Looking Beyond the Makita XRU18Z 36V? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The Makita XRU18Z 36V Brushless String Trimmer delivers power equivalent to a 30cc gas model with a 17-inch cutting swath. It features a brushless motor and variable speed trigger for controlled cutting. If you are searching for makita xru18z 36v alternatives, you might want a different width, voltage, or brand. Some users prefer a lighter tool for small yards or a higher voltage for thick weeds. Others may need an edger combo or a system that accepts multiple attachments.
We selected these options because their specifications overlap with the original. The list includes 15-inch and 13-inch models from Makita for different yard sizes. It also features a 16-inch Bosch option for users needing an edger. The Greenworks 80V model offers higher voltage for maximum power. Finally, couple shaft power heads provide versatility for existing Makita battery owners. These choices cover various cutting widths, motor types, and battery ecosystems. You can compare the specs to find the right fit for your yard.
Our top pick: Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer.
How each alternative compares
Makita 36V 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer
The Makita XRU15Z reduces the cutting swath from 17 inches to 15 inches. It keeps the 36V brushless motor and tool-only design. You gain a slightly lighter and more compact frame for tight spaces. The 15-inch width is narrower, which helps with precision work along fences or flower beds. You give up some cutting width per pass. This model suits users who prioritize maneuverability over maximum coverage. It remains a solid choice for those already invested in the Makita 36V battery system who need a reliable, emission-free trimmer.
Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer
The Makita XRU23Z drops the voltage to 18V and the cutting width to 13 inches. It is significantly lighter at 9.23 pounds compared to the 19-pound XRU18Z. You trade raw power and wide coverage for ease of handling. The 13-inch swath is best for small yards or detailed edge work. You give up the 36V power equivalent to a 30cc gas trimmer. This model is ideal for users with existing 18V Makita batteries who want a lightweight tool for manageable areas. It is a practical choice if you do not need the extra width or torque of the 36V system.
Bosch 16-Inch 18V Cordless String Trimmer
The Bosch GRT18V-40N offers a 16-inch cutting width on 18V power. It weighs 12.7 pounds, which is lighter than the Makita XRU18Z. You get a trimmer and edger combo in one tool, adding versatility. The anti-tangle design helps with dense weeds. You give up the 36V power and the Makita ecosystem compatibility. This model is best for users who need to edge and trim simultaneously. It fits those invested in the 18V battery system who want a wider cut than the 13-inch Makita but do not require the full 36V power output. It is a solid option for maintaining edges and trimming dense weeds.
Greenworks 80V 16-Inch Brushless Trimmer Gen 2
The Greenworks ST80L01 steps up to 80V power with a 16-inch cutting width. It is the highest voltage option on this list, offering maximum power for thick weeds. You gain significant cutting performance compared to the 36V Makita. You give up the Makita battery compatibility. This model is ideal for users with existing 80V Greenworks batteries who need extra power for tough conditions. The 16-inch swath is slightly narrower than the 17-inch Makita but provides more torque. It is the best fit for those prioritizing raw power and weed-cutting capability over brand loyalty to Makita.
Makita 18V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head
The Makita XUX02Z is a couple shaft power head, not a complete string trimmer. It weighs 8.55 pounds and offers variable speed control. You gain the ability to attach multiple tools to the shaft. You give up the ready-to-use string trimmer configuration. This model is best for Makita users who want to add attachments to their existing shafts. It fits those who value quick changes and versatility over a standalone tool. If you already have a shaft and want to expand your system, this is a practical choice. It is not a direct replacement for the XRU18Z but an addition to your existing setup.
Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft String Trimmer
The Makita XUX01M5PT is a 36V brushless power head kit with a 5.0 Ah battery included. It offers versatile multi-tool capability with adjustable speed settings. You gain a complete power system with a battery, unlike the tool-only XRU18Z. You give up the dedicated string trimmer design for a modular power head. This model is ideal for homeowners who want a high-power system for multiple yard tasks. It fits users who already own Makita 18V batteries and prefer adjustable speed settings. It is a practical choice for those who value versatility and the included battery capacity over a simple, dedicated trimmer.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer
Best for: Makita battery owners needing 17-inch width
- 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 (18V X2) brushless string trimmer designed for reliable performance. It features a 17-inch cutting swath and a variable speed trigger for controlled cutting. Weighing 19 pounds, it offers power comparable to a 30cc gas trimmer. This tool-only model suits users who already own compatible 18V LXT batteries and need a durable, emission-free option for yard maintenance.
