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 2020. A compact saw is easy to maneuver and use, which then gives you better control as you handle your projects.
In this article, we will be looking at the top units you should consider when looking for the best mini circular saw.
Overview of Our Favorite Choices in 2020
Image | Product Name | Power Source | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Top Picks   | Dremel SM20-02 | Battery-powered | 6.4 pounds | |
Best Overall   | Rockwell RK3440K | Corded-Electric | 3.4 Pounds | |
Best for money   | Rockwell RK3441K | Corded-Electric | 5 Pounds | |
  | Worx Worxsaw WX429L | Corded-Electric | 5.3 Pounds | |
  | Dremel SM20-03 | Corded-Electric | 4.23lbs |
7 Best Compact Circular Saw Reviews
There are many compact circular saws out there, but here is a look at some of the best units you should consider buying;
1. 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.
More photos & price on Amazon.com
What We Loved
What Could Be Better
Overview
Our first 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 compact circular saw 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.
2. 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˝.
More photos & price on Amazon.com
What We Loved
What Could Be Better
Overview
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 2x4 wood pieces. It will not disappoint, and it’s generally easy to use it.
3. 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°.
More photos & price on Amazon.com
What We Loved
What Could Be Better
Overview
If you are looking for the best compact circular saw 2020- 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 2x4 and long cuts. But if it is not for professional use, it should be good enough.
4. 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.
More photos & price on Amazon.com
What We Loved
What Could Be Better
Overview
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 the tough applications with ease.
There is a worm drive gearing that assures you of power and durability. 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.
5. 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.
More photos & price on Amazon.com
What We Loved
What Could Be Better
Overview
This is another among the best compact circular saws 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 the 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.
6. 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.
More photos & price on Amazon.com
What We Loved
What Could Be Better
Overview
We move on with our list and introduce you to this mini 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.
7. Tacklife TCS115A Compact Circular Saw.
Key-features
- Unique metal handle.
- 5.8 Amps copper motor.
- Performance at 3,500 rpm.
- FLEXIBLE 90° & 45° BEVEL CUTTING.
- Double protection switch.
- A curved dust port.
More photos & price on Amazon.com
What We Loved
What Could Be Better
Overview
Last, but certainly not least, is this TCS115A from Tacklife. This one comes with a unique metal handle that remains strong while limiting fatigue when using it. Also, this will offer a stronger clamping force that helps you deliver more stable cuts.
This beast comes with 5.8amp that delivers top speeds of 3500RPM. By the way, you get six blades when you purchase this baby. So yes, that is enough to assure you of handling different materials with one single unit.
The saw also offers a flexible 45-degree and 90-degree bevel cutting for project flexibility. The depth scaled gauge is easy to set, and it allows you to cut depth of up to 1-11/16 inches. It comes with a left-sided blade design that cut-line visibility. Along with that, there is a laser guide that lets you make convenient and accurate cutting.
User safety is assured when using this saw. It comes with a double safety switch control that limits any accidents. There’s also a rip guide that allows you to make parallel cuts with ease. Thankfully, this saw comes with an optimized slim grip that offers ease and fatigue-less one-hand operation.
Verdict
If you are looking for value for money, then this would definitely be the best mini circular saw in that category. It also comes with some safety features, which is not common among most circular saws.
Buyer’s Guide
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 a 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 units, 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 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-
What is the lightest circular saw?
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.
Can you cut tile with a circular saw?
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.
How deep can you cut with a circular saw?
For the compact circular saws, they 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 to buy track saw if you need more power then a circular saw
Our Related Articles.
- Best Cordless circular saw list.
- How to Cut Concrete Blocks With Circular Saw.
- How to change a circular saw blade.
- Best Track Saw list.
- Best Portable Band Saw List.
Watch this video to check some tips.
Final Verdict
So, there 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.