We think you’ll agree with us when we say that circular saws are one of the most important power tools in any workstation. However, traditional circular saws are heavy and take up much space.
This is why compact circular saws are something you must have in your collection.
We have reviewed the ten best compact circular saws that will help you cut through anything!
Let’s discuss the things to look out for when buying these tools and rank them as well.
| IMAGE | NAME | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|---|
  | ★ WINNER ★ Dremel SM20-02 | This versatile compact circular saw comes with every feature needed for the best experience. It delivers optimum performance and guarantees satisfaction. | Check on Amazon |
  | ★ RUNNER UP ★ Worx Worxsaw 4.5 Inch | An affordable compact circular saw that cuts through almost anything. It’s portable and has a high-powered sawing motor. | Check on Amazon |
  | ★ ALSO GREAT ★ Black and Decker 5.5 Inch | With a handle that is as sturdy as the saw itself, this product was bound to be in the top pics. It is efficient and fast on any material. | Check on Amazon |
Best Compact Circular Saws - Top 10 Reviews
1. Best Versatile Compact Circular Saw - Dremel SM20-02 Review
When it comes to compact circular saws, the Dremel SM20-02 is the real deal. This mini saw comes with four blades, accessories, and a storage box.
One feature that you’re bound to love is its ergonomic design which doesn’t tire your arm out. This lightweight mini circular saw has four different blades and two attachments to meet your sawing needs.
This saw is made to last and you won’t need to replace it anytime soon. The hardware and build of it are of top quality sturdy materials.
Factors to Consider Before you Decide to Buy Dremel SM20-02 Saw-Max
Performance
This saw has a powerful 6 amp motor with worm drive gearing that makes it durable and versatile.
Blade Length
It has a three-inch blade and comes with four different blade options. You can make straight cuts, plunge cuts, and flush cuts with this saw.
Portability
As it is extremely lightweight you can easily carry this saw around and use it to your will. It weighs just under 7 pounds.
Power Input
This saw is battery operated on 120 volts. This means the battery is powerful enough to last you plenty of cuts and guarantee precision in your work
Additional Features
With this saw, you get the additional features of a dust vacuum adapter and additional blades.
- Complete kit with accessories
- Dust extraction features
- Can cut through different materials
- Flush cutting feature
- Comes with a storage case
- Cannot make bevel cuts
- The cord isn’t very long
- Only makes simple cuts
Best Versatile Compact Circular Saw
The best compact circular saw is the Dremel SM20-02 because of its complete kit with accessories, versatile features, and accuracy.
2. Best Affordable Compact Circular Saw - Worx Worxsaw 4.5 Inch Review
Most compact circular saws offer basic cuts and limited usage, but you won’t see that with the Worx Worxsaw 4.5 circular saw. This mini saw has impressive features that rival a standard circular or miter saw.
You can make different cuts with this handy tool and it has a great cutting depth. This tool makes it easy to cut through wood, plastic, metal, and tile.
Even Though it is small and lightweight, you won’t feel that power has been compromised when you use it.
Factors to Consider Before you Decide to Buy Worx Worxsaw 4.5 Inch
Performance
The motor of this saw puts out a blade speed of 3500 RPM. You can cut through anything with this powerful motor.
Blade Length
The blade is 4.5 inches in length which sets it apart from most mini saws. You can cut deeper and faster with the bigger carbide-tipped blade.
Portability
Although it is a corded circular saw, it is lightweight at just around 5 pounds, making it extremely portable and easy to work with.
Power Input
You have to plug the saw into a power source to use it, but the direct input gives you more power.
Additional Features
You can make the most of additional features like a parallel guide, vacuum adapter, and Allen key.
- Has good depth capacity
- Has a 0-45 degree bevel cut
- Comes with a sturdy,3-year guarantee
- Affordable Price
- Parallel guide feature
- Dust Vacuum feature
- Very low horsepower
- Comes with only one blade
- Low power motor
Best Affordable Compact Circular Saw
The best affordable compact saw is the Worx Worxsaw 4.5 circular saw due to its affordable price, long guarantees, and additional features.
3. Best Lightweight Compact Circular Saw - Black and Decker 5.5 Inch Review
We know it might be surprising to see such a non-conventional compact circular saw on the list but the Black + Decker 5.5 inch saw is deserving of its spot.
You will feel like you’re using a regular circular saw only much lighter and just as powerful. This is because the traditional handle is specially designed to make you comfortable when using it.
When working with this saw you’re going to notice how easy to use and customizable its settings areas are compared to other saws.
Factors to Consider Before you Decide to Buy Black & Decker 5.5 Inch
Performance
With a 20v motor, this compact circular saw is just as powerful as any other in its category. You will find that its lightweight does not reduce performance in any way.
