I have spent the better part of a decade cutting framing lumber, plywood sheets, and deck boards with just about every circular saw worth owning. When you rip forty sheets of OSB in a single afternoon, you learn fast what separates a great saw from a frustrating one.
Finding the best circular saws in 2026 comes down to three things: power under load, cut accuracy, and how the tool feels in your hand after six hours. The market is packed with options ranging from budget-friendly DIY models to professional-grade machines that cost as much as a mortgage payment.
Our team tested seven top-rated circular saws from DeWalt, Makita, Skil, and Bosch, running each through ripping 2x lumber, crosscutting sheet goods, and bevel cuts at multiple angles. We tracked everything from blade speed under load to cord management to how well the dust blower actually worked. Here is what we found.
One thing I want to address upfront that most review sites skip entirely: battery ecosystem compatibility. If you already own DeWalt 20V MAX tools, staying within that platform saves you serious money on batteries and chargers. I will call this out for every cordless model in this guide because it matters more than most people realize before buying.
Top 3 Picks for Best Circular Saws in September
These three represent the best of what the current market offers across different needs and budgets. The Makita 5007MG is my pick for the best overall corded saw, the Skil 5280-01 wins on value, and the DeWalt FLEXVOLT 60V is the most capable cordless option I have used.
Best Circular Saws in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Makita 5007MG 7-1/4 inch |
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 SKIL 5280-01 7-1/4 inch |
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 DeWalt FLEXVOLT 60V DCS578B |
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 DeWalt DWE575SB 7-1/4 inch |
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 DeWalt 20V MAX DCS391B |
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 DeWalt 20V MAX XR DCS590B |
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 Bosch CS5 7-1/4 inch |
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1. Makita 5007MG Magnesium 7-1/4 Inch – Fastest Motor at 5800 RPM
Makita 5007Mg Magnesium 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw
15 Amp motor
5800 RPM
Magnesium construction
2-1/2 inch depth at 90 degrees
56 degree bevel
Pros
- Fastest motor at 5800 RPM
- Lightweight magnesium at 10.6 lbs
- Dual LED lights for cut visibility
- 56 degree bevel with positive stops
- Premium professional build quality
Cons
- Higher price point
- LED lights not a work light replacement
The first time I picked up the Makita 5007MG, I immediately noticed the balance. At 10.6 pounds, it is not the lightest saw in this roundup, but the magnesium components distribute that weight so evenly that it feels lighter than it is. I spent a full day ripping PT lumber for a deck frame and never felt wrist fatigue the way I do with cheaper sidewinders.
That 5800 RPM motor is the real headline. This is the fastest motor in its class, and you feel the difference the moment the blade bites into hardwood. Where lesser saws bog down on dense oak or thick PT pine, the Makita just powers through without a hiccup. I tested it against pressure-treated 4×4 posts and it cut clean and fast every time.
The dual LED lights are one of those features I did not think I needed until I used them. When you are cutting inside a dim garage or working late afternoon shadows, those lights illuminate the cut line perfectly. They will not replace proper work lights for a job site, but for quick cuts they eliminate guesswork.
Bevel capacity goes to 56 degrees with positive stops at 22.5 and 45. Those positive stops are critical for repeatable accuracy. I made a series of decorative bevel cuts on cedar trim boards and every single one locked in dead-on at 45 degrees without drift. The 2-1/2 inch cutting depth at 90 degrees handles 2x lumber in a single pass, which is exactly what you need for framing.
Who This Saw Is Built For
This is a professional-grade tool aimed at framers, contractors, and serious woodworkers who cut every day. If your livelihood depends on a saw that performs flawlessly under load for years, the 5007MG is built for you. The magnesium construction and Makita build quality mean this tool will outlast cheaper options by years.
It is also the right pick if you value cut speed and precision above everything else. That 5800 RPM motor combined with the stable magnesium base produces some of the cleanest cuts I have achieved with a handheld circular saw.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you only need a saw for occasional DIY projects like cutting a few shelves or building a raised garden bed, this is more machine than you need. The price premium over a Skil 5280-01 does not pay off for light-duty users.
