Best Circular Saws (2026): 12 Compared (8 Sources)
What are the best circular saws in 2026?
TL;DR
Top pick: Milwaukee 2732-20 M18 FUEL (~$263 bare) — PTR 2026's best-overall cordless; topped both rip-cut and full-depth tests on a Forge battery.
Best value: Skil PWRCore 20 XP CR5440B kit (~$169) — battery + charger included, PTR "best for the money."
Best budget: SKIL 5280-01 (~$59) — 15A corded, 5,300 RPM, laser guide. [src2, src6]
Summary
The circular saw market in May 2026 is dominated by cordless models that now match or exceed corded performance, thanks to brushless motors and high-voltage battery platforms. Pro Tool Reviews' April 2026 head-to-head named the Milwaukee 2732-20 M18 FUEL (~$263 bare) the best overall cordless saw — when paired with a Forge battery it topped the rip-cut test and aced the full-depth cutting test (blade buried in three sheets of 3/4" OSB with a 20-lb pull weight). The DeWalt DCS578 FlexVolt 60V MAX (~$202 bare) was named most powerful, recording the fastest full-depth time (7.7 seconds) with up to 47% more power than the older DCS575. The Skil PWRCore 20 XP CR5440 (~$169 kit) was named best value, delivering 5,300 RPM at 7.3 lbs in a kit that includes battery and charger. [src2, src6]
The Makita XSH06PT 36V LXT remains the top dual-battery option, delivering 6,000 RPM from its dual-18V system with a 2-5/8-inch cut depth at 90 degrees and a 56-degree bevel — powerful enough for professional framing and precise enough for finish work. [src1, src4] For corded duty, the Skilsaw SPT77WML-01 worm drive (~$179) is TechGearLab's top pro pick — its lightweight magnesium construction (11.6 lbs) and Dual-Field motor handle ripping and metal cuts that few sidewinders match. [src4]
For budget-conscious buyers, the SKIL 5280-01 remains unbeatable at around $59, offering 15 amps, 5,300 RPM, and a laser guide in a sub-9-pound corded package. [src1, src5] For tight overhead and trim work, the Milwaukee 2521-20 M12 FUEL 5-3/8" (~$159 bare) is now the most compact pick — 4.7 lbs, 3,850 RPM, and up to 190 cuts in 2x4 from an M12 HO 5.0Ah battery. [src6]
Top 12 Models Compared
| Model | Price | Type | RPM | Cut Depth (90°) | Bevel | Weight | Best For | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee 2732-20 | ~$263 (bare) | Cordless 18V | 5,800 | 2-9/16" | 50° | 9.2 lbs (bare) | Best overall cordless | Check price |
| DeWalt DCS578B | ~$202 (bare) | Cordless 60V FlexVolt | 5,800 | 2-9/16" | 57° | 8.3 lbs (bare) | Most powerful cordless (NEW PTR 2026) | Check price |
| Skil PWRCore 20 XP (CR5440B) | ~$169 (kit) | Cordless 20V | 5,300 | 2-5/8" | 45° | 7.3 lbs | Best value cordless (NEW PTR 2026) | Check price |
| Makita XSH06PT | ~$350 (kit) | Cordless 36V (2x18V) | 6,000 | 2-5/8" | 56° | 12.0 lbs | Best dual-battery | Check price |
| DeWalt DCS573B | ~$210 (bare) | Cordless 20V | 5,500 | 2-9/16" | 57° | 10.2 lbs | DeWalt 20V platform users | Check price |
| Metabo HPT C3607DA | ~$199 (bare) | Cordless 36V MultiVolt | 4,300 | 2-7/16" | 45° | 7.5 lbs (bare) | Lightweight + AC option | Check price |
| Ryobi PBLCS300B | ~$138 (bare) | Cordless 18V | 5,500 | 2-9/16" | 56° | 7.0 lbs (bare) | Budget cordless | Check price |
| Milwaukee 2521-20 | ~$159 (bare) | Cordless 12V | 3,850 | 1-3/4" | 45° | 4.7 lbs | Most compact (overhead/trim) | Check price |
| Skilsaw SPT77WML-01 | ~$179 | Corded 15A worm drive | 5,300 | 2-3/8" | 53° | 11.6 lbs | Best pro worm drive | Check price |
| Makita 5007MG | ~$199 | Corded 15A | 5,800 | 2-1/2" | 56° | 10.6 lbs | Best corded sidewinder | Check price |
| SKIL 5280-01 | ~$59 | Corded 15A | 5,300 | 2-7/16" | 51° | 8.7 lbs | Best budget | Check price |
