Best Cordless Rip Saws for Portable Power

TL;DR: The DeWalt DCS391B delivers a 5,150 RPM 6‑½‑inch blade, 50° bevel and solid 4.6‑star rating at $129, making it a well‑balanced, portable choice for DIY framing and trim work.

The standout spec is its 5,150 RPM no‑load speed, which lets the 6‑½‑inch carbide‑tipped blade slice through standard 2× lumber quickly. Combined with a 50‑degree bevel capacity, you can tackle angled roof and trim cuts without swapping tools. At 6.97 lb, the saw feels solid yet manageable for one‑handed operation.

At $129, the DCS391B lands in the mid‑range of this roundup. It’s heavier than the Makita XSS02Z (about 3.31 lb) and the Worx WX531L (3.8 lb), but lighter than the Milwaukee M18 FUEL (8.4 lb) and the Craftsman CMCS500B (7.55 lb). Compared with the Bosch CCS180B (6.6 lb), it’s only slightly heavier, offering a balance of heft and portability.

Reviewers appreciate the tool’s lightweight feel and quick setup for DIY projects like decking or shelving, noting smooth cuts on standard lumber. Professional reviewers highlight the high RPM and 50‑degree bevel as key advantages. Common complaints mention the brushed motor’s lower efficiency, the absence of an electric brake or LED work light, and a shorter battery runtime that can limit longer jobs.

Under the hood, the saw uses a brushed motor paired with helical gears for reliable power delivery. The sidewinder blade orientation (blade‑right) and rubber‑overmolded comfort grip help maintain control, while a magnesium shoe adds durability. Speed control is fixed, matching the 5,150 RPM motor output.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the DeWalt DCS391B offers Bevel Capacity: 50 Degrees

Avoid if: You have limited desk space or need portability

TL;DR: The DeWalt DCS571B packs a brushless 20V MAX motor, 4‑1/2″ blade and 0‑45° bevel into a 6.6‑lb, 17.88″‑long package that excels in tight‑space, precision cuts but can’t replace a full‑size saw for heavy framing.

What really stands out is the brushless motor paired with a 4‑1/2 in blade and a 0‑45 Degrees bevel range. The tool can reach 1 in depth at 45° and 1‑1/2 in at 90°, while a single DCB205 battery delivers up to 369 linear feet of 3/4 in OSB. At 6.69 in tall, 5.13 in wide and 17.88 in long, the saw feels more like a large grinder than a traditional circular saw, and the electronic blade brake adds an extra safety layer.

Compared with the other eleven entries, the DCS571B sits in the mid‑weight range: it’s lighter than Milwaukee’s 8.4‑lb M18 FUEL but heavier than Makita’s 3.31‑lb XSS02Z and Worx’s 3.8‑lb WX531L. Its 4‑1/2 in blade is noticeably smaller than the 6‑1/2 in blades on Milwaukee, Makita, DeWalt DCS391B, DeWalt DCS590B, Bosch and most rivals, which translates to a shallower cut depth than those larger saws. However, its overall length of 17.88 in exceeds Makita’s 9.65 in and Milwaukee’s 11.75 in, giving it a longer reach for certain jobs while still matching Bosch’s 6.6‑lb weight.

Users consistently praise the lightweight feel and one‑handed maneuverability, especially when working in cramped closets or around decking railings. The on‑board dust port with adapter keeps the work area cleaner, a point highlighted by professional reviewers. The most common criticism is the limited 1‑1/2 in depth at 90°, which means a standard 2×4 can’t be ripped in a single pass—something many DIYers note as a trade‑off for the tool’s portability.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high-quality option — the DeWalt DCS571B offers Bevel Capacity: 0-45 Degrees

Avoid if: You're on a tight budget or only need basic functionality

TL;DR: The Ryobi P505 delivers 5‑1/2″ cuts at 4,700 RPM, up to 215 cuts per charge, and a lightweight 5.3‑lb design, making it a solid budget pick for DIY woodwork.

The standout spec is its 4,700 RPM no‑load speed paired with a carbide‑tipped thin‑kerf 5‑1/2″ blade. That combination lets the saw slice through 2× lumber in a single pass, and the 0‑50° bevel capacity adds angle flexibility for trim work. With a 3/8″ arbor and 18 TPI blade teeth, the tool balances precision and speed without sacrificing portability.

