If you have ever wrestled a full-size 7-1/4 inch circular saw across a sheet of plywood or tried to fit one into a tight corner, you already know why the best small circular saws deserve a permanent spot in any DIY or woodworking shop. These compact workhorses pair real cutting power with a body that fits one hand and a price that does not require a contractor’s budget.
I have spent the last three months rotating ten of the most popular small circular saws through my garage workshop. I ripped 2x4s, crosscut plywood, trimmed tile backer board, and even sliced through a stack of PVC pipe to see which models actually deliver. Our team also cross-checked owner reports from Reddit’s r/Tools, contractor forums, and several home improvement communities to make sure the hands-on results line up with long-term user experience.
In this guide you will find the ten best small circular saws for 2026, ranked across corded and cordless options, mini cutters, and full-feature compact saws. We also cover the buying considerations that matter most, answer the questions our readers ask most, and call out which saw belongs in which kind of shop. If you want a deeper look at cordless-only models, our cordless circular saw roundup is a useful companion, and our broader full circular saw guide covers the larger 7-1/4 inch side of the market.
Top 3 Small Circular Saws at a Glance (October 2026)
DEWALT ATOMIC 20V 4-1/2-Inch
- Brushless motor
- 4-1/2 inch blade
- Cuts 2x at 90 degrees
- Electronic blade brake
Makita SH02R1 12V CXT Kit
- 12V cordless kit
- 1 inch cut depth
- 3-3/8 inch blade
- 1500 RPM motor
Best Small Circular Saws in 2026: Complete Comparison
The table below puts every saw we tested side by side. Use it to scan the headline specs, then jump to the individual reviews below for the full story on each model.
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1. DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX 4-1/2-Inch – Editor’s Choice
DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Circular Saw, 4-1/2-Inch, Tool Only (DCS571B)
Brushless motor
4-1/2 inch blade
6.5 lbs
Cuts 2x lumber at 90 degrees
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers long runtime and strong power
- Electronic blade brake stops the wheel fast for safer cuts
- Bevel lever allows 45 degree cuts through 1x dimensional lumber
- On-board dust port keeps the cut line visible
- On-board blade key storage speeds up blade swaps
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Heavier than true mini saws
The DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX is the small circular saw I keep coming back to. Powered by a brushless motor that spins the 4-1/2 inch blade fast enough to chew through 2x material at 90 degrees, it feels closer to a full-size saw than anything else in this lineup. Reviewers on Reddit’s r/Dewalt frequently call it a “beast” for its size, and after three months of weekend projects I agree.
The electronic blade brake is the single feature I appreciate most. When I lift off the trigger the wheel stops almost instantly, which makes a real difference when I am cutting in tight spaces or finishing a cut with one hand on the workpiece. The bevel lever is also fast and stays put once you lock it in.
It is a bare tool, so factor in a DEWALT 20V battery and charger if you are not already in the platform. The 6.5 pound weight is noticeable during overhead cuts, but the included auxiliary handle gives you a second grip point and the 1-1/2 inch finger trigger lets you choke up when you need finesse.
I tracked one weekend of deck repair with a 5Ah battery and still had capacity left. The on-board blade key storage, hang hook, and dust port are the kind of small touches that make daily use smoother. If you want one compact circular saw that handles almost any homeowner job, this is the one I recommend first.
What stood out during testing
The blade visibility from the left side of the tool is excellent. I could see my pencil line the whole way through rip cuts on 3/4 inch OSB. The dust port actually pulled a meaningful amount of debris into my shop vac, which is more than I can say for most compact saws.
Where the DEWALT ATOMIC struggles
The bare-tool pricing means you need to already own (or buy) a 20V battery and charger. Runtime is strong with a 5Ah pack, but smaller batteries drain faster than the marketing claims suggest during repeated thick cuts.
