6 Best Alternatives to the Makita GRU01Z 40V max XGT® (2026)

How these alternatives compare

RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer

The RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer offers a wider 17-inch cutting swath compared to the Makita’s 15-inch width. This wider cut covers more ground per pass, which improves productivity for larger areas. It weighs 12 pounds, which is slightly heavier than the Makita tool but still manageable for extended use. The carbon fiber shaft reduces vibration and weight compared to traditional steel shafts. You get a brushless motor for efficiency, similar to the Makita. However, you lose the XGT ecosystem integration and automatic torque drive technology. This model is best for users who prioritize a wider cut and do not need the specific Makita battery compatibility.

RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Attachment Capable Trimmer

The RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Attachment Capable Trimmer shares the 17-inch cutting width with the previous RYOBI option, providing a 2-inch advantage over the Makita’s 15-inch swath. It weighs 11 pounds, making it lighter than the Makita tool. The key difference is its attachment capability, allowing you to use other RYOBI EXPAND-IT accessories. This versatility is valuable if you need multiple tools, whereas the Makita focuses on standalone string trimming performance. You trade the Makita’s automatic torque drive and XGT digital communication for this modular system. The brushless motor ensures consistent power. Choose this if you want a quiet, versatile tool for larger lawns and plan to use other attachments.

Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer

The Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer uses the 18V LXT battery system instead of the 40V XGT platform. It has a narrower 13-inch cutting width, which is 2 inches less than the Makita GRU01Z. This narrower cut is better for precision work and tight spaces rather than broad lawn coverage. It weighs 9.23 pounds, making it significantly lighter than the 40V model. The brushless motor provides reliable power for detailed trimming. You lose the higher voltage and wider cut of the GRU01Z, but you gain compatibility with the extensive 18V LXT battery ecosystem. This tool is ideal for users who already own 18V Makita batteries and need a specialized tool for edging and tight areas.

Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Brushless String Trimmer

The Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Brushless String Trimmer offers a 16-inch cutting width, which is 1 inch wider than the Makita GRU01Z. It weighs 11.3 pounds, providing a lightweight option for detailed trimming and edging tasks. The brushless motor ensures efficient power delivery, similar to the Makita. However, it operates on the Greenworks 40V battery system, so it is not compatible with Makita XGT batteries. You gain a slightly wider cut and a lightweight design but lose the automatic torque drive and XGT digital communication features. This trimmer is best for users who already have Greenworks 40V batteries and want a versatile tool for precise trimming jobs.

Kobalt 40V Max 15-Inch Straight Shaft Trimmer

The Kobalt 40V Max 15-Inch Straight Shaft Trimmer matches the Makita GRU01Z with a 15-inch cutting width. It features a straight shaft design, which is beneficial for precision work around obstacles. The tool operates on a 40V battery system, so it is not compatible with Makita XGT batteries. You get a similar cutting width but lose the automatic torque drive and XGT digital communication. The straight shaft may appeal to users who prefer this configuration for better control. This model is suitable for homeowners with existing 40V batteries who need a straight shaft trimmer for detailed work. It provides comparable width but differs in shaft type and battery ecosystem compatibility.

Makita 18V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head

The Makita 18V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head is a power head unit, not a complete string trimmer. It weighs 8.55 pounds and operates on the 18V LXT battery system. This tool is designed for users who want to pair it with various attachments rather than using a standalone trimmer. It lacks the cutting swath and motor configuration of the GRU01Z. You gain versatility through interchangeable attachments but lose the dedicated string trimming performance and 40V power. This option is best for Makita 18V battery owners who value a modular system over a single-purpose tool. It serves as a base for multiple garden tools rather than a direct alternative for string trimming.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Makita 40V max Brushless 15" String Trimmer

Best for: Makita battery owners needing a 15-inch trimmer

Voltage

40V max

Cutting Swath

15 in

Power Source

Battery

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Capacity

4.0Ah

Cutting Width

15-Inch

View on Amazon: Makita 40V max Brushless 15" String Trimmer Affiliate link

This Makita string trimmer features a 15-inch cutting swath and a 40V max brushless motor. It includes Automatic Torque Drive Technology that shifts RPMs to balance power and run time. You get up to one hour of operation with a 40V 4.0Ah battery. The tool-only design requires you to supply your own power source. It suits users who need a durable, high-torque option for standard lawn edges.

