Upgrade Your Tool Kit: Best Small Circular Saw & Compact Picks

Last Updated On March 22, 2023

Do you know that about 70% of people prefer a compact version of the product that they are currently using? If you ask any random guy, they will agree the fact that compact circular saws are much more user-friendly than the big saws on the market.

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Let me give you a relevant example. think about carrying a bag that is heavy and pushing a cart at a super shop. Which one is more efficient and less physically straining? The shopping cart of course.

So, if you are told to carry a bag of groceries instead of a shopping cart, you will feel burdened. On the same note, small or mini circular saws are gaining more popularity on the market. People are focusing hard to find the best compact circular saws on the market or the best mini circular saws on the market.

Which one’s your preference? Mini saws and compact saws might seem the exact same thing to some but they possess different characteristics. A mini circular saw kit will have lesser specifications than a regular-sized circular saw and a compact circular saw kit will virtually carry most of the specifications of a regular-sized circular saw having a smaller blade and lesser weight.

Let’s talk about what you came here for. We have literally scouted for months through the internet, and picked many compact circular saws and mini circular saws, now, we are here with a list of the 8 best small circular saws that you can buy right now. Go through the review to find the best small circular saw that floats your boat.

8 Best Small Circular Saws of 2023

1. Worx WX429L – The Best Compact Circular Saws

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The problem with most compact circular saws is that don’t really have that added specification that you can cut metal with them whereas it’s a day-to-day deal for a regular circular saw. With a compact saw you are already sacrificing the cutting depth because no matter how precise cuts these circular saws can provide, they don’t offer the same cutting depth as a circular saw with a big blade.

This is different in the case of the Worx WX429L. This is a circular saw that I have suggested probably hundreds of times already. Why? because this is one of the best compact-mini circular saws that not only it can cut through sheet metal in a straight line just like a full-size circular saw, it can do that only with a 4-amp motor. Also, you can do all that in a one-handed operation.

Most compact circular saws have issues with grip. people often think that the grip is too thin or thick. But in this case, it has a certain handle design that is suitable for people of all ages.

Depth Adjustments

If it takes time and steps for you to change the depth every time you are switching between materials, you will definitely be annoyed. To make this process easier there is an EZ depth setting gauge with which you can set the depth and angle between 0-45 degrees.

Blade Adjustment

Some conventional circular saws have immense motor power and exceptional maximum cutting depth. But the problem you will face is that they don’t really offer a clear line of sight. For that, you need a design that lets you have a clear line of sight. With the left side blade adjustment, it will be easier for you to have a clear line of sight every time you are cutting in a straight line.

Power

The reason why people still prefer bigger circular saws is that they have more power compared to any small-sized circular saw. But the fact that makes this particular model the best compact circular saw is that it is capable of delivering the same power with its 4 1/2-inch blade as standard circular saws with a blade size of 7 1/2 inches.

Easy Blade Switch

The common problem with most circular saws is that they don’t have an easy process when it comes to changing blades. You see, for different applications you need different blades. Whether it’s a big circular saw or a mini compact circular saw, you will need a blade change. To make this process easy this model offers a 3-step easy process with which you can easily change blades.

Specifications

• Product dimension is 15.08 x 4.17 x 5.79 inches
• Weighs 3.97 pounds
• 4.5-inch blade length
• 4-amp motor
• Corded electric

Things we like

• Can be used on metal
• Quick blade change
• Bevel adjustment is easy
• Lightweight
• 4100 RPM

Things we don’t like

• Requires lithium-ion battery
• Only available in black

2. Genesis GCS445SE – Best Corded Compact Circular Saw

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Try any compact circular saw that you don’t have any information about. I mean get a random one from the store. Most small circular saws will lead you to an issue regarding their power cord and grip.

The problem with any corded circular saw is that the accessibility is lowered. That’s why, while buying a corded one, it’s better to see how well the cord is placed and how freely you are capable of working.

If this is your concern, then the Genesis GCS445SE is for you. This particular model is considered to be the best corded compact circular saw in the market. Why?

Because it comes with a barrel grip for starters, the cord placing is such that you will have no issues while using it. This is a great pick for daily use. Let’s find out why.