Blade Length
With a 5.5 inch blade and the option of multiple depth adjustments, you can make any cut at whatever depth you find necessary.
Portability
At just over 6 pounds you won’t feel tired when you handle this saw. The wireless feature and easy handle make it easy for you to carry.
Power Input
The saw is operated by a rechargeable battery that is sure to last you many cuts.
Additional Features
It has a tool-free depth of cut so you can make use of any cutting depth you wish.
- Can make deep cuts
- Has a battery option
- Highly portable
- The sturdy handle is good for grip
- Can make bevel cuts
- Adjustable blade
- Has portability issues
- Is bigger in size than most
- Does not come with the battery
Best Lightweight Compact Circular Saw
The best lightweight compact circular saw is the Black + Decker 5.5 inch saw for its weightless ergonomic design.
4. Best Durable Compact Circular Saw - Rockwell RK3440K Versawcut Review
Rockwell is one of the popular brands when it comes to circular saws. The RK3440K mini saw is durable enough to last you a long time. It comes with a laser guide to make sure your cuts are aligned.
It’s one of the more expensive saws on the market. However, you will find that it will help you cut through wood, metal, plastic, and tile materials.
Factors to Consider Before you Decide to Buy Rockwell RK3440K Kit
Performance
With a 4.0 amp motor and a 3,500 RPM speed, you can achieve a good depth of cut and make accurate cuts. The power made by this saw can cut through a metal tile too.
Blade Length
A classic 4 ½ inch blade size and the advanced blade design make controlling the depth and angles of cuts easy for you. The 24 tooth blade helps you cut through all kinds of materials.
Portability
This blade is probably one of the lightest in its category at just over 4 pounds. You can be sure to move it around as much as needed, and extend the power cord to its max.
Power Input
A power cord gives the saw its power. The battery has a two-year warranty which means it won’t need to be replaced too often.
Additional Features
You would be surprised to know that this saw has a lot of safety features that prevent accidental start-up, guard you, and extend your saw’s life.
- Has a large blade for deep cuts
- It is very lightweight
- Has a laser guide
- Can cut through many materials
- Can make plunge cuts
- Has a two-year battery
- Produces low horsepower
- Cord’s length is limited
- Low power motor
Best Durable Compact Circular Saw
The best compact circular saw is the RK3440K for its long-lasting blades and machine protection mechanisms.
5.Best Cordless Compact Circular Saw - Makita SH02R1 12V Max Review
There’s hardly a circular saw kit out there that gives such good value for money than the Makita SH02R1. This compact tool will give you the depth and bevel adjustments you’ve been looking for.
You can use this in place of a regular hand saw and still achieve complex cuts in a portable and easy way.
However, even if you use the saw to its maximum potential, this compact saw is not built for heavy burdens.
Factors to Consider Before you Decide to Buy Makita SH02R1 Cordless
Performance
It has a humble 2.0 Amp battery with a 1500 RPM that will let you cut through many basic materials. You will find that the ergonomic design and lightweight helps make it efficient.
Blade Length
The blade is 3 ⅜ inches in length. You will find that its thin and sharp design makes it great for cutting into materials. It also comes with a blade wrench so you can easily change it.
Portability
We understand that portability is one of the main features of compact saws. This saw is only 3.5 pounds in weight which lets you move it around as much as you like.
Power Input
You need to use lithium-ion batteries with the saw to power it. The kit version of this saw comes with a rechargeable battery which lasts you many cuts.
Additional Features
Along with having an additional blade wrench, this saw also comes with a dust vacuum that will help clear out the sawdust for you.
- Cordless and portable
- 1,500 RPM
- Bevel function and adjustment
- Can cut through wood and other materials
- Lightweight new design
- 3-year warranty
- Has a very low cutting depth
- Limited cutting capacity
- Small blade
Best Cordless Compact Circular Saw
The best cordless compact saw is the Makita SH02R1 12v max for its cordless design and precision.
6. Best High Power Compact Circular Saw - WEN 3625 5-Amp Review
One thing about compact circular saws that is loved by all is that it is easy to use. The WEN 3265 5 Amp compact saw is one of the best high-powered compact saws.
This is because even though it is small and light, that powerful motor will cut through anything. You can even work on ceramic tile projects with this saw.
You can make 45 degree angled cuts with this saw in various materials. It gives the best value for money in the cordless circular saw category.
Factors to Consider Before you Decide to Buy WEN 3625 5 Amp
Performance
For a cordless circular saw, it is a very powerful tool. The 5 Amp motor supplies the blade with strength and a high RPM of 3,500.
Blade Length
You can cut through many materials with the 24 tooth carbide-tipped 4 ½ inch blade. The carbide-tipped blade is resistant to wear and lasts you longer.
Portability
At just over 5 pounds, this saw is very easy to carry. To ensure accuracy it also has a laser guide that keeps your cuts aligned.
