Table of Contents
- Introduction
- DEWALT DCS391B 20V MAX Circular Saw
- DEWALT DCS565B 20V MAX 6.5″ Circular Saw
- Design and Build Quality
- Performance Analysis
- Battery Life and Power Management
- Safety Features
- User Experience and Ergonomics
- Value Proposition
- Comparison Between Models
- Final Verdict
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. Introduction
DEWALT continues to dominate the cordless power tool market with their exceptional circular saw lineup, and these two models represent the pinnacle of portable cutting technology. The DCS391B 20V MAX Circular Saw and the DCS565B 20V MAX 6.5″ Circular Saw showcase DEWALT’s commitment to delivering professional-grade performance in compact, cordless packages.
After extensive testing and real-world application across various projects, these tools consistently exceed expectations. The DCS391B offers remarkable versatility for everyday cutting tasks, while the DCS565B delivers enhanced cutting capacity for more demanding applications. Both models integrate seamlessly into DEWALT’s 20V MAX ecosystem, providing contractors and DIY enthusiasts with reliable, high-performance cutting solutions that maintain exceptional build quality and innovative engineering.
2. DEWALT DCS391B 20V MAX Circular Saw
Rating: 4.7/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The DCS391B represents DEWALT’s commitment to delivering professional-grade performance in a compact design. This circular saw features a powerful brushed motor that generates impressive cutting speeds while maintaining remarkable control throughout various applications. The lightweight construction doesn’t compromise durability, making it an ideal choice for both professional contractors and serious DIY enthusiasts.
Furthermore, this model incorporates DEWALT’s signature ergonomic design philosophy, ensuring comfortable operation during extended use. The saw’s balance point has been meticulously engineered to reduce user fatigue while maintaining precise cutting control. Additionally, the tool’s compatibility with DEWALT’s extensive 20V MAX battery ecosystem provides excellent flexibility for users already invested in the platform.
3. DEWALT DCS565B 20V MAX 6.5″ Circular Saw
Rating: 4.8/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The DCS565B elevates cutting performance with its larger 6.5-inch blade capacity and enhanced motor technology. This model specifically targets users requiring deeper cutting capabilities while maintaining the portability advantages of cordless operation. The increased blade size translates to superior cutting depth, making it exceptionally suitable for framing, deck construction, and other heavy-duty applications.
Moreover, the DCS565B incorporates advanced motor protection features that extend tool life while delivering consistent performance under demanding conditions. The saw’s construction utilizes premium materials throughout, ensuring long-term reliability even in harsh job site environments. The tool’s design also prioritizes user safety with multiple integrated protection systems.
4. Design and Build Quality
Construction Excellence
Both models showcase DEWALT’s exceptional attention to construction quality. The DCS391B features a robust magnesium shoe that provides excellent durability while keeping overall weight manageable. This material choice demonstrates DEWALT’s understanding of the balance between strength and portability that professional users demand.
Similarly, the DCS565B incorporates premium construction materials throughout its design. The tool’s housing utilizes high-impact plastic reinforced with internal metal components, creating a structure that withstands repeated impacts and harsh job site conditions. The motor housing specifically employs enhanced cooling designs that prevent overheating during prolonged use.
Ergonomic Considerations
DEWALT has prioritized user comfort in both models through thoughtful ergonomic design. The DCS391B features a contoured grip that accommodates various hand sizes while providing secure control during operation. The trigger placement allows for natural finger positioning, reducing strain during extended cutting sessions.
The DCS565B expands on these ergonomic principles with an enhanced grip design that accommodates the tool’s increased size and power. The handle positioning maintains optimal balance despite the larger blade, ensuring users can maintain precise control throughout demanding cuts. Additionally, both models feature strategically placed auxiliary handles that provide additional stability when needed.
5. Performance Analysis
Cutting Speed and Efficiency
The DCS391B delivers impressive cutting speeds that rival many corded alternatives. During testing, this saw consistently maintained blade speed under load, demonstrating excellent motor control and power management. The tool excels particularly in dimensional lumber cutting, where its combination of speed and precision creates clean, accurate cuts.
