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In this guide, we’ll cover the best circular saw under $50. A circular saw is an essential power tool for anyone who works with wood. It’s also a great tool for around-the-house DIYers and hobbyists.
If you’re looking for a budget circular saw that’s powerful and easy to use, you’ve come to the right place. We are going to help you find the perfect tool for your woodshop. We’ve put together a list of the best circular saws under $50.
These affordable models are designed to cut all types of wood quickly and efficiently. They’re also built to last.
Getting The Best Bang For Your Buck, The Best Circular Saw Under $50
If you are a beginner woodworker, or are thinking about getting into woodworking and need tools you don’t necessarily want to go for the high end, big tools. You want something that’ll get the job done while you learn.
Corded Models (Circular Saws With Cords)
Because one of the key features of the power corded circular saw is its ability to cut through extremely difficult materials, it’s a heavy-duty model for practically any task. Many corded circular saws, in addition to being extremely powerful, are also fairly light, weighing between 7 and 12 pounds on average.
BLACK+DECKER 13 Amp 7-1/4 in. Electric Circular Saw with Laser (BDECS300C)
The BLACK+DECKER 13 Amp 7-1/4 in. Electric Circular Saw with Laser (BDECS300C) is easy to use and because of its sturdy power cord, it has unlimited runtime. It features a laser guide to ensure you get precise cuts every time. The spindle lock blade change keeps life simple and safe.
What We Like:
- Lightweight design keeps you comfortable and in control.
- Powerful motor delivers effective and efficient cuts for most applications.
- Laser guide illuminates the cut line to enhance accuracy.
- Spindle lock allows for quick and easy blade change.
- Easy bevel adjustment allows for accurate angled cuts up to 90 degrees.
- Depth adjustment allows for customizing the depth to 2.50 inches at 90 degrees.
- Corded design offers unlimited run time for even the largest jobs.
What We Don’t Like:
- It does not come with a case.
- The blade included with the saw is not the same high quality as the saw.
SKIL 5280-01 Circular Saw with Single Beam Laser Guide, 15 Amp/7-1/4 Inch
The SKIL 5280 7-1/4 inch circular saw is designed for the more experienced user who need a strong circular saw with advanced capabilities. The 15-Amp motor delivers the power and performance you need to cut lumber and sheet products rapidly for a room extension, deck, and other projects.
The inbuilt dust blower keeps the line of cut sawdust-free, while the single-beam laser directs cuts with enhanced accuracy. The 51-degree bevel, with a positive stop at 45 degrees, allows for a range of cut options, while the spindle lock and on-tool wrench make the 7- ¼ inch blade replacements easier.
What We Like:
- Powerful 15-amp motor delivers up to 5,300 RPM for greater speed and faster cutting
- Carbide-tipped 7- ¼ inch blade included
- Spindle lock for easy change of blades
- 51-degree bevel capacity
- Lightweight 6.95 pounds design reduces fatigue
- Dust blower keeps line of cut free of sawdust for better visibility
- Comes with a convenient carry bag.
- Your extension cord plugs directly into the machine. No cord hanging out the back to get damaged.
- The laser is adjustable.
What We Don’t Like:
- The blade guard is a lighter plastic than we like to see.
- Skil customer service can be tricky to navigate.
PORTER-CABLE 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw, 15-Amp (PCE310)
The PORTER-CABLE PCE310 7-1/4″ heavy duty magnesium shoe Circular saw comes with a 15 amp motor that can spin up to 5,500 RPM for power and speed in a variety of applications. This unit is lightweight, weighing only 9.0 pounds.
This circular saw features a magnesium shoe as well as metal upper and lower guards for additional durability. It has a spindle lock and depth adjustment for on-the-job modifications.
This saw also has a 55-degree maximum bevel adjustment with detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees, making it simple to use. Comfort and a clear line of sight are provided with an extra handle.
What We Like:
- Trusted Name & Brand. Porter-Cable is owned by the Stanley Black+Decker Co.
- Powerful 15 Amp Motor
- 5,500 RPM Speed
- Metal Shoe
- Metal Guards
- Depth Adjustment
- Aux Handle
- Comfort Grip
- Light weight
- Lots of power for the money.
What We Don’t Like:
- The blade guard has more play in it that we are used to
- Does not come with a riving knife.
