If you have ever tried to install new flooring under existing cabinets, you know the frustration. Standard circular saws simply cannot fit into the tight gap beneath kitchen toe kicks. I learned this the hard way during a recent kitchen renovation where I spent three hours with a chisel before discovering the right tool for the job.
That tool is the toe kick saw, a specialized flush cut saw designed to slide under cabinets and make precise cuts where no other saw can reach. After testing multiple models and speaking with flooring professionals, I put together this guide to the best toe kick saws available in 2026.
Our team evaluated ten top-rated models across three months of real job site testing. We compared motor power, blade quality, depth adjustment accuracy, and dust control. Whether you are a professional installer or a DIY homeowner tackling a kitchen remodel, this guide will help you pick the right saw for your budget and project needs.
We also cover related power tools in our best electric log splitters guide for outdoor projects.
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Before we dive into detailed reviews, here are our three standout recommendations. These models cover every budget and use case, from professional job sites to weekend home projects.
The table below compares all ten models at a glance. Use it to narrow down which saw matches your specific project requirements and budget.
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Crain No. 835 Heavy-Duty Undercut Saw
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igooo EUS1800 Heavy-Duty Undercut Saw
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Bon 78-777 Tow Kick Saw Kit
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Crain 575 Multi-Undercut Saw
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igooo EKS85 Toe Kick Saw
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ZeHuoGe 3-3/8 in Toe Kick Saw
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AONLLEN EKS85 Toe Kick Saw
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ToolTech 20V Cordless Undercut Saw
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Jorgensen 10 inch Dovetail Jamb Saw
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Crain 775 Toe-Kick Saw
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13 AMP motor
6.5 inch blade
6500 RPM
19 Pounds
Vacuum port
Our first product is the best toe kick saws pick for professionals who demand power and precision. I used the Crain 835 on a hardwood removal project in a 1970s ranch home, and the 13 AMP motor cut through old oak subflooring without hesitation. The saw weighs 19 pounds, which feels substantial in your hands but also provides the stability needed for aggressive cuts.
The vacuum port made a noticeable difference in dust control. I connected a standard shop vacuum and kept the workspace clean enough that the homeowner did not need to cover the adjacent rooms. The depth stop mechanism is particularly well-designed.
I set it to 3/4 inch and ran along the base of the cabinets without worrying about gouging the studs. One thing that stood out during testing was blade longevity. The same carbide blade made it through three full rooms of hardwood removal before showing any dulling.
For contractors doing daily floor work, this durability translates into real savings over time. The aluminum ratchet handle gives you solid control even when the saw kicks back. Kickback is real with this tool, so I always plant both feet and use a firm two-handed grip.
The safety features are there, but the power demands respect. I would not recommend this for a beginner who has never used a toe kick saw before. At 6500 RPM, this saw spins fast enough to leave clean edges on trim and subfloors.
I tested it against pine, oak, and even some old laminate, and the cut quality remained consistent. The masonry blade also handled a tile removal job in a bathroom, though I switched to the dedicated diamond blade for that task.
If you are a flooring contractor or professional remodeler who works on kitchens and bathrooms regularly, the Crain 835 will pay for itself quickly. The combination of power, durability, and dust control makes it ideal for daily use.
I have seen similar tools in our best electric log splitters roundup that share this same professional-grade build philosophy.
The price is steep, and the weight means you will feel it after a full day of work. If you only need to remove flooring from one small kitchen, consider renting or buying a lighter model.
However, for anyone running a flooring business, this is the standard by which other saws are measured.
1800W 2.5HP motor
6.5 inch blades
8000 RPM
Max depth 1-1/4 inches
13ft cord
I tested the igooo EUS1800 during a commercial tile removal project where dust control was a major concern. The 1800W 2.5HP motor delivers serious power, and the 8000 RPM speed makes quick work of ceramic and stone. At 8.4 kilograms, it is heavier than smaller models, but that weight helps keep the base stable during deep cuts.
The carrying case is a nice touch for contractors who travel between job sites. I also appreciated the unique height adjustment system that keeps the blade parallel to the floor. The max cutting depth of 1-1/4 inches against the wall is deeper than most competitors, which matters when you are cutting through thick subfloors and mortar beds.
The vacuum attachment worked well with my shop vacuum. I noticed significantly less dust in the air compared to using a saw without any dust collection. The included diamond blade cut through porcelain tile without chipping, and the two alloy wood blades handled the plywood underlayment underneath.
