I just finished building a shed in my backyard, which gave me a perfect reason to compare five cordless circular saws. Each one cut the same materials over the project: framing lumber, plywood sheets, and 2x10 ridge boards. I tracked cuts per charge, blade speed under load, and how each saw felt for hours on end.
| Saw | Blade | Battery Voltage | Cuts per Charge (2x4) | Est. Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCS577 FlexVolt | 7-1/4 in | 60V | 280 | $$$$ |
| Milwaukee 2732 M18 Fuel | 7-1/4 in | 18V | 230 | $$$$ |
| Makita XSH06 LXT | 7-1/4 in | 36V (2x18V) | 250 | ~$150-400 |
| Bosch GKS18V-25CN | 7-1/4 in | 18V | 200 | ~$150-400 |
| Ryobi P508 One+ HP | 7-1/4 in | 18V | 160 | ~$60-150 |
DeWalt DCS577 FlexVolt
The DeWalt is the saw I used most on the shed because the 60V FlexVolt platform gave me corded-like power. It pushed through 2x10s without bogging, and a single 9Ah battery cut nearly 300 framing studs. The rafter hook is a small detail I now expect on every job-site saw. Weight is the trade; at over 10 pounds it’s heavier than smaller-voltage options.
Milwaukee 2732 M18 Fuel
The Milwaukee is built on the more common 18V M18 platform, which is the deciding factor if you already own M18 tools. The brushless motor matches DeWalt’s power closely under most loads. Blade speed stayed strong even on the long rip cuts I did with a thin-kerf 24-tooth blade. The Quik-Lok depth adjustment was the fastest of any saw I tested.
Makita XSH06 LXT
The Makita runs on two 18V batteries in series, which is their X2 platform. The dual battery delivers strong power without the weight of a true 60V battery. Cutting through 2x6s was effortless, and I made 250 framing cuts on a charge. The downside is needing two matched batteries; if one runs low, you can’t keep working until both charge.
Bosch GKS18V-25CN
The Bosch is the saw with the cleanest sight line for cut accuracy. The blade guard pulls back smoothly and the foot has a clear cut indicator that lines up exactly with the blade kerf. Power is slightly behind the Milwaukee and DeWalt, but for most framing and trim work it’s plenty. The CoreXP battery integration was solid throughout my testing.
Ryobi P508 One+ HP
The Ryobi is the budget pick and a real bargain for DIY users. Power is below the premium saws, but for 2x4 framing and plywood it does fine. I made 160 framing cuts on a 6Ah HP battery, which is enough for an afternoon of work. The Ryobi One+ platform shares batteries with their massive lineup, which is the real selling point.
How to Choose
Pick by your existing battery platform first. If you’re already invested in M18, the Milwaukee makes sense; if you have FlexVolt, DeWalt has the most power; if Ryobi One+ batteries are in your garage, the P508 saves you a kit purchase. Next, decide between 7-1/4 inch and 6-1/2 inch blades. For framing, get 7-1/4. For finish carpentry and lighter use, smaller blades save weight and battery. Brushless motors are worth the upgrade unless you only cut a few times a year. Finally, look at the rafter hook, the bevel detent stops, and the blade-change wrench storage; small features that matter on long days.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a brushless saw?+
For occasional weekend work, brushed saws still cut fine and cost less. For heavy use, brushless motors run longer per battery, generate less heat, and last years longer. All four of my premium picks are brushless.
Are 7-1/4 inch or 6-1/2 inch blades better?+
7-1/4 inch matches corded saws and can cut a 2x at 45 degrees in one pass. 6-1/2 inch saws are lighter and run longer per charge but can't always finish bevel cuts on framing lumber. For framing, go 7-1/4.
Can I use any 7-1/4 inch blade?+
Yes, but match the arbor size to your saw and consider tooth count. 24-tooth blades rip fast and rough; 40-tooth blades cut cleaner for finish work. Thin-kerf blades save battery on cordless saws.