Power Input
The mini saw is powered by a lithium-ion battery that you need to purchase separately.
Additional Features
There are many additional features that you can use in this saw like the dust extraction tube and a carrying case to story the power tool in.
- High 3500 RPM
- Battery-powered
- Light and portable
- Cuts through multiple materials
- Can make bevel cuts
- 24 tooth carbide-tipped blade
- Does not come with batteries
- Small blade
- Does not have a good cutting depth
Best High-Power Compact Circular Saw
The best high-power compact circular saw is the WEN 3265 for its powerful motor and excellent blades.
7 Best Sturdy Compact Circular Saw - Rockwell RK3441K 4.5 Inch Review
Traditionally many compact mini circular saws come with motors towards the front. This can overthrow the tool’s balance.
The Rockwell RK3441K compact mini circular saw has a unique design with a motor at the back. This makes it a very sturdy power tool.
When looking for the best compact mini circular saw, this one makes the cut.
Factors to Consider Before you Decide to Buy Rockwell RK3441K 4.5 Inch
Performance
The Rockwell RK3441K mini circular saw has all the functionalities of a full-size circular. With 3,500 RPM power, you can cut through many materials without straining the motor.
Blade Length
This saw uses a 4 ½ inch 24 tooth carbide-tipped blade. It is positioned towards the left to allow better visibility of the cut when you’re using the tool.
Portability
You will find that this mini circular saw is almost half the weight of a regular full-size circular saw. Although it is wired, with a cord of 10 feet, there is a lot of room for you to move around.
Power Input
This saw takes power input from a power socket and has 120 voltages and 6000 wattages. It has enough power to help the blade cut through anything.
Additional Features
The additional features for this mini circular saw are a vacuum adapter, a hex key, and a parallel guide.
- Has a very powerful motor
- High 3500 RPM
- Has a good cutting depth
- 4.5-inch blade
- Includes bevel features
- Sharp and powerful blade
- Is not cordless
- Has portability issues
- Comes with only one blade
Best Sturdy Compact Circular Saw
The best sturdy compact saw is the Rockwell RK3441K due to its sturdy build and safety features.
8 Best Portable Compact Circular Saw - VonHaus 5.8 Amp Review
When it comes to compact mini circular saws, the more blades the merrier. The VonHaus 5.8 Amp Laser Guide is one of the best compact circular saws in the market.
It comes with three separate blades that you can use for cutting different materials. You can cut through wood, metal, plastic, ceramic, etc.
With this saw, you have a maximum cutting depth of 1 ⅛ of an inch for plunge cuts. Its versatility makes it one of the best compact mini circular saws.
Factors to Consider Before you Decide to Buy VonHaus 5.8 Amp with Laser
Performance
The 5.8 Amp motor enables this mini circular saw to have an RPM of 4,500. It can even cut through the flooring. You will get the best performance when you use it with the right blades.
Blade Length
It has a 3 ½ inch blade length and a ⅜ inch arbor. It comes with three separate blades with different features.
Portability
The mini saw is lightweight but wired and comes with a long cable so it is somewhat portable.
Power Input
You need to plug the saw into a power socket to use it.
Additional Features:
It comes with a dust port, a parallel guide, high-power, and a storage case.
- Has a trendy new design
- Powerful 5.8 Amp motor
- Comes with 3 blades
- Has a laser guide
- Can make precision cuts
- Comes with a case
- It is not very portable
- Doesn’t have a battery option
- Frail handle
Best Portable Compact Circular Saw
The best portable compact circular saw is the VonHaus 5.8 Amp due to its lightweight portability, laser guide, and precision.
9 Best High-Tech Compact Circular Saw - Genesis 5.8 Amp Review
The Genesis 5.8 Amp is one of the best compact circular saws. With an 8 inch blade and set of accessories included, it is sure to amaze you.
One of the best features of this saw is the high 4500 RPM and triple gear reduction. It is one of the popular saws on the market.
You can use the parallel guide to cut in a straight line with maximum length to achieve accurate cuts.
Factors to Consider Before you Decide to Buy Genesis 5.8 Amp
Performance
The high-power motor gives it great performance and enables you to use it to cut through anything.
Blade Length
The blade is a 24 tooth carbide-tipped blade that is 4 ½ inches in size. You can easily change it thanks to the blade wrench feature.
Portability
Since it is wired and slightly heavy, it is not very portable. It is better suited for stationary work.
Power Input
The saw is powered through a cord plugged into the power socket. However, this power translates into performance, giving you accurate and deep cuts.
Additional Features
There are some additional features that you can use like a spindle lock, built-in dust port, and vacuum adapter.
