A circular saw is probably the most used saw today. People use it widely in professional building projects and DIY home renovation. This power tool can cut various materials using a circular metal blade sharpened with sharp teeth. Yet, we are often bewildered while choosing this equipment due to the many items available.
Two of the most common models are Makita XSH03Z and DHS680Z. Despite the same manufacturer, the differences between Makita XSH03Z vs DHS680Z make them serve distinct demands. This article will put the comparison of these two under the spotlight.
Contents
Similarities Of Makita XSH03Z And DHS680Z
Design And Material
Both circular saws have akin ergonomic designs, owing to the same Makita manufacturer. You can easily notice three distinct colors (white, dark blue, and black) in their appearance.
The white parts refer to the blade guard and base, which are made of metal. The dark blue portion on top of the tools is hard plastic, whereas the outer black sections are soft rubber overmolding materials.
Another similarity also lies in its left-hand blade orientation. It means the blade is on the left side, unlike larger Makita products.
On both tools’ sides is a slide rail area for installing the batteries. All I had to do was to slide the energy source in. I can run the circular saws once I hear the clicking sound.
Travel all the way up, and you will see a rafter hook in both machines. This hook is extremely handy for hanging the saws when you switch them off.
One more incredible benefit is the lightweight structure of these cordless tools. Both models weigh only 7.3 pounds and have no tangled cords, making them safer and more portable.
Also, you will face no problem having these circular saws up above your head all day with your arm extended. These compact designs help reduce operator fatigue.
Safety Level
Using saws is pretty dangerous for those who aren’t familiar with them. Fortunately, these two all have the safety trigger lock feature. It means you must pull the trigger and simultaneously press the little tab on the handle.
Moreover, they come with two tabs on both sides of the handle to help both left-handed and right-handed people easily use the tool.
Motor And Drive Configuration
The two Makita saws utilize Brushless motor power with compact 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries. The power source allows the cutting blades to spin at up to 5,000 RPM for faster cutting and ripping.
As a result, while operating it, I can feel a powerful tool in my hand, and it allows me to use it for a longer run time.
Miter Gauge
The miter gauge, a metallic half-moon device, is common in table saws. Thus, these two Makita circular saws have no miter gauge included. You do not need it for your operation.
Cutting Blade
Makita XSH03Z and its friend share the same 24-tooth tungsten carbide-tipped blade with a 6.5-inch diameter. I found these sharp blades work well with professional or home-repairing tasks.
What Are The Differences Between Makita XSH03Z vs DHS680Z?
Although these two have the same manufacturer and similar appearance, they still have some differences in their features and productivity, such as precision, motor and drive configuration, blades, capacity, etc. Do not miss this section to know who the winner will be!
Precision
Although I cannot compare the precision of a milter and a circular saw, a milter can have more accurate cuts than the other. Yet, each circular saw can have a distinct feature to improve its precision.
Indeed, the difference between both cordless tools will appear during their actual operations. Makita DHS680Z has twin LED job lights, providing better visibility for operators.
Thus, it can help users work in any light condition. Still, this feature is not available in the other Makita circular saw.
So, the DHS680Z scores the first point in this category.
Rip Fence And Capacity
Unfortunately, you can only find the rip fence (guide rule) in Makita DHS680Z. This mini fence is really handy in cutting a straight line down a wood piece.
Fences of other circular saws are attached to the base plate with only one screw, making it quite shaky during operation. Nevertheless, DHS680Z saw requires two screws for connection, providing more solid straight cuts.
Regarding capacity, they both possess great bevel angles, ranging from 0 to 50 degrees, and cutting depth spanning from 1.4375 to 2.25 inches.
The adjustment of these two parameters is also similar. To set the bevel angle, popping the lever at the front down will allow its base to rotate up to 45 degrees. You can rotate the stop on the blade side to let the bevel angle reach 50 degrees for optimum performance.
To adjust the cutting depth, you need to flip a separate lever behind the motor. It will help the saw base to pivot up and down. Pick your desired depth and lock the lever down to start working.
In short, despite having similar cutting capacity, DHS680Z is superior owing to the rip fence available in its package.
Additional Features
These cordless power tools also have similar additional features, such as automatic speed change technology (cutting speed changes according to load condition) and an electronic current limiter (preventing the saw from overheating).
They also share the equivalent onboard battery indicator. It comprises three power bars to indicate the battery charge level of the tools (3 bars = 50 – 100%; 2 bars = 20 – 50%; 1 bar = 0 – 20%).
When you see the first bar shining and the second bar blinking, you should immediately stop the Makita circular saw and recharge the battery.
However, Makita DHS680Z gains the upper hand by having a soft start and electric brake. This feature allows me to have greater control over the work.
Supporting Accessories
You will receive a similar package upon purchasing either of them. Only the circular saw will come to your front door. There will be no battery, charger, or dust collection port.
Yet, a hex key (Allen key) is stored right on the saw. You can use it to remove the arbor bolt for cutting blade replacement. Because of the left-hand blade orientation, you must remove the bolt clockwise. Going counterclockwise will further tighten and shear the bolt.
Quick Rundown Of Makita XSH03Z
Pros
- Cost-effective price
- Long battery life
- Effective dust collection
- Convenient cordless structure
- Cutting edge technologies
Con
- No battery and dust collection port included
>> Read Customer Reviews: Here <<
Quick Rundown Of Makita DHS680Z
Pros
- Long running time
- Smooth and optimum performance
- High precision
- Top-notch safety features
- Soft start and electric brake available
Con
- No battery and charger included
>> Read Customer Reviews: Here <<
Conclusion
After the detailed comparison of Makita XSH03Z vs DHS680Z, the final winner will be the latter. DHS680Z brings a superior ability in precision and control in your cuts.
That said, I do not deny that the model XSH03Z is a worthy choice. Makita XSH03Z will be ideal for those who crave high productivity in their work. If you are more into the safety features of sawing tools, you will also love this one.
In short, depending on your demands and preferences, you will have different criteria for choosing the most suitable circular saw. If you require a perfect and accurate cut, try to find out more about a Dewalt miter saw!