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With any project, it’s important to use the right saw. Otherwise, you can cause premature damage to the blade and wear out the motor if the tool isn’t capable of producing enough force to cut through the material. A concrete saw is specifically made to provide enough energy and torque to cleanly cut through concrete, brick, paving stones, and other hard materials.
Concrete saws are typically corded, though there are portable options that are battery- or gas-powered. The size and cutting depth of concrete saws can also range significantly, so it’s important to know what type of saw you need and what projects are on the upcoming schedule. Take a look at the top products below and read on to learn about important product features to help you find the best concrete saw for your next project.
- BEST OVERALL: SKILSAW SPT79-00 15-Amp Medusaw Worm Drive Saw
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Rockwell 4-1/2” Compact Circular Saw, 5 amps
- BEST WALK-BEHIND: SKIL 7″ Walk Behind Worm Drive Skilsaw for Concrete
- BEST MULTIPURPOSE: Mini Circular Saw, Ginour 6.2A Small Power Saw
- ALSO CONSIDER: DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Cut-Off Saw Kit
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Concrete Saw
Finding a concrete saw to cut through brick, tile, concrete, and other materials doesn’t need to be hard. Consider whether a walk-behind or handheld concrete saw is best, then move on to more detailed features, like the cutting method, depth of cut, and overall performance, as well as a few other important considerations detailed below.
Types
Concrete saws fall into two main categories: walk-behind concrete saws and handheld concrete saws.
- Walk-behind concrete saws sit on a wheeled base that attaches to a long handle. The user can direct the saw’s motion and control the power output to the blade through controls on the handle instead of crawling along the ground for an accurate cut. However, walk-behind concrete saws are typically more expensive and aren’t suitable for small, precise cuts.
- Handheld concrete saws are most commonly used for DIY projects and precision cuts. They can range from small one-handed saws that weigh between 5 to 10 pounds to larger two-handed concrete saws that need a wheeled base to be used properly. In many cases, these saws can also be used for other materials, depending on the type of blade with which they are equipped.
Cutting Methods
A concrete saw is typically used for dry cutting, but some have built-in water feeds for wet cutting to pump water to the area where the saw is working.
- Dry cutting refers to cuts made in concrete, cement, stone, or other material without using a lubricant like water. This method creates a lot of dust, which can be harmful if it’s inhaled or if it gets in the user’s eyes. Dry cutting also wears out the blade at a faster pace, so it’s advised to use water while cutting concrete whenever possible.
- Wet cutting is a great way to extend the life of the saw and the saw blades. By adding water to the area where the saw is cutting, the dust produced is trapped, reducing the potential inhalation hazard. The water also acts as a lubricant, cooling the blade and allowing it to move more freely through the concrete.
Depth of Cut
Consider how deep the concrete saw and the blade it comes with can cut. Some hard materials, like paving stones and tile, aren’t very thick, so a saw with a deep cut isn’t necessary. However, if the saw will be used for working on paved driveways, roadways, or sidewalks, it would be better to invest in a heavy-duty walk-behind concrete saw with a deep cut.
Depending on the project, the best option for speed, accuracy, and precision is likely a combination between a large concrete saw that can make broad cuts quickly, and a compact saw for corner cuts and angled cuts. Look for a concrete saw with an adjustable depth setting for better precision and control while working.
Convenience
Most concrete saws are made with one purpose in mind: cut through concrete and other hard materials. However, some products take it a step further by including features that make the saw much more convenient. Ergonomic handles with rubberized or textured grips are easier to hold and control; they can also reduce sound and vibration through the tool.
Look for features that help with clean-up, like a built-in vacuum port for dust collection or a wet cutting system that traps dust. Heavy concrete saws may come with a wheeled base that lets them move freely just off the ground while the blade cuts through the concrete. For precise cuts, however, a lightweight and compact saw that can be held in just one hand is the best option because it’s easier to grip and manipulate.
Portability
Many concrete saw models are powered through a long electrical cord or attached with an extension cord. This gives constant power to the saw so cuts aren’t interrupted, but it can be a hassle to constantly worry about the tripping hazard posed by the cable.
