Ever stared at a wall of circular saws, feeling completely overwhelmed? Finding the right tool can feel like trying to solve a puzzle, especially when you’re on a budget.
Finding a circular saw under $100 can be challenging. There are so many brands and features to consider. You might worry about getting a low-quality saw that breaks easily, or one that’s just too hard to use. Many people end up frustrated and spend more money than they planned.
This guide will help you avoid those pitfalls. We’ll break down what to look for in a budget-friendly circular saw. You’ll learn about important features, read reviews of top picks, and discover how to get the best value for your money. We’ll even share some tips for using your new saw safely and efficiently.
Ready to find the perfect circular saw without breaking the bank? Let’s get started!
Our Top 5 Circular Saw Under $100 Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Circular Saw Under $100 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 a popular choice for DIYers and contractors alike. This red saw cuts through wood quickly and efficiently. It’s a great option if you need a reliable saw for various projects.
What We Like:
- The saw boasts a powerful 13-amp motor. This makes cutting through thick wood easy.
- It’s relatively lightweight. This makes it comfortable to use for extended periods.
- The 7-1/4″ blade cuts a wide swath. This speeds up your work significantly.
- The bevel adjustment is simple to use. It allows for accurate angled cuts.
- The price is competitive. You get a lot of power for the cost.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dust collection system could be better. More dust escapes than ideal.
- The depth adjustment lever feels a little flimsy. It could be more robust.
- The included blade is okay, but a higher-quality blade would improve performance.
Overall, the Skil 5080-01 is a solid circular saw. It’s a great value for the money. It’s perfect for most home improvement tasks. This saw is a good choice for anyone needing a dependable and affordable tool.
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 relatively affordable saw that’s great for DIY projects and home repairs. It features a single beam laser guide to help you make accurate cuts. This saw is easy to handle, making it a good choice for beginners and experienced users alike.
What We Like:
- The laser guide makes cutting straight lines much easier.
- It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- The 15-amp motor provides plenty of power for most cutting tasks.
- The price is competitive with other saws in its class.
- The bevel adjustment is simple and works well.
What Could Be Improved:
- The depth adjustment could be smoother.
- The dust collection system is basic; a better system would be helpful.
- The blade guard sometimes feels a little flimsy.
- The laser requires batteries and they are not included.
Overall, the SKIL 5280-01 is a solid circular saw. It’s a good value for the money, especially for those who need a reliable tool for home projects. The laser guide is a great addition for accurate cuts. However, consider its limitations before purchasing.
3. Ryobi 18V 5-1/2″ Circular Saw
Rating: 8.6/10
The Ryobi 18V 5-1/2″ Circular Saw is a cordless saw perfect for DIY projects around the house. It’s lightweight and easy to handle, making it great for both beginners and experienced users. This saw cuts wood quickly and efficiently. It’s part of Ryobi’s 18V system, meaning you can use the same battery for other Ryobi tools.
What We Like:
- Lightweight design reduces user fatigue.
- The powerful motor cuts through wood smoothly.
- It’s easy to change blades.
- The battery life is surprisingly long.
- The price is very competitive compared to other cordless saws.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dust collection system could be better; it leaves some sawdust behind.
- The depth adjustment could be smoother.
- A built-in laser guide would improve accuracy.
Overall, the Ryobi 18V 5-1/2″ Circular Saw is a great value for the money. It’s a reliable tool for most home improvement tasks. This saw earns a spot in our toolbox.
4. Circular Saw
Rating: 9.0/10
The MCS01A Circular Saw is a powerful and versatile tool. It boasts a 5.8 amp motor, a helpful laser guide, and a sturdy metal auxiliary handle. This saw comes with six blades in two sizes (4½” and 4¾”) to tackle various materials. It cuts wood, soft metal, plastic, and even tile. Its cutting depth is impressive at 1-11/16″ at a 90-degree angle and 1-3/8″ at a 45-degree angle. This makes it perfect for many DIY projects and home repairs.
What We Like:
- The laser guide makes accurate cuts easier.
- The metal auxiliary handle improves control and reduces vibration.
- It cuts through a variety of materials.
- The multiple blade sizes offer flexibility.
- The price is competitive for its features.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dust collection could be better. Some users might want a dust shroud.
- The instruction manual could be clearer for beginners.
- A carrying case would be a handy addition.
The MCS01A Circular Saw is a great option for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. It offers excellent value for the money, performing well for a variety of tasks. However, improvements in dust collection and the manual would make it even better.
The MCS01A provides good power and precision for its price. It’s a solid choice for many projects.
5. DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw
Rating: 9.4/10
The DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw (DCS391B) is a powerful and versatile tool perfect for DIYers and professionals alike. This cordless saw boasts a 6-1/2-inch blade, a 460 MWO motor, and a 0-50 degree bevel capacity. It’s a “bare tool,” meaning it doesn’t come with a battery or charger—you’ll need to purchase those separately if you don’t already own them in the DEWALT 20V MAX system.
What We Like:
- The saw cuts smoothly and quickly. It handles various materials with ease.
- Its lightweight design reduces user fatigue during extended use. You can work for longer without getting tired.
- The bevel adjustment is simple and accurate. Making angled cuts is a breeze.
- DEWALT’s reputation for durability shines through. This saw feels sturdy and built to last.
- The battery life (when paired with a suitable battery) is impressive. You get plenty of cutting time on a single charge.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price point is relatively high, especially considering it’s a bare tool. The added cost of the battery and charger increases the overall expense.
- Some users find the dust collection system inadequate. More efficient dust management would be beneficial.
- The blade guard can sometimes be a little difficult to adjust. A smoother mechanism would be preferable.
Overall, the DEWALT DCS391B is a top-performing circular saw. It offers excellent power and precision. However, the additional cost of batteries and the less-than-perfect dust collection system are factors to consider. It’s a great tool for those already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX system.
Finding the Best Circular Saw Under $100
Need a circular saw for your DIY projects but don’t want to break the bank? You can find a good circular saw for under $100. This guide helps you choose the right one.
Key Features to Look For
- Power: Look for a saw with at least 5 amps. More amps mean more power for cutting through wood.
- Blade Size: A 6-1/2 inch blade is standard and works for most jobs. Larger blades cut faster, but they are heavier and more difficult to control.
- Depth of Cut: This tells you how deep the saw can cut. Check that it’s deep enough for your projects.
- Bevel Capacity: This lets you cut angles. A good range is 45 degrees or more.
- Safety Features: Look for a saw with a safety switch to prevent accidental starts. A blade guard is also very important for safety.
- Weight: Lighter saws are easier to handle, especially for longer projects.
- Dust Collection: Some saws have dust ports to connect to a vacuum. This keeps your workspace clean.
Important Materials and Construction
The materials used affect the saw’s durability. A sturdy saw will last longer. Look for a saw made with strong metal for the base and motor housing. Plastic parts are cheaper but may break more easily.
Factors Affecting Quality
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making reliable tools. Research brands before buying.
- Motor Quality: A powerful motor makes cutting smoother and easier. A weak motor may struggle or overheat.
- Blade Quality: A good blade makes a big difference in the quality of the cut. Consider buying extra blades.
- Build Quality: Check for any loose parts or wobbly components. A well-made saw feels solid and sturdy.
- Warranty: A warranty protects you if the saw breaks down. Check what the warranty covers.
User Experience and Use Cases
A comfortable saw is easier to use. Check the saw’s grip and how it feels in your hands. Consider what you’ll use it for. A beginner might want a lighter, easier-to-control saw. Someone doing more serious projects might want a more powerful saw.
Circular saws are great for cutting wood for various projects. You can use them to make straight cuts, angled cuts, and even plunge cuts (starting a cut in the middle of a piece of wood). They are useful for building furniture, cutting lumber for decks, or even crafting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What is the best brand of circular saw under $100?
A: There are many good brands. Read reviews to find one with good ratings and features that suit your needs. Price doesn’t always equal quality. - Q: How do I choose the right blade?
A: The blade type depends on the material you are cutting. Wood blades are common for most DIY projects. - Q: How do I maintain my circular saw?
A: Keep the saw clean, lubricate moving parts as needed, and replace the blade when it gets dull or damaged. Always unplug the saw before cleaning or maintenance. - Q: Is it safe to use a circular saw?
A: Yes, but safety is key. Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Make sure the blade is sharp and properly installed. Never force the saw through the material; let it do the work. - Q: What are the differences between corded and cordless circular saws?
A: Corded saws are usually more powerful, but they require an electrical outlet. Cordless saws are portable but may have less power and require battery charging. - Q: Can I cut metal with a circular saw?
A: You shouldn’t cut metal with a wood-cutting circular saw. You need a saw specifically designed for metal. Using the wrong blade is very dangerous. - Q: What is a bevel cut?
A: A bevel cut is an angled cut, not a straight cut. - Q: How do I know if my saw is powerful enough?
A: Check the amperage (amps) rating. Higher amps usually mean more power. Also, consider the thickness of the material you plan to cut. - Q: What should I do if my saw jams?
A: Never force a jammed saw. Turn it off, unplug it, and then carefully remove the material. - Q: Where can I buy a circular saw?
A: You can find circular saws at most home improvement stores, online retailers, and some hardware stores.
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.