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🏆 Best Overall
DeWalt DCS361M1
$426.80
Choosing a cordless miter saw means balancing power, precision and portability, and this roundup of 8 models lets you see how the market stacks up. Prices stretch from $171.48 for the Ryobi 7‑1‑Inch Miter Saw up to $1,375.88 for the Festool KSC 60 EB, giving you clear budget, mid‑range and premium buckets. The budget tier includes the Ryobi 7‑1‑Inch, Ryobi ONE+ sliding model and DeWalt DCS361B; the mid‑range tier features the DeWalt DCS361M1 and Milwaukee 2733‑20; the premium tier houses the DeWalt DCS785B, Makita XSL05Z and Festool KSC 60 EB.
The DeWalt DCS361M1 catches the eye with a 4.8/5 rating from 782 reviewers and a list price of $438.44. It packs a 7.25‑inch blade, 45° single‑bevel range, 90° miter swing and a 20‑volt brushed motor that spins at 3,750 rpm. Its sliding mechanism and 11‑position miter detents add flexibility, while the cordless design keeps the tool light enough for ladders and roofs. Competing models bring their own strengths—Milwaukee’s 96° miter and bevel angles, Festool’s 8.5‑inch blade and 3,500 rpm brushless motor, and DeWalt’s 12‑inch double‑bevel powerhouse—so you can match specs to the job at hand.
Below we break down each saw’s performance, ergonomics and value, so you can pinpoint the right tool for your workshop or jobsite.

DeWalt DCS361M1
Batteries Included: Yes, so you can start cutting cordless straight out of the box.
Makita XSL05Z
Designed for professionals who demand premium performance and are willing to pay roughly $224 more than the Best Overall model.

DeWalt DCS361B
Features a built‑in laser guide and high‑efficiency dust collection, setting it apart from the other two models.
Also considered
TL;DR: The DeWalt DCS361B packs a 7‑1/4″ blade, 20 V brushless motor and an XPS shadow‑cut guide into a 30 lb, 16.1″‑high cordless saw that excels in trim work while staying portable.
The standout feature is the integrated XPS cut line system, which projects a shadow line onto the material for precise positioning. Coupled with a 7‑1/4″ carbide blade, a 20 V brushless motor and a 47° single‑bevel range, the saw delivers the accuracy pros expect from a corded unit. At 30 lb and 16.1″ tall, it remains light enough for frequent moves, and the laser guide adds another layer of alignment help.
Compared with the other seven models, the DCS361B sits in the middle of the weight spectrum: it’s lighter than the heavyweight DeWalt DCS785B (65.86 lb) and the Festool KSC 60 EB (59.57 lb), but heavier than the Ryobi ONE+ (25 lb) and the Makita XSL05Z (14.6 lb). Its 31.6 lb sibling, the DeWalt DCS361M1, is slightly heavier, while the Milwaukee 2733‑20 tips the scales at about 32 lb. Height‑wise, the DCS361B (16.1″) is taller than the Ryobi 7‑1‑Inch (12.4″) yet shorter than the Milwaukee (25.0″) and the DeWalt DCS785B (19.5″). It shares the 11‑stop miter detent count with the DCS361M1, offering finer angle control than the Ryobi ONE+ which lists nine positions.
Users consistently praise the saw’s portability and the XPS shadow‑cut indicator for making quick, accurate trims. The high‑efficiency dust collection system is noted as superior among battery‑powered competitors, and the 275‑cut baseboard capacity demonstrates solid runtime for trim jobs. However, reviewers flag the 2‑1/8″ vertical cut capacity on 4×4 lumber as a limitation, and the absence of a blade‑depth lock makes dado work cumbersome. Professional reviewers also point out that while the brushless motor is reliable, its power falls short of larger corded or 10‑inch battery models.
Pros
Cons
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry-level option — the DeWalt DCS361B offers Height: 16.1 inches
Avoid if: You want the best value‑per‑dollar in its price range
TL;DR: The DeWalt DCS361M1 delivers cordless convenience with a 20 V, 4 Ah battery, 7‑¼″ blade and 11 miter detents, all in a 31.6‑lb package that’s praised for portability and runtime.
This saw packs a 20 V lithium‑ion battery (4 Ah) right out of the box, so you can make up to 183 cuts of 2×4 pine without a cord. The 7‑¼″ carbide blade, 5/8″ arbor and 11 positive‑stop miter detents give you fine control, while the sliding mechanism lets you reach a maximum cutting thickness of 3‑5/8″. At 31.6 lb, the unit is light enough to carry up a ladder yet solid enough to stay steady on the jobsite.
