Makita Archives - The Lawn Review

May 20, 2022April 2, 2024

4 Makita Hedge Trimmers With Great Battery Systems

Makita Hedge Trimmers are easily top-of-the-line cordless hedge trimmers. Makita just makes quality products. And they keep getting better.

I am calling it now – watch for Makita to make a massive push in the lawn care industry over the next year or so.

Makita hedge trimmers are undoubtedly going to be high quality. Because Makita makes extremely high quality power tools and is using the same technology in their yard tools.

***SPOILER: ALL-AROUND Best Cordless Makita Hedge Trimmer: The Makita XHU07T Hedge Trimmer

The Best Makita Hedge Trimmers (RANKED)

While I think just by making this list any of these are good purchases, there are a few that really catch my eye as supreme. Let’s break them down.

4. Makita XHU04PT 36V 25.5 inch Hedge Trimmer

Great news folks, if you own other 18V Makita products, like their mowers or blowers, then you’re in luck.

The Makita XHU04PT 36V 25.5 inch Hedge Trimmer is one of the best on the market, and it comes at a great price. It has a six speed dial, which allows you to adjust the speed to suit your needs. It can also run two batteries, so you don’t have to worry about running out of power. The only downside is that it is a little bit heavier when it runs two batteries, but this is offset by the fact that it is a great price. The Makita XHU04PT 36V 25.5 inch Hedge Trimmer is a great choice for anyone looking for a quality hedge trimmer.

You can get the tool only version for an absolute steal if you already own the 18V batteries.

Either option is available at Amazon for a NICE price.

3. Makita XNU01T Brushless Cordless 18V 20” Articulating Pole Hedge Trimmer Kit

If you’re serious about your shrubbery, then you need the Makita XNU01T brushless cordless 18V 20″ articulating pole hedge trimmer. This is the tool that the professionals use to create pristine bushes. It has amazing reach, so you can trim even the tallest hedges without breaking a sweat. It’s also lighter than its gas-powered competitors, so you can use it for longer without getting fatigue. And it can run for a really long time on a single charge, so you never have to worry about running out of power in the middle of a job. Plus, it can cut at many different angles, so you can get those perfect curves or straight lines every time. And if that’s not enough, it even folds in half for easy storage.

This thing allows you to work wonders on humongous bushes.

To create manicured bushes and creations, grab this product on Amazon (it’s decently expensive but pretty dang cool).

2. Makita XHU08Z and XHU08T 18V LXT Brushless Cordless 30” Hedge Trimmer

The Makita XHU08Z 18V Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 30″ Hedge Trimmer is a great hedge trimmer…if you’re a giant. It’s slightly longer than I prefer, which is why I ranked it #2. It has great features including a brushless motor, speed control, and a rotating handle, but is a little too big. When Makita says “30 inches,” they mean it.

Long, strong, down to get the friction on!

This thing is massive. If you’re looking for a hedge trimmer that will make your neighbors think you’re landscaping for the zoo, then this is the one for you. But if you’re like me and prefer something a little more manageable, then you might want to look elsewhere.

It’s a lot of hedge trimmer, but a great option if you have a place to store it.

This one you can get at Home Depot for a dang steal.

1. Makita XHU07Z and XHU07T 18V Brushless Cordless 24” Trimmer

Makita’s XHU07Z and XHUO7T 18V Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 24″ Hedge Trimmer is the best hedge trimmer on the market, hands down. It’s the perfect length, has a rotating handle for easy maneuverability, and variable speed control so you can adjust according to the thickness of your hedges. Plus, Makita’s exclusive anti-vibration technology means that you can use this trimmer for hours on end without feeling any fatigue. And finally, the Makita XHU07T is built to last, so you won’t have to replace it anytime soon. So if you’re looking for a top-quality hedge trimmer that will make your life easier, look no further than the Makita XHU07Z.

The reason I ranked this Makita hedge trimmer number one is that it has a brushless motor. These types of motors last way longer and have more torque.

This one can be grabbed from Makita’s website – definitely on the higher end but worth the money.

Why we review lawn tools

The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site.

As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something.

Makita is making lawn equipment?

Yep, Makita has been around since 1915 and started making power tools back in 1958. They are best known for their pneumatic tools, their drills, and other construction site tools.

