Best Mini Circular Saw Under £100
Finding a compact saw that cuts straight without breaking the bank is tough. We have compared specs, battery ecosystems, and owner reviews to find the best mini circular saw under £100 that delivers real performance for DIYers and tradespeople.
Quick answer
The Bosch GKS 12V-26 is the best mini circular saw under £100 for its build quality, cut depth, and dust extraction. For a budget pick, the Ryobi R18CS-0 offers great value within the One+ system. The Einhell TC-CS 85 is the cheapest corded option that works.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
- No fake hands-on claims
Research updated June 2026.
Bosch GKS 12V-26
Compact, precise, and well-built with a 26mm cut depth.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch GKS 12V-26 | Overall | 26mm cut depth | 4.8/5 | Under £100 |
| Ryobi R18CS-0 | Battery system | 18V One+ | 4.5/5 | Under £100 |
| Einhell TC-CS 85 | Budget corded | 240V, 85mm blade | 4.2/5 | Under £50 |
| Draper 240V Mini Saw | Corded power | 900W motor | 4.0/5 | Under £60 |
| Milwaukee M12 CJS-0 | Compact size | 12V, 1.2kg | 4.4/5 | Under £100 |
Bosch GKS 12V-26
Best OverallPros
- Excellent build quality
- Good dust extraction port
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Battery not included
- Limited to 12V platform
The Bosch GKS 12V-26 is a precision tool that feels more premium than its price suggests. It has a 26mm cut depth which is enough for most trim and plywood work. Owner reviews consistently praise its accurate bevel cuts and low vibration.
The main downside is that it comes as a bare tool, so you need a Bosch 12V battery. However, if you already own Bosch 12V tools, this is the best mini circular saw under £100 you can buy. The dust port works well with a vacuum, keeping your workspace clean.
Ryobi R18CS-0
Best for Ryobi UsersPros
- Shares Ryobi One+ batteries
- Good power for 18V
- Comfortable grip
Cons
- No dust port
- Blade guard can stick
The Ryobi R18CS-0 is a solid performer for anyone already invested in the One+ battery system. It offers a 25mm cut depth and enough torque for cutting plywood and softwood. Owner reviews rate it highly for its ease of use and battery compatibility.
The lack of a dust port is a noticeable omission, and some users report the blade guard occasionally sticks. However, for the price, it is a capable saw that works well with Ryobi's 18V batteries. It is one of the best mini circular saws under £100 for system loyalty.
Einhell TC-CS 85
Best Budget CordedPros
- Very cheap price
- No battery needed
- Decent cutting power
Cons
- Plastic build quality
- Cord limits portability
The Einhell TC-CS 85 is the cheapest option that still works reliably. It is a corded 240V saw with a 500W motor and an 85mm blade. Owner reviews say it cuts straight and is fine for occasional DIY use around the house.
The build quality is noticeably more plastic than the Bosch or Ryobi, and the cord can be annoying. But if you need a mini circular saw under £100 and want to avoid buying batteries, the Einhell is a practical choice. It is best for light tasks like cutting plywood sheets.
Draper 240V Mini Circular Saw
Best Corded PowerPros
- Powerful 900W motor
- Deepest cut at 28mm
- Includes parallel guide
Cons
- Heavier than battery models
- Plastic base plate
The Draper 240V mini circular saw offers the most power in this roundup with a 900W motor. It can cut up to 28mm deep, making it suitable for thicker timber. Owner reviews highlight its strong performance for the price.
The trade-off is weight and build quality. It is heavier at 2.3kg and the base plate is plastic, which can affect accuracy over time. It is a good choice if you need a corded mini circular saw under £100 for heavier cutting tasks and do not mind the extra weight.
Milwaukee M12 CJS-0
Best CompactPros
- Very lightweight
- Compact design
- Good for one-handed use
Cons
The Milwaukee M12 CJS-0 is the most compact saw in this list, weighing only 1.2kg. It uses a 76mm blade and offers a 22mm cut depth. Owner reviews praise its portability and ease of use for cutting thin materials like laminate and plasterboard.
The shallow cut depth limits its use to thinner boards, and it is a bare tool requiring a Milwaukee M12 battery. It is the best mini circular saw under £100 for tight spaces and overhead work, but not for general timber cutting.
What to Check Before Buying a Mini Circular Saw Under £100
Cut depth is the most important spec. Most mini saws cut between 22mm and 28mm. Ensure this matches the thickness of the materials you plan to cut. A 26mm cut depth is standard for plywood and trim.
Battery compatibility matters if you choose cordless. A saw that fits an existing battery system saves money. If you do not own batteries, a corded model like the Einhell TC-CS 85 is cheaper and always ready to use.
Blade size is another factor. Most mini saws use 85mm blades, but some use 76mm. Replacement blades are easier to find for 85mm. Check availability before buying.
Weight and ergonomics affect control. A lighter saw is easier to use one-handed but may have less power. Heavier corded models offer more torque but can be tiring for long cuts.
Mistakes to Avoid
Buying a cordless saw without checking battery compatibility is a common mistake. A bare tool is useless without a battery and charger. Factor in the cost of a starter kit if you are new to a system.
Ignoring dust extraction is another error. Many mini saws under £100 lack a dust port. This leads to messy work and reduced visibility. Look for models with a dust port if you work indoors.
Do not assume all blades are the same. Stock blades on budget saws are often dull. Budget for a better blade upgrade to improve cut quality.
FAQs
Can a mini circular saw cut 2x4 timber?
Most mini saws under £100 have a cut depth of 22-28mm, which is not enough for a standard 2x4 (38mm thick). You need a full-size circular saw for that.
Is corded or cordless better for a mini circular saw?
Corded offers constant power and lower cost, but limits mobility. Cordless is more convenient if you already own compatible batteries.
What blade size do mini circular saws use?
Most use 85mm blades, though some compact models use 76mm. Always check the blade size before buying replacements.
Are mini circular saws good for cutting laminate flooring?
Yes, they are excellent for laminate flooring because they are lightweight and produce clean cuts with a fine-tooth blade.
Do I need a dust port on a mini circular saw?
It is helpful for indoor work to reduce dust. Many budget models lack one, so check the specs if cleanliness is a priority.
Can I use a mini circular saw for bevel cuts?
Most mini saws have a bevel adjustment, usually up to 45 degrees. Check the maximum bevel angle before buying.
How long does a battery last on a mini circular saw?
Battery life depends on the amp-hour rating. A 2.0Ah battery on a 12V saw typically lasts for 20-30 cuts in plywood.
Is the Bosch GKS 12V-26 worth the price?
Yes, it is the best built and most accurate mini saw under £100. It is worth it if you value precision and durability.
What is the warranty on these mini circular saws?
Bosch and Milwaukee typically offer 1-2 years. Einhell and Draper often offer 2 years. Check the specific product page for details.
Can I cut metal with a mini circular saw?
Only with a specific metal-cutting blade. Most mini saws are designed for wood and soft materials. Using a metal blade voids the warranty on some models.
Our verdict
The Bosch GKS 12V-26 is the best mini circular saw under £100 for its build quality, accuracy, and dust extraction. For a budget corded option, the Einhell TC-CS 85 is a reliable choice. If you are in the Ryobi One+ system, the R18CS-0 is a solid performer.