The 10 Best Compact Circular Saw Reviews In 2022

Last Updated on November 4, 2021

Whether you are a DIYer hobbyist or a professional woodworker, having the best compact circular saw at your disposal is essential. Not only will it save you a lot of time, but it will also help you to achieve more accurate cuts.

Although, you will find numerous heavy tools that are more considered as industrial grade, having a mini-circular saw will still prove to be invaluable.

There are many reasons why you want to use a compact circular saw for your project, but the two major ones are: they simplify your cutting tasks and help you achieve more in lesser time. They are also low-cost, especially when compared to the so-called industrial grade tools.

The purpose of this article is to guide you through the process of choosing the most reliable pick to suit your needs.

Best Compact Circular Saw – Comparisons

Top 10 Best Compact Circular Saw

Finding the best compact circular saws for your projects can be overwhelmingly difficult, especially if you are new in the market.

This is because there are myriads of options to choose from and without knowing what to look out for, the search can be frustrating and never-ending.

In order to make your search a whole lot easier, we have reviewed the best items on the counter at the moment, and have come up with a list that represents the top models that money can buy in 2019.

1. Rotorazer Platinum Compact Circular Saw Set

Rotorazer has always been known for their quality product delivery. One of the foremost models that have continued to receive a lot of positive reviews is the Platinum Compact Circular Saw.

Equipped with a 500-watt motor, this tool delivers incredible power that allows you to produce deep cuts in various materials such as wood, plastic, PVC, masonry, marble, metal and so on. Thanks to its guide rail, you can now achieve better results in your DIY projects.

One of the first things you would notice about this saw is its lightweight. This makes it convenient to use over long periods of time without developing tired hands and fingers. The reduced weight also makes it highly portable within the workshop and outside when you need to work in the field or elsewhere.

Perhaps the best selling point of the Rotorazer Platinum is its versatility. Apart from using it as a circular saw, it also works well as a hand saw, jigsaw, miter saw, band saw, tile saw, and a hacksaw.

In other words, you can accomplish almost any home improvement task, or construction work with this compact saw. Isn’t that amazing? Having one saw that could do nearly everything will not only make life easier for you but can also save you a lot of cost in the long run.

The machine is equipped with a powerful motor that is rated 500 watts which is capable of delivering up to 4500 RPMs. With such power, you can cut materials like wood, PVC, and even metal. The motor is housed inside a durable case which ensures its protection and consistent performance.

Another thing users’ like about this compact saw are the fact that it comes with a dust removal system which helps to clear out dust from the cut area thereby improving visibility. The overall small size of the saw also makes it convenient to handle. This is really important when using the tool for a long time.

There are three blades that are included in the kit, each of which has a diameter of 85mm. One blade is made of tungsten which is ideal for cutting wood; another made of steel is good for metals; while the third blade is made of diamond making it suitable for cutting tiles and stone.

In other words, this Rotorazer saw offers a lot of versatility. The saw weighs only 10 pounds and comes with an adjustable blade guard for additional protection.

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2. Makita SH02R1 12V Max CXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Circular Saw Kit, 3-3/8″

When it comes to the world of power tools, Makita is one name that rings a bell. And as expected, they boast of a product line of quality mini circular saws. It is to this category that the SH02R1 Cordless Circular Saw belongs to.

The SH02R1 is not only one of the best Makita mini circular saws available at the moment but also one of the top contenders in the larger market. And believe it when we tell you that there’s a lot you stand to gain by purchasing this wonderful product.

Like most high-end circular saws, the SH02R1 comes equipped with a lot of interesting features that makes a great take for all who would choose to put out their money for it.

Although it’s small in size, it is the ideal saw for a wood crafter. It’s already popular among artists and passionate DIYers. In addition to its compact size, the body construction also makes it long-lasting. The small size of the saw makes it very easy to carry around and use for extended periods.

The saw handle provides a strong grip thereby preventing the saw from slipping when in use. Although only one blade is included with the saw, it performs excellently well for different kinds of materials.

The major setback with this saw is its small RPM at 1500, which makes it the slowest jigsaws on the list. But even at that, it still delivers a steady performance, which is obviously more important.

So, if you’re not in a hurry to get things done, the SHO2R1 will make a great choice. Sometimes, it’s a slow and steady performance you really need to produce some high-quality cuts.

