Makita vs Kobalt: String Trimmers Compared by Specs
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When you compare a makita vs kobalt string trimmer, you are looking at two distinct cordless tools. Both are tool-only options that require you to purchase a compatible battery separately. They share a cordless power source and lack gas engines. The main difference lies in their power systems and cutting capabilities. Makita uses an 18V brushless motor with a 13-inch swath. Kobalt offers a 40V Max system with a wider 15-inch cutting path. These specs dictate which tool fits your yard size and existing battery ecosystem.
Key differences
| Aspect | Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer | Kobalt 40V Max 15-Inch Straight Shaft Trimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 18V | 40V Max |
| Cutting Swath | 13 in | 15 in |
| Motor Type | Brushless | not listed |
| Shaft Type | not listed | Straight |
| Weight | 9.23 pounds | not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer if
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries and want to minimize weight.
- You prefer a brushless motor for potentially longer runtime and efficiency.
- You need variable speed control for precise trimming near obstacles.
Choose Kobalt 40V Max 15-Inch Straight Shaft Trimmer if
- You want a wider 15-inch cutting swath to clear more grass per pass.
- You already use the Kobalt 40V Max battery platform.
- You prefer a straight shaft design for better balance and ground clearance.
Verdict: Choose the Makita if you prioritize a lighter tool with a brushless motor and variable speed control. Select the Kobalt if you need a wider cutting swath and already have 40V Max batteries. Your existing battery ecosystem and desired cutting width should drive your final decision.
Makita vs Kobalt Specs Compared
Cutting width
The Kobalt 40-Volt Max offers a 15-inch cutting swath, while the Makita XRU23Z provides a 13-inch width. A wider swath means you cover more ground with each pass. This makes the Kobalt slightly more efficient for larger lawns where speed matters. The Makita’s narrower deck may offer better maneuverability in tight spaces, but the data highlights the Kobalt’s broader reach. If your primary goal is reducing the number of passes, the Kobalt has a clear advantage here due to its larger cutting diameter.
Voltage
Voltage indicates the electrical potential of the power source. The Kobalt operates at 40V Max, whereas the Makita runs on an 18V LXT system. Higher voltage often correlates with more power available for tough tasks. The Kobalt’s 40V platform is designed to deliver higher torque compared to the 18V Makita. This difference suggests the Kobalt may handle thicker weeds or denser brush with less strain on the motor. For users prioritizing raw power output, the higher voltage of the Kobalt is a significant specification to consider.
Motor type
The Makita XRU23Z features a BL Brushless Motor. The provided data for the Kobalt does not specify the motor type. Brushless motors generally offer longer life, better efficiency, and reduced maintenance compared to brushed alternatives. They eliminate carbon brushes, which reduces friction and heat. Since the Makita explicitly lists this feature, it likely offers more consistent performance over time. Without confirmation on the Kobalt’s motor design, the Makita holds an edge based on the explicit specification of advanced motor technology.
Run time control
The Makita includes a High/Low button for power and run time management. This allows you to switch between maximum power for tough jobs and extended runtime for lighter work. The Kobalt data does not mention variable power settings or runtime modes. Having control over power output lets you conserve battery when full strength is unnecessary. This feature adds versatility to the Makita, allowing you to adapt the tool to different conditions without changing batteries. The Kobalt lacks this specific control mechanism in the provided specs.
Shaft design
The Kobalt is described as having a straight shaft. The Makita’s shaft type is not explicitly stated in the data, though its dimensions suggest a standard ergonomic design. Straight shafts are often preferred for durability and ease of adjustment. They allow for straightforward attachment changes and can be more robust for heavy-duty use. The Kobalt’s straight design is a clear specification that may appeal to users who value simplicity and strength. If the Makita uses a curved or different configuration, the Kobalt’s straight shaft offers a distinct structural advantage for certain tasks.
Choose the right string trimmer
You need maximum cutting width
The Kobalt 40-Volt Max features a 15-inch cutting swath. This is wider than the Makita's 13-inch width. A broader swath allows you to cover more ground in each pass. This efficiency is useful for larger lawns or areas with dense weeds. You get more coverage per swing.
You want brushless motor efficiency
The Makita XRU23Z uses a brushless motor. This design delivers up to 6,000 RPM. Brushless motors typically offer longer life and better efficiency. You also get a variable speed trigger for controlled cutting. A high or low power button helps manage run time and battery usage effectively.
You prefer lighter weight tools
The Makita weighs 9.23 pounds. This is lighter than the Kobalt, which weighs 12 pounds. A lighter tool reduces fatigue during extended use. You can maneuver the Makita more easily around obstacles. This weight difference matters if you plan to trim for long periods.