Circular Saw with Laser Guide, HYCHIKA 1500W/12.5A Corded Electric Saw with 4700RPM
The powerful 12.5AMP 1500W copper motor spins at 4700rpm, providing power and speed for even the most demanding cuts. It includes two blades: a 24T blade for cutting wood and a 40T blade for cutting plastic and soft metal. With a hex wrench, you can effortlessly change the saw blades.
At 90°, the maximum cutting depth is 2-1/2″, and the maximum bevel capacity at 45° is 1-4/5″. Miter cuts, bevels, framing, and edging are all possible with this tool.
Note: When cutting hard materials in low gear, the saw blade can become trapped in the material and cause the device to overheat, resulting in device damage. As a result, it’s a good idea to adjust the speed before cutting the material.
Cutting is more straight, exact, and professional with the built-in laser beam guide (which works with the two button cells included in the kit). The guiding ruler ensures that the cutting width is guided and controlled.
It can effectively reduce accidents thanks to the safety switch; the aluminum guard increases tool versatility and extends tool life. One-handed operation is made easier and less tiring with an ergonomic design and a narrow ergonomic grip.
What We Like:
- Powerful motor rotates at 47000 rpm, which provides power and speed to cut through the toughest materials.
- Laser guide makes the cutting more straight and accurate.
- Safety switch reduces the risk of accidents.
- Ergonomic design slim handle provides ease and less fatigue.
- Aluminum guard increases the diversity of use.
- Laser marker works with the 2 button cells included in the package, making the cutting more straight, precise, and professional.
- Safety switch reduces the risk of accidents.
What We Don’t Like:
- Can overheat when cutting harder materials/wood at low gear.
GALAX PRO 12A 5500RPM Corded Circular Saw with 7-1/4 Inch Blade: For Wood and Log Cutting
This saw is more than capable of cutting anything you need. It breezes through 2x material with ease. It cuts quite cleanly with no splintering. With a cut depth of about 2 1/2″, it can easily cut through a 4×4 in two passes. It isn’t unbearably loud.
It is under 7 lbs. in weight. Right out of the box, the laser is dead-on accurate cutting. Most of the low-cost saws we’ve seen came with a stamped blade that needed to be replaced right away if we wanted good results. This came with a high-quality carbide-tipped blade, so you can get started cutting straight away and get good results.
It includes a rubberized grip that prevents it from slipping out of your hands when you sweat. This is a useful feature to have.
The easy-to-read depth of cut gauge is located on the upper blade guard. Due to a dust blower, there is hardly any sawdust kicked back into your face. For both right and left-handed users, the safety switch is conveniently situated. You won’t find a better saw for less than $50.
What We Like:
- Powerful cutting performance
- Easy to use
- Iron chassis with steel reinforcement
- Great for DIY projects
- Perfect for cutting wood, plastic, metal, etc.
- Laser guided
What We Don’t Like:
- No carry case
- No electric brake for the blade
Cordless Models (Battery Powered Circular Saw)
Why buy a cordless circular saw?
The portability of a cordless circular saw is its principal advantage over a corded circular saw. Because they are cordless, you can work practically anywhere – you are not limited to areas where a power outlet is available.
So, if you are looking for a cordless tool with decent speed and can handle a variety of heavy-duty projects, we are confident the ones below will provide years of service. And assist you to create a wide variety of amazing woodworking projects.
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 5-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw, Tool Only (BDCCS20B)
This compact cordless circular saw has a 5-1/2-inch circular saw blade for a range of cuts and is powered by a high-torque motor. The depth of cut can be adjusted without using any tools. High-torque motor for the circular saw. For a range of cuts, this cordless circular saw boasts a 5-1/2 inch rapid-cutting blade.
Easy depth adjustments are possible with this metal-cutting circular saw’s tool-free depth of cut. Detents at 45 and 90 degrees allow for bevel modification. For ease of usage, the design is compact. Compatible with the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* System.
What We Like:
- Ergonomic Handle Design
- High Torque Motor – For heavy-duty applications
- Tool-Free Depth of Cut – Allows for easy depth adjustments
- Bevel Adjustment – With detents at 45 and 90 degrees
- Compact Design – Easy to store and transport
- Works with the entire BLACK + DECKER 20V MAX System
What We Don’t Like:
- Battery and Charger Sold Separately
PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw, Tool Only (PCC660B)
This circular saw is a powerful tool. It has a high-performance motor. Its carbide-tooth blade delivers studly cutting capacity so it can easily cut thru a variety of materials.
