In the realm of furniture building and upcycling, the adage “the right tool for the right job” has never been truer. With the vast array of power tools available, choosing the best can be daunting, especially when you’re passionate about DIY projects but not quite a professional carpenter.
This blog aims to demystify the selection process, presenting you with top picks across various categories, from circular saws to wood routers. Whether you’re just starting your DIY journey or looking to upgrade your toolkit, our curated list focuses on three key aspects: popularity, value for money, and high-end performance.
1. Circular Saw: The Cornerstone of Your DIY Projects
Circular saws are essential power tools used for making straight cuts in wood, its a fast and efficient way of cutting wood with precision They feature a rotating blade mounted on an arbor and are commonly used in construction, woodworking, and DIY projects. Circular saws come in different types, including corded and cordless, with various blade sizes to suit specific tasks. They offer versatility, precision, and efficiency, making them a popular choice for both professionals and hobbyists looking to perform fast, accurate cuts. Let’s delve into our top picks:
Most Popular: Makita Corded Circular Saw with Box HS7611J
The Makita 190mm 1600W Circular Saw (110V MAKHS7611JL) offers powerful performance with a maximum depth of cut at 90° of 66mm and at 45° of 46mm. Featuring a 190mm blade and 30mm bore diameter, it delivers a no-load speed of 5200 rpm. This compact and lightweight saw boasts a double insulation, new aesthetic design, rear dust exhaust port, and is connectable to a dust extractor. For precision, it includes a rear angular guide and single action lever for quick depth adjustments. Its ergonomic soft grip, flat motor housing, aluminium die-cast safety cover, and base plate enhance usability and safety.
| Depth of Cut @ 90°: | 66mm |
| Depth of Cut @ 45º: | 46mm |
| Blade Diameter: | 190mm |
| Bore Diameter: | 30mm |
| Input Wattage: | 1200w |
| No Load Speed: | 5200 rpm |
| Net Weight: | 4.0kg |
| Motor Type | Brushed |
Value for Money: Draper Corded Plunge Saw with Rail Kit 57341
Achieve precise and controlled cuts on longer wood cuts with the Draper Plunge Saw, featuring a powerful 1200W motor and a 165mm blade. This plunge saw is designed for accuracy and ease, making it ideal for long, straight cuts in wood, panels, and flooring. With a maximum cutting depth of 55mm at 90 degrees and 42mm at 45 degrees, it offers versatility for various cutting angles. This tool comes with 2 x 700mm guide rails equipped with anti-slip grips, ensuring stability and precision along the cut. The rails help maintain a perfect line, crucial for joinery and finishing work. The saw also features an electronic brake and spindle lock, enhancing safety by allowing quick blade changes.
| Blade Diameter | 165mm |
| Bore | 20mm |
| No Load Speed | 0-5200rpm |
| Supplied In Case | No |
| Voltage | 230V |
| Wattage | 1200W |
| Weight | 5.8kg |
High-End Pick: Sealey SV10.8 Cordless Circular Saw CP108VCSBO
The Sealey SV10.8 Cordless Circular Saw CP108VCSBO is a compact and lightweight tool designed for precision cutting. Featuring a comfortable housing with a soft grip to reduce vibration, this saw offers a no-load speed of 0-1450rpm and uses an 85mm diameter blade. It provides cutting depths of 26mm at 90° and 17mm at 45°, with a 15mm disc bore size. Ideal for various applications, it is supplied with a wrench for easy blade replacement.
| Blade Diameter: | Ø85mm |
| Consumable Parts: | CP108VBP 2Ah Battery, CP108VBP4 4Ah Battery (not included) |
| Cutting Depths: | |
| Cutting Depth at 90°: | 26mm |
| Cutting Depth at 45°: | 17mm |
| Disc Bore Size: | Ø15mm |
| No-Load Speed: | 0-1450rpm |
2. Jigsaw: Mastering Curves and Complex Shapes
Jigsaw power tools are versatile cutting devices designed for precision and control in a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. Featuring a reciprocating blade that moves up and down, jigsaws are ideal for making curved cuts, intricate designs, and straight lines. They often come with adjustable speed settings and bevel capabilities for angled cuts. Ergonomic handles and integrated dust blowers enhance user comfort and visibility. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals, jigsaws are essential for detailed woodworking and craft projects.
