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Compare 4 verified Novo Tools Hole Saws products in United Kingdom. Reviews, ratings, pros, cons and buying advice updated for October 2026.
Choosing a hole saw is less about finding one universally “best” option and more about matching the cutting system to the material, hole diameter, drilling equipment and frequency of use. A hole saw that performs well in timber may be completely unsuitable for stainless steel, while a masonry-rated diamond hole saw can be unnecessary for straightforward work in softwood.
Before comparing individual products, establish exactly what you need the hole saw to cut. The material is the most important starting point, followed by the required hole diameter, available cutting depth, drill compatibility and whether you need a single size or a selection of sizes. For occasional DIY work, versatility and value may matter most. For repeated trade use, tooth design, arbor quality, heat management and replacement components can be more important than the initial purchase price.
Hole saws are engineered around particular cutting conditions. Timber, plasterboard, plastic, mild steel, stainless steel, brick, blockwork, tile and other materials place very different demands on the teeth and cutting edge.
The term “hole saw” covers several different cutting technologies. Understanding the differences makes it much easier to compare products that may look similar in photographs but behave very differently in use.
Bi-metal hole saws are among the most versatile choices for general-purpose cutting. They combine a flexible body with a harder cutting edge, making them suitable for a range of applications when the particular model is rated for the intended material.
They are commonly considered for maintenance, plumbing, electrical installation, fabrication and general workshop work. Brands such as Bosch, Milwaukee, DeWalt, Makita, Starrett and Lenox offer hole-saw systems using different tooth configurations and arbor arrangements.
The important point is that “bi-metal” does not automatically mean that every model is equally suitable for every metal. Check the manufacturer's stated applications, recommended speeds and limitations before buying.
Carbide-tipped designs can provide a useful step up when cutting particular abrasive or difficult materials. Carbide cutting edges can offer different wear characteristics from conventional high-speed steel teeth, but the correct application remains critical.
These saws may be useful where durability and cutting performance on specified materials are priorities. They should still be operated within the manufacturer's recommendations, particularly regarding drill speed, pressure and material compatibility.
Diamond-grit hole saws use an abrasive cutting surface rather than conventional saw teeth. They are commonly associated with hard, brittle materials such as certain tiles, ceramics, glass and stone products, depending on the manufacturer's specifications.
Diamond systems require a different technique from toothed hole saws. Excessive pressure can work against the cutting process, while appropriate cooling may be essential for particular applications. Always check whether the specific model is designed for dry or wet cutting and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Carbide-grit hole saws use abrasive carbide particles attached to the cutting edge. They can be useful for applications where conventional teeth are not the right choice, including some abrasive building materials and specialised cutting tasks.
They should not be confused with carbide-tipped saws. Although both use carbide, the cutting mechanism and intended applications can differ significantly.
Adjustable cutters can cover a range of diameters with one tool, which can be attractive when the required hole size changes frequently. However, they are not automatically the best choice for every application.
For repetitive professional work, a dedicated hole saw can provide a more straightforward and predictable setup. For occasional DIY work involving several different diameters, an adjustable system may reduce the number of individual cutters required.
Two hole saws with the same diameter can behave quite differently because of their tooth geometry. Tooth pitch, profile, material and arrangement all influence how the cutter engages with the workpiece.
A variable-pitch tooth arrangement can be useful for reducing repetitive vibration and supporting smoother cutting across suitable materials. Other designs prioritise aggressive material removal or particular metal-cutting applications.
When comparing products, do not judge quality solely by the number of teeth visible in a product photograph. The manufacturer's intended material range, tooth construction and recommended operating conditions provide more useful information.
Variable-pitch teeth use differing spacing rather than a completely uniform pattern. This can help create a less repetitive cutting action and may reduce vibration in appropriate applications.
Fine-tooth configurations can be appropriate where controlled cutting is required, particularly for certain metals. They are not necessarily the best choice for every material because tooth spacing affects chip clearance and cutting behaviour.
