10 Best Makita Drills 2026 in the United States

The Makita XT288T 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 2-Pc. Combo Kit is designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals who require reliable and versatile drilling and driving tools. With its high-performance brushless motor, the Hammer Driver-Drill offers impressive speed settings (0-550 and 0-2,100 RPM) and a strong torque of 1,250 in.lbs., making it suitable for a variety of tasks from light to heavy-duty applications. Weighing in at just 6.0 lbs. with the battery attached, it's also lightweight enough for prolonged use without causing fatigue.

The impact driver included in the kit adds further versatility, with four-speed power settings and a maximum torque of 1,590 in.lbs. This feature allows users to adjust the tool's power to meet the needs of different tasks effectively. Both tools are equipped with Makita’s Extreme Protection Technology (XPT), providing added durability in challenging conditions by resisting dust and water.

One of the standout features is the efficient BL Brushless motor, which optimizes battery energy use, extending run time by up to 50% per charge—great for longer projects without frequent recharging. With two included 5.0Ah Lithium-Ion batteries, users can easily switch between tools without downtime. This combo kit has many strengths, but some users may find the higher torque and speed capabilities a bit overwhelming if they're looking for simpler tools for basic tasks. Additionally, while the lightweight design is generally beneficial, it might not provide the heft some users prefer for stability during use. The price point could also be a consideration for those on a tight budget, as it may be higher than basic drill options available on the market. The Makita XT288T is a powerful and reliable choice for varied applications, particularly in demanding environments.

The Makita XAD03PT is a powerful cordless right angle drill designed for demanding jobs, especially where space is tight. It runs on two 18V lithium-ion batteries combined to provide 36V of power, which gives it strong drilling capability and long run time—great for drilling large holes up to 6-1/4 inches in wood or 1/2 inch in metal. The brushless motor and automatic speed adjustment enhance efficiency, offering two speeds up to 1,400 RPM and max torque of 53 Nm, making it suitable for tougher materials. Its 1/2-inch chuck size is a solid middle ground for various drill bits.

The drill weighs about 29 pounds, which is quite heavy compared to typical drills, so it may feel tiring during extended use, especially in awkward positions despite the ergonomic handle. The kit comes fully loaded with two 5.0Ah batteries, a charger, side handle, and carrying bag, adding convenience. This drill fits professionals or serious DIYers needing high power in tight spaces, but casual users might find the weight and price more than necessary for lighter tasks.

The Makita XT297T 18V LXT combo kit offers a solid package of cordless tools, including a hammer driver-drill and a 4-speed impact driver, both powered by efficient 18V lithium-ion batteries with 5.0Ah capacity. These brushless motors help extend battery life by up to 50%, allowing longer work periods without frequent recharging. The hammer driver-drill provides strong torque (up to 1,250 in.lbs.) and two-speed settings (0-550 and 0-2,100 RPM), making it versatile for various drilling and fastening tasks. The impact driver delivers up to 1,590 in.lbs. of torque with four speed/power modes, ideal for tougher jobs. Both tools are lightweight—6.0 lbs for the drill and 3.4 lbs for the impact driver—helping reduce user fatigue during extended use. A useful feature is the 360° LED light ring on the impact driver, which brightens the work area and minimizes shadows. The kit also includes advanced protection such as Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) to resist dust and water, as well as Star Protection electronics to prevent battery overload or overheating. Charging is fast and battery-friendly due to the Rapid Optimum Charger with a cooling fan.

The kit weighs nearly 15 pounds in total with batteries and bag, which might be somewhat bulky for some users. Additionally, the drill has a 1/2 inch chuck size, which is standard but may not accommodate very specialized bits. This combo is suited for DIY enthusiasts and professionals seeking reliable, durable cordless tools for a variety of home improvement and construction tasks where mobility and power efficiency are important.