Cutting plywood cleanly can be a real challenge, even for experienced DIYers and professionals. Tear-out, splintering, and rough edges are common problems when using the wrong saw blade, leading to wasted material and extra finishing work.
Choosing the right circular saw blade makes all the difference for smooth, accurate plywood cuts. In this guide, we compare the top blades available, highlighting what each does best and who should consider them. Whether you need ultra-fine finishes, bulk value, or all-purpose versatility, you’ll find clear recommendations for your next project.
Top 10 Best Circular Saw Blade For Plywood
After reviewing and comparing the most popular Circular Saw Blade For Plywood options, we identified the products that offer the best balance of quality, performance, and value.
1. CRAFTSMAN 7-1/4" 140T Fine Finish Saw Blade
When you need flawless, splinter-free edges on trim, molding, or plywood, a high-tooth-count finish blade is essential. Standard blades often leave rough or chipped surfaces, making extra sanding unavoidable.
This CRAFTSMAN blade stands out for its exceptionally high 140-tooth count, delivering ultra-smooth cuts ideal for visible surfaces and fine woodworking. It's a strong choice for home users who want professional-grade results on cabinets, furniture, or finish carpentry.
- 140 precision-ground teeth for smooth, accurate cuts on delicate materials
- Fully-hardened plate maintains true, flat cuts for consistent quality
- Heavy-gauge high carbon steel extends blade life for repeated use
Compared to typical 40T or 60T blades, this model prioritizes finish quality above cutting speed or versatility. The main tradeoff is slower progress through thick stock, but the results are worth it for detailed finish work.
- Ultra-smooth finish quality
- Very high tooth count
- Durable high carbon steel
- Ideal for trim and molding
- Flat, accurate cuts
- Slower cutting on thick wood
- Not suited for rough framing
2. Diablo Ultra Finish Carbide Saw Blade 7-1/4" 60T
When working with plywood, blade wear and heat buildup can quickly become issues, especially on larger or repeated projects. This Diablo Ultra Finish blade is engineered for both clean cuts and long-term durability, helping users avoid frequent replacements.
It's a strong option for those who need a blade that can handle both crosscuts and rip cuts in plywood, melamine, and wood, with features that protect against gumming and corrosion. Ideal for frequent users who want professional-level results and less downtime.
- Hi-Density Carbide Teeth: Increases durability and maintains sharpness over time
- Perma-SHIELD Coating: Reduces heat, gumming, and corrosion for longer blade life
- Super Thin Laser Cut Kerf: Enables fast, clean cuts with minimal waste
Compared to standard steel blades, this Diablo model prioritizes longevity and finish quality. The main tradeoff is a higher upfront cost, but it pays off for those who value fewer blade changes and consistent results.
- Long-lasting carbide teeth
- Clean crosscuts and rip cuts
- Non-stick coating reduces buildup
- Minimal sanding required
- Handles plywood and melamine
- Higher initial price
- Not the highest tooth count
3. CRALY 7-1/4" 140T Circular Saw Blade
Cutting a variety of sheet materials—plywood, OSB, plastics, and paneling—can quickly dull or damage standard blades. The CRALY 140T blade is designed for versatility, offering clean, efficient cuts across multiple materials without frequent blade changes.
This blade is ideal for DIYers or remodelers who work with different substrates and need a reliable, all-purpose option. Its thin kerf design helps reduce splintering and makes it suitable for both corded and cordless saws.
- High-Hardness Steel Teeth: Increases wear resistance for longer blade life
- Thin Kerf Design: Reduces burrs and splinters for cleaner cuts
- Multi-Material Compatibility: Suitable for plywood, OSB, plastic, paneling, and vinyl siding
Compared to single-purpose blades, the CRALY offers more flexibility at the cost of not being as specialized for ultra-fine finishes. It's a practical choice for those who value adaptability.
- Cuts multiple materials
- Thin kerf for smooth edges
- Works with most saws
- Durable steel construction
- Efficient for DIY projects
- Not specialized for finest finishes
- May wear faster on dense materials
4. Diablo 6-1/2" 40T High-Performance Trim Blade
Smaller circular saws often struggle to deliver the same finish quality as their larger counterparts, especially on plywood. The Diablo 6-1/2" High-Performance Trim Blade addresses this by offering a precise, smooth cut in a compact size.
This blade is a great fit for users with compact or cordless saws who still want professional-looking results on plywood, hardwood, or softwood. Its stabilizer vents and thin kerf design help maintain accuracy and reduce vibration.
- TiCo Hi-Density Carbide: Ensures extended blade life and consistent performance
- Laser-Cut Stabilizer Vents: Reduce noise and vibration for smoother operation
- Corrosion-Resistant Coating: Prevents rust and gumming to extend lifespan
Compared to larger blades, this Diablo model prioritizes maneuverability and compatibility with smaller saws. The tradeoff is a lower tooth count and slightly less fine finish than ultra-high tooth options.
