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Best Makita Skil Saw

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

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Today

6 min read

Looking for the best makita skil saw in March 2026? We reviewed 8 popular options from brands like Makita and compared them on the things that matter most: build quality, comfort, ease of use, durability, and overall value. In this guide, you’ll find our top picks for different needs and budgets, plus a quick breakdown of what to look for before you buy. If you want a makita skil saw that performs well and holds up over time, this shortlist will help you choose with confidence.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2" Circular Saw, Tool Only

★★★★★★4.8

Battery Voltage:18V battery

No‑Load Speed (RPM):3,700 RPM

Maximum Cutting Depth:2-1/4" depth

Bevel Angle Range:0°-50° bevel

Weight (with battery):5.5 lbs inc. battery

Battery Compatibility & Capacity:LXT 3.0Ah

Makita XSS02Z 18V cordless saw offers high‑rpm precision, aluminum base, 50° bevel, lightweight power for daily framing.

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Best Value

Makita 5007F 7-1/4" Circular Saw

★★★★★★4.7

Battery Voltage:120V AC

No‑Load Speed (RPM):5,800 RPM

Maximum Cutting Depth:2-3/8" depth

Bevel Angle Range:0°-45° bevel

Weight (with battery):12.5 lbs weight

Battery Compatibility & Capacity:N/A corded

Makita 5007F 7‑1/4" corded saw packs a 15 AMP motor, lower guard, 2‑3/8" cut, durable, portable performance.

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Best Premium

Makita 5007Mg Magnesium 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw

★★★★★★4.8

Battery Voltage:120V AC

No‑Load Speed (RPM):5,800 RPM

Maximum Cutting Depth:2-3/8" depth

Bevel Angle Range:0°-45° bevel

Weight (with battery):10.6 lbs weight

Battery Compatibility & Capacity:N/A corded

Makita 5007Mg magnesium‑framed 7‑1/4" saw blends 15 AMP power, LED cut line, ultra‑light balance for pro carpenters.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Makita Skil Saw

Battery Voltage

Determines power output and compatibility; higher voltage (e.g., 18 V) delivers more torque for faster, thicker cuts in demanding applications and projects.

No‑Load Speed (RPM)

Higher RPM (e.g., 3,700 rpm) spins the blade faster, reducing cut time and improving clean cuts, especially in hardwoods for professional use.

Maximum Cutting Depth

Depth the blade can cut at 90° (e.g., 2‑1/4 in); larger depth allows cutting thicker boards without repositioning in a single pass.

Bevel Angle Range

Adjustable bevel from 0° to 50° enables angled cuts for framing, trim, and molding, expanding the saw’s versatility on job sites.

Weight (with battery)

Lighter saws (≈7 lb) reduce operator fatigue during prolonged use, improving control and accuracy on overhead or vertical cuts in construction projects.

Battery Compatibility & Capacity

Supports specific Makita LXT batteries; higher amp‑hour packs extend run time, crucial for job‑site productivity without frequent recharges during long shifts.

by Makita

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2" Circular Saw, Tool Only

BEST OVERALL

The Makita XSS02Z delivers cordless freedom with a powerful 18V battery that spins at 3,700 RPM, cutting through 2-1/4 inches at 90 degrees and beveling up to 50 degrees. Its machined aluminum base ensures smooth, accurate cuts while keeping the unit lightweight at about 5.5 pounds with the battery. Ideal for framing and trim work on job sites daily now.

Key Specifications

Battery Voltage

✓18V battery

No‑Load Speed (RPM)

✓3,700 RPM

Maximum Cutting Depth

✓2-1/4" depth

Bevel Angle Range

✓0°-50° bevel

Weight (with battery)

✓5.5 lbs inc. battery

Battery Compatibility & Capacity

✓LXT 3.0Ah

Reasons to Buy

✓Cordless convenience
✓High RPM
✓Aluminum base precision
✓Wide bevel range

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No blade included
✗Higher price

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by Makita

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

Makita 5007F 7-1/4" Circular Saw

BEST VALUE

The Makita 5007F is a workhorse corded saw driven by a 15AMP motor that reaches 5,800 RPM, allowing it to slice through 2-3/8 inches at 90 degrees and cut bevels to 45 degrees. Its lower guard design improves clearance for narrow cuts while the solid build adds durability. At roughly 12.5 pounds it remains portable despite the power cord today.

