When Makita first announced their plans to bring the new line of XGT 40V Max cordless power tools to the USA, the ETA was said to be “late 2020.”

That was back in October 2019. The COVID pandemic happened, and it’s now March 2021. When can we expect for the Makita XGT lineup to finally launch here in the USA?

I asked Makita USA’s press contact if there are any XGT updates, and there is no new information at this time. I’m told to stay tuned.

If you recall, the new Makita XGT 40V Max cordless power tool lineup will feature a new battery form factor and a selection of high performance brushless tools.

The Makita 40V Max batteries and tools will not be compatible with their 18V LXT system, although there will be a charging adapter.

The confusing part is that we’ve been seeing user reviews and advertising for the Makita XGT platform across social media and YouTube, indicating that the tools are readily available outside the USA.

You can order Makita XGT 40V Max cordless power tools from Amazon Japan, but there’s no way to get a USA-compatible charger yet. Amazon UK also has a selection of Makita XGT 40V Max tools, but there’s the same charger voltage compatibility issue.

There are even several Canadian tool dealers who have XGT 40V Max cordless power tools in stock and shipping right now.

So, users in Australia, Japan, Europe, and Canada – at the least – can buy Makita XGT cordless power tools today.

When will Makita XGT launch in the USA? We don’t have any answers to this, Makita USA has not yet provided any updates.

If I had to guess, I would think they’re still set to launch in 2021, it’s just a matter of when. We couldn’t possible have to wait much longer – right?

Makita has been launching new 18V tools here, such as the new XPH14 cordless hammer drill, but there doesn’t seem to be any correlation between their 18V cordless power tool developments and the new 40V Max tools.

What remains to be seen is how the XGT lineup will measure up to competing systems. Dewalt, Milwaukee, Bosch, Metabo HPT, and other professional-grade cordless power tool brands have designed their heavier duty and next-generation cordless platforms with some type of cross-compatibility.

For example, Milwaukee’s M18 tools and batteries will all work together, although it’s not optimal to pair their lowest capacity batteries with their most demanding tools. Dewalt has one-way cross-compatibility between their FlexVolt and 20V Max cordless power tool systems. Metabo HPT have their 18V/36V MultiVolt system and cross-compatible batteries.

With the Makita XGT system, the only compatibility between 18V LXT and 40V Max XGT systems so far is a charging adapter that allows the XGT charger to be used with 18V batteries.

So far, the XGT system is designed to exist separate from their existing 18V, 18V X2, and 36V Li-ion tool systems.

It will be interesting to see how the XGT tools compare to existing Makita and competing brands’ latest and greatest offerings.

A couple of people have written in with questions, but all we can do now is wait.

That Makita launched these tools internationally but not here in the USA yet could be a good sign that we probably (hopefully) won’t have very long left to wait.

Once these tools do eventually launch here, we can all turn our attention to the next question – should you care about Makita’s XGT 40V Max cordless power tools?

Related Makita XGT News

More Details About Makita XGT 40V Max Cordless Power Tool System, and an 18V LXT Charging Adapter

Meet the New Makita XGT 40V Cordless Power Tool System

More Makita XGT 40V Max Tool News

Related Posts:

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Back in August, Ryobi launched a new line of 18V One+ HP cordless power tools that were centered around two main characteristics – these new tools featured brushless motors, and they were compact.

At the time, I wrote about the new Ryobi 18V HP compact brushless drill/driver, which looked to be their best drill ever.

Many of the Ryobi 18V HP brushless tools are definitely fitting of their Compact Series description, even with the stem-style battery pack that seems out of place in today’s Li-ion day and age.

Ryobi 18V HP Expansion in 2021

Ryobi has very quickly expanded their line of HP cordless power tools with additional compact tools equipped with brushless motors.

2021 kicked off with quite a few new cordless power tools added to the Ryobi 18V HP product family.

New 18V One+ HP Brushless Tools Products List

• 1/2″ Drill/Driver Kit (PBLDD01K)
• 1/2″ Hammer Drill Kit (PBLHM101K)
• 1/4″ Impact Driver (PBLID01B)
• 4-Mode 1/4″ Impact Driver (PBLID02B)
• 4-Mode 1/2” Impact Wrench (P262)
• 1″ SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer (P223)
• Reciprocating Saw (PBLRS01B)
• 7-1/4″ Circular Saw (PBLCS300B)
• Jig Saw (PBLJS01B)
• Multi-Tool (PBLMT50B)
• 4-1/2″ Angle Grinder/Cut-Off Tool (PBLAG01B)

There are also two new batteries:

• 18V ONE+ 4Ah High Performance Lithium-Ion Battery (PBP004)
• 18V ONE+ 2Ah High Performance Lithium-Ion Battery (PBP003)

I’m still working through details and hands-on assessments, but the progress seemed deserving of a quick couple of words in the meantime.

In our best cordless power tools guide, I mentioned that the HP line of tools might deserve a closer look. That was a bit of a conservative statement. If you’re in the market for DIYer-level cordless power tools, these tools are definitely worth a closer look.

A lot of value-minded pros use Ryobi cordless power tools as well, usually for more specialized and infrequently-used tools.

It’s hard to know what Ryobi is going for here, but one thing that’s for certain is that they’re pushing forward with a different energy than in previous years.

Ryobi updated their compact battery pack. But did they have to?

Why – Increased Competition?

I have been wondering – what, or who, is responsible for the new 18V HP lineup?

Ryobi is certainly facing new competition these days, and with relatively fresh brands. Lowe’s has Kobalt’s 24V Max cordless power tool system, as well as Craftsman’s 20V Max cordless power tool system. Skil’s new 20V Max system has been available at Amazon and is now going to be featured at Lowe’s stores.

Kobalt, Craftsman, and Skil have all launched their cordless systems in recent years, with all three brand’s systems being designed from the ground up.

You also have Harbor Freight joining the mix with new Hercules brushless power tools and the promise of more on the way.

So, Ryobi is facing increased competition, and against newer cordless power tool systems designed around Li-ion tech. Ryobi’s battery interface is dated, but reflects their commitment to users.

Although few other brands match up to Ryobi’s breadth of lineup, their 18V HP initial launch and recent expansion seems to reflect an effort to ensure their continued dominance.

Was this a responsive measure? Pre-emptive? Was this always the plan but finally made possible now that brushless power tool tech has come down in price?

Do Fresh Tool Designs Indicate Shifting Strategies?

Ryobi’s 18V One+ battery pack form factor results in certain design constraints, but the ergonomics of these new tools are definitely quite decent.

For example, while the new compact 1.5Ah battery pack doesn’t seem very different on paper if you’re only looking at dimensional specs, it feels a little more compact. Plus, the redesign allowed for a battery fuel gauge.

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The tough part of trying to get to the bottom of this story is that Ryobi’s strategy isn’t clear. Their motivation isn’t obvious. The results aren’t exactly an extension of their past advancements and progress. The 18V HP series is more of a branch of the 18V One+ lineup than a continuation.

This is all very good for users.

To help illustrate what I mean, Ryobi launched a brushless drill/driver more than 4 years ago. They also launched a brushless circular saw, angle grinder, sander, and other tools.

With Ryobi’s initial power tool launches, the focus was on affordable power. There were some compromises, but they brought higher performing tools to the Ryobi 18V platform.

Those tools offered higher performance, greater power, and modern features, but without premium pricing. In my experiences, the tools didn’t have a premium feel either, but their compromises were acceptable.

They gave users brushless options, but the tools lacked some of the refinement other brands’ pricier pro-grade tools offered. But, I considered this to be an acceptable tradeoff.

Here’s the full Ryobi 18V HP series of compact brushless power tools now. Compared to the earlier brushless tools, Ryobi’s HP products don’t fit the same mold. In my experiences, at least so far, you get a more premium experience in comparison.

Where’s the sacrifice here? Where are the compromises? These tools aren’t so much about brute power at more affordable pricing, but about delivering a more balanced experience.

I need more workshop time with these tools before I can fully characterize them.

I can’t place my finder on it, but the new HP tools seem more refined, but that could also be part of the balanced experience and tuned ergonomics. There’s a subtle undertone where these tools feel more serious compared to many previous core-type Ryobi cordless power tools.

Shown here is an image of Ryobi’s 18V One+ and 18V One+ HP cordless jig saws. The HP product doesn’t just have a brushless motor, it has completely different styling and ergonomics.

Ryobi has different pricing and performance tiers for many of their core offerings. But with HP, they seem to break that paradigm. These new HP don’t just have a couple of upgraded features, they are completely different. This doesn’t seem to be an effort by Ryobi to expand outwards, but an effort to expand upwards, and that would be a big deal.

Some of Dewalt’s Atomic series 20V Max cordless power tools are a downwards expansion, seemingly intended to capture the attention of more budget-minded shoppers. Here, you have Ryobi now pushing upwards and into the same space.

Is this a consequence, or the goal, for Ryobi to have created new premium value-system offerings to compete against value-focused pro-system offerings?

If you look outside of the Dewalt Atomic series lineup, consider how popular older brushed motor cordless power tools and combo kits are, especially when they’re aggressively priced during holiday shopping season promotions. Compared to many of those tools, these new Ryobi HP tools have brushless motors, smaller sizes, and in many cases better specs with respect to power and performance. And, there might still be a pricing advantage.

Ryobi Tools’ New President was a Milwaukee Tool VP

There’s also one idea that I cannot quite shake.

Ryobi Tool’s President is Bobby Shaw. Most readers won’t recognize the name, but Shaw was a product manager, group channel manager, and Vice President at Milwaukee Tool.

Bobby Shaw was at Milwaukee Tool for nearly 11 years.

I quickly identified Shaw in Ryobi Tools’ 18V HP launch video in August, and at that time he had already been President at the company for around 10 months (according to his LinkedIn profile).

I can’t tell you anything about Ryobi Tools’ past corporate leadership, or even how it’s organized now. But, I can tell you that this is not an insignificant development.

Although Ryobi Tool and Milwaukee Tool are both part of TTI, they are not jointly operated. I’d say you could think of Ryobi and Milwaukee Tool as you would Pepsi and Gatorade, but quite frankly there’s no way of knowing if the same product team manages both brands’ beverages. What I do know is that there is a disconnect between Milwaukee Tool and Ryobi where the two are effectively completely different companies despite sharing the same parent.

Bobby Shaw isn’t Steven Richman, President at Milwaukee Tool since 2007, but surely Shaw’s philosophy, strategies, and approaches have been inevitably influenced by his experiences at Milwaukee Tool.

Would it be reasonable to think that Shaw has been shaped by some of what worked and didn’t work at Milwaukee Tool?

In no uncertain terms, Milwaukee Tool has grown to be a widely successful company under Richman’s presidency.

It would be unfair to define Shaw solely by his experiences at Milwaukee Tool, but it is fair to assume they are at least a part of him and what he brings to his presidency at Ryobi Tools.

The question here is whether Shaw is a driving force behind Ryobi and the new direction they’re taking with their 18V One+ HP cordless power tools.

Milwaukee Tool announced their first-ever M18 Fuel cordless power tools back in 2011, and the tools launched in 2012. Shaw was a cordless power tools product manager at that time. He was later Vice President of Hand Tools and Storage for 4-1/2 years.

What lessons, culture, or history has been instilled in what Shaw brings to Ryobi Tools, and how does that play into the One+ HP product family?

Additional Context and Influential Factors

Ryobi’s HP line gives users a core selection of compact power tools. The batteries were modernized, and the tools have a more premium yet modest feel.

These tools are somewhat uncharacteristic for the brand, but fitting.

With the 18V HP line only being 6 months old, it’s too soon to identify any trends. But as wrong as it would be to prematurely conclude that Ryobi is redefining their position in the tool industry, we also cannot ignore the strong possibility that these aren’t just a couple of new tools.

Complicating things further, Ryobi is a Home Depot-exclusive tool brand, and so Ryobi’s cordless power tool developments are very strongly influenced by the retailer’s needs and wants. The retailer is Ryobi Tool’s customer. You are not the customer, you are the end user.

Ridgid, adjoined to Ryobi under TTI’s umbrella with respect to cordless power tools developed for and sold at Home Depot, also came out with a 18V SubCompact line of power tools in 2020.

There are so many pieces to this puzzle. New leadership. Industry trends. A grand strategy.

The story needs to be worked out. But, here is where everything comes together. From everything I have seen so far, the only thing that is clear is that these tools were not designed around price. If they were, then Ryobi masked this well.

These aren’t tools for the budget shopper. They’re not for the “maximum bang for the buck” shopper. While not unheard of for the brand, there seem to be inherently different driving forces behind these new tools.

There is a lot of compartmentalizing within the cordless power tool selections at Home Depot these days. Dewalt Atomic. Ridgid SubCompact. And now, Ryobi 18V One+ HP.

Does the One+ HP Compact Series branding describe the tools, or were the tools developed to satisfy the branding?

How big of a role does Home Depot play here? What about Bobby Shaw now at the helm as President of Ryobi Tools? Are these tools designed with Ryobi 18V One+ users in mind, or is increased competition a larger contributing factor than one or two years ago?

I don’t know what to expect from Ryobi Tools after this, but I’m hoping they continue to raise the bar.

Related Posts:

The Best Ryobi Cordless Drill Ever? (New 18V One+ HP Compact Brushless) New Ryobi Cordless Soldering Iron and Hybrid Soldering Station New Ryobi 18V Cordless Bluetooth Speaker

The new Makita XPH14 brushless hammer drill is set to launch this month (March 2021), and apparently there’s a new combo kit that comes with this drill and the XDT16 impact driver.

A reader came across this new combo kit, model XT288T, and asked if it’s a good deal.

Not only is there a new Makita 18V combo kit that includes their new 2021 flagship cordless hammer drill, it’s launching with a pretty substantial promotion bundle.

At this time, it seems that Home Depot is the only retailer offering this special launch bundle on the Makita XT288T cordless hammer drill and impact driver combo kit. All of the independent Makita dealers we checked are only carrying the combo kit by itself and no promo bonus items.

