Makita XSH03Z vs XSS02Z: Get The Job Done Right With XSH03Z

Welcome to the Makita XSH03Z vs XSS02Z battle. Today, I’ll show you head-to-head combat between two competitors from the Makita family.

Are you a stranger to table saws? If yes, Makita XSS02Z is a user-friendly tool for you. This model, offering a low speed yet powerful motor, is also the best candidate for trim works.

The XSH03Z can serve you the best with its LED light system if you are a stickler for precision. For those seeking a high-speed machine, this model can be a capable assistant to get more jobs done in less time.

Here is a summary of the two products.

The Winner
The Runner-up
Image
Makita XSH03Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 6-1/2" Circular Saw, Tool Only
Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2" Circular Saw, Tool Only
Model name
Makita XSH03Z
Makita XSS02Z
Best for
Accuracy
Ease of use
Motor type
Brushless
Brushless
Maximum cutting capacity
2-1/4 inches at 90° 1-5/8 inches at 45°
2-1/4 inches at 90° 1-5/8 inches at 45°
Bevel capacity
50°
50°
Blade speed
5,000 rpm
3,700 rpm
Blade diameter
6-1/2 inches
6-1/2 inches
Weight
7.5 pounds
7.5 pounds
Dimensions
7.8x14.02x10.43 inches
‎9.65x14.09x10.98 inches
Voltage
18V
18V
Power source
Battery
Battery
Power
5.0 Ah
5.0 Ah
User rating
-
-
Price
$207.99
$107.00
The Winner
Image
Makita XSH03Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 6-1/2" Circular Saw, Tool Only
Model name
Makita XSH03Z
Best for
Accuracy
Motor type
Brushless
Maximum cutting capacity
2-1/4 inches at 90° 1-5/8 inches at 45°
Bevel capacity
50°
Blade speed
5,000 rpm
Blade diameter
6-1/2 inches
Weight
7.5 pounds
Dimensions
7.8x14.02x10.43 inches
Voltage
18V
Power source
Battery
Power
5.0 Ah
User rating
-
Price
$207.99
More info
The Runner-up
Image
Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2" Circular Saw, Tool Only
Model name
Makita XSS02Z
Best for
Ease of use
Motor type
Brushless
Maximum cutting capacity
2-1/4 inches at 90° 1-5/8 inches at 45°
Bevel capacity
50°
Blade speed
3,700 rpm
Blade diameter
6-1/2 inches
Weight
7.5 pounds
Dimensions
‎9.65x14.09x10.98 inches
Voltage
18V
Power source
Battery
Power
5.0 Ah
User rating
-
Price
$107.00
More info

Differences Between Makita XSH03Z vs XSS02Z

Now, let’s take a closer look at these two cordless tools.

Accuracy

Although the two come with an easy-to-read scale to select desired angles correctly, the Makita XSH03Z seems to stand out in terms of accuracy.

There are dual LED lights that work as a guide, creating a precise cutting path on the workpieces. You only have to pull the blade down exactly on the defined line, and a perfect cut is made.

Even better, this version is equipped with a built-in dust blower to clean up the surface, enhancing the working sight to make accurate cuts. 

For this stunning quality, the XSH03Z model deserves one first point.

Design And Material

The two are mainly made of aluminum and magnesium, reducing the weight to only 7.5 pounds. This compact size is perfect for woodwork requiring constant travel.

But I’m a huge fan of XSS02Z for its user-friendly features. The rubber grip handle brings out a soft feeling and great comfort. Especially when cutting hardwood, you have to use a lot of force that can hurt your hands. 

Even better, this version comes with an onboard blade wrench for convenience when adjusting the blade.

So, I’ll give XSS02Z one point for its ease of use.

Power And Speed

The battle of Makita XSS02Z vs XSH03Z becomes more dramatic when the two competitors are neck and neck. So who will get the second point in this round?

Both run a 5.0 Ah Lithium-Ion battery as their power source, enabling you to make 174 cuts per charge. The best thing is that Makita integrates an LXT technology in the battery for optimum performance.

This feature can shorten 3 times the charging process, offer 50% extended battery life and increase 50% durability of the brushless motor.

What sets them apart is the blade speed. XSH03Z delivers a supreme speed of 5,000 rpm with plenty of power to cut through the hardest wood. With this impressive figure, it takes the lead over the other.

That said, XSS02Z, with a slow speed of 3,700 rpm yet a powerful motor, is ideal for trim works.

Blade

Both of them spin 6-1/2-inch blades, which can easily deal with vertical cuts of 4-1/2 inches thick. However, this diameter is rather small to tackle wider dimensions.

The blades are made of carbide, an extremely strong material, making them easier to cut through hardwood in a chop. So, they are equally superb in blade design.

Additional Features

I’ll give a big thumbs up for the Star Protection of Makita XSH03Z and XSS02Z. This feature is designed for effective power management with overload, overheat, and over-discharge protection.

But what impresses me most is the XPT technology of XSH03Z. There are protective seals to prevent internal components from exposure to water, dust, and debris. This quality is optimal for those working in a harsh environment to minimize the wear and tear of their machine.

Therefore, this version gets one more point in this round.

Included Components

There is a TCT saw blade and a hex wrench in the box, but no battery or charger is included. This point is really annoying as you have to buy them separately. 

Quick Rundown Of Makita XSH03Z

Makita XSH03Z vs XSS02Z

Makita XSH03Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 6-1/2" Circular Saw, Tool Only
  • Powerful Makita-built electronically controlled BL Motor delivers 5,000 RPM for faster cutting and ripping
  • Automatic Speed Change technology adjusts cutting speed and torque during cut for optimum performance
  • The BL Brushless Motor eliminates carbon brushes, enabling the BL Motor to run cooler and more efficiently for longer life
  • Efficient BL Brushless motor is electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use for up to 50% longer run time per charge
  • The electronically-controlled BL Brushless Motor efficiently uses energy to match torque and RPM to the changing demands of the application

Pros

  • Highly accurate with dual LED lights
  • Compact design
  • Powerful motor
  • High speed for faster cutting
  • LXT technology for more efficient performance
  • Star Protection for better power management
  • XPT technology for greater durability

Cons

  • Small blade
  • No battery and charger included

>> Read Customer Reviews: Here <<

Quick Rundown Of Makita XSS02Z

Makita XSH03Z vs XSS02Z

Sale
Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2" Circular Saw, Tool Only
  • Makita built motor delivers 3, 700 RPM for faster cutting and ripping through wood
  • Heavy gauge, precision machined base for smooth, accurate cutting and added durability
  • 50 degree maximum bevel cutting capacity
  • Weighs only 7.3 pounds with battery (battery not included) for reduced operator fatigue
  • 6 to 1/2 inches blade delivers a 2 to 1/4 inches cutting capacity for a wide range of cutting applications

Pros

  • Onboard blade wrench for more convenience
  • Compact design
  • Soft grip handle for more comfort
  • Star Protection for better power management
  • Powerful motor

Cons

  • Small blade
  • No battery and charger included

>> Read Customer Reviews: Here <<

Conclusion

The comparison battle between Makita XSH03Z vs XSS02Z has come to an end. The winner goes to XSH03Z. Its outstanding accuracy, high speed, and extreme protective feature make it a versatile assistant for every carpenter.

For those who are new to a circular saw, the XSS02Z is worth your consideration with its user-friendly design and Star Protection quality.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *