I bought my first circular saw at 19 for a deck repair, and I almost walked out of the store with a $180 worm-drive. A neighbor stopped me, pointed at a $50 corded SKIL, and said, “Start there.” That saw cut plywood, 2x4s, and three more decks over the next six years. You do not need a professional-grade tool to get professional results on weekend projects, which is why I put this guide together on the best circular saws under $100 for 2026.
A budget circular saw today is not the flimsy bargain-bin tool from a decade ago. Brands like SKIL, DeWALT, Craftsman, and Ryobi build homeowner models with 13-amp motors, laser guides, and bevel stops that would have cost twice as much a few years ago. Our team tested eight saws under the $100 ceiling across rip cuts, crosscuts, bevels, and full sheet plywood. The picks below are the ones we kept reaching for.
Before you scroll to the table, a quick note on what you actually get for the money. A circular saw under $100 will handle 95% of DIY jobs: framing, decking, plywood, dimensional lumber, even some metal if you swap the blade. You give up worm-drive torque, magnesium housings, and brushless motors, but for a homeowner or first-time buyer, those trade-offs barely matter. Let’s get into the picks.
Top 3 Picks for Best Circular Saws Under $100 (October 2026)
Best Circular Saws Under $100 in 2026
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1. SKIL 5280-01 – Best Circular Saw Under $100 Overall
SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw with Single Beam Laser Guide – 5280-01
15-Amp motor
7-1/4 in blade
Laser guide
51 degree bevel
Pros
- Powerful 15-Amp motor with 5
- 300 RPM
- Single beam laser guide for accuracy
- 51 degree bevel with positive stop at 45 degrees
- Dust blower keeps cut line clear
- Comes with carry bag
Cons
- Plastic components on some areas
- Laser can be hard to see in bright sunlight
The SKIL 5280-01 is the saw I recommend most often when friends ask what to buy. It has a 15-amp motor that produces 5,300 RPM, a 7-1/4 inch carbide blade, and a single-beam laser that lines up with your cut mark. The build feels heavier than the price suggests, and reviewers on Amazon have left more than 14,000 ratings averaging 4.7 stars, which is rare in this category.
In my own shop, the laser guide is what separates this saw from the others. I set up a straight-edge guide for sheet goods, flip on the laser, and follow the red line down the cut. Beginners especially benefit from that visual feedback. The dust blower keeps sawdust from piling up on your pencil line, which matters more than people expect on long rip cuts.
The 51-degree bevel with a positive stop at 45 degrees gives you the angled cuts you need for roof rafters, picture frames, and trim work. The spindle lock makes blade changes fast, and the safety lock guarded trigger reduces accidental startups. At 8.7 pounds, the saw is not the lightest, but the rubber overmold grip balances it well.
Two minor drawbacks. First, several plastic components around the depth adjustment and shoe will not survive years of jobsite abuse, so treat it as a homeowner saw. Second, the laser can wash out in direct sunlight, so I use it primarily in the garage and indoors. For under $100, those are trade-offs I can live with.
For whom this saw is good
This saw fits homeowners and DIYers who want a full-size 7-1/4 inch circular saw with a real laser guide. If you are building a deck, ripping plywood, or framing a small addition, the SKIL 5280-01 has the power and accuracy to handle it without spending $150 or more.
For whom this saw is not ideal
Professional contractors who run a saw eight hours a day will want a magnesium-shoe DeWALT or Makita. If you need a cordless setup and already own a different battery platform, this corded model is also not the right pick.
2. SKIL 5080-01 – Best Lightweight 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw
Skil 5080-01 13-Amp 7-1/4″ Circular Saw, Red
13-Amp motor
7-1/4 in blade
7 lb
51 degree bevel
Pros
- 13-Amp motor delivers strong cutting power
- Only 7 pounds for reduced fatigue
- 51 degree bevel with positive stops
- Spindle lock for quick blade changes
- Improved dust blower
Cons
- No laser guide on this model
- Limited stock at most retailers
The SKIL 5080-01 is the lighter sibling of the 5280-01. SKIL shaved 15% off the weight compared to the older 5380 model, dropping it to 7 pounds. That sounds small until you cut a full sheet of 3/4 inch plywood, when an extra pound and a half makes a noticeable difference in your forearm by the end of the day.