The saw weighs only 10 pounds and produces less dust compared to most of its counterparts.

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3. Dremel SM20-02 120-Volt Saw-Max Tool Kit

If you are looking for a small circular saw that is built with power and durability in mind, then the Dremel SM20-02 will make a great choice.

This wonderful tool from a reputable company provides just the right amount of force required to accomplish your small projects. It comes with a great design which consists of a well-organized case having a blade on one end and a power card on the other.

The compact design of the saw makes it possible for it to be held with one hand to produce different kinds of cut that are up to ¾-inches deep with very little effort.

To be more specific, you can make straight cuts, plunge cuts or even flush cuts on various materials ranging from wood to tiles. Again, this makes it one of the most versatile cutting tools out there.

With a 6-amp motor provided by a worm drive gear, you will agree that the Dremel SM20-02 is one of the most mini circular saws out there. In other words, you can trust it to take on even the toughest materials. And thanks to its high blade speed (17,000 RPM), you can accomplish a lot in a short time.

The whole kit includes 4 different blades, a saw, a dust port and adapter, and a carrying case. Its dust port helps to greatly reduce dust making cleaning a lot easier. Furthermore, the carrying case adds to the portability of the tool by making it more convenient to carry around.

Its blades can also be tilted to suit various cutting depths and mediums depending on the task at hand. The compact profile of the saw also provides you with an excellent line of sight enabling you to achieve more precise cuts. A lock-on button is provided to ensure your comfort, especially during extended use.

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4. Rockwell RK3440K Versacut 4.0 Amp Ultra-Compact Circular Saw

Another circular saw that is making a lot of waves in the market at the moment is the Rockwell RK3440K Versacut. It is one of the best-rated compact circular saw out there.

The RK3440K comes with a 4A motor, which might not be the most powerful motor out there but it definitely gets the job done. The saw has a compact design and offers an ergonomic grip which allows you to comfortably handle it with one hand.

This tool works excellently for wood that is 2 or more inches thick. It can also be used to cut other materials such as tiles, sheet metal, PVC, plastic, and so on. Three different blades are provided with the saw. A switch controls the release of the blade thereby ensuring your safety.

As indicated above, this saw is very versatile so you can use it for a lot of applications. It weighs only 3.4 pounds which is very lightweight. So, you will be able to use it for a long time without getting tired.

Another interesting feature of the RK3440K is its laser cutting guide, which helps you achieve more accurate cuts. However, unlike the saw, the guide is powered by a battery, which can run out sooner.

This might not be convenient for time-consuming projects as you may have to stop in between work to charge the laser indicator. That said, this is still a great saw with an ultra-compact design that has no rival.

It also comes with a dust extraction feature that helps to reduce dust around the cut line. The blade has a diameter of 3.4 inches while the cut depth can be up to 1.15 inches.

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5. PORTER-CABLE PCE381K 5.5 Amp 4-1/2″ Compact Circular Saw Kit

Compact saws are generally assumed to be more convenient due to their small size and design. However, the mini size can become a challenge to people with bigger hands. If you are looking for a compact circular saw that would make the best fit for your big hands, then the porter-cable PCE381K will make a perfect choice.

There is so much to say about this wonderful tool from Porta-cable. And the first feat we loved about it is the lightweight. With a 6-pound weight, the PCE381K is convenient to handle.

You don’t have to worry about developing tired hands and fingers even when using the tool over extended periods. This is quite surprising given the normal dimension of the saw.

One would think that because it’s meant for larger hands, it would be a bit heavy even as a compact saw. Thankfully, this is not the case. The saw dimension is well balanced and provides a more comfortable grip and better maneuverability.

With a motor rating of 5.5 amp and a cutting speed of 3500rpm, the PCE381K provides just enough cutting power for you to accomplish most of your cutting task. The compact design of the saw enables you to operate it with one hand without straining your muscles.

You can produce cuts that are 1-11/16 “deep. In other words, you can adjust the depth to suit your needs. Also, the saw is able to cut 2times material in just one pass. Isn’t that incredible?

Unlike the Dremel SMH20-02, this model can be used to make bevel cuts, which is really cool. The bevel capacity is specified from 0 to 45 degrees. A dust port is included to prevent dust from clustering the work area thereby ensuring more visibility and less clean-up after each work session.

You will also like the carry bag that is added with the kit to make portability easier.

