A common question I hear is whether you can get a truly capable cordless circular saw without breaking the bank. The answer is a resounding yes, but navigating the sea of budget-friendly options can be tricky. You don’t need a pro-grade tool for weekend projects, but you certainly don’t want a saw that will bog down in the middle of a simple cut.
That’s why I decided to dive deep into the sub-$150 category. I put three of the most popular DIY-focused brands—Ryobi, Craftsman, and Kobalt—through a typical workshop gauntlet to find out which one offers the most bang for your buck. Let’s find the perfect saw for your needs.
| Model | Best For | Standout Feature | Key Weakness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V | Overall Value & Performance | Powerful brushless motor that punches above its weight. | The included dust port adapter can be clumsy. |
| Craftsman V20 | Brand Loyalists & Basic Cuts | Comfortable ergonomics and a solid, familiar feel. | The included stock blade is poor and needs an immediate upgrade. |
| Kobalt 24V Max | Surprising Power & Features | The 24V platform delivers impressive torque and includes an electric brake. | Smaller battery ecosystem compared to Ryobi and Craftsman. |
The Showdown: How They Performed
Over the past month, I used these three saws for a range of typical DIY tasks: breaking down a 4×8 sheet of plywood for a shelving project, making crosscuts on 2x4s for a workbench frame, and even some 45-degree cuts for trim work. Here’s how each one stacked up.
1. Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless 6-1/2″
- ONE+ HP Technology delivers up to 260 linear feet of cutting per charge when paired with a 4.0 Ah HIGH PERFORMANCE battery. Combine (2) 27.5 in. included tracks for up to 55 in. of controlled, accurate cutting
- Add additional tracks for extended continuous cutting. Up to 1-15/16 in. depth of cut at 90° (with track)
- -1° to 48° bevel capacity. Up to 4,300 RPM for controlled, accurate cuts
- Adjustable depth control switch and depth scale for precise score and plunge cuts. Track adjust and anti-tip adjustments ensure smooth and accurate cuts
- Includes: PTS01 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 6-1/2 in. Track Saw, 40T carbide-tipped blade, (2) 27.5 in. tracks, riving knife, track clamp, blade wrench, track wrench, (1) PBP004 18V 4.0 Ah HIGH PERFORMANCE Battery, PCG002 Charger, and operator’s manual
Ryobi has become a DIY powerhouse, and this saw is a perfect example of why. The “HP” brushless motor is the star of the show. My “wow” moment came while cutting through a slightly damp piece of ¾-inch plywood; the saw barely bogged down, maintaining speed and confidence. It felt like it was punching well above its price class.
The ergonomics are solid, and its compatibility with the massive Ryobi ONE+ battery platform is a huge plus for anyone already invested in their system.
- Who Is It For? The DIYer who wants the best overall performance and value under $150, especially if you already own Ryobi ONE+ batteries.
2. Craftsman V20 6-1/2″
- Part of the V20 cordless system
- Cordless Circa saw accepts 61/2 in. Blades for cross cutting or ripping 2x material
- Extended runtime for heavy duty jobsite applications
- Professional grade High energy cells for improved power
The Craftsman V20 has that classic, reliable feel you’d expect from the brand. It’s comfortable to hold, the controls are intuitive, and it handles basic 2×4 crosscuts with ease. However, my most frustrating moment of this entire test came from this saw. The stock blade it ships with is simply not good. It produced significant tear-out on the plywood, forcing me to swap it for a better blade to get clean, usable cuts.
It’s a classic case of a decent tool being held back by a cheap accessory. Once you factor in the cost of a new blade (which I highly recommend), its value proposition drops slightly. For more on this, see my guide on choosing the right saw blade.
- Who Is It For? The Craftsman loyalist, or the beginner who finds a great sale and is willing to immediately invest in a better blade.
3. Kobalt 24V Max 6-1/2″
- 0-50° bevel with bevel stops allows for non-traditional cutting applications
- 6.73-lb ultra-compact design is easy to use, even in tight spaces
- Electric brake stops blade rotation when the trigger is released for added safety Built-in LED
- Compatible with all Kobalt 24-volt max batteries (battery and charger sold separately)
- 5-year limited warranty gives you peace of mind
Kobalt is often seen as an underdog, but its 24V platform consistently delivers impressive power, and this saw is no exception. The extra voltage gives it a noticeable amount of torque, making it feel confident and capable. A key feature often missing at this price point is an electric brake, which stops the blade quickly after you release the trigger—a great safety feature that the Kobalt includes.
The primary drawback is its smaller battery ecosystem compared to the sprawling platforms of Ryobi and Craftsman. But if you’re starting fresh, it’s a very compelling option.
- Who Is It For? The DIYer who isn’t tied to a battery system and wants the most power and safety features for their money.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a 6 1/2 inch circular saw big enough for DIY?
Yes, absolutely. A 6-1/2″ blade provides a cutting depth of over 2 inches, which is more than enough to cut through 2x dimensional lumber (which is actually 1.5 inches thick) even at a 45-degree angle. It’s the perfect size for the vast majority of home projects.
What is a good cheap circular saw?
Based on this testing, the Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless model offers the best combination of power, features, and value, making it an excellent “good cheap” circular saw. The key is to look for a brushless motor if you can find one in your budget, as it significantly improves performance and battery life.
Is Ryobi a good brand for a circular saw?
Yes, Ryobi is a very good brand for DIY and homeowner-grade circular saws. They focus on providing excellent value, and their brushless “HP” line offers performance that often competes with more expensive tools. Their massive ONE+ battery system is another huge advantage.
