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You are looking at the makita xnu02z lithium ion brushless cordless vs xnu01z lithium ion. Both are 18V brushless pole hedge trimmers. They share the same power source and dual-action blades. The main difference is the blade length and articulation. The XNU02Z offers a wider 24-inch cut. The XNU01Z provides a 20-inch cut with adjustable angles. Choose based on your trimming needs.
Blade Length
24"
20"
Articulation
not listed
6 angle settings, 115° range
Weight Reduction
up to 30% less than gas
up to 35% less than gas
Run Time
up to 75 minutes
up to 80 minutes
Voltage
18V
18V
Choose the first if
- You want a wider 24-inch cutting width for faster trimming.
- You prefer a standard pole design without moving parts.
- You need a tool that weighs slightly less than gas models.
Choose the second if
- You need to trim overhead or low-lying hedges with adjustable angles.
- You want the longest possible run time of up to 80 minutes.
- You prefer a lighter tool relative to gas equivalents.
Verdict
Choose the XNU02Z if you prioritize a wider cutting path for straight hedges. Pick the XNU01Z if you need flexibility for complex shapes and overhead work. Both deliver reliable brushless performance on the same 18V platform.
Specs: Blade Length and Reach
cutting width
Edge: Makita 18V 24-Inch Pole Hedge Trimmer
The Makita XNU02Z features a 24-inch dual action blade, while the XNU01Z has a 20-inch blade. A wider blade allows you to cut more foliage in a single pass. This makes the XNU02Z faster for large, flat hedge surfaces. You will cover more ground with less effort. The XNU01Z requires more overlapping strokes to achieve the same result. If your hedges are wide and open, the extra four inches matters. It reduces the number of times you need to reposition the tool. For narrower or tighter spaces, the shorter blade offers better control. The XNU02Z is the better choice for speed and coverage area.
articulation
Edge: Makita 20-Inch Articulating Hedge Trimmer
The XNU01Z includes an articulating head with six angle settings and a 115-degree working range. This feature is not listed for the XNU02Z. Articulation allows you to trim overhead branches and low-lying shrubs without straining your back. You can adjust the blade angle to match the shape of your hedge. The XNU02Z has a fixed head, which limits its versatility for complex shapes. You must reposition your entire body to reach difficult angles with the XNU02Z. The XNU01Z handles vertical and horizontal cuts more easily. If you have hedges with varied angles, this flexibility is essential.
weight reduction
Edge: Makita 20-Inch Articulating Hedge Trimmer
Both tools eliminate gas, emissions, and oil mixing. The XNU01Z weighs up to 35% less than comparable gas models. The XNU02Z weighs up to 30% less. Both are lighter than traditional gas trimmers, reducing fatigue. The XNU01Z offers a slightly greater weight reduction percentage. This might make a difference during long sessions. You will feel less strain on your shoulders and arms. The ergonomic design of both tools aids balance. However, the specific weight reduction metric favors the XNU01Z. You get a marginally lighter experience compared to the gas alternatives it replaces.
run time
Edge: Makita 20-Inch Articulating Hedge Trimmer
Run time depends on your battery. Both trimmers use 18V LXT batteries. With a 5.0Ah battery, the XNU02Z offers up to 75 minutes of run time. The XNU01Z offers up to 80 minutes with the same battery. The difference is five minutes. This is a small gap in practical terms. You will likely charge the battery between jobs regardless. Both tools provide sufficient runtime for typical residential hedging tasks. The XNU01Z has a slight edge in endurance. You get a bit more cutting time before needing to swap batteries. It is a minor advantage for larger properties.
overall dimensions
Edge: Tie
The XNU02Z is longer at 82.7 inches, while the XNU01Z is shorter at 53.4 inches. The XNU02Z has a fixed pole length. The XNU01Z is more compact when not in use. The XNU02Z reaches higher branches without extension poles. You can trim tall hedges directly. The XNU01Z may require an extension pole for very high branches. Storage is easier with the XNU01Z due to its shorter length. It fits better in tight sheds or garages. The XNU02Z requires more space for storage. Consider your garage space and the height of your hedges.
Which hedge trimmer suits your needs
You want wider cuts for large hedges
Our pick: Makita 18V 24-Inch Pole Hedge Trimmer
The XNU02Z has a 24-inch blade. This wider cutting width lets you trim more foliage in a single pass. You finish large, flat sections faster. The brushless motor provides consistent power. You get up to 75 minutes of run time with a 5.0Ah battery. The tool weighs less than gas models for easier handling.
You need to reach difficult angles
Our pick: Makita 20-Inch Articulating Hedge Trimmer
The XNU01Z features six angle settings. It offers a 115-degree working range. You can efficiently trim overhead branches and low-lying bushes. The 20-inch blade is shorter for better control. It weighs up to 35% less than gas models. You get up to 80 minutes of run time with a 5.0Ah battery for longer sessions.
You prefer maximum battery run time
Our pick: Makita 20-Inch Articulating Hedge Trimmer
The XNU01Z provides up to 80 minutes of run time. This is five minutes longer than the XNU02Z with a 5.0Ah battery. You can tackle larger jobs without recharging. The brushless motor ensures efficient power usage. The 20-inch blade is sufficient for most residential hedges. You benefit from the articulated head for versatility.