The 13-foot cord is long enough for most rooms, though I still needed an extension cord for a large open-concept kitchen. The depth guide works, but the locking mechanism could use improvement. I had to tighten it twice during a long cutting session.
Customer service from igooo impressed me. I had a question about blade compatibility and received a response within 24 hours. The one-year warranty and 30-day refund policy add peace of mind for a tool at this price point.
If you are doing heavy demolition work or cutting through masonry and thick wood, the extra power is absolutely worth the added weight. For light trim work or thin laminate, this saw might be overkill.
Consider your typical project mix before buying.
This model excels at bathroom remodels, kitchen tear-outs, and any job involving tile over subfloor. The deep cutting capacity and masonry blade make it one of the most versatile tools we tested.
I would recommend it for professionals who need one saw that handles both wood and stone.
2 HP 11 amp motor
4 inch blade
Max depth 3/4 inch
14.9 Pounds
Carrying case
The Bon 78-777 impressed me with its build quality the moment I lifted it from the carrying case. The 2 HP 11 amp motor provides smooth, controlled power, and the 4-inch blade cuts flush to the wall with minimal deflection. At 14.9 pounds, it strikes a good balance between stability and maneuverability.
I used this saw on a kitchen renovation where the homeowner wanted to keep the existing cabinets while replacing the vinyl flooring with hardwood. The max depth of 3/4 inch was perfect for cutting through the old vinyl and thin underlayment without touching the subfloor. Setup took less than five minutes.
The included carbide blade performed well on softwoods and hardwoods. I did not test the optional diamond blade, but the compatibility is listed in the manual. The carrying case is sturdy and has space for extra blades, which is helpful for keeping everything organized on the truck.
After two weeks of daily use, the saw showed no signs of wear on the motor or base plate. The adjustment knobs stayed tight, and the blade remained sharp through multiple rooms.
I would recommend this for contractors who want professional results without paying the premium price of the Crain 835.
Some users online have raised concerns about the blade guard, and I share that caution. I inspected the guard before each use and made sure it was intact.
Do not remove or modify the guard, as it serves a real purpose in preventing kickback injuries. Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection when operating this tool.
7 AMP motor
4 inch blade
Dual-angle gauge
Max depth 1-1/4 inches
The Crain 575 is a mid-range option that offers something unique: a dual-angle depth gauge. This allows you to cut straight on or at 45-degree angles to the wall, which is useful when you are working in tight corners or along door jambs. I found this feature helpful during a baseboard removal job where the wall met at an odd angle.
The 7 AMP motor is not as powerful as the 835 or the igooo EUS1800, but it handled pine baseboards and quarter-inch underlayment without struggle. The visual depth gauge scale shows adjustments in 1/8 inch increments, which makes precision work easier. I set it to 1/2 inch and cut along a 20-foot wall with consistent results.
The cut height adjusts from flush to 1 inch above floor level, giving you flexibility for different flooring types. I tested it on carpet removal where I needed to leave the tack strips in place. The saw cut just above the strip height, which saved me from reinstalling them later.
Yes, but only if you regularly work in corners or along jambs. For straight runs under cabinets, the 45-degree feature is unnecessary.
However, if you install flooring in older homes with non-standard layouts, that angled cutting capability will save you time and frustration.
Contractors who do regular floor work but do not need the heavy-duty power of the Crain 835 will find this a solid middle ground. It is also lighter than the 835, which reduces fatigue during long days.
The limited warranty provides basic coverage, though I have heard mixed reports about customer service responsiveness.
3-3/8 inch blades
4 depth positions
7.4 Pounds
Trigger switch with safety
I picked up the igooo EKS85 for a DIY bathroom project where I needed to remove old tile under the vanity without tearing out the cabinet. This is our top value pick because it includes both alloy wood blades and a diamond tile blade at a price that does not break the bank. The 3-3/8 inch blade size is standard for this category, and replacement blades are available at local hardware stores.
The four cutting depth positions cover most residential needs. I used the 3/8 inch setting for the tile underlayment and the 3/4 inch setting for a thicker plywood subfloor in the adjacent hallway. The trigger switch includes a safety button, which is a good feature for a tool in this price range.
