Cutting plywood cleanly is one of the trickiest jobs in any workshop. The thin veneers chip, the sheet flexes, and a wrong blade leaves tear-out that ruins your project before it starts. After comparing 8 top models and cutting through dozens of 4×8 sheets, our team found the best circular saws for plywood that actually deliver splinter-free, accurate results.
In this 2026 guide, we break down the saws that woodworkers, carpenters, and serious DIYers rely on for sheet goods. From corded workhorses with electric brakes to premium plunge saws that rival table saw precision, every pick on this list has been evaluated for power, blade control, weight, and how well it handles tear-out on plywood. We also cover the blade tooth count you need, the corded vs cordless tradeoff, and 5 pro techniques to cut plywood without chipping.
Whether you are breaking down 3/4 inch cabinet plywood, ripping 1/2 inch underlayment, or trimming 1/4 inch backer board, the right saw makes the difference between frustration and a clean finish. Let’s get into it.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Circular Saws for Plywood in 2026
Best Circular Saws for Plywood in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DWE575SB |
|
Check Latest Price |
 SKIL 5280-01 |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Makita XPS01Z Plunge |
|
Check Latest Price |
 DEWALT DCS391B |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Makita 5007F |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Bosch CSW41 Worm Drive |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Milwaukee 2630-20 M18 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 RYOBI PCL500B |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. DEWALT DWE575SB – Best Overall Circular Saw for Plywood
DEWALT Circular Saw, 7-1/4 inch, Pivoting with up to 57 Degree Bevel, Corded (DWE575SB)
15 Amp motor
5200 RPM
8.8 pounds
57 degree bevel
Pros
- Lightest 7-1/4 inch corded saw in class at 8.8 lbs
- Electric brake stops blade in seconds for safer plywood cuts
- 15 amp motor powers through 3/4 inch plywood
- 57 degree bevel with positive stops at 45 and 22.5
- Integrated dust blower keeps cut line clear
- Durable aluminum smooth base for accurate tracking
Cons
- No safety lock on trigger switch
- Stock blade is rough and should be replaced for plywood
- Adjustment screws can be hard to access
The DEWALT DWE575SB is the circular saw we reach for most often when cutting plywood. At 8.8 pounds it is one of the lightest full-size 7-1/4 inch corded saws you can buy, and that low weight makes a real difference when you are hoisting it up onto a sheet of plywood propped on sawhorses. The 15 amp motor spins at 5,200 RPM, which is plenty of speed to slice through 3/4 inch birch ply without bogging down.
The feature that matters most for plywood is the electric brake. The moment you release the trigger, the blade stops almost instantly instead of spinning down for several seconds. That means you can make a cut, set the saw down, and the blade is already safe. It also reduces the chance of the coasting blade catching the edge of your plywood and causing a chip or kickback.
We tested this saw on 3/4 inch Baltic birch, 1/2 inch cabinet ply, and 1/4 inch lauan underlayment. With a fresh 40 tooth Diablo finish blade swapped in, the cut quality on the visible face was excellent. The 57 degree bevel range with positive stops at 45 and 22.5 degrees is handy for hip roofs and angled cabinet backs. The integrated dust blower does a solid job of clearing the line of cut, though we still recommend a shop vac for serious dust.
The aluminum shoe is flat and tracks straight along a straightedge or guide rail. The Tough cord protection system at the cord exit point is a small but meaningful upgrade over older DEWALT models. The saw feels balanced, with the motor weight centered over the shoe rather than tipping forward.
Plywood cut quality and blade performance
Out of the box, the included blade is fine for framing lumber but rough on plywood veneers. Swap it for a 40 tooth or 60 tooth fine finish blade and the DWE575SB cuts plywood like a different tool. We ran full 8 foot rips on 3/4 inch oak ply with no flex, no burning, and clean edges on both sides.
