Galax Pro GP766V vs. Makita SH02R1

Let’s compare these two circular saws: the Galax Pro GP766V and the Makita SH02R1.

Features & Benefits

You can read our roundup of the best compact circular saws.

Power & Motor

The GP766V is corded, runs on 120 V, and draws 5.8 amps. Standard U.S. residential circuits are 120 V, 15 A, which will support the.

The SH02R1 is cordless and requires 12 V batteries.

The GP766V motor produces 3500 rpm and the SH02R1 motor produces 1500 rpm. But don’t pay too much attention to these numbers, because the manufacturers measure them under no-load conditions, so they don’t have a useful impact on the saw’s real-world capability to handle different material.

Both products have a direct-drive motor. Direct-drive motors are usually lighter than other styles, but their side mounting makes the saw a little harder to control.

Blades & Capacity

The GP766V takes 4 1/2” diameter saw blades and has a 3/8” arbor. The SH02R1 accepts 3 3/8” diameter blades and has a 15 mm (0.591”) arbor.

Both circular saws can bevel up to 45°. The GP766V is able to cut up to 1 11/16” deep at a 90° angle and will cut up to 1 1/8” at 45°. The SH02R1 can cut up to 1” deep at an angle of 90° and is able to cut up to 5/8” at a 45° angle.

The Galax Pro has the blade mounted on the left side of the saw. The Makita has the blade mounted on the right side of the body. Right-handers sometimes find it easier to see and control blades mounted to the left, while left-handers might find the same true for right-mounted blades.

Pros & Cons

Let’s take a look at some of the pluses and minuses of these products.

For the GP766V:

For the Makita:

Comparison Chart

Here is a full side-by-side look at these products’ specs. You can view comparisons of the Galax Pro GP766V with other products

	Galax Pro GP766V	Makita SH02R1
Brand	Galax Pro	Makita
Power Type	corded	cordless
Power - Voltage	120 V	12 V
Power - Amps	5.8 A	n/a
No-load RPM	3500 rpm	1500 rpm
Blade Diameter	4 1/2”	3 3/8”
Maximum Bevel	45°	45°
Depth of Cut (at 90°)	1 11/16”	1”
Depth of Cut (at 45°)	1 1/8”	5/8”
Arbor Size	3/8”	15 mm (0.591”)
Weight	6.6 lbs	3.5 lbs
Blade - Side	left	right
Drive Mechanism	direct-drive	direct-drive
Warranty		3 years
Pros	Includes both 24- and 40-tooth blades Included rip fence is accurate	Lightweight and easy to handle Good battery life
Cons	Packaged blades wear out quickly Control placement may make it difficult to grip	Non-standard blade/arbor size can mean limited selection of blades
	Check Price	Check Price