Whether you are looking for a saw for some DIY projects or professional woodworking, mini circular saws are the best bet for you. In this article, we have a well-compiled list of some of the best mini circular saws on the market.
Best Mini Circular Saw 2019
| Picture | Product | Power | Power Source | Weight, lbs | Origin | Warranty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Rockwell RK3440K Versacut Editor Choice | 4 amp | corded-electric | 3.4 | China | 3 years | |
 | Makita SH02R1 Editor Choice | 12V | 12-volt,Lithium Ion Battery | 3.5 | China | 2 years | |
 | Dremel SM20-02 | 6 amp | corded-electric | 6.4 | China | 2 years | |
 | Dremel US40-01 | 7.5 amp | corded-electric | 6.8 | Mexico | 2 years | |
 | Makita SH01W | 12V | 12-volt,Lithium Ion Battery | 3 | China | 3 years | |
 | WORX WORXSAW WX429L | 4 amp | ac | 5.3 | China | 2 years | |
 | Rockwell RK3441K 4-1/2” | 5 amp | ac | 6 | China | 3 years | |
 | Mr. Orange MCS89MBAG | 500 Watts | battery-powered | 11.3 | China | 2 years | |
 | Black & Decker BDCCS20B 20-Volt | 20V | battery-powered | 6 | China | 2 years | |
 | WORX WX081L ZipSnip Cutting Tool | 3.6V | battery-powered | 1.1 | China | 2 years |
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Rockwell RK3440K Versacut 4.0 Amp Ultra-Compact Circular Saw – Most Durable
Who needs a full-size saw when you can use a smaller one but mighty option to perform the same job?
The RK3440K is a powerful, multifunctional circular saw. It can cut a wide range of materials such as flooring, sheet metal, wood, tile, and more.
Features and Performance
It features an ergonomic design with a slim grip handle that improves grip, comfort, and control with only one hand. It is 50% lighter than the conventional circular saws. Its lightweight design allows the user to easily maneuver and transport it especially overhead.
The RK3440K features a left-handed design that allows for an improved cut-line visibility. Since it was designed to cut wood, the RK3440K cuts through 2x4s in just a single pass.
The 4 ?” blade is thinner than the traditional 7 ?” saw blade. Since it is thin, it calls for less motor strain and effort thus the 5 Amp; 3,500 RPM is able to match the performance of a standard full-size circular saw. It is built using rugged components that guarantee that the tool’s performance can match your expectation even on very tough jobs.
- Has a maximum depth cut of 1 1/16
- Ideal for both professionals and newbies
- You cannot make bevel cuts
- Powerful, 4.0 amp, multi-functional, ultra-compact circular saw
- Cuts wide variety of materials such as tile, wood, sheet metal, plastics, flooring, and more. No-Load Speed- 3,500 rpm
- Ergonomic design with slim grip handle improves comfort and enhances grip and control - guide with just one hand!
- Built-in laser guide helps you align the perfect cut;120 inches cord
- Pivoting metal guard accommodates safe and easy plunge cuts
- Dust extraction adapter keeps the cut line free of dust for improved visibility
Makita SH02R1 12V Max CXT – Best for the Money
The Makita SH02R1 is a combination of power and heft. At only 3 ? pounds, it is a little bit heavier than the previous models.
Even at this weight, it is still considered to be among the featherweight power tools. Being a slightly modified version of the SH01W, the Makita SH02R1 has a sharper angle that lets you put in more power behind its blade.
Features and Performance
The Makita SH02R1 delivers more speed and power in its ultra compact size for a wide range of applications. It cuts MDF, plywood, melamine, particleboard, drywall, and pegboard. It is ideal for users looking for a more compact saw for use in tight places.
The Makita SH02R1 comes with improved grip and slide style battery. The batteries are designed with battery protection circuits to protect them from over-charging, overheating and overloading. The 12V batteries can deliver up to 1500 RPM. It also has a blade wrench for fast and easy blade changing.
It comes with a built-in power blower designed to ensure that the line of cut remains free of debris, which in turn increases accuracy. It has a tilting base designed for bevel cuts from 0° to 45°.