They’ve always had great corded and cordless tools, so I am honestly surprised it has taken them this long to make a push into the cordless lawn tool space.

But not that they’re here, they aren’t going anywhere. With competitors pouring into the space like Dewalt and Milwaukee, it only makes sense to take what they do best (battery powered tools) and put them in mowers, blowers, and more.

But why is Makita making lawn equipment NOW?

Good question. One thing I can tell you is that it is currently March of 2022 and Makita has a relatively small presence and market share in the lawn tool space.

Please bookmark this page and see where they are in 2023. We have it on good authority that they are making a massive push into this space.

So – sit back and watch them take over.

What to look for in a cordless Makita hedge trimmer

Cordless hedge trimmers are a great addition to any gardener’s toolkit. Not only are they environmentally friendly, but they also offer a number of advantages over their gas-powered counterparts. However, with so many different models on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. Here are a few things to look for when choosing a cordless hedge trimmer:

Length: Cordless hedge trimmers come in a variety of lengths, from small handheld models to larger units that can reach up to several feet. Choose the size that is best suited for your needs.
Ease of use: Cordless hedge trimmers should be easy to operate, with comfortable handles and simple controls. Look for a model that is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Battery life: Corded hedge trimmers need to be plugged into an outlet, which can be inconvenient and restrict your range of motion. Cordless models run on batteries, which will need to be recharged after a certain amount of use. Choose a model with a long battery life so that you can work uninterrupted.

With these factors in mind, you’ll be sure to find the perfect cordless hedge trimmer for your garden.

If you like cords, check out our list of the other great corded hedge trimmers.

March 23, 2022April 2, 2024

5 Best Makita Lawn Mowers: Researched & Ranked

Makita electric mowers are bursting onto the scene. Makita, a trusted power tool manufacturer, has decided to bring its quality into the lawn tool space.

It’s about time.

You may have seen these mowers plastered all over your Home Depot or Lowe’s. They are here to compete.

Let’s check out the best electric Makita mowers on the market + our favorite.

**SPOILER**

Best electric Makita mower for small yards: Makita XML05Z lawn mower

Best electric Makita mower all-around: Makita XML03Z 36V cordless lawn mower

The Best Makita Electric Mowers

Makita has a handful of mowers that use 18V batteries either by themselves or two at a time, making it a 36V. Some even take 4 18V batteries, making the math too difficult for me to even say.

Makita XML03CM1 and XML03Z 36V cordless lawn mower

The Makita XML03CM1 and XML03Z are two of the same mowers. The difference between the XML03CM1 and XML03Z is that the CM1 comes with four batteries, whereas the XML03Z comes without batteries (for people that already have them).

The features on this Makita electric mower

The Makita XML03 series are 18 inch lawn mowers powered by two 18V batteries, making it a 36V mower.

It has a steel alloy cutting deck surrounding the blades. This mower can cut over ⅓ of an acre in 43 minutes.

The XML03 boasts a brushless motor that spins the blades at 3,300 rotations per minute. Brushless motors are great because they are durable, long-lasting, and quiet.

These mowers also come with a “quiet mode” that allows for a reduced rotations per minute (2,500) that outputs less noise.

The benefits of this Makita electric mower

A lot to like in this Makita lawn mower. Let’s start with the 18 inch steel deck. 18 inches is perfect for small to medium sized yards (no larger than ⅓ acre). The steel metal deck is a huge plus as compared to other electric mowers. Most have a plastic deck, leaving it vulnerable to cracks and chips. Metal decks prevent this.

I also like the brushless motor that will be a much longer-lasting, quieter, and durable motor than non-brushless. The quiet mode is a nice perk as well, which your neighbors will enjoy.

Potential downsides

These Makita mowers are great for most homeowners, but if you have a very large yard (> 1 acre), this might not be enough mower for you.

Otherwise this mower has all the goods!

How to buy

One of the best places to frequently check the price and compare features is also the most obvious – Amazon. Click here to go directly to these Makita mowers to see if they are still on sale.

Makita XML05Z 36V and XML05PT1 36V electric mowers

The Makita XML05Z and XML05PT1 mowers are 36V mowers that are a bargain. Reminiscent of both Greenworks and Ryobi mowers in design, let’s see how they stack up in comparison.

