Top 35 Makita Cordless Mitre Saws Compared – Expert Picks for 2026

How to Choose the Best Makita Cordless Mitre Saw in the UK

Choosing a cordless mitre saw is less about finding the most powerful-looking specification and more about matching the saw's cutting capacity, battery platform, portability and intended workload to the jobs you actually undertake. Makita's cordless range includes compact models for trim and finishing work as well as larger brushless saws designed for substantial timber sections and demanding site use.

For UK buyers, the most important distinction is between a compact 18V saw, a dual-battery 18V X2 LXT model and newer higher-output cordless platforms. Blade diameter, maximum cross-cut capacity and the design of the sliding mechanism can make a greater practical difference than headline motor speed alone.

A useful starting point is to identify the material you normally cut. Skirting boards, architraves and small sections of timber place different demands on a mitre saw from roofing timber, constructional timber, decking boards or repeated large cross-cuts. Once that is clear, battery compatibility and cutting capacity become much easier to assess.

Makita Cordless Mitre Saw Comparison: What Matters Most

Several Makita models can look similar in photographs while serving quite different purposes. The following comparison focuses on the technical characteristics that have the greatest effect on real-world suitability rather than simply ranking models by price.

• Makita DLS600: a compact cordless slide compound mitre saw aimed at users who prioritise a smaller, more manageable machine for lighter cutting duties.
• Makita DLS714: an 18V X2 LXT model using two 18V batteries, with a 190 mm blade and a stated 90-degree cutting capacity of 52 x 300 mm. Makita describes it as a brushless saw for demanding applications and specifies a double-sliding mechanism.
• Makita DLS110: a substantially larger 18V X2 LXT saw with a 260 mm blade, 4,400 rpm no-load speed and a maximum 90-degree capacity listed as 91 x 279 mm or 68 x 310 mm, depending on the material configuration.
• Makita DLS111 and DLS112: larger cordless slide compound saws within Makita's LXT family. They are worth considering where the required cutting performance extends beyond compact trim work.

Specifications should always be checked against the exact UK model designation before purchase. A body-only machine, for example, may look identical to a complete kit but have a very different total purchase requirement once compatible batteries and a charger are added.

Makita DLS110: High-Capacity Cordless Cutting

The Makita DLS110 is one of the more substantial cordless options to consider when cutting capacity is a priority. It uses two 18V LXT batteries and a 260 mm blade. Makita specifies a 4,400 rpm no-load speed, a 60-degree mitre range to both sides and a 48-degree bevel range in the published specification.

Its listed 90-degree capacity reaches 91 x 279 mm or 68 x 310 mm, while the 45-degree capacity is listed as 91 x 197 mm or 68 x 218 mm. The variation in the figures illustrates why buyers should not rely on a single headline cutting-capacity number: the achievable cut depends on the orientation and dimensions of the workpiece.

The DLS110 also uses Makita's Automatic Torque Drive Technology, which adjusts speed and torque during operation, together with a brushless motor. Its rail-forward arrangement is designed to reduce the clearance needed behind the saw, which can be particularly useful where workshop or site space is restricted.

For buyers comparing cordless mitre saws for substantial timber, the DLS110's larger blade and capacity make it a fundamentally different proposition from compact models. The trade-off is that a larger saw is generally less convenient to carry, store and deploy for quick finishing jobs.

Who should consider the DLS110?

• Users regularly cutting relatively large sections of timber.
• Tradespeople who already use the Makita 18V LXT battery system.
• Buyers who want a high-capacity cordless alternative to a conventional mains-powered mitre saw.
• Workshops and sites where reduced rear clearance is useful.

Makita DLS714: Compact High-Performance LXT Option

The DLS714 occupies a useful middle ground. It uses two 18V LXT batteries to provide a nominal 36V configuration and has a 190 mm blade. Makita lists a 90-degree capacity of 52 x 300 mm and a 45-degree capacity of 52 x 212 mm.

Its double-sliding mechanism is intended to provide useful capacity while keeping the saw relatively compact. The published specification also gives a maximum bevel range of 45 degrees to the left and a mitre range of 47 degrees left and 57 degrees right.

The DLS714 can therefore make sense for buyers who need more capability than a small trim saw but do not routinely require the larger blade and cutting envelope of a 260 mm machine. Its two-battery arrangement should, however, be considered carefully if you are building a cordless tool collection from scratch.