- Easy to use
- Powerful
- Lightweight
- Ergonomic design
- Lack of power
- Makita-built motor delivers 1,500 RPM for faster cutting
- 3-3/8" blade delivers a maximum cutting depth of 1" for a wide range of cutting applications
- Adjustable cutting depth from 1" at 90Degree and 5/8" at 45Degree
- Tilting base for bevel cuts from 0Degree - 45Degree
- Cuts plywood, MDF, pegboard, particleboard, melamine, drywall and more
Dremel SM20-02 120-Volt Saw-Max Tool Kit – Most Versatile
If you are looking for a versatile circular saw, then the Dremel SM20-02 might be the ideal machine for you. Dremel is a trusted name in the industry with over 75 years in this line of business.
The Dremel SM20-02 is one of the top products in their line of high-performance tools, designed to deliver perfect solutions for almost all jobs. Regardless of the job, the Dremel SM20-02 always delivers the ultimate satisfaction.
Features and Performance
The SM20-02 comes with 2 cutting wheel positions for plunge, straight, and flush cuts. It is powered by a 6 Amp motor that delivers seamless performance even in tough applications. Its adjustable depth control and excellent line of sight allow the user to see the cuts for the ultimate control and precision.
- Versatility
- Easy to change
- Switch placement and an optimized grip diameter for improved user comfort
- There are issues with the tool jamming and it gets hot quickly
- Versatile cutting system for a variety of materials (wood, plastic, metal, tile, masonry)
- Powerful 6-amp motor for tough applications
- Worm drive gearing for durability and power
- Dust extraction port for keeping the work place clean
- Second-wheel position for flush cutting
Dremel US40-01 Ultra-Saw Tool Kit – Best Performance
The Dremel US40-01 features a nice design that includes short-lived expensive blades by Dremel. Dremel’s products are all about spinning abrasives and the Dremel US40-01 is no different.
It can perform a few duties that the jigsaw might find difficult. The Dremel US40 is a machine you do not want to miss in your arsenal.
Features and Performance
The large 3.5” and 4” cutting wheels provide improved performance and fast cutting speeds in a wide range of materials. It also comes with several accessories from Dremel, which increases its ability to undertake surface preparation tasks such as removing paint, thin-set mortar or rust.
- Heavy-duty cast iron shoe
- It can perform a few tasks that other saws might find difficult to perform
- Has a solid construction
- It only uses blades from Dremel
- Powerful 7.5-Amp Motor for tough applications and faster cutting
- 3-in-1 Tool for Expanded Versatility: Go beyond just cutting- with the added benefit of surface preparation and flush cutting applications
- Faster Speed of Cut: Rip through plywood and cut more metal
- Added Durability: Long lasting drive train, metal foot and guard to take on more difficult tasks
- Adjustable depth guide and plunge action for precision and control
Makita SH01W – Best Mid-Range
The incredibly lightweight and compact Makita SH01W is ideal for users seeking for a tool for perfect repairs and other easy DIY jobs.
It weighs just about 3.3 pounds, which makes it easy to move around with just a single hand. Although it is extremely small, it is no toy as it is designed to provide the high-quality performance associated with its name.
Features and Performance
The SH01W is powered by twelve-volt lithium-ion batteries that can produce enough power even for heavy-duty uses. These batteries take only 50 minutes to fully charge.
Mounted with a 3-3/8”, the Makita SH01W can cut through plywood, melamine, drywall, and other numerous other construction materials. Its tilting base allows you to adjust its bevel from 0° to 45°. It is powered by a 1400 RPM motor that can rip through construction materials and lighter grade lumber with ease.
