DeWalt DCS578 vs. Rockwell RK3440K
Looking for a new circular saw? Compare the benefits of the DeWalt DCS578 and Rockwell RK3440K in order to make an informed purchase!
We’ll take a look at these two circular saws: the DeWalt DCS578 and the Rockwell RK3440K.
Features & Benefits
For more information, read more in our roundup of the best compact circular saws and the best full-size circular saws.
Power & Motor
The RK3440K is corded, requires 120 V, and draws 4 amps. In the U.S., standard residential circuits are 120 V, 15 A, which will support the.
The DCS578 is cordless and runs on 60 V batteries.
The DCS578 has a motor that spins at 5800 rpm and the RK3440K has a motor that spins at 3500 rpm. You shouldn’t get too caught up in the RPM numbers, since the manufacturers test them under ideal conditions, and they don’t have a direct correlation with the saw’s real-world ability to handle various types of material.
The DCS578 has a direct-drive motor. The RK3440K has a direct motor. Direct-drive motors are usually lighter than other styles, but their side mounting makes the saw a little harder to control.
Blades & Capacity
The DCS578 accepts 7 1/4” diameter blades and has a 5/8” arbor. The RK3440K takes 3 3/8” diameter saw blades and has a 19/32” arbor. Most 8-to-10” blades have a 5/8” arbor hole, so this size of arbor won’t limit your choices.
The DCS578 can bevel its blade up to 57°, can cut up to 2 9/16” deep at 90°, and will cut up to 2” at a 45° angle. The RK3440K can bevel the blade up to 0° and is able to cut up to 1 1/16” deep at an angle of 90°.
When beveling the saw, most circular saws will have positive stops at common angles such as 45° and 90°. This ensures you are making precise cuts. Some saws have additional stops at other angles.
The DeWalt has stops at 22.5°, 45°.
The DeWalt has the blade on the right side of the saw. The Rockwell has the blade on the left side of the unit. Right-handers sometimes find it easier to see and control blades mounted to the left, while left-handers might find the same true for right-mounted blades.
Pros & Cons
Let’s take a look at some of the pluses and minuses of these products.
For the DeWalt:
Pros
- Power and torque comparable to a corded saw
- Brake responds quickly to stop saw almost immediately
- Deeper cuts than most other 7 1/4” cordless circular saws
- Handle design is very comfortable to use and makes it easy to push straight
Cons
- Heavier than many other saws in its class
- Shoe friction requires a little more energy to push
For the RK3440K:
Pros
- Very lightweight
- Laser guide for accurately following cut lines
Cons
- Safety mechanism can be confusing, requires pushing plate down onto work surface
Comparison Chart
Below is a full side-by-side look at these products’ specs. You can view comparisons of the DeWalt DCS578 with other products
| DeWalt DCS578 | Rockwell RK3440K | |
|---|---|---|
| | |
| Brand | DeWalt | Rockwell |
| Power Type | cordless | corded |
| Power - Voltage | 60 V | 120 V |
| Power - Amps | n/a | 4 A |
| No-load RPM | 5800 rpm | 3500 rpm |
| Blade Diameter | 7 1/4” | 3 3/8” |
| Maximum Bevel | 57° | 0° |
| Depth of Cut (at 90°) | 2 9/16” | 1 1/16” |
| Depth of Cut (at 45°) | 2” | n/a |
| Arbor Size | 5/8” | 19/32” |
| Weight | 8.2 lbs | 4 lbs |
| Blade - Side | right | left |
| Drive Mechanism | direct-drive | direct |
| Stops | 22.5°, 45° | n/a |
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