6 Best Alternatives to the Makita XVJ01Z 18V LXT Brushless (2026)

How these options compare

Makita 18V X2 Brushless 7-1/4-Inch Rear Handle Saw

This Makita circular saw uses the same 18V LXT platform but swaps the jig saw function for a 7-1/4-inch blade. It weighs 12.1 pounds, which is significantly heavier than the original 5.12-pound tool. The larger blade diameter allows for deeper cuts in thick lumber, a capability the jig saw lacks entirely. You gain substantial cutting power and runtime for heavy-duty ripping but lose the ability to make intricate curves or detail cuts. This model suits users who prioritize cutting depth and straight-line power over the lightweight handling and versatility of a barrel grip jig saw.

Makita 18V Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw

This compact circular saw shares the 18V voltage but features a smaller 6-1/2-inch blade. It weighs 7 pounds, making it lighter than the larger circular saw but still heavier than the original jig saw. The tool is designed for portability and fits into tighter spaces where a full-size saw cannot reach. You trade the original’s ability to cut curves for improved straight-line efficiency in trim work. This option is ideal if you already own Makita batteries and need a specialized tool for light-duty tasks. It offers a balance between the original’s precision and a circular saw’s straight-cut speed.

Milwaukee 18V Barrel Grip Jig Saw

The Milwaukee barrel grip jig saw matches the 18V voltage and similar ergonomic design of the Makita original. It weighs 5.75 pounds, slightly more than the Makita’s 5.12 pounds. The dimensions are more compact, with a width of 3.2 inches compared to the original’s 7.87 inches. This tool offers a straightforward approach for detailed cutting without the complexity of multiple orbital settings. You get a reliable alternative within the same 18V ecosystem but may find the control dynamics differ due to the weight distribution. It is a practical choice for users who value balance and compactness for intricate detail work.

Metabo HPT 18V Cordless Orbital Jig Saw

This Metabo HPT jig saw is the lightest option at 4.2 pounds, significantly lighter than the original’s 5.12 pounds. It shares the 18V voltage but has a narrower width of 1.03 inches. The reduced weight and compact profile make it easier to maneuver for long periods without fatigue. You gain superior comfort and precision for lightweight tasks but may sacrifice some raw power or durability found in heavier tools. This model is best for users who prioritize comfort and precise control in detailed woodworking. It serves as a practical alternative for those who need a lighter tool for extended use in tight spaces.

RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V 7-1/4-Inch Brushless Circular Saw

The RYOBI circular saw uses the 18V platform but focuses on a 7-1/4-inch blade for deep cutting capacity. It weighs 9.63 pounds, making it much heavier than the original jig saw. The tool is designed for precise bevel angles and robust depth control. You trade the original’s curve-cutting ability for substantial straight-line power and versatility in bevel cuts. This option fits users who need deep cutting capacity in a standard 18V format. It is a solid choice for demanding jobs that require precise angle adjustments and robust performance, rather than the intricate detail work of a jig saw.

Makita 18V Sub-Compact 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw

This Makita sub-compact circular saw shares the 18V voltage and brand ecosystem. It weighs only 4 pounds, making it the lightest circular saw option and comparable to the original’s portability. The 6-1/2-inch blade offers a balance between cutting depth and size. You gain a compact tool suitable for tight spaces and existing Makita battery owners. However, you lose the original’s ability to cut curves. This model is practical for users who value portability and battery compatibility over maximum cutting depth. It is ideal for confined spaces or extended periods where a lighter tool reduces fatigue.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Makita 18V Brushless Barrel Grip Jig Saw

Best for: Precision cuts with variable speed control

Voltage

18V

Dimensions

7.87 × 13.2 × 3.94 inches

Weight

5.12 pounds

View on Amazon: Makita 18V Brushless Barrel Grip Jig Saw

This 18V cordless jig saw features a brushless motor and a barrel grip for precise control. It offers variable 6-speed control from 800 to 3,500 SPM and three orbital settings for different materials. The tool-less blade change system speeds up work, while dual LED lights illuminate the cut line. It weighs 5.12 pounds and measures 13.2 inches long.

Pros

• Brushless motor for efficient performance
• Variable 6-speed control (800-3,500 SPM)
• Three orbital settings for material versatility
• Tool-less blade change system
• Dual LED work lights

Cons

• Heavier than many competitors at 5.12 pounds
• Barrel grip may not suit all hand sizes
• No data on maximum cutting depth

Good fit if

• You need precise control for intricate cuts
• You work with various materials requiring speed adjustments
• You prefer a barrel grip design

Skip if

• You prioritize lightweight tools under 4 pounds
• You require a side-handle grip
• You need a tool with listed cutting depth specs

Verdict: Makita 18V Barrel Grip Jig Saw delivers precise cuts with its brushless motor and variable speeds. It suits users who value control and versatility in a barrel-grip tool.

