PricepectAI-Verified Comparisons

Comparisons About

⌘K

Pricepect

Independent product comparisons to help you buy smarter.

Browse

Categories
Comparisons
Spec Comparisons
Head-to-Head
Search

Info

About
Privacy Policy
Terms of Service

Top Categories

Electronics
Home & Kitchen
Sports & Outdoors
Automotive

✓ Independent & Unbiased✓ AI-Verified Data✓ Expert-Reviewed

Pricepect participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. © 2026 Pricepect. All rights reserved.

Craftsman CMCS500B — Review & Specs | Pricepect | Pricepect

Home Circular SawsCraftsman CMCS500B

Craftsman CMCS500B — image 1

Craftsman

Craftsman CMCS500B

Expert Review Analysis

The Craftsman V20 Cordless Circular Saw (CMCS500B) is a 6-1/2-inch bare tool designed for everyday cross and rip cuts in a compact, ergonomic form factor. It features a high-performance brushed motor running at 4,200 RPM and a tool-free beveling shoe that adjusts up to 50 degrees. This model is part of the V20 ecosystem, offering portability and value for DIYers, though it lacks the power and depth of larger 7-1/4-inch professional models.

✓ Best for: DIY homeowners, light remodelers, and value-minded emerging pros needing a compact cordless saw for cross/rip cuts in plywood, OSB, 2x4s, and tight spaces like trim work or furniture builds.✗ Not ideal for: Heavy framing projects, professional contractors requiring maximum cut depth, and users needing brushless motor efficiency for long-duration high-power tasks.

Pros

✓Lightweight and portable design makes it comfortable for extended use in tight spaces
✓Tool-free pivoting bevel shoe allows for quick angle adjustments up to 50 degrees
✓

Best Seller Rank History

Now#31Best#10Worst#128 +16

Lower = better sales rank

Specifications

Controls

Bevel Capacity0-50° degrees

Bevel Adjustment TypeTool-free

Features

Blade BrakeYes

Blade Change SystemQuick-change with included Allen wrench

Shoe MaterialMetal

Handle TypeContoured overmolded

System CompatibilityV20 Cordless System

General

BrandCraftsman

ManufacturerCRAFTSMAN

ModelCMCS500B

ColorMulticolor

Warranty3 Year Limited Warranty

Performance

No-load Speed4,200 RPM RPM

Blade Diameter6-1/2 inches mm

Arbor Size5/8 inches mm

Maximum Cut Depth @ 90°2 inches mm

Power

Voltage20V max (nominal 18V) V

Motor TypeBrushed

Motor

Motor TypeBrushed

Safety

Blade BrakeElectronic blade brake included

Arbor

Arbor Size5/8 inch (measured ~0.625-0.660 inches)

Dimensions & Weight

Height7.38 inches

Width8.63 inches

Depth14.25 inches

Weight7.55 Pounds

Research Sources

protoolreviews.com

Similar Products

SKIL 7-1/4 in. 24-Tooth Carbide Framing Circular Saw Blade, 10-Pack-75724-10

SKIL 7-1/4 in. 24-Tooth Carbide Framing Circular Saw Blade, 10-Pack-75724-10

Skil

SKIL 7-1/4" 24-Tooth Carbide Framing Circular Saw Blade 10-Pack for SKIL Circular Saws 5280-01/5180-01/5080-01-75924-10

SKIL 7-1/4" 24-Tooth Carbide Framing Circular Saw Blade 10-Pack for SKIL Circular Saws 5280-01/5180-01/5080-01-75924-10

Skil

DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw, Cordless Sidewinder Style Portable, 6-1/2-Inch Blade, 5150 RPM, 0-50 Degree Bevel Capability, Battery Not Included (DCS391B)

DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw, Cordless Sidewinder Style Portable, 6-1/2-Inch Blade, 5150 RPM, 0-50 Degree Bevel Capability, Battery Not Included (DCS391B)

DEWALT

DEWALT 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw, Lightweight, Corded (DWE575)

DEWALT 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw, Lightweight, Corded (DWE575)

DEWALT

Upgraded 19.2 Volt 3.6Ah Ni-MH Replacement Battery Compatible with Craftsman C3 DieHard 130279005 130279003 130279017 315.113753 315.115410 315.11485 1323903 1323517 Cordless Power Tools 2 Pack

Upgraded 19.2 Volt 3.6Ah Ni-MH Replacement Battery Compatible with Craftsman C3 DieHard 130279005 130279003 130279017 315.113753 315.115410 315.11485 1323903 1323517 Cordless Power Tools 2 Pack

GERIT BATT

Replacement for Craftsman 19.2V Battery DieHard C3 Compatible with Craftsman 19.2 Volt Battery 315.115410 315.11485 130279005 1323903 120235021 11375 Cordless Drills 2 Packs (3600, Milliamps)

Replacement for Craftsman 19.2V Battery DieHard C3 Compatible with Craftsman 19.2 Volt Battery 315.115410 315.11485 130279005 1323903 120235021 11375 Cordless Drills 2 Packs (3600, Milliamps)

Munikind

SKIL 16-5/16 In. Magnesium Worm Drive Skilsaw Circular Saw - SPT70V-11

SKIL 16-5/16 In. Magnesium Worm Drive Skilsaw Circular Saw - SPT70V-11

Skil

Worx WX530L Exactrack 20V 6-1/2" Circular Saw

Worx WX530L Exactrack 20V 6-1/2" Circular Saw

Worx

WORKPRO 80-Piece Sanding Disc Set，5-Inch 8-Hole Hook and Loop Sanding Discs, 60, 80, 100, 120, 180, 240, 320, 400 Grits Sandpaper for Random Orbital Sander(Not for Oscillating Tools or Mouse Sander)

WORKPRO 80-Piece Sanding Disc Set，5-Inch 8-Hole Hook and Loop Sanding Discs, 60, 80, 100, 120, 180, 240, 320, 400 Grits Sandpaper for Random Orbital Sander(Not for Oscillating Tools or Mouse Sander)

WORKPRO

Evolution Power Tools R185CCS 7-1/4" TCT Multi-Material Cutting Circular Saw, 7-1/4", Orange

Evolution Power Tools R185CCS 7-1/4" TCT Multi-Material Cutting Circular Saw, 7-1/4", Orange

EVOLUTION

CRAFTSMAN V20 Lithium Ion Battery, 4.0-Amp Hour (CMCB204)

CRAFTSMAN V20 Lithium Ion Battery, 4.0-Amp Hour (CMCB204)

CRAFTSMAN

HYCHIKA Mini Circular Saw, Compact with 3 Blades 4A Pure Copper Motor, Scale Ruler, 3-3/8”4500RPM Ideal for Wood, Soft Metal and Plastic Cuts

HYCHIKA Mini Circular Saw, Compact with 3 Blades 4A Pure Copper Motor, Scale Ruler, 3-3/8”4500RPM Ideal for Wood, Soft Metal and Plastic Cuts

HYCHIKA BETTER TOOLS FOR BETTER LIFE

GALAX PRO Mini Circular Saw, DC20V 4-1/2" Cordless Circular Saw with 2.0Ah battery, Laser Guide, Rip Guide, 2 Pcs Blades(24T+ 60T), 3400RPM, Max Cutting Depth 1-11/16"(90°), 1-1/8"(45°)

GALAX PRO Mini Circular Saw, DC20V 4-1/2" Cordless Circular Saw with 2.0Ah battery, Laser Guide, Rip Guide, 2 Pcs Blades(24T+ 60T), 3400RPM, Max Cutting Depth 1-11/16"(90°), 1-1/8"(45°)

GALAX PRO

CRAFTSMAN Random Orbit Sander, 3-Amp, Corded (CMEW231) (Renewed)

CRAFTSMAN Random Orbit Sander, 3-Amp, Corded (CMEW231) (Renewed)

CRAFTSMAN

CRAFTSMAN CMCD700C1R 20V Variable Speed Lithium-Ion 1/2 in. Cordless Drill Driver Kit (1.3 Ah) (Renewed)

CRAFTSMAN CMCD700C1R 20V Variable Speed Lithium-Ion 1/2 in. Cordless Drill Driver Kit (1.3 Ah) (Renewed)

CRAFTSMAN

Craftsman CMES510R 15 Amp 7-1/4 in. Corded Circular Saw (Renewed)

Craftsman CMES510R 15 Amp 7-1/4 in. Corded Circular Saw (Renewed)

CRAFTSMAN

Worx WX531L 20V WORXSAW 4.5" Cordless Compact Circular Saw

Worx WX531L 20V WORXSAW 4.5" Cordless Compact Circular Saw

WORX

DEWALT Random Orbit Sander, Variable Speed, 5-Inch (DWE6423)

DEWALT Random Orbit Sander, Variable Speed, 5-Inch (DWE6423)

DEWALT

HYCHIKA 6.2A Mini Circular Saw with 3 Blades (4-1/2”), Compact Hand Saw Max 1-7/8" Cutting Depth, 3500RPM, Rubber Handle & 10ft Cord for Wood, Metal, Plastic, Tile

HYCHIKA 6.2A Mini Circular Saw with 3 Blades (4-1/2”), Compact Hand Saw Max 1-7/8" Cutting Depth, 3500RPM, Rubber Handle & 10ft Cord for Wood, Metal, Plastic, Tile

HYCHIKA BETTER TOOLS FOR BETTER LIFE

9 Inch Table Saw Blade 2 Pack, 40T Carbide Tipped Circular Saw Blade 5/8" Arbor, Smooth & Clean Cut for Wood, Plywood, Table Saw & Miter Saw

9 Inch Table Saw Blade 2 Pack, 40T Carbide Tipped Circular Saw Blade 5/8" Arbor, Smooth & Clean Cut for Wood, Plywood, Table Saw & Miter Saw

Wadoy

Featured in Comparisons

Best Cordless Rip Saws for Portable Power

Best Cordless Rip Saws for Portable Power

roundup

User Reviews

Please sign in to leave a review

Sort by:

No reviews yet. Be the first to review!

