I have spent more weekends than I can count framing walls, decks, and small additions on job sites, and the saw in my hand matters more than almost any other tool. A framing circular saw has to power through wet pressure-treated 2x6s at lunch and still rip clean plywood sheathing at quitting time without bogging, walking, or cooking the motor. After comparing dozens of options and watching pro framers in action, I narrowed the field down to the 10 best circular saws for framing you can buy right now.
Choosing the best circular saws for framing is not just about grabbing the highest-amp motor on the shelf. Framers weigh cut depth at 90 and 45 degrees, blade visibility, weight, dust handling, and whether the saw lives on a cord or rides on a battery platform. The framing crew I worked with last summer ran a mix of corded worm drives for rough framing and brushless cordless saws for trim and finish work, so this list covers both worlds.
This guide reflects what our team learned testing these saws on dimensional lumber, plywood, and OSB across three months of framing, decking, and small renovation jobs in 2026. I also pulled in feedback from contractors on Reddit and trade forums to back up what we saw in the shop. You will find detailed reviews, a comparison table, a buying guide, and an FAQ that answers the questions framers actually ask before spending money on a new saw.
Top 3 Picks for Best Circular Saws for Framing 2026
Best Circular Saws for Framing in 2026: Quick Overview
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Makita 5007MGA Magnesium Circular Saw
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SKILSAW SPT77W-01 Worm Drive
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DEWALT DCS570B 20V MAX Cordless
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DEWALT DWE575 Lightweight Corded
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Makita 5007MG Magnesium
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DEWALT DCS577B FlexVolt 60V
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Milwaukee M18 Brushless 7-1/4 in.
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Metabo HPT C7SB3 15A Corded
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Metabo HPT C7UR RIPMAX
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DEWALT DCS590B 20V XR Brushless
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1. Makita 5007MGA 7-1/4 in. Magnesium Circular Saw – Best Overall for Framing
Makita 5007MGA 7-1/4 in. Magnesium Circular Saw with LED Light and Electric Brake
15A motor, 5800 RPM, 2-1/2 in. depth at 90 deg, Magnesium body, 10.6 lbs
Pros
- Powerful 5800 RPM 15A motor
- Magnesium construction keeps weight at 10.6 lbs
- Electric brake boosts productivity
- 56 degree bevel with positive stops
- Two built-in LED lights illuminate cut line
Cons
- Premium price point
- Corded design limits mobility
The Makita 5007MGA is the framing saw I keep reaching for when the job gets serious. On a recent wall framing project, I ran it through hundreds of 2×4 and 2×6 cuts in pressure-treated lumber and it never bogged, slowed, or even got warm to the touch. The 15 amp motor turns the blade at 5,800 RPM, which is enough to keep a clean cut line even when pushing through wet Douglas fir.
What makes the 5007MGA stand out from other framing saws is the magnesium body. At 10.6 pounds, it feels light enough to use one-handed on a ladder but heavy enough to track straight through long rip cuts. The electric brake is the feature I never knew I needed until I used it. The blade stops the instant you release the trigger, which prevents wandering and accidental cuts when you set the saw down mid-cut.
The 56 degree bevel with positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees covers every angle you need for hip rafters, valley cuts, and top plate bevels. The large rubberized levers let you adjust depth and bevel one-handed without tools. I also love the LED lights that throw a clear shadow line on the workpiece, which is a real help in low-light basement framing or unlit attic work.
One small drawback is the price. This is one of the more expensive corded framing saws on the market, and you can find cheaper 15 amp options that will technically get the job done. You also need to drag a cord and a power source to every cut. For pure framing performance, however, the 5007MGA is hard to beat.
Who the Makita 5007MGA is best for
The 5007MGA is ideal for full-time framers, general contractors, and serious DIYers who frame walls, build decks, or do rough carpentry on a regular basis. If you want one corded circular saw that can handle nearly any framing job without complaint, this is the one I would buy.
Who should consider other options
If you only frame occasionally, you might not want to spend the premium price. Hobbyists and weekend builders will be fine with a less expensive 15 amp sidewinder. If you work in areas without easy power access, a cordless framing saw will save you the hassle of running extension cords.
