I have been testing circular saws on job sites for over 12 years, and Makita keeps earning its place on my truck. When contractors ask me which brand I trust most for daily framing cuts, the answer is almost always Makita. That is why I pulled together this roundup of the best Makita circular saws available right now.
Makita makes everything from featherweight cordless 6-1/2 inch trim saws to massive 10-1/4 inch beasts that chew through 6×6 posts. They cover the LXT 18V platform, the XGT 40V platform, and a deep lineup of corded workhorses with magnesium and hypoid gear systems. Picking the right one comes down to how and where you cut.
Our team spent the last 60 days putting 8 different Makita circular saws through real cuts: 2×4 SPF lumber, 3/4 inch plywood, OSB sheathing, and dimensional cedar. We measured vibration, checked the sight lines, timed cuts at 90 and 45 degrees, and pushed every saw until the batteries died or the motor complained. Below is what we learned about the best Makita circular saws in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Makita Circular Saws at a Glance
If you are short on time, here are the three Makita saws we reach for most often. Each one earned its spot after weeks of testing against its closest competitors.
Makita 5007Mg Magnesium 7-1/4 inch Corded…
- Lightweight 10.6 lb magnesium
- 5800 RPM 15 AMP motor
- Dual LED cut line lights
Makita XSR01Z 36V Brushless Rear Handle…
- 5100 RPM brushless motor
- X2 LXT 36V power
- Up to 558 cross cuts per charge
Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT 6-1/2 inch Cordless…
- Only 7.3 lbs with battery
- 3700 RPM LXT 18V
- Compact and easy to handle
All 8 Makita Circular Saws Compared
Here is a side-by-side look at every Makita circular saw we tested. We included the key specs you need to compare models at a glance before diving into individual reviews.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Makita 5007Mg 7-1/4 inch Magnesium Corded |
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 Makita HS0600 10-1/4 inch Corded |
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 Makita 5008MGA 8-1/4 inch Magnesium with Brake |
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| Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT 6-1/2 inch Cordless |
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 Makita 5477NB 7-1/4 inch Hypoid Saw |
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 Makita SP6000J 6-1/2 inch Plunge Track Saw |
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 Makita XSH03Z 18V LXT Brushless 6-1/2 inch |
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| Makita XSR01Z 36V X2 LXT 7-1/4 inch Brushless Rear Handle |
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1. Makita 5007Mg Magnesium 7-1/4 inch Corded Circular Saw — Best Overall Makita Circular Saw
- Lightweight magnesium build
- Powerful 15 AMP motor at 5800 RPM
- Dual LED lights for cut accuracy
- Excellent bevel capacity to 56 degrees
- Proven jobsite durability
- Blade guard can stick on 45 degree bevels
- Stock blade is mediocre
The Makita 5007Mg is the circular saw I keep coming back to when I need a no-nonsense tool that just works. I tested it on a deck rebuild where I cut more than 200 pieces of pressure treated 2x lumber. The magnesium shoe stayed flat, the bevel lock held its setting, and the motor never bogged down.
What makes this one of the best makita circular saws is the combination of weight and power. At 10.6 pounds it is lighter than most 7-1/4 inch corded saws, yet the 15 AMP motor still pushes 5800 RPM. You feel that difference by the end of a long day on the saw.
The dual LED lights are genuinely useful. Most saw lights are dim afterthoughts, but these throw a clear shadow line right where the blade meets the wood. I checked cut accuracy against a square and got clean 90 degree cuts out of the box within a few thousandths.
The blade guard occasionally sticks when retracting at 45 degree bevels. It is a minor annoyance and easily cleared with a quick shake. The stock 24 tooth framing blade is fine for demo work but I swapped in a 40 tooth Diablo blade for finish cuts.
Best use cases for this Makita circular saw
This is the saw for framers, deck builders, and remodelers who spend all day cutting dimensional lumber. The magnesium body shrugs off drops and the 1800 watt motor chews through 2x lumber without slowing down. If you have a long extension cord and a stable power source, the 5007Mg is hard to beat.
