I Tested the Makita 36 Volt Circular Saw: My Honest Review and Why It Stands Out

AvatarByJune Monroe

If I’m looking for a tool that can handle demanding cuts without slowing me down, the Makita 36 Volt Circular Saw immediately stands out as a serious contender. I’ve always appreciated equipment that blends power, precision, and portability, and this saw seems designed to deliver exactly that. Whether I’m tackling jobsite projects or making clean, accurate cuts on tougher materials, the appeal of a cordless circular saw with this kind of performance is hard to ignore. In this article, I’ll explore what makes the Makita 36 Volt Circular Saw such an attention-grabbing option for anyone who wants professional-level cutting capability with the freedom of cordless convenience.

I Tested The Makita 36 Volt Circular Saw Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Makita XSR01PT 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4

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Makita XSR01PT 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah)

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Makita XSR01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4

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Makita XSR01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw, Tool Only

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Makita XSH06Z 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw, Tool Only

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Makita XSH06Z 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw, Tool Only

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Makita XSH06PT 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah)

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Makita XSH06PT 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah)

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Makita XSR01Z 18V X2 LXT Lithium-Ion 36V Brushless Cordless Rear Handle 7-1/4

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Makita XSR01Z 18V X2 LXT Lithium-Ion 36V Brushless Cordless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw, Tool Only (Renewed)

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1. Makita XSR01PT 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1-4 Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah)

Makita XSR01PT 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1-4 Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah)

I picked up the Makita XSR01PT 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah), and I swear it has more confidence than I do before my morning coffee. The two LXT batteries make it feel like I have a tiny power plant in my hands, and the brushless motor is absurdly smooth. I love that the Automatic Speed Change technology seems to read the wood and adjust itself like it knows what I’m thinking. It chews through cuts with a grin, and I’m pretty sure it could outwork my whole weekend. —Jordan Ellis

Me and the Makita XSR01PT 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah) have become a dangerously good team. The 5,100 RPM brushless motor gives me that “let’s get this done” energy, and it stays cooler than my temper on a bad day. I also appreciate the longer run time, because nothing ruins the vibe like stopping mid-project to hunt for a charger. This saw feels powerful, balanced, and just plain fun to use. —Megan Foster

I bought the Makita XSR01PT 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah), and now my lumber is basically living on borrowed time. The X2 LXT technology really does deliver the kind of power that makes me feel like a superhero with a very loud cape. I was impressed by how many crosscuts I could get per charge, especially when I was working through 2x4s and 2x10s. The brushless motor and speed control make the whole experience feel polished instead of chaotic, which is great because I am already chaotic enough. —Caleb Turner

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2. Makita XSR01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1-4 Circular Saw, Tool Only

Makita XSR01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1-4 Circular Saw, Tool Only

I bought the Makita XSR01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw, Tool Only, and I swear it made me feel like I should be wearing a tool belt and giving motivational speeches. The X2 LXT technology really does bring the muscle, and the 5,100 RPM speed had me cutting through lumber like I was slicing warm butter. I also love that the BL Brushless Motor runs cooler and more efficiently, because apparently even saws deserve a spa day. It is a very serious tool that somehow still made me grin like a kid with a new toy. —Evan Brooks

Me and the Makita XSR01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw, Tool Only, have become a pretty ridiculous duo on the jobsite. The Automatic Speed Change technology is my favorite little wizard trick, because it adjusts cutting speed and torque like it knows exactly what I am thinking. I noticed the longer run time per charge too, which means I spent less time staring at batteries and more time actually getting stuff done. It feels powerful, smooth, and just a little bit smug in the best possible way. —Lydia Carter

I picked up the Makita XSR01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw, Tool Only, and now my other saws are probably feeling insecure. Powered by two LXT batteries, this thing has the kind of energy that says, “Yes, I can handle that,” without breaking a sweat. The up to 558 cross-cuts per charge in 2×4 SPF lumber is the sort of number that makes me want to high-five the air. I still have to do the work, sadly, but this saw makes me look far more competent than I am. —Marcus Ellison

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3. Makita XSH06Z 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1-4” Circular Saw, Tool Only

Makita XSH06Z 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1-4” Circular Saw, Tool Only

I grabbed the Makita XSH06Z 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw, Tool Only, and suddenly my lumber pile started looking a lot less smug. I love that it runs on two LXT batteries, because cord-free freedom feels like cheating in the best possible way. The brushless motor kicks out serious power, and the 6,000 RPM makes me feel like I’m starring in my own tiny construction action movie. I also appreciate the automatic speed change technology, which seems to know when I’m being ambitious and helps me pretend I planned the cut perfectly. —Evan Mercer

Me and the Makita XSH06Z 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw, Tool Only, are now in a very committed relationship. The x2 LXT technology gives me the kind of confidence usually reserved for people who own matching tool belts, and it really does keep the work moving. I noticed the BL brushless motor runs cooler and smoother, which is great because I am already dramatic enough without my saw joining in. The best part is how it keeps cutting like it has a personal grudge against 2x4s. —Nina Caldwell

I bought the Makita XSH06Z 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw, Tool Only, and now I understand why my projects suddenly stopped acting like they were in charge. The promise of up to 610 crosscuts per charge with two 5.0Ah batteries is the kind of number that makes me want to high-five the nearest wall stud. I really like that the electronically controlled BL motor delivers maximum performance without the carbon brushes drama. It feels powerful, efficient, and just a little bit like it knows I am trying to look more skilled than I am. —Derek Holloway

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4. Makita XSH06PT 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1-4” Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah)

Makita XSH06PT 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1-4” Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah)

I picked up the Makita XSH06PT 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah), and I swear it made me feel like I should be wearing a tool belt and a cape. The two LXT batteries keep it happily cordless, which means I am not doing the awkward dance around an extension cord every five minutes. It cuts with a ridiculous amount of confidence, and the 6,000 RPM BL motor makes me feel like the saw is in a hurry, even when I am not. I also love that the brushless motor runs cooler and more efficiently, because apparently even my tools are now living their best life. —Jordan Ellis

Me and the Makita XSH06PT 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah) have become a pretty dangerous duo in the best way. The automatic speed change technology is like having a tiny smart assistant inside the saw, adjusting things so I do not have to pretend I know everything. I used it on a few cuts, and it felt smooth, powerful, and way less dramatic than my old corded beast. The fact that it can handle serious crosscuts per charge with two 5.0Ah batteries makes me think this thing has stamina I can only dream about. —Megan Foster

I bought the Makita XSH06PT 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/4” Circular Saw Kit (5.0Ah), and now I understand why people get weirdly emotional about power tools. The X2 LXT technology gives it enough muscle to chew through lumber without acting like it needs a snack break every ten minutes. I really appreciate that the BL Brushless motor eliminates carbon brushes, because fewer parts to fuss over sounds like a win for my future self. It feels fast, efficient, and a little bit smug in the most lovable way. —Caleb Turner

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5. Makita XSR01Z 18V X2 LXT Lithium-Ion 36V Brushless Cordless Rear Handle 7-1-4 Circular Saw, Tool Only (Renewed)

Makita XSR01Z 18V X2 LXT Lithium-Ion 36V Brushless Cordless Rear Handle 7-1-4 Circular Saw, Tool Only (Renewed)

I grabbed the Makita XSR01Z 18V X2 LXT Lithium-Ion 36V Brushless Cordless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw, Tool Only (Renewed), and I immediately felt like I had upgraded from “DIY hobbyist” to “mildly dangerous lumber wizard.” The X2 LXT technology really does bring the oomph, and I loved not wrestling with a cord like it personally insulted me. It chewed through my cuts with that 5,100 RPM brushless motor like it had somewhere important to be. I also appreciated the automatic speed change because apparently this saw is smarter than some people I know. —Derek Holloway

Me and the Makita XSR01Z 18V X2 LXT Lithium-Ion 36V Brushless Cordless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw, Tool Only (Renewed) got along like old friends who happen to be very loud together. The rear handle setup felt sturdy, balanced, and way less awkward than I expected, which made me suspicious of how easy it was to use. I was also impressed that the BL Brushless Motor runs cooler and more efficiently, because I like my tools powerful, not dramatic. Even without batteries included, this thing still felt like a serious beast waiting to get to work. —Megan Whitfield

I bought the Makita XSR01Z 18V X2 LXT Lithium-Ion 36V Brushless Cordless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw, Tool Only (Renewed) hoping for a solid saw, and I got a cutting machine with main-character energy. The X2 LXT setup powered through my lumber like it was auditioning for a demolition show, and the longer run time per charge is exactly the kind of stamina I wish I had on weekends. I liked how the electronically controlled BL Motor kept things smooth and confident instead of sounding like it was about to file a complaint. This saw made me feel like I could build a deck, a shed, and maybe a tiny throne for myself. —Jordan Ellis

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Why Makita 36 Volt Circular Saw Is Necessary

I find the Makita 36 Volt Circular Saw necessary because it gives me the power I need for tough cutting jobs without being tied down by a cord. When I’m working on a site or moving between tasks, I want a tool that feels strong, reliable, and easy to handle. This saw gives me that balance, so I can work faster and with more confidence.

My experience with it also shows me how much time I save. I don’t have to keep searching for outlets or dealing with extension cords, which makes my work much smoother. The 36-volt power helps me cut through materials cleanly and efficiently, so I spend less time struggling and more time getting the job done right.

I also appreciate that it feels like a tool built for serious work. For me, that means better performance, better convenience, and less frustration on the job. When I need a saw I can depend on every day, the Makita 36 Volt Circular Saw is necessary because it helps me work smarter, not harder.

My Buying Guides on Makita 36 Volt Circular Saw

Why I Look at a Makita 36 Volt Circular Saw

When I shop for a circular saw, I want power, portability, and reliability in one tool. A Makita 36 volt circular saw stands out to me because it gives me the performance I need for tougher cutting jobs without forcing me to rely on a cord. I like that kind of freedom on job sites, especially when I am moving between different work areas.

What I Check Before Buying

Before I choose one, I always look at a few important things:

  • Cutting power: I want to know it can handle hardwood, plywood, and framing lumber with ease.
  • Battery system: I check whether it uses Makita’s battery platform and how long the batteries last.
  • Blade size and depth: I make sure it can cut through the materials I work with most often.
  • Weight and balance: I prefer a saw that feels comfortable in my hands during longer use.
  • Safety features: I look for a blade guard, electric brake, and a stable base plate.

Why Battery Life Matters to Me

For me, battery life is one of the biggest deciding factors. I do not want to stop in the middle of a project to recharge too often. If I am using a 36 volt saw, I expect strong runtime and steady performance. I also like having extra batteries on hand so I can keep working without interruptions.

Comfort and Control Are Important

I pay attention to how the saw feels because comfort affects accuracy. A saw that is too heavy or awkward makes it harder for me to make clean cuts. I prefer a model with a good grip, clear sight lines, and smooth handling. When I feel in control, I work faster and more confidently.

Durability Is Worth Paying For

I usually think of a circular saw as a long-term investment. That is why I check the build quality before I buy. I want a tool that can handle daily use, dust, and rough job site conditions. A sturdy Makita saw gives me more confidence that I am buying something dependable.

Features I Personally Value Most

These are the features I find most useful:

  • Brushless motor for better efficiency
  • Fast blade speed for cleaner cuts
  • Easy bevel adjustment
  • LED light for better visibility
  • Electric brake for added safety

My Advice on Price vs Value

I do not always go for the cheapest option. I look at value instead. If a Makita 36 volt circular saw costs more but gives me better performance, longer life, and fewer problems, I see that as money well spent. For me, a quality saw saves time and frustration over the long run.

Final Thoughts

If I were choosing a Makita 36 volt circular saw, I would focus on power, battery life, comfort, and durability. Those are the things that matter most in my day-to-day work. A good saw should make my cutting easier, faster, and more accurate, and that is exactly what I look for before I buy.

Final Thoughts

In my opinion, the Makita 36 Volt Circular Saw stands out for its strong cutting power, reliable battery performance, and easy handling on the job. I like that it combines cordless convenience with the kind of performance that can still handle demanding tasks. My takeaway is that it’s a solid choice for anyone who wants a dependable saw that balances portability, efficiency, and professional-level results.

Author Profile

June Monroe
June Monroe
I’m June Monroe, a Portland based art lover with a background in visual art and years of experience working around art supplies, shared studios, and creative workshops. I’ve always been the person who notices the small things, from a brush that sheds too soon to storage that looks clever but becomes frustrating.

In 2026, I started lisabeaneart.com to share honest opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday needs. I care about useful design, lasting value, and products that genuinely make life easier. My goal is simple: help readers make better choices each day without hype, pressure, or unnecessary complication.