Best Makita Table Saws with 18V in 2026: 13 Picks
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These best makita table saws with 18V options cover cordless cutting needs without a power cord. The top pick, Makita 18V X2 Brushless 7-1/4-Inch Rear Handle Saw, leads because it offers a 2-9/16-inch cutting depth for heavy-duty work. We compared 13 products strictly by their published specifications to find the right tool for your job. This list includes circular saws, jig saws, and plunge saws from the Makita 18V platform. Use this guide to decide which cordless model fits your specific cutting requirements and existing battery setup.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You need deep single-pass capacity for framing Makita 18V X2 Brushless 7-1/4-Inch Rear Handle Saw Its 2-9/16-inch cutting depth handles heavy-duty cuts without multiple passes.
- You want portable ripping with existing 18V batteries Makita 18V Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw The 7-pound frame and 5,000 RPM offer fast cutting efficiency.
- You require the most compact model for tight areas Makita 18V Sub-Compact 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw At 4 pounds and 9 inches long, it fits confined workspaces.
- You need variable-speed plunge cutting for precision Makita 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Plunge Circular Saw Dual-battery 36V power and variable-speed operation control deep cuts.
- You seek a budget option for curved cuts Makita 18V LXT Cordless Jig Saw It delivers 2,600 strokes per minute with three orbital settings.
Our 13 picks
Makita 18V X2 Brushless 7-1/4-Inch Rear Handle Saw
Best for: framing cuts requiring deep single-pass capacity
- Voltage
- 18V (what this guide is about)
- Blade Diameter
- 7-1/4"
- No-Load Speed
- 5,100 RPM
- Cutting Depth 90
- 2-9/16”
- Dimensions
- 18.8 × 8.9 × 12 inches
- Weight
- 12.1 pounds
View on Amazon: Makita 18V X2 Brushless 7-1/4-Inch Rear Handle Saw Affiliate link
This tool is a cordless rear-handle saw powered by two 18V LXT batteries to deliver 36V performance. You get a 5,100 RPM brushless motor and a 2-9/16-inch cutting capacity at 90 degrees, allowing single-pass cuts through 3X material. It also provides a 0 to 53-degree bevel range with an electric brake. It suits you if you need high-capacity cordless cutting and already own Makita 18V batteries.
Pros
- 5,100 RPM brushless motor with automatic speed change
- 2-9/16-inch cutting depth at 90 degrees cuts 3X material in one pass
- 0° to 53° bevel capacity with positive stops at 22.5°, 45°, and 53°
- Electric brake stops blade rotation quickly
Cons
- Batteries and charger not included with bare tool
- Requires two 18V batteries at once to operate
- Weighs 12.1 pounds without batteries attached
Good fit if
- You need to cut through 3X material in a single pass at 90 degrees.
- You already have Makita 18V LXT batteries and want 36V cutting speed.
- You require bevel cuts up to 53 degrees with preset positive stops.
Skip if
- You want a saw that weighs under 12 pounds bare.
- You do not already own two compatible 18V LXT batteries.
Verdict: Makita 7-1/4-Inch Brushless Rear Handle Saw pairs dual-battery 36V power with a deep 2-9/16-inch cutting depth for heavy-duty cuts. It gives you 5,100 RPM performance and a wide bevel range without needing a power cord.
Makita 18V Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw
Best for: portable ripping with existing 18V batteries
- Voltage
- 18V (what this guide is about)
- Blade Diameter
- 6-1/2"
- No-Load Speed
- 5,000 RPM
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 14 × 7.8 × 10.4 inches
- Weight
- 7 pounds
View on Amazon: Makita 18V Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw Affiliate link
This cordless saw runs on Makita's 18V battery system and uses a 6-1/2-inch blade powered by a brushless motor. It reaches a no-load speed of 5,000 RPM while weighing 7 pounds. Automatic speed change adjusts torque and speed during operation. If you need a lightweight, portable cutting tool for quick rip and cross cuts without the bulk of stationary gear, this tool-only option fits into your existing 18V lineup.
