Are corded circular saws better than cordless?

When it comes to circular saws, one of the biggest decisions is whether to get a corded or cordless model. Cordless saws provide the freedom to work anywhere without being tethered to an outlet. However, corded saws generally offer more power and don’t require battery charging. So which is better for your needs?

Corded Circular Saws

Corded circular saws are powered by electricity via an AC power cord that plugs into an outlet. This provides consistent power and eliminates the need to recharge batteries. Here are some of the key benefits of corded circular saws:

• Higher power – Corded saws can output more watts of power, typically 1500-2000 watts vs. 400-600 watts for cordless. This extra power allows them to spin the blade faster and cut through thick/dense material with less bogging down.
• No battery costs – You don’t have to purchase expensive replacement batteries over the life of the tool.
• No fade in power – Corded saws provide consistent cutting performance without weakening as a battery runs low.
• Infinite runtime – Corded models can run nonstop without needing to recharge. This allows for longer work sessions.
• Often less expensive – Corded saws don’t require built-in batteries and charging systems, so they tend to cost less than comparable cordless models.

On the downside, corded circular saws limit your range of motion since you can only work within reach of an outlet. You’ll need to use extension cords to access a larger work area. Corded tools also pose a tripping hazard and get tangled more easily. Overall though, corded saws remain a great choice for home DIYers working on projects close to home power.

Cordless Circular Saws

Cordless circular saws operate on rechargeable lithium-ion battery packs. Going cordless provides greater freedom and mobility when working. Here are some key benefits of cordless circular saws:

• Portability – Cordless models allow you to work anywhere without being limited by a cord. This makes them ideal for outdoor job sites, remote areas, etc.
• Convenience – No more dealing with tangled extension cords. Cordless operation is simpler and less hazardous.
• Flexibility – The saw can be used at any angle thanks to unlimited range of motion from no cord.
• Safety – Eliminating the cord reduces tripping hazards at a job site.

The tradeoff is that cordless saws have limitations in power and runtime compared to corded models. As the battery drains, performance will fade until needing a recharge. Cold weather also negatively impacts battery life. Additionally, replacement batteries can be expensive over the long run. For professional contractors doing heavy-duty cutting, a corded saw may be preferred.

Power Comparison

One of the biggest differences between corded and cordless circular saws is power output. This table compares the typical power of each saw type:

Saw Type	Typical Power Output
Corded	1500-2000 Watts
Cordless	400-600 Watts

As you can see, corded saws are capable of generating significantly more power, at least 2-3 times as much as a cordless saw. This enables them to spin the blade faster (up to 5,500 RPM for corded vs. 3,700 RPM for cordless). More power and higher blade speed allow corded saws to cut faster through thick wood and laminates.

Cutting Depth

Cutting depth refers to the maximum thickness of material the saw blade can penetrate. This is determined by the blade diameter and motor power. Here is a comparison of cutting depths:

Saw Type	Max Cutting Depth
Typical Corded	1-3/4″ to 2-1/4″
Typical Cordless	1-1/2″ to 1-5/8″

While there is some overlap in cutting depth capacity, corded saws generally can cut deeper than cordless models. This allows them to penetrate dense hardwoods and thicker stock with less difficulty.

Run Time

Corded circular saws can run continuously without any loss of power. Cordless saws have a limited run time per charge determined by battery capacity:

	Run Time
Corded	Unlimited
Cordless	15-60 mins per charge

Actual run time for a cordless saw depends on the battery amp hour (Ah) rating, with higher Ah batteries lasting longer. Most batteries provide 15-30 minutes of cutting per charge, with 5.0+ Ah batteries getting closer to an hour. Again, corded saws have no limitations here.

Weight Comparison

The weight of circular saws impacts how comfortable and manageable they are to use, especially for extended cutting jobs. Here is how corded and cordless models compare:

	Weight
Corded	8 – 10 lbs
Cordless (tool only)	5 – 8 lbs
Cordless (with battery)	7 – 12 lbs

Cordless saws weigh less alone, but factoring in a loaded battery pack makes the overall weight fairly comparable, or even heavier than a corded saw. Keep in mind that cordless runtime is limited by the battery, while corded saws can operate continuously.

Safety Features

Important safety features to look for in both corded and cordless circular saws include:

• Electric brake – Stops the blade quickly when power is cut off
• Soft grip handle – Provides good control and reduces vibration
• Safety guard/retractable lower guard – Covers the blade above and below the cut line
• Anti-kickback pawls – Pawls reduce potential for kickback from a pinched blade
• Lock-off button – Prevents accidental startup

Responsible operation and protective gear like eye/face protection, hearing protection, and cut-resistant leg chaps remain essential for safe use as well.

Blade Changing Process

Changing blades on circular saws is usually a tool-free operation and similar for both corded and cordless. Typical steps are:

1. Unplug saw/remove battery
2. Press and hold the blade lock to immobilize the spindle
3. Use the lever or wrench to loosen the arbor bolt
4. Remove the bolt, outer blade flange, and old blade
5. Install new blade, flange, and bolt. Ensure teeth point direction of cut.
6. Tighten arbor bolt securely
7. Release blade lock and test for smooth operation

Always consult the tool manual since arbor size, bolt direction, and lock position vary. Proper installation is critical for safe cutting. Some brands like Makita, DeWalt, and Milwaukee also offer innovative quick-change blade mechanisms to swap blades faster.