Compared with the other seven models, the DCS361M1 sits in the middle of the weight range: it’s noticeably lighter than the DeWalt DCS785B (around 66 lb) and the Milwaukee 2733‑20 (about 31.9 lb), but heavier than the Makita XSL05Z (14.6 lb). Its 7‑¼″ blade matches the Ryobi sliding models and is larger than Makita’s 6.5″ blade, though it can’t tackle the 12″ blades found on the larger DeWalt DCS785B. Price‑wise it aligns with the Milwaukee offering while undercutting the premium DeWalt and Festool options.
Users consistently highlight how easy the saw is to transport – the 31.6 lb weight earns frequent compliments for ladder‑top work and roof‑line trim. Reviewers also love the “integrated cut line cross‑cut positioning” that eliminates extra adjustments, and the battery runtime that delivers the advertised 183 cuts. On the flip side, professionals note the single‑bevel left‑only design and the brushed motor, which they say may not hold up as long as brush‑less alternatives when the tool sees heavy daily use.
Technically, the unit runs at a no‑load speed of 3750 RPM and offers a 0‑45° bevel range with a 90° miter swing. Cutting capacity includes 3‑5/8″ for nested crown molding and 3‑1/2″ for vertical baseboard, making it well‑suited for trim work. The heavy‑duty aluminum base and rubber‑footed fence add stability, and the UL safety listing gives peace of mind on the jobsite.
Pros
Cons
Best for: General contractors, remodelers, and trim carpenters who need a well‑reviewed, reliable cordless miter saw with batteries included.
Avoid if: You regularly cut large stock, dense hardwoods, or require dual‑bevel capability.
TL;DR: The Ryobi 7‑1⁄4″ cordless miter saw packs a 2″ × 10″ cross‑cut capacity, up to 900 cuts per charge, and an 80% dust‑collection rate into a 19‑lb, budget‑friendly package.
This saw’s standout spec is its 2″ × 10″ cross‑cut capacity, letting you handle trim and small lumber without a sliding rail. The 7‑1⁄4″, 40‑tooth carbide‑tipped blade spins at a no‑load speed of 3600 RPM, and the electric blade brake stops the blade instantly for added safety.
Compared with the other seven tools in the roundup, the Ryobi is lighter than the DeWalt DCS361M1 and the Milwaukee 2733‑20, yet heavier than the Ryobi ONE+ sliding model. It lacks a built‑in laser guide that some higher‑priced competitors include, and it offers fewer detents than the DeWalt DCS361B, but its price‑to‑spec ratio is the most aggressive.
Professional reviewers praise the long battery life – up to 900 cuts with a 4 Ah pack and up to 800 cuts with the recommended 9.0 Ah battery – and the 80% dust‑collection efficiency when paired with a compatible vacuum. Everyday users love the portability and the ability to tackle baseboards and door trims, though many note that the bevel can be a few degrees off out of the box and that the miter adjustment feels stiff without a laser guide.
Pros
Cons
Best for: Entry‑level buyers or those on a tight budget — the Ryobi 7‑1‑Inch Miter Saw offers Miter Range: Up to 47° left and right.
Avoid if: You need professional‑grade durability or a laser guide for high‑precision, repeatable cuts.
TL;DR: The Makita XSL05Z delivers cordless convenience with a brushless motor, 5,000 RPM speed and a compact 17.25‑inch height, but its 6.5‑inch blade may limit larger cuts.
The standout feature is Makita’s brushless BL™ motor paired with Automatic Speed Change™ technology, which together keep the no‑load speed at 5,000 RPM while adjusting torque for each cut. At just 14.6 lb the saw feels light enough to carry from room to room, and its overall footprint—17.25 inches high, 15.75 inches wide and 13.38 inches long—makes it one of the most portable options in this lineup.
Compared with the other seven miter saws, the XSL05Z is considerably lighter than the DeWalt DCS785B (over 65 lb) and the Milwaukee 2733‑20 (31.9 lb), yet a bit heavier than the Ryobi 7‑1‑Inch Miter Saw (19 lb) and the Ryobi ONE+ model (25 lb). Its 6.5‑inch blade is smaller than the 7‑¼‑inch blades on the DeWalt DCS361M1, DeWalt DCS361B, Ryobi ONE+ and Festool KSC 60 EB, meaning the Makita sacrifices some maximum cutting depth for its compactness. Height-wise it sits just above the DeWalt DCS361M1’s 15.69‑inch profile, while remaining far shorter than the 19.5‑inch tall DeWalt DCS785B.
Professional reviewers praise the brushless motor for delivering corded‑saw power without a cord, and users appreciate the built‑in laser guide and LED light for precise, well‑illuminated cuts. The main criticism is that the saw ships tool‑only, so you’ll need to buy an 18V LXT battery and charger separately, and the 6.5‑inch blade can restrict work on larger dimensional lumber.