- It is lightweight and handy
- Has a balanced design for improved performance and handling
- Its compact design reduces operator fatigue
- It is not strong enough for heavy-duty activities
Makita SH01W 12V max Lithium-Ion Cordless 3-3/8-Inch Circular Saw Kit (Discontinued by Manufacturer)
- Cuts Plywood, MDF, Pegboard, Particleboard, Melamine, Drywall and more
- Makita-built motor delivers 1,400 RPM for faster cutting
- 3-3/8"" blade delivers a 1"" cutting capacity for a wide range of cutting applications
- Adjustable cutting depth from 1"" at 90° and 5/8"" at 45°
- Tilting base for bevel cuts from 0° - 45°
- Compact design at only 3.3 lbs. for reduced operator fatigue
- Built-in dust blower helps keep the line of cut free of debris for increased accuracy
- Soft grip handle provides increased comfort on the job
- Ergonomic shape fits like a glove with even pressure and easy control
- Makita 12V max Lithium-Ion batteries provide longer run time and lower self-discharge
- The charger earned the ENERGY STAR label for meeting the strict energy-efficient guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and US Department of Energy (DOE)
- 3-year warranty on tool and 1-year warranty on batteries and charger
- 2 ea. 12V max Lithium-Ion Battery (BL1014)
- 1 Battery Charger (DC10WB)
- 20T Carbide Tipped Blade (A-95021)
- LCT402W
- LCT212W
- LCT209W
- LCT314W
- LCT309W
- LCT208W
- FD01W
- FD02W
- DT01W
- WT01W
- VJ01W
- LM01W
- LC01Z
- Makita-built motor delivers 1,400 RPM for faster cutting
- 3-3/8-Inch blade delivers a 1-Inch cutting capacity for a wide range of cutting applications
- Adjustable cutting depth from 1-Inch at 90 Degree and 5/8-Inch at 45 Degree
- Tilting base for bevel cuts from 0 Degree - 45 Degree
- Built-in dust blower helps keep the line of cut free of debris for increased accuracy
- Kit Includes: 2 ea. 12V max Lithium-Ion Battery (BL1014), 1 Battery Charger (DC10WB), 20T Carbide Tipped Blade (A-95021)
WORX WORXSAW 4-1/2″ Compact Circular Saw – WX429L – Best Design
The WORX WX429L is compact and lightweight, but powerful enough to cut through 2-by-4s in just a single pass. With its 4 ?” blade, the WORX is about half the size of a traditional saw.
Its design is straightforward, which makes it ideal for users with small hands.
Features and Performance
Unlike most circular saws, the WORX has a rotatable vacuum port that is attached to a vac, which makes it easy to clear away debris and sawdust as you work. Its thin blade makes for less strain, this results in full cutting speed and maximum performance.
- The thin design allows for maximum speed and performance
- It has adjustable bevel settings
- Being left-sided, the blade allows for an improved view of the cut line
- May bog down on long cuts
- Cut 2x4's in a single pass with an easily maneuverable compact saw that weighs 50% less than a traditional 7-1/4" circular saw
- Thin blade makes for less tool strain, resulting in full size circular saw cutting speed and performance.Blade Size 4.5 inches. No-Load Speed 3500/rpm
- Easy-set depth gauge lever and 0-45-degree bevel settings for quick adjustments. The WORXSAW is substantial enough to cut through nominal 2 inch lumber, yet light enough for the DIY'er to easily and comfortably maneuver. Cut wood, metal, tile or plastic with ease
- Left-sided blade design for great cut-line visibility; grip with integrated safety trigger for comfort, balance, and control
- Box includes 4-1/2" WORXSAW, 24T Carbide-tipped Blade, Parallel Guide, Vacuum Adapter, Allen Key, and Manufacturer's 3-year warranty
Rockwell RK3441K 4-1/2” Compact Circular Saw – Best Overall
The Rockwell RK3441K features a very tough and durable compact design. It is ideal for users seeking to replace their oversized circular saws.
It is so powerful that cutting 2x4s doesn’t seem to stress this circular saw. It has a very sleek design that allows for precise cuts and convenience even in tight areas.
Features and Performance
It may not be the most powerful mini circular saw, but its excellent combination of numerous features and cutting actions makes it the best value. True to its reputation, the RK3441K is highly durable even when used for heavy-duty jobs.
It may not be the best for professional work but it is a unique addition to a professional’s repertoire.
- Easy to use
- Great handgrip
- Has sufficient power to cut through hardwoods
- Has a maximum depth cut of 1 1/16
- Its laser may need recalibration
- It tends to kick back especially if you do not maintain a good grip
- Compact but powerful 5-amp electric motor, matching performance of full-size saws at 3,500 rpm
- At only 5 lbs., is 50% lighter than conventional 7-1/4" circular saws, cuts through 2x4s in a single pass
- Left-handed blade design provides remarkable cut-line visibility
- Slim, inline grip design provides great comfort, balance, and control; maneuverable for overhead cuts
- The saw's maximum cutting depth at 90 degrees is 1-11/16" and its bevel capacity at 45 degrees is 1-1/8".Arbor Size:3/8 inches
Mr. Orange MCS89MBAG Mini Circular Saw – Best Mini Saw for Small Jobs
The lightweight and portable Mr. Orange circular saw is ideal for multipurpose cutting. It makes precise cuts for small projects and can cut sheet rock.
