Last updated: 21 November 2025
Heads up: We may earn a commission if you buy via links on this page. This doesn't affect our recommendations.

Looking for the best circular saw? With so many choices, finding the right balance of power, precision, and durability can be tough. We've tested a range of models to bring you the best options for professionals and DIYers alike.
After thorough testing, the Makita DSS611Z 18V Li-Ion LXT Circular Saw is our Editor's Pick, offering smooth cutting, lightweight handling, and solid durability. If you want more power, the Makita DHS680Z stands out with its brushless motor and automatic speed control.
Need a budget-friendly choice? The Bosch PKS 55 delivers strong performance and reliability without breaking the bank.
And the one to avoid? The G LAXIA 20V Cordless Circular Saw disappointed with poor battery life, weak cutting power, and unreliable safety features. It cuts out mid-task, lacks precision, and struggles with even basic projects.
No matter your needs, we've got you covered. Read on to find the best circular saw—and steer clear of ones that just don't perform.
Our recommendations combine manufacturer specifications, verified UK retailer data, independent testing sources, and where we've had access, direct hands-on experience. We focus on the factors that matter most for cutting performance, safety, and long-term reliability.
Note: Where exact measurements aren't available from manufacturers, we provide clearly marked estimates. We never list live prices—our focus is on function, features, and value.
When buying a circular saw, there are a few non-negotiable features that should be a given in any high-quality model. Whether you're a professional or a DIY enthusiast, these are the key elements to expect:
Most circular saws should have a solid, well-balanced build that feels sturdy in hand without being too heavy. High-quality materials play a crucial role in durability and performance:
While not essential, these features can enhance usability and make the saw more efficient and convenient to use:
By considering these core expectations, build quality and extra features, you can confidently choose the best circular saw for your projects.

The Makita DSS611Z 18V Li-Ion LXT 165mm Circular Saw is a lightweight and powerful cordless circular saw with a brushed motor, delivering smooth cutting performance at 3,700 RPM with excellent portability for professionals and DIYers.
DIYers and professionals needing a reliable, lightweight cordless saw for general carpentry, framing, and cutting sheet materials where portability matters more than maximum power.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Motor Power | 18V / 360W max output |
| Motor Type | Brushed |
| RPM | 3,700 |
| Blade Diameter | 165mm |
| Max Cutting Depth | 57mm (90°) / 40mm (45°) |
| Bevel Angle | Up to 50° |
| Weight | 3.1kg (without battery) |
| Battery Voltage | 18V (not included) |
| Safety Features | Double safety trigger, riving knife, spindle lock |
The Makita DSS611Z 18V Li-Ion LXT 165mm Circular Saw is a powerful, well-built tool that delivers smooth, precise cuts with ease. Its high-speed 3,700 rpm motor and adjustable cutting depth make it highly versatile, while the lightweight design ensures effortless handling.
The cordless convenience (compatible with Makita's 18V LXT battery system) adds portability, making it a fantastic choice for job sites and DIY projects.
We especially appreciated the quick blade change system and bevel adjustment for angled cuts. The double safety trigger enhances safety, giving us added confidence during use. The removable dust nozzle is a helpful addition for cleaner workspaces.
One minor drawback is that the battery isn't included, which could be an extra cost for those without Makita tools. However, given its exceptional performance, durability, and ease of use, we think this is a top-tier choice for professionals and DIYers alike.

The Makita DHS680Z 18V Li-Ion LXT 165mm Brushless Circular Saw is a high-performance brushless circular saw with automatic speed control and twin LED job lights, offering enhanced power efficiency and advanced features for demanding cutting tasks.
Professionals and serious DIYers who need maximum power efficiency, advanced features like automatic torque adjustment, and superior visibility in low-light conditions for precision cutting work.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Motor Power | 18V / 680W max output |
| Motor Type | Brushless |
| RPM | 5,000 |
| Blade Diameter | 165mm |
| Max Cutting Depth | 57mm (90°) |
| Bevel Angle | Up to 50° |
| Weight | 3.3kg (without battery) |
| Battery Voltage | 18V (not included) |
| Safety Features | Electric brake, soft start, electronic current limiter, twin LED job light, lock-off lever |
The Makita DHS680Z is a high-performance cordless circular saw that combines power, precision, and ease of use. Its brushless motor (one of its standout features) delivers 680W of power and 5,000 RPM, ensuring smooth, efficient cuts.
The Automatic Speed Control optimises performance by adjusting to the workload, while the lightweight, compact design makes handling effortless.
The Twin LED job lights and blower function improve visibility, allowing for precise cuts. Safety is also a priority, with an electric brake and soft start reducing the risk of kickback. The magnesium base offers excellent durability and supports bevel cuts up to 50°.
A few drawbacks include the lack of an included battery and a blade guard that may catch on thinner materials. However, these are minor compared to its overall exceptional performance. If you're looking for a top-tier circular saw, this is an excellent choice.

