We have completed a Makita HS301DZ review. This is a cordless mini circular saw, from the high end Makita brand. It is classed as a mini circular saw (compact saw) as it is designed to be used one handed, unlike the full sized circular saw that required two hands and is much more bulky and heavier.
This HS301DZ model operate off a compatible 12V Max Makita battery and as such there are no trailing electrical leads to worry about when cutting. It has an 85mm (3.25″) blade with a cutting depth of 25.5mm(1″). It can also cut bevels up to 45 degrees though the cutting depth is reduced to 16.5 mm (0.65″)
Below we have conducted a full review, on this very popular model from the top quality Makita brand.
Makita HS301DZ Circular Saw Specification & Features
This is a versatile 85mm compact saw which is designed to do plunge cuts for creating vents, putting in electric sockets, light switches and cutting out sections of flooring.
- It can cut bevels which again is very useful for making cuts that don’t have sharp edges (45 degree bevels)
- The blade diameter is 85mm (3.25″) and the bore is 15mm
- Cutting depth of up to 25.5 mm (1″ inch) and bevel at 45 degrees cutting depth of 16.5mm (0.6″)
- Can be used on wood, metal, plasterboard, masonry and tiles but different types of blade required
- Length: 331mm
- Weighs 1.43 Kg and 1.8Kg with a 4.0AH battery attached
- Comes with 3 blades – a diamond tipped for masonry, a TCT wood cutting blade and a a HSS general cutting blade suitable for plastic or metal.
- Two stage safety trigger
- Blower function to keep the cutting line clear
- Ergonomic handle for solid grip and more control
- High power Motor: 1500 rpm
What Buyers Say About the Makita HS301DZ Circular Saw
We have summarised below in a pros and cons table what buyers actually said about this particular model. These are very useful as people have bought the HS301DZ model, used it, and then taken the time to leave their thoughts.
Pros
- This is a good saw for doing smaller jobs really quickly such as plunge cuts, cutting pipes or conduit
- Buyers say the saw is really powerful and cuts quickly and accurately
- Buyers liked that there was no electric lead to worry about
- Buyers said that although expensive worth it for the quality and built to last for years
Cons
- Some buyers said it was really expensive
- A few buyers say the battery life is too short
Our Expertise
We have bought and used the Makita HS301DZ and other similar mini circular saw models. We understand through use how this compares to other corded mini circular saws that we have used. We understand the differences between power, accuracy and ease of use. This is one of the best on the UK market right now. It’s on the expensive side, but at the end of the day, you get what you pay for.
Product Comparison
GALAX PRO | MAKITA HS301DZ | DEWALT DCS571N |
|---|---|---|
 | |  |
Comes with 20V battery and charger Cutting depth: 42.8mm Can cut bevels Average UK Price £80 | No battery or charger (needs 12V battery) Cutting depth: 27mm Can cut bevels Average UK Price £90 | No battery or charger (needs 18V battery) Cutting depth: 38mm Can cut bevels Average UK Price £234 |
The Makita and the Dewalt models are the most compatible as neither comes with a battery or charger. Unless you own something compatible you will need to consider the additional cost of buying those. The Galax Pro comes with a battery and charger and is much cheaper.
It is however a lower quality saw as you can see from the much lower buyer rating and it only has a 12 month warranty. It really depends how much you are willing to spend.
Our Expert Opinion
If you have used a normal circular saw, you will know that they are powerful and cut really quickly. The main disadvantage is their size and weight and they take a bit of time to set up.
Mini circular saws like this Makita HS301DZ are much lighter and can be used with just one hand. That makes them handier to use for a range of purposes.
This HS301DZ model is designed to suit the needs of carpenters, joiners and shopfitters. It is also a popular choice for many electricians and plumbers.
The Makita HS301DZ model is lightweight (1.8Kg) with the battery attached and is also very easy to use. The depth guide is very good and the blades are easy enough to change. It comes with 1 blades suitable for cutting wood. It is high quality but expensive.
The cutting depth though is very small at just 25.5mm (1″) so don’t expect miracles from this small saw. If you want this for cutting thicker wood there are better options as you will see in our comparison above.
Our Verdict on the Makita HS301DZ Circular Saw
In our opinion, this is most likely to be bought by joiners, carpenters, builders and construction workers who need a reliable mini saw for daily use.
They need something that works really well and will last them for several years. In addition, most of these trades will already own a compatible battery and charger.
For the DIY person ,this is the best cordless mini circular saw on the market. However at over £100 and another £70-80 for a battery and charger it is probably going to be too expensive.
When we used it, the power and cutting capability is second to none and it cuts through wood with ease.
Check Amazon UK for Availability – Price when reviewed £87.99 – 92% customer satisfaction based on 1,500+ online buyer reviews
If this model is not the one for you, then check out our list of the top 10 mini circular saws by clicking here. There are lots to choose from, including some cordless options if you prefer those.