DEWALT DWS535B Review: A Professional Worm Drive with Modern Features

The DEWALT DWS535B is a 7-1/4″ worm drive circular saw designed to challenge the dominance of SKILSAW in the professional framing market. With its magnesium construction, electric brake, and 15-amp motor, it promises to deliver the power and durability pros expect. After examining specifications, professional reviews, and extensive user feedback, here’s our honest assessment of whether this saw lives up to its promises.

Quick Verdict

Best for: Professional framers, contractors who prefer worm drive design, users who need maximum torque and cutting power
Skip if: You’re a casual DIYer, prefer lighter sidewinder saws, or work primarily with thin materials

Key Specifications

• Blade Size: 7-1/4 inches
• Motor: 15 Amp delivering 4,800 RPM
• Weight: 13.8 lbs (typical for worm drives)
• Cutting Depth: 2-5/8″ at 90°, 2-1/8″ at 45°
• Bevel Range: 0° to 53° (wider than standard 45°)
• Construction: Cast magnesium footplate and motor housing
• Power: Corded 120V
• Warranty: 3 years limited

What Works Exceptionally Well

Genuine Worm Drive Advantages.

Professional framers have long preferred worm drive saws for their “higher torques and better balance,” and the DWS535B delivers both. The motor sits behind the blade, providing excellent balance for longcuts and superior torque for cutting through tough materials.

Modern Safety Features.

The electric brake stops the blade in approximately 2 seconds after releasing the trigger – a significant safety improvement over traditional worm drives. This feature alone makes it more appealing than older competitors.

Durable Construction.

The “lightweight and durable magnesium construction” optimizes “user handling, comfort, and strength” while maintaining the robust feel professionals expect. The “durable cast magnesium footplate provides a tough and solid cutting platform.”

Extended Bevel Capacity.

The 53-degree bevel capacity allows for “more advanced cutting applications” compared to standard 45-degree saws, useful for compound cuts and specialty framing work.

Significant Limitations.

Weight and Handling

At 13.8 pounds, this saw requires more physical effort than sidewinder models. Extended overhead use or all-day operation can be fatiguing, especially for users transitioning from lighter saws.

Cord Management

While DEWALT includes their “TOUGHCORD cord protection system” that provides “4X better cord protection,” the cord still requires more attention than with sidewinder designs due to the motor placement.

Learning Curve

Users familiar with sidewinder saws need time to adjust to worm drive handling characteristics. The blade-left design and different balance point can initially feel awkward.

Price Premium

Typically priced $50-100 more than comparable sidewinder saws, the worm drive design commands a premium that may not be justified for occasional users.

Real-World Performance

Where It Excels

• Framing lumber: Cuts through multiple 2x12s without bogging down
• Thick materials: Handles engineered lumber, dense hardwoods, and laminated beams
• Long rip cuts: Superior balance makes extended cuts more manageable
• Accurate cuts: Worm drive design naturally tracks straighter than sidewinders

Professional Applications

Users report excellent performance for “cutting sheet goods for cabinet boxes” and find it “makes cutting… so much easier than using a table saw.” The saw handles demanding professional work consistently.

Durability Reports

Long-term users report positive experiences: “I’ve been using the saw for over a year. It still works great and I’ve had zero issues with it.”

How It Compares

vs. SKILSAW MAG77LT: DEWALT offers the electric brake and wider bevel range, while SKILSAW has longer-established reputation and slightly more aggressive cutting feel.

vs. Makita 5377MG: Similar performance and features, with choice often coming down to brand preference and existing tool ecosystem.

vs. Sidewinder Saws: Trades portability and maneuverability for superior torque and cutting balance. Choose based on primary applications.

Who Should Buy This Saw

Ideal Candidates

• Professional framers and rough carpenters
• Contractors who regularly cut thick dimensional lumber
• Users who prefer the worm drive feel and balance
• Those who value modern safety features in traditional design

Better Alternatives For

• Casual DIYers: A quality sidewinder offers easier handling and lower cost
• Fine woodworkers: Consider track saws for precision sheet goods cutting
• Mixed-use scenarios: Sidewinder saws provide more versatility

Real-World Considerations

Setup and Accessories

The saw includes “dual rip ports designed to work with the DWS5100 12″ dual port rip guide” and “extra wide saw hook accepts material up to 2-1/2″ wide.” These features enhance usability on job sites.

Maintenance Requirements

Worm drive saws require periodic gear oil changes and more maintenance than sidewinders. Factor this into long-term ownership costs.

Bottom Line

The DEWALT DWS535B successfully modernizes the classic worm drive design with contemporary safety features and quality construction. It’s “an easy-to-use, accurate, lightweight (due to its magnesium components), and affordable worm drive circular saw” that competes effectively with established players.

Buy it if: You’re a professional who appreciates worm drive advantages, need maximum cutting torque, and value modern safety features like the electric brake.

Skip it if: You want the lightest, most maneuverable option, primarily cut thin materials, or prefer the versatility of sidewinder designs.

Alternatives to Consider

• SKILSAW SPT77WML-01: Traditional choice with proven track record
• Makita 5377MG: Comparable features in different brand ecosystem
• DEWALT DWE575SB: Sidewinder alternative from same manufacturer
• Festool HKC 55: Premium track saw option for precision work

This saw delivers professional-grade performance with thoughtful modern improvements. The question isn’t whether it cuts well – it does – but whether you need the specific advantages that worm drive design provides.