The 7 Best Cordless Circular Saws of 2022
The circular saw is one of many tools that we can take for granted these days. If you were to take it away, however, it would be sorely missed.
It is truly an amazing tool when you look at everything it can do and then simply imagine doing those things manually with a handsaw. To say it would be incredibly grueling and extremely time consuming is an understatement.
Of course, there is something to say about how such tasks make the Rugged Man what he is, but that’s another post for another time.
Today we are staying on the cutting edge of technology with a fine list of The 7 Best Cordless Circular Saws of 2022.
Inevitably, just about anything corded these days will probably eventually find it’s way into being cordless over time if it can be done.
Since the early days of cordless battery powered circular saws, there have been leaps and bounds in battery technology. These leaps and bounds have pushed these untethered tools into not only matching the performance of their corded ancestors, but now in some ways surpassing them, making the big jobs easier than ever before.
Bigger blades and higher power are only the beginning of what the saws of the future are going to be able to accomplish. I’m an old-fashioned fellow in my love for most things, but time is of the essence and if energy and time can be conserved with a modern and harmless twist, then make way for the next project on the to do list!
Are Cordless Circular Saws Worth It?
Yes, cordless circular saws are absolutely worth it! Not being tethered to a cord eliminates obstacles and tripping hazards. The fewer cords on the job-site the better all the way around.
Also, having a cord in the way will inevitably sometimes lead to cutting mistakes which cost you time, material, and of course, money.
Going cordless means not having to buy and lug around as many generators and power cords.
And, if you don’t think that’s a big deal, go take a look at the cost of a high quality, thick gauge 100ft power cord and some generators these days.
In a nutshell, battery powered circular saws are far more efficient and safe, make the job easier, and keep the job-site far less cluttered.
How Do I Choose a Cordless Circular Saw?
Blade size/cutting capacity, battery power, torque and speed, motor placement, profile/style, safety features, and whether it has a brushed or brushless motor, are among some of the main considerations when shopping around for the best cordless circular saw to suit your needs.
Let’s take a look at some of these considerations and break them down.
CUTTING CAPACITY/BLADE SIZE
On one end of the spectrum, smaller cordless circular saws will feature 4½” to 5½” blades and on the other hand you can see some high-end saws handle up to 7¼”.
However, most battery powered circular saws sport a middle-of-the-line 6½” blade and will cut as deep as 2 1/8”.
So if you’re looking to cut at depths close to up to 2.5”, you’re going to want to go for one of the big fellas that have enough power to support that 7¼” blade.
BATTERY POWER
Catering to convenience, a lot of major manufacturers design batteries for interchangeability amongst their entire cordless line-up, and in most cases this applies to battery powered circular saws as well.
Most cordless circular saws, for this reason and the reason of minimal power requirements, feature a rechargeable 18 or 29 volt lithium-ion battery.
However, due to the power requirements of the saws that support the 7¼” blade, some saws will feature a 60 volt rechargeable battery.
SIDEWINDER vs WORM DRIVE
This primarily has to do with the placement of the motor, profile/style, and the speed of the blade vs. torque.
Worm Drives have a slower blade speed but more torque for shock absorption and their motors are attached to the back of the saw. They generally have a more narrow profile and are good for tight spaces and remodeling/framing work.
With a much faster blade speed, Sidewinders’ motors are attached to the side, as the name suggests. They are suited for more cutting control and are generally lighter and wider, thus being a better choice for the inexperienced user.
SAFETY FEATURES
Safety is always at the top of the list of priorities here at Rugged Man. Chopping off a finger or three is a life-changing event, and we all know the possibilities can get far worse than that. Let’s take a look at some features.
Generally there aren’t a lot of different safety features with cordless saws vs. corded saws, seeing as how the basic make-up of both of them are so similar in design. However, one thing to point out, we believe cordless saws to be inherently safer than corded, simply because of the absence of the cord.
