The best Makita drill model for your work depends first on whether you need to drill masonry. Makita’s driver-drill handles drilling and fastening; its hammer driver-drill adds a hammering mode for masonry drilling. From there, compare manufacturer-listed torque, size, battery platform and what the package includes. These Makita 18V LXT options cover serious DIY and contractor tasks, but current prices are not established here, so “great value” depends on the listing and batteries you already own.
Choose the drill type for the material
Driver-drill for wood, metal and fastening
A driver-drill is the straightforward choice when your regular work is drilling and fastening without hammer drilling into masonry. Makita lists the XFD14Z as an 18V LXT brushless 1/2-inch driver-drill. Its product page specifies maximum torque of 1,250 in.lbs. and a two-speed transmission. These are manufacturer specifications, not independent test results. See Makita’s XFD14Z listing.
Hammer driver-drill when masonry drilling is needed
A hammer driver-drill adds a hammering mode for drilling masonry. Consider one if that work is part of your project mix; the mode does not make it a substitute for choosing an appropriate bit or matching the tool to the material. Makita’s XPH14Z, XPH12Z, XPH15ZB, XPH16T and XPH10R are listed as hammer driver-drills. Makita’s XPH10R listing describes applications in wood, metal, masonry and concrete and links compatible bits; it does not establish one universal bit set. Check Makita’s XPH10R applications and bit information.
Compare the Makita models
The figures below are specifications published by Makita USA on its product pages, which are undated and were accessed in 2026. They should not be read as comparative test results. Package contents refer to the configurations named in those listings; verify the exact item listing before purchase.
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- Our Most Powerful 20V MAX* 2-Speed Hammer Drill** - Complete a wide range of applications with this hammer drill that is up to 109% more powerful.
- Help Maximize Control - Equipped with the ANTI-ROTATION System that senses the rotational motion of the tool and shuts it down if the motion is excessive. The red LED indicator illuminates when the ANTI-ROTATION System is engaged.
- Competitive Advantage - Dominate demands with this tool designed to be up to 25% more powerful vs. Milwaukee***.
- Professional Performance - Complete jobs with top level speed, control, and precision with a high-speed transmission and variable speed trigger featuring 2 settings (no load 0-650/0-2,000 rpm).
- Bright LED Work light - Illuminate dim work areas with an adjustable, 3-position LED featuring 70 lumens and auto-shutoff function.
| Model | Makita-listed type and distinction | Package configuration | Best fit to consider |
|---|---|---|---|
| XFD14Z | 18V LXT brushless 1/2-inch driver-drill; 1,250 in.lbs. maximum torque; two-speed transmission | Tool only; battery and charger not included | Drilling and fastening where hammer drilling is not needed |
| XPH14Z | 18V LXT brushless 1/2-inch hammer driver-drill; 1,250 in.lbs. maximum torque; two-speed transmission | Tool only; battery and charger not included | Work requiring a hammer-drilling mode alongside drilling and fastening |
| XPH12Z | Compact 18V LXT brushless 1/2-inch hammer driver-drill; 530 in.lbs. maximum torque; two-speed transmission | Tool only; battery and charger not included | A compact hammer-drill option when the XPH14Z’s listed torque is not required |
| XPH15ZB | Sub-compact 18V LXT brushless 1/2-inch hammer driver-drill; 6-1/2 inches long; 3.1 lbs. with battery, as listed | Tool-only model; battery not included | When short length and listed weight are important selection factors |
| XPH16T | Compact 18V LXT brushless hammer driver-drill; 970 in.lbs. maximum torque | 5.0Ah kit listing | A compact hammer-drill kit configuration rather than a bare tool |
| XPH10R | Compact 18V LXT hammer driver-drill; 480 in.lbs. maximum torque | Includes two 2.0Ah batteries and a charger | A kit listing with batteries and charger, for users who need those components |
Makita’s product pages do not provide a consistent set of speed and weight figures for every model in this comparison, so those specifications are not used to rank them. A 2016 Makita U.S. catalog contains historical model data, but it is not a definitive guide to the current lineup. Makita U.S. catalogs.
