Which cuts deeper at 45 degrees?

The DeWalt DWS520CK cuts 1-5/8 inches at 45 degrees, about 1/16 inch deeper than the Makita's 1-9/16 inches. At 90 degrees the Makita is deeper at 2-3/16 inches versus 2-1/8 inches.

Does the Makita come with a guide rail?

Yes. The SP6000J1 kit includes a 55-inch guide rail, a 48T carbide blade, a hex wrench and an interlocking case.

Which is better for dust collection?

The DeWalt lists a 1-1/4 inch dust port, so a shop vacuum hose fits directly. Makita does not list a port size for the SP6000J1, so check the saw before buying an adapter.

Is the Makita worth the extra money?

The Makita adds variable speed, soft start and a current limiter, and it weighs about half as much. If you cut veneer or plastic where speed control matters, those features justify the price. For straight framing cuts, the DeWalt does the job.

Which is easier to carry around a job site?

The Makita body weighs 9.1 lbs versus 18.13 lbs for the DeWalt, so the Makita is easier to move between cuts and up ladders.

Can both saws bevel past 45 degrees?

Only the DeWalt. It bevels to 47 degrees, which helps when cutting against a wall or trimming a door bottom. The Makita stops at 45 degrees.

Makita SP6000J1 6-1/2" Plunge Circular Saw with Guide Rail vs DeWalt DWS520CK 6-1/2 In. Track Saw Kit

Buy the Makita SP6000J1 if you want a proven plunge saw with a 55-inch guide rail in the box and variable speed from 2,000 to 5,200 RPM. Buy the DeWalt DWS520CK if you need a slightly deeper 45-degree bevel cut and a 47-degree bevel range. The Makita's lowest recent price was $429.00 on November 2, against a high of $589.00 on October 30; no current DeWalt price was supplied, so compare store prices before deciding.

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