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Finding the best makita string trimmers requires looking at how each tool fits your specific yard needs. Makita offers cordless brushless models in various cutting widths, including 13, 15, and 17-inch options. Some units are standalone trimmers, while others serve as versatile power heads for multiple attachments. The Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head leads this list because it supports tool interchangeability for users with existing batteries. We compared 9 products based strictly on their published specifications.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head Best overall | Versatile multi-tool users with existing batteries | |
| 2 | Makita 13-Inch Brushless Trimmer Best 13-inch | Standard residential lawns needing 13-inch cuts | |
| 3 | Makita 36V 15" Brushless Trimmer Kit Best premium | complete setups with adjustable speeds | |
| 4 | Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft String Trimmer Also great | Versatile yard work with multiple attachments | |
| 5 | Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer Best budget | Makita battery owners needing a focused 17-inch cut | |
| 6 | Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Also great | Users wanting a versatile high-speed power head | |
| 7 | Makita 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer Best 15-inch | wide cutting swath efficiency | |
| 8 | Makita 13-Inch Brushless String Trimmer Best 20-inch | small yards and existing 18V LXT users | |
| 9 | Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer 15-Inch Also great | extended runtime and adjustable power |
Makita String Trimmer Specs Compared
You can sort these nine models by cutting width and voltage. The 13-inch Makita 13-Inch Brushless Trimmer suits small yards. The 15-inch Makita 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer offers a wider swath. The 17-inch Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer handles larger areas. Higher voltage systems like the 36V options provide more torque for dense weeds. Drive type also matters. Couple shaft kits allow multiple attachments. Standalone trimmers focus on single tasks. Battery capacity varies from 4.0 Ah to 5.0 Ah. This affects runtime. Choose based on your lawn size and existing battery tools.
Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head
Best for: Versatile multi-tool users with existing batteries
- Voltage
- 18V X2 (36V)
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Shaft Type
- Couple Shaft
- Power Type
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 41.7 × 15 × 5 inches
This Makita power head uses two 18V batteries for 36V operation. It features a brushless motor with three speed settings up to 7,100 RPM. The couple shaft design allows you to attach various tools. Electronic torque control protects the motor during stalls. It suits users who need a versatile base for multiple yard tasks.
- Brushless motor delivers up to 7,100 RPM
- Three speed options for different applications
- Couple shaft design for tool versatility
- Electronic torque control prevents motor damage
- Lower top speed of 7,100 RPM compared to 15-inch trimmers
- Requires separate string trimmer attachment for cutting
- Heavier and bulkier than single-voltage 18V tools
- You want to use one power head for multiple attachments
- You need variable speed control for delicate tasks
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You only need a string trimmer and no other tools
- You prefer a lighter, single-voltage 18V tool
- You want a complete kit with the trimmer head included
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head is a versatile base for users who already have Makita batteries and need multiple attachments. It fits those who value speed control and tool interchangeability over a dedicated single-purpose trimmer.
Makita 13-Inch Brushless Trimmer
Best for: Standard residential lawns needing 13-inch cuts
- Cutting Width
- 13"
- Voltage
- 18V
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0Ah
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Power Type
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 8.23 × 40 × 7.36 inches
This Makita model pairs an 18V brushless motor with a 13-inch cutting width. The 4.0Ah battery supports up to 7,000 RPM for efficient trimming. It uses a lever-style lock for tool-less attachment changes. You get a practical setup for standard yard maintenance. The compact design fits most residential lawns. It delivers reliable power without gas emissions or pull-start hassle.
- 13-inch cutting width covers a standard swath
- Brushless motor reaches 7,000 RPM for speed
- 4.0Ah battery provides sustained runtime
- Lever-style lock allows quick tool-less changes
- 18V voltage is lower than the 36V and 40V max options on this list
- 4.0Ah battery capacity is smaller than the 5.0Ah and 4.0Ah kits available elsewhere
- Single power head limits versatility compared to couple shaft systems
- You need a dedicated 13-inch cutting width
- You prefer the lighter weight of an 18V system
- You want a simple lever-lock attachment system
- You require more than 13 inches of cutting width
- You need 36V or 40V max power for heavy brush
- You want a multi-attachment couple shaft system
Verdict: Makita 13-Inch Brushless String Trimmer suits users who prioritize a manageable 18V system and a standard 13-inch cut over raw power or multi-tool versatility. It is a focused tool for light to medium residential trimming tasks.
