Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Circular Saws

Bosch 18V Cordless Circular Saw vs DEWALT 20V MAX 6-1/2 inch Cordless Circular Saw

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.
The short answer

DEWALT 20V MAX 6-1/2 inch Cordless Circular Saw comes out ahead by a clear margin (3.8 vs 4.3). The gap is mostly about power-hungry cordless users — read the strengths below before deciding.

Bosch 18V Cordless Circular Saw
Ranked #6 in Best Circular Saws
Bosch 18V Cordless Circular Saw
3 sources2 derived$388as of Aug 1

The Bosch CCS180 18V cordless circular saw is a light, powerful option for professionals and DIYers. Reviewers praised the balance, the 4.0Ah battery performance, and the anti-snag guard design. The depth gauge and easy handling stood out as advantages. Some noted problems with bevel gauge clarity and a depth adjustment rail that occasionally dislodges. It will not replace a corded saw for heavy-duty framing, but it does well in trim work and hard-to-reach areas where portability matters most.

Strengths
  • Lightweight and well-balanced at 6.6 pounds, easy to wield one-handed
  • Powerful performance with 4.0Ah battery providing extended runtime and cooler operation
  • Anti-snag lower guard design prevents guard from snagging on materials
Watch-outs
  • Bevel gauge is not clearly marked and lacks arrow indicator for angle identification
  • Depth adjustment rail can become dislodged from groove causing sluggish operation
  • Trigger safety mechanism is awkward and requires adjustment period for users
DEWALT 20V MAX 6-1/2 inch Cordless Circular Saw
Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Circular Saws
DEWALT 20V MAX 6-1/2 inch Cordless Circular Saw
3 sourcesall derived$129as of Aug 3

The DEWALT 20V MAX 6-1/2-inch circular saw runs a 5,150 RPM motor with a carbide-tipped blade, which handles demanding cuts. Reviewers noted the lightweight magnesium shoe adds durability and accuracy, and the 0 to 50 degree bevel capacity covers a wide range of work. It ships as a bare unit, so battery and charger cost extra. Professionals who want a powerful, portable saw inside DEWALT's 20V MAX system are the fit, provided they budget for the accessories.

Strengths
  • 5,150 RPM motor delivers power and speed for demanding cuts
  • Lightweight magnesium shoe provides durability and cut accuracy
  • 0 to 50 degree bevel capacity for versatile cutting angles
Watch-outs
  • Battery and charger sold separately
  • Tool only – no included battery or charger

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Bosch 18V Cordless Circular Saw

The Bosch 18V saw is lighter than the DeWalt 20V Cordless and Atomic models, but it lacks the brushless motor and higher RPM of those saws. Unlike the DEWALT 20V MAX, it doesn't include a carbide-tipped blade, and its bevel gauge is less clearly marked compared to the DeWalt DWE575.

DEWALT 20V MAX 6-1/2 inch Cordless Circular Saw

The DEWALT 20V MAX saw outperforms the DeWalt 20V Cordless and Atomic models in terms of power and blade size, but lacks the lightweight design and built-in LED light found in the latter two. Unlike the SKIL 5280-01, it doesn't include a laser guide, but offers a more powerful motor and carbide-tipped blade for demanding cuts.

Specs side-by-side

SpecBosch 18V Cordless Circular SawDEWALT 20V MAX 6-1/2 inch Cordless Circular Saw
RPM3900 rpm5,150
Blade Size6.5 inch6-1/2 inch
Cut Capacity2 1/8 inch @ 90°2 times material at 90°
Bevel Angle50 degrees0 to 50°
Power Source18V LithiumBattery
Weight6.6 lb8.1 lb
Base MaterialAluminiumMagnesium
Motor Type5150 RPM motor
← See the full ranking of best circular saws