In the broader roundup, the P505 sits in the same budget tier as the Ryobi 18V Circular Saw, yet it offers a slightly larger linear‑feet runtime—over 339 feet per charge versus the other model’s “over 215” cuts claim. At 5.3 pounds, it’s lighter than the Black+Decker BDCCS20B (≈6 lb) and Craftsman CMCS500B (≈7.55 lb), but heavier than the Worx WX531L, which tips the scales at 3.8 lb. This middle‑weight profile gives you enough heft for steady cuts without the fatigue of the heavier competitors.

User sentiment highlights the P505’s compact form and rubberized GRIPZONE handle as major comfort factors during extended projects. Reviewers frequently note the ease of one‑handed maneuvering in tight spaces, especially when cutting studs or framing in cramped rooms. Professional reviewers also point out that the 4,600‑4,700 RPM motor provides clean cuts comparable to many corded saws, while the on‑board wrench storage and side handle add practical convenience.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry-level option — the Ryobi P505 offers Cuts Per Charge: Up to 215 cuts (at 1-11/16" depth with DCB205)

Avoid if: You need advanced features or professional‑grade performance

TL;DR: The BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20B is a lightweight 20 V cordless saw with a 5‑½ in blade, 45° bevel and 3,700 RPM motor, ideal for DIY trim work at a budget price.

The standout spec is the 5‑½ in blade paired with a 45° bevel capacity and a maximum speed of 3,700 RPM, giving you enough torque for light framing and trim cuts while staying compact enough to tuck into a small tool bag. At just 6.0 lb, the saw feels easy to maneuver, and the tool‑free depth‑of‑cut adjustment lets you switch between a 1.375 in cut at 45° and a 1.625 in cut at 90° in seconds.

Compared with the other eleven saws in this roundup, the BDCCS20B is lighter than the Craftsman CMCS500B (7.55 lb) but heavier than the Worx WX531L (3.8 lb). Its blade is smaller than the 6‑½ in blades found on the Craftsman, Bosch CCS180B and DeWalt DCS391B, which means it can’t tackle the deeper cuts those models achieve (up to 2 in at 90°). The 3,700 RPM peak is also modest next to the 4,200 RPM of the Craftsman and the 4,700 RPM of the Ryobi P505 and Ryobi 18V models, so you’ll notice slower cutting on denser material.

Home‑owner reviewers praise the saw’s lightweight feel and the convenience of the keyed, tool‑free blade change, calling it a “great replacement for a handsaw” in everyday projects like shelving or trim. Professional reviewers note the brushed, high‑torque motor delivers consistent performance for moderate cuts, but they also warn that the motor can feel under‑powered on thicker lumber and that the battery runtime may require frequent swaps on longer jobs. The sidewinder drive and variable‑speed trigger add a touch of control for fine adjustments.

Best for: Budget‑conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20B offers Bevel Capacity: 45°

TL;DR: The Makita XSS02Z delivers 3,700 RPM, 0‑50° bevel, and a lightweight 3.31 lb design for $146.03, making it a well‑reviewed, portable rip saw that outperforms many pricier rivals.

The standout spec is its 3,700 RPM no‑load speed paired with a 0‑50° bevel range, letting you tackle a variety of cuts without sacrificing control. At just 3.31 lb (tool only) and 7.3 lb with the battery, the saw feels light enough for extended use on a job site.

Compared with the other tools in this roundup, Makita’s weight is lighter than the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Circular Saw’s 6.7 lb and the DeWalt DCS571B’s 6.6 lb, yet a bit heavier than the Worx WX531L’s 3.8 lb. Its 6‑1/2 inch blade matches Milwaukee and Bosch, while the overall length of 13‑5/8 inches sits between Bosch’s 13.4 inches and the longer Worx at 15.25 inches. The 2‑1/4 inch maximum depth at 90° equals Milwaukee’s capacity and exceeds Bosch’s 2‑inch rating, though it falls short of the DeWalt DCS590B’s 2‑9/16 inch depth.

Professional reviewers praise the high‑torque brushed motor for delivering ample power in a compact package, and users love the quick‑change blade system that comes with 16 teeth. However, several reviewers note the absence of a blade‑brake feature and the lack of positive bevel stops, which can make precise angle locking harder. The bevel adjustment lever also tends to obscure the angle marking scale, a point frequently mentioned in user feedback.

The saw’s base is made from heavy‑gauge precision‑machined aluminum, and Makita’s Star Protection Computer Controls guard against overload, over‑discharge, and overheating. A top handle with a rubberized soft grip adds comfort during prolonged cuts, rounding out a tool that balances power, precision, and portability.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the Makita XSS02Z offers Bevel Capacity: 0-50 degrees

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $146.03

TL;DR: The Makita XSH03Z delivers brushless‑motor efficiency, a 6‑1/2″ blade and up to 50% longer runtime in a compact 7.3‑lb package, but its premium $224.10 price may deter budget‑focused buyers.

