Best circular saw under 100 2026: Expert Tested & Reviewed
Best Circular Saw Under $100 (2026 Winter Edition)
As we head into the new year, it’s the perfect time to tackle those home improvement projects that have been on your to-do list. Whether you’re building a DIY workbench, cutting plywood for a new shelving unit, or trimming some boards for a home renovation, a reliable circular saw is an essential tool. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one, especially if you’re working with a tight budget.
In this comprehensive product review, we’ve scoured the market to find the best circular saws under $100 that offer exceptional performance, durability, and value. From the top-of-the-line model to the best budget pick, we’ve got you covered with our expert recommendations. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect circular saw to power your next project!
Our Top Picks
Best Overall: Dewalt DCS391B 20V MAX Circular Saw
Dewalt DCS391B 20V MAX Circular Saw
The Dewalt DCS391B 20V MAX Circular Saw is our top pick for the best circular saw under $100. This powerful, cordless saw offers exceptional performance, versatility, and convenience, making it an excellent choice for DIYers and professional contractors alike.
- Description: The Dewalt DCS391B is a 20V MAX lithium-ion cordless circular saw with a 6-1/2-inch blade. It features a lightweight, compact design for easy maneuverability, and its powerful motor can easily cut through a variety of materials, including wood, plywood, and even some metal. The saw also includes a built-in dust blower to keep your line of sight clear, and its bevel capacity of 0-50 degrees allows for precise angled cuts.
- Pros:
- Cordless design for increased mobility and convenience
- Powerful motor and 6-1/2-inch blade for efficient cutting
- Lightweight and compact for easy handling
- Bevel capacity of 0-50 degrees for angled cuts
- Built-in dust blower to keep your line of sight clear
- Cons:
- Battery and charger sold separately
- May not be as powerful as some corded circular saws
- Amazon Affiliate Link: Dewalt DCS391B 20V MAX Circular Saw
Best Value: Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Circular Saw
Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Circular Saw
The Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Circular Saw offers excellent value for the price, delivering impressive performance and features that rival more expensive models.
- Description: The Makita XSS02Z is an 18V LXT lithium-ion cordless circular saw with a 6-1/2-inch blade. It features a powerful motor that can easily handle a variety of materials, and its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver. The saw also includes a built-in LED light to illuminate your work area, and its bevel capacity of 0-50 degrees allows for accurate angled cuts.
- Pros:
- Affordable price point without sacrificing performance
- Powerful 18V motor for efficient cutting
- Compact and lightweight design for easy handling
- Bevel capacity of 0-50 degrees for angled cuts
- Built-in LED light for improved visibility
- Cons:
- Battery and charger sold separately
- May not be as powerful as some higher-end cordless models
- Amazon Affiliate Link: Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Circular Saw
Budget Pick: Black + Decker BDCCS20B 20V MAX Circular Saw
Black + Decker BDCCS20B 20V MAX Circular Saw
For those on a tight budget, the Black + Decker BDCCS20B 20V MAX Circular Saw offers an affordable and reliable option that still delivers impressive performance.
- Description: The Black + Decker BDCCS20B is a 20V MAX cordless circular saw with a 5-1/2-inch blade. While it may not have the same power or features as some of the more premium models, it is an excellent choice for basic cutting tasks and DIY projects around the house. The saw includes a built-in blade wrench for easy blade changes, and its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver.
- Pros:
- Affordable price point for budget-conscious buyers
- Compact and lightweight design for easy handling
- Includes a built-in blade wrench for easy maintenance
- Suitable for basic cutting tasks and DIY projects
- Cons:
- Smaller 5-1/2-inch blade may limit cutting capacity
- Not as powerful as some higher-end cordless models
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Amazon Affiliate Link: Black + Decker BDCCS20B 20V MAX Circular Saw
Also Consider: Milwaukee 2530-20 M12 FUEL 12V Circular Saw
Milwaukee 2530-20 M12 FUEL 12V Circular Saw
The Milwaukee 2530-20 M12 FUEL 12V Circular Saw is a compact and powerful option that offers impressive performance for its size.
