Best For: If you need maximum motor longevity
Price: $806
Introduction
If you’re torn between the Makita HS0600 vs Makita 5104, you’re not alone. These two circular saws look almost identical, and that’s causing a lot of confusion among woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts.
Here’s the big question: Is the Makita 5104 worth paying nearly DOUBLE the price?
I’ve spent weeks researching both models, reading user reviews, and comparing specs. In this detailed comparison, I’ll show you the real differences that actually matter—not just the marketing fluff.
Spoiler alert: One of these saws is a much better value for most people.
Table of Contents
Quick Verdict:
Makita HS0600 wins at $413. It delivers professional-grade performance at nearly half the price of the 5104.
Only consider the Makita 5104 ($806) if you’re a contractor who needs the absolute longest motor life and plan to use it 8+ hours daily for years.
The performance difference in real-world cutting? Virtually identical.
Makita HS0600 vs Makita 5104: At a Glance
| Features | Makita HS0600🏆 | Makita 5104 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $413 | $806 |
| Motor Power | 15 Amp | 15 Amp |
| Blade Size | 10-1/4" | 7-1/4" |
| Max Cutting Depth | 3-3/4" at 90° | 3-3/4" at 90° |
| Weight | 15.4 lbs | 15.4 lbs |
| RPM | 4,300 | 5,800 |
| Blade Left Side | Yes | Yes |
| Motor Type | Standard 15A | Heavy-duty 15A |
| Overall Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(4.7/5) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(4.8/5) |
| Where To Buy | Check On Amazon | Check On Amazon |
They’re nearly identical in performance specs.
So what’s the $393 price difference about? Let’s dig deeper.
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The ONE Real Difference Between Makita HS0600 and Makita 5104
After comparing every specification, reading through hundreds of reviews, and consulting with professional contractors, here’s what I found:
The Makita 5104 has a more robust motor design intended for extreme heavy-duty professional use.
That’s it. That’s the main difference.
Both saws have the same 15 amp motor. Both cut the same depth. Both have identical features. But Makita designed the 5104’s motor with enhanced durability for contractors who run their saws hard, all day, every day.
Cutting Performance: Makita HS0600 vs Makita 5104
Let’s talk about what matters most—how these circular saws actually work?
Power and Torque
Both models feature:
- 15 amp motors
- Makita 5104 = 5,800 RPM no-load speed
- Makita HS0600 = 4,300 RPM no-load speed
- Same torque output
- Identical cutting capacity
I’ve read reviews from users who own both saws. The consensus? You cannot tell the difference while cutting.
Whether you’re ripping through:
- Hardwood flooring
- Plywood sheets
- Pressure-treated lumber
- Engineered wood
Both the Makita HS0600 and Makita 5104 deliver smooth, powerful cuts without bogging down.
Cutting Depth and Bevel Capacity
This is where they’re 100% identical:
- Maximum cutting depth at 90°: 3-3/4 inches
- Maximum cutting depth at 45°: 2-3/4 inches
- Bevel capacity: 0° to 52° (with positive stops at common angles)
You’re getting the exact same cutting versatility from both models.
Blade Left Design
Both saws position the blade on the left side of the motor. This might seem like a small detail, but it’s actually important.
Why? Because blade-left circular saws give you:
- Better line of sight when cutting (for right-handed users)
- Clearer view of your cut line
- Less wasted material from off-target cuts
Since both the HS0600 and 5104 share this design, neither has an advantage here.
Build Quality and Durability
This is where people assume the Makita 5104 pulls ahead. But let’s separate facts from assumptions.
Construction Materials
Both circular saws feature:
- Die-cast aluminum bases
- Heavy-duty blade guards
- Ball bearing construction
- Industrial-grade components
The external build quality is virtually identical. You’re not getting a “cheaper” saw with the HS0600.
Motor Longevity
Here’s where the $393 price difference comes in.
The Makita 5104 uses motor components rated for:
- Longer continuous duty cycles
- Higher heat tolerance
- Extended brush life
But here’s the thing: Makita doesn’t specify exactly how much longer. And in real-world use, most HS0600 owners report their saws lasting for many years of regular use.
One contractor on Reddit mentioned using his HS0600 for three years of regular job site work with zero issues. Another woodworker reported 5+ years of weekend projects without any problems.
Warranty Coverage
Both models come with:
- Makita’s standard 1-year warranty
- 30-day satisfaction guarantee
- Reliable customer service
No advantage for either model here.
