Ever needed to cut wood but didn’t want to spend a fortune on a saw? Finding the right tool can feel impossible.
Buying a circular saw can be tricky. Many cheap saws break quickly. Others lack power. It’s hard to find a good circular saw under $50 that actually works well.
This guide helps you avoid those problems. We’ll show you how to choose a reliable circular saw without emptying your wallet. We’ll review several models and highlight their pros and cons. You’ll learn what features matter most, and what you can skip.
Finding the Circular Saw Under $50 can be challenging, but we’ve made it simple for you. Let’s get started and find the perfect saw for your projects!
Our Top 5 Circular Saw Under $50 Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Circular Saw Under $50 Detailed Reviews
1. Skil 5080-01 13-Amp 7-1/4″ Circular Saw
Rating: 9.2/10
The Skil 5080-01 13-Amp 7-1/4″ Circular Saw is a powerful and versatile tool. It’s great for various cutting jobs around the house or on smaller construction projects. This red saw is easy to spot in your toolbox!
What We Like:
- It’s powerful! The 13-amp motor cuts through wood quickly and efficiently. You’ll get the job done faster.
- The saw is relatively lightweight. This makes it easier to handle, especially during longer projects. You won’t get as tired.
- It has a good price. It’s affordable compared to other saws with similar power.
- The large 7-1/4″ blade cuts wide pieces of wood with ease.
- The depth adjustment is simple to use. You can easily change the cutting depth.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dust collection system could be better. It doesn’t completely eliminate sawdust.
- The blade guard sometimes feels a little flimsy. It could be made more durable.
- Some users found the bevel adjustments a bit stiff.
Overall, the Skil 5080-01 is a solid circular saw for the price. It offers great power and ease of use for most DIY projects. It’s a good choice for homeowners and weekend warriors.
2. SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw with Single Beam Laser Guide – 5280-01
Rating: 9.4/10
The SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw (model 5280-01) is a powerful and versatile tool. It’s great for cutting wood, and the laser guide helps you make straight, accurate cuts. This saw is a good choice for DIY projects around the house, or even for small construction jobs.
What We Like:
- The laser guide makes cutting straight lines super easy. This helps avoid mistakes.
- It’s powerful enough to cut through most types of wood quickly and efficiently.
- The saw is relatively lightweight and easy to handle, even for longer periods of use.
- The price is competitive compared to other saws with similar features.
- The bevel adjustments are simple to use and provide flexibility for various cutting angles.
What Could Be Improved:
- The blade guard could be a bit more robust. It feels slightly flimsy.
- The depth adjustment knob could be easier to turn. It sometimes requires extra effort.
- The dust collection system is minimal. You’ll need to use a shop vac for cleaner cuts.
Overall, the SKIL 5280-01 is a solid circular saw that offers good value for the money. The laser guide is a huge plus. It’s a great option for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts who need a reliable and accurate cutting tool.
This saw will help you tackle many projects.
3. WEN 36725 12A 7-1/4-Inch Sidewinder Circular Saw with 2-1/2-Inch Cutting Depth
Rating: 8.8/10
The WEN 36725 12A 7-1/4-Inch Sidewinder Circular Saw is a powerful tool for cutting wood. It boasts a 2-1/2-inch cutting depth, making it suitable for many DIY projects and home repairs. This saw is known for its relatively affordable price point, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners. The sidewinder design offers a unique cutting action.
What We Like:
- The saw cuts smoothly and accurately. It makes clean cuts in most types of wood.
- It’s lightweight and easy to handle, reducing user fatigue during longer jobs.
- The 12 amp motor provides ample power for most cutting tasks. It handles thicker boards without slowing down.
- Its affordable price makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
- The sidewinder design allows for good visibility of the cutting line.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dust collection system could be improved. It doesn’t contain dust perfectly.
- Some users reported the blade guard feels a bit flimsy.
- The depth adjustment mechanism could be more precise.
- A carrying case isn’t included. You will need to buy one separately.
Overall, the WEN 36725 circular saw offers excellent value for its price. It’s a great tool for DIY enthusiasts and occasional users who need a reliable and affordable saw. However, consider its limitations before buying, especially if you prioritize perfect dust collection or a robust blade guard.
4. ENVENTOR Circular Saw Corded
Rating: 8.6/10
The ENVENTOR Circular Saw is a powerful 7-1/4-inch corded saw. It boasts a 11-amp motor for smooth cutting. The laser guide helps you make accurate cuts. It comes with two blades (40T and 24T) for different materials. This saw is easy to adjust for angled cuts. It’s a great tool for DIY projects around the house.
What We Like:
- The laser guide makes cutting straight lines much easier.
- The 6000 RPM motor cuts through wood quickly.
- It’s relatively lightweight and easy to handle with one hand.
- Two blades are included, offering versatility.
- The bevel adjustment is simple to use.
What Could Be Improved::
- The cord could be a bit longer.
- The dust collection system is minimal; you might need a separate dust mask and vacuum.