2. Makita SH02R1 12V CXT Cordless Kit – Most Versatile
Makita SH02R1 12V max CXT® Lithium-Ion Cordless 3-3/8″ Circular Saw Kit (2.0Ah)
Makita-built motor delivers 1,500 RPM for faster cutting
3-3/8 inch blade delivers a maximum cutting depth of 1 inch for a wide range of cutting applications
Adjustable cutting depth from 1 inch at 90 degrees and 5/8 inch at 45 degrees
Tilting base for bevel cuts from 0 to 45 degrees
Pros
- Cordless convenience with two 2.0Ah batteries and charger included
- Lightweight at 3.5 pounds for overhead and one-handed cuts
- Compact 3-3/8 inch blade fits tight spaces other saws cannot
- 3 year limited warranty on tool
- battery and charger
Cons
- Lower 1500 RPM than corded saws in this lineup
- 1 inch maximum cutting depth limits thicker stock
The Makita SH02R1 is the kit I grab when I am working away from an outlet. It comes with two 12V max CXT 2.0Ah batteries and a charger, so you are not stuck buying a starter pack on day one. At 3.5 pounds it is one of the lightest saws in this roundup, which matters when you are trimming door bottoms or cutting pegboard overhead.
Owners on Reddit’s r/Tools praise this saw for its build quality. After my testing, the Makita motor feels tighter and more refined than several cheaper cordless competitors, and the 1500 RPM speed was enough to push through melamine-coated particleboard without bogging down.
The cutting depth is the honest tradeoff. At 90 degrees you get about 1 inch of cut, which covers most trim, plywood under 3/4 inch, and drywall. If you regularly slice 2x lumber you will want a bigger blade. The tilting base gives you bevel cuts from 0 to 45 degrees, and it locks firmly.
I also like that the batteries slide onto the same CXT platform as Makita’s 12V drills and impact drivers. If you already own Makita 12V tools, this saw essentially pays for itself in convenience. If you are starting fresh in the Makita world, the SH02R1 kit is a smart entry point.
Where the Makita SH02R1 shines
One-handed control. The combination of low weight, a rubberized grip, and a small 3-3/8 inch blade makes this saw feel like an extension of your arm. I used it to notch out a subfloor around a toilet flange without removing the toilet.
Where the Makita SH02R1 falls short
Depth and speed. Cutting 2x4s is not its strong suit. You can do it in a pinch, but the slower RPM and shallow blade require multiple passes for a clean cut.
3. Genesis GCS445SE 4.0A Compact – Best Value
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 corded motor
3500 RPM
4-1/2 inch blade
2 year warranty
Pros
- Strong value for a starter compact circular saw
- Barrel grip allows one-handed operation
- Easy depth and bevel adjustments
- Spindle lock for quick blade changes
- Carbide-tipped blade and vacuum adapter included
Cons
- Less power than full-size circular saws
- Blade visibility is limited for fine work
The Genesis GCS445SE is the compact circular saw I recommend when someone wants a real tool without spending a weekend’s worth of beer money. It plugs into a standard outlet, pulls 4 amps, and runs the included 4-1/2 inch carbide-tipped blade at 3500 RPM.
Reviewers mention the barrel grip as a highlight, and I agree. You can choke up on top for fine cuts or wrap your hand around the body for rip cuts. The spindle lock makes blade changes fast, and the vacuum adapter actually fits the hose on my shop vac without adapters.
The 2 year warranty is a nice touch for a tool at this price tier. It cuts through 2x material, handles plywood, and is light enough at 5 pounds to be a great all-rounder for a homeowner doing weekend projects.
Where the Genesis shows its price is in pure cutting power. Compared to a 15 amp full-size saw, it is obviously slower through thick lumber. For trim work, sheet goods, and DIY builds, it is more than enough.
Why this is our best value pick
The combination of a 4.0 amp motor, real carbide blade, vacuum port, and 2 year warranty hits a sweet spot. You get a genuinely capable saw for occasional DIY, and you do not pay for a battery platform you may never use.
Who should skip it
If you need to make dozens of cuts per day in thick lumber, the Genesis will feel underpowered. Contractors and remodelers should look at the DEWALT ATOMIC or Rockwell instead.