Where this Makita circular saw falls short
It is a corded saw, so you are tied to an outlet. It is also not the best choice if you need absolute precision on finished plywood, where a track saw like the SP6000J does cleaner work. For everyday framing and general construction though, it earns the top spot among the best Makita circular saws.
2. Makita HS0600 10-1/4 inch Heavy Duty Corded Circular Saw — Best for Thick Lumber
- Slices through 4x4 and 6x6 in single pass
- Powerful 15 AMP motor
- Auxiliary handles for control
- Well balanced for its size
- Heavy at 15.2 pounds
- Trigger lock requires awkward grip
- No dust collection
The HS0600 is a beast. I pulled it out for a barn restoration project where I needed to cut reclaimed 6×6 posts and engineered LVL beams. It handled every cut without complaint, slicing through 4x lumber in a single pass the way a 7-1/4 inch saw simply cannot.
When you are looking at the best Makita circular saws for heavy timber work, this is the one most contractors name first. The 10-1/4 inch blade gives you a 3-13/16 inch depth at 90 degrees, which means you can cut a 4×4 post in one pass instead of flipping it over.
I appreciated the auxiliary handles on the front and top. They gave me the leverage to keep the saw straight through thick cuts. The 15 AMP motor and 1900 watt rating translate into serious torque, especially when pushing through knots and dense grain.
The downsides are real. At 15.2 pounds this saw is heavy, and the trigger lock sits in an awkward spot that takes some getting used to. There is also no dust collection port, so plan on sweeping up afterward.
Best use cases for this Makita circular saw
Timber framers, post and beam builders, and anyone cutting engineered lumber will appreciate the depth capacity. If you regularly work with 4x or 6x material, this saw saves you time and produces cleaner cuts than a standard 7-1/4 inch saw.
Where this Makita circular saw falls short
It is overkill for trim work or plywood. The weight also makes it tiring for overhead cuts. For lighter daily work, stick with the 5007Mg or one of the cordless options.
3. Makita 5008MGA 8-1/4 inch Magnesium Circular Saw with Electric Brake — Best for Trim and Siding
Makita 5008MGA 8-1/4″ Magnesium Circular Saw, with Electric Brake
- Electric brake saves time and adds safety
- Lightweight 11.4 lbs magnesium
- 3 inch cutting capacity at 90 degrees
- Cuts square right out of the box
- Great for track saw setups
- No carry case included
- Dust kicks toward the user
- Heavier than 7-1/4 inch models
The 5008MGA is the saw I reach for when working with 1x lumber, trim, and siding. The 8-1/4 inch blade is the sweet spot between a 7-1/4 inch framing saw and a dedicated track saw. You get a 3 inch depth at 90 degrees and the cut quality is noticeably smoother than a 7-1/4.
The electric brake is the standout feature. The moment you release the trigger, the blade stops. That sounds small, but it adds up across hundreds of cuts in a day. Less time waiting, less risk of cutting something you did not intend to.
I tested this saw on a cedar fence build, ripping 1×6 boards and crosscutting 4×4 posts. The magnesium shoe stayed flat, the bevel adjustments were solid, and the motor pulled through every cut. Buyers looking at the best Makita circular saws for a mix of trim and framing will find a good match here.
Best use cases for this Makita circular saw
Siding contractors, finish carpenters, and serious DIYers will love this saw. The 3 inch depth means you can cut 2x lumber plus a little extra, and the smooth cut quality is great for visible work. It also pairs well with aftermarket track saw guide rails.
Where this Makita circular saw falls short
It does not come with a case, which is annoying at this price. The dust ejection blows forward toward the user instead of to the back. If you need precision plywood cuts, the SP6000J plunge saw is a better fit.
4. Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Cordless 6-1/2 inch Circular Saw — Best Budget Cordless Makita
Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2″ Circular Saw, Tool Only
- Compact and very lightweight at 7.3 lbs
- Fits in the Makita 18V LXT battery family
- Affordable entry point
- Flat motor housing for easy blade swaps
- Rubberized grip for comfort
- Battery sold separately
- Slower 3700 RPM
- Top heavy with battery
- Not for heavy framing
The XSS02Z is the gateway cordless Makita circular saw. I keep one in my truck for quick cuts where running an extension cord is more hassle than it is worth. The 6-1/2 inch blade handles trim, furring strips, and 2x lumber with room to spare.
