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10 Best Lightweight Circular Saws 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 by1,362
Weight
Blade Size
Motor Power

Most important from
10360 reviews

Weight
Lightweight but packs a punch, cutting through wood like butter with its 6-1/2-inch blade.
Blade Size
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 non-professionals.
Cutting Depth and Bevel Capacity
Bevel adjustments are simple, and the cuts are highly accurate.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Adapting to the saw blade on the left side is quick, despite initially being used to right-sided blades.
Safety Features
The magnesium shoe is more sturdy, and the engine brake slows the blade down quickly.

The DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw (DCS391B) stands out in the lightweight circular saw category thanks to its powerful 5150 RPM motor, which ensures efficient and smooth cutting through wood. Weighing in at 6.95 pounds, it is relatively lightweight, making it easier to handle during prolonged use.

The 6-1/2 inch blade size is versatile for most cutting tasks, and the high-speed steel blade ensures durability and precision. Its 460 MWO motor delivers plenty of power for demanding cuts, while the 0-50 degree bevel capacity allows for a range of bevel cuts suitable for various applications. The magnesium shoe adds to its durability and accuracy on the job site, while the rubber overmolded grip offers comfort and control, reducing user fatigue.

This model does not include batteries, so users will need to purchase them separately, which could be seen as a downside. Additionally, it features a keyless blade change, which simplifies blade replacements, enhancing its user-friendliness. This circular saw is ideal for DIY enthusiasts and professionals who need a reliable, lightweight, and powerful tool for woodworking tasks.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,362
Weight
Blade Size
Motor Power

Most important from
10360 reviews

Weight
Lightweight but packs a punch, cutting through wood like butter with its 6-1/2-inch blade.
Blade Size
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 non-professionals.
Cutting Depth and Bevel Capacity
Bevel adjustments are simple, and the cuts are highly accurate.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Adapting to the saw blade on the left side is quick, despite initially being used to right-sided blades.
Safety Features
The magnesium shoe is more sturdy, and the engine brake slows the blade down quickly.
#3

DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Circular Saw, 4-1/2-Inch, Tool Only (DCS571B)

Rating
9.5
Weight
Blade Size
Motor Power

Most important from
7364 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and highly maneuverable, ideal for working in tight spaces or overhead.
Blade Size
The smaller 4-1/2-inch blade enhances versatility and precision for cutting trim, plywood, and similar materials.
Motor Power
A compact saw that delivers impressive power, especially when paired with a larger battery for tougher materials.
Cutting Depth and Bevel Capacity
Tool-free depth adjustment and bevel capability up to 45 degrees make quick, efficient angle cuts effortless.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Its ergonomic design ensures comfortable, controlled operation, reducing fatigue during extended use.
Safety Features
Built-in dust blower keeps the cutting line clear, improving visibility and accuracy.

The DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX Circular Saw is a compact and lightweight tool, weighing just 5.5 pounds, making it easy to handle for tasks requiring mobility or extended use. Its 4-1/2-inch blade is smaller than typical circular saw blades, which means it won’t cut very deep—ideal for thinner materials like plywood or trim but less suited for thick lumber. The brushless motor provides efficient power and longer battery life, although the saw is sold without a battery. It can cut as much as 369 linear feet on a 3/4 inch board with the appropriate battery, which is good for its size.

The saw offers a bevel capability up to 45 degrees, allowing for angled cuts on thinner wood, which adds versatility. Ergonomics are well considered with a removable auxiliary handle for better control and a 1-1/2 inch trigger designed to comfortably accommodate different grip styles. Safety is addressed with an electronic blade brake that quickly stops the blade after release, reducing risk during use. Additional features like onboard blade key storage and a dust port make blade changes and cleanup easier.

Due to its smaller blade, this saw is best suited for light to medium woodworking projects rather than heavy-duty framing or cutting thick materials. It is ideal for DIY enthusiasts or professionals who need a portable saw for precision cuts and convenience rather than maximum cutting depth.

Rating
9.5
Weight
Blade Size
Motor Power

Most important from
7364 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and highly maneuverable, ideal for working in tight spaces or overhead.
Blade Size
The smaller 4-1/2-inch blade enhances versatility and precision for cutting trim, plywood, and similar materials.
Motor Power
A compact saw that delivers impressive power, especially when paired with a larger battery for tougher materials.
Cutting Depth and Bevel Capacity
Tool-free depth adjustment and bevel capability up to 45 degrees make quick, efficient angle cuts effortless.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Its ergonomic design ensures comfortable, controlled operation, reducing fatigue during extended use.
Safety Features
Built-in dust blower keeps the cutting line clear, improving visibility and accuracy.

Buying Guide for the Best Lightweight Circular Saws

Choosing the right lightweight circular saw can make your cutting tasks easier and more efficient. A circular saw is a versatile tool that can handle a variety of materials, from wood to metal, and is essential for both DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors. 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, portability, and functionality.
WeightWeight is a crucial factor in a lightweight circular saw, as it directly affects the ease of use and maneuverability. A lighter saw is easier to handle, especially for extended periods, reducing user fatigue. Lightweight saws typically range from 5 to 10 pounds. If you need a saw for overhead or one-handed use, opt for a model on the lighter end of the spectrum. For general use, a slightly heavier saw might offer better stability and control.
Blade SizeThe blade size determines the depth of cut and the types of materials you can work with. 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 thinner materials, while a 7.25-inch blade can handle deeper cuts and thicker materials. Choose a blade size based on the typical projects you undertake. For general home improvement tasks, a 7.25-inch blade is versatile and widely used.
Motor PowerMotor power, measured in amps for corded saws and volts for cordless saws, affects the cutting performance and efficiency. Higher power means the saw can cut through tougher materials with ease. Corded saws usually range from 10 to 15 amps, while cordless models range from 18 to 60 volts. For heavy-duty tasks, a higher power saw is preferable. For lighter, occasional use, a lower power saw will suffice and be more cost-effective.
Cutting Depth and Bevel CapacityCutting depth indicates how deep the saw can cut into a material, while bevel capacity refers to the saw's ability to make angled cuts. A saw with a greater cutting depth and higher bevel capacity offers more versatility. Typical cutting depths range from 1.5 to 2.5 inches, and bevel capacities can go up to 55 degrees. If you frequently work on projects requiring angled cuts, such as framing or trim work, a saw with higher bevel capacity is beneficial.
Ergonomics and ComfortErgonomics and comfort are important for ensuring ease of use and reducing strain during operation. Look for features like comfortable grips, balanced weight distribution, and easy-to-reach controls. Some saws also offer additional features like dust blowers to keep the cutting line clear. If you plan to use the saw for extended periods, prioritize models with ergonomic designs to enhance comfort and control.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are essential 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, while electric brakes stop the blade quickly after the trigger is released. Safety switches prevent accidental starts. Choose a saw with robust safety features, especially if you are a beginner or will be using the saw in a busy environment.

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