Looking Beyond the Makita XRU15PT 36V? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How Each Alternative Compares

Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer

This Makita model steps up to a 17-inch cutting swath, providing a wider path than the 15-inch cut of the XRU15PT. It retains the 36V brushless motor and 5.0Ah battery capacity, ensuring similar runtime and power density. The trade-off is significant weight; it weighs 26 pounds compared to the 9.1 pounds of the original. You gain more cutting width but sacrifice maneuverability and ease of use. This tool suits heavy-duty weed clearing where raw power and width matter more than lightweight handling. If you prioritize a broader cut and do not mind the extra mass, this premium option delivers robust performance for serious yard work.

Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft String Trimmer

The XUX01M5PT is a couple-shaft power head rather than a complete trimmer kit. It shares the 36V brushless motor and 5.0Ah battery capacity of the original, making it compatible with your existing Makita batteries. You lose the dedicated 15-inch cutting swath and included bump feed head, as this unit is designed for versatility. It allows you to attach various accessories over time. This choice fits users who already own Makita batteries and want a modular system. It is ideal if you plan to add other attachments later, offering long-term flexibility. You give up the ready-to-use simplicity of the XRU15PT for a more adaptable, multi-purpose platform.

CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer

This Craftsman model drops to a 20V system, a significant voltage decrease from the 36V platform of the Makita. It features a 13-inch cutting width, which is narrower than the 15-inch swath of the original. It shares the 5.0Ah battery capacity and brushless motor type, maintaining efficiency. The weight is 9.44 pounds, slightly heavier than the 9.1 pounds of the Makita kit. This tool is best for light-duty edging and trimming tasks. It is not suitable for heavy clearing or users invested in higher voltage systems. If you want a budget-friendly, lightweight option for small yards, this V20 kit offers sufficient power without the complexity of a dual-battery 36V setup.

NovorikX 60V 17-Inch Cordless String Trimmer

The NovorikX 60V model offers a significant voltage jump to 60V, providing higher potential power than the 36V Makita. It matches the 17-inch cutting width, which is wider than the 15-inch cut of the original. It also uses a 5.0Ah battery capacity and a brushless motor. The weight is 21 pounds, making it heavier than the 9.1-pound Makita kit. This tool suits homeowners with medium to large yards who value wide cuts and strong performance. You trade the specific 36V Makita ecosystem for a higher-voltage alternative. If you prioritize a broad swath and high power over the established Makita platform, this 60V option delivers robust trimming capabilities for larger properties.

Makita DUR369AZ 36V Brushless Brush Cutter

The DUR369AZ is a brush cutter, not a string trimmer, designed for heavy vegetation. It shares the 36V brushless motor of the original but lacks the 15-inch string cutting swath. Instead, it uses a 60 x 450 mm blade attachment for cutting. The weight is 14.3 pounds, heavier than the 9.1-pound Makita trimmer. It retains the 36V compatibility for existing Makita batteries. This tool is not for those seeking a lightweight, all-in-one package. It fits users who need durable equipment for thick brush and weeds. You give up the convenience of a string head for a more aggressive cutting method. Choose this if your primary task involves clearing dense growth rather than standard lawn edging.

Craftsman V20 Brushless 13-Inch Straight Shaft Trimmer

This Craftsman model features a straight shaft design, differing from the curved shaft of the original. It operates on a 20V system, lower than the 36V of the Makita. The cutting width is 13 inches, narrower than the 15-inch cut of the XRU15PT. It includes a 5.0Ah battery and a brushless motor, similar to the original's efficiency. The weight is not explicitly stated, but it is designed for light to medium trimming. This tool suits users who need a ready-to-use kit with a straight shaft. It is ideal for tasks where a 75-minute runtime is sufficient. If you prefer a straight shaft configuration and do not require the higher voltage of the Makita, this V20 option provides a practical, lightweight solution for basic yard maintenance.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Makita 36V 15" Brushless Trimmer Kit

Best for: Users wanting adjustable speeds and a wide cut

Voltage

36V (18V X2)

Cutting Swath

15"

Power Source

battery

Motor Type

brushless

Line Feed System

bump feed

Battery Capacity

5.0Ah

View on Amazon: Makita 36V 15" Brushless Trimmer Kit Affiliate link

This 36V brushless string trimmer uses two 18V LXT batteries for reliable power. 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. It suits users who want a durable tool with adjustable torque for various lawn conditions.