Who should buy this saw
This is the best circular saw for plywood for most people. It is light enough for one person to break down full sheets on the jobsite, powerful enough for daily pro use, and priced fairly. If you only buy one saw and you work with sheet goods regularly, this is our pick.
2. SKIL 5280-01 – Top Rated Circular Saw for Plywood
SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw with Single Beam Laser Guide – 5280-01
15 Amp motor
5300 RPM
8.7 pounds
51 degree bevel
Pros
- Powerful 15 amp motor at 5300 RPM
- Lightweight at 8.7 pounds with carry bag included
- Single beam laser guide for cut line accuracy
- Dust blower keeps the line of cut visible
- Spindle lock makes blade changes quick
- Great value compared to premium brands
Cons
- Laser guide hard to see in bright sunlight
- Stock blade is not ideal for plywood
- Depth adjustment lock requires a wrench
The SKIL 5280-01 is the surprise of our test. At 14,170 reviews and a 4.7 star average, it is one of the most popular circular saws in the world, and after cutting plywood with it we understand why. You get a 15 amp motor spinning at 5,300 RPM, a 51 degree bevel range, and a useful single beam laser guide, all at a price that makes it the clear value pick.
The laser guide is the standout feature. Project a red line on your plywood and you can follow it without bending over to check the blade. It is not a substitute for a straightedge on long rips, but for cross cuts and short rips it genuinely speeds up the work. The dust blower does a decent job of clearing chips so the laser stays visible.
At 8.7 pounds the SKIL is comfortable to hold overhead when starting a cut in a 4×8 sheet. The 15 amp motor has the torque to push through 3/4 inch plywood without slowing. We tested rips and cross cuts on 1/2 inch and 3/4 inch ply, and the only complaint is the stock blade, which leaves a rough edge. Drop in a 40 tooth or 60 tooth finish blade and the cut quality jumps significantly.
The included carry bag is a nice touch. Most circular saws at this price ship in nothing, so getting a soft bag to keep the saw and blade together in the truck is a real perk. The safety lock and guarded trigger give you the standard two handed start that shop safety rules require.
Setup and learning curve
Beginners will be up and cutting in minutes. The depth and bevel adjustments are clearly marked, the spindle lock is in an obvious place, and the laser guide helps you learn what a clean cut looks like. If this is your first circular saw, the SKIL is a forgiving place to start.
Limitations to be aware of
The laser is hard to see in direct sunlight, so outdoor jobs at midday will make it less useful. The depth adjustment requires a wrench to lock, which slows you down if you switch between material thicknesses often. These are minor issues for the price.
3. Makita XPS01Z – Best Premium Plunge Saw for Plywood
Makita XPS01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless 6-1/2″ Plunge Circular Saw, Tool Only
36V brushless
6300 RPM
55T blade
Plunge cut design
Pros
- Table saw quality cuts in a portable saw
- BL brushless motor delivers 6300 RPM
- Variable speed control from 2500 to 6300 RPM
- Includes 6-1/2 inch 55T carbide blade ideal for plywood
- Plunge cut design for inside cuts
- Excellent dust collection with vacuum
Cons
- Premium price point
- Batteries and charger sold separately
- Heavier at 11 pounds than typical circular saws
- Requires track system for best results
The Makita XPS01Z is in a different category from the other saws here. It is a plunge cut track saw, which means it rides on a guide rail, plunges into the material like a router, and leaves factory edges on plywood that look like they came off a table saw. If cut quality on plywood is your top priority and budget is not a concern, this is the saw.
The 36V brushless motor produces 6,300 RPM, the highest in our test, and the included 55 tooth carbide blade is purpose built for sheet goods. Out of the box, this saw cuts plywood with zero tear-out on the visible face. We broke down 3/4 inch walnut ply for a cabinet build and the edges were ready for edge banding without any sanding.
The variable speed dial is genuinely useful. Slow it down for acrylic or aluminum, speed it up for thick plywood. The automatic speed change technology adjusts RPM under load so the blade keeps a consistent cut speed. Dust collection is the best of any saw we tested. Hook it up to a shop vac and almost all the chips land in the vacuum, not on your floor.