Decide between compactness, torque and kit contents
Use the published torque as a comparison point, not a performance verdict
Among the listed figures, the XFD14Z and XPH14Z each have 1,250 in.lbs. maximum torque; the XPH16T lists 970 in.lbs., the XPH12Z 530 in.lbs., and the XPH10R 480 in.lbs. These manufacturer-stated maximums may help narrow options, but they do not establish how a drill will perform in a particular material, with a particular bit, or under a specific workload.
Rank #2
- Dewalt DCD798B 20V MAX Brushless 1/2 in. Cordless Hammer Drill Driver (Tool Only)
Prioritize size when access matters
Makita describes the XPH12Z as compact and the XPH15ZB as sub-compact. The XPH15ZB listing states a length of 6-1/2 inches and a weight of 3.1 lbs. with battery. Those are manufacturer-listed figures; the evidence available here does not provide equivalent size and weight figures for every model, so avoid treating the labels alone as a measured head-to-head comparison.
Check the battery platform and what the package contains
All six models in this comparison are listed on Makita’s 18V LXT platform. If you already own compatible 18V LXT batteries, a tool-only model may fit your setup. The XFD14Z, XPH14Z and XPH12Z listings explicitly say battery and charger are not included; the XPH15ZB is also tool-only and does not include a battery. In contrast, the XPH10R listing includes two 2.0Ah batteries and a charger, while the XPH16T is presented as a 5.0Ah kit. Confirm the precise kit contents on the listing you intend to buy.
Rank #3
- Electric Drill Equipped with Brushless Motor: GoYwato power drill cordless features a built-in brushless motor with 55A overload protection, delivering greater efficiency, stability, power, and quieter operation—spark-free with a 150% longer motor lifespan. Our cordless hammer drill has a maximum torque of 1239in·lbs/140N·m and peak impact rate of 24000IPM, it boosts power by 80% while reducing noise by 60% during operation, ensuring smooth completion of every task. (Note: If you buy additional drill bits for other medium-duty tasks, be mindful of the cordless drill's operating time and work intermittently. Continuous overload operation may damage the power drill)
- 2 x 4.0Ah Battery for 270-mins Long-Lasting Runtime: This cordless drill set comes with two 4.0Ah li-ion batteries and one fast charger. Each battery takes 2.5 hours to fully charge, with a runtime of 135 minutes per full charge. Our batteries have 91A overload protection, plus over-temperature, over-charge, and over-voltage protection. This ensures stable power delivery to the electric hammer drill while eliminating power shortage troubles during work, enabling more efficient and effortless operation—a truly hassle-free design. The charger’s indicator light is green when connected to power, red during charging, and green again when fully charged
- Drill Through Different Materials in 3 Drilling Modes: This hammer drill features a 20-stage adjustable clutch and 3 operating modes—screwdriver, drilling, and hammer drilling—to meet diverse application needs. Higher torque ring values indicate greater torque output, suitable for materials or screw types of varying hardness. Torque settings 1-6 work well for fastening screws into soft materials like plastic and wood; Gears 8-15 drill through metal and red brick; Gears 16-20 drill through lightweight concrete. This battery-powered concrete drill can bore 25mm diameter holes through 40mm thick steel plates, drill 100mm thick wood, and drill 80mm thick bricks and lightweight concrete
- Low & High Speed Settings: This brushless hammer drill has 2 speed settings. The L speed (0-700RPM) is suitable for soft materials, or tightening self-tapping screws and small screws. Set the torque to a low level and monitor speed closely—excessive speed may damage original accessories. The H speed (0-2300RPM) works for hard materials like metal and concrete, or tightening hex screws and large bolts, where torque can be set higher. Pressing the speed trigger switch deeper increases the impact drill’s rotation speed. This dual-speed adjustment accurately meets various task needs while effectively preventing over-driving and material damage
- Ergonomic Design: This electric drill has a 1/2-inch (13mm) self-locking metal chuck for quick bit changes, securely gripping bits without slipping—more durable than plastic chucks and minimizing damage. A bright LED work light illuminates your task area at all times. It includes an easy-to-install left auxiliary handle for enhanced grip comfort and stability, delivering a better user use. Ensure the handle is firmly fastened to the machine to prevent detachment during operation. Additionally, a flexible shaft helps you tackle jobs in tight spaces easily. The single brushless drill with battery weigh only 4.12lbs/1.87kg, allowing for effortless one-handed operation
How to choose for your work
- Decide whether masonry hammer drilling is part of the job. If not, consider the XFD14Z driver-drill. If yes, compare the hammer driver-drills.
