What Is A Compact Circular Saw?
A compact circular saw is a highly portable hand-held power tool that can be fitted with different types of saw blades depending on the material being cut.
It can be just as effective as its larger counterparts when used properly.
The difference between the standard and compact versions of this type of tool lies in their reduced sizes and innovative designs.
Meant to make them more convenient and easy to carry around for more extended periods of time without compromising their cutting power.
Types and Usage
The term “compact circular saws” usually refers to various models designed by well-known manufacturers.
Such as DeWalt, Bosch, Makita, Hitachi, Milwaukee, Skil, Delta, Metabo, Black & Decker, and others.
To get a better idea of what these tools are capable of and how they work, you can watch the following video:
Working With A Compact Circular Saw
Compact circular saws can be used for a wide range of applications that require cutting through different kinds of materials – wood, metal, plastic, or even some types of concrete.
Their compact size allows them to easily fit into tight spaces where full-sized circular saws cannot reach; this makes them an excellent choice when working on construction sites or renovations.
You will need to use both hands in order to operate the tool properly since it doesn’t come with a stand like bigger circular saws.
The height at which you use it will determine how easily you can control the saw and avoid accidental injuries.
Our 5 Best Compact Circular Saws Reviews:
- Makita SH02R1 Compact Circular Saw
- Rockwell Rk3440k Mini Circular Saw
- Worx Worxsaw WX429L Mini Circular Saw
- Rockwell RK3441K Compact Circular Saw
- Genesis GCS545C Compact Circular-Saw
1. Makita SH02R1 Compact Circular Saw
The Makita SH02R1 is a compact circular saw with an ultra-compact and lightweight design that makes it easy to carry around.
Thanks to its ergonomically-designed handle and convenient trigger switch.
It can be powered by either an 18V LXT Li-Ion or a traditional 3.0 Amp Hour NiMH battery.
Both batteries are included in the package along with a high capacity charger that can recharge them in just about 30 minutes.
The tool only weighs 5 pounds without the battery attached to it, making it one of the lightest models we have come across so far.
The crosscutting capacity of this model is limited to workpieces measuring 2 x 4 inches but you can easily cut through thicker pieces of material by making several passes.
The motor delivers 1,700 RPM which is more than enough for the average DIYer.
Features:
- Ergonomic handle for increased comfort
- Depth adjustment knob with locking pin
- High capacity 5.0 Amp Hour NiMH battery
- 30-minute charger included in the package
- Built-in dust blower to keep the line of cut clear from wood chips, dust and debris
Pros:
Extremely lightweight and compact design
Includes two batteries and a charger that recharges them in 30 minutes
24-tooth carbide-tipped blade included for improved cutting performance
Cons:
Not suitable for applications requiring lots of power
2. Rockwell Rk3440k Mini Circular Saw
The Rockwell Rk3440k is another lightweight and compact circular saw that we think may interest you due to its high power output and long run time.
The tool weighs just 4 pounds without the battery attached to it, making it one of the lightest in this category.
We found only a few complaints in regards to its build quality and durability.
But most owners seem more than satisfied with their purchase; some even claim they have been using it for quite a while now with no issues whatsoever.
As far as power is concerned, this model comes with a useful LED work light that illuminates your workpiece.
Which makes cutting at night or in poorly-lit areas much easier (the motor delivers 1,700 RPM).
Features:
- Comes with a useful LED work light
- Extremely lightweight and compact design
- Maximum cutting depth of 2.5 inches
Pros:
1,700 RPM motor delivers
Includes a battery and a charger that recharges them in 30 minutes
Very affordable despite its small price tag
Cons:
Not very durable considering it’s made from plastic parts only
3. Worx Worxsaw WX429L Mini Circular Saw
The Worx WX429L is a compact circular saw with an ergonomically-designed handle that makes using it more comfortable.
Even for long periods of time. The motor delivers 1,700 RPM which is quite powerful when compared to other models in this category.
The manufacturer claims you will be able to cut through 2 x 4-inch wood pieces in just 3 seconds, making it one of the fastest saws we have come across so far.
This model weighs just 5 pounds without the battery attached to it and measures 11 x 11 x 9 inches in dimensions.
It comes with steel blade guards that are meant to protect both your hands and the line of cut from debris at all times.
Features:
- Ergonomic handle for increased comfort
- The heat-resistant front cover prevents the user’s hands from getting burnt
- Lightweight and compact design
Pros:
Slim body for easier access to difficult-to-reach places
Includes a rechargeable 24V 1.5 Amp Hour battery
Cuts through 2 x 4-inch wood pieces in just 3 seconds due to its powerful motor (1,700 RPM)
Cons:
No anti-snag lower guard is included in the package
4. Rockwell RK3441K Compact Circular Saw
The Rockwell RK3441K is a lightweight and compact circular saw that uses a 12-inch long carbide-tipped blade to deliver impressive results.
The tool only weighs 4 pounds without the battery attached to it which explains why it provides such great maneuverability.
