm |
Functions and features | stepless speed control, vacuum cleaner connection |
Contents of delivery | precision saw blade with 48 teeth, case |
Dimensions (WxH) | 303x265 mm |
The weight | 5.1 kg |
Another "Makita" on our list is the focus of compactness, power. The 5477NB is similar to the 5007N, with some notable differences. The first is the design, the functionality has remained more or less the same. When it comes to build quality, Makita never ceases to amaze its customers with its high quality and affordable price.
The 15A motor accelerates the blade to 4500 rpm using an innovative technology called "compressed winding". This is a fairly simple but effective principle. It allows the machine to do quality work while providing high productivity. The accessory mechanism consists of hypoid wheels (a type of helical gear train) which are known for durability, which is very important, especially for professionals. Service life is one of the main advantages of the 5477NB.
The unit requires constant lubrication, which can be difficult to apply, but thanks to the oil bath technology, the Makita is always ready to go. The levers on the block are rubberized, on the other hand, the handle is not cushioned, which can be considered a disadvantage and affects if the machine vibrates strongly. Fortunately, gloves help to solve this problem.
There are not many cons, the most obvious being the lack of protection against sawdust. These problems, however, are present in most manufacturers.
The big advantage of 5477NB is its weight, which is 3 kg. The unit is lightweight and easy to use. The price is excellent this is one of the most affordable circular saws in this category.
Technical indicators:
Options | Characteristics |
---|---|
Design | manual |
Power | 1800 W |
Number of speeds | 1 |
Cutting height | 6.0 cm |
Diameter | 18.5 cm |
landing hole | 3.0 cm |
Tilt angle | 51 deg. |
Rotational speed | 4500 rpm |
Network cable length | 2.5 m |
Functions and features | spindle lock |
Dimensions (WxHxD) | 442x254x183 mm |
The weight | 6.5 kg |
Guarantee period | 12 months |
Ryobi's most popular circular is the RWSL1801M, which belongs to the popular One+ line. The saw uses a versatile 18V lithium-ion battery that can power a range of other tools.
It is preferable to purchase a battery with a larger capacity (4 Ah or 5 Ah), as it will discharge more slowly, even with an average load.
The RWSL1801M is powerful, durable and compact, yet one of the most versatile and lightest (2.8 kg). The blade diameter is 150 mm, this is quite enough, and if problems arise, you can always turn the bar over.
The feature that makes this model popular is the extra-thin blade. Thanks to the revving engine generating an impressive idle speed (4700 rpm), the cut is incredibly clean as less heat, friction and sawdust are generated.
To improve visibility, the tool is equipped with an adjustable laser, as well as a fan to disperse dust.
The design of the equipment includes: lock-switch, electric brake, overload protection, which greatly improves safety.
Ryobi offers excellent value for money and is one of the best circular saws around.
Technical indicators:
Options | Characteristics |
---|---|
Battery operation | + |
Number of speeds | 1 |
Cutting height | 4.5 cm |
Disc diameter | 15.0 cm |
landing hole | 1.0 cm |
Tilt angle | 45 deg. |
Rotational speed | 4700 rpm |
Battery voltage | 18 V |
Functions and features | laser marker, spindle lock, vacuum cleaner connection |
Contents of delivery | saw blade, wrench |
The weight | 2.5 kg |
Guarantee period | 24 months |
The DCS391N is pretty close in performance to the list winner, the Makita DHS680Z. The unit is an excellent kit, with a compact profile, high build quality, technological features, excellent performance. It weighs only 3.2 kg without battery (plus 0.4 kg with 3 Ah battery).
You can always identify a premium tool by its low noise level and lack of vibration from the motor (which in this case is fan-cooled). The fact that the unit comes with replaceable brushes also indicates that the DeWalt is built to last. Cordless circulars are equipped with low-power motors, as well as blades of small diameter.
An 18V lithium-ion battery powers a 760V motor, which is enough to run the torch at 3700 RPM. A tool of this quality must have an electric brake. Other nice features include a die-cast magnesium baseplate, an easy-to-lock bevel adjuster and depth control lever, a sturdy handle with built-in smart trigger, and a lockout switch.
Thus, it is a great choice if you are looking for a good cordless cutter for professionals.
Technical indicators:
Options | Characteristics |
---|---|
Design | manual |
Battery operation | + |
output power | 460 W |
Cutting height | 5.5 cm |
Disc diameter | 16.5 cm |
landing hole | 2.0 cm |
Tilt angle | 45 deg. |
Rotational speed | 3700 rpm |
Battery voltage | 18 V |
Functions and features | backlight, engine braking, smooth speed control, vacuum cleaner connection |
Contents of delivery | saw blade, wrench (without battery and charger) |
Dimensions (WxH) | 360x240mm |
The weight | 3.8 kg |
If you're looking for a quality "Makita" but don't want to go with the brushless DHS680Z, then the DSS610Z is a good option.
This unit isn't as powerful as the DHS680Z (its motor idles at 3700rpm compared to 5000rpm), but the spin is more than enough for hardwood work.
The equipment is compact, lightweight (3.4 kg with a 3 Ah battery; 3.0 kg without), well balanced, comfortable to grip, thanks to rubberized handles, makes a minimum of noise, has smooth control. Aluminum base plate included.
The cutter is safe: double trigger safety prevents accidental start, electric brake that stops the blade after 2 seconds, large lock lever.
All components are solid, resistant to deformation. The depth control lever and bevel adjuster are well machined, easy to operate, and allow cutting up to 57mm and 40mm at 45⁰, respectively. Installed dust collector, LED lights so you can see the cutting line.