- Fits compact and cordless saws
- Smooth finish on plywood
- Reduced vibration
- Long-lasting carbide teeth
- Corrosion-resistant
- Lower tooth count
- Not for heavy-duty saws
5. FOXBC 5-1/2" 130T Plywood & OSB Blade 3-Pack
Cutting multiple OSB panels can quickly wear out a single blade, especially on big projects. Having a multi-pack of reliable blades helps you stay productive and avoid downtime.
The FOXBC 5-1/2" 130T Plywood & OSB Blade 3-Pack is ideal for users who need to make many clean cuts without frequent blade changes. It's a smart pick for remodelers or anyone tackling a large job with a compatible saw.
- 130 teeth per blade ensure smooth, low-splinter cuts on OSB and plywood
- Includes bushings for multiple arbor sizes to fit a range of saws
- Pack of three offers excellent value for high-volume work
Compared to single-blade options, this set emphasizes quantity and versatility. The tradeoff is that it's best for those with compatible 5-1/2" saws, not standard full-size models.
- Three blades included
- Smooth cuts on OSB
- Multiple arbor bushings
- Good for high-volume jobs
- Affordable pack
- Only fits 5-1/2" saws
- Not for heavy framing
6. Freud LU79R007 7-1/4" Thin Kerf Plywood Blade
Chipping and splintering are common issues when cutting melamine and plywood, especially with standard blades. A thin kerf, high tooth count blade is essential for those seeking flawless edges.
The Freud LU79R007 is designed for users who want splinter-free results on melamine and plywood using a 7-1/4" saw. Its Hi-ATB tooth geometry and premium carbide blend make it a reliable choice for finish carpentry and cabinetry.
- Hi-ATB Tooth Design: Produces exceptionally smooth, chip-free cuts
- Modified Triple Chip Grind: Extends blade life and maintains clean edges
- Perma-Shield Coating: Reduces friction and protects against pitch build-up
Compared to general-purpose blades, this Freud model excels at delivering clean edges but is less versatile for rough or fast cuts. The main tradeoff is its specialization for finish work.
- Splinter-free finish
- Thin kerf for clean cuts
- Long blade life
- Reduces pitch build-up
- Not for rough cutting
- Requires careful feed rate
7. IRWIN 7-1/4" 140T Classic Steel Saw Blade
Getting smooth plywood cuts on a budget can be challenging, as lower-cost blades often sacrifice finish quality. The IRWIN 140T Classic Steel Blade offers an affordable way to achieve fine, accurate cuts without splintering.
This blade is well-suited for homeowners or hobbyists who need clean results on occasional projects but don't want to invest in premium carbide options. Its high tooth count and hardened plate help maintain cut quality over time.
- 140 Precision-Ground Teeth: Ensures smooth, accurate plywood cuts
- Fully-Hardened Plate: Runs truer and lasts longer than basic blades
- Heavy-Gauge High Carbon Steel: Provides extended blade life for the price
Compared to premium carbide blades, the IRWIN prioritizes affordability and fine finish. The tradeoff is that it may dull faster with heavy use.
- Affordable fine-cut option
- Smooth plywood edges
- High tooth count
- Durable steel plate
- Good for light use
- Wears faster than carbide
- Not for heavy-duty jobs
8. Freud Diablo 7-1/4" 60T Ultra Finish Blade
Heat buildup and friction can shorten blade life and degrade cut quality, especially on long plywood rips. The Freud Diablo 7-1/4" 60T Ultra Finish Blade is engineered to address these issues, offering smooth cuts with less resistance and extended lifespan.
This blade is ideal for users who want to maximize both cutting efficiency and blade longevity, thanks to its anti-vibration technology and exclusive carbide blend. It's a great fit for frequent plywood work where consistent results matter.
- Ultra Thin Kerf: Enables fast, easy cutting with minimal waste
- Anti-Vibration Technology: Reduces noise and extends blade life
- Perma-Shield Coating: Minimizes friction and heat for smoother operation
Compared to standard blades, this Freud Diablo model prioritizes reduced friction and long-term durability. The tradeoff is a moderate tooth count, which balances speed and finish.
- Reduced friction for smooth cuts
- Long-lasting carbide
- Anti-vibration design
- Consistent finish
- Good for frequent use
- Not the highest tooth count
- Priced above entry-level blades
9. Janchi 5-1/2" 130T Circular Saw Blade 3-Pack
Compact saw users often need a reliable, affordable way to keep cutting cleanly through OSB and similar materials. Many value packs compromise on tooth count or fit.
The Janchi 5-1/2" 130T Circular Saw Blade 3-Pack stands out for its high tooth count and included bushings, making it compatible with a range of compact saws. It's a smart pick for those who want smooth cuts without frequent blade shopping.