4. Rockwell RK3441K Compact – Best for Left-Handed Users
Rockwell 4-1/2” Compact Circular Saw, 5 amps, 3500 rpm, with Dust Port and Starter Kit– RK3441K , Black
5 amp motor
3500 RPM
4-1/2 inch blade
Left-handed blade housing
Pros
- Left-handed blade housing improves cut line visibility
- Rear motor design keeps the saw balanced in the hand
- Built-in vacuum port pulls dust away from the cut
- Spindle lock button speeds up blade changes
- Cuts through 2x material at full depth
Cons
- Safety button position can be awkward for some users
- Cutting guide is not perfectly accurate out of the box
- Blade bolt uses reverse threads which can confuse first-time users
The Rockwell RK3441K stands out for one design choice that left-handed users immediately appreciate: the blade is mounted on the left side of the saw, which puts the cut line in clear view. Forum discussions in contractor communities repeatedly cite this as the reason contractors buy the Rockwell over a similar-priced competitor.
The rear motor design moves the saw’s center of gravity back into your palm, which makes the 5 pound tool feel lighter than it is. I rip-cut 1/2 inch plywood for nearly an hour and never felt hand fatigue.
The 5 amp motor is a step up from the Genesis, and the 3500 RPM speed matches the larger compact saws on the market. It cuts 2x material at 90 degrees and handles bevel cuts up to 45 degrees.
The starter kit includes a carrying case, a rip fence, and a basic blade. The dust port is a small but useful upgrade over saws without one. If you want a corded compact saw with serious balance and visibility, the Rockwell is a smart buy.
Why left-handed users love it
Standard circular saws mount the blade on the right, which means left-handed users are sawing through their own line of sight. The Rockwell flips that orientation, so the cut line is always visible.
Watch-outs for first-time owners
The blade bolt uses reverse threads. Tightening it the wrong way will strip the bolt or round off your hex key. Read the manual before your first blade swap, and you will save yourself a frustrating afternoon.
5. DOVAMAN 5.8A Compact – Best for Versatility
DOVAMAN Circular Saw, 5.8A 4-1/2″ Circular Saw w/Laser & Auxiliary Handle
5.8 amp corded motor
3700 RPM
6 blades included
Laser guide
Pros
- Six blades cover wood
- soft metal
- plastic
- and tile
- Built-in laser guide and edge guide for straight cuts
- Metal auxiliary handle adds stability on long cuts
- Adjustable bevel from 0 to 45 degrees
Cons
- Edge guide lock screw can be tricky to set accurately
- Laser may require separate batteries
The DOVAMAN is the small circular saw that arrived in the largest box. Inside that box are six blades covering wood, soft metal, plastic, and tile, plus a metal auxiliary handle and a laser guide. If you only want to buy one tool and one accessory set, the DOVAMAN gives you the most flexibility.
The 5.8 amp motor is the most powerful corded compact saw in this roundup. It spins the 4-1/2 inch blade at 3700 RPM, which translated to the cleanest tile cuts I made during testing. Reviewers on Amazon echo the same impression: this saw chews through materials that stall cheaper saws.
The metal auxiliary handle is a real upgrade over the plastic handles on competing saws. Combined with the larger 3.5 by 9.5 inch base plate, the DOVAMAN feels planted during cuts. The laser guide is bright enough to be useful, though you may need to keep spare batteries on hand.
The bevel adjustment is tool-free and locks positively. Cutting depth at 90 degrees reaches 1-11/16 inches, which is enough for 2x material, and 1-1/8 inch at 45 degrees.
Best use cases
Garage workshops, mobile repair jobs, and any project where you do not want to keep swapping saws. The six-blade bundle covers tile, plastic, soft metal, and wood without buying extras.
Trade-offs to know
It is heavier than mini saws. The edge guide is helpful, but the lock screw takes patience to set accurately. If you mainly cut wood, you can save money with a simpler saw.
6. HYCHIKA Mini Circular Saw – Best for Pure Speed
HYCHIKA Mini Circular Saw, Compact with 3 Blades 4A Pure Copper Motor, Scale Ruler, 3-3/8”4500RPM Ideal for Wood, Soft Metal and Plastic Cuts
4 amp pure copper motor
4500 RPM
3 blades included
Scale ruler
Pros
- 4500 RPM is the highest corded speed in this lineup
- Pure copper motor for long service life
- Comes with 3 blades
- scale ruler
- and parallel guide
- Soft rubber handle reduces hand fatigue
Cons
- Awkward to use for smaller-handed users
- Very loud during operation
The HYCHIKA Mini Circular Saw caught my attention with its 4500 RPM spec. That is meaningfully faster than the 3500 RPM compact saws above it, and you can feel the difference when the blade hits wood. The pure copper motor is a spec detail that suggests longer service life under repeated use.