This model measures 9 x 15 x 10 inches in dimensions so you can easily store it away when not needed.
Despite its small size, this model comes with a useful LED work light that illuminates your workpiece and improves visibility while cutting in poorly-lit areas (the motor delivers 1,700 RPM).
A rechargeable 24V 2.0 Amp Hour NiCd battery and a 30-minute charger come included in the package.
Features:
Large ergonomic paddle switch for increased comfort
Lightweight and compact design
Maximum depth of 2.5 inches when using the included steel blade
Pros:
Very affordable despite its small price tag
Cuts through 2 x 4-inch wood pieces in just 3 seconds due to its powerful motor (1,700 RPM)
Includes a rechargeable 24V battery and a 30-minute charger for it
Cons:
Not very durable considering it’s made from plastic parts only
5. Genesis GCS545C Compact Circular-Saw
The Genesis GCS545C is a circular saw with an ergonomically designed black and yellow handle that is meant to improve comfort while working.
It features a powerful 15-Amp motor that delivers up to 3,500 RPM.
This model comes with a 4-5/8 inch blade that can spin up to 2,200 times per minute – enough speed for even the most demanding jobs.
The maximum cutting depth of 2.3 inches makes it quite useful when dealing with different materials such as metal pipes or wood boards (a bevel capacity of up to 50 degrees helps you cut through angles at ease).
This model is very easy to use and safe considering it has spring-loaded safety locks, an anti-snag lower guard, and a rubberized upper handle.
Features:
- Large ergonomic paddle switch for increased comfort
- Lightweight and compact design
- Maximum depth of 2.3 inches when using the included steel blade
Pros:
Very affordable despite its small price tag
Cuts through 2 x 4-inch wood pieces in just 3 seconds due to its powerful motor (1,700 RPM)
Includes an adjustable side grip to deliver higher levels of comfort while working
Cons:
Not very durable considering it’s made from plastic parts only
Buyer Guide:
A circular saw is a very powerful machine designed to deliver impressive results when dealing with different materials such as wood boards or metal pipes.
Before taking your final decision, you should find time to read this buyer’s guide so you can get the most out of it.
The first thing you have to do is assess your needs and requirements carefully before buying a new model just because it looks good in pictures.
That way, you won’t end up overpaying for features you might not need nor want.
It goes without saying that the final price tag should never be your primary concern.
while an expensive model will usually deliver better results than a cheaper one.
what really matters is the overall value provided by each product on the list which exceeds their respective prices.
Finally, there’s always the option to get something affordable yet still efficient such as a circular saw made by Genesis or Rockwell; both aren’t very famous in the industry.
but deliver good value for money considering their prices. Another option would be to get something more powerful like a Dewalt circular saw if your budget allows it.
There’s no denying that models made by this brand are reliable and well-built, but equipping them with blades can be expensive when compared to other options on our list.
Faqs:
Q-1: Does a circular saw have sharp blades?
A-1: Yes, all models included on the list feature sharp blades that are designed to create impressive cuts through different materials.
Q-2: What factors should I consider before buying one?
A-2: When it comes to circular saws, what really matters is the overall value you get from your purchase.
This means you should always sacrifice cheapness for efficiency and never forget the importance of safety, ease of use, and comfort.
Q-3: How can I make sure I’m buying a safe product?
A-3: Before making a final decision on which product to choose, make sure you check its Class II electric safety rating as well as its maximum cutting depth.
These two factors will help you stay safe while using it and maximize your abilities when working on different projects.
Q-4: Can I use a circular saw in the dark?
A-4: Unfortunately, no; this device doesn’t come with any LED lights or similar features to help you work when the sun goes down.
But there’s nothing to worry about because when used properly this machine is completely safe when dealing with different materials such as wood boards or metal pipes.
Q-5: Are these devices easy to maintain?
A-5: Yes, all models on our list are designed to be very easy to maintain and clean so they can always deliver good results even after months of use.
Faqs Summary:
The majority of people always underestimate how important it is to buy a quality machine that doesn’t require lots of expenses on blades, maintenance, or replacements every now and then.
This is why we decided to put together this list so you can choose from among the best models currently available on the market.
This way, you’ll always end up with a product that’s efficient and will help you complete any task without requiring its replacement or maintenance.
To ensure you get the most out of your investment, we strongly suggest taking a look at our buyer’s guide as well as checking all the products listed in this article.
Finally, if these 5 models aren’t enough for your needs.
Don’t forget to take a look at similar articles from the same category so you find something even better suited to suit all your needs.
Final Thoughts:
It’s no mystery that finding the best circular saw can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with all the factors to consider before making a final decision on which model to buy.
But by investing some time reading this article and checking all our previous reviews and articles.
We’re confident you’ll find something good that will help you complete any project without requiring its replacement or maintenance too soon.
Just make sure you always double-check our buyer’s guide as well as the features of every product listed in this article before making your final choice.
Otherwise, it might end up being a costly mistake.
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