The features

The XML05 series comes with a 18 inch deck with a compact shape (instead of round). This deck is made of plastic and has a 17 inch cutting width.

The motor here spins the blades at about 3,600 rotations per minute. The mower itself is coated in something called XPT, which is a proprietary protective seal that wards off any debris from getting inside the mechanical components of the motor.

The benefits

The Makita XML05 series is definitely built for smaller yards. Looking at the size of the deck plus the compact design, this is really made for small yards and will do great around a lot of obstacles like garden beds.

Another thing I like about this mower is the price. This one is definitely on the affordable side of the spectrum for Makita products. You can get the quality and brand reputation of Makita without having to get bells and whistles that you won’t use.

Potential downsides

This mower is not going to do as well with medium to large sized yards. Typically, larger yards will require a 21 inch deck or larger.

Another thing I don’t love about this deck is the plastic material. These are prone to cracks, breaks, and degradation – meaning it might not last as long as you would like.

The last potential downside I will call out is the lack of a brushless motor. Again, this is something that signifies a shorter lifespan in electric mowers.

How to buy

The Makita XML05 series is available on Amazon – you can grab the tool-only version for the lowest possible price by following this link.

Makita XML10CT1 36V electric mower kit

The XML10CT1 36V Lawn Mower Kit is a supercharged version of the XML05. Let me break down some of the unique benefits to this electric upgrade.

The features

With a 21 inch cutting deck that still manages to be compact, this is definitely on the larger end of the spectrum for ANY electric mower.

The XML10CT1 can run for about 50 minutes on a single charge and is made of lightweight material. It also comes with a 2 bushel capacity grass collector that can be strapped on to the back.

This Makita mower also has the added feature of being able to fold in half.

The benefits

The XML10CT1 means business. At 21 inches wide, this mower can fit just about any normal residential yard.

I really love that this mower can fold in half as well. My gas mower does not, so it takes up a ton of room in our garage and I’m always worried I am going to hit it with my truck.

Reminds me a lot of some Greenworks mowers.

This mower also takes regular Makita 18V batteries, meaning you can repurpose the 18V batteries on any of your other Makita tools to run it.

Potential downsides

Similarly to the XML05 series, the XML10CT1 comes with a plastic deck. This allows for it to be lightweight, but also opens up the opportunity for cracking, degradation, etc..

While this is a relatively large mower, it comes in at a whopping 82 lbs. It is definitely as lightweight as humanly possible, but it still is going to feel like a mower.

How to buy

If you are wanting to upgrade your existing gas mower to an electric mower, it’s hard to beat the quality of Makita. This one is definitely able to replace a gas push mower of any size and can be found on Amazon – with the 4 batteries and a charger – for a darn good deal. Click here to go directly to the sale.

Our recommendation: Best Makita Mower

After reviewing each series of these Makita mowers, we have to recommend the XML03 series, including the XML03CM1 and XML03Z mowers.

We picked these because of the brushless motor, the steel decking, and the two battery requirements (versus four).

The XML03 series will be the longest lasting, highest quality Makita mowers you can get.

Find yours today on Amazon for a great price.

Why we review lawn tools

Makita is making lawn equipment?

Yep, Makita has been around since 1915 and started making power tools back in 1958. They are best known for their pneumatic tools, their drills, and other construction site tools.

They’ve always had great corded and cordless tools, so I am honestly surprised it has taken them this long to make a push into the cordless lawn tool space.

Check out our other Makita reviews by following this link to check out some of our top Makita blowers breakdown or this one to our best Makita weed eater comparison.

But why is Makita making lawn equipment NOW?

Good question. One thing I can tell you is that it is currently March of 2022 and Makita has a relatively small presence and market share in the lawn tool space.

Please bookmark this page and see where they are in 2023. We have it on good authority that they are making a massive push into this space.

So – sit back and watch them take over.

What to look for in an electric lawn mower

When looking to purchase an electric lawn mower, you need to make sure you understand what things matter. You will get hit with a lot of technical specifications and marketing tactics. Totally forget them and focus on the things that impact you. Below are my recommendations:

Brand quality
- Quality is going to be super important here. Everyone is in the electric mower game these days and there are a ton of junky mowers out there. Avoid anything from a weird brand on Amazon that takes 9 years to ship. It is probably being 3D printed in a Laotian bathroom. Go for brands that have consistent quality and focus on the details, not just flashy colors.
Metal where it matters.
- Most electric mowers are plastic-y. Probably to reduce the weight of the mower so that the battery can get you further, but it feels cheap. Make sure to get metal where it matters – namely the deck. The deck is the part that covers the blades. Don’t get plastic here – a rock can rip through it.
Battery interoperability.
- A ten dollar word used here, but really just make sure to buy a mower with a battery that is compatible with other electric tools. Ryobi has this, so does Dewalt, and so do some of the Greenworks products. This will save you garage clutter and plug space.
Self-propelled or not.
- I actually don’t like the self-propelled feature. It doesn’t help you that much and it drains battery – I would pass here. This is a marketing gimmick in my opinion.

You can read more about what I recommend you looking for in an electric mower here.

March 19, 2022April 2, 2024

7 Makita String Trimmers That Make Your Lawn Pop

The best Makita weed eater is the XRU02Z for smaller yards or the XRU15PT for larger yards. Both Makita string trimmers have solid brushless motors, high RPMs, and decent cutting swaths. As a part of the Makita battery system, they also have batteries that can be used with tons of other tools.

You can read more or jump on over to Amazon to buy the top two below:

Best Makita weed eater for large yards: Makita XRU15PT cordless weed eater

Best all-around Makita weed eater: Makita XRU02Z Cordless Weed Eater

The Best Makita Weed Eaters: Ranked

Today we are going to review a list of weed eaters available from Makita. The names are not the most intuitive and can definitely be confusing. They also have letters at the end that signify whether or not they come with batteries.

If you can fight through it, just focus on each individual review. If the names confuse you, just click the link we provide to get more detail.

Let’s get started!

Makita XRU15PT and XRU15PT1 cordless weed eaters

Great one to start with! These are two of the higher end weed eaters offered by Makita and they pack a punch. Let’s dig deeper.

Just taking a quick break next to this tree.

The specifications of this Makita weed eater

The XRU15PT and XRU15PT1 both come with a brushless motor. These produce less friction so last longer and are more durable. This Makita cordless weed eater comes with three speed options ranging from 3,500 rotations per minute up to 6,500 for maximum power.

Additionally, these cordless Makita weed eaters come with a 15 inch cutting swath, which is definitely large. The end also has a “bump action” heading that allows for more string to be released while using.

The benefits

A few things I pointed out in the specifications are huge benefits.

The XRU15PT and XRU15PT1 Makita weed eaters are powerhouses. Durable, long-lasting motors, high speeds, large cutting swath, and two 18V batteries.

These Makita weed eaters can tackle any job. I’m not kidding.

Potential downsides

I honestly don’t see any downsides to these weed eaters. Maybe if you are looking for a smaller job or live in a townhome, these are going to be overkill. They are also slightly pricier than other weed eaters, but you get what you pay for.

Makita XRU15PT vs XRU15PT1 string trimmers

These are identical weed eaters, but the XRU15PT1 comes with four batteries instead of two. It is more expensive for the additional batteries, but you really don’t need them unless you are in the commercial landscaping space.

How to buy

We recommend purchasing these weed eaters on Amazon. They occasionally run pretty steep sales, so you can click here to check the price. If you don’t like Amazon, you can also grab it at Home Depot for a reasonable price.

Makita XUX01ZM5 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless Weed Eater

The Makita XUX01ZM5 is a cordless weed eater that offers multiple attachments. Many brands have similar attachments and I think they are a great value. Let’s break this one down.

The specifications

The Makita XUX01ZM5 has a brushless motor with three speeds, ranging from 4,200 RPM all the way up to 7,100 RPM. It also has a variable speed trigger that gives you ultimate power over the cutting speed.

The number of attachments that work with this weed eater seems to be growing every day, with tools like pole saws, different weed eater styles, and garden tillers.

The benefits of this Makita string trimmer

The benefits to this Makita cordless weed eater with attachments (which are super convenient) are much more than I expected. It is truly one of the most powerful one made by Makita and I think I know why.

This thing needs to have maximum power delivery if it can also be compatible with pole saws and garden tillers.

It’s tied down, but the trigger is super easy to use.