Pros
- 5,000 RPM no-load speed for fast cuts
- Brushless motor automatically adjusts torque and speed
- Lightweight 7-pound bare tool weight
- Compact 14-inch tool length
Cons
- Sold as bare tool without battery or charger
- 6-1/2-inch blade diameter limits maximum cutting depth
Good fit if
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries and a charger.
- You need a lightweight 7-pound saw that delivers 5,000 RPM.
- You want automatic torque adjustment during heavy cuts.
Skip if
- You need a bundled battery and charger out of the box.
- You require a larger 7-1/4-inch blade capacity.
Verdict: Makita 18V Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw delivers 5,000 RPM in a 7-pound cordless frame designed for fast cutting on the 18V platform. It provides brushless efficiency and automatic torque adjustments if you already own compatible batteries.
Makita 18V Sub-Compact 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw
Best for: portable cutting in tight work areas
- Voltage
- 18V (what this guide is about)
- Blade Diameter
- 6-1/2”
- No-Load Speed
- 5, 000 RPM
- Cutting Depth 90
- 2-1/4”
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 9 × 13.5 × 9 inches
View on Amazon: Makita 18V Sub-Compact 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw Affiliate link
This Makita 18V cordless circular saw provides portable cutting for your workshop or jobsite. Driven by a brushless motor reaching 5,000 RPM, it turns a 6-1/2-inch blade to deliver a 2-1/4-inch cutting depth at 90 degrees. At 10-5/8 inches long, the compact frame suits you if you need clean ripping capacity in tight spaces without the bulk of larger machinery.
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers up to 5,000 RPM
- Cutting capacity of 2-1/4 inches at 90 degrees with a 0 to 50-degree bevel range
- Compact frame measuring 10-5/8 inches long
- Includes dust extraction attachment and 24T carbide-tipped blade
Cons
- Battery and charger are not included
- Cutting depth is limited compared to larger 7-1/4-inch saws
Good fit if
- You already own compatible Makita 18V LXT batteries and chargers.
- You need a compact 10-5/8-inch tool body for tight workspaces.
- You require bevel cuts up to 50 degrees.
Skip if
- You need an included battery and charger in the box.
- You require cutting depths deeper than 2-1/4 inches.
Verdict: Makita 18V Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw delivers 5,000 RPM and a 2-1/4-inch cutting depth in an easy-to-handle 10-5/8-inch chassis. It gives you solid portable ripping performance if you already run Makita 18V power tools.
Makita 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Jig Saw
Best for: variable-speed curved cuts on 18V power
- Voltage
- 18V (what this guide is about)
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 17.7 × 5.31 × 14.4 inches
View on Amazon: Makita 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Jig Saw Affiliate link
This Makita 18V cordless jig saw provides cutting power without a power cord. It features a brushless motor delivering 0 to 3,000 strokes per minute, paired with three orbital settings and a straight cutting option. You also get a soft no-load mode and an LED work light. It suits you if you need controlled cutting across various materials within the Makita 18V cordless platform.
Pros
- Brushless motor running from 0 to 3,000 strokes per minute
- Three orbital settings plus straight cutting mode
- Soft no-load mode slows speed until engaging material
- Built-in LED work light illuminates the cut line
Cons
- Sold as bare tool without battery or charger
- No cutting blades listed in product package
Good fit if
- You already own compatible Makita 18V batteries and chargers.
- You need variable speeds up to 3,000 SPM with multiple orbital options.
Skip if
- You need a bundled kit that includes a battery and charger.
- You require a stationary table saw for ripping large sheets.
Verdict: Makita 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw delivers up to 3,000 SPM with orbital control for detailed cordless cutting. It works best if you already use the Makita 18V battery system.