Pros
- Brushless motor provides high power and increased torque
- 17-inch cutting swath increases productivity
- Variable speed trigger allows controlled cutting
- Power equivalent to a 30cc gas trimmer
Cons
- Sold as a tool-only unit without a battery
- 19-pound weight may cause fatigue during extended use
- No variable speed dial, only a trigger switch
Good fit if
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You want a 17-inch cutting width for efficiency
- You prefer brushless motor durability
Skip if
- You need a complete kit with included battery
- You prefer a lighter tool under 15 pounds
- You want a wider 18-inch or larger cutting swath
Verdict: Makita 17 in 36V Brushless Trimmer is a solid choice for Makita battery owners who need a powerful, emission-free trimmer with a 17-inch cutting path. It fits users who already have the necessary power source and value brushless motor longevity.
Makita 36V 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer
Best for: variable speed control and torque management
- Voltage
- 36V (18V X2)
- Cutting Swath
- 15 in
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Included Battery
- Tool Only
- Dimensions
- 7.09 × 72.8 × 8.78 inches
- Weight
- 19 pounds
View on Amazon: Makita 36V 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer Affiliate link
This 36V brushless string trimmer offers a 15-inch cutting swath and three speed settings. It features automatic torque drive technology that shifts between 3,500 and 6,500 RPM. The tool weighs 19 pounds and provides up to 1.5 hours of run time with 5.0Ah batteries. It suits users who need variable power control for different cutting tasks.
Pros
- Brushless motor for high power and torque
- Three speed options from 3,500 to 6,500 RPM
- Automatic torque drive technology for power management
- 15-inch cutting swath for productivity
Cons
- Heavier at 19 pounds compared to lighter competitors
- Tool only, requiring separate battery purchase
- Shorter 15-inch swath than 16 or 17-inch models
Good fit if
- You need variable speed control for different terrain
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You prefer a brushless motor for efficiency
Skip if
- You want a lighter tool under 15 pounds
- You need a wider 16-inch or larger cutting path
- You prefer a complete kit with included batteries
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer fits users who value precise speed control and torque management. It is ideal for those with existing Makita batteries who need a reliable, powerful tool for varied cutting conditions.
Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer
Best for: small yards with existing Makita batteries
- 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 tool-only trimmer uses an 18V LXT battery to power a brushless motor reaching 6,000 RPM. It features a 13-inch cutting swath and weighs 9.23 pounds. A high/low button helps you manage power and run time, while a variable speed trigger offers control. It suits users who already own Makita 18V batteries and need a lightweight option for smaller yards.
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers up to 6,000 RPM
- High/low button for power management
- Variable speed trigger for control
- Lightweight at 9.23 pounds
Cons
- 13-inch cutting swath is narrower than competitors
- Tool only; battery not included
- Shorter run time compared to 40V or 80V systems
Good fit if
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You need a lightweight tool for small yards
- You want variable speed control
Skip if
- You need a wider cutting swath
- You do not own compatible batteries
- You prefer a longer run time
Verdict: Makita 13-Inch Brushless Trimmer fits users with existing 18V batteries who prioritize lightweight handling over wide cutting paths. It is a practical tool for small, manageable areas.
Bosch 16-Inch 18V Cordless String Trimmer
Best for: Users needing a trimmer and edger combo
- Voltage
- 18V
- Cutting Swath
- 16 in
- Power Source
- battery
- Motor Type
- brushless
- Line Feed System
- automatic
- Cutting Width
- 16-Inch
View on Amazon: Bosch 16-Inch 18V Cordless String Trimmer Affiliate link
The Bosch GRT18V-40N is a 18V brushless string trimmer and edger combo. It features a 16-inch cutting swath and a 5,300 RPM motor. The tool includes an anti-tangle system and a Pro-Tap spool. You get variable-speed control and a dual-function grip. This bare tool fits users who already own compatible 18V batteries.