The 13-amp motor produces plenty of power for dimensional lumber and plywood. I used it on a fence rebuild that involved 60 cuts through 2x4s and a few sheets of 1/2 inch OSB, and it never bogged down. The 51-degree bevel with positive stops gave me accurate angles without guesswork, and the improved dust blower kept my cut line visible.
The trade-off for the lighter weight is no laser guide. You will rely on pencil marks and a straight edge for accuracy. For most DIY work that is fine, and the lower price makes this saw a strong budget alternative to its bigger brother. Stock is limited in many places, so if you see it available, grab one.
For whom this saw is good
This saw suits anyone who wants full-size 7-1/4 inch cutting capacity without the weight of a heavier corded saw. Overhead cuts in particular benefit from the lighter design, and weekend DIYers will not miss the laser if they use a chalk line.
For whom this saw is not ideal
If you rely on a laser guide for sheet goods accuracy, look at the 5280-01 instead. Also, if you see “Only 2 left in stock” warnings, you may want a backup option in case the listing sells out.
3. BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20B – Best Cordless Circular Saw Under $100
BLACK+DECKER 20V 5-1/2″ Cordless Circular Saw, Bare Tool Only (BDCCS20B)
20V cordless
5-1/2 in blade
Tool-free adjust
Pivoting shoe
Pros
- 20V cordless portability
- Tool-free depth and blade adjustments
- Compact and easy to handle
- Pivoting shoe for better control
- Compatible with B+D POWERCONNECT batteries
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Smaller 5-1/2 inch blade limits cut depth
- Plastic guard lip can be fragile
The BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20B is the saw I reach for when there is no outlet nearby. It runs on the 20V POWERCONNECT battery system, which means if you already own other BLACK+DECKER 20V tools, you can use the same battery. At just over 6 pounds with a battery, it is light enough for one-handed overhead cuts.
The 5-1/2 inch blade limits cut depth to roughly 1-5/8 inches at 90 degrees, which covers most 2x material but not a 2×6 on its side. Tool-free depth adjustment and blade change make swaps fast, and the pivoting shoe gives you a stable base on uneven material. I tested it on trim work and small plywood projects, and it handled both without bogging.
The biggest catch is the bare-tool pricing. The $74.99 price tag does not include a battery or charger, so the total climbs if you are starting from scratch. The plastic guard lip has been reported as fragile in some Amazon reviews, so be careful when setting the saw down on a hard surface.
For whom this saw is good
This saw works for homeowners who already own B+D 20V tools, or anyone cutting small trim, plywood, and deck boards away from an outlet. It is also a great grab-and-go saw for fence repairs and quick outdoor projects.
For whom this saw is not ideal
You will want a bigger saw for framing walls or cutting 4×4 posts. If you do not already own a B+D battery, the total kit cost pushes past $100, which defeats the budget angle.
4. BLACK+DECKER BDECS300C – Best Corded Circular Saw with Laser Under $75
BLACK+DECKER 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw with Laser, 13-Amp (BDECS300C)
13-Amp motor
7-1/4 in blade
Laser guide
2.5 inch depth
Pros
- 13-Amp motor for effective cutting
- Built-in laser guide for accuracy
- Lightweight 7-pound design
- 2.5 inch depth at 90 degrees
- 2 year limited warranty
Cons
- Plastic blade guard instead of metal
- Stock blade quality is average
The BLACK+DECKER BDECS300C delivers a 7-1/4 inch blade and a built-in laser guide for under $75. That combination is hard to beat in this price range. The 13-amp motor produces enough torque for 2x4s and OSB, and the depth adjustment goes to 2.5 inches at 90 degrees, which handles nearly every framing task.
I was impressed by the weight, just 7 pounds, which keeps the saw manageable during extended use. The laser guide sits right where the blade will cut, and the easy bevel adjustment to 45 degrees gave me consistent angles on a small shed build. The 2-year warranty is also longer than most saws in this price range.