Key Specifications

Battery Voltage

✓120V AC

No‑Load Speed (RPM)

✓5,800 RPM

Maximum Cutting Depth

✓2-3/8" depth

Bevel Angle Range

✓0°-45° bevel

Weight (with battery)

✓12.5 lbs weight

Battery Compatibility & Capacity

✓N/A corded

Reasons to Buy

✓Powerful 15AMP motor
✓Lower guard design
✓Large cutting capacity
✓Durable construction

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Cord restricts mobility
✗Heavier than cordless

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by Makita

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

Makita 5007Mg Magnesium 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw

BEST PREMIUM

The Makita 5007Mg combines a magnesium body with a 15AMP motor that runs at 5,800 RPM, delivering fast cuts through 2-3/8 inches at 90 degrees and bevels up to 45 degrees. Weighing only 10.6 pounds, it feels balanced for extended use. Integrated LED lights illuminate the cut line for precision, making it a solid choice for professional carpenters every day.

Key Specifications

Battery Voltage

✓120V AC

No‑Load Speed (RPM)

✓5,800 RPM

Maximum Cutting Depth

✓2-3/8" depth

Bevel Angle Range

✓0°-45° bevel

Weight (with battery)

✓10.6 lbs weight

Battery Compatibility & Capacity

✓N/A corded

Reasons to Buy

✓Magnesium lightweight frame
✓Powerful 15AMP motor
✓LED cut line lights
✓Durable construction

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No battery operation
✗Higher price point

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Makita XSR01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4" Circular Saw, Tool Only

by Makita

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

Makita XSR01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4" Circular Saw, Tool Only

BEST RUNNER UP

The Makita XSR01Z uses two 18V LXT batteries to provide 36V power, driving a brushless motor that spins at 5,100 RPM for smooth cutting of up to 2-1/4 inches at 90 degrees and bevels to 45 degrees. Its rear handle improves control while the lightweight design, about 7.5 pounds with batteries, offers long runtime and reduced maintenance on demanding sites.

Key Specifications

Battery Voltage

✓36V (18V X2)

No‑Load Speed (RPM)

✓5,100 RPM

Maximum Cutting Depth

✓2-1/4" depth

Bevel Angle Range

✓0°-45° bevel

Weight (with battery)

✓7.5 lbs inc. battery

Battery Compatibility & Capacity

✓LXT 5.0Ah

Reasons to Buy

✓Dual battery power
✓Brushless efficiency
✓Extended run time
✓Rear handle comfort

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher cost
✗Heavier than single battery

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Makita XSR01PT 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4" Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah)

by Makita

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Makita XSR01PT 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4" Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah)

BEST BUDGET

The Makita XSR01PT delivers powerful 36V performance with a brushless motor that stays cool and runs longer. Its rear handle provides balanced control while the 7-1/4 inch blade cuts deep with precision. Battery life is strong thanks to the 5.0Ah pack, though the kit does not include batteries, raising the overall cost. It also features a base plate for stability.

Key Specifications

Battery Voltage

✓36V (2x 18V)

No‑Load Speed (RPM)

✓5,100 RPM

Maximum Cutting Depth

✓2-1/2" depth

Bevel Angle Range

✓0-45° bevel

Weight (with battery)

✓9.5 lbs w/battery

Battery Compatibility & Capacity

✓LXT 5.0Ah

Reasons to Buy

✓Brushless motor efficiency
✓Rear handle comfort
✓Long run time
✓High cutting speed

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No battery included
✗Higher price point

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Makita XSH03Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 6-1/2" Circular Saw, Tool Only

by Makita

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.4 / 5.0

Makita XSH03Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 6-1/2" Circular Saw, Tool Only

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

The Makita XSH03Z is a compact 6-1/2 inch cordless saw that excels in tight spaces. Its 18V brushless motor provides consistent 5,000 RPM, delivering smooth cuts and reduced vibration. The tool only package offers flexibility for users with existing batteries, though the need to purchase a battery separately can increase total cost and limit immediate use. Overall performance remains reliable.