A more aggressive tooth arrangement can remove material quickly in suitable applications, but the cutting action must remain compatible with the drill, material and operator technique. Forcing an aggressive cutter into an unsuitable material can increase heat, vibration and tooth wear.
The diameter printed on a hole saw refers to the nominal diameter of the hole it is designed to cut. Do not assume that a hole saw can be selected simply by measuring the outside of an existing fitting.
Where the hole is being created for a pipe, cable, socket, downlight, tap fitting or other component, identify the clearance requirement first. Some installations require a close-fitting opening, while others need additional clearance around the component.
If replacing an existing hole saw, check its marked size rather than relying only on a visual comparison. Metric and imperial sizes can also create confusion when working from older equipment, imported components or specifications written in a different measurement system.
There is no single set of sizes that is best for every user. Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, kitchen fitters and general DIY users can have very different requirements.
If you regularly use only two or three sizes, buying individual cutters can make more sense than purchasing a large kit containing sizes that will rarely leave the box. Conversely, a multi-size kit can be convenient for maintenance work where the required diameter is not always known in advance.
The hole saw itself is only one part of the cutting system. The arbor, also called a mandrel in some product descriptions, connects the saw to the drill and normally incorporates the pilot drill.
A high-quality hole saw can still be frustrating to use if the arbor is incompatible, poorly matched to the saw diameter or difficult to change between sizes. Before buying a kit, establish exactly how the hole saws attach to the arbor and whether additional arbors or adaptors are required.
The pilot drill helps locate the hole saw and stabilise the initial cut. It is particularly important when starting on a smooth or hard surface.
Some systems use replaceable pilot drills, which can be a valuable long-term feature because a worn pilot does not necessarily mean that the entire arbor needs replacing. When comparing professional-oriented systems, investigate the availability and compatibility of replacement pilot drills as part of the overall ownership cost.
A hole saw's diameter is only half of the dimensional equation. Cutting depth matters just as much when working with thick timber, stacked materials, doors, worktops, insulation boards or other substantial workpieces.
Check the manufacturer's stated cutting depth before purchasing. Do not assume that a visually deep cup can safely cut through any material of the same apparent thickness.
For thicker workpieces, consider whether the cutter is designed for through-holes, whether material can be cleared efficiently and whether access from the opposite side is practical. In some situations, drilling from both sides can produce a cleaner result and reduce the likelihood of damaging the visible face, but the correct technique depends on the material and application.
A large hole saw can place substantially more demand on a drill than a small twist drill bit. Before buying a large-diameter cutter, check that the drill is suitable for the application.
Important considerations include the drill's chuck capacity, speed control, power delivery, side-handle availability and manufacturer's stated limitations. Cordless drills can be extremely convenient, but battery condition, voltage platform, gear selection and sustained load all affect practical performance.
A variable-speed drill is particularly useful because different materials and hole-saw technologies call for different cutting speeds. Faster is not automatically better. Excessive speed can generate heat rapidly and accelerate wear, particularly when cutting metal.
Cordless drills are convenient for installation work and locations without convenient mains access. They can be a strong choice for general DIY and trade work when the drill has sufficient capability for the selected hole saw.
For repeated heavy cutting, a corded machine can provide consistent access to mains power without relying on battery capacity. The suitability still depends on the specific drill, material and hole-saw requirements.
Hole saw performance is strongly influenced by cutting speed. The correct speed depends on factors including diameter, material, tooth design and cutting technology.
As a general principle, larger-diameter cutters require a lower rotational speed than smaller cutters when working in the same material. Metal cutting also normally requires much more controlled speed and heat management than cutting soft timber.
Always prioritise the manufacturer's recommended operating range. Treat generic speed charts as guidance rather than a substitute for the instructions supplied with the particular cutter.
Heat is one of the major causes of poor hole-saw performance when cutting metal. Unlike timber, metal does not simply tolerate unlimited cutting speed without consequences.