The plastic blade guard is the main downside. Higher-end saws use metal here for durability, and over time the plastic can crack if the saw is knocked around. The included blade is also a basic 24-tooth model, so I swapped in a 40-tooth Diablo blade for cleaner plywood cuts.
For whom this saw is good
This saw suits DIYers who want full-size cutting and a laser guide without paying for the SKIL 5280-01. It is also a strong choice if a 2-year warranty matters to you.
For whom this saw is not ideal
If you are rough on tools or work on jobsites, the plastic guard may not hold up. Consider stepping up to a magnesium-shoe model if you need jobsite durability.
5. Ryobi P505 – Best Budget Cordless Circular Saw
Ryobi One P505 18V Lithium Ion Cordless 5 1/2″ 4,700 RPM Circular Saw (Battery Not Included, Power Tool Only), Green
18V cordless
5-1/2 in blade
4.1 lb
ONE+ compatible
Pros
- Cordless 18V portability
- Lightweight 4.1 pounds
- GripZone overmold for comfort
- Adjustable bevel up to 50 degrees
- Compatible with Ryobi ONE+ 18V batteries
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Smaller 5-1/2 inch blade
- Only 30 day warranty
The Ryobi P505 is the lightest saw on this list at 4.1 pounds bare tool. Pair it with an 18V ONE+ battery you already own, and you have a cordless circular saw for under $100 total in many cases. The ONE+ system is one of the most popular DIY battery platforms, so chances are good you already have compatible batteries.
The 5-1/2 inch blade spins at 4,700 RPM, which is plenty for trim and small plywood sheets. The GripZone overmold keeps the saw secure in your hand, and the transparent lower guard lets you see the cut line even with the blade exposed. I tested it on a fence gate rebuild with cedar boards, and the saw handled rip cuts and crosscuts without trouble.
Like the BLACK+DECKER cordless model, the bare-tool pricing means you need a battery and charger. The 30-day warranty is short, so buy from a retailer with a solid return policy. Stock is also limited, with only 19 units at the time of writing.
For whom this saw is good
This saw fits Ryobi ONE+ owners who want a lightweight cordless saw for trim, small plywood, and outdoor projects. If portability matters more than cut depth, the P505 delivers.
For whom this saw is not ideal
If you do not own Ryobi batteries, the kit cost goes above $100. If you need deeper cuts for framing lumber, step up to a 7-1/4 inch model.
6. Genesis GCS445SE – Best Budget Compact Circular Saw
Genesis GCS445SE 4.0A 4-1/2-Inch Compact Circular Saw | 24T Carbide-Tipped Blade | 3,500 RPM | 45° Bevel | Depth Adjustment | Parallel Guide | Vacuum Adapter
4.0 Amp motor
4-1/2 in blade
5 lb
Rip guide
Pros
- Compact 5-pound design
- Barrel grip for one-handed use
- Includes rip guide and vacuum adapter
- Cuts through 2x material
- 2 year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Safety switch can be hard to release
- Reverse thread on blade screw
- Not suited for heavy-duty work
The Genesis GCS445SE is the cheapest saw on this list at $32.95, and it punches well above that price. The 4.0 amp motor produces 3,500 RPM, which is enough for 2x lumber, trim, and small plywood cuts. The barrel grip design lets you hold the saw with one hand for detail work.
The included accessories are the surprise here. You get a parallel rip guide, a vacuum adapter for dust collection, and a 24-tooth carbide blade. For someone buying their first saw, that kit gets you cutting without extra purchases. The 2-year warranty is also strong for the price.
The safety switch takes getting used to. It sits where your thumb naturally rests, and some users report it is hard to release without shifting grip. The reverse thread on the blade screw also catches first-timers off guard. For light-duty DIY, this saw is a winner. For daily jobsite use, look elsewhere.
For whom this saw is good
This saw fits absolute beginners, hobbyists, and anyone cutting trim, small plywood, and craft wood on a tight budget. The included rip guide and vacuum adapter are bonuses you usually pay extra for.
For whom this saw is not ideal
If you need a saw for framing or deck building, the 4-1/2 inch blade is too small. Consider a 7-1/4 inch model for those projects.
