
Ryobi
The Ryobi 18V ONE+ 5-1/2" Circular Saw (model PCL500B) is a compact, cordless tool designed for light-to-medium DIY tasks, featuring a brushed motor and compatibility with all Ryobi 18V ONE+ batteries. It offers a no-load speed of 4,700 RPM and a depth of cut of 1-11/16 inches, allowing it to slice through 2x4 lumber and plywood effectively. While it provides excellent runtime with over 215 cuts per charge, it is best suited for homeowners and beginners rather than professional contractors requiring heavy-duty performance.
Pros
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Cons
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Praised by Experts
Criticized by Experts
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Expert Opinion
Professional reviewers praise the PCL500B for its surprising power relative to its compact size, noting that it can handle 2x4 posts and hardwood with clean cuts. Manufacturer and retailer data emphasize its efficiency, highlighting over 215 cuts per charge and a 4,700 RPM speed. YouTube testers and editors view it as a solid, brushed-motor addition to the ecosystem, valuing its easy assembly, safety features, and viability for DIY projects, though they acknowledge it is not a professional-grade tool.
What Users Say
Everyday consumers commonly praise the tool's portability, impressive battery life, and ability to cut 2x4s and plywood cleanly. Recurring themes in user feedback include fast cutting speeds and the versatility offered by the bevel function. However, recurring complaints focus on the limited depth for larger lumber, a feeling of being underpowered for heavy use compared to larger models, and significant dust generation without an extraction port.
Common Complaints
Limited depth for larger lumber, feeling underpowered for heavy prolonged use compared to 6-1/2 inch models, and generating noticeable dust without an extraction port.
What People Are Saying
“might seem like a toy, but... can handle 2x4 post and cut through hardwood”
“Fast cutting”
“greater cut variety”
How It Compares
vs. Ryobi PCL400B (4-1/2")
Advantages
Disadvantages
Choose the PCL500B for general 2x4 and plywood work; choose the PCL400B for lighter trim and 1x material tasks.
vs. Ryobi P507 (6-1/2")
Advantages
Disadvantages
Choose the PCL500B for portability and DIY tasks; choose the P507 for corded-like power and deeper cuts.
vs. Ryobi PBLCS300B (HP 7-1/4")
Advantages
Disadvantages
Choose the PCL500B for budget-friendly DIY portability; choose the PBLCS300B for pro-level depth and speed.
vs. Ryobi PSBCS01 (HP Compact 6-1/2")
Advantages
Disadvantages
Choose the PCL500B for entry-level ONE+ compatibility; choose the PSBCS01 for premium compact performance.