For a more portable tool, look for gas or battery-powered concrete saws. Gas concrete saws are known for their outstanding power, but they can take time to start up and will produce fumes while in use. Battery-powered tools don’t have the same level of power output as gas saws. Still, they start instantly at the push of a button, and they are typically more comfortable to carry, manipulate, and control for better precision.
Our Top Picks
These top-rated products were selected for their quality, price, customer satisfaction, and the other essential factors mentioned above to help you find the best concrete saw for your next project.
Best Overall
SKILSAW SPT79-00 15-Amp Medusaw Worm Drive Saw
This concrete saw offers the versatility of a handheld saw, with the power and control of a walk-behind saw. The 15-amp motor is powered through a direct electrical connection with a standard 120V outlet. The corded connection limits the movement of the saw, but with an extension cord, the user will never run out of power during a cut.
The saw comes with guide wheels to help move the tool along the top of the concrete while the blade cuts at a maximum depth of 2 inches. It can also connect to a water source to control concrete dust and cool the blade. This helps extend the life of the concrete saw, and it can make it easier to cut through hard materials, like concrete, asphalt, paving stones, granite, bluestone, and limestone.
Pros
- 15-amp motor
- Wet/dry dust management system controls dust
- Motor increases cooling to protect blade
- Guide wheels help move tool
Cons
- Corded connection limits saw movement
- Poor water connection
Best Bang For The Buck
Rockwell 4-1/2” Compact Circular Saw, 5 amps
Use this Rockwell Compact Circular Saw for making small, precise cuts in concrete, tile, and stone. The affordable saw is lightweight and easy to hold so that the power of the spinning blade won’t cause the user to lose their grip. It has an ergonomic, textured handle with enough space to hold the saw with one or two hands, and the trigger is located at the bottom of the saw, where it’s always within reach of at least one finger.
The blade measures 4 1/2 inches, allowing the saw to cut to a maximum depth of about 1 inch. Once the job is complete, simply attach a vacuum to the built-in vacuum port to clean up the concrete dust. The concrete saw has a 5-amp motor located in the rear of the tool, which gives the saw a more balanced feel. The blade is positioned on the left side to make it easier for right-handed users to see where they are cutting. However, this can make it more difficult for left-handed users.
Pros
- Great for making small cuts
- Lightweight and easy to hold
- Balanced feel
- Built-in vac port for cleanup
Cons
- Poorly positioned for left-handed cutters
- May struggle to cut stronger materials
- Arbor size is not standard
Best Walk-Behind
SKIL 7u0022 Walk Behind Worm Drive Skilsaw for Concrete
The Skilsaw concrete saw is designed for accurate cutting from a standing position so that the user doesn’t have to be on their knees to work. The saw sits on four wheels and has a pointer wheel that extends from the front of the saw to indicate to the user exactly where the blade will be cutting. This walk-behind concrete saw has a short power cord that needs to be connected to an extension cord in order for the saw to be used.
Users can adjust the saw’s handle to the ideal length, and when the job is done, it can fold down for compact transportation and storage. The 15-amp motor and 7-inch blade can cut through concrete to a maximum depth of 2 1/4 inches. The cut is smooth and easy when the saw is connected to a water source through the built-in water feed assembly. Finally, rust-resistant brackets and fasteners ensure that—with proper maintenance—the saw can last for years.
Pros
- Accurate for use in a standing position
- Maximum cut depth of 2¼ inches
- Smooth cuts when connected to water
- Easy to carry
Cons
- Short power cord
- Lots of dust escape
Best Multipurpose
Mini Circular Saw, Ginour 6.2A Small Power Saw
While a concrete saw is an excellent addition to the workshop, it may go months without being used. However, this compact concrete saw is designed for a range of different projects so that it’s rarely left sitting for long. It comes with six blades, including two high-hardness diamond blades for tile, backer board, and concrete, two carbide-tipped blades for wood, and two high-speed steel blades for soft metal and PVC pipe.
