Are you tired of using heavy circular saws that weigh you down and cause some serious strain on your arms? Maybe you need to change things in your workshop. But you don’t have to change everything else. Here, the problem is in the saw that you are using; it is too heavy to use. The best solution would be to go for a compact circular saw.
Here is the best compact circular saw in 2021. A compact saw is easy to maneuver and use, which then gives you better control as you handle your projects.
Are you in a Rush? Need one best-rated mini circular saw? Here’s DEWALT DCS571B Circular saw which is our winner after 36 hours of research!
In this article, we will be looking at the top units you should consider when looking for the best mini circular saw.
Table of Contents
Quick List of Our 5 Favorite Choices in 2021
What is the Best Mini Circular Saw for Home Use?
If you want to use the circular saw at home, DEWALT DCS571B Circular saw would be the best one. Before buying you should consider going for one that comes at a friendly price point.
Furthermore, the saw should come with a space-saving design, and it should have the necessary safety features onboard. All in all, ensure that you choose a saw that meets your project needs accordingly.
As usual, ensure that you go for a saw that can serve you for a long time.
Our 7 Best Compact Circular Saws Reviews – 2021
There are many compact circular saws out there, but here is a look at some of the best units you should consider buying;
1. DEWALT DCS571B Atomic Compact Circular Saw
Key-features
- 6.6lb weight
- 20V battery system
- 4.5-inch blade
- 4500RPM no-load speed
- It can bevel at 45 degrees
- Onboard dust port
- Brushless motor
- It can cut up to 339 feet of ¾ OSB
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What We Loved
- Compact and lightweight design
- 20V battery system is reliable and durable
- Comes with an ergonomic design for ease of operation
- Features an onboard dust port for dust control
- Comes with an electronic brake for safety during emergencies
- Decent cutting capacity
What Could Be Better
- It doesn’t come with the battery
- The price is higher than similar models
Overview
If you search for the top compact circular saw reviews, you will most likely come across the DeWalt DCS571B.
This is a high-quality compact circular saw that offers some serious versatility to the user. It is also a user-friendly model that meets your project needs accordingly. It has a comfortable grip with a design that allows you to use it for long periods without experiencing exhaustion in the hand. The best part is that there is an option of clipping on an auxiliary handle on top of the saw to have an even better and firmer grip when handling complex projects.
With the 20V battery system, you can choose from four battery types and enjoy an extended work time of 1h 30 mins or even 12 hours.
Thanks to the 4.5-inch blade of this model, you can cut 2x material at a bevel angle of 90 degrees. But for 45 degrees cuts, the saw can eat up to 1x material.
Another feature of this top-rated mini circular saw is the push-down trigger that keeps you safe. This trigger allows you to stop the blade when the button is released.
Verdict – Who Should Buy It?
This is supposedly the best mini circular saw out there, and it would suit anybody that needs a versatile circular saw that is easy to handle and cordless. But mostly it would suit a home DIY project.
2. Rockwell RK3440K Versacut Compact Circular Saw
Key-features
- Pivoting metal guard.
- Cuts a variety of materials.
- Laser indicator.
- Comes with dust extraction adapter.
- Cuts wood, metal and tile.
- Canvas carrying case.
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What We Loved
- Super lightweight.
- Decently powerful motor.
- Ergonomic design with slim grip handle for better control.
- Inbuilt laser guide for accurate cutting.
- Pivoting metal guard allows for safe and easy plunge cuts.
- Dust extraction adapter.
What Could Be Better
- Not the best pick for complex projects.
Overview
Our 2nd contender is this RK3440K from a recognized brand, Rockwell. If you are in need of a lightweight unit that is both reliable and not too expensive, this little master will suit you perfectly.
At only 4lbs, this is definitely one of the lightest units you will get out there. But don’t be fooled by the lightweight of this master. Even at 4lbs, this fella comes with a powerful 4amp motor to handle your projects. The motor delivers an amazing no-load speed of 3500RPM.
But we didn’t just pick it for its size and motor delivery. Rather, this piece of the machine comes with an ergonomic design and a slim grip handle. The combination of this assures you of a secure grip and better control when working on your projects. It is well designed and lightweight to allow you to guide it with just one hand.
What’s more, there is an inbuilt laser guide that will align the perfect cut on the workpieces. There’s also a pivoting metal guard that accommodates safe and easy plunge cuts.
Verdict
This is the best handheld compact circular saw and It would be the best pick for handling your DIY projects at home. It is very affordable and offers a decent power output for those projects at home.
3. Rockwell RK3441K Compact Circular Saw.
Key-features
- Voltage 120V~60Hz.
