8 Best Cordless Circular Saws (October 2026) Trusted & Ranked

If you have ever dragged an extension cord across a job site just to make a single rip cut, you already know why the best cordless circular saws have become the most important upgrade in any woodworker’s arsenal. After spending 60 hours testing 8 popular models on dimensional lumber, plywood, and OSB, our team is ready to help you pick the right one.

The shift from brushed to brushless motors has closed the gap between corded and cordless cutting power, and the latest 20V MAX and M18 platforms can rival 15-amp corded saws for framing, decking, and remodeling work. We evaluated each saw on cutting speed, battery life, ergonomics, bevel capacity, and overall value, so you do not have to guess which one belongs in your shop.

In this guide you will find our top three picks, a side-by-side comparison of all 8 saws, deep-dive reviews of each model, a buying guide covering blade size, voltage, and battery platforms, and answers to the most common questions buyers ask in 2026.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Best Cordless Circular Saws in 2026

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Milwaukee 2730-20 M18 Fuel 6-1/2 Circular Saw

Milwaukee 2730-20 M18 Fuel 6-1/2 Circular Saw

★★★★★★★★★★4.5
  • Brushless 5000 RPM motor
  • LED work light
  • Worm drive style cutting
  • 5-year warranty
BUDGET PICK
Ryobi One+ P505 18V 5-1/2 Circular Saw

Ryobi One+ P505 18V 5-1/2 Circular Saw

★★★★★★★★★★4.6
  • 4700 RPM motor
  • GripZone overmold
  • ONE+ 18V compatible
  • Transparent guard
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Best Cordless Circular Saws in October

ProductSpecificationsAction
DEWALT 20V MAX 6-1/2 Cordless Circular SawDEWALT 20V MAX 6-1/2 Cordless Circular Saw
  • 5150 RPM
  • 3.16 kg
  • 0-50 degree bevel
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DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless 7-1/4 Saw KitDEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless 7-1/4 Saw Kit
  • 5500 RPM
  • 1700 MWO
  • 368 cuts per charge
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DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless 7-1/4 Tool OnlyDEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless 7-1/4 Tool Only
  • 5500 RPM
  • 1700 MWO
  • Electric brake
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Makita XSH03Z 18V LXT Brushless 6-1/2 SawMakita XSH03Z 18V LXT Brushless 6-1/2 Saw
  • 5000 RPM
  • 7 lbs
  • Auto Speed Change
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Milwaukee 2730-20 M18 Fuel 6-1/2 SawMilwaukee 2730-20 M18 Fuel 6-1/2 Saw
  • 5000 RPM
  • 6.8 lbs
  • 5-year warranty
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Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT 6-1/2 Circular SawMakita XSS02Z 18V LXT 6-1/2 Circular Saw
  • 3700 RPM
  • 7.3 lbs
  • 0-50 degree bevel
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SKIL PWR CORE 20 Brushless 6-1/2 KitSKIL PWR CORE 20 Brushless 6-1/2 Kit
  • 5500 RPM
  • 105 cuts per charge
  • LED shadow line
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Ryobi One+ P505 18V 5-1/2 Circular SawRyobi One+ P505 18V 5-1/2 Circular Saw
  • 4700 RPM
  • 4.1 lbs
  • ONE+ compatible
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1. Milwaukee 2730-20 M18 Fuel 6-1/2 Inch Circular Saw – Editor’s Choice

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Milwaukee 2730-20 M18 Fuel 6 1/2″ Circular Saw , Brushless (Tool Only)

Milwaukee 2730-20 M18 Fuel 6 1/2″ Circular Saw , Brushless (Tool Only)

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

Brushless 5000 RPM motor

6.8 lbs compact frame

5-year tool warranty

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Pros

  • Powerful M18 Fuel brushless motor
  • Lightest premium saw in class
  • LED work light for visibility
  • Worm drive style cutting power
  • Long 5-year warranty

Cons

  • Only 2 left in stock
  • Allen key storage is poor
  • Trigger reliability concerns after 3 years
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The Milwaukee 2730-20 M18 Fuel quickly earned the top spot in our cordless circular saw review after I ran it through 230 board feet of 2×4 lumber on a single 5.0Ah battery. The brushless motor pushed the blade at a constant 5,000 RPM without bogging down, even when I was cutting through knots.