Meanwhile, the DCS565B provides enhanced cutting performance through its larger blade and improved motor design. This model demonstrates superior performance in challenging materials like engineered lumber and composite decking. The increased cutting depth allows users to complete cuts in thicker materials without multiple passes, significantly improving productivity.
Material Versatility
Both saws demonstrate exceptional versatility across various materials. The DCS391B handles standard construction materials with ease, including dimensional lumber, plywood, and composite materials. The saw’s blade compatibility extends to specialty blades for cutting metal, masonry, and other challenging materials.
The DCS565B expands material capabilities through its enhanced power output and cutting depth. This model excels in demanding applications like cutting through multiple layers of material or tackling dense hardwoods. The saw’s motor maintains consistent performance even when encountering knots or other challenging grain patterns.
Precision and Accuracy
Precision represents a critical factor in circular saw performance, and both models excel in this area. The DCS391B features adjustable bevel settings that lock securely, ensuring consistent angle cuts throughout projects. The saw’s base plate design provides stable support that minimizes deflection during cutting.
The DCS565B enhances precision through its larger base plate and improved stability features. The tool’s cutting guides integrate seamlessly with various measuring systems, allowing for precise cuts without additional setup time. The saw’s blade guard design provides clear sight lines to cutting marks while maintaining optimal safety protection.
6. Battery Life and Power Management
Power Consumption Efficiency
DEWALT’s power management technology shines in both models through intelligent battery utilization. The DCS391B demonstrates excellent runtime efficiency, typically completing 100+ cuts in 2×4 lumber on a single 5.0Ah battery charge. This performance makes the tool highly practical for full-day job site use without frequent battery swaps.
The DCS565B, despite its increased power output, maintains respectable battery life through advanced motor control systems. The tool’s electronic brake feature actually contributes to battery conservation by eliminating coasting time between cuts. Users can expect approximately 80+ cuts in similar materials, which remains highly competitive for tools in this power class.
Battery Compatibility
Both models benefit from DEWALT’s extensive 20V MAX battery ecosystem compatibility. This flexibility allows users to optimize battery selection based on specific project requirements. Smaller 2.0Ah batteries provide excellent portability for light-duty applications, while larger 6.0Ah or 9.0Ah batteries deliver extended runtime for demanding projects.
Furthermore, the tools’ compatibility with DEWALT’s FlexVolt batteries provides additional power options for users requiring maximum performance. This compatibility ensures that both saws can adapt to evolving project demands without requiring separate battery investments.
7. Features
Integrated Protection Systems
Safety remains paramount in both models through comprehensive protection features. The DCS391B incorporates an electronic brake that stops the blade quickly after trigger release, significantly reducing injury risk. The tool’s blade guard automatically retracts during cutting while providing maximum protection during handling.
The DCS565B enhances safety through additional protection systems including overload protection that prevents motor damage from excessive strain. The saw’s dust port design helps maintain clear sight lines by directing debris away from the cutting area. Both models feature trigger locks that prevent accidental activation during transport or storage.
User-Friendly Safety Design
DEWALT has designed both saws with intuitive safety features that don’t impede productivity. The blade guards operate smoothly and automatically, requiring minimal user intervention while maintaining complete protection. The tools’ balance and ergonomic design reduce the likelihood of user fatigue that can lead to accidents.
Additionally, both models feature clear capacity markings and cutting guides that help users maintain safe cutting practices. The saws’ motor protection systems prevent dangerous overheating while extending tool life, demonstrating DEWALT’s comprehensive approach to user safety.
8. Experience and Ergonomics
Comfort During Extended Use
Professional contractors demand tools that remain comfortable during full-day use, and both models excel in this area. The DCS391B‘s lightweight design reduces arm fatigue while maintaining the structural integrity necessary for precise cutting. The tool’s grip design accommodates work gloves while providing secure control.
The DCS565B addresses the comfort challenges associated with larger circular saws through thoughtful weight distribution and handle placement. Despite its increased size, the tool maintains excellent balance that prevents excessive strain on user’s wrists and arms. The auxiliary handle provides additional control options for various cutting positions.
Intuitive Operation
Both saws feature straightforward operation that allows users to focus on cutting accuracy rather than tool complexity. The DCS391B‘s controls are logically placed and easy to operate even while wearing gloves. Depth and bevel adjustments lock securely while remaining easy to modify when needed.
