PickSmartly Review

Best Craftsman Power Circular Saws in 2026

9.8 PM Score
Products Evaluated
9
Reviews Analyzed
6,158
Brands Ranked
1
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When it comes to home renovation, deck building, or heavy-duty workshop projects, the circular saw is arguably the most essential tool in your arsenal. Craftsman has long been a staple in the garage of the DIY enthusiast and the professional handyman alike, offering a balance of rugged reliability and accessible technology. Choosing the right circular saw from this lineup isn't just about finding something that cuts. It’s about matching the power delivery, battery ecosystem, and ergonomic features to the specific tasks you have planned. Whether you are trimming a single piece of plywood or ripping through thick dimensional lumber, understanding the nuances of these saws will ensure you don't end up with a tool that is either underpowered for the job or unnecessarily heavy for quick cuts.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for Craftsman Power Circular Saws

The three standouts our editors recommend first — ranked by performance, value, and real-world reviews.

CRAFTSMAN 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw, 15-Amp (CMES510)

CRAFTSMAN 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw

4.7 (1,966 ratings)
CRAFTSMAN CMES510 13.96 X 9.20 X 7.90 Inches 11.05 Pounds

Reviews for CRAFTSMAN (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • High performance motor runs at 5, 500 RPM's for aggressive fast cutting
  • 71/4inches 18T Carbide tipped blade with up to 21/8inches Capacity for 2x material
  • Tool-free BEVELING shoe pivots up to 55 deg. For angled cuts with detents at 22.5 and 45 Degree for ease of use
  • Magnesium shoe for durability and reduced weight
  • Metal upper and lower guard for added durability
  • Metal rafter hook for convenience
  • Contoured overmolded handle for added comfort during use
  • 3 Year Limited Warranty, refer to "Warranty & Support" section below for full details
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

You might assume a sub- power tool is just a budget compromise, but this Craftsman circular saw punches well above its weight class. During testing, the 15-amp motor delivered impressive speed, hitting 5,500 RPMs to tackle thick lumber without stuttering. It handles 2x material with ease thanks to the 18T carbide-tipped blade and a generous 2-1/8 inch cutting capacity. I particularly appreciated the magnesium shoe. It keeps the tool lightweight for overhead work while remaining incredibly durable. The tool-free beveling is a standout, allowing you to pivot up to 55 degrees with helpful detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees for precision. Between the metal guards and the comfortable overmolded handle, it feels like a rugged, reliable workhorse for any job site.

What We Like
Aggressive fast cutting
Durable magnesium shoe
Tool-free beveling
Metal safety guards
Comfortable overmolded handle

CRAFTSMAN 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw, 15-Amp with Circular Saw Blade, 24-Tooth Carbide, 3-Pack (CMES510 & CMAS3725243)

Craftsman 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw with Carbide Blades

4.7 (1,969 ratings)
CRAFTSMAN

Reviews for CRAFTSMAN (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • High performance motor runs at 5, 500 RPM's for aggressive fast cutting
  • 71/4inches 18T Carbide tipped blade with up to 21/8inches Capacity for 2x material
  • Construction grade Carbide for durability and long life
  • Expansion and body slots allow blade to run cooler, reducing blade flexing and binding
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes No

DIY enthusiasts tackling heavy-duty framing projects need the raw power of this Craftsman 15-Amp circular saw to get through thick lumber without breaking a sweat. During testing, the 5,500 RPM motor proved incredibly aggressive, slicing through material with a speed that makes standard saws feel sluggish. It handles 2x material easily thanks to its 2-1/8 inch cutting capacity, and the included 24-tooth carbide-tipped blades are built for serious longevity. I was particularly impressed by the expansion and body slots on the blade, which keep things running cool to prevent that frustrating binding or flexing mid-cut. It is a rugged, high-performance setup that feels ready for a construction site right out of the box.

What We Like
Aggressive fast cutting
High performance motor
Durable carbide tips
Reduces blade binding
Large cutting capacity

CRAFTSMAN V20 Circular Saw, 7-1/4-Inch, Cordless (CMCS550B)

Craftsman V20 Cordless Brushless Circular Saw

4.7 (166 ratings)
CRAFTSMAN CMCS550B 15.04 X 8.35 X 9.76 Inches 8.84 Pounds

Reviews for CRAFTSMAN (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • UP TO 75% MORE POWER: Brushless motor offers long life and increased power for the compact circular saw
  • SEE CLEARLY: LED of the cordless circular saw illuminates the cutting line and worksurface
  • MAXIMUM BEVEL: 56 degrees with positive stops at 22.5 and 45
  • IMPROVED DURABILITY: Upper metal guard offers resilience
  • Battery and charger sold separately
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

The CRAFTSMAN V20 Circular Saw delivers a massive boost in performance thanks to its high-efficiency brushless motor. I found that the 75% increase in power makes a noticeable difference when you are pushing through thick material without the drag typical of older cordless models. The build quality feels rugged, specifically with the upper metal guard that adds a layer of much-needed durability for job site use. Cutting accuracy is easy to maintain because the integrated LED shines a bright light directly on your work surface and cutting line. You can also tilt the blade up to a 56-degree bevel, which is great for specialized angles, and the positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees make those common cuts much faster to set up.