| DeWalt DWS535B | ~$249 | Corded 15A worm drive | 4,800 | 2-7/16" | 53° | 13.8 lbs | Best DeWalt worm drive | Check price |
Best for Each Use Case
Best Overall Cordless: Milwaukee 2732-20 M18 FUEL (~$263 bare) — Check price
Pro Tool Reviews' April 2026 head-to-head crowned the 2732 the best overall cordless saw — when paired with a Forge battery, it topped the rip-cut test and aced the full-depth cutting test (blade buried in three sheets of 3/4" OSB plus a 20-lb pull weight). 5,800 RPM POWERSTATE brushless motor, 2-9/16" cut depth at 90°, magnesium guards/shoe, and up to 750 crosscuts per charge. Bare-tool pricing has trended upward in 2026 to ~$263. [src2, src6]
Most Powerful Cordless (NEW PTR 2026): DeWalt DCS578B FlexVolt 60V MAX (~$202 bare) — Check price
PTR's 2026 testing recorded the DCS578 as the most powerful saw in the test, finishing the full-depth cut in just 7.7 seconds — fastest in the field. Up to 47% more power than the older DCS575 (2,456 unit watts out), 5,800 RPM, 2-9/16" cut depth, 57° bevel, and an 8.3-lb bare-tool weight that undercuts most cordless competitors. The runner-up cordless pick across multiple 2026 review sites and still strong value at ~$202 bare for users already on the DeWalt 60V FlexVolt platform. [src6, src7]
Best Value Cordless (NEW PTR 2026): Skil PWRCore 20 XP CR5440B (~$169 kit) — Check price
Pro Tool Reviews named the PWRCore 20 XP "best for the money" in their April 2026 cordless head-to-head — and uniquely, the $169 price is a kit that includes a 4.0Ah battery and PWRJump charger (most competitors at this performance tier sell bare-tool only). 5,300 RPM, 2-5/8" cut depth, 7.3 lbs, brushless motor, electric brake. The single best cordless saw entry point in 2026 if you are not already locked into a battery platform. [src6]
Best Dual-Battery: Makita XSH06PT 36V LXT (~$350 kit) — Check price
Two 18V LXT batteries in series deliver 36V of brushless power at 6,000 RPM (the highest cordless RPM here) with 2-5/8" cut depth and 56° bevel. Automatic Speed Change adjusts torque under load. The kit price (~$350) bundles two batteries and a dual-port charger, making it the easiest "everything included" entry into Makita's pro lineup. [src1, src4]
Best Pro Worm Drive (NEW): Skilsaw SPT77WML-01 (~$179) — Check price
TechGearLab's top corded pick for 2026 and the lightest worm drive saw on the market at 11.6 lbs. The Dual-Field magnesium-housed motor was engineered specifically for saws (not adapted from a drill platform), delivering 5,300 RPM with the torque profile and blade-left orientation that West-Coast framers prefer. 53° bevel, integrated rafter hook, oil-lubricated worm gears for long service life. The pro standard for ripping and dense material. [src4]
Most Compact (NEW): Milwaukee 2521-20 M12 FUEL 5-3/8" (~$159 bare) — Check price
Pro Tool Reviews' "most compact" pick at just 4.7 lbs and small enough for one-handed overhead, ladder, and tight-space work where a full-size 7-1/4" saw is overkill. POWERSTATE brushless motor, 3,850 RPM, 1-3/4" cut depth (still cuts dimensional 2x material in a single pass), and up to 190 cuts in 2x4 from an M12 HO 5.0Ah battery. The right tool for installers, electricians, and trim carpenters. [src6]
Best Budget: SKIL 5280-01 (~$59) — Check price
At ~$59 on Amazon (list $69.99), the SKIL 5280-01 remains the best value in circular saws, delivering 15-amp corded power with 5,300 RPM, a single-beam laser guide, and a dust blower at 8.7 pounds. Multiple review sites continue to rank it the top budget pick for DIYers in 2026. [src1, src4, src5]
Best for DeWalt 20V Users: DeWalt DCS573B (~$210 bare) — Check price