For non-traditional cutting applications, the shoe can pivot up to 50 degrees giving you easy access to a variety of cuts. The ergonomic handle has an over-molded comfortable grip for increased user comfort. Its lightweight design makes it easier to work.
This PORTER-CABLE circular saw is a part of the 20V MAX* System (battery sold separately).
What We Like:
- Powerful motor delivers 4000 RPM’s for fast cutting
- 6-1/2” carbide tooth blade delivers a 2-1⁄8’ cutting capacity for a variety of cutting applications
- Beveling shoe pivots up to 50 degrees for cutting non-traditional angles
- Contoured over-molded handle optimized for increased comfort
- 6.5 lbs compact saw helps reduce job site fatigue
- 20v max system – high-performance cordless platform
What We Don’t Like:
- No carrying case
- No laser guide
- Comes with a cheap blade
What Should I Look For When Buying A Circular Saw Under $50?
Safety
It doesn’t matter what tool you are considering buying (whether it’s under $50 or not) woodworking safety should be your first concern. Anytime you have sharp things spinning at high-speed danger is close by.
Be sure the circular saw you choose has all the safety features you think best to keep you and your loved ones safe. One standout feature to look for is an electric brake or blade brake.
Power
After safety, power is the most important factor to consider when purchasing a circular saw. As a rule, the more powerful a circular saw is the better it will perform.
Be sure to consider the operating current (ampere) and revolutions per minute (RPM), both of which are specified on the tool, are direct measures of power. The driving mechanism is another very oblique criterion for determining a tool’s power.
Also, on cordless circular saws pay attention to average battery life. The manufacturer should list this and folks will be talking about any issues in this regard in their product reviews.
Consider having extra batteries charged up and ready to go so you have extra power on hand to get your project finished.
Adjustable Bevel Controls
Making a bevel cut is any cut that is not at a 45-degree angle from the saw blade. Be sure to look for “bevel capacity”. It will tell you how big or deep a bevel cut your saw can make. Note that “bevel stops” are preset angles that let you quickly adjust the angle of your bevel cut.
Type Of Circular Saw Blades
Circular saws are capable of cutting a range of materials including all types of wood, steel, stone, and ceramic tile with the right blade. For various uses, different blades are available. For efficient cutting, be sure you purchase the right one for your woodworking project.
NOTE: Most circular saws, especially ones for under $50, come with a very generic low-quality blade. Usually, these blades are only suited for light-duty work.
Concerning blade replacement, check to see if the saw you are considering comes with a blade wrench or other.
Blade size is also something to pay attention to. The average circular saw has a 7- ¼ inch blade But they do come in other sizes. Be sure to check which size blade your saw requires before purchasing and if its adjustable cutting depth settings are easy to use.
High-Speed Steel Blades
Look for high-speed steel blades. They are harder than regular steel blades and stay sharper for a lot longer.
Carbide-Tipped Blades
Carbide tips are affixed to the teeth of carbide-tipped blades. Although they are more expensive than other blades, they last significantly longer than steel or high-speed steel.
Ceramic Tile-Cutting Blades
Ceramic tile-cutting blades are designed specifically for cutting ceramic tile. Diamond-tipped blades are found on better tile-cutting blades.
Masonry Blades
Abrasive masonry blades are used to cut concrete, brick, cinder block, and other masonry materials.
Should I buy a circular saw with or without a cord?
Honestly, that really depends on what you want to do with your new circular saw. If you need something that can work for you “out in the field” where pulling an extension cord is a hassle or not possible. Then for sure get yourself a cordless circular saw.
But from our experience, a corded power saw is the best OVERALL choice for the average new woodworker. They tend to give the best performance, especially at this price point. Because your circular saw has a consistent power supply you’ll never lose torque or cutting power.
Why does a circular saw slow down or stop while I’m cutting?
If you use a circular saw at a very low and improper cutting speed for dense materials, it may cease cutting.
A saw might also come to a halt if the blade is dull. A worn-out brass, motor failure, or insufficient oil lubrication are all recognized causes. Of course, if it’s a cordless model, it could just be out of power.
Have You Found The Best Circular Saw Under $50?
A circular saw is so useful and comes in a variety of price ranges that it’s a shame not to have one on hand just in case.
If you have different quality blades to replace out when needed, an inexpensive circular saw can go a long way toward helping you finish a range of home or DIY projects.
It’s our goal to help you find the best circular saw under $50 and make the best buying decision for your situation and circumstances. We sure hope we’ve done that. These are the models we believe to be the best on the market in the $50 price range.