Why the DLS714 can be a sensible compromise

• It uses the established 18V LXT battery platform.
• The 190 mm blade keeps the machine more compact than larger 260 mm models.
• The 300 mm maximum 90-degree cutting width is significant for a saw of this class.
• The brushless motor is designed for lower maintenance than a conventional brushed motor.
• Its double-sliding design provides useful flexibility for wider workpieces.

Compact Makita Cordless Mitre Saws

A compact cordless mitre saw should not automatically be regarded as an inferior version of a larger model. For the right application, reduced size can be a major advantage. A saw used primarily for architrave, skirting, small mouldings, battens and other relatively modest sections can benefit from being easier to move, position and store.

The important question is whether the compact machine can handle the largest workpiece you realistically expect to cut. Buying a small saw because it is convenient and then discovering that routine work exceeds its capacity is one of the most common ways to choose the wrong mitre saw.

When a compact saw is the better choice

• Finish carpentry and trim work.
• Small workshops with limited bench or floor space.
• Frequent movement between rooms or work areas.
• Users who value portability over maximum cross-cut capacity.
• Applications involving smaller timber sections where a large blade would provide little practical benefit.

18V LXT Versus Higher-Output Cordless Platforms

Makita's cordless ecosystem has evolved beyond the original 18V LXT platform, so battery compatibility deserves particular attention when comparing newer and older cordless mitre saws. A saw's voltage designation should not be treated as a simple measure of cutting performance. Motor design, blade diameter, electronics, gearing and the intended application all influence the finished tool.

Dual-18V LXT saws effectively use two compatible 18V batteries to operate the tool as a higher-voltage system. The DLS714, for example, is specified as 18V X2 and uses two 18V LXT batteries. The DLS110 follows the same basic two-battery LXT approach.

For an existing Makita owner, this can be an important advantage because the batteries may already form part of the user's cordless toolkit. For someone without compatible batteries, however, the cost and weight of acquiring two batteries and a suitable charger should be included when comparing complete systems.

Blade Diameter and Cutting Capacity Explained

Blade diameter is one of the clearest indicators of the type of work a mitre saw is designed to handle, but it is not the only specification that matters. A 260 mm blade can provide substantially greater cutting capacity than a compact blade, but a larger saw can also be heavier and less convenient for mobile work.

For example, Makita specifies a 260 mm blade and 91 x 279 mm maximum 90-degree capacity for the DLS110 in one configuration, with an alternative 68 x 310 mm figure depending on workpiece dimensions. By comparison, the DLS714 uses a 190 mm blade and is specified at 52 x 300 mm at 90 degrees.

Do not compare these figures without considering both dimensions. Cutting capacity is normally expressed as height by width, and the maximum width can change according to the height of the timber and the cutting angle.

Questions to ask before choosing blade size

• What is the thickest timber you regularly cut?
• What is the widest board you need to cross-cut?
• Do you frequently make 45-degree mitre cuts?
• Do you need bevel cuts as well as mitre cuts?
• Will the saw mainly stay in a workshop or travel to different sites?

Mitre Range and Bevel Range: Why the Numbers Matter

The mitre range determines how far the saw can rotate horizontally for angled cross-cuts. The bevel range determines how far the blade assembly can tilt to create an angled cut through the thickness of the material.

A saw with both a broad mitre range and a useful bevel range gives you greater flexibility for compound cuts. However, maximum range is not automatically more useful than a well-designed adjustment mechanism. For repeated professional work, easy-to-read scales, positive detents, accessible locks and repeatable positioning can be just as important as the headline maximum angle.

The DLS110, for instance, is specified with a 60-degree mitre range to both sides and a 48-degree bevel range. The DLS714 is specified with a 47-degree left and 57-degree right mitre range and a 45-degree left bevel range.

Brushless Motors: What Buyers Actually Gain

Brushless motors are now common in higher-end cordless power tools. In practical terms, the absence of conventional carbon brushes removes one source of mechanical wear and allows manufacturers to use electronic motor control.

Makita describes the DLS714's motor as brushless and maintenance-free, while the DLS110 is also specified with a brushless motor.