The seemingly Home Depot-exclusive launch bonus bundle comes with 2x 5.0Ah batteries and a 45pc Impact XPS screwdriver bit set.

The battery 2-pack sells for $149 separately, and the 45pc bit set (E-01650) sells for $25. The XT288T combo kit, with the drill, impact driver, charger, 2x batteries, and case, sells for $399.

Is this a good deal? On paper, it’s a great deal, you’re getting $174 worth of freebies compared to paying full price for just the combo kit at other retailers.

But should you buy it?

We requested a hammer drill test sample from Makita USA, but have not yet heard back with a definitive answer. Despite several past requests, they never supplied a test sample of the predecessor model either.

It might not be available yet, or maybe they’re declining the request. Either way, I haven’t had any opportunity to see their new hammer drill in action yet and am unable to provide you with any hands-on feedback or insights.

Makita’s older model was very powerful, and this new model is even more so, according to its on-paper specs.

If you ask for my (hands-off) opinion, there are good reasons to wait, and I said as much in my news post about the XPH14 hammer drill.

The Makita XGT 40V Max cordless power tool lineup still hasn’t launched here in the USA, despite having already launched in Europe, Japan, Australia, and Japan, at the least. Even if Makita launches the new XGT lineup here last, I would think (hope) this is still set to happen in 2021.

The new Makita 40V Max tools will be more powerful and better featured, such as with an anti-kickback feature for the hammer drill (at least in other countries’ releases).

So, despite this being Makita’s latest and greatest 18V brushless hammer drill in 2021, there’s still something better on the horizon if you’re willing to buy into their 40V Max lineup.

Maybe that’s why Makita and Home Depot are trying to boost interest with heavy incentives for this combo kit?

Despite this being a brand new combo kit that includes Makita’s brand new hammer drill, there are already 590 user reviews at Home Depot’s website.

If you think that it’s odd, for there to be so many reviews so quickly, you’re not alone.

Looking closer, many of the user reviews seem to be for the screwdriver bit set by itself, and NOT the new 18V cordless power tool combo kit or this particular bundle. Past the first few pages, there are reviews for Makita batteries, and also ratings that don’t even mention which products they’re for.

Do you need the bonus batteries? Do you absolutely have to upgrade right now?

If you pass on this deal, the next all-but-guaranteed promo will kick off next November. Home Depot usually has a “buy this combo kit, get 2 free bonus tools” promo, featuring different brands’ flagship brushless drill and impact driver combo kits, including Makita’s. Here are details for their 2020 holiday season promo.

There could be other promos between now and then, such as for Father’s Day, or the next iteration of whatever promo is happening right now that created this bundle kit.

If you buy this combo kit now, you’re getting a great deal, assuming there are no issues or common user complaints about the new hammer drill, but that’s always a risk for early adopters.

But will you regret your purchase if Makita USA launches their XGT 40V Max cordless power tools the following week? Month? Around Father’s Day?

The bundled batteries and impact-rated screwdriver bit set makes for an enticing promo, although the high number of unrelated user reviews is a curiosity – and one we’ve seen before when user reviews are automatically aggregated.

Home Depot says this launch bundle is part of a promo that ends 03/21/2021. Sometimes their promos end early, other times they’re extended. They say the deal started 3/1, but the reader that brought my attention to this asked about it in late-February.

Think this one through carefully.

Buy Now via Home Depot
Compare via Acme Tools
Compare: 5Ah Batteries via Amazon
Compare: Bit Set via Amazon

Related Posts:

Is This Makita’s New Promo Drill Kit for 2018 Holiday Season? New Makita XDT16 Brushless Impact Driver New Makita 18V 1/2″ Sub-Compact Cordless Impact Wrench, XWT13

I have been doing some spring cleanup here at ToolGuyd, and part of that involves tidying up past posts, to help with our on-site search results.

Over the past 5 years I have occasionally posted a few hand-picked tool recommendations as part of a “ToolGuyd Top Tool Picks” series of posts.

Most of the recommendations have held up over time, I continue to stand by them.

I have consolidated the 8 Top Tool Picks posts here. A few of the oldest mentions were left out due to pricing or availability changes.

These are among the best tool kit upgrades I’ve made over the years. Some are a bit pricey for DIYers, others might be too basic of professional or industrial users.

Many of these tools are notable because they’ve elevated my experiences. The only exception is the Extech electrical starter kit, which is based on my experiences with a similar product by the same brand.

If you like this style of post, I’ll start working on the second series that can also be added in here over time – please let me know!

Table of Contents

Hand Tools

Engineer Inc Mini Scissors
Milwaukee Heavy Duty Scissors
Dewalt Folding Retractable Utility Knife
Tekton Multi-Bit Screwdriver
Tekton USA-Made Screwdrivers
Wera 9pc Ball-End Torx Key Set
PB Swiss Hex Key Set
Kershaw Link USA-Made Pocket Knife
Leatherman Skeletool KB Knife
Felo Ergonic Screwdriver Bit Holder
Excel Hobby Knife
Ullman Magnetic Pick-up Tool

Power Tools

Dewalt 20V Max 3-Speed Drill
Bosch Starlock Oscillating Multi-Tools
Metabo HPT 18V Triple Hammer Impact Driver

Testing Tools

Fluke 62 Max IR Thermometer
Extech MN24-KIT Electrical Test Kit

Home and Workshop Accessories

Tripp Lite Industrial Surge Protector Power Strip
Velcro Cable Wraps
PowerPax Battery Caddy
Rockwell JawHorse
Custom Leathercraft Kneeling Pad
Nifty Grabber
Retro 51 Tornado Pen
Pentel Graphgear 1000 Mechanical Pencil
Mallory Snow Brush
Otis Cleaning Brushes

Engineer Inc Mini Scissors

These EDC scissors are pretty small (look at product page photos to see in-hand shots), but are still relatively comfortable to use. They have some other handy features, but I mainly use them as compact or portable scissors.

These are in our Ultimate Tool Gift Guide, and for good reason – they’re awesome.

Buy Now(via Amazon)

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Milwaukee Heavy Duty Scissors

I’ve broken scissors before, and have suffered through the use of office scissors that couldn’t cut plastic clamshell packaging, let alone anything tougher. These Milwaukee scissors have largely replaced my use of snips for cutting anything tougher than paper but less than sheet metal.)

Buy Now via Acme Tools
Buy Now via Home Depot

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Dewalt Folding Retractable Utility Knife

It’s been nearly 10 years since I reviewed Dewalt’s folding retractable utility knife, and it’s still going strong.

I love this knife.

It’s retractable, so you still get some control over cutting depth, but also foldable, so it takes up little room in your pocket.

Buy Now via Home Depot

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Tekton Multi-Bit Screwdriver

I’ve been getting in some more time with my new Tekton multi-bit screwdriver. So far, I like it, especially Tekton’s glass-reinforced nylon handle. It’s not perfect for all usage scenarios, but it offers a good “one size fits most tasks” kind of grip.

Also interesting is that the handle is made in the USA, and the receiver and bits in Taiwan.

100%, I would buy it again.

Buy Now via Amazon

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Tekton USA-Made Screwdrivers

Props to Tekton for designing their own line of screwdrivers, and for making them in the USA.

They’re very affordable, and comfortable to use too. Thus far, the tips of my test samples haven’t shown any wear, so they’re not shoddily made either.

If I didn’t already have way more screwdrivers than I could use, and I didn’t already have a bunch of test samples, I’d have bought a set for personal use.

2021 Update: Tekton now has hard-handle screwdrivers, also made in the USA.

Buy Now: 18pc Set via Amazon

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Wera 9pc Ball-End Torx Key Set

Wera’s 9pc ball-end Torx key set is an interesting take on Torx L-wrenches. I like mine so far, but I don’t think I would have paid a lot more than the $13.13 deal price I came across a few years ago.

It’s different. If I didn’t already have any Torx L-wrenches, this might have been a good one to get. The ball-shaped end definitely helps improve off-straight-angle access.

2021 Update: After several years, I still can’t say if I’ve really benefited from the ball-end feature. I still find ball ends to be indispensable on hex tools.

Buy Now via Amazon

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PB Swiss Hex Key Set

I have always enjoyed using my PB Swiss hex keys, and there higher precision comes in handy on occasion, such as when I had dozens of fasteners to install and my Bondhus Allen keys didn’t quite fit right.

My stubby PB Swiss metric hex keys are nice problem-solvers as well, and I wish this style was also available in inch sizing.

10 years ago, I wouldn’t have been able to justify the cost of PB Swiss hex keys, and when you look at the pricing you’ll understand why. I pieced together my kit back when Amazon and Small Parts were clearancing them out at ridiculously low pricing.

PB Swiss’s hex keys are high quality tools and they have not yet let me down. These are the best hex keys I have ever used.

I don’t use PB Swiss hex keys exclusively, and definitely do not recommend these for beginners due to the premium pricing.

Buy Now via Amazon

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Kershaw Link USA-Made Pocket Knife

The Kershaw Link is a very nice USA-made assisted-opening pocket knife.

It has a 3.25″ blade length, which works well for all-around use. I sometimes prefer smaller knives, but the Link is nicely proportioned.

The Kershaw Leek was my gateway knife. Today, that role probably have went to the Link. It’s a very good knife (in my opinion of course) for under $40.

Buy Now via Amazon

There are a few different versions, including a less expensive one with a glass-filled nylon handle. I’d recommend spending the few bucks more to get one with an aluminum handle.

Here’s a look at the blue-handle version:

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Leatherman Skeletool KB Knife

The Leatherman Skeletool KB knife is a great value. You can read more about it in Anthony’s 5 Great Cheap EDC Pocket Knives post.

I bought one in mid-2017, and while it doesn’t see as much use as some of my other pocket knives, I’ve been quite pleased with it.

The Leatherman Skeletool KB shows that you can have a good usable EDC knife without spending a fortune.

This version has a plain edge blade, and there’s also the KBX, which has a partially serrated blade and wider choice of handle colors.

Buy Now: Plain Edge via Amazon
Buy Now Partially Serrated via Amazon

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Felo Ergonic Screwdriver Bit Holder

Felo Ergonic screwdrivers have a unique and comfortable handle. I own a couple of Ergonic screwdrivers, and also bought a bit holder, which allows me to use standard screwdriver bits and still get the same cushioned comfort.

At ~$18, the bit holder is a bit pricey to be one’s first foray into the Felo Ergonic product line, but if you’ve ever handled their screwdrivers, you’d know it’s worth it.

There’s a chance that you might not like the handle shape or the firm but squishable handle material, but this might just be the most comfortable screwdriver bit holder you’ll ever use.

Buy Now via Amazon

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Excel Hobby Knife

Everybody has heard about X-Acto hobby knives, right? But, there are other brands of hobby knives, and not just generic-branded clones.

Excel makes hobby knives too, and they’re compatible with standard blades including X-Acto’s. The knives feature a soft-grip handle, but the most unique part is the blade holder. Excel’s locking knob is at the rear of the tool, far away from the blade.

Buy Now via Amazon

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Ullman Magnetic Pick-up Tool

This is the Ullman HT-5, a convenient magnetic pick-up tool that can be clipped to your pocket.

It has a “power cap” that surrounds the magnet to block side attraction and boosts magnetic power at the tip, a textured cushion grip, and a pocket clip.

(The power cap works in the same way as a magnetic cup, basically redirecting the rear-facing magnetic pole to the same direction as the front-facing pole.)

The tip extends out, give you 5-1/2″ to 25-1/2″ of reach. With the power cap, it can lift up to 2-1/2 pounds.

Buy Now via Amazon

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Dewalt 20V Max 3-Speed Drill

I’ve been a big fan of Dewalt’s DCD990 and DCD995 3-speed premium brushless drills ever since (partially) building my own during a Dewalt factory tour.

I’m not quite sure it’s my favorite drill, but it’s certainly one of the best I’ve used.

Dewalt’s 20V Max 3-speed brushless drill and hammer drill deliver ample amounts of power without being too unwieldy or fatiguing to use. While larger and heavier than compact drills, it’s shocking to see how much smaller the modern version of this drill is compared to its predecessors.

Dewalt’s premium 3-speed brushless drills are among the best cordless drills on the market today. Unless you’re specifically looking for a different brand or form factor, it’s hard to go wrong with these models.

2021 Update: Go for the DCD996 hammer drill – it’s more widely available compared to the older DCD990 and DCD991. There are also new FlexVolt Advantage DCD999 and Power Detect DCD998 models, but the DCD991 drill and DCD996 hammer drill are still well-suited for most users.

Buy Now (DCD996) via Amazon

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Bosch Starlock Oscillating Multi-Tools

Bosch and Fein came out with a new Starlock oscillating multi-tool interface, and they’ve been singing its praise. Bosch has come out with new Starlock multi-tool blades and accessories, and Fein as well.

I had mixed feelings about the interface, until I tried it.

Bosch has two main Starlock multi-tool options – one with a kit box and more accessories, and another with a kit bag and fewer accessories. If you can use the cutting blades, the kit box version is worth the higher premium.

Buy Now: Kit Box Version via Amazon
Buy Now: Kit Bag Version via Amazon

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Metabo HPT 18V Triple Hammer Impact Driver

The Hitachi triple anvil impact driver, now under Metabo HPT branding, continues to be my favorite 18V-class cordless impact driver.

It’s smooth, powerful, and maybe it’s my imagination but it seems to be quieter than competing models as well.

Thankfully, the price has come down over the years, it used to be $399 for the kit, although the kit version can still be hard to find compared to the bare tool. You could always snag the bare tool and starter kit.

Buy Now: Bare Tool via Amazon
Buy Now: Starter Kit via Amazon

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Fluke 62 Max IR Thermometer

I bought a Fluke 62 MAX Plus IR thermometer on sale a few years ago, and found it to be an excellent IR thermometer with higher precision and reliability.

For less crucial applications, or just to have one for kicks and giggles, you’ll want something less expensive. Generally, I trust Fluke a lot more than generic brands when I need testing tools to be highly accurate and reliable.

2021 Update: The 62 Max Plus doesn’t seem to be easily available anymore. Fluke has an upgraded 64 Max model at comparable pricing, and the 62 Max is still widely available and more affordable.

