Value
At $169 the Makita XSS02Z is the right DIY & Tools in 2026.
Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Brushed 6-1/2 in. Circular Saw (Tool Only) vs. the competition
| Product | Our rating | Blade | Voltage | Weight | Price | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makita XSS02Z | ★★★★★ 4.5 | 6-1/2 in | 18V LXT | 7.3 lb | $169 | Top Pick |
| DeWalt FlexVolt 60V Circular Saw | ★★★★★ 4.8 | 7-1/4 in | 60V FlexVolt | 9.0 lb | $299 | Editor's Choice |
| DeWalt DCS391B 20V Max 6-1/2 in | ★★★★☆ 4.4 | 6-1/2 in | 20V Max | 7.1 lb | $129 | Best Budget |
| Generic 18V circular saw | ★★★☆☆ 3.3 | 6-1/2 in | 18V | Variable | $80 | Skip |
Full specifications
| Voltage | 18V LXT |
| Blade diameter | 6-1/2 in. |
| No-load speed | 3,700 RPM |
| Cut depth at 90 deg | 2-1/4 in. |
| Cut depth at 45 deg | 1-9/16 in. |
| Bevel capacity | 0-50 deg |
| Weight (tool only) | 7.3 lb |
Should you buy the Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Brushed 6-1/2 in. Circular Saw (Tool Only)?
The Makita XSS02Z 18V circular saw is the compact LXT saw that still belongs in a truck even after 60V cordless saws took over framing work. The 6-1/2 inch blade cuts 2-1/4 inches at 90 degrees, which clears a 2x in one pass, the saw weighs 7.3 pounds bare so it does not punish you on an overhead cut, and the LXT battery platform shares with the rest of the Makita kit. The trade is real torque, where the saw bogs in dense Doug fir 2x12s and against a sharp framing blade in plywood.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Makita XSS02Z worth $169 in 2026?+
Yes for Makita LXT users who already own batteries and want a light, capable second saw. As a stand-alone first saw it is fine, but you should weigh the FlexVolt or M18 FUEL options if you do daily framing.
Can the XSS02Z handle a full sheet of 3/4 in. plywood?+
Yes with a sharp 40-tooth blade. Use a guide and let the saw work at its pace to avoid bogging.
How long does it run on a 5.0 Ah LXT pack?+
Across mixed crosscuts and rip cuts in 2x stock, one 5.0 Ah pack lasted roughly 90 minutes of active cutting before swapping.
📅 Update log
- May 14, 2026Added 6-month observations and runtime notes.
- Oct 28, 2025Initial review published.
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Alex Patel
Alex Patel writes for The Tested Hub.