Genesis GCS445SE vs. Rockwell RK3440K

Let’s take a look at these two circular saws: the Genesis GCS445SE and the Rockwell RK3440K.

Features & Benefits

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

Power & Motor

Both products are corded, run on 120 V, and draw 4 amps. Standard U.S. residential circuits are 120 V, 15 A, which will support either of the circular saws.

Both saws have motors that spin at 3500 rpm. 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.

The GCS445SE 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 GCS445SE takes 4 1/2” diameter blades and has a 3/8” arbor. The RK3440K accepts 3 3/8” diameter blades and has a 19/32” arbor.

The GCS445SE can bevel 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. The RK3440K can bevel the blade up to 0° and can cut up to 1 1/16” at a 90° 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 Genesis:

For the Rockwell:

Comparison Chart

Below is a full side-by-side comparison of these products’ specs. You can view comparisons of the Genesis GCS445SE with other products

	Genesis GCS445SE	Rockwell RK3440K
Brand	Genesis	Rockwell
Power Type	corded	corded
Power - Voltage	120 V	120 V
Power - Amps	4 A	4 A
No-load RPM	3500 rpm	3500 rpm
Blade Diameter	4 1/2”	3 3/8”
Maximum Bevel	45°	0°
Depth of Cut (at 90°)	1 11/16”	1 1/16”
Depth of Cut (at 45°)	1 1/8”	n/a
Arbor Size	3/8”	19/32”
Weight	4.7 lbs	4 lbs
Blade - Side	left	left
Drive Mechanism	direct-drive	direct
Stops		n/a
Pros	Cuts 2x material without any trouble Includes dust connector for shop vacuum Includes rip fence	Very lightweight Laser guide for accurately following cut lines
Cons	Narrow dust hose can clog up and cause overheating/shutdown	Safety mechanism can be confusing, requires pushing plate down onto work surface
	Check Price	Check Price