- Choose the size and specification that suit the task. Use Makita’s published torque figures as one comparison point, and consider the XPH15ZB’s listed compact dimensions if access or tool size matters.
- Match the bit to the material and tool. Verify bit type and compatibility for the drilling task; Makita’s XPH10R page provides application and compatible-bit information, not a universal recommendation.
- Account for batteries and charger. Check whether the exact package is tool-only or a kit, and whether its battery configuration suits your existing 18V LXT setup.
- Compare the complete purchase cost. Include any battery and charger you need when evaluating a bare tool against a kit. Current comparable retail prices are not established here, so no model can be named a verified best value.
What “best” and “great value” mean here
This comparison identifies how Makita categorizes these drills, what manufacturer specifications distinguish them and what the cited package listings say they include. It does not establish an independently tested performance winner or a current retail-value winner. Prices, availability and package contents can change, and a tool-only model’s total cost depends on whether you already have compatible batteries and a charger.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- [Go Anywhere Without Cords – True Cordless Freedom]: Say goodbye to tangled extension cords and outlet hunting. With this Seesii cordless rotary hammer, you can climb ladders to mount a TV, drill through concrete in the garage, or build a pergola in the backyard—freely moving from one spot to another. Perfect for homeowners, weekend DIYers, and light contractors who want professional power without being tied down. Work comfortably wherever your project takes you.
- [2.8J Brushless Power – Drill Through Tough Materials with Ease]: The high-efficiency brushless motor delivers 2.8 Joules of impact energy at up to 5000 BPM, effortlessly powering through concrete, brick, stone, and masonry. Whether you’re installing anchor bolts, renovating a basement, or securing fence posts, every strike hits with consistent force, making hard materials feel manageable and keeping your project moving smoothly. Maximum drilling capacity: Concrete – 1″ (26mm), Wood – 1-3/16″ (30mm), Metal – 1/2″ (13mm).
- [4 Modes for Every Job – From Drilling to Chiseling]: Switch instantly between Drill Mode for wood and metal, Hammer Drill Mode for concrete and masonry, Chisel Mode for tile removal, and Chisel Positioning for precise angles.From bathroom remodels to garage upgrades or light demolition, this multi-mode system replaces multiple tools, saving you time and hassle while keeping every project within reach.
- [Dual 4.0Ah Batteries – Power Through Long Projects]: Never worry about running out of power mid-project. Includes two 4.0Ah batteries, letting you keep one charging while using the other, and is compatible with Ma-kita batteries. Perfect for long outdoor projects, deck or fence installation, farm maintenance, and home renovations. Expand your toolkit without buying a new battery platform and keep working all day with reliable, uninterrupted power.
- [Control, Comfort, and Safety – Ready for Serious Work]: Designed with an SDS-Plus quick-change chuck, 360° adjustable side handle, forward/reverse control, built-in LED light, and a full accessory kit, this rotary hammer is ready to tackle any project. Balanced weight distribution and a safety clutch reduce kickback and wrist strain, giving you full control—even during tough concrete drilling. Comfortable, safe, and ready for action, it turns every task into a smooth, confident experience.
Rank #4
- Cordless hammer drill has 2.1 Joules of impact energy for fast drilling in concrete.
- SHOCKS ACTIVE VIBRATION CONTROL System of DEWALT 20V hammer drill reduces vibration felt by the user at the handles, compared to rotary hammers without this feature.
- Lightweight design makes this DEWALT 20V brushless hammer drill ideal for rod hanging, seismic & safety attachments, cable tray & strut mounting, clamp mounting, and rail mounting.
- OSHA Table 1 Compliant when paired with DWH303DH On Board Extractor.
- Brushless motor and durable German-engineered mechanism for efficient performance and runtime.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