I also love the squeeze handle on this one, as it gives you more options with how to activate the power system. This Makita trimmer doesn’t have the standard “trigger” that can only be pulled from one angle.

Potential downsides

This weed eater is on the heavier side at about 10 lbs. While this is fine,your shoulder may become more tired over time.

You also are buying a full system, not just a weed eater. This means you might be sacrificing a little bit of comfort with each tool in exchange for the convenience of one single tool.

How to buy Makita cordless weed eater

The Makita XUX01ZM5 is available on Amazon and seems to go on sale quite a bit. We recommend checking the price by following this link.

Home Depot also sells this weed eater and has a great return policy.

Makita XRU23SM1 and XRU23Z 18V Weed Eater

The Makita XRU23 series of weed eaters is an 18V battery-powered tool. The XRU23SM1 and XRU23Z are the same weed eater, but the Z does not come with a battery.

Let’s break down this tool.

The specifications

The XRU23SM1 and XRU23Z Makita weed eaters come with a brushless motor that gives out up to 6,000 RPMs of power at a 13 inch cutting width.

The 18V battery will give you about an hour of runtime before requiring another charge. It weighs about 12.38 lbs.

The benefits of a bigger Makita weed eater

The brushless motor on this Makita weed eater means you are getting durability and a long-lasting piece of electric equipment. I’m a big fan of this only requiring one 18V battery instead of two, saving you money and charging space.

Another thing I like about this Makita weed eater is the price. The price on this weed eater is the lowest of all of the ones we have reviewed thus far. This is a high quality mid-range weed eater.

Potential downsides

If you have a really large yard, this might not be the best weed eater for you. For starters, its cutting width is not the largest for Makita weed eaters. The weed eater only supporting one 18V battery means you are limited to about one hour.

Otherwise, this is a great weed eater for the average residential homeowner.

How to buy

We recommend checking the price on Amazon and comparing it to the price at Home Depot. Both change a LOT and are always neck-and-neck.

Makita XRU02Z and XRU02SM1 cordless weed eaters

The Makita XRU02Z 18V weed eater is one of the most popular weed eaters. Not just Makita, but everywhere. It has a ton of reviews on Amazon and is averaging 4.5 stars. Not bad.

Let’s check out why.

The specifications of this smaller Makita weed eater

The Makita XRU02Z and XRU02SM1 comes in at about 7lbs, making it one of the lightest and smallest weed eaters.

But don’t be fooled. This one surprisingly has the highest rotation speeds, with about 7,800 rotations per minute. Wow.

The cutting diameter is a little smaller at just over 10 inches.

The benefits

Where do I even start? This is the most powerful weed eater Makita offers, yet it is also the smallest and most affordable.

This weed eater offers 45 minutes of run time and it lonely takes 30 minutes to charge.

If you are a homeowner with a small to medium yard, you simply cannot find a better all-around cordless weed eater.

Potential downsides

The Makita XRU02Z and XRU02SM1 are definitely designed for the modern homeowner, so don’t use this if you are a professional landscaper.

Otherwise, I cannot think of any meaningful downsides.

How to buy

The Makita XRU02Z and XRU02SM1 are available for darn good prices on Amazon. The tool only version (without a battery) is currently under $100 and its not even on sale.

My recommendation: click here to check for a sale on Amazon, then find out if it is on sale at Home Depot – both are great options.

How to instantly improve your weed eater

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With GrassKicker, you can take pride in your perfectly manicured lawn and make a lasting impression on your friends and family. And who knows, your envious neighbors might just start dropping by more often! Don’t wait, elevate your weed eating game with GrassKicker Weed Eater String today! Click the link now to buy.

Our recommendation for the best Makita Weed Eater

With these Makita cordless weed eaters, it’s hard to go wrong. But we have to pick a winner.

And we have to go with the XRU02Z and XRU02SM1 weed eaters. They are simply powerful, inexpensive, and easy to use.

Grab yours for a great price on Amazon or check out the price at your local Home Depot.

Why we review lawn tools

Makita is making lawn equipment?

Yep, Makita has been around since 1915 and started making power tools back in 1958. They are best known for their pneumatic tools, their drills, and other construction site tools.

They’ve always had great corded and cordless tools, so I am honestly surprised it has taken them this long to make a push into the cordless lawn tool space.

But why is Makita making lawn equipment NOW?

Good question. One thing I can tell you is that it is currently March of 2023 and Makita has a relatively small presence and market share in the lawn tool space.

Please bookmark this page and see where they are in 2024. We have it on good authority that they are making a massive push into this space.

So – sit back and watch them take over.

We recently reviewed Makita’s Cordless Blower series as well, check it out here. We also did a dive on the Makita’s crazy quiet cordless lawn mowers.

What to look for in a cordless weed eater

Cordless weed eaters AKA string trimmers (whatever you call it) come in all shapes and sizes. They aren’t highly complicated pieces of equipment, but they do have a few nuances. Here is how I see it:

Feel – Obviously this is subjective, but feel is everything to me. I have had weed eaters in the past where the handle is off to the side, making me torque my shoulders and back. Bad.
Motor – brushless motors are king here. They are longer lasting and more durable.
18V vs 36V batteries – 36V Makita batteries are going to last you a lot longer than 18V. Good for those with bigger yards.
Curved vs Straight shaft – I always, always, always prefer straight shafts. They are so much easier to use and control.

Otherwise, make sure to get a full kit if you don’t have any Makita batteries. If you do already have some 18V batteries, grab the tool-only version to save a good chunk of change.

If you’re looking to upgrade the weed eater string, check out our size guide.

March 18, 2022April 2, 2024

7 Best Makita Cordless Blowers & Lowest Prices

Makita cordless blowers are making moves in the lawn care world. And for good reason. The best Makita blower is the Makita XBU03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Blower because it is super powerful, reliable, and part of a great battery system.

Makita has done really well with their battery-powered tools. So why not use those same batteries in cordless blowers?

That’s exactly what you should be asking yourself if you have a Makita battery already.

If not, hold onto your seat because Makita is about to become a household name in leaf blowers.

Spoilers*******:

Best handheld Makita blower: Makita XBU05Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Cordless Blower
Best Makita blower for wet leaves: Makita XBU01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Cordless Blower
Best all-around Makita blower: Makita XBU03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Blower
Best 3-in-1 Makita blower: Makita XBU04ZV 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Blower with Vacuum Attachment Kit

If you don’t like getting them from Amazon – Home Depot also has a TON of Makita blowers on great deals.

Best Makita 18V Cordless Blowers

The majority of Makita cordless blowers come from their 18V battery line, so that is what I am going to break down today for us.

Let’s check out the benefits and potential downsides of each of these blowera + our favorite.

Let’s get started.

Makita XBU03Z and XBU03SM1 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Blower

The Makita XBU03Z and XBU03SM1 18V blower is one of the most popular blowers Makita makes.

As you can see in the title, this Makita blower has a brushless motor. Big plus. Brushless motors are significantly longer lasting and more efficient than normal electric motors.

The specifications

This blower boasts a 459 CFM, 116 MPH motor and air delivery system. This is a relatively high CFM and a relatively low MPH. This means that this blower has a decently wide nozzle, which is great for covering large areas of dry leaves, grass, or other materials.

The benefits of this Makita Cordless Blower

The benefits of the Makita XBU03Z 18V blower are that it can cover large areas pretty well. If you have a big backyard covered with leaves, I am taking this blower every time.

I also love the brushless motor and the 18V battery that can be used with just about every other Makita tool under the sun.

It also has a nice speed lock and variable speed trigger, giving you more control over how much air you want to push out. Also, it only weighs 6.5 lbs without the battery, meaning you won’t tire out your shoulder carrying it around.

Potential downsides

You should not buy this blower if you are wanting to provide a high-speed air stream to get rid of wet grass or leaves. This mower is not really built for that given that it has a lower MPH than others. You can always buy a speed tip or flat end that can clip on to produce higher speeds.

Where to buy this Makita blower

You can grab this Makita blower at any big box store, or have it directly shipped to your house using Amazon.

We have found Amazon has the best deals when these products have a sale. Click here to see if it is currently on sale.

The difference between the Makita XBU03Z and Makita XBU03SM1 blowers

You may see both of these listed for sale on different websites.

The Makita XBU03Z is the tool-only version of this blower, meaning that it does not come with a battery or charger. This is perfect for those of us that already own Makita batteries for other tools.