- 130 precision-ground teeth for smooth, splinter-free cutting
- Multiple arbor bushings fit various compact saws
- Tough alloy steel helps blades stay sharp longer
Compared to single-blade or non-bushed options, this pack offers flexibility and value for compact saw owners. The tradeoff is that it's not suitable for full-size saws or heavy-duty work.
- Fits many compact saws
- Three blades per pack
- Smooth finish on OSB
- Includes arbor bushings
- Good value
- Not for standard saws
- Limited to lighter applications
9. Janchi 5-1/2" 130T Circular Saw Blade 3-Pack
Compact saw users often need a reliable, affordable way to keep cutting cleanly through OSB and similar materials. Many value packs compromise on tooth count or fit.
The Janchi 5-1/2" 130T Circular Saw Blade 3-Pack stands out for its high tooth count and included bushings, making it compatible with a range of compact saws. It's a smart pick for those who want smooth cuts without frequent blade shopping.
- 130 precision-ground teeth for smooth, splinter-free cutting
- Multiple arbor bushings fit various compact saws
- Tough alloy steel helps blades stay sharp longer
Compared to single-blade or non-bushed options, this pack offers flexibility and value for compact saw owners. The tradeoff is that it's not suitable for full-size saws or heavy-duty work.
- Fits many compact saws
- Three blades per pack
- Smooth finish on OSB
- Includes arbor bushings
- Good value
- Not for standard saws
- Limited to lighter applications
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Circular Saw Blade for Plywood
Selecting the right circular saw blade for plywood is a technical decision that impacts both the quality of your cuts and the efficiency of your work. Buyers often face tradeoffs between finish quality, blade longevity, and cost, and it's easy to misunderstand which features actually matter for clean, splinter-free results.
- Blade Size and Tooth Count: Higher tooth counts (typically 60–140T) deliver smoother, cleaner plywood cuts, while lower counts are better for fast, rough work
- Material and Coating: Carbide-tipped blades last longer and resist heat better than basic steel; non-stick coatings help reduce friction and gumming
- Kerf Thickness: Thin kerf blades require less power and produce less waste, making them ideal for cordless saws and fine finishes
- Pack Size: Multi-pack blades offer value for bulk cutting or frequent blade changes, while single premium blades focus on longevity and finish
- Compatibility: Not all blades fit every saw—check arbor size and diameter before buying
- Common Misunderstanding: More teeth always mean better results—while true for finish, it can slow cutting speed and isn't always necessary for rough work
Choosing Between Ultra-Fine and General-Purpose Blades
Some blades in this list, like the CRAFTSMAN 140T and Freud LU79R007, are designed specifically for ultra-smooth, splinter-free plywood edges. These are best for cabinetry, furniture, or any project where visible edges matter. General-purpose blades, like the CRALY or Diablo Ultra Finish, offer more versatility for those who cut a variety of sheet goods.
- Ultra-fine finish blades: Prioritize clean, smooth edges but may cut slower
- General-purpose blades: Balance finish and speed, suitable for mixed-material jobs
Multi-Pack Value vs. Premium Longevity
Multi-pack blades, such as those from FOXBC and Janchi, are ideal for users who cut large volumes of plywood or want to keep spares on hand. These sets offer cost savings but may not last as long as premium carbide-tipped blades, which are better for frequent or professional use.
- Multi-packs: Lower cost per blade, good for bulk work
- Premium blades: Higher upfront cost, longer life, and better finish
Blade Size and Saw Compatibility
Blades come in several sizes, with 7-1/4" being the most common for standard circular saws, and 5-1/2" or 6-1/2" for compact or cordless models. Always check your saw's requirements before purchasing.
- Standard saws: Use 7-1/4" blades for maximum depth and versatility
- Compact saws: Require smaller blades, often included in value packs
Finish Quality vs. Cutting Speed
High tooth count and thin kerf blades are best for smooth finishes but may slow down your cutting speed. Lower tooth count blades cut faster but can leave rougher edges. Choose based on your project's needs.
- High tooth count: Smoother cuts, slower speed
- Lower tooth count: Faster cuts, rougher finish
Final Buying Advice
The best circular saw blade for plywood depends on your priorities—whether that's finish quality, value, or versatility. Consider how often you'll use the blade and what types of projects you tackle most.
- Match blade size and arbor to your saw before buying
- Choose high tooth count for visible or finish work
- Opt for carbide-tipped blades for frequent or professional use
- Multi-packs are cost-effective for bulk or group projects
- Don't overbuy—select the blade that fits your real needs, not just the highest specs
FAQ For Circular Saw Blade For Plywood
1. What tooth count is best for cutting plywood cleanly?
2. Can I use the same blade for plywood and other materials?
3. Are carbide-tipped blades worth the extra cost?
4. What size blade should I buy for my circular saw?
5. How do I reduce splintering when cutting plywood?
6. Is a multi-pack blade set a good value?
7. Do I need a special blade for cordless saws?
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