Last Updated on February 26, 2026 by Sharaj
Handheld circular saws are a great choice if you need a compact and practical tool for straight cuts in wood, sheet materials, or light construction jobs. They’re lighter and easier to control than full-size saws, and their smaller size makes them especially useful for working in tight spaces or on quick DIY tasks around the home or workshop. Some models are cordless for better portability, while corded versions usually provide steady power for longer cuts.
In this review, we’ve looked at a range of models and selected the best handheld circular saws available in the UK, based on cutting performance, ease of use, build quality, and overall value.
Top Picks
Makita DHS680Z 165mm Brushless Circular
A high‑torque brushless platform that delivers fast, clean cuts with excellent battery efficiency and low vibration. We find it ideal when you need a compact cordless saw that doesn’t compromise on cutting depth or control.
The Makita DHS680Z Brushless Circular Saw is our top pick cordless option because it pairs a brushless motor with a compact, well-balanced body. It’s the best choice for tradespeople and serious DIYers who want a fast, efficient 18V saw that still delivers respectable cutting depths. 🔧
We like how the electronic current limiter helps protect against overload, while the built-in blower clears the kerf so you can follow your line more accurately. The twin LED job light is a small but practical touch that makes a real difference when working in low-light conditions on site.
Key features and user benefits
In practice, this saw feels quick and easy to handle; many users say it “cuts like butter” through standard framing timber and sheet materials. As a cordless tool it’s highly portable, and we’d recommend pairing it with a higher-capacity LXT battery for longer working sessions.
Limitations and practical tips
This is supplied as a bare tool, so you’ll need to budget for batteries and a charger if you don’t already own them. While cutting depth and performance are impressive for its class, it won’t match a heavy-duty 240V corded saw for continuous rip cuts in thick timber. For most on-site cuts, fitting work, and general jobbing tasks, it delivers a premium cordless experience without feeling bulky or overbuilt.
Bosch GKS 190 Professional Circular Saw
A top performer in the corded professional class, delivering strong motor power and the deepest cutting capacity in its segment. We recommend it for demanding carpentry and construction work where speed and flexibility matter.
The Bosch GKS 190 Professional Handheld Circular Saw stands out for its strong cutting capacity and durable build — making it an excellent choice for builders, carpenters, and serious DIYers who need a powerful handheld circular saw for regular site or workshop use.
Its 1,400W motor delivers fast cutting through both softwood and hardwood, while the class-leading 70mm cutting depth and over-50° bevel capacity make demanding jobs easier to tackle. Despite its power, the handheld design remains manageable and well balanced, allowing good control when making longer cuts or working in tighter spaces.
Key features and benefits
In use this saw makes light work of long fence panels, door trimming and bespoke joinery. The sawdust extraction options and optional bag help keep the workspace tidy on‑site. Many users find it transforms the speed of fence‑boarding and decking work.
Limitations and practical tips
The tool is heavier than consumer models, so plan your workflow to limit long unsupported freehand runs. The blade guard can sit close on thick material — prop it gently until the blade bites, then continue the cut; it’s a minor practical workaround rather than a design fault.
DEWALT DCS571N-XJ 18V XR Compact Circular
A compact, brushless 18V saw designed for portability without sacrificing cutting quality. We like it for quick site tasks and finish work where mobility and control matter most.
Standout benefit and best choice for
The DEWALT DCS571N-XJ 18V XR Compact Mini Saw earns its place as one of the best handheld circular saws thanks to its compact size, excellent control, and genuine jobsite capability. It’s easy to handle with one or two hands, making it ideal when you need a lightweight handheld saw for quick cuts without dragging out a full-size circular saw. 🔧
This model suits tradespeople, installers, and practical DIYers who regularly work with sheet materials, flooring, battens, or door trimming. It’s especially useful for on-site adjustments and overhead or awkward-position cuts where a larger saw would feel cumbersome. The soft start and controlled stall behaviour also make it reassuring to use, while pairing it with a 5Ah or larger battery provides enough runtime for a full day of intermittent cutting.
Key features and benefits
In our testing the saw felt solid and accurate with the supplied blade; it’s especially good for trimming doors, chopping up pallets, and quick on‑site cuts. The blade guard and visible cut notch make alignment intuitive.
Limitations and practical tips
For heavy rip work or prolonged cutting sessions, keep spare high‑capacity batteries on the truck — smaller 2Ah packs will run out quickly. As a bare unit it’s a better buy for users already invested in the DEWALT 18V battery ecosystem.
Makita HS7601J/2 190mm Mains Circular Saw
A well‑built 190mm corded saw that feels balanced and powerful for demanding home and workshop tasks. We value its build quality, accurate shoe and dependable power delivery for consistent cuts.
Standout benefit and best choice for
This Makita shines as a reliable corded workhorse with excellent build quality — best choice for users who want a compact but powerful saw for regular workshop use and heavier domestic projects.
We found the saw effortless when cutting up doors, panels and mid‑sized timbers; the power delivery is smooth and the stock blade performs well. The Makpac case is a practical addition for storage and transport.
Key features and benefits
Owners report excellent cutting performance on melamine, doors and solid wood. Small tweaks — like making a simple guide jig for extra‑wide panels — turn it into a very capable shop saw. Changing blades is straightforward and the included key is usually stored on the tool.
Limitations and practical tips
The included fence could feel light if you push the saw for very repetitive precision work; consider a purpose‑built guide or rail for longer runs. A sharp blade suited to your material improves finish and reduces burning or tear‑out.
RYOBI R18CS7‑0 ONE+ 185mm Brushless Saw
A compelling pick for anyone already in the ONE+ battery family, offering a strong mix of run time, cutting depth and value. We find it especially appealing to DIYers looking for a capable cordless saw without a premium price tag.