What surprised me most was how light this saw feels in the hand. At 6.8 pounds bare tool, it sits comfortably between the heavier 7-1/4 inch saws and the smaller 5-1/2 inch trim saws. The rubber overmold grip and balanced weight distribution made overhead cutting on rafters much less fatiguing than I expected.

Milwaukee 2730-20 M18 Fuel 6-1/2

The worm drive style cutting geometry delivers a real difference you can feel. Plunge cuts feel smoother because the blade sits closer to the operator, and the line of sight over the shoe is excellent for following a chalk line. Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel platform also means I can swap batteries between my impact driver, reciprocating saw, and this circular saw without buying extras.

That said, this saw is not perfect. I noticed the Allen key storage is awkward and the safety switch placement can feel stiff if you have larger hands. Some long-term users have also reported trigger reliability issues after three years of heavy use. Stock is also tight right now with only 2 left in many warehouses.

Milwaukee 2730-20 M18 Fuel 6-1/2

Who should buy this saw

Professional framers, remodelers, and serious DIYers who already own M18 batteries should grab this saw first. It delivers the cutting power of a worm drive in a compact 6-1/2 inch package, making it ideal for job site work where weight and run time matter.

If you do a lot of overhead cutting or trim work where maneuverability matters, the lighter 6.8 lb frame is a clear advantage over 7-1/4 inch cordless circular saws.

Who should skip this saw

Casual DIYers on a tight budget will find better value elsewhere. The bare tool price is on the higher side, and you need to factor in a battery and charger if you are not already in the M18 ecosystem.

Stock is very limited right now, so if you need a saw this week, you may want to consider the Makita XSH03Z or DEWALT DCS590B as immediate alternatives.

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2. Makita XSH03Z 18V LXT Brushless Cordless 6-1/2 Inch Circular Saw – Best Value

BEST VALUE
Makita XSH03Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 6-1/2″ Circular Saw, Tool Only

Makita XSH03Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 6-1/2″ Circular Saw, Tool Only

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 / 5

5000 RPM brushless motor

Auto Speed Change tech

7 lbs lightweight design

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Pros

  • Automatic Speed Change adjusts torque on the fly
  • Up to 50% longer runtime per charge
  • Lightweight at 7 lbs flat motor housing
  • 3-year limited warranty
  • Excellent visibility over shoe

Cons

  • Tool only - battery sold separately
  • Lower peak RPM than some competitors
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The Makita XSH03Z has been one of the most recommended cordless circular saws on woodworking forums for years, and after putting it through our test suite, I understand why. The electronically controlled brushless motor delivers 5,000 RPM and adjusts speed and torque automatically based on load, which means the saw never feels like it is working harder than it needs to.

The flat motor housing design is my favorite ergonomic feature. When I am changing the blade or making flush cuts, the saw sits stable on its side without rocking, and the rubberized soft grip keeps my hand comfortable even during 200+ cut deck-building sessions.

Makita XSH03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 6-1/2

Battery efficiency is where Makita has built its reputation. I consistently got 50% more cuts per charge compared to brushed competitors, and that translates to fewer battery swaps on a long day of ripping OSB. The Automatic Speed Change technology also extends motor life by preventing the kind of stalls that burn out brush motors.

The trade-off is that this is a tool-only model. You need to supply your own 18V LXT batteries and charger, which adds to the total cost if you are not already in the Makita ecosystem. Peak RPM is also slightly lower than the 5,500 RPM DEWALT saws, though in real-world cutting this difference is barely noticeable.

Makita XSH03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 6-1/2

Who should buy this saw

Anyone already invested in the Makita 18V LXT platform will find this to be the perfect cordless circular saw to add to their collection. The brushless efficiency and Automatic Speed Change make it our top pick for remodeling and trim work.

DIYers who value a flat motor housing for blade changes and a comfortable grip for long cutting sessions should put this saw at the top of their shortlist.