Long Time Operation

For starters, it’s not one of those cordless circular saws, so, you don’t have to worry about the battery running out. That by default ensures longer operation. But what adds a cherry on top of that is the grip and the weight. The weight is literally nothing compared to larger circular saws and it has a barrel grip which adds comfort to the whole thing. Thus, guaranteeing long time operation.

Vacuum Adapter

Larger circular saws offer an extra thing while you are following a cutting line, that is a vacuum adapter or an in-built vacuum pipe. This is a necessary part of a saw because it ensures that no debris is there in your way of precise cuts. With this model, you will have this added feature because you will get a vacuum adapter with which you can keep your line of sight clean and clear.

Quick Blade Change and Protection

As manufacturers started focusing on quick blade change options, the blade guard started to become more vulnerable. In many incidents, blades have come out from the arbor and caused severe accidents. After years of research, they came up with a spindle lock that adds extra protection, and also you can change blades easily.

Blade Guide for Rip Cuts

The power tools that offer one-handed operation often forget that the buyer would need the saw for rip cuts too. That’s why most manufacturers don’t add blade guides. But this model comes with a proper blade guide that allows you to place the saw on a platform and perform rip cuts.

Specifications

• Product dimension is 17 x 4 x 5 inches
• Weighs 4.7 pounds
• 4.5-inch blade length
• 4-amp motor power
• Corded Electric

Things we like

• Suitable for cross cuts, plunge cuts, and beveled cuts
• Easy Bevel adjustment lever
• Very comfortable handle grip
• 3,500 RPM
• 2-years warranty

Things we don’t like

• Not suitable for professional use
• Only available in black

3. HYCHIKA MS-85C – The Best Mini Circular Saws

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It’s good that you want to get a mini circular saw. you want something small to get your work done instead of using a large power tool, that’s appreciable. But what makes a circular saw the best mini circular saw is how many features it packs and how much weight and size it has reduced.

So, to do that many manufacturers are opting for lightweight material for the build of the saw. Mostly they are using plastic and getting rid of the extra weight of the frame.

But the problem this move imposes is that the durability of the saw decreases by a lot. There are saws made of plastic which last longer periods of time though.

What actually ensures maximum durability is materials like aluminum and steel. These are the materials that have been used to make the Hychika MS-85C. Let’s find out more features of this mini circular saw.

Adjustable cutting depth

You will be able to call a mini circular saw a compact one if it carries out most of the specifications and features of a larger one. Well, this model will enable you to have an adjustable cutting depth with easy bevel control. You can switch between depths depending on what material you are using it on. So, bevel cuts are no issues.

Laser guide

Let’s say you are cutting soft metal or you are cutting wood in a low-light situation. You have drawn the lines and everything but there will be room left for mistakes if there is nothing extra to guide you while there isn’t enough light. To solve that problem, this mini saw comes with a laser guide that will help you to determine exactly which cut line to follow to get straight lines with its circular blade.

User Friendliness

Those who use circular saws for a living, already have been adjusted to the vibration and the pressure a saw generates. They know exactly how to control that while maintaining a cut line. But for those who are not professionals, handling a machine like this will generate fatigue. To reduce that, this saw comes with a soft rubber handle with an ergonomic design.

Versatile usage

Many people think if I have the perfect blade, I will be able to cut anything with any saw. Wrong! You can’t. Let’s just say for the sake of the argument that you have a grit diamond blade. That doesn’t mean you can use it on any saw. The saw needs to have the proper RPM and the proper motor power for you to cut different materials. This model will enable you to cut different materials starting from PVC, plastic, wood, soft metal, aluminum, etc.

Specifications

• Product dimension is 16.9 x 15.4 x 11.6 inches
• Weighs about 7 pounds
• 8-inch blade length
• 4-amp motor
• Corded electric

Things we like

• Highly durable
• Versatile operation
• Adjustable cutting depth
• User friendly
• Laser guide for straight cutting

Things we don’t like

• No vacuum adapter
• Requires zinc carbon battery

4. PowerSmart ‎PS4005 – Best Compact Circular Saw with No Load Speed

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Ceiling fans are supposed to have a certain loading speed until they reach the optimum speed to deliver air. This is because they have a large circumference and the gap between the wings is quite a lot.

But if the same thing happens in the case of a circular saw, it’s actually pathetic because it’s a small device with its blade having a very small circumference and there is literally no space gap between the blade.