- Description: The Milwaukee 2530-20 is a 12V cordless circular saw with a 4-1/2-inch blade. Despite its smaller size, it delivers impressive power and cutting capacity, making it a great choice for tight spaces or light-duty cutting tasks. The saw features a brushless motor for increased efficiency and runtime, and its compact design allows for easy maneuverability.
- Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design for easy handling
- Powerful 12V brushless motor for efficient cutting
- Suitable for a variety of light-duty cutting tasks
- Compact size allows for use in tight spaces
- Cons:
- Smaller 4-1/2-inch blade may limit cutting capacity
- Battery and charger sold separately
- May not be as powerful as some larger cordless models
- Amazon Affiliate Link: Milwaukee 2530-20 M12 FUEL 12V Circular Saw
Also Consider: Ryobi P506 18V One+ Cordless Circular Saw
Ryobi P506 18V One+ Cordless Circular Saw
The Ryobi P506 18V One+ Cordless Circular Saw is a versatile and affordable option that is compatible with Ryobi’s extensive line of power tools.
- Description: The Ryobi P506 is an 18V cordless circular saw with a 6-1/2-inch blade. It features a powerful motor and a bevel capacity of 0-56 degrees, making it suitable for a variety of cutting tasks. The saw also includes a built-in laser guide for improved accuracy, and its compatibility with Ryobi’s One+ battery system allows for seamless integration with other tools in the brand’s lineup.
- Pros:
- Affordable price point for budget-conscious buyers
- Compatible with Ryobi’s extensive One+ battery system
- Bevel capacity of 0-56 degrees for angled cuts
- Includes a built-in laser guide for improved accuracy
- Cons:
- Battery and charger sold separately
- May not be as powerful as some higher-end cordless models
- Laser guide may not be as precise as some users prefer
- Amazon Affiliate Link: Ryobi P506 18V One+ Cordless Circular Saw
Buyers Guide: Choosing the Best Circular Saw Under $100
When it comes to selecting the best circular saw under $100, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you choose the right tool for your needs. Here’s a comprehensive buyers guide to help you make an informed decision:
Blade Size
The blade size is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a circular saw. Larger blades, typically in the 6-1/2-inch to 7-1/4-inch range, offer more cutting power and depth capacity, making them well-suited for larger projects and thicker materials. Smaller blades, such as 5-1/2-inch or 4-1/2-inch, are better suited for lighter-duty tasks and may be more maneuverable in tight spaces.
Power Source
Circular saws are available in both corded and cordless (battery-powered) models. Corded saws generally offer more power and runtime, making them a good choice for heavy-duty or prolonged use. Cordless saws, on the other hand, offer greater mobility and convenience, which can be particularly useful for projects that require you to move around frequently. When choosing a cordless saw, pay attention to the battery voltage and runtime to ensure it meets your needs.
Bevel Capacity
Many circular saws offer the ability to tilt the blade for angled cuts, known as bevel capacity. A typical bevel capacity range is 0-45 or 0-50 degrees, which allows for a variety of angled cuts. If you anticipate needing to make bevel cuts, look for a saw with a broader bevel range to provide more flexibility in your projects.
Ergonomics and Handling
The overall design and ergonomics of a circular saw can significantly impact its usability and comfort during extended use. Look for features like a lightweight and well-balanced construction, comfortable grip, and easy-to-use controls. Additionally, consider the saw’s overall dimensions and weight, as these factors can affect its maneuverability, especially in tight spaces.
Additional Features
Some circular saws may include additional features that can enhance their performance and convenience, such as built-in laser guides, dust blowers, or LED work lights. While these features are not essential, they can be helpful in certain situations and may be worth considering if they align with your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a worm drive and a sidewinder circular saw?
The primary difference between worm drive and sidewinder circular saws lies in their motor and blade orientation. Worm drive saws have a motor that is positioned perpendicular to the blade, resulting in a more compact and balanced design. Sidewinder saws, on the other hand, have a motor that is positioned parallel to the blade, which can make them slightly more top-heavy. Worm drive saws generally offer more power and torque, making them better suited for heavy-duty applications, while sidewinder saws are often more lightweight and maneuverable.