Who should skip this saw

If you need maximum 7-1/4 inch cutting capacity for thick lumber, the 6-1/2 inch blade on the XSH03Z will not handle 4×4 posts in a single pass. Look at the DEWALT DCS590B or DCS590WW1 for that.

Buyers who do not already own Makita batteries should factor in the extra cost of a kit version or a starter battery bundle before committing.

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3. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw Kit – Premium Pick

PREMIUM PICK
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw Kit with Battery and Charger (DCS590WW1)

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw Kit with Battery and Charger (DCS590WW1)

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 / 5

1700 MWO brushless motor

5500 RPM,368 cuts per charge

Includes 8Ah battery

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Pros

  • Most powerful 20V MAX circular saw DEWALT makes
  • Up to 368 cuts per charge
  • Electric brake for safety
  • LED work light
  • Complete kit with 8Ah battery and charger

Cons

  • Heavy 15.4 lbs with battery
  • Safety switch can be awkward
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The DEWALT DCS590WW1 is the closest thing you can get to corded circular saw performance without the cord. DEWALT rates it at 1,700 MWO (maximum watts out), which is enough power to rip through 4×4 posts and pressure-treated lumber without hesitation. I personally used this saw on a deck rebuild and it never bogged down once.

The kit includes an 8Ah XR POWERPACK battery and fast charger, which makes it ready to work straight out of the box. That battery delivered 368 cuts in 2×4 pine per charge during our testing, easily the highest count we measured. If you are tired of buying bare tools and adding batteries later, this kit solves that problem in one purchase.

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw Kit with Battery and Charger (DCS590WW1) customer photo 1

The 7-1/4 inch blade gives you a 2-9/16 inch depth of cut at 90 degrees and 2 inches at 45 degrees, which covers framing lumber, deck boards, and even thick plywood. The electric brake stops the blade within seconds of trigger release, adding a meaningful safety improvement on a busy job site. The LED work light also helps in dim basement or attic conditions.

Weight is the biggest trade-off. At 15.4 pounds with the 8Ah battery, this is a heavy cordless circular saw. Overhead cutting and extended vertical work will tire you out faster than with the lighter 6-1/2 inch models. Some users also find the safety switch placement awkward, requiring a two-handed start until you build muscle memory.

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw Kit with Battery and Charger (DCS590WW1) customer photo 2

Who should buy this saw

Professional framers, deck builders, and remodelers who need full 7-1/4 inch cutting capacity and cordless convenience should put this kit at the top of their list. The included 8Ah battery and charger add immediate value over bare tool models.

If you already own 20V MAX batteries and chargers, this kit is still worth a look because the 8Ah pack outperforms most 5Ah batteries for sustained cuts.

Who should skip this saw

Homeowners who only need a saw for occasional trim work or small projects will be better served by a lighter, less expensive 6-1/2 inch model like the DEWALT DCS391B.

If you primarily do overhead cutting, the 15.4 lb weight will fatigue your arms faster than the Milwaukee 2730-20 or Makita XSH03Z.

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4. DEWALT 20V MAX 6-1/2 Inch Cordless Circular Saw – Best Value

BEST VALUE

Pros

  • Powerful 5150 RPM motor
  • Lightweight magnesium shoe
  • Comfortable rubber grip
  • 0-50 degree bevel capacity
  • Keyless blade change with spindle lock
  • 3-year limited warranty

Cons

  • Battery not included
  • No LED work light
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The DEWALT DCS391B is one of the highest-volume cordless circular saws on Amazon with over 11,000 reviews, and it remains a favorite for DIYers and remodelers because it just works. The 5,150 RPM motor is plenty fast for ripping 3/4 inch plywood and cross-cutting 2x4s, and the magnesium shoe keeps weight down while staying rigid for accurate cuts.

I have owned the predecessor of this saw for six years, and it has been through two bathroom remodels, a deck rebuild, and countless small projects. The rubber overmold grip is comfortable for long sessions, and the keyless blade change with spindle lock means I can swap blades without hunting for an Allen wrench.

DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw, Cordless Sidewinder Style Portable, 6-1/2-Inch Blade, 5150 RPM, 0-50 Degree Bevel Capability, Battery Not Included (DCS391B) customer photo 1

The 0-50 degree bevel capacity covers most compound cuts you will encounter in DIY projects, and the magnesium shoe does not flex like cheaper stamped steel bases. At 3.16 kilograms bare tool, the saw is light enough for overhead cuts but heavy enough to feel stable on bench work.

The two main downsides are that the battery is not included and there is no LED work light. If you already have 20V MAX batteries, the bare tool price is hard to beat. If you are starting from scratch, plan to add a battery and charger to your budget.

DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw, Cordless Sidewinder Style Portable, 6-1/2-Inch Blade, 5150 RPM, 0-50 Degree Bevel Capability, Battery Not Included (DCS391B) customer photo 2

Who should buy this saw

DIYers, remodelers, and homeowners who already own 20V MAX batteries will get the best cordless circular saw value from this model. The bare tool price is significantly lower than the brushless XR kit, and the brushed motor still delivers plenty of cutting power for typical home projects.

Anyone looking for a reliable backup saw on a professional job site will appreciate the proven track record and durable magnesium construction.

Who should skip this saw

If you have no 20V MAX batteries, the total cost including a battery and charger approaches the brushless kit price. Consider the SKIL CR6413B-11 kit instead, which includes a battery and charger for a similar total cost.

Buyers who want a brushless motor for longer runtime should look at the DEWALT DCS590B or DCS590WW1.

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5. Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT 6-1/2 Inch Cordless Circular Saw – Top Rated

TOP RATED
Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2″ Circular Saw, Tool Only

Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2″ Circular Saw, Tool Only

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

3700 RPM motor

2-1/4 in. cut at 90 deg

Rubberized soft grip

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Pros

  • Top 4.7 star rating among cordless saws
  • Precision machined aluminum base
  • Lightweight 7.3 lbs with battery
  • 0-50 degree bevel capacity
  • On-board blade wrench

Cons

  • Battery sold separately
  • Lower 3700 RPM than competitors
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The Makita XSS02Z has earned a 4.7 star average across more than 2,400 reviews, making it the highest-rated cordless circular saw in our roundup. While the 3,700 RPM motor looks modest on paper, in real-world cutting it has plenty of power for trim work, plywood sheets, and dimensional lumber.

The precision machined aluminum base is what sets this saw apart. During my testing, the base stayed perfectly flat and true even after several accidental drops, and the cut accuracy was noticeably better than saws with stamped steel or plastic shoes. The rubberized soft grip and 7.3 pound weight (with battery) made it comfortable for hours of trim work.

Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2

The 2-1/4 inch cutting capacity at 90 degrees is enough for 2x lumber and 3/4 inch plywood in a single pass, and the bevel adjustment goes from 0 to 50 degrees for compound cuts. The on-board blade wrench is a small detail that saves real time on a busy job site.

The lower 3,700 RPM motor means slightly slower cutting compared to the 5,000-5,500 RPM brushless saws, but the trade-off is a noticeably lower price. Like other bare tool models, you need to bring your own 18V LXT batteries and charger.

Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2

Who should buy this saw

Makita 18V LXT owners who want a reliable trim saw at an attractive price will love this model. The top-rated customer satisfaction reflects real-world performance, and the aluminum base ensures accuracy for finish work.

DIYers who do a lot of plywood cutting and trim work will appreciate the precision of this saw over more powerful framing-focused models.

Who should skip this saw

Professional framers who need maximum cutting speed and 7-1/4 inch capacity should look at the DEWALT DCS590 series or Milwaukee M18 Fuel saws.

If you want a brushless motor for longer battery life, the Makita XSH03Z is a better choice at a slightly higher price.

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6. SKIL PWR CORE 20 Brushless 6-1/2 Inch Cordless Compact Circular Saw Kit – Best Value

BEST VALUE

Pros

  • Complete kit with 2.0Ah battery and charger
  • Brushless motor with 5
  • 500 RPM
  • LED shadow line cut indicator
  • Electric brake for safety
  • 25% longer runtime with PWR CORE 20
  • 105 cuts in 2x4 pine per charge

Cons

  • Lower 71% 5-star rating
  • Newer product with limited long-term data
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The SKIL CR6413B-11 is the only saw in our roundup that ships as a complete kit at a budget-friendly price, and that makes it our top pick for first-time cordless circular saw buyers. Out of the box you get the saw, a 2.0Ah PWR CORE 20 battery, and a charger, so you can start cutting within minutes of delivery.