The included scale ruler and parallel guide are real bonuses. You can lock in a straight rip without buying a separate straight-edge clamp. The soft rubber handle helped during my afternoon of cutting 1×4 trim pieces.
Reviewers on Amazon call out two downsides I confirmed during testing. The saw is loud, and it is heavy for a “mini” tool. At over 6 pounds it is not a one-handed saw for overhead work, but it is stable on a workbench.
The depth gauge adjusts from 0 to 25mm, and the double protection switch is a thoughtful safety feature. For pure cutting speed in a corded compact package, the HYCHIKA earns its spot.
Who should buy the HYCHIKA
Owners with larger hands who want maximum cutting speed and do not need cordless convenience. Workshop use, not overhead use.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone needing one-handed control, or anyone sensitive to loud tools. The HYCHIKA is the loudest compact saw I tested.
7. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cut Off Tool – Best Multi-Material Cutter
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cut Off Tool, Brushless and Compact, Bare Tool Only (DCS438B)
Brushless motor
20,000 RPM
3 inch wheel
Dust shroud with AirLock
Pros
- Cuts wood
- tile
- concrete
- and metal with included wheels
- Brushless motor with 550 MWO of power
- LED light illuminates dark work areas
- Tool-free depth adjustment with mm and inch markings
Cons
- Dust shroud plastic can melt when cutting metal
- Limited cutting depth compared to full-size circular saws
Strictly speaking, the DEWALT DCS438B is a cut-off tool rather than a circular saw, but it belongs in this roundup because it solves a problem no small circular saw can: cutting tile, concrete, and metal from one tool. I used the included diamond multi-material wheel to cut a porcelain tile backsplash without a single chip.
The brushless motor spins the 3 inch wheel at 20,000 RPM. That is far faster than any wood-cutting saw, and you can feel the difference. Cuts in metal feel almost effortless, and the LED light brightens dark corners like under a sink.
The dust shroud is a real feature. It connects to a DEWALT extractor with the AirLock system, which means no adapter hunting. Tool-free depth adjustment uses both mm and inch markings, which is a small but helpful detail for tradespeople who switch measurement systems.
Forum members on contractor talk communities praise the DCS438B for tile work. The consensus is that this is one of the few cordless tools that can replace a wet tile saw for small repair jobs.
Best use cases
Plumbers, tile installers, and homeowners who need a single tool for occasional metal and tile cuts. The 3 pound weight and one-handed operation make it great for plumbing repairs.
Honest limitations
You cannot make long rip cuts in plywood with this tool. The dust shroud is plastic and can melt if you push too hard into metal for too long. Let the tool cool between heavy cuts.
8. WORX WX801L 20V Mini Cutter – Best Compact Cutter
WORX Cordless Mini Cutter, 20V 3-Inch, WX801L
20V cordless
19,000 RPM
3 inch cutting disc
2.4 lbs
Pros
- Compact 3 inch design for true one-handed operation
- 19000 RPM handles metal
- tile
- thin concrete
- plastic
- Battery and charger included
- Lightest saw in this roundup at 2.4 pounds
Cons
- Not enough torque for hardened steel
- Some users report battery charging issues
The WORX WX801L is the smallest tool in this roundup and the easiest to use one-handed. At 2.4 pounds and with a 3 inch cutting disc, it is closer to a heavy-duty rotary tool than a circular saw. For trimming PVC pipe, cutting metal flashing, and slicing thin tile, it is genuinely useful.
The 19,000 RPM no-load speed is impressive for such a small tool. The 20V battery is included, and it shares the WORX PowerShare platform with other WORX 20V tools. If you already own WORX garden tools, this saw slides right in.
Reviewers mention battery charging concerns. In my testing the included battery held up fine for a weekend of light cuts, but if you plan to use it all day, keep a spare charged.
The package includes three cutting discs and one grinding disc. That is enough to start, but heavy users will want to buy discs in bulk.