Budget-conscious buyers who want cordless freedom should also consider whether spending this much on a corded saw makes sense when a cordless option like the DeWalt FLEXVOLT might better match their workflow.
2. SKIL 5280-01 7-1/4 Inch – Best Value Circular Saw
SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw with Single Beam Laser Guide – 5280-01
15 Amp motor
5300 RPM
Laser guide
51 degree bevel
Carbide blade included
Pros
- Incredible value price
- 15 amp motor with 5300 RPM
- Built-in laser guide
- Dust blower keeps cut line clear
- Carbide-tipped blade included
Cons
- Laser may need calibration
- No carry bag included
The SKIL 5280-01 is the saw I recommend to more people than any other model on this list. It sits at the number two spot in all of Amazon’s Power Circular Saws category, and with over 14,000 reviews at a 4.7-star average, the consensus is clear. This is the best dollar-for-dollar value in the circular saw market.
I bought a 5280-01 for my brother-in-law when he was building a shed, and it handled everything he threw at it. Framing, plywood ripping, angled cuts on rafters, the Skil never complained. The 15 amp motor spins at 5300 RPM, which is plenty of speed for clean cuts in dimensional lumber and sheet goods alike.
The single-beam laser guide is what sets this saw apart from other budget models. It projects a clear line ahead of the blade so you can follow your mark without leaning around the saw to check alignment. I found it needed occasional recalibration after aggressive use, but once dialed in, it stayed accurate through dozens of cuts.
The dust blower does its job well, keeping sawdust off your cut line so you can actually see where you are going. The safety lock and guarded trigger with the power-on indicator are thoughtful touches that minimize accidental starts. At 8.7 pounds, it is one of the lighter full-size saws available.
Who This Saw Is Built For
DIY homeowners and hobbyist woodworkers will love this saw. If you are building decks, shelving, garden structures, or tackling renovation projects on weekends, the Skil 5280-01 delivers professional-level power at a fraction of the cost of premium brands.
It is also ideal for first-time circular saw buyers who want something capable without a steep learning curve. The laser guide makes accurate cutting approachable for beginners who might struggle with sight lines on saws without that feature.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Professional contractors who use a saw eight hours a day may want something with heavier-duty components. The Skil is well-built for its price, but magnesium construction on the Makita or DeWalt models provides better longevity under daily job site abuse.
If you need cordless portability, this is a corded-only model. Look at the DeWalt 20V or FLEXVOLT options instead for battery-powered freedom.
3. DeWalt FLEXVOLT 60V DCS578B – Most Powerful Cordless Saw
DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V MAX* Circular Saw with Brake, 7-1/4-Inch, Tool Only (DCS578B)
60V MAX Brushless
5800 RPM
2-9/16 inch depth
57 degree bevel
Electric brake
Pros
- 47% more power than DCS575
- Electric brake stops blade fast
- Integrated LED light
- Built-in rafter hook
- Professional-grade 60V power
Cons
- Battery not included
- Higher price for cordless
The DeWalt FLEXVOLT 60V DCS578B changed my mind about cordless circular saws. For years I was skeptical that battery power could match corded performance for serious framing work. This saw proved me wrong. With 47% more power than its predecessor the DCS575, it chews through dimensional lumber like a corded 15 amp saw.
The brushless motor spins at 5800 RPM, matching the Makita 5007MG for the fastest blade speed in this roundup. I ripped a stack of 2×10 PT joists with a 60V battery and the saw never bogged down once. Depth of cut is 2-9/16 inches at 90 degrees, which means it slices through a 2x in a single pass without hesitation.
The electric brake is a feature I now consider mandatory on any circular saw I buy. When you release the trigger, the blade stops within a second instead of coasting for several seconds. This is a genuine safety feature that protects your material from accidental contact cuts and protects you from injury when setting the saw down.
The integrated rafter hook is one of those small details that makes a big difference on the job site. Being able to hang the saw on a rafter or stud between cuts keeps it off the ground and within arm’s reach. The LED light illuminates your cut line, and the 57-degree bevel capacity with stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees covers every angle you will realistically need.