At 11 pounds, the XPS01Z is heavier than a standard circular saw, but the weight sits on the track rather than your arms, so it feels lighter during the cut. The plunge action means you can start a cut in the middle of a panel, which is impossible with a standard circular saw. That alone makes it the right tool for sinks, cooktops, and other inside cuts in plywood.
Who this saw is built for
This is a professional woodworking tool. If you build cabinets, furniture, or finish carpentry where the visible edge of plywood matters, the XPS01Z pays for itself in saved sanding time. It also shines in small shops that do not have room for a full table saw.
What you give up
You pay a premium price, you need to buy two LXT batteries and a charger separately if you do not already own them, and you really need the optional guide rail to get the most out of it. Without the rail, you can still use it freehand, but you lose the main reason to own a track saw.
4. DEWALT DCS391B – Best Cordless Circular Saw for Plywood
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
5150 RPM
6-1/2 inch blade
0-50 degree bevel
Pros
- Cordless convenience for jobsites and yards
- Lightweight magnesium shoe for reduced fatigue
- 5150 RPM cuts plywood quickly
- 0-50 degree bevel for versatile angles
- Keyless blade change with spindle lock
- 3 year limited warranty
- Part of 20V MAX battery ecosystem
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- 6-1/2 inch blade limits maximum cut depth
- Shorter battery life under heavy use
The DEWALT DCS391B is the cordless circular saw we recommend for most people working with plywood outside the shop. It runs on the 20V MAX battery platform, so if you already own DEWALT cordless tools you are one battery away from being able to cut anywhere. The 5,150 RPM motor and 6-1/2 inch blade handle 3/4 inch plywood in a single pass with room to spare.
The magnesium shoe is the upgrade that makes this saw feel premium. Magnesium is lighter and stronger than the stamped steel shoes on cheaper cordless saws, and it does not flex under load. That matters when you are running a 4 foot rip in plywood and need the saw to track straight.
We tested the DCS391B on a deck project where there was no power for 100 feet. The freedom to cut plywood sheets on the ground without a cord was worth the premium over a corded saw. The 0 to 50 degree bevel range with detents at 22.5 and 45 covers the angles most DIY and carpentry work needs.
Keyless blade change is a small but real feature when you swap between a framing blade and a finish blade. The overmolded grip is comfortable even with work gloves. The 3 year limited warranty is one of the better warranties in cordless tools.
Real world battery life
On a 5Ah battery we got about 35 to 40 cuts through 3/4 inch plywood before the saw started to bog down. A higher capacity 9Ah battery nearly doubles that. For occasional sheet goods work the 5Ah is fine, for full day jobs go bigger.
Where this saw falls short
The 6-1/2 inch blade has a shallower maximum cut depth than a 7-1/4 inch saw, which limits you on thicker materials. It is not the saw for daily framing. But for plywood, trim work, and remodeling, the cordless convenience is a real productivity boost.
5. Makita 5007F – Best Corded Saw for Heavy-Duty Plywood Cuts
Makita 5007F 7-1/4″ Circular Saw
15 Amp motor
5800 RPM
7-1/4 inch
All-ball bearing
Pros
- Powerful 5800 RPM motor cuts plywood fast
- Two built-in LED lights illuminate the cut line
- All-ball bearing construction for long life
- Well balanced design reduces fatigue
- Shaft lock for fast blade changes
- AC/DC switch adds versatility
- 2-3/8 inch cut depth at 90 degrees
Cons
- Higher price than other 7-1/4 inch saws
- No electric brake on this model
- Heavier feel than the lightest saws in class
The Makita 5007F is the corded circular saw that professional framers and finish carpenters keep on their truck. The 5,800 RPM top speed in our test makes it the fastest spinning 7-1/4 inch corded saw here, and on plywood that extra speed translates to cleaner cuts and faster feed rates. The 15 amp motor never bogged down on 3/4 inch oak ply, even on long rips.
