Looking Beyond the Milwaukee 2630-20 18-Volt 6-1/2-Inch Circular? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How each alternative compares

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

The Makita XSH03Z uses a brushless motor for higher efficiency and speed compared to the Milwaukee 2630-20. It measures 7.8 inches wide and 14 inches long, making it narrower than the Milwaukee’s 11-inch width. This reduced footprint helps in tight spaces. Weighing 7 pounds, it is slightly heavier than some competitors but remains manageable. It requires you to supply your own 18V battery. If you already own Makita tools, this saw offers faster cutting performance and better battery efficiency. Choose this if speed and existing battery compatibility matter more than the included kit.

RIDGID 18V Cordless 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw Kit

The RIDGID R8656K features a subcompact frame measuring 8.86 inches wide and 12.9 inches long. This is significantly more compact than the Milwaukee 2630-20’s 11-inch width and 15-inch length. It includes a sturdy 4.0 Ah battery, providing a complete ready-to-use solution. The brushless motor ensures efficient power delivery. Its gray finish and smaller dimensions make it ideal for confined work areas. If you need maximum maneuverability in tight spots without sacrificing power, this kit is a strong alternative. It fits contractors who value a compact design and an included high-capacity battery for immediate use on job sites.

Milwaukee 18V Barrel Grip Jig Saw

The Milwaukee 2737B-20 is a jig saw, not a circular saw. It measures 3.2 inches wide and 11.7 inches long, making it much smaller than the Milwaukee 2630-20. It weighs 5.75 pounds and features a barrel grip for secure handling. This tool is designed for intricate cutting tasks rather than straight cuts. It uses the same 18V battery platform. If you need detailed cuts or curved lines, this is the right choice. It does not replace a circular saw for general carpentry. Pick this if your primary need is precision cutting in tight spaces rather than straight ripping or crosscutting.

Milwaukee M18 Fuel 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw

The Milwaukee 2833-20 is a brushless circular saw that weighs 8.4 pounds. It measures 9 inches wide and 13.5 inches long, which is narrower and slightly shorter than the Milwaukee 2630-20. It offers a lightweight design for easier handling during extended use. It requires you to supply your own M18 battery. This model provides reliable performance for standard cuts without the bulk of larger tools. Existing M18 users will appreciate the compatibility and reduced weight. Choose this if you want a lighter, brushless alternative within the same brand ecosystem, prioritizing ease of use and maneuverability over the included battery of the 2630-20.

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

The Makita XSH04ZB is a sub-compact circular saw weighing only 4 pounds. It measures 13.5 inches long and 9 inches wide, offering a different balance than the Milwaukee 2630-20. Its lightweight build prioritizes portability and compact storage. It features a brushless motor for efficiency. You must buy the battery separately. This saw is ideal for detailed trim work and tight job sites where weight matters. If you value extreme lightness and easy storage over the included kit of the Milwaukee, this is a strong option. It fits carpenters who move frequently and need a tool that minimizes fatigue during long days.

Makita 18V LXT Cordless Jig Saw

The Makita XVJ03Z is a cordless jig saw, not a circular saw. It measures 3.6 inches wide and 12.3 inches long, weighing 6 pounds. It is designed for orbital control and solid speed in intricate cuts. It uses the same 18V battery platform as the Milwaukee 2630-20. This tool does not perform straight cuts like a circular saw. It is best for existing Makita battery owners who need precision cutting capabilities. If your project requires curves or detailed work, this saw complements your toolkit. It is not a direct replacement for the Milwaukee 2630-20 but serves a different cutting purpose entirely.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Milwaukee 18V 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw

Best for: General carpentry and tight spaces

Blade Diameter

6-1/2"

Voltage

18 Volt

Dimensions

15 × 11 × 13 inches

View on Amazon: Milwaukee 18V 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw Affiliate link

This Milwaukee 18-Volt circular saw features a 6-1/2-inch blade for standard cutting tasks. It measures 15 inches long, 11 inches wide, and 13 inches high. The kit includes an M18 XC High Capacity REDLITHIUM battery. You get a robust tool designed for reliable performance on job sites. It suits users who need a complete setup with power included.

