8 Best Makita Drills (October 2026) Tested & Compared

I’ve owned Makita drills for over a decade. From hanging kitchen cabinets in my first apartment to framing a backyard shed last spring, my Makita 18V LXT has been on every job. So when I set out to find the best Makita drills for 2026, I already had strong opinions about what separates a great drill from a mediocre one.

The Makita lineup covers more ground than most people realize. There are sub-compact 12V CXT models that weigh less than a pound, brushless 18V LXT workhorses that push 1,250 in-lbs of torque, and 40V XGT platforms built for daily commercial abuse. Add in hammer drills, impact drivers, and combo kits, and you’ve got an ecosystem with over 250 compatible tools.

Our team spent three weeks testing these drills on real projects: drilling through pressure-treated lumber, mixing thinset, driving deck screws into cedar, and boring holes in concrete block. We weighed each tool, timed battery charges, and counted how many holes we could drill before the battery died. Below are the eight best Makita drills worth your money in 2026, based on what actually performed in our hands.

Top 3 Picks for the Best Makita Drills

Best Makita Drills in 2026

1. Makita XFD131 — Best Overall 18V Driver-Drill

The Makita XFD131 has been my go-to driver-drill for years. I bought my first one after burning through a brushed DeWalt, and the difference in runtime was shocking. The brushless motor extracts noticeably more work per charge from a 3.0Ah battery than my old brushed drill ever did.

For everyday tasks like assembling furniture, mounting TV brackets, and drilling pilot holes in softwood, the XFD131 is hard to beat. It weighs 3.6 pounds with the battery, which I can hold overhead for a few minutes before my arm complains. The rubberized grip is comfortable even with work gloves on, and the trigger has a smooth variable-speed ramp that’s easy to control.

Where this drill really shines is deck building. Over a single weekend I drove roughly 600 deck screws into pressure-treated lumber on a 12×16 ft deck, and the XFD131 didn’t bog down once. The mechanical 2-speed transmission lets me drop to low gear (0-500 RPM) for driving lag bolts, then switch to high gear (0-1,900 RPM) for boring larger holes.

The LED work light is genuinely useful — it’s the afterglow style that stays on for a few seconds after you release the trigger, which helps when you’re fishing for a bit in a dark corner. The 1/2-inch chuck grips standard round-shank and hex-shank bits securely.

Who this drill works best for

Homeowners who need one drill that handles 90% of DIY tasks, from hanging shelves to building a deck. The included 3.0Ah battery and charger mean you can start working right out of the box. If you’re already invested in Makita’s 18V LXT platform, this is a near-universal upgrade.

Who should look elsewhere

If you need to drill into concrete regularly, this driver-drill won’t cut it. It lacks the hammer function found on the XPH12Z and XPH14Z models below. Also, if you only need a drill for the occasional IKEA assembly, the 12V CXT platform will be lighter on your wrist and your wallet.

2. Makita CT225SYX — Best Budget Combo Kit

If you’re starting a Makita collection from scratch, the CT225SYX combo kit is the most economical path I’ve found. It bundles the XFD10Z 1/2-inch driver-drill and the XDT11Z impact driver with two 1.5Ah batteries, a charger, and a contractor bag. That’s two real tools and a charger for less than the price of many bare tools.

The driver-drill in this kit is brushed, not brushless, so it doesn’t match the runtime of the XFD131 above. But for home use, the 480 in-lbs of torque is plenty. I used the drill to mount a ceiling fan box and a dozen 2×4 fence rails, and it didn’t struggle.

The XDT11Z impact driver is the star of this kit for me. At 5-3/8 inches long and 2.8 pounds with battery, it fits into spaces my driver-drill can’t reach. I drove 3-inch deck screws into redwood for a planter box without predrilling, and the impact driver sank them flush with one trigger pull.

The 1.5Ah batteries are smaller than the 3.0Ah or 5.0Ah packs in other kits, so runtime is shorter. Expect to swap batteries every 30-45 minutes of heavy driving. For DIY work on weekends, that’s fine. For full-day professional use, consider the XT269T instead.

Who this combo kit works best for

First-time Makita buyers who want both a drill and an impact driver without paying for two separate kits. The two-tool setup covers furniture assembly, deck projects, automotive work, and most home repairs. Battery compatibility with the broader 18V LXT ecosystem means you’ll grow into this kit over time.

Who should look elsewhere

Professionals who need brushless durability and 5.0Ah batteries for all-day runtime. The brushed motor in the XFD10Z won’t last as long under daily commercial abuse as a brushless model. If you’re already running Makita 18V batteries, the bare-tool XDT131 below is a smarter buy.