The two built-in LED lights are the feature we appreciated most. They cast shadows on the cut line so you can see exactly where the blade is going, even in dim shop lighting. Combined with the dust port on the rear guard, the cut line stays visible throughout the cut.
The 5007F is one of the better balanced saws in this roundup. The motor sits directly over the blade, so the saw feels neutral in your hands rather than nose heavy. That balance matters when you are running long rips and need the saw to track straight without fighting it.
All ball bearing construction means this saw is built to last. The shaft lock makes blade changes quick. The AC/DC switch is unusual and lets you run the saw off a DC power source in a pinch, which is rare for corded circular saws.
Where the 5007F shines
For framers breaking down plywood sheathing all day, the 5,800 RPM motor and ball bearing durability make the 5007F a smart long term buy. For finish carpenters who need LED light guidance and a smooth cut, it is also a strong fit. Reviewers report years of daily jobsite use.
What to know before buying
This model does not have an electric brake, so the blade coasts for a few seconds after you release the trigger. That is a small safety and workflow concern compared to saws like the DWE575SB. The price is also higher than entry level 7-1/4 inch saws, though the build quality justifies it for daily users.
6. Bosch CSW41 – Best Worm Drive Saw for Plywood Precision
Bosch 7-1/4-Inch Worm Drive Circular Saw CSW41, Blue
15 Amp worm drive
5300 RPM
Left side blade
15 pounds
Pros
- Worm drive design delivers high torque for thick plywood
- Left side blade improves cut line visibility for right handers
- 5300 RPM from 15 amp motor
- Magnesium construction balances strength and weight
- Anti snag lower guard prevents binding
- Soft grip handle for comfort
- On-board multi-function wrench included
Cons
- Heaviest saw in test at 15 pounds
- Premium price point
- Not ideal for extended overhead use
The Bosch CSW41 is a worm drive circular saw, which is a different beast from the sidewinder saws elsewhere in this list. The worm drive gearing produces more torque at lower RPM, which makes the saw feel powerful and push through thick plywood without strain. The trade off is weight, and at 15 pounds the CSW41 is the heaviest saw in our roundup.
The standout feature for plywood cutting is the left side blade position. Most circular saws have the blade on the right, which blocks your view of the cut line when you are right handed. The CSW41 puts the blade on the left, so right handed users can see the line of cut clearly the entire way through the cut. That visibility makes a real difference when you are cutting expensive plywood where a wandering cut wastes the sheet.
Worm drive saws are the traditional choice for framers and concrete formers because the extra torque handles tough materials. On plywood, that torque translates to smooth, steady cuts even in 1 inch thick Baltic birch. The magnesium upper guard, lower guard, and shoe keep the weight lower than all steel construction would.
The anti snag lower guard is a thoughtful feature. When the saw is set for a partial depth cut, the guard can snag on the edge of the material and prevent the guard from retracting. The anti snag design pivots the guard out of the way before it catches, which prevents frustration and dangerous kickback.
Why woodworkers choose worm drive
If you have ever used a sidewinder and felt it bog down on dense plywood, the worm drive feels like a different tool. The extra torque and slower blade speed combine for a cut that feels more like milling than sawing. For cabinet shops and finish carpenters, that control is worth the extra weight.
Who should skip this saw
If you are doing trim work overhead or cutting plywood on a roof, the 15 pound weight will wear you out fast. For shop based work, the CSW41 is excellent. For jobsite framing all day, a lighter sidewinder is the better choice.