Pros
- 16-inch cutting swath for wider coverage
- Brushless motor delivers 5,300 RPM max speed
- Anti-tangle system prevents line bogging
- Dual-function grip switches between trimming and edging
- Pro-Tap spool allows automatic line advancement
Cons
- Sold as a bare tool without battery
- 12.7-pound weight may fatigue users over time
- Limited to 18V platform voltage
Good fit if
- You need a trimmer that also functions as an edger
- You already own 18V batteries from Bosch or AMPShare brands
- You want a brushless motor for extended runtime
Skip if
- You require a battery and charger included in the box
- You prefer a higher voltage system for heavy commercial use
- You need a tool with a variable speed dial rather than a trigger
Verdict: The Bosch GRT18V 16-Inch Brushless Trimmer offers a versatile trim-and-edge solution for users invested in the 18V battery ecosystem. Its anti-tangle design and wide cutting path make it a solid option for maintaining edges and trimming dense weeds.
Greenworks 80V 16-Inch Brushless Trimmer Gen 2
Best for: Users with existing 80V batteries
- Voltage
- 80V
- Cutting Swath
- 16 in
- Power Source
- Battery
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Cutting Width
- 16-Inch
- Included Battery
- Tool Only
View on Amazon: Greenworks 80V 16-Inch Brushless Trimmer Gen 2 Affiliate link
This Greenworks model uses an 80V brushless motor to deliver power comparable to a 22cc gas engine. It features a 16-inch cutting swath and an adjustable auxiliary handle for comfortable operation. The tool only design means you supply your own battery. With up to 60 minutes of runtime on a 2Ah battery, it suits larger yards needing sustained power without cords.
Pros
- 80V Li-Ion system for high power
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- 16-inch cutting swath
- Adjustable auxiliary handle
Cons
- Tool only; battery and charger not included
- Heavier build due to 80V battery requirement
- No variable speed control listed
Good fit if
- You already own Greenworks 80V batteries
- You need a wider 16-inch cutting path
- You want gas-equivalent power
Skip if
- You do not have compatible 80V batteries
- You prefer a lighter 18V or 40V tool
- You need a complete kit with battery
Verdict: Greenworks 80V 16-Inch Brushless Trimmer offers the highest voltage on this list, making it the best fit for users with existing 80V batteries who need maximum power for thick weeds.
Makita 18V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head
Best for: Makita users adding attachments to existing shafts
- 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
The Makita XUX02Z is an 18V brushless power head designed for couple shaft attachments. It delivers up to 9,700 RPM with a variable speed trigger. The lever-style lock allows tool-less attachment changes. It weighs 8.55 pounds and includes a high/low speed button for runtime management. This tool-only unit suits users who already own Makita batteries and shafts.
Pros
- BL Brushless Motor delivers up to 9,700 RPM
- Lever style lock system for quick tool-less installation
- High/Low speed button for power and run time management
- Variable speed trigger for controlled speed
Cons
- Tool Only; requires separate battery and shaft
- Single 18V input; lacks dual-voltage capability
- No included cutting attachment
Good fit if
- You already own a Makita 18V LXT battery
- You prefer a lightweight power head for existing shafts
- You need variable speed control for different attachments
Skip if
- You want a complete ready-to-use string trimmer
- You prefer a single-unit mower or trimmer
- You need dual-voltage power head options
Verdict: Makita XUX02Z Couple Shaft Power Head is a practical choice for Makita users who want to add attachments to their existing shaft. It fits those who value quick changes and variable speed control over a complete standalone tool.
Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft String Trimmer
Best for: Versatile multi-tool users with existing Makita batteries
- 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 5.0Ah battery and string trimmer attachment. It offers three speed settings up to 7,100 RPM and a variable trigger for control. The couple shaft design accepts other Makita tools. It suits users who want a versatile, high-power system for multiple yard tasks.