4.6

(998 reviews)

$84.21

CMCS500BMulticolor6-1/2-in. 3 Year Limited Warranty

Circular Saws Rip Saws

High-performance motor delivers 4,200 RPM for precise angled cuts and everyday tasks

✓Excellent sightlines and blade guard design contribute to accurate and safe cutting

✓Compatible with the extensive V20 battery and accessory ecosystem for user convenience

✓Electronic blade brake stops the blade quickly after trigger release for enhanced safety

Cons

✗Brushed motor provides less power and shorter runtime compared to brushless upgrade models
✗Maximum cut depth of 2 inches is insufficient for thick materials like stacked 2x4s
✗Smaller 6-1/2-inch blade limits cutting capacity compared to standard 7-1/4-inch professional saws
✗Some users report that the blade guard can stick occasionally during operation
✗Battery is not included in the package, requiring separate purchase for immediate use
✗Blade changes may require tools despite the quick-change system description

From Expert Reviews

Praised by Experts

✓Lightweight bare tool design enhances portability and reduces user fatigue on jobsites
✓High RPM motor enables precise angled cuts up to 50 degrees for detailed work
✓Ergonomic build and cordless freedom provide comfort for everyday home improvement tasks
✓Tool-free adjustments and electronic brake offer value-driven features for homeowners

Criticized by Experts

✗Brushed motor technology results in significantly less power than brushless competitor models
✗Limited cut depth and smaller blade size make it unsuitable for heavy framing applications
✗Runtime is shorter compared to brushless alternatives due to motor type and efficiency
✗Performance lags behind upgraded models in power-to-weight tests for demanding materials

From User Reviews

Users Love

✓Lightweight portability allows for easy handling during renovations and furniture builds
✓Easy bevel adjustments simplify setup for various cutting angles without extra tools
✓Sufficient power handles common DIY cuts in 2x4s, plywood, and OSB efficiently
✓Reliable performance within the V20 battery ecosystem ensures compatibility with existing tools

Users Complain About

✗Shallow cut depth limits the ability to cut through thick lumber in a single pass
✗Battery life drains quickly on demanding jobs, necessitating spare batteries for efficiency
✗Blade guard mechanism can stick occasionally, interfering with smooth cutting operations
✗Requires separate purchase of batteries and charger, increasing initial setup cost

Expert Opinion

Professional reviewers praise the Craftsman CMCS500B for its surprising speed and lightweight design, noting its excellent sightlines and ergonomic build. However, experts consistently recommend it below pro-grade for heavy framing due to its brushed motor and limited cut depth. It is viewed as a value-driven tool for everyday tasks, with significant performance gaps compared to brushless upgrades like the CMCS551.

What Users Say

Everyday consumers appreciate the saw's lightweight portability, easy bevel adjustments, and sufficient power for DIY projects like renovations and trim work. Common praise highlights its reliability within the V20 ecosystem and good value for homeowners. Recurring complaints focus on the shallow cut depth limiting thick lumber work, fast battery drain on demanding jobs, and occasional sticking of the blade guard.

Common Complaints

Shallow cut depth limits thick lumber cutting. Battery life drains fast on demanding jobs. Blade guard can stick occasionally

How It Compares

vs. Craftsman CMCS550/CMCS551 (7-1/4", Brushless Upgrade)

Advantages

✓CMCS500B is more affordable and lighter for casual DIY use
✓CMCS500B has a simpler tool-free bevel shoe mechanism

Disadvantages

✗CMCS551 offers 75% more power and faster OSB rip speeds
✗CMCS551 has a larger 7-1/4-inch blade for greater cut depth
✗CMCS551 features a brushless motor for longer runtime and efficiency

Choose the CMCS500B for budget-conscious DIYers needing portability, but select the CMCS551 for professional framing and maximum power.

vs. Craftsman CMCS505 (6-1/2", Brushless)

Advantages

✓CMCS500B has a higher RPM (4,200 vs 2,800) for faster cutting speed
✓CMCS500B has a specified 50-degree bevel capacity

Disadvantages

✗CMCS505 features a brushless motor for better runtime and efficiency
✗CMCS505 is a brushless alternative offering longer battery life per charge

Choose the CMCS500B for higher RPM cutting speed, but select the CMCS505 for brushless efficiency and runtime.

Rating Trend

Rating4.6/ 5Reviews1,008+173 reviews +0.09