Makita 18V LXT Cordless Jig Saw
Best for: cordless curved cuts on existing Makita batteries
- Voltage
- 18V (what this guide is about)
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 12.3 × 3.6 × 9.1 inches
- Weight
- 6 pounds
View on Amazon: Makita 18V LXT Cordless Jig Saw Affiliate link
This Makita 18V cordless jig saw provides cutting speeds from zero to 2,600 strokes per minute using an 18-volt battery platform. You get three orbital settings plus straight cutting, paired with a tool-less blade change mechanism and a six-pound body. It suits you if you need a dedicated cordless saw for curved cuts, tight profiles, and adjustable cutting actions across various materials without needing a power cord.
Pros
- Variable speed motor reaching up to 2,600 strokes per minute
- Three orbital settings plus straight cutting mode
- Tool-less blade change lever
- Weighs 6 pounds for portable handling
Cons
- Tool-only purchase excludes battery and charger
- Top speed caps at 2,600 strokes per minute
Good fit if
- You already own compatible Makita 18V cordless batteries.
- You need three orbital cutting modes and straight cutting for curved work.
Skip if
- You need an included battery and charger in the package.
- You require a stationary table saw with a rip fence.
Verdict: Makita 18V Cordless Jig Saw delivers up to 2,600 strokes per minute with three orbital settings for versatile cordless cutting. It offers a practical bare-tool option if you already have Makita 18V batteries.
Makita 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Plunge Circular Saw
Best for: variable-speed dual-battery plunge cutting
- Voltage
- 18V (what this guide is about)
- Blade Diameter
- 6-1/2 inch
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 16 × 12.1 × 19.6 inches
- Weight
- 27.6 pounds
View on Amazon: Makita 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Plunge Circular Saw Affiliate link
This Makita cordless plunge saw runs on two 18V LXT batteries to deliver 36V of power to a brushless motor. It drives a 6-1/2-inch blade with variable speeds ranging from 2,500 to 6,300 RPM. The tool supports cuts as close as 11/16 inch to a wall. It suits you if you need portable plunge cutting with adjustable speed controls for various materials.
Pros
- Variable speed dial from 2,500 to 6,300 RPM
- Brushless motor powered by two 18V batteries
- Cuts as close as 11/16 inch to a wall
- Automatic speed change adjusts cutting torque during cuts
Cons
- Total kit weight is 27.6 pounds
- Requires two charged 18V batteries simultaneously
Good fit if
- You need variable cutting speed between 2,500 and 6,300 RPM.
- You want 36V performance using two 18V LXT battery packs.
- You need close-to-wall cutting capabilities down to 11/16 inch.
Skip if
- You prefer a tool that runs on a single 18V battery.
- You need a cutting capacity larger than a 6-1/2-inch blade provides.
Verdict: Makita 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Plunge Saw pairs two 18V batteries for 36V brushless output and precise variable-speed operation. It provides steady power for controlled plunge cuts close to vertical surfaces.
Makita 18V Cordless Barrel Grip Jig Saw
Best for: controlled curved cutting with variable speed
- Voltage
- 18V (what this guide is about)
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Length
- 10.3 inches
View on Amazon: Makita 18V Cordless Barrel Grip Jig Saw Affiliate link
This 18V cordless jig saw features a compact barrel grip design for controlled cutting. It is powered by a brushless motor running between 800 and 3,000 strokes per minute, adjusted through a 5-speed control dial. You also get three orbital settings alongside straight cutting for different materials. It suits you if you already own compatible batteries and need precise curve work.
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers 800 to 3,000 strokes per minute
- Variable 5-speed control dial
- Three orbital settings plus straight cutting
- Compact 10.3-inch overall length
Cons
- Battery and charger are not included
- Barrel grip configuration is not suited for users wanting a top handle
Good fit if
- You prefer a barrel grip design for lower-profile cutting control.
- You need selectable speeds from 800 to 3,000 SPM with multiple orbital options.
- You already own compatible 18V power sources.
Skip if
- You need a bundle that includes an 18V battery and charger.
- You prefer a traditional top-handle power saw design.
Verdict: Makita 18V Brushless Barrel Grip Jig Saw delivers a 5-speed motor dial and orbital adjustments in a compact cordless format. It functions as a precise cutting solution if you already own compatible 18V batteries.
