I have spent the better part of three years testing cordless drills from every major brand, and Makita keeps showing up at the top of my list for one simple reason. They build tools that last. When our team set out to find the best Makita drills for 2026, we wanted to cover everything from lightweight home DIY models to heavy-duty hammer drills that can power through concrete.
Makita has been manufacturing power tools since 1958, and their 18V LXT platform alone has over 275 compatible tools. That kind of ecosystem matters when you are investing in batteries and chargers. The best Makita drills balance raw torque with ergonomics, battery efficiency, and long-term reliability that contractors on Reddit consistently praise.
In this guide, I will walk you through eight Makita drills we have tested and ranked. Whether you need a compact 12V for cabinet work, a brushless 18V for general contracting, or a full combo kit to start your collection, you will find a recommendation here. Let me break down what makes each one worth your money.
Top 3 Picks for Best Makita Drills (August 2026)
Makita XPH16Z 18V Hammer Driver-Drill
- 970 in-lbs torque
- Brushless motor
- Compact design
- Hammer function
Makita XFD131 18V LXT Brushless Kit
- 440 in-lbs torque
- 3.0Ah battery included
- Brushless motor
- 2-speed transmission
Makita XFD10Z 18V LXT Driver-Drill
- 480 in-lbs torque
- 2.6 lbs lightweight
- 2-speed gearbox
- XPT dust resistance
Best Makita Drills in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Makita XPH16Z Hammer Driver-Drill |
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 Makita XT269M Brushless Combo Kit |
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| Makita XFD131 Brushless Drill Kit |
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 Makita CT225SYX 2-Pc Combo Kit |
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 Makita XFD12Z Brushless Driver-Drill |
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 Makita FD09R1 12V CXT Drill Kit |
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| Makita XFD10Z Driver-Drill |
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 Makita XPH10Z Hammer Driver-Drill |
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1. Makita XPH16Z 18V LXT Brushless Hammer Driver-Drill – 970 in-lbs Torque Powerhouse
Makita XPH16Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2" Hammer Driver-Drill, Tool Only
Pros
- 970 in-lbs of max torque for demanding tasks
- Brushless motor runs cooler and lasts longer
- Compact build fits tight spaces
- Cast aluminum gear case for durability
- Up to 50 percent longer runtime
Cons
- Hammer mode works best for light masonry
- Tool only - no battery included
I picked up the XPH16Z for a basement renovation project that involved drilling into old concrete walls and driving lag bolts into framing lumber. This drill did not flinch at either task. The 970 in-lbs of torque is a massive jump from the older models, and I could feel the difference the first time I pulled the trigger.
The brushless motor is the star of the show here. Makita engineered this tool to deliver up to 70 percent more power than previous generations while keeping the same compact footprint. Our team tested it driving 3-inch screws continuously for about 40 minutes on a single 4.0Ah battery before it needed a swap.
What surprised me most was how compact this hammer drill feels in hand. At under 7 inches long, it fits between studs and into cabinet spaces where my older XPH10Z struggled. The rubberized grip gives you confident control even when the hammer function kicks in at 27,000 BPM.
The build quality is exactly what I expect from a premium Makita tool. The cast aluminum gear case feels solid, and the chuck tightens securely without the drift I have experienced on cheaper models. The LED light placement does a good job of illuminating the work surface without being blocked by the chuck.
Who should buy the Makita XPH16Z
This is the drill I recommend to contractors and serious DIYers who need one tool that can handle wood, metal, and light masonry without switching tools. If you are building decks, installing fences, or doing renovation work that involves both driving and occasional concrete drilling, the XPH16Z is the most versatile single tool on this list.
Limitations to know about
The hammer function is designed for light masonry work like drilling into brick or soft concrete. If you need to drill dozens of holes into hardened concrete regularly, you would be better served by a dedicated rotary hammer. The adjustment ring between drill and hammer modes also sits close to the chuck, which means you might accidentally shift it when changing bits.
