SKIL 5280-01
Score: 78/100
Ryobi P505
Score: 74/100Rankings
The Skil 5280-01 is a lightweight, budget-friendly corded circular saw featuring a single-beam laser guide for precision cutting. It offers a 15-amp motor and dust blower, making it a powerful yet portable option for DIYers and light professionals. However, its plastic construction limits its suitability for heavy-duty daily use.
The Ryobi P505 is a compact, 18V ONE+ cordless 5-1/2-inch circular saw designed for DIY homeowners and light trade users. It features a carbide-tipped thin kerf blade capable of cutting through 2x lumber in a single pass at a depth of 1-9/16 inches. It is best suited for users needing portability and ecosystem compatibility for weekend projects.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
7.25 inchesbest | 5.5 inches | |
2.438 inchesbest | 1.563 inches | |
5,300 RPMbest | 4,700 RPM | |
51 degreesbest | 50 degrees | |
120 Vbest | 18 V | |
| ↓ lower better | 8.7 lbs | 5.3 lbsbest |
15 Abest | — | |
0.625 inchesbest | 0.375 inches |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Motor(4) | ||
Power Source | Corded | Cordless |
Voltage (V) | 120 V | 18 V |
Amperage (A) | 15 A | null A |
Motor Type | Brushed | Brushless |
Performance & Cutting(5) | ||
Blade Diameter (inches) | 7.25 inches | 5.5 inches |
Cutting Depth at 90 Degrees (inches) | 2.4375 inches | 1.5625 inches |
No-Load Speed (RPM) | 5300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Bevel Capacity (degrees) | 51 degrees | 50 degrees |
Arbor Size (inches) | 0.625 inches | 0.375 inches |
General & Warranty(1) | ||
Warranty Length (years) | 1 years | 3 years |
Design & Ergonomics(2) | ||
Weight (lbs) | 8.7 lbs | 5.3 lbs |
Handle Type | Standard | Rubberized |
Features & Accessories(2) | ||
Dust Collection | true | false |
Laser Guide | true | false |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers and editors praise the Skil SKIL 5280-01 for delivering power and accuracy that rival higher-priced models, identifying it as a top budget pick that offers pro-level cuts for DIYers.
Everyday users commonly praise the laser guide for enabling straight, precise cuts, making the tool particularly beginner-friendly. However, some users report that the weight feels heavier during extended use and note that the basic plastic components do not match the longevity of metal parts on premium saws.
Professional reviewers praise the Ryobi P505 for its budget-friendly portability and reliability in light-to-medium DIY tasks. The 4,600-4,700 RPM motor is noted for delivering fast, clean cuts through 2x lumber, rivaling many corded tools. Reviewers recommend the P505 or similar older models to save money over newer variants like the PCL500B, as performance differences are negligible.
Everyday consumers appreciate the Ryobi P505 for its ease of use in home repairs, workshops, and tear-down builds. Users frequently praise the compact 5-1/2 inch blade for its maneuverability in tight spaces and the smooth operation of bevel cuts up to 50 degrees. The seamless integration with the Ryobi 18V battery system is a major highlight.
“really straight line”
“laser guided thing”
“Compact and lightweight for easy handling in tight spaces”