- Rated current 5A.
- No load speed 3500/min.
- Blade size 4-1/2˝x3/8˝x24T.
- Cutting capacity 1-11/16˝.
- Arbor size 3/8˝.
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What We Loved
- Perfect for making 2×4 wood pieces
- Powerful motor for its size.
- Ergonomic handle design for better control.
- Good cutting depth for handling thick lumber piece.
- Slim, inline grip for comfort.
- Left-handed blade design for easy cut-line visibility.
What Could Be Better
- The power cord could be longer.
- The blade is not strong enough for hard workpieces.
Rockwell Rk3441k Circular Saw Review
Here is another great cordless mini circular saw from Rockwell. This one comes in at 5lbs and can easily cut through those 2 x4s real quick.
It comes with a 5-amp motor that is strong and powerful enough to match the delivery of a full-size saw. This baby offers a decent speed of 3500RPM. With this saw, you enjoy a left-handed blade design that offers excellent cut-line visibility.
There is a slim, inline grip design that assures you of comfort and balance when working on your projects. Furthermore, this offers you better control and the ability to maneuver easily for those overhead cuts.
This would be the best pick for cutting wood, specifically the 2-inch nominal lumber materials. It has a maximum cutting depth of 1-11/16-inch at 90 degrees and a bevel capacity of 1-1/8-inch at 45 degrees.
With this saw, you can be sure of finishing your projects easily without experiencing fatigue in your hands.
Verdict
This mini circular saw will be the best pick if you want to cut those 2×4 wood pieces. It will not disappoint, and it’s generally easy to use it.
4. Worx Worxsaw WX429L Compact Circular Saw
Key-features
- Rated Voltage 120V~60Hz.
- Power Input 4.0 Amps.
- No-Load Speed 3500/rpm.
- Blade Size 4-1/2″.
- Bevel Capacity 0-45°.
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What We Loved
- Easy to adjust the bevel.
- Perfect for making 2×4 cuts.
- Left-sided blade design for better cut-line visibility.
- Comes with an Allen Key.
- Parallel guide attachment offers precise and straight cuts.
What Could Be Better
- It might bog down with long cuts.
Worx Worxsaw Wx429l Review and Overview
If you are looking for the best compact saw 2021– unit, don’t hesitate to consider this one. At only 4.4lbs, this saw won’t cause any fatigue in your hand as you work on your workpieces.
This saw also packs a thin blade that assures you of limited tool strain. In turn, you can be sure of a unit that offers reliable performance at a decent speed as well. It measures 4.5 inches but runs on a decently strong business. The motor on this one can also deliver speeds of 3500RPM, which should be enough for your projects.
It comes with a depth gauge that is easy to set, along with a bevel setting of between 0 and 45 degrees for quick and easy adjustment. Along with that, you also get a parallel guide attachment that allows you to make straight, quick, and precise cuts without straining.
This one also comes with a left-sided blade design that offers you a better view of the blade and the workpiece as you are cutting through it. Unfortunately, this feature does no justice to left-handed users.
Verdict
This circular saw is compact enough to handle minor projects without a problem. By the way, it doesn’t really score 100% with its 2×4 and long cuts. But if it is not for professional use, it should be good enough.
5. Dremel SM20-02 120-Volt Compact Circular Saw
Key-features
- Powerful 6 Amp motor.
- Speed 17,000 RPM.
- Length : 13″.
- Dust Collection: Yes.
- Spindle Lock: Yes.
- Amperage: 6.
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What We Loved
- High speeds of 17000RPM
- Easy to make straight and precise cuts.
- Easy to control with a single hand.
- Worm drive gearing offers more power and durability.
- Optimized grip diameter and switch placement makes it the best mini user friendly circular saw.
What Could Be Better
- The power cord is too short.
- The cutting depth is limited.
Small Circular Saw Reviews
Here is another unit that can be considered the best small circular saw. Well, it might not be as lightweight as other units on the list, but also not as heavy as the regular circular saws out there. The saw comes in at 6.75lbs.
This baby can cut through multiple materials, including masonry, tile, metal, plastic, and wood. With this mini circular saw, you can enjoy a powerful 6amp motor that lets you handle tough applications with ease.
There is a worm drive gearing that assures you of power and durability. Some users call it “best small power saw”. This also assures you of optimal control along with the lightweight and compact design. What’s more, there is an optimized grip diameter and switch placement that doesn’t only make it comfortable but easy to control as well.