The DCS573B leverages FLEXVOLT Advantage technology to deliver up to 77% more power when paired with a DCB606 FLEXVOLT battery. 5,500 RPM, 57° bevel (widest in this roundup), bright LED work light, electric brake. The right pick if you already own DeWalt 20V batteries and want a sidewinder rather than the FlexVolt-native DCS578. [src1, src3]
Best Lightweight Cordless: Metabo HPT C3607DA MultiVolt (~$199 bare) — Check price
At 7.5 lbs bare (9.7 lbs with battery), the Metabo HPT MultiVolt is among the lightest full-size cordless saws. It uniquely offers an optional AC adapter for corded operation when unlimited runtime is needed. Silent Mode drops RPM to 2,000 for indoor work. [src2, src6]
Best Budget Cordless: Ryobi PBLCS300B ONE+ HP (~$138 bare) — Check price
40% faster cutting than previous Ryobi models, over 325 crosscuts per charge, 7.0 lbs bare (lightest full-size in this list). 56° bevel with detents at 0, 15, 22.5, 30, 45, and 56°. Best entry into a wide battery ecosystem. [src3, src6]
Best Corded Sidewinder: Makita 5007MG (~$199) — Check price
The gold standard for corded sidewinders, with a 15A motor delivering 5,800 RPM through a magnesium body at 10.6 lbs. Dual LED lights illuminate the cut line; 56° bevel with stops at 22.5° and 45°. The included hard case and 24T carbide blade make it ready out of the box. [src2, src3]
Best DeWalt Worm Drive: DeWalt DWS535B (~$249) — Check price
4,800 RPM with maximum torque for cutting dense or wet lumber. 15A motor, magnesium shoe, electric brake, extra-wide saw hook for materials up to 2-3/4 inches. The DeWalt-platform pro alternative to the Skilsaw SPT77WML-01. [src1, src2]
Head-to-Head Comparisons
Milwaukee 2732-20 vs DeWalt DCS578B
PTR's 2026 cordless head-to-head ranked the Milwaukee 2732 best overall (highest combined score across rip-cut and full-depth tests with a Forge battery), while the DeWalt DCS578B set the absolute speed record at 7.7 seconds on the full-depth cut — fastest in the field. The DCS578B is also lighter (8.3 vs 9.2 lbs bare) and wider on bevel (57° vs 50°). [src6, src7]
Pick the Milwaukee 2732-20 if: you are on M18 already, want the best-rounded performer (rip + crosscut), or value blade-left worm-drive feel from a sidewinder.
Pick the DeWalt DCS578B if: you own 60V FlexVolt batteries, want the fastest cut times in the category, prefer 57° bevel, or value the lighter bare-tool weight.
Skil PWRCore 20 XP vs Ryobi PBLCS300B
The two most attractive entry-level cordless options. The Skil CR5440B-10 is sold as a kit (battery + PWRJump charger included) for ~$169 — PTR's "best for the money" 2026 pick. The Ryobi PBLCS300B is ~$138 bare-tool and joins the largest consumer battery ecosystem (ONE+ HP). Specs are close: both 7-1/4", 5,300–5,500 RPM, 7.0–7.3 lbs. [src3, src6]
Pick the Skil CR5440B if: you are starting fresh and want a complete cordless setup in one purchase; the included 4.0Ah battery + charger saves ~$100 vs buying separately.
Pick the Ryobi PBLCS300B if: you already own Ryobi ONE+ batteries (40+ tools share the platform) — bare-tool price is lower and battery cross-compatibility is unmatched.
SKIL 5280-01 vs Ryobi PBLCS300B
The classic budget-DIY question: stick with corded ($59 SKIL, plug it in forever) or pay ~2.3x more for the freedom of cordless ($138 Ryobi bare). The SKIL delivers more raw power (5,300 RPM, 15A, 8.7 lbs) and is unconditionally cheaper. The Ryobi is lighter (7.0 lbs), cordless, and integrates with a sprawling ONE+ battery ecosystem. [src1, src5, src6]
Pick the SKIL 5280-01 if: budget is under $100, you cut at a workbench or near outlets, and battery investment is not in your plans.