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6. VonHaus 5.8 Amp Compact Circular Saw Kit with Laser Guide

Another compact saw that you would refer to as small but mighty is the Vonhaus Ultra Compact Circular Saw with a motor power of 5.8 Amp. This saw serves perfectly for both beginners as well as professionals.

It is the ideal compact saw for making clean and professional cuts on different kinds of materials ranging from plastics to tiles, to woods, and so on. If you are familiar with the Vonhaus4.5-amp compact circular saw, then it might interest you that the 5.8 Amp model is an upgrade.

Apart from the increased motor power rating, the Von house 5.8 amp features a laser indicator that is meant to serve as a cutting guide, helping you to make more clean cuts. With the powerful motor, the blade is able to spin at 4,500 RPM.

You will also be impressed by the compact design which provides an ergonomic grip and great control over the tool. The diameter of the blade is measured at 3.5-inches, so it serves well for making both rip cuts and plunges. You will be able to reach enclosed space which is ordinarily un-accessible with many regular circular saws.

The body construction is made of vulnerable material, while a hard-wearing carrying case is provided for storing the saw and to make transportation easier. Like many high-end compact circular saws, the Vonhaus5.8-amp features depth control, while the plunge cuts can be as deep as 1-1/8-inches.

A dust collection system is added to take care of the flying dust from the woodwork when the device is in operation. The system also helps to prevent the clustering of dust in the work area, thereby improving visibility and reducing the amount of pain you have to go through after each work session.

As earlier indicated, this saw has a comfortable handle which provides a slim grip. This allows the saw to be held with one hand and also helps to reduce the fatigue that comes with extended use of the tool.

The saw comes with additional blades which makes it even more versatile. With the 5.8-amp motor, you can use the saw on both soft materials such as plywood, as well as tougher ones such as ceramic tiles and dry walls.

The user-friendly design also makes it very easy to use, and you can rely on the performance of the machine to get the work done.

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7. WORX WORXSAW 4-1/2″ Compact Circular Saw – WX429L

If you’re in search of a lightweight circular saw that will afford a lot of maneuverability, then you will not go wrong with the WORXSAW WX429L by WORX. Not only is it available at a great price but also provide great value for your money. There’s so much you can accomplish with this compact tool.

It offers an adjustable cutting depth and a high level of accuracy. To be more exact, you can cut through 2x4s with the saw which also boasts of a blade that is 4.5-inches in diameter. The thin blade offers a lot of flexibility and allows you to cut with more ease and speed.

In fact, many users reported that the device performs just like a full-sized saw in terms of the speed and quality of cuts it produces.

A parallel guide is included with the saw to help keep the blade on course, so you will be able to obtain straight accurate cuts. This is complemented by a blade design that is left-sided allowing you to get a better view of the cut line.

You can easily adjust the saw depth up to 2 inches. And you can also achieve bevel cuts with the tool.

The compact design of the saw makes it convenient to carry around. The handle is comfortable while the light weight of the saw makes it highly portable and allows for greater maneuverability. It is great for people with small hands, especially women who may have a hard time handling larger power tools.

A built-in safety trigger is also featured on the saw for better control and stability. The vacuum adapter helps to prevent dust from clustering the workpiece.

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8. Genesis GCS545C Control Grip Compact Circular Saw

Our list of the best circular saws would seem incomplete without mentioning the Genesis GCS545C. Although Genesis might not be a popular brand, they’ve managed to maintain consistency in their delivery of quality power tools.

The saw is equipped with a 5.8-amp motor which provides all the power you need to cut through various materials. It offers a comfortable grip which gives you greater control enabling you to achieve more accurate cuts.

Its motor speed is rated at 3,500 RPM which is one of the highest in the market. This is complemented by triple-gear reduction feature which makes it possible to reach maximum torque every time you engage the saw.

The high-speed motor combined with triple gear reduction makes the tool suitable for heavy-duty tasks. So, if you need a compact saw to work with for your next big project, then you will not go wrong with the GCS545C.

Included with the saw is a tungsten-carbide tipped blade which is known for its high performance. The entire tool is safe to use, so you have nothing to worry about.

Like many high-end compact circular saws, the GCS545C is equipped with a dust port and vacuum adapter that help to prevent dust and debris from clustering the workspace. This helps to improve visibility making it possible for you to achieve more accurate cuts.