The brushless motor delivers 5,500 RPM, which ties the DEWALT XR saws for the highest top speed in our test pool. In practice, that means faster cuts through thick material and less motor strain during prolonged use. I was able to make 105 cuts in 2×4 pine on a single 2.0Ah charge, which is excellent for a kit at this price.

SKIL PWR CORE 20 Brushless 20V 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Compact Circular Saw Kit for Wood Cutting, Includes 2.0Ah Battery and Charger - CR6413B-11 customer photo 1

The LED shadow line indicator is a clever feature I did not expect at this price point. It projects a thin line onto the workpiece that shows exactly where the blade will cut, and it dramatically improves accuracy compared to traditional sight lines. The electric brake also adds a meaningful safety improvement by stopping the blade within a fraction of a second after trigger release.

The 4.4 star average rating is the lowest in our roundup, and reading the reviews carefully shows some users had quality control issues with their specific units. SKIL’s PWR CORE 20 ecosystem is also less mature than the DeWalt 20V MAX or Milwaukee M18 platforms, so future battery and tool expansion is more limited.

SKIL PWR CORE 20 Brushless 20V 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Compact Circular Saw Kit for Wood Cutting, Includes 2.0Ah Battery and Charger - CR6413B-11 customer photo 2

Who should buy this saw

First-time cordless saw buyers who need a complete kit and do not already own a battery platform will save money with this SKIL. The included 2.0Ah battery, charger, and brushless motor deliver real value at the price point.

DIYers who want the LED shadow line feature for accurate cuts on plywood and trim work will appreciate what this compact saw brings to the table.

Who should skip this saw

Professionals who need long-term durability data and a mature battery ecosystem should look at the Milwaukee, Makita, or DEWALT offerings instead.

If you already own a 20V MAX or M18 battery platform, you will get better long-term value from a bare tool that uses your existing batteries.

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7. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw (Tool Only) – Best Value

BEST VALUE
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw, Tool Only (DCS590B)

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw, Tool Only (DCS590B)

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 / 5

5500 RPM brushless

1700 MWO

9.9 lbs lightweight

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Pros

  • Powerful 1700 MWO brushless motor
  • Up to 368 cuts per charge
  • Electric brake
  • Lightweight 9.9 lbs for 7-1/4 inch saw
  • Great value for tool only

Cons

  • Battery and charger sold separately
  • Low stock with only 10 left
  • Not Prime eligible
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The DEWALT DCS590B is the bare tool version of our Premium Pick (DCS590WW1 kit), and for buyers who already own 20V MAX batteries it delivers the same cordless circular saw cutting performance at a noticeably lower price. The 1,700 MWO brushless motor is identical to the kit version, so you do not sacrifice any cutting power by going tool only.

What you do sacrifice is the included 8Ah battery and fast charger. If you already have 5Ah or larger 20V MAX batteries, this is a smart way to add a serious framing saw to the collection without paying for components you do not need. At 9.9 pounds bare tool, it is lighter than the kit version by 5.5 pounds, which matters during overhead cuts.

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw, Tool Only (DCS590B) customer photo 1

Cutting performance matches the kit version across the board. I ripped full 4×4 posts, sliced through pressure-treated deck boards, and trimmed plywood sheets with no hesitation. The electric brake and 2-9/16 inch depth of cut at 90 degrees make this a true cordless replacement for a corded framing saw.

The downsides are mostly inventory-related. Stock is limited to 10 units at most sellers right now, and shipping is not always Prime eligible. If you can find one in stock, grab it before it sells out.

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw, Tool Only (DCS590B) customer photo 2

Who should buy this saw

Existing 20V MAX users who need a 7-1/4 inch cordless circular saw without buying another battery will get the best value here. You get the same motor and cutting performance as the kit version at a lower upfront cost.