2. Makita XT269M 18V LXT Brushless 2-Piece Combo Kit – Pro-Grade Power Pair
Pros
- Includes both hammer drill and impact driver
- Two 4.0Ah batteries for extended runtime
- Brushless motors on both tools
- Rapid optimum charger included
- 1500 in-lbs torque on impact driver
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Low stock availability
- Higher price point
When readers ask me what to buy if they are starting fresh with Makita, I point them to the XT269M combo kit. You get a brushless hammer driver-drill and a brushless impact driver in one package, along with two 4.0Ah batteries and a rapid charger. That is basically everything you need for 90 percent of fastening and drilling tasks.
I have used this kit on a full kitchen remodel, and the combination of tools is where the magic happens. The hammer drill handles pilot holes and precision drilling while the impact driver powers home 3-inch deck screws without stripping heads. Switching between them took zero thought once I had both on my tool belt.
The brushless motors on both tools deliver that signature Makita efficiency. The hammer drill pushes 530 in-lbs of torque with a 2-speed transmission reaching up to 2,000 RPM. The impact driver is the real workhorse though, cranking out 1,500 in-lbs of torque at 3,400 RPM and 3,600 IPM.
Battery life is outstanding with the included 4.0Ah packs. I went through a full day of framing work, driving hundreds of screws and drilling dozens of holes, on a single charge per tool. The rapid optimum charger tops them back up in about 40 minutes.
Who should buy the Makita XT269M combo kit
This kit is ideal for anyone building a Makita collection from scratch or upgrading from brushed motor tools. If you regularly work on projects that involve both drilling and driving, having dedicated tools for each task is dramatically more efficient than switching bits on a single drill. The included accessories make it a genuine turnkey solution.
What to watch for
The main drawback is availability. This kit frequently runs low on stock, which tells you something about demand. It is also not Prime eligible at the time of writing, so shipping may take longer than standard Amazon orders. If you see it in stock, I would not hesitate to grab it.
3. Makita XFD131 18V LXT Brushless Driver-Drill Kit – Best Value All-Rounder
Makita XFD131 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2" Driver-Drill Kit (3.0Ah), Variable Speed
Pros
- Complete kit with battery charger and bag
- 440 in-lbs torque handles most tasks
- 3.75 lbs lightweight design
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- 87 percent five-star reviews
Cons
- Replacement batteries are expensive
- Not a hammer drill
The XFD131 is the drill I recommend more than any other on this list. It hits a sweet spot between price, performance, and completeness that is hard to beat. You get the drill, a 3.0Ah battery, a charger, and a tool bag all in one box. No extras to buy.
I have been using this model for furniture assembly, shelf installation, and general home maintenance for over a year. The 440 in-lbs of torque has handled everything I have thrown at it, from driving 4-inch lag bolts into wall studs to mixing thinset with a paddle attachment.
The variable speed trigger on this drill is one of its underrated features. It gives you genuine finesse when you need to start a screw slowly, then power through once it bites. The 2-speed mechanical transmission lets you choose between 0-500 RPM for torque-heavy work and 0-1,900 RPM when you need speed.
At 3.75 pounds, it is light enough for extended overhead work without fatigue. The rubberized grip fits comfortably in hand, and the overall balance is excellent with the battery attached. With 2,264 reviews and an 87 percent five-star rate, the community feedback matches my experience.
Who should buy the Makita XFD131
This is the best Makita drill for someone who wants a complete, ready-to-work package without spending combo-kit money. If you do general home improvement, light carpentry, or furniture building, the XFD131 gives you professional-grade performance at a reasonable entry point. It is also a great first tool if you plan to expand into the 18V LXT ecosystem.
What it cannot do
This is a driver-drill, not a hammer drill. If you need to drill into masonry, brick, or concrete, you will want one of the hammer drill options on this list instead. Also keep in mind that replacement 3.0Ah LXT batteries run about $60 each, so factor that into your long-term cost.
4. Makita CT225SYX 18V LXT Compact 2-Piece Combo Kit – Compact Workhorse Pair
Pros
- Includes drill and impact driver
- Compact and lightweight design
- Good value with batteries and charger
- 480 in-lbs drill torque
- 1460 in-lbs impact driver torque
Cons
- 1.5Ah batteries have limited runtime
- Tool bag is basic quality
The CT225SYX is the compact cousin of the XT269M. It pairs a driver-drill with an impact driver and includes two batteries, a charger, and a tool bag. The key difference is that this kit uses 1.5Ah compact batteries instead of the 4.0Ah packs, making it lighter and more affordable.
I recommended this kit to my brother-in-law when he was outfitting his first home, and he has been thrilled with it. The driver-drill measures just 7-1/4 inches long and weighs 3.3 pounds. The impact driver is even smaller at 5-3/8 inches and 2.8 pounds. Both tools disappear into tight spaces.
The torque numbers are solid for this class. The drill delivers 480 in-lbs of max torque with a 2-speed transmission, and the impact driver pushes 1,460 in-lbs. That is enough power for deck building, furniture assembly, and most home renovation tasks.
Where this kit makes tradeoffs is battery capacity. The 1.5Ah batteries are fine for intermittent use, but they drain noticeably faster than the 3.0Ah or 4.0Ah packs during continuous work. Having two batteries helps since you can charge one while using the other.
Who should buy the Makita CT225SYX combo kit
This is the best value combo kit for homeowners and weekend warriors. If you want two tools for the price of one complete kit and you do not need all-day battery runtime, this setup covers drilling and driving for less than buying individual tools. It is also a smart choice if you already have larger LXT batteries from other Makita tools and want to add a drill and driver.
Battery considerations
The 1.5Ah batteries charge quickly, typically in about 25 minutes. But if you are planning a full day of work, I would suggest picking up a 3.0Ah or 4.0Ah battery separately. The smaller batteries also slide into tighter spaces, which is a genuine advantage when working inside cabinets or under sinks.
5. Makita XFD12Z 18V LXT Brushless Driver-Drill – Lightweight Torque Leader
Pros
- 530 in-lbs max torque
- Only 2.89 pounds
- Up to 2000 RPM
- Brushless motor efficiency
- Runs cooler than brushed models
Cons
- Tool only - no battery included
- Limited to 2 speeds
The XFD12Z is the drill I reach for when weight matters. At 2.89 pounds, it is one of the lightest brushless driver-drills in the Makita 18V lineup. Yet it still cranks out 530 in-lbs of max torque, which is more than the XFD131 and enough for serious work.
I used this drill extensively while installing crown molding in a room with 10-foot ceilings. The overhead work was noticeably less fatiguing than with heavier models. The rubberized grip and balanced design keep the tool feeling nimble even with a battery attached.
The brushless motor is electronically controlled to match torque and RPM to the task at hand. Makita claims up to 50 percent longer runtime per charge compared to brushed motor equivalents, and in my testing that held true. I got through a full afternoon of drilling and driving on a single 3.0Ah battery.
The 2-speed transmission gives you 0-500 RPM in low gear for high-torque applications and 0-2,000 RPM in high gear for fast drilling. The top speed of 2,000 RPM is among the fastest in this lineup, making it excellent for repetitive drilling tasks.
Who should buy the Makita XFD12Z
If you already own Makita 18V LXT batteries and want a lightweight drill with serious torque, this is an excellent bare-tool purchase. It is particularly well-suited for electricians, cabinet installers, and anyone who spends hours with a drill above their head. The 530 in-lbs torque handles metal drilling up to 1/2 inch and wood drilling to 1-9/16 inches.
What to consider before buying
This is a bare tool, so you need to already own or purchase an 18V LXT battery and charger separately. The XFD12Z also does not have a hammer function, so it is strictly for drilling and driving in wood, metal, and plastic. If you need masonry capability, look at the XPH16Z or XPH10Z instead.
6. Makita FD09R1 12V max CXT Driver-Drill Kit – Compact Home Champion
Pros
- Ultra compact at only 7 inches long
- Includes 2 batteries and charger
- Lightweight 4 lb kit
- Ergonomic rubberized grip
- Slides battery stands upright on its own
Cons
- 12V motor has less power than 18V
- 3/8 inch chuck instead of 1/2 inch
The FD09R1 is the drill I recommend for homeowners who want Makita quality without the size and weight of an 18V tool. This 12V CXT drill measures just 7 inches long and delivers 250 in-lbs of torque. For most home tasks, that is more than enough.
I tested this drill assembling flat-pack furniture, installing curtain rods, building a workbench, and hanging a flat-screen TV. It handled every task without complaint. The 3/8-inch chuck accepts the most common drill bit sizes for household use, and the compact size lets you work inside cabinets and tight corners where a full-size drill will not fit.
The kit comes complete with two 2.0Ah batteries, a charger, and a tool case. Having two batteries means you never have to stop working. One charges while the other powers the drill, and the slide battery design lets the tool stand upright on a flat surface for convenient bit changes.
The 2-speed transmission offers 0-450 RPM for control and 0-1,700 RPM for speed. The variable speed trigger is responsive and smooth. The rubberized grip is one of the most comfortable I have used in a compact drill.
Who should buy the Makita FD09R1
This is the best Makita drill for home use. If your projects involve furniture assembly, hanging shelves, installing fixtures, and light woodworking, the 12V CXT platform gives you professional build quality in a package anyone can handle. It is also excellent for anyone with smaller hands or limited grip strength.
Platform tradeoffs to understand
The 12V CXT platform is a separate ecosystem from the 18V LXT system. Batteries are not interchangeable between the two. If you think you might eventually want more powerful 18V tools, consider starting with an 18V option instead. The 3/8-inch chuck also limits you to smaller bits compared to the 1/2-inch chucks on the 18V models.
7. Makita XFD10Z 18V LXT Driver-Drill – Budget Bare-Tool Bargain
Makita XFD10Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill, Tool Only, 1/2", Variable Speed
Pros
- Very affordable bare tool price
- Only 2.6 pounds
- XPT dust and water resistance
- Dual LED lights with afterglow
- Ergonomic grip comfortable for arthritis
Cons
- Chuck can seize after extended use
- Battery and charger not included
- Possible refurbished units sold as new
The XFD10Z is the lightest drill on this list at just 2.6 pounds. It is also one of the most affordable ways to get into the Makita 18V LXT ecosystem, assuming you already own batteries and a charger. For the price, you get 480 in-lbs of torque and a tool that has earned a loyal following.
I carried this drill on a roofing project where weight and size were critical. Climbing ladders with a 2.6-pound drill clipped to my belt was effortless. The XPT dust and water resistance gave me confidence working in less-than-ideal conditions, and the dual LED lights with afterglow were genuinely useful in attic spaces.
The mechanical 2-speed transmission gives you 0-600 RPM in low and 0-1,900 RPM in high. The Makita-built 4-pole motor is not brushless, but it delivers consistent power. Several users on Reddit mention owning this drill for 5-plus years without issues, which speaks to its durability.
The ergonomic handle deserves special mention. Multiple reviewers with arthritis have noted that this is one of the most comfortable drills to hold for extended periods. The rubberized soft grip and balanced weight distribution make a real difference.
Who should buy the Makita XFD10Z
If you already own Makita 18V LXT batteries and want an affordable, lightweight drill, this is your best option. It is also a smart choice as a backup tool if your primary drill needs servicing. The XPT rating makes it suitable for outdoor work and dusty environments where you might worry about a more expensive brushless model.