The saw is easy to use and lightweight as well, so you can easily move it about. It also offers depth and angle adjustments to ensure you achieve the desired outcome.

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9. TACKLIFE TCS115A Metal Handle Circular Saw with Laser Guide

Tack-life may not be a well-known brand in the power tool industry, but it manages to demonstrate the level of consistency in producing high-quality tools ever since it came on the scene. One of the best models in the product line of their circular saws that seems to have caught a lot of interest recently is the Tack-life TCS115A.

The TCS115A is the ideal tool you want to have whenever you want to produce better cuts in various materials such as plastics, soft metal, woods, and tiles. The first thing you notice about this wonderful saw is the metal handle which is not common with many regular circular saws.

Like many Tack-life products, this saw is designed with durability and portability in mind. It comes with a laser guide for increased accuracy when cutting through materials. The red light helps to enhance your visibility and making it easier for you to identify the right places to cut.

One of the short-comings of many small circular saws is the inability to make bevel cuts. Luckily, you can achieve both straight and bevel cuts with the TCS115A. The cutting angle can be adjusted from right angle at 90 degrees to 45 degrees, while the bevel capacity is usually measured at 45 degrees.

The ability to make straight and bevel cuts is a very useful feature as it saves you the extra cost of purchasing an extra tool for that purpose.

Another interesting feature you will find with this saw is the addition of an aluminum alloy guide which doesn’t only ensure the safety of the tool, but also adds to its durability. In other words, the guide helps to extend the service life of the saw and also keeps you safe.

Interestingly, the Tack-life TCS115A comes with 6 different blades for making cuts in various materials. This is supposed to be usual 3 blades that come with many models. The addition of 6 blades makes the saw incredibly versatile, thereby increasing your auctions and what you can accomplish with the tool.

To be more exact, the saw comes with a 224T blade which is usually used for cutting plastics and woods; 260T blades which work well for cutting through soft metals and wood; and then 2 great diamond blades which work well for tile materials.

As we indicated earlier, the saw comes with a metal handle which provides a comfortable grip and helps to reduce fatigue, especially when operating the tool with one hand. The entire tool is easy to install and disassemble and doesn’t take time.

Overall, this is a high-quality compact circular saw from a reputable company. It is ideal for both domestic and professional use and comes with all the features you will need to make professional cuts that are precise without any hassle.

The item weight is measured at 8.2 pounds which is convenient. We encourage you to make the purchase, as we are sure you will not be disappointed.

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10. Hyperikon Electric Compact Circular Saw

If you need a small circular saw to take on several projects, then Hyperikon is your brand. Don’t be deceived by the small size; there’s a lot you can accomplish with this tool.

First on the list of “great haves” is its compact design which consists of a dust port and an ergonomic slim grip which makes it easier for you to work in tight spaces. Included with the saw is a 4.5-inch 24T tungsten carbide tipped blade which makes it ideal for cutting wood materials.

To ensure you get a clear view of the cut line so as to produce clean straight cuts, a front edge guide is added to the tool while an opening is created on the left side of the base plate. This ensures there’s little chance for error.

The saw is lightweight, which makes it possible for you to use the tool for a long time without wearing you out. The small compact sizing also makes it very convenient and comfortable to handle.

Interestingly, the saw allows you to make plunge cuts, as well as miter and bevel cuts. This makes it very versatile for woodworking applications. The blade can be tilted to 450, and you can also adjust the depth to make pocket cuts.

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Things to Consider Before Buying

Given the huge number of brands and models of compact circular saws available, it is extremely important to pick the right one for your project.

In order to do this, there are some things you have to consider. This will not only help you achieve the intended result but also ensure you get a great value for your money.

Power

Regardless of their small size, circular saws are meant to be “powerful” enough to do the kind of job they’re designed for. The amount of power a saw is able to deliver will determine the type of material it can cut, how deep it can go, and of course, the speed. All these factors combined can influence the level of precision of your cuts.

Most important circular saws have a power rating between 3-5 amps. There are some that have up to 6 amp, and some that have 2 amp or something lower. Of course, a 6 amp saw can accomplish more than what a 4 amp Saw can do.

Corded vs. Cordless

In addition to power, you also need to consider whether the circular saw you are purchasing is cordless or not.