Buy Now: 62 Max via Amazon
Buy Now: 64 Max via Amazon

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Extech MN24-KIT Electrical Test Kit

These days, I’m able to justify pricier test and measurement equipment. But years ago when I was getting into electronics? Or if I were an average homeowner or DIYer with less demanding needs and a tighter budget? This Extech MN24 electrical test kit would have been a perfect start.

An AC voltage detector is a MUST-HAVE when working on wiring, to ensure that a circuit is deenergized for safety purposes. A receptacle tester can help you identify and troubleshoot issues without having to start pulling devices out of the wall. And a digital multimeter can help with all sorts of diagnostic tasks.

Buy Now via Amazon

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Tripp Lite Industrial Surge Protector Power Strip

At the same time that I discovered Flexzilla extension cords, I also bought a Tripp Lite “industrial” surge protector power strip.

I bought the smaller 6-outlet 15-foot surge protector, but think this 8-outlet 12-foot cord model would be better suited for the other corner of my workspace.

I am currently using Tripp Lite’s Isobar metal-cased surge protectors ( in 4-outlet and 8-outlet configurations), and they’ve been working out really well. The industrial models have different configurations and wrap-around cord storage.

My initial take is quite positive, but it’ll me some time to figure out if I like the Isobar or industrial style surge protecting power strips better.

2021 Update: I’ve had great experiences with all of my Tripp Lite power strips and surge protectors so far. This is still an enthusiastic recommendation.

Buy Now via Amazon

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Velcro Cable Wraps

I use Velcro’s 8″ x 1/2″cable wraps for so many thing. I started off buying 50 packs of cable ties – which came with 25 black and 25 gray ties – but my last purchase was for a 100pc pack of black cable ties for around the same price.

These are handy for smaller cable management tasks, such as taming USB cords, power cables, and other such things.

Buy Now: 100pc via Amazon
Buy Now: 50pc via Amazon

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PowerPax Battery Caddy

I wrote about PowerPax battery caddies over the years, and briefly gushed about them in a video:

I don’t carry loose batteries in my tool bag, camera bag, or pocket. I pack them into PowerPax caddies. They’re made of hard plastic, and the AA and AAA caddies allow for reversible battery placement. That way, you can clearly see which batteries are fresh, and which need to be disposed of or recharged.

I now use a wide range of PowerPax battery holders in the workshop, home, and on the go.

Buy Now via Amazon
Storacell Store via Amazon

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Rockwell JawHorse

Rockwell’s Jawhorse is still one of the best free-standing work clamps out there. I haven’t tried anything better, but I’m assuming that maybe there’s something else that I haven’t seen yet.

The Rockwell Jawhorse does a great job of clamping a wide range of materials, it’s highly portable, and it stores away nicely.

Buy Now via Amazon

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Custom Leathercraft Kneeling Pad

I recently had to replace my Custom Leathercraft kneeling pad, and I did so very willingly. This is FANTASTIC for when you have to work on the floor on a lot, and for things like bathing an infant.

It’s squishy and comfortable, and less cumbersome than knee pads. You can move it around, but it loses some of its advantages over knee pads when you have to move around a lot.

Buy Now via Amazon

See Also:

The Best Kneeling Pad for Working on the Floor

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Nifty Grabber

Springtime is almost here, which can mean picking up lots of gunk that you wouldn’t want to touch with your hands.

I previously wrote about this 3-foot Nifty Grabber. My favorite use these days? Grabbing a wet paper towel to clear out spider webs.

Buy Now via Amazon

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Retro 51 Tornado Pen

The Retro 51 Tornado is a short and robust rollerball pen, perfect for pocket-carry as an EDC pen. There are simple designs, such as the blue pen shown here, and also much more elaborately decorated designs that command higher prices.

I bought an orange Retro 51 Tornado a few years ago, as a sort of trial to see if some of their more collectible designs are worth the attention or higher pricing. It turned out to be a sturdy pen, suited for pocket-carry and even heavy use.

The basic pens are ~$20 each. Refills are around $4-5 each and are widely available online under Retro 51 and Schmidt brands. The pens come with a medium-tip rollerball refill, but you can also find ballpoint refills.

Buy Now via Amazon

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Pentel Graphgear 1000 Mechanical Pencil

The Graphgear 1000 is one of my favorite mechanical pencils. It is durable – at least for a mechanical pencil – thanks to its retractable lead sleeve. When you want to put the pencil away, even to say slip into a pocket, press the back of the spring-action pocket clip and the thin lead guide tube tip retreats into the pencil.

See Also: Do You Have a Favorite Pen, Pencil, Marker, or Other Writing Tool?

While not exactly fragile, an unprotected lead sleeve, or tip, can be bent or damaged if it’s not protected in a bag or pocket. So, with the Pentel Graphgear 1000’s retractable tip, it’s more easily transported without the need for special protections.

It’s available in 0.3mm, 0.5mm, 0.7mm, and 0.9mm sizes.

Buy Now via Amazon

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Mallory Snow Brush

The Mallory Ultra Maxx snow brush is the most durable snow brush I have ever used. Every year I try to convince myself to buy a larger brush again, for reaching over my car, but I like the simplicity and durability of this one.

There are no moving parts, and it’s built to be very strong and resilient. Even though I have to reach a little bit to sweep snow off the roof of my SUV, it’s still very comfortable and efficient to use.

If you’ve been meaning to buy a new snow brush, definitely consider this one.

Buy Now via Amazon

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Otis Cleaning Brushes

I wrote about Otis cleaning brushes before, and recently ordered a fresh pack for myself.

The white nylon brushes are the softest they make (but still quite stiff), followed by blue nylon and then brass.

Sure, you could try to source an old toothbrushes for cleaning misc. parts, but how many of those do you have around?

With this bundle, you get (10) white brushes and (1) bonus blue brush for $8.

Buy Now via Amazon

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Reader Recommendations

Are there any upgrade or add-on tools you’d recommend?

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Ridgid has come out with a new 18V brushless brad nailer, model R09891B, that features Clean Drive technology for more consecutive perfect drives.

The new Ridgid R09891B nailer features a brushless motor and is said to be more compact and lighter weight than its predecessor (R09890B).

The new Ridgid cordless brad nailer has a small nose for increased visibility and is said to drive nails flush at all angles and without slipping.

Ridgid describes the new nailer as delivering all the power of a pneumatic nailer in a cordless tool.

The 18 gauge brad nailer can drive nails from 5/8″ to 2-1/8″ long.

Ridgid Brushless Brad Nailer Features & Specs

• 18 gauge brad nailer
• Drives brad nails up to 2-1/8″
• Brushless motor
• Clean Drive tech for more consecutive perfect drives
• Small tip for better visibility
• Transparent magazine for easy monitoring
• Dry-fire lockout
• Drives up to 3,500 nails w/ 6Ah battery
• Works with all Ridgid 18V batteries
• Selectable mode switch (sequential or contact actuation)
• Tool-free depth adjustment
• Tool-free jam release
• Non-marring nose pads
• Independently activated worklight

Price: $199
ETA: June 2021

Ridgid’s Lifetime Service Agreement (with registration) provides free seals, pistons, and driver blades for life.

Discussion

It has been nearly 6 years since Ridgid released their first 18V brushless brad nailer. That model, R09890B, has had a fairly good run, earning a solid reputation.

A lot can happen in 6 years, and Ridgid says that their new model is more compact and lighter, which is always a good thing when talking about cordless nailers. Correct me if I’m wrong, but I believe the new model’s LED worklight is also a new development not found on the older version.

This new Ridgid 18V brad nailer is part of a broader expansion of their cordless power tool lineup in 2021, with more tool news on the way.

Related Posts:

Why Milwaukee Came out with an M12 Inflator, Instead of M18 New Makita 12V Cordless Inflator MP100DZ New Craftsman V20 Cordless Air Compressor (CMCC2520M1), and How it Compares to Dewalt FlexVolt and Others

Worx has come out with a new 20V (Max) brushless cordless compact circular saw, model WX531L.

Benefits of the brushless motor include “10X longer motor life,” as well as “50% more runtime an dup to 80% more power” than a comparable saw with a brushed motor. Worx adds that the high performance brushless motor also runs cooler and with less friction, contributing to longer tool life.

The new Worx WX531L cordless circular saw has a 4-1/2″ blade size (3/8″ arbor), and can be used in spaces too tight for standard-sized circular saws. Its small size and light weight also make it highly maneuverable, even when cutting overhead.

Despite its size, the Worx circular saw can still cut 2X construction lumber in a single pass, with a cutting depth of up to 1.5″.

The saw features a thin-kerf wood-cutting blade and can also work with other blades, such as an optional abrasive blade (WA5048) for cutting masonry materials.

Worx Compact Circular Saw Features & Specs

• 4.5″ blade size
• 3/8″ arbor hole
• 6900 RPM (no-load)
• Electric blade brake
• 1-11/16″ max cutting depth at 90°
• 1-1/8″ max depth of cut at 45°
• 0-46° bevel range
• Weighs 4.8 lbs with battery

The kit comes with a 2Ah battery, 1-hour charger, 24T blade, vacuum adapter, parallel edge guide, hex key, and carrying bag. A bare tool is also available.

Price: $160 for the kit (WX531L), $100 for the bare tool (WX531L.9)
Street Price: $153 (as of the time of this posting)

Buy Now via Amazon

See Also:

First Look: Dewalt Atomic Cordless Circular Saw

Discussion

This is far from being Worx’s first brushless cordless power tool, but it’s still a very interesting and welcome development.

Brushless motor, 2Ah battery, and it comes with a vacuum port for dust collection. Seems like a compelling offering.

Related Posts:

New Worx Sandeck 20V Multi-Sander is a DIY Do-It-All Cordless Sander New Worx 4V Cordless Screwdriver WX240L Charges via USB-C The Nexxforce Cordless Power Washer Can be Used on Your… Horse?

Lowe’s and Chervon have announced the exclusive launch of a new line of FLEX cordless power tools, describing them as cutting-edge tools aimed at professional users.

FLEX cordless power tools will be available at Lowe’s website starting in April 2021 and will also be available at Lowe’s stores nationwide this spring.

Following this introductory launch will be “a multi-year rollout of more than 100 FLEX platform-compatible tools.”

On April 12th, 2021, at 8pm ET, there will be a FLEX Face-Off, where the brand’s new offerings will be compared against competing brands as a way of showing off their high-performance designs.

Flex will be a 24V cordless power tool system, and they’re targeting PRO users.

Lowe’s Bill Boltz, executive vice president of merchandising, says:

As the New Home for Pros, Lowe’s is committed to offering the very best quality, durability and product innovation for today’s most discerning builders, contractors and trade professionals.

This FLEX launch allows our customers to find the latest innovation in our tool department with a brand that will strengthen the industry and how people work.

At this time, we know the launch will include the following FLEX cordless power tools:

• Drill/driver w/ turbo mode
• Impact driver w/ quick eject
• 7-1/4″ circular saw
• Reciprocating saw
• Angle grinder

We also know that the tools will focus on brushless motor technologies.

FLEX Cordless Drill with Turbo Mode

The new FLEX 24V cordless drill will be the platform’s most powerful drill, delivering 1400 in-lbs of max torque. FLEX says that, when combined with the turbo mode’s 2500 RPMs, the new drill will deliver dramatically faster results.

The FLEX cordless drill will also feature a brushless motor and anti-kickback technology.

FLEX Cordless Impact Driver with Quick Eject

The new impact driver is said to deliver unrivaled torque, power, and speed, and a quick-eject feature allows for faster one-handed bit changes.

There will be 3 speed settings and a self-tapping screw mode for greater fastening control.

FLEX Cordless Reciprocating Saw

The reciprocating saw is said to be designed to deliver power and performance, and can cut up to 50 4x4s with on a single 5.0Ah battery charge. It has a keyless blade change mechanism with quick-eject feature, meaning you can remove a hot blade without having to touch it.

A Shockshield vibration suppression is said to reduce vibration by up to 40%, providing for improved control.

Why is This a Big Deal?

Chervon is the company behind EGO cordless outdoor power tools and Skil cordless power tools, and they also design and manufacture power tools for other brands.

With FLEX, Chervon is taking their Li-ion, brushless motor, and power tool tech and know-how and has set their sights on the professional cordless power tool industry.

Lowe’s and FLEX are promising cutting-edge cordless power tool tech, and there’s an ambitious roadmap involving 100+ FLEX tools.

FLEX is promising “industry-leading lithium-ion and brushless motor technologies with 20 percent more power than competitors and up to 50 percent faster charging.”

They are focusing on “tools made for the trades” and delivering “the absolute best in terms of power, run-time, and recharge time.”

There will also be introductory benefits – any FLEX tool, battery, or charger purchased in 2021 will be eligible for a limited lifetime warranty with registration.

Discussion

We’re partnering with FLEX to explore their new 24V cordless power tool lineup when it launches next month, and so my intent was to keep this post strictly objective with any personal thoughts and opinions left out. Still, there’s a lot to be excited about.

What I find especially exciting about FLEX is their confidence. They are claiming that FLEX is the next generation of power tools for tradesman and pro tool users.

They’re promising “unrivaled power,” and features that will improve user experiences, such as turbo mode and anti-kickback tech in the high performance drill, and a quick-eject blade mechanism in the reciprocating saw.

As much as I don’t like using the phrase, “disruptive innovation” comes to mind. Look at the presence and reputation that EGO has built up in the cordless outdoor power tool industry. With FLEX’s access to advanced and innovative power tool and Li-ion tech, and Lowe’s being their exclusive retail launch partner, their entrance is going to make waves in the tool industry.

In coming weeks we will be deep-diving into the new FLEX cordless power tool tech. If you have any questions, please let me know!

FLEX Face-Off Teaser Video

Learn More via FLEX Power Tools

Related Posts:

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Over at Home Depot, they have tool deals as part of their online-only special buy deals of the day, today only, 3/22/21. The deals end at 3am ET 3/23 unless supplies sell out sooner.

There are a couple of standouts, such as the Ridgid 18V subcompact brushless impact wrench kit, priced at $159.

They also have a bundle featuring the new Milwaukee RedLithium USB green laser and 48″ RedStick digital box level. Separately, the two layout tools are priced at $349 and $209, respectively, or $558 combined. With this bundle deal, you can buy both for $499.

Does anybody need a 360-pack of fine point Inkzall markers in blue or red?

There are a couple of Milwaukee mechanics tool deals and hand tool deals as well.

There are some cordless LED lighting products on sale, as well as power tool accessories and a couple of Milwaukee cordless power tools and combo kits.

The deals all seem decent, but it also depends on how well these select products align with what’s on your shopping list or wish list.

Are there any specific tools or accessories that you’re still waiting for a good deal on?

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deal ends at 3am ET 3/23/21 unless supplies sell out sooner.

Bosch has quietly launched a new 18V cordless drill kit, model GSB18V-490B12.

Update (3/22/2021): Bosch’s compact cordless hammer drill kit is back down to $99.

I’d describe this new Bosch cordless drill kit as a “special buy,” as it seems close in design, specs, and kit configuration to Bosch’s prior holiday season-promoted cordless drill kits.

$99 is also the common pro-grade cordless drill kit “special buy” price point, with Bosch, Dewalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Ridgid, Metabo HPT, and other brands all in very fierce competition with each other.

Every year, pro-grade cordless power tool brands all put out $99 special-buy 18V cordless drill kits, and sometimes those kits are upgraded.

Not to mince words, Bosch has not kept up with the competition in recent years. Their 18V offering at the $99 price point was often a lower-powered brushed motor cordless drill paired with low capacity batteries. Most of Bosch’s competition has moved to $99 promo kits featuring higher performing brushless drills, some bundled with a single battery.

Last year, Bosch’s brushed motor entry-level cordless drill kit was discounted a bit further, to $79. At $79, Bosch’s Black Friday and holiday season special buy was well-priced in the face of superior competition at the $99 price point.

But, here’s what Bosch did with this new model:

First, they went brushless! This is Bosch’s cheapest 18V brushless drill kit ever.

Also, it’s a cordless hammer drill, not just a drill/driver. Dewalt had a brushless hammer drill kit special buy a few years ago, but haven’t repeated that bundle since.

Plus, Bosch also upgraded the included battery. Instead of 2 lower capacity batteries (1.3Ah or 1.5Ah), they bundle this drill with a single 2.0Ah compact Li-ion battery.

What’s the catch?!

The specs, right? Nope.

Bosch USA has not yet made any announcements or issued any press releases, but this is what we gathered from their website and retailers’ product listings:

• Brushless motor
• 1/2″ chuck
• 490 in-lbs
• 0-600/0-1900 RPM
• 0-22,000 BPM
• 7.44″ length
• Weighs 2.4 lbs
• LED worklight
• All-metal chuck
• Ergonomic grip zone
• Removable belt clip

The kit comes with a charger, Bosch 18V 2.0Ah SlimPack battery, and tool bag.

Bosch says that the drill:

is made to tackle demanding materials and applications (such as metal or masonry) anywhere on a worksite.

Amazon has it for $99 (via CPO, an authorized dealer), and so does CPO directly. Others have the kit priced at $149, and it’ll surely be discounted to $99 as Thanksgiving and Black Friday 2020 get closer.

This seems like Bosch’s best 18V $99 cordless drill promo kit yet. Without obvious “gotchas” or compromises, this looks like it could be a good deal.

Sale Price: $99

Buy Now via Amazon
Buy Now via Acme Tools
Buy Now via CPO

Discussion

Here’s our earlier post about Bosch’s main-line 18V brushless hammer drill. Referring to the specs, the Bosch GSB18V-535C hammer drill is rated at 535 in-lbs max torque, has a 0-600/0-1900 RPM 2-speed gearbox, and impacts at 28.500 BPM. It weighs 2.7 lbs.

This new Bosch 18V brushless hammer drill, GSB18V-490B12, is a little lighter and delivers lower max torque, but matches the speed of Bosch’s more premium brushless hammer drill. This $99 kit hammer drill has a lower hammer-mode impact speed.

With the $99 special-buy hammer drill, you get an LED worklight, and it’s placed near the base by the battery. And, the drill comes with a belt clip.

A belt clip might sound minor, but it’s an area where some brands cheap out in order to minimize the costs of their special-buy kits and combo kits. It’s better to have one included with a kit and not need it, than to need one and have to source one separately.

The more premium Bosch brushless hammer drill kit comes with a Core18V 4.0Ah battery, this kit comes with a compact 2.0Ah battery.

You don’t get Bluetooth-connectivity, but you’d be hard pressed to find that for $99 – if it’s even something you want.

Frankly, I thought that Bosch gave up on competing with the other big brands at the $99 price point. A few years ago, they had a compelling kit, but not so much in more recent years after Dewalt, Makita, and Milwaukee all went brushless. With last year’s $79 kit, I thought that Bosch was throwing in the towel.

On paper, the specs look good, the all-metal chuck is reassuring, and the features seem very competitive.

It’s always possible for there to be compromises below the surface. We haven’t tried any of Bosch’s recent brushless drills, but I can’t imagine this one disappointing.

It might also not be a “special buy,” as there’s a bare tool part number, GSB18V-490N. If this will be a main-line inclusion in Bosch’s 18V cordless power tool lineup, and it’s very possible given the hammer drill’s specs and features, that would serve to make the special buy kit even more compelling.

We haven’t seen if other brands have upgraded their special buy cordless drill kit for Black Friday 2020 or the winter holiday shopping season, but there’s not much for improvement. Meaning, with this new brushless hammer drill kit, Bosch looks to be once again punching in the pro-grade weight class.

Sale Price: $99

Buy Now via Amazon
Buy Now via Acme Tools
Buy Now via CPO

Related Posts:

Bosch Renames their 18V Brushless Impact Driver & Wrench – it’s now “The FREAK” Sneak Peek: New Bosch 18V Brushless Impact Driver is “Connected-Ready” New Bosch 18V Compact Impact Driver, GDR18V-1400

This Milwaukee M18 cordless drill/driver chart has been my go-to whenever questions about their different models and tiers come up. So, I thought I’d share it.

This post was originally published on 12/21/2018 and republished on 3/22/2021 with minor updates.

The image above is clickable in case you need a larger version.

There are 4 tiers of tools. There’s the brushed motor compact drill, which I’d bet is most often purchased as part of a combo kit, a new version of the compact brushless drill, a new higher-powered brushless hammer drill, and the the top-tier M18 Fuel brushless drill and hammer drill. There are also One-Key versions of the Fuel tools.

Following is a quick rundown of all the current models and what sets them apart from each other.

Prices and links are to the 2-battery kits. But, keep in mind that there are usually promos going on. The “standard” kit prices and links were chosen for baseline comparison purposes only.

For example, the M18 Fuel hammer drill kit is regularly $299, but there’s also a holiday season promo where you can get the same drill in a combo kit with an impact driver and Packout tool box, for the same $299.

Milwaukee M18 Compact Drill, 2606

Milwaukee’s “compact” brushed motor drill/driver can be found separately, and is one of the core tools in their non-brushless combo kits. It’s reasonably spec’ed, and has a modern design.

• 1/2″ all-metal ratcheting chuck
• 500 in-lbs max torque
• 0-450/0-1800 RPM
• 7.2″ length
• Weighs 2.9 lbs (tool only)
• Kitted with CP1.5 battery (2606-22CT)

Price: $179

Buy Now(Kit with 2 batteries via Acme Tools)

Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless Drill, 2801

Step up to the compact brushless model, and you get the same torque rating, a small bump-up in lower gearbox speed, and a tool that’s smaller and lighter. The brushless motor is more efficient, and so you should see longer runtime. Plus, the drill is kitted with 2.0Ah batteries, giving you an even further boost in runtime.

• 1/2″ all-metal ratcheting chuck
• 500 in-lbs max torque
• 0-500/0-1800 RPM
• 6.5″ length
• Weighs 2.45 lbs (tool only)
• Kitted with CP2.0 battery (2801-22CT)

Price: $199

Buy Now(Kit with 2 batteries via Acme Tools)

The Milwaukee M18 2801 compact brushless drill/driver is seasonally available in a 1-battery promo kit for $99, model 2801-21P.

Milwaukee M18 Brushless Hammer Drill, 2902

If you want more power and the ability to drill into masonry, but don’t want to step up to M18 Fuel, that’s where the new Milwaukee brushless hammer drill comes in.

Its torque rating is nearly 50% higher than the compact brushless drill, but the brushless hammer drill is only a little longer and heavier. It’s also a little faster in the lower speed gear setting.

The kit is bundled with XC batteries, and the “XC effect” should partially contribute to the increased torque over the compact brushless model.

It’s bundled with an auxiliary handle for greater control and safety.

• 1/2″ all-metal ratcheting chuck
• 725 in-lbs max torque
• 0-550/0-1800 RPM
• 28,800 BPM
• 7″ length
• Weighs 3.05 lbs (tool only)
• Kitted with XC4.0 battery (2902-22)

Price: $229

Buy Now(Kit with 2 batteries via Acme Tools)

Milwaukee M18 Fuel Gen 3 Drill, 2803

Stepping up to M18 Fuel, you get greater torque and speed, and a slight reduction in length compared to the brushless hammer drill. The drill/driver is only a tiny bit heavier. It’s also bundled with 5.0Ah batteries.

• 1/2″ all-metal ratcheting chuck
• 1200 in-lbs max torque
• 0-550/0-2000 RPM
• 6.9″ length
• Weighs 3.2 lbs (tool only)
• Kitted with XC5.0 battery (2803-22)

Price: $279

Buy Now(Kit with 2 batteries via Acme Tools)

Milwaukee M18 Fuel Gen 3 Hammer Drill, 2804

I don’t know how, but Milwaukee managed to make the new M18 Fuel Gen 3 brushless hammer drill the same length and weight as the non-hammer drill/driver. Its specs are the same, except for the hammer drilling function, which delivers around 11% more beats per minute than the non-Fuel brushless model.

• 1/2″ all-metal ratcheting chuck
• 1200 in-lbs max torque
• 0-550/0-2000 RPM
• 32,000 BPM
• 6.9″ length
• Weighs 3.2 lbs (tool only)
• Kitted with XC5.0 battery (2804-22)

Price: $299

Buy Now(Kit with 2 batteries via Acme Tools)

Related Posts:

Best Cordless Drills 2019 Milwaukee’s BEST M18 Fuel Brushless Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit Yet (2997-22) Milwaukee M18 Fuel Gen 3 Drill Overheating? Nope!, Not Mine

Let’s cut to the point – I am all but convinced that Milwaukee Tool will be coming out with a new M18 subcompact cordless drill later on in 2021.

This is just a prediction/theory, but hear me out and then let me know if you think I’m wrong or wrong.

And, if there will be a new Milwaukee M18 SubCompact cordless drill, there will likely be other tools as well, such as a new impact driver at the least.

Reason #1: Milwaukee Needs a SubCompact Cordless Drill

It can be argued that Milwaukee’s M12 cordless power tool system is their subcompact cordless power tool system.

But, as popular as the M12 cordless system might be, a lot of users still prefer 18V/20V Max-class cordless power tools.

If there’s an M12 brushless drill kit for $99 and a Dewalt 20V Max brushless drill kit next to it, also priced at $99, which do you think will sell better?

As compact as Milwaukee’s M12 cordless drills might be, competing 18V systems have become much more competitive.

Milwaukee now has quite a few stubby impact drivers, and so they understand the importance of size.

Reason #2: Milwaukee SubCompact Cordless Tools Would Follow the Trend

Yes, I know – Milwaukee Tool prefers to be disruptive and innovative. But, there’s no reason why they cannot follow a trend in their own way.

Right now, we’re seeing a push towards smaller and lighter tools.

Consider the new Ryobi 18V HP brushless cordless power tool lineup. These tools are smaller and lighter than other Ryobi offerings.

While brands are still competing to see who can make the most powerful cordless power tools, they’re also starting to compete on the other side of things. Who can provide for the most comfortable and user-friendly experience?

Ridgid is also coming out with new compact brushless power tools.

Makita has a limited selection of SubCompact 18V cordless tools, and Dewalt has a growing selection of 20V Max Atomic tools.

Reason #3: It’s Almost Time for a Refresh

Milwaukee’s 2701 compact cordless drill came out in early 2015, and their 2801 compact cordless drill came out in late 2018. We’re not quite due for an updated model, but it wouldn’t be too surprising if one came early.

There’s nothing wrong with the M18 compact brushless drill/driver, and it’s actually a very good model, but its biggest selling point is that it’s a great bargain during the holiday shopping seasons.

(There’s no comparable brushless impact driver, and there’s definitely room for one.)

I feel bad putting it this way, given the risk my stance could be misinterpreted, but the current M18 compact brushless drill/driver is unremarkable.

If a tool is unremarkable, especially when compared to competing options, it’s going to be a strong candidate for a redesign.

Reason #4: Brushless Motor Tech Advanced in Recent Years

It has only been 2-1/2 years since Milwaukee’s most recent compact brushless drill came out, but brushless motor tech has advanced since then.

When Father’s Day rolls around in a couple of months, every single power tool brand is going to have compact brushless 18V drill kits on sale for the season. The same situation will be repeated next winter.

Why buy the Milwaukee over the competition? Well, maybe it will be bundled with a Packout tool box. The 2.0Ah compact battery is always a nice touch, given that some competing kits will instead come with 1.5Ah (or worse 1.3Ah) battery packs.

Even if current brushless motor tech isn’t very different from what Milwaukee has already been using in their compact drills, the price point has dropped enough to where there’s competition at every turn.

Milwaukee has recently come out with new M18 compact impact wrenches, and they’re incredibly compact. I don’t think it’s hard to imagine that they can they now make an even more compact brushless drill.

Would You Buy One?

Would you buy a more compact M18 brushless drill from Milwaukee?

If enough of you answer positively, well, this could be reason number 5.

Do You Agree?

I’m of the belief that Milwaukee can build a more compact brushless drill than they currently offer, and that it could potentially drop later this year.

Do you agree? Or am I off-base and Milwaukee doesn’t need any more M18 drill/drivers?

What Does SubCompact Actually Mean?

Frankly, subcompact is just a marketing term brands use to describe their most compact and lightest weight cordless drills and other power tools.

Subcompact cordless power tools are simply scaled down, with respect to power, performance, size, and weight.

Alternatively…

What if Milwaukee’s subcompact cordless drill is an M12 or M12 Fuel model?

Given the competitive landscape these days, it seems possible for Milwaukee to finally retire their brushed motor M12 and M18 cordless drills, replacing them with subcompact brushless models.

If Milwaukee replaced their M18 brushed cordless drill with a “subcompact” model, they would maintain their logical tiered drill/driver lineup. Or perhaps the compact brushless might replace the entry-priced brushed drill, with the subcompact model taking its place.

Predicting the launch of a subcompact drill is one thing, understanding its positioning within Milwaukee’s lineup is a bit more difficult.

See Also:

Handy Milwaukee M18 Cordless Drill/Driver Comparison Chart (2021)

Related Posts:

Milwaukee M18 Fuel Gen 3 Drill Overheating? Nope!, Not Mine Milwaukee’s BEST M18 Fuel Brushless Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit Yet (2997-22) New Milwaukee M18 Fuel One-Key 1″ Impact Wrench

I was thinking ahead as to what’s coming in 2021, and what has happened so far, and this is going to be a BIG year for cordless power tools.

In previous years, most cordless developments involved brands’ expanding their offerings both outwards, with new models, and upwards with new higher powered solutions.

Battery tech innovations mostly involved adding more cells to battery packs, or increasing the size of the cells. And before that, progress involved cells with increasingly greater charge capacity.

So let’s take a look at what happened this year so far.

Ryobi announced an expanded lineup of 18V One+HP cordless tools, with a focus on compact sizing and brushless motors.

Flex is coming out with a new 24V max cordless power tool system, with a focus on Pro-level offerings, brushless motors, and competitor-squashing power.

Bosch Profactor tools promise to deliver next-gen power when paired with their 8Ah and Profactor-exclusive 12Ah battery. We haven’t seen any of these tools yet.

Harbor Freight is expanding their Hercules brushless tool offerings.

Dewalt is expanding their 12V Max Xtreme Subcompact cordless lineup. This isn’t big news given everything else that’s happening in the industry, but it’s still good to know.

Makita is launching a new 36V/40V Max cordless system – XGT. XGT has launched in most parts of the world already, and will likely be coming to the USA at some point in 2021. So far, we know this will Makita’s new “higher power” system, and it won’t be backwards-compatible with their 18V platform.

Ridgid has expanded their 18V cordless platform with new brushless power tools. They look to have shifted their focus with a new emphasis on user comfort, ergonomics, and convenience.

ALL THIS and we’re just 3 months into 2021.

What has Craftsman been up to? They’ve been awfully quiet – I wonder if we’ll see any Craftsman cordless power tool developments this year.

Dewalt and Milwaukee have been steadily expanding their 18V/20V Max cordless power tool systems. But, my gut feeling says that Milwaukee is due for some big news. I predicted there will be new subcompact cordless drills and impact drivers, but there could certainly be different surprise developments.

What’s most surprising about a lot of these developments is that the focus isn’t entirely on more power as in previous years. Bosch Profactor and Makita XGT systems do focus on power, but they’re also playing catch-up to Dewalt and Milwaukee Tool developments.

The increasing focus on user comfort and convenience, with smaller and lighter tools, is definitely welcome.

With brushless motor technology being democratized these days, and present in all major consumer and professional cordless power tool systems, we can count on seeing the continued decline of brushed motor options.

2021 has been a big year with respect to cordless power tool tech so far, and it seems that further updates and advancements are on the way.

Are there any cordless developments you’d be eager to see happen this year?

You might also be interested in:

Best Cordless Power Tool Brand in 2021

Related Posts:

New Milwaukee Quik-Lok Cordless Outdoor Power Tool System Dewalt 40V Max Cordless Outdoor Power Tool System has Been Discontinued Harbor Freight Hercules Cordless Power Tools are Sold Out, LOTS More are Coming Soon

Ridgid has come out with a new oscillating multi-tool, model R86240B, expanding their 18V cordless power tool lineup.

While not exactly their first cordless oscillating tool, this is their first standalone tool, with previous iterations being JobMax tools with modular head attachments.

The new Ridgid 18V cordless oscillating multi-tool features a brushless motor, which Ridgid says gives users the ability to make fast clean cuts through drywall, wood, metal, and handle a variety of other jobsite applications.

Key Features & Specs

• 18V battery platform
• Up to 20,000 OPM
• 3.6° oscillation angle
• 15% more compact compared to JobMax tool
• 15% lighter than the JobMax tool
• Variable speed dial
• Tool-free accessory changes

The new cordless OMT is part of Ridgid’s Spring 2021 wave of new 18V cordless and brushless power tools.

The cordless OMT delivers maximum performance when paired with one of their 18V Max Output batteries, but it will also work with all Ridgid 18V battery packs.

Price: $129 for the bare tool
ETA: April 2021 (part of a combo kit, R9225)

The tool comes with a sanding pad, sanding sheets, saw blade, and wood cutting blade.

Buy Now: Combo via Home Depot

Discussion

The new Ridgid cordless OMT looks to be quite compact, and certainly more compact than Ridgid’s JobMax combination of a modular tool handle and OMT head attachment.

This seems to be a new direction for Ridgid, with a focus on user comfort and convenience.

The bare tool will be dropping later, and if you want it sooner there’s the R9225 combo kit, which also comes with the new 18V hammer drill, 3-speed impact driver, and reciprocating saw – all brushless – and 2.0Ah and 4.0Ah Max Output batteries.

Related Posts:

New Dewalt 3-Speed Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool, DCS356 Harbor Freight News: More Hercules Brushless Power Tools Coming in Spring 2021 New Metabo Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool w/ Starlock Blade Change Interface

Makita has finally announced the launch of their long-awaited line of XGT 40V and 80V Max cordless power tools here in the USA.

Table of Contents

Introduction
Makita 40V Max XGT Batteries
Makita “ONE SYSTEM” Marketing
What About Makita 18V LXT?
Makita 18V LXT and 40V Max XGT Compatibility?
The Big Question – Should You Buy into Makita XGT?
Can You Upgrade from Makita 18V LXT?
What Happens with 3rd Party Batteries?
18V vs. 40V Max Batteries Explained
XGT Batteries Compared to Other Brands’ Systems
Pricing and Availability
Questions?

Makita XGT 40V and 80V Max Cordless Power Tool Systems

First announced in October 2019, Makita’s XGT launch is a sort of 2-in-1, with both 40V Max and 80V Max cordless power tools and solutions.

As with their 18V X2 lineup, which effectively features 36V cordless power tools powered by 2x 18V batteries, Makita’s XGT 80V Max lineup will be powered by 2x 40V Max battery packs.

Essentially, Makita 80V Max cordless power tools can be thought of as 40V Max X2 tools. Since there’s no existing 36V system, or for other simplicity-related reasons, the 80V Max system is connected to the 40V Max lineup via XGT branding rather than “X2.”

As far as I am aware, any two XGT 40V Max batteries can be used in Makita’s 80V Max cordless power tools.

Here’s a list of the tool categories that have been announced so far:

• Drills and hammer drills
• Impact driver
• Impact wrenches
• Rotary hammers
• Circular saws
• Reciprocating saw
• 8-1/2″ miter saw
• Angle grinders
• Combo kits
• Fan
• Radios
• Flashlights
• Batteries, charger, LXT charging adapter

This list doesn’t include tools such as the trimmers seen in Makita’s product images.

Most of these tools offer higher power, greater capabilities, and premium features not found in Makita’s current 18V power tool system.

Nearly all of the new Makita 40V Max XGT tools feature brushless motors, except for the fan and of course tools without moving components such as the flashlights and radios.

The first wave of tools will launch in April 2021.

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Makita XGT Batteries

At launch, there will be (2) Makita 40V Max XGT battery packs, a 2.5Ah battery and a 4.0Ah battery pack with a larger (next-gen) form factor.

One of Makita’s core marketing points in press materials was that the XGT system is based on an 18V battery form factor.

You will find that the Makita XGT 40V Max 2.5Ah battery is approximately the same size and weight as their 18V Li-ion battery, and the 4.0Ah battery compares against other brands’ 18V 8.0Ah batteries.

Also on the roadmap are a 5.0Ah battery, dual-bay charger, and charging adapter that allows users to recharge their 18V batteries with an XGT charger.

Here are the charging times, with their DC40RA charger:

Makita 40V Max XGT Battery Charging Times

• 2.5Ah: 28 minutes
• 4.0Ah: 45 minutes
• 5.0Ah: 50 minutes

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Makita “ONE SYSTEM” Marketing

Makita has explained their “One System” marketing.

With Dewalt, if you want to take advantage of their highest power tools, you really need to buy into two separate systems – FlexVolt and 20V Max. While their FlexVolt cordless power tool batteries will power their 20V Max tools, it’s not going to be the most ergonomic fit for smaller tools, such as an impact driver.

Thus, Makita explains, Dewalt users really need to buy into two systems to get the best of both 20V Max and FlexVolt platforms.

What about Milwaukee? If Milwaukee M18 cordless power tool users want to tap into the brand’s MX Fuel cordless light equipment lineup, that’s a separate cordless system they need to buy into. You can’t get everything from one system.

Frankly, I don’t agree with Makita’s analogy, and not only that, nothing in Makita’s XGT lineup looks to match up with what Milwaukee offers in their MX Fuel lineup. For example, where’s Makita’s cordless demolition breaker? Are they really going to match up against MX Fuel with 18V-form factor batteries?

Makita says they will outpower, outsmart, and outlast the competition, although that remains to be seen.

Makita USA put a lot of emphasis on the “competing brands require 2 systems” messaging. I understand the point they’re trying to make, although I don’t agree with it.

Fast forward 5 years, to when Makita has expanded their XGT 40V Max cordless power tool system by quite a bit. At that time, there will hopefully be a healthy selection of products, and XGT might indeed be a “One System” solution.

But right now, there’s also Makita’s 18V LXT system. Let’s say you’re a Makita 18V cordless power tool user, and this includes the 18V X2 line. Well, if you want a higher-powered or more featured solution, guess what – you’re going to have to buy into a completely separate lineup.

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What About Makita 18V LXT?

Makita insists that they will continue to launch new products for their 18V LXT cordless power tool system.

But, what if you want any of the new features being touted about the XGT 40V Max platform?

Makita recently launched a new 18V cordless hammer drill, model XPH14. We cautioned that you should wait on buying it, and for good reason. As an aside, Makita USA has ignored our requests for a media sample of the new drill, and they have also refused to answer as to whether XGT samples will be available.

Despite being launched after the XGT 40V Max brushless drill and hammer drill launched overseas, the latest 18V LXT flagship drill does not include Makita’s AFT active feedback-sensing safety tech.

Makita’s XGT 40V Max drill (GFD01D) and hammer drill (GPH01D) deliver the same 1,250 in-lbs of max torque as the 18V XPH14. The XGT’s motors will turn off when binding occurs, and the LXT’s motors will not.

The AFT tech will not be included in Makita’s lower torque XGT 40V Max compact drills.

Read Also: Flex Brushless Drill will Feature Anti-Kickback Tech and 1400 in-lbs max torque

Alongside their “One System,” marketing, Makita has repeatedly emphasized that they will continue to support the 18V LXT system.

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Makita 18V LXT and 40V Max XGT Compatibility?

There will be an optional charging adapter, ADP10, which allows 18V LXT users to recharge their batteries in an XGT charger.

But, unlike the backwards compatibility of Dewalt’s FlexVolt batteries, or Metabo HPT’s MultiVolt 36V/18V batteries, XGT tools and batteries will not be compatible with Makita’s 18V LXT lineup.

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The Big Question – Should You Buy into Makita XGT?

Makita’s 40V Max XGT lineup has some very appealing selling points right out of the gate:

10-1/4″ rear-handle saw with claims of being lighter and faster cutting than corded tools.

2″ SDS rotary hammer (80V Max) with up to 20% faster breaking efficiency than corded.

4-1/2″ | 5″ angle grinder that’s said to be 60% faster than corded tools.

Impact driver with 3 forward and 3 reverse auto stop modes.

Makita XGT launch will include “50+” products. From the product catalog, this includes:

• 4 rotary hammers (2 more coming soon)
• 3 circular saws
• reciprocating saw
• 8-1/2″ miter saw (coming soon)
• 5 angle grinders (2 more coming soon)
• 3 impact wrenches (2 more coming soon)
• impact driver
• compact drill, compact hammer drill
• drill, hammer drill
• combo kits (2pc, 4pc in two configurations)
• 9-1/4″ fan
• 2 jobsite radios
• 2 flashlights
• 2 batteries (1 more coming soon)
• 1 charger (dual bay coming soon)
• 18V charger adapter

By my count, that’s 38 products, not including the combo kits or that there will be bare tool and kit options for most of the tools.

Makita says that LXT and XGT will coexist.

Will Home Depot, likely Makita USA’s biggest retail partner in the country, set aside shelf space for both LXT and XGT cordless power tool lines?

Will XGT indeed be a “One System” platform where users can find a broad range of cordless solutions from light to heavy duty?

If or when Makita comes out with a cordless table saw, will tools launch to both platforms? When will cordless vacs or dust extractors come to the XGT lineup?

Will users continue to buy into the 18V LXT platform if the more advance tech – such as “AFT” anti-kickback tech are only found in the XGT 40V Max tools?

Makita also engineered an electronic digital clutch into their heavy duty brushless drills. Is this something we’ll ever see on an 18V LXT drill?

5 years from now, when Makita has built up the 40V Max and 80V Max XGT cordless power tool systems, the answer will be clearer.

