10 Best Makita 18 Volt Drills 2025 in the United States

The Makita XPH16Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless Hammer Driver-Drill is an impressive tool in the 18-volt drill category. One of its standout features is the powerful brushless motor that delivers up to 970 inch-pounds of torque, making it suitable for demanding drilling and driving tasks. This motor is designed to optimize battery usage, extending the run time by up to 50% per charge, which is beneficial for extended work sessions. However, it’s worth noting that batteries and charger are not included with the tool, which means additional cost for these essential components.

The variable 2-speed design allows for versatility across different applications, with speeds ranging from 0-550 RPM and 0-1,800 RPM, as well as hammering capabilities with BPM rates of 0-8,250 and 0-27,000. This makes the drill adaptable for both delicate work and heavy-duty tasks. The drill’s weight of 3.83 pounds is relatively light, making it easier to handle and reducing user fatigue during prolonged use. The 0.5-inch chuck size is standard and should accommodate most bits used for home improvement and professional projects.

Additionally, the absence of carbon brushes in the motor contributes to longer tool life and efficient performance. This drill is a good fit for users looking for a powerful, versatile, and lightweight tool, provided they are ready to invest in batteries and a charger separately.

The Makita CT225SYX 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Compact Cordless 2-Pc. Combo Kit includes a driver-drill and an impact driver, both powered by 18V batteries. The driver-drill offers two speed settings (0-600 and 0-1,900 RPM) and delivers up to 480 in. lbs. of torque, making it suitable for a variety of drilling tasks. The impact driver boasts variable speeds (0-2,900 RPM and 0-3,500 IPM) with a maximum torque of 1,460 in. lbs., ideal for heavy-duty fastening jobs.

Both tools are designed to be compact and lightweight, with the driver-drill weighing only 3.3 lbs and the impact driver 2.8 lbs, reducing operator fatigue during extended use. The ergonomic handles with rubberized soft grips add to the comfort and ease of use. However, the battery capacity is on the lower side at 1.5Ah, which might require more frequent recharging during intensive tasks.

Additionally, the combo kit includes two 18V batteries and a charger, providing good value for those who need a reliable and portable drilling solution. While the compact size and lightweight design are advantageous, heavy-duty users might find the 1.5Ah battery limiting for prolonged use. This kit is best suited for DIY enthusiasts, home improvement projects, and light to medium construction tasks.

The Makita XPH10R 18V Compact Lithium-Ion Cordless Hammer Driver-Drill Kit is a versatile tool that is well-suited for both professional and DIY users who need a reliable and efficient drill. One of its key strengths is the variable 2-speed setting, offering 0-600 RPM and 0-1,900 RPM, which makes it adaptable for a wide range of drilling and driving tasks, including hammer applications. With a compact size of 7-3/4 inches in length and a weight of just 3.4 pounds, it is designed to minimize operator fatigue, making it easier to handle for extended periods.

The drill is powered by two included 18V Lithium-Ion batteries, each with a capacity of 2 Amp hours, providing ample power and decent runtime for most tasks. The Makita-built 4-pole motor delivers a maximum torque of 480 inch-pounds, which is sufficient for handling tough materials like metal and wood with drilling capacities of 0.5 inches and 1.5 inches respectively. Comfort is enhanced with a rubberized soft grip, making it more pleasant to use over longer projects. The inclusion of a rapid charger and tool bag adds convenience, ensuring that users have everything they need to start working right away.

In conclusion, the Makita XPH10R stands out for its lightweight and ergonomic design, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a compact and efficient hammer driver-drill. However, those needing prolonged battery life or larger bit compatibility might want to explore other options in the Makita range.