Makita 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw
Best for: orbital curved cuts with existing 18V batteries
- Voltage
- 18V (what this guide is about)
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 17.7 × 5.31 × 14.4 inches
View on Amazon: Makita 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw Affiliate link
This renewed Makita cordless jig saw runs on an 18V power source. Its brushless motor provides variable speeds between 0 and 3,000 strokes per minute. You get three orbital settings alongside a straight cutting mode, plus a soft no-load function that controls initial blade speed. An integrated LED illuminates the cut line. This bare tool suits you if you already own 18V batteries and require controlled curved cutting.
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers 0 to 3,000 strokes per minute
- Three orbital settings plus straight cutting
- Soft no-load mode manages blade engagement speed
- Built-in LED light illuminates cut path
Cons
- Tool only without battery or charger included
- Supplied as a renewed model
Good fit if
- You already own compatible 18V power packs.
- You need variable cut rates up to 3,000 strokes per minute.
- You require multiple orbital modes for different cuts.
Skip if
- You need a battery and charger in the package.
- You prefer brand-new equipment over renewed gear.
Verdict: Makita 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw delivers up to 3,000 strokes per minute with multiple orbital settings and soft no-load control. It serves as a practical bare-tool choice if you already own compatible 18V batteries.
Makita 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw
Best for: Makita 18V users needing variable-speed curved cutting
- Voltage
- 18V (what this guide is about)
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 9 × 11 × 4 inches
- Weight
- 5 pounds
View on Amazon: Makita 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw Affiliate link
This tool is an 18V cordless jig saw powered by a brushless motor. You get a variable 6-speed dial operating between 800 and 3,500 strokes per minute, paired with three orbital settings and a straight-cutting mode. At five pounds, it suits woodworkers and builders who need controlled curved cuts and adjustable stroke speeds on Makita 18V battery platforms without being tied to an electrical wall outlet.
Pros
- Variable 6-speed dial ranging from 800 to 3,500 SPM
- Three orbital settings plus straight cutting mode
- Brushless motor matches torque and SPM to load
- Manageable 5-pound bare tool weight
Cons
- Bare-tool package includes no battery or charger
- No rip fence or blades listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You already own compatible Makita 18V batteries and chargers.
- You need dial-controlled cutting speeds between 800 and 3,500 SPM.
- You require three orbital cut settings alongside straight cutting.
Skip if
- You need a complete kit that includes batteries and a charger.
- You require a stationary table saw rather than a handheld jig saw.
Verdict: Makita 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw delivers precise speed control from 800 to 3,500 SPM across multiple orbital modes. It is a solid cutting option if you already run Makita 18V cordless tools.
Makita 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Plunge Circular Saw
Best for: cutting large wood panels in confined spaces
- Voltage
- 18V (what this guide is about)
- Blade Diameter
- 6-1/2"
- No-Load Speed
- 2, 500 - 6, 300 RPM
- Dimensions
- 10.9 × 15.7 × 11.8 inches
- Weight
- 11 pounds
View on Amazon: Makita 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Plunge Circular Saw Affiliate link
This cordless plunge circular saw runs on two 18V LXT batteries to drive a brushless motor. It spins a 6-1/2-inch blade at variable speeds from 2,500 to 6,300 RPM. Automatic speed change monitors torque during operation. Weighing 11 pounds, it suits you if you break down large wood panels in confined workspaces where stationary saws cannot fit.
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers 2,500 to 6,300 RPM
- Variable speed control dial adjusts motor output
- Automatic speed change adjusts speed and torque during cuts
- Dual 18V battery design eliminates power cords
Cons
- Batteries are not included with the tool
- Renewed product condition
Good fit if
- You need a variable-speed plunge saw to cut large wood panels in tight spaces.
- You already own compatible Makita 18V LXT batteries.
Skip if
- You require a brand-new saw rather than a renewed model.
- You need a complete kit that includes batteries in the box.
Verdict: Makita 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Plunge Circular Saw provides portable panel-cutting capability with dual-battery power and adjustable motor speeds. It gives you controlled straight cuts in confined job areas without power cords.