Standout benefit and best choice for
This Ryobi brings a large depth of cut and modern brushless efficiency into the ONE+ system — best choice for existing Ryobi owners and cost‑conscious DIYers who want maximum capability from an 18V platform.
The included 185mm blade and E‑control management make it versatile for sheet work and construction timber; when paired with a 6Ah pack it has excellent stamina for longer DIY sessions.
Key features and benefits
In real use the saw cuts doors, sheet material and battens with confidence. It’s heavier than compact 115mm machines, but that weight helps steady the tool for precise cuts. Plenty of users praise it as “brilliant” for general DIY and door trimming.
Limitations and practical tips
Inspect packaging on delivery and confirm the blade is present; a few buyers reported missing items and had to contact sellers. For long rip work we’d recommend a higher Ah battery to get the best from the brushless motor.
Evolution R185CCSX 185mm Track Circular Saw
A genuinely versatile, economical solution for people who want to cut wood, metal and plastics without changing saws. We appreciate the included 1,020mm track and multi‑material blade that make accurate straight cuts easy for the price.
Standout benefit and best choice for
This saw’s standout advantage is multi‑material capability at a modest cost — it’s best choice for DIYers and small workshops that need one tool to tackle wood, aluminium and thin steel without frequent blade changes.
The package includes a 3‑piece 1,020mm track and a tungsten carbide tipped blade that will handle embedded nails and a variety of sheet materials. That track + blade combo transforms the saw into an accurate, guided cutter for cabinetry and joinery tasks.
Key features and benefits
We’ve found it performs above expectations for the price bracket: the tool feels solidly built and the included accessories are useful out of the box. For one‑off renovations or for a hobbyist wanting track‑guided accuracy, it’s a very pragmatic choice.
Limitations and practical tips
The saw is heavier than compact cordless options, so it’s better suited to bench or controlled site use rather than long unsupported handheld runs. A few users mention the track fitting can be fiddly; take a few practice cuts to get the hang of alignment before you commit to expensive material.
Bosch PKS 55 1200W Compact Circular Saw
A dependable, well priced corded saw that gives clean cuts and straightforward controls. We find it excellent for DIYers who need a no‑fuss tool for routine tasks around the home.
Standout benefit and best choice for
This model’s simplicity and consistent performance make it the go‑to pick for general household and DIY work. Best choice for homeowners and amateur joiners who want accuracy without a high purchase price.
The Cut Control helps you follow pencil lines more easily and the lock‑on switch gives comfortable continuous operation during long runs. Ergonomic adjustments make bevel and depth changes straightforward and repeatable.
Key features and benefits
In practical use it cuts cleanly through laminates, worktops and soft timbers; many users comment that the first cut feels significantly smoother than older budget saws. It’s not the lightest tool, but the robustness is reassuring for everyday use.
Limitations and practical tips
If you plan long, repetitive rip cuts or professional onsite use you may prefer a track‑capable or more powerful saw. For homeowners, though, a fresh sharp blade and a couple of guided cuts will yield very satisfying results.
Final Thoughts
Our top cordless pick is the Makita DHS680Z 165mm Brushless Circular. It delivers the best blend of POWER, battery efficiency and low vibration in a compact package. If you need portability without losing cutting depth or control — for on-site framing, decking and quicker rip cuts — this is the one we’d buy. The brushless motor and tidy balance make longer jobs less fatiguing and give consistently accurate cuts.
For a corded workhorse we’d choose the Bosch GKS 190 Professional. Its motor and deep cutting capacity make it ideal for demanding carpentry and construction work where speed and flexibility matter. Use it for ripping sheet material, heavy-duty site work and any task where you want relentless power and the deepest cut in class.
If you want alternatives: pick the DEWALT DCS571N-XJ for a compact, ergonomic 18V option for finish work and tight spaces; choose the Evolution R185CCSX if you need a budget-friendly, multi-material cutter with a track included; the RYOBI ONE+ is best value for DIYers already invested in that battery system. The Makita HS7601J/2 and Bosch PKS 55 are dependable corded choices for workshop and home use where consistency and economy matter.
FAQs
Corded saws give constant, predictable power and are the better choice when you need deep, sustained cuts and don’t want to worry about swapping batteries. Cordless wins for speed between tasks, mobility and working where power isn’t convenient. For us, cordless Makita DHS680Z is the fastest way to cover many small to medium cuts without fuss; Bosch GKS 190 is quicker when the job needs uninterrupted power.
Blade size dictates maximum cutting depth. A 165mm blade like the Makita’s is great for joists, decking and general site work while keeping the saw compact. If you often need deeper rips through thick timber or sheet material, a 190mm saw (or the Bosch GKS 190) is a better pick.
Yes. If you’re already invested in the ONE+ platform, the RYOBI R18CS7-0 gives excellent value and integration. You get solid run time, decent cutting depth and useful features without breaking the bank. It’s our pick for DIYers who want capability without a new battery ecosystem.
A track delivers straighter, repeatable cuts with less fuss — especially for sheet goods and accurate rip cuts. The Evolution R185CCSX’s included 1,020mm track is a real time-saver for accurate crosscuts and long straight cuts, and it’s particularly handy when you don’t want to set up a workbench or clamped guide.
Keep the blade clean and sharp, check and tighten guards and baseplate screws, and clear dust from vents. For corded saws, inspect the cable; for cordless, keep batteries cool and charged to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A sharp blade and clean shoe are the biggest factors in getting precise, safe cuts.
Yes — brushless motors give better efficiency, longer run time and less maintenance. They often run cooler and deliver smoother power to the blade, which means cleaner cuts and longer battery life. For professionals and regular users we think the marginal premium is usually justified.
