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10 Best Lightweight Circular Saw 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw, 6-1/2-Inch Blade, 460 MWO Engine, 0-50 Degree Bevel Capability, Bare Tool Only (DCS391B)

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,184
Weight
Blade Size
Motor Power

Most important from
10334 reviews

Weight
The DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw is lightweight but packs a punch, cutting through wood like butter with its 6-1/2-inch blade.
Blade Size
The DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw is lightweight but packs a punch, cutting through wood like butter with its 6-1/2-inch blade.
Motor Power
The power is impressive, and the saw is easy to handle, even for someone who’s not a pro.
Cutting Depth and Bevel Capacity
Bevel adjustments are simple, and cuts are highly accurate, making it perfect for small to medium DIY projects.
Ergonomics and Comfort
The saw's design, with the blade on the left side, has a small learning curve but is easy to adapt to.
Safety Features
The shoe is more sturdy, and the engine brake slows the blade down quicker, adding to the saw's safety features.

The DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw is a solid option for anyone looking for a lightweight and versatile tool for woodworking projects. Weighing in at just over 7 pounds, it's easy to handle and manipulate, which is great for extended use without too much strain. The 6-1/2-inch carbide-tipped blade is capable of cutting through materials with precision, making it suitable for cutting 2x material at 90 and 45 degrees. Its powerful 5150 RPM motor ensures that even demanding cuts are handled smoothly.

One of the standout features is the 0-50 degree bevel capacity, allowing for a variety of angled cuts, which is particularly useful for more complex projects. The high-strength magnesium shoe contributes to durability while keeping the tool lightweight, an excellent combination for both job-site and home use.

In terms of ergonomics, the rubber overmolded grip helps in maintaining comfort and control during operations, reducing fatigue during longer tasks. Additionally, being a bare tool means that you can use your existing DEWALT 20V batteries, which is a plus if you already own other tools from this line. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The fact that this is a bare tool means that it does not come with a battery or charger, which could be an additional expense if you don’t already have them. Also, while it excels in cutting wood, it may not be the best choice for harder materials without strain. Finally, some users may find the absence of advanced safety features, like electric brake systems, a bit concerning. For DIY enthusiasts and professional carpenters alike, the DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw offers a reliable balance of power, comfort, and versatility. Just be sure to factor in the additional cost for a battery and charger if needed.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,184
Weight
Blade Size
Motor Power

Most important from
10334 reviews

Weight
The DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw is lightweight but packs a punch, cutting through wood like butter with its 6-1/2-inch blade.
Blade Size
The DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw is lightweight but packs a punch, cutting through wood like butter with its 6-1/2-inch blade.
Motor Power
The power is impressive, and the saw is easy to handle, even for someone who’s not a pro.
Cutting Depth and Bevel Capacity
Bevel adjustments are simple, and cuts are highly accurate, making it perfect for small to medium DIY projects.
Ergonomics and Comfort
The saw's design, with the blade on the left side, has a small learning curve but is easy to adapt to.
Safety Features
The shoe is more sturdy, and the engine brake slows the blade down quicker, adding to the saw's safety features.
#3

Makita XSR01PT 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4" Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah)

Rating
9.4
Weight
Motor Power
Cutting Depth and Bevel Capacity

Most important from
1209 reviews

Weight
Noticeably lighter than a corded magnesium worm drive, but not so light that it can't push through material. Seems like the perfect balance.
Motor Power
Cuts anything my worm drive Skilsaw 7 1/4 does, not as much power of course but still it does it, and does it smoothly.
Cutting Depth and Bevel Capacity
This thing is well thought out and tight. With a good straight edge to follow, I can wafer off a 4x8 sheet of plywood and have it look better than the same cut on my #1 table saw.
Ergonomics and Comfort
This thing feels balanced, cuts straight and everything really just feels right about this saw.
Safety Features
The safety button needed to engage the trigger is a bit awkward, as I'm used to only needing one finger to start a saw.

The Makita XSR01PT is a standout choice in the lightweight circular saw category, designed for both professional and DIY users looking for performance and convenience. Weighing in at just 12.4 pounds, this saw is relatively light compared to many corded models, making it easier to handle during extended use or overhead cuts. Its 7-1/4” blade size is standard for many cutting tasks, providing versatility for various materials, especially wood.