Some of the tried and true features are trigger safeties to prevent accidental start-ups, blade locks that immediately stop the blade once the trigger switch is released, and retractable blade guards.
BRUSHED vs BRUSHLESS MOTORS
To keep this part extremely simple and to the point, brushless motors produce far less friction resulting in far more efficiency and far less heat, extending the life of your saw dramatically.
Therefore, you’re going to get a lot more cuts out of the life of that battery before it needs to be charged again.
The best of the best are using brushless for more torque, highest rpm, and longer life for the motor. So it would seem the decision is simple. Go brushless, especially if you’re going cordless!
Anytime you can get some real-world experience with a power tool like this you can get a much better idea of what will work for you.
If you’re in the business and on the job-site, you’re a step ahead of a lot of folks, as you are already surrounded by like-minded colleagues who would be interested in talking about these topics or may already have a couple of these on hand that you can try.
Not in the business? Well, maybe you know one or three guys that are and I’m sure they’d be glad to help you out by having you stop by for a demonstration or at least taking the time to talk to you about what may work best for you.
Those who are in the industry love geeking out about this stuff, so pick some brains if they’re around for the picking. Otherwise let’s get down to business and check out who made the cut of The 7 Best Cordless Circular Saws of 2022!
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The 7 Best Cordless Circular Saws of 2022
DeWalt FlexVolt 60V Max 7-1/4” w/ Brake Kit
DeWalt is a company that rarely needs an introduction as we all know their reputation for high quality and high performance power tools. The DeWalt DCS575T2 FlexVolt 60V Max is no exception. This powerful kit (5,800 RPM) comes fully equipped with a 7-1/4” blade, a replacement blade, a blade wrench, two battery packs, a fast charger, and a sturdy carrying bag.
The DeWalt DCS575T2 FlexVolt 60V Max performs with the quality, power, and reliability of a corded saw.
This is a heavier saw and will rip through a piece of lumber like butter. It is ready for some heavy duty tasks and will turn you into a Rugged Man if you weren’t already, so be careful!
The star quality of this big fella is the backward compatibility technology allowing you to work with the DeWalt DCS575T2 FlexVolt 60V Max and then swap out for other DeWalt power tools of different voltages.
This handy feature is made possible by DeWalt’s patented FlexVolt technology without any manual adjustments on the part of the user. It’s a space saver and weight reducer.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Flexible power of corded. Freedom of cordless
FlexVolt technology. The world's first battery that automatically changes voltage when you change tools
7 1/4" full size blade
Electronic brake stops the blade after trigger is released
Max Watts Out 1600 Watts
Bevel cut capacity up to 57 degrees with stops at 22.5 and 45
Brushless motor is maximized for run time and durability; 5800 RPM for quality cuts with speed
Maximum initial battery voltage (measured without a workload) is 20 volts. Nominal voltage is 18
The Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2” Circular Saw delivers smooth power and speed to whatever job you’re doing. This saw has a Makita-built high-torque motor and a compact design for a range of cutting applications. It will cut 2X material at 45 degrees.
The Makita-built high torque motor produces 3,700 RPM for fast cutting. The heavy gauge, precision machined base is engineered for smooth, accurate cutting and added durability in harsh job site conditions.
It’s part of Makita’s expanding 18V Lithium-Ion series, the world’s largest cordless tool line-up powered by an 18V Lithium-Ion slide-style battery. Makita 18V Lithium-Ion batteries have the fastest charge times in their categories, so they spend more time working and less time sitting on the charger.
For improved tool performance and extended battery life, Makita created Star Protection Computer Control. Star Protection is communication technology that allows the Star Protection-equipped tool and battery to exchange data in real time and monitor conditions during use to protect against overloading, over-discharging and overheating.
For increased versatility, the tool can also be powered by Makita 18V LXT® and Compact Lithium-Ion batteries with the star symbol on the battery indicating Star Protection inside.
The Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2” Circular Saw is a solid choice for just about any job you want to throw at it, made by a well respected and trusted name in the industry.