Pros
- 36V (18V x2) brushless motor delivers up to 7,100 RPM
- Includes 5.0Ah battery for extended runtime
- Three speed settings (4,200, 6,000, 7,100 RPM) plus variable trigger
- Couple shaft system accepts various attachments
Cons
- Larger physical footprint than single-battery trimmers
- Requires two 18V batteries to operate
- Higher initial investment for the kit configuration
Good fit if
- You need a multi-tool system for various yard tasks
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You prefer adjustable speed settings for different materials
Skip if
- You want a lightweight, single-purpose trimmer
- You do not own Makita 18V batteries
- You prefer a simple, low-cost string trimmer
Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless Power Head Kit is ideal for homeowners who want a versatile, high-power system for multiple yard tasks. It fits users who already own Makita 18V batteries and prefer adjustable speed settings.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer | Makita 36V 15-Inch Brushless String Trimmer | Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer | Bosch 16-Inch 18V Cordless String Trimmer | Greenworks 80V 16-Inch Brushless Trimmer Gen 2 | Makita 18V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head | Makita 36V Brushless Couple Shaft String Trimmer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 36V (18V X2) | 36V (18V X2) | 18V | 18V | 80V | 18V | 36V (18V X2) |
| Cutting Swath | 17" | 15 in | 13 in | 16 in | 16 in | not stated | not stated |
| Power Source | not stated | not stated | battery | battery | Battery | not stated | not stated |
| Motor Type | brushless | brushless | brushless | brushless | Brushless | brushless | brushless |
| Shaft Type | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | couple shaft |
| Line Feed System | not stated | not stated | not stated | automatic | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Battery Capacity | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 5.0Ah |
| Cutting Width | not stated | not stated | 13-Inch | 16-Inch | 16-Inch | not stated | not stated |
| Application | not stated | not stated | not stated | Lawn | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Included Battery | Tool Only | Tool Only | Tool Only | Tool Only | Tool Only | Tool Only | not stated |
| Dimensions | 8.66 × 75 × 9.76 inches | 7.09 × 72.8 × 8.78 inches | 8.07 × 40.3 × 8.39 inches | 39.8 × 5.6 × 5 inches | 10.9 × 11.7 × 68.7 inches | 5.91 × 41.3 × 7.56 inches | 15.3 × 42 × 10.5 inches |
| Weight | 10.8 pounds | 19 pounds | 9.23 pounds | 12.7 pounds | not stated | 8.55 pounds | not stated |
| Size | 17" | String Trimmer only | 13 inches | 757 in | 16" Brushless Trimmer (Tool Only) Gen 2 | not stated | not stated |
| Color | Teal | Teal | Teal | Blue | Green | Teal | Teal |
| Model | XRU18Z | XRU15Z | XRU23Z | GRT18V-40N | ST80L01 | XUX02Z | XUX01M5PT |
If you share batteries across tools, you can examine published specs for makita xsr01z 36v alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a lighter Makita 36V trimmer alternative?
The Makita XRU15Z is a lighter option at 19 pounds, matching the XRU18Z weight but with a narrower 15-inch cutting path. It features a brushless motor and variable speed control. This model is tool-only, so you must supply your own 36V battery. It suits users who prefer a more compact frame for navigating tight spaces without sacrificing power.
Can I use an 18V battery with the XRU18Z?
No, the Makita XRU18Z requires a 36V battery system. If you only have 18V batteries, consider the Makita XRU23Z, which is an 18V brushless trimmer. It weighs 9.23 pounds and offers a 13-inch cutting width. This model is ideal for small yards where lighter handling is a priority over a wider cutting swath.
What is the highest voltage alternative available?
The Greenworks ST80L01 offers 80V power, the highest voltage on this list. It features a 16-inch cutting width and a brushless motor. This model is tool-only, designed for users who already own Greenworks 80V batteries. It provides maximum power for cutting thick weeds and is suitable for users needing high performance in their yard work.
Does Bosch offer a trimmer for the 18V ecosystem?
Yes, the Bosch GRT18V-40N is an 18V brushless trimmer. It features a 16-inch cutting width and an anti-tangle design. This tool is tool-only, requiring your own 18V battery. It serves as a trim-and-edger combo, making it versatile for maintaining edges and trimming dense weeds. It weighs 12.7 pounds and fits users invested in the 18V system.
Are there multi-tool power head options?
The Makita XUX02Z is a 18V brushless couple shaft power head. It weighs 8.55 pounds and features variable speed control. This tool is tool-only, allowing you to add attachments to existing shafts. It is ideal for users who value quick changes and versatility over a complete standalone trimmer. It fits those already using Makita attachments.
Is there a 36V multi-tool kit with a battery?
The Makita XUX01M5PT is a 36V brushless couple shaft power head kit. It includes a 5.0 Ah battery, unlike most tool-only options. This kit is ideal for homeowners wanting a versatile system for multiple yard tasks. It features adjustable speed settings and fits users who already own Makita 18V batteries and prefer a complete power head solution.
Which trimmer has the widest cutting path?
The Makita XRU18Z and the Bosch GRT18V-40N both offer wide cutting paths. The XRU18Z provides a 17-inch width, while the Bosch model offers 16 inches. The Greenworks ST80L01 also features a 16-inch width. These models suit users needing to cover ground quickly. The Makita options use 36V or 18V systems, while the Bosch uses 18V.