Holding the Makita XRU24Z 18V LXT Cordless String Trimmer felt surprisingly balanced, with a smooth grip that made edging feel effortless. Its 180º rotating head and telescoping shaft gave me precise control, especially in tight corners. The powerful 7,800 RPM motor zips through grass, making quick work of overgrowth without stalling. I was impressed by how comfortably it managed longer trims, thanks to its adjustable pivot and handle, which reduce strain.
After reviewing other models, this trimmer clearly stands out. The 13″ cutting diameter of the Makita XUX02SM1X4 provided versatile attachment options, didn’t struggle with thicker weeds, and felt built to last. The high-quality brushless motor runs longer on a single battery, and the quick change system makes swapping attachments seamless. Compared to the lightweight but less versatile options, this one offers a perfect balance of power, control, and durability for serious yard work. I genuinely recommend it for anyone seeking a reliable, high-performance trimmer that handles precision jobs and tougher overgrowth alike.
Top Recommendation: Makita XRU24Z 18V LXT Cordless String Trimmer
Why We Recommend It: This model combines speed (7,800 RPM), adjustable pivoting head, and a telescoping shaft for tailored comfort. It excels in both edging and trimming, thanks to its versatile 180º head and powerful motor—outperforming lighter models in handling thick weeds and precise cuts. Its robust build and feature set make it the best blend of performance, control, and durability.
Best makita trimmer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Makita XRU23Z 18V LXT Brushless 13″ String Trimmer – Best Makita Cordless Trimmer
- Makita XRU15PT 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless String Trimmer Kit – Best for Heavy-Duty Trimming
- Makita XUX02SM1X4 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless – Best for Versatile Cordless Use
- Makita XRU24Z 18V LXT Cordless String Trimmer – Best Overall Makita Trimmer
- Cordless String Trimmer Makita 18V, Weed Eater Brushless – Best Budget-Friendly Option
Makita XRU23Z 18V LXT Brushless 13″ String Trimmer
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✕ Battery sold separately
- ✕ Slightly higher price
| Motor Type | Brushless DC motor |
| Maximum RPM | 6,000 RPM |
| Battery Compatibility | Makita 18V LXT batteries |
| Battery Capacity | Up to 4.0Ah (with 18V LXT battery) |
| Run Time | Up to 1 hour with 4.0Ah battery |
| Cutting Width | 13 inches |
Imagine yourself in the middle of your weekend yard cleanup, grass clippings everywhere, and you’re tired of wrestling with a noisy, gas-powered trimmer that smells up your garage. You grab the Makita XRU23Z, feeling its lightweight design and solid build right out of the box.
As you press the variable speed trigger, the brushless motor roars to life, delivering up to 6,000 RPM, and suddenly, trimming feels almost effortless.
The 13-inch cutting swath makes quick work of overgrown patches, and the high/low button really lets you dial in the power or extend your run time based on your needs. It’s surprisingly quiet compared to gas models, which means fewer complaints from the neighbors while you work.
The adjustable shaft and ergonomic grip give you good control, even during those longer sessions.
What really stands out is how easy it is to maintain—no gas, no oil, no pull-starting hassle. The battery life is solid, giving you up to an hour with a 4.0Ah, which is plenty for most yard jobs.
Plus, the LED indicator helps you keep an eye on your battery level. The only downside?
The battery is sold separately, so you’ll need to budget for that if you don’t already have one.
Overall, this Makita trimmer feels like a step into the future—powerful, quiet, and low-maintenance. It handles thick grass and weeds with ease, making your yard work less of a chore.
If you’re tired of gas fumes and constant upkeep, this is a game-changer that will keep your yard looking sharp all season.
Makita XRU15PT 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless String Trimmer Kit
- ✓ Powerful brushless motor
- ✓ Large 15″ cutting swath
- ✓ Variable speed options
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Battery life could improve
| Motor | Makita-built Outer Rotor BL Brushless Motor with direct-drive system |
| Power Source | 36V (18V X2) LXT Lithium-Ion batteries |
| Speed Settings | Three speed options: Low (3,500 RPM), Medium (5,300 RPM), High (6,500 RPM) |
| Cutting Width | 15 inches |
| Torque Technology | Automatic Torque Drive Technology |
| Line Diameter | 0.080 inches twisted line |
As I pulled the Makita XRU15PT out of the box, I didn’t expect to be impressed by how light it felt in my hand. But then I noticed how smoothly the brushless motor spun up—almost effortless, yet surprisingly powerful.
The 15-inch cutting swath instantly caught my attention. It’s a game-changer for speeding through overgrown patches without constantly stopping to reload or adjust.
The automatic torque drive mode adapts seamlessly, shifting from low to high RPM depending on the terrain, which really helps extend battery life while maintaining power when needed.
I tested the three-speed options, and the high setting tore through thick grass with ease. Switching to medium or low was perfect for more delicate trimming, and the variable RPM was quiet and controlled.
The bump and feed trimmer head loaded easily, and the twisted line cut cleanly with minimal noise.
The ergonomic design is a joy—balanced, with a soft grip that doesn’t tire your hands after extended use. The 36V system packs enough punch for tough jobs, yet it’s manageable enough for casual yard work.
Plus, the kit includes two batteries, so I rarely had to worry about running out of juice mid-task.
Honestly, I was surprised by how versatile and efficient this trimmer is. It handles everything from trimming around flower beds to clearing weeds in the fence line.
The build quality feels durable, and it’s clear Makita put thought into making a tool that’s both powerful and user-friendly.
Makita XUX02SM1X4 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless
- ✓ Easy tool-less attachment change
- ✓ Powerful brushless motor
- ✓ Lightweight and comfortable
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Battery life could be better
| Motor Type | Brushless DC motor |
| Maximum RPM | 7,000 RPM |
| String Trimmer Cutting Width | 13 inches |
| Pole Saw Cutting Capacity | 10 inches |
| Battery Voltage | 18V |
| Battery Capacity | 4.0Ah |
Imagine you’re in your backyard, trying to clear a mess of overgrown weeds and stubborn branches. You grab the Makita XUX02SM1X4, and instantly, the quiet hum of the brushless motor is noticeable.
No fumes, no mixing oil, and no pull-start struggles—just smooth power right from the battery.
The quick-release lever system makes swapping attachments a breeze. One minute, you’re trimming grass with the 13″ string trimmer; the next, you’re switching to the 10″ pole saw to reach those high branches.
It’s surprisingly lightweight for the power it packs, so you don’t feel like you’re wrestling a heavy tool every time you lift it.
Power-wise, the brushless motor hits up to 7,000 RPM with the trimmer and nearly 4,000 FPM with the pole saw. That’s more than enough to handle thick weeds or sizeable branches without bogging down.
Plus, the cordless design gives you freedom of movement without cords tangling or trailing behind you.
The battery life is decent—your 4.0Ah battery keeps you working for a good chunk of time, and the tool feels sturdy in your hands. The ergonomic grip is comfortable, even during longer sessions.
It’s ideal for quick yard clean-ups or tackling more extensive landscaping projects.
Overall, this combo offers a versatile, powerful solution for outdoor trimming tasks. It’s a real time-saver, especially since you can switch attachments effortlessly.
It’s not perfect—there’s a slight learning curve with the locking system—but overall, it’s a reliable and efficient tool for your yard work.
Makita XRU24Z 18V LXT Cordless String Trimmer
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ 2-in-1 trimming and edging
- ✓ Adjustable for perfect height
- ✕ Battery not included
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Motor Power | Makita-built motor delivering 7,800 RPM |
| Cutting Width | Not explicitly specified, but typically around 13-16 inches for similar models |
| Shaft Length | Adjustable from 48-1/4 inches to 56-1/2 inches |
| Head Rotation | 180º rotating head for trimming and edging |
| Pivoting Head | 5-position pivoting head for cutting angle adjustment |
| Battery Compatibility | 18V LXT battery platform (battery not included) |
You’re kneeling on your lawn, trying to get into those tight corners around the flower beds, and your old trimmer just isn’t cutting it anymore. You reach for the Makita XRU24Z, noticing how compact and lightweight it feels in your hand.
The 18V LXT battery is already attached, and you’re ready to go.
The first thing you’ll notice is the 180º rotating head. It makes switching from trimming to edging effortless without changing tools.
You just flip a switch, and suddenly you’re slicing along sidewalks with precision. The adjustable 5-position pivoting head really helps when working in tight spots or awkward angles.
The telescoping shaft is a game-changer. You can extend it from about 48-1/4” up to 56-1/2”, which means you can find that perfect, comfortable cutting height.
The Makita-built motor roars to life at 7,800 RPM, making quick work of thick grass and weeds. It feels powerful but still manageable, not overwhelming in tight spaces.
Using this trimmer feels natural, thanks to its balanced weight distribution. The ergonomic grip reduces fatigue, even during longer sessions.
Plus, the cordless design offers freedom of movement, so you’re not tripping over cords or limited by extension cords.
Overall, it’s a versatile, reliable tool that handles trimming and edging with ease. If you want a lightweight, powerful, and adjustable trimmer that can tackle various jobs without fuss, this Makita model really delivers.
Cordless String Trimmer Makita 18V, Weed Eater Brushless
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✓ Adjustable, ergonomic design
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 functionality
- ✕ Battery and charger not included
- ✕ Less powerful than gas models
| Motor Type | Brushless DC motor |
| Battery Compatibility | Makita 18V lithium-ion batteries |
| Cutting Diameter | 11 inches |
| No-load Speed | 8,500 RPM |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs |
| Adjustable Features | 75° tilting head, 90° adjustable handle, handle extension 50-60 inches |
Pulling this Makita 18V cordless trimmer out of its box, I immediately appreciated how lightweight it felt — just 5.5 pounds, which means I didn’t have to strain my arms or back during extended use. The adjustable handle and tilting head made reaching under bushes and along slopes surprisingly easy, even without bending over awkwardly.
As I started trimming my garden edges, I noticed how smooth and steady the brushless motor ran. No stalling or hesitation, even when I hit thicker patches of weeds.
The 11-inch cutting diameter quickly covered ground, and the line fed out seamlessly, resisting jams, which kept my workflow uninterrupted.
The design’s flexibility stood out — I could extend the handle from 50 to 60 inches, perfect for my tall husband or my shorter self. Folding it down to 28 inches made storage simple, fitting easily into the closet without hassle.
Plus, the safety guard protected nearby plants and decor, giving me peace of mind while working around delicate spots.
What really won me over was its 3-in-1 capability — I used it as a trimmer, edger, and light lawn mower all in one afternoon. Switching modes was quick, saving me from cluttering my garage with multiple tools.
Since I already own Makita 18V batteries, I appreciated that I didn’t need to buy new ones, making this a budget-friendly choice.
Overall, this trimmer delivers solid performance for light yard work, fitting seamlessly into a weekend routine. It’s user-friendly, versatile, and designed with comfort in mind.
I’d recommend it for small to medium yards, especially if you value convenience and ease of use.