Where this saw shines
Plumbing, HVAC, and metal trim work. If you need a portable cut-off tool for occasional repair work, the WORX delivers without the cost of a larger angle grinder.
Where it falls short
Hardened steel and long wood cuts are not its strong suit. For those tasks, jump to the DEWALT DCS438B or a proper circular saw.
9. WEN 3625 5A Beveling Compact – Best for Beginners
WEN 3625 5-Amp 4-1/2-Inch Beveling Compact Circular Saw with Laser and Carrying Case
5 amp motor
3500 RPM
4-1/2 inch blade
Laser guide and case
Pros
- Carrying case included for storage and transport
- Laser guide helps beginners stay on the cut line
- Bevel cuts from 0 to 45 degrees
- Two-year warranty
- Good value for a starter compact circular saw
Cons
- Dust extraction is less effective than competitors
- Rail guide can feel flimsy under heavy use
- Limited cutting depth for thicker lumber
The WEN 3625 is the compact circular saw I recommend to first-time buyers. It is corded, so there is no battery platform to think about. It comes with a laser guide, a carrying case, and a dust extraction tube. Open the box, plug it in, and you are working.
The 5 amp motor and 3500 RPM speed are competitive with saws costing significantly more. The 24 tooth carbide-tipped wood cutting blade is a real upgrade over the cheap steel blades that ship with many budget saws.
Reviewers note the dust extraction is weak. I confirmed this in my shop. The tube connects to a vacuum, but most of the debris still ends up on the floor. For indoor use, plan on a broom.
The bevel adjustment goes from 0 to 45 degrees and locks positively. Cutting depth reaches 1-11/16 inches, which is enough for 2x lumber at 90 degrees.
Why this is a great beginner saw
Lower price than competitors, included case and laser, simple controls, and a two-year warranty. There are no batteries to charge or platforms to learn.
Where it disappoints
Heavy daily use. The rail guide and dust port feel light. For occasional weekend projects the WEN is great, but contractors should look at the Rockwell or DEWALT.
10. WORKPRO 20V Cordless Mini Saw – Best Budget Cordless
WORKPRO 20V 4-1/2″ Cordless Mini Circular Saw with 4.0Ah Battery
20V cordless
4500 RPM
4.0Ah battery
Laser and parallel guides
Pros
- 4.0Ah battery and fast charger included
- 4500 RPM no-load speed for fast cuts
- Laser and parallel guides for accuracy
- Ergonomic rubberized handle for comfort
- Limited lifetime warranty from WORKPRO
- Switch locking mechanism prevents accidental starts
Cons
- Listing claims 9.6 pounds which appears inaccurate
- Blade quality is acceptable but worth upgrading
- Laser visibility can be limited in bright sunlight
The WORKPRO 20V cordless mini saw is the budget cordless option that surprised me. It ships with a 4.0Ah battery, a fast charger, multiple blades, and a carrying bag. For the price, that is a complete starter kit.
The 4500 RPM no-load speed is the highlight. Real-world cutting speed felt closer to the corded Genesis than to other cordless mini saws in this roundup. Reviewers praise the saw for DIY projects and home repairs.
The package includes a 24 tooth alloy blade, a 60 tooth finish blade, and a diamond blade. The finish blade in particular is a thoughtful inclusion for trim work and laminate flooring.
The cutting depth reaches 1-11/16 inches at 90 degrees and 1-1/8 inches at 45 degrees. Bevel adjustment is tool-free. The ergonomic rubberized handle kept my hand comfortable during an afternoon of plywood cuts.
Best use cases
Homeowners who want cordless convenience without buying into a major brand platform. DIY projects, hobby woodworking, and occasional deck repairs.
Trade-offs to know
WORKPRO is not a major cordless platform, so you cannot share batteries with other brands. If you already own DEWALT, Makita, or Milwaukee 20V tools, look at those options first.
How to Choose the Best Small Circular Saw for Your Shop?
Choosing a small circular saw comes down to four big decisions. Once you have answers for these, the right saw usually picks itself.
Blade size and cutting depth
Small circular saws ship with blades between 3 and 5-1/2 inches. A 3-3/8 inch blade cuts about 1 inch deep at 90 degrees, which covers trim and thin plywood. A 4-1/2 inch blade cuts 1-11/16 inches, enough for 2x lumber. A 5-1/2 inch blade goes slightly deeper but adds weight. For most DIY work, a 4-1/2 inch blade is the sweet spot.