Pick the Ryobi PBLCS300B if: you already own ONE+ batteries (or plan to) and want jobsite mobility — the cordless tax is the lowest in the category.
Skilsaw SPT77WML-01 vs Makita 5007MG
The 2026 corded duel. Both are ~10–12 lb 15A magnesium-bodied 7-1/4" saws, but the Skilsaw is a worm drive (blade-left, higher torque, slower 5,300 RPM) at ~$179 and the Makita is a sidewinder (blade-right, faster 5,800 RPM, lighter 10.6 lbs) at ~$199. [src2, src3, src4]
Pick the Skilsaw SPT77WML-01 if: you prefer blade-left visibility (common in the western US), rip dense lumber or metal, and want maximum torque + an integrated rafter hook.
Pick the Makita 5007MG if: you want a traditional blade-right sidewinder with dual LEDs, higher RPM, and the lightest weight for repetitive crosscuts on framing or finish work.
Milwaukee 2521-20 (5-3/8") vs Milwaukee 2732-20 (7-1/4")
Same brand, two different jobs. The compact 2521-20 is 4.7 lbs, M12-platform, and cuts dimensional 2x material in one pass — ideal for one-handed overhead, ladder, electrical, and trim work. The 2732-20 is the 9.2-lb full-size workhorse for framing, sheet goods, and anything thicker than 2x. [src6]
Pick the 2521-20 if: primary use is installer/electrician/trim work, overhead or ladder cuts, and you already own M12 batteries.
Pick the 2732-20 if: primary use is framing, ripping plywood, or cutting 4x material — and you are on M18.
Decision Logic
If budget < $100 and corded is acceptable
→ The SKIL 5280-01 (~$59) is the clear choice — 15-amp, 5,300 RPM, laser guide, 8.7 lbs. Below $100 there is no cordless saw that approaches the cut performance of a 15A corded sidewinder. [src1, src4, src5]
If buying first cordless saw and not yet on a battery platform
→ Skil PWRCore 20 XP CR5440B kit (~$169) is the best 2026 entry point. Pro Tool Reviews "Best for the Money" pick, and the $169 price is a kit (battery + charger included), not bare tool — ~$100 of saved entry cost vs every other premium cordless option. [src6]
If primary use is professional framing/construction
→ Prioritize power and cut depth. The DeWalt DCS578 FlexVolt (~$202 bare, fastest full-depth cut in PTR's 2026 test) or Milwaukee 2732-20 (~$263 bare, top overall) deliver corded-equivalent power. For worm-drive preference (common in western US), the Skilsaw SPT77WML-01 (~$179) is the lightest worm drive on the market at 11.6 lbs. [src2, src4, src6]
If user is already invested in a battery platform
→ Stay within the ecosystem: DeWalt 60V FlexVolt → DCS578B; DeWalt 20V MAX → DCS573B; Milwaukee M18 → 2732-20; Makita 18V LXT → XSH06PT; Ryobi ONE+ → PBLCS300B; Skil PWRCore 20 → CR5440B. Battery compatibility saves $100-$200 per tool. [src2, src6]
If primary use is overhead, ladder, or tight-space work
→ Milwaukee 2521-20 M12 FUEL 5-3/8" (~$159 bare, 4.7 lbs). PTR's "most compact" pick — small and light enough for one-handed cuts where a full 7-1/4" saw is unwieldy. Cuts dimensional 2x material in a single pass. [src6]
If weight is the top priority for full-size 7-1/4" cuts
→ The Ryobi PBLCS300B (7.0 lbs bare), Skil PWRCore 20 XP (7.3 lbs), or Metabo HPT C3607DA (7.5 lbs bare) are the lightest full-size cordless options. For corded, the SKIL 5280-01 at 8.7 lbs is the lightest 15-amp sidewinder. [src1, src3, src6]
If user needs unlimited runtime (all-day cutting)
→ A corded saw eliminates battery swaps. The Makita 5007MG (~$199) is the best corded sidewinder, the Skilsaw SPT77WML-01 (~$179) is the best worm drive, or the Metabo HPT C3607DA can operate corded via its optional AC adapter for hybrid flexibility. [src2, src4, src6]
If cuts are mostly metal/composite or thick lumber (4x material)
