Makita XSR01Z
Score: 88/100
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Metal Cutting Circular Saw
Score: 88/100Rankings
The Makita XSR01Z is a 36V brushless rear-handle circular saw designed as a cordless alternative to corded worm-drive saws, featuring dual 18V batteries and Automatic Speed Change technology. Its primary trade-off is the weight and bulk associated with the dual-battery configuration. It is best suited for professional framers and roofers needing cordless power equivalent to 15-amp corded rear-handle saws.
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Metal Cutting Circular Saw is a compact, cordless brushless saw designed for fast, burr-free cuts in ferrous metals like EMT conduit and sheet metal. It features a POWERSTATE brushless motor delivering 3,900 RPM and REDLINK PLUS intelligence for durability, offering up to 370 cuts in 3/4" EMT on a single XC5.0 battery charge. The tool is optimized for electricians and HVAC technicians needing portable, high-volume cutting capabilities in tight spaces.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
7.25 inchesbest | 5.375 inches | |
2.563 inchesbest | 2.25 inches | |
5,100 RPMbest | 3,900 RPM | |
53 degreesbest | 0 degrees | |
36 Vbest | 18 V | |
| ↓ lower better | 12.9 lbs | 4.8 lbsbest |
0.625 inches | 0.787 inchesbest | |
3 years | 5 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Motor(1) | ||
Voltage (V) | 36 V | 18 V |
Performance & Cutting(5) | ||
Blade Diameter (inches) | 7.25 inches | 5.375 inches |
Cutting Depth at 90 Degrees (inches) | 2.5625 inches | 2.25 inches |
No-Load Speed (RPM) | 5100 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Bevel Capacity (degrees) | 53 degrees | 0 degrees |
Arbor Size (inches) | 0.625 inches | 0.787 inches |
General & Warranty(1) | ||
Warranty Length (years) | 3 years | 5 years |
Design & Ergonomics(1) | ||
Weight (lbs) | 12.9 lbs | 4.8 lbs |
Features & Accessories(3) | ||
Electric Brake | true | false |
Spindle Lock | false | true |
Included Blade | false | true |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the Makita XSR01Z as a 'cordless not a worm drive' that operates like one, highlighting its exceptional power, speed, and runtime derived from dual 18V batteries. The brushless motor is noted for eliminating brushes for efficiency, while the electronic brain's ability to sense load and adjust torque/RPM is deemed a 'helluva' performer. It is widely considered the most powerful battery-operated saw available, excelling in deep cuts and cross-cut counts.
Everyday users and aggregated retail feedback highlight smooth, accurate wood cuts and cordless convenience that rivals corded tools. Common praise focuses on the saw's power for heavy framing and long runtime when using 5.0Ah batteries. Recurring complaints center on the 12.4 lb weight feeling bulky for prolonged use and the hassle of needing two batteries.
Professional reviewers, including Pro Tool Reviews and ToolGuyd, praise the Milwaukee 2782-20 for its cordless performance that rivals corded saws. They highlight the POWERSTATE motor, REDLITHIUM battery compatibility, and REDLINK PLUS intelligence as key drivers for its industry-leading speed and runtime.
Everyday users commonly praise the tool for its exceptional battery life, clean cuts, and lightweight balance, particularly for overhead work. Recurring complaints focus on blade wear with thicker metals, occasional chip buildup, and the limitation of the bare tool format.