Pros
Cons
Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Makita XSL05Z offers Height: 17.25 inches
Avoid if: You're on a tight budget, need to cut large dimensional lumber, or don't already own an 18V LXT battery system
TL;DR: The Milwaukee 2733-20 delivers cordless convenience with a brushless 18 V motor, 300‑plus 2×4 cuts per charge, and a lightweight 28 lb design, making it a solid mid‑range choice for pros and DIYers.
The standout feature is its 18 V POWERSTATE brushless motor that runs at 5,000 RPM and can make 300 cuts through a 2×4 on a single charge, with over 600 cuts for a 3‑1/4 in. baseboard. Weighing just 28 lb with the battery, the saw is easy to carry around a jobsite or a large home renovation.
Compared with the other seven saws, the Milwaukee sits in the middle of the price band – pricier than the Ryobi ONE+ model but cheaper than the DeWalt DCS785B. It’s lighter than the DeWalt DCS785B (65.86 lb) and the Festool KSC 60 EB (59.57 lb), yet heavier than the Makita XSL05Z (14.6 lb) and the Ryobi 7‑1‑Inch (19 lb). Its 7‑1/4 in. blade matches the Ryobi ONE+ and DeWalt DCS361B, but is smaller than the DeWalt DCS785B’s 12 in. blade, which limits maximum cutting width.
Professional reviewers praise the shadow cut line indicator and the dual‑bevel 96° range for precise angled cuts, while everyday users love the all‑day runtime and the integrated top and side carry handles. A recurring complaint is that one side of the bevel adjustment lacks detents, requiring manual knob tightening, and the relatively small blade means you won’t get the same capacity as larger corded models.
Technically, the saw offers a 48° left/right bevel angle (total 96°), a 48° left/right miter angle (total 96°), and a vertical capacity of 3‑1/2 in. when the base is against the fence. The brushless motor’s 5,000 RPM no‑load speed helps maintain consistent cutting speed, and the included dust bag aids cleanup on the job.
Pros
Cons
Best for: Most users seeking a balanced, mainstream option — the Milwaukee 2733-20 offers Cuts Per Charge (2x4): 300
Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $447.99
TL;DR: The Ryobi ONE+ 7‑1/4 in sliding compound miter saw delivers 800 cuts per 18 V charge, 9‑position miter detents and a lightweight 25 lb design for portable DIY trimming.
This cordless saw packs a 7‑1/4 in 40‑tooth carbide blade that spins at 3600 RPM, giving you clean cuts on typical trim and baseboard material. An electric blade brake stops the blade instantly, while the included 80% dust‑collection system helps keep your workspace tidy.
At 25 lb, the Ryobi is lighter than the DeWalt DCS361M1, which weighs over 31 lb, yet heavier than the Ryobi 7‑1‑Inch Miter Saw that tips the scales at 19 lb. It also offers more miter detents (9) than the DeWalt model’s 11‑stop system, and its dust‑collection efficiency matches the 80% rate found on the smaller Ryobi sibling.
Reviewers consistently praise the saw’s portability and the “best‑in‑class” 2 × 10 in cross‑cut capacity at 90°, noting it handles typical DIY projects with pro‑level accuracy. The single‑bevel range (0°‑45° left) and a motor speed of 3600 RPM are common points of criticism, especially when tackling denser lumber.
Pros
Cons
Best for: Entry-level buyers or those on a tight budget — the Ryobi ONE+ 7‑1‑inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw offers Miter Detents: 9 positions (0°, 15°, 22.5°, 31.6°, 45° L/R)
Avoid if: You need powerful performance or professional‑grade features
TL;DR: The DeWalt DCS785B packs a 12‑inch double‑bevel sliding saw, brushless motor, 3800 RPM speed and up to 97% dust collection into a powerful but heavy cordless package.
What really sets this saw apart is its 12 in. blade with 60 teeth driven by a brushless motor that spins at 3800 RPM. The regenerative braking system lets you claim up to 371 cuts in 3‑1/4 in. MDF base molding or 153 cuts in 4×4 pressure‑treated timber on a single charge, while the high‑efficiency dust collection reaches up to 97% when you attach the included bag or vacuum adapter.
At 65.863 lb, the DCS785B is considerably heavier than the Milwaukee 2733‑20, which weighs about 32 lb, and far bulkier than the Makita XSL05Z at 14.6 lb. Its length of 33.812 in. also exceeds Milwaukee’s 24.8 in. and the Ryobi ONE+ at 13.375 in., putting it in the premium tier of size and price. Nonetheless, it remains lighter than the Festool KSC 60 EB’s 59.57 lb, offering a middle ground for professionals willing to invest.
