DEWALT Cordless Circular Saw Review: Does It Really Work?

Hey there, fellow DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors! You know that feeling when you need to make quick, precise cuts, but your old circular saw just isn’t cutting it anymore?

Well, you’re in the right place. DEWALT has been dominating the power tool game for decades, and their cordless circular saws in 2025 are absolutely crushing it.

Whether you’re building a deck, framing a house, or tackling weekend projects around the home, picking the right circular saw can make all the difference between a smooth job and a frustrating mess.

Key Takeaways:

• Motor Technology: DEWALT’s brushless motors deliver superior performance compared to older brushed models. These motors provide more power, longer runtime, and extended tool life with less maintenance required.
• Battery Compatibility: The 20V MAX platform works across hundreds of DEWALT tools, while FLEXVOLT batteries offer extra power by automatically switching between 20V and 60V depending on the tool.
• Blade Size Matters: 6.5-inch blades are perfect for portability and lighter work, while 7.25-inch blades provide deeper cuts and handle tougher materials like thick lumber and plywood with ease.
• Cutting Capacity: Most DEWALT cordless circular saws offer cutting depths between 2 to 2.5 inches at 90 degrees, with bevel capabilities ranging from 45 to 57 degrees for angled cuts.
• Price vs Performance: Entry-level models like the DCS391B start around $129, while premium brushless models with advanced features can reach $300 or more, offering significantly better performance and battery efficiency.

DEWALT DCS391B: The Budget-Friendly Champion

The DCS391B stands as one of the most popular cordless circular saws in DEWALT’s lineup, and for good reason. This 6.5-inch sidewinder circular saw delivers solid performance without breaking the bank.

The tool features a powerful 5,150 RPM motor that cuts through 2x4s and plywood like butter. What makes this saw special is its lightweight design at just 7 pounds, making it easy to handle for extended periods without fatigue.

The DCS391B comes with a 0-50 degree bevel capacity, giving you plenty of flexibility for angled cuts. The 2-1/8 inch cutting depth at 90 degrees handles most common cutting tasks with ease.

Users love the integrated dust blower that keeps your cut line visible, and the carbide-tipped blade included with the saw provides clean, accurate cuts right out of the box. This model earns its Amazon’s Choice badge with over 11,000 positive reviews and a stellar 4.6-star rating.

DEWALT DCS565P1: The Brushless Powerhouse

Step up to the DCS565P1, and you’re entering brushless motor territory. This 6.5-inch cordless circular saw represents a significant upgrade over brushed motor models.

The brushless motor technology delivers up to 57% more runtime compared to brushed motors, meaning you can complete more cuts on a single battery charge. This kit comes complete with a 5Ah battery and charger, so you’re ready to work right away.

The saw operates at 4,950 RPM and provides a maximum cutting depth of 2-1/8 inches at 90 degrees. The lightweight design combined with excellent balance makes this tool comfortable for all-day use.

Users appreciate the bright LED light that illuminates dark workspaces, and the tool-free bevel adjustment lets you change angles quickly between cuts. With 413 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this model proves that brushless technology makes a real difference.

DEWALT DCS590: The Professional’s Choice

The DCS590 represents the pinnacle of DEWALT’s 20V MAX circular saw lineup. This 7.25-inch brushless circular saw delivers professional-grade performance that rivals corded models.

The powerful brushless motor spins the blade at 5,500 RPM, providing smooth, fast cuts through even the toughest materials. The cutting capacity impresses with 2-9/16 inches at 90 degrees and 2 inches at 45 degrees.

What sets the DCS590 apart is its exceptional battery efficiency. DEWALT claims you can make up to 368 cuts per charge with a 6Ah battery. The saw features electronic brake technology that stops the blade quickly after you release the trigger, improving safety on the jobsite.

The 57-degree bevel capacity with positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees makes compound cuts simple and accurate. Professional contractors praise this saw for its power, precision, and reliability.

Top 3 Alternatives for DEWALT Cordless Circular Saw

Understanding Brushless vs Brushed Motors

The motor type in your circular saw dramatically affects performance, runtime, and longevity. Brushed motors use carbon brushes that physically contact the motor’s armature to transfer electricity.