- The instruction manual could be clearer.
- Some users reported the laser guide isn’t always perfectly aligned.
The ENVENTOR Circular Saw is a good value for its price. It offers a lot of features for the money. It’s suitable for most DIY home improvement tasks. However, potential buyers should be aware of the minor drawbacks mentioned above.
5. Ryobi 18V 5-1/2″ Circular Saw
Rating: 8.6/10
The Ryobi 18V 5-1/2″ Circular Saw is a cordless saw that’s great for DIY projects around the house. It’s lightweight, making it easy to handle, and it packs a punch for its size. We tested it on various materials, and it performed well for its price point. This saw is a good option for homeowners who need a versatile tool without breaking the bank.
What We Like:
- Lightweight design reduces user fatigue.
- The 5-1/2″ blade cuts through wood quickly and cleanly.
- The 18V battery provides ample power for most jobs.
- It’s relatively easy to change blades.
- The price is very competitive compared to other cordless circular saws.
What Could Be Improved::
- The depth adjustment could be smoother.
- The battery life could be longer for extended use.
- The included blade is okay, but a higher-quality blade would improve performance.
- Some users reported the bevel adjustment was a little stiff.
Overall, the Ryobi 18V 5-1/2″ Circular Saw is a solid choice for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. It offers good performance for its price. It’s a reliable tool for many cutting tasks, though some minor improvements could make it even better.
Finding the Best Circular Saw Under $50: A Buyer’s Guide
Need a circular saw for those DIY projects but don’t want to break the bank? Finding a good circular saw for under $50 is possible, but it requires knowing what to look for. This guide will help you choose the right tool for your needs.
Key Features to Consider
- Motor Power: Look for at least 5 amps. More amps mean more power for cutting through wood. A weaker motor will struggle with thicker boards.
- Blade Size: A 6-1/2 inch blade is standard and works for most projects. Larger blades are better for cutting wider boards. Smaller blades are easier to maneuver in tighter spaces.
- Depth of Cut: Check how deep the saw can cut. You’ll need a deeper cut for thicker wood. This information is usually on the product packaging.
- Bevel Capacity: This feature lets you cut at angles. It’s useful for making angled cuts like miter joints.
- Safety Features: Look for a saw with a safety switch to prevent accidental starts. A blade guard is also essential for safety.
- Weight: A lighter saw is easier to handle, especially for longer projects. Heavier saws can be more stable, though.
Important Materials and Construction
While a sub-$50 saw might not be made of top-of-the-line materials, you should still pay attention to a few things. A mostly plastic body is common at this price point. Look for a saw that feels sturdy and not flimsy. A strong motor housing is important to prevent damage.
Factors Affecting Quality
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for better quality control, even in their budget lines. Read reviews before buying.
- Motor Quality: A well-made motor will last longer. Cheap motors may overheat and burn out quickly.
- Blade Quality: The blade is a critical part of the saw. A dull blade will make cutting difficult and dangerous. Replacing blades is common.
- Construction Materials: As mentioned before, sturdier materials mean a more durable tool.
User Experience and Use Cases
Circular saws under $50 are best suited for occasional DIY projects. They are great for cutting lumber for small construction projects, cutting plywood for shelving, and making simple cuts for home repairs. They aren’t ideal for heavy-duty professional use. They are generally easier to use than other more complex power tools. Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection when operating any power tool.
Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions. Practice on scrap wood before cutting valuable materials. A little preparation goes a long way!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Will a sub-$50 circular saw cut through hardwood? A: It might, depending on the thickness and the saw’s power. It’ll likely be slower and require more effort.
- Q: How long will a cheap circular saw last? A: Expect a shorter lifespan compared to more expensive models. Proper care and maintenance can extend its life.
- Q: Are there any safety features on budget circular saws? A: Yes, most include a blade guard and a safety switch. Always double-check.
- Q: What type of blade should I use? A: Look for blades designed for wood cutting. The blade size should match your saw.
- Q: Can I use this saw for cutting metal? A: No, using a wood-cutting blade on metal will ruin the blade and is dangerous.
- Q: How do I change the blade? A: Instructions are typically included with the saw. Often, it involves a simple locking mechanism.
- Q: Is it easy to use? A: Yes, circular saws are relatively easy to use, but practice is essential for safe and accurate cutting.
- Q: What kind of maintenance does it need? A: Keep the saw clean, lubricate moving parts (if applicable), and check the blade for damage.
- Q: Where can I buy one? A: Many home improvement stores and online retailers sell circular saws.
- Q: What should I do if the saw overheats? A: Let it cool completely before using it again. Overheating suggests it’s being overworked or poorly maintained.
In conclusion, every product comes with its own unique set of features and benefits, and its value ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. We hope this review has helped you gain a clear understanding of whether this product aligns with your expectations. Remember, making an informed choice ensures you get the best experience possible.
If you have any questions or thoughts about this product, feel free to share them in the comments section. Your feedback not only helps us but also assists fellow readers in making better decisions. Thank you for reading.