Below is a comprehensive comparison of the Makita XSH03Z and Makita XSS02Z circular saws.
📝 Summary
Here are the key takeaways of how the saws compare to one another.
Makita XSH03Z
The XSH03Z stands out with its brushless motor, higher RPM, and advanced safety and convenience features like an electric brake, dust blower, LED light, and rafter hook. It’s tailored for professionals or demanding DIYers who seek efficiency and precision.
- Brushless motor provides greater efficiency and longer life.
- Higher RPM for faster cutting.
- Electric brake for safety
- Enhanced visibility with LED light and dust blower.
- Convenience of a rafter hook for easy storage on the job site.
- Typically more expensive due to advanced features
- Might be more than what’s needed for casual/light users.
– VS –
Makita XSS02Z
In contrast, the XSS02Z, with a brushed motor and basic features, offers straightforward functionality suitable for casual or occasional use, making it a practical choice for those with lighter cutting needs.
- Simpler design could be more user-friendly for non-professionals.
- Adequate for basic tasks without the need for advanced features.
- Usually more affordable, offering essential functions without added cost.
- Brushed motor may not be as efficient or long-lasting as brushless.
- Lower RPM can mean slower cutting.
- Lack of additional features like a rafter hook and LED light could limit convenience and versatility.
📦 What’s Included?
Both the Makita XSS02Z and the XSH03Z come with just the circular saw and a saw blade, making the package contents identical.
 XSH03Z |  XSS02Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Package | Tool Only | Tool Only |
| Included | (1) Circular Saw, (1) Saw Blade | (1) Circular Saw, (1) Saw Blade |
🏅 Warranty
Each model is backed by a 3-year limited warranty, providing assurance of quality and reliability from the manufacturer for an extended period after purchase.
XSH03Z | XSS02Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty | 3 Year | 3 Year |
🔋 Battery
XSH03Z | XSS02Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | LXT® | LXT® |
| Voltage | 18V | 18V |
| Chemistry | Lithium Ion | Lithium Ion |
| Run Time | Up to 125 cuts per charge in 2×10 | Not Specified |
Makita XSH03Z
The XSH03Z offers a clear specification of up to 125 cuts per charge in 2×10 lumber, which provides users with a quantifiable expectation of the tool’s performance. This is beneficial for professionals who need to plan their work according to battery life and ensures they have enough power to complete a job without interruptions.
Makita XSS02Z:
The run time for the XSS02Z isn’t specified. While this might not be a significant issue for casual users who don’t rely on continuous, heavy-duty cutting, it could be a drawback for professionals who need to know how long they can use their tool on a single charge.
📏 Dimensions
XSH03Z | XSS02Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Length (in) | 13.75 | 13.63 |
| Height (in) | 9.4 | 9.5 |
| Width (in) | 6.3 | 8.5 |
| Weight (lbs) | 7.3 | 7.3 |
Length
The XSH03Z is marginally longer than the XSS02Z by 0.12 inches, which is approximately a 0.88% increase in length. This slight difference in length is typically negligible for the user and unlikely to impact the saw’s use or storage.
Height
The XSS02Z stands slightly taller than the XSH03Z by 0.1 inches, meaning the XSS02Z is about 1.06% higher. This minimal difference in height will likely go unnoticed by most users.
Width
The XSS02Z is significantly wider than the XSH03Z by 2.2 inches, which is about a 34.92% increase in width. A wider saw may offer more stability during use but could also mean it’s less convenient to handle or carry, particularly in tight spaces.
Weight
Both models weigh the same, at 7.3 pounds, making them equally easy (or challenging) to handle for extended periods.
🏗 Build Quality
Users looking for a circular saw with a fully durable build may lean towards the XSH03Z for its consistent use of magnesium across all components.
XSH03Z | XSS02Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Shoe | Magnesium | Aluminum |
| Lower Blade Guard | Magnesium | Plastic |
| Upper Blade Guard | Magnesium | No Mention |
XSH03Z – lower guard, upper guard, shoe 
XSS02Z -lower guard, upper guard, shoe
Shoe Material
The Makita XSH03Z features a shoe made of magnesium, which offers an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. This choice of material is typically indicative of a high-end tool, as magnesium is known for its durability and lightweight properties compared to aluminum. For professionals or frequent users, this could mean less fatigue and a longer lifespan for the saw.
In contrast, the Makita XSS02Z uses aluminum for the shoe, which is still a robust and lightweight material but generally not as strong as magnesium. Aluminum is a common choice for power tools and can provide a good balance of weight and strength for casual or less frequent use.
Lower Blade Guard Material
The lower blade guard on the Makita XSH03Z being composed of magnesium suggests a commitment to maintaining the tool’s integrity and user safety even in demanding conditions. Magnesium guards are less prone to cracking and can resist impacts better, which is crucial for a component that serves as a primary safety feature.
For the Makita XSS02Z, the plastic lower blade guard may not offer the same level of durability. While plastic can be tough and is lighter than metal, it might not stand up as well to the rigors of a professional job site. Consider how you might use the saw to make the decision that’s right for you.
Upper Blade Guard Material
The XSS02Z does not specify the material for the upper blade guard, which might indicate a less robust design when compared to the all-magnesium construction of the XSH03Z.
⚙️ Specifications
The XSH03Z might be more appealing to professionals who need a powerful, efficient tool with advanced features for frequent use, while the XSS02Z could be more suited for casual or less frequent use.
