
Bosch CM8S
Score: 82/100
Makita XSL02Z
Score: 85/100Rankings

The Makita XSL02Z is a 36V cordless compound miter saw powered by two 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries, designed to deliver corded-level performance in a portable package. It features a 7-1/2" blade with a no-load speed of 5,700 RPM and utilizes brushless motor technology. Best suited for remodelers and flooring contractors requiring room-to-room flexibility.

The Bosch CM8S is a highly portable 8.5-inch single bevel sliding compound miter saw designed for professionals and DIYers who need mobility without sacrificing cutting capacity. Its main trade-off is the single bevel limitation and basic dust collection, which restricts its use for complex compound cuts and clean environments. It is best suited for trim carpenters and mobile professionals who need a lightweight, accurate saw for finish work and crosscuts up to 12.25 inches.
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
8.5 inchesbest | 7.5 inches | |
12 ampsbest | — | |
12.25 inchesbest | 11.7 inches | |
47 degreesbest | 45 degrees | |
120 voltsbest | 36 volts | |
60 degreesbest | 57 degrees | |
5,600 RPM | 5,700 RPMbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 37 lbs | 28.8 lbsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
Cutting Performance(3) | ||
Blade Diameter (inches) | 8.5 inches | 7.5 inches |
Max Cut Capacity (inches) | 12.25 inches | 11.7 inches |
No-Load Speed (RPM) | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Portability & Build(1) | ||
Product Weight (lbs) | 37 lbs | 28.8 lbs |
Safety(1) | ||
Safety Features | Clear Lower Guard | Electric Brake, Soft Start |
Angle Versatility(3) | ||
Bevel Range (degrees) | 47 degrees | 45 Left / 5 Right degrees |
Miter Range (degrees) | 60 degrees | 57 degrees |
Miter Stops | 10 | |
Power & Motor(5) | ||
Motor Power (amps) | 12 amps | amps |
Motor Type | Standard | Brushless |
Power Source | Corded | Cordless |
Voltage (volts) | 120 volts | 36 volts |
Cord Length (feet) | 6 feet | feet |
Value & Extras(1) | ||
Warranty Length (years) | N/A years | 3 years |


Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).

Professional reviewers and editors praise the Bosch CM8S for its exceptional balance of portability and performance. Pro Tool Reviews highlights its lightweight 37-lb design, ambidextrous controls, and capacity that rivals larger saws, deeming it ideal for professionals who need mobility. Tool Box Buzz emphasizes the benefit of the stabilizing foot and precise scales for accuracy, noting that achieving this performance at 37 lbs is a huge advantage.
Everyday consumers and users commonly praise the saw for its easy transport, accurate detents, and surprising capacity for finish work like crown molding. Users appreciate the side bevel controls and the stability provided by the front foot. Recurring complaints focus on the limitation of the single bevel design for complex angles, average dust management capabilities, and occasional desires for more power when cutting thick stock.

Professional reviewers highlight the XSL02Z as a significant advancement in cordless miter saw technology, praised for being the first to use two 18V batteries to achieve 36V power.
The provided search results do not contain specific consumer reviews, ratings, or user feedback regarding praise or complaints. Retailers carry the product, but no customer testimonials or detailed user experience data are available in the source material.