For compatible metal-cutting applications, suitable cutting fluid or lubricant can help manage heat and improve the cutting process. However, the correct lubricant depends on the material and manufacturer's instructions, so do not assume that one product is appropriate for every metal.
Stainless steel deserves particular care. Incorrect speed, excessive pressure and overheating can make an already demanding cutting operation significantly more difficult. Follow the hole-saw manufacturer's guidance rather than trying to compensate for poor cutting conditions by simply applying more force.
One of the most important buying decisions is whether to purchase a complete kit or select individual cutters.
Individual cutters make sense when you know the exact diameter and material requirements. They can also be preferable for professional users who already own a compatible arbor and want to replace only a worn cutter.
Brand reputation can be useful, but it should not replace checking the specification of the particular product. Bosch, DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, Starrett, Lenox and Evolution are among the recognisable names buyers may encounter when comparing cutting tools, but product ranges within the same brand can target very different applications.
When comparing two branded hole saws, look beyond the logo and examine the cutting material, tooth configuration, compatible workpieces, maximum cutting depth, arbor arrangement and replacement-part support.
A well-known brand's entry-level general-purpose hole saw is not automatically a better choice than a specialist cutter from another manufacturer. The best option is the one whose design and specification actually match the work.
Product listings can contain a large amount of technical information. The following specification checklist helps separate genuinely useful details from marketing language.
Durability is not determined by a single material specification. The relationship between the cutting edge, body, tooth attachment, tooth geometry and intended application is more important than choosing the product with the most impressive-sounding material description.
High-speed steel is widely used in cutting tools because of its combination of hardness and heat resistance. Bi-metal construction can combine different properties within the same hole saw. Carbide and diamond technologies offer different advantages for particular applications.
The most durable hole saw for one job may be the wrong choice for another. A diamond-grit cutter designed for tile should not be judged by the same criteria as a bi-metal cutter intended for sheet metal and timber.
Many disappointing hole-saw purchases come from compatibility problems rather than an inherently poor product. These are the mistakes worth avoiding.
The cheapest cutter can become poor value if it is unsuitable for the material, lacks a compatible arbor or wears quickly in the intended application. Equally, an expensive professional system can be unnecessary for someone who needs to cut one or two holes occasionally.
A hole saw labelled for general use should not automatically be assumed to be suitable for stainless steel, porcelain, masonry or other demanding materials. Check the manufacturer's material list.
It is easy to concentrate on the diameter and forget that the cutter needs a suitable mounting system. Check the arbor before purchasing.
Large hole saws can create significant resistance. Check your drill's capabilities and use the appropriate handle and operating technique where recommended.
High rotational speed does not necessarily mean faster or cleaner cutting. Excessive speed can create unnecessary heat and accelerate wear.
Allow the cutting edge to do the work. Excessive pressure can increase heat, vibration and tooth damage, particularly when cutting metal or brittle materials.
A large kit can look attractive, but unused sizes provide little practical value. Identify your most common hole diameters before deciding how many cutters to buy.
A good hole saw is only part of the equation. Setup and technique have a significant influence on the final result.
Timber can produce a particularly untidy exit hole when the cutter breaks through the far side. The quality of the finish depends on the timber, hole-saw design, feed pressure and technique.
For visible work, consider how the cutter will exit the material before starting. Supporting the underside can help reduce breakout, while drilling from the opposite side may be appropriate for certain applications. The correct method depends on access, accuracy requirements and the finished surface.
Metal cutting requires greater attention to operating conditions than many DIY users expect. Secure the workpiece properly, use suitable eye protection and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for speed and lubrication.
Do not attempt to hold a loose metal sheet by hand while drilling a large hole. A hole saw can grab as it breaks through, creating sudden movement. Secure workpieces appropriately and use the drill's auxiliary handle where the equipment and application call for it.
After cutting, inspect the opening for sharp burrs. The newly cut edge may require appropriate deburring before the component or cable being installed comes into contact with it.
Plumbing work often involves a mixture of timber, sheet material, plastic, metal, masonry and tiles. This makes material compatibility especially important.
