Best of
The Best Circular Saws (2027)
The best circular saws for 2027, ranked on RPM, bevel capacity, and cut control. DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, and Skil compared spec by spec.
The short answer
The DeWalt DWE575SB is the best circular saw for most buyers in 2027: 15 amps, 5,200 RPM, a class-leading 57-degree bevel, and an electric brake. Go cordless with the Milwaukee M18 2732-20 (5,800 RPM brushless), compact with the Makita XSS02Z, or cheapest with the Skil 5280-01.
Our top picks at a glance
- DeWalt DWE575SBThe corded benchmark that cordless chases.Best overall
- Milwaukee M18 2732-20Cordless 7-1/4 in power without compromise.Best cordless
- Makita XSS02ZThe compact cutter for one-handed control.Best compact
- Skil 5280-01The budget 7-1/4 in that just works.Best budget
- Makita 5007MGMagnesium corded classic: 15 amps, 5,800 RPM, 10.6 pounds.Best magnesium corded
What owners report
Synthesized from recurring themes in long-term owner feedback.
Most praised
- An electric blade brake is the safety feature owners say they would not give up once experienced
- Magnesium shoes that stay flat after jobsite abuse keep cuts accurate over years of use
- Cordless saws that genuinely match corded pace have converted many framing crews
- Clear sight of the cut line, helped by blade-side layout or a dust port, improves first-cut accuracy
- Lightweight corded and compact saws reduce fatigue enough to change how long owners work comfortably
Common complaints
- Bare-tool pricing hides the true cost once the right batteries and charger are added
- Advertised runtime depends heavily on battery size, and small packs disappoint on framing days
- Cords snag on sheet edges and dictate layout on corded models, a daily annoyance
- Compact saws run out of depth quickly when projects grow beyond trim and sheet goods
- Dust collection on many models needs adapters or a vacuum before it works as owners expected
The picks, ranked
| # | Product | Award | Motor | Blade | No-load speed | Bevel capacity | Brake |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DeWalt DWE575SB | Best overall | 15 amp corded | 7-1/4 in | 5,200 RPM | 57 degrees | Electric |
| 2 | Milwaukee M18 2732-20 | Best cordless | Brushless FUEL | 7-1/4 in | 5,800 RPM | 50 degrees | - |
| 3 | Makita XSS02Z | Best compact | Brushed | 6-1/2 in | 5,000 RPM | 50 degrees | - |
| 4 | Skil 5280-01 | Best budget | 15 amp corded | 7-1/4 in | 5,300 RPM | 51 degrees | None |
| 5 | Makita 5007MG | Best magnesium corded | - | 7-1/4 in | 5,800 RPM | - | - |
| 6 | DeWalt DCS570B | Most powerful cordless | Brushless | 7-1/4 in | 5,800 RPM | 57 degrees | - |
| 7 | Bosch CS10 | Best corded value | - | 7-1/4 in | 5,600 RPM | 56 degrees | - |
| 8 | Worx WX429L | Best one-hand saw | - | - | 4,600 RPM | - | - |
| 9 | SkilSaw SPT77WML-01 | Best worm drive | - | 7-1/4 in | 5,300 RPM | 53 degrees | - |
| 10 | Ryobi P507 | Best 18V value | Brushless | 7-1/4 in | 4,700 RPM | 50 degrees | - |
Best overall
DeWalt DWE575SB
The corded benchmark that cordless chases.
The DWE575SB is the saw every other saw is measured against: 15 amps, 5,200 RPM, a 57-degree bevel that leads the class, and an electric brake, all in an 8.8 lb body. Corded power never sags mid-cut, which is exactly what you want when an expensive sheet of plywood is on the line.
Strengths
- 15-amp motor holds 5,200 RPM under load in 2x stock
- 57-degree bevel capacity is the deepest in this group
- Electric brake stops the blade in seconds for safer set-downs
- Lightweight 8.8 lb body reduces fatigue on long rip cuts
Limitations
- Cord tethers you to outlets and snags on workpieces
- No battery platform to grow into
- Dust collection needs an adapter for shop vacs
| Motor | 15 amp corded |
|---|---|
| Blade | 7-1/4 in |
| No-load speed | 5,200 RPM |
| Bevel capacity | 57 degrees |
| Brake | Electric |
Best for: Buyers who want unlimited runtime and the deepest bevel in the class.
Skip if: You need cordless freedom or already own into a battery platform.
Best cordless
Milwaukee M18 2732-20
Cordless 7-1/4 in power without compromise.
The 2732-20 proves cordless has caught up: a brushless FUEL motor at 5,800 RPM out-spins every corded saw here, and the full 7-1/4 in blade keeps full-depth 2x capacity. If you already own M18 batteries, this is the no-compromise cordless answer.