2 Best premium

Makita 18V X2 Brushless 7-1/4-Inch Rear Handle Saw

Best for: thick lumber cuts and long runtime

Blade Diameter

7-1/4"

No-Load Speed

5,100 RPM

Cutting Depth 90

2-9/16”

Voltage

36V (18V X2)

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

This Makita circular saw uses two 18V batteries to deliver 36V of power. It features a brushless motor running at 5,100 RPM and a 7-1/4-inch blade. The tool offers a 2-9/16-inch cutting depth at 90 degrees. It includes an electric brake and adjustable bevel settings up to 53 degrees. You should choose this if you need high power from a cordless system.

Pros

• 36V power from two 18V batteries
• 5,100 RPM no-load speed
• 2-9/16-inch cutting capacity at 90 degrees
• Electric brake for quick stopping
• Bevel capacity up to 53 degrees

Cons

• Heavier at 12.1 pounds
• Longer length of 18.8 inches
• Requires two batteries for operation

Good fit if

• You need deeper cutting capacity than standard 6-1/2-inch saws
• You already own Makita 18V batteries
• You prefer cordless tools for outdoor work

Skip if

• You need a lighter tool for overhead use
• You only have one 18V battery
• You prefer a shorter, more compact design

Verdict: Makita 7-1/4 in 36V Circular Saw delivers substantial power for thick lumber cuts. It suits users who prioritize cutting depth and runtime over lightweight handling.

3 Best 6-1/2-inch

Makita 18V Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw

Best for: compact cutting tasks and trim work

Blade Diameter

6-1/2"

No-Load Speed

5,000 RPM

Voltage

18V

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

This Makita circular saw uses an 18V LXT battery and a brushless motor to deliver 5,000 RPM. It features a 6-1/2-inch blade diameter, making it a compact option for lighter cutting tasks. The tool weighs 7 pounds and includes automatic speed change technology. It suits users who need a portable, battery-powered saw for smaller projects rather than heavy-duty ripping.

Pros

• Brushless motor delivers 5,000 RPM for faster cutting
• 6-1/2-inch blade diameter offers compact cutting capacity
• Automatic speed change adjusts torque and RPM during cuts
• Brushless design provides up to 50% longer run time per charge

Cons

• 6-1/2-inch blade limits cutting depth compared to standard 7-1/4-inch models
• Tool only; battery and charger are not included
• 7-pound weight may cause fatigue during extended overhead use

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight circular saw for trim work or smaller boards
• You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
• You prefer a compact tool for tight spaces

Skip if

• You require a 7-1/4-inch blade for cutting 2x4 lumber
• You need a corded saw for unlimited runtime
• You want a complete kit with battery and charger included

Verdict: Makita 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw is a specialized tool for users who prioritize portability and battery efficiency over maximum cutting capacity. It fits those who already use Makita 18V tools and need a compact saw for light-duty tasks.

4 Best budget

Milwaukee 18V Barrel Grip Jig Saw

Best for: compact detail cutting with existing batteries

Voltage

18VDC

Dimensions

11.7 × 3.2 × 7.3 inches

Weight

5.75 pounds

View on Amazon: Milwaukee 18V Barrel Grip Jig Saw

This Milwaukee jig saw runs on 18V power with a barrel grip design. It measures 11.7 inches long, 7.3 inches high, and 3.2 inches wide. The tool weighs 5.75 pounds. You get a compact unit that fits well in tight spaces. It suits users who prefer a balanced grip for control during detailed cuts.

Pros

• 18V DC power system
• Barrel grip handle design
• Compact 11.7-inch length
• Lightweight 5.75-pound build

Cons

• No variable speed control listed
• No orbital action settings listed
• Tool only, no battery included

Good fit if

• You need a compact tool for tight spaces
• You prefer a barrel grip for better control
• You already own 18V Milwaukee batteries

Skip if

• You require variable speed settings
• You want a rear-handle design
• You need a complete kit with battery

Verdict: Milwaukee 18V Barrel Grip Jig Saw offers a compact, lightweight design for users who value balance and control. It is ideal for those already invested in the 18V ecosystem who need a straightforward tool for detailed work.