Makita 36V 15" Brushless Trimmer Kit
Best for: complete setups with adjustable speeds
- Cutting Width
- 15"
- Voltage
- 36V (18V X2)
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0Ah
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Line Feed System
- Bump and feed
- Line Diameter
- 0.080"
This Makita string trimmer uses two 18V batteries to deliver 36V of power through a brushless motor. It features a 15-inch cutting swath and three speed settings ranging from 3,500 to 6,500 RPM. The kit includes two 5.0Ah batteries and a bump-and-feed head with 0.080-inch line. You get a complete setup for yard maintenance without needing separate power sources.
- 36V dual-battery system for high torque
- 15-inch cutting width for efficiency
- Three speed options for power management
- Includes two 5.0Ah batteries and line
- Heavier at 9.1 pounds compared to tool-only options
- Lower top speed of 6,500 RPM than some competitors
- Fixed 15-inch cutting width limits versatility
- You want a ready-to-use kit with batteries
- You prefer the balance of a 15-inch cut
- You need variable speed control for different tasks
- You prefer lighter tool-only setups
- You need a wider cutting swath
- You want higher RPM speeds
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer Kit suits users who value a complete package with dual batteries and adjustable speeds. It is ideal for those who prioritize a balanced weight and a standard 15-inch cut over maximum portability or higher RPMs.
Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft String Trimmer
Best for: Versatile yard work with multiple attachments
- Voltage
- 36V (18V X2)
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0Ah
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Shaft Type
- Couple Shaft
- Dimensions
- 15.3 × 42 × 10.5 inches
This Makita kit pairs a 36V brushless power head with a string trimmer attachment. It delivers up to 7,100 RPM across three speed settings. The 5.0Ah battery supports variable speed control. You get quick tool-less attachment changes via the lever lock. This setup suits users who need versatile yard work with a single power source.
- Brushless motor reaches 7,100 RPM
- Three speed options for power management
- Includes 5.0Ah battery
- Tool-less lever lock system
- Couple shaft design requires separate attachments for other tools
- Fixed 5.0Ah battery limits runtime compared to higher capacity options
- You want a versatile power head for multiple attachments
- You prefer tool-less installation for quick changes
- You need variable speed control for different tasks
- You need a dedicated string trimmer without extra parts
- You require a higher capacity battery for longer runtime
- You prefer a single-unit tool over a couple shaft system
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Kit offers versatile power for various yard tasks. It fits users who value flexibility and quick attachment changes over dedicated single-use tools.
Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer
Best for: Makita battery owners needing a focused 17-inch cut
- Cutting Width
- 17"
- Voltage
- 36V (18V X2)
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Dimensions
- 8.66 × 75 × 9.76 inches
- Weight
- 10.8 pounds
This Makita string trimmer uses two 18V batteries to deliver 36V of power. It features a brushless motor and a 17-inch cutting swath. The tool weighs 10.8 pounds and includes a variable speed trigger. It suits users who want gas-equivalent power without the maintenance. You get a focused cutting width for standard yard tasks.
- 36V (18V X2) voltage system
- 17-inch cutting swath
- Brushless motor for high torque
- Variable speed trigger switch
- Weighs 10.8 pounds
- 17-inch cutting width is narrower than the 15-inch options in other kits
- 10.8-pound weight is higher than some lighter competitors
- Sold as tool only without included batteries
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You prefer a manageable 17-inch cutting width
- You want a lightweight brushless tool
- You need a wider 20-inch or larger cutting path
- You want a complete kit with batteries included
- You prefer a lighter tool under 10 pounds
Verdict: Makita 17" Brushless String Trimmer fits users who already have Makita 18V batteries and want a focused 17-inch cutting path. It offers solid torque in a 10.8-pound package for standard residential yards.
Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft
Best for: Users wanting a versatile high-speed power head
- Voltage
- 36V (18V X2)
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Shaft Type
- Couple Shaft
- Dimensions
- 15 × 41.7 × 10.2 inches
- Weight
- 9.8 pounds
This Makita power head delivers up to 7,100 RPM for faster cutting. You get three speed settings to manage power effectively. The variable speed trigger gives you precise control over the cutting speed. It uses a couple shaft design, allowing you to attach various Makita tools. This setup suits users who need a versatile, high-performance base for multiple yard tasks.
- Brushless motor reaches up to 7,100 RPM
- Three speed options for power management
- Variable speed trigger for control
- Quick tool-less attachment changes
- Heavier at 9.8 pounds compared to some competitors
- Sold as a tool only, requiring separate battery purchase
- You want a versatile power head for multiple attachments
- You need variable speed control for different tasks
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You prefer a lightweight tool under 9 pounds
- You need a complete kit with batteries included
- You want a single-purpose string trimmer only
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head fits users who want a high-speed, versatile base for multiple attachments. It suits those who already have Makita batteries and value precise speed control.
Makita 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer
Best for: wide cutting swath efficiency
- Cutting Width
- 15"
- Voltage
- 40V max
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0Ah
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Power Type
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 7.09 × 72.4 × 8.9 inches
This Makita string trimmer features a 15-inch cutting width and a brushless motor running on 40V max power. It uses Automatic Torque Drive Technology to shift between 3,500 and 6,500 RPM. You get up to one hour of run time with the included 4.0Ah battery. The design optimizes performance for heavy loads. It suits users who need a wide swath for efficient trimming.
- 15-inch cutting width
- Brushless motor for high torque
- Up to 1 hour run time
- Automatic Torque Drive Technology
- 4.0Ah battery capacity is lower than the 5.0Ah options in this list
- 40V max system has lower voltage than the 36V X2 models
- You want a wide 15-inch cutting swath
- You prefer the 40V XGT platform
- You need up to one hour of run time
- You require a 36V X2 system
- You need a 5.0Ah battery for longer runtime
- You prefer a tool-only purchase
Verdict: Makita 15-Inch 40V String Trimmer fits users who prioritize a wide 15-inch cutting path and the efficiency of the 40V XGT system over higher voltage options.
Makita 13-Inch Brushless String Trimmer
Best for: small yards and existing 18V LXT users
- Cutting Width
- 13"
- Voltage
- 18V
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0Ah
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Power Type
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 11 × 44.9 × 7.52 inches
This Makita kit pairs a brushless power head with a 13-inch string trimmer attachment. It runs on 18V LXT batteries and includes a 4.0Ah battery. The motor delivers up to 7,000 RPM for efficient cutting. You get a lever-style lock for quick tool-less changes. It is a solid choice for users who want a reliable, cordless setup for standard yard maintenance tasks.
- Brushless motor reaches 7,000 RPM with the string trimmer
- Includes 4.0Ah battery for immediate use
- Tool-less lever lock simplifies attachment changes
- 13-inch cutting width is narrower than the 20-inch options on this list
- 18V system provides less power than the 36V or 40V models available
- You already own 18V LXT batteries and want to save money
- You need a compact tool for smaller lawns or tight spaces
- You prefer a lighter setup for extended use
- You require a wider 20-inch cutting path for faster clearing
- You need the extra power of a 36V or 40V system
- You want a full kit with a hedge trimmer attachment included
Verdict: Makita 13" Brushless String Trimmer Kit suits owners of the 18V LXT ecosystem who prioritize portability and battery compatibility over raw cutting width or power. It is ideal for small to medium yards where maneuverability matters more than speed.
Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer 15-Inch
Best for: extended runtime and adjustable power
- Cutting Width
- 15"
- Voltage
- 36V (18V X2)
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0Ah
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Line Feed System
- Bump and feed
- Line Diameter
- 0.080"
This Makita string trimmer uses two 18V LXT batteries to deliver 36V power. It features a brushless motor with three speed settings, ranging from 3,500 to 6,500 RPM. The 15-inch cutting swath handles standard yard tasks. The kit includes four 5.0Ah batteries and a bump-and-feed head with 0.080-inch line. You get extended runtime and adjustable torque for various vegetation types.
