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
How Online Buyers Rate the Makita HS301DZ Model?
- Based on 1,500+ online buyer reviews that we have read, this saw gets an overall satisfaction level of 92%
- 79% of all buyers give this saw a 5 star review
- 3% of all buyers give this a poor review
Easy to use
94%
Accuracy
95%
Versatility
88%
Value for Money
85%
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
Cons
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
78% satisfaction based on 400+ reviews
Comes with 20V battery and charger
Cutting depth: 42.8mm
Can cut bevels
Average UK Price £80
MAKITA HS301DZ
92% satisfaction based on 1,500+ reviews
No battery or charger (needs 12V battery)
Cutting depth: 27mm
Can cut bevels
Average UK Price £90
DEWALT DCS571N
96% satisfaction based on 300+ reviews
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.
Makita Brand
Makita are a very high end brand who make very high quality power tools. They are more expensive than many other brands but all their tools are excellent quality in terms of workmanship and build. They have been making tools for over 100 years and are a Japanese company. Their manufacturing plant is based in Telford in the UK, and their Head Office is based in Milton Keynes.
Their philosophy is that for any good tool you need the best motor. All of their other parts and components are made from the best premium grade steel. They are a certified ISO9001 company.
They can be contacted by telephone in the UK on 01908-211678, by email at customerservice@makitauk.com or via the contact page on their website. You can buy directly from them online or through dealers such as Amazon, Bradfords, B&Q, Cromwell, Screwfix, Electric Center, Buildbase, Jewson, Wickes etc.
Makita tools come with a 1 year warranty, which you can extend to 3 years by registering your new product online within 30 days of purchase.
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