Makita XSR01PT Review: Professional-Grade Cordless Power at a Premium Price

The Makita XSR01PT is a 36V (dual 18V) brushless rear-handle circular saw that aims to deliver corded-saw performance in a cordless package. After examining its specifications, professional reviews, and real-world usage reports, here’s our honest assessment of whether this premium saw justifies its $400+ price tag.

Quick Verdict

Best for: Professional contractors, serious woodworkers who already own Makita 18V tools, users who need maximum cordless cutting power

Skip if: You’re a casual DIYer, don’t own other Makita LXT tools, or need something for occasional light tasks

Key Specifications

• Blade Size: 7.25 inches (standard full-size)
• Motor: Brushless motor delivers 5,100 RPM
• Battery System: Dual 18V LXT (36V total power)
• Weight: 9.7 lbs (with batteries)
• Cutting Depth: 2.5″ at 90°, 1.75″ at 45°
• Runtime: Up to 558 crosscuts in 2×4 SPF lumber per charge
• Kit Includes: Saw, two 5.0Ah batteries, dual-port rapid charger, blade, carrying case
• Warranty: 3 years on tool, 1 year on batteries

What Works Exceptionally Well

Genuine Corded-Saw Performance

This saw delivers on its promise of matching corded performance. The brushless motor provides extreme power and long run time, cutting through dimensional lumber and sheet goods with authority that rivals plug-in saws.

Superior Battery Technology

The brushless motor eliminates carbon brushes, enabling cooler and more efficient operation for longer life. The dual 18V system provides impressive runtime – up to 291 crosscuts in 2×10 SPF lumber using two 5.0Ah batteries.

Professional Build Quality

• Rear-handle design: Familiar feel for professionals transitioning from corded saws
• Robust construction: Built to withstand jobsite abuse
• Smooth operation: Users report the saw “feels solid and smooth when cutting”

Smart Technology Features

Automatic Speed Change™ technology adjusts cutting speed based on load, optimizing performance and battery life. The electronic controls match torque and RPM to the application automatically.

Notable Limitations

High Cost of Entry

At $400-450 for the kit, this saw costs 2-3 times more than quality corded circular saws. The investment only makes sense if you already own Makita 18V batteries or need the cordless capability professionally.

Weight Considerations

At nearly 10 pounds with batteries, it’s heavier than most corded saws. Extended overhead use can be fatiguing compared to lighter alternatives.

Battery Dependency

• Requires two batteries for optimal performance
• Runtime decreases significantly with demanding cuts
• Battery replacement costs are substantial ($100+ per battery)

Minor Design Issues

Reviewers note “a lack of indexing for various angles” – the base has no cut markings for common angles other than 45° and 0°, which is surprising for a premium tool.

Real-World Performance

Where It Excels

• Framing work: Handles repeated cuts in dimensional lumber without bogging down
• Sheet goods: Clean cuts in plywood and OSB with minimal tearout
• Remote locations: The “cord-free usage is a game changer for a saw with this kind of power”
• Production cutting: Maintains consistent performance through extended use

Demanding Applications

Professional reviewers report excellent performance in:

• Subflooring installation
• Deck construction
• Siding cuts
• Rough carpentry work

How It Compares

vs. Corded Circular Saws: Matches cutting performance while providing mobility. Costs significantly more and requires battery management.

vs. Other Cordless Saws: Outperforms most single-battery cordless saws in power and runtime. The DeWalt FlexVolt offers similar performance with different battery ecosystem trade-offs.

vs. Makita’s Sidewinder (XSH06PT): The rear-handle design offers better balance for some users, while the sidewinder provides better visibility of the cut line.

Who Should Buy This Saw

Ideal Candidates

• Professional contractors already in the Makita 18V ecosystem
• Serious woodworkers who value cordless convenience
• Users who regularly work in locations without power access
• Those who need consistent, heavy-duty cutting performance

Better Alternatives For

• Casual DIYers: A quality corded saw will serve you better at 1/3 the cost
• Mixed brand users: Consider Milwaukee or DeWalt if you already own their batteries
• Budget-conscious buyers: The tool-only version (XSR01Z) costs $200 less if you have batteries

Bottom Line

The Makita XSR01PT represents the current pinnacle of cordless circular saw technology. It has “separated itself from the cordless pack in both form and performance” according to professional reviewers. The question isn’t whether it performs well – it does – but whether you need what it offers.

Buy it if: You’re a professional who values cordless convenience, already own Makita 18V tools, and can justify the premium for genuine corded-saw performance in a battery-powered package.

Skip it if: You’re looking for your first circular saw, work primarily in workshop settings with power access, or balk at spending $400+ on a single tool.

Alternatives to Consider

• Tool only (XSR01Z): $260 if you already have compatible batteries
• DeWalt DCS577X1: FlexVolt alternative with different battery platform
• Corded option: Makita 5007MG offers similar cutting performance for $130
• Budget cordless: Makita XSH04Z sidewinder for lighter-duty cordless needs

This saw delivers on its promises but at a premium price. Make sure the cordless convenience justifies the significant cost difference over equally capable corded alternatives.