My Top Pick for Value
After running all three saws through their paces, my top recommendation for the best budget cordless circular saw under $150 is the Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless model.
Other models to consider:
- 5150 RPM motor delivers power and speed to make the most demanding cuts with ease
- High strength and lightweight magnesium shoe provides jobsite durability for long-term cut accuracy
- Optimized rubber over molded comfort grip delivers optimal balance and control of electric saw for wood cutting
- 0-50° bevel capacity allows for aggressive bevel cuts for a multitude of applications
- 6-1/2 inch 18-tooth carbide-tipped blade included for cutting 2 times material at 90° and 45° and more cuts per charge. Maximum cut depth @ 90°: 2-1/8 inches (2.125 in). Maximum cut depth @ 45°: 1-5/8 inches (1.625 in)
- Stens replacement parts have become a favorite among lawn and landscape professionals thanks to exceptional performance.
- 【Portable & Cordless Design – Cut Anywhere, Anytime】Say goodbye to tangled cords and limited workspaces! The XPENG 20V Cordless Circular Saw gives you complete freedom with its lightweight design and long-lasting 4000mAh battery. No more hunting for power outlets or dragging extension cords—take it to the jobsite, backyard, or rooftop and cut with confidence. Perfect for contractors, woodworkers, and DIYers who demand true portability!
- 【Unstoppable Power – Cuts Through Anything】Don’t let its size fool you—this beast delivers 5000 RPM of raw cutting power! The high-speed 5-inch blade slices through wood, plastic, tile, and even soft metals like a hot knife through butter. Whether you're making quick miter cuts, plunge cuts, or precision trims, this saw keeps its cool and never bogs down. Professional-grade performance at your fingertips!
- 【Effortless Angle Adjustments – No Tools Needed】Switch cuts on the fly with the tool-free adjustable base! Go from 90° (2-7/16" depth) to 45° (1-13/16" depth) in seconds—no wrenches, no headaches. This game-changing flexibility makes it ideal for framing, flooring, crown molding, and more. Why waste time with clunky tools when precision can be this easy?
- 【Brushless Motor – Built to Last & Outperform】Upgrade to brushless technology—more power, less maintenance, and no burnt-out motors! The advanced brushless motor delivers consistent 5000 RPM speed even under heavy load, ensuring smooth cuts every time. Unlike brushed motors, it runs cooler, lasts longer, and saves you money over time. A smarter choice for serious craftsmen.
- 【Precision-Guided Cutting – Straight Lines Every Time】No more wobbly cuts! The included parallel guide locks securely to your workpiece, giving you laser-straight results without lasers. Perfect for rip cuts, trimming shelves, or flooring projects where accuracy is non-negotiable. Why eyeball it when you can nail it every time?
- Powerful Motor Mini Circular Saw: The powerful motor provides 4500 RPM no-load speed for the Mini Circular Saw, a circular sawing machine designed for sawing wood, tile, plastics, PVC, soft metals, and more. 20V cordless mini circular saw is lightweight (4.36lbs), reduces stress on hand during operation, and is designed to serve for DIY, workshop, outdoors, and home use
- Adjustable Cutting Depth and Angle: WORKPRO cordless circular saws with freely adjustable cutting angles from 0° to 45°. Maximum depth of cut is up to 1-11/16" at 90° and 1-1/8" at 45°. Great for beveling, framing, and edge cutting. Angle and depth adjustments help you with a variety of woodworking cutting projects. Laser and parallel guides ensure precise cuts and improve the quality of finished projects
- Ergonomic & Safety Design: The ergonomic rubberized handle makes one-handed operation easy, and can effectively reduce hand fatigue. The switch locking mechanism prevents the machine from being turned on accidentally, ensuring safer cutting work. The included dust hose can be connected to a vacuum cleaner via the vacuum adapter to provide a clean working environment
- 4.0Ah Battery & Fast Charger: This kit comes with a 20-Volt 4000mAh large-capacity Li-ion battery, so you never need to worry about running out of power in the middle of a project. 2.4A fast charger can charge one battery in as little as 2 hours. The release button on the battery provides safety for use
- What You Get: 1 × 20V cordless mini circular saw, 1 × 4.0Ah battery pack, 1 × fast charger, 1 × 24T alloy blade designed for wood, 1 × 60T blade designed for wood and plastic, 1 × diamond blade designed for tiles, 1 × hex key, 1 × parallel guide , 1 × dust extraction tube, 1 × storage bag, 1 × user instruction
- Powerful Circular Saw：20V cordless circular saw gives freedom of movement. 4500/min no-load speed for efficient cutting in various tasks at worksite or DIY.
- Durable Quality Build：Made of quality materials. Withstands job site use. Keeps cutting accuracy. Long-lasting.
- Ergonomic Handle for Comfort：Ergonomic handle. Comfortable grip. Reduces hand fatigue. Helps control for precise cuts.
- Adjustable Bevel with Laser Aid：0 - 45 degrees adjustable bevel. Laser projects line for better visibility. Useful for different cuts.
- 6.5-Inch High-Performance Blade：165mm carbide-tipped blade. Cuts various materials well. Leaves clean edges. Good for hardwood and softwood.
While the Kobalt offers impressive power and the Craftsman has a comfortable feel, the Ryobi delivers a nearly perfect balance of performance, value, and battery system compatibility. Its brushless motor performs like a more expensive tool, making it the smartest investment for any DIYer looking to get the most capability for their money. It’s a tool that won’t just get the job done—it will make you feel confident while doing it.
