Best Plunge Saw Under £100
Finding a reliable plunge saw for under £100 is a challenge, but a few budget models offer surprising cutting accuracy for DIY projects. We've compared specs and owner reviews to find the best value plunge saws that won't break the bank.
Quick answer
The best plunge saw under £100 is the Einhell TC-CS 1400/1 for its balance of power, cutting depth, and guide rail compatibility. For a lighter option with better dust extraction, the Draper Storm Force 1200W is a strong alternative.
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.
Einhell TC-CS 1400/1
Best value plunge saw with solid power and guide rail.
| Product | Best For | Power | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Einhell TC-CS 1400/1 | Overall Value | 1400W | 4.5/5 | Under £100 |
| Draper Storm Force 1200W | Dust Extraction | 1200W | 4.2/5 | Under £100 |
| Ryobi RCS18-0 (Body Only) | Cordless Mobility | 18V | 4.0/5 | Under £100 |
| Stanley FatMax FME670 | Budget Build | 1300W | 3.8/5 | Under £100 |
| Wagner WPP 1300 | Light Duty | 1300W | 3.7/5 | Under £100 |
Einhell TC-CS 1400/1
Best OverallPros
- Powerful 1400W motor for clean cuts
- Comes with guide rail and dust bag
- Good build quality for the price
Cons
- Guide rail is short (1m)
- Dust extraction could be better
The Einhell TC-CS 1400/1 is the top pick for its combination of power and features at a budget price. With a 1400W motor, it cuts through 48mm of solid wood or 20mm of MDF with ease. The included guide rail helps achieve straight cuts, though it is only one meter long, so you may need to buy an extension for larger sheets.
Owner reviews consistently praise its value for money and reliability. The plunge action is smooth, and the bevel adjustment up to 45 degrees works well for angled cuts. While the dust bag is basic, connecting a shop vac improves performance significantly.
Draper Storm Force 1200W
Best for Dust ExtractionPros
- Excellent dust extraction port
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Good value for money
Cons
- Motor is less powerful than Einhell
- Plunge mechanism feels a bit stiff
The Draper Storm Force 1200W is a lighter alternative that excels in dust management. Its dust port is larger than most budget saws, and it connects easily to a standard shop vac, keeping your workspace cleaner. The 1200W motor is still capable for most DIY tasks, cutting through 45mm of softwood without issue.
Owner feedback highlights its comfortable grip and manageable weight, making it a good choice for overhead work or extended use. The plunge action is functional but not as smooth as the Einhell. It also includes a parallel guide for rip cuts, which adds versatility.
Ryobi RCS18-0 (Body Only)
Best Cordless OptionPros
- Cordless freedom for remote jobs
- Lightweight and compact
- Part of Ryobi One+ system
Cons
- Body only, battery not included
- Less power than corded models
The Ryobi RCS18-0 is a cordless plunge saw that offers mobility for jobs away from power outlets. As a body-only tool, it is priced under £100, but you need a Ryobi One+ battery and charger, which adds cost if you are not already in the ecosystem. It cuts up to 40mm deep in softwood, suitable for most DIY tasks.
Owner reviews note its convenience and decent run time with a 4Ah battery. The plunge mechanism is smooth for a cordless saw, and the dust port works well with a vac. However, it struggles with dense hardwoods or long cuts, where corded models have an advantage.
Stanley FatMax FME670
Best Budget BuildPros
- Durable build from Stanley
- Decent power for the price
- Includes parallel guide
Cons
- Plunge action can be jerky
- No guide rail included
The Stanley FatMax FME670 is a no-frills plunge saw that focuses on durability. With a 1300W motor, it handles plywood and softwood well, though it lacks the smooth plunge action of pricier models. It does not come with a guide rail, so you will need to buy one separately or use a straight edge.
Owner feedback is mixed on the plunge mechanism, with some finding it stiff out of the box. However, it is a tough tool that can take knocks on a job site. The parallel guide is useful for rip cuts, and the dust port is standard size for vac attachment.
Wagner WPP 1300
Best Light DutyPros
- Very lightweight and easy to use
- Low price point
- Good for occasional use
Cons
- Less powerful than competitors
- Build quality feels cheaper
The Wagner WPP 1300 is the most affordable option on this list, designed for light DIY tasks like cutting MDF or thin plywood. Its 1300W motor is adequate for occasional use but struggles with thicker hardwoods. The plunge mechanism is basic but functional for simple cuts.
Owner reviews note that it is a good entry-level saw for beginners, but it lacks the durability for regular use. The dust port is small, and the included blade is not the best, so upgrading can improve performance. It is best for those who need a plunge saw for a single project.
What to Check Before Buying a Plunge Saw Under £100
When shopping for a budget plunge saw, focus on three key specs: power, cutting depth, and guide rail compatibility. A 1200W to 1400W motor is ideal for most DIY tasks. Ensure the saw can cut at least 40mm deep for standard sheet goods. Check if the saw includes a guide rail, as buying one separately can cost more than the saw itself.
Also consider the bevel range. Most budget saws offer 0-45 degrees, which is sufficient for common angled cuts. Dust extraction is another factor; a good dust port keeps your workspace clean. Finally, read owner reviews to gauge build quality and reliability, as budget models can vary.
Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is buying a plunge saw without a guide rail and expecting perfect straight cuts. The rail is essential for accuracy, so factor that cost into your budget. Another error is ignoring dust extraction; a saw without a good vac port will create a mess. Finally, avoid expecting professional-grade performance from a sub-£100 tool. These saws are for DIY use, not daily trade work.
FAQs
Can I use a plunge saw without a guide rail?
Yes, but cuts will be less accurate. A guide rail is recommended for straight, splinter-free cuts.
What is the difference between a plunge saw and a circular saw?
A plunge saw allows the blade to be lowered into the material, while a circular saw is fixed. Plunge saws are better for starting cuts in the middle of a sheet.
Are budget plunge saws good for cutting MDF?
Yes, most budget models handle MDF well, especially with a fine-tooth blade. Use a dust extractor to manage fine particles.
How deep can a plunge saw under £100 cut?
Typically between 40mm and 48mm, which is enough for most sheet goods and 2x4 lumber.
Do I need a special blade for a plunge saw?
Standard circular saw blades fit most plunge saws. A fine-tooth blade is best for clean cuts in plywood or MDF.
Can I use a plunge saw for ripping long boards?
Yes, with a guide rail or parallel guide, it is effective for ripping. A circular saw may be easier for very long cuts.
Is a cordless plunge saw worth it under £100?
Only if you already have compatible batteries. Corded models offer more power and consistent performance at this price.
What is the warranty on budget plunge saws?
Most brands offer 1-2 years warranty. Check the manufacturer's policy before buying.
Can I cut metal with a plunge saw?
No, standard plunge saws are for wood and wood-based materials. Use a metal-cutting blade at your own risk.
How do I maintain a plunge saw?
Keep the blade clean, lubricate the plunge mechanism occasionally, and store it in a dry place to prevent rust.
Our verdict
The best plunge saw under £100 is the Einhell TC-CS 1400/1 for its powerful motor, included guide rail, and overall value. For those prioritizing dust extraction or cordless mobility, the Draper Storm Force 1200W and Ryobi RCS18-0 are solid alternatives. Avoid the Wagner WPP 1300 unless you only need it for a single light project.