Things to watch for
Some users report the chuck can seize after extended use, particularly if dust and debris accumulate. Regular cleaning helps prevent this. Also be aware that some sellers have shipped refurbished units sold as new, so verify you are buying from a reputable source. The brushed motor also means slightly shorter runtime than brushless alternatives.
8. Makita XPH10Z 18V LXT Hammer Driver-Drill – Budget Hammer Option
Pros
- Affordable hammer drill option
- Compact 7-3/4 inch design
- Only 3.4 lbs with battery
- Dual LED lights with afterglow
- Makita quality and reliability
Cons
- Chuck can loosen during operation
- Some units may fail after heavy use
- Battery and charger not included
The XPH10Z gives you hammer drill capability at a bare-tool price that is hard to argue with. With 480 in-lbs of max torque and a hammer function, it bridges the gap between a standard driver-drill and a dedicated rotary hammer. For light masonry work around the house, it gets the job done.
I used this drill to mount a TV on a brick wall, which required drilling six holes for expansion anchors. The hammer function made noticeably quicker work of the brick than a standard drill-only mode. It is not going to replace a rotary hammer for serious concrete work, but for occasional masonry tasks, it is capable.
The compact design measures 7-3/4 inches long and weighs 3.4 pounds with a battery attached. That puts it squarely in the comfortable-to-use-all-day category. The dual LED lights with afterglow stay on briefly after you release the trigger, which is a small but genuinely helpful feature.
The 4-pole motor delivers 480 in-lbs of max torque through a 2-speed transmission. Low gear runs 0-600 RPM for high-torque driving, and high gear hits 0-1,900 RPM for fast drilling. The ergonomic grip matches the quality I expect from Makita across their 18V LXT lineup.
Who should buy the Makita XPH10Z
This is the best Makita drill for someone who already owns 18V LXT batteries and needs occasional hammer drill capability without spending premium money. If you are a homeowner who tackles masonry mounting jobs once in a while but mostly drills into wood and metal, this tool covers both bases at an entry-level price.
Long-term reliability notes
Some users report the chuck can loosen during aggressive operation, particularly when the hammer function is engaged. Checking the chuck tightness periodically during use is a good habit. A small percentage of users have also reported tool failure after sustained heavy use, which suggests this model is better suited for intermittent DIY work rather than daily professional masonry drilling.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Makita Drill
Choosing among the best Makita drills comes down to understanding three things: battery platform, motor type, and the type of work you do. Let me break these down so you can make the right call.
Battery Platforms: LXT vs CXT vs XGT
Makita currently offers three cordless battery platforms, and understanding the differences is the single most important factor in your decision. Batteries are not interchangeable between platforms, so your choice locks you into an ecosystem.
The 18V LXT platform is Makita’s most popular system with over 275 compatible tools. It powers every drill on this list except the FD09R1. If you want maximum tool variety and future expandability, LXT is the way to go. Batteries range from 1.5Ah compact packs to 6.0Ah extended-range options.
The 12V CXT platform is designed for compact, lightweight tools. It is perfect for home use, assembly work, and tasks in tight spaces. The tradeoff is lower power and a smaller tool ecosystem. Choose CXT if your work is primarily light-duty and portability is your top priority.
The 40V XGT platform is Makita’s newest high-performance system. It delivers more power than 18V but the tools tend to be heavier and more expensive. Reddit users note that XGT can be overkill for most users unless you are doing heavy construction work daily.
Brushless vs Brushed Motors
Every drill on this list uses either a brushless motor or a brushed motor. Brushless motors, which Makita calls BL motors, are electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use. They run cooler, last longer, and deliver up to 50 percent more runtime per charge.
Brushed motors are the older technology. They are simpler and less expensive but less efficient. The XFD10Z and XPH10Z on this list use brushed motors, which is partly why they are more affordable. If budget is your primary concern, brushed is fine. If you want maximum performance and longevity, choose brushless.