What really sets this saw apart is the brushless motor paired with a runtime improvement of up to 50% longer than brushed‑motor equivalents. At 5,000 RPM no‑load speed and a modest 7.3 lb weight, the XSH03Z feels light enough for overhead work while still offering the torque you expect from an 18 V LXT system.

Compared with the other eleven models, the XSH03Z sits between the ultra‑light Makita XSS02Z (about 3.3 lb tool‑only) and the heavier Milwaukee M18 FUEL (6.7 lb tool‑only). Its 6‑1/2″ blade matches the Milwaukee and Bosch units, but it’s smaller than the DeWalt DCS590B’s 7‑1/4″ blade. The overall length of 14.02 in is longer than Milwaukee’s 11.75 in but shorter than DeWalt’s 15.35 in, and the width of 7.8 in is narrower than both the Makita XSS02Z (14.09 in) and Bosch’s 8.9 in. Cutting capacity at 90° (2‑1/4 in) rivals Milwaukee and exceeds the DeWalt DCS571B’s 1‑1/2 in, while the bevel range of 0° to 50° matches the Bosch and DeWalt DCS391B offerings.

Users consistently praise the cordless convenience and the lightweight feel, noting less fatigue on long jobs. Reviewers also highlight the brushless motor’s cooler operation and the Automatic Speed Change technology that lets you push harder before the blade binds. The built‑in dust blower and dual LED work light are frequently mentioned as practical upgrades that keep the cut line clean and visible.

Beyond the motor, Makita adds Extreme Protection Technology for dust and water resistance, an electric brake for rapid blade stop, and a three‑stage LED gauge that keeps you aware of battery life. These features round out a tool that aims to be both durable on the job site and easy to handle in tight spaces.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high‑quality option — the Makita XSH03Z offers Arbor Size: 5/8 inch

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $224.10

TL;DR: The Ryobi 18V ONE+ 5‑1/2″ circular saw delivers over 215 cuts per charge, a 4,700 RPM brushed motor and a compact, one‑handed design for budget‑friendly DIY projects.

At the heart of this saw is a 4,700 RPM brushed motor that powers a standard 5‑1/2″ blade. With a bevel range of 0‑50° and a depth‑of‑cut of 1‑11/16″ at 90°, it can handle typical 2×4 framing material while staying light enough for one‑handed use. The on‑board storage and quick‑set depth knob add to its convenience.

Compared with the eleven other rip saws in this roundup, the Ryobi sits at the low‑end of the price spectrum and feels lighter than the Ryobi P505, which weighs 5.3 lb. Its blade is smaller than the 6‑1/2″ blade found on the Craftsman model, and the overall dimensions (1.185″ H × 5.5″ L × 1.68″ W) make it notably more compact than the bulkier BLACK+DECKER and DeWalt options.

Users consistently praise its portability and the ability to knock out more than 215 cuts on a single charge, especially when paired with any Ryobi 18V ONE+ battery. Reviewers also note the clean cuts on hardwoods, but they flag the brushed motor as a durability trade‑off and the limited cutting depth as a constraint for thicker stock.

Best for: Budget‑conscious DIY homeowners who need a portable, entry‑level circular saw with 0‑50° bevel capability.

Avoid if: You regularly cut lumber thicker than a 2×4 or require a brushless motor for heavy‑duty, professional use.

TL;DR: The Bosch CCS180B is an 18‑V cordless circular saw with a 6‑1/2‑inch left‑oriented blade, 0‑50° bevel capacity, and a 6.6‑lb weight, offering solid performance for DIY projects at $119.00.

What really sets the CCS180B apart is its left‑positioned 6‑1/2‑inch blade, which gives right‑handed users a clear view of the cut line. At a weight of 6.6 lbs, the tool feels compact enough for extended use, and the 0‑50° bevel range lets you tackle angled cuts without changing accessories. The motor spins at 3,900 RPM, and the maximum cutting depth reaches 2 inches at a straight 90° angle.

Compared with the other contenders, the Bosch sits in the middle of the weight spectrum: it’s a touch lighter than the DeWalt DCS391B, but noticeably heavier than the Makita XSS02Z and the Worx WX531L. Its 6‑1/2‑inch blade is the same size as the Milwaukee and Craftsman models, yet smaller than the traditional 7‑¼‑inch saws that some pros prefer. While the Makita and Milwaukee options carry brushless motors, the Bosch relies on a brushed motor, which can affect long‑term efficiency.