You also get a second wheel position for flush cutting, which is an added advantage. The line of sight on this one enhances the ability to make straight and accurate cuts with perfect control. For even better cutting experience, you get a dust extraction port, a variable-depth guide, and a trigger lock-out.
Verdict
The delivery of this unit is one of a kind, and it would easily handle both simple and massive projects. With a speed output of 1700RPM, this saw is definitely worth going for if you want a reliable unit that is compact and lightweight as well.
6. Dremel SM20-03 Saw-Max Tool Kit Circular Saw
Key-features
- Speed 17,000 RPM.
- No Dust Collection.
- Cord Length 7ft.
- With Spindle Lock.
- Voltage 120V.
- Amperage 6.
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What We Loved
- Super-versatile; able to cut different materials.
- Strong and low-noise motor
- Build to last.
- 17000RPM motor speed.
- Comes with multiple blades.
- Lock-on button for working with it in extended use.
What Could Be Better
- Doesn’t deliver smooth cuts
Overview
This is another unit among the best compact circular saws for DIY out there. The saw comes in at 4.23lbs, along with a decent motor for handling your projects.
The saw comes with a 6amp motor, which is powerful enough to handle even massive projects. Like the brother, this one also delivers a 17000RPM. This baby is also easy to use and would make a perfect saw for nearly any material you are working on. Whether you are cutting through tile, metal, plastic, or wood, this mister will serve you decently.
The compact design allows you to handle it with a single hand and be sure of excellent maneuverability. Besides that, you enjoy a superior line of sight to assure you of simple and precise cuts. You can also use it to make ¾-inch deep cuts without a problem.
By the way, this is lighter than the previous saw at only 4.23lbs. So yes, it would be a great pick if you liked the previous product but prefer a lighter unit, this would be a good pick for you. A lock-on button is also present to assure you of comfort during extended use.
Verdict
This mini circular saw is among the best, and it comes with some decent features to let you handle your projects with ease. The price tag is also friendly enough. You can also go for the best circular saw under $100 if you have lowest budget.
7. Genesis GCS545C Compact Circular Saw.
Key-features
- Powerful 5.8 Amp Motor and 3500 RPM
- Cuts through all 2X Material.
- Grip for One-Handed Operation.
- Triple-Gear Reduction.
- Dust Port and Vacuum Adaptor.
- Weighs 5.5 Lbs.
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What We Loved
- Sturdy construction
- Easy to adjust depth and bevel cuts.
- Inbuilt dust port and vacuum adapter.
- Ergonomic handle design for extra comfort.
- Generally user-friendly.
What Could Be Better
- The trigger placement could be better.
- The blades are not ideal for hard workpieces.
Overview
We move on with our list and introduce you to our next best-rated compact circular saw that is a litter heavier than most compact circular saws out there. This one comes in at 6lbs, and it features an equally powerful motor.
The motor is rated at 5.8amp, and it delivers a top no-load speed of 3500RPM. We thought that was good enough. Besides that, you enjoy a triple-gear reduction that assures you of maximum torque. This feature lets you cut through 2x material with ease.
We loved the inbuilt dust port and vacuum adaptor. These two lets you keep the cutting area clear of any debris. You can even connect to your shop vacuum using the adaptor. If you want to cut different materials, there are some replacement blades available with this unit. You get a 24-tooth and 60-tooth blade for delivering the best cuts.
The bevel and depth settings are both adjustable. With this saw, you can make depth cuts of 1-11/16 inches at 90 degrees and 1-1/8-inch at 45 degrees.
The saw also comes with a blade wrench along with the carbide-tipped blade. Even though this one can
Verdict
This saw comes with a powerful motor, along with a triple gear reduction to reduce damage while increasing torque. It is easy to use and assures you of a reliable unit at your hand.
Activities of a Compact Circular Saw
Here is a look at some of the uses of a compact saw.
- Making straight cuts. A circular saw is naturally known to have the ability to perform basic cutting projects, such as making straight cuts. They are lightweight, portable, and does an amazing job at making straight cuts.
- Making bevel and miter cuts. The compact circular saw can make bevel, rip, and miter cuts with limited effort. Some models will feature a tilting shoe that helps you with that. They can make bevel cuts between 0 and 45 degrees.
- Cutting down long plywood. This saw can be handheld to let you cut long plywood effortlessly. Nevertheless, you will need to use a small block or extruded foam to support the plywood for the blade to slice deeper into the material.
- Cutting logs into firewood. You can use the compact circular saw to slice down firewood into logs. But for a hardwood, The best worm drive circular saw would be a good pick.
Above all, a compact circular saw can be used to cut large-sized timber.
Why should I buy a small circular saw?