- 5.8 Amp motor
- Cutting depth can be adjusted
- Bevel adjustment feature
- Has a dust port
- Lightweight
- Has an adapter too
- The cord is not very flexible
- Not portable
- Does not have a backup battery
Best High-Tech Compact Circular Saw
The best compact circular saw is Genesis 5.8 due to its high-tech features, its adjustable levels, and additional tools.
10 Best All-Round Compact Circular Saw - Hi-Spec Mini Saw Review
The High-Spec saw is one of the best small circular saws on a budget. This versatile tool comes in a kit and alone. The kit version has so many additional features that you can use.
You will find that the different blade designs for each blade will help achieve maximum depth, 45-degree cuts, and straight-line cuts.
You can cut through metal tile, flooring, and various materials.
Factors to Consider Before you Decide to Buy Hi-Spec Mini Saw
Performance
This saw is high performance with an RPM of 3,500 with a 3.6 Amp motor. It has different blades which ideally cut through different materials.
Blade Length
It is a small blade of around 3 inches. The blade design varies for the different blades and they all have safety measures to make sure you do not hurt yourself.
Portability
The small circular saw is wired hence portability is limited. You will be able to move it around but the cord does not allow much room for movement.
Power Input
You have to plug the saw into a power source to start it. It has safety switches that ensure the blade will not turn on by itself.
Additional Features
It comes with a vacuum tube, additional blades, and a storage box if you opt for the kit version.
- Portable saw
- Lightweight and cordless
- Includes 3 blades
- Has accessories as well
- Cuts through all materials
- 3-year warranty
- Has a low cutting depth
- Low power 0.3 Amp motor
- Does not have power
Best All-Round Compact Circular Saw
The best all-around compact circular saw is the High-Spec Mini Saw because of its portability, accessories, and additional features.
Buyer's Guide
Corded vs Cordless
Do corded models restrict the movement of the compact saw?
Corded models do restrict movement if the cord is not long enough or protected. Pulls on the cord can wear it out over time and replacing them is an inconvenience.
However, some mini circular saws do come with long sturdy cords.
Power
Is a lithium-ion battery option a good choice?
A lithium-ion battery is a good option as it removes the cord in the saw and makes it more portable. However, these batteries can only provide a specific amount of power.
When looking for a battery-powered saw, make sure the motor and blade design can complement the power to maximize performance.
How does power input affect performance?
Usually, corded circular saws have more power and better performance. This is because the battery’s charge in cordless models weakens with each usage. Towards the end of the charge, the cuts might not be as consistent in-depth as the beginning ones.
Safety Features
What is a spindle lock?
A spindle lock is a feature that ensures that the blade does not move when being changed or when the saw is at rest. It protects you from accidentally hurting yourself.
What safety features are most important in a compact saw?
Power switches, spindle locks, a clear line of sight, and better blade housing are some of the important safety features you should look for in a compact saw.
Blade
How often do you have to change the blade?
You do not need to change the blade very often if it is a carbide-tipped blade. Most mini saws have blades that last a long time.
Is the carbide-tipped blade the best option?
The best mini circular saws have carbide-tipped blades. They are the most economical option and they keep the blade sharp for longer.
Ease of Use
Can a laser help with accuracy for saws this compact?
Lasers are very important for accuracy in saws where a dust port of a vacuum drive might be missing. It is a desirable feature to have and the best mini circular saws have them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How are compact circular saws different from regular circular saws?
Compact circular saws are smaller and lighter than regular circular saws. Most of them offer the same features without a difference in performance.
Is portability an important feature?
Portability is very important for working with a small circular saw and you tend to use them for more angled and intricate works than regular ones.
Can cordless circular saws provide the same performance as corded ones?
Usually, cordless circular saws do not provide the same performance as corded ones. However, there are certain models with a good RPM, a high-functioning motor, and thinner blades that can compare.
What safety features should I be on the lookout for?
The most important safety features to look out for are a spindle lock, a power switch, laser guides, and sight guards.
Can compact circular saws make in-depth and versatile cuts?
Yes, most compact circular saws can make in-depth and versatile cuts including bevel and plunge cuts.
What is the best bevel capacity to look for in a circular saw?
Bevel capacity for many saws is different however 0-45 degrees is the standard, yet one would find it useful to buy a 0-56 degree bevel capacity.
Can a mini circular saw cut a 2×4?
Yes, it is very easy for a mini circular saw to be capable of cutting a 2×4 and most achieve it in one go.
How often do you have to change the blade on a compact circular saw?
Blades usually last between 12 hours to 120 hours depending on what you use them on. These hours are of continuous use and can be longer if you use specific blades or specific materials.
Are compact saws easy to maneuver?
Yes, because of their lightweight and ergonomic designs, small circular saws are relatively easy to maneuver.
What is the worm drive in compact saws?
A worm drive saw is one where the motor is attached to the back and the saw functions on two specific 90-degree gears.