One of the key strengths of this circular saw is its powerful brushless motor, which operates at 5,100 RPM. This high speed allows for clean and efficient cuts. The inclusion of dual LXT batteries enhances its runtime, offering up to 558 crosscuts in 2x4 lumber on a single charge, which is quite impressive. The automatic speed change technology also ensures optimal performance by adjusting cutting speed based on the task at hand.

Safety features like the electric brake are a definite plus, ensuring that the blade stops quickly, which is crucial for user safety. The saw's design is robust, but it’s worth noting that replacement blades might require extra cost if you prefer specific types or sizes. Lastly, though it fits well in the lightweight category, users needing heavy-duty power for thicker materials might find it slightly less effective compared to more robust, corded alternatives. The Makita XSR01PT offers an excellent blend of power, portability, and performance, making it ideal for homeowners and professionals looking for a reliable circular saw for woodwork.

Rating
9.4
Weight
Motor Power
Cutting Depth and Bevel Capacity

Most important from
1209 reviews

Weight
Noticeably lighter than a corded magnesium worm drive, but not so light that it can't push through material. Seems like the perfect balance.
Motor Power
Cuts anything my worm drive Skilsaw 7 1/4 does, not as much power of course but still it does it, and does it smoothly.
Cutting Depth and Bevel Capacity
This thing is well thought out and tight. With a good straight edge to follow, I can wafer off a 4x8 sheet of plywood and have it look better than the same cut on my #1 table saw.
Ergonomics and Comfort
This thing feels balanced, cuts straight and everything really just feels right about this saw.
Safety Features
The safety button needed to engage the trigger is a bit awkward, as I'm used to only needing one finger to start a saw.

Buying Guide for the Best Lightweight Circular Saw

Choosing the right lightweight circular saw can make your woodworking projects easier and more efficient. A circular saw is a versatile tool that can handle a variety of cutting tasks, from ripping through lumber to making precise crosscuts. When selecting a lightweight circular saw, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and find a saw that balances power, ease of use, and portability.
WeightWeight is a crucial factor when choosing a lightweight circular saw, as it directly affects the tool's portability and ease of use. A lighter saw is easier to handle, especially for extended periods, and is ideal for overhead or one-handed cuts. Lightweight saws typically range from 5 to 8 pounds. If you need a saw for frequent, long-duration use or for tasks that require high maneuverability, opt for a model on the lighter end of the spectrum. For occasional use or less demanding tasks, a slightly heavier model may still be manageable.
Blade SizeThe blade size determines the depth and type of cuts the saw can make. Common blade sizes for circular saws are 6.5 inches and 7.25 inches. A 6.5-inch blade is suitable for lighter tasks and offers better control, making it a good choice for DIY projects and smaller cuts. A 7.25-inch blade can handle deeper cuts and is more versatile for a wider range of materials. Choose a blade size based on the types of projects you plan to undertake; larger blades for more demanding tasks and smaller blades for precision and ease of use.
Motor PowerMotor power, measured in amps for corded saws or volts for cordless saws, affects the cutting performance and efficiency of the saw. Higher power means the saw can cut through tougher materials more easily. For lightweight circular saws, motor power typically ranges from 10 to 15 amps for corded models and 18 to 20 volts for cordless models. If you plan to cut through dense or thick materials, opt for a higher-powered motor. For lighter, everyday tasks, a lower-powered motor will suffice and may contribute to a lighter overall tool.
Cutting Depth and Bevel CapacityCutting depth refers to how deep the saw can cut into a material, while bevel capacity indicates the angle at which the saw can make cuts. These specs are important for versatility and precision in your projects. A saw with a greater cutting depth and higher bevel capacity can handle a wider range of tasks. Typical cutting depths range from 1.5 to 2.5 inches, and bevel capacities can go up to 45 degrees or more. Consider the types of cuts you need to make; for more complex or varied projects, choose a saw with higher cutting depth and bevel capacity.
Ergonomics and ComfortErgonomics and comfort are essential for ensuring that the saw is easy to handle and reduces fatigue during use. Look for features such as a comfortable grip, balanced weight distribution, and easy-to-reach controls. Some saws also offer additional features like vibration reduction and adjustable handles. If you plan to use the saw frequently or for extended periods, prioritize models with better ergonomic design to enhance comfort and control.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are critical to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation. Common safety features include blade guards, electric brakes, and safety switches. Blade guards protect you from the spinning blade when not in use, electric brakes quickly stop the blade after the trigger is released, and safety switches prevent accidental starts. When choosing a saw, ensure it has adequate safety features to protect you during use, especially if you are a beginner or will be using the saw in various environments.

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