10 Best Makita Miter Saws 2025 in the United States

The Makita LH1201FL is a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable miter saw with a 305 mm (about 12 inches) blade, a common size suitable for many woodworking and metal projects. Its 1650-watt motor provides strong cutting power, making it effective for a variety of materials including wood and metal. This model features a smooth table elevation system, allowing easy adjustment of cutting depth or bevel angles by loosening levers and turning a knob, which is user-friendly for precise cuts.

The built-in laser guide helps line up cuts accurately, an important feature for improving precision, especially if you're less experienced. Safety is addressed with a soft start to reduce motor strain and an electric brake that quickly stops the blade, helping to prevent accidents. The anti-restart function adds another layer of safety by preventing the saw from starting unexpectedly after a power outage. The weight (around 20.7 kg) and design suggest it is a table/miter saw likely focused more on stationary use rather than portability.

This Makita saw combines reliable power, good safety features, and helpful cutting aids like the laser, making it a suitable fit for woodworkers or metalworkers looking for a precise, mid-range miter saw.

The Makita XSL02Z 18V X2 LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Miter Saw is a robust tool, ideal for users needing portability and solid performance. Its blade size is moderately smaller at 7-1/2 inches, which might limit cutting larger materials but is suitable for most household and small professional tasks. The brushless motor delivers impressive power with a maximum speed of 5,700 RPM, ensuring fast and efficient cuts.

This saw is lightweight at 28.2 lbs (without battery), making it easier to transport and ideal for on-site work. Its dual slide compound functionality and 4-steel rail sliding system offer excellent stability and precise cuts, with a bevel capacity suitable for various angles. The battery is not included and needs to be purchased separately, which adds to the cost.

The automatic speed change feature is a smart addition that adjusts cutting speed and torque for optimal performance. While the dust collection feature is not highlighted, this could be a concern for those needing a cleaner workspace. The lack of a laser guide might be another drawback for users seeking precise guidance for their cuts. The Makita XSL02Z is well-suited for portability and efficient cutting, making it a good choice for contractors or DIY enthusiasts who work in different locations and require a reliable, powerful tool.

The Makita XSL08PT is a powerful cordless miter saw designed for those who want the flexibility of battery operation without sacrificing performance. It features a large 12-inch blade, which is ideal for cutting a wide variety of wood sizes and types. The motor delivers a fast 4,400 RPM thanks to its brushless design, making cuts smooth and efficient while also prolonging motor life by running cooler. This saw offers dual-bevel capability, allowing users to tilt the blade both left and right for versatile angled cuts, essential for complex trim work or framing.

As a sliding model, it expands cutting capacity, letting you handle wider boards compared to non-sliding saws. Its cutting angle is standard at 90 degrees but supports compound bevel cuts, which is perfect for precise miter and bevel needs. The included laser guide helps improve cutting accuracy by showing a clear line on the wood, though it may not replace the need for careful measurement. Dust collection is managed via a dust bag and compatible with Makita's optional wireless dust extractor, which can start automatically with the saw through Bluetooth communication, helping keep the workspace cleaner.

Powered by two 18V batteries working together (36V total), it offers longer run times and good portability without cords. The price and the need to purchase the wireless transmitter separately for the dust extractor feature might be a consideration. This saw is well-suited for serious DIYers and professionals seeking cordless convenience, precise cutting, and solid power in a well-built, versatile package.