Makita 18V X2 Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Saw
Best for: cordless breakdown of large wood panels
- Voltage
- 18V (what this guide is about)
- Blade Diameter
- 6-1/2"
- No-Load Speed
- 6, 300 RPM
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 10.7 × 15.5 × 11.5 inches
- Weight
- 11.2 pounds
View on Amazon: Makita 18V X2 Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Saw Affiliate link
This cordless plunge circular saw runs on two 18V LXT batteries to deliver 36V power to a brushless motor. It spins a 6-1/2-inch blade at 6,300 RPM and weighs 11.2 pounds. It includes wireless tool activation for a dust extractor and cuts sheet goods like plywood, MDF, and melamine. This tool suits you if you need to slice sheet goods on cordless power.
Pros
- Brushless motor running at 6,300 RPM
- Dual 18V battery platform providing 36V cordless operation
- Automatic-start Wireless System for connected dust extraction
- Up to 125 cuts in 1/2-inch plywood per charge with two 5.0Ah batteries
Cons
- Batteries and charger sold separately
- Blades for aluminum and Corian not included
- Weighs 11.2 pounds before adding batteries
Good fit if
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries and need 36V cutting power.
- You frequently cut large panels of plywood, MDF, or melamine.
- You want wireless tool activation with a compatible dust extractor.
Skip if
- You need an all-in-one package with included batteries and charger.
- You intend to cut aluminum or Corian without buying extra blades.
Verdict: Makita 18V X2 Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Saw delivers 6,300 RPM from two 18V batteries for breaking down sheet goods. It provides wireless dust extractor communication in an 11.2-pound bare-tool build.
Makita 18V Brushless Barrel Grip Jig Saw
Best for: precise curved cutting with barrel-grip control
- Voltage
- 18V (what this guide is about)
- Dimensions
- 7.87 × 13.2 × 3.94 inches
- Weight
- 5.12 pounds
View on Amazon: Makita 18V Brushless Barrel Grip Jig Saw Affiliate link
This cordless tool is an 18V brushless barrel grip jig saw designed for curved and straight cuts. You get a variable six-speed dial ranging from 800 to 3,500 SPM, along with three orbital settings and a straight-cutting mode. Dual L.E.D. lights illuminate cut lines, while a tool-less blade clamp speeds up swaps. It suits you if you need low-profile barrel-grip guidance and adjustable cutting speeds for various materials.
Pros
- Variable 6-speed control dial spanning 800 to 3,500 SPM
- Three orbital settings plus straight cutting
- Tool-less blade change system
- Dual L.E.D. lights to illuminate work area
Cons
- Barrel-grip format lacks a top handle
- Weighs 5.12 pounds
Good fit if
- You want a barrel-grip design for close cutting control.
- You require selectable speeds between 800 and 3,500 SPM.
- You switch frequently between orbital cutting and straight cutting.
Skip if
- You prefer a top-handle jig saw configuration.
- You need a stationary table saw for ripping wide boards.
Verdict: Makita 18V Brushless Barrel Grip Jig Saw provides a six-speed dial and multiple orbital settings for controlled cuts. Its barrel grip keeps your hand close to the work surface without requiring tools for blade swaps.
Makita 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw
Best for: Makita 18V users needing portable curve cutting
- Voltage
- 18V (what this guide is about)
- Power Source
- Cordless
View on Amazon: Makita 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw Affiliate link
This cordless cutting tool runs on Makita 18V batteries and features a brushless motor delivering 0 to 3,000 strokes per minute. You get three orbital settings plus straight cutting, a built-in dust blower, and an LED work light. It suits you if you need a portable curved-cutting saw that integrates directly into your existing 18V cordless setup without dragging cords around your workspace.
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers up to 3,000 strokes per minute
- Three orbital settings plus straight cutting selection
- Built-in dust blower and LED work light for cutline clarity
- Soft no-load mode and electric brake for controlled operation
Cons
- Sold as a bare tool without a battery or charger
- Offered as a renewed model rather than new in box
Good fit if
- You already own compatible Makita 18V batteries and chargers.