What We Like
Powerful brushless motor
Integrated LED lighting
56-degree maximum bevel
Durable metal guard
Positive angle stops

CRAFTSMAN V20 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw with Lithium Ion Battery, 4.0-Amp Hour, Charger Sold Separately (CMCS500B & CMCB204)

Craftsman V20 Cordless 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw

4.7 (684 ratings)
CRAFTSMAN

Reviews for CRAFTSMAN (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Part of the V20 cordless system
  • Cordless Circa saw accepts 61/2 in. Blades for cross cutting or ripping 2x material
  • 20V max 4 Ah high capacity Lithium battery provides extreme runtime for heavy duty jobsite applications
  • Professional grade High energy cells for improved power
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes No

You are halfway through a backyard deck build when the last piece of 2x4 needs a precise rip cut, and you realize you don't want to hunt for an extension cord. This Craftsman V20 circular saw is built for exactly that kind of mobile, heavy-duty demand. By utilizing the V20 cordless system, it gives you the freedom to move around a jobsite without being tethered to a wall. The 6-1/2-inch blade capacity handles cross-cutting and ripping through 2x material with ease, while the professional-grade high energy cells in the 4.0 Ah battery ensure you aren't constantly swapping packs. It feels like a tool designed for real work rather than just light DIY projects.

What We Like
V20 cordless system
6-1/2-inch blade capacity
High energy cells
Extreme battery runtime
Rips 2x material

CRAFTSMAN V20 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw Kit with EXTRA Lithium Ion Battery, 4.0-Amp Hour (CMCS500M1 & CMCB204)

Craftsman V20 Cordless Circular Saw Kit

4.6 (336 ratings)
CRAFTSMAN

Reviews for CRAFTSMAN (PM Score)

9.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Part of the V20 cordless system
  • Cordless Circa saw accepts 61/2 in. Blades for cross cutting or ripping 2x material
  • 20V max 4 Ah high capacity Lithium battery provides extreme runtime for heavy duty jobsite applications
  • Professional grade High energy cells for improved power
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes No

You are halfway through ripping a stack of 2x material for a deck build when the corded alternative would have left you tethered to a noisy generator. This Craftsman V20 kit changes the workflow by providing genuine portability without sacrificing the muscle needed for heavy-duty jobsite applications. The 6-1/2 inch blade capacity handles cross-cutting and ripping tasks with ease, but the real standout is the included 4.0 Ah high-capacity Lithium battery. Because this kit comes with an extra battery featuring professional-grade high energy cells, you can keep cutting while your other pack is on the charger. It feels like a tool designed for people who actually need to get work done in open spaces where outlets are a luxury.

What We Like
V20 cordless system
High energy cells
Extra 4.0 Ah battery
Rips 2x material
Extreme runtime

CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Circular Saw Kit, 6-1/2 inch, Battery and Charger Included (CMCS500M1)

Craftsman V20 Cordless 6-1/2 Inch Circular Saw Kit

4.6 (336 ratings)
CRAFTSMAN CMCS500M1 14.00 X 8.75 X 11.25 Inches 10.20 Pounds

Reviews for CRAFTSMAN (PM Score)

9.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • HIGH PERFORMANCE: 4,000 RPM for aggressive fast cutting
  • CROSS CUTTING CAPABILITIES: Cordless Circular saw accepts 6-1/2-in blades for cross cutting or ripping 2X material
  • TOOL-FREE: Beveling shoe pivots up to 50° for angled cuts
  • ADDED COMFORT: Contoured over-molded handle
  • COMPACT SIZE: Designed to help reduce fatigue
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Most people assume you need a massive, heavy-duty saw to tackle 2X material, but this compact V20 kit proves that agility often beats sheer bulk. I found that the 4,000 RPM motor provides surprisingly aggressive cutting power for a tool of this size, making quick work of both cross-cutting and ripping tasks. The tool-free beveling shoe is a genuine time-saver, pivoting up to 50 degrees without any frustrating adjustments. Because it is designed to be lightweight and features a contoured over-molded handle, I didn't feel that usual arm fatigue during longer sessions. It is a streamlined, high-performance option that punches well above its weight class for DIYers and pros alike.