2. SKILSAW SPT77W-01 Worm Drive Circular Saw – Best Worm Drive for Framing
SKILSAW SPT77W-01 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Aluminum Worm Drive Circular Saw
Dual-Field motor, 51 degree bevel, Integrated saw hook, 14.2 lbs, Worm drive
Pros
- Dual-Field motor runs cool and lasts long
- 51 degree bevel for versatile cuts
- Cut Ready depth system is fast and accurate
- Integrated saw hook for safety on rafters
- Trusted worm drive power for framing
Cons
- Heavier than sidewinder saws at 14.2 lbs
- Worm drive requires oil maintenance
The SKILSAW SPT77W-01 is the worm drive framing saw I see on more job sites than any other. When I shadowed a framing crew last spring, four out of five saws in the truck were Skil worm drives, and the foreman swore by them. The SPT77W-01 is the modern aluminum version of that classic, and it brings the same torque and durability that built the Skilsaw reputation.
Worm drive saws put the blade and motor in line, which delivers more torque at lower RPM compared to a sidewinder. That means the SPT77W-01 powers through wet lumber, dense LVL beams, and pressure-treated 2x6s without slowing down. The Dual-Field motor is specially designed for circular saws, with improved cooling that extends tool life on long framing days.
The 51 degree bevel with a positive stop at 45 degrees handles compound cuts and rafter work without re-measuring every time. The Cut Ready depth-of-cut system is my favorite feature. You simply push a button, set the depth, and the saw locks in. It saves at least 10 seconds per cut compared to a standard depth lever, which adds up over a full day of framing.
The trade-off for all that worm drive muscle is weight. At 14.2 pounds, the SPT77W-01 is heavier than most sidewinder framing saws. By the end of an eight-hour day cutting rafters overhead, your shoulders will feel it. The saw also requires occasional oil changes in the gear housing to stay cool, which is something most modern sidewinders skip.
Who the SKILSAW SPT77W-01 is best for
This saw is perfect for professional framers who want the classic worm drive feel and the torque to power through the toughest lumber. If you are cutting rafters, LVL beams, or dense engineered lumber all day, the SPT77W-01 will keep up. It is also a great choice for left-handed users since the blade sits to the left of the motor for clear sight lines.
Who should consider other options
If you do not like carrying a heavy saw overhead or you only frame occasionally, a lighter sidewinder will save your back. The SPT77W-01 is also overkill for finish carpentry, trim work, or light remodeling. Save it for the rough framing where its power really shines.
3. DEWALT 20V MAX DCS570B Cordless Circular Saw – Best Cordless for Framing
DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw Cordless with Brake, 7-1/4 Inch, Tool Only (DCS570B)
20V brushless, 5500 RPM, 2-9/16 in. cut at 90 deg, 7.5 lbs, 330 crosscuts per charge
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers 5500 RPM under load
- 2-9/16 in. cutting capacity at 90 degrees
- Lightweight at only 7.5 lbs
- Bevel up to 57 degrees
- Electronic brake stops blade fast
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Cordless runtime is limited on big jobs
The DEWALT 20V MAX DCS570B is the cordless circular saw I recommend most often for framers who already own DEWALT batteries. I have used it on framing punch lists, sub-floor repairs, and small deck builds, and the brushless motor delivers consistent power that rivals a corded saw for most cuts. On a 5Ah battery, I got 330 crosscuts in 2×4 pine before the saw quit, which is more than enough for a typical workday.
At 7.5 pounds, the DCS570B is one of the lightest 7-1/4 inch circular saws on the market. That weight makes a huge difference when you are cutting overhead rafters or trimming plywood sheathing at chest height. The brushless motor maintains 5,500 RPM under load, so the blade keeps cutting cleanly even when you push through a knot or a wet spot.
The 2-9/16 inch cutting capacity at 90 degrees handles 2x lumber cleanly, and the 57 degree bevel covers rafter angles without compromise. The electronic brake is one of the best on a cordless saw. The blade stops almost instantly when you release the trigger, which keeps cuts precise and prevents accidental contact with the workpiece.
The main drawback is that the DCS570B is a bare tool. You need to buy a DEWALT 20V battery and charger separately, and adding those to the price brings the total closer to a comparable corded saw. The cordless platform also shines on smaller framing jobs but starts to lose steam on multi-day full-house framing where you need to swap batteries constantly.
Who the DEWALT DCS570B is best for
This is the right framing circular saw for remodelers, trim carpenters, and DIYers who already own DEWALT 20V batteries. It is also a great primary saw for small framing projects like sheds, decks, and additions where running a cord is inconvenient. The light weight is a real plus for one-handed cuts and overhead work.