- 36V power from dual 18V batteries
- Three speed settings up to 6,500 RPM
- Includes four 5.0Ah batteries
- 15-inch cutting width
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- 15-inch cutting swath is narrower than some competitors
- Fixed 0.080-inch line diameter limits heavy-duty use
- Bump-and-feed system offers less precision than auto-feed
- You need extended runtime for large yards
- You prefer the flexibility of three speed settings
- You want a complete kit with multiple batteries
- You require a wider cutting path for efficiency
- You prefer a single-battery tool for lighter weight
- You need auto-feed line advancement
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer with 5.0Ah Batteries suits users who prioritize runtime and power control. It is ideal for those managing medium to large lawns who value the included battery capacity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head | Makita 13-Inch Brushless Trimmer | Makita 36V 15" Brushless Trimmer Kit | Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft String Trimmer | Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer | Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft | Makita 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer | Makita 13-Inch Brushless String Trimmer | Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer 15-Inch |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cutting Width | – | 13" | 15" | – | 17" | – | 15" | 13" | 15" |
| Voltage | 18V X2 (36V) | 18V | 36V (18V X2) | 36V (18V X2) | 36V (18V X2) | 36V (18V X2) | 40V max | 18V | 36V (18V X2) |
| Battery Capacity | – | 4.0Ah | 5.0Ah | 5.0Ah | – | – | 4.0Ah | 4.0Ah | 5.0Ah |
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless |
| Line Feed System | – | – | Bump and feed | – | – | – | – | – | Bump and feed |
| Line Diameter | – | – | 0.080" | – | – | – | – | – | 0.080" |
| Shaft Type | Couple Shaft | – | – | Couple Shaft | – | Couple Shaft | – | – | – |
| Power Type | Cordless | Cordless | – | – | – | – | Cordless | Cordless | – |
| Dimensions | 41.7 × 15 × 5 inches | 8.23 × 40 × 7.36 inches | 7.09 × 72.8 × 8.78 inches | 15.3 × 42 × 10.5 inches | 8.66 × 75 × 9.76 inches | 15 × 41.7 × 10.2 inches | 7.09 × 72.4 × 8.9 inches | 11 × 44.9 × 7.52 inches | 7.09 × 72.8 × 8.78 inches |
| Weight | – | – | 9.1 pounds | – | 10.8 pounds | 9.8 pounds | – | – | 1 pounds |
| Model | XUX01ZM5-cr | XUX02SM1X4 | XRU15PT | XUX01M5PT | XRU18Z | XUX01ZM5 | GRU01M1 | XUX02SM1X2 | XRU15PT1 |
| Size | – | 13 inches | Kit with two 5.0Ah batteries | – | 17" | – | 15" | – | 15" |
| Color | – | Teal | Teal | Teal | Teal | Teal | Teal | Teal | Teal |
Where Makita fits your yard
Makita’s current lineup spans from 13 to 17-inch cutting widths. You can choose from dedicated trimmers or couple-shaft power heads. The range covers 18V LXT and 40V XGT systems. Most models feature brushless motors. Battery capacities range from 4.0 to 5.0 Ah. You will not find gas-powered options or zero-turn mowers here. The selection focuses on lightweight, cordless residential tools. If you need heavy-duty commercial equipment or wider cutting paths, this specific list does not cover those needs. Stick to these brushless electric models for standard yard care.
How to choose the right Makita trimmer
Match cutting width to yard size
Select a cutting width that matches your typical mowing area. Smaller yards benefit from narrower decks that offer better maneuverability around obstacles. The Makita 13-Inch Brushless Trimmer provides a 13-inch cut, which is ideal for tight spaces. Larger lawns require wider swaths to reduce mowing time. The Makita 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer offers a 15-inch path for greater efficiency. Choose the width that balances coverage speed with ease of handling in your specific layout.
Check voltage for power needs
Voltage determines the potential power output of your tool. Most models in this list use the 18V LXT system, which is widely available. Some units utilize the 40V XGT system for higher performance. The Makita 15-Inch 40V String Trimmer belongs to the 40V XGT lineup. Higher voltage systems can maintain speed under heavy loads. If you already own batteries for a specific voltage, stick to that ecosystem. This ensures compatibility and reduces the need for new power sources.
