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Pro Tool Reviews compared Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel 2834 and Makita’s 40V max XGT GSH01 in a series of circular-saw tests. Both handled routine crosscuts, miter cuts, bevel cuts and compound cuts well, while Milwaukee finished two demanding OSB rip-cut tests faster.
According to Pro Tool Reviews, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2834 and Makita 40V max XGT GSH01 performed well in routine cuts during a head-to-head test of premium cordless circular saws. Milwaukee recorded faster times in two demanding OSB rip tests, a result that may matter to buyers who regularly cut thicker or stacked sheet material.
Pro Tool Reviews tested crosscuts, rip cuts, miter cuts, bevel cuts and compound cuts using dimensional lumber and OSB. In the review’s seven-foot rip through two stacked ¾-inch OSB sheets, Milwaukee recorded 9.76 seconds, compared with 13.53 seconds for Makita. In a separate full-depth test through three stacked ¾-inch OSB sheets, the review recorded Milwaukee at 17.41 seconds and Makita at 24.74 seconds.
The models’ listed specifications, as reported by Pro Tool Reviews, include a 7¼-inch blade, a brushless motor rated at up to 6,000 RPM, and a stated maximum cutting depth of 2⅝ inches at 90 degrees. Milwaukee’s maximum bevel angle is 57 degrees; Makita’s is 56 degrees. At a 45-degree bevel, the listed cutting depths differ: Milwaukee is rated at 2 1/16 inches and Makita at 1 13/16 inches.
Pro Tool Reviews described the saws as closely matched in standard crosscuts, miter cuts and bevel cuts. The review also said both completed the tested compound cuts without reported problems. It praised the lower blade guards on both models for moving smoothly over board edges, while noting that the reviewer found Milwaukee’s guard action slightly smoother.
Where Milwaukee Gained Time
Pro Tool Reviews’ results point to a practical distinction rather than a complete difference in capability: both saws handled ordinary cuts, while Milwaukee was faster in the review’s two more demanding rip-cut trials. For a contractor or serious DIY user who frequently rips thick or stacked OSB, that performance could affect work pace. The review’s results do not establish that Milwaukee will be faster in every material or job condition.
For buyers already invested in a cordless-tool platform, the comparison is also about fit. Milwaukee’s saw belongs to the M18 Fuel system; Makita’s uses the 40V max XGT platform. Battery compatibility, existing tools and preferred features may carry more weight than a small specification advantage, particularly for users whose work mostly involves routine cuts where Pro Tool Reviews found little separation.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 7¼ inch circular saw
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Two Flagship Cordless Platforms
Pro Tool Reviews describes the Milwaukee 2834 as the latest generation of the company’s M18 Fuel 7¼-inch sidewinder-style circular saw. Its listed features include a folding rafter hook, an electronic blade brake, an LED work light and a dust blower. The review also describes a related model, the 2835, as One-Key compatible; it does not identify that tracking feature as a specification of the 2834 itself.
According to the review, Makita’s GSH01 uses the 40V max XGT battery platform. Its listed features include compatibility with Makita’s Auto-Start Wireless System when paired with a Bluetooth transmitter, an integrated tether point and a three-position bevel dial with stops at 22.5, 45 and 56 degrees. Pro Tool Reviews lists no rafter hook for this model. These features may be relevant to users’ work setups, but they do not change the reported test times.
Limits of the Test Results
Pro Tool Reviews describes the materials and timed rip tests but does not provide enough detail in the supplied report to independently assess factors such as battery charge state, battery size, repeated-run variation or the number of trials. The results should be read as the review’s outcomes under its test conditions, not as a guarantee of performance on every jobsite.
The supplied report also does not state prices, package configurations, warranty comparisons or a final overall score that weighs speed against features and platform costs. It is therefore unclear from this material which saw offers the better value for a particular buyer. The review does not claim that either model is the best choice for every user.
Match the Saw to the Job
Readers comparing the models can use Pro Tool Reviews’ findings alongside current local pricing and the batteries and tools they already own. Those who often make heavy rip cuts may give Milwaukee’s faster recorded times particular weight; users focused on Makita’s XGT platform, its bevel stops or wireless vacuum compatibility may prioritize those features.
Pro Tool Reviews states no further testing or follow-up date in the supplied material. Before making a purchase, buyers should check the exact model and kit contents, since features and included batteries can differ between tool-only and bundled versions.
Key Questions
Which saw was faster in the review’s rip-cut tests?
Milwaukee’s 2834 recorded faster times in both tests reported by Pro Tool Reviews: 9.76 seconds versus Makita’s 13.53 seconds through two stacked ¾-inch OSB sheets, and 17.41 seconds versus 24.74 seconds through three stacked sheets at full depth.
Did Makita perform poorly on ordinary cuts?
No. Pro Tool Reviews said both saws handled standard crosscuts, miter cuts and bevel cuts well, and both completed the tested compound cuts without reported issues.
What are the saws’ maximum bevel angles?
Pro Tool Reviews lists Milwaukee’s maximum as 57 degrees and Makita’s as 56 degrees. The review also notes that Makita’s GSH01 has positive stops at 22.5, 45 and 56 degrees.
Which saw should a buyer choose?
Pro Tool Reviews’ test supports Milwaukee for faster performance in the specific heavy OSB rip cuts, but it does not establish a universal winner. Buyers should also weigh their M18 or XGT battery platform, tool features, package contents and current price.
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