Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String or Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String? Which Makita Model to Buy
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When comparing the makita 18v brushless 13 inch string vs 36v brushless 17 inch string, you are looking at two distinct tools for different yard sizes. Both models feature Makita's efficient brushless motor technology and variable speed triggers for precise control. The main difference lies in their power and cutting width. The 18V model offers a complete kit with a 4.0Ah battery, while the 36V model provides higher voltage power but is sold as a tool-only unit.
Key differences
| Aspect | Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer | Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 18V | 36V (18V X2) |
| Cutting Width | 13 inches | 17 inches |
| Battery Inclusion | Includes 4.0Ah battery | Tool Only |
| Weight | not listed | 19 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer if
- You want a complete ready-to-use kit with a 4.0Ah battery included.
- You prefer a lighter, more manageable tool for smaller yards.
- You need a 13-inch cutting swath for precise edge work.
Choose Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer if
- You require higher power equivalent to a 30cc gas trimmer.
- You have a larger yard and need a 17-inch cutting width.
- You already own compatible 18V batteries and want to buy just the tool.
Verdict: Choose the 18V model if you need a complete kit with a battery for light to medium tasks. Select the 36V model if you prioritize raw power and a wider cutting path for larger properties. Both share the same reliable brushless motor technology.
Makita 18V vs 36V Trimmer Specs
Cutting width
The Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer (XRU23SM1) offers a 13-inch cutting swath. This model is designed for tighter spaces and detailed edge work. In contrast, the Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer (XRU18Z) provides a 17-inch cutting width. The wider swath allows you to cover more ground with each pass. This difference matters significantly when clearing larger areas of grass or weeds. You will finish the job faster with the 17-inch model. The 13-inch option remains better for maneuvering around tight obstacles.
Voltage and power
Voltage determines the raw power available to the motor. The XRU23SM1 operates on an 18V LXT platform. It delivers up to 6,000 RPM with its brushless motor. The XRU18Z uses a 36V (18V X2) system. This higher voltage setup provides power equivalent to a 30cc gas string trimmer. The increased voltage generally translates to higher torque and sustained power under load. If you have thick, dense vegetation, the 36V system has a clear advantage. The 18V model is sufficient for light to medium duty tasks.
Battery capacity
Runtime depends heavily on battery capacity. The XRU23SM1 is sold as a kit that includes a 4.0Ah battery. This configuration provides up to one hour of run time. The XRU18Z is listed as a tool-only unit. The data does not specify a battery capacity for this model since it is sold without a battery. You must purchase batteries separately to operate it. If you already own Makita 18V batteries, the 18V kit offers immediate usability. The 36V model requires two 18V batteries to function.
Motor type
Both tools utilize Makita's BL Brushless Motor technology. Brushless motors are more efficient than brushed alternatives because they eliminate carbon brushes. This design reduces friction and wear, leading to longer motor life and increased runtime. Both the 18V and 36V models benefit from this efficiency. You get more power from less energy in both cases. There is no difference in the fundamental drive technology between these two units. Both offer variable speed triggers for controlled cutting. The motor type is a tie for both products.
Weight and dimensions
The XRU18Z weighs 19 pounds. It is significantly heavier than the 18V model. The 36V unit also has a larger width of 75 inches compared to the 18V's 40.3 inches. The increased size and weight of the 36V model may cause more fatigue during extended use. The 18V XRU23SM1 is more compact and lighter. This makes it easier to handle for detailed work or overhead trimming. If you prioritize maneuverability and reduced strain, the smaller 18V model is the better choice. The 36V model sacrifices portability for raw cutting power.
Which Makita String Trimmer Fits Your Needs
Users needing a complete ready-to-use kit
The Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer comes as a full kit with a 4.0Ah battery included. This model delivers up to 6,000 RPM with its brushless motor. You get about one hour of run time. The 13-inch cutting swath helps with precision work. This option removes the need to buy batteries separately.
Users prioritizing power and wider cutting
The Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer offers higher power, equivalent to a 30cc gas model. Its 17-inch cutting swath increases productivity for larger areas. The 36V system provides more torque. This tool-only version requires separate battery purchase. It is ideal if you already own compatible 18V batteries for the dual voltage setup.
Users wanting lightweight maneuverability for edges
This 18V model is lighter and more compact for detailed tasks. The 13-inch width allows for better control around obstacles. It features a variable speed trigger for precise cutting. The high and low power buttons let you manage battery life effectively. This makes it a practical choice for smaller yards or intricate trimming jobs.