Pros

• Includes M18 XC High Capacity REDLITHIUM battery
• 18-Volt power system
• 6-1/2-inch blade diameter
• Compact dimensions of 15 x 11 x 13 inches

Cons

• Smaller 6-1/2-inch blade limits cut depth compared to 7-1/4-inch models
• Heavier build due to included high-capacity battery
• 18-Volt system offers less power than 36-Volt alternatives

Good fit if

• You want a complete kit with battery included
• You need a compact saw for tight spaces
• You prefer the 18-Volt Milwaukee ecosystem

Skip if

• You require deeper cutting capacity for thick lumber
• You prefer lighter tools without included batteries
• You need maximum power for heavy-duty ripping

Verdict: Milwaukee 2630-20 18V 6-1/2" Circular Saw provides a ready-to-use solution for general carpentry. It fits professionals who value the convenience of an included battery and compact size.

2 Also great

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

Best for: Makita battery users needing speed and efficiency

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 Affiliate link

This tool-only Makita circular saw features a brushless motor that delivers 5,000 RPM for efficient cutting. Its automatic speed change technology adjusts torque and speed during the cut. The design is compact, measuring 14 inches long and weighing 7 pounds. It suits users who already own 18V LXT batteries and need a reliable, high-performance saw for ripping and crosscutting tasks.

Pros

• Brushless motor delivers 5,000 RPM for faster cutting
• Automatic speed change adjusts torque and RPM during cuts
• Brushless design runs cooler and offers longer motor life
• Optimizes battery energy use for up to 50% longer run time

Cons

• Sold as a tool-only unit without battery or charger
• Heavier at 7 pounds than some sub-compact competitors
• No mention of a laser guide or LED light

Good fit if

• You already have Makita 18V LXT batteries
• You need high RPM for faster ripping
• You prefer a brushless motor for efficiency

Skip if

• You need a complete kit with battery and charger
• You require a lighter sub-compact saw under 7 pounds
• You want built-in laser or LED cutting guides

Verdict: Makita 18V Brushless 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw is a solid choice for Makita battery owners who want high speed and efficiency. It fits professionals who already have the power source and need a durable, fast-cutting tool.

3 Also great

RIDGID 18V Cordless 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw Kit

Best for: confined spaces and complete kit users

Blade Diameter

6-1/2 in.

Voltage

18V

Power Source

Cordless

Dimensions

12.9 × 8.86 × 7.56 inches

View on Amazon: RIDGID 18V Cordless 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw Kit Affiliate link

The RIDGID R8656K is a cordless 18-volt circular saw with a 6-1/2-inch blade. It measures 12.9 inches long, 8.86 inches wide, and 7.56 inches high. The tool is gray and includes a 4.0 Ah battery. This subcompact design suits users who need a manageable size for tight spaces. It offers brushless motor efficiency for reliable performance.

Pros

• 18V brushless motor for efficient power delivery
• 6-1/2-inch blade diameter for standard cutting tasks
• Subcompact dimensions at 12.9 inches long
• Includes 4.0 Ah MAX Output battery

Cons

• Smaller blade capacity compared to full-size 7-1/4-inch models
• Heavier and bulkier than sub-compact alternatives like the Makita XSH04ZB
• Limited to 18V power source rather than higher voltage options

Good fit if

• You need a cordless saw that fits in tight spaces
• You prefer the durability and support of the RIDGID brand
• You want a complete kit with a 4.0 Ah battery included

Skip if

• You require maximum cutting depth for thick lumber
• You need the lightest possible tool for overhead work
• You already own multiple 18V batteries and prefer tool-only purchases

Verdict: The RIDGID 18V Subcompact Brushless 6-1/2 Circular Saw fits contractors who value a complete kit with a sturdy 4.0 Ah battery. Its subcompact frame helps users navigate confined work areas without sacrificing the power of a brushless motor.

4 Best budget

Milwaukee 18V Barrel Grip Jig Saw

Best for: Compact, handheld intricate cutting tasks

Voltage

18VDC

Dimensions

11.7 × 3.2 × 7.3 inches

Weight

5.75 pounds

View on Amazon: Milwaukee 18V Barrel Grip Jig Saw Affiliate link

This Milwaukee jig saw operates on an 18V DC platform. It features a barrel grip design for control. The unit measures 11.7 inches in length, 7.3 inches in height, and 3.2 inches in width. It weighs 5.75 pounds. This tool suits users needing a compact, handheld cutting solution for intricate work. The barrel grip offers a secure hold during detailed cuts.