That does not mean a brushless mitre saw is maintenance-free as a complete machine. The blade, table, fences, bearings, dust pathways and adjustment mechanisms still need appropriate care. Brushless technology should therefore be viewed as one component of the saw's overall design rather than a guarantee of unlimited service life.

Battery Choice and Runtime Considerations

Battery runtime is difficult to express as a universal number because the amount of material removed, blade condition, timber density, cutting technique, temperature and battery capacity all affect energy consumption. Claims about a fixed number of cuts should therefore be treated cautiously unless they relate to a clearly defined test procedure.

For dual-battery Makita saws, both compatible batteries are required to operate the tool. The DLS714 documentation specifically identifies it as an 18V X2 machine and states that the body-only version does not include batteries or a charger.

The DLS110 documentation likewise identifies a nominal battery voltage of 2 x 18V.

How to assess battery requirements

• Check whether the saw is supplied as a body-only tool or a complete kit.
• Confirm the exact battery platform rather than assuming all Makita batteries are interchangeable.
• Consider whether you already own compatible batteries.
• For intensive work, allow for spare charged batteries rather than assuming one set will last an entire working day.
• Remember that larger batteries can increase the overall weight of a cordless saw.

Portability Versus Stability

One of the biggest advantages of cordless equipment is freedom from a mains cable, but cordless does not necessarily mean lightweight. A substantial mitre saw still contains a large base, motor, blade assembly, rails, guards and workpiece supports.

The DLS714 is specified at approximately 14.4 to 14.7 kg with battery, according to Makita's published figures. This demonstrates why total working weight should be considered alongside battery freedom.

For workshop use, a heavier saw can be entirely acceptable because it may be moved infrequently. For a carpenter carrying equipment upstairs, between rooms or around a construction site, portability can become a decisive factor.

Rail Design and Workshop Space

The sliding mechanism is more than a feature added to increase cutting width. The position and movement of the rails influence how much clearance the saw requires behind it.

Makita's DLS110 uses a rail-forward design intended to allow the machine to be positioned closer to a wall, helping conserve workspace. This can be valuable in compact workshops where every centimetre of bench or floor space matters.

Before buying any sliding mitre saw, measure the complete operating envelope rather than the dimensions printed in a product listing. You need space for the saw itself, the movement of the sliding assembly, long workpieces on both sides and safe operator access.

Fence Design and Workpiece Support

A mitre saw is only as useful as its ability to hold material securely and consistently. A rigid fence helps maintain the workpiece position as the blade enters the timber. Long boards also require adequate support outside the saw table.

The DLS110 specification includes integrated guide fences and holders on both sides for supporting longer workpieces horizontally.

When comparing models, examine the fence arrangement rather than assuming that every mitre saw provides the same level of support. Check whether the fence is adjustable where necessary, whether the workpiece can sit squarely against it, and whether auxiliary supports can be incorporated into your setup.

Dust Extraction and Cleaner Cutting

Mitre saws can generate a considerable quantity of airborne sawdust, particularly when repeatedly cross-cutting timber. A dust bag may be convenient for occasional work, but users working indoors or making large numbers of cuts should consider whether the machine can be connected effectively to a suitable dust-extraction system.

Dust collection performance can vary substantially according to the blade, material, extraction equipment and cutting technique. A specification that simply mentions a dust bag should therefore not be interpreted as evidence of complete dust capture.

For workshop use, assess the extractor connection, hose compatibility and clearance around the rear of the machine. For site use, portability and the practical ability to connect extraction equipment may be more important.

Noise and Vibration

Cordless does not mean silent. Makita's published technical data records significant sound levels for its cordless mitre saw range. For example, the DLS110 is listed at 92 dB(A) sound pressure and 102 dB(A) sound power, while the DLS714 is listed at 88 dB(A) sound pressure and 97 dB(A) sound power.

These figures are useful for understanding that hearing protection should not be overlooked during mitre-saw work. The exact acoustic experience in a workshop or on site will also depend on the material, blade, surroundings and extraction system.

Makita's published vibration information lists a vibration value of no more than 2.5 m/s² with a 1.5 m/s² uncertainty for several of its cordless slide compound mitre saws, including the DLS110, DLS111, DLS112, DLS600 and DLS714.

Blade Selection: The Specification Most Buyers Underestimate

The saw is only part of the cutting system. Blade tooth configuration, diameter, kerf, bore size and application suitability all influence the finished cut.

