Cut-off saws are a powerful tool for contractors to cut concrete, asphalt, pipe, and more. How do you choose between gas-powered, corded electric, and battery-powered saws that best fit your project? Each saw has advantages and disadvantages.

Choosing the right type of saw depends on the level of power and mobility required, and ease of operation. Take on your next cut with confidence by eliminating any time-wasting trial and error, and stay productive all day.

Gas-Powered Concrete Saws

Gas-powered saws are the most powerful and are designed for the toughest jobs. They are available in various sizes from 12" to 18" to cut materials like concrete, asphalt, and steel.

Although gas-powered saws are heavier, they provide a quick and accurate cut. Gas-powered saws require less initial investment to buy. They require constant refueling with gas and oil mix and usually have a higher repair cost than electric and battery-powered saws.

Pros of Gas-Powered Saws

 More power and faster cutting speed than electric or battery-powered saws

 Longer run times

Wide variety of saw models

Cons of Gas-Powered Saws

 Louder and expend exhaust fumes while running

 Requires constant gas/oil refueling

 Heavier and less mobility

Electric Concrete Saws

Electric saws are easy to start, lightweight power cutters perfect for cutting concrete, asphalt, and stone. Electric concrete saws offer a lower upfront cost and don't need to be consistently refueled. They do often require an extension cord to increase mobility due to its cord.

These saws are ideal for general-purpose jobs, specifically indoor applications because the operator can work with zero emissions.

Pros of Electric Saws

Great tool for concrete or masonry

 Lightweight and easy to transport

Easy to start

 Requires very little maintenance

Cons of Electric Saws

 It needs an accessible power source

 Corded saws have limited mobility

 Not for heavy industrial use

 Louder than battery saws

Battery Powered Saws

Battery-powered saws are the lightest and provide the most mobility of concrete saws. Being powered by lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, these saws are low-maintenance tools but will need to be recharged between projects.

Battery-powered saws are very easy to start, making them a go-to saw for any contractor with the right application. These saws are ideal for cutting indoor and residential areas due to zero emissions and quieter noise. 

Pros of Battery-Powered Saws

 Lightweight and easy to transport

Easy to start

 Requires very little maintenance

Cons of Battery-Powered Saws

 The least powerful style of cut-off saw

 Battery-powered saws have a shorter run time on one battery rather than a tank of fuel