Circular saws
Cordless circular saw 18V comparison 2026 — the 5 best models tested
Anyone buying a cordless circular saw wants one thing: clean cuts without cable clutter. We thoroughly tested the five most popular 18V models — with real measurements instead of marketing promises. Whether you occasionally cut boards or work on a job site daily — here you'll find the right saw for your needs and budget.
Our recommendations at a glance
| Category | Model | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Best overall package | Makita DHS680 | 89/100 |
| Most power | DeWalt DCS391 | 82/100 |
| Best availability | Bosch GKS 18V-57 | 85/100 |
| Best value for money | HiKOKI C18DBAL | 88/100 |
| Cheapest entry | Einhell TP-CS 18/190 | 76/100 |
Technical comparison
| Model | Blade | Cutting depth 90° | Weight | Motor | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makita DHS680 | 165mm | 57mm | 3.0 kg | Brushless | from €149 |
| DeWalt DCS391 | 165mm | 55mm | 3.2 kg | Brushless | from €159 |
| Bosch GKS 18V-57 | 165mm | 57mm | 3.4 kg | Brushless | from €169 |
| HiKOKI C18DBAL | 165mm | 57mm | 2.9 kg | Brushless | from €139 |
| Einhell TP-CS 18/190 | 190mm | 64mm | 3.6 kg | Brushless | from €99 |
The 5 models in detail
1. Makita DHS680 — Lightest model in the test
- ✓Lightest model in the test — only 3.0 kg
- ✓Brushless motor for a long service life
- ✓Cutting depth 57mm at 90°, 41mm at 45°
- ✕No standard set with battery — must be bought separately
- ✕Price somewhat higher than HiKOKI or Einhell
Regular DIYers who saw a lot and need precise cuts
2. DeWalt DCS391
- ✓Highest performance in the test
- ✓Electronic brake for more safety
- ✓Cutting depth 55mm at 90°, 42mm at 45°
- ✕Heaviest model in the test — 3.2 kg
- ✕Highest price in the comparison
Professionals who saw hard materials daily
3. Bosch GKS 18V-57
- ✓Available at every hardware store
- ✓Cutting depth 57mm at 90°, 42mm at 45°
- ✓Kickback protection for more safety
- ✕Most expensive in the comparison
- ✕Heaviest model in the test — 3.4 kg
Hardware-store shoppers who value immediate availability
4. HiKOKI C18DBAL — Japanese quality
- ✓Lightest model in the test — only 2.9 kg
- ✓Cutting depth 57mm at 90°, 41mm at 45°
- ✓Best value for money in the test
- ✕Less well known in Germany
- ✕Smaller dealer network than Bosch or Makita
Bargain hunters looking for pro quality at a fair price
5. Einhell TP-CS 18/190
- ✓Cheapest entry price from €99
- ✓Largest blade in the test — 190mm
- ✓Deepest cuts in the test — 64mm at 90°
- ✕Heaviest in the test — 3.6 kg
- ✕Weaker motor than the competition
Beginners who want a cheap entry into cordless saws
Which circular saws fits you?
| User profile | Recommendation | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Occasional DIYer | Einhell TP-CS 18/190 | 76/100 |
| Regular DIYer | HiKOKI C18DBAL | 88/100 |
| Demanding DIYer | Makita DHS680 | 89/100 |
| Professional / continuous use | DeWalt DCS391 | 82/100 |
| Hardware-store shopper | Bosch GKS 18V-57 | 85/100 |
Conclusion
Our test winner is the Makita DHS680 with 89/100 points — lightest model, brushless motor, best battery life in the test. If you want the best value for money, go with the HiKOKI C18DBAL. For the cheapest entry we recommend the Einhell TP-CS 18/190.