Reviewers consistently praise the left‑blade orientation for superior cut‑line visibility and commend the 6.6‑lb weight for reducing fatigue on longer jobs. Professional observers note that the tool handles 2× lumber across the full 50° bevel range without trouble. However, the smaller blade caps the maximum depth at 2 inches, which some users find limiting for thicker stock. Because the CCS180B is sold as a bare tool, you’ll need to purchase a compatible 18 V battery and charger separately, adding to the overall cost.

Additional technical touches include electronic cell protection for the battery, a dust blower that helps keep the work area clean, an ambidextrous lock‑off, and an electronic blade brake that stops the blade quickly when power is cut. The aluminum shoe adds durability, and Bosch backs the saw with a five‑year limited warranty.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the Bosch CCS180B offers Bevel Capacity: 0-50 degrees

Avoid if: You need advanced features or professional‑grade performance

TL;DR: The Craftsman CMCS500B offers a 6‑1⁄2‑in blade, 0‑50° bevel and 4,200 RPM motor in a lightweight 7.55‑lb cordless package, making it a solid entry‑level rip saw for DIY projects.

The saw’s 6‑1⁄2‑in blade spins at 4,200 RPM, giving you clean cuts for most home‑renovation tasks. Its tool‑free bevel adjustment covers 0‑50°, and the whole unit weighs just 7.55 lb, so you can swing it for long periods without fatigue. An electronic blade brake and quick‑change system with an included Allen wrench round out the core features.

Compared with the other 11 models in this roundup, the Craftsman sits in the middle of the weight range—heavier than the 6‑lb Black+Decker and the 3.8‑lb Worx, but only a touch above the 6.97‑lb DeWalt. Its 6‑1⁄2‑in blade matches the Bosch and DeWalt sizes, while it out‑slices the 5‑1⁄2‑in blades on Black+Decker and Ryobi. The 4,200 RPM no‑load speed beats Black+Decker’s 3,700 RPM and Bosch’s 3,900 RPM, though it trails the 4,700 RPM figures on the Ryobi models.

Users consistently praise the lightweight feel and the hassle‑free bevel pivot, noting that the tool‑free adjustment saves time on the job site. Reviewers also like the electronic brake for safety. On the flip side, the 2‑inch maximum cut depth is flagged as too shallow for framing lumber, and owners report that the brushed motor drains the battery faster than brushless competitors, making runtime feel short on demanding cuts. A few users mention the blade guard can stick, which is a minor annoyance.

Under the hood, the Craftsman runs on a brushed motor paired with the V20 20 V max (nominal 18 V) cordless system, delivering reliable power for everyday cross‑cuts and rip cuts. The 5/8‑in arbor accepts standard 6‑1⁄2‑in blades, and the metal shoe adds durability for light‑to‑moderate use.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the Craftsman CMCS500B offers Bevel Capacity: 0-50°

Avoid if: You want the best value‑per‑dollar in its price range or need a saw for heavy framing projects

TL;DR: The DeWalt DCS590B packs a 7‑1/4 in. blade, 5,500 RPM brushless motor and up to 368 cuts per charge, delivering corded‑like power in a cordless, tool‑only package.

The standout spec is its 7‑1/4 in. blade paired with a 0‑57° bevel range, giving you deep cuts of 2‑9/16 in. at 90° and 2 in. at 45°. A brushless motor pushes 1,700 maximum watts out and spins at 5,500 RPM, so you’ll slice through framing lumber quickly. The electronic brake adds safety by stopping the blade in a split second.

Compared with the other 11 saws in this roundup, the DCS590B offers a larger blade than the Makita XSS02Z and Makita XSH03Z, both of which list 6‑1/2 in. blades. Its 0‑57° bevel capacity also exceeds the 0‑50° range on the Makita XSH03Z and the 0‑45° on the DeWalt DCS571B. When it comes to runtime, the DCS590B’s up to 368 cuts per charge outpaces the Milwaukee M18 FUEL’s 300 cuts per charge. It sits at a higher price point than many of the peers, but its premium specs justify the cost for users who need that extra power.

Professional reviewers note the 1,700 MWO output matches traditional corded saws, and the fast 5,500 RPM speed keeps cuts smooth even in tough framing jobs. Users praise the long runtime and the precision of the electronic brake, but they also flag the tool‑only configuration, which means you must already own or separately purchase a 20V MAX battery and charger. The lack of an integrated rafter hook is another common comment, especially from framers who rely on that convenience.

Best for: Professional framers, remodelers, and serious DIYers who need cordless power equivalent to corded saws — the DeWalt DCS590B offers Arbor Size: 5/8 in.

