For most buyers who want a powerful Makita cordless drill without moving to the separate XGT platform, the XPH14T is the strongest all-round LXT choice: it is a complete kit with a 1/2-inch hammer-driver-drill, two 5.0Ah batteries, charger, side handle, and bag. If compactness matters more, choose an XPH15ZB for occasional masonry or an XFD15ZB for wood, metal, and fastening without hammer mode; for high-demand work on XGT, consider the GPH01Z.
These recommendations are based on Makita’s published specifications and listed kit contents, not independent hands-on testing. Choose according to the work, battery platform you already own, and whether the exact listing is a bare tool or a kit.
Best Makita Drills at a Glance
| Best for | Model | Platform | Published specs and configuration | Important limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall LXT kit | Makita XPH14T | 18V LXT | 1,250 in-lb stated max torque; 0–2,100 RPM; hammer mode to 31,500 BPM; kit includes two 5.0Ah batteries, DC18RC rapid charger, side handle, and bag | 6 lb with battery; not the lightest option |
| Compact LXT hammer drill | Makita XPH15ZB | 18V LXT | 6-1/2 in. long; 3.1 lb with battery; 1/2-in. chuck; hammer mode | Tool only; 350 in-lb stated torque |
| Compact LXT drill-driver | Makita XFD15ZB | 18V LXT | 5-7/8 in. long; 2.9 lb with battery | No hammer mode; not for masonry drilling |
| Light-duty, small-hole work | Makita PH05Z | 12V max CXT | 2.4 lb with 2.0Ah battery; 280 in-lb stated torque; hammer mode | 3/8-in. chuck; listed masonry capacity is 5/16 in.; separate CXT platform |
| High-demand XGT drilling | Makita GPH01Z | 40V max XGT | 1,250 in-lb stated max torque; up to 2,600 RPM and 39,000 BPM; electronic clutch and AFT | Tool only; requires an XGT battery |
| Compact XGT alternative | Makita GPH02Z | 40V max XGT | 7-1/8 in. long; 585 in-lb stated max torque; up to 2,200 RPM | Substantially less stated torque than GPH01Z |
Specifications and kit contents above are from Makita’s published product information. They are not independent performance-test results. Prices, promotions, stock, and bundles vary, so verify the exact SKU and retailer listing before purchase.
Best Overall LXT Kit: Makita XPH14T
The XPH14T is the recommended starting point for buyers who want one capable LXT kit for drilling, driving, and occasional masonry. Makita lists 1,250 in-lb maximum torque, a 1/2-inch hammer-driver-drill, up to 2,100 RPM, hammer mode up to 31,500 BPM, 3-inch wood capacity, and 5/8-inch masonry capacity.
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- Makita built BL Brushless Motor delivers 1,250 in.lbs. of Max Torque
- Compact and ergonomic design at only 7" long; 14% shorter than previous model
- 2-speed transmission (0-550 & 0-2,100 RPM) for a wide range of drilling, fastening and hammer drilling applications
- 0-31,500 BPM for faster hammer drilling in masonry materials
- All metal 1/2" self ratcheting chuck for improved bit gripping strength and durability
The kit includes two 5.0Ah LXT batteries, a DC18RC rapid charger, side handle, and bag. That makes it a complete option for a first-time LXT buyer, while an existing LXT owner may prefer a tool-only model if the compactness or configuration better fits the work.
At 6 lb with battery, the XPH14T is not Makita’s lightest drill. If you spend much of the day overhead or doing small, repetitive tasks, compare the lighter XPH15ZB, XFD15ZB, or PH05Z and accept their lower stated torque or more limited capabilities.
Compact LXT Hammer Drill: Makita XPH15ZB
The XPH15ZB is a compact LXT choice when you need hammer capability but want a smaller tool. Makita lists it at 6-1/2 inches long and 3.1 lb with battery, with a 1/2-inch chuck and hammer mode. Its stated maximum torque is 350 in-lb, so it is a compact option rather than the choice for maximum drilling output.
It is listed as tool only, making it most suitable for someone who already owns compatible LXT batteries and a charger. For more demanding drilling and higher published capacity, compare the XPH14T or XPH16T.
Compact LXT Drill-Driver: Makita XFD15ZB
For wood, metal, and fastening where masonry drilling is not needed, the XFD15ZB is a particularly compact LXT drill-driver. Makita lists a length of 5-7/8 inches and a weight of 2.9 lb with battery.
This model has no hammer mode, so do not choose it for masonry holes. It is listed as tool only and is best considered by LXT owners who prioritize a small, light drill for routine work.
Light-Duty 12V Option: Makita PH05Z
The PH05Z is a small-hole option for readers who value light weight over the capacity of a full-size 18V drill. Makita lists a weight of 2.4 lb with a 2.0Ah battery, 280 in-lb stated torque, hammer mode, a 3/8-inch chuck, and 5/16-inch masonry capacity.