The Makita XBU03SM1 is the same blower, but comes with an 18V battery and charger. This blower set is great if you are a first time homeowner or are wanting to make the jump to Makita products.

If you need the full kit, check the price on Amazon by using this link.

Makita XBU05Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Blower

The Makita XBU05Z 18V is somehow the exact opposite of the one above. It is a much smaller blower that is handheld and has a limited reach.

This blower is also a part of the 18V series, so can be used with most Makita tools.

The specifications on this blower

The CFMs aren’t even listed on this bad boy, but it does hit a speed of almost 220 MPH. That’s super powerful. The reason CFMs aren’t listed is that they are likely really low. Meaning this tool has a super narrow tip that can provide a super high speed stream of pressure.

The benefits of the XBU05Z Makita blower

This blower is light and great for around-the-house blowing. Its super portable, lightweight, and powerful. I love that it can take the 18V battery just like the other Makita tools.

The Makita XBU05Z also has a rubber grip handle that looks just like a power drill handle. This handle will make it really easy to use and comfortable.

Potential downsides

This blower is not really a backyard blower. Other than the front and back porch, I would probably not take this blower out into the yard.

It is like a swiss army knife and is more suited for little jobs here and there, not the big show of the backyard.

Where to buy the XBU05Z Makita blower

This one can be found at Ace Hardware, some Home Depots and Lowe’s, but definitely on Amazon (which usually has a sale). Follow this link to see if it is currently on sale at Amazon.

Makita XBU02PT 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless Blower Kit (5.0Ah)

You may remember me saying that I was specifically reviewing 18V products. Well, this is a Makita 36V blower, but it actually just take two 18V batteries. So it is still an 18V product (at least for the purposes of today’s review.

I love the brushless blower on this and with double the battery power, you know this product means business.

The Makita 36V blower has two 18V batteries.

The specifications

This blower has a 473 CFM, 120 MPH air flow system. This is great, but also very similar to the two XBU03 blowers reviewed in the first section.

Basically, these blowers are powerful as all get out, but are best suited for large spaces and dry leaves and grass.

One thing listed in this product and not others is the noise level. This is one of, if not the quietest blower on the market. Nice! Your neighbors won’t hate you.

The benefits on the XBU02PT Makita cordless blower

Obviously this Makita 36V blower has twice the battery power of the 18V blowers, meaning it should last twice as long.

I also love the brushless motor with the higher air velocity of the XBU03 blowers. Overall, this is going to be a great blower for most folks doing leaf clean up inthe fall.

Potential downsides

The downsides of this blower are similar to the XBU03. Namely, this blower is not going to be wonderful if you are looking for a powerful, narrow air stream that could take care of wet leaves and grass.

Otherwise, this one will require an extra battery, which could mean an extra cost. It also requires a charger that can hold two batteries.

This isn’t an issue if you buy the full kit with the blower, batteries, and dual charger.

Where to grab the XBU02PT

You can grab this smaller handheld blower at most major retailers. We are an affiliate of Amazon, so get a small commission if you grab the blower from there. They usually have a decent sale, so its at least worth checking.

Follow this link to grab the XBU02PT blower on Amazon.

Makita XBU04ZV 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless Blower with Vacuum Attachment Kit

So this one is totally different. The Makita XBU04ZV is another 36V (really just two 18V batteries) that is a blower, mulcher, and a vacuum all in one. Pretty sweet.

It has a 10:1 mulch ratio, meaning you can reduce 10 bags of leaves down to 1 with the mulching kit. Pretty sweet and reminds me of our favorite tool, the WORX leaf mulcher.

The specifications

The blower function of this bad boy is super similar to the last one. A 473 CFM, 120 MPH air system. Meaning it is great for the large, wide, dry areas.

The 10:1 mulching ratio for the vacuum/mulching section is pretty sweet as well.

The benefits of the XBU04Z

Picture this: you have a backyard covered in dry leaves. You take this blower out and get all the leaves in a pile by the fence in the backyard. You then suck them all up, mulch them into tiny shreds, and get all of the leaves in one or two bags.

Whoa. That’s the power of the Makita XBU04ZV 36V blower and vacuum kit.

Potential downsides

Same as the rest – not a super sharp air stream and not great for wet leaves and grass.