A blade designed for fast general-purpose construction cutting may behave differently from one optimised for fine cross-cutting. For finish carpentry, tooth geometry and the quality of the finished edge can matter more than maximum cutting speed.

Always match the blade diameter and bore to the saw's specification. The DLS110, for example, uses a 260 mm blade with a 30 mm bore, while the DLS714 uses a 190 mm blade with a 20 mm bore.

Choosing a blade for the job

• General timber cutting: choose a blade suited to routine construction and workshop work.
• Fine cross-cutting: prioritise a blade designed to produce a cleaner finish.
• Mouldings and trim: consider tooth configuration and cut quality carefully.
• Repeated site work: balance finish quality against durability and cutting speed.
• Specialist materials: use only blades explicitly suitable for the intended material and compatible with the saw.

Safety Features and Operator Control

A mitre saw combines a high-speed rotating blade with substantial cutting force, so safe operation depends on both the machine and the operator. A good buying decision should include examination of the guard, trigger arrangement, blade brake, workpiece support and adjustment locks.

Makita's cordless mitre saw documentation identifies battery protection systems and other design features intended to support controlled operation. The DLS110 also has an oversized trigger switch, integrated guide fences and a large turn base.

Safety features should never be treated as substitutes for correct operating procedure. The manufacturer's instructions should be followed for blade fitting, workpiece positioning, adjustment, battery use, maintenance and transport.

Common Buying Mistakes

Buying the largest saw simply because it has the highest capacity

A larger saw can be unnecessary for users who mainly cut skirting, architrave and small timber. Extra capacity brings additional size and weight. Buy for your normal workload rather than the largest theoretical job you might encounter once a year.

Ignoring the battery cost

A body-only cordless saw is not the same proposition as a complete working system. Check precisely what is included and calculate the cost of compatible batteries and a charger if you do not already have them.

Assuming all Makita batteries are interchangeable

Makita has multiple cordless platforms. Check the exact battery family and voltage requirement of the model you are considering rather than relying on the brand name alone.

Comparing only blade diameter

Blade diameter does not tell the whole story. Cutting capacity, rail arrangement, fence design, bevel range, mitre range and workpiece support all affect usability.

Forgetting the operating footprint

A sliding mitre saw can require considerably more space than its basic dimensions suggest. Measure the rear clearance, side clearance and space needed for long timber.

Choosing a blade solely on price

The wrong blade can undermine an otherwise capable saw. Consider the material, desired finish, tooth configuration and intended workload.

Makita Cordless Mitre Saw Buying Guide by User Type

For DIY users

A DIY user should normally prioritise ease of use, manageable size, sufficient cutting capacity and overall system cost. There is little benefit in paying for a large professional saw if most projects involve small timber sections.

For joiners and finish carpenters

Accuracy, repeatability, clean cuts, easy angle adjustment and portability may matter more than maximum cross-cut capacity. A compact saw can be particularly attractive where the machine is moved frequently.

For construction professionals

Site users should look closely at cutting capacity, battery availability, durability, workpiece support and transport requirements. A larger dual-battery model can make more sense where substantial timber is cut repeatedly.

For workshop users

Workshop buyers can afford to place greater emphasis on stability, extraction, operating space and repeatability. If the saw will remain in one location, portability becomes less important than the quality of the working setup.

How to Compare Makita Cordless Mitre Saws Properly

Rather than asking which model is universally the best, score each candidate against the same criteria.

• Cutting capacity: Can it handle your largest routine workpiece?
• Blade size: Is the blade appropriate for your applications?
• Battery platform: Do you already own compatible batteries?
• Weight: Will you need to carry it regularly?
• Sliding mechanism: Does it provide the capacity and clearance you need?
• Mitre range: Does it cover your normal angles?
• Bevel range: Is it adequate for compound cuts?
• Fence and supports: Can long and awkward workpieces be held securely?
• Dust management: Can it work with your extraction arrangement?
• Blade availability: Are suitable replacement blades easy to source?
• Noise: Are the published sound figures acceptable for your working environment?
• Total system cost: What will the saw, batteries, charger, blades and accessories cost together?

Specifications Worth Checking Before Purchase

Product listings sometimes highlight only a few headline specifications. Before committing to a model, check the manufacturer's documentation for the complete technical specification.

