Top 5 Circular Saw Brands Trusted by DIYers in the UK (2024)

Circular saws in the UK are one of the most popular power tools in the UK. However, research suggests, your trusty circular saw needs to be more than just a spinning piece of metal. It needs to be an extension of your skills, and a tool that delivers clean cuts and precise angles. Whether it's building a deck or making custom shelves, a reliable circular saw is important.

In this DIY-loving nation, we Brits know choosing the right circular saw brand is crucial. It's not just about horsepower; it's about quality, performance, and a brand that stands behind its tools. There is a DIY boom in the UK and many users now want the latest innovations and technology such as brushless motors and longer lasting batteries.

In this article, I will show you the top 5 circular saw brands that dominate the UK market, and analyse their strengths, weaknesses, focusing on factors like quality, performance, warranty, and customer service. These factors will help you to choose the perfect circular saw for your needs.

1. Makita

Makita needs no introduction to UK DIYers. They have a 60-year legacy in the UK market, and their brand has earned a reputation for unwavering quality, cutting-edge innovation, and an unrivaled range of circular saws.

Their cordless saws boast powerful brushless motors that deliver precise cuts with ease, even in the toughest materials. Makita takes pride in its durability, ensuring your circular saw becomes a trusted companion for years to come. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a weekend warrior, their extensive product line offers the perfect tool for every need.

Makita HS7601J/2 240V 190mm Circular Saw

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Popular models like the Makita DHS680Z cordless circular saw and the Makita HS7611J/2 corded circular saw are great examples of Makita's commitment to delivering professional-grade performance. Users do rave about their smooth operation, user-friendly features, and impressive cutting depth.

Strengths:

Makita are a dominant force in the UK market
They have specific technologies such as their Auto-Start Wireless System or their AVT anti-vibration technology, which sets them apart from the rest.
Their saws come with a 1 year factory warranty which you can extend to 3 years by registering your new saw online at their website.
Excellent UK customer service. They can be contacted by phone, email or from their contact page.

Weaknesses:

You will pay top prices for top quality saws.
Pricing can be a barrier to entry for many people working on a tighter budget.
Their circular saws include many features which may be overwhelming for beginners.
All Makita tools are designed for professional trade people, and serious DIYers. For beginners or those working on smaller projects, they are over designed.

2. Bosch

Bosch also needs no introduction in the world of power tools. In the UK market, their presence is associated with German engineering excellence, with a legacy of over 130 years. When it comes to circular saws, Bosch prioritises precision, laser-sharp accuracy, and user-friendliness that empowers the DIYer in everyone.

Bosch also ensure robustness and longevity. Their saws are built to last, featuring high-quality materials and top notch construction. This dedication to quality comes at a cost, though. Compared to some budget options, Bosch saws can be slightly pricier.

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You should know that Bosch have two main lines of tools:

Bosch Home and Garden - designed for home use and are cheaper to buy than their professional range.
Bosch Professional - designed for professional trades and offer unmatched performance. These may feel overwhelming for occasional DIYers who simply need a basic saw for light-duty tasks.

Overall, Bosch circular saws are an ideal choice for craftsmen and avid DIY enthusiasts who value precision, user-friendliness, and long-lasting performance. If you're willing to invest in a tool that can improve your project range Bosch is definitely worth a closer look.

Their saws are renowned for their design and ergonomic features, making them a joy to handle even for beginners. Take the Bosch Professional 18V System GKS 18V-57 cordless circular saw, for example, with its lightweight form and clever laser cutline guide, delivering impeccable straight cuts without breaking a sweat. The PKS 55 corded circular saw is a great choice for most DIYers.

Strengths:

Bosch make a wide range of tools in the UK market
They have specific technologies such as their Constant Response technology or their Dust Extraction System.
Bosch DIY and garden tools have a warranty of 2 years from the date of purchase. Bosch Professional have a 1 year warranty which can be extended to 3 years when you register at their website.
Excellent UK customer service. They can be contacted by phone, email or from their contact page.

Weaknesses:

Their circular saws sit in the medium price point range
Pricing can be a barrier to entry for many people working on a tighter budget.
With two ranges available, picking the right saw can be more difficult for serios DIYers
They have a wide range of saws and picking the right model can get confusing for those who don't fully know what features they need when starting out.

3. DeWalt

DeWalt is a name synonymous with powerful tools that deliver unwavering performance. In the UK power tool scene, their circular saws are known for their ruggedness and unwavering reliability, tackling even the most demanding projects with ease.