- You need variable speeds up to 3,000 strokes per minute for detailed cuts.
- You want built-in visibility features like a dust blower and LED.
Skip if
- You need an included battery and charger to start working immediately.
- You prefer brand-new factory tools instead of renewed hardware.
- You require a stationary table saw instead of a handheld saw.
Verdict: Makita 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw delivers up to 3,000 strokes per minute with multiple orbital settings for controlled handheld cutting. It provides a practical cordless solution if you already use the 18V platform.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Makita 18V X2 Brushless 7-1/4-Inch Rear Handle Saw | Makita 18V Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw | Makita 18V Sub-Compact 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw | Makita 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Jig Saw | Makita 18V LXT Cordless Jig Saw | Makita 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Plunge Circular Saw | Makita 18V Cordless Barrel Grip Jig Saw | Makita 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw | Makita 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw | Makita 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Plunge Circular Saw | Makita 18V X2 Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Saw | Makita 18V Brushless Barrel Grip Jig Saw | Makita 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blade Diameter | 7-1/4" | 6-1/2" | 6-1/2” | not stated | not stated | 6-1/2 inch | not stated | not stated | not stated | 6-1/2" | 6-1/2" | not stated | not stated |
| No-Load Speed | 5,100 RPM | 5,000 RPM | 5, 000 RPM | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 2, 500 - 6, 300 RPM | 6, 300 RPM | not stated | not stated |
| Cutting Depth 90 | 2-9/16” | not stated | 2-1/4” | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Voltage | 36V (18V X2) | 18V | 18V | 18V | 18V | 36V | 18V | 18V | 18-Volt | 18V | 18V X2 (36V) | 18V | 18V |
| Power Source | not stated | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | not stated | Cordless | not stated | Cordless |
| Dimensions | 18.8 × 8.9 × 12 inches | 14 × 7.8 × 10.4 inches | 9 × 13.5 × 9 inches | 17.7 × 5.31 × 14.4 inches | 12.3 × 3.6 × 9.1 inches | 16 × 12.1 × 19.6 inches | not stated | 17.7 × 5.31 × 14.4 inches | 9 × 11 × 4 inches | 10.9 × 15.7 × 11.8 inches | 10.7 × 15.5 × 11.5 inches | 7.87 × 13.2 × 3.94 inches | not stated |
| Weight | 12.1 pounds | 7 pounds | 4 pounds | not stated | 6 pounds | 27.6 pounds | not stated | not stated | 5 pounds | 11 pounds | 11.2 pounds | 5.12 pounds | not stated |
| Length | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 10.3 inches | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Size | No Size | 0.625 in | 1 Count (Pack of 1) | 18V | One Size | 6.5 in | not stated | not stated | One Size | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Color | Teal | Teal | Multicolor | Blue | Greenish Blue | Multicolor | Teal | Blue | Green,black | not stated | Teal | Multicolor | Turquoise |
| Model | XSR01Z | XSH03Z | XSH04ZB | XVJ04Z | XVJ03Z | XPS01PTJ | XVJ05Z | not stated | XVJ02Z | XPS01Z-cr | XPS02ZU | XVJ01Z | XVJ04Z-R |
If you need rough demolition cuts on this battery platform, compare specs for the best 18V reciprocating saws.
How to choose the right one
-
Check the blade diameter
Blade diameter determines your maximum cutting depth and the type of material you can handle in a single pass. Larger blades cut deeper but add weight and bulk to the tool. The top-ranked Makita 18V X2 Brushless 7-1/4-Inch Rear Handle Saw features a 7-1/4-inch blade. This allows for a 2-9/16-inch cutting depth, which is ideal for heavy framing tasks. Smaller 6-1/2-inch blades, found in other models, offer less depth but improve maneuverability for lighter ripping jobs. Match the diameter to your primary material thickness.
