Which is better for a homeowner with no DeWalt batteries?

The brushless kit. It includes a 20V 6.0Ah battery, so you can use it the day it arrives. The bare tool needs a battery and charger you do not have.

Which saw is lighter?

The DCS393 bare tool at 6 lb versus 6.3 lb for the kit. The gap is small, but the bare tool also carries a magnesium shoe.

Is the brushless kit worth the extra?

Only if you need the battery. Its $199.00 as of October 31, 2026 buys a brushless motor and a 6.0Ah pack, but it rates 3.9 from 26 ratings against 4.8 from 98 for the bare tool.

Which has the better buyer rating?

The DCS393 bare tool, 4.8 from 98 ratings. The kit sits at 3.9 from 26 ratings, a much smaller sample.

Do both cut the same depth?

Both use a 6-1/2 in. blade. DeWalt rates the DCS393 to cut 2x material at 90 and 45 degrees; the kit's depth specs are not stated.

The brushless kit's motor has no brushes to wear out, so it should outlast the brushed DCS393 under heavy use. The DCS393's magnesium shoe resists damage from drops.

Dewalt DCS393 bare tool 20V MAX 6 1/2" circular saw in bulk packaging vs DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless Brushless 6-1/2 in. Circular Saw with 20V 6.0Ah Battery

Buy the DCS393 bare tool if you already own DeWalt 20V MAX batteries and want the lighter, higher-rated saw. Buy the brushless kit if you have no batteries and want a 6.0Ah pack in the box. The bare tool is the better value only when you count your existing batteries; the kit's $199.00 at the listed store as of October 31, 2026 is the only price given for it, so compare it against the bare tool's price at your store before deciding.

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