3. Makita XT269T — Best Pro Brushless Combo Kit

The XT269T is what I reach for when a project gets serious. I used this combo to frame a 16×24 ft shed and install cement board siding, and the 5.0Ah batteries lasted through most of a workday on a single charge. The brushless motors stay noticeably cooler than brushed equivalents during heavy use.

The hammer driver-drill (XPH12Z) in this kit produces 530 in-lbs of torque and 0-30,000 BPM in hammer mode. I drilled 1/4-inch holes through concrete block for Tapcon screws without a hiccup. That’s a meaningful step up from a standard driver-drill when you work with masonry.

The impact driver (XDT13Z) is also upgraded from the CT225SYX. It pushes 1,500 in-lbs of torque at 0-3,400 RPM and 0-3,600 IPM. That’s enough to snap a 3/8-inch lag bolt if you’re not careful, so respect the trigger. For deck work, framing, and heavy fastening, this is the right tool.

The Rapid Optimum Charger (DC18RC) is one of the best features in this kit. It charges a 5.0Ah battery in about 45 minutes, which means you can rotate batteries without long coffee breaks. Two batteries are included, so you essentially always have one ready.

Who this combo kit works best for

Professional contractors, remodelers, and serious DIYers who need brushless longevity and high-capacity batteries. The hammer function on the drill makes this kit practical for masonry work, not just wood. If you regularly do framing, deck building, or renovations, the XT269T pays for itself in saved time.

Who should look elsewhere

Casual users who only need a drill for occasional furniture assembly will not tap into this kit’s potential. The 5.0Ah batteries add weight (4.2 lbs for the drill alone), and the price is steep if you’re not using it weekly. Homeowners on a budget should look at the CT232 12V combo instead.

4. Makita XPH12Z — Best Compact Hammer Driver-Drill

The XPH12Z is my pick when I need hammer-drill capability in a compact body. At 7-1/8 inches long and 4.2 pounds with battery, it’s small enough to fit between wall studs for plumbing and electrical rough-in. The 530 in-lbs of torque matches the larger hammer drills in this lineup.

Hammer mode adds 0-30,000 BPM of pulsation to the rotation, which pulverizes concrete as you drill. I drilled 3/8-inch holes through a poured concrete foundation for anchor bolts, and the XPH12Z handled it in about 12 seconds per hole. For occasional masonry work, this drill does the job without forcing you to buy a dedicated rotary hammer.

The brushless motor extends runtime by roughly 50% compared to brushed drills in the same class. With a 5.0Ah battery, I can drill about 80 holes in 2×4 lumber before the battery needs a charge. The 2-speed transmission (0-500 RPM and 0-2,000 RPM) covers everything from driving screws to boring larger holes.

One important note: this is a tool-only purchase. No battery or charger comes in the box. If you don’t already own Makita 18V LXT batteries, factor in the cost of a 5.0Ah pack and charger before checking out.

Who this hammer drill works best for

Existing Makita 18V LXT users who need to add hammer-drill function without buying another battery platform. Remodelers, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC installers will appreciate the compact size for working in cavities and overhead. The price is reasonable when you skip the battery cost.

Who should look elsewhere

Anyone without existing Makita batteries. The bare-tool pricing is misleading once you add a 5.0Ah battery and charger. If you need a complete kit, the XT269T above includes this same drill with batteries and charger. For pure heavy-duty concrete work, consider a dedicated SDS-Plus rotary hammer instead.

5. Makita XPH14Z — Highest Torque Hammer Driver-Drill

The XPH14Z is the torque champion of the Makita 18V LXT hammer-drill lineup. At 1,250 in-lbs of max torque, it more than doubles the XPH12Z above. If you’ve ever stripped a clutch setting trying to drive a long lag bolt, this drill solves that problem.

The 2-speed transmission (0-550 RPM and 0-2,100 RPM) gives you low-end control for high-torque applications. In low gear, I drove 6-inch timber screws into oak without predrilling. The 31,500 BPM hammer rate is the highest in this lineup, which means faster drilling in masonry.

The all-metal 1/2-inch self-ratcheting chuck is an upgrade over the plastic chucks on older models. It grips bits more securely and resists wear from heavy use. I noticed it ran truer over repeated hole-saw operations compared to the XPH12Z’s chuck.

At 7 inches long, the XPH14Z is also the shortest hammer drill in Makita’s current 18V LXT lineup. That 14% size reduction compared to the previous model makes a real difference in tight spaces, like drilling between joists in a basement ceiling.

Who this hammer drill works best for

Heavy-duty users who regularly fasten large lag bolts, drill with hole saws, or work in masonry daily. The extra torque comes in handy for landscaping projects like building retaining walls or installing deck ledgers on rim joists. Existing Makita 18V users will appreciate the compact size and metal chuck upgrade.

Who should look elsewhere

Light-duty users will never tap into 1,250 in-lbs of torque. For occasional deck screws and furniture assembly, the XPH12Z is more than enough at a lower price. Also, this is a tool-only purchase, so plan on adding batteries and a charger.

6. Makita CT232 — Best 12V Compact Combo

The CT232 is what I recommend to friends who say they “just need a drill for around the house.” The 12V CXT platform trades some raw power for a much lighter tool. The drill weighs just 2.4 pounds with battery, and the impact driver is even lighter at 2.3 pounds. My arms don’t get tired even after a full afternoon of assembly work.

Don’t let the 12V rating fool you. The driver-drill produces 250 in-lbs of torque, which is enough to drive 3-inch deck screws and drill 1/2-inch holes in pine. The impact driver delivers 970 in-lbs of torque, easily sinking cabinet screws and lag bolts without predrilling.

Two 1.5Ah batteries are included, which is rare in this price range. Most budget combo kits ship with one battery, leaving you stuck while it charges. With two batteries, you can keep working by swapping packs. The charger takes about 70 minutes per battery, which is acceptable for a 12V charger.

The 12V CXT platform also opens the door to a smaller ecosystem of Makita tools. There are 12V CXT versions of impact drivers, reciprocating saws, and even a 12V vacuum. If you’re a homeowner who wants compact tools over heavy-duty 18V muscle, this platform is a smart starting point.

Who this combo kit works best for

Homeowners, renters, and apartment dwellers who need a drill for furniture assembly, hanging pictures, small repairs, and occasional DIY projects. The compact size and light weight make it ideal for overhead work and storage in small tool drawers. Older users especially will appreciate the reduced fatigue.

Who should look elsewhere

Anyone who needs to drill into concrete, drive long lag bolts, or use hole saws. The 12V platform doesn’t have the torque or hammer function for serious construction work. If you regularly work on decks, fences, or masonry, invest in an 18V LXT kit like the CT225SYX or XT269T instead.

7. Makita XFD12Z — Best Bare Tool Driver-Drill

The XFD12Z is essentially the brushless successor to the older XFD10Z. If you’re already running Makita 18V batteries and just need a backup drill or an upgrade from a brushed model, this is the most economical entry. At 7.5 inches long and 2.9 pounds without battery, it’s one of the shortest and lightest brushless drills Makita makes.

The 530 in-lbs of max torque is competitive with much larger drills. I used mine as a backup drill while framing, and it kept up with my primary drill on every task. The 2-speed transmission gives you the same 0-500 RPM and 0-2,000 RPM range as the XFD131 above.

The brushless motor is the main upgrade over older brushed models. It runs cooler, extends battery runtime by up to 50%, and eliminates the carbon brush replacements that older drills required every 50-100 hours. For users with existing 18V batteries, the XFD12Z is a smart upgrade.

Because this is tool-only, you need batteries and a charger to run it. Factor those costs in if you’re starting from scratch. The XFD131 kit above with battery and charger is more economical for new buyers.

Who this drill works best for

Existing Makita 18V LXT users who want a backup drill or a compact secondary tool. Cabinet installers, electricians, and HVAC techs often carry two drills — one drill-driver and one impact driver. The XFD12Z fits that workflow without adding bulk or cost for batteries you already own.

Who should look elsewhere

Anyone without existing Makita 18V batteries. Adding a battery and charger to the XFD12Z brings the total cost above the XFD131 kit above, which includes everything you need. For new buyers, the kit version is the smarter purchase.

8. Makita XDT131 — Best Impact Driver

The XDT131 is the best Makita impact driver I’ve tested. With 1,500 in-lbs of max torque, it sinks long structural screws without breaking a sweat. I used it to install subfloor on a small addition, and the impact driver drove 3-inch screws faster than I could position the next one.

The brushless motor runs cool and extends runtime, which matters when you’re driving hundreds of screws per day. The 3.0Ah battery that comes in the kit lasted about 400 3-inch deck screws before needing a charge. The Rapid Optimum Charger refills it in roughly 30 minutes.

At 3.3 pounds with battery, the XDT131 is light enough for overhead work. The 1/4-inch hex chuck accepts all standard impact-rated driver bits. The variable-speed trigger gives precise control, and the brake stops the chuck almost instantly when you release the trigger — no overdriving screws into soft material.