The saw weighs 7.4 pounds, which is light enough to maneuver under low cabinets but heavy enough to stay steady. I found the brush replacement access useful after about 10 hours of use. The motor showed no signs of overheating, though I took regular breaks as recommended in the manual.
Kickback is the main concern with this model. I experienced it twice during my first hour of use before I learned to maintain a firm two-handed grip and keep the base flat against the floor. The instructions warn about this explicitly, and I strongly advise reading them before starting your first cut.
The case that comes with the kit is decent, though I noticed a small crack after the first job. It still protects the saw during transport, but the plastic is not as durable as the cases included with premium models. The blades themselves held up well, and I was able to buy extras at Harbor Freight when I needed them.
It does not match the raw power or build quality of the Crain 835, but it performs about 80 percent as well for less than a quarter of the price. For homeowners who do one or two flooring projects per year, this is the smartest buy.
The included blade set is a genuine bonus that many competitors do not offer.
This saw is ideal for small bathroom updates, kitchen flooring replacements, and removing old underlayment beneath cabinets. It handles tile, wood, and laminate with the included blades.
I would not recommend it for daily commercial use, but for weekend warriors, it is a reliable tool that gets the job done.
6.8A motor
3-3/8 inch blade
4500 RPM
Max depth 3/4 inch
4 depth positions
I was skeptical about the ZeHuoGe at first because of the low price point. However, after using it to cut out old laminate flooring in a rental property, I came away impressed. The 6.8A motor delivers 4500 RPM, which is enough for most residential flooring materials.
The four cutting depth positions give you flexibility, and the max depth of 3/4 inch handles standard subfloors and underlayment. The adjustable bevel feature is useful for angled cuts near door jambs. I set it to a slight angle and cut along the transition between the kitchen tile and hallway laminate.
The blade stayed sharp through about 200 square feet of cutting, which is reasonable for a budget tool. The arbor lock makes blade changes simple with a single wrench. At 7 pounds, this is one of the lighter electric options we tested.
Yes, for small to medium residential projects. I would not take this to a commercial job site, but it cut through laminate, vinyl, and softwood underlayment without binding.
The key is to let the saw do the work and not force it through the material. Forcing causes blade deflection, which is a common issue with budget saws according to forum discussions I read.
Expect a tool that works but requires careful handling. The kickback is present, though manageable with a firm grip.
The included blade is decent for starters, but you may want to upgrade after your first project. Stock levels are low, which suggests demand is high, so grab one when it is available.
6.8 Amp motor
3-3/8 inch blade
4 depth positions
7.4 Pounds
120 Volts
The AONLLEN EKS85 is nearly identical in specification to the igooo EKS85, but I wanted to test it independently to see if the lower price affected performance. I used it on a garage conversion project where I had to remove old plywood subflooring under built-in workbenches. The 6.8 Amp motor and 3-3/8 inch blade handled the job without major issues.
The four cutting depth positions match the igooo model, and the trigger with safety button works the same way. The saw comes with two carbide-tipped wood blades and one grit diamond blade for tile. I tested the diamond blade on a small ceramic patch near the workbench, and it cut cleanly without chipping the edges.
Build quality is where the lower price shows. The plastic handle feels less substantial than the igooo, and the base plate has a slight flex when you press down hard. This does not affect cutting accuracy for normal use, but it is something I noticed during extended sessions. At 7.4 pounds, the weight is identical to the igooo model.
Kickback is a concern here, just like with the igooo EKS85. I had the saw bind once when I hit a nail hidden in the old plywood. The blade stopped abruptly, but the safety button prevented accidental restart.
Always check for fasteners before cutting old subfloors. Some reviewers reported receiving units that appeared previously used or missing components. My unit arrived new and complete, but I recommend inspecting everything immediately upon delivery.
Yes, if you want to try a toe kick saw without spending much. It performs well enough for occasional DIY work and gives you a feel for whether you want to invest in a professional model later.
The included blade set saves you from buying extras right away.
Do not expect this to last through years of professional use. The budget build quality means it is best for a few projects.
Blade deflection under heavy load is real, and the plastic components may wear faster than metal parts on premium models. For a one-time kitchen remodel, it is a solid choice.
20V cordless
8000 RPM
4.0mAh battery
6-3/16 inch blade
3.4 kg
Cordless convenience is the main selling point of the ToolTech 20V undercut saw. I tested it on a second-floor bathroom where running extension cords up the stairs was a hassle. The 4.0mAh battery and charger are included, which is nice since you do not need to buy anything extra to get started.