Pros

• Brushless motor for efficiency
• 15-inch cutting width
• Three speed options
• Includes two 5.0Ah batteries

Cons

• Heavier at 9.1 pounds
• Requires two batteries to run
• No variable speed trigger

Good fit if

• You need a 15-inch cutting width
• You prefer brushless motor efficiency
• You want adjustable speed settings

Skip if

• You prefer a lighter tool under 8 pounds
• You want a single-battery system
• You need a variable speed trigger

Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer fits users who value a wide cutting swath and adjustable speeds. It is a solid choice for those who already own Makita 18V batteries.

2 Also great

Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer

Best for: Heavy-duty weed clearing

Voltage

36V (18V X2)

Cutting Swath

17 in

Motor Type

brushless

Battery Capacity

5.0Ah

Dimensions

8.66 × 78 × 9.76 inches

Weight

26 pounds

View on Amazon: Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer Affiliate link

This Makita string trimmer delivers power comparable to a 30cc gas model. It uses two 18V batteries for a 36V system and features a brushless motor for efficiency. The 17-inch cutting swath helps you clear weeds quickly. You get a 5.0Ah battery in the kit. The variable speed trigger lets you control the cutting speed. It is a solid choice for users who want reliable performance without gas maintenance.

Pros

• Brushless motor provides high torque
• 17-inch cutting swath increases productivity
• Variable speed trigger for control
• Includes 5.0Ah battery

Cons

• Weighs 26 pounds, which is heavy
• Requires two 18V batteries to operate
• No app or smart features listed

Good fit if

• You want gas-equivalent power
• You prefer brushless motor efficiency
• You need a 17-inch cutting width

Skip if

• You want a lighter tool
• You prefer a single battery system
• You need smart connectivity

Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer suits those who need robust power and a wide cutting path. It fits users who do not mind the weight for serious yard work.

3 Also great

Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft String Trimmer

Best for: Makita users needing a versatile power head

Voltage

36V (18V X2)

Motor Type

brushless

Shaft Type

couple shaft

Battery Capacity

5.0Ah

Dimensions

15.3 × 42 × 10.5 inches

View on Amazon: Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft String Trimmer Affiliate link

This Makita kit pairs a 36V brushless power head with a string trimmer attachment. It offers three speed settings up to 7,100 RPM and a variable trigger for control. The couple shaft design lets you swap tools quickly. It includes a 5.0Ah battery. This setup suits users who want one motor for multiple yard tasks.

Pros

• Brushless motor reaches 7,100 RPM
• Three fixed speed options plus variable trigger
• Couple shaft allows quick tool swaps
• Includes 5.0Ah battery for runtime

Cons

• Requires separate battery purchase for other tools
• Couple shaft system is less convenient than straight shaft
• No dedicated edger attachment included in this kit

Good fit if

• You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
• You plan to use multiple attachments later
• You need high RPM for thick weeds

Skip if

• You prefer a single straight-shaft tool
• You only need a trimmer and no other attachments
• You want a complete edger and trimmer combo in one box

Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft Trimmer fits users who already have Makita batteries and want a versatile power head. It is ideal for those who plan to add other attachments over time.

4 Best budget

CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer

Best for: Light duty lawn edging and trimming

Voltage

20V

Cutting Swath

11 to 13 in

Power Source

battery

Motor Type

brushless

Line Feed System

push-button

Battery Capacity

5.0Ah

View on Amazon: CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer Affiliate link

This Craftsman V20 trimmer uses a brushless motor and a 5.0Ah battery for extended runtime. It features an adjustable cutting swath from 11 to 13 inches. The push-button feed system helps control line advancement. Its compact design aids maneuverability in tight spaces. You will get reliable performance for standard lawn edging and trimming tasks without the weight of gas models.

Pros

• Brushless motor for up to 75 minutes of runtime
• Adjustable 11 to 13-inch cutting swath
• Push-button line feed system
• Includes 5.0Ah battery and charger
• WeatherGuard technology protects the tool from moisture and dust

Cons

• Lower 20V platform compared to 36V or 60V competitors
• No variable speed control mentioned in specifications
• Battery and charger sold separately in some kit variations

Good fit if

• You need an affordable entry into cordless trimming
• You prefer a push-button feed mechanism over bump feed
• You want a lightweight tool for easy maneuverability

Skip if

• You require high-power cutting for thick brush
• You already own a 20V MAX battery ecosystem
• You need a variable speed trigger for precision work

Verdict: Craftsman V20 Brushless String Trimmer fits users who want a budget-friendly, lightweight tool for light to medium duty tasks. It is not suitable for heavy-duty clearing or users invested in higher voltage systems.