Most Popular: Sealey Cordless SV20 Jigsaw CP20VJS
The Sealey Cordless SV20 Jigsaw CP20VJS is a powerful and lightweight tool ideal for cutting wood, board, plastic, and steel. It features a comfortable composite housing with a soft grip for added comfort. The tool-free blade change system and variable speed control trigger (0-2400spm) enhance usability. Equipped with a dust blow and extraction function, parallel guide, built-in LED worklight, and four pendulum settings, it ensures precision and safety. The jigsaw includes a 2-stage operation switch, hex key, and wood cutting blade. Cutting capacities: Wood: 80mm, Plastic: 12mm, Steel: 10mm, Metal Pipe: Ø5-25mm.
| Battery: | 20V 2Ah – 6Ah Lithium-ion (not included) |
| Consumable Parts: | CP20VBP2 – 2Ah Battery, CP20VBP4 – 4Ah Battery, CP20VBP6 – 6Ah Battery |
| Wood: | 80mm |
| Plastic: | 12mm |
| Steel: | 10mm |
| Metal Pipe: | Ø5-25mm |
| No-Load Speed: | 0-2400spm |
| Replacement Parts: | CP20VMC – Mains Charger (not included) |
| Stroke Length: | 25mm |
| Nett Weight: | 2kg |
Value for Money: Einhell Cordless 18v Jigsaw 4321200
Powerful cordless Einhell TE-JS 18/80 Li-Solo jigsaw gives you that smooth finish accurate cutting even when cutting curves or awkward shapes out of wood. This jigsaw has a cutting line guide that reduces splintering and helps give you that precise cut. The TE-JS 18/80 cordless Jigsaw comes with LED lighting that provides good visibility on your work area and along with the dust blow of function allows for you to work on your work piece with clear visibility of what you’re doing.
| Angled Cuts Max. | 45 ° |
| Cutting Cuts Min. | 0 ° |
| Cutting Depth Steel | 10 mm |
| Cutting Depth Wood | 80 mm |
| Idle Speed Max. | 2400 min^-1 |
| Lift Height | 25.4 mm |
| Motor Type | Brush Motor |
| Motor Voltage | 18v |
| Number of Batteries Included | None |
| Number of Chargers Included | None |
| Number of Saw Blades Included | None |
| Saw Blade Holder Type | T/U-shaft |
| Product Weight | 1.75 Kg |
High-End Pick: Makita Corded 240v Jigsaw M4329
The Makita Corded 240v Jigsaw M4329 is perfect for light-duty tasks and appeals to both professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts. It features a counterweight balancing system to reduce vibration, a smooth rigid aluminium base for rustproof gliding, and bevel cutting up to 45 degrees. The ergonomic rubberised grip, soft start, and constant speed control enhance user comfort. Additional features include a variable speed trigger, three orbit settings, a clear acrylic dust cover, and built-in dust extraction.
| Max Cut in Wood: | 65mm |
| Max Cut in Steel: | 6mm |
| Length of Stroke: | 18mm |
| Strokes per Minute: | 500 – 3,100 spm |
| Input Wattage: | 450 W |
| Net Weight: | 1.9 Kg |
3. Sander: Achieving the Perfect Finish
Cordless sanders are essential tools for smoothing surfaces without the hassle of a power cord. Ideal for woodworking, automotive, and DIY projects, they offer portability and convenience. These sanders feature powerful motors, variable speed settings, and dust collection systems to ensure a clean workspace. Lightweight and ergonomic designs make them easy to handle, reducing user fatigue during extended use. Cordless sanders are compatible with various grit sandpapers, making them versatile for different applications. They are powered by rechargeable batteries, providing consistent performance for efficient and precise sanding.
