Makita XRU18Z 36V Review: Specs, Pros and Cons

What stands out

• BL Brushless Motor provides high power and increased torque
• 17-inch cutting swath for increased productivity
• Variable speed trigger switch for controlled cutting speed

Who it fits

Key specs explained for this trimmer

Voltage: 36V (18V X2)

This tool uses two 18V batteries in series to create 36V of power. You get higher torque and runtime compared to single 18V models. It matches the output of many gas trimmers. You benefit from consistent power as the battery drains. Compare this to 20V or 40V competitors when assessing cutting strength for thick weeds.

Motor Type: brushless

A brushless motor eliminates carbon brushes, reducing friction and wear. You gain longer motor life and better efficiency. The tool runs cooler and draws less current. You benefit from maintenance-free operation. Compare this to brushed motors in cheaper models, which require brush replacements and offer less power over time.

Cutting Swath: 17 in

The cutting width is 17 inches. You clear more grass and weeds per pass than with narrower heads. This increases productivity on medium-sized yards. You spend less time overlapping passes. Compare this to 12-inch or 15-inch options, which require more time and effort to cover the same area efficiently.

Weight: 19 pounds

The tool weighs 19 pounds without batteries. You feel the balance of the dual-battery setup during use. Heavier tools can cause fatigue over long periods. You benefit from knowing the load before lifting. Compare this to lighter 18V single-battery models, which feel less substantial but may lack the raw power of this 36V system.

Design and build details

The Makita XRU18Z features a teal finish, which aligns with the brand’s standard color scheme for its LXT line. According to the listing, the unit weighs 19 pounds. This mass is substantial for a handheld string trimmer. You will need to manage this weight carefully during extended trimming sessions to avoid fatigue. The tool measures 75 inches in width, 9.76 inches in height, and 8.66 inches in length. These dimensions define the physical footprint you must navigate in tight spaces.

The cutting swath is 17 inches wide. This width allows you to clear larger areas of grass and weeds with fewer passes. The variable speed trigger switch lets you control the cutting speed precisely. You can adjust the power output based on the density of the vegetation. This feature provides better control when working near delicate plants or hard edges.

The brushless motor is built into the housing. This design choice contