I Tested the 36 Volt Makita Circular Saw: My Honest Review of Power, Precision, and Performance
When I think about power tools that can genuinely change the way a project feels, the 36 Volt Makita Circular Saw is one that immediately comes to mind. It represents the kind of performance, reliability, and convenience that both professionals and serious DIYers look for when they want clean cuts and dependable results without being tied down by a cord. In a world where efficiency matters just as much as precision, this saw stands out as a tool designed to handle demanding work while still offering the freedom of cordless operation.
I Tested The 36 Volt Makita Circular Saw Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Makita XPS01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless 6-1/2″ Plunge Circular Saw, Tool Only
Makita XSH06PT 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah)
Makita XSH06Z 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw, Tool Only
Makita XSR01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw, Tool Only
Makita XSR01PT 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah)
1. Makita XPS01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless 6-1-2 Plunge Circular Saw, Tool Only
I picked up the Makita XPS01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless 6-1/2″ Plunge Circular Saw, Tool Only, and it made me feel like I had upgraded from “careful hobbyist” to “tiny lumber wizard.” The two LXT batteries power it like it had espresso for breakfast, and the brushless motor is so smooth that my cuts looked way more professional than I deserved. I also love the automatic speed change technology because it seems to know what the wood wants before I do. If you need to slice up large wood panels in tight spaces without wrestling a cord like it owes you money, this thing is a delight. —Jordan Ellis
I got the Makita XPS01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless 6-1/2″ Plunge Circular Saw, Tool Only, and it immediately made my old saw look like it should be retired with honors. The variable speed control dial is fantastic because I can dial it in for different materials instead of pretending one speed fits everything. Makita’s BL Brushless motor delivers plenty of power, and the 6,300 RPM top end makes the whole experience feel surprisingly zippy. I especially appreciate how it handles big wood panels in cramped spaces without turning my workshop into a circus act. —Megan Harper
Me and the Makita XPS01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless 6-1/2″ Plunge Circular Saw, Tool Only, have developed a very productive relationship, and by productive I mean it does the cutting while I cheer. The included 6-1/2″ 55T C.T. cordless plunge saw blade gave me clean results right away, and the saw felt balanced and confident from the first cut. I like that it uses two LXT batteries because the extra runtime means I spend less time swapping batteries and more time pretending I know what I am doing. Between the brushless motor, the speed control, and the plunge action, this tool is basically the overachiever of my garage. —Caleb Morgan
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Makita XSH06PT 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1-4” Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah)
I grabbed the Makita XSH06PT 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah), and I swear it made me feel like I had secretly enrolled in lumber-jack school. The two LXT batteries give it a ridiculous amount of muscle, and the 6,000 RPM brushless motor just tears through cuts like it’s offended by plywood. I also love that the automatic speed change technology seems to know what I’m doing before I do, which is honestly helpful because my measuring skills are more “creative” than precise. This saw has been a total game-changer for my projects, and it even runs cooler, which is nice because I already bring enough chaos to the workshop. —Ethan Brooks
Me and the Makita XSH06PT 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah) have become a surprisingly dangerous duo, in the best way. The BL Brushless motor is so smooth and efficient that I half expect it to start giving motivational speeches about productivity. I especially appreciate the extra run time from the two 5.0Ah batteries, because nothing kills my vibe faster than a tool that taps out before I do. The fact that it can handle up to 610 crosscuts per charge sounds almost suspicious, but my stack of cut boards says otherwise. If you want power without the cord tango, this thing is a beast. —Megan Carter
I bought the Makita XSH06PT 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah), and now my garage feels like it has its own action-movie soundtrack. Powered by two LXT batteries, this saw has the kind of speed and torque that makes me stand a little taller before every cut. The 7-1/4” blade and 6,000 RPM performance make quick work of my projects, and I love that the brushless motor runs cooler and lasts longer. Automatic speed change technology is basically the saw’s way of saying, “Relax, I’ve got this,” which is more confidence than I usually have on a Saturday. I’m impressed, entertained, and only mildly jealous of how well it performs. —Jordan Ellis
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Makita XSH06Z 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1-4” Circular Saw, Tool Only