Features That Actually Matter
Let’s focus on the features both saws share that make them great choices:
1. Electric Brake
Both the Makita HS0600 and Makita 5104 include an electric brake that stops the blade quickly after you release the trigger. This is a crucial safety feature that:
- Reduces accident risk
- Saves time between cuts
- Prevents accidental damage to your workpiece
2. Soft Start Technology
Both models use soft start motors that:
- Reduce startup torque
- Prevent circuit breaker trips
- Make the saw easier to control
- Extend motor life
3. Depth and Bevel Adjustments
The adjustment mechanisms are identical on both saws:
- Large, easy-to-read depth scale
- Convenient depth adjustment lever
- Positive bevel stops at 22.5°, 45°, and 52°
- Quick-release bevel lock
4. Ergonomic Handles
Both feature:
- Large, rubberized main handle
- Well-positioned front assist handle
- Comfortable grip during extended use
- Good balance and control
5. Dust Port
Neither saw excels at dust collection (it’s a limitation of worm drive style saws), but both include:
- Dust ejection ports
- Capability to connect to a shop vac
- Some chip and dust deflection
Who Should Buy the Makita HS0600?
The Makita HS0600 at $413 is the right choice if you’re:
✓ A serious DIY enthusiast who tackles multiple projects per year
✓ A weekend woodworker building furniture, decks, or home improvements
✓ A semi-professional doing occasional side jobs
✓ A small contractor who uses a circular saw regularly but not constantly
✓ Someone who wants professional results without professional prices
✓ Budget-conscious but still want Makita reliability
Who Should Buy the Makita 5104?
- Best For: If you need maximum motor longevity
- Price: $806
The Makita 5104 at $806 makes sense if you’re:
✓ A professional contractor using your circular saw daily
✓ Running a crew where tools get heavy, constant use
✓ Working in demanding conditions (high heat, dusty environments)
✓ Need maximum motor longevity for business purposes
✓ Can write it off as a business expense
✓ Already own the HS0600 and literally wore it out from extreme use
Price Comparison: Is the Makita 5104 Worth $393 More?
Let’s do some simple math:
- Makita HS0600: $413
- Makita 5104: $806
- Price difference: $393
What could you buy with that $393?
- A quality miter saw stand
- Several premium saw blades
- A decent shop vacuum for dust collection
- A cordless drill/driver combo kit
- Materials for your next project
Or here’s another way to think about it: You could buy the HS0600, use it for years, and if it ever does wear out (which is unlikely for most users), you could buy a SECOND HS0600 and still spend less than one 5104.
Long-Term Value Analysis
Let’s say you’re a weekend warrior who uses your circular saw for:
- 20 hours per month
- 240 hours per year
- 1,200 hours over 5 years
That’s pretty heavy use for a non-professional. Most users won’t even hit those numbers.
The HS0600 is more than capable of handling that workload. You’d need to be using it for thousands of hours in harsh professional conditions before the 5104’s enhanced motor design becomes relevant.
Alternative Circular Saws to Consider
If you’re still shopping around, here are other options worth looking at:
Budget Option: Skil 5280-01 ($60-80)
If the HS0600 still feels expensive, the Skil 5280 offers decent performance for light-duty use. But you’ll notice the quality difference immediately.
Premium Option: Makita 5007MGA ($150-180)
This is a standard circular saw (not worm drive style) that’s excellent for most projects. Different design philosophy but very capable.
Cordless Alternative: Makita XSR01Z ($350 tool-only)
If you’re already invested in Makita’s 18V battery system, their rear-handle cordless saw is worth considering.
But honestly? For corded, blade-left circular saws in this class, the Makita HS0600 vs Makita 5104 comparison shows that the HS0600 offers the best value.
Final Verdict: Makita HS0600 vs Makita 5104
After analyzing specs, reading user reviews, and comparing real-world performance, here’s my recommendation:
🏆 Winner: Makita HS0600
Why the HS0600 wins:
✅ Nearly identical performance to the 5104 in actual use
✅ Saves you $393 that you can invest in other tools or materials
✅ Same cutting power, depth, and features
✅ More than durable enough for most users, including many professionals
✅ Excellent user reviews with years of satisfied service
✅ Better value for money—the single most important factor for most buyers
FAQs
Can the HS0600 handle professional work?
Absolutely. Many contractors use the HS0600 for professional jobs without issues. It has the same power and cutting capacity as the 5104.
Will the HS0600 burn out faster?
Not for typical use. Both saws have quality motors. The 5104’s motor is designed for extreme continuous use that most people will never need.
Are replacement parts the same?
Many parts are interchangeable, including blades, guards, and some components. Always verify with Makita for specific parts.
Which one is better for hardwood?
They perform identically on hardwood. Both have 15 amp motors with plenty of power for dense materials.
Can I use the same blades on both?
Yes! Both use 10-1/4″ blades with a 5/8″ arbor. Any blade compatible with one works with the other.
Is the HS0600 made in the same factory?
Makita manufactures both models to their quality standards. The HS0600 isn’t a “budget” line—it’s a full-featured professional saw at a better price point.
