Makita XSS02Z vs Milwaukee 2631-20: Cordless Circular Saws Compared
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The Makita XSS02Z and Milwaukee 2631-20 are both 6-1/2 inch brushless cordless circular saws built for pros who want to cut the cord on jobsite trim and framing work. Both run on 18V platforms. Both cut a 2x4 clean. The differences come down to motor speed, weight distribution, and how each one feels mid-cut.
Quick Verdict
These are different tools dressed in the same category. The Milwaukee 2631-20 is a 7-1/4 inch saw that cuts deeper and replaces a corded saw on most jobsites. The Makita XSS02Z is a 6-1/2 inch saw that's lighter and cheaper for standard framing cuts. If you need to rip 2x8s on edge, get the Milwaukee. If 2x4 crosscuts are 90% of your work, save the $30 and get the Makita.
2-1/4 inch depth handles 2x lumber. Lighter and $30 cheaper for the most common cuts.
2-1/2 inch depth at 90 degrees clears 2x stock on edge. The 6-1/2 inch Makita can't.
7-1/4 inch blade uses the same blades as your old corded saw. No new blade inventory needed.
0.4 lb lighter and more compact. Easier to handle one-handed on a ladder.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Makita XSS02Z | Milwaukee 2631-20 |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Size | 6-1/2 in | 7-1/4 in |
| Depth of Cut (90 deg) | 2-1/4 in | 2-1/2 in |
| Depth of Cut (45 deg) | 1-5/8 in | 1-3/4 in |
| No-Load Speed | 5,000 RPM | 5,000 RPM |
| Battery Platform | 18V LXT | 18V (M18) |
| Weight (bare) | 7.0 lb (bare) | 7.4 lb (bare) |
| Brake Type | Electric brake | Electric brake |
Makita XSS02Z
Price: $149 (Amazon)
Pros
- Magnesium components keep weight down while maintaining rigidity
- LXT Advantage charges 18V batteries in 25 minutes with a rapid charger
- Soft rubber grip with lock-off lever prevents accidental starts
Cons
- 5,000 RPM is the slowest in this comparison
- No built-in dust blower, cut line fills with chips on plywood
- Bevel lever requires two hands to adjust
Milwaukee 2631-20
Price: $179 (Home Depot)
Pros
- 7-1/4 inch blade cuts 2-1/2 inches deep at 90, enough for 2x10 rip cuts on edge
- Left-blade design gives right-handed users a clear cut line
- Aircraft aluminum shoe stays true after repeated drops
Cons
- $30 more than the Makita for a bare tool
- 7.4 lb bare makes it one of the heavier 18V saws
- Larger blade means more drag on the battery per cut
Best For
Standard framing (2x4, 2x6 crosscuts)
Makita XSS02Z
2-1/4 inch depth handles 2x lumber. Lighter and $30 cheaper for the most common cuts.
Ripping 2x8 and wider stock on edge
Milwaukee 2631-20
2-1/2 inch depth at 90 degrees clears 2x stock on edge. The 6-1/2 inch Makita can't.
Replacing a corded circular saw
Milwaukee 2631-20
7-1/4 inch blade uses the same blades as your old corded saw. No new blade inventory needed.
Carrying up ladders and scaffolding
Makita XSS02Z
0.4 lb lighter and more compact. Easier to handle one-handed on a ladder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get a 6-1/2 or 7-1/4 inch cordless saw?
6-1/2 inch if you mainly crosscut 2x4s and sheet goods. 7-1/4 inch if you need to cut 2x6 or wider stock on edge, or you want to share blades with a corded saw you already own.
Do these saws accept worm-drive style blades?
No. Worm-drive blades have a different arbor size. Both saws use standard circular saw blades with a 5/8-inch arbor.
How many crosscuts per battery charge?
On a 5.0Ah battery, the Makita gets roughly 350 to 400 crosscuts in 2x4 lumber. The Milwaukee gets about 300 to 350 because the larger blade draws more power per cut.