Makita 18V 24-Inch Pole Hedge Trimmer
Best for: Lightweight trimming with existing Makita batteries
- Blade Length
- 24"
- Power Type
- Battery Powered
- Voltage
- 18V
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Dimensions
- 5.24 × 82.7 × 6.73 inches
This Makita XNU02Z is a 24-inch dual-action pole hedge trimmer powered by an 18V LXT brushless motor. It weighs up to 30% less than gas models, offering better balance and maneuverability. The tool provides up to 75 minutes of run time with a 5.0Ah battery. You will appreciate the ergonomic design for extended trimming sessions. It is ideal for maintaining hedges with a wide cutting width.
- 24-inch dual action double-sided shear blade
- Brushless motor for efficient power delivery
- Weighs up to 30% less than gas models
- Up to 75 minutes of run time with 5.0Ah battery
- Battery is not included in the package
- Requires separate 18V LXT battery purchase for operation
- You need a lightweight alternative to gas trimmers
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You want a 24-inch cutting width for efficiency
- You prefer gas-powered tools for maximum runtime
- You do not have compatible 18V batteries
- You need a shorter blade for tight spaces
Verdict: Makita 24 Inch Brushless Pole Hedge Trimmer fits homeowners with existing Makita batteries who want a lighter, emission-free option for wide hedges.
Makita 20-Inch Articulating Hedge Trimmer
Best for: Versatile trimming with adjustable angles
- Blade Length
- 20"
- Power Type
- Battery Powered
- Voltage
- 18V
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Cutting Width
- 20-Inch
- Dimensions
- 7.87 × 53.4 × 5.32 inches
This 18V brushless tool features a 20-inch dual-action blade and an articulating head with six angle settings. It weighs 11.6 pounds and offers up to 80 minutes of run time with a 5.0Ah battery. The design eliminates gas maintenance and reduces weight compared to gas models. It suits users needing versatile trimming angles for overhead and low-lying hedges.
- 20-inch dual action double-sided shear blade
- Six angle settings with 115 degree working range
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- Weighs 11.6 pounds
- Up to 80 minutes run time with 5.0Ah battery
- 20-inch blade is shorter than the 24-inch option on this list
- Heavier at 11.6 pounds compared to lighter gas-free alternatives
- You need to trim overhead branches with adjustable angles
- You prefer a cordless system compatible with 18V LXT batteries
- You want a brushless motor for longer tool life
- You require a wider 24-inch cutting width for faster coverage
- You prefer a lighter tool under 10 pounds
- You need a gas-powered model for unlimited runtime
Verdict: Makita 20-inch Articulating Hedge Trimmer fits users who prioritize maneuverability and angle adjustment over maximum cutting width. It is ideal for detailed work on hedges of varying heights.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Makita 18V 24-Inch Pole Hedge Trimmer | Makita 20-Inch Articulating Hedge Trimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Length | 24" | 20" |
| Power Type | Battery Powered | Battery Powered |
| Voltage | 18V | 18V |
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushless |
| Cutting Width | – | 20-Inch |
| Dimensions | 5.24 × 82.7 × 6.73 inches | 7.87 × 53.4 × 5.32 inches |
| Weight | – | 11.6 pounds |
| Color | Teal | Teal |
| Model | XNU02Z | XNU01Z |
| Size | – | 20" |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Makita XNU02Z heavier than the XNU01Z?
The XNU01Z weighs 11.6 pounds. The XNU02Z does not list a weight in its specifications. You should check the manual for the exact weight of the XNU02Z. The XNU01Z is designed for versatile trimming with adjustable angles. This makes it manageable for detailed work on hedges of varying heights.
Does the XNU02Z have an adjustable head?
The XNU01Z is described as an articulating hedge trimmer. This means it has an adjustable head for different angles. The XNU02Z is listed as a pole hedge trimmer. It does not mention articulation features. You likely need the XNU01Z if you require angle adjustments for complex shapes.
What is the difference in blade size between these two models?
The XNU02Z has a 24-inch blade. The XNU01Z features a 20-inch cutting width. The larger blade on the XNU02Z allows you to cut more foliage in a single pass. This makes it faster for wide hedges. The smaller blade on the XNU01Z offers better maneuverability for smaller tasks.
Are both trimmers powered by the same voltage battery?
Yes, both models operate on 18V power. They are both cordless and use Makita Lithium-Ion batteries. You can use your existing 18V Makita batteries with either tool. This shared platform allows for flexibility if you already own other Makita 18V equipment.
Do both models feature brushless motors?
Yes, both the XNU02Z and XNU01Z have brushless motors. Brushless motors provide longer runtime and increased power. They also require less maintenance than brushed motors. This feature ensures consistent performance for both the wider pole trimmer and the articulating model.
Which model is better for wide hedges?
The XNU02Z is better for wide hedges. It has a 24-inch blade width. This wider cutting area lets you trim more foliage in one pass. You finish large, flat sections faster with this model. The XNU01Z is better suited for detailed work due to its smaller 20-inch blade.
Can I use the XNU01Z for tall hedges?
The XNU01Z is a 20-inch articulating trimmer. It is designed for maneuverability and angle adjustment. It is ideal for detailed work on hedges of varying heights. However, it lacks the extended reach of a pole trimmer. You might find the XNU02Z more suitable if you need to reach very high areas without a ladder.
What is the main advantage of the XNU01Z?
The main advantage of the XNU01Z is its articulation. It allows for adjustable angles during trimming. This versatility helps you navigate complex hedge shapes. It is ideal for users who prioritize maneuverability over maximum cutting width. The 20-inch blade is sufficient for many standard residential hedges.
