Corded vs cordless circular saw

Power and blade size

Corded saws for home use usually draw 1,200 to 2,000 W and spin 190 mm to 235 mm blades. Cordless saws mostly use 165 mm, 184 mm or 190 mm blades, with a few larger twin battery or 36 V models. Bigger blades mean deeper cuts. For a full sized cordless option see our cordless circular saw guide.

In everyday cutting of 18 mm sheet and 25 mm decking, a brushless 18 V saw feels similar to a corded one. The gap shows on long rips in hardwood, wet timber and the deepest cuts.

Runtime on real jobs

Runtime depends on the cut length, timber thickness and blade sharpness. A sharp thin kerf blade can roughly double the cuts per charge compared with a dull or thick blade. For a deck, carry two 5 Ah packs and a charger. For a whole day of ripping sheet goods, a corded saw or a plunge saw on a rail is less hassle.

Battery capacity is explained in volts and amp hours, and the battery energy calculator lets you compare packs.

Accuracy and features

Accuracy depends more on the base plate, the depth and bevel locks and the blade than on the power source. Many cordless saws now include an electric brake, LED light and guide rail compatibility, which used to be pro features on corded saws. Check whether the saw works on a rail if you plan to cut sheet goods; see circular saw vs track saw.

See plunge and track saws →

Safety and convenience

A cable can be cut by the saw and is a trip hazard on decking and scaffold. Cordless removes that risk and lets you cut on the roof or in the garden. On UK construction sites, mains tools are normally 110 V via a transformer, which cordless avoids.

Corded saws do not run flat in the middle of a cut and suit fixed benches. Whatever you choose, use a sharp blade, support the work and keep both hands on the saw.

Weight is worth checking too. A cordless saw with a 5 Ah pack can weigh about the same as a small corded saw, but it balances differently because the pack sits on top or at the back. Overhead and awkward cuts are easier with the lighter tool, so hold both if you can before you buy.

Note:Circular saws can kick back. Support offcuts so the kerf does not close, set depth so the blade clears the board by a few millimetres and never hold work in your hand. See our kickback article for more.

Which to buy

Choose cordless if you own 18 V batteries, cut on site or in the garden, or want one saw for most jobs. Choose corded if you are starting without batteries, need the depth of a 210 mm or 235 mm blade for sleepers and joists, or cut all day at a bench. What size circular saw do you need helps with blade size.

Read how to avoid circular saw kickback before your first project.

Frequently asked questions

Are cordless circular saws powerful enough? Brushless 18 V saws cut decking, studs and sheet goods well. Very long rips in hardwood are where corded saws still feel stronger.

How many cuts do I get from one battery? It varies with timber, blade and pack size. A sharp thin kerf blade and a 5 Ah pack make a big difference.

Can I use a corded circular saw on a building site? Most UK sites require 110 V tools through a transformer. A 240 V saw is for home use.

Do cordless saws accept guide rails? Many do, either the maker's own rail or third party rails with an adapter. Check the listing before you buy.