5 Also great

Metabo HPT 18V Cordless Orbital Jig Saw

Best for: Lightweight precision cutting tasks

Voltage

18V

Power Source

Cordless

Dimensions

14.2 × 1.03 × 3.9 inches

Weight

4.2 pounds

View on Amazon: Metabo HPT 18V Cordless Orbital Jig Saw

The Metabo HPT CJ18DAQ4 is an 18V cordless jig saw designed for precision and speed. It features a no-load speed of 2,500 strokes per minute and four cutting modes with three orbital settings. Weighing 4.2 lbs, it includes a soft grip and LED light. This tool suits users needing variable speed control and quick blade changes for detailed woodworking tasks.

Pros

• 2,500 strokes per minute no-load speed
• 4.2 lbs lightweight design with soft grip
• Tool-less blade change system
• LED light illuminates cutting path

Cons

• No-load speed is lower than some competitors
• Single orbital setting for straight cuts only
• Dust blower may not capture all debris

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight tool for extended use
• You require variable speed control for different materials
• You want quick blade changes without tools

Skip if

• You need high-speed cutting for thick materials
• You prefer a heavier tool for stability
• You require advanced dust collection systems

Verdict: Metabo HPT 18V Cordless Jig Saw is a practical choice for users prioritizing lightweight comfort and precise control in detailed woodworking projects.

6 Also great

RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V 7-1/4-Inch Brushless Circular Saw

Best for: Deep cuts and precise bevel angles

Blade Diameter

7-1/4 in.

No-Load Speed

5,000 RPM

Voltage

18V

Power Source

Cordless

Dimensions

13.9 × 9.06 × 7.95 inches

Weight

9.63 pounds

View on Amazon: RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V 7-1/4-Inch Brushless Circular Saw

The RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless Circular Saw delivers 5,000 RPM for fast cuts. It features a 7-1/4 inch blade with a maximum depth of 2-9/16 inches at zero degrees. The tool includes six bevel detents for precise angle adjustments. It weighs 9.63 pounds and offers a built-in LED light. This saw suits users needing versatile cutting capacity in an 18V platform.

Pros

• 18V brushless motor provides 5,000 RPM no-load speed
• Maximum cutting depth of 2-9/16 inches at 0 degrees
• Six bevel detents at 0, 15, 22-1/2, 30, 45, and 56 degrees
• Built-in LED worklight for improved visibility
• Integrated pommel handle for enhanced control

Cons

• Heavier at 9.63 pounds compared to sub-compact competitors
• Single voltage platform limits power compared to 36V systems
• No mention of tool-less blade change mechanism

Good fit if

• You need a 7-1/4 inch blade for deep cuts
• You require multiple bevel detents for accuracy
• You prefer an 18V cordless system

Skip if

• You prioritize lightweight portability under 9 pounds
• You need tool-less blade changes for speed
• You require a sub-compact form factor

Verdict: RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw fits users who value deep cutting capacity and precise bevel settings in a standard 18V format. It is a solid choice for demanding jobs requiring robust depth and angle control.

7 Also great

Makita 18V Sub-Compact 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw

Best for: tight spaces and existing Makita battery owners

Blade Diameter

6-1/2”

No-Load Speed

5, 000 RPM

Cutting Depth 90

2-1/4”

Voltage

18V

Power Source

Cordless

Dimensions

9 × 13.5 × 9 inches

View on Amazon: Makita 18V Sub-Compact 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw

This Makita 18V LXT sub-compact circular saw features a 6-1/2" blade and a 5,000 RPM brushless motor. It offers 2-1/4" cutting depth at 90° and 0° to 50° bevel capacity. The tool weighs 4 lbs without a battery. Its compact design suits users needing maneuverability in tight spaces. It includes a dust extracting attachment and a 24-tooth blade.

Pros

• Compact 10-5/8" length for better maneuverability
• Brushless motor delivers 5,000 RPM for faster cutting
• Weighs only 4 lbs for reduced operator fatigue
• Includes dust extracting attachment and 24T saw blade

Cons

• Smaller 6-1/2" blade limits maximum cutting depth compared to 7-1/4" models
• Tool only; battery and charger are not included
• 50° bevel range is less than the typical 56° found on larger circular saws

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight saw for overhead or tight-space work
• You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
• You prioritize compact size over maximum cutting capacity

Skip if

• You require a 7-1/4" blade for deeper cuts
• You do not own compatible Makita 18V batteries
• You need a full-size circular saw for heavy ripping

Verdict: Makita 6-1/2" Sub-Compact Circular Saw is a practical option for users who value portability and existing battery compatibility over maximum cutting depth. It fits those who work in confined spaces or need a lighter tool for extended periods.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• ryobi one 18v cordless stick alternatives
• best chainsaws with brushless