Right now, XGT is off to an interesting start. Despite Makita’s insistence about their continued plans for the 18V LXT lineup, what will the future for LXT hold? They’ve already strongly suggested that next-gen higher capacity batteries aren’t coming. It seems clear from Makita’s product differentiations that XGT will see more advanced features and tech options.

At launch, the 18V LXT tools are more affordable. Since Makita’s 40V Max batteries feature an 18V form factor, meaning they have the same number of battery cells as 18V batteries – 10 – and the same size of cells too in the 2.5Ah battery – a lot of the higher cost is likely attributed to the more advanced features.

5 years from now, will 18V LXT tools share some of the same features as the XGT lineup, or will more price-conscious options come to the XGT lineup, closely overlapping with or even replacing 18V LXT options?

For existing Makita 18V cordless power tool users, if you want any of the new XGT tech, you’re going to have to buy into and deal with TWO SYSTEMS. If you want to buy into 40V Max or 80V MAX XGT systems, what if you want a cordless jig saw, a drywall cutter, a vacuum, or a cordless ratchet? Well, you’re going to have to buy into TWO SYSTEMS.

There are some tool categories where the XGT system doesn’t make perfect sense, such as SubCompact cordless drills and impact drivers, and so I can’t really imagine a future where the 18V system goes away. maybe the CXT lineup will step up to bridge the gap?

But realistically, I can envision a roadmap for Makita that involves expanding upwards towards higher powered tools, and also in the direction of 18V LXT.

Maybe there might be adapters eventually if or when Makita is ready to retire the 18V LXT lineup – IF that ever happens?

It’s possible that Makita will very strongly define the boundaries between 18V LXT and 40V Max XGT, with a small area of overlap in between. However, this seems contrary to their “One System” marketing. From what I can tell, XGT is a long way from being a one system cordless solutions provider, and the system will have to cannibalize parts of the LXT system before the One System philosophy can be achieved.

It’s hard to really know what direction things will head in.

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Can You Upgrade from Makita 18V LXT?

When Dewalt came out with their FlexVolt system, users knew that the 60V Max batteries would be backwards-compatible with their 20V Max tools. Now, we also have Dewalt 20V Max tools that can deliver a power boost when powered by FlexVolt batteries.

See Also: Dewalt Power Detect | Dewalt FlexVolt Advantage

Makita 18V XGT users do not have that same benefit. There’s an XGT charger to 18V battery adapter accessory, and that’s it.

Because of this, XGT 40V Max and 80V Max can be treated as entirely new cordless systems.

Why buy into Makita’s XGT cordless system – or even their 18V LXT system – when Dewalt 20V Max and FlexVolt or Milwaukee M18 cordless systems are already mature and robust systems?

When Dewalt launched FlexVolt, it was a new higher powered cordless tool system that appealed to all users, and it also provided benefits and conveniences to existing 20V Max users.

Milwaukee has stuck with M18 for their handheld power tools and construction, automotive, and trades-specific tools, so that one battery interface can be used throughout.

Even Bosch, with their new oddly-named Profactor tools, made sure their higher powered tools are compatible with batteries that will also work with most of their other 18V cordless power tools, except for their 12Ah battery that’s exclusive to their new lineup.

Makita 40V Max XGT is not an upgrade choice, it’s an entirely new and different system.

After 10 years, I still hear grumbles about how Dewalt launched their new 20V Max Li-ion cordless power tool system without an adapter solution for existing 18V users. It took them 4 years to come out with a cross-platform battery adapter. You can still buy Dewalt 18V batteries, but the lineup has been largely discontinued and expansion has stopped years ago.

Makita is going to have to make a very compelling case for their 40V Max XGT lineup. And, if there are any advantages, how long until their competitors catch up?

Make no mistake, this was probably the right choice for Makita. Their 18V LXT lineup reached a ceiling, and the XGT platform will allow the brand to offer solutions that currently aren’t possible with their 18V system. This isn’t inherently because of the 40V Max voltage – I don’t think – but that the interface and tools are designed with modern needs and battery capabilities in mind.

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What Happens with 3rd Party Batteries?

Makita shared something interesting about their XGT tools and chargers.

According to my notes (screen captures and recordings were barred), if you use a knockoff/3rd party battery pack, the XGT charger will not fully charge that battery.

If my notes are correct, you will also get slightly lower power delivery from that knockoff or 3rd party “replacement” battery.

Basically, there seems to be some sort of new handshake that limits the charging capacity, and also the performance output.

My assumption is that this is a safety precaution.

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18V vs. 40V Max Battery Sizing Explained

Finally, I want to make sure you know everyone understands the 40V Max nature of these batteries. Shown above is Makita’s new 40V Max XGT 2.5Ah battery.

Shown here is Makita’s 18V 5Ah battery.

Both batteries have (10) 18650-sized cells. Makita has said that their 2.5Ah battery has the same 18V form factor as their 18V batteries, which leads us to presume about the cell sizing until some of the more explorative users start posting teardowns.

So, the 18V LXT and 40V Max XGT batteries both featuring the same number of batteries, and the same size of batteries.

Each Li-ion cell outputs a 3.6V nominal voltage. Sometimes the number is 3.7V, but we consider it to be 3.6V universally for convenience.

Let’s say you have 5 batteries and line them up in series. The voltage is additive, and you will have a nominal voltage of 18V. Some brands describe their 18V systems as “20V Max” with the Max part referring to the fact that this is the maximum right-off-the-charger voltage even before any load is applied.

In other words, this is the max voltage before the battery does any work.

Let’s say that you took 5 Li-ion batteries and instead lined them up in parallel. The voltage would still be the same 3.6V as a single cell, but you would not have 5 times the charge capacity.

When you arrange Li-ion battery cells in series, you multiply their voltage.

When you arrange Li-ion battery cells in parallel, you multiply their charge capacity.

Thus, when you have (10) Li-ion cells in series, you create a 10 x 3.6V – 36V battery. Add some trendy marketing, and you have 40V Max. If each cell is rated with 2.5Ah of charge capacity, that’s what the final charge capacity of the battery pack will be.

Considering the nominal voltage, 36V x 2.5Ah = 90 watt-hours. Watt-hours is a unit of measurement for power over a period of time – it’s a measure of energy.

Now, take those same 10 cells and configure them differently – with 2 rows of 5 cells. The cells are paired together in parallel and then arranged in series. You now have a 5S2P configuration. Each cell has the same 3.6V nominal voltage and 2.5Ah charge capacity as the cells in the 40V Max pack. In this 5S2P configuration, you have the same 10 cells and the battery pack as these properties: 5 x 3.6V = 18V and 2 x 2.5Ah = 5.0Ah.

Consider the energy stored in an 18V battery pack configured in such a manner: 18V x 5.0Ah = 90 watt-hours. In other words, the energy is the same.

If you’re not familiar with the innards of cordless power tool batteries, perhaps you’ve seen similar properties at work with other devices. 3 x AAA batteries can be connected in series in one flashlight, to provide 4.5V nominal, and in another product they might be oriented in parallel, for longer runtime while maintaining a smaller size than if larger cells (such as AA) were used.

Here is more information on cordless power tool battery technologies:

• Milwaukee’s Next-Generation Battery Tech (Advanced Discussion)
• Revisiting What an Amp-Hour Means for Cordless Power Tool Batteries
• Comparing Bosch, Dewalt, Makita, Metabo HPT, Milwaukee Cordless Power Tool Systems
• Milwaukee M18 Cordless Power Tool Battery Sizes Explained

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40V Max XGT Batteries Compared to Other Brands’ Systems

Makita has not addressed this. In theory, higher voltage power sources are more energy-efficient than lower voltage sources, since they can deliver the same power with less current flow. Voltage and current are proportional to each other. If a device requires 10 watts (1 watt = 1 volt x 1 amp), you can achieve that with a 10V power source delivering 1A of current, a 5V power source delivering 2A of current, or a 20V power source delivering 0.5A of current.

In practice, leading power tool brands, such as Milwaukee Tool, have worked to minimize efficiency differences.

When you’re talking about 10 Li-ion cells arranged in a 36V/40V Max battery configuration compared to an 18V battery configuration, marketing differentiation is going to be one of the biggest benefits.

If you see an 18V tool on the shelf, and a 40V Max tool on the same shelf and without much difference in size or features, which are you going to assume is the better tool?

Doubling up to 72V/80V Max does make things easier though when engineering higher power tools or certain devices.

What I mean is that there are likely going to be some practical benefits with Makita XGT being a higher-voltage system, but the differences compared to 18V are unlikely to be as significant as the numbers alone would suggest.

Consider Milwaukee’s M18 12.Ah battery pack, which on paper has 18V x 12Ah = 216 watt-hours of energy storage. Now consider Makita’s 40V Max XGT 2.5Ah battery, with its 90 watt-hours (based on nominal voltage) rating.

Makita has a 4.0Ah (144 watt-hours) battery also launching, and a 5.0Ah battery (180 watt-hours) on deck.

Consider Milwaukee’s higher capacity MX Fuel battery – it’s rated at 72V and 6.0Ah, for 432 watt-hours of energy. If you take two of Makita’s 40V Max XGT batteries in an 80V Max configuration, and even if you consider their on-deck 5.0Ah batteries, that’s 36V (nominal) x 2 x 5.0Ah, or 360 watt-hours.

Competing brands’ 18V 12Ah batteries utilize 4.0Ah battery cells, likely similar to the 4.0Ah cells Makita is using in their 40V Max XGT batteries.

Milwaukee, Bosch, and Dewalt step up to 3-rows of cells, for 15 cells total, in their largest 18V-sized 12.0Ah batteries. There’s the potential to go to 5.0Ah cells in the future. (Dewalt’s 12Ah battery is their FlexVolt, spec’ed at 4.0Ah at 60V Max and 12.0Ah at 20V Max).

When talking about a Makita 80V Max XGT product, it is powered by 2 batteries, and given what we know, that would mean 2 x 10 cells each for 20 cells total. THIS is where Makita has an advantage, similar to the advantage their 18V X2 products held for some time. Dewalt has FlexVolt 120V Max products, but Milwaukee has not yet pushed their products into multiple battery territory.

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Pricing and Availability

There are too many SKUs to list, but you can find full listings at the following retailers. The first wave of XGT tools should start shipping later this month (April 2021).

Buy Now via Acme Tools
Buy Now via Tool Nut

International Sources

Buy Now via Amazon Japan
Buy Now via Amazon UK

Due to safety regulations, charger compatibility considerations, and warranty factors, the international links are provided for convenience purposes.

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Questions?

Makita’s new XGT launch is their biggest news in quite some time, and it almost makes them competitive again.

It will be interesting to see where things go from here.

Please let me know if you have any questions!

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Related Posts:

Meet the New Makita XGT 40V Cordless Power Tool System It’s Official – Makita XGT 40V Max Cordless Power Tools are Coming to the USA More Details About Makita XGT 40V Max Cordless Power Tool System, and an 18V LXT Charging Adapter

Dewalt vs. Milwaukee Tool – which is the best cordless power tool brand for you? I get asked this question a lot, and you’d think I’d have a solid answer by now. Both brands have great strengths and weaknesses, and I think I have finally come to a decision!

First, let’s talk about why it’s important.

Choosing a cordless power tool brand is more difficult than ever these days, especially if you’re just starting out. There is also a lot at stake, since users that buy into a cordless system tend to stick with that system.

Once you settle on a cordless power tool brand, buying new tools from that same system tends to make the most economical sense. Sometimes you only need to buy a bare tool, as you already have a working battery and charger from the same platform, and this can save you quite a but of money.

If you find a new tool kit more compelling, you can stretch the value of that kit, since the included battery and charger can be used with your existing tools from the same platform.

There’s also a convenience factor, as it’s far easier to charge and maintain one set of batteries with the same charger. When it’s time to replace your battery packs, as batteries do wear down with age and use, it can be less expensive to replace several batteries from one brand rather than a couple of batteries from all different brands.

We’ve talked about all of the main cordless power tool brands before, so be sure to check out that guide as well:

But here, we’re after one answer. Is Dewalt the best cordless power tool brand for you, or Milwaukee Tool?

This is a tough one.

I know some of you might be asking “what about Makita?,” or “what about Bosch?,” but what about them? Both brands have fallen way behind Dewalt and Milwaukee when it comes to cordless, brushless, and Li-ion tool tech, and although they have come out with some neat innovations, those tools are outclassed by the time they make it to our side of the world, and that’s IF they launch here at all.

I sat down, reflecting on all of the tools I’ve tested and used over the years. There have been so many reader questions that I’ve thought about, and thousands of reader comments.

I have been going back and forth, and have finally come to a decision. The Dewalt vs. Milwaukee debate is finally over!!

Sometimes the best brand for you depends on your typical tasks or needs, and so I’ve broken down my recommendations by user type.

Please let me know in comments whether you agree or disagree!!

The Winner is... Neither!

This is all the cordless tool you'll ever need!!

Pro tool users tend to be very hard on their tools. Time is money, and you’ve got to get your work done. How’s it going to look if you have to stop for the day because your tool just couldn’t cut it. That’s why this is the brand for you.

The Winner is... Neither!

This is all the cordless tool you'll ever need!!

If you’re just starting out, you probably have a limited budget and an empty tool box. Good news – this brand offers some value-friendly options alongside premium-featured tools you can upgrade to later if need be. Starting out with this brand might be hard on your wallet, but remember: “buy once, cry once.”

The Winner is... Neither!

This is all the cordless tool you'll ever need!!

While this brand has quite a few specialty tools, they also have a strong offering of “core” tools that can handle everyday light and medium-duty construction needs with ease.

The Winner is... Neither!

This is all the cordless tool you'll ever need!!

As an electrician, this brand might not perfectly fit your needs, but they certainly do make a fantastic compact drill and impact driver. You might also appreciate their worklights, which will brighten up basements, attics, or other dimly lit areas you’re bound to come across.

The Winner is... Neither!

This is all the cordless tool you'll ever need!!

In addition to a strong lineup of core tools to power through your work, this brand has also come out with a couple of specialty plumbing tools that you might have even considered adding to your wishlist.

The Winner is... Neither!

