Circular saws are an essential tool for carpenters and even DIYs. Like all things in our life, we have to sit and think about our options before buying anything. This is why you need to consider your job requirements before deciding on whether to buy a corded or a cordless circular saw.
Scared and confused already? Do not be. In this article, we will read together about both types, and their pros and cons.
Corded Circular Saw Overview:
Corded circular saws are circular saws that operate by electricity. To use one of them, you must have an electric outlet near you, or else, the circular saw is nothing but a useless piece of metal.
The blades of corded circular saws are larger than those of cordless one; they usually are about 7.25 inches, while cordless ones have blades of 6.5 inches. It is needless to say that larger blades perform better. They can perform precise cuts in hard materials like thick timber and metals.
Moreover, corded circular saws are much more powerful than cordless ones, and can last for as long as you need them as long as they are connected to a power source. They are also versatile as they can cut through a variety of materials like metals, wood, plastic, and aluminium. They are designed to suit both left-handed and right-handed people.
However, corded circular saws have their drawbacks as well. One of the negative things about them is that they cannot be used anywhere. Before taking your corded circular saw with you to any job site, you have to make sure that there is a power source. Not only that, but you also need to be sure that the electrical outlet is at a suitable length from where you will be working; this appropriate length depends on the length of the cord. So, before buying a corded circular saw, pay close attention to the length of its cord.
Moreover, having a corded circular saw minimizes the safety at the job site. Think about it, the more cords on the floor at the job site, or in your garage, the more your chances of falling. Also, the cords may slow down your work progress since you will always need to fiddle around with long power cords, and they may get damaged or accidentally get cut causing you to pay extra money to get new ones.
Pros:
- High durability
- Withstand harsh conditions
- More efficient
- Consistent power output
- Faster
Cons:
- Less safe
- Cords may get damaged
- Needs electric output
- Limited mobility
Cordless Circular Saw Overview:
Cordless circular saws operate by Lithium. Unlike corded ones, they need batteries instead of electricity. Left-handed and right-handed people can also use them. The best thing about them is that they can operate anywhere you need. You just need to have some charged batteries with you, and you are good to go.
However, like batteries of mobile phones, batteries of circular saws get depleted by usage. Therefore, the cordless circular saw’s power outlet lessens over time, which means that it will not be performing with the same efficiency all the time. What is even worse is that it may stop working in the middle of a project. You always have to have extra batteries with you in case of such emergencies.
On the other hand, such circular saws are lightweight, easy to maneuver, and relatively quiet. They are very suitable for having them at your home in case you need to repair a door or a shelf without giving a headache to your whole neighbourhood.
Moreover, their lightweight and unlimited mobility enable you to use them in any place you want. While they are more suitable for light work, they, with the right blade, can still cut hard materials.
Like I said before, cords minimize safety; therefore, cordless circular saws provide you with more protection. Moreover, their cost is relatively reasonable, given that they usually come with a kit that has various tools, including one or two batteries.
Note that you should use a fast charger in order not to damage your battery or reduce its lifespan.
Pros:
- Mobile
- Portable
- Lightweight
- Easy and safe to use
- Work during blackouts
Cons:
- Not for heavy work
- Batteries may die out while working
Final Thoughts:
Choosing between buying a corded or a cordless circular saw entirely depends upon your needs and work requirements. For example, if you do not like to find your way through cords scattered on the floor, then steer away from the corded one. Moreover, if mobility and safety are a priority to you, then purchase a cordless circular saw.
On the other hand, if you do not want to keep charging batteries, then a corded circular saw will be right for you.
If your work requires all these features and you have enough money, why not buy both?