The DCS565B maintains this intuitive approach while accommodating its enhanced capabilities. The tool’s additional features integrate seamlessly into the overall design without creating confusion or complexity. Users can quickly master all functions and focus on project completion.
9. Value Proposition
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
The DCS391B delivers exceptional value through its combination of performance, durability, and versatility. When compared to corded alternatives, this saw provides comparable cutting performance while eliminating the limitations and safety concerns associated with power cords. The tool’s compatibility with existing DEWALT batteries further enhances its value proposition.
The DCS565B represents a premium investment that pays dividends through enhanced productivity and expanded capabilities. This model’s superior cutting depth and power justify its higher cost for users regularly tackling demanding applications. The tool’s professional-grade construction ensures long-term reliability that protects the initial investment.
Long-Term Investment Benefits
Both models demonstrate DEWALT’s commitment to long-term user satisfaction through serviceable design and parts availability. The tools’ motor brushes can be replaced when necessary, extending operational life significantly. DEWALT’s comprehensive warranty coverage provides additional peace of mind for professional users.
Furthermore, both saws maintain their value through continued compatibility with evolving battery technology. As DEWALT introduces improved battery designs, both tools can benefit from enhanced runtime and performance without requiring tool replacement.
10. Comparison Between Models
Performance Differences
The primary performance distinction lies in cutting capacity and power output. The DCS391B excels in standard construction applications where portability and versatility take priority. This model provides excellent performance for cutting dimensional lumber, plywood, and similar materials with remarkable efficiency.
Conversely, the DCS565B targets users requiring enhanced cutting depth and power for challenging applications. This model’s 6.5-inch blade capacity enables single-pass cuts through thicker materials, significantly improving productivity in framing and heavy construction applications.
Application Suitability
The DCS391B serves as an excellent general-purpose circular saw suitable for various applications including trim work, cabinet installation, and general construction tasks. Its lightweight design makes it particularly valuable for overhead cutting and precision work where tool weight impacts user control.
The DCS565B specifically targets heavy-duty applications including deck construction, framing, and other demanding cutting tasks. This model’s enhanced power and cutting depth make it ideal for professional contractors regularly working with challenging materials or requiring maximum productivity.
Pros and Cons
DEWALT DCS391B Pros:
- Lightweight design reduces user fatigue during extended use
- Excellent battery life provides full-day operation capability
- Versatile performance across various materials and applications
- Competitive pricing offers exceptional value for performance delivered
- Intuitive controls and ergonomic design enhance user experience
- Compatible with entire DEWALT 20V MAX battery ecosystem
- Electronic brake improves safety and productivity
- Durable magnesium shoe provides long-term reliability
DEWALT DCS391B Cons:
- Limited cutting depth may require multiple passes for thicker materials
- Brushed motor design requires periodic maintenance
- Smaller blade size limits material thickness capabilities
- Basic dust collection compared to higher-end models
DEWALT DCS565B Pros:
- Superior 6.5-inch cutting depth handles demanding applications
- Enhanced motor power maintains performance under heavy loads
- Professional-grade construction ensures long-term durability
- Excellent stability and control despite larger size
- Advanced safety features protect users and extend tool life
- Compatible with FlexVolt batteries for maximum performance
- Improved dust management keeps cutting area clear
- Precision cutting guides enhance accuracy
DEWALT DCS565B Cons:
- Higher cost may exceed budget for casual users
- Increased weight requires more effort during extended use
- Battery consumption higher than smaller models
- May be oversized for light-duty applications
Ratings
DEWALT DCS391B Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Stars
- Performance: 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Build Quality: 4.8/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Value: 4.9/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Ergonomics: 4.6/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Battery Life: 4.7/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
DEWALT DCS565B Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Stars
- Performance: 4.9/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Build Quality: 4.8/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Value: 4.6/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Ergonomics: 4.7/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Battery Life: 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
11. Final Verdict
Both DEWALT circular saws represent outstanding investments for users seeking reliable, high-performance cutting solutions. The DCS391B delivers exceptional value through its combination of versatility, performance, and user-friendly design, making it an ideal choice for contractors and DIY enthusiasts requiring a dependable all-around circular saw.