Most Popular: Einhell Cordless 18v 125mm Orbital Sander 4462010
This quality Einhell TE-RS 18 Li-Solo Cordless Rotating Sander is ideal for carrying out any sanding on DIY jobs around the house or in your workshop. Its compact design makes it easy to control and provide a smooth professional finish on many different surfaces including wood, metal or stone-type structures. This cordless sander uses a hook-and-loop fastening system for holding the abrasive sand paper in place securely, it’s an easy and quick way to exchange the abrasive paper with just a twist of the hand. The Einhell TE-RS 18 Li-Solo comes with a dust extractor included to help keep your working area clean and free of dust.
| Motor type | Brush Motor |
| Motor voltage | 18v |
| Number of batteries included | None |
| Number of chargers included | None |
| Sanding pad diameter | 125 mm |
| Suction connection diameter | 35 mm |
| Vibration circuit | 2 mm |
| Vibration rate max. | 22000 min^-1 |
| Vibration rate min. | 14000 min^-1 |
Value for Money: Draper Cordless 20v Storm Force Random Orbital Sander 89522
Enhance your sanding projects with the Draper Storm Force 20V Random Orbit Sander, a powerful addition to any tool kit. Part of the Draper Storm Force® 20V Power Interchange series, this sander offers flexibility and high performance with six-speed settings and an optimal orbital speed control for precise finish on a variety of surfaces. The sander features a comfortable soft grip handle and an efficient dust extraction port coupled with a collection bag to keep your workspace clean and dust-free. It is equipped with a 125mm pad size and a 2.7mm orbit diameter, perfect for achieving a smooth, flawless finish on wood, metal, or plastic.
| Battery: | 20V Storm Force® Li-ion |
| Orbit Diameter: | 2.7mm |
| Pad Size: | 125mm |
| Batteries per Item: | Sold separately |
| Charger Type: | Sold separately |
| Supplied In Case: | No |
| Weight: | 1.12kg |
High-End Pick: DeWalt 18V XR Brushless Cordless 75mm Belt Sander DCW220NT-XJ
The DeWalt 18V XR Brushless Cordless 75mm Belt Sander in a TSTAK Case is a powerful and efficient tool that delivers exceptional performance and extended runtime, thanks to its brushless motor and compatibility with DeWalt 18V XR batteries. With this sander, you can achieve professional-level results with ease. Its compact design enables effortless maneuverability, even in tight and restricted spaces. The variable speed feature allows for precise control and efficient sanding, ensuring optimal results for every task. The sander comes conveniently packaged in a durable and practical DeWalt TSTAK case for secure storage and easy transportation.
| Belt Size: | 75mm x 533mm |
| Belt Speed: | 198 – 320 m/min |
| Speed Settings: | 5 |
| Dust Collection: | Yes |
| Max. Watts Out: | 802 W |
| No Load Speed | 320m/min |
4. Cordless Brad Nailer: Precision Fastening Made Easy
Cordless brad nailer is a versatile and convenient tool for woodworking and trim applications, eliminating the need for a compressor or hoses. It operates on rechargeable batteries, providing the freedom to work in various locations without being tethered to a power source. Ideal for installing baseboards, crown molding, and cabinetry, cordless brad nailers offer precise nail placement and consistent driving power. Features often include tool-free depth adjustment, jam-clearing mechanisms, and ergonomic designs for user comfort during extended use. This tool is perfect for both professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts.