This is all the cordless tool you'll ever need!!

Maintenance, Repair, and Operations professionals tackle a little bit of everything – and so has this tool brand! With a strong selection of core power tools and specialty options, this is the best brand for you.

The Winner is... Neither!

This is all the cordless tool you'll ever need!!

This brand has turned their attention to the automotive tools market and wants a bigger piece of market share. That’s a win for the brand, and a win for users like you.

The Winner is... Neither!

This is all the cordless tool you'll ever need!!

While most cordless power tool brands have focused the bulk of their attention on construction-related tasks, this brand has taken the time and attention to develop some neat options for fabricators that work with a variety of materials. If you’ve got a multi-material workshop, this might be the best brand for you.

The Winner is... Neither!

This is all the cordless tool you'll ever need!!

Let’s face it – enthusiasts don’t necessarily need the best, but you demand it. Even if you might not earn a living with your tools, you have demanding needs and your time is too precious to waste on sub-par performance. Good tools don’t guarantee excellent work, but bad tools will often hinder you.

The Winner is… Ryobi???

If you can’t decide between Dewalt or Milwaukee, how about Ryobi? If you don’t need top performance all the time, save some money where you can.

Feedback?

So, what do you think? Do you agree or disagree?

And if you don’t like my pick, try again later, maybe the answer will change yet again.

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Here is a full listing of all the newly-launched Makita XGT 40V Max cordless power tools, with most of these products set to launch in April 2021.

Makita XGT 40V Max Cordless Drills

• Brushless 1/2″ drill (GFD02D / GFD02Z )
• Brushless 1/2″ hammer drill (GPH02D / GPH02Z )
• Compact brushless 1/2″ drill (GFD01D / GFD01Z)
• Compact brushless 1/2″ hammer drill (GPH01D / GPH01Z)

Makita XGT 40V Max Rotary Hammers

• 1-1/8″ SDS-PLUS (GRH01M1 / GRH01Z)
• 1-1/8″ with Interchangeable Chuck, SDS-PLUS (GRH02M1 / GRH02Z)
• 1-9/16″ SDS-MAX (GRH05M1 / GRH05Z )
• 15 lb demolition hammer, SDS-MAX (GMH01M1 / GMH01Z)

Makita XGT 40V Max Cordless Circular Saws

• 10-1/4″ rear handle saw (GSR02M1 / GSR02Z)
• 7-1/4″ rear handle saw (GSR01M1 / GSR01Z )
• 7-1/4″ circular saw top handle saw (GSH01M1 / GSH01Z)

Makita XGT 40V Max Reciprocating Saws

• Brushless reciprocating saw (GRJ01M1 / GRJ01Z)

Makita XGT 40V Max Impact Tools

• 4-Speed 3/4″ high-torque impact wrench w/ friction ring anvil (GWT01D / GWT01Z)
• 4-Speed 1/2″ impact wrench w/ friction ring anvil (GWT04D / GWT04Z)
• 4-Speed 1/2″ impact wrench w/ detent anvil (GWT05D / GWT05Z)
• 4-Speed impact driver (GDT01D / GDT01Z)

Makita XGT 40V Max Angle Grinders

• 4-1/2″ / 5″ angle grinder (GAG01M1 / GAG01Z)
• 4-1/2″ / 5″ paddle switch angle grinder (GAG03M1 / GAG03Z)
• 4-1/2″ / 5″ angle grinder w/ AWS (GAG04M1 / GAG04Z)
• 4-1/2″ / 5″ paddle switch angle grinder w/ AWS (GAG06M1 / GAG06Z)
• 7″ / 9″ paddle switch angle grinder (GAG10M1 / GAG10Z)

Makita XGT 40V Max Batteries and Chargers

• 2.5Ah Battery (BL4025)
• 4.0Ah Battery (BL4040)
• 5.0Ah Battery (BL4050F)
• Rapid Optimum Charger (DC40RA)
• Dual Rapid Optimum Charger (DC40RB)
• XGT to 18V LXT Charging Adapter (ADP10)

Makita XGT 40V Max Worklights, Radios, and Accessories

• Lantern/flashlight (ML002G)
• LED flashlight (ML001G)
• Jobsite Radio (GRM01)
• Bluetooth jobsite radio (GRM02)
• 9-1/4″ fan (CF001GZ)

Makita XGT 40V Max Combo Kits

• 2pc combo kit (GT200D)
  • 1/2″ Hammer Driver-Drill (GPH01Z)
  • 4-Speed Impact Driver (GDT01Z)
  • 2.5Ah and 4.0Ah batteries
  • charger
• 4pc combo kit (GT400M1D1)
  • 1/2″ Hammer Driver-Drill (GPH01Z)
  • 4-Speed Impact Driver (GDT01Z)
  • 7-1/4″ circular saw (GSH01Z)
  • LED flashlight (ML001G)
  • 2.5Ah and 4.0Ah batteries
  • charger
• 4pc combo kit (GT401M1D1)
  • 1/2″ Hammer Driver-Drill (GPH01Z)
  • 4-Speed Impact Driver (GDT01Z)
  • reciprocating saw (GRJ01Z)
  • LED flashlight (ML001G)
  • 2.5Ah and 4.0Ah batteries
  • charger

Makita XGT Pricing and Availability

Most of the first wave of Makita 40V Max XGT cordless power tools will launch in April 2021, with additional tools said to be “coming soon.”

Buy Now via Acme Tools
Buy Now via Tool Nut
Buy Now via CPO Tools

Coming Soon

• 40V Max X2 (80V Max) XGT
  • 2″ rotary hammer, SDS-MAX  (GRH06PM / GRH06Z)
  • 29 lb demolition hammer, SDS-MAX (GMH02PM / GMH02Z)
• 8-1/2″ sliding compound miter saw (GSL02M1 / GSL02Z)
• 6″ angle grinder (GAG07Z)
• 6″ paddle switch angle grinder (GAG08Z)
• 4-Speed mid-torque 1/2″ impact wrenches
  • w/ Detent Anvil (GWT08D / GWT08Z)
  • w/ Friction Ring Anvil (GWT07D / GWT07Z)

Please let us know if you have any questions! Which tool categories do you hope Makita will expand the XGT platform into next?

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What Could Makita XGT Be – New Cordless Power Tools? Next-Gen Batteries? Meet the New Makita XGT 40V Cordless Power Tool System More Details About Makita XGT 40V Max Cordless Power Tool System, and an 18V LXT Charging Adapter

I wrote about Makita’s new XGT 40V Max cordless power tool lineup separately. Here, we’ll take a look at the XGT system alongside Makita’s 18V LXT cordless power tool system in broader context.

Makita “ONE SYSTEM” Marketing

Makita has been advertising XGT as a One System solution, and provided additional details about what they mean by this.

Their argument points towards Dewalt, and how, if you want to take advantage of Dewalt’s highest performing cordless power tools, you really need to buy into two separate systems – FlexVolt and 20V Max. While FlexVolt cordless power tool batteries will power Dewalt’s 20V Max tools, it’s not going to be the most ergonomic fit for smaller tools, such as an impact driver.

Thus, Makita explains, Dewalt users really need to buy into two systems to get the best of both 20V Max and FlexVolt platforms.

What about Milwaukee? If Milwaukee M18 cordless power tool users want to tap into the brand’s MX Fuel cordless light equipment lineup, that’s a separate cordless system they need to buy into. You cannot get everything from one system.

Frankly, I don’t agree with Makita’s analogy, and not only that, nothing in Makita’s XGT lineup looks to match up with what Milwaukee offers in their MX Fuel lineup, at least not at launch. For example, where’s Makita’s cordless demolition breaker? Are Makita XGT and their 18V form-factor batteries really going to match up against Milwaukee’s MX Fuel line of cordless equipment?

Makita says that XGT will outpower, outsmart, and outlast the competition, although that remains to be seen.

Makita USA has put a lot of emphasis on the “competing brands require 2 systems” messaging. I understand the point they’re trying to make, although I don’t agree with it. How are users going to fit the upcoming super-sized XGT 40V Max 5.0Ah battery onto an impact driver?

Fast forward 5 years, to when Makita will have expanded their XGT 40V Max cordless power tool system by quite a bit. At that time, there will hopefully be a healthy selection of products, and XGT might indeed be a “One System” solution.

But right now, Makita is launching XGT with a limited selection of tool categories. If you want something they don’t yet offer – and might never offer –  you are going to have to buy into a completely separate lineup.

What About Makita 18V LXT?

Makita insists that they will continue to launch new products for their 18V LXT cordless power tool system.

But, what if you want any of the new features being touted about the XGT 40V Max platform? It does not look like these benefits will come to the 18V lineup.

If a Makita 18V or 18V X2 cordless power tool users wants higher-powered or more featured tools, or something that’s unique to the XGT lineup, what options will be available to them, other then having to buy into a completely separate system?

Makita 18V and 40V Max XGT cordless systems are not compatible with each other, with the only cross-platform option being a one-way charging adapter.

Makita recently launched a new 18V cordless hammer drill, model XPH14. We cautioned that you should wait on buying it, and for good reason.

Despite being launched after the XGT 40V Max brushless drill and hammer drill launched overseas, the latest 18V LXT flagship drill does not include Makita’s AFT active feedback-sensing safety tech.

Makita’s XGT 40V Max drill (GFD01D) and hammer drill (GPH01D) deliver the same 1,250 in-lbs of max torque as the 18V XPH14. The XGT’s motors will turn off when binding occurs, and the LXT’s motors will not.

This AFT tech will not be included in Makita’s XGT compact cordless drills. Still, is there a reason their new high torque 18V LXT hammer drills don’t feature this anti-kickback safety feature?

Read Also: Flex Brushless Drill will Feature Anti-Kickback Tech and 1400 in-lbs max torque

Makita strongly emphasizes that they will continue to support the 18V LXT system. At this time, there is no reason to contradict that, but it’s also not a good idea to pretend the 18V and 40V Max XGT systems will see similar advancements over the next few years. If there are already differences in product features now, there’s no reason to assume this isn’t the pattern Makita will follow.

Until Makita’s roadmap is clear and we see the paths the two systems take, neither of Makita’s main cordless lines are truly “One System” options.

Can You Upgrade from Makita 18V LXT?

When Dewalt came out with their FlexVolt system, users knew that the 60V Max batteries would be backwards-compatible with their 20V Max tools. Now, we also have Dewalt 20V Max tools that can deliver a power boost when powered by FlexVolt batteries.

See Also: Dewalt Power Detect | Dewalt FlexVolt Advantage

Makita 18V XGT users do not have that same benefit. There’s an XGT charger to 18V battery adapter accessory, and that’s it. In other words, at this time there is no upgrade path.

Because of this, XGT 40V Max (and 40V Max X2 or 80V Max) has to be treated as an entirely new cordless system.

When Dewalt launched FlexVolt, it was a new higher powered cordless tool system that appealed to all users, and it also provided benefits and conveniences to existing 20V Max users.

Milwaukee has stuck with M18 for their handheld power tools and construction, automotive, and trades-specific tools, so that one battery interface can be used throughout.

Even Bosch, with their new oddly-named Profactor tools, ensured their higher powered tools are compatible with batteries that can also power most of their other 18V cordless tools, except for their 12Ah battery that’s exclusive to the new lineup.

Makita 40V Max XGT is not an upgrade choice, it’s an entirely new and different system.

We’re at that awkward stage where we don’t yet know what will happen. Is Makita’s 18V LXT system a dead-end? Makita will need to show that they intend to support it.

Dewalt launched their new 20V Max Li-ion cordless power tool system 10 years ago, and they did so without any adapter solution for existing 18V users. There was a lot of grumbling about this over the years, and it took Dewalt 4 years to come out with a cross-platform battery adapter. You can still buy Dewalt 18V batteries today, but the lineup has been largely discontinued and expansion has stopped years ago. At the time, Dewalt also said they would continue to support their 18V system.

Makita is going to have to make a very compelling case for their 40V Max XGT lineup. And, if there are any advantages, how long until competitors catch up?

Make no mistake, it was probably the right choice for Makita to start a new cordless platform from scratch. Their 18V LXT lineup seems to have reached its limits, and the XGT platform will allow the brand to offer solutions that currently aren’t possible with their 18V system. This isn’t inherently because of the 40V Max voltage – I don’t think – but because the new interface and tools are designed with modern needs and battery capabilities in mind.

We’ll have to see what happens.

In the meantime, you can upgrade from 18V LXT to 40V Max XGT, but you’ll find a lot of tools missing, and you’ll also have to buy everything new. If you’re going to have to do that – buy into a completely separate system, why XGT over competing options?

40V Max XGT Batteries Compared to Other Brands’ Systems

Makita has not addressed this.

Consider Milwaukee’s M18 12.Ah battery pack, which on paper has 18V x 12Ah = 216 watt-hours of energy storage. Now consider Makita’s 40V Max XGT 2.5Ah battery, with its 36V x 2.5Ah = 90 watt-hours (based on nominal voltage) rating.

Makita has a 4.0Ah (144 watt-hours) battery also launching, and a 5.0Ah battery (180 watt-hours) on deck.

Consider Milwaukee’s higher capacity MX Fuel battery – it’s rated at 72V and 6.0Ah, for 432 watt-hours of energy. If you take two of Makita’s 40V Max XGT batteries in an 80V Max configuration, and even if you consider their on-deck 5.0Ah batteries, that’s 36V (nominal) x 2 x 5.0Ah, or 360 watt-hours.

As an aside, Makita’s 40V Max XGT 5.0Ah battery pack is believed to have 20 Li-ion cells, whereas their 2.5Ah and 4.0Ah batteries are believed to have 10 Li-ion cells.

Competing brands’ 18V 12Ah batteries utilize 4.0Ah battery cells, likely similar to the 4.0Ah cells Makita is using in their 40V Max XGT batteries.

Milwaukee, Bosch, and Dewalt step up to 3-rows of cells, for 15 cells total, in their largest 18V-sized 12.0Ah batteries. There’s the potential to go to 5.0Ah cells in the future. (Dewalt’s 12Ah battery is their FlexVolt, spec’ed at 4.0Ah at 60V Max and 12.0Ah at 20V Max).