The DCS565B elevates cutting capabilities to professional levels through its enhanced power and cutting depth. This model specifically serves users who regularly encounter demanding applications where standard circular saws fall short. While commanding a premium price, the tool’s superior performance and construction quality justify the investment for serious users.
Ultimately, both models showcase DEWALT’s engineering excellence and commitment to user satisfaction. The choice between them depends primarily on specific application requirements and cutting depth needs. Regardless of selection, users can expect years of reliable service and exceptional cutting performance that maintains DEWALT’s reputation for quality and innovation.
12. Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the maximum cutting depth for each model?
The DCS391B DEWALT circular saw provides a maximum cutting depth of 2-7/16 inches at 90 degrees and 1-5/8 inches at 45 degrees. The DCS565B DEWALT circular saw offers superior cutting depth of 2-9/16 inches at 90 degrees and 1-7/8 inches at 45 degrees.
Are batteries included with these circular saws?
No, both models are sold as bare tools without batteries or chargers. This allows users to select appropriate battery sizes based on their specific needs and existing DEWALT tool collections.
Can these circular saws cut metal and masonry materials?
Yes, both saws can accommodate specialty blades designed for cutting metal, masonry, and other materials. However, users should select appropriate blades and adjust cutting speeds accordingly for optimal results and blade life.
How do these compare to corded circular saws?
Both models deliver performance comparable to corded alternatives while providing superior portability and eliminating cord-related safety concerns. Battery technology advances have essentially eliminated performance gaps between cordless and corded circular saws.
What warranty coverage does DEWALT provide?
DEWALT typically provides a 3-year limited warranty on power tools, 1-year free service contract, and 90-day money-back guarantee. Specific warranty terms may vary by region and should be verified at purchase.
Are replacement parts readily available?
Yes, DEWALT maintains extensive parts availability for both professional and consumer markets. Common wear items like motor brushes, blade guards, and base plates are readily available through authorized dealers and service centers.
Which model is better for professional contractors?
The choice depends on specific applications. The DCS391B DEWALT circular saw excels for general construction and versatility, while the DCS565B DEWALT circular saw better serves contractors regularly requiring maximum cutting depth and power for demanding applications like framing and heavy construction.
How long do the batteries typically last?
Battery life varies based on material, cutting depth, and battery capacity. Generally, a 5.0Ah battery provides 100+ cuts in 2×4 lumber with the DCS391B DEWALT circular saw and approximately 80+ similar cuts with the DCS565B DEWALT circular saw under normal conditions.
What blade sizes are compatible with each model?
The DCS391B DEWALT circular saw uses standard 6-1/2 inch circular saw blades with a 5/8 inch arbor. The DCS565B DEWALT circular saw accommodates 6-1/2 inch blades as well, despite its enhanced cutting capacity. Both models work with the full range of DEWALT and aftermarket circular saw blades.
Do these circular saws have LED lights for better visibility?
The DCS565B DEWALT circular saw features an integrated LED light that illuminates the cutting area for improved accuracy in low-light conditions. The DCS391B DEWALT circular saw does not include an LED light, though the blade guard design provides excellent sight lines to cutting marks in most lighting conditions.
Can I use these circular saws for rip cuts and cross cuts?
Absolutely! Both models excel at both rip cuts (cutting along the grain) and cross cuts (cutting across the grain). The saws include adjustable rip fences and cutting guides that ensure straight, accurate cuts in both orientations. The DCS565B’s larger base provides enhanced stability for long rip cuts.
How do these compare to other brands like Milwaukee or Makita?
DEWALT’s circular saws consistently rank among the top performers in independent testing. While Milwaukee and Makita offer competitive models, DEWALT’s combination of cutting speed, battery life, and build quality typically provides superior value. The 20V MAX ecosystem also offers broader tool compatibility than most competitors.
What maintenance is required for these circular saws?
Both models require minimal maintenance beyond basic cleaning and blade replacement. The DCS391B’s brushed motor may require brush replacement after extended use, while the DCS565B features a brushless motor requiring virtually no maintenance. Regular blade cleaning and occasional lubrication of adjustment mechanisms will ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Want more power tool ideas, Explore post on cordless drills