The Bosch Circular Saw PKS 55 is a compact and affordable corded circular saw with a powerful 1200W motor, offering reliable performance for straight cuts in wood, chipboard, and plywood with user-friendly controls.
Budget-conscious buyers who need a dependable corded saw for home workshop use, kitchen fitting, and general woodworking where unlimited runtime matters more than portability.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Motor Power | 1200W |
| Motor Type | Brushed AC motor |
| RPM | 5,600 |
| Blade Diameter | 160mm |
| Max Cutting Depth | 55mm (90°) |
| Bevel Angle | Up to 45° |
| Weight | 3.9kg |
| Power Source | Corded (mains power) |
| Safety Features | Lock-off switch, aluminium protective guard, spindle lock |
The Bosch PKS 55 Circular Saw is a powerful, precise, and well-balanced tool that delivers exceptional cutting performance. It glides smoothly through wood with minimal resistance, making every cut feel effortless.
The 1200W motor provides ample power, while the sturdy aluminium casing enhances stability. Its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, even during longer tasks, and the CutControl system makes following cut lines incredibly easy.
Safety features, like the lock-off switch, help prevent accidental activation, adding to its user-friendly appeal. A minor downside is its weight, which may take some getting used to, especially for beginners. Additionally, the dust collection feature requires a separate accessory.
Despite these small drawbacks, the Bosch PKS 55 remains an outstanding choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, reliable circular saw. It offers precision, durability, and ease of use, making it a smart investment for both DIYers and professionals.

The Evolution Power Tools R185CCSX Circular Saw is a powerful 1600W multi-material circular saw with track compatibility, capable of cutting steel, aluminium, wood, and plastic with minimal sparks and a ready-to-weld finish.
Tradespeople and fabricators who need one saw for multiple materials including mild steel, and those requiring track-guided precision for sheet material cutting and trench work.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Motor Power | 1600W |
| Motor Type | Brushed AC motor |
| RPM | 3,900 |
| Blade Diameter | 185mm |
| Max Cutting Depth | 64mm (90°) |
| Bevel Angle | Up to 45° |
| Weight | 5.1kg |
| Power Source | Corded (mains power) |
| Safety Features | Electric blade brake, blade guard closes in 0.4 seconds, shatterproof polycarbonate guard |
The Evolution Power Tools R185CCSX Circular Saw delivers exceptional cutting performance across multiple materials. We found it cuts smoothly and efficiently, making precise work effortless. The track system ensures accuracy, though additional track sections would improve usability for longer cuts.
The powerful 1,600W motor handles hardwood and plywood with ease (as long as steady pressure is maintained). Depth and bevel adjustments are intuitive, allowing for quick and precise setup. The dust extraction system is effective, though connecting a vacuum makes it even better.
While the included track works well, expanding the system could improve flexibility. However, the saw's superb build quality and reliable cutting ability make it a fantastic choice for both professionals and serious DIYers.
For those looking for precision, power, and durability in one package, this saw is a standout performer. A great investment for anyone needing a versatile and high-quality cutting tool.

The DEWALT DCS571N-XJ Compact Circular Saw 18V XR is a compact and lightweight brushless circular saw with a 115mm blade, designed for cutting in tight spaces with enhanced efficiency, precision, and one-handed operation capability.
Roofing contractors, flooring installers, and carpenters working in confined spaces who need a ultra-compact saw that can be operated one-handed for sheet material cutting and trimming work.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Motor Power | 18V / 750W output |
| Motor Type | Brushless |
| RPM | 4,500 |
| Blade Diameter | 115mm |
| Max Cutting Depth | 38mm (90°) |
| Bevel Angle | Up to 45° |
| Weight | 2.5kg (without battery) |
| Battery Voltage | 18V (not included) |
| Safety Features | Lock-off switch, electronic motor brake, spindle lock, rafter hook |
The DEWALT DCS571N-XJ Compact Circular Saw is a powerful, precise, and ultra-convenient tool that delivers exceptional performance for cutting sheet materials, flooring, and more.
Its solid build and ergonomic rubber grip provide excellent control, while the soft start feature eliminates sudden jolts, making it easier to handle. The brushless motor ensures efficiency, and the 115mm TCT blade cuts smoothly through wood, even with embedded nails.
For the best results, we found that a 5Ah battery offers superior runtime. While the vacuum attachment could be more secure and the depth of cut is limited for thick lumber, these are minor drawbacks compared to its overall outstanding performance.
This saw is an excellent choice for professionals and DIYers alike. Compact, cordless, and highly efficient, it makes cutting effortless and precise, making it a must-have addition to any toolkit.