→ The Skilsaw SPT77WML-01 worm drive (corded) handles metal cuts that sidewinders struggle with. For thick lumber needs (4x in a single pass), the upcoming Milwaukee M18 Fuel 10-1/4" rear-handle (June 2026 release, 3-13/16" cut depth at 90°) is the cordless answer. [src4, src7]
Default recommendation
→ For most users balancing power, portability, and value in 2026, the Milwaukee 2732-20 (~$263 bare) or DeWalt DCS578B (~$202 bare) are the safest picks — both top PTR's 2026 testing in their categories. If platform-agnostic, the Skil PWRCore 20 XP CR5440B kit (~$169) is the lowest-friction entry. [src6]
Key Market Trends (2026)
- 2026 cordless head-to-head reshuffle: Pro Tool Reviews' April 2026 testing crowned the Milwaukee 2732 best overall, the DeWalt DCS578 most powerful (fastest full-depth cut at 7.7 sec, +47% power vs the older DCS575), and the Skil PWRCore 20 XP best value. Spring 2026 has seen significant bare-tool price inflation — the 2732 climbed from ~$199 to ~$263 and the DCS578 from ~$170 to ~$202 — making the $169 PWRCore 20 XP kit an even sharper value relative to bare-tool premium options. [src6]
- Milwaukee M18 Fuel 10-1/4" rear-handle launching June 2026: Up to 3-13/16" cut depth at 90°, 3,250 RPM, 250 cuts per charge in 4x4 with a 12.0Ah Forge battery. Adds AutoStop kickback control plus an electric brake. Pushes cordless into worm-drive 4x territory. [src7]
- Cordless has fully overtaken corded for pros: Brushless motors plus high-voltage batteries (60V FlexVolt, 36V MultiVolt, dual-18V) now match or exceed 15A corded performance. Sales of cordless models surpassed corded in the professional segment since 2024 and the gap has widened in 2026. [src2, src6]
- Battery ecosystem lock-in: Platform compatibility drives purchasing decisions more than individual tool specs. The same Forge/HO 12.0Ah battery powering a 10-1/4" rear-handle also runs the M12 5-3/8". [src6]
- Compact 5-3/8" saws gain ground for installers: The Milwaukee M12 FUEL 2521 (4.7 lbs) and Fine Homebuilding's April 2026 6-1/2" head-to-head signal a permanent split between full-size 7-1/4" pro saws and one-handed compact saws for trim, electrical, and overhead work. [src6, src8]
- Silent and low-noise modes: The Metabo HPT C3607DA pioneered a 2,000 RPM Silent Mode, and other manufacturers are adding variable-speed settings for noise-restricted environments. [src2]
- Kit pricing pressure: Skil PWRCore 20 XP at $169 with battery and charger is now competitive with most premium bare-tool prices ($170-$199), forcing competitors to bundle or discount. Expect more kit-price compression through 2026. [src6]
Important Caveats
- Prices listed are approximate US retail as of May 2026 and vary by retailer, region, and promotions. Tool-only (bare) prices exclude batteries and chargers — except where explicitly noted as kit pricing (Skil PWRCore 20 XP, Makita XSH06PT).
- Cordless saw performance depends heavily on battery capacity and chemistry — Pro Tool Reviews' 2026 results were measured with high-output batteries (Milwaukee Forge, DeWalt FlexVolt). Economy 2.0Ah batteries significantly reduce runtime and power.
- Cut depth and bevel specs are manufacturer-stated maximums; real-world performance varies with blade thickness, material density, and battery charge level.
- This comparison covers standard 7-1/4" sidewinder, 7-1/4" worm drive, and one compact 5-3/8" saw (Milwaukee M12 FUEL). 6-1/2" cordless and 10-1/4" rear-handle saws (including the upcoming Milwaukee M18 Fuel 10-1/4") are noted but not directly cross-compared here. Track saws are a separate category — see skip conditions.
- Individual saw preference is personal — blade orientation, trigger comfort, and balance vary between brands. Hands-on testing is recommended before committing to a platform.