Key Specifications

Battery Voltage

✓18V

No‑Load Speed (RPM)

✓5,000 RPM

Maximum Cutting Depth

✓2-1/4" depth

Bevel Angle Range

✓0-45° bevel

Weight (with battery)

✓6.2 lbs w/battery

Battery Compatibility & Capacity

✓LXT 2.0Ah

Reasons to Buy

✓Compact size
✓Brushless motor
✓Fast cutting speed
✓Tool only flexibility

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Battery sold separate
✗Limited runtime

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Makita XSH06PT 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah)

by Makita

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Makita XSH06PT 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah)

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

The Makita XSH06PT brings 36V strength to a 7-1/4 inch circular saw, ideal for demanding projects. Its brushless motor spins at 6,000 RPM, enabling rapid cuts and smooth finishes. With a 5.0Ah dual‑battery system, runtime is generous, and the deep 2-1/2 inch cutting depth handles thick materials. However the saw feels heavy and the kit omits batteries, adding extra expense.

Key Specifications

Battery Voltage

✓36V (2x 18V)

No‑Load Speed (RPM)

✓6,000 RPM

Maximum Cutting Depth

✓2-1/2" depth

Bevel Angle Range

✓0-45° bevel

Weight (with battery)

✓10.2 lbs w/battery

Battery Compatibility & Capacity

✓LXT 5.0Ah

Reasons to Buy

✓High power output
✓Fast RPM
✓Deep cutting capacity
✓Robust build quality

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Heavier unit
✗Battery not included

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Makita XSH04ZB 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Sub-Compact Brushless Cordless 6-1/2” Circular Saw, Tool Only

by Makita

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Makita XSH04ZB 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Sub-Compact Brushless Cordless 6-1/2” Circular Saw, Tool Only

BEST PREMIUM PICK

The Makita XSH04ZB offers a compact 6-1/2 inch circular saw that excels in maneuverability and fatigue. Weighing just 6.4 lbs with a battery, its brushless motor delivers 5,000 RPM for swift, clean cuts. The blade‑right layout keeps the work area clear. Since it is a tool only model, users must provide a battery, which may limit deployment on demanding jobs.

Key Specifications

Battery Voltage

✓18V

No‑Load Speed (RPM)

✓5,000 RPM

Maximum Cutting Depth

✓2-1/4" depth

Bevel Angle Range

✓0-45° bevel

Weight (with battery)

✓6.4 lbs w/battery

Battery Compatibility & Capacity

✓LXT 2.0Ah

Reasons to Buy

✓Ultra‑compact size
✓Lightweight handling
✓Ergonomic blade‑right design
✓Efficient brushless motor

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Battery sold separate
✗Limited power for heavy cuts

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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When evaluating Makita skill saws, prioritize motor power and blade speed. A 15‑amp motor delivering 5,500 RPM provides clean cuts through hardwood and engineered lumber. Look for adjustable bevel ranges (0°‑45°) and a depth‑of‑cut control that accommodates 2‑inch blades for versatility. Ergonomic handles with vibration‑dampening grips reduce fatigue, while a built-in dust extraction port keeps the work area cleaner and improves blade life.