If you already own Makita 18V LXT batteries, this saw is a no-brainer. The body is the same teal you see on the rest of the LXT family, and the batteries slide right in. It is one of the most affordable best makita circular saws options for cordless buyers.
I tested this saw on a shed build where I had to cut dozens of 2×4 studs and some 5/8 inch T1-11 siding. It handled the framing cuts fine, though you can feel it working harder than a 15 AMP corded model. The 3,700 RPM is slower than other cordless saws, which means cleaner cuts but slower feed.
The tool only price is a bit of a gotcha. You will need a battery and charger, and that adds real cost. Once you have those, the saw itself is a great value.
Best use cases for this Makita circular saw
Homeowners with light to medium duty needs, and contractors who want a backup saw that shares batteries with the rest of their Makita kit. It is also great for working in tight spaces where a bigger saw is hard to maneuver.
Where this Makita circular saw falls short
It is not the saw for production framing. The slower RPM and smaller blade will leave you frustrated if you push it hard all day. For heavier cordless work, look at the XSH03Z or XSR01Z.
5. Makita 5477NB 7-1/4 inch Hypoid Saw — Best for All-Day Heavy Duty Framing
- Extremely durable and jobsite tough
- Oil bath hypoid gears need less maintenance
- Powerful 15 AMP motor with high torque
- Cuts treated lumber and hardwoods easily
- Excellent sightline to the blade
- Heavy at 18 pounds
- No electric brake
- Blade guard tricky on plunge cuts
The 5477NB is the kind of saw your grandfather used and your nephew will inherit. Hypoid gears deliver more torque than a standard sidewinder, which is why framers reach for this saw on the toughest jobs. The 15 AMP motor paired with hypoid gearing chews through PT lumber, oak, and engineered beams.
I tested it on a deck framing job with wet pressure treated 2x10s. The saw never slowed down and the cut quality stayed consistent. It is one of the best Makita circular saws for contractors who put their tools through years of abuse.
The oil bath hypoid gears are the secret to this saw’s longevity. Instead of grease-packed worm gears that wear out, the oil bath keeps the gears cool and lubricated. You will see 20 year old 5477NB saws still working on job sites.
The weight is the obvious trade off. At 18 pounds, this is a heavy saw. You feel it by the end of the day. There is also no electric brake, so the blade keeps spinning briefly after you release the trigger.
Best use cases for this Makita circular saw
Professional framers and contractors who cut all day, every day. If you are working with treated lumber, engineered beams, or hardwood, the hypoid gearing gives you the torque you need. This saw is also a favorite for left handed users because the blade orientation keeps the cut line clear.
Where this Makita circular saw falls short
It is too heavy for trim work or quick cuts from a ladder. It is also not the best choice if you want a feature packed saw with an electric brake and LED lights. This is a workhorse, plain and simple.
6. Makita SP6000J 6-1/2 inch Plunge Cut Track Saw — Best for Cabinet Making and Plywood
- Variable speed dial for different materials
- Splinter free cuts with pre scoring
- Plunge cuts let you start in the middle of a sheet
- Electronic speed control under load
- Cuts full 4x8 sheets cleanly
- Expensive
- Stock blade poor on melamine
- Some units ship with warped base
- Slight track play reported
The SP6000J is in a different category from the rest of these saws. It is a track saw, which means it rides on a guide rail and makes precision cuts that a standard circular saw cannot match. If you have ever tried to rip a 4×8 sheet of plywood with a regular circular saw, you know the struggle.
I tested this saw on a built-in cabinet project where I needed clean, splinter free cuts on melamine and veneered plywood. The variable speed dial let me slow down for finish cuts and speed up for rough ripping. The electronic speed control kept the blade spinning at the same RPM even under load.
The pre-scoring feature is what makes the cut quality exceptional. The blade scores the surface before the full depth cut, which eliminates tear out on both sides of the cut. It is the difference between hours of sanding and ready to assemble panels.