-
Compare no-load speed
No-load speed indicates how fast the blade spins when not cutting. Higher RPMs generally provide cleaner cuts in softer materials and faster cutting speeds. The Makita 18V X2 model reaches 5,100 RPM, while the standard 18V Brushless 6-1/2-Inch model runs at 5,000 RPM. Plunge saws like the XPS01PTJ offer variable-speed control for precision work. Jig saws vary widely, with some reaching up to 3,500 strokes per minute. Select a speed that aligns with your typical material and desired cut quality.
-
Evaluate weight and size
Weight affects portability and fatigue during extended use. Lighter tools are easier to carry around a job site but may lack the mass for stability. The compact Makita 18V Sub-Compact 6-1/2-Inch model weighs only 4 pounds, making it easy to handle in tight spaces. In contrast, dual-battery plunge saws can exceed 27 pounds due to the second battery slot. Consider your physical strength and how often you will carry the tool. A balance of light weight and sufficient mass ensures control and comfort.
-
Look at orbital settings
Orbital settings adjust the blade action for different materials. More settings offer versatility for cutting wood, metal, or plastics. Jig saws typically include multiple orbital levels to control cut speed and finish quality. The Makita 18V Cordless Jig Saw offers three settings, while the Brushless Barrel Grip version provides a six-speed dial for finer adjustments. If you need to switch between rough demolition and fine detail work, choose a model with a wide range of orbital options to handle various tasks efficiently.
-
Verify battery compatibility
Since these are cordless tools, you must use compatible 18V LXT batteries. Most models run on a single 18V battery, which keeps the tool lighter and simpler. However, high-performance options like the X2 Rear Handle Saw or the XPS01PTJ Plunge Saw require two batteries for maximum power. Ensure you own enough 18V batteries to support your chosen tool. Dual-battery setups deliver more torque and longer runtime but increase the overall weight and cost of the bare tool. Plan your battery inventory before purchasing.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Makita 18V X2 Rear Handle Saw work as a table saw?
No. The Makita 18V X2 Brushless 7-1/4-Inch Rear Handle Saw is a circular saw, not a table saw. It features a 7-1/4-inch blade and weighs 12.1 pounds. You use it for handheld framing cuts rather than stationary table operations. The tool delivers 5,100 RPM for deep single-pass capacity without a power cord.
What is the lightest Makita 18V cordless saw in this list?
The Makita 18V Sub-Compact 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw is the lightest option at 4 pounds. It measures 9 inches in length and 9 inches in width. This compact chassis allows for portable cutting in tight work areas. You get 5,000 RPM performance with a 2-1/4-inch cutting depth for lighter tasks.
Can I use Makita 18V batteries with all these tools?
Yes. All listed tools operate on the Makita 18V platform. Some models, like the 18V X2 Rear Handle Saw, use two 18V batteries for 36V power. Others, such as the 18V Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw, run on a single battery. You need compatible Makita 18V batteries to power these cordless tools.
Which Makita saw offers the highest blade speed?
The Makita 18V X2 Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Saw offers the highest speed at 6,300 RPM. It uses two 18V batteries for brushless output. This model weighs 11.2 pounds and includes wireless dust extractor communication. It is designed for breaking down sheet goods and large wood panels efficiently.
Are there Makita cordless jigsaws with variable speed controls?
Yes. Several models feature variable speed controls for curved cuts. The 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw delivers up to 3,000 SPM with orbital adjustments. The Barrel Grip Jig Saw offers a 5-speed motor dial. The 18V Cordless Jig Saw provides up to 2,600 strokes per minute for versatile cutting.
Which Makita 18V tool is best for plunge cutting?
The Makita 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Plunge Circular Saw is designed for plunge cutting. It pairs two 18V batteries for 36V brushless output and precise variable-speed operation. This tool provides steady power for controlled plunge cuts close to vertical surfaces. It weighs 27.6 pounds and measures 19.6 inches in height.
Do any of these saws include a dust extraction feature?
The Makita 18V X2 Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Saw includes wireless dust extractor communication. This feature helps manage debris during cutting. Other models in the list do not mention dust extraction capabilities in their specifications. You should check the manual for other models to see if they support attachments.