The concrete saw weighs just 5.5 pounds, but it has a 6.2-amp motor that can produce blade speeds up to 3,500 RPM. It cuts at a maximum depth of 1 7/8 inches and it has a laser guide that helps to ensure the accuracy of the cut. An added safety feature is the self-locking trigger that needs to be pressed at the same time as the start switch in order to power the cutting blade. This helps prevent accidentally pressing the trigger and turning on the cutting blade, which can lead to serious injury.
Pros
- Self-locking safety features
- Can be used for a range of projects
- Laser control line
- Comes with six blades
Cons
- Laser battery doesn’t last long
- Difficult to access safety switch
- Thick handle may be difficult to hold
Also Consider
DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Cut-Off Saw Kit
This heavy-duty concrete saw doesn’t rely on a cord or gasoline for power. Instead, it uses a lithium battery pack contained within a latched and sealed battery box for added protection from water, dust, and impact damage. The concrete saw also comes with a fast charger and an additional battery so that when one battery is spent, the second is ready to go.
The saw has a 3 1/4-inch depth of cut, and it can reach up to 6,500 RPM with a simple trigger to control the flow of power to the blade. The dual-sided water feed system on the safety guard helps prevent the risk of inhaling concrete dust, and it has the benefit of helping to keep the blade cool, allowing the saw to cut through rebar, steel, concrete, and paving stones.
Pros
- Uses lithium battery instead of a cord or gasoline
- Comes with additional battery
- Dual water system keeps blade cool
- Quiet
Cons
- Batteries run out quickly
- Blade tightener may loosen over time
- Difficult to clean around the blade
Our Verdict
We recommend the SKILSAW SPT79-00 15-Amp Medusaw Worm Drive Saw as the best overall saw for easy cutting. It accurately cuts a variety of materials in both wet and dry environments. The saw also comes with built-in features to preserve the longevity of the saw, such as rust-resistant brackets and a dual field that increases cooling to extend the life of the saw.
How We Chose the Best Concrete Saws
To determine the best concrete saws on the market, we looked at a variety of factors. First, we assessed how each saw cut, both in the types of materials it cut and in its power and accuracy. Specifically, we looked at how each saw and its blade cleanly cut concrete in different projects. Saws that struggled to cut concrete quickly and accurately were dismissed.
A number of consumer-related factors were also assessed. The design of the saw was taken into consideration, as it was important to determine how easily customers could use the saw when cutting concrete. Safety features were evaluated as well to make sure users could easily access them and that they were easy to use. We also looked at the prices for the saws and determined which ones were priced fairly and gave the consumer the most value for their money.
FAQs
Before investing in a new concrete saw, take a look at these frequently asked questions and their answers to learn more about what size saw is most appropriate for your next project and how to use and maintain a concrete saw.
Q. How deep will a 14-inch concrete saw cut?
A 14-inch concrete saw can cut to a depth of 4 5/8 inches, though some 14-inch masonry saw blades can cut 5 inches deep.
Q. How deep will a 12-inch concrete saw cut?
A 12-inch concrete saw will cut about 3 5/8 inches deep.
Q. How do you cut thick concrete?
In order to cut thick concrete, it’s a good idea to make several shallow passes with the concrete saw. After each pass, increase the blade depth by 1/2 inch. This helps to reduce the strain on the motor and keep the blade cool.
Q. Do you push or pull a concrete saw?
Allow the concrete saw to do most of the work by guiding the forward momentum of the blade. The user shouldn’t pull a concrete saw, nor should an individual push very hard.
Q. How do you care for and maintain a concrete saw?
Care for and maintain a concrete saw in the same way you do any other saw. Keep it clean and inspect it before and after every use. Ensure the nuts and screws are tight and that the cutting blade fits correctly with no signs of damage. Regularly inspect the power system, whether it is gas, battery, or corded for signs of wear. To be certain the saw is working correctly, have it professionally inspected once per year.
Why Trust Bob Vila
Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series, including This Old House and Bob Vila’s Home Again, he popularized and became synonymous with “do it yourself” home improvement.
Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today in the expert yet accessible home advice at the heart of BobVila.com. Today, the Bob Vila editorial team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.