For pipe penetrations, measure the required opening around the pipe or fitting rather than simply choosing a size that appears visually close. If the installation passes through a structural or fire-rated element, the requirements of that installation must take precedence over generic hole-saw advice.
For taps, wastes and other fittings, use the manufacturer's specified hole diameter where one is provided. A small difference in size can affect fitment, sealing and final appearance.
Electricians and electrical installers often need repeatable holes for cable routes, conduit, boxes, fittings and other components. The ideal cutter therefore depends on the installation material and required opening rather than simply choosing the largest multi-purpose kit available.
For repeated work, quick-change arbors and replaceable pilot drills can become particularly useful because they reduce downtime between different hole sizes. Storage also matters when multiple diameters are carried between jobs.
Always account for the specific requirements of the installation. A hole-saw recommendation cannot replace the relevant electrical, fire, structural or manufacturer requirements for the component being installed.
Woodworkers may prioritise clean edges, repeatability and control rather than maximum cutting speed. The appropriate choice can vary according to whether the material is softwood, hardwood, plywood, MDF, laminate or a composite board.
For furniture and visible joinery, the finish around the hole may be more important than cutting speed. For rough construction work, a more aggressive general-purpose cutter may be perfectly adequate.
Tile drilling requires particular care because brittle surfaces can crack or chip if the cutter is poorly suited to the material or operated incorrectly. A conventional toothed metal hole saw is not a universal solution for tile.
Diamond-grit systems are commonly used for appropriate tile and ceramic applications, but the correct method depends on the particular cutter and surface. Check whether the cutter is designed for the tile type, whether wet cutting is required and what speed the manufacturer recommends.
Before drilling an expensive finished surface, verify the location carefully. Pipes, cables, waterproofing systems and other hidden services can be present behind or beneath the surface.
Good maintenance can protect cutting performance and make a hole-saw kit easier to use over time. After use, remove debris and inspect the teeth or cutting edge for damage.
Replacement becomes sensible when cutting performance has deteriorated to the point that the cutter no longer produces an acceptable result or requires excessive force and heat to make progress. Visible tooth damage is also a clear warning sign.
Do not judge wear solely by appearance. A cutter can look intact while its cutting performance has declined substantially. If the operating conditions are correct but cutting has become noticeably slower, rougher or more heat-intensive, inspect the cutting edge and consider replacement.
The best hole saw for a tradesperson who uses the tool every day is not necessarily the best choice for a homeowner who needs to make a few holes each year.
DIY users may benefit from a versatile kit covering the most useful diameters, particularly if the included arbor is compatible with an existing drill.
Trade users may prioritise cutting consistency, replacement parts, quick-change systems, durability, specialist material compatibility and convenient storage.
Workshop users may prefer individual high-quality cutters selected around known materials and repeat applications rather than a broad general-purpose kit.
When comparing several shortlisted products, use the same criteria for every model. This prevents a low price or impressive-looking kit from overshadowing a specification that does not match your requirements.
Customer reviews can provide useful real-world context, but they are most valuable when read critically. A review saying that a hole saw is “excellent” gives limited information without explaining what material was cut, which diameter was used and how frequently the tool was operated.
Look for reviews that identify the actual application. Comments about cutting timber are not strong evidence of performance in stainless steel, while feedback from a professional using the product repeatedly may not directly apply to occasional DIY use.
Pay particular attention to recurring comments about arbor compatibility, tooth durability, pilot-drill wear, storage, changing cutters and performance on the materials you intend to cut.
The purchase price is only one part of the cost. A more useful comparison considers the complete cutting system and how it will be used.
A professional system can represent better value for frequent use even when its initial price is higher. For occasional work, however, purchasing a large premium kit may provide little practical benefit if most of the sizes remain unused.
Hole saws are rotating cutting tools and should be treated accordingly. Wear appropriate eye protection and follow the safety instructions supplied with the drill and hole saw.