Its versatile and convenient design allows you to easily swap blades and make cuts with just a single hand.
Features and Performance
It features a powerful motor that makes 4500 RPM that can cut through thick wood with little or no difficulties at all. It makes clean, crisp cuts every time you are working.
- Easy to use
- Ideal for small projects
- May not be ideal for bigger projects
- MULTIPURPOSE CUTTING - Whether you're making small, precise cuts for small wood projects or need to cut sheet rock, our mini circular saw does it all.
- LIGHTWEIGHT, HANDHELD - Versatile and easy to adjust, our convenient design lets you swap blades quickly and make cuts with a single hand.
- POWERFUL MOTOR - At 4500 RPM and 500 watts, our mini saw won't get bogged down by thick wood so you can make crisper, cleaner cuts every time.
- COMPLETE KIT - Each order comes standard with the mini circular saw, additional blade types, a hex tool, and a heavy duty storage box.
- PREMIUM WARRANTY - Every Mr. Orange saw is backed by a 30-day no questions asked refund
Black & Decker BDCCS20B 20-Volt – Bets Cheap Mini Circular Saw
The Black & Decker BDCCS20B is a versatile tool for all of your endless tasks. It is ideal for users working on a tight budget, as it is very affordable.
Features and Performance
The Black & Decker features a high torque motor and a 5 ?” cutting blade for a wide range of cuts. The depth of cuts is easily adjustable. It has a compact design that allows for easy use. Its bevel adjustment has detents at 45° and 90°.
- Compact design
- Affordable price
- Easy to use and adjust
- It is ideal for small jobs but not hard and tough jobs
- High torque motor 5-1/2-Inch. fast cutting blade for a variety of cuts
- Tool-free depth of cut allows for easy depth adjustments
- Bevel adjustment with detents at 45 and 90 degrees
- Compact design for ease of use
- Works with the entire BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX System (Battery and charger sold separately)
- Circular Saw features high torque motor
- Tool Free Depth of Cut and Bevel djustment
WORX WX081L ZipSnip Cutting Tool – Best Compact
The WORX WX081L is a decent circular saw that makes precise cuts through thousands of construction materials in the workshop, around the house or in the yard.
Although it may not be superiorly powered, the WORX WX081L does a pretty good job even when used in tough conditions. WORX made this tool in such a way that it always meets the requirements of its users.
Features and Performance
It comes with a lock-out switch that works in conjunction with its trigger. The soft grip handle improves comfort while the lightweight design allows for easy control.
- Its batteries can go for months on a single charge
- It makes precise and accurate cuts
- It is lightweight and comfortable
- It is not as powerful as other saws
- Lithium-Ion battery holds a charge for months
- Self-sharpening blade ensures a precise cut every time
- Cuts through a variety of materials - handles jobs scissors and knives just can't
- Lock-out switch works in conjunction with the trigger for increased safety
- Lightweight for easy control (only 1 lb.); soft grip handle for maximum comfort
Buyers Guide: Choosing a circular saw
Contents:
Ideally, a circular saw should have sufficient raw power to cut through wet lumber, dense hardwood and many more without bogging down. However, evaluating power alone can prove to be misleading as the Amps only indicate the amount of electricity the motor draws, without including the amount of power the tool will send to its blade. Below are some of the additional features you should consider.
Power
A faster and stronger circular saw may seem as an the ideal tool for users seeking to have fun while conducting their activities, but it may not be the best-suited tool to get the job done. You may think that volts, torque or amps would be the perfect way to determine the ideal power ratings for a tool but it isn’t.
First of all, the torque ratings might be different, especially when the saw is exposed to different working conditions, than those used at the time of recording. Secondly, the amps include only the amount of electricity the saw draws from its motor. Lastly, the amp ratings do notinclude the power the motor gives to its blade. If these features are not checked diligently, you might end up with a saw that does not match your expected performance.
Pricing
The price has always been a very reliable indicator of power and performance. This also concerns mini circular saws. For circular saws, the most dependable and reliable starting price is $100, while the professional grade tools are sold for about $125 to $150, and decent worm-drives – for at least $200. With that being said, our list of the best mini circular saws includes several dependable tools as well as professional grade tools.