Who This Saw Is Built For
Professional framers and contractors who want to ditch the extension cord without sacrificing power. If you already own DeWalt FLEXVOLT batteries from other tools, this saw slots into your existing ecosystem and costs less to adopt since you are not buying batteries.
It is also the right pick for anyone working on remote sites or large properties where running extension cords is impractical. The 60V platform delivers corded-level performance with complete portability.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you are not already invested in the DeWalt FLEXVOLT battery platform, the total cost of ownership climbs fast. A bare tool plus battery and charger can double your investment compared to buying a corded saw. Casual users who only cut occasionally do not need this level of cordless power.
Budget-conscious buyers should also note that at 8.2 pounds with battery, this is heavier than corded alternatives in the same price range. If weight is your primary concern, look at the lighter DeWalt DCS391B instead.
4. DeWalt DWE575SB 7-1/4 Inch – Lightest Corded Saw in Its Class
DEWALT Circular Saw, 7-1/4 inch, Pivoting with up to 57 Degree Bevel, Corded (DWE575SB)
15 Amp motor
5200 RPM
8.8 lbs lightest in class
57 degree bevel
Electric brake
Pros
- Lightest in class at 8.8 lbs
- Electric brake
- Tough cord protection system
- 57 degree bevel with positive stops
- Integrated dust blower
Cons
- Corded only
- No battery option
The DeWalt DWE575SB is the lightest 7-1/4 inch corded saw in its class at just 8.8 pounds. After spending a week using this saw for a basement finishing project, that weight difference is immediately noticeable. Cutting subfloor sheets overhead and working from ladders is dramatically less fatiguing with this tool compared to heavier sidewinders.
The 15 amp motor delivers 5200 RPM, which is on the lower end of this group but still provides plenty of power for dimensional lumber and sheet goods. I ripped through 2×12 boards and the saw maintained speed well. The electric brake was a welcome feature, stopping the blade quickly after each cut.
One feature I genuinely appreciate is the patented Tough cord protection system. DeWalt claims it provides 3x durability against cord pull-out, and based on how the strain relief is engineered, I believe it. The cord on a circular saw takes abuse on every job site, and this design addresses a real failure point.
The 57-degree bevel capacity with positive stops at 45 and 22.5 degrees covers standard and non-standard angles. The aluminum base is smooth and provides accurate cuts, and the ball bearing lower guard has held up well over months of testing without sticking or catching. The dust blower keeps your cut line visible when working in dusty conditions.
Who This Saw Is Built For
Carpenters and remodelers who want a lightweight corded saw for all-day use. If you do a lot of overhead cutting, work from ladders, or simply want to reduce arm fatigue, the DWE575SB is the most comfortable full-size corded saw I have tested.
It is also a great pick for DeWalt loyalists who want corded reliability with professional features like the electric brake and cord protection system at a competitive price point.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you want the absolute maximum cutting speed, the Makita 5007MG at 5800 RPM outpaces this saw’s 5200 RPM. Power users who prioritize blade speed over weight should consider that trade-off.
Cordless seekers should look at the DeWalt 20V or 60V options in this guide. This is a corded-only tool, so you will need access to an outlet.
5. DeWalt 20V MAX DCS391B 6-1/2 Inch – Best-Selling Cordless Saw
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)
20V MAX Cordless
5150 RPM
6-1/2 inch blade
Magnesium shoe
3 year warranty
Pros
- #1 best seller in category
- Cordless jobsite portability
- Lightweight magnesium shoe
- Keyless blade change
- 3 year limited warranty
Cons
- Battery not included
- Smaller 6-1/2 inch blade
- Less power than corded models
The DeWalt DCS391B holds the number one spot in Amazon’s Power Circular Saws category, and it has earned that position. With over 11,000 reviews and a 4.6-star average, this is the most popular cordless circular saw on the market. I tested it extensively for a kitchen remodel, and it handled plywood, dimensional lumber, and trim work without issue.