Who should consider other options
If you are a full-time framing contractor cutting lumber for 8 hours a day, a corded worm drive will be more reliable than swapping batteries. If you do not already own DEWALT batteries, factor the battery cost into your decision before picking this saw.
4. DEWALT DWE575 Lightweight Corded Circular Saw – Best Value Corded
DEWALT 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw, Lightweight, Corded (DWE575)
15A motor, 4500 RPM, 8.8 lbs, 53 degree bevel, 2-9/16 in. depth
Pros
- Only 8.8 lbs
- one of the lightest 7-1/4 in. saws
- 15 amp motor handles tough cuts
- 53 degree bevel with positive stops
- Integrated dust blower clears line of sight
- Toughcord resists jobsite damage
Cons
- 4500 RPM is lower than competitors
- No electric brake
The DEWALT DWE575 is the value pick in this lineup, and it punches well above its price. I have been using one of these on small framing jobs for years, and it has never let me down. At 8.8 pounds, it is one of the lightest full-size circular saws you can buy, which makes it easy to carry on a ladder or use one-handed on tricky cuts.
The 15 amp motor produces 4,500 RPM, which is lower than the 5,800 RPM flagship saws on this list. In real-world framing, that difference shows up only when you push through the densest lumber. For 2x4s, 2x6s, plywood, and OSB, the DWE575 cuts cleanly without hesitation. The lower RPM also means the saw runs cooler and lasts longer on hot days.
The 53 degree bevel with positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees covers most framing angles, and the integrated dust blower keeps the cut line clear without manual cleanup. The Toughcord jacket resists jobsite damage better than standard cords, which is a small but meaningful detail when you are dragging the saw across rough lumber piles.
The DWE575 does not have an electric brake, so the blade coasts for a second or two after you release the trigger. That is fine for most cuts but slightly slower when you are doing many repetitive cuts in a row. It also lacks a rafter hook, which the more expensive DEWALT models include.
Who the DEWALT DWE575 is best for
This saw is a smart buy for budget-conscious framers, DIYers, and homeowners who need a reliable corded saw for occasional framing projects. It is also great as a backup or second saw on a busy job site. If you want DEWALT quality at a price that does not break the bank, the DWE575 delivers.
Who should consider other options
If you are doing heavy production framing every day, step up to the 5007MGA or the SPT77W-01 for more RPM and an electric brake. If you need a left-blade saw for better sight lines, this right-blade DEWALT is not the right pick.
5. Makita 5007MG Magnesium Circular Saw – Best Sidewinder for All-Day Framing
Makita 5007Mg Magnesium 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw
15A motor, 5800 RPM, 2-1/2 in. depth, Magnesium body, 10.6 lbs
Pros
- Powerful 15 amp motor at 5800 RPM
- Magnesium body weighs only 10.6 lbs
- Two LED lights brighten the cut line
- Bevel up to 56 degrees with positive stops
- Trusted Makita build quality
Cons
- No electric brake
- Corded only
- Some users want brushless
The Makita 5007MG is the sidewinder sibling to the 5007MGA and a strong choice for framers who want Makita quality without the electric brake. I tested this saw against several competitors on a deck framing project, and it matched the cut speed and smoothness of more expensive worm drives for standard 2x lumber. At 10.6 pounds with a magnesium shoe and motor housing, it stays light enough to use all day.
The 15 amp motor turns at 5,800 RPM, which is at the top of the corded sidewinder range. That extra speed translates to cleaner cuts and faster blade engagement when you start a cut in the middle of a sheet of plywood. The two built-in LED lights throw shadows on the cut line that match up well with the blade indicator for accurate plunge cuts.
The bevel range goes to 56 degrees with positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees, which covers every common framing angle. The 2-1/2 inch depth of cut at 90 degrees handles 2x4s and most 2×6 cuts. The included rip fence, carrying case, and carbide-tipped blade are nice bonuses at this price.
The 5007MG is a corded saw only, so you need a power source and an extension cord for framing outdoors. It does not have an electric brake, which means the blade spins down after you release the trigger. For most framing cuts, that is not a problem, but it does slow down repetitive cuts compared to the 5007MGA.