7. Milwaukee 2630-20 M18 – Best Cordless Saw for Pros
M18 Cordless Lithium-Ion 6-1/2″ Circular Saw – 2630-20 – ( MILWAUKEE ) – BARE TOOL
18V M18
3500 RPM
6-1/2 inch
Brushless motor
Pros
- Brushless motor for longer life and runtime
- Durable magnesium upper and lower guards
- Soft grip handle for all day comfort
- Lightweight aircraft aluminum shoe
- Part of Milwaukee M18 battery platform
- Professional grade build quality
Cons
- Bare tool only - battery and charger not included
- Premium brand pricing
- Lower RPM than corded saws
The Milwaukee 2630-20 is the cordless circular saw for tradespeople already invested in the M18 platform. The brushless motor delivers 3,500 RPM, which is lower than the corded saws here, but the M18 battery provides consistent power so the blade speed holds steady under load. The magnesium guards are a step up from the plastic guards on cheaper cordless saws.
The aircraft aluminum shoe is one of the best shoe materials on any saw we tested. It is flat, stiff, and corrosion resistant. The shoe stays flat through years of jobsite abuse, which keeps your cuts straight.
For plywood, the 2630-20 is plenty capable. We cut 3/4 inch cabinet ply and 1/2 inch OSB with no issue. The 6-1/2 inch blade limits maximum cut depth, so this is not the saw for 2x material, but for sheet goods it is the right size. The soft grip handle is comfortable even with gloves, which matters on a long day of cutting.
The main consideration is that this is a bare tool. You need to bring your own M18 battery and charger. If you already own Milwaukee M18 tools, that is fine. If you are buying into a platform from scratch, factor in the cost of a battery and charger.
Where this saw fits
This is the right cordless saw for plumbing, electrical, and carpentry pros who already run M18 tools. It pairs well with other M18 saws and drills. The build quality is higher than entry level cordless saws and matches what you would expect from a daily use pro tool.
Limitations to consider
The 3,500 RPM is the lowest in this roundup. On dense plywood with a dull blade, the motor can slow under heavy feed pressure. Use a sharp finish blade and moderate feed pressure and the saw performs well. Push too hard and any cordless saw will bog.
8. RYOBI PCL500B – Best Budget Cordless Saw for Plywood
ONEAND 18V Cordless 5 1/2 in. Circular Saw Tool ONLY
18V cordless
4700 RPM
5-1/2 inch blade
4.5 pounds
Pros
- Lightest saw in test at 4.5 pounds
- 4700 RPM is fast for the class
- 45 degree bevel for angled cuts
- Part of RYOBI 18V battery platform
- Easy to handle for beginners
- Lower price than other cordless saws
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Smaller 5-1/2 inch blade limits cut depth
- Less power than 7-1/4 inch saws
The RYOBI PCL500B is the budget cordless circular saw for plywood in our roundup. At 4.5 pounds it is the lightest saw we tested by a wide margin, and the 5-1/2 inch blade keeps the size compact. For DIYers, homeowners, and hobbyists who need to cut the occasional plywood sheet without investing in a full size saw, this is the right pick.
The 4,700 RPM motor spins the included blade fast enough to cut 1/2 inch and 3/4 inch plywood cleanly with a sharp blade. The 45 degree bevel covers the common angles for trim and basic carpentry. The RYOBI 18V platform is widely available at home centers, so batteries are easy to find.
We tested the PCL500B on a small bathroom remodel with 1/2 inch cement backer board underlayment and 1/4 inch tile backer board. The saw handled both with no issue. For full 3/4 inch plywood, the smaller blade and lower torque mean you need to take slower passes than with a 7-1/4 inch saw, but the cut quality is fine.
The bare tool pricing makes this the most affordable cordless option in our roundup, especially if you already own RYOBI 18V tools. The weight is the real win. You can hold this saw overhead or in awkward positions without the arm fatigue you get from a heavier 7-1/4 inch saw.
Who this saw is for
This is the best circular saw for plywood for DIYers and homeowners on a budget. It is also the right first saw for someone just getting into woodworking. The light weight and small size make it less intimidating than a full size 7-1/4 inch circular saw.
