Makita XCU08Z vs XCU06: My Surprising Pick

If you’re stuck between the Makita XCU08Z vs XCU06, here’s the deal: choose the XCU06 for light cuts and one-hand use. Go with the XCU08Z if you need more power. I’ve used both in my yard and after storms. Each one works best for different jobs.

The XCU06 is great for climbing and small limbs. The XCU08Z cuts thick logs like a gas saw—no fumes. I tested them side by side. Keep reading to see what I learned and which one fits your style.

Makita XCU08Z vs XCU06: Detailed Comparison

I’ve used both the Makita XCU08Z and XCU06 for a full year. From trimming trees to clearing storm debris, they’ve seen it all. While both are cordless, top-handle saws, they’re built for slightly different jobs. Let’s break it down so you can pick the right one for how you cut.

Blade Length: Makita XCU08Z vs XCU06

Bar size is the biggest difference here. The XCU08Z has a 14-inch bar. The XCU06 has a 10-inch bar. That extra length gives the XCU08Z more reach and cutting depth.

Feature	Makita XCU08Z	Makita XCU06
Bar Length	14 inches	10 inches
Ideal Use	Medium limbs, logs	Small branches, tight spots
Bar Type	Narrow-kerf bar	Narrow-kerf bar

With the XCU08Z, I sliced thicker limbs without moving the saw much. The XCU06 was easier to use in tight areas or near fences.

Rating

• XCU08Z: 9/10
• XCU06: 7/10

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Cutting Power: Makita XCU08Z vs XCU06

Both use Makita’s brushless motor, but they’re tuned for different jobs. The XCU08Z feels like a 30cc gas saw. The XCU06 is closer to a 22cc.

Feature	Makita XCU08Z	Makita XCU06
Power Match	30cc gas saw	22cc gas saw
Torque Boost	Yes	Yes
Chain Speed	Not listed	4,720 FPM

The XCU08Z chewed through hardwood without stalling. The XCU06 worked fine for pine and cedar but slowed on thicker limbs.

Rating

• XCU08Z: 9.5/10
• XCU06: 7.5/10

Battery Life: Makita XCU08Z vs XCU06

The XCU08Z runs on two 18V batteries (36V). The XCU06 uses just one. More power means more cuts, but also more weight.

Feature	Makita XCU08Z	Makita XCU06
Battery Type	2 x 18V (36V total)	1 x 18V
Cuts Per Charge	~150–180 (4×4 cuts)	~175 (2×2 cedar)
Battery Needed	2 batteries	1 battery

The XCU08Z lasted longer but felt heavier. The XCU06 was lighter, but needed a swap during long jobs.

Rating

• XCU08Z: 8.5/10
• XCU06: 8/10

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Handle Comfort and Grip: Makita XCU08Z vs XCU06

Both saws have rubber top-handles. But how they feel in use is very different.

Feature	Makita XCU08Z	Makita XCU06
Handle Type	Top-handle, rubber	Top-handle, rubber
Ergonomics	Best with two hands	Great for one-hand use
Vibration Level	Moderate	Light

The XCU08Z felt bulky for overhead cuts. The XCU06 was light and easy, even with one hand.

Rating

• XCU08Z: 7/10
• XCU06: 9/10

Weight and Balance: Makita XCU08Z vs XCU06

This one’s all about comfort over time. The XCU08Z is over 10 lbs with batteries. The XCU06 is just over 7.

Feature	Makita XCU08Z	Makita XCU06
Tool Weight	10.2 lbs	7.2 lbs
Balance	Rear-heavy	Well-balanced
Fatigue Level	Moderate	Low

After a few hours, my arms were tired from the XCU08Z. The XCU06 felt like an extension of my arm.

Rating

• XCU08Z: 7.5/10
• XCU06: 9/10

Noise Level: Makita XCU08Z vs XCU06

Both saws are much quieter than gas. You can use them early without waking the block.

Feature	Makita XCU08Z	Makita XCU06
Noise Output	Low	Very Low
Good for Homes?	Yes	Yes
Earplugs Needed?	Not really	Not really

Both are great for yard work in quiet areas. The XCU06 is just a bit quieter.

Rating

• XCU08Z: 8.5/10
• XCU06: 9/10

Ease of Use: Makita XCU08Z vs XCU06

No pull cords or gas. Just press the button and cut.

Feature	Makita XCU08Z	Makita XCU06
Startup	Push button	Push button
Chain Tension	Side-mounted	Side-mounted
Maintenance Level	Low	Very Low

Both are simple to use, but the XCU06 is easier to handle because it’s lighter.

Rating

• XCU08Z: 8/10
• XCU06: 9/10

Value for Money: Makita XCU08Z vs XCU06

You’ll pay more for the XCU08Z, but it brings more muscle. The XCU06 is better for light jobs and saves you cash.

Feature	Makita XCU08Z	Makita XCU06
Price Range	~$350–$400 (tool only)	~$200–$250 (tool only)
Battery Included?	No	No
Best For	Pros, big jobs	Yard work, small jobs

If you do big work often, the XCU08Z is worth it. If you just need a solid tool for upkeep, go with the XCU06.

Rating

• XCU08Z: 8/10
• XCU06: 9/10

Overall: Makita XCU08Z vs XCU06

These chainsaws are built for different jobs. The best pick depends on your needs.

Feature	Makita XCU08Z	Makita XCU06
Best Use	Logging, storm cleanup	Pruning, climbing
Strengths	Long bar, strong motor	Light, easy to use
Weak Points	Heavier, costs more	Less power, short bar

For storm cleanup and heavy cuts, I reach for the XCU08Z. But for tree shaping and quick trims, the XCU06 is my go-to every time.

Final Rating

• XCU08Z: 8.5/10
• XCU06: 8.5/10

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Handle Comfort vs. Cutting Power: What Matters More?

Let me walk you through how I decide between the Makita XCU08Z and XCU06.

I love how light the XCU06 feels when I’m trimming limbs or working in trees. It fits into tight spots, and I can guide it with one hand. For small jobs or shaping branches, it’s my favorite.

But after a storm or when I need firewood, I always grab the XCU08Z. The extra power makes cuts faster. I don’t have to fight the saw—it just works.

One time, a strong wind brought down a big mesquite log in my yard. I tried the XCU06 first, but it stalled halfway through. I switched to the XCU08Z, and it sliced clean through. No fumes. No roar. Just smooth power.

Yes, the XCU08Z is heavier. Overhead cuts or ladder work will wear you out. But on the ground, the weight helps. It feels steady—not like I’m battling it.

Tips for Getting the Best Results

• Keep your chains sharp. Both saws cut better with a clean edge.
• Charge your batteries before big jobs, especially for the XCU08Z.
• Use the XCU06 for trimming or climbing to avoid arm fatigue.
• Pick the XCU08Z for firewood or storm cleanup. It’s faster and stronger.

Read More: Greenworks 60V vs 80V Chainsaw

Final Thoughts on Makita XCU08Z vs XCU06

If you want a light, easy saw for tree work, grab the Makita XCU06. It’s great for tight cuts and won’t wear you out.

But if you need real muscle—something to rip through big limbs or prep firewood all day—the Makita XCU08Z is your best bet. After storms, I always trust it to get the job done.

Both are excellent cordless saws. Just choose based on what you cut most.

If your yard only needs small cleanup, the XCU06 saves money and strain. But if you deal with storms—or burn wood to heat your home like many of us do here in the U.S.—you’ll be glad to have the power of the XCU08Z.

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FAQs: Makita XCU08Z vs XCU06