These brushes wear down over time and create friction, generating heat and reducing efficiency. While brushed motor saws cost less upfront, they require more maintenance and deliver shorter battery life.

Brushless motors eliminate physical contact by using electronic controllers to direct power to the motor. This design reduces friction, heat, and wear, resulting in longer tool life and better battery efficiency.

Brushless saws provide more power from the same battery, run cooler, and require virtually no maintenance. The upfront cost is higher, but the long-term benefits make brushless technology worth the investment for serious users.

Battery Systems: 20V MAX vs FLEXVOLT Technology

DEWALT offers two main battery platforms that power their cordless circular saws. The 20V MAX system works across hundreds of DEWALT tools, from drills to impact drivers to circular saws.

These batteries come in various capacities, typically ranging from 2Ah to 8Ah. Higher amp-hour ratings provide longer runtime but add more weight to the tool.

FLEXVOLT batteries represent DEWALT’s innovative solution for powering heavy-duty tools. These intelligent batteries automatically switch voltage based on the tool they’re powering. When used with 20V MAX tools, they operate at 20 volts with extended capacity.

When inserted into 60V MAX tools, they combine cells to deliver 60 volts of raw power. The FLEXVOLT Advantage feature allows certain 20V MAX tools to tap into extra power when paired with FLEXVOLT batteries, delivering up to 77% more power for demanding applications.

Blade Size: 6.5-Inch vs 7.25-Inch Comparison

Choosing between blade sizes depends on your typical projects and priorities. 6.5-inch circular saws excel at portability and maneuverability. These compact tools weigh less, fit into tighter spaces, and cause less user fatigue during extended use.

The smaller blade diameter limits cutting depth to around 2-1/8 inches, which handles most framing lumber and sheet goods perfectly. Home DIYers and finish carpenters often prefer this size for its balance of power and convenience.

7.25-inch circular saws provide deeper cutting capacity at around 2-9/16 inches, allowing you to cut through thicker materials in a single pass. The larger blade diameter also means more teeth contact the material simultaneously, resulting in smoother, faster cuts.

Professional framers and contractors typically choose this size for its versatility and power. The trade-off is additional weight and slightly reduced battery life compared to smaller models.

Key Features That Matter Most

Several features separate good circular saws from great ones. Electronic brake systems stop the blade within seconds after releasing the trigger, improving safety and letting you move on to the next cut faster.

LED work lights illuminate your cut line in dim conditions, ensuring accuracy even in poorly lit areas. Tool-free bevel adjustments save time when switching between straight and angled cuts.

Rafter hooks let you hang the saw conveniently on framing lumber between cuts, keeping it off the ground and within easy reach. Magnesium shoe plates resist dents and provide a smooth, durable cutting surface that glides along materials.

Depth adjustment levers should lock securely and adjust smoothly, allowing precise control over cutting depth. Dust blowers or extraction ports help maintain visibility of your cut line, improving accuracy and reducing cleanup time.

Cutting Capacity and Performance

Cutting capacity determines what materials your saw can handle. Most DEWALT cordless circular saws cut 2×4 lumber easily at both 90 and 45-degree angles. When working with 4×4 posts, you’ll need a saw with maximum cutting depth, typically found in 7.25-inch models.

Sheet goods like plywood require smooth, controlled cuts without binding, which DEWALT’s high-speed motors deliver consistently.

Battery runtime varies based on motor efficiency, battery capacity, and material hardness. Brushless models provide significantly more cuts per charge compared to brushed motors. A quality 5Ah battery in a brushless saw typically delivers 200-300 cuts through 2×4 lumber.

FLEXVOLT batteries extend this even further, sometimes exceeding 400 cuts in optimal conditions. Understanding your typical workload helps determine the battery capacity you need.

Safety Features and User Comfort

Modern DEWALT circular saws incorporate multiple safety features. Electric brakes stop blade rotation quickly, reducing injury risk if you lose control.

Lower blade guards spring back automatically to cover the blade after each cut. The guards should move smoothly without binding, as any hesitation can affect cut quality and safety.

Ergonomic handle design reduces hand fatigue during extended use. DEWALT’s rubber overmold grips provide comfortable, secure handling even in wet conditions.