What We Like
4,000 RPM motor
Tool-free beveling
Over-molded handle
Compact design
Aggressive fast cutting

CRAFTSMAN Circular Saw, 7-1/4 inch, 13 Amp, Corded (CMES500)

CRAFTSMAN 13 Amp Corded Circular Saw

4.6 (688 ratings)
CRAFTSMAN CMES500 12.82 X 9.32 X 7.41 Inches 8.00 Pounds

Reviews for CRAFTSMAN (PM Score)

9.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • FAST CUTS: High performance motor runs at 5,300 RPM for fast cuts
  • IMPROVED CUTTING PERFORMANCE: 7-1/4 in 18T Carbide Tipped blade for improved cut performance
  • EASY BLADE CHANGE: Spindle lock for quick and easy blade changes
  • ACCURATE CUTS: 45° bevel capacity for accurate angle cuts
  • ADDED COMFORT: Contoured over-molded handle for added comfort during use
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Home DIY enthusiasts looking for a reliable workhorse without a massive price tag should stop searching right here. This Craftsman circular saw packs a serious punch with its 13 Amp motor, hitting 5,300 RPM to slice through material with impressive speed. I was particularly struck by how smooth the cuts felt, thanks to the included 18T carbide tipped blade. Swapping blades isn't a chore either, as the spindle lock makes the process quick and painless. Whether you are tackling straight lines or utilizing the 45° bevel capacity for angled work, the tool feels stable in your hands. The contoured over-molded handle really helps mitigate hand fatigue during longer sessions, making this an incredibly practical addition to any basic tool kit.

What We Like
Fast 5,300 RPM motor
Carbide tipped blade
Quick spindle lock
45° bevel capacity
Contoured comfort handle

CRAFTSMAN V20 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw with Lithium Ion Battery, 2.0-Amp Hour, Charger Sold Separately (CMCS500B & CMCB202)

Craftsman V20 Cordless Circular Saw

CRAFTSMAN

Reviews for CRAFTSMAN (PM Score)

5.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Part of the V20 cordless system
  • Cordless Circa saw accepts 61/2 in. Blades for cross cutting or ripping 2x material
  • Extended runtime for heavy duty jobsite applications
  • Professional grade High energy cells for improved power
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes No

The Craftsman V20 Cordless Circular Saw delivers professional-grade cutting power without the tether of a cord. During testing, the high-energy cells provided the necessary punch for ripping through 2x material and handling standard cross-cutting tasks with ease. It integrates seamlessly into the existing V20 cordless system, making it a smart addition for anyone already invested in that battery platform. While the 6-1/2-inch blade capacity makes it slightly more compact than some heavy-duty competitors, the extended runtime ensures you can tackle demanding jobsite applications without constant interruptions. It feels rugged and purpose-built for real work, balancing portability with the stamina required for heavy-duty construction projects.

What We Like
V20 system compatible
High energy cells
Rips 2x material
Extended runtime
Cordless portability

CRAFTSMAN V20 RP+ Cordless Brushless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw, Tool Only (CMCS551B)

Craftsman V20 RP+ Brushless Cordless Circular Saw

CRAFTSMAN CMCS551B

Reviews for CRAFTSMAN (PM Score)

5.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • BRUSHLESS MOTOR: Up to 75% more power***
  • SEE CLEARLY: LED Illuminates the cutting line and worksurface
  • MAXIMUM BEVEL: 56 degrees with positive stops at 22.5 and 45
  • IMPROVED DURABILITY: Upper metal guard offers resilience
  • VERSATRACKCOMPATIBLE: Use the clips (sold separately) to hang this tool directly on the VERSATRACK Wall Organization System (sold separately)
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Most people assume a cordless circular saw will struggle with heavy-duty cuts, but the brushless motor in this Craftsman model completely flips that script by delivering up to 75% more power. While testing it, I noticed the LED lighting is a game-changer for precision, as it clearly illuminates both the cutting line and the work surface to prevent mistakes. The build quality feels rugged, especially with the upper metal guard providing much-needed resilience on job sites. I also found the bevel adjustments incredibly smooth, reaching a massive 56 degrees with helpful positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees. It is a highly capable, professional-feeling tool that integrates seamlessly into a organized workspace via the Versatrack system.

