Genesis GCS445SE vs. Skilsaw SPT77WML-01

We’ll take a look at these two circular saws: the Genesis GCS445SE and the Skilsaw SPT77WML-01.

Features & Benefits

You can read more in our roundup of the best compact circular saws and the best full-size circular saws.

Power & Motor

Both products are corded and run on 120 V. The GCS445SE draws 4 amps. The SPT77WML-01 draws 15 amps. Standard U.S. residential circuits are 120 V, 15 A, which will support either of the circular saws.

The GCS445SE has a motor that spins at 3500 rpm and the SPT77WML-01 has a motor that spins at 5300 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 meaningful correlation with the saw’s real-world ability to handle various types of material.

The GCS445SE has a direct-drive motor. The SPT77WML-01 has a worm-drive motor. Direct-drive motors are usually lighter than other styles, but their side mounting makes the saw a little harder to control. Worm-drive motors are longer and heavier, but often more powerful and easier to control due to the weight being more centered.

Blades & Capacity

The GCS445SE takes 4 1/2” diameter blades and has a 3/8” arbor. The SPT77WML-01 accepts 7 1/4” diameter saw blades and has a 5/8” arbor. Most 8-to-10” blades have a 5/8” arbor hole, so this size of arbor maximizes blade compatibility.

The GCS445SE can bevel its blade up to 45°, can cut up to 1 11/16” deep at a 90° angle, and can cut up to 1 1/8” at a 45° angle. The SPT77WML-01 can bevel the blade up to 53°, can cut up to 2 3/8” deep at a 90° angle, and can cut up to 1 15/16” 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.

The Skilsaw has stops at 45°.

Both saws have the blade mounted 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 GCS445SE:

For the Skilsaw:

Comparison Chart

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

	Genesis GCS445SE	Skilsaw SPT77WML-01
Brand	Genesis	Skilsaw
Power Type	corded	corded
Power - Voltage	120 V	120 V
Power - Amps	4 A	15 A
No-load RPM	3500 rpm	5300 rpm
Blade Diameter	4 1/2”	7 1/4”
Maximum Bevel	45°	53°
Depth of Cut (at 90°)	1 11/16”	2 3/8”
Depth of Cut (at 45°)	1 1/8”	1 15/16”
Arbor Size	3/8”	5/8”
Dimensions		19 1/2” L × 7” H
Weight	4.7 lbs	11.5 lbs
Blade - Side	left	left
Drive Mechanism	direct-drive	worm-drive
Stops		45°
Warranty		1 year
Pros	Cuts 2x material without any trouble Includes dust connector for shop vacuum Includes rip fence	Lots of torque for cutting difficult material Good build quality Blade-left design provides good visibility Easy to track straight cut lines
Cons	Narrow dust hose can clog up and cause overheating/shutdown	Heavier than most direct-drive saws
	Check Price	Check Price