5 Best 60v

NovorikX 60V 17-Inch Cordless String Trimmer

Best for: Wide-cut trimming with high power

Voltage

60V

Cutting Swath

17 in

Power Source

battery

Motor Type

brushless

Line Feed System

bump feed

Battery Capacity

5.0Ah

View on Amazon: NovorikX 60V 17-Inch Cordless String Trimmer Affiliate link

The NovorikX 60V cordless string trimmer uses a 1200W brushless motor and a 5.0Ah battery to deliver strong cutting power. Its 17-inch swath covers ground quickly, while dual-speed control helps you manage dense weeds or light grass. The 15 lb weight reduces fatigue during use. This tool suits homeowners who want gas-like performance without the maintenance of a gas engine.

Pros

• 1200W brushless motor for high power
• 17-inch cutting swath for efficiency
• 5.0Ah battery provides 54 minutes of runtime
• Dual-speed trigger (6100/4600 RPM)
• Lightweight 15 lb design

Cons

• Heavier than competitors at 21 lbs total weight
• Shorter warranty than premium brands
• No variable speed dial, only trigger control

Good fit if

• You need a wider 17-inch cutting path
• You prefer brushless motor efficiency
• You want a lightweight tool for extended use

Skip if

• You require a 36V system compatibility
• You need a straight shaft for edging
• You prioritize the lowest possible weight

Verdict: NovorikX 60V 17-Inch Trimmer offers strong power and a wide cut for homeowners with medium to large yards. It fits users who value brushless efficiency and a broad swath over the specific 36V platform of other options.

6 Best premium

Makita DUR369AZ 36V Brushless Brush Cutter

Best for: Makita battery owners needing heavy-duty trimming

Voltage

36V (Twin 18V)

Cutting Swath

430 mm

Motor Type

brushless

Dimensions

72.7 × 24.7 × 5 inches

Weight

14.3 pounds

View on Amazon: Makita DUR369AZ 36V Brushless Brush Cutter Affiliate link

This Makita DUR369AZ is a twin 18V brushless brush cutter designed for precision trimming and edging. It features a 430 mm cutting swath and a 14.3-pound weight for manageable handling. The tool includes three speed options and an electric brake for safety. You get Active Feedback Sensing Technology and automatic torque drive to adjust power based on load. Note that batteries and charger are not included, so you need compatible 18V LXT cells.

Pros

• 36V brushless motor for efficient power delivery
• Three speed options for different tasks
• Electric brake stops the blade quickly
• Active Feedback Sensing Technology adjusts torque

Cons

• Batteries and charger not included
• 14.3 pounds may feel heavy for extended use
• Off-set handle design requires adjustment

Good fit if

• You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
• You need a brush cutter for thick weeds
• You prefer variable speed control

Skip if

• You do not have Makita 18V batteries
• You want a lightweight string trimmer
• You need a ready-to-use kit with batteries

Verdict: Makita DUR369AZ 36V Brushless Brush Cutter fits users who already have Makita batteries and need a durable tool for heavy vegetation. It is not for those seeking a lightweight, all-in-one package.

7 Best straight shaft

Craftsman V20 Brushless 13-Inch Straight Shaft Trimmer

Best for: Users needing a straight shaft with included battery

Voltage

20V

Cutting Swath

13 in

Power Source

battery

Motor Type

brushless

Shaft Type

straight

Line Feed System

push button feed

View on Amazon: Craftsman V20 Brushless 13-Inch Straight Shaft Trimmer Affiliate link

This Craftsman V20 trimmer uses a brushless motor and a 5.0Ah battery to deliver up to 75 minutes of runtime. It features a 13-inch cutting swath with an adjustable range from 11 to 13 inches. The straight shaft design and push-button line feed system offer practical control. You get the tool, battery, and charger in one kit. It is a compact option for standard yard maintenance tasks.

Pros

• Brushless motor for extended runtime
• Includes 5.0Ah battery and charger
• Adjustable 11-to-13-inch cutting swath
• Push-button line feed system

Cons

• Lower 20V voltage compared to 36V competitors
• Single battery capacity limits heavy-duty use
• No variable speed control listed

Good fit if

• You need a straight shaft for ground clearance
• You want a complete kit with battery included
• You prefer push-button line feed over bump feed

Skip if

• You require 36V power for thick weeds
• You need variable speed settings
• You prefer a curved shaft for tight spaces

Verdict: Craftsman V20 13-in Straight Shaft Trimmer suits users who need a ready-to-use 20V kit with a straight shaft. It is ideal for light to medium trimming where 75-minute runtime is sufficient.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• moeyuro 36v ride on toys alternatives
• makita xcu07z 18v x2 alternatives