DeWalt doesn't compromise. Their saws boast premium materials, robust construction, and innovative features designed to maximize efficiency and precision. On the downside, along with Makita and Milwaukee, are at the highest price points for power tools, including circular saws.

DEWALT DCS391N-XJ XR 165 mm Circular Saw

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Overall, DeWalt remains a top choice for trade professionals and DIY enthusiasts who demand the best. If you're looking for a circular saw that's built to last a lifetime and can handle anything you throw at it, DeWalt is an investment that will pay dividends in the long run.

They cater to the serious DIYer and professional craftsman, offering a range of saws built to withstand industrial-grade workloads. Take the DCS391N cordless circular saw, for example, a beast packing a brushless motor and extended cutting depth, ready to rip through tough lumber with ease. The corded DeWalt DWE560-GB is a classic workhorse, renowned for its laser-guided accuracy and rock-solid stability.

Strengths:

Bosch make a wide range of tools in the UK market
They have specific technologies such as their Constant Response technology or their Dust Extraction System.
Bosch DIY and garden tools have a warranty of 2 years from the date of purchase. Bosch Professional have a 1 year warranty which can be extended to 3 years when you register at their website.
Excellent UK customer service. They can be contacted by phone, email or from their contact page.

Weaknesses:

Their circular saws sit in the high price point range
Pricing can be a barrier to entry for many people working on a tighter budget.
With two ranges available, picking the right saw can be more difficult for serious DIYers
They have a wide range of saws and picking the right model can get confusing for those who don't fully know what features they need when starting out.

4. Metabo

There are many brands that cater to general woodworking, Metabo however, carves its own niche in the UK market as the undisputed champion of metalworking and heavy-duty circular saws. Their saws have uncompromising quality, quality construction, and a lifespan that outlasts your toughest projects.

Metabo isn't really about flashy features or lightweight designs. Their saws are German engineering personified, made using premium materials and have a robust build quality.

They do have some wood-cutting models, but their strength lies in metalworking. If your primary focus is on lighter woodwork, other brands might offer better value and versatility.

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Overall, for serious metalworkers, construction professionals, and anyone demanding a circular saw that's built to conquer the toughest materials, Metabo does stand alone. It's an investment in unmatched durability, precision, and a tool that will become a trusted partner for years to come.

They offer a range of saws built to withstand industrial-grade workloads. Take the Metabo HPT Cordless Circular Saw cordless circular saw, for example, which has a brushless motor and a cutting depth up to 2-19/32-in. The corded Metabo HPT C7SB3 Circular Saw is a popular choice for many buyers.

Strengths:

Metabo are a well known German brand who have a wide range of tools in the UK market
They have specific technologies such as their Metabo S-automatic safety clutch or their dust extraction systems designed for metalwork.
Metabo provides a manufacturer's guarantee on its products, starting with the date of purchase of the end consumer for a total period of 3 years. You can claim this warranty extension by registering your Metabo product online at www.metabo-service.com no later than four weeks after purchase
Excellent UK customer service. They can be contacted by phone, email or from their contact page.

Weaknesses:

Their circular saws sit in the medium to high price point range depending on the model you choose
Metabo make power tools for professionals and although you can use them for DIY, they may be more expensive than you need.
They have around 8 corded circular saws which are fairly similar and getting the exact one for your needs can take some research.
They have around 5 cordless circulars saws available so choices will be limited.

5. Evolution Tools

In the UK circular saw market, Evolution Tools carves a distinct niche with its unwavering focus on delivering outstanding value for money. They understand that DIYers crave versatile tools that perform well without breaking the bank, and their saws answer that call really well.

But Evolution doesn't just excel in versatility; they also prioritise longevity. Their saws are built to last, featuring robust construction and reliable components that stand up to daily use. This commitment to value and durability is evident in their 3-year warranty, offering peace of mind alongside powerful performance.

Evolution Power Tools - Build Multi-Material Circular Saw

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Evolution saws have multi-material cutting capabilities, ensuring you're equipped to tackle wood, metal, plastic, and even composite materials with one handy tool. Take the Power Tools F165CCSL, for example, a champion of versatility that conquers diverse materials with ease thanks to its powerful motor and included TCT blade. Or consider the Build Multi-Material Circular Saw and Track (Combination Pack), a value-packed combo that offers precise cuts and added control thanks to its included guide track.