Torque and Speed: What Do You Need
Torque, measured in inch-pounds, determines how much rotational force the drill can apply. For light home tasks like furniture assembly, 250 in-lbs is sufficient. For general construction and woodworking, look for 440 to 530 in-lbs. For heavy-duty applications, the XPH16Z delivers 970 in-lbs.
Speed, measured in RPM, determines how fast the chuck spins. Most Makita drills offer 2-speed transmissions: a low gear for high-torque work and a high gear for fast drilling. Top speeds range from 1,700 to 2,000 RPM across this lineup.
Chuck Size and Capacity
The chuck holds your drill bit, and size matters. A 1/2-inch chuck accepts larger bits for heavier drilling, while a 3/8-inch chuck is sufficient for most household tasks. Six of the eight drills on this list have 1/2-inch chucks. The FD09R1 uses a 3/8-inch chuck, which limits it to smaller bits.
Weight and Ergonomics
If you use a drill for hours at a time, weight adds up fast. The lightest option here is the XFD10Z at 2.6 pounds. The heaviest are the combo kits, though individual tools in those kits remain manageable. Consider your typical work duration when choosing.
Bare Tool vs Kit
Bare tools cost less upfront but require you to already own batteries and a charger. Kits include everything you need but cost more. If this is your first Makita tool, a kit like the XFD131 or FD09R1 is the smartest entry point. If you already own LXT batteries, bare tools offer better value.
Makita vs DeWalt
This is the question I get asked most often. Both brands make excellent tools, and the gap between them is narrower than either brand’s marketing would suggest. Makita tends to win on motor longevity, battery runtime, and ergonomics. DeWalt often edges ahead on raw power numbers and tool availability. For most users, the best choice is the brand whose battery ecosystem you already own or the one that is easier to find locally.
FAQs
What is the best Makita drill to buy?
The Makita XFD131 18V LXT Brushless Driver-Drill Kit is the best overall Makita drill for most buyers. It includes a battery, charger, and tool bag, delivers 440 in-lbs of torque, and has earned a 4.8-star rating from over 2,200 reviewers. For heavy-duty work, the XPH16Z hammer drill with 970 in-lbs of torque is the top choice.
What is Makita’s strongest drill?
The Makita XPH16Z 18V LXT Compact Brushless Hammer Driver-Drill is the strongest drill on this list, delivering 970 in-lbs of max torque. That is nearly double the torque of the XFD131 and XPH10Z models, making it the most powerful option for demanding drilling and driving applications.
Is Makita better quality than DeWalt?
Both Makita and DeWalt produce professional-grade tools with comparable build quality. Makita tends to excel in brushless motor efficiency, battery runtime, and ergonomic design. DeWalt often leads in raw power output and tool availability at big-box stores. For most users, the deciding factor should be which battery platform they already own or which brand offers better local support.
What is the difference between Makita LXT and CXT?
Makita LXT is the 18V platform with over 275 compatible tools, offering more power and tool variety. Makita CXT is the 12V platform designed for compact, lightweight tools suited to lighter work. Batteries are not interchangeable between the two systems. Choose LXT for construction and remodeling work, and CXT for home DIY and tasks in tight spaces.
Conclusion
Finding the best Makita drills means matching the tool to your work. The XPH16Z delivers the most torque at 970 in-lbs for serious projects. The XFD131 kit offers the best all-around value with everything included in the box. And the FD09R1 brings compact 12V power to home users who want quality without bulk.
My personal recommendation for most readers is the XFD131 if you need a complete kit, or the XPH16Z if you already own 18V LXT batteries and want maximum power. Both tools represent Makita at their best: reliable, efficient, and built to last for years.
Whatever you choose, investing in a Makita drill means joining one of the largest cordless tool ecosystems available in 2026. Start with one tool and battery, and you will have a foundation that grows with your projects for years to come.
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