The 18V Lithium Ion batteries are designed to power the entire Makita LXT range of power tools and are therefore replaceable.
There is nothing bad to say about this model. The price tag is reasonable and the saw comes with a 3 year warranty.
Technical indicators:
Options | Characteristics |
---|---|
Design | manual |
Battery operation | + |
output power | 360 W |
Number of speeds | 1 |
Cutting height | 5.7 cm |
Disc diameter | 16.5 cm |
landing hole | 2.0 cm |
Tilt angle | 45 deg. |
Rotational speed | 3700 rpm |
Battery voltage | 18 V |
Functions and features | backlight, engine braking, spindle lock, vacuum cleaner connection |
Contents of delivery | without battery and charger |
Dimensions (WxHxD) | 347x228x202mm |
The weight | 3.2 kg |
What sets the DHS680Z apart from the other gears on the list is the brushless motor. Such units work much more efficiently, with less wear on components, and generate as much energy as is necessary for work. This means the battery will last longer.
Thus, depending on the load, one battery (4 A / h or 5 A / h) will last for several days, and thanks to the Makita Optimstar Charging System, the full charge time is only 22 minutes.
The 680W motor provides a maximum idle speed of 5000 rpm, and the torque control system allows you to handle hardwoods effortlessly.
Soft, quiet start, overload protection, electric brake provide additional safety during work. The saw feels balanced and comfortable to grip. Weighs 3.3 kg. without battery and 3.8 kg. with battery.
Other nice features:
The maximum cutting depth is 57mm at 90⁰, 41mm at 45⁰. To improve the visibility of the cut, a blower function and LED lighting are provided.
For the highest quality and top performance, Makita will demand a reasonable price and also provide a 3 year warranty.
Technical indicators:
Options | Characteristics |
---|---|
Design | manual |
Battery operation | + |
Number of speeds | 1 |
Cutting height | 57 mm |
Disc diameter | 165 mm |
Bore diameter | 20 mm |
Tilt angle | 50 deg. |
Rotational speed | 5000 rpm |
Battery type | Li-Ion |
Battery voltage | 18 V |
Functions and features | backlight, soft start, engine braking, vacuum cleaner connection |
Contents of delivery | saw blade, wrench (without battery and charger) |
The weight | 3.3 kg |
Peculiarities | built-in LED lighting, chip blowing system |
If a heavy, full-size circular saw is uncomfortable for you, causing unnecessary strain on your hands during use, then you should look for a more compact, flexible and comfortable one. Mini cutters provide improved control, maneuverability.
The Worx family of compact circular saws is one of the most popular on the market.Instead of the standard 185/190mm blade, the tool has a much smaller 120mm blade.
The motor does not require much power, unlike a standard circular (it is half the size of the motor of a standard 700 W unit), so it is smaller and lighter, dimensions allow one-handed operation.
Worx WX427 is one of the best mini circular saws:
Technical indicators:
Options | Characteristics |
---|---|
Design | manual |
Power | 710 W |
Number of speeds | 1 |
Metal work | + |
Cutting height | 46 mm |
Disc diameter | 120 mm |
landing hole | 9 mm |
Tilt angle | 45 deg. |
Rotational speed | 3700 rpm |
Functions and features | with laser cutter, spindle lock, vacuum cleaner connection |
Noise level | 87 dB |
Contents of delivery | rip fence, wrench, vacuum cleaner adapter, 3 discs |
The weight | 2.3 kg |
The Dremel SM20-03 comes in a handy storage box. It includes not only the product, the power cord, but also more than a dozen interchangeable disks, several wrenches.
The mini-saw can be used with one hand, it is able to cut into the material, make straight or continuous cuts up to 2 cm deep. The tool is able to process wood, drywall, sheet metal, tile, plastic, laminate.
The SM20-03 is a versatile, compact unit powered by a 6A motor, Dremel is one of the most powerful and efficient saws available.
It is worth noting the fact that manufacturers supplemented the design with a lock button, which comes in handy during prolonged use. Another point, in the final score, adds the ability to quickly change the disk.
Technical indicators:
Options | Characteristics |
---|---|
Design | manual |
Power | 710 W |
Number of speeds | 1 |
Metal work | + |
Cutting height | 46 mm |
Disc diameter | 120 mm |
landing hole | 9 mm |
Tilt angle | 45 deg. |
Rotational speed | 3700 rpm |
Functions and features | with laser cutter, spindle lock, vacuum cleaner connection |
Noise level | 87 dB |
Contents of delivery | rip fence, wrench, vacuum cleaner adapter, 3 discs |
The weight | 2.3 kg |
Einhell is a high quality product that is known to most carpenters in different countries:
The brand offers a good value for money, in addition to an effective tool, six blades, you also get a carrying case.
The 450W motor is versatile and is effective on almost all materials and surfaces. The design has a cutting depth adjuster.
To keep the cutting line straight, the device comes with a guide rail and a built-in laser. Automatic shutdown, when the machine is overloaded, ensures that the gears do not fail in the event of additional resistance.
Technical indicators:
Options | Characteristics |
---|---|
Power | 450 W |
Number of speeds | 1 |
Cutting height | 23 mm |
Disc diameter | 85 mm |
landing hole | 10 mm |
Rotational speed | 6000 rpm |
Functions and features | electronic motor protection, vacuum cleaner connection |
Contents of delivery | 3 saw blades, rip fence, vacuum cleaner adapter, keys, case |
The weight | 1.96 kg |
We hope the review will help you figure out what circular saws are for, how much they cost, and from the league of amateur carpenters, go to professionals.