Strengths:

Perfect for budget-conscious DIYers and homeowners seeking a reliable, multi-material circular saw that won't drain their wallet,
They have specific technologies such as their quick-release blade change system and their multi-material blades and tracking.
All Evolution single circular blade saws are covered with 3 years limited warranty. (This warranty does not cover blades & accessories).
They are a UK company with very good customer service. They can be contacted by phone, email or from their contact page.

Weaknesses:

They might not match the professional-grade precision or raw power of some high-end brands
Some Evolution models have smaller blade sizes compared to high-end brands, impacting the maximum cutting depth and limiting some project applications
Compared to premium options, Evolution saws might lack advanced features like laser guides, bevel detents, or dust extraction systems.
Some models might have limited compatibility with non-Evolution branded blades, reducing customisation options for specific materials.

Top 5 Brand Comparison Table

Feature	Makita	Bosch	Dewalt	Metabo	Evolution
Price Range	High	Mid-range to High	High	High	Low to Medium
Target Audience	Professionals & DIY Enthusiasts	DIYers & Professionals	Professionals & Enthusiasts	Metalworkers & Professionals	DIYers & Weekend Warriors and some Trades
Strengths	Innovation, Durability, Wide Product Range	Precision, User-friendliness, Accuracy	Power, Performance, Ruggedness	Metalworking Expertise, Long Lifespan	Affordability, User-friendliness
Weaknesses	Higher Price Point, Can be Overwhelming for Beginners	Bulkier Models, Focus on Professional Grade	Higher Price Point, Weighty Saws	Limited Wood-Cutting Options, Expensive	Entry-level Power & Features
Popular Models	Makita DHS680Z, Makita HS7611J/2	Bosch Professional 18V System GKS 18V-57, Bosch PKS 55	DeWalt DCS391N, DeWalt DWE560-GB	Metabo C18DBALQ4, Metabo HPT C7SB3	Evolution F165CCSL, Evolution R185CCSX
Key Features	Brushless Motors, Auto-Start Wireless System, AVT Anti-Vibration	Laser Cutline Guide, Constant Response Technology, Dust Extraction System	FlexVolt Battery System, XPS Shadow Cutline Technology, Dual-Bevel Capability	S-automatic Safety Clutch, Metabo Quick, Dust Extraction Systems Designed for Metal	Easy change blades, multi-material blades
Warranty	3 years	3 years	3 years	3 years	3 years

Each brand brings its own versions, from Makita's innovative options to Bosch's precision choices. It is primarily a question of finding the fight saw with the important features and match that to what money you are willing to spend.

For professional contractors or seasoned DIY enthusiasts, brands like Makita, DeWalt, and Metabo offer the robust power and technical finesse to tackle demanding projects. Think intricate bevel cuts with Bosch, or raw muscle with DeWalt, all backed by the longevity and warranty confidence these brands inspire.

But for first-time DIYers or budget-conscious buyers, affordability and user-friendliness take centre stage. Evolution's approachable options and multi-material versatility offer a solid choice without breaking the bank. Remember, a well-maintained, entry-level saw can still create beautiful projects.

Take your time, research, and compare features. Do you prioritise precise angles or brute force? Are cordless models worth the extra money? By understanding your needs and budget, you can choose the brand that helps you match your requirements.

Remember, there's no single "best" brand - it's about finding the perfect harmony between your needs and the tools available. This article aimed to provide you with the knowledge to meet your needs.

Bonus Section

While our top 5 covered a substantial chunk of the UK circular saw market, there are some other brands worth mentioning on the side-lines. Each brings a unique offering to the table, catering to specific needs and budgets.

Festool: For German precision and high-end dust extraction systems, Festool reigns supreme, however these are at a premium price point.
Hikoki (Hitachi): Formerly Hitachi, Hikoki is synonymous with reliable, powerful, and affordable saws, perfect for value-conscious DIYers.
Einhell: On the budget end, Einhell offers lightweight and easy-to-use options for beginner enthusiasts, though build quality and power might be limitations.
Hychika, Enventor and Wesco also offer cheaper options for anyone on a tight budget.

Remember, your perfect circular saw match depends on your budget, needs, and experience. Explore these additional brands and compare them to our top 5 to find the ideal tool for your next DIY adventure!

About the Author

Enda

With 50 years experience my expertise is in the use of tools for DIY and other projects around the home and garden. I research anything relating to tools to provide accurate and up to date information.

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