These Are The Best Makita Saws On The Market, According To Reviews
Whether you're embarking on a major remodeling project or are just trying to get ahead of yard maintenance and chores before winter arrives, a powerful saw can make all the difference. We scoured Reddit boards, watched countless unboxing videos, and read thousands of reviews to round up three of the best Makita saws on the market: a circular saw, a variable-speed jigsaw, and a chainsaw. Only cordless tools with over 1,000 five-star ratings made the cut.
A favorite of builders and DIY homeowners alike, the battery-powered Makita Brushless Cordless Circular Saw Kit ($399 at Home Depot) can make over 600 crosscuts in a spruce, pine, or fir 2 by 4 in one charge. This model has built-in LED lights and a dust blower that clears debris so you can always see exactly what you're cutting. Ensuring clean cuts is one way you can keep your DIY wood projects from looking cheap.
Hundreds of reviewers, including pros who tested the device, loved the tool's maneuverable design, adjustable blade depth, and bevel-cut capabilities. Several users called it their favorite saw. Most customers who left negative feedback were disappointed the saw didn't come with a rip guide attachment to help them make straight cuts and that it has a left-handed trigger. The magnesium blade guard received mixed reviews, with some complaining the guard would get easily hung up and others explaining that this was a safety feature to make sure users correct depth setting and technique issues.
Customers love this lightweight Makita chainsaw
Built with tree care professionals in mind, the Makita Top Handle Chain Saw Kit ($559 at Home Depot) is a cordless option offering variable cutting speeds and consistent power without the hassle of gas. Two 18-volt batteries quietly power a direct-drive system capable of cutting through brush, thick branches, and hard firewood. If you're an early riser who wants to work outside without disturbing your neighbors or noise-sensitive pets, this may be a good option, especially if your trees are in desperate need of a trim.
Pros and homeowners who have reviewed this chainsaw favored these features: quick-stop brake mechanism, battery power indicator, and lightweight design. Along with the saw's 16-inch chain, guide bar, and chain cover, this kit comes with two Lithium-ion batteries and a charger. Hundreds of reviewers said the battery life was excellent, and they also appreciated that they were rapid charging and long-lasting. Some didn't like the power management feature that automatically shuts off the saw when it isn't being used, and a few users experienced overheating.
Makita's cordless jigsaw is lightweight but powerful
If you want to spruce up your bathroom walls with paneling or your upcoming home improvement plans include installing laminate flooring, you'll probably need a jigsaw. This cordless option with a variable speed trigger is just under $200 at Home Depot. Weighing in at just over 6 pounds, this tool quickly cuts a wide range of materials thanks to an 18-volt battery (sold separately). Like other Makita saws on our list, this one has a built-in LED light and ergonomic design.
Many reviewers found the 12-inch carbide-tipped blades easy to adjust and change out. Users described cutting through thin wood, plaster, flooring, foam, and other materials with ease, but keep in mind that this is not the right saw for heavy-duty cutting. We couldn't find many negative reviews, but when we did, they were mostly from customers who were frustrated to receive used tools from third-party sellers.
Along with purchasing your tools from a reputable company, make sure you carefully review Makita's warranty information, return policies, and blade replacement pricing before making the investment.