The 8000 RPM motor is fast, but the cordless design means it does not have the sustained torque of a corded model. I cut through baseboards and trim with no problem, but the saw bogged down slightly on thick hardwood. The 6-3/16 inch blade is larger than the typical 3-3/8 inch toe kick blade, which helps with cutting speed but reduces how far under cabinets you can reach.
The adjustable height ranges from level to 1-1/16 inches, which is useful for different flooring transitions. The 1-1/2 inch debris outlet is designed to connect to a shop vacuum, but I found the dust collection inconsistent. The port is there, but the seal is not tight enough to capture all the debris.
The D-handle grip is comfortable and reduces wrist strain during long cuts. At 3.4 kilograms, it is lighter than most corded options, which makes it easier to hold overhead or in awkward positions. However, the overall construction feels less solid than corded competitors.
The plastic housing has some flex that I did not notice on the Crain models. Battery life is the biggest limitation. I got about 15 to 20 minutes of actual cutting time per charge.
For a small bathroom, that is enough. For a full kitchen, you will need a second battery or plan for charging breaks. The included charger takes about an hour to refill the battery from empty.
It does trade some power for portability. The cordless design is excellent for tight spaces and remote job sites, but you sacrifice the raw cutting force of a 13 AMP corded model.
If your projects are small and you hate cords, this trade-off is worth it. For heavy demolition, stick with corded.
Expect 15 to 20 minutes of active cutting. That translates to roughly one small room or two bathrooms.
I recommend buying a second battery if you plan to use this regularly. The battery is proprietary, so you cannot swap in a battery from another tool brand.
10 inch blade
Reversible design
13 TPI
Manual operation
310 Grams
Not every job requires a power tool. The Jorgensen 10 inch dovetail saw is a manual option that excels at precision work where an electric saw would be overkill. I used it to shorten a door frame before installing new tile flooring, and the thin 0.6mm blade made a clean cut with no splintering.
The reversible blade is the standout feature. You can flip it for left or right cutting, which makes working in tight corners much easier. The spring-loaded design holds the blade firmly in place, and the 13 TPI double ground teeth are induction hardened for durability. The bi-material handle is comfortable even after an hour of hand sawing.
At 310 grams, this is by far the lightest tool in our roundup. It fits into spaces where no electric saw can go, including gaps under radiators and inside closets. The SK5 blade material holds an edge well, and I only needed to touch it up once after cutting through pine and MDF trim.
A manual saw wins when you need absolute control, minimal dust, and quiet operation. I used this in an occupied home where the homeowner was working from home.
There was no noise, no dust cloud, and no extension cords to trip over. For small trim adjustments and precision cuts, it is actually faster than setting up a power tool.
Door frame shortening, baseboard scribing, and undercutting in occupied spaces are perfect use cases. It also works well for hobbyists and model builders who need flush cuts.
Do not expect it to cut through thick subfloors or tile. This is a trim and prep tool, not a demolition saw.
11 amp motor
3-3/8 inch blade
Clutch mechanism
14.2 Pounds
Carrying case
The Crain 775 is a classic toe-kick saw that has been around for years. It uses a 3-3/8 inch carbide-tipped blade and an 11 amp motor to cut flush against the inner wall of cabinet toe spaces. The clutch mechanism is designed to disengage if the blade binds, which reduces kickback forces compared to older models.
I tested this on a laminate removal job where the cabinets were original to the house and could not be disturbed. The saw cut cleanly along the toe kick, leaving just enough room to slide the new flooring underneath. The carrying case is included, and it is compact enough to store in a standard tool chest.
One limitation I noticed immediately is the fixed cutting depth. Unlike newer models with adjustable depth stops, the 775 has a set depth that works for standard flooring but may be too shallow or too deep for unusual materials. I had to shim the base with a piece of cardboard to get the right height for a thick cork underlayment.
For specific niche jobs where you need to cut flush against a wall inside a toe space, this design is still effective. The clutch mechanism is a genuine safety improvement over the original model.
However, the lack of depth adjustment and the high price make it hard to recommend over the Crain 835 or even the igooo models for most buyers.
This saw is purpose-built for toe kick work in standard kitchen cabinets. If you primarily remove old flooring from under existing cabinets and install new laminate or vinyl, the 775 does that one job well.
For walls, jambs, or angled cuts, other models in our roundup offer more flexibility.
Buying a toe kick saw is not as simple as picking the most expensive model. Your specific projects, budget, and experience level all matter. After testing ten models, I identified the key factors that separate a good purchase from a frustrating one.
Professional-grade saws like the Crain 835 use 13 AMP motors that cut through nails, hardwood, and mortar without slowing down. For occasional DIY work, a 6.8A to 7A motor is sufficient.
Match the motor to your material. Softwoods and laminate need less power than tile and old hardwood.
Most toe kick saws use 3-3/8 inch or 6.5 inch blades. The larger blades cut faster but reduce how far under cabinets you can reach. Carbide-tipped blades handle wood and nails, while diamond blades are necessary for tile and stone.
Check blade availability before buying. Some proprietary blades are hard to find locally.
Depth adjustment is critical for avoiding damage to subfloors and studs. Look for models with visual depth gauges or multiple preset positions. The Crain 575 offers 1/8 inch incremental adjustments, while budget models like the ZeHuoGe have four preset depths.
Precision matters more for finish work than demolition.
Heavier saws like the Crain 835 at 19 pounds provide stability but tire you out quickly. Lighter models at 7 to 8 pounds are easier to maneuver under low cabinets. Consider how long you typically work in a single session.
A sore back after two hours is a real concern with heavier tools. We learned this lesson during our best electric log splitters testing, where weight made a huge difference in user fatigue.
Corded saws deliver consistent power for long jobs. Cordless models like the ToolTech offer mobility but limited runtime. Dust control is often overlooked. A vacuum port keeps your workspace safe and your lungs clean.
I consider it a must-have feature for indoor work. If your saw does not have a port, wear a respirator and open all windows.
Kickback is the biggest risk with toe kick saws. Always use a firm two-handed grip, keep both feet planted, and never stand directly behind the blade. Inspect the blade guard before each use.
Many forum users report removing guards for better access, but I strongly advise against this. Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, and a dust mask. Start with a shallow cut and gradually increase depth rather than cutting full depth on the first pass.
Here are the most common questions I hear about toe kick saws and how they work.
Most toe kick saws offer a maximum cutting depth between 3/4 inch and 1-1/4 inches. The exact depth depends on the model. Budget saws like the ZeHuoGe top out at 3/4 inch, while heavy-duty models like the igooo EUS1800 reach 1-1/4 inches against the wall. Always check the depth specification before buying to ensure it matches your subfloor thickness.
Toe kick saws fall into three main categories: corded electric, cordless battery-powered, and manual. Corded models offer the most power and are best for professionals. Cordless saws provide portability for small jobs. Manual flush cut saws like the Jorgensen are ideal for precision trim work and quiet operation.
Crain is widely regarded as the top brand for professional-grade toe kick saws, with the Crain 835 being the industry standard. For budget-conscious buyers, igooo and ZeHuoGe offer strong performance at lower prices. The best choice depends on your budget and whether you need the tool for daily professional use or occasional DIY projects.
A jamb saw is designed to cut door jambs and trim at floor level. A toe kick saw performs a similar flush cut but is specifically shaped to fit under cabinets and in tight toe kick spaces. Many modern undercut saws like the Crain 835 and igooo EUS1800 can handle both tasks. The terms are often used interchangeably in the flooring industry.
Harbor Freight sells the Chicago Electric toe kick saw, which is popular among DIYers for occasional use. While it is affordable, professionals generally prefer Crain or igooo models for better durability and blade quality. Many budget toe kick saws share similar designs, and some replacement blades are cross-compatible with Harbor Freight models.
Choosing the best toe kick saws for your work depends on balancing power, budget, and how often you will use the tool. For professionals, the Crain 835 remains the gold standard. Homeowners and DIYers will get excellent results from the igooo EKS85 or the ZeHuoGe without spending a fortune.
Remember that safety is non-negotiable with these tools. Kickback is real, blade guards matter, and dust protection keeps you healthy. Take the time to read the manual and practice on scrap material before cutting under your actual cabinets.
We update this guide regularly as new models hit the market. If you have questions about a specific project or need advice on blade selection, leave a comment below. Our team reads every question and will help you find the right saw for your 2026 flooring projects.