How to buy this blower

This 3-in-1 can be bought either tool only or with the batteries and charger from Amazon.

Follow this link to check the price for both the tool only and the full kit.

Makita DUB182Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Blower

Ever heard that alligators can run super quickly for really short periods of time? That’s basically how this blower is. Let’s check it out.

The specifications

The Makita DUB182Z 18V LXT blower has a maximum of 179 miles per hour when it comes to air speed. This is pretty powerful and from the looks of it, has a pretty direct and narrow airstream.

It also weighs about 3 lbs which is great for keeping in the car, hallway closet, or anywhere else around the house.

The benefits of the DUB182Z Cordless Blower

This blower is going to be great for blowing off the front porch or back deck, awesome for things like saw dust, and perfect for tight spaces. I love that it has a pretty high velocity and is only 20 inches long, making the Makita DUB182Z a great around-the-house blower.

Potential downsides

This blower is very similar to the XBU05Z listed above, but slightly weaker. If I am choosing between the two, I am going to take the XBU05Z and not this one.

How to buy

If you get the DUB, then you’re getting a W.

Check the price of this one on Amazon before buying.

Makita XBU01Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® Cordless Blower

Remember how I said a lot of these blowers aren’t great for blowing off wet leaves and grass? Well the Makita XBU01Z is the antidote. Let me explain.

The specifications

The Makita XBU01Z comes in at a low 155 CFM but a very high 208 MPH. This is a great example of a blower with a super narrow nozzle. It has a wide-tip nozzle that is flat, providing a crazy powerful stream of air that can lift about anything off the ground.

The benefits of the XBU01Z Makita cordless blower

Obviously the air velocity is unrivaled. The Makita XBU01Z also has a long run-time, an hour and a half of battery life before giving out.

I would just about guarantee that you will finish the job before this blower runs out of juice. We’ve put many of these to the test and really loved the run time on this one

Potential downsides

While this blower is pure power – like a pressure washer – there are definitely times when you want to just move leaves. This blower is not going to be great for forming big piles of leaves.

How to start eviscerating wet leaves

Step 1: Check the price of this blower on Amazon.

Step 2: Purchase it.

Step 3: Tell those wet leaves to meet their maker.

Our favorite Makita cordless blower

I am a big fan of the Makita XBU03Z for a few reasons.

For one, this blower has a nice brushless motor. It is going to be long lasting and durable.

I also love the 18V battery, meaning you don’t need two to make a 36V and don’t need to buy anything else.

This blower is also tool-only, meaning you are getting the best value possible.

Grab it on Amazon today for a great price.

Why we review lawn tools

Makita is making lawn equipment?

Yep, Makita has been around since 1915 and started making power tools back in 1958. They are best known for their pneumatic tools, their drills, and other construction site tools.

They’ve always had great corded and cordless tools, so I am honestly surprised it has taken them this long to make a push into the cordless lawn tool space.

But why is Makita making lawn equipment NOW?

Good question. One thing I can tell you is that it is currently March of 2022 and Makita has a relatively small presence and market share in the lawn tool space.

Please bookmark this page and see where they are in 2023. We have it on good authority that they are making a massive push into this space.

So – sit back and watch them take over.

Check out our review of the best Makita weed eaters as well.

We also reviewed the a ton of different Makita mowers and ranked them, which have an awesome “quiet feature”.

What to look for in a cordless blower

Cordless blowers come in a bunch of shapes and sizes but there are two basic things you need to understand:

Brushless – a type of engine that does not rely on friction for generating power. This engine type uses magnets for a longer lasting, more efficient power generation.
CFM – Cubic feet per minute. This is a measure of air output on the blower. Higher CFM = more power, but not necessarily more miles per hour. High CFM with a wide nozzle = lower MPH. High CFM with a narrow nozzle = high miles per hour. Ideally, you want both a high CFM with a narrow to medium nozzle for most residential jobs.
Tool-only – the blower by itself, no battery or charger or anything else. This is great if you already have a compatible battery from another tool.

These are two things you need to pay attention to when looking through the specifications. Another important thing is to look at the battery and see if it can be used with other tools. In Makita’s case, their batteries can be used across hundreds of tools.

This can allow you to buy the tool-only version for significantly cheaper.