The products compared
Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer
Best for: Small yard edging and light-duty trimming
- Voltage
- 18V
- Cutting Swath
- 13 in
- Power Source
- battery
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0 Ah
- Cutting Width
- 13-Inch
View on Amazon: Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer Affiliate link
This Makita 18V brushless string trimmer offers a 13-inch cutting swath for manageable lawn edges. The BL motor reaches 6,000 RPM for efficient cutting. It includes a 4.0Ah battery providing up to one hour of run time. You get a high/low power switch and a variable speed trigger for control. This kit suits users who want a lightweight, gas-free option for small to medium yards.
Pros
- 18V brushless motor delivers up to 6,000 RPM
- 13-inch cutting swath for precise edging
- Includes 4.0Ah battery for up to one hour of run time
- High/low button manages power and runtime
- Variable speed trigger allows controlled cutting speed
Cons
- 13-inch cutting width is narrower than 17-inch competitors
- 18V system may offer less power than 36V models
- Single battery capacity limits extended continuous use
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight trimmer for tight spaces
- You prefer electric tools with low maintenance
- You have a small yard or garden edges
Skip if
- You require a wide cutting swath for large areas
- You need maximum power for thick brush
- You want a tool-only purchase without batteries
Verdict: Makita 13-Inch Brushless String Trimmer fits users who prioritize maneuverability and low noise over raw cutting width. It is a solid choice for light-duty edging and small lawns.
Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer
Best for: users with existing Makita batteries needing a wider 17-inch cut
- Voltage
- 36V (18V X2)
- Cutting Swath
- 17"
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Included Battery
- Tool Only
- Dimensions
- 8.66 × 75 × 9.76 inches
- Weight
- 10.8 pounds
View on Amazon: Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer Affiliate link
The Makita XRU18Z is a 36V brushless string trimmer designed for productivity. It features a 17-inch cutting swath and delivers power equivalent to a 30cc gas model. The tool-only package weighs 19 pounds. It suits users who want gas-like power without emissions. The variable speed trigger allows for controlled cutting. This model is ideal for larger yards where reach and efficiency matter.
Pros
- 17-inch cutting swath for wider coverage
- Brushless motor provides high torque and power
- Power equivalent to a 30cc gas trimmer
- Variable speed trigger for controlled cutting
Cons
- Tool only; batteries and charger not included
- Heavier at 19 pounds compared to lighter models
- No included battery means higher upfront setup cost
Good fit if
- You need a wider 17-inch cutting path
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You want gas-equivalent power without emissions
Skip if
- You prefer a lighter tool under 15 pounds
- You want a complete kit with batteries included
- You only have a small yard under 1000 sq ft
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer is best for users who already have Makita batteries and need a wider 17-inch cutting path for larger yards.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer | Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 18V | 36V (18V X2) |
| Cutting Swath | 13 in | 17" |
| Power Source | battery | not stated |
| Motor Type | brushless | brushless |
| Battery Capacity | 4.0 Ah | not stated |
| Cutting Width | 13-Inch | not stated |
| Included Battery | not stated | Tool Only |
| Dimensions | 8.07 × 40.3 × 8.39 inches | 8.66 × 75 × 9.76 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 10.8 pounds |
| Size | 13 inches | 17" |
| Color | Teal | Teal |
| Model | XRU23SM1 | XRU18Z |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Makita 18V model powerful enough for thick weeds?
The 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer is designed for light-duty trimming and small lawns. Its 13-inch cutting width and 4.0 Ah battery capacity suit maneuverability over raw power. You should choose this model if you prioritize low noise and precise edging in tight spaces rather than heavy-duty clearing.
Does the 36V model come with a battery included?
No, the Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer is sold as a tool-only unit. It is best for users who already own Makita batteries. This model provides a wider 17-inch cutting path, making it suitable for larger yards where you need more reach and existing power sources.
How much does the 36V trimmer weigh?
The Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer weighs 19 pounds. This weight is part of its overall dimensions, which include a width of 75 inches. The heavier build supports its wider 17-inch cutting swath, offering stability for larger yard maintenance tasks compared to the lighter 18V alternative.
Can I use the 18V trimmer for edging work?
Yes, the 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer is ideal for small yard edging. Its compact 13-inch size allows for better maneuverability in tight areas. The brushless motor provides efficient power, making it a solid choice for users who need precise control for detailed edge work and light-duty tasks.
What is the difference in cutting width between these two models?
The 18V model features a 13-inch cutting width, while the 36V model offers a 17-inch cutting path. The narrower 13-inch width is better for tight spaces and detailed work. The wider 17-inch cut covers more ground, making the 36V model more efficient for larger, open yard areas.
Are both models equipped with brushless motors?
Yes, both the Makita 18V and 36V string trimmers feature brushless motors. This technology improves efficiency and extends runtime. The 18V model includes a 4.0 Ah battery, while the 36V is tool-only. Both offer variable speed triggers for precise control during your trimming and edging tasks.