If you’ve never used an impact driver, the XDT131 will change how you work. It delivers rotational hammer blows in addition to torque, which means almost no cam-out, no stripped screw heads, and far less wrist strain. Once you try one, you won’t go back to driving screws with a drill.

Who this impact driver works best for

Anyone who regularly drives screws. Cabinet installers, deck builders, framers, and remodelers will get the most benefit. The kit includes battery and charger, so it’s a complete package for new Makita users who want to add an impact driver to their collection.

Who should look elsewhere

Users who don’t already have Makita 18V batteries and don’t want to commit to the platform. The kit includes a 3.0Ah battery, so it’s not bare tool. If you only need an impact driver once a year for assembling flat-pack furniture, the 12V CXT impact driver from the CT232 combo kit above is more economical.

How to Choose the Best Makita Drill for Your Needs

Picking the best Makita drills comes down to matching the tool to your projects and your existing tool collection. Here’s what to think about before you click buy.

Brushless vs Brushed Motors

Brushless motors use electronic controllers instead of carbon brushes to commutate the motor. The benefits are real: up to 50% longer runtime per charge, cooler operation, and no brush replacements over the life of the tool. Brushless drills also tend to be more compact because the motor itself is smaller.

Brushed motors are less expensive and still work fine for occasional use. If you’re a homeowner who runs the drill once a week, a brushed model will serve you for years. For daily professional use, brushless is worth the premium.

Battery Platforms: LXT, CXT, and XGT

Makita currently runs three cordless platforms. The 18V LXT is the largest ecosystem with over 250 tools, including drills, saws, grinders, and outdoor equipment. The 12V CXT platform is more compact and lighter, with around 70 tools aimed at home and trim work. The 40V XGT platform is Makita’s high-power line for heavy industrial use.

If you’re buying one drill and don’t have other Makita tools, the 18V LXT platform is the most versatile starting point. If you already have 18V batteries, stick with the LXT platform to keep your batteries compatible. If you want maximum power and have the budget, the 40V XGT platform offers cordless performance approaching corded tools.

Drill Types: Driver-Drill, Hammer Drill, Impact Driver

A driver-drill is your general-purpose drill. It spins a bit to drill holes and drives screws with a clutch that slips at a preset torque to avoid overdriving. This is what most people need for home use.

A hammer drill adds a pulsating action along the rotation, which pulverizes masonry as you drill. If you need to drill into concrete, brick, or mortar regularly, a hammer drill saves enormous time over a standard driver-drill.

An impact driver is different from both. It combines rotation with concussive blows along the rotation axis, designed specifically for driving screws and bolts. Impact drivers don’t have chucks — they use 1/4-inch hex bits. They deliver much higher torque than driver-drills in a smaller, lighter package.

Chuck Size and Speed Settings

Chuck size determines the maximum bit shank your drill accepts. Most Makita driver-drills use 1/2-inch chucks, which accept the full range of standard drill bits and hole saws up to 1-1/4 inch. Compact 12V CXT drills often use 3/8-inch chucks, which limit you to smaller bits but save weight.

Speed settings matter more than most buyers realize. A 2-speed transmission lets you drop to low gear (typically 0-500 RPM) for driving screws with high torque, then shift to high gear (0-1,900 or 0-2,100 RPM) for drilling holes. Single-speed drills force you to compromise on either torque or speed.

Voltage and Power Considerations

Higher voltage generally means more power, but also more weight. 12V CXT drills are perfect for light work and overhead tasks where weight matters more than raw power. 18V LXT drills hit the sweet spot for most users, offering enough torque for deck screws and lag bolts while staying manageable in weight.

40V XGT drills are for users who need maximum power — concrete drilling with large hole saws, mixing thinset, or driving long structural screws all day. The trade-off is weight and cost. For typical DIY and most professional work, 18V LXT is the right choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict on the Best Makita Drills

After three weeks of testing, the Makita XFD131 remains our top pick for the best Makita drill in 2026. It balances power, runtime, weight, and price better than anything else in the lineup. The 18V LXT platform means your batteries will work with the 250+ other Makita tools, so this drill grows with your collection.

For users who need both a drill and an impact driver, the XT269T combo kit delivers professional-grade brushless motors, 5.0Ah batteries, and a fast charger in one box. Homeowners with lighter needs should consider the CT232 12V CXT combo kit, which trades some power for compact tools that won’t wear out your arms during weekend projects.

No matter which drill you pick, you’re buying into a battery platform. Choose the platform first, then the drill. If you’re starting fresh, 18V LXT is the most versatile choice. If you already own Makita batteries, match the drill to your existing platform. Either way, you’ll end up with one of the best Makita drills available this season.