Most Popular: Einhell 18V Cordless Stapler Nailer 4257790
This quality Einhell TE-CN 18 Li-Solo Cordless Nailer is designed to work with both staples and nails. It can shot 20 per minute. Its slim stapler nose allows you to work close to the edge for that more professional of finishes. This nail gun or stapler is easy to refill safely at just a push of a button. The magazine has a level indicator showing the current load and maximum capacity of 100 nails or clamps, all securely held by a magnet. Einhell Power X-Change cordless power tools come with comfortable soft grip handles to reduce hand fatigue and the Einhell Nail Gun is no different.
| Clamp Length Max. | 22 mm |
| Clamp Length Min. | 16 mm |
| Clamp Width | 5.7 mm |
| Magazine Capacity Brackets | 100 pcs |
| Magazine Capacity Nails | 100 pcs |
| Motor Type | Brush Motor |
| Motor voltage | 18v |
| Nail Length Max | 32 mm |
| Nail Length Min. | 15 mm |
| Nail Thickness | 1 mm |
| Number of Batteries Included | None |
| Number of Chargers Included | None |
| Shots Per Minute | 20 |
Value for Money: Draper D20 Cordless 18 Gauge Nail Gun Kit 00646
This Draper D20 Cordless 18 Gauge Nail Gun Kit offers exceptional versatility and precision for both professional and DIY projects. This high-performance tool features both single and contact firing modes, with a safety contact tip to ensure secure operation. Ideal for fastening a variety of materials, this nail gun can handle nail lengths from 20 to 50mm and staple lengths from 19 to 40mm, accommodating Type 90 staples.
| Battery | D20 20V Li-ion |
| Batteries per Item | 1 x 2.0Ah |
| Charger Type | 1.65A |
| Firing Rate | 60 per min |
| Magazine Capacity | 100 |
| Nail Gauge | 18 |
| Nail Length | 20 – 50 |
| Staple Length | 19 – 40 |
| Staples | Type 90 |
| Supplied In Case | Yes |
| Weight (Bare Tool) | 2.66kg |
High-End Pick: Sealey Cordless 20v SV20 Nailer CP20VNG
This powerful and compact cordless Nailer is part of the Sealey SV20 Series Range, this staple gun / Nail gun can drive up to 50mm 18G nails or 40mm 18G staples into wood, all without the need for compressed air or a mains power supply. It features an adjustable drive depth wheel, ensuring precise and accurate results for various applications. The gun offers the option of selectable single or contact firing, providing flexibility for different tasks. Its robust composite housing is equipped with two LED lights, making it suitable for low-light working environments..
| Battery: | 20V 2Ah – 6Ah Lithium-ion (not included) |
| Consumable Parts: | CP20VBP2 – 2Ah Battery, CP20VBP4 – 4Ah Battery, CP20VBP6 – 6Ah Battery |
| Nail Capacity: | 10-50mm 18SWG |
| Replacement Parts: | CP20VMC – Mains Charger (not included) |
| Staple Capacity: | 10-40mm 18SWG |
| Nett Weight: | 2.6kg |
5. Wood Router: The Artisan’s Tool for Detail and Precision
Wood routers are essential tools for woodworking, enabling precise cutting, trimming, and shaping of wood. They are versatile, allowing for intricate designs and joinery work, making them ideal for creating decorative edges, grooves, and patterns. Cordless and corded models provide flexibility and power to suit different project needs. Wood routers come with various bases, such as fixed or plunge, offering different levels of control and functionality.
Most Popular: Sealey Cordless 20v SV20 Brushless Trimming Router CP20VTR
This Sealey 20V SV20 Series Cordless Trimming Router is a versatile tool that forms a part of the SV20 Series, designed specifically for professionals seeking heavy-duty, high-performance, and durable tools with lightweight composite designs for superior control and comfort. This powerful router is equipped with a brushless motor, making it suitable for tasks such as edge forming, trimming, decorative work, and slot cutting. Its lightweight composite housing ensures comfortable extended use, while the 5-way speed control, ranging from 12,000 to 28,000rpm, provides versatility for various applications.