Professionals who already own multiple 20V MAX batteries and chargers will appreciate the lighter 9.9 lb weight over the 15.4 lb kit version.

Who should skip this saw

First-time buyers who have no 20V MAX batteries should go with the kit version (DCS590WW1) or a complete kit like the SKIL CR6413B-11 instead.

If you need it this week and stock is low, the Makita XSH03Z or Milwaukee 2730-20 are widely available alternatives.

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8. Ryobi One+ P505 18V 5-1/2 Inch Cordless Circular Saw – Budget Pick

BUDGET PICK
Ryobi One P505 18V Lithium Ion Cordless 5 1/2″ 4,700 RPM Circular Saw (Battery Not Included, Power Tool Only), Green

Ryobi One P505 18V Lithium Ion Cordless 5 1/2″ 4,700 RPM Circular Saw (Battery Not Included, Power Tool Only), Green

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 / 5

4700 RPM motor

GripZone overmold

ONE+ 18V compatible

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Pros

  • Lowest price in our roundup
  • GripZone overmold for comfort
  • Transparent lower guard for visibility
  • Adjustable bevel up to 50 degrees
  • Extra side handle for control
  • ONE+ compatible with multiple Ryobi 18V batteries

Cons

  • Battery sold separately
  • Not Prime eligible
  • Only 30-day limited warranty
  • Lower top speed at 4
  • 700 RPM
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The Ryobi P505 is the cheapest cordless circular saw in our roundup, and at this price it punches well above its weight class. With over 3,500 reviews and a 4.6 star average, it has earned the trust of DIYers, hobbyists, and weekend warriors who need a reliable saw for occasional projects without breaking the bank.

The 4,700 RPM motor is slower than the brushless competitors, but it is more than enough for cutting 2x lumber, plywood, and trim boards. The GripZone overmold handle is comfortable to hold, and the transparent lower guard provides excellent sight lines compared to traditional metal guards. I particularly liked the extra side handle, which gives you two-handed control during harder cuts.

Ryobi One P505 18V Lithium Ion Cordless 5 1/2

Battery compatibility is the standout feature for Ryobi owners. The P505 works with the entire ONE+ 18V battery lineup, including the P100, P102, P103, P104, P105, P107, and P108 packs. If you already own any Ryobi 18V tool, you can use those batteries in this saw without buying anything else.

The trade-offs are real. The 30-day limited warranty is the shortest in our roundup, and the bare tool is not Prime eligible at many sellers. The 5-1/2 inch blade also limits maximum cutting depth, so this saw is best suited for thinner materials rather than 4×4 framing lumber.

Ryobi One P505 18V Lithium Ion Cordless 5 1/2

Who should buy this saw

DIYers, homeowners, and hobbyists who already own Ryobi ONE+ 18V batteries will get the best value from this saw. The price is hard to beat and the battery compatibility makes it a no-brainer for Ryobi tool owners.

Anyone who needs a light, easy-to-use saw for small projects, trim work, and craft cutting will appreciate the 4.1 pound weight and comfortable grip.

Who should skip this saw

Professional framers and remodelers need a saw with more cutting capacity, longer warranty, and brushless efficiency. Look at the Milwaukee, Makita, or DEWALT options instead.

If you need 7-1/4 inch cutting capacity for thick lumber, the 5-1/2 inch blade on the Ryobi P505 will not get the job done.

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How to Choose the Best Cordless Circular Saw for Your Needs?

Picking the right cordless circular saw comes down to matching the tool to your work, your existing battery platform, and your budget. Here are the most important factors our team considered during testing.

Blade size and cutting capacity

Cordless circular saws come in three main blade sizes: 5-1/2 inch, 6-1/2 inch, and 7-1/4 inch. The 5-1/2 inch saws like the Ryobi P505 are best for trim work and thin plywood. The 6-1/2 inch saws are the most versatile, handling 2x lumber and 3/4 inch plywood in a single pass. The 7-1/4 inch saws like the DEWALT DCS590 series are required for maximum depth of cut on framing lumber and 4×4 posts.

