Cutting plywood sounds simple, right? But here’s the catch—without the right tool, you’ll end up with rough edges and frustrating chips. That’s why finding the best saw to cut plywood matters so much.
So, what makes a saw stand out for this job? Accuracy, blade type, and ease of handling all play a role. If you’ve ever shopped for saw accessories, you might have noticed how options like the best sawzall blade for metal or even the best saw blades for woodworking emphasize material-specific performance. The same applies to plywood. Using the wrong tool can turn your project into a mess, while the best saws for sheet goods can make cutting smooth and straightforward.
Curious about how to get cleaner results? Stick with me—because the next steps will show you exactly how to cut plywood like a pro.
Top Picks
Best Power Capacity: SKILSAW SPT70WM-01 15 Amp 10-1/4" Magnesium
The Skil SPT70WM-01 is a 10-1/4 inch circular saw built with a brushless worm drive motor delivering 4700 RPM. It comes with a 40-tooth carbide blade designed for smooth cuts on wood. With a 51-degree bevel capacity, it provides flexibility for angled cuts. The saw includes an auxiliary handle for better grip, an 8-foot cord for reach, and a sturdy build for demanding tasks.
Users often highlight its impressive cutting depth and raw power, making it suitable for heavy-duty jobs like framing and beam cutting. However, many also note that its 16.5-pound weight can be tiring during extended use. Experts regard the worm drive system as a reliable choice for professionals who need torque and stability, though they point out the short one-year warranty as a drawback compared to competitors.
This circular saw delivers exceptional performance and cutting capacity for professional woodworking projects. While it may not be the most lightweight or backed by the longest warranty, its power and durability make it a strong value for those who need consistent results on large-scale tasks.
Best Multi-Purpose: Circular Saw, 5.8A 4-1/2" Circular Saw w/Laser, Metal Auxiliary Handle
The DOVAMAN MCS01A circular saw is designed for versatility, coming with six interchangeable blades for wood, tile, soft metal, and plastic. It features a built-in laser guide to improve cutting accuracy and a metal auxiliary handle for better stability. With a 710-watt motor delivering 3500 RPM, it is suitable for light to medium-duty projects. The tool-free bevel function allows quick angle adjustments up to 45 degrees. Its compact size and weight of 9.44 pounds make it easy to handle.
Many users appreciate the saw’s flexibility for handling different materials without needing extra purchases. The laser guide is frequently mentioned as a helpful addition for precise cuts, especially for beginners. On the downside, some customers note that the 710-watt motor feels underpowered for tougher jobs, and the cutting depth may not meet the needs of professional contractors. Experts agree that it works best for home improvement projects and DIY use rather than heavy-duty work.
The DOVAMAN MCS01A provides excellent value as a versatile and user-friendly circular saw. While it lacks the raw power and depth of larger professional models, its multi-blade package, compact design, and helpful guiding features make it a solid choice for hobbyists and homeowners.
Best Lightweight Design: Skil 5080-01 13-Amp 7-1/4" Circular Saw, Red
The Skil 5080-01 is a 7-1/4 inch circular saw powered by a 13 Amp motor, providing improved performance over the earlier SKIL 5380 model. It is designed with a 15 percent weight reduction, making it easier to handle and reducing user fatigue during extended cutting. The saw offers a 51-degree bevel capacity with positive stops for versatility in angled cuts. A spindle lock ensures quick blade changes, while the improved dust blower helps maintain a clear cutting line.
Customers highlight the saw’s balance of power and portability, noting that the reduced weight makes it more comfortable for frequent use. The bevel range and dust blower are appreciated for practical improvements in cutting accuracy. However, some users mention that it comes with a basic stock blade and lacks extra guiding features such as a laser. Experts see it as a dependable entry-level to mid-range saw that suits general woodworking and household projects.
The Skil 5080-01 delivers a good mix of power, lighter weight, and useful features at an accessible level. While it may not compete with professional-grade saws in depth or precision aids, it stands out as a reliable choice for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts seeking a practical, easy-to-handle circular saw.
FAQs
How to cut plywood without chipping it?
To avoid chipping when cutting plywood, start by using a fine-tooth blade designed for sheet goods. Place the plywood with the good side facing down if you are using a circular saw, or face up when cutting with a table saw. Applying painter’s tape along the cut line helps hold fibers in place and reduces tear-out. Cutting slowly with steady pressure ensures smoother results. For extra precision, scoring the cut line lightly with a utility knife before sawing can prevent surface splinters.
Can you cut plywood with a regular saw?
Yes, you can cut plywood with a regular saw, but the quality of the cut will depend on the blade and your technique. A handsaw with fine, sharp teeth works, though it requires more effort and may not produce perfectly clean edges. Power saws such as circular saws or jigsaws deliver faster, straighter cuts, especially when equipped with blades designed for plywood. If using a standard saw, make sure it’s sharp and cut slowly to minimize chipping.
What is the best method to cut plywood?
The best method to cut plywood is using a circular saw with a guide rail or straightedge to keep the cut line accurate. Pair it with a high-tooth-count blade, typically 40 to 60 teeth for a 7 ¼-inch blade, to achieve smooth cuts. A table saw is another excellent option if you have the space and want precise, repeatable cuts. For curves or detailed shapes, a jigsaw with a fine blade works best. Ultimately, using the correct blade type and stabilizing the sheet during cutting are the keys to professional-looking results.
What is the best tool to cut 1/8 plywood?
For thin 1/8-inch plywood, a utility knife is often the easiest and cleanest option. By scoring the sheet along a straightedge and snapping it gently, you can achieve accurate cuts without splintering. A fine-tooth handsaw or a jigsaw with a clean-cut blade also works well for small projects. If using a power saw, support the sheet fully to avoid vibration, which can cause cracks or rough edges. Since the material is so thin, slower cutting with light pressure yields the best outcome.
Conclusion
Cutting plywood doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the best saw to cut plywood and the right blade, you can achieve clean, accurate cuts every time. From circular saws with guide rails to simple utility knives for thin sheets, each tool has its purpose. What matters most is matching the saw and blade to the job at hand. When you use the right method, plywood projects become smoother, faster, and far more professional-looking.
