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Makita Power Tools

18V LXT — Precision and Balance

Brand Overview

Makita's 18V LXT platform is one of the largest cordless ecosystems in the world, with over 300 compatible tools. Where Makita stands apart is feel: their drills and drivers are typically lighter and better-balanced than DeWalt and Milwaukee equivalents, making them the preferred brand for finish carpenters, trim workers, and anyone doing overhead or prolonged work. Makita also offers a smart charger ecosystem and some of the best star-rated battery cells in the market. Performance is competitive at the pro level — without the Milwaukee price premium.

Battery System
18V LXT (compatible tools can run two 18V batteries in series for 36V / X2 mode)
Tool Count
300+ tools compatible with 18V LXT
Warranty
3-year limited warranty on tools and batteries
Where to Buy
Amazon, Lowe's, Home Depot, direct at makitatools.com

Makita Reviews

Makita Comparisons

Makita Buying Guides

Who Should Buy Makita

Makita is the best fit for finish carpenters, woodworkers, and professionals who prioritize ergonomics and tool balance alongside raw performance. It's also a strong choice for anyone who wants a massive tool ecosystem at a lower price point than Milwaukee. If you do intricate work — cabinetry, trim, flooring — Makita's lighter tools will reduce fatigue over a long day.

Where to Start

Start with the Makita XFD131 18V LXT Driver-Drill Kit — great balance, proven reliability, comes with two batteries

Read the Review →
All Makita Articles
Makita XOB01Z 18V LXT 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander
Our Top Pick for Makita
Makita XOB01Z 18V LXT 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander
4.5Best Makita Orbital Sander

Makita XOB01Z rated 4.5/5. Brushless motor, 12,000 OPM, rubberized grip for comfort.

Buy on Amazon ($90) →

7 articles

Makita XOB01Z Review: 18V LXT 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander (2026)
Makita

Makita XOB01Z Review: 18V LXT 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander (2026)

Makita XOB01Z rated 4.5/5. Brushless motor, 12,000 OPM, rubberized grip for comfort.

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Makita XBU04Z Review: 18V X2 LXT Brushless Blower (36V) (2026)
Makita

Makita XBU04Z Review: 18V X2 LXT Brushless Blower (36V) (2026)

Makita XBU04Z rated 4.5/5. Uses two 18V LXT batteries for 36V output: no new batteries needed if you own LXT tools.

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Makita XAG04Z Review: 18V LXT Cordless Angle Grinder (2026)
Grinders

Makita XAG04Z Review: 18V LXT Cordless Angle Grinder (2026)

Makita XAG04Z rated 4.6/5. Electric brake, Active Feedback Sensing, brushless motor: all on 18V LXT.

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Makita XRJ05Z Review: 18V LXT Brushless Reciprocating Saw (2026)
Makita

Makita XRJ05Z Review: 18V LXT Brushless Reciprocating Saw (2026)

Makita XRJ05Z rated 4.5/5. Longest stroke in its class, orbital action, brushless motor on 18V LXT.

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Makita XSH06PT Review: 18V X2 LXT (36V) 9-1/4\" (2026) Circular Saw Kit
Makita

Makita XSH06PT Review: 18V X2 LXT (36V) 9-1/4\" (2026) Circular Saw Kit

Makita XSH06PT rated 4.5/5. Dual 18V batteries deliver true 36V power for cutting through 4x material: no corded saw needed.

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Makita XDT16Z Review: 18V LXT 1/4\" (2026) Impact Driver
Impact Drivers

Makita XDT16Z Review: 18V LXT 1/4\" (2026) Impact Driver

Makita XDT16Z rated 4.7/5. Quick-Shift mode delivers precise fastening control across 4 driving modes in a compact, lightweight package.

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Makita XFD131 Review: 18V LXT 1/2\" Drill Kit (2026)
Drills

Makita XFD131 Review: 18V LXT 1/2\" Drill Kit (2026)

The Makita XFD131 is a brushless 18V LXT drill that hits the sweet spot for tradespeople and serious DIYers. 480 in-lbs, 16-position clutch, proven build quality. Here is how it performed in a full week of testing.

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