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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. Milwaukee cut faster in two timed, demanding OSB rip tests, while both models performed well in crosscuts, miter cuts, bevel cuts and compound cuts.
Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel 2834 finished ahead of Makita’s 40V max XGT GSH01 in two timed, heavy-load rip-cut tests, according to a head-to-head review by Pro Tool Reviews. The results distinguish Milwaukee on cutting speed under those test conditions, while the review found the saws broadly comparable on several other common cut types.
In a test ripping double-stacked 3/4-inch OSB, the Milwaukee saw completed the seven-foot cut in 9.76 seconds; the Makita took 13.53 seconds. In a second trial through triple-stacked 3/4-inch OSB at full depth, Milwaukee recorded 17.41 seconds and Makita 24.74 seconds. Pro Tool Reviews said the tests were conducted using a custom sled pulled by a 10-pound weight in the first trial, with both saws timed.
The two models share several headline specifications. Each has a 7 1/4-inch blade, a listed no-load speed of 6,000 RPM and a maximum 2 5/8-inch cut depth at 90 degrees. Milwaukee’s maximum bevel is 57 degrees, one degree more than Makita’s 56 degrees. Makita’s saw has positive stops at 22.5, 45 and 56 degrees; Milwaukee’s listed 45-degree depth is 2 1/16 inches, compared with 1 13/16 inches for Makita.
For standard crosscuts, miter cuts, bevel cuts and compound cuts, the review described both saws as capable and closely matched. It also praised the lower blade guards on both models for moving over board edges without catching during the tested cuts. The report noted a smoother-feeling guard action on Milwaukee, while characterizing that difference as small.
Where Milwaukee Gained Cutting Time
The results give buyers a direct comparison beyond the similar published speed and cut-depth figures. In the review’s two demanding OSB rip tests, Milwaukee completed the cuts sooner, making it the stronger performer in those specific timed trials. That may matter to users who regularly make long or deep cuts in sheet material and prioritize speed under load.
The advantage should not be treated as a universal measure of job-site productivity. The reported times come from a particular test setup and material, and the review found no meaningful gap in several other cut categories. A buyer choosing between these tools may also weigh battery-platform compatibility, handling, features and the work they do most often; the source does not quantify those factors as part of an overall cost or productivity comparison.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 7 1/4 inch circular saw
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Two 7¼-Inch Platform Flagships
The comparison covers Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel 2834, described in the review as the latest generation of Milwaukee’s 7 1/4-inch sidewinder-style circular saw, and Makita’s GSH01, which runs on the 40V max XGT platform. Both use brushless motors, and the review lists each at up to 6,000 RPM. The published specifications therefore appear close on basic speed and 90-degree cutting depth, though the saws differ in bevel capacity and design features.
Milwaukee lists an electronic blade brake, LED work light, dust blower and folding rafter hook; the review says a related version, the 2835, is One-Key compatible. Makita’s GSH01 is AWS compatible when paired with a Bluetooth transmitter and compatible dust extractor, has an integrated tether point and uses a three-position bevel dial. The review lists no rafter hook for the Makita. These are product specifications and feature descriptions, not findings that every user will value them equally.
“Milwaukee pulled ahead in raw cutting speed.”
— Pro Tool Reviews
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Limits of the Timed Comparison
The source reports results from its own testing but does not provide enough information here to establish how the timing would translate to different operators, battery charge levels, blade conditions or job-site materials. It also does not state the review’s publication date or provide a complete combined score covering price, battery runtime, ergonomics and long-term durability. Those factors remain outside the reported timed results.
The review describes performance in miter, bevel and compound cuts in qualitative terms, without publishing times or numerical accuracy measurements for those categories. Its findings support a comparison of the tested saws and tasks, not a claim that one model is better for every user or application.
cordless circular saw for heavy-duty ripping
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Match the Saw to Your Work
No additional test or product announcement is specified in the source material. Readers comparing the two models can use the reported results as one input: Milwaukee was faster in the two timed rip tests, while both saws performed well across the other cut types described. Before buying, check current pricing, included batteries and chargers, and compatibility with tools already in your M18 or XGT system.
For users who make frequent heavy rip cuts, the Milwaukee timings may be particularly relevant; for those whose work emphasizes other cuts or platform-specific accessories, the broader feature list may carry more weight. The review does not establish which saw offers better value overall, so that question depends on purchase price and individual needs.
best battery-powered circular saw for OSB cutting
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Key Questions
Which saw was faster in the review’s rip-cut tests?
Milwaukee’s 2834 posted the faster time in both. It completed the double-stacked OSB test in 9.76 seconds and the triple-stacked full-depth test in 17.41 seconds; Makita’s GSH01 took 13.53 and 24.74 seconds, respectively.
Did Milwaukee win every type of cut?
No. Pro Tool Reviews described both saws as closely matched in crosscuts, miter cuts, bevel cuts and compound cuts. The clearest reported difference was Milwaukee’s faster time in the two demanding rip-cut trials.
What are the main specification differences?
Both saws have a 7 1/4-inch blade, listed 6,000-RPM no-load speed and 2 5/8-inch cut depth at 90 degrees. Milwaukee bevels to 57 degrees; Makita reaches 56 degrees and has stops at 22.5, 45 and 56 degrees. Their listed 45-degree cutting depths also differ.
Does the review identify the better overall value?
Not in the supplied report details. It compares performance and features but does not provide a complete price, runtime or durability analysis. Buyers should check current prices and consider battery-platform fit alongside the cut-test results.
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