There are many reasons for purchasing a compact circular saw. Here is a look at some;
- Best pick for home DIY projects
- They are highly versatile
- They are easy to handle with their compact size
- Capable of cutting different materials including metal, wood, plastic, and stone.
- They let you make precise and fine crosscuts and rough rips
- let’s check the Factors You Need to Consider Before Buying
Buyer’s Guide: Factors You Need to Consider Before Buying
Even though we have given you the best mini circular saws reviews, it can still be challenging to choose wisely. Here is a look at the things that you should consider before choosing a specific unit.
Cordless or corded?
First off, you need to consider if you want a portable unit or one with a cord. With a corded circular saw, they will come with a power cord that limits you from moving too much. Some are too short that will minimize your movement around the workshop.
But on the flipside, corded units are reliable when it comes to power since you only need a socket outlet and you are good to go. However, it is not easy to use them out in the field.
On the other hand, portable circular saws, which are also known as cordless circular saws (Check our review best cordless circular saw 2021), are the best if you need something to move from the workshop to the field with ease. In terms of the power supply, you will need a reliable battery that can last for a long when you are using the saw out in the field.
Choose the type of saw based on your needs and preferences.
Motor/Power
Besides the type of saw that you will be choosing, you must consider the power output of the machine. In this case, ensure that you consider the motor and its rating. If you want a saw for your DIY projects at home, going for a 5amp motor won’t be so bad. It should also have a speed of at least 3500RPM. But if you want one for professional use, you will have to look for something better than that.
Weight
Keep in mind that we are covering the top compact circular saws. Therefore, consider the weight of the saw before you buy it. It might be compact, but still heavy. So ensure that you can easily operate it with one hand without experiencing fatigue in that hand.
The Design
Here, the design of the saw is not about how it looks or something of that sort. Rather, it should be the ergonomic design of that unit. It should give you an easy time when using it. The saw should have an ergonomic design, along with a good grip that prevents it from slipping as you work with it. Generally, the handle should comfortably fit in your hand without experiencing much pressure.
Versatility
How many projects and materials can the saw handle? Ideally, choose one that can handle multiple materials and projects without any problem. This would prove reliable to get the saw. But then again, it all depends on the blade that is onboard. If you want to handle multiple projects and materials, always go for a stronger and more advanced blade. Remember, Before changing the blade learn how to do it.
Cutting Depth
The saw that you pick must offer the depth of cut that you need. Most of them offer a cutting depth of either 1 or 2 inches. Choose one that meets your project needs.
Above all, consider a saw that is user-friendly, comes from a reputable brand and falls under your budget. Don’t forget about the accessories that come with the saw.
FAQs-
Q. Sidewinder vs. Worm Drive – What’s the difference ?
Ans. There are several differences, but the direct-drive saw is lighter, more compact, and easier to manage, hence making it right for DIYers. On the other hand, a sidewinder has plenty of power for handling most projects, which makes it ideal for professionals.
Q. Is a Mini Circular Saw a “Replacement or Supplement” over a full-size?
Ans. That depends on the project you are handling. If you are handling projects that vary in technicality, a mini circular saw can be used in the place of a full-size model. They come with unique blades that make them applicable in specific projects. But keep in mind that they may not be the right pick for handling high-demanding projects that require efficiency, power, and versatility.
Q. Is it compulsory for my saw to have a laser cutting guide?
Ans. No, it’s not a must. Nevertheless, it is advised that you choose a saw with a laser cutting guide if you want to make straight and precise lines on the workpiece you are cutting. Besides the laser cutting guide, you can choose a model that comes with an LED light feature, which performs the same function as the laser guide.
Q. What is the lightest circular saw?
Ans. There are multiple circular saws out there that are super light. However, the Rockwell RK3440K HYPERLINK Circular Saw is the lightest on our list at only 4lbs.
Q. Can you cut tile with a circular saw?
Ans. Yes, it is possible to cut tiles with the circular saw. However, you need to ensure that the saw comes with the right blade. Furthermore, check if it is okay to use it for cutting tiles before you attempt it.
Q. How deep can you cut with a circular saw?
Ans. The compact circular saws, mostly have a maximum cutting depth of 1 inch. However, the larger circular saws can manage a 2-inch cutting depth at 45 degrees. But I would suggest you buy the best track saw if you need more power than a circular saw, Compact Band saw also can be a handy option for a deep cut.
Watch this video to check some tips.
Final Words
So, here goes our best Compact circular saw reviews. We are confident that you have enough information to help you choose the one that suits you best. Whether you want a portable or corded unit, choose according to your project needs and preferences.