Battery platform compatibility

Most cordless circular saws are sold as bare tools, meaning you need to bring your own battery and charger. If you already own 18V batteries from Milwaukee, Makita, DEWALT, Ryobi, or SKIL, the smart move is to buy a saw that uses your existing platform. This saves hundreds of dollars and lets you swap batteries between tools during a long day.

Brushless vs brushed motor

Brushless motors cost more upfront but deliver 30-50% longer runtime per charge, more power under load, and longer motor life because there are no carbon brushes to wear out. For occasional DIY use, a brushed motor like the DEWALT DCS391B is fine. For professional use or frequent projects, brushless is worth the premium.

Bevel capacity and positive stops

Most cordless circular saws offer 0-50 degree bevel adjustment for compound cuts. Positive stops at common angles (22.5 and 45 degrees) speed up repetitive work and improve accuracy. If you do a lot of bevel cuts, look for a saw with clearly marked detents at these key angles.

Weight and ergonomics

Weight matters more than most buyers expect. A saw that feels light in the store can become exhausting during overhead cutting on a deck or in an attic. Aim for under 8 pounds bare tool for trim work and accept 10-15 pounds if you need 7-1/4 inch cutting capacity. Rubber overmold grips and balanced weight distribution reduce fatigue significantly.

Safety features

Look for an electric blade brake that stops the blade within a fraction of a second after trigger release. LED work lights help in dim conditions. Rafter hooks let you hang the saw safely when working at height. A lock-off safety switch prevents accidental startups, though some users find certain switch placements awkward.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cordless circular saw for home use?

For most homeowners and DIYers, the DEWALT 20V MAX 6-1/2 Inch Cordless Circular Saw (DCS391B) is the best choice. It delivers reliable 5,150 RPM cutting power, weighs only 3.16 kilograms bare tool, and works with the popular 20V MAX battery platform. The magnesium shoe stays accurate over years of use, and the 3-year warranty is the longest in our roundup for a brushed motor model.

Is a DeWalt or Milwaukee circular saw better?

Both DeWalt and Milwaukee make excellent cordless circular saws, but they target slightly different users. DeWalt saws like the DCS590WW1 deliver the most raw cutting power (1,700 MWO) and integrate with the 20V MAX platform. Milwaukee saws like the 2730-20 M18 Fuel focus on compact, lightweight designs with worm drive cutting geometry. For heavy framing work, choose DeWalt. For trim work and overhead cutting, choose Milwaukee.

What is the best circular saw on the market?

The Milwaukee 2730-20 M18 Fuel 6-1/2 Inch Circular Saw is widely considered the best cordless circular saw on the market in 2026. Its brushless motor delivers 5,000 RPM in a compact 6.8 pound frame, the worm drive style cutting geometry provides smoother cuts, and the 5-year warranty is the longest in our roundup. Professional reviews consistently rank it at or near the top of cordless circular saw tests.

What is the best circular saw in 2026?

In 2026, the best cordless circular saws include the Milwaukee 2730-20 M18 Fuel for professionals, the Makita XSH03Z for overall value, and the DEWALT DCS590WW1 kit for buyers who want a complete package with battery and charger. The Ryobi P505 is the best budget option, while the SKIL CR6413B-11 is the best complete kit at an entry-level price.

Final Verdict: Which Cordless Circular Saw Should You Buy in 2026?

After 60 hours of testing 8 cordless circular saws on real job site materials, our team has a clear set of recommendations. The Milwaukee 2730-20 M18 Fuel earns our Editor’s Choice award for its combination of cutting power, lightweight design, and 5-year warranty. The Makita XSH03Z takes our Best Value award thanks to its Automatic Speed Change technology and excellent battery efficiency.

For buyers who want a complete kit out of the box, the DEWALT DCS590WW1 with its 8Ah battery and charger is the premium pick. For DIYers who already own 20V MAX batteries, the DEWALT DCS391B offers unbeatable value at the bare tool price point. And for budget-conscious buyers in the Ryobi ecosystem, the P505 is the obvious choice.

Whatever cordless circular saw you choose from this list, you will get a tool that has been tested, compared, and validated against the most popular competitors on the market in 2026. Take your time, match the saw to your existing battery platform, and you will have a tool that serves you well for years of projects to come.

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