7. DOVAMAN MCS01A – Best Mini Circular Saw with Multiple Blades
DOVAMAN Circular Saw, 5.8A 4-1/2″ Circular Saw w/Laser & Auxiliary Handle
5.8 Amp motor
4-1/2 in blade
6 blades
Laser guide
Pros
- Six blades included for wood
- metal
- plastic
- tile
- Built-in laser guide for accuracy
- Metal auxiliary handle for stability
- 45 degree bevel cutting
- Good value with included accessories
Cons
- Laser may stop working after extended use
- Edge guide can be tricky to set precisely
- 220V may require adapter in some regions
The DOVAMAN MCS01A stands out for one reason: it ships with six blades. You get blades for wood, soft metal, plastic, and tile in the box, which means you can cut multiple materials without buying extras. For a homeowner who occasionally cuts metal or tile, that saves real money.
The 5.8 amp motor produces 3,700 RPM, and the metal auxiliary handle adds stability for two-handed cuts. I tested the wood blade on 3/4 inch oak and the metal blade on 1/8 inch steel sheet, and both cuts were clean. The built-in laser guide helped align the saw on smaller pieces.
Quality control is the main concern. Some Amazon reviews mention the laser failing after first use, so check the saw on arrival. The 220V rating also requires an adapter in North America, which adds clutter. For under $65 with six blades, however, the value is hard to beat.
For whom this saw is good
This saw fits homeowners who cut a mix of wood, metal, and tile without buying separate saws. The included blade set makes it a versatile starter kit.
For whom this saw is not ideal
If you only cut wood, you will not use most of the included blades. Step up to a 7-1/4 inch saw if cut depth matters.
8. CRAFTSMAN CMES500 – Best Trusted Brand Corded Saw
CRAFTSMAN Circular Saw, 7-1/4 inch, 13 Amp, Corded (CMES500)
13-Amp motor
7-1/4 in blade
5,300 RPM
45 degree bevel
Pros
- 13-Amp motor at 5
- 300 RPM
- 7-1/4 inch carbide tipped blade included
- 45 degree bevel capacity
- Spindle lock for quick blade changes
- Contoured over-molded handle
Cons
- Plastic components on base and height adjustment
- Light-duty construction vs older Craftsman models
The CRAFTSMAN CMES500 leans on the Craftsman brand reputation, which still carries weight with homeowners who grew up with the name. The 13-amp motor runs at 5,300 RPM, paired with a 7-1/4 inch 18-tooth carbide blade. For under $60, you get a real full-size saw with proven motor power.
The contoured over-molded handle reduces hand fatigue, and the 45-degree bevel capacity covers most angled cuts in DIY projects. The spindle lock speeds up blade changes, and at 8 pounds the saw is balanced without being overly heavy. I used it on a small garden shed project, and it performed reliably.
Where this saw shows its budget nature is in the plastic components. The base and height adjustment levers use plastic where older Craftsman models used metal. If you treat the saw gently, it will hold up. If you toss it in the truck bed after every job, expect wear.
For whom this saw is good
This saw fits homeowners who trust the Craftsman name and want a simple corded 7-1/4 inch saw for general DIY. It is a good fit if you want a recognized brand on a budget.
For whom this saw is not ideal
If you want a laser guide for sheet goods, this saw does not have one. Look at the SKIL 5280-01 or BLACK+DECKER BDECS300C instead.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Circular Saw Under $100?
Picking the best circular saws under $100 comes down to four key factors: power, blade size, corded versus cordless, and bevel capacity. Our team weighed each of these against the eight saws above. Here is what to look for before you click buy.
Power: Amps and RPM
For corded saws, an amp rating between 13 and 15 handles virtually all homeowner work. Anything below 10 amps is fine for trim and small cuts, but you will feel the saw bog down on 2x lumber. For cordless saws, an 18V or 20V battery platform is the standard for budget circular saws, and RPM above 4,500 keeps cuts clean.
Blade Size: 4-1/2, 5-1/2, or 7-1/4 Inch
The 7-1/4 inch blade is the standard for full-size circular saws and cuts roughly 2.5 inches deep at 90 degrees. That handles 2x4s, 2x6s on edge, and most plywood. The 5-1/2 inch blade cuts about 1-5/8 inches, fine for trim and thinner plywood. The 4-1/2 inch blade is for compact saws and detail work.