FEATURES & SPECS
Powerful Makita built electronically controlled motor delivers 3,700 RPM for faster cutting and ripping
Precision machined aluminum base provides smooth, accurate cutting and added durability
Large cutting capacity (2-1/4” at 90°) and bevel capacity (0°- 50°)
Weighs only 7.3 lbs. with battery for reduced operator fatigue
Rubberized soft grip handle provides increased comfort on the job
Flat motor housing design for stability when changing the blade
On-board blade wrench for convenience
Equipped with Star Protection Computer Control to protect against overloading, over-discharging and over-heating
Rapid Optimum Charger communicates with the battery's built-in chip throughout the charging process to optimize battery life by actively controlling current, voltage and temperature
Rapid Optimum Charger has a built-in fan to cool the battery for faster, more efficient charging
Makita technology delivers category-leading charge time, so the battery spends more time working and less time sitting on the charger
Compatible with Makita 18V Lithium-Ion batteries with a Star symbol
Much like one of Rugged Man’s favorite companies, Stihl, Bosch is known for it’s German engineering and high quality power tools.
The Bosch CCS180-B14A 18V 6-1/2” Circular Saw Kit with a CORE18V 8.0 Ah Performance Battery features a circular saw that easily cuts through 2 In. material. This powerful tool can easily cut through “two by” material across entire bevel range of 50°.
It has an ergonomic main handle that is angled for ease in pushing the saw forward, and a dust blower helps keep the cut line visible.
The Bosch CCS180-B14A 18V 6-1/2” Circular Saw Kit also includes a simple straightforward depth gauge and bevel scale and an anti-snag lower guard to allow easy entry into the workpiece.
With a weight of only 6.6 Lbs. (tool only, not including battery), this power saw is an excellent choice pros such as roofers, framers, or deck-builders who often have tough cuts in close or difficult spaces.
An electronic brake stops the blade quickly for reduced down time between repeated cuts.
The next-gen Lithium-ion CORE18V Performance Battery delivers 2X the power and runtime of standard two-layer 4.0 Ah 18V batteries with minimal increase in volume. The battery features high-power 21700 cells that deliver great power, combined with advanced battery design for greater efficiency.
In independent tests, the tool and an 8.0 Ah CORE18V Performance Battery made up to 373 cuts through 2x4s on a single charge. The CORE18V 8.0 Ah battery features the Bosch-exclusive CoolPack 2.0 heat-management system, cutting-edge engineering and compatibility with all Bosch 18V Lithium-ion tools and chargers.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Ergonomic main handle, angled for ease in pushing the saw forward
Performance-optimized 18V Li-ion battery, engineered to deliver power and runtime for ideal performance-to-weight ratio
6-1/2 In. saw blade – completely cuts through 2 In. at 90° and cuts through “two by” material across entire bevel range
Convenient 50° bevel range on saw contributes enhanced versatility
Blade-left design provides best view of cut line when main handle is held in right hand
Lightweight and easy to get into tough and tight places
Another DeWalt has made it’s way onto our list today, surprise, surprise. No need to go into how DeWalt is amazing again. We just wanted to throw you a less expensive option from this powerhouse brand.
The DeWalt DCS391B 20-Volt Max is a fantastic cordless circular saw for not only the job site, but also to have around the house.
This simple package is affordable and comes with, of course, the saw and also a fast charger and a 20V battery.