• Nominal battery voltage.
• Number of batteries required.
• Battery platform.
• Blade diameter.
• Bore diameter.
• No-load speed.
• 90-degree cutting capacity.
• 45-degree cutting capacity.
• Maximum mitre range.
• Maximum bevel range.
• Bevel capacity to the right, where applicable.
• Overall machine weight.
• Noise levels.
• Vibration figures.
• Dust-extraction arrangements.
• Included accessories.
• Whether batteries and charger are included.

Why Exact Model Numbers Matter

Makita model names can have closely related variants, including body-only versions. The difference may be represented by a suffix such as Z, but buyers should confirm the exact UK product designation rather than assuming that a retailer's shortened title contains every relevant detail.

For example, Makita identifies the DLS110Z as a body version with batteries sold separately. The DLS714NZ is likewise documented as a body-only version with battery and charger not included.

This distinction is particularly important when comparing apparently similar prices. A lower-priced body-only tool may not be cheaper once the required battery system is added.

Professional Versus DIY Cordless Mitre Saw Requirements

Professional users tend to place greater emphasis on repeatability, durability, battery logistics, cutting capacity and time saved during repetitive work. DIY users may place greater weight on initial cost, compact storage and versatility across occasional projects.

Neither approach is inherently better. The best Makita cordless mitre saw is the one whose capabilities align with the frequency, scale and type of work you perform.

Maintenance Tips for a Cordless Mitre Saw

Regular maintenance can help preserve accuracy and safe operation. Before carrying out maintenance, remove the battery and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

• Keep the table and fence surfaces clean.
• Remove accumulated sawdust from appropriate areas.
• Inspect the blade regularly for damage or excessive wear.
• Check that adjustment mechanisms operate correctly.
• Keep the blade guard clean and ensure it moves as intended.
• Inspect battery contacts for contamination or damage.
• Check workpiece supports and fasteners periodically.
• Use the correct blade specification for the machine.
• Do not continue using a damaged or malfunctioning saw.
• Follow Makita's instructions for servicing and replacement parts.

Accuracy: Why Setup Matters as Much as the Saw

A high-specification mitre saw cannot compensate for poor setup. Before judging the accuracy of any machine, ensure the saw is sitting on a stable surface, the fence is correctly aligned and the workpiece is properly supported.

Blade condition also matters. A damaged, contaminated or unsuitable blade can create poor cuts even when the saw itself is functioning correctly.

For repetitive work, make a test cut and verify the result before producing a large batch of components. This is particularly important when cutting matching lengths or compound angles where a small setup error can become significant across multiple pieces.

How to Decide Between the DLS714 and DLS110

The choice between these two models illustrates the broader principle behind selecting a cordless mitre saw.

The DLS714 uses a 190 mm blade, weighs approximately 14.4 to 14.7 kg with battery and provides a 90-degree capacity of 52 x 300 mm. The DLS110 uses a larger 260 mm blade and is specified for considerably taller workpieces, with a maximum 90-degree capacity of up to 91 x 279 mm or 68 x 310 mm depending on the configuration.

Choose the DLS714 type of specification when compactness and adequate capacity for moderate timber are the priority. Choose the DLS110 type of specification when larger workpieces and greater cutting capacity are regular requirements. If your workload falls between those descriptions, compare the complete dimensions, weight and battery requirements rather than selecting solely on blade size.

What Makes a Good Cordless Mitre Saw for UK Tradespeople?

UK tradespeople often work in environments where access to mains power is inconvenient, temporary or restricted. Cordless operation can therefore be valuable for more than convenience. It can simplify movement around a site and remove the need to position the saw near a power outlet.

However, cordless efficiency depends on sensible battery management. A professional who uses a mitre saw heavily should consider how many compatible batteries are needed to maintain workflow and whether those batteries are shared with other tools.

The wider Makita ecosystem can be an important consideration for existing owners. A cordless saw that shares a battery platform with drills, impact drivers, circular saws and other site equipment may provide greater system value than a technically similar tool requiring a separate battery family.