Large hole saws can create significant torque and may grab as they break through a workpiece. Use a suitable drill, maintain control and use an auxiliary handle when recommended for the equipment and application.
There is no single best type for every application. Bi-metal models are versatile for many general-purpose jobs, while carbide and diamond systems are better suited to particular demanding or abrasive materials. The best choice is determined by the material, diameter, cutting depth and frequency of use.
Bi-metal hole saws can be suitable for specified metal-cutting applications, particularly where the manufacturer's product information identifies the material as compatible. Check the recommended cutting speeds and material limitations before use.
Some hole saws are specifically designed for stainless steel. Do not assume that every metal-rated hole saw is suitable. Stainless steel requires controlled cutting conditions and careful heat management, so use a product whose manufacturer explicitly supports the application.
Yes, provided the drill is suitable for the particular hole saw and application. Large diameters can place considerable demand on a drill, so check the equipment's capability, use an appropriate gear and speed and maintain good control.
Many conventional toothed hole saw systems use a pilot drill to establish the centre and guide the cutter. Specialist systems, particularly some diamond-grit designs, can use different approaches. Check the specific product design rather than assuming every hole saw uses the same arbor arrangement.
A kit can be worthwhile when you regularly need several diameters and want one organised system. If you only need one or two sizes, individual cutters can avoid paying for components that will rarely be used.
There is no universal lifespan. Wear depends on the material, cutting diameter, operating speed, pressure, heat management, frequency of use and cutter construction. A hole saw used occasionally in suitable material can have a very different service life from one used repeatedly on demanding metal.
Heat can result from excessive speed, too much pressure, unsuitable cutting conditions, a worn cutting edge or insufficient cooling or lubrication where required. Check the manufacturer's recommended operating conditions and make sure the cutter is appropriate for the material.
Possible causes include a worn cutting edge, incorrect speed, insufficient or excessive pressure, unsuitable material compatibility, clogged teeth or a pilot drill that needs replacement. Check the cutter and operating conditions before assuming the hole saw itself is defective.
Some general-purpose designs are intended for multiple materials, but the exact range varies by product. A cutter suitable for timber should not automatically be assumed to be suitable for metal. Always check the manufacturer's stated applications.
They use different cutting constructions and can be optimised for different applications. Bi-metal designs commonly use high-speed steel cutting teeth combined with another steel component, whereas carbide solutions use carbide at the cutting edge or as abrasive material. Compare the manufacturer's material recommendations rather than selecting solely by construction name.
No. A premium professional cutter can offer valuable benefits for frequent or demanding use, but it may be unnecessary for occasional DIY work. The best value comes from matching the specification to the job rather than simply choosing the most expensive option.
Before choosing a hole saw, work through this checklist:
The best hole saw is the one that matches the job rather than the one with the longest feature list. Start with the material and required hole diameter, then work through cutting depth, tooth or abrasive technology, arbor compatibility, drill requirements and replacement components.
For general-purpose work, a reputable bi-metal system can offer a useful balance of versatility and durability when used within its specified applications. For harder, abrasive or specialist materials, carbide and diamond technologies may provide a more appropriate solution. Professionals who use hole saws frequently should place greater emphasis on consistent cutting performance, replaceable components, arbor convenience and long-term system compatibility.
Before making a purchase, compare the manufacturer's specifications, check verified customer feedback and confirm that the exact cutter—not merely the brand or product family—is suitable for your material and application. This approach makes it easier to find the right hole saw for the job while avoiding unnecessary sizes, incompatible accessories and tools that are poorly matched to the work.
A hole saw is a relatively simple tool, but choosing the wrong specification can affect cutting speed, hole quality, equipment load, cutter life and overall project cost. A considered purchase therefore starts with the application rather than a generic “best hole saw” label.
Use the existing recommendations on this page as a starting point, then compare each shortlisted product against the material, diameter, depth and drill requirements of your own project. Specifications and retailer information can change, so check the latest product details and today's pricing before making a final decision.