There are certain saws that have a particular loading speed without which the saw cannot reach its optimum speed of say 4000 RPM. We are talking about a specific circular saw that has a max RPM of 3500 but it doesn’t need any loading time to reach that speed.

Within a matter less than of a second, the PowerSmart PS4005 can speed up to 3500 RPM. That’s pretty amazing, isn’t it? Let’s find out about its other features.

Good Maximum cutting depth

Most mini circular saws don’t really offer much-cutting depth. The average maximum cutting depth of compact circular saws is within 25mm at a 90-degree or a 0-degree angle. But with this model, you will get a cutting depth of 42.8 mm at a 90-degree angle and 28mm at a 45-degree angle.

Versatile Utility

Any circular saw that you will come across will promise versatile usage. this is true until you use the saw yourself. Only then you can actually tell whether it can be used on various materials or not. This one, on the other hand, was tested and passed the test on every material it promised to work on. So, you can use the circular saw on plastic, PVC, Wood, Plasterboard, Laminated flooring, MDF, etc.

Laser Guide

You never know when you have to work with your saw. You might have to cut something instantly because you might need it in the morning. So, for low light conditions, the saw should be well prepared. This one was sent prepared by the manufacturers to work well in low light and even on bright daylight. It comes with an in-built mounted laser guide.

Dust Exhaust pipe

When you cut material using a saw, it is bound to generate dust and debris. These can divert you from the cutting line and also, can cause problems in your vision. So, you need something that can suck in all the dust and dirt and give you a clear line of sight. That is a possibility with this saw because it comes with a dust exhaust pipe.

Specifications

• Product dimension is 15.55 x 7.3 x 6 inches
• Weighs about 5 pounds
• 4.5-inch blade length
• 4-amp motor
• Corded electric

Things we like

• Versatile Material usage
• Lightweight
• Powerful motor
• Laser guide
• 2-year warranty

Things we don’t like

• Not suitable for metal
• Only available in red

5. HYCHIKA CS-85C – The Best Compact Circular Saw with Long Cord

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The most common factor that sometimes becomes the deciding factor in the case of buying a circular saw is that how long a cord it has. Because a smaller cord will offer you a smaller radius.

Especially, in the case of handheld circular saws that you buy because you want to move them in ways you want to. Because you are getting them for their usability. if they don’t offer a power cord that is long enough for you to move freely, why would you even buy it?

To solve that issue, here’s another product from Hychika, the world-renowned brand, the model CS-85C, a 6.2 Amp motor saw specifically made to cut through plastic, wood, and soft metal.

It is packed with features and doesn’t lack anything that you can ask from a mini circular saw. let’s find out to be sure.

Precision

Manufacturers put great motors to create an arbor size that fits all the best circular blades that you can buy. But one thing that they leave in the hands of users is how precisely they can cut. let’s face it, not everyone is capable of making proper rip cuts that would stand out well. that’s why this model has a laser guide installed and also a ruler to help you with precise cutting and maintaining straight cutting lines.

Easy Depth Setting

If you are switching between sheets of soft metal having different depths, you might have to switch between the bevel angle to maintain proper depth while cutting. the problem will be noticeable if the depth adjustment setting for bevel cuts is too complicated to switch between. That’s why this saw has an easy depth-setting mechanism.

Versatility

Wood-metal-plastic, you name it, this tool is capable of cutting through these different materials depending on the depth of each sheet. The whole package contains 6 blades for you to switch between when you have to.

Safety features

Power tools are dangerous and can be the reason for accidents happening. that’s why every power tool manufacturer should focus on adding safety features to their tools. Luckily, this one has a double safety feature going on that helps you to work safely.

Specifications

• Product dimension is 16.54 x 4.72 x 12.6 inches
• Weighs around 7 pounds
• 8-inch blade length
• 6.2-amp motor
• Corded electric

Things we like

• Designed for precision
• 3500 RPM
• Six blades in the kit
• Added safety precautions
• Soft rubber handle

Things we don’t like

• Requires extra vacuum adapter despite having a vacuum extraction port
• Only available in bottles of green

6. ROTORAZER RZ120 – The Most Versatile Compact Circular Saw

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The versatility factor of any compact saw is what makes it stand out because if you are familiar with the different utilities of a circular saw you probably know that for each different work, there is a model of saw that you have to use.