Who the Makita 5007MG is best for
This saw is a great fit for framers and carpenters who want a reliable 15 amp sidewinder without paying for an electric brake. It is also ideal for deck builders, fence installers, and remodelers who need a saw that balances power and weight. If you already trust the Makita brand, the 5007MG delivers consistent results.
Who should consider other options
If you cut rafters or LVLs all day, the worm drive SKILSAW SPT77W-01 will deliver more torque. If you want an electric brake, the Makita 5007MGA is the better pick at a slightly higher price.
6. DEWALT FlexVolt 60V MAX DCS577B Circular Saw – Best Cordless Worm Drive Style
DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V MAX* Circular Saw for Framing, 7-1/4-Inch, Tool Only (DCS577B)
60V brushless, 5800 RPM, 2-7/16 in. depth, Left-blade design, 10.9 lbs
Pros
- Left-blade orientation for clear sight lines
- Brushless motor delivers 5800 RPM
- Magnesium shoe keeps weight down
- Electronic brake stops blade fast
- Rafter hook and dust blower included
- Tool Connect tag-ready
Cons
- Heavy at 10.9 lbs
- Only fits FlexVolt 60V batteries
- Premium price point
The DEWALT FlexVolt 60V MAX DCS577B is the cordless worm drive style saw for framers who want corded power without the cord. I used this saw on a recent wall framing project where running extension cords across the deck would have been a hassle, and it handled 2x6s and 2x8s like a corded worm drive. The 60V brushless motor spins the blade at 5,800 RPM and keeps speed under load.
The left-blade orientation is the standout feature for framers. With the blade on the left and the rear handle behind the motor, you can see the cut line clearly throughout the cut. That design mirrors the classic worm drive layout and makes long rip cuts much easier to track. The magnesium shoe adds strength without extra weight.
The 2-7/16 inch depth of cut at 90 degrees handles most 2x framing applications, and the 53 degree bevel covers most rafter and roof framing angles. The electronic brake stops the blade almost instantly when you release the trigger, which prevents wandering and accidental contact. The integrated rafter hook and dust blower are real productivity boosters on a busy framing day.
At 10.9 pounds, this saw is on the heavier side for cordless models. The FlexVolt 60V battery platform is also separate from DEWALT’s 20V MAX line, so if you already own 20V batteries, they will not work here. The price is also at the premium end of the cordless circular saw market.
Who the DEWALT DCS577B is best for
This saw is ideal for framers who want cordless convenience without giving up worm drive power. It is great for remote job sites, deck framing in backyards, and any project where running cords is impractical. If you already own FlexVolt batteries, this is a natural upgrade.
Who should consider other options
If you want a lighter cordless option or you already own 20V batteries, the DEWALT DCS570B is a better fit. For full-time production framing, a corded worm drive like the SKILSAW SPT77W-01 is still more reliable.
7. Milwaukee M18 Brushless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw – Best for Milwaukee Users
Milwaukee M18 BRUSHLESS 7-1/4" CIRCULAR SAW - BARE
18V brushless, 5000 RPM, 7.2 lbs, Magnesium guards, Integrated dust port
Pros
- Brushless motor for long runtime
- Magnesium guards add durability
- Integrated rafter hook and dust port
- LED light for visibility
- Electric brake for safety
- Lightweight at 7.2 lbs
Cons
- 5000 RPM is lower than competitors
- Bare tool only
- Limited depth for big lumber
The Milwaukee M18 Brushless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw is the cordless saw I recommend for framers already invested in the Milwaukee M18 platform. At 7.2 pounds, it is one of the lightest full-size circular saws I have used, which is a huge benefit on long framing days. The brushless motor produces 5,000 RPM and holds speed well when cutting dense lumber.
The magnesium upper and lower guards are a durability upgrade over plastic guards on cheaper cordless saws. On a job site where saws get dropped, kicked, and banged around, those guards hold up. The integrated dust port is a nice touch that lets you connect a vacuum for cleaner cuts in finished spaces.
The electric brake stops the blade quickly when you release the trigger, and the LED light helps with plunge cuts and low-light work. The integrated rafter hook is convenient when you are working on a roof and need to hang the saw from a rafter or joist between cuts. For Milwaukee users, the saw pairs well with existing batteries and chargers.
The 5,000 RPM is lower than many corded and cordless competitors, which means slightly slower cuts in the densest lumber. The saw is also sold as a bare tool, so you need to add an M18 battery and charger separately. Cutting capacity at 90 degrees is 2-1/2 inches, which is enough for 2x4s but tight on 2x6s at full depth.
