A plunge circular saw can be a very useful addition to your woodworking tools. Makita offers two excellent models, the XPS01Z and the XPS02ZU. We are going to compare them based on speed, beveling, and additional technology. We will base our recommendation on project needs.
Makita XPS01Z
The Makita XPS01Z is a 6 ½-inch plunge circular saw kit. You can increase the precision and accuracy of its cutting when you combine it with an optional guide rail system that is sold separately.
This saw has a powerful brushless motor and is powered by two 18 V LXT batteries that are not included. It offers you automatic speed change technology, adjusting torque and cutting speed and torque while you are cutting for optimal performance. The variable speed control dial allows you to alter the speed from 2500 to 6300 RPM as necessary. The saw offers an electric brake and soft start for your convenience.
At 90 degrees, its cutting capacity is 2 3/16 inches. It has a bevel range of 1 to 48 degrees, making positive stops at 22.5 degrees and 45 degrees. You can cut close to the wall at 11/16 inches to expand your cutting applications.
The saw is ideal for cutting in confined areas. It ensures smooth cutting because the electronic speed control maintains constant speeds under a load.
This saw’s X2 LXT technology delivers more speed, power, and runtime without all the hassles of having a cord. Additionally, it offers a 50% longer runtime per charge. The depth adjustment is very easy to set and has a large scale. The plunge release lever is very smooth and convenient for your comfort.
With both front and rear supports for beveling, you’ll find you have a solid platform for precise and accurate bevel cuts. Blade changes are fast and easy with the hex wrench kept right on board. There is also a locking lever that holds the blade in position for easier installation.
A built-in depth stop allows for an initial cut of 2 to 3 mm to be made before you cut through the entire material. This allows for cutting that is both clean and splinter-free.
The handle has a rubberized soft grip to provide you with increased comfort. Additionally, there is a built-in rear dust port that is 1 7/16 inches that directs material away from you and will easily connect to a vacuum system.
The XPS01Z comes with a 55-tooth extra-thin carbide-tipped saw blade. This type of blade is ideal for this type of saw because it offers up to 66% more cuts per charge when compared to a common corded plunge saw blade.
Makita XPS02ZU
The Makita XPS02ZU is a 6 ½-inch plunge circular saw with a brushless motor. It’spower sourceisdual 18 V LXT batteries that are not included with the tool. It features Automatic Speed Change Technology that adjusts the cutting speed and torque while you are cutting to provide you with optimal performance.
The saw comes equipped with an Auto-Start Wireless System (AWS) that uses Bluetooth technology for wireless communication to power on and off with the AWS-equipped dust extractor which is an optional purchase. This system is intelligent, eliminating cords and reducing noise.
Also, the XPS02ZU has variable speed control. The speeds range from 2500 to 6300 RPM. It also offers a soft start and electric brake for your convenience. At 90 degrees, its cutting capacity is 2 3/16 inches. It has a beveling capacity of -1 degree to 48 degrees with positive stops at 22.5 degrees and 45 degrees. You can cut very close to the wall at 11/16 inches, which allows for expanded cutting applications.
The brushless motor ensures that you will get maximum performance as well as a 50% longer runtime per charge. The X2 LXT technology provides you with up to 125 cuts per charge when cutting 4 x 8 sheets of ½-inch plywood when using 5 Ah batteries.
This model is ideal for cutting large wood panels, melamine, MDF, aluminum, and Corian, as well as other materials. It comes equipped with a wood blade, but other blades are available for purchase.
A built-in depth stop will allow you to make the first cut of 2 to 3 mm before you cut through the entire material, ensuring your cut will be clean and splinter-free.
The plunge release lever is smooth and conveniently located for your comfort. There are front and rear bevel supports offering a solid platform for increased precision and accuracy in bevel cuts. The hex wrench is located on board for quick and simple blade changes. There’s even a locking lever to hold the blade in position to make installation easier.
It has a dust port located in the rear of the saw that directs material away from you and your workspace. It can easily be connected to a vacuum system. The handle grip is rubberized to provide you with increased comfort while working.
It is compact at only 13 5/8 inches long and weighs only 11.2 pounds with batteries.
Like the XPS01Z, the XPS02ZU comes with a 56-tooth extra-thin carbide-tipped saw blade and can be upgraded with the optional guide rail system to make smooth, perfectly straight dead-on cuts. However, the XPS02ZU offers AWS technology while the XPS01Z does not.
Our Recommendation
Clearly, both saws offer excellent features. The XPS01Z provides you with variable speeds of 2500 to 6300 RPM, beveling from 1 to 48 degrees, and a built-in depth stop. We recommend this model for professional carpenters and woodshop owners.
On the other hand, the XPS02ZU provides variable speeds of 2500 to 6300 RPM, beveling from -1 to 48 degrees, and AWS technology. We recommend this model for professional carpenters and woodshop owners who will benefit from the additional AWS technology.
Click here to purchase Makita XPS01Z on Amazon.com
Click here to purchase Makita XPS02ZU on Amazon.com