DeWalt DCS391 vs Makita XSH03Z: Cordless Circular Saws Compared
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Two different approaches to the same job. The DeWalt DCS391 runs a traditional 6-1/2 inch blade on 20V MAX. The Makita XSH03Z runs the same size blade on 18V LXT with a brushless motor and a thinner kerf blade. Both cut 2x4s in a single pass and handle plywood ripping with a guide. The differences show up in motor efficiency and cut quality.
Quick Verdict
The Makita XSH03Z is the better saw if you can absorb the $30 price difference. The brushless motor lasts longer, runs cooler, and cuts more per charge. The DeWalt DCS391 is lighter and cheaper, which makes sense for occasional use or if you're already deep in the 20V MAX ecosystem.
Lighter, cheaper, and 5,150 RPM gets through studs quickly. Cut quality matters less here.
Brushless motor delivers consistent speed under load. Built-in dust blower keeps your pencil line visible.
Brushless motor means 50% more cuts per battery charge. That adds up over 100+ rip cuts on a deck job.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | DeWalt DCS391 | Makita XSH03Z |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Size | 6-1/2 in | 6-1/2 in |
| Depth of Cut (90 deg) | 2-1/4 in | 2-1/4 in |
| Depth of Cut (45 deg) | 1-5/8 in | 1-5/8 in |
| No-Load Speed | 5,150 RPM | 5,000 RPM |
| Battery Platform | 20V MAX | 18V LXT |
| Weight (bare) | 6.9 lb (bare) | 7.3 lb (bare) |
| Brake Type | Electric brake | Electric brake + Auto-start wireless system |
DeWalt DCS391
Price: $139 (Home Depot)
Pros
- 2-1/4 inch depth at 90 degrees cuts through 2x lumber with room to spare
- 5,150 RPM produces clean cuts in plywood without excessive tearout
- Magnesium shoe stays flat and resists bending from drops
Cons
- Brushed motor draws more power and wears out faster than brushless
- 6.9 lb bare is on the heavier side for a 6-1/2 inch saw
- No dust port adapter included in the box
Makita XSH03Z
Price: $169 (Amazon)
Pros
- Brushless motor runs cooler and gets 50%+ more cuts per charge than the DCS391
- AWS (Auto-start Wireless System) turns on a paired dust extractor automatically
- Built-in dust blower keeps the cut line visible without stopping to clear debris
Cons
- $30 more than the DeWalt for a bare tool
- 7.3 lb is the heaviest in this comparison
- AWS adapter for the dust extractor is sold separately
Best For
Framing and rough carpentry
DeWalt DCS391
Lighter, cheaper, and 5,150 RPM gets through studs quickly. Cut quality matters less here.
Finish carpentry and sheet goods
Makita XSH03Z
Brushless motor delivers consistent speed under load. Built-in dust blower keeps your pencil line visible.
High-volume cutting (decks, fences)
Makita XSH03Z
Brushless motor means 50% more cuts per battery charge. That adds up over 100+ rip cuts on a deck job.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 7-1/4 inch blades on either saw?
No. Both use 6-1/2 inch blades only. A 7-1/4 inch blade won't fit the arbor guard. If you need full-depth 2x6 cuts in a single pass, look at a 7-1/4 inch saw.
Do these cut 2x4s in one pass?
Yes. A 2x4 is actually 1-1/2 inches thick. Both saws cut 2-1/4 inches deep at 90 degrees, which clears a 2x4 with 3/4 inch to spare.
Is the brushed vs brushless difference really noticeable?
On a single cut, no. Over a full day of cutting, absolutely. The brushless XSH03Z will still be running strong on its second battery while the brushed DCS391 is chewing through its third. The motor also runs cooler, which extends its total lifespan.