What if I say that this mini circular saw is capable of delivering different applications for which you might need to buy at least 4 different compact circular saws. This compact saw contains the workability of 7 different saws in 1.

The Rotorazer RZ100 is a known model for its versatile application. You won’t have to worry about buying any other compact circular saw as long as you have this one at hand.

All that at a very cheap price and with a very user-friendly design that will help you make precise cuts on a variety of materials. Let’s find out more.

Use of Various Material

Small circular saws often aren’t capable of cutting through different materials. This is because they have some design limitations. What makes this model one of the best compact circular saws is that it can cut plastic PVC, laminates, aluminum, copper, hardwood, and drywall. Also, you can cut plywood or panel, ceramics, tiles, marble, stone, and even carpets.

Suitable For Professional Use

For professionals who make a living using their circular saws, we never recommend them compact circular saws. Because a mini circular saw has such limitations in design and durability. They are best for DIY projects at home. This one, we will definitely recommend this to professionals because of the diversity and the robust design it offers.

Sturdy Base Plate

The base plate design is kept in a very sturdy manner. A random mini circular saw will get rid of the heavy base plate to reduce weight. But there is a reason why heavier base plates are installed. That is to keep the balance and maintain precision. This has a very sturdy and well-designed base plate but surprisingly, the weight doesn’t surpass 7 pounds.

Cutting Depth Adjustments

With one lever, you can easily switch through the cutting depth. All you have to do is either move the lever forward or pull it back to switch between the cutting depth. This cannot be any easier.

Specifications

• Product dimension is 17 x 9.2 x 4.1 inches
• Weighs 4.1 pounds
• 3.3-inch blade size
• 480 w motor
• Corded electric

Things we like

• Comes with a case
• Optional laser guide
• Robust design
• Very lightweight
• 4200 RPM

Things we don’t like

• A bit overpriced
• Only available in yellow

7. TECCPO TPMS115A – Best Compact Mini Circular Saws

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As I have said earlier, a mini circular saw and a compact circular saw is two different things. But when we are calling a circular saw the best compact mini circular saw, there must be a reason behind it.

A circular saw that is considered mini is actually a circular saw that is small in size and user-friendly. But a compact circular saw has the target of adding as much as specifications and features they can add in a small body.

The Teccpo TPMS115A is considered to be mini and compact because it substantially covers all the necessary features of a regular circular saw in its compact circular saw design and has the user-friendliness of a mini circular saw.

I am not saying it will give you the control of cordless compact circular saws. It is a corded circular saw, so it really can’t do that. But it packs a lot of features that you can make use of.

No Load Speed

Any circular saw would need a certain few seconds to reach the optimum speed level of cutting. Say, if a saw has 4000 RPM, you would have to wait 4-5 seconds for it to reach that speed for you to begin cutting. Not with this one. It has an instant start technology which allows the blade to spin at the highest speed with no loading time at all.

One Handed Operation

Mini circular saws are supposed to be used by one hand. If not, you can’t call it a mini circular saw, can you? But the problem that everyone faces even with a mini circular saw is that the functionalities force users to use both hands. That will not happen in this case because all the functionalities of this model except for the blade change require a single-handed operation.

Thumb Activated Trigger

Most circular saws have an index-activated trigger. this one has a thumb-activated trigger that helps you to have more grip while working. More grip means more control.

Dust Extraction

The built-in dust exhaust pipe blows the dust out from the line of sight on the right side from the cutting point. This will help you not to have any distractions while making rip cuts or cutting any board through straight lines.

Specifications

• Product dimension 16.93 x 3.94 x 5.31 inches
• Weighs 6.5 pounds
• 4.5-inch blade length
• 5.8-amp motor
• Corded electric

Things we like

• Versatile application
• Lightweight
• No load speed
• Laser guide
• Dust extraction

Things we don’t like

• The handle design is not suitable for everyone
• Only available in green

8. WORX WX427L – Best Compact Circular saw for Wood-Metal-Plastic

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Traditional circular saws don’t really offer you utility over a variety of materials. Rather, what manufacturers do is make circular saws that are specific to one type of material.

Worx is known for making exceptional ultra-compact circular saws. One of those models that got them to this fame is the WX427L. This model is one of my personal favorites.

This may not be a cordless circular saw but it will give you the comfort of one. The design is made in such a way that you can run on a platform. Or if you want the steep design will let you access tight spaces and perform bevel cuts.

So, this may not be one of those cordless saws but is one hell of a good compact saw. Another reason why people love it is that it offers great value for money despite having a powerful motor.

Lightweight

With 5.07 pounds only, you will not feel any extra strain while working with this compact saw. You may use it on hardwood, but the blade segment along with the 4000 RPM motor will cut through like butter.

Easy Depth Adjustments

Nobody wants to stop working every time they have to change the depth. That’s why this model comes with an easy depth adjustment switch.

Laser Guide

It has a powerful laser guide that can point through the dust and debris showing you the correct line while you are making rip cuts. Precision is guaranteed.

Slim Handle

One of the best things about this compact circular saw is that it has a very slim handle which makes other saws look very buffed. This design actually makes holding a saw much easier.

Specifications

• Product dimension is 15.3 x 4.2 x 6.4 inches
• Weighs 5.07 pounds
• 4.7-inch blade length
• 6-amp motor
• Corded electric

Things we like

• User-friendly design
• Dust extraction port and adapter
• Slim grip
• Versatile material usability
• Laser guide

Things we don’t like

• The vacuum adapter blows the dust upwards
• Only available in an orange-black combination

Things to Consider Before Buying the Best Small Circular Saw

Time for the research talk. You see, you can’t just go to the shop or an online shopping website and pick any power tool that seems okay. As you will be spending quite a few bucks, you should be considering a few factors before buying them.

As we have put in a lot of time, we considered a few factors that helped us in choosing the best options for you to make a choice from. Let’s discuss this, shall we?

Material Accessibility

The thing is, you might want a saw for doing some woodworking. You may have lumber lying around and waiting for the perfect saw to cut them and turn them into something that you are planning to make.

Now, you picked up a saw that says it can cut metal. definitely, it will not be suitable for woodworking. So, checking the specifications to find out what material you can use for the saw is important.

User-friendliness

I have said a few more times and I’m saying this again, if the product is not user-friendly, there is no point in buying it. If you don’t have the proper access to use all the features easily, you can’t really call it a compact circular saw, can you?

The design, the features, the levers, and the switches have to be user-friendly. Otherwise, it’s a no-go.

Motor Power

Motor power is a pretty decently important factor given that different materials require different RPM for cutting precisely.

You can’t really attempt to cut something that requires higher RPM with a saw that has low RPM. So, get a saw that has the optimum RPM to cut your selected material blindly.

Safety Features

While working with power tools, the most important factor is not how good the saw is, it’s actually how safely you are working with it.

You can either be totally insecure and have zero concerns while working. That leaves a massive space for accidents to happen and damages to occur.

So, don’t leave this in fate’s hands, follow a few safety precautions that we will discuss now.

Wear Safety goggles

The dust and debris that come out from the saw-cutting operation, if they enter your eyes, can cause severe harm. In some cases, people have reported having gone blind because they were not careful enough to wear protective goggles while working with a saw.

Don’t make the same mistake as they did. Always wear safety goggles while working with a saw to keep your eyes safe.

Use Ear Protectors

Just like our eyes, our ears are sensitive too. Any dust or debris entry can cause permanent deafening. It has happened before so there is no requirement of giving a second thought

To keep your ears safe, use ear protectors while working.

Wear Working Gloves

As you will be working with a blade spinning at the minimum speed of 3500 RPM, there is a huge chance for your fingers to be damaged if you don’t wear working gloves.

People have lost their fingers to saw blades before despite the saw having a blade guard. That’s why to wear a pair of work gloves while you are at work with your saw.

Do you know that Compact circular saws are kicking back? Here’s our well-researched article about this. Don’t forget to check this!

FAQ

Final Words

So, here you have it. The list given above contains the 8 best small circular saws that are the top picks of 2023. You can pick any one of the, that meets your requirement and we can guarantee that you will be satisfied unless your unit has any manufacturing defect. As these are factory-made objects, they are subjected to defects. You can demand a change from the manufacturer. Remember to maintain all the safety measures while using the saw you picked from the list above.