Pros

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

Cons

• No blade speed adjustment listed
• Single voltage platform only
• No orbital action settings visible

Good fit if

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

Skip if

• You require variable speed control
• You need a standard pistol-grip design
• You want a brushless motor

Verdict: Milwaukee 18V Barrel Grip Jig Saw fits users who prioritize a compact, battery-powered tool with a secure barrel grip for detailed cutting tasks.

5 Also great

Milwaukee M18 Fuel 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw

Best for: Existing M18 battery owners

Blade Diameter

6-1/2 INCH

Voltage

18V

Dimensions

13.5 × 9 × 8.2 inches

Weight

8.4 pounds

View on Amazon: Milwaukee M18 Fuel 6-1/2-Inch Cordless Circular Saw Affiliate link

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2833-20 is a brushless cordless circular saw powered by 18V lithium-ion technology. It features a 6-1/2-inch blade and weighs 8.4 pounds. The compact body measures 13.5 inches in length. This tool-only model suits users who already own compatible M18 batteries. It offers a balance of power and portability for standard cutting tasks.

Pros

• Brushless motor for efficiency
• 18V battery platform compatibility
• Compact 13.5-inch length
• Lightweight 8.4-pound design

Cons

• Sold as tool-only without battery
• No LED work light mentioned
• 6-1/2-inch blade limits depth of cut

Good fit if

• You already own M18 batteries
• You need a lightweight saw
• You prefer brushless motor efficiency

Skip if

• You need a complete kit
• You require a 7-1/4-inch blade
• You want built-in lighting

Verdict: Milwaukee M18 Fuel 6-1/2" Circular Saw fits existing M18 users seeking a lightweight, brushless tool. It delivers reliable performance for standard cuts without the bulk of larger models.

6 Best premium

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

Best for: compact storage and lightweight handling

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 Affiliate link

The Makita XSH04ZB is a sub-compact, brushless cordless circular saw designed for operator comfort and efficiency. It features a blade-right layout and weighs only 6.4 lbs with a 2.0Ah battery. The electronically controlled BL motor delivers 5,000 RPM for faster cutting. It offers a 2-1/4 inch cutting depth at 90 degrees and a 0 to 50 degree bevel capacity. This tool-only model suits users who prioritize lightweight handling and compact storage.

Pros

• Sub-compact blade-right design measures only 10-5/8 inches long
• Brushless BL motor delivers 5,000 RPM for efficient cutting
• Lightweight at 6.4 lbs with a 2.0Ah battery
• Large cutting capacity of 2-1/4 inches at 90 degrees
• Includes dust extracting attachment and 24T saw blade

Cons

• Tool only; battery and charger are not included
• No-load speed of 5,000 RPM is lower than some competitors
• Bevel capacity limited to 50 degrees

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight saw for overhead or one-handed work
• You value a compact blade-right design for tight spaces
• You already own compatible 18V LXT batteries

Skip if

• You require a complete kit with battery and charger included
• You need higher RPM for aggressive ripping tasks
• You prefer a standard blade-left layout

Verdict: Makita Sub-Compact 6-1/2 in. Circular Saw fits carpenters who prioritize portability and compact storage over maximum raw speed. Its lightweight build and brushless motor make it ideal for detailed trim work and tight job sites.

7

Makita 18V LXT Cordless Jig Saw

Best for: Existing Makita 18V battery owners

Voltage

18V

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 jig saw is an 18-volt cordless tool designed for cutting various materials. It features a variable speed motor with 0 to 2,600 strokes per minute and three orbital settings. The tool weighs 6 pounds and includes a tool-less blade change lever. It suits users who need a portable, brushless motor saw for detailed work.

Pros

• Variable speed motor reaches 2,600 strokes per minute
• Three orbital settings plus straight cutting option
• Tool-less blade change lever for quick swaps
• Heavy gauge precision machined base

Cons

• Sold as tool only without battery or charger
• 6-pound weight is heavier than subcompact alternatives
• No included carrying case or storage bag

Good fit if

• You already own 18V Makita batteries
• You need variable speed control for different materials
• You prefer a straight cutting mode for clean lines

Skip if

• You want a complete kit with batteries included
• You need a lighter tool for overhead work
• You are looking for a circular saw alternative

Verdict: Makita 18V Cordless Jig Saw offers solid speed and orbital control for users with existing 18V batteries, but you must buy power sources separately.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• milwaukee m18 18 volt lithium ion alternatives
• milwaukee 278822hd m18 fuel 1 1 2 alternatives