With a high speed (5,150 rpm) motor, this saw is fast and smooth with a 0 to 50-degree bevel capacity on a lightweight and durable magnesium shoe.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Powerful 460 MWO, 5,150 RPM motor delivers power and speed to make the most demanding cuts with ease
High strength and lightweight magnesium shoe provides jobsite durability for long-term cut accuracy
Same runtime and power in a lighter, shorter Package compared to DCB200
No memory and virtually no self-discharge for maximum productivity and less Downtime
High strength and lightweight magnesium shoe provides jobsite durability for long-term cut accuracy
0-50°(degree) bevel capacity allows for aggressive bevel cuts for a multitude of applications
Optimized rubber over-molded comfort grip delivers optimal balance and control; Power Tool Type: Cordless
6.5-Inch carbide-tipped blade for cutting 2 times material at 90° and 45° and more cuts per charge
Includes: DCS391 6.5-Inch Circular Saw and 6-.5-Inch Carbide-tipped Blade
The Milwaukee M18 2630-20 6½" Circular Saw is designed to provide you with powerful lightweight cutting for a variety of applications including plumbing, electrical, framing, finishing, and carpentry.
This cordless circular saw is a high-performance tool that delivers the most durability in a cordless saw that is less than $100.
It has a powerful 3,500 RPM motor letting you quickly and easily cut through tough material such as LVL headers. A magnesium upper guard gives you best-in-class durability to protect the blade from drops.
The soft-grip handle is ergonomically designed to provide you with superior comfort and balance for easily controlled cuts. An easy-to-read aircraft aluminum shoe is lightweight, durable and gives you greater accuracy in rip cuts while using the lightweight cordless circular saw.
A common misconception about the Milwaukee M18 2630-20 is that it is going to be a big disappointment as a cheap tool that will break quickly and be more of hassle than it is worth, but a lot of folks have come out on the other hand pleasantly surprised at the quality and durability this saw has to offer.
A fantastic affordable saw, especially for your household needs.
Battery is sold seperately.
Milwaukee 48-11-1850 M18 Redlithium 5.0Ah Bat Pack
FEATURES & SPECS:
ELECTRONIC BRAKES will stop your blade quickly when you’re finished with your cut. You won’t need to waste time waiting around for the blade to slow down, so you can get back to work quickly
SOFT GRIP HANDLE provides maximum comfort so you can work with precision in slippery environments
BEVEL AND DEPTH ADJUSTMENT: You can adjust the depth up to 1 1/2" and the bevel up to 45 degrees, giving you a huge degree of versatility in your cuts
MAGNESIUM GUARDS on the top and bottom of the blade well keep the unit protected from impacts like bumps and drops of several feet. This will allow you to work confident in the safety of your tool and yourself
M18 COMPATIBLE: This cordless circular saw is compatible with Milwaukee M18 18 Volt Lithium Ion batteries. Compatible models include the 48-11-1860, 48-11-1850, 48-11-1828, 48-11-1815, 48-11-1840, and 48-11-1820
Heavy-Duty Magnesium Guards for maximum durability and On-board fuel gauge displays remaining battery charge
Ergonomic, compact and lightweight design with soft-grip handle for operator comfort
The Milwaukee 2730 is without a doubt a very powerful and durable cordless circular saw that chews through wood effortlessly. It will cut through wet green treated 2x12's no problem.
It is a bit on the heavier side of other saws in it’s class, but is also packs a lot more beef and build and something about that extra ruggedness as a power tool feels good in the hand.
The Milwaukee 2730-22 M18 Fuel 6-1/2” Circular Saw Kit features the fastest saw in its class, offering up to 30% faster cutting, 2X more runtime and 3X longer tool life than competitive saws.
With the Milwaukee 2730-22 M18 Fuel 6-1/2” Circular Saw Kit you can usually get through the day on one battery, depending on your day of course. Even ripping and cutting angles, you rarely have to get a 2nd battery in a 9 hour day. The M18 REDLITHIUM XC5.0 Extended Capacity Battery Pack delivers up to 2.5X more runtime and provides more work per charge and more work over the life of the pack than competitive batteries.
The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor outpowers all other 18-Volt cordless circular saws and allows you to perform jobs that previously required a corded tool. The saw’s REDLINK PLUS Intelligence ensures optimized performance and protection from overloading, overheating and over-discharging, increasing the life of your saw.
The Milwaukee 2730’s guards and shoe are built of cast magnesium to provide a durable, lightweight base. The saw also features an integrated LED light and a rafter hook for convenient storage on the job.