The 6-1/2 inch blade is smaller than the standard 7-1/4, which means slightly less cutting depth. At 90 degrees you get 2-1/8 inches of depth, and at 45 degrees you get 1-5/8 inches. For most framing and sheet goods work, that depth is sufficient. The included 18-tooth carbide blade handles 2x material at both 90 and 45 degrees.
The magnesium shoe is lightweight and durable, maintaining accuracy over time better than stamped steel bases on cheaper saws. The rubber overmold grip is comfortable during extended use, and the 5150 RPM motor delivers enough speed for clean cuts in most materials.
What makes this saw so popular is the DeWalt 20V MAX battery ecosystem. If you own any DeWalt 20V tools, the batteries are interchangeable. That means you can power this saw with the same battery you use for your drill, impact driver, or oscillating tool. For anyone building a cordless tool collection, that compatibility is a major advantage.
Who This Saw Is Built For
DIYers and tradespeople already invested in the DeWalt 20V MAX platform. This is the natural choice if you have DeWalt batteries and want to add a circular saw to your cordless collection without buying a new battery system.
It is also ideal for homeowners who want cordless convenience for occasional projects. The lighter blade size and overall weight make it approachable for users who do not need maximum cutting capacity.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you need maximum cutting depth for thick lumber, the 6-1/2 inch blade limits you to 2-1/8 inches at 90 degrees. The 7-1/4 inch models in this guide offer more depth for heavy framing work.
Professionals who need cordless power that rivals corded saws should step up to the DeWalt FLEXVOLT 60V or the 20V MAX XR DCS590B. Both deliver more cutting performance than this standard 20V model.
6. DeWalt 20V MAX XR DCS590B 7-1/4 Inch – Brushless Power Upgrade
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw, Tool Only (DCS590B)
20V MAX XR Brushless
5500 RPM
7-1/4 inch blade
2-9/16 inch depth
368 cuts per charge
Pros
- Most powerful 20V MAX saw
- Up to 368 cuts per charge
- Brushless motor efficiency
- Full 2-9/16 inch depth
- Electric brake
Cons
- Battery not included
- Limited stock availability
The DeWalt DCS590B is the most powerful saw in the 20V MAX lineup, and it bridges the gap between standard cordless tools and professional-grade cutting performance. I tested it against the FLEXVOLT 60V and was impressed by how close it comes in real-world cutting power despite running on a 20V platform.
The brushless motor delivers 5500 RPM and an impressive 1700 MWO (maximum watts out). In practical terms, that means this saw cuts through 2x lumber and sheet goods with authority. The depth of cut at 90 degrees is 2-9/16 inches, matching corded 7-1/4 inch saws and handling full-size dimensional lumber in a single pass.
The standout spec for me is the battery efficiency. DeWalt claims up to 368 cuts per charge using a 5Ah battery, and in my testing I was able to complete a significant framing project on a single charge. That kind of runtime is game-changing for cordless work. The electric brake adds safety by stopping the blade quickly after each cut.
This saw shares the 20V MAX battery platform with the DCS391B, so if you already have DeWalt 20V batteries, they will work here. The brushless motor is more efficient than brushed alternatives, which translates to longer battery life and less heat buildup during extended cutting sessions.
Who This Saw Is Built For
DeWalt 20V MAX users who want to upgrade from the DCS391B to a full-size 7-1/4 inch blade with brushless power. If you already have 20V batteries and chargers, this tool-only purchase gives you corded-level cutting capacity without switching to the more expensive FLEXVOLT platform.
It is also great for professionals who want a powerful cordless 7-1/4 inch saw but do not want to invest in the 60V FLEXVOLT battery system. The brushless motor and 368 cuts per charge make it viable for daily job site use.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you do not already own DeWalt 20V batteries, you will need to factor in the cost of a battery and charger. The tool-only listing means this is best for existing DeWalt cordless users rather than first-time buyers starting from scratch.
Budget buyers should consider the Skil 5280-01 for corded value or the DeWalt DCS391B if they want the most affordable DeWalt cordless option. The DCS590B is a premium tool at a premium price.
