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Table of contents

Genesis GCS445SE vs. Rockwell RK3440K

Shopping for a new circular saw? Compare the features of the Genesis GCS445SE and Rockwell RK3440K and make an informed purchase!

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

Genesis GCS445SE
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. Dont get too caught up in these numbers, since the manufacturers measure them under ideal conditions, and they dont have a direct impact on the saws 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

Lets take a look at some of the pluses and minuses of these products.

For the Genesis:

Pros

  • Cuts 2x material without any trouble
  • Includes dust connector for shop vacuum
  • Includes rip fence

Cons

  • Narrow dust hose can clog up and cause overheating/shutdown

For the Rockwell:

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 comparison of these productsspecs. You can view comparisons of the Genesis GCS445SE with other products

and comparisons of the Rockwell RK3440K with other products.

Genesis GCS445SERockwell RK3440K
Genesis GCS445SE
Rockwell RK3440K
BrandGenesisRockwell
Power Typecordedcorded
Power - Voltage120 V120 V
Power - Amps4 A4 A
No-load RPM3500 rpm3500 rpm
Blade Diameter4 1/2”3 3/8”
Maximum Bevel45°
Depth of Cut (at 90°)1 11/16”1 1/16”
Depth of Cut (at 45°)1 1/8”n/a
Arbor Size3/8”19/32”
Weight4.7 lbs4 lbs
Blade - Sideleftleft
Drive Mechanismdirect-drivedirect
Stopsn/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
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