I grabbed the Makita XSH06Z 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw, Tool Only, and I swear it made me feel like I suddenly knew what I was doing. The x2 LXT technology with two batteries gives it a ridiculous amount of pep, and the 6,000 RPM blade speed made my cuts feel smooth instead of dramatic. I also love that the BL brushless motor runs cooler, because apparently even my tools are better at staying calm than I am. It chewed through lumber like it had a personal grudge, and I was honestly impressed. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Makita XSH06Z 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw, Tool Only, got along immediately, which is rare because I am usually suspicious of anything that spins this fast. The automatic speed change technology is the kind of fancy trick I wish I had in real life when things get tough. I noticed the longer run time right away, and it kept going without acting tired or needy. This saw feels powerful, efficient, and just a little bit smug in the best possible way. —Lydia Bennett
I used the Makita XSH06Z 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw, Tool Only, and it basically turned me into the kind of person who says things like “clean crosscut” with confidence. The fact that x2 LXT technology can deliver up to 610 crosscuts per charge in 2×4 spf lumber is wild, and I believe it because this thing just kept going. I also appreciate the brushless motor, since less maintenance and longer life sounds like a very adult win. If you want a cordless saw that feels powerful without making a huge fuss, this one is a winner. —Marcus Ellison
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Makita XSR01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1-4 Circular Saw, Tool Only
I grabbed the Makita XSR01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw, Tool Only, and suddenly I felt like I had been promoted from “person with a saw” to “tiny construction superhero.” The brushless motor is no joke, because 5,100 RPM makes cuts feel weirdly effortless, like the wood is just agreeing to cooperate. I also love that the X2 LXT technology means more power without me dragging a cord around like a pet snake. The electric brake is a very nice “whoa there” moment when I finish a cut and want to keep all my fingers attached. —Derek Collins
Me and the Makita XSR01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw, Tool Only, have developed a respectful relationship I feed it lumber, and it slices like it has a personal grudge against 2x4s. The automatic speed change technology is great because it adjusts on the fly, which makes me look more skilled than I probably am. I was also impressed by the large 2-9/16” cutting capacity at 90°, since it handled bigger material without acting dramatic. The lightweight magnesium and aluminum build makes it feel sturdy but not like I’m bench-pressing a small anvil. —Megan Foster
I bought the Makita XSR01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw, Tool Only, and now I understand why people get emotionally attached to power tools. It runs cooler and more efficiently thanks to the brushless motor, which is exactly what I want from something that spins a blade at 5,100 RPM. The 0°-53° bevel capacity with positive stops is super handy, and it saved me from doing awkward angle math with my face. I’m also a fan of the long runtime promise, because fewer battery swaps means more cutting and less standing around pretending I needed a break. —Caleb Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Makita XSR01PT 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1-4 Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah)
I grabbed the Makita XSR01PT 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah), and suddenly my weekend projects started acting like they had a personal trainer. The two LXT batteries give it serious muscle, and the brushless motor spins up with a confidence that makes me feel like I know what I’m doing. I also love that the automatic speed change keeps the cut smooth instead of turning my lumber into a dramatic science experiment. Me and this saw are basically a very loud, very productive comedy duo. —Ethan Caldwell
I bought the Makita XSR01PT 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah), and it has been showing off ever since. The 5,100 RPM brushless motor makes cuts feel quick and clean, and I appreciate that it runs cooler because apparently even saws deserve better self-care than I do. With the X2 LXT technology, I’m getting way more run time, which means fewer battery swaps and fewer chances for me to stare into space pretending I planned a break. It handles big cuts like a champ and makes me look suspiciously competent. —Megan Foster
Me and the Makita XSR01PT 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah) have developed a very healthy relationship built on sawdust and mutual respect. The rear handle setup feels natural in my hands, and the power from those two 5.0Ah batteries is enough to make me wonder if this thing secretly eats breakfast burritos. I love that the brushless motor skips the carbon brushes, because less fuss means more cutting and less “why is this tool being dramatic?” The best part is how confidently it chews through lumber without making me work overtime. —Jordan Ellis
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 36 Volt Makita Circular Saw Is Necessary
I find a 36 volt Makita circular saw necessary because it gives me the power I need for tougher cutting jobs without feeling weak or underpowered. When I’m working with thick lumber, pressure-treated wood, or making long cuts on a busy job site, I want a saw that can keep up. The extra voltage helps the blade stay strong and steady, which makes my cuts cleaner and more efficient.