When talking about a Makita 80V Max XGT product, it is powered by 2 batteries, and given what we know, that would mean 2 x 10 cells each for 20 cells total. THIS is where Makita has an advantage, similar to the advantage their 18V X2 products held for some time. Dewalt has FlexVolt 120V Max products, although they haven’t explored that potential outside of cordless miter saws, and Milwaukee has not yet pushed their products into multiple battery territory.

How Will Makita 18V and 40V Max XGT Tool Systems Coexist?

Makita says that LXT and XGT will coexist – they insist on this.

Will Home Depot, likely Makita USA’s biggest retail partner in the country, set aside shelf space for both LXT and XGT cordless power tool lines?

Will XGT indeed be a “One System” platform where users can find a broad range of cordless solutions from light to heavy duty?

If or when Makita comes out with a cordless table saw, will tools launch to both platforms? When will cordless vacs or dust extractors come to the XGT lineup? Cordless nailers?

Despite Makita’s insistence about their continued plans for the 18V LXT lineup, users don’t know what the future for LXT holds. Makita previously implied that next-gen higher capacity batteries are never coming to the 18V LXT line. It seems clear from Makita’s product differentiations that XGT will see more advanced features and tech options.

At launch, the 18V LXT tools are more affordable. Given that the Makita 40V Max XGT system maintains an 18V form factor, I would assume lot of the higher costs are likely attributed to the tools’ more advanced features.

5 years from now, will 18V LXT tools share some of the same features as the XGT lineup, or will more price-conscious options come to the XGT lineup, closely overlapping with or even replacing 18V LXT options?

For existing Makita 18V cordless power tool users, if you want any of the new XGT tech, you’re going to have to buy into and deal with TWO SYSTEMS. If you want to buy into 40V Max or 80V MAX XGT systems, what if you want a cordless jig saw, a drywall cutter, a vacuum, or a cordless ratchet? Well, you’re going to have to buy into TWO SYSTEMS.

There are some tool categories where the XGT system doesn’t make perfect sense, such as sub-compact cordless drills and impact drivers, and so I can’t really imagine a future where the 18V system goes away. Maybe the CXT lineup will step up to bridge the gap?

I can envision a roadmap for Makita that involves expanding upwards towards higher powered tools, and also in the direction of 18V LXT.

Maybe there might eventually be adapters if or when Makita is ready to retire the 18V LXT lineup – IF that ever happens?

It’s possible that Makita will very strongly define the boundaries between 18V LXT and 40V Max XGT systems, with just a small area of overlap in between. However, this seems contrary to their “One System” marketing. From what I can tell, XGT is a long way from being a one system cordless solutions provider, and the system would have to cannibalize a lot of what the LXT system offers before Makita’s One System philosophy can be achieved.

What Should You Do?

Makita’s XGT launch will present a lot of “I don’t know what to buy” feelings for a lot of users.

Are you a professional user who earns a living with their tools? If you have immediate needs, you’re in a tough spot. Buy what you need for the performance, features, or efficiency advantage you need now and in the foreseeable future.

For everyone else, there’s no pressure to decide anything yet, right? Also, remember what I said last week – this will be a big year for cordless power tool tech.

Is this a transitional stage where Makita winds down their 18V system? Possibly, but probably not. The 18V LXT system is large enough where Makita could not and would not flip a switch on it overnight.

At this time, I’m trying to imagine what Makita’s cordless landscape will look like 2-5 years from now. With respect to the foreseeable future, Makita’s claim about 18V and XGT 40V Max systems coexisting side by side seems to be absolutely trustworthy.

That being said, I don’t know if I would buy into either system right now as a new user. We don’t know quite where Makita’s boundary lines will separate 18V and XGT systems, and until their product roadmaps become clear, neither of Makita’s discrete systems match up to competitive offerings individually.

If you have broad tool needs and wants, and you want to go with Makita, be prepared to have to deal with two separate and incompatible tool and battery systems. This probably won’t always be the case, but it is right now. If I had to go with two separate systems, I don’t know if Makita’s 18V system would be one of those choices. If I’m being honest, I don’t know if XGT would be one of those choices either right now.

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A new line of Makita 40V Max XGT cordless power tools are launching this month in the USA, following the lineup’s international launch a couple of months ago. A reader (thank you Trevor!) sent us a tip that Makita has already started to expand their XGT product selection with a new cordless brad nailer design.

Learn More: Makita 40V Max XGT Cordless Power Tools USA Launch Details

Note: The new Makita 40V Max XGT brad nailer has only been announced overseas and has NOT yet been announced in the USA. Since the 40V Max platform is just launching here, the brad nailer won’t be immediately available, although I do expect a tool like this to be on the USA roadmap.

Makita’s XGT cordless brad nailer can work with nails 15 to 40mm in length (~5/8″ to ~1-1/2″). What’s interesting is that the maximum nail size falls short of the specs for Makita’s 18V cordless brad nailer, which is said to be able to drive nails up to 2″ long.

However, the new XGT brad nailer appears to be much more compact than the 18V nailer. In fact, it more closely resembles the size and ergonomics of Makita’s 18V cordless pin nailer than their brad nailer.

Makita’s 18V brad nailer was announced internationally in August of 2014, and so the XGT model benefits from nearly 7 years of cordless tech advancements. The new XGT nailer also (of course) features a brushless motor.

The XGT brad nailer is said to be ultra-compact and lightweight, weighing 2.6 kg (~5.73 lbs).

Makita says that a counterweight mechanism offsets the rebound force for a high quality finish. This should help to prevent the nailer from bouncing off the worksurface and then impacting it again, after firing a nail and before the user can release pressure.

It also features adjustable driving depth, a 100 nail magazine with capacity monitoring window.

Key Features & Specifications

• 18 gauge brad nailer
• 5 nail sizes, 15 – 40mm nail range (~5/8″ – 1-1/2″)
• Weighs 2.6 kb (5.73 lbs) with 2.5Ah battery
• Counterweight mechanism to reduce rebound force
• Spring drive motor
• Drives over 5,000 nails with 2.5Ah battery
• Depth drive adjustment
• 100 nail magazine capacity
• Anti-dry fire mechanism
• LED worklight

The runtime seems especially impressive.

Makita’s 18V nailer (XNB01) is said to be able to drive up to 1,660 nails per 5.0Ah battery charge. Their 40V Max XGT 2.5Ah battery has the same energy capacity (watt-hours), and can drive over 5,000 nails. This is a huge difference!

The 18V version also weighs 7.7 lbs with battery, and so with the 40V Max version Makita managed to shave off 25.6% of the weight. Or, looking at things from the other direction, the existing 18V brad nailer is 34.4% heavier than the new XGT nailer.

To sum things up, the Makita 40V Max XGT series cordless brad nailer is more compact than the 18V version, it’s appreciably lighter, and it boasts improved runtimes.

The 18V nailer’s runtime is for attaching plywood to Douglas fir with 5/8″ to 2″ nail. There are no details for how the 40V Max nailer’s runtime claims are determined, but given the brushless motor a runtime efficiency boost is expected.

There is a tradeoff as the 40V Max XGT brad nailer can only drive brad nails up to 40mm in length (~1-1/2″).

40mm could possibly translate to a maximum driving depth of 1-5/8″ rather than 1-1/2″, but it’s still not the 50mm/2″ capacity of the 18V nailer. However, the size, weight, and runtime benefits more than make up for that for users that don’t quite need to be able to sink 2″ brad nails.

Bare Tool: FN001GZ
Kit: FN001GM102

The kit comes with 1x 2.5Ah battery, rapid charger with LXT adapter, and Makpac 3 tool case.

It’s interesting that the kit comes with the XGT to LXT charging adapter, although it’s probably baked into the price. This way, if an 18V LXT user buys the kit, they’re ready to go without having to hunt down the accessory as an add-on.

There’s no word as to the price.

One last time, this new Makita XGT brad nailer was NOT announced in the USA, it has only yet been announced overseas. Still, it presents a clue as to the direction the XGT is heading, at least with respect to handheld cordless power tools.

See More: Makita 40V Max XGT Cordless Power Tool News

Here’s an intro video by Makita Japan:

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Over at Home Depot, they have quite a few tool deals of the day, today only, 4/8/2021, and a number of Milwaukee M18 cordless power tool bundles caught my attention.

All of today’s deals of the day end at 3am ET 4/9/21, unless supplies sell out sooner.

First, there’s the M18 FUEL brushless hammer drill bundle, featuring Milwaukee’s 2804-20 drill, a compact 3.0Ah battery, and charger.

The hammer drill currently retails for $149 by itself. It’s bundled with a starter kit, model 48-59-1835, which is common to all of the deals mentioned here. The Milwaukee 48-59-1835 M18 starter kit comes with a M18/M12 multi-voltage charger and compact 3.0Ah battery, and typically retailers for $139.

Bundle Price: $179

Buy Now via Home Depot

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Surge hydraulic impact driver – which is a lot quieter than standard impact drivers – is also bundled with the same compact 3Ah starter kit, also for $179.

The M18 Surge driver typically retails for $149.

The Surge is very highly recommended, and this seems to be a great “out the door” price.

Bundle Price: $179

Buy Now via Home Depot

Milwaukee’s M18 sander is also featured in this promo, and although it’s not as compelling of a deal, it’s still a good price for what you get. The sander typically retails for $99 as a bare too.

Bundle Price: $179

Buy Now via Home Depot

The M18 FUEL brushless angle grinder, 2780-20, typically retails for $179 as a bare tool, and so you’re essentially getting the battery and charger starter kit for free with this bundle.

Bundle Price: $179

Buy Now via Home Depot

Update: The angle grinder bundle has sold out.

MORE Bundle Deals

There are several other Milwaukee M18 FUEL and M18 bundle deals:

• Brushless drywall screwgun
• Brushless Hackzall reciprocating saw
• Cordless drywall cutout tool
• Cordless oscillating multi-tool
• Cordless Sawzall reciprocating saw
• Cordless compact vacuum
• Brushless circular saw
• Cordless wet/dry vacuum

AND, there are also deals on select Milwaukee power tool accessories, cordless power tool combo kits, Ryobi tool kits, select Ridgid cordless power tools, a Dewalt corded 12″ miter saw, and more.

Shop These Deals via Home Depot

As mentioned in a separate post update, this Ridgid trim router and 1/4 sheet sanding kit is also on sale for $95, which is even better than the $99 Black Friday deal pricing I’ve seen in the past.

The router typically sells for $129 by itself, and the sander for $45.

Buy Now via Home Depot

How would you like to level up your layout work with a chance to win a new DEWALT 20V MAX* 3×360° green laser line laser?!

We are in a paid sponsorship with DEWALT to explore their new 20V MAX* 3×360° green line laser. So far, it’s a fantastic model and I have really been appreciating the new features.

DEWALT has agreed to supply one more of their new 3×360° green line lasers, for a ToolGuyd reader giveaway!

Not only that, do you know what goes well with a shiny new laser? A new DEWALT 12V MAX* XTREME COMPACT SERIES cordless drill and impact driver combo kit!

I have been really liking DEWALT’s compact brushless 12V MAX* cordless power tool lineup, and it seemed fitting to include a drilling and driving kit along with the 3×360° green line laser in this giveaway.

Plus, this plays into how the new DEWALT green lasers are compatible with both 20V MAX* and 12V MAX* battery systems (up to 8.0Ah). Thankfully, DEWALT was open to the idea of providing this kit to expand the giveaway prize package.

The Prize

The lucky winner will receive (1) DEWALT 20V MAX* 3×360° green line laser kit, model DCLE34030G, and (1) DEWALT 12V MAX* XTREME COMPACT SERIES cordless drill and impact driver combo kit, model DCK221F2.

Approximate prize value: $549 for the DCLE34030G kit, $149-199 for the DCK221F2 kit.

Why You’ll Love the DEWALT 20V MAX* 3×360° Green Line Laser

I went over all of the new laser’s features in my deep-dive post, and you should definitely check out it out here. Following is a recap of the some of the highlights – the reasons why this green line laser is such an upgrade.

Extended Runtime – You get up to 10 hours per 20V MAX* 2.0Ah battery charge, on average, with all 3 laser lines active. This means you can go through an entire work day without changing batteries. And, if you have to swap batteries, it’s easy to do so with minimal disturbance to laser alignment.

20V MAX* and 12V MAX* Compatibility – 20V MAX* batteries will give you extended runtime (up to 8.0Ah), but maybe you prefer 12V MAX* batteries. Multi-voltage compatibility gives you options.

Fine Adjust Knob – This allows for controlled manual adjustment, to quickly and accurately align your vertical beam.

Strong Mounting Options – The strong magnetic array built into the base greatly reduces the chance the laser will slip on ferrous surfaces. You also get a detachable wall mount bracket and two tripod thread options, 1/4″-20 and 5/8″-11.

If all that isn’t enough, the green laser is bright and visible, even at a distance (100′, or 165′ with the DW0892G laser detector), the controls are user-friendly and intuitive, and the kit is bundled with a DEWALT TSTAK storage system compatible tool box.

Learn More via DEWALT

Winner Selection

(1) winner will be selected at random number generator within one week of the entry period closing date.

Prize Fulfillment

The price package will be fulfilled by DEWALT.

Entry Details

In a comment, tell us about which of the 3×360° green line laser’s features are most important to you.

Is it the long runtime made possible by the 20V MAX* battery compatibility, the convenience of multi-voltage compatibility, or maybe the fine adjust knob?

What kind of tasks would you use the new laser for?

Entry Period

Starts: 4/15/2021

Ends: 4/22/2021 at 11:59pm ET

Rules

Contiguous USA addresses only. Entrants must also provide their contact information via the following form, which will only be used for prize fulfillment purposes. One entry per person.

Giveaway Address Form

* With respect to 12V MAX*: Maximum initial battery voltage (measured without a workload) is 12 volts. Nominal voltage is 10.8.
* With respect to 20V MAX*: Maximum initial battery voltage (measured without a workload) is 20 volts. Nominal voltage is 18.

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