Consider battery capacity for runtime
Battery capacity, measured in Amp-hours, dictates how long the tool runs before needing a recharge. Larger capacities extend operation time. The Makita 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer Kit includes 5.0 Ah batteries for extended use. The Makita 13-Inch Brushless Trimmer uses 4.0 Ah batteries, which may require more frequent swaps. If you have large areas to cover, prioritize models with higher Ah ratings. This minimizes downtime and allows you to complete tasks in a single session without interruption.
Decide between dedicated or couple-shaft
Choose between a dedicated trimmer and a couple-shaft power head based on your workflow. Dedicated trimmers are ready to use immediately. Couple-shaft models serve as versatile bases for multiple attachments. The Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head fits users who value tool interchangeability. This system allows you to swap heads for different yard tasks. If you need a single-purpose tool, a dedicated trimmer is simpler. If you want flexibility, the couple-shaft system offers more utility for varied yard work.
Verify battery compatibility with your kit
Ensure the trimmer uses batteries you already own to save money and storage space. Most Makita tools share the same battery platform. The Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer works with existing Makita 18V batteries. This compatibility is crucial if you have other power tools in your garage. Check the voltage and system type before purchasing. Using shared batteries means you do not need to buy new power sources. This makes the overall system more cost-effective and convenient for everyday maintenance tasks.
Frequently asked questions
Which Makita string trimmer is best for small yards?
The Makita 13-Inch Brushless Trimmer is ideal for small yards. It offers a manageable 13-inch cutting width that enhances maneuverability around obstacles. This model fits users who prioritize portability and battery compatibility over raw cutting width. It is part of the 18V LXT ecosystem, making it perfect for owners of existing Makita batteries who need a focused tool for light to medium residential tasks.
What is the widest cutting path available in this lineup?
The Makita 17-Inch Brushless String Trimmer provides the widest cutting path in this selection. It features a 17-inch cutting swath, which allows for faster coverage of standard residential yards. This tool offers solid torque in a 10.8-pound package. It is designed for users who already have Makita 18V batteries and want a dedicated, high-capacity trimmer rather than a multi-tool system.
Are there Makita trimmers compatible with the 40V XGT system?
Yes, the Makita 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer utilizes the 40V XGT system. This model prioritizes a wide 15-inch cutting path and the efficiency of the higher voltage platform. It suits users who value this specific power system over other voltage options. The kit includes a 4.0 Ah battery, providing robust performance for those who have invested in the XGT ecosystem for their yard work.
Which model is best for users who want multiple attachments?
The Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head is best for users wanting multiple attachments. It serves as a versatile base for various yard tools, allowing for quick attachment changes. This unit fits those who value tool interchangeability and speed control over a dedicated single-purpose trimmer. It is particularly suitable for individuals who already possess Makita batteries and need a flexible solution for diverse landscaping tasks.
Does the premium kit include batteries?
The Makita 36V 15" Brushless Trimmer Kit includes dual batteries. It comes with two 5.0 Ah batteries, providing extended runtime for larger jobs. This complete package suits users who prioritize a balanced weight and adjustable speeds. It is an ideal choice for those who want a ready-to-use setup with standard 15-inch cutting width, ensuring they have sufficient power capacity without needing to purchase batteries separately.
How does the 15-inch trimmer differ from the 13-inch model?
The 15-inch trimmer offers a wider cutting swath than the 13-inch model. The Makita 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer covers more ground per pass, increasing efficiency for medium-sized lawns. In contrast, the 13-inch version is narrower, providing better maneuverability for tight spaces and small yards. Both use brushless motors, but the choice depends on whether you prioritize cutting speed or precise handling around obstacles.
Is there a lightweight option for extended runtime?
The Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer with 5.0Ah Batteries is designed for extended runtime. It includes a 5.0 Ah battery capacity, which supports longer operation sessions without frequent recharging. This model features adjustable power settings, allowing you to conserve energy during lighter tasks. It is ideal for users managing medium to large lawns who value runtime and power control in a manageable package.