Maintenance Needs

Proper maintenance helps circular saws deliver reliable performance and long lifespan. Recommended maintenance tasks include:

• Blow dust/debris – Clear vents and housing using compressed air
• Inspect brushes – Replace worn motor brushes as needed (corded saws)
• Check for damage – Inspect guards, cords, and other components for damage or wear
• Lubricate parts – Keep critical points lubricated per tool instructions
• Check blade tightness – Ensure arbor bolt is tight before use
• Check battery contacts – Clean debris from battery terminals (cordless saws)

Cordless saws also need batteries charged before storage to avoid depletion. Both saw types should be stored in a clean, dry space. Following preventative maintenance and usage best practices will extend the usable life of a circular saw.

Price Comparison

Corded circular saws are generally less expensive than cordless models. Here are some typical price ranges:

	Price Range
Corded	$50 – $200
Cordless (tool only)	$100 – $400
Cordless (with battery & charger)	$150 – $500

Cordless saws cost more due to the built-in batteries and charging systems. However, bare tool options without battery/charger help make cordless saw ownership more affordable. Higher performance saws from premium brands like Festool and Bosch tend to sit at the top of these price ranges.

Availability of Models and Options

Both corded and cordless circular saws are widely available from major power tool manufacturers at home improvement stores, hardware stores, and online retailers. However, corded saw options tend to be more numerous and diverse, including:

• Lightweight compact saws for tight spaces
• High-power heavy duty worm drive saws
• Large 7-1/4″ blade diameter models for deeper cuts
• Specialty saws like beam saws and trim saws

While cordless saw selection has expanded dramatically, corded still wins in terms of diverse circular saw models and specialty designs for different cutting tasks.

Brand Reliability

Both corded and cordless circular saws are available from leading power tool brands known for quality and reliability. Some of the top names to look for include:

• Makita
• DeWalt
• Milwaukee
• Bosch
• Ridgid
• Skilsaw
• Rockwell
• Ryobi
• Hitachi

Each of these companies make high-performing circular saws with great durability and customer service support. Focus on factors like power, comfort, cutting depth, and features rather than brand alone when choosing between corded and cordless.

Common Uses

Both types of circular saws are designed for general purpose cutting, ripping, and crosscutting of wood and sheet goods. Typical uses include:

• Framing – Cutting studs, joists, rafters, subfloor, OSB
• Woodworking – Rip and crosscuts in plywood, hardwood, melamine
• Remodeling – Cutting trim, wall/floor sheathing, paneling
• Deck building – Cutting decking boards, railings, posts

Cordless saws excel at work away from power such as outdoor projects, while corded models have the edge in extensive cutting like framing a full house.

DIY vs. Professional Use

Both corded and cordless circular saws work well for the DIY homeowner doing occasional small-scale projects around the house and property. Cordless provides the convenience of wireless mobility while corded offers unlimited runtime.

For professional contractors, carpenters, and remodelers taking on heavy-duty daily cutting, corded circular saws tend to be the preferred choice. Their higher power and unlimited runtime make them ideal for tasks like:

• Framing large residential and commercial structures
• Building decks, fences, and other outdoor structures
• Extensive renovation and remodeling projects
• Heavy-duty construction and demolition work

That said, cordless saws continue improving in performance and runtime. Many professionals use cordless as their primary saw, paired with one or more backup batteries. They provide excellent cutting ability without cords getting in the way on busy job sites.

Winner? Corded or Cordless Circular Saw

So when considering corded vs. cordless circular saws, which comes out on top? Here are some key takeaways:

• Power – Corded saws output significantly more power for faster, easier cuts through thick or dense material.
• Portability – Cordless operation allows unlimited mobility and range of motion around a workspace.
• Runtime – Corded saws offer continuous use while cordless runtime is limited by battery life.
• Cost – Corded saws are generally less expensive since batteries add to cordless tool cost.
• Options – More specialty circular saw models and options are available in corded versions.

For most DIYers and home woodworkers, either a quality corded or cordless circular saw will handle their cutting needs. Cordless provides excellent convenience for quick home projects while corded allows all-day use for an extensive remodel.

For professional all-day use, corded saws are still the choice of most framers, carpenters, and contractors. They offer the sustained power delivery needed for heavy workloads. However, cordless technology continues to advance, closing the gap in performance compared to corded.

In summary

Corded circular saws retain an advantage in raw power and unlimited continuous operation time. But advanced brushless motors and improved batteries have made cordless saws a highly viable option for professional use, while also offering great cutting freedom and mobility.

Consider your specific needs and uses – if you only occasionally work on small projects around the house and yard, a corded or cordless saw will both get the job done. For bigger tasks like remodeling or framing new construction, corded still has the edge but cordless is catching up fast.

Many pros now opt for both corded circular saws and higher-end cordless models like Milwaukee Fuel or Makita 40V. This gives them the flexibility to use the best tool for each job. With the right choice and blades, both corded and cordless circular saws can deliver reliable, accurate, and efficient cutting capability.