Ease of Use
The best thing about circular saws is that you cancarry out a variety of tasks without having to pay the extra penny for a professional one. Of course, this idea becomes completely pointless, especially if the saw you purchased is cumbersome and difficult to use.
Moreover, some of the physical limitations such as strength and size of your hands will play a key role in choosing the tool that is comfortable enough for your hands. Some compact saws have several safety locks that will require you to simultaneously engage for a seamless performance. In such a case, any user with small hands might find it difficult to operate the saw using only a single hand.
Safety Interlock
While safety interlocks might make the saw more difficult to use, they are considered as life-saving features in most cases. In regards to matters concerning safety, you will have to choose a saw considering the features you value most; the more safety features there are, the better and the easier it is to use the tool.
If it becomes difficult to choose between the many features, try a circular saw with a much smaller profile, which will easily accommodate the features you want.
Corded or Cordless
Power supply also plays a key role when it comes to choosing the best mini circular saw on the market. Corded saws are able to draw more power from an outlet but they tend to be a bit difficult to use.
On the other hand, cordless saws are easier to use and have much lower limits on power. They also require regular recharge after several hours of continuous use. In most cases, corded saws are preferred to cordless saws except for those looking to use their saw infrequently or on small cuts.
Depth of Cut
The depth of cut is a very important factor, as it will determine the kinds of jobs your saw will tackle as well as those it can’t. It will point out the jobs that are beyond its capability.
However, it is possible for a saw with a depth capable of cutting through tough material, to encounter difficulties when cutting the other materials. This may happen if its motor finds it hard to generate enough torque to keep up with the saw’s needs.
Regardless of this, your saw should be in a position to cut up to 1” of depth; anything below that may severely decrease the number of jobs you can use the tool for. You should also keep in mind that mini saws may find it hard to cut accurately or cleanly especially if you try cutting at the maximum depth.
If the saw you want has no bezel, it is advisable that you skip buying it unless you intend to use it for plunging or straight ripping.
Blade Replacement
This factor can be divided into two: the process of actually replacing the blades and the availability of spare parts to replace the blade.
For replacing, you should not consider it as much of a priority unless you intend to use your saw in a more professional setting. However, if you intend to use it at home, it is not advisable to try replacing the blades all by yourself as it might turn out to be inconvenient.
The latter consideration happens to be more important than the former. If the saw you are eyeing requires a specific blade, it is most likely that it will cost you more to replace and even more difficult to find the blade. If this is the case, try to avoid such types of saws.
Ergonomics
This is the last factor, but the most important factor to look for when buying mini circular saws. Not everyone has big strong arms or wrists but that does not necessarily mean that they cannot do whatever they set out to do.
When shopping for mini circular saws, pay attention to the weight to account for balance and heft of the tool and how its handlefits your hand. You should also take into account the visibility and positioning of the blade.
Circular Saw Basics
Safety First
Since circular saws can be dangerous at times, it is important to always follow instructions and wear safety glasses.
Setting Blade Depth
Set your blade in such a way that its bottom most tooth is 1/8 -1/4” below your work piece. Ensure that it is not plugged into the power source before trying to make adjustments.
Setup
Support the material you want to cut on a bench, overhanging enough to allow the cut piece to fall. Do not prop up the off-cut as material could buckle and bind your blade thus causing a hazardous kickback.
Cross-Cutting
For a perfect cut, mark the material preferably on the side that will be cut off, then position the blade in such a way that it just leaves the marked line on the side you intend to keep.
Ripping wider lumber
If the board you intend to cut is too wide for your saw shoe to hang over its edge when conducting a rip cut, simply hold a scrap of wood between your thumb and forefinger, then brace your finger along the board’s edge and move the saw against the edge as you push both along your board.
Conclusion
After careful research, analyzing and consideration, we’ve selected the Rockwell RK3440K Versacut as the best pick in this review. Although it may not stand out as the most powerful tool on this list, it has sufficient power to handle most jobs that a normal circular saw would handle. Moreover, it is one of the lightest and easiest to use as it has 3 different blades and laser sight.
We hope that you’ll get a perfect tool for your specific needs from this list.
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