How to Check a Makita Mitre Saw Before Buying

• Confirm the exact model number.
• Check the manufacturer's current UK specification.
• Confirm the blade diameter and bore.
• Check maximum cutting capacities at both 90 and 45 degrees.
• Confirm mitre and bevel adjustment ranges.
• Check whether the saw requires one or two batteries.
• Establish whether batteries and charger are included.
• Check the machine's stated weight.
• Review the published noise and vibration information.
• Check the recommended blade specifications.
• Consider the physical footprint of the saw in your workshop or vehicle.
• Compare the complete system rather than the bare tool price alone.

Independent Buying Advice: What Should Matter Most?

If two Makita cordless mitre saws appear closely matched, prioritise the specification that solves your actual problem. For frequent large cross-cuts, capacity should come first. For trim work, accuracy and portability may be more important. For mobile site work, battery compatibility and weight can be decisive. For a permanent workshop, extraction and stability deserve greater attention.

It is also sensible to compare current retailer pricing, included accessories and verified customer feedback separately from manufacturer specifications. Customer reviews can reveal practical issues such as transport convenience or everyday adjustment usability, but they should be considered alongside objective technical information rather than treated as a substitute for it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best Makita cordless mitre saw?

There is no single best model for every buyer. The right choice depends on cutting capacity, portability, battery platform, blade size and intended workload. Larger models such as the DLS110 are better suited to buyers who regularly need substantial cutting capacity, while a smaller model can be more appropriate for trim and lighter work.

Is the Makita DLS110 cordless?

Yes. The DLS110 is a cordless 18V X2 LXT slide compound mitre saw using two 18V batteries. Makita specifies a 260 mm blade, 4,400 rpm no-load speed and a maximum 90-degree cutting capacity of 91 x 279 mm or 68 x 310 mm depending on the workpiece configuration.

Is the Makita DLS714 a 36V mitre saw?

The DLS714 is an 18V X2 LXT machine, meaning it uses two 18V batteries to operate as a higher-voltage system. Makita describes the model as delivering 36V power from two 18V LXT batteries.

What size blade does the Makita DLS110 use?

The DLS110 uses a 260 mm blade with a 30 mm bore according to Makita's published UK specification.

What size blade does the Makita DLS714 use?

The DLS714 uses a 190 mm blade with a 20 mm bore.

Are Makita cordless mitre saws supplied with batteries?

It depends on the exact product variant. Body-only versions are sold without batteries and chargers, so check the precise model designation and package contents before comparing prices. Makita explicitly identifies the DLS110Z and DLS714NZ as body-only versions.

Are cordless mitre saws powerful enough for professional work?

Suitable cordless models can provide substantial cutting capacity, but suitability depends on the specific saw and application. Larger brushless dual-battery models are designed for demanding work, while compact models are better matched to lighter duties. Always compare the manufacturer's cutting-capacity and application specifications with your workload.

Is a larger mitre saw always better?

No. A larger saw generally provides greater cutting capacity, but it can also be heavier and require more storage and transport space. For trim work, a compact machine may be the more practical option.

Does a brushless motor make a mitre saw maintenance-free?

No. Brushless motors eliminate conventional motor brushes, but the rest of the saw still requires care. Blade condition, guards, fences, table surfaces, adjustment mechanisms and dust accumulation all need attention.

Should I buy a cordless or mains-powered mitre saw?

Choose cordless if portability, freedom from a mains cable and compatibility with an existing battery platform are important. A mains-powered saw can make more sense where the machine remains in one workshop and continuous mains operation is preferable. Compare the complete operating setup rather than focusing only on the power source.

Final Buying Checklist

• Identify the largest timber you routinely cut.
• Decide whether portability is important.
• Check the required battery platform.
• Determine whether you need one or two batteries.
• Compare blade diameter and bore size.
• Compare 90-degree and 45-degree cutting capacities.
• Check mitre and bevel ranges.
• Assess fence and workpiece-support arrangements.
• Consider dust extraction.
• Check published noise and vibration figures.
• Allow for batteries, charger and suitable blades when calculating total cost.
• Verify the exact model number and package contents before purchase.
• Compare current specifications with verified customer feedback.
• Check today's prices across trusted UK retailers before making a final decision.

The strongest buying decision is rarely based on a single specification. Compare the complete combination of cutting capacity, battery system, blade compatibility, adjustment range, portability, support, dust management and total ownership requirements. That approach makes it much easier to identify the Makita cordless mitre saw that genuinely fits your work rather than simply choosing the model with the biggest headline specification.