| Battery: | CP20VBP2, CP20VBP4, CP20VBP6 |
| Noise Power/Pressure: | 89/78dB(A) |
| No-Load Speed: | 12000-28000rpm |
| Stroke Length: | 0-35mm |
| Vibration/Uncertainty: | 5.6/1.5m/s² |
| Nett Weight: | 1.59kg |
| Motor Type | Brushless |
Value for Money: Makita RP0900XL110V Router
The Makita RP0900XL 110V Router is a compact, powerful tool ideal for precision routing tasks. With a 900W motor and no-load speed of 27,000 min⁻¹, it ensures high cutting speed and efficiency. It features a plunge capacity of 0 – 35mm and accepts 1/4″ and 3/8″ shank router cutters. The ergonomic grip and increased motor power enhance user comfort and performance. It includes a height adjuster, side fence, collet cones, wrenches, and a storage case. Its lightweight design and vacuum cleaner connection make it versatile and easy to handle.
| Input Power | 900 W |
| No Load Speed | 27000 min⁻¹ |
| Plunge Capacity | 0 – 35 mm |
| Max. Collet Capacity | 6 / 8 mm |
| Power Supply Cord | 2,5 m |
| Sound Power Level (LWA) | 100 dB(A) |
| Sound Pressure Level (LpA) | 89 dB(A) |
| Noise Uncertainty (K Factor) | 3 dB(A) |
| Vibration Level (3 axes) | 4,3 m/s² |
| Vibration Uncertainty (K Factor) | 1,5 m/s² |
| Weight Without Cable (EPTA) | 2,7 kg |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H): | 256 x 110 x 217 mm |
| Vacuum cleaner connection Ø in / out | 32/37 mm |
High-End Pick: Milwaukee M18 FUEL Cordless Trim Router M18FTR-0X
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Cordless Trim Router (M18FTR) features a POWERSTATE™ brushless motor delivering the power of AC trim routers with a max speed of 31,000 rpm for smooth cutting. It offers variable speed control from 10,000 to 31,000 rpm and innovative height adjustment with 0.4 mm micro adjustment. The router includes an active brake, dual LED lights, and is compatible with DEK 26 dust collection.
| COLLET CAPACITY (MM) | 6/ 6.35 |
| NO LOAD SPEED (RPM) | 10,000 – 31,000 |
| PLUNGE CAPACITY (MM) | 50 |
| SPEED SETTINGS | 6 |
| STANDARD EQUIPMENT | 2 x dust extraction attachments, 146 mm sub-baseplate which accepts 31.75 mm guide bushings, 6 mm and 6.35 mm collets, plunge base, 2 x side fences |
| SOUND POWER LEVEL (LWA)(DB(A)) | 91.02 |
| SOUND POWER LEVEL UNCERTAINTY (DB(A)) | 3 |
| SOUND PRESSURE LEVEL (LPA)(DB(A)) | 80.02 |
| SOUND PRESSURE LEVEL UNCERTAINTY (DB(A)) | 3 |
| VIBRATION LEVEL (M/S²) | 0.88 |
| VIBRATION UNCERTAINTY (M/S²) | 1.5 |
Conclusion:
Embarking on DIY furniture building and upcycling projects is an exciting journey that blends creativity with craftsmanship. The cornerstone of any successful project lies in the tools you use. From the essential circular saw for making straight cuts to the intricate detailing possible with a high-quality wood router, each tool plays a critical role in transforming your vision into reality.
By selecting the right tool for each category—be it the most popular, best value for money, or high-end pick—you’re equipped to tackle projects with confidence and achieve professional-grade results.
Systems like Sealey’s SV range, Einhell Power X-Change, and Makita LXT offer cross-compatibility within the brand, allowing users to expand their tool collection without the need for additional batteries and chargers.
Remember, the best tool is not always the most expensive one but the one that best fits your project needs, skill level, and budget. Investing in quality tools that offer the right balance of features, performance, and affordability will not only make your DIY projects more enjoyable but also elevate the quality of your work.
As you build your toolkit, consider these recommendations as a starting point. Whether you’re refurbishing a cherished piece of furniture, building something from scratch, or adding unique touches to your home, the right tools will empower you to bring your creative ideas to life.