Well-balanced weight distribution prevents the saw from feeling front-heavy or tippy, giving you better control throughout the cut. Trigger locks prevent accidental starts when carrying the tool, while large trigger switches accommodate gloved hands comfortably.

Maintenance and Longevity Tips

Proper maintenance extends your saw’s lifespan significantly. Clean sawdust regularly from motor vents to prevent overheating and maintain peak performance.

Check blade sharpness frequently, as dull blades force the motor to work harder, draining batteries faster and potentially damaging the tool. Inspect the lower blade guard periodically to ensure it moves freely without catching or binding.

Battery care directly impacts tool performance. Avoid complete discharge whenever possible, as lithium-ion batteries perform best when kept between 20-80% charge. Store batteries in cool, dry locations away from extreme temperatures.

Use only genuine DEWALT batteries to ensure compatibility and safety. Following these simple practices keeps your circular saw running smoothly for years.

Best Uses and Applications

DEWALT cordless circular saws handle diverse cutting tasks. Framing work benefits from the portability and power of 7.25-inch models, allowing quick cuts through multiple 2x4s and 2x6s.

Deck building requires numerous crosscuts and miter cuts, tasks where cordless convenience shines brightest. Roofing projects become easier with lightweight cordless saws that eliminate extension cord hassles on elevated work surfaces.

Finish carpentry often calls for smaller 6.5-inch models that offer better control for precise cuts. Sheet goods fabrication works well with cordless saws when making rough cuts on-site before fine trimming.

Demolition work values the quick setup and teardown of cordless tools. Understanding your primary applications helps identify which DEWALT model fits your needs best.

Value for Money Analysis

DEWALT’s pricing strategy offers options for every budget. Entry-level brushed models around $130 provide solid performance for occasional users and budget-conscious buyers. These tools handle home improvement projects reliably without premium features.

Mid-range brushless saws priced at $200-250 deliver professional-grade performance with better efficiency and durability, making them ideal for serious DIYers and professionals.

Premium models exceeding $300 include advanced features like Power Detect technology, FLEXVOLT Advantage, or complete kits with multiple batteries and chargers.

These represent the best value for contractors using the saw daily, as the improved efficiency and extended runtime quickly offset the higher initial cost. Consider your usage frequency when determining which price point offers the best value.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size battery should I use with my DEWALT circular saw?

The ideal battery size balances runtime and weight. For 6.5-inch saws, a 4Ah or 5Ah battery provides excellent runtime without excessive weight. 7.25-inch saws benefit from 6Ah or 8Ah batteries for extended cutting sessions. FLEXVOLT batteries offer maximum runtime but add significant weight.

Can I use DEWALT 18V batteries with 20V MAX tools?

No, the 18V and 20V MAX systems use different battery designs and are not interchangeable. However, DEWALT offers adapter systems that allow some compatibility between platforms. Always check compatibility before purchasing batteries or tools.

How do I know when to replace my circular saw blade?

Replace blades when you notice excessive burning on cut edges, slower cutting speed, rough cut surfaces, or visible tooth damage. Sharp blades cut effortlessly, while dull blades require excessive pressure and produce poor results.

What’s the difference between sidewinder and worm drive saws?

Sidewinder saws position the motor alongside the blade, creating a compact, lightweight design. Worm drive saws place the motor behind the blade, offering more torque and better visibility of the cut line. DEWALT offers both styles to suit different preferences.

Are DEWALT cordless saws powerful enough for professional use?

Absolutely! Modern DEWALT brushless cordless saws deliver power comparable to corded models. Professional contractors use them daily for framing, roofing, and general construction. The convenience and performance make them indispensable on jobsites.

How long do DEWALT circular saw batteries last?

Battery lifespan depends on usage patterns and care. With proper maintenance, DEWALT lithium-ion batteries typically last 3-5 years or around 1,000 charge cycles. Avoid extreme temperatures and complete discharges to maximize battery life.

Can I cut metal with a DEWALT circular saw?

While possible with metal-cutting blades, circular saws are primarily designed for wood. For frequent metal cutting, consider dedicated metal-cutting saws or abrasive cutoff saws that handle metal more effectively and safely.