My trusty Skil circular saw from 13 years ago is finally done for, and I'm pretty bummed about it since it was my fault. I'm searching for a new circular saw and could use your advice! I'm a hobbyist who occasionally does commission work like small furniture and cutting boards, so I need something reliable. Should I go for corded or cordless? I've had a bad experience with an old cordless saw dying after just a few cuts. Also, is it worth considering a plunge or track saw? I'd love to know what brands to look for or avoid. I currently use DeWalt drills and batteries, but I'm not brand loyal if there are better options out there.
10 Answers
I bought a corded Makita track saw and was blown away by how well it works! It’s a great investment for anyone serious about cutting wood precisely.
I think DeWalt is a solid choice! Since you've got their batteries, it’ll save you the hassle of mixing brands. Plus, their tools are pretty reliable for DIY stuff.
If you don’t have a track saw already, seriously consider one. It’s a game changer for making clean, precise cuts.
If you’re already into the DeWalt ecosystem, it makes sense to stick with it. They have a range of solid options, including the track saw which is a bit higher in price but worth considering if you want versatility in your cuts.
I'd suggest checking out a track saw! Makita makes a solid option, and while Festool is often better, it might be overkill for the occasional hobbyist. If you stick with a circular saw, I'd recommend going cordless since you already have batteries for that.
Yeah, I've been thinking about the Makita too since I’ve seen good feedback, but Festool always seemed a bit steep for my budget.
I swear by my corded Makita—it’s powerful enough to slice through thick wood without any hiccups. If you need durability and frequent cutting power, stick with corded. My cordless Bosch struggles a bit with tough cuts, so I’d recommend going corded if you plan to do a lot of heavy work.
Agreed, Bosch cordless can be tricky for straight cuts. Corded Makitas are the way to go for consistent performance.
Yeah, definitely think about what type of cuts you mostly do. For smaller crosscuts, you might not even need a plunge or track saw.
It sounds like you might benefit from upgrading to a table saw, too! I have a Bosch GTS15 and it works great, but my DeWalt 20V circular saw is still my go-to for quick, light jobs.
I recommend getting a cordless model with a decent battery. I use a DeWalt 20V saw at work and it has done everything I need. Just steer clear of the cheaper models—they won't hold up as well for heavy usage.
I love my cordless saw—it’s the lightest tool I own, and I can take it anywhere! I have a budget DeWalt saw that works just fine for my needs, but I can imagine the higher-end ones are even better.
If you’re set on DeWalt, their 20V MAX saw is really good and works well with the batteries you already have. If you want something smaller, the Atomic series is pretty handy for lighter tasks!
Totally agree! I own a Mafell track saw, which is nice but pricey. Makita track saws are well-reviewed and should serve you well.