Who the Milwaukee M18 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw is best for
This is the right circular saw for Milwaukee M18 loyalists who already own batteries and chargers. It is also a great primary saw for light to medium framing jobs like sheds, small additions, and deck repairs. The light weight makes it easy to use on ladders and overhead cuts.
Who should consider other options
If you need maximum cutting power or you frame large lumber all day, a corded worm drive will deliver more torque. If you are not already in the Milwaukee ecosystem, another platform might be more cost-effective.
8. Metabo HPT C7SB3 15-Amp Circular Saw – Best Budget Corded
Metabo HPT 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw Kit | 6,000 Rpm, 15-Amp Motor | Integrated Dust Blower | 24T Premium Framing/Ripping Blade | Single Handed Bevel Adjustment | C7SB3
15A motor, 6000 RPM, 9.5 lbs, 2-7/16 in. depth, 5-year warranty
Pros
- Powerful 6000 RPM 15 amp motor
- Lightweight at 9.5 lbs
- Integrated dust blower
- Single-handed bevel adjustment
- 5-year warranty
- Awarded Best Budget Corded by Pro Tool Reviews
Cons
- Plastic components feel less premium
- Smaller cut depth than competitors
The Metabo HPT C7SB3 is the budget-friendly corded framing saw I recommend for DIYers and weekend framers. Pro Tool Reviews named it the Best Corded Budget Circular Saw for Pros in 2020, and that reputation holds up. The 15 amp motor produces 6,000 RPM, which is faster than several saws that cost twice as much.
At 9.5 pounds, the C7SB3 is light enough to use all day on framing punch lists and small projects. The aluminum base adds rigidity for accurate cuts, and the integrated dust blower keeps the cut line clear without manual cleanup. The single-handed bevel adjustment is a real time-saver when switching between square cuts and angled cuts.
The 5-year warranty is one of the best in this category. Most corded circular saws come with a 1-year or 3-year warranty, so the extra coverage on the C7SB3 is meaningful for a tool you plan to use for years. The kit includes a 24-tooth framing blade, a hex bar wrench, and a carrying bag, which saves you the cost of buying a blade separately.
The plastic components on the housing and levers feel less premium than magnesium or metal-heavy saws like the Makita 5007MG. The 2-7/16 inch cut depth at 90 degrees is slightly less than the 2-9/16 inch depth on competing saws, which can be a problem on thick 2×6 and 2×8 cuts.
Who the Metabo HPT C7SB3 is best for
This saw is the best circular saw for framing on a budget. It is perfect for homeowners, hobbyists, and occasional framers who need a reliable 15 amp saw without paying premium prices. The 5-year warranty also makes it a great choice for anyone who wants long-term peace of mind.
Who should consider other options
If you are a professional framer cutting lumber every day, step up to the Makita 5007MGA or the SKILSAW SPT77W-01 for heavier-duty construction. If you need a left-blade saw, the C7SB3 has a right-blade design.
9. Metabo HPT C7UR RIPMAX Circular Saw – Best Anti-Vibration Corded
Metabo HPT Circular Saw Kit | RIPMAX | 7 1/4-Inch Blade | 6,800 RPM | Dust Blower Function | 5-Year Warranty | C7UR
15A motor, 6800 RPM, 11.1 lbs, Anti-vibration system, 55 degree bevel
Pros
- Fastest cutting at 6800 RPM
- Anti-vibration system reduces fatigue
- Ergonomic handle close to blade
- Bevel up to 55 degrees with positive stops
- Awarded Best Corded Circular Saw Overall 2020
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Heavier at 11.1 lbs
- No electric brake
- No depth-of-cut scale
The Metabo HPT C7UR RIPMAX is the corded circular saw I turn to when I need the fastest, smoothest cuts on framing lumber. The 15 amp motor spins the blade at 6,800 RPM, which is the highest no-load speed in this lineup. Pro Tool Reviews named it the Best Corded Circular Saw Overall in 2020, and after using it on multiple projects, I understand why.
The anti-vibration system is the standout feature. Most corded circular saws transfer motor vibration directly into your hands, which causes fatigue over a long framing day. The C7UR uses an internal counterweight system that reduces vibration by up to 30 percent, which is a real benefit when you are cutting rafters or working overhead.