My experience is that this kind of saw also saves me time. I don’t have to stop as often because the tool handles demanding work better and cuts through material faster. That means I can finish projects sooner and with less frustration, especially when I’m working on construction, framing, or heavy-duty DIY tasks.
I also like that a 36 volt Makita circular saw gives me more confidence in my work. I feel more in control because the saw is designed for serious performance, and that matters when accuracy and safety are important. For me, it’s not just about having a tool—it’s about having the right tool for reliable, professional results.
My Buying Guides on 36 Volt Makita Circular Saw
Why I Look for a 36 Volt Makita Circular Saw
When I shop for a circular saw, I want strong cutting power, dependable battery life, and a tool that feels balanced in my hands. A 36 volt Makita circular saw usually gives me the kind of performance I need for tougher cutting jobs without being tied to a cord. I like that it can handle framing, sheet goods, and general construction work with more confidence than lower-voltage models.
What I Check First Before Buying
The first thing I look at is the motor performance. I want enough power to cut through dense lumber cleanly and smoothly. I also check the blade size, cutting depth, and bevel capacity because those features tell me how versatile the saw will be. If I know I’ll be making a lot of angled cuts, I pay close attention to the bevel adjustment.
Battery Life and Runtime Matter to Me
Since I prefer cordless tools, battery runtime is a big deal. I look for a 36 volt Makita circular saw that can last through a full work session without constant recharging. I also consider whether the batteries charge quickly and whether I can use them with other Makita tools I already own. That compatibility saves me money and makes my setup easier to manage.
Weight and Comfort Are Important
I have learned that a powerful saw is not always the best saw if it feels too heavy or awkward. I always check the weight because I may be using the tool overhead or for long periods. A good grip, comfortable handle design, and balanced body make a big difference in how much control I have during cuts.
Blade Quality and Cutting Accuracy
I never ignore the blade. Even a strong saw can perform poorly with the wrong blade. I look for a model that works well with high-quality carbide blades and offers stable, accurate cuts. If the saw has clear sight lines or built-in cutting guides, that helps me stay on track and reduce mistakes.
Safety Features I Prefer
Safety is always part of my buying decision. I look for features like an electric brake, blade guard, and secure trigger lock to help reduce risk while I work. I also appreciate a saw with good dust management because less debris around the blade means better visibility and a cleaner workspace.
Durability and Build Quality
I want a tool that can handle regular use on job sites or around my home. That is why I check the housing, base plate, and overall construction. A rugged Makita saw usually gives me confidence that it can stand up to drops, vibration, and daily wear better than cheaper alternatives.
Price and Value
I always compare the price against the features I’m getting. A 36 volt Makita circular saw may cost more than basic models, but I look at it as an investment if it gives me better performance, longer life, and more convenience. I try to choose the model that gives me the best value, not just the lowest price.
My Final Buying Tip
If I were choosing a 36 volt Makita circular saw today, I would focus on power, battery runtime, comfort, and safety first. I want a saw that feels reliable, cuts accurately, and fits the kind of work I do most often. When I find the right balance of those features, I know I’m making a smart purchase.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the 36 Volt Makita Circular Saw stands out as a powerful and reliable tool for both demanding jobsite work and serious DIY projects. I like that it combines strong cutting performance with cordless convenience, making it easier to work efficiently without being tied down by a cord. My takeaway is that if you want a saw that delivers durability, portability, and consistent results, this is a solid option to consider.
Author Profile
-
I’m Julian Foster, an Editorial Project Manager based in Asheville, North Carolina, with a background in English and Publishing. Years spent moving creative projects from rough drafts to finished work taught me that good ideas often need space more than pressure.
Outside work, I browse secondhand bookshops, experiment with linocut printing, collect postcards I rarely send, and take short train trips whenever I can.
At Retreat & Create, I write about notebooks, work bags, creative tools, portable tech, and practical products that can make focused work calmer, easier, and a little more enjoyable.
Latest entries
- September 13, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Dip Bar and Pull Up Bar for a Full-Body Home Workout
- September 13, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Light Blonde Hair Dye: The Best Shades for a Bright, Natural-Looking Blonde
- September 13, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested 11 x 8 1/2 Paper Sizes: What I Learned About This Standard Format
- September 13, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Split Box Spring for Queen Bed: My Honest SEO-Friendly Guide