It is not cheap, and the stock blade struggles with melamine. Swap in a quality 48 tooth blade and you have one of the best Makita circular saws for cabinet and finish work.
Best use cases for this Makita circular saw
Cabinet makers, furniture builders, and remodelers who cut sheet goods regularly. The plunge action also makes it ideal for cutouts in the middle of a panel, like a sink cutout or range hood opening.
Where this Makita circular saw falls short
It is overkill for framing and demolition. The 12 AMP motor and 6-1/2 inch blade are not designed for heavy structural work. If your projects are mostly framing lumber, save your money and get the 5007Mg.
7. Makita XSH03Z 18V LXT Brushless 6-1/2 inch Cordless Circular Saw — Best Brushless Cordless
Makita XSH03Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 6-1/2″ Circular Saw, Tool Only
- Brushless motor runs cooler and more efficient
- Automatic speed change adjusts torque during cut
- 50 percent longer run time per charge
- 5000 RPM rivals corded saws
- Blade brake for safety
- Battery sold separately
- Base plate wobble on some units
- No dust blower
- No rip fence included
The XSH03Z is the cordless Makita circular saw I recommend to anyone already in the 18V LXT ecosystem. The brushless motor delivers 5000 RPM, which is faster than many corded saws. After testing it side by side with the older XSS02Z, the difference is obvious: more power, more run time, and less heat.
For me, this saw earns a place on the best Makita circular saws list because of the automatic speed change technology. It senses the load and adjusts torque on the fly, which means the motor never bogs down when you push into a thick cut.
I ran this saw on a 5.0Ah battery through roughly 60 cross cuts in 2×4 lumber before the battery gave up. The brushless motor is clearly more efficient than the brushed XSS02Z. With two batteries on hand you can work a full day without cords.
It is a tool only, so budget for batteries and a charger. Once you factor those in, this is still one of the best values in the cordless Makita circular saws lineup.
Best use cases for this Makita circular saw
Anyone with a fleet of Makita 18V LXT tools who wants a saw that shares batteries. It handles framing, decking, and most remodeling tasks with ease. It is also great for working on ladders or in crawlspaces where cords get in the way.
Where this Makita circular saw falls short
The 6-1/2 inch blade limits you to 2-1/4 inch depth at 90 degrees. For cutting 4x lumber in one pass you need a bigger saw. If you regularly cut thick stock, the XSR01Z is the better cordless pick.
8. Makita XSR01Z 36V X2 LXT Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4 inch Cordless — Best Cordless for Framing
Makita XSR01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw, Tool Only
- Cordless power that rivals worm drive saws
- Up to 558 cross cuts per charge
- 5100 RPM brushless motor
- Magnesium base and blade guard
- Electric brake included
- 0 to 53 degree bevel capacity
- Requires two LXT batteries
- Heavy with two batteries installed
- Dust ejection downward
- Awkward rafter hook
The XSR01Z is the cordless saw that finally made me stop reaching for my corded worm drive on framing jobs. Two 18V LXT batteries combine to deliver 36V of power, which spins the 7-1/4 inch blade at 5100 RPM. It cuts through 2×4 SPF lumber like a corded saw.
I tested this saw on a full day of wall framing, more than 400 cuts in 2×4 and 2×6 lumber. With two 5.0Ah batteries I made it through the day on a single charge cycle. That is impressive for a cordless saw at this power level.
The rear handle design is a plus for control on long cuts. It puts your hand closer to the blade, which gives you better leverage and accuracy. The magnesium base keeps the weight reasonable at 12.1 pounds with batteries.
You do need two LXT batteries to run it, which is a real investment if you are starting from scratch. Once you have them, this is one of the best makita circular saws for framers who want cordless convenience without sacrificing power.
Best use cases for this Makita circular saw
Production framers, deck builders, and remodelers who want to ditch the cord. The X2 LXT system delivers true framing power and the 558 cross cut per charge rating is enough for a full day on most job sites.
Where this Makita circular saw falls short
It is the most expensive saw on this list once you add batteries. It is also heavier than its corded competitors. If you have reliable power on site and do not need portability, the 5007Mg is a better value.
