When it comes to cordless cutting power, Milwaukee circular saws are among the most trusted tools on the jobsite. Built on the M18 FUEL™ platform, these saws deliver corded performance with the freedom of cordless convenience. Whether you’re a carpenter, contractor, or DIY enthusiast, finding the best Milwaukee circular saw depends on your needs for blade size, cutting depth, weight, and power. This guide reviews the top models, compares features, and helps you choose the right saw for your toolkit.
Quick Picks: Best Milwaukee Circular Saws
- Best Overall: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2732-20 7-1/4″ Circular Saw – Powerful, cordless, and reliable for pros and serious DIYers.
- Best Compact: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2730-20 6-1/2″ Circular Saw – Lightweight and perfect for portability.
- Best Rear-Handle: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2830-20 Rear-Handle Circular Saw – Cordless power for framing and ripping.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Milwaukee Circular Saw
Before investing in a Milwaukee circular saw, consider these key features:
- Blade Size: 7-1/4″ saws are standard for framing and deep cuts, while 6-1/2″ models are lighter and more portable.
- Cutting Depth: Larger blades provide deeper cuts, essential for thicker lumber and framing jobs.
- Motor: FUEL™ models use brushless POWERSTATE™ motors for maximum efficiency and runtime.
- Ergonomics: Rear-handle saws mimic worm-drive style and provide more torque for ripping, while sidewinder saws are lighter and easier to handle.
- Batteries: M18 REDLITHIUM™ HIGH OUTPUT™ packs provide the longest runtime and maximum performance.
- Durability: Look for magnesium shoe plates, reinforced guards, and high-quality build materials for jobsite abuse.
Detailed Milwaukee Circular Saw Reviews
1. Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2732-20 7-1/4″ Circular Saw
Who It’s For: Professionals and DIYers who want a versatile, all-purpose circular saw.
- 5,800 RPM brushless motor
- 2-1/2″ cutting depth at 90°
- Magnesium shoe and guards for durability
Pros: Corded-level performance, deep cuts, excellent durability.
Cons: Heavier than smaller models.
Final Verdict: The best overall Milwaukee circular saw for power and versatility. Check Price
2. Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2730-20 6-1/2″ Circular Saw
Who It’s For: Users who prioritize lightweight portability for overhead or quick cuts.
- 5,000 RPM brushless motor
- 2-1/8″ cutting depth at 90°
- Compact and lightweight design
Pros: Lighter and easier to maneuver than 7-1/4″ models.
Cons: Shallower cut depth, not ideal for heavy framing.
Final Verdict: The best compact Milwaukee circular saw. See Price
3. Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2830-20 Rear-Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw
Who It’s For: Framers and contractors needing a powerful, cordless worm-drive style saw.
- 5,800 RPM brushless motor
- Maximum cut depth of 2-1/2″ at 90°
- All-magnesium construction for durability
Pros: High torque, rear-handle ergonomics, perfect for ripping lumber.
Cons: Heavier than sidewinder saws.
Final Verdict: The best Milwaukee circular saw for framing. Check Price
4. Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2731-20 7-1/4″ Circular Saw
Who It’s For: Contractors looking for a balance of power and weight.
- Brushless motor with 5,000 RPM
- 2-1/2″ cutting depth
- Lighter than the 2732 model
Pros: Lighter than other 7-1/4″ saws, good for general use.
Cons: Slightly less power than 2732-20.
Final Verdict: The best balance Milwaukee circular saw. See More
5. Milwaukee M12 FUEL 2530-20 5-3/8″ Circular Saw
Who It’s For: DIYers and light-duty users needing an ultra-compact cordless saw.
- 3,600 RPM brushless motor
- Cutting depth up to 2″ at 90°
- Lightweight, only 5.5 lbs with battery
Pros: Extremely portable, great for small projects.
Cons: Not for heavy-duty framing.
Final Verdict: The best Milwaukee circular saw for light work. Check Price
Comparison Table: Best Milwaukee Circular Saws
| Model | Blade Size | RPM | Cut Depth | Best For | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2732-20 | 7-1/4″ | 5,800 | 2-1/2″ | Best Overall | View Price |
| 2730-20 | 6-1/2″ | 5,000 | 2-1/8″ | Best Compact | Check Price |
| 2830-20 | 7-1/4″ | 5,800 | 2-1/2″ | Best Rear-Handle | See Price |
| 2731-20 | 7-1/4″ | 5,000 | 2-1/2″ | Balanced Use | View Price |
| 2530-20 | 5-3/8″ | 3,600 | 2″ | Light-Duty DIY | Check Price |
FAQ
What’s the most powerful Milwaukee circular saw?
The M18 FUEL 2830-20 Rear-Handle and 2732-20 7-1/4″ models deliver the highest torque and cutting power.
Can Milwaukee circular saws replace corded saws?
Yes, M18 FUEL models provide corded-level performance, making them suitable for pro framing and construction jobs.
Are Milwaukee circular saws brushless?
All M18 FUEL circular saws feature brushless POWERSTATE™ motors for maximum runtime and durability.
Which Milwaukee circular saw is best for homeowners?
The M12 FUEL 2530-20 is perfect for light-duty DIY projects, while the M18 2730-20 is great for general home use.
Do Milwaukee circular saws come with batteries?
Most are sold as bare tools, but kits with batteries and chargers are available.
Conclusion
The best Milwaukee circular saw depends on your needs. For all-around power and performance, the M18 FUEL 2732-20 is the top choice. If you need a lightweight, compact option, the M18 FUEL 2730-20 delivers excellent portability. For professional framing and ripping, the M18 FUEL 2830-20 Rear-Handle Saw is unbeatable. And for DIYers, the M12 FUEL 2530-20 offers maximum convenience in a small package. No matter which you choose, Milwaukee circular saws deliver reliability and power you can count on.
Shop Milwaukee circular saws today and get pro-level cutting performance in your hands.