A circular saw is one of the most versatile power tools available. But their bulky size and relative heft can somewhat limit their applications. For tight quarters, a smaller power tool is required.
The Dremel Saw Max, Dremel Ultra Saw and Dremel Saw Max are perfect for this task. As so-called mini circular saws, these compact power tools take the versatility and cutting power of a circular saw and scale it down into a small, lightweight package.
Although other models are available, Dremel is always a good place to start when it comes to buying new power tools for home DIY projects. Heres how the Dremel Saw-Max and Dremel Ultra Saw stack up against each other.
Quick Look: Compact Circular Saw
A mini circular saw, also known as a compact circular saw, isnt as popular as other power tools. This tool is extremely useful but it has only recently been made a staple in the tool boxes of both professionals and DIYers.
This quick guide will tell you everything you need to know about this unique tool.
What Is The Saw Max And Ultra Saw?
Dremel’s Ultra Saw and Saw Max power tools are not traditional power tools. Although theyre technically compact circular saws, theyre really more of a combination between a full-size circular saw and a grinder.
These mini circular saws combine many of the best features of a full-size model with smaller dimensions to make them more portable. Most mini circular saws, including the Ultra Saw and Saw Max, can be used safely with one hand even in tight spaces.
Popular Mechanics says that a small circular saw is a great tool for cutting concrete, steel and other materials.
Benefits Of A Mini Circular Saw
Compact circular saws have a few main benefits you should remember. These include:
- Small This tool is small enough to be used in close quarters.
- Lightweight This tool is easy to use one-handed or two-handed.
- Versatile You can easily swap out the blades on most mini circular saws. This increases their versatility.
Compact circular saws, just like any power tool, have their disadvantages. These include:
- Not as Powerful The mini version of this tool is not as powerful or durable as a full-scale circular saw.
Remember that even though mini circular saws are not as powerful as full-size circular saws, they are still very robust tools. They can cut through wood easily, but they also have the ability to cut concrete, steel, tile and siding with the right blade.
According to The Old House, there are situations when a circular saw works better than a compact one. If you can add both, it’s a good idea!
Miniature Circular Saws Buying Guide
There are many compact circular saws available on the market. Instead of rushing out and buying the first model you see, its much better to do your research first. A basic understanding of the tool can help you make an informed purchase.
These are the things you need to keep in mind
- Power A stronger motor helps the machine cut through stronger materials.
- Controls Multispeed increases flexibility for different projects.
- Ease of Use Although power is important, you dont want a tool so powerful that its difficult to use.
- Durability Mini circular saws that are best for heavy use last many years.
- Blades Look for a model with several different blades for cutting different materials.
Think about these factors while enjoying our showdown of the Dremel Saw Max versus the Dremel Ultra Saw below.
Compact Circular Saw Showdown
Two of the most innovative mini circular saws on the market today are the Ultra Saw and Saw Max. These two Dremel models are both made with the same legendary Dremel quality and durability.
What about the details? Heres how the Dremel Saw Max and Dremel Ultra Saw stack up head to head.
Dremel Saw Max
The Dremel saw Max, also known as the SM20 is a versatile, easy-to-use tool. It is small and lightweight, much more than the Ultra Saw. This allows for greater versatility and ease of usage in any situation, even close-quarters.
Although the Saw Max has a 6-amp motor compared to the Ultra Saws 7.5-amp motor, its capable of cutting through almost all of the same materials. Other highlights include the flush cutting application, tools dust extraction port and worm driving gearing.
What We Love:
What We Do Not Like:
- Not as easy to use as Saw Max
Wrap Up
Like the vast majority of Dremels products, both the Saw Max and Ultra Saw are fantastic power tools. You wont go wrong with either option. Both are durable and rugged. Both are versatile and easy-to-use. The Dremel Ultra saw is the clear winner in this head-to-head contest. It is simply the more expensive of the two.
Not only does it boast a more powerful motor and more effective cutting action, but its also more durable than its competitor. You can abuse the Ultra Saw on a daily basis and continue to expect top-notch performance for years on end.
The Ultra Saw Max is more powerful than the Ultra Saw, so it can be more difficult to use. The Ultra Saw is still very easy to use, but the Saw Max is half a pound lighter, slimmer and has a better handle.
Thats why the Dremel Saw Max edges out the Ultra Saw when it comes to home DIYers. Pros will choose the Ultra Saw, while hobbyists should go for the more affordable Saw Max.
Which saw will you choose? Let us know in the comments.