Professional reviewers highlight the helical‑and‑bevel gear transmission for smoother operation and the CUTLINE blade positioning system for repeatable accuracy. Users love the raw power and the long runtime, but many note the tool‑only weight of over 65 lb makes one‑handed carrying a chore, and the fact that no battery is included means an extra purchase. Dust collection works well with the supplied bag, yet some users add a dedicated vacuum for cleaner job sites.
Pros
Cons
Best for: Professionals who value high power, extensive angle range and premium dust collection — the DeWalt DCS785B offers Dust Collection Efficiency: Up to 97%.
Avoid if: You need an ultra‑lightweight saw for frequent one‑handed carrying or overhead work.
TL;DR: The Festool KSC 60 EB delivers cordless, brushless power with an 8.5‑inch blade, twin‑column guide and 36 V batteries, but its 38.14 lb weight and $1375.88 price place it in the premium tier.
What really sets this saw apart is the twin‑column guide with dual bearings, which the manufacturer says eliminates wobble for “exceptional precision.” Coupled with a brushless EC‑TEC motor, the 8.5‑inch blade can run at up to 3500 rpm, and the variable‑speed control lets you dial in the right speed for hardwood, plywood or melamine. The unit also packs a 27/36 mm dust‑extraction port and LED lighting to keep the cut line visible while keeping the shop clean.
Compared with the other seven tools in the roundup, the Festool is noticeably heavier than the Makita XSL05Z and the Ryobi models, and it carries a higher price tag than the DeWalt DCS361M1. However, it offers a true cordless experience that the corded‑only DeWalt DCS785B can’t match, and its 12‑inch cutting depth at 90° exceeds the capacity of many compact rivals. The sliding mechanism and 60° miter range also give it more versatility than the single‑bevel, lower‑angle options found elsewhere.
Professional reviewers praise the twin‑column system for “unbeatably precise cross cuts” and note that the brushless motor “matches corded‑level power.” Users echo this sentiment, highlighting smooth cuts and the convenience of working without a power cord. The most common trade‑off mentioned is the 38.14 lb weight with batteries, which can feel heavy during long handheld sessions, and the fact that the basic package may require a separate purchase of batteries.
Pros
Cons
Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Festool KSC 60 EB offers Dust Extraction Port Diameter: 27/36 mm
Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $1375.88
Breakdown

DeWalt DCS361M1
Pros
Makita XSL05Z
Pros

DeWalt DCS361B
Pros
Cons

Ryobi 7-1-Inch Miter Saw
Pros
Cons
Based on scoring data and product specs
Personalized picks

Best Overall Pick
DeWalt DCS361M1
Best OverallBest for: Most users looking for a well-reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the DeWalt DCS361M1 offers Batteries Included: Yes
Makita XSL05Z
Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Makita XSL05Z offers Height: 17.25 inches
$669.00+$242.20 vs winner
Skip DeWalt DCS785B if…
Reliability and user satisfaction are your top concerns
We crowned the DeWalt DCS361M1 the clear winner of our midsize cordless miter‑saw roundup. Its 20‑volt lithium‑ion battery delivers up to 183 cuts on a 2×4, and the brushed motor spins at a no‑load speed of 3,750 rpm, giving you plenty of torque for framing and trim. The saw also offers a full 45‑degree bevel range, 11 positive miter detents and a sliding mechanism, all wrapped in a 31.6‑lb package that stays portable on the job site. A 4.8‑star rating from 782 reviewers rounds out its strong credentials.
The Makita XSL05Z takes the runner‑up spot, especially if you need a dual‑bevel saw with a laser guide for precise, repeatable cuts on crown molding or picture frames. Its brushless motor pushes the blade to 5,000 rpm, and the built‑in LED lights the cutting line for better visibility. With up to 270 cuts per charge and a 6.5‑inch blade, it’s geared toward users who value speed and accuracy over the slightly higher price.
Looking for alternatives at other price points? The Ryobi 7‑1‑Inch Miter Saw is the best budget option at $171.48, offering solid performance for occasional DIY projects. For a mid‑range choice, the Milwaukee 2733‑20 at $447.99 balances power and durability without breaking the bank. If you’re ready to splurge, the Festool KSC 60 EB tops the premium tier at $1,375.88, delivering professional‑grade precision and build quality.
Pick the DeWalt DCS361M1 today and get a versatile, powerful, and portable miter saw that handles most jobs right out of the box.
It pairs a 20‑volt brushed motor that runs at 3,750 rpm with a sliding mechanism, giving solid cutting power in a compact 31.6 lb package. The saw includes a 7‑1/4 in blade, 11 miter detents, a 0‑45° single bevel and a 3‑year warranty, all for $438.44.
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