A cordless saw offers free movement as opposed to a corded saw which ties you to a spot. However, since they run on batteries, cordless saws can only go as far as the battery allows.

You have to charge them often. In addition, the amount of sheer power provided by a corded saw will always be greater than that of a cordless saw since the latter runs on electricity.

So, depending on the nature of your project and what you need the most; “reliable power or unlimited mobility,” you can choose either a corded compact saw or the cordless option. But if your budget allows it, you can just purchase both options and use them where appropriate.

The Depth of Cut

Another important consideration to make when purchasing a circular saw is the depth of cut it can produce.

The depth of cut simply means how deep a saw can go in wood or any other material. Some compact saws can go as deep as 3-inches, while there are others that can go 1-inch deep. The deeper the cut, the better for you.

In addition to the depth of cut, another thing that you also want to look out for is whether the saw has the ability to make bevel cuts. Bevel cuts are angled cuts that are usually made towards the wood edge.

This feature is very useful as it adds to the versatility of your saw. Circular saws that lack a bevel feature can only be used to make straight cuts.

Blade Diameter

In addition to the Depth of cut saw, you also need to consider the size of the tool. This is important because the blade diameter also plays a big role in determining how deep a circular saw is able to go.

You want something that has a diameter or thickness of 3-4 inches. Luckily, all the products we’ve reviewed above fall into this category, so you have absolutely nothing to worry about.

Easy Blade Replacing

You want to purchase a saw that offers an easy blade replacement, especially if you’re purchasing the tool for professional use.

Normally most compact saw blades do not take long to replace. Even the hardest ones will not take more than a few minutes.

But then, you may find yourself in a situation where you are working on different materials. In this case, you are likely going to be changing the saw blades quite often. You don’t want to spend a lot of time doing so as it could delay your work.

So, you need to go for a saw that is very easy and quick to replace. The easier it is, the better for you.

Carrying Case

A carrying case is not so much of a big deal. But it’s still a good idea to have it as it provides storage for your saw and makes it a whole lot easier and convenient to carry the saw around.

You don’t want to leave your saw lying on the table after using it.

Ease of Use

When purchasing a circular saw especially for the first time, you want to make sure it’s something you can easily adapt to using.

You also want to make sure it’s comfortable to handle and light to work with. This is important since you’re most likely to be operating the saw with one hand.

A bulky saw can make you develop tired arms easily, slowing down your work in the process.

Safety Tips to Follow

Like any other power tool, the circular saw is innately risky, as such a lot of precaution has to be taken when using the tool. To ensure you get the best use of the saw without exposing yourself to danger, make sure you follow these safety tips:

• Use eye protection to keep you focused on the job and prevent flying debris and dust from reaching your eyes.
• Wearing an ear guard is also necessary to protect your ears from the noise that is produced by the saw when in operation.
• Another good practice is to ensure you don’t go too deep when cutting through an entire workpiece. This will ensure the saw blade doesn’t get to your body. To be more exact, try not to go beyond 0.25 inches below the board’s bottom.
• When making a cut, try to retract the blade guard. You should be able to do this manually.
• Also, try to oil the saw occasionally to maintain its efficiency and also prevent it from kicking when in use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to unplug the saw before making any adjustment?
A: Yes, you have to for safety purposes.

Q: Do I need a carry bag for my saw?
A: Yes, but sometimes this might not be provided. The safest way to carry your saw is with a carrying bag which is usually hard-sided, but sometimes this might not be provided.

Q: What is the best circular saw?
A: All the products on the list are top contenders, and it would be difficult to single out one without sounding bias. However, feel free to make your choice. You won’t be disappointed with any of these brands.

Q: What kind of maintenance does a circular saw need?
A: Like every other power tool, a compact circular saw needs to be properly maintained in order to ensure its optimum performance and safety. You should ensure you check the saw every time you finish using it, just to make sure there’s no loose part in the machine.

Set a cleaning schedule where you can clean the exterior surface of the saw with a soft cloth that is a little damp. Don’t forget to sundry the tool after cleaning to avoid rust.

Q: Where can I get these products?
A: You can purchase these saws by following the corresponding product links provided.

Conclusion

There you have it – our review of the best compact circular saw for the year 2019. All the products here represent the best brands you can get for the money.

We hope you finally have everything you need to find the right circular saw for your next project. Make sure you leave your comments if you anything is not clear to you.

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