XSH03Z | XSS02Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Arbor Size | 5/8″ | 5/8″ |
| Blade Size | 6-1/2″ | 6-1/2″ |
| Bevel Capacity | 50° | 50° |
| Blade Position | Left | Left |
| Handle Type | Top Handle | Top Handle |
| Max Cut Depth at 45° | 1-5/8″ | 1-9/16″ |
| Max Cut Depth at 90° | 2-1/4″ | 2-1/4″ |
| Max Cut Depth at 50° | 1-7/16″ | No Mention |
| Speed (No Load RPM) | 5000 | 3700 |
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushed |
| Positive Stops | 45° | No Mention |
Arbor Size
Both saws have an arbor size of 5/8″, which is standard and should be compatible with a wide range of available circular saw blades.
Makita XSH03Z Arbor XSS02Z Arbor
Blade Size
The 6-1/2″ blade size on both saws is suitable for most cutting tasks, offering a good balance between cutting depth and ease of control.
Bevel Capacity
A 50° bevel capacity in both models allows for a wide range of angle cuts, making them versatile for various cutting jobs, including frames and joints.
Blade Position
Both the Makita XSH03Z and XSS02Z have their blades positioned on the left side of the saw. For right-handed users, this positioning can offer improved visibility of the cut line because the user’s line of sight is not obstructed by the main body of the saw.
However, left-handed users may find it more challenging because the blade is on the same side as their dominant hand, which could obstruct their view and make it more difficult to follow the cut line precisely.
Handle Type
Top handle designs are common for sidewinder circular saws and are considered to provide good control and comfort during cutting tasks.
Max Cut Depth at 45°
The XSH03Z has a slightly deeper cut at 45° by 1/16″, which may not be significant for most users but can be beneficial when precision is needed.
Max Cut Depth at 90°
Both models have the same maximum cut depth at 90°, providing a standard depth of cut (2-1/4″) for straight cuts through most materials.
Max Cut Depth at 50°
The XSH03Z specifies a maximum cut depth at 50°, while the XSS02Z does not, which could suggest the XSH03Z is more suited for tasks requiring deeper bevel cuts.
Since we already know that the cut depth at 45° is slightly more on the XSH03Z, it’s not unreasonable to think that it might also be more at 50°. If this is a major deciding factor, please reach out to Makita for clarification.
Speed (No Load RPM)
A professional who frequently needs to make quick, repetitive cuts might prefer the efficiency of the higher RPM offered by the XSH03Z.
Conversely, a DIY enthusiast or a professional who prioritizes control over speed, especially when working with tricky materials or complex cuts, might find the XSS02Z‘s lower RPM more to their liking.
Additionally, the higher RPM of the XSH03Z would pair well with the brushless motor’s efficiency, making it a compelling option for those who value performance and battery life.
Motor Type
The brushless motor of the XSH03Z is generally more efficient, has a longer life, and requires less maintenance compared to the brushed motor of the XSS02Z. This can appeal to users who use their saws extensively and are looking for longevity and reduced downtime.
Positive Stops
The XSH03Z has a positive stop at 45°, which can simplify and speed up making common cuts at this angle. This feature can be very handy for carpenters and construction workers who need to make repetitive cuts quickly and accurately.
✅ Features
The additional features of the XSH03Z, such as the brake, dust blower, LED light, and rafter hook, make it a feature-rich option geared towards professionals or serious DIYers.
The XSS02Z, lacking these features, might be a more suitable choice for users who don’t need these extra functionalities and perhaps prefer a simpler saw that still performs the basic requirements of a circular saw.
XSH03Z | XSS02Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Brake | ✅ | ❌ |
| Dust Blower | ✅ | ❌ |
| Dust Port | ✅ | ✅ |
| LED Light | ✅ | ❌ |
| Rafter Hook | ✅ | ❌ |
Brake
The XSH03Z includes a brake, which is a safety feature that rapidly stops the blade from spinning when the trigger is released.
This can greatly reduce the potential for accidents and allows for quicker transitions between cuts.
Dust Blower
With a dust blower, the XSH03Z helps keep the cut line clear of sawdust and debris, which improves visibility and accuracy during cutting.
This feature can be particularly helpful in keeping the workspace cleaner and reducing cleanup time after the job.
Dust Port
Both models have a dust port, which allows for the connection of a vacuum or dust extraction system to collect sawdust.
This helps maintain a clean work environment and can reduce the inhalation of sawdust, particularly important for user health during prolonged use.
LED Light
The XSH03Z is equipped with an LED light, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions or when working with materials that don’t contrast well with the blade or cut line.
This feature can be a deciding factor for working indoors or in areas with insufficient lighting.
Rafter Hook
The inclusion of a rafter hook on the XSH03Z makes it convenient to hang the tool when not in use, especially on a jobsite where space may be limited.
This feature can also improve workflow efficiency, as the saw is easily accessible and out of the way when moving around the worksite.
💰Pricing
Below, you’ll find the most up-to-date pricing for both tools. If any of the pricing data is blank, you can still visit the vendor website to see the latest pricing.
Makita XSH03Z
ebay.com
Walmart.com
Amazon.com
homedepot.com
toolbarn.com
maxtool.com
acmetools.com
acetool.com
| Price history for Makita 18V LXT Li-Ion 6-1/2" Brushless Circular Saw XSH03Z (Tool Only) New | |
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Makita XSS02Z
| Price history for Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Li-Ion Cordless 6 1/2" Battery Circular Saw 18 Volt Blade | |
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⚖️ Comparison Table
-
- Overview
- Review
- 📦 Contents
- 🔋 Battery
- 📏 Dimensions
- 🥇 Build Quality (Materials)
- ⚙️ Specifications
- ✅ Features