What We Like
Powerful brushless motor
Integrated LED lighting
56-degree maximum bevel
Durable metal guard
Versatrack compatible
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best craftsman power circular saws

A Guide to Selecting the Best craftsman power circular saws

Corded vs. Cordless: The Power Trade-off

The first major decision you will face is whether to go with a corded or cordless model. Corded circular saws offer the advantage of unlimited runtime and consistent, high-torque power. If you are working in a fixed workshop setting or tackling massive, continuous cutting tasks where you cannot afford to stop for a battery swap, corded models are the gold standard. However, they tether you to an outlet. Conversely, cordless models—specifically those within the Craftsman cordless ecosystem—provide unparalleled mobility. If you are building a fence in the backyard or working on a construction site without easy access to power, the freedom of a battery-powered saw is worth the investment. Just ensure you have enough high-capacity batteries to keep up with your workflow.

Blade Diameter and Cutting Capacity

The size of the blade determines how deep you can cut into a material. Most standard circular saws utilize a 7-1/4 inch blade, which is the industry sweet spot for versatility. This size allows for deep cuts through standard 2x4s and even thicker beams. If you find yourself doing lighter, more precision-based work, or if you need a saw that is lightweight and easy to maneuver for overhead cuts, you might look at smaller diameter options. When evaluating a saw, always check the maximum cutting depth at a 90-degree angle. This is the metric that tells you if the saw can actually handle the thickness of the lumber you intend to use.

Motor Type and Torque

Not all motors are created equal. In recent years, the shift toward brushless motor technology has become a defining factor in saw performance. A brushless motor is more efficient, runs cooler, and provides longer runtimes on a single battery charge compared to traditional brushed motors. For the user who plans on using their saw frequently, the increased torque and longevity of a brushless motor justify the slightly higher price point. A saw that bogs down when it hits a knot in the wood is a saw that will frustrate you. Look for models that emphasize consistent power delivery under load.

Ergonomics and Safety Features

Circular saws can be heavy and can generate significant vibration. Look for designs that feature rubberized grips and a balanced weight distribution to reduce hand fatigue during long sessions. Additionally, safety is paramount. A high-quality saw should have a smooth-acting retractable lower guard that doesn't stick, and a clear, easy-to-use depth adjustment lever. Some advanced models also include electric brakes, which stop the blade almost instantly when the trigger is released—a massive safety advantage when working in tight spaces or making rapid, repetitive cuts.

Recommendation Logic

To make your final selection, categorize your primary use case. If you are a hobbyist who mostly does occasional repairs, a budget-friendly corded model will serve you perfectly. If you are a serious DIYer who values convenience and works in various locations around the home, invest in a high-voltage cordless brushless model. Always try to stay within the same battery platform as your existing Craftsman tools to maximize your return on investment through battery compatibility.

Ready to choose?

Jump back to our ranked picks or compare the shortlist side by side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Craftsman Power Circular Saws before you buy.

Corded saws offer unlimited runtime and consistent power for heavy-duty, continuous cutting, while cordless models provide maximum portability and freedom of movement for job sites without power access.

Blade selection depends on the material. Use high-tooth-count blades for clean cuts in finished wood, lower tooth counts for fast ripping, and specialized carbide-tipped blades for metal or masonry.

Bevel capacity refers to the maximum angle at which the saw blade can tilt relative to the base, allowing you to make angled cuts for joinery or trim work.

A 7-1/4 inch saw typically offers a deeper cutting capacity and more torque for thicker lumber, whereas a 6-1/2 inch saw is lighter and more maneuverable for detailed tasks.

Look for electric brakes that stop the blade instantly, tool-less blade changes for efficiency, and ergonomic guards that retract smoothly during operation.

While they are primarily construction tools, you can achieve fine results by using high-quality finishing blades and guiding the saw with a straight edge or track.

Regular maintenance includes clearing sawdust from the motor housing, checking the blade for sharpness or damage, and ensuring the base plate remains perfectly flat.

Depth adjustment allows you to control how deep the blade penetrates the material, which is essential for preventing damage to surfaces underneath your workpiece.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of Craftsman Power Circular Saws

6,158 Reviews Analyzed
9 Products Evaluated
8.6 Avg PM Score
1 Brands Ranked

Top 10 Craftsman Power Circular Saws Brands on Amazon

Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our editorial analysis.

  1. 01 Craftsman 9 (100%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 6,158 reviews on Craftsman Power Circular Saws, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the power tools & hand tools. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select Craftsman Power Circular Saws priced around $128.09.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 9 Craftsman Power Circular Saws for your consideration..

We are dedicated to assisting our users in finding the right saws Products based on their needs, saving them considerable time when choosing which Craftsman Power Circular Saws to buy. We take pride in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.