Corded Vs Cordless Circular Saw – Perfect Woodworking Tool

Corded Vs. Cordless Circular Saw

Artisans used carpeting tools long ago, but technological advancements have improved their portability and power features with time. But a debate regarding whether one should buy a corded or cordless circular saw is still a talk among the masses. Discover the pros and cons of corded vs cordless circular saw to determine the right tool for your woodworking projects in 2023.

Since its invention in 1923, the corded circular saw has long been loved by contractors and woodworkers because of its powerful performance. But in 1985, the cordless circular saw changed the notion of portability with its battery-operated model and compact build. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, which we will discuss in detail below to help you make your purchase decision. 

Power and Performance 

Both corded and cordless are considered the best circular saws that have a spinning blade in the shape of a circle. A corded circular saw needs a DC power outlet to perform, which remains constant throughout the working time. This saw has an impressive 15 amp Motor with a high RPM of 5,200. Heavy-duty tasks are complex for this type of saw and hold a massive working capacity. 

Whereas cordless circular saws are equipped with mostly a Lithium Ion Battery, which is rechargeable. Its capable battery can last for many hours, and its rating depends on the size of the saw. Although this saw can tackle various tasks, it has a little less working ability than the corded circular saw. This lags its capacity to perform heavier tasks or cut rigid objects. 

Cutting Ability 

A cordless circular saw mostly comes with small teeth, ideal for regular tasks and cutting off some hardwood. You can also easily adjust the bevel, depth of the cut, and height as per your requirement. But because smaller teeth hinder the user from the full potential of using a circular saw. 

The corded circular saw can have 32-80 teeth on the blade of the saw, which gives it the ability to cut through hardwood, plastic, or even metals If required. 

Blade Selection 

The blade selection of corded and cordless saws is similar. You can choose the blade type depending on the material or object you have to cut. There are many blades available for miter cuts, bevel cuts, and cutting plastic and metals. 

Portability 

A cordless circular saw is portable because of having no potential cord that has to be dragged along. It is a bit heavier because of the added battery, but contractors usually take this along on job sites or areas with no DC outlets. 

Corded circular saws are less portable because they have to be connected to a power source at all times. The moment you remove the cord that supplies electricity, it stops working. 

It is lightweight compared to a cordless circular saw but packs more power. Corded circular saws are ideal for carpenter work or permanent job areas. 

Safety Features 

The corded circular saw comes with a blade cover. You can use this cover while you are performing a cutting job. This saw is less safe because of the added danger of cutting off the cord, which can also result in electrocuting the user. Always ensure that the cord is farther away from your work table. 

The cordless circular saw is a safer option because of no cord and smaller teeth on the blade. You can use it in any which way without the danger of the cord getting in your way. 

Price Variations 

A Cordless Circular saw is a little bit more expensive because of its portable nature and safety features and also because this saw requires a battery replacement If needed and a battery backup as well. 

While the corded circular saw is the cheaper option, it requires no added replacements.

Pros & Cons Of Corded Circular Saw 

Pros

  • Powerful Motor 
  • Deeper cuts
  • Excellent working ability 
  • Affordable 
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Not easy to maneuver 
  • Not portable 
  • Not very safe to use.

Pros & Cons of Cordless Circular Saw

Pros

  • Battery-Operated 
  • Highly portable 
  • Easy to maneuver 
  • Easy to Use 
  • Safe to use 

Cons

  • Underpowered
  • A bit more expensive 
  • Heavy 

Conclusion 

Corded and cordless circular saws have always been compared because of their varying powers and portability. A corded circular saw must be attached to a power source that offers direct electricity at all costs. But it also performs heavy-duty functions without lag. 

The cordless circular saw has no cord attachment or battery, making it highly portable and unique in its working nature. But this saw is heavy and cannot perform high power requiring tasks such as timber cutting. Depending on the type of work required, we hope that this review will help you choose the better option for your requirement.

Matt Hardy

Hi, this is Matt and I've been working in construction for over 10 years. I'm a big fan of power tools and I love nothing more than testing and reviewing them to help others make informed purchasing decisions.