It uses Makita’s separate 12V max CXT platform, not 18V LXT. It can suit light repairs and occasional small masonry holes, but it is not the right choice for larger bits or high-demand drilling.
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- [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.
High-Demand XGT Pick: Makita GPH01Z
The GPH01Z is the XGT recommendation for a buyer who already uses, or deliberately plans to build, Makita’s separate 40V max XGT platform. Makita lists 1,250 in-lb maximum torque, speed ranges of 0–650 and 0–2,600 RPM, hammer rates of 0–9,750 and 0–39,000 BPM, a digital clutch, and AFT anti-bind technology.
The GPH01Z is listed as tool only and requires an XGT battery. It is a high-demand option, not a reason for every contractor to switch platforms: an LXT owner should weigh the rest of their tools and workload as well as the drill specifications.
Makita also lists the GPH02Z as a more compact XGT alternative, at 7-1/8 inches long and 585 in-lb stated maximum torque. It gives up substantial stated torque compared with the GPH01Z, so it is not the substitute when maximum output is the deciding factor.
Choosing a Makita Battery Platform
XPH14T, XPH15ZB, XFD15ZB, and XPH16T are 18V LXT products. PH05Z is a 12V max CXT product. GPH01Z and GPH02Z are 40V max XGT products. These are distinct tool battery platforms; do not assume a battery for one platform powers a drill from another.
Makita’s catalog documents an adapter for charging an LXT battery on an XGT charger. That is charger compatibility, not evidence that LXT batteries operate XGT drills. Check the tool and battery platform before buying a kit or bare tool.
Tool-only models listed in the dossier include XPH15ZB, XFD15ZB, PH05Z, GPH01Z, and GPH02Z. The XPH14T is a kit. Before ordering, confirm whether the exact listing includes batteries, charger, bag or case, and side handle; retailer bundles can differ.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Drill-Driver or Hammer Drill?
A drill-driver is for drilling and fastening in materials such as wood and metal. A hammer driver-drill adds percussive action for masonry holes, used with an appropriate masonry bit. Choose a hammer model if masonry holes are part of the expected work; Makita lists 5/8-inch masonry capacity for the XPH14T and 5/16-inch for the PH05Z.
A hammer driver-drill should not be treated as equivalent to an SDS rotary hammer for repeated, large, or production concrete holes. The cited product specifications establish capacities for the listed hammer drills, not equivalence to an SDS tool.
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- Brushless Motor delivers 530 in.lbs. of Max Torque
- Efficient Brushless motor is electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use for up to 50% longer run time per charge
- The Brushless motor eliminates carbon brushes, enabling the BL motor to run cooler and more efficiently for longer life
- The electronically-controlled Brushless motor efficiently uses energy to match torque and RPM to the changing demands of the application
- Variable 2-speed design (0-500 & 0-2,000 RPM) (0-7,500 & 0-30,000 BPM) covers a wide range of drilling, driving and hammer applications
Warranty
Makita says its lithium-ion tools, batteries, and chargers carry a three-year limited warranty from the date of original purchase, subject to the warranty’s limitations and exclusions. Review Makita’s warranty terms for the applicable coverage and conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Makita drill for most DIYers?
The XPH14T is the recommended all-round LXT kit for buyers who want a powerful drill for wood, metal, fastening, and occasional masonry. Its kit includes two 5.0Ah batteries, charger, side handle, and bag. A lighter-duty buyer may prefer the smaller PH05Z if its CXT platform and listed capacity meet the need.
Which Makita drill is best for compact work?
For compact LXT hammer capability, consider the XPH15ZB. For a compact LXT drill-driver without hammer mode, consider the XFD15ZB. Makita lists their weights with battery as 3.1 lb and 2.9 lb respectively.
Is the PH05Z an LXT drill?
No. The PH05Z uses Makita’s 12V max CXT platform. It is distinct from 18V LXT and has a 3/8-inch chuck and listed 5/16-inch masonry capacity.
Should an LXT owner switch to XGT for contractor work?
Not automatically. The XGT GPH01Z is intended for high-demand work on the separate XGT platform, but the LXT XPH14T also has a published 1,250 in-lb maximum torque rating. Consider your existing tools, battery platform, and workload before choosing.
Can a Makita hammer drill replace a rotary hammer?
No. A hammer driver-drill can handle masonry within its listed capacity, but the dossier does not establish equivalence to an SDS rotary hammer for repeated, large, or production concrete holes.
Does the XPH14T include batteries and a charger?
Makita’s listed XPH14T kit includes two 5.0Ah LXT batteries, a DC18RC rapid charger, a side handle, and a bag. Confirm the exact SKU and package contents on the retailer listing before ordering.
What warranty does Makita provide?
Makita says its lithium-ion tools, batteries, and chargers have a three-year limited warranty from original purchase, subject to limitations and exclusions. Check the official warranty terms for details.
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