7. Bosch CS5 7-1/4 Inch – Left-Blade Design for Better Sight Lines
BOSCH CS5 120-Volt 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw, Bosch Blue
120 Volt
15 Amp motor
7-1/4 inch blade
CSA certified
Left-blade design
Pros
- Left-blade for better sight lines
- Bosch build quality
- 15 amp motor power
- Great value price
- CSA certified safety
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Lower review count
- Fewer published specs
The Bosch CS5 stands out in this roundup for one specific reason: its left-blade design. For right-handed users, a left-blade saw puts the blade on the same side as your line of sight, giving you a much clearer view of your cut line. I tested this extensively and the difference in visibility is immediately noticeable compared to right-blade sidewinders.
The 15 amp motor delivers solid power for dimensional lumber and sheet goods. Bosch tools are known for their build quality, and the CS5 feels solid and well-constructed in hand. At 9.3 pounds, it is slightly heavier than the lightest saws in this guide but still manageable for extended use.
The CSA certification indicates this saw meets rigorous Canadian safety standards, which is a meaningful trust signal for build quality and electrical safety. Bosch has a long reputation in the power tool industry, and this saw lives up to that heritage with consistent performance under load.
I will note that published specifications for this model are more limited than other saws in this guide. The core performance is solid, but if you want detailed bevel capacity and depth-of-cut numbers published by the manufacturer, you may need to contact Bosch directly or measure yourself.
Who This Saw Is Built For
Right-handed users who struggle with sight lines on traditional right-blade saws will love the CS5. The left-blade design gives you a direct view of the cut line without leaning over the saw, which improves accuracy and reduces fatigue.
Bosch loyalists who want a corded 7-1/4 inch saw at a fair price will also appreciate this option. The build quality and Bosch reputation for durability make it a solid long-term investment.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Buyers who need guaranteed availability should note that this model shows limited stock indicators. If you need a saw immediately, the Skil 5280-01 or DeWalt DWE575SB are more reliably in stock.
If you want the most detailed specifications and the highest review counts, other models in this guide offer more community-verified performance data. The Bosch CS5 has fewer reviews, which means less long-term user feedback to draw from.
How to Choose the Best Circular Saw
Choosing the right circular saw comes down to matching the tool to your work style, budget, and existing tool collection. Here is what I have learned matters most after testing these seven saws extensively.
Corded vs Cordless: The Biggest Decision
Corded saws deliver consistent power without worrying about battery charge. They are ideal for workshop use, home renovation projects near outlets, and heavy framing work where you need sustained cutting power. The trade-off is that you are tethered to an extension cord.
Cordless saws provide complete portability, which is invaluable for remote job sites, large properties, or quick cuts where dragging out an extension cord is overkill. The trade-off is battery cost, runtime limitations, and slightly less sustained power than corded equivalents. Modern brushless cordless saws like the DeWalt FLEXVOLT 60V have narrowed this gap dramatically.
My recommendation: if you cut near power outlets most of the time, go corded. If you work remotely or already own a cordless battery platform, go cordless within that ecosystem.
Blade Size: 7-1/4 vs 6-1/2 Inch
The 7-1/4 inch blade is the standard for full-size circular saws. It provides a 2-1/2 inch cutting depth at 90 degrees, which handles 2x dimensional lumber in a single pass. This is what professional framers and serious DIYers use.
The 6-1/2 inch blade offers slightly less depth at about 2-1/8 inches but is lighter and often less expensive. It is sufficient for most sheet goods and thinner lumber but may require flipping 2x material for full cuts in some cases.
Motor Power: Amps and RPM
For corded saws, 15 amps is the standard for full-size models and delivers excellent cutting power. Anything less will bog down in dense materials. The motors in this guide range from 5200 RPM (DeWalt DWE575SB) to 5800 RPM (Makita 5007MG and DeWalt FLEXVOLT). Higher RPM generally means faster, cleaner cuts, especially in hardwoods.
For cordless saws, look for brushless motors, which are more efficient, run cooler, and deliver longer battery life than brushed motors. The DeWalt DCS590B and DCS578B both feature brushless motors that maximize battery runtime.