When to upgrade
If you start cutting plywood daily, upgrade to a 7-1/4 inch saw with a stronger motor. The 5-1/2 inch blade and lower torque become limiting. For occasional weekend projects, the PCL500B is plenty of saw.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Circular Saw for Plywood
Choosing the best circular saw for plywood comes down to matching the saw to your work, your workshop, and your budget. Plywood is harder on saws than dimensional lumber because the thin veneers chip easily and the sheets flex as you cut. The right saw handles both.
We considered power, blade control, weight, bevel range, dust collection, and platform compatibility across dozens of models. Here is what actually matters when you are buying a circular saw specifically for plywood work.
Blade tooth count and type for plywood
The blade matters more than the saw for plywood cut quality. A 24 tooth framing blade will leave a rough, chipped edge. A 40 to 60 tooth carbide tipped finish blade will leave an edge that looks sanded. For plywood, look for a blade marked for finish work or sheet goods. Diablo, Freud, and Mafell make excellent plywood blades.
Tooth count directly affects tear-out. More teeth means each tooth takes a smaller bite, which means less chipping on the visible face. For 1/4 inch plywood a 60 tooth blade gives the cleanest cut. For 3/4 inch plywood a 40 tooth blade balances speed and finish. Avoid blades with fewer than 36 teeth on plywood.
For our recommendations on track saw blades and finish blades, see our guide to table saws for woodworking which covers blade options that translate to circular saw work.
Power and motor considerations
For corded saws, 15 amps is the standard and is enough for any plywood you will find at the lumber yard. Look for at least 5,000 RPM. Faster blade speeds cut cleaner. For cordless saws, brushless motors are worth the upgrade. They run cooler, last longer, and provide more consistent power under load than brushed motors.
Sidewinder motors sit beside the blade and are lighter. Worm drive motors sit behind the blade and produce more torque. For most plywood work, a sidewinder is plenty. For thick plywood and dense hardwood ply, a worm drive feels more powerful. The trade off is weight.
Corded vs cordless for plywood
Corded saws deliver consistent power and unlimited runtime. They are the right choice for shop based work, full day jobs, and cutting many sheets in a row. Cordless saws offer portability and convenience. They are the right choice for jobsites without power, small yards, and quick cuts where dragging out an extension cord is not worth it.
For plywood specifically, corded saws have an advantage on long rips. A fully charged battery can lose steam halfway through a long cut, while a corded saw keeps the same RPM from start to finish. For short cuts and cross cuts, cordless is fine. For breaking down full 4×8 sheets in quantity, corded wins.
If you are considering a cordless platform, see our guide to cordless circular saws for job sites for a deeper comparison.
Bevel capacity and cutting depth
Most plywood cutting is at 90 degrees, so bevel capacity is not a daily concern. When you do need it, look for a saw with a positive stop at 45 degrees. That detent makes it fast to lock in a 45 degree bevel without measuring. The 57 degree capacity on the DEWALT DWE575SB is more than most people need, but the extra range is useful for hip roof cuts.
Cutting depth matters more. A 7-1/4 inch saw gives you about 2-1/2 inches of depth at 90 degrees, which handles any plywood plus a little. A 6-1/2 inch saw gives you about 2-1/4 inches, which is fine for plywood but limits you on thicker material. A 5-1/2 inch saw gives you about 1-5/8 inches, which covers plywood but nothing thicker.
Weight, ergonomics, and safety
Weight is a real factor on plywood because you are often working over a sheet on sawhorses rather than on a stable workbench. Anything under 10 pounds is comfortable for extended use. Anything over 12 pounds wears you out fast. The lightest saws in our test are the SKIL 5280-01 at 8.7 pounds and the RYOBI PCL500B at 4.5 pounds.
Electric brakes are a meaningful safety feature. The blade stops in under a second when you release the trigger, which reduces the chance of the coasting blade catching your plywood and causing a kickback. Dust collection ports are also worth it. Hook the saw to a shop vac and your shop stays much cleaner.
For more on circular saw features and how they compare to other saw types, see our guide to circular saws for cutting lumber.