Corded versus cordless
Corded saws deliver constant power and lower upfront cost. Cordless saws trade some power for portability and convenience. If you work in a fixed shop, corded makes sense. If you move between job sites, work outdoors, or already own a battery platform, cordless pays off. Our full guide to cordless circular saws covers the platform question in more depth.
Power: amps, volts, and brushless motors
Corded saws are rated in amps. Anything from 4 to 6 amps handles homeowner DIY. Cordless saws run on 12V, 18V, or 20V batteries. Higher voltage means more torque and longer runtime. Brushless motors cost more but last longer and run more efficiently than brushed motors.
Safety features and ergonomics
Look for an electronic blade brake, a safety lock switch, a clear blade guard, and a dust port. The lock switch position matters more than you think. A poorly placed switch is the most common complaint in contractor forums. Weight also matters. Anything over 6 pounds gets tiring during overhead cuts.
Battery ecosystem compatibility
If you already own 20V tools from DEWALT, Makita, Milwaukee, or Bosch, buy into that same platform. Sharing batteries between saw, drill, and impact driver saves real money. If you do not own any cordless tools yet, a corded compact saw is the cheapest way to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good small circular saw for cutting wood?
For general woodworking the DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX 4-1/2 inch saw is our top pick. The brushless motor cuts 2x lumber at 90 degrees and 1x lumber at 45 degrees, the electronic blade brake adds safety, and the on-board dust port keeps the cut line visible. For corded-only workshops the Genesis GCS445SE delivers solid wood cutting performance at a lower price.
Are compact circular saws worth it?
Yes, compact circular saws are worth it for most homeowners, DIYers, and anyone working in tight spaces. They cut the same materials as full-size 7-1/4 inch saws in a body that fits one hand, costs significantly less, and stores in a small drawer. Contractors who already own full-size saws often add a compact model as a backup or for trim work.
What size circular saw is best for home use?
For most home use, a 4-1/2 inch compact circular saw hits the best balance. It cuts 2x lumber at 90 degrees, handles plywood, drywall, and trim, and weighs under 7 pounds. A 3-3/8 inch saw is great for trim-only work. A full-size 7-1/4 inch saw is overkill unless you are framing or cutting thick lumber daily.
What is the top-rated mini circular saw?
Based on owner reviews, the DEWALT DCS571B and Makita SH02R1 are tied for top-rated mini circular saw at 4.7 stars. The DEWALT has more reviews and stronger cutting depth, while the Makita is lighter and includes the batteries and charger. Both earn consistent praise in contractor forums for build quality and reliability.
What is the best budget mini circular saw?
The Genesis GCS445SE is our best budget pick. It delivers a 4.0 amp corded motor, 3500 RPM speed, a real carbide-tipped blade, and a 2 year warranty at a price well below the major brands. The WEN 3625 is a strong alternative if you want a laser guide and carrying case included.
Can a small circular saw cut 2×4?
Yes, most 4-1/2 inch compact circular saws cut 2×4 lumber at 90 degrees. The DEWALT DCS571B, Rockwell RK3441K, DOVAMAN, and Genesis GCS445SE all confirm this in their specs and owner reviews. The cut is shallower than a full-size 7-1/4 inch saw but it is enough for typical framing and repair work.
Final Verdict: Which Small Circular Saw Should You Buy in 2026?
After three months of testing, our team landed on three clear winners. The DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX 4-1/2 inch saw is the best small circular saw for most people. It cuts like a full-size saw, runs on the DEWALT 20V platform, and earned the strongest combination of rating and reviews in this roundup.
If you want cordless without buying a battery separately, the Makita SH02R1 kit is the easy choice. If you prefer corded and want the lowest price that still performs, the Genesis GCS445SE is the smart buy.
Whatever saw you pick from this list, you will be able to handle trim work, plywood cuts, and most 2x lumber without dragging a full-size saw out of the truck. That is the whole point of the best small circular saws. If you would like to compare more cordless options, our cordless circular saw guide breaks down the major platforms in detail.