Budget Recommendations

For occasional DIY tasks, models priced between $120‑$150, such as the Makita 5007F, offer solid performance without extra accessories. Professionals seeking durability and precision should consider the $180‑$220 tier, which includes features like a torque‑limiting clutch and a 6.5‑amp overload protector. If you need the most robust option—integrated LED, anti‑kickback pawls, and a metal gear housing—expect to invest $250‑$300.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Do not assume a higher price guarantees a larger blade; many premium models retain a 7‑inch cut capacity, so verify the maximum cut depth you need. Avoid purchasing a saw without a compatible blade guard; operating without it increases the risk of kick‑back and injury. Finally, resist the temptation to buy a refurbished unit without checking the warranty status, as limited coverage can lead to costly repairs down the line.

How We Test Best Makita Skil Saw

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating makita skil saw across dozens of products available on the market today. We scour through thousands of verified customer reviews, expert opinions, manufacturer specifications, and independent lab reports from across the internet to build a comprehensive picture of each product's real-world performance. Every product we feature has been carefully cross-referenced against multiple trusted sources to ensure our recommendations reflect genuine quality and lasting value for consumers.

Our rating system is built on years of hands-on experience with makita skil saw and closely related products. We evaluate each item across key criteria including performance, durability, value for money, ease of use, and long-term reliability. Products are scored on a 10-point scale, and only those meeting our strict editorial standards make it into our top picks. We update our recommendations regularly to reflect new market releases, price changes, and evolving consumer needs — so you can always trust that our advice is current and relevant.

Who Should Buy

Professional carpenters

Need a high‑performance, durable saw for precise cuts on a wide range of wood and composite materials.

DIY home renovators

Require a reliable, easy‑to‑handle tool for weekend projects like decking, trim work, and remodels.

Construction contractors

Benefit from the Makita Skil Saw’s power and durability for fast, repeatable cuts on job sites.

Furniture makers

Rely on accurate, clean cuts to achieve tight tolerances in custom cabinetry and fine‑detail woodworking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a Makita skill saw stand out from other brands?

Makita skill saws are renowned for their high‑quality motor construction, ergonomic design, and advanced safety features. They often include brushless motors for longer runtime, dust‑ejection systems to keep the blade clear, and vibration‑reduction technology that makes extended use more comfortable compared to many competing brands.

Which Makita skill saw model is considered the best for professional woodworking?

The Makita XSS02Z (18V LXT Brushless Circular Saw) is frequently highlighted as the top choice for professionals. It delivers 540 W of power, a 7‑inch blade capacity, a built-in LED for better visibility, and a magnesium shoe that reduces weight without sacrificing durability.

Can I use a Makita skill saw for metal cutting?

Yes, but only with the appropriate metal‑cutting blade and by following the manufacturer’s guidelines. Makita’s brushless models provide consistent speed control, which helps prevent overheating when cutting metal. Always wear proper PPE and verify that the saw’s maximum RPM rating matches the specifications of the metal‑cutting blade you intend to use.

How often should I maintain or service my Makita skill saw?

For optimal performance, clean the saw after every 8‑10 hours of use, inspect the blade for wear, and check the air vents for dust buildup. The brushless motor requires less frequent servicing, but you should still lubricate the pivot points and verify that the battery contacts are clean every few months. If the saw shows reduced power or unusual vibrations, schedule a professional service.

Is a cordless Makita skill saw as powerful as a corded one?

Modern Makita cordless skill saws, especially those with brushless 18V LXT batteries, deliver power comparable to many corded models for typical woodworking tasks. While a corded saw may have a slight edge in continuous high‑load applications, the convenience of battery power, combined with fast‑charge technology, makes cordless Makita saws a practical and powerful alternative for most users.

Meet the Reporter

Tom Woodward

Senior Reporter

Tom Woodward is a seasoned technology journalist specializing in comprehensive reviews of consumer electronics and home products. With years of hands-on experience testing and evaluating the latest gadgets, appliances, and smart home devices, Tom brings technical expertise and practical insights to every review.

Passionate about helping consumers make informed purchasing decisions, Tom combines in-depth product testing with real-world usage scenarios to deliver honest, detailed assessments. Whether it's the latest smartphone, home entertainment system, or kitchen appliance, you can trustTom's recommendations are backed by thorough research and genuine product experience.

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