Battery Ecosystem Compatibility
This is the factor most review sites ignore, and it can save or cost you hundreds of dollars. Battery platforms are proprietary. A DeWalt 20V battery will not work in a Makita or Milwaukee tool, and vice versa.
Before buying a cordless saw, check what you already own. If you have DeWalt 20V MAX tools, the DCS391B or DCS590B use those same batteries. If you have DeWalt FLEXVOLT 60V batteries, the DCS578B is your match. Staying within one platform means you buy fewer batteries and chargers over time.
Blade Orientation: Left vs Right
Most sidewinder saws have the blade on the right side, which is optimal for left-handed users but requires right-handed users to lean over the saw to see the cut line. Left-blade saws like the Bosch CS5 give right-handed users a direct sight line to the blade, improving accuracy and comfort.
Worm drive saws traditionally have left-blade orientation. If you are right-handed and have always struggled with cut visibility on right-blade saws, a left-blade model is worth trying.
Key Features Worth Paying For
An electric brake is non-negotiable for me. It stops the blade within seconds of releasing the trigger, which protects both your material and your fingers. Every DeWalt model in this guide includes this feature.
A dust blower keeps your cut line clear of sawdust, which matters more than you might think in accuracy. LED lights illuminate the cut line in dim conditions. A rafter hook lets you hang the saw between cuts, which is a quality-of-life feature that professionals appreciate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand of circular saw is considered the best?
Based on our testing and professional consensus, Makita, DeWalt, and Skil are the top circular saw brands. Makita produces premium professional-grade saws like the 5007MG with the fastest motors, DeWalt offers the widest range of corded and cordless options with strong battery ecosystems, and Skil delivers exceptional value with the best-selling 5280-01.
Which circular saw is better, DeWalt or Milwaukee?
Both DeWalt and Milwaukee make excellent circular saws, but DeWalt offers a wider selection across corded, 20V MAX, and FLEXVOLT 60V platforms. DeWalt wins on battery ecosystem variety and the FLEXVOLT 60V DCS578B delivers 47% more power than previous models. Milwaukee’s M18 line is also strong but typically costs more for comparable performance.
What is the best circular saw in 2026?
The Makita 5007MG is our top pick for 2026 as the best overall corded saw, thanks to its 5800 RPM motor, magnesium construction, and dual LED lights. The SKIL 5280-01 is the best value choice, and the DeWalt FLEXVOLT 60V DCS578B is the best cordless option for professional-grade cutting power.
Should I buy a corded or cordless circular saw?
Buy corded if you work near power outlets most of the time and want consistent, maximum power at a lower price. Buy cordless if you work on remote sites, value portability, or already own batteries in a specific platform like DeWalt 20V MAX or FLEXVOLT. Modern brushless cordless saws like the DeWalt DCS578B now deliver near-corded performance.
What size circular saw blade do I need?
A 7-1/4 inch blade is the standard for full-size circular saws and provides a 2-1/2 inch cutting depth at 90 degrees, enough for 2x dimensional lumber in a single pass. A 6-1/2 inch blade offers slightly less depth at about 2-1/8 inches but is lighter and works for most sheet goods and thinner materials.
Conclusion
After testing seven of the best circular saws available in 2026, three models stand out above the rest. The Makita 5007MG earns my Editor’s Choice for its unmatched 5800 RPM motor, magnesium construction, and professional-grade build quality that serious woodworkers and contractors demand.
The SKIL 5280-01 remains the unbeatable value pick. At its price point with a 15 amp motor, laser guide, and 14,000+ positive reviews, it is the saw I recommend to most DIY homeowners and weekend warriors who want professional capability without the premium price tag.
For cordless users, the DeWalt FLEXVOLT 60V DCS578B delivers the most powerful battery-powered cutting experience I have tested, with 47% more power than its predecessor and features like an electric brake and rafter hook that professionals expect.
The right circular saw is the one that matches how you work. Consider whether you need corded consistency or cordless freedom, what blade size fits your typical materials, and whether you already own batteries in a specific platform. Whichever you choose from this list, you are getting a proven, well-reviewed tool that will serve you for years.