Strengths
- Brushless FUEL motor spins 5,800 RPM, fastest here
- Full 7-1/4 in blade cuts 2x lumber at 90 degrees in one pass
- Magnesium shoe stays flat and resists jobsite bending
- Rafter hook hangs the saw safely between cuts
Limitations
- Bare tool price is premium before batteries
- Heavier than corded equivalents with a 5.0Ah pack
- Runtime depends entirely on battery size you own
| Platform | M18 18V |
|---|---|
| Motor | Brushless FUEL |
| Blade | 7-1/4 in |
| No-load speed | 5,800 RPM |
| Bevel capacity | 50 degrees |
Best for: M18 owners who want full-size cordless cutting for framing and decks.
Skip if: You want the lowest cost or rarely cut away from outlets.
Best compact
Makita XSS02Z
The compact cutter for one-handed control.
The XSS02Z trades blade size for control: the 6-1/2 in blade and light frame make it the easiest saw here to guide accurately, and 5,000 RPM with a 50-degree bevel covers trim, plywood, and framing cuts that do not need full depth.
Strengths
- 6-1/2 in blade and compact frame excel in tight spaces
- 5,000 RPM is plenty for sheet goods and trim
- 50-degree bevel covers nearly all finish angles
- Light body reduces arm fatigue on long cut sessions
Limitations
- 6-1/2 in blade cannot cut 2x stock at 90 degrees in one pass
- Smaller blade means slower deep rips
- Bare tool; battery and charger add to the real cost
| Platform | 18V LXT |
|---|---|
| Blade | 6-1/2 in |
| No-load speed | 5,000 RPM |
| Bevel capacity | 50 degrees |
| Motor | Brushed |
Best for: Users who prioritize maneuverability for trim, plywood, and overhead cuts.
Skip if: You regularly rip 2x lumber at full depth.
Best budget
Skil 5280-01
The budget 7-1/4 in that just works.
The 5280-01 delivers 15 amps, 5,300 RPM, and a 7-1/4 in blade for the lowest cost in the full-size class. You give up the electric brake and premium fit and finish, but the cuts it makes are the same size as the expensive saws' cuts.
Strengths
- 15-amp motor and 5,300 RPM match pricier corded saws
- 51-degree bevel with positive 45-degree stop for common angles
- 7-1/4 in blade handles full 2x depth cuts
- Lowest entry cost in the full-size class
Limitations
- No electric brake; blade coasts after trigger release
- Basic shoe and guard feel less refined than premium saws
- Corded only, no battery path
| Motor | 15 amp corded |
|---|---|
| Blade | 7-1/4 in |
| No-load speed | 5,300 RPM |
| Bevel capacity | 51 degrees |
| Brake | None |
Best for: Occasional users who want full-size capacity at the lowest cost.
Skip if: You cut daily or need premium dust control and brakes.
Best magnesium corded
Makita 5007MG
Magnesium corded classic: 15 amps, 5,800 RPM, 10.6 pounds.
15 amps and 5,800 RPM in a 10.6 lb magnesium body: the classic framing formula. Corded means it never fades mid-cut, and this design has survived decades of jobsite abuse. The cord is the only compromise.
Strengths
- 15-amp motor never fades mid-cut
- 5,800 RPM for fast, clean cuts
- Magnesium components hold weight to 10.6 lbs
- 7-1/4 in blade handles full dimensional lumber
Limitations
- Cord limits mobility on big sites
- No brake or LED on this classic design
- Heavier than compact cordless saws
| Power | 15A corded |
|---|---|
| No-load speed | 5,800 RPM |
| Blade | 7-1/4 in |
| Construction | Magnesium components |
| Weight | 10.6 lbs |
Best for: Framers and DIYers who want a proven corded saw that lasts decades.
Skip if: You need cordless freedom; the cord is the whole compromise.
Most powerful cordless
DeWalt DCS570B
FlexVolt muscle: corded-class 5,800 RPM without the cord.
60V FlexVolt power delivering a true 5,800 RPM with a 7-1/4 in blade: the first cordless saw here that asks no power compromise versus corded. The 57-degree bevel capacity is a bonus for steep cuts. You pay for it in battery cost.
Strengths
- 60V MAX power rivals corded saws
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- 5,800 RPM with a 7-1/4 in blade
- 57-degree bevel capacity for steep cuts
Limitations
- Bare tool; 60V batteries are expensive
- Heavier than 18V-class saws
- Overkill for occasional plywood cuts
| Platform | 60V MAX |
|---|---|
| Motor | Brushless |
| No-load speed | 5,800 RPM |
| Blade | 7-1/4 in |
| Bevel capacity | 57 degrees |
Best for: Pros who want to cut the cord without cutting power.
Skip if: You are not on the 60V platform; the battery cost is real.
Best corded value
Bosch CS10
Corded value: 15 amps and 5,600 RPM for less.
15 amps, 5,600 RPM, and a 56-degree bevel for the lowest price among full-size corded saws here. At 10.3 lbs it is not the lightest, but for a garage saw that gets used monthly, value beats ounces.