The kit includes 2 M18 REDLITHIUM XC5.0 Extended Capacity Battery Packs, contractor bag, a multi-voltage charger, a carrying case, a blade wrench and blade.
FEATURES & SPECS:
POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor: Outpowers all other 18-volt cordless circular saws and provides up to 3X longer tool life
REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence: The most advanced electronic system on the market maximizes performance
REDLITHIUM™ XC5.0 Battery Pack: Offers up to 4X more runtime, 20% more power and up to 2X more recharges than competitive batteries
Arbor Size 5/8"
LED Light-Yes
5,000 RPM
Blade Guard-Magnesium
Shoe-Magnesium
Maximum Bevel Capacity-50 degrees
Length 13.5"
Battery System M18
Weight 6.8 lbs
Skil has redefined power, once again, with the Skilsaw 48V Worm Drive, the first and only cordless true worm drive circular saw in the rear handle grouping.
The brushless motor and gearing in this saw is the same worm drive style as corded models, giving you more torque and power cut after tough cut, and it’s all-magnesium construction makes it lightweight and rugged.
The Skilsaw TrueHVL 48 is powered by the TRUEHVL battery, designed specifically for this legendary Worm Drive saw. This is a unique battery design that maximizes heat dissipation, the patented Stay Cool technology that wraps each cell in a temperature controlling material, and intelligent power management that monitors and optimizes each cell.
Together, these innovations deliver the ultimate in performance and 425 cuts per charge. Go from zero to full charge in only 1 hour.
Get all the power you need, from the only cordless worm drive and the most powerful rear-handled circular saw on the market.
FEATURES & SPECS:
The first and only cordless Worm Drive saw gives you legendary SKIL power to go anywhere
TRUEHVL battery is designed specifically to power Worm Drive
Jobsite durability and performance from magnesium construction, brushless motor, and electric brake
The convenience of a cordless saw without compromising any Worm Drive power or performance
The same design, balance and controls of our corded Worm Drive, so it feels familiar right out of the box
A fully charged TRUEHVL battery makes 425 cuts
Integrated dust extraction system to work cleaner
Includes (1) TRUEHVL Lithium Ion Battery—get incredible power and performance thanks to an innovative design, patented Stay Cool technology, and an intelligent power management system that monitors and optimizes each cell
Includes TRUEHVL Quick Charger—go from zero to full charge in only 1 hour; features convenient charging indicators plus a cooling fan to prevent the battery from overheating
The convenience of a cordless saw without compromising any Worm Drive power or performance
Brushless: Yes
No-load speed: 5800 rpm
Saw Drive Type: Worm drive
Saw blade: 7-1/4”
Sawing capacity at 45°: 1-15/16”
Sawing capacity at 90°: 2-3/8”
Tool Height: 8.66”
Tool Length: 18.23”
Tool Weight: 11.09 lbs
Tool Width: 7.52”
Voltage: 48V
“Skill without imagination is craftsmanship and gives us many useful objects… Imagination without skill gives us modern art.”
—Tom Stoppard
We hope our list of The Best Cordless Circular Saws of 2021 have helped you to narrow down your choices and provided a diverse group of saws for you to take a look at. There are certainly more saws to choose from as this is a growing and actually fairly new creation and there are probably plenty more incarnations to be thrust upon the market, surely getting more and more efficient with every innovation.
As we stated, it would probably be wise to seek out someone in the industry who has one of these fine machines to see and understand firsthand what it is you’re looking for. Even if it is not someone in the industry, perhaps your neighbor has one that you could take a look at or maybe even borrow. If you don’t know your neighbor, perhaps it’s time to do so.
Well, as we here at Rugged Man know you will, enjoy your search for The Best Battery Powered Circular Saws of 2021 and we hope you come out with a saw that is a perfect fit for you and will last you for years to come.
Keep your blades chewing, your fingers on your hands, and remain Rugged!
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