Pros

• 15-inch cutting width for wider coverage
• Brushless motor for increased torque and efficiency
• Automatic Torque Drive adjusts speed for power or runtime
• XGT digital communication optimizes performance under load

Cons

• Sold as a tool-only unit without a battery
• 15-inch swath is narrower than some 17-inch competitors
• Single speed range compared to multi-setting models

Good fit if

• You already own 40V XGT batteries
• You want a balance of runtime and cutting power
• You prefer a simple, durable tool without complex settings

Skip if

• You need a battery and charger included in the box
• You require a cutting width wider than 15 inches
• You prefer 18V LXT system compatibility

Verdict: Makita 15-Inch 40V Brushless String Trimmer fits users who prioritize runtime and torque in a 15-inch width. It is ideal for those with existing 40V XGT batteries who want reliable performance without extra features.

2 Best budget

RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer

Best for: Wider cuts and lightweight handling

Voltage

40V

Cutting Swath

17 in

Power Source

Battery

Motor Type

Brushless

Shaft Type

Carbon fiber

Included Battery

Tool Only

View on Amazon: RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer Affiliate link

The RYOBI 40V HP Brushless Whisper Series offers a 17-inch cutting swath, the widest option in this list. It uses a brushless motor and a carbon fiber shaft to reduce weight and maintenance. The tool weighs 12 pounds and measures 36 inches long. It is designed for users who want a wider cut and a lighter build. It is sold as a tool-only unit, so you need a compatible battery.

Pros

• 17-inch cutting swath is wider than most competitors
• Brushless motor for efficiency and durability
• Carbon fiber shaft reduces weight and vibration
• Lightweight at 12 pounds

Cons

• Tool-only design requires separate battery purchase
• Larger 17-inch head may be unwieldy in tight spaces
• Heavier than some 15-inch models in this category

Good fit if

• You need a wider cutting path to clear weeds faster
• You prefer a lightweight carbon fiber shaft
• You already own RYOBI 40V batteries

Skip if

• You need a complete kit with battery and charger included
• You have very tight spaces where a 17-inch head will not fit
• You prefer a standard steel shaft for lower cost

Verdict: RYOBI 40V HP 17" Brushless Trimmer is a strong choice for users prioritizing a wider cut and lighter weight. It suits those who already have 40V batteries and want to cover more ground per pass.

3 Best premium

RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Attachment Capable Trimmer

Best for: users wanting attachment versatility and quiet operation

Voltage

40V

Cutting Swath

17 in

Power Source

battery

Motor Type

brushless

Included Battery

Tool Only

Shaft Type

Attachment Capable

View on Amazon: RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Attachment Capable Trimmer Affiliate link

This RYOBI trimmer uses 40V HP technology to deliver power comparable to a 32cc gas unit. It features a 17-inch cutting swath and a brushless motor for efficiency. The tool weighs 11 pounds and includes attachment capability for expanded use. It is designed to be 86% quieter than gas models. You should consider this if you need a versatile, quiet tool for medium-sized yards.

Pros

• 17-inch cutting swath for wider coverage
• Attachment capability for multi-tool use
• 86% quieter than gas trimmers
• Brushless motor for durability

Cons

• Sold as a tool only without battery
• 11-pound weight may cause fatigue
• 72-inch length requires storage space

Good fit if

• You want to use various RYOBI EXPAND-IT attachments
• You need a quiet tool for early or late mowing
• You prefer a wider 17-inch cutting path

Skip if

• You already own a compatible RYOBI battery
• You prefer a lighter tool under 10 pounds
• You need a battery included in the box

Verdict: RYOBI 40V HP 17 in. Brushless String Trimmer suits users who want a quiet, attachment-capable tool for larger lawns. It is ideal if you plan to use other RYOBI EXPAND-IT accessories.

4 Best 13-inch

Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer

Best for: tight spaces and precision edging

Voltage

18V

Cutting Swath

13 in

Power Source

battery

Motor Type

brushless

Cutting Width

13-Inch

Included Battery

Tool Only

View on Amazon: Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer Affiliate link

The Makita XRU23Z is a 13-inch brushless string trimmer designed for precision work in tight spaces. It features an 18V LXT power system that delivers up to 6,000 RPM for efficient cutting. The tool includes a high/low power switch and variable speed trigger for better control. Weighing 9.23 pounds, it offers manageable handling for smaller yards or detailed edging tasks where wider decks are impractical.

Pros

• 13-inch cutting swath for precise maneuvering
• Brushless motor reaches 6,000 RPM
• High/low button manages power and runtime
• Variable speed trigger for controlled cutting

Cons

• Smaller 13-inch cutting width limits coverage per pass
• Heavier at 9.23 pounds compared to lighter competitors
• Battery not included with the tool

Good fit if

• You need a trimmer for tight spaces and detailed edging
• You already own 18V LXT Makita batteries
• You prefer variable speed control for delicate trimming

Skip if

• You require a wider cutting deck for large open areas
• You want a complete kit with a battery included
• You prioritize the lightest possible tool for extended use

Verdict: Makita 13-Inch Brushless String Trimmer suits users who prioritize precision and already have the 18V LXT battery ecosystem. It is a specialized tool for tight spaces rather than broad lawn coverage.

5 Best 16-inch

Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Brushless String Trimmer

Best for: Greenworks ecosystem users needing lightweight trimming

Voltage

40V

Cutting Swath

16 in

Power Source

battery

Motor Type

brushless

Line Feed System

bump feed

Cutting Width

16-Inch

View on Amazon: Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Brushless String Trimmer Affiliate link

The Greenworks 40V 16-inch string trimmer uses a brushless motor and bump feed system for efficient edge work. At 11.3 pounds, it is lighter than comparable gas models. The 16-inch cutting swath handles tough yards. It pairs with over 75 tools in the 40V system. This tool-only version suits users who already own compatible batteries.

Pros

• 16-inch cutting width for wider coverage
• Brushless motor for increased torque and longevity
• 11.3-pound weight reduces user fatigue
• Dual-line bump feed head for quick reloads
• Compatible with 75+ Greenworks 40V attachments

Cons

• Tool-only design requires separate battery purchase
• 16-inch width is smaller than 17-inch competitors
• No variable speed dial, only trigger control

Good fit if

• You already own Greenworks 40V batteries
• You want a lightweight tool for extended use
• You need attachment capability for edging or blowing

Skip if

• You require a battery and charger included
• You prefer a wider 17-inch cutting path
• You need an 18V system for existing tools

Verdict: Greenworks 40V 16-Inch Cordless Trimmer fits users who already have Greenworks 40V batteries and want a lightweight, versatile tool for detailed trimming and edging tasks.

6 Also great

Kobalt 40V Max 15-Inch Straight Shaft Trimmer

Best for: Straight shaft users with existing 40V batteries

Voltage

40V Max

Cutting Swath

15 in

Power Source

cordless

Shaft Type

straight

Cutting Width

15-Inch

Included Battery

Tool Only

View on Amazon: Kobalt 40V Max 15-Inch Straight Shaft Trimmer Affiliate link

The Kobalt 40-Volt Max 15-in Straight Cordless String Trimmer offers a 15-inch cutting swath for standard yard maintenance. It operates on a 40V Max power source and features a straight shaft design. This tool-only model requires a separate battery. It suits users who prefer a traditional straight-handle layout for reaching under bushes and around obstacles.

Pros

• 15-inch cutting width for efficient grass trimming
• 40V Max power source for reliable performance
• Straight shaft design for precise maneuvering
• Lightweight 15-inch size for easy handling

Cons

• Sold as a tool-only unit without a battery
• 15-inch cutting swath is narrower than some competitors
• Straight shaft may feel less ergonomic for some users

Good fit if

• You already own a compatible 40V Kobalt battery
• You prefer a straight shaft for detailed trimming
• You need a compact 15-inch cutting width

Skip if

• You require a battery included in the purchase
• You want a wider 17-inch or larger cutting swath
• You prefer a curved shaft for shoulder comfort

Verdict: The Kobalt 40V 15-in Straight String Trimmer fits homeowners with existing 40V batteries who need a straight shaft for precision work around obstacles.

7 Also great

Makita 18V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head

Best for: Makita 18V battery owners needing attachments

Voltage

18V

Motor Type

brushless

Power Source

Cordless

Included Battery

Tool Only

Dimensions

5.91 × 41.3 × 7.56 inches

Weight

8.55 pounds

View on Amazon: Makita 18V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head Affiliate link

This is the Makita XUX02Z 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Couple Shaft Power Head. It uses an 18V battery and a brushless motor that reaches 9,700 RPM. The unit weighs 8.55 pounds and measures 41.3 inches long. You can manage speed with a high or low button and a variable trigger. It fits users who already own Makita 18V LXT batteries and want a versatile attachment system for their yard.

Pros

• BL Brushless Motor delivers up to 9,700 RPM
• Lever style lock system allows for quick tool-less installation
• High/Low speed button for power and run time management
• Variable speed trigger for controlled speed

Cons

• 18V voltage is lower than the 40V options on this list
• Sold as a tool only with no included battery
• Requires separate attachment purchases for specific tasks

Good fit if

• You already have Makita 18V LXT batteries
• You want a single power head for multiple attachments
• You prefer variable speed control for different tasks

Skip if

• You need a standalone string trimmer without attachments
• You prefer higher voltage for heavy-duty cutting
• You want a complete kit with battery and charger included

Verdict: Makita XUX02Z 18V LXT Power Head fits users who want a versatile, tool-only power head to pair with existing 18V batteries. It is best for those who value interchangeable attachments over standalone performance.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• makita sh02r1 12v max cxt alternatives
• black decker 40v max electric chainsaw alternatives