Strengths
- 15-amp motor for sustained cutting
- 5,600 RPM keeps cuts clean
- 56-degree bevel capacity
- Lowest price among full-size corded saws here
Limitations
- Cord tethers you to an outlet
- Basic feature set, no frills
- Heavier than magnesium rivals
| Power | 15A corded |
|---|---|
| No-load speed | 5,600 RPM |
| Blade | 7-1/4 in |
| Bevel capacity | 56 degrees |
| Weight | 10.3 lbs |
Best for: Budget buyers who want full-size cutting capacity on a cord.
Skip if: You want the lightest saw; 10.3 lbs is middle of the pack.
Best one-hand saw
Worx WX429L
One-handed 4-1/2 in cutting for trim and plywood.
A 4-1/2 in blade and one-hand form factor that makes trim cuts and plywood breakdown feel safe for beginners. It cannot rip 2x lumber, but for everything thinner it is the least intimidating way to cut straight.
Strengths
- Compact one-hand form factor
- 4,600 RPM is plenty for thin stock
- Runs on 20V PowerShare batteries
- Least intimidating saw here for beginners
Limitations
- 4-1/2 in blade limits cut depth
- Not for framing or thick hardwoods
- Small base can feel tippy on wide boards
| Platform | 20V PowerShare |
|---|---|
| Blade diameter | 4-1/2 in |
| No-load speed | 4,600 RPM |
| Form factor | Compact one-hand |
| Best for | Trim, plywood, PVC |
Best for: Trim work, plywood breakdown, and users who fear full-size saws.
Skip if: You rip 2x lumber regularly; the 4-1/2 in blade cannot.
Best worm drive
SkilSaw SPT77WML-01
Worm-drive torque: 15 amps of framing power, left-blade sight lines.
Worm-drive gearing turns 15 amps into framing torque that sidewinders cannot match, and the left-blade Southpaw layout gives right-handed users a clear cut line. Long and heavy, but nothing rips engineered lumber like it.
Strengths
- Worm-drive gearing multiplies cutting torque
- 15-amp Dual-Field motor runs cooler under load
- Left-blade Southpaw layout shows the cut line
- Magnesium construction keeps weight down to 11.5 lb
- 53-degree bevel capacity beats most worm drives
Limitations
- Long body is awkward in tight spots
- Heavier than sidewinder saws
- Premium price for the drive type
| Drive | Worm drive |
|---|---|
| Power | 15A corded |
| No-load speed | 5,300 RPM |
| Blade | 7-1/4 in |
| Bevel capacity | 53 degrees |
| Blade side | Left (Southpaw) |
Best for: Framers who grew up on worm drives and want maximum torque.
Skip if: You want light and compact; worm drives are long and heavy.
Best 18V value
Ryobi P507
Brushless 18V cutting: 4,700 RPM on the ONE+ platform.
Brushless efficiency, 4,700 RPM, and a 7-1/4 in blade on batteries you may already own. For the ONE+ household, this is the cheapest path to a genuinely capable cordless saw.
Strengths
- Brushless motor stretches battery runtime
- 4,700 RPM with a full 7-1/4 in blade
- 50-degree bevel capacity
- Uses batteries you may already own
Limitations
- Less sustained power than 60V saws
- Bare tool; battery cost if you are new to ONE+
- Heavier than compact-class saws
| Platform | 18V ONE+ |
|---|---|
| Motor | Brushless |
| Blade | 7-1/4 in |
| No-load speed | 4,700 RPM |
| Bevel capacity | 50 degrees |
Best for: ONE+ owners who want a capable cordless saw without a new battery system.
Skip if: You cut thick hardwoods all day; 18V has less stamina than 60V.
How we chose
We ranked saws on no-load RPM, bevel range, blade size relative to claimed capacity, shoe rigidity, and safety features like electric brakes. Every pick had to make accurate, repeatable cuts in 2x lumber or 3/4 in plywood, the two materials that define this tool. Corded and cordless were judged on their own terms: runtime consistency for corded, freedom and battery efficiency for cordless.
Questions, answered
What size circular saw do I need?
7-1/4 in is the standard: it cuts 2x lumber at 90 degrees in one pass. 6-1/2 in saws are lighter and easier to control but cannot manage full-depth 2x cuts, so choose based on your most common material.
Is an electric brake important?
Yes for safety and workflow. A brake stops the blade in seconds instead of letting it coast, so you can set the saw down sooner and with less risk of the spinning blade contacting something.
Corded or cordless?
Corded for unlimited runtime and lower cost; the DeWalt DWE575SB never sags. Cordless for freedom on jobsites and decks; the Milwaukee 2732-20 matches corded speed at 5,800 RPM but needs big batteries for all-day work.
What is bevel capacity and why does it matter?
Bevel capacity is how far the blade tilts, typically 45 to 57 degrees. Standard miters need 45 degrees; anything beyond that matters for compound cuts and steep trim work, where the DeWalt's 57 degrees leads.