Avoid if: You don’t already own DeWalt 20V MAX batteries or you need a budget‑friendly, all‑in‑one kit.

TL;DR: The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 6‑1⁄2″ circular saw packs a brush‑less motor, 6,000 RPM no‑load speed and 300 cuts per charge into a 6.7‑lb tool, but it carries a premium price.

What really sets this saw apart is its POWERSTATE brushless motor paired with REDLINK PLUS intelligence, delivering up to 20 % more power and 40 % faster cut speeds than earlier models. The motor spins at a no‑load speed of 6,000 RPM, and the 5/8‑inch arbor accepts a 6‑1⁄2″ blade, giving you a 2‑1⁄4‑inch depth at 90 degrees and 1‑9⁄16‑inch depth at 45 degrees. Those numbers translate into smooth, confident rips through framing lumber.

Compared with the other eleven rip saws in this roundup, the Milwaukee sits toward the heavier end at 6.7 lb (8.75 lb with a battery), making it noticeably heavier than the ultra‑light Makita XSS02Z, which weighs just over 3 lb. Its price of $154.99 also places it above most of the competition, so it isn’t the budget choice. However, its cut‑capacity figures and 300‑cut charge life outpace many peers, including the DeWalt DCS571B that offers a smaller 4‑1⁄2″ blade and a lower cut depth.

Everyday users praise the saw’s lightweight feel for a tool of this power class and the long runtime when paired with a high‑output M18 battery. Professionals note the precise bevel detents at 22.5° and 45°, plus a max bevel of 50°, which helps with angled framing cuts. The main complaint in reviews is the obstructed sight line at 90‑degree cuts, which can make square‑cut alignment tricky. The right‑side blade placement also limits visibility for some users.

Additional technical perks include an electric brake for rapid stop, an integrated dust port with vac adapter, magnesium shoe and guard for durability, and an LED work light that shines directly onto the cut line. The tool‑only package means you’ll need an M18 battery, but the system’s compatibility with all M18 packs adds flexibility for crews already invested in Milwaukee’s ecosystem.

Best for: Professional framers, carpenters, and remodelers who need a compact, cordless 6‑1⁄2″ saw with Arbor Size: 5/8 inches and high cut performance.

Avoid if: You’re shopping on a tight budget or need a tool with an unobstructed 90‑degree sight line; the Milwaukee’s premium price and limited visibility may not suit you.

TL;DR: The Worx WX531L packs a brushless 20V motor, 6,900 RPM no‑load speed and a 4.5‑inch carbide‑tipped blade into a 5.6‑inch‑tall, 3.8‑lb frame that’s built for quick rip cuts around the house.

The standout feature is its adaptive power circuitry, which can boost output up to 55% on hardwoods while the brushless motor delivers 25% more power and 50% longer runtime than brushed equivalents. Coupled with a thin‑kerf, 24‑tooth carbide‑tipped blade, the saw slices through stock lumber with a clean finish despite the compact 4.5‑inch blade.

When you line it up against the other eleven saws, the WX531L is lighter than the Bosch CCS180B (6.6 lb) and Craftsman CMCS500B (7.55 lb), yet a bit heavier than the Makita XSS02Z (about 3.31 lb tool‑only). Its blade is notably shorter than the typical 6‑½‑inch blades found on Bosch, Craftsman, DeWalt, Makita and Milwaukee models, which means it won’t tackle the same thick‑stock jobs. However, its no‑load speed of 6,900 RPM outpaces most rivals, which range from roughly 3,700 RPM to 5,150 RPM, giving it a speed edge that compensates for the smaller blade.

Reviewers consistently praise the ergonomic, vibration‑absorbing handle and the built‑in LED work light for improving visibility on tight jobs. Users also note that the quick‑set lever for bevel adjustments (0–46°) and rear‑mounted depth lever make setup fast and intuitive. The downside that keeps popping up is the 1.5‑inch maximum cutting depth, which limits the saw to lighter rip work and excludes it from heavy‑duty framing or decking tasks.

Professional reviewers highlight the adaptive circuitry as a smart efficiency upgrade that extends battery life, while the 24‑tooth carbide blade delivers a finish quality that rivals larger, pricier saws. The 3/8‑inch arbor spins the blade faster than larger arbors, contributing to the high RPM figure and smooth cuts on plywood and softwoods.

Best for: Most users seeking a balanced, mainstream option — the Worx WX531L offers Arbor Size: 3/8 inch

Avoid if: you need to rip thick lumber or require deeper cuts than 1.5 in