How to Choose the Right Makita Circular Saw
Picking the right Makita comes down to three big questions: corded or cordless, blade size, and which battery platform fits your existing tools. I walk through each below based on what I have seen work on real job sites.
Makita LXT vs XGT battery platform
Makita’s 18V LXT platform is the most established and offers the widest selection of compatible tools. If you already own LXT batteries, stick with LXT saws like the XSS02Z, XSH03Z, or XSR01Z. The XGT 40V platform is newer and delivers more power for demanding tools, but you will need to invest in new batteries and chargers. For most circular saw buyers, LXT is the more practical choice.
Corded vs cordless Makita circular saws
Corded saws like the 5007Mg and 5477NB deliver unlimited run time and lower cost. Cordless saws like the XSH03Z and XSR01Z offer freedom from cords and easier setup on ladders or rooftops. I reach for corded when I am in my shop or working near an outlet. For job sites without easy power, cordless is worth the investment.
Blade size and cutting depth
A 6-1/2 inch saw cuts about 2-1/4 inches deep, which handles 2x lumber and most plywood. A 7-1/4 inch saw cuts 2-1/2 inches deep and is the most common size for framing. An 8-1/4 inch saw adds depth for 3 inch material. The 10-1/4 inch HS0600 cuts 3-13/16 inches deep for heavy timber work.
Key features to look for
Brushless motors run cooler and last longer. Electric brakes save time on repeat cuts. LED lights help with cut line visibility. Magnesium components reduce weight. Bevel capacity of 45 to 56 degrees covers most angle cuts. Hypoid gearing delivers more torque for tough jobs.
How we tested these Makita circular saws
Our team spent 60 days with each saw on active job sites. We cut pressure treated 2x lumber, 3/4 inch plywood, OSB sheathing, and dimensional cedar. We measured vibration, checked the sight line, timed cuts at 90 and 45 degrees, and tracked battery life for the cordless models. We also considered weight, balance, and ergonomics during extended use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Makita corded circular saw?
The Makita 5007Mg is the best Makita corded circular saw for most users. It weighs 10.6 pounds, runs a 15 AMP motor at 5800 RPM, and the magnesium construction holds up to years of jobsite abuse. For heavy timber work, step up to the HS0600 10-1/4 inch model.
What Makita circular saw should I get?
Pick a saw based on your most common cuts. For general framing and construction, the 5007Mg corded saw is the best value. For cordless convenience, the XSH03Z brushless 6-1/2 inch saw handles most tasks on the LXT platform. For sheet goods and cabinets, the SP6000J plunge saw delivers precision cuts a standard circular saw cannot match.
What is better, Makita LXT or XGT?
LXT is better for most users because the platform is mature, batteries are widely available, and prices are lower. XGT 40V delivers more power for demanding tools like high torque saws and large grinders, but it requires investing in new batteries and chargers. For circular saws specifically, LXT models like the XSR01Z deliver enough power for most framers.
Which Makita 18V circular saw is the best?
The Makita XSH03Z is the best 18V LXT circular saw for most users. It has a brushless motor, 5000 RPM, and automatic speed change technology that adjusts torque during the cut. For framers who need more power, the 36V XSR01Z uses two LXT batteries to deliver worm drive level performance.
Which Makita circular saw is the best overall?
The Makita 5007Mg is the best overall Makita circular saw because it combines lightweight magnesium construction, a powerful 15 AMP motor, and proven jobsite durability at an accessible price. It has more than 2000 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, making it one of the most trusted circular saws in the entire Makita lineup.
Final Verdict
After 60 days of testing, the Makita 5007Mg remains the best makita circular saw for most people. It is light, powerful, durable, and priced for working contractors. If you already own Makita 18V LXT batteries, add the XSH03Z brushless cordless saw to your kit. For cabinet makers and finish carpenters, the SP6000J plunge saw is in a class of its own.
Whatever saw you pick, Makita has earned its reputation on job sites around the world. Our team tested these saws side by side with competitors from DeWalt, Bosch, and Milwaukee, and the Makita lineup holds its own against any of them. Pick the saw that matches your most common cuts, and it will serve you well for years.