Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
CRAFTSMAN CMES500 13-Amp Corded Circular Saw
Best Budget CordedMilwaukee M18 FUEL 18V Circular Saw
Best OverallPrice
$60-$80
$499-$630
Summary
The best bang-for-buck corded saw for DIYers who want reliable cutting power without the battery ecosystem cost. Lightweight at 8 lbs with an ergonomic molded handle — a Popular Mechanics-tested pick.
The go-to saw for pros and serious DIYers who want cordless convenience without sacrificing power. Exceptional cutting performance, ergonomic balance, and up to 700 cuts per charge with the 12Ah battery.
Pros
- Excellent price for a full-featured 7-1/4" corded saw
- Lightweight 8 lb design reduces fatigue
- Ergonomic molded handle for comfort and control
- 13-amp motor provides robust cutting power
- No battery ecosystem required — plug and cut
- Exceptional cutting performance with 2-5/8" cut capacity
- Well-balanced ergonomic design despite 11.1 lb weight
- Electric brake stops blade immediately after trigger release
- Up to 700 cuts per charge with 12.0Ah battery (sold separately)
- Integrated LED light for visibility in low-light conditions
Cons
- Cord can be a nuisance on large projects
- Shoe and blade not perfectly parallel, requiring extra care for accuracy
- Limited cutting depth vs. premium models
- Most expensive option on this list at $499-$630
- Heavier than most at 11.1 lbs
- High-capacity battery sold separately adds to total cost
Our take
If you're not ready to invest in a cordless ecosystem and just need a dependable saw for occasional projects, the Craftsman corded is the honest choice — it cuts well, costs little, and Lowe's carries it everywhere.
If you can stretch the budget, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL is the circular saw you'll never need to replace — it's what contractors actually use on job sites, and it shows in every cut.
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