Dremel US40-04 vs. Genesis GCS445SE

Let’s take a look at these two circular saws: the Dremel US40-04 and the Genesis GCS445SE.

Features & Benefits

You can read more in our roundup of the best compact circular saws.

Power & Motor

Both products are corded and run on 120 V. The US40-04 draws 7.5 amps. The GCS445SE draws 4 amps. Standard U.S. residential circuits are 120 V, 15 A, which will support either of the saws.

The US40-04 motor spins at 13000 rpm and the GCS445SE motor spins at 3500 rpm. But don’t get too caught up in these numbers, since the manufacturers measure them under ideal conditions, and they don’t have a direct impact on the saw’s real-world ability to handle different material.

Both circular saws have a direct-drive 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 US40-04 takes 4” diameter blades. The GCS445SE accepts 4 1/2” diameter blades and has a 3/8” arbor.

The US40-04 can bevel up to 0° and can cut up to 3/4” deep at a 90° angle. The GCS445SE can bevel the blade up to 45°, can cut up to 1 11/16” at a 90° angle, and can cut up to 1 1/8” deep at a 45° angle.

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.

Both products have 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 Dremel:

For the Genesis:

Comparison Chart

Below is a full side-by-side comparison of these products’ specs. You can view comparisons of the Dremel US40-04 with other products

	Dremel US40-04	Genesis GCS445SE
Brand	Dremel	Genesis
Power Type	corded	corded
Power - Voltage	120 V	120 V
Power - Amps	7.5 A	4 A
No-load RPM	13000 rpm	3500 rpm
Blade Diameter	4”	4 1/2”
Maximum Bevel	0°	45°
Depth of Cut (at 90°)	3/4”	1 11/16”
Depth of Cut (at 45°)	n/a	1 1/8”
Arbor Size	n/a	3/8”
Dimensions	13” L × 5” H
Weight	4.6 lbs	4.7 lbs
Blade - Side	left	left
Drive Mechanism	direct-drive	direct-drive
Stops	n/a
Warranty	2 years
Pros	Optional auxiliary handle for extra control Includes multiple blades for wood, metal, PVC, etc. Can make flush cuts with appropriate blade	Cuts 2x material without any trouble Includes dust connector for shop vacuum Includes rip fence
Cons	Can overheat when cutting thick material	Narrow dust hose can clog up and cause overheating/shutdown
	Check Price	Check Price