The G LAXIA 20V Cordless Circular Saw is a budget cordless mini circular saw with laser guide and variable speed up to 4300 RPM, offering compact portability but lacking the build quality and performance of premium brands.
Occasional light DIY users on an extremely tight budget who only need to make infrequent cuts in thin softwood and don't require professional reliability or performance standards.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Motor Power | 20V |
| Motor Type | Standard brushed motor |
| RPM | 4,300 |
| Blade Diameter | 165mm |
| Max Cutting Depth | 65mm (manufacturer claim) |
| Bevel Angle | Up to 45° |
| Weight | 2.1kg (without battery) |
| Battery Voltage | 20V (included) |
| Safety Features | Double protection switch, laser guide |
The G LAXIA 20V Cordless Circular Saw is one to avoid. While it's an affordable option for small DIY projects, it simply doesn't deliver on performance, power, or reliability. We tested it on wood, soft metal, and plastic, and it became clear that this saw struggles with anything beyond the thinnest materials.
It constantly cuts out mid-task, making even basic jobs frustrating. Battery life is another major flaw. It runs out after just a few cuts, and finding a compatible 5Ah battery is nearly impossible. Without a spare, you're left waiting for a recharge instead of getting work done.
The motor is noisy, and while the laser guide is a nice feature, it lacks precision. Adding to the disappointment, the blade installation process is unclear, and the blade guard doesn't always function properly—a serious safety concern.
There are some positives, like the comfortable rubber grip and the vacuum adapter to help with dust control (though it's not perfect). However, none of these minor perks make up for the overall poor performance.
If you need a reliable, long-lasting saw, this isn't it. There are far better options on the market with superior power, safety, and durability.
When selecting the best circular saws, we didn't just make a few cuts and call it a day. We put each model through rigorous testing to assess performance, durability, ease of use, and safety. Here's how we did it.
To evaluate cutting power, we tested how well each saw maintained RPM under load, cutting through thick hardwood, softwood, and plywood. We examined the smoothness of cuts, looking for tear-out, splintering, or rough edges.
Accuracy was another key factor—each saw was tested to see if it followed a marked line precisely without deviation. Bevel and angle cuts were also assessed at both 45° and 90° to ensure clean, stable cuts with minimal adjustments.
For cordless models, we measured how many full-depth cuts could be made on a single charge. We tracked whether power output diminished as the battery drained and how long it took for a full recharge.
A high-performing model is needed to maintain cutting power consistently without sudden drop-offs in performance.
Comfort and control were essential considerations. We tested how ergonomic each saw felt in hand, assessing grip comfort and whether prolonged use caused fatigue. Weight distribution was also checked to ensure the saw was well-balanced and easy to manoeuvre.
Visibility was another factor—each model was reviewed to ensure a clear view of the cutting line without obstructions from the blade guard.
Blade guard responsiveness was tested by checking how smoothly it retracted and whether it ever got stuck mid-cut. We measured the electric brake's effectiveness by timing how quickly the blade came to a complete stop after the trigger was released.
Kickback resistance was evaluated by simulating material binding to see how well each saw handled sudden resistance.
To test structural integrity, we applied pressure to the baseplate (shoe) to check for flexing or bending under weight. Each saw was run continuously in a controlled test to monitor for overheating, motor strain, or power loss.
We also simulated real-world durability with drop and impact tests to assess how well each model held up after accidental falls or rough handling.
A clean workspace leads to better precision, so we examined how well each built-in dust blower cleared the cut line. For models with vacuum attachments, we measured how much sawdust was effectively collected when connected to an extractor.
For models with a laser guide, we tested its accuracy against the actual cutting path. Automatic speed control was another factor—models with this feature were reviewed to see if they adapted power output based on material thickness.
Lastly, we timed how fast a blade could be swapped using the quick blade change system, ensuring a hassle-free process.
The best size circular saw for home use is typically between 6.5 inches and 7.25 inches in blade diameter. This size offers a balance between power, versatility, and ease of handling, making it suitable for common DIY tasks like cutting plywood, framing lumber, and trimming boards with precision.
The best circular saw blade depends on the material being cut. For general woodworking, a carbide-tipped blade with 24 to 40 teeth provides durability and efficiency.
For cutting metal or plastic, specialised blades with finer teeth or diamond-tipped edges are recommended for clean and precise cuts.
The circular saw blade that gives the cleanest cut is a high-tooth-count blade, usually 60 to 80 teeth, designed for fine woodworking. These blades produce smooth, splinter-free cuts, making them ideal for finishing carpentry, laminate, and veneered plywood, where precision and clean edges are essential.
The most popular circular saw blade size is 7.25 inches, as it provides a good balance between cutting depth and usability. This size is widely used for framing, woodworking, and general construction, allowing users to cut through standard lumber and sheet materials efficiently.
The best cordless circular saws have improved significantly, but a corded circular saw remains more powerful for extended heavy-duty tasks.
High-voltage cordless models (18V-60V) can rival corded saws in power and performance, but battery life limitations may require additional batteries for continuous operation on larger projects.
Hopefully, this guide has helped you find the best circular saw for your needs. With so many options available, choosing the right one can be tricky, but after extensive testing, we have a clear favourite.
The Makita DSS611Z 18V Li-Ion LXT Circular Saw stands out as our top pick, offering powerful performance, smooth cutting, and excellent durability. Whether you're a DIYer or a professional, it's a reliable choice that delivers precision and ease of use.
While most of the saws we tested performed well, there was one major disappointment. The G LAXIA 20V Cordless Circular Saw fell short in almost every area—poor battery life, weak cutting power, and unreliable safety features make it one to avoid.
Have you found the perfect circular saw for your projects? Or are you still weighing your options? We'd love to hear your thoughts—let us know what you think!