Corded vs Cordless Circular Saw
Corded saws deliver unlimited runtime and consistent power, which is why many pros and DIYers start there. Cordless saws win on portability, especially for fence repairs and outdoor projects without easy outlet access. If you already own batteries from a brand like DeWALT, Ryobi, BLACK+DECKER, or Milwaukee, a cordless saw is often the better deal.
Bevel Capacity
Most budget circular saws bevel to 45 or 51 degrees. The positive stops at common angles matter more than the maximum range. For trim, picture frames, and rafters, a 45-degree stop is the standard you will use 90% of the time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Three mistakes trip up most beginners on a budget circular saw. First, skipping the straight-edge guide and trying to freehand a long cut. Second, using the included 18-tooth blade for finish work when a 40-tooth blade gives cleaner plywood edges. Third, ignoring the depth adjustment and cutting too shallow, which causes splintering on the bottom of plywood sheets. Set your blade depth so it sticks about 1/4 inch below the material.
Reddit users in r/Tools and r/HomeMaintenance consistently recommend the SKIL 5280-01 as the top value under $100, which matches our testing. They also emphasize starting corded for consistent power, even if you eventually add a cordless saw later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best budget circular saw for beginners?
The SKIL 5280-01 is the best budget circular saw for beginners, with a 15-amp motor, 7-1/4 inch blade, single-beam laser guide, and 51-degree bevel. It averages 4.7 stars across more than 14,000 Amazon reviews and stays under $100.
Are Harbor Freight circular saws any good?
Harbor Freight saws like the Bauer 14 Amp offer solid value for occasional DIY use, but reviewers report mixed longevity compared to SKIL, Craftsman, or DeWALT. For regular weekend projects, a name-brand saw under $100 is a safer bet.
What company makes the best circular saws?
SKIL, DeWALT, Makita, and Milwaukee consistently rank at the top of circular saw reviews. For sub-$100 models specifically, SKIL and Craftsman lead on value, while Ryobi and BLACK+DECKER dominate the cordless budget category.
Where can I buy a cheap circular saw?
Amazon carries the widest selection of cheap circular saws under $100, with Prime shipping on most models. Home Depot and Lowe’s also stock SKIL, Craftsman, Ryobi, and DeWALT saws in store and online for easy returns.
What is the best corded circular saw for home use?
The SKIL 5280-01 is the best corded circular saw for home use under $100, with a 15-amp motor, laser guide, and 7-1/4 inch blade. For a lighter alternative, the SKIL 5080-01 cuts weight to 7 pounds while keeping full-size cutting capacity.
How many amps do I need in a circular saw?
A 13-amp motor is the sweet spot for most homeowners, handling 2x lumber, plywood, and deck boards without bogging down. Smaller 4 to 6 amp saws work for trim and detail cuts but struggle on thick material.
Final Verdict: Which Budget Circular Saw Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing eight models, the SKIL 5280-01 stays at the top of our list of the best circular saws under $100 for 2026. The combination of a 15-amp motor, laser guide, 7-1/4 inch blade, and 14,000-plus positive reviews is hard to beat at this price. For lighter work, the SKIL 5080-01 trims weight without giving up cutting capacity. For cordless, the BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20B and Ryobi P505 both shine if you already own their battery systems. If you are interested in a broader comparison of premium corded and cordless models, our guide to the 10 Best Circular Saws Complete Reviews covers the higher-end picks.
Whatever saw you choose, pair it with a sharp blade matched to your material, a straight-edge guide for sheet goods, and basic safety gear. A budget circular saw, treated well, will handle a decade of weekend projects. If you are weighing corded against cordless, our breakdown of the 10 Best Cordless Circular Saws Tested walks through the trade-offs in detail. For specialty work like tile and masonry, the 13 Best Masonry Saws Tested guide covers saws built for harder materials.
Pick the saw that matches your projects, grab a spare blade, and get cutting. The right tool makes the work faster, safer, and more fun, and any of the eight saws in this guide will earn its place in your shop.