The products compared
Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer
Best for: small lawns and light trimming
- 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
This Makita string trimmer uses an 18V LXT battery and a brushless motor. It offers a 13-inch cutting swath and reaches up to 6,000 RPM. The tool includes a variable speed trigger and a high/low power button. It weighs 9.23 pounds without a battery. This model suits users who prefer a lighter, more compact tool for smaller yards.
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers up to 6,000 RPM
- Variable speed trigger for controlled cutting
- High/low button manages power and run time
- Lightweight at 9.23 pounds
Cons
- 18V battery system has less power than 40V competitors
- 13-inch cutting swath is narrower than 15-inch models
- Tool only; battery and charger sold separately
Good fit if
- You have a small lawn under 1/4 acre
- You want a lightweight tool for easy handling
- You already own 18V LXT Makita batteries
Skip if
- You need to cut thick weeds or large areas
- You prefer a wider 15-inch cutting path
- You want a complete kit with battery included
Verdict: Makita 13 in Brushless String Trimmer is a lightweight, efficient tool for light-duty trimming tasks. It fits users who value maneuverability and already have 18V batteries.
Kobalt 40V Max 15-Inch Straight Shaft Trimmer
Best for: existing Kobalt 40V battery owners
- 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
This Kobalt string trimmer is a 40-Volt Max cordless tool with a straight shaft. It features a 15-inch cutting swath and measures 38 inches in length. The unit is sold as a bare tool, meaning you must provide your own battery. Its compact design, with a 12-inch width and 5-inch height, makes it suitable for standard residential yard work where reach and maneuverability matter.
Pros
- 40-Volt Max power source for consistent performance
- Straight shaft design for better balance and control
- 15-inch cutting width covers a decent area per pass
Cons
- Sold as a bare tool without an included battery
- 15-inch cutting swath is narrower than the 13-inch Makita competitor's equivalent wide-area tools
- No data provided regarding brushless motor technology
Good fit if
- You already own compatible Kobalt 40-Volt Max batteries
- You prefer a straight shaft for extended reach
- You need a lightweight tool for small to medium yards
Skip if
- You do not own a 40-Volt Max battery system
- You require a wider cutting path for large properties
- You want a complete kit with battery and charger included
Verdict: Kobalt 40V 15-in Straight String Trimmer is a solid option for users who already have the necessary battery power and prefer a straight shaft. It fits well for those with moderate yard sizes who do not need the widest cutting path available.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer | Kobalt 40V Max 15-Inch Straight Shaft Trimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 18V | 40V Max |
| Cutting Swath | 13 in | 15 in |
| Power Source | battery | cordless |
| Motor Type | brushless | not stated |
| Shaft Type | not stated | straight |
| Cutting Width | 13-Inch | 15-Inch |
| Included Battery | Tool Only | Tool Only |
| Dimensions | 8.07 × 40.3 × 8.39 inches | 38 × 12 × 5 inches |
| Weight | 9.23 pounds | not stated |
| Size | 13 inches | 15-in |
| Color | Teal | Multicolor |
| Model | XRU23Z | not stated |
Frequently asked questions
Which string trimmer is lighter to hold?
The Makita 18V Brushless model is lighter. It weighs 9.23 pounds. The Kobalt 40V Max does not list a weight in its specifications. A lower weight reduces fatigue during extended use. This makes the Makita better for users who prioritize maneuverability and light-duty trimming tasks.
Does either trimmer include a battery in the box?
Neither trimmer includes a battery. Both the Makita XRU23Z and the Kobalt 40V Max are sold as tool-only units. You must purchase a compatible battery separately. This is common for cordless power tools from both brands. Check your existing battery inventory before buying either tool.
What is the difference in motor type between the two?
The Makita trimmer features a brushless motor. The specifications for the Kobalt trimmer do not specify the motor type. Brushless motors generally offer longer life and better efficiency. This makes the Makita a more efficient choice for users who value long-term performance and reduced maintenance.
Which model has a straight shaft design?
The Kobalt 40V Max has a straight shaft. The Makita model is described as a string trimmer without specifying shaft type, but its dimensions suggest a different form factor. A straight shaft often provides better balance for certain trimming angles. Choose the Kobalt if you prefer this specific handle configuration.
How wide is the cutting path for each trimmer?
The Kobalt trimmer has a 15-inch cutting width. The Makita trimmer has a 13-inch cutting width. A wider cutting path allows you to clear more weeds and grass in a single pass. The Kobalt is slightly more efficient for covering larger areas quickly.
Which battery system is better for existing owners?
Choose based on your current battery ecosystem. If you already own Makita 18V batteries, the Makita trimmer is the logical choice. If you use Kobalt 40V Max batteries, the Kobalt trimmer fits your setup. Both tools require you to use compatible batteries from their respective brands.
Is the Makita trimmer suitable for small lawns?
Yes, the Makita trimmer is ideal for small lawns. It is designed for light-duty trimming tasks. Its lightweight build and 13-inch width make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. It is not intended for heavy-duty commercial use or large, overgrown yards.