Makita XPS01Z vs XPS02ZU: Which Is Best In 2026?

Introduction

If you’re shopping for a Makita plunge circular saw and you’re stuck between the Makita XPS01Z vs XPS02ZU, you’re not alone. These two cordless plunge saws look almost identical on paper. Same power. Same speed. Same cutting capacity. So what’s the actual difference?

Quick Verdict:

The XPS02ZU wins at $569 because it has AWS (Auto-Start Wireless System) Bluetooth technology, while the XPS01Z doesn’t. That’s really it. Everything else is the same.

But before you click away thinking that’s a small difference, let me show you why this one feature matters way more than you’d think.

At-a-glance Specs: Makita XPS01Z vs XPS02ZU

Features	XPS01Z	XPS02ZU🏆
Motor	Brushless	Brushless
Speed Range	2,500-6,300 RPM	2,500-6,300 RPM
Cutting Capacity (90°)	2-3/16"	2-3/16"
Bevel Range	-1° to 48°	-1° to 48°
AWS Bluetooth	❌ No	✅ Yes
Weight	11.2 lbs	11.2 lbs
Battery System	18V X2 (36V)	18V X2 (36V)
Price	$479	$569
Where To Buy	Check On Amazon	Check On Amazon

What Is AWS and Why Should You Care?

The Makita XPS01Z vs XPS02ZU debate really comes down to one thing: AWS technology.

AWS stands for Auto-Start Wireless System. It’s Bluetooth technology that automatically starts your dust collector when you trigger the saw.

Here’s how it works in real life:

You’re cutting plywood sheets. With the XPS01Z, you need to walk over and turn on your dust extractor, then walk back and start cutting. With the XPS02ZU, you just pull the trigger on your saw. The dust extractor turns on automatically through Bluetooth. When you release the trigger, the vacuum keeps running for 5 seconds to clear the hose, then shuts off.

Sounds simple, right? But this small convenience adds up fast when you’re making 50+ cuts in a day.

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The Real-World Benefits of AWS

1. Your Workshop Stays Cleaner

Dust extraction only works if you actually use it. With the XPS01Z, you might skip turning on the dust collector for quick cuts. With the XPS02ZU and AWS, there’s no excuse. Every cut gets dust extraction because it happens automatically.

2. You Save Battery Life

The AWS dust extractor only runs when your tool is working, not continuously. This means your dust extractor batteries last much longer. You can work all day without swapping batteries on your vacuum.

3. Less Noise Pollution

Nobody likes constant vacuum noise. With AWS on the XPS02ZU, the dust extractor runs only while the tool is in use. Your shop is quieter, and your neighbors will thank you.

4. No Cords to Trip Over

If you pair the XPS02ZU with a cordless Makita dust extractor like the XCV08Z, you have a completely wireless setup. No more grounding issues, no re-plugging cords, and reduced trip hazards.

5. You Can Connect Multiple Tools

Here’s a feature most people don’t know about: You can link up to 10 AWS tools to one AWS dust extractor. So if you buy the XPS02ZU and later add an AWS grinder or rotary hammer, they all talk to the same vacuum. Just reconnect your dust hose and keep working.

Detailed Specs (What’s Actually the Same)

Since we’re talking Makita XPS01Z vs XPS02ZU, let’s break down what hasn’t changed:

Power and Performance

Both saws use the same brushless motor. Both run on two 18V LXT batteries for 36V total power. Both deliver variable speeds from 2,500 to 6,300 RPM. The cutting performance is identical.

Automatic Speed Change Technology

Both the XPS01Z and XPS02ZU have this smart feature. The saw automatically adjusts torque and speed when it senses heavy loads. This means you get consistent performance whether you’re cutting softwood or dense hardwood.

Cutting Capacity

Both plunge circular saws cut 2-3/16 inches deep at 90 degrees and 1-9/16 inches at 45 degrees. The bevel range is -1 to 48 degrees with positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees.

Weight and Size

Both saws weigh 11.2 pounds with batteries installed. The compact design makes them easy to handle for long periods without fatigue.

Guide Rail Compatibility

Both the Makita XPS01Z and XPS02ZU work with Makita guide rails (sold separately). They’re also compatible with other brand guide rail systems like Festool tracks, giving you flexibility.

Battery Runtime

Both models deliver up to 125 cuts per charge in 4×8 sheets of 1/2-inch plywood using two 5.0Ah batteries. That’s a full day of work for most professionals.

Who Should Buy the Makita XPS01Z?

The XPS01Z makes sense if:

• You don’t own a dust extractor yet and don’t plan to buy one soon
• You’re on a tight budget and need to save every dollar
• You already have a vacuum with auto-start from another brand
• You work outdoors frequently where dust extraction isn’t practical
• You’re a hobbyist who makes occasional cuts and doesn’t need automated dust collection

The XPS01Z gives you professional plunge saw performance without paying for features you won’t use.

Who Should Buy the Makita XPS02ZU? (My Recommendation)

The XPS02ZU is the better choice if:

• You own or plan to buy a Makita dust extractor like the XCV08Z
• You work in enclosed spaces where dust control matters
• You’re a professional making dozens of cuts daily
• You value convenience and want the fastest workflow possible
• You might buy more Makita AWS tools in the future
• You want OSHA-compliant dust extraction for job sites

For most woodworkers and contractors, the XPS02ZU is worth the small price difference.

Makita XPS01Z vs XPS02ZU Price Difference

The price gap between these two plunge circular saws is typically $30-60. The XPS01Z usually costs around $400-450 as a bare tool. The XPS02ZU runs about $450-500.

Is AWS worth an extra $50? If you already own or plan to buy a Makita AWS dust extractor, absolutely yes. That $50 pays for itself in time savings and cleaner cuts within your first major project.

If you don’t have a dust extractor and don’t want one, save your money and get the XPS01Z.

What You Need to Know About Dust Extractors?

Neither the XPS01Z nor the XPS02ZU comes with batteries, charger, or dust extractor. These are bare tools.

For the XPS02ZU’s AWS to work, you need an AWS-compatible dust extractor like:

• Makita XCV08Z – 2.1 gallon cordless HEPA dust extractor
• Makita VC4210L – 11 gallon corded HEPA vacuum with AWS capability
• Makita WUT02U – Universal adapter that makes any vacuum AWS-compatible

The XCV08Z is the most popular pairing. It’s cordless, powerful, and specifically designed for AWS tools.

Real User Experiences

Professional woodworkers who’ve used both models report that the XPS02ZU saves them about 2-3 hours per week just by eliminating the walk back and forth to the dust extractor. Over a year, that’s 100+ hours saved.

Cabinet makers especially love how AWS keeps their shop clean without any extra thought. The tracksaw is faster, safer, and more accurate than wrestling sheets through a table saw, and with AWS on the XPS02ZU, cleanup happens automatically.

One contractor told me he wishes he’d bought the XPS02ZU from the start instead of upgrading later. The time savings alone justified the cost within the first month.

Battery Considerations for Both Models

Both the Makita XPS01Z and XPS02ZU need two 18V LXT batteries to operate. Makita sells several battery options:

• BL1850B (5.0Ah) – Best balance of runtime and weight
• BL1860B (6.0Ah) – Maximum runtime for all-day cutting
• BL1840B (4.0Ah) – Lighter weight for overhead work

For professional use, get at least two sets (four batteries total) so you can keep working while the other set charges.

Track Saw vs Table Saw

Both these plunge circular saws work best with guide rails. The Makita guide rail system turns your circular saw into a precision track saw.

Why choose a track saw over a table saw?

• Better for sheet goods – Easier to push a 10-pound saw than wrestle an 80-pound plywood sheet
• Cleaner cuts – Less tearout on the bottom face
• Safer – No risk of kickback
• More portable – Take it to the material instead of moving material to the tool
• Space saving – A track saw setup takes up way less room than a cabinet saw

The Makita XPS01Z vs XPS02ZU both excel at these tasks. Add a 55-inch guide rail and you have a professional track saw setup.

Maintenance and Durability

Both models feature the same brushless motor technology. Brushless motors last longer and require less maintenance than brushed motors. Expect years of reliable service from either saw.

Both saws also include Star Protection Computer Controls. This technology monitors the tool and battery in real-time to prevent overloading, over-discharging, and overheating.

The main difference in long-term ownership: The XPS02ZU has a Bluetooth transmitter that could potentially fail. However, Makita’s warranty covers this, and user reports suggest these transmitters are quite reliable.

The Verdict: Which Plunge Saw Wins?

Winner: Makita XPS02ZU

Here’s why the XPS02ZU takes the crown in this Makita XPS01Z vs XPS02ZU comparison:

The small price premium for AWS technology delivers massive benefits. You get automatic dust extraction, quieter operation, longer dust extractor battery life, and compatibility with an expanding ecosystem of AWS tools.

If you’re serious about woodworking or professional carpentry, the XPS02ZU is the smart investment. The time you save and the cleaner working environment make it worth every penny of the price difference.

However, if you’re a weekend hobbyist on a strict budget or you work in situations where dust extraction isn’t practical, the XPS01Z saves you money without sacrificing cutting performance.

FAQs

Can I use the XPS01Z with a dust extractor? Yes. Both saws have dust ports. You just connect your vacuum hose manually and turn the vacuum on yourself. The XPS02ZU does this automatically via Bluetooth.

Do I need Makita batteries or can I use other brands? You must use Makita 18V LXT batteries. The X2 system requires two batteries at once. Look for batteries with the Star symbol for best performance.

Will these saws work with Festool guide rails? Yes. Both the XPS01Z and XPS02ZU work with Makita rails and most competing rail systems including Festool.

How long do the batteries last per charge? With two 5.0Ah batteries, expect about 125 cuts in 1/2-inch plywood or roughly 45 minutes of continuous use.

Can I add AWS to the XPS01Z later? No. The XPS01Z lacks the internal components for AWS. If you want AWS, you need to buy the XPS02ZU.

Is the blade the same on both models? The XPS02ZU comes with a premium 56-tooth ultra-thin kerf blade. The XPS01Z comes with a 55-tooth blade. Both use standard 6-1/2 inch blades that you can swap out.