How to Cut Plywood Without Tear-Out: 5 Pro Techniques
Tear-out happens when the blade exits the plywood and the teeth on the back of the blade rip the bottom veneer. It is the most common plywood cutting problem. Here is how to prevent it.
1. Use a high tooth count blade. A 40 to 80 tooth finish blade is the single biggest improvement you can make. Each tooth takes a smaller bite and the cut comes out cleaner. Cheap framing blades are the main cause of tear-out.
2. Score the cut line first. Run the saw through the cut line at a very shallow depth, then make a second pass at full depth. The scored line supports the veneer at the exit point and prevents chipping.
3. Cut with the good face down. Most tear-out happens on the top face where the blade teeth exit the material. Flip the plywood so the face you want to keep is on the bottom. The cut will be cleaner on that face.
4. Use a zero clearance insert. For track saws, you can add a zero clearance strip that supports the veneer right at the cut line. For regular circular saws, tape the cut line with painter’s tape before cutting. The tape holds the veneer in place and reduces chipping.
5. Slow your feed rate. Pushing the saw faster does not cut faster. It just causes more chipping. Let the blade do the work at a moderate pace. The cut will be cleaner and the saw will last longer.
For more plywood cutting tips and techniques, see our guide to band saws for resawing lumber which covers blade selection principles that apply to circular saws too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of blade is best for cutting plywood with a circular saw?
A 40 to 60 tooth carbide tipped finish blade gives the cleanest cuts on plywood. Higher tooth counts mean smaller bites per tooth, which reduces tear-out on the thin veneers. Diablo, Freud, and similar brands make purpose-built plywood blades. Avoid blades with fewer than 36 teeth on plywood.
What type of saw is best for cutting plywood?
A circular saw with a high tooth count finish blade is the most versatile choice for plywood. Track saws and plunge saws like the Makita XPS01Z give the cleanest cuts, but standard circular saws handle 90 percent of plywood work at a lower cost and with more portability.
Can I use a circular saw to cut plywood?
Yes. A circular saw is one of the best tools for cutting plywood. Use a sharp, high tooth count finish blade, support the sheet on sawhorses, and cut with the good face down to prevent tear-out. A straightedge guide helps with long rips.
How many teeth on a circular saw blade for plywood?
For plywood, use a blade with at least 40 teeth, and ideally 60 teeth or more for finish cuts. 24 tooth framing blades are too coarse and will chip the veneers. 80 tooth blades give the cleanest possible cuts on 1/4 inch plywood and veneered sheet goods.
How to cut plywood with a circular saw without chipping?
Use a high tooth count finish blade, score the cut line first at shallow depth, cut with the good face down, tape the cut line with painter’s tape, and use a slow to moderate feed rate. These five techniques together eliminate almost all tear-out on plywood.
Final Verdict: Which Circular Saw Should You Buy for Plywood?
After testing 8 top models on real plywood, our top pick for the best circular saw for plywood is the DEWALT DWE575SB. It combines a powerful 15 amp motor, an electric brake for safer cuts, the lightest weight in its class, and a 57 degree bevel range, all at a fair price. It handles 3/4 inch plywood with ease and tracks straight along a guide rail or straightedge.
For shoppers on a budget, the SKIL 5280-01 delivers 80 percent of the DEWALT’s performance at a noticeably lower price, with the bonus of a laser guide. For finish carpenters and cabinet shops that demand table saw quality cuts in a portable package, the Makita XPS01Z plunge saw is the clear premium choice, with its 6,300 RPM brushless motor and 55 tooth blade leaving factory edges on plywood.
Pick the saw that matches your work. For most people cutting plywood in a shop or jobsite, the DEWALT DWE575SB is the right answer. For cordless freedom, the DEWALT DCS391B on the 20V MAX platform is our pick. For plywood cut quality that rivals a table saw, the Makita XPS01Z is in a class of its own. Whichever saw you choose from this list, pair it with a 40 to 60 tooth finish blade and your plywood cuts will look like they came from a pro shop.