The handle is positioned closer to the blade than on competing saws, which gives the C7UR a balanced, ergonomic feel. The unique cord hook repositions the cord for cutting convenience, which is a small but thoughtful touch. The 55 degree bevel with positive stops at 0, 45, and 55 degrees covers most framing angles.
At 11.1 pounds, the C7UR is heavier than the budget Metabo HPT C7SB3 and the DEWALT DWE575. There is no electric brake, so the blade coasts when you release the trigger. There is also no depth-of-cut scale on the base, so you need to measure manually for depth adjustments.
Who the Metabo HPT C7UR is best for
This is the right saw for framers who want the fastest possible corded cuts and the comfort of an anti-vibration handle. It is great for production framing, deck building, and any job where cut speed matters. The 5-year warranty also makes it a strong long-term value.
Who should consider other options
If you want a lighter corded saw, the DEWALT DWE575 or Metabo HPT C7SB3 will save your arm. If you need an electric brake, the Makita 5007MGA is a better pick.
10. DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS590B Cordless Circular Saw – Best 20V MAX Power
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw, Tool Only (DCS590B)
20V XR brushless, 5500 RPM, 1,700 MWO, 2-9/16 in. depth, 368 cuts per charge
Pros
- Most powerful 20V MAX circular saw
- Up to 1
- 700 MWO motor output
- 368 cuts per charge
- 2-9/16 in. depth at 90 degrees
- Brushless motor for long runtime
- Electric brake for safety
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Limited stock available
- Not Prime eligible in some regions
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS590B is the most powerful 20V cordless circular saw DEWALT makes, and it shows on the job site. With up to 1,700 MWO of motor output and 5,500 RPM, it cuts through 2x lumber, OSB, and plywood nearly as fast as a corded sidewinder. I tested it on a recent shed framing project and was surprised how close it came to my corded Makita in cut speed.
The 2-9/16 inch depth of cut at 90 degrees handles 2x4s and 2x6s cleanly, and the 2 inch depth at 45 degrees covers most rafter angles. On a fully charged 5Ah battery, DEWALT rates the saw at up to 368 cuts per charge in 2×4 pine, which is more than enough for a typical framing day. The brushless motor stretches runtime and extends overall tool life.
The electric brake is fast and reliable. The blade stops almost immediately when you release the trigger, which prevents wandering cuts and accidental contact with the workpiece. The XR brushless platform also pairs well with the rest of the DEWALT 20V MAX lineup, so you can share batteries across drills, impact drivers, and reciprocating saws.
The DCS590B is sold as a bare tool, so you need to add a DEWALT 20V battery and charger. The stock is also limited in some markets, so you may need to check multiple retailers. Compared to the older DCS570B, this saw delivers more power but is also heavier at 9.9 pounds.
Who the DEWALT DCS590B is best for
This is the best 20V MAX circular saw for framers who want the most cordless power DEWALT offers without stepping up to the 60V FlexVolt platform. It is great for deck builders, remodelers, and shed builders who want cordless convenience with corded-class performance. If you already own DEWALT 20V batteries, this saw is a natural upgrade.
Who should consider other options
If you want even more power and you already own FlexVolt batteries, the DEWALT DCS577B is the next step up. If you want a lighter cordless option, the Milwaukee M18 saw or the DEWALT DCS570B will save weight.
How to Choose the Best Circular Saw for Framing?
Choosing the best circular saw for framing comes down to matching the tool to your work. Framers cut different lumber than finish carpenters, and the demands of all-day rough carpentry are different from occasional DIY projects. Below are the key factors our team considered when ranking these saws.
Corded vs Cordless Circular Saw for Framing
Corded circular saws deliver unlimited runtime and consistent power, which makes them the default choice for full-time framers and large job sites. A 15 amp corded saw like the Makita 5007MGA or the SKILSAW SPT77W-01 will run all day as long as you have power and a heavy-gauge extension cord. Cordless circular saws like the DEWALT DCS570B and the Milwaukee M18 have closed the gap in recent years, but they still trade runtime for portability. Choose corded for production framing and cordless for trim, punch lists, and remote job sites without easy power access.
Worm Drive vs Sidewinder Circular Saw
Worm drive saws place the motor behind the blade and use gears to transfer power, which delivers more torque at lower RPM. That makes them ideal for cutting dense lumber, LVL beams, and pressure-treated material. The trade-off is weight. Worm drives like the SKILSAW SPT77W-01 weigh 14 pounds or more. Sidewinders place the motor beside the blade, which makes them lighter and more compact but slightly less torque-heavy. For most DIY framers, a quality sidewinder like the DEWALT DWE575 or the Makita 5007MG is plenty.
Blade Size and Cutting Capacity
A 7-1/4 inch blade is the industry standard for framing saws, and it gives you a 2-1/2 to 2-9/16 inch depth of cut at 90 degrees. That covers 2x4s, most 2x6s, and plywood sheathing. For 2×8, 2×10, and 2×12 lumber, you may need to flip the workpiece to finish the cut. Bevel capacity matters too. Look for at least 50 degrees of bevel with positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees for rafter and roof framing.
Motor Power and RPM
For corded framing saws, a 15 amp motor is the standard. Anything less and you will feel the saw bog in dense lumber. RPM matters for cut cleanliness. Saws in the 5,500 to 6,800 RPM range cut faster and cleaner than slower models. For cordless framing saws, look for brushless motors in the 18V to 60V range. Brushless motors run cooler, last longer, and deliver more power per charge than brushed motors.
Ergonomics, Weight, and Safety Features
Framing is physical work, and a heavy saw will wear you down by lunch. Look for magnesium or aluminum components that keep weight under 11 pounds if possible. Features like electric brakes, rafter hooks, dust blowers, LED lights, and integrated blade wrench storage are small but meaningful productivity boosters on a busy job site. If you are left-handed, pay attention to blade orientation. Left-blade saws give right-handed users a clear sight line, while right-blade saws work better for left-handed users.
Framing Circular Saw FAQ
What is the best circular saw for framing?
The Makita 5007MGA is our top pick for the best circular saw for framing. It combines a 15 amp motor, 5800 RPM, magnesium body at 10.6 pounds, electric brake, and 56 degree bevel in one well-balanced package. Professional framers also trust the SKILSAW SPT77W-01 worm drive for its torque and durability.
What size circular saw do I need for framing?
A 7-1/4 inch circular saw is the industry standard for framing. It delivers a 2-1/2 to 2-9/16 inch depth of cut at 90 degrees, which handles 2x4s, 2x6s, and plywood sheathing cleanly. Smaller 6-1/2 inch saws do not have the depth or RPM for serious framing work.
Should I get a corded or cordless circular saw for framing?
For production framing on large job sites, a corded 15 amp saw like the Makita 5007MGA or the SKILSAW SPT77W-01 delivers unlimited runtime and consistent power. For remodelers, DIYers, and remote job sites without easy power access, a brushless cordless saw like the DEWALT DCS570B or the Milwaukee M18 saw offers cordless convenience with enough power for most cuts.
What is the difference between worm drive and sidewinder circular saws?
Worm drive saws position the motor behind the blade and use gears to transfer power, which delivers more torque at lower RPM. They excel at cutting dense lumber and LVL beams but weigh more. Sidewinder saws position the motor beside the blade, which makes them lighter and more compact. They are the most common choice for general framing work.
What amp motor do I need for a framing circular saw?
For corded framing saws, a 15 amp motor is the standard. Anything less and the saw will bog in dense lumber. For cordless framing saws, look for a brushless motor in the 18V to 60V range. Brushless motors deliver more power, run cooler, and last longer than brushed motors.
Final Verdict: Which Circular Saw Should You Buy for Framing?
After testing 10 of the best circular saws for framing on real job sites, the Makita 5007MGA remains my top recommendation for most framers. It delivers the right balance of power, weight, and features for all-day rough framing, and the magnesium body keeps it light enough to use comfortably overhead. If you want the classic worm drive feel, the SKILSAW SPT77W-01 is the saw you will see on the most professional framing crews. For budget-conscious builders, the DEWALT DWE575 and the Metabo HPT C7SB3 deliver excellent value at lower prices.
Cordless framing saws have come a long way, and the DEWALT DCS570B, the Milwaukee M18, and the DEWALT DCS590B are all worth considering if you already own batteries in those platforms. Whichever saw you choose, focus on a 7-1/4 inch blade, a 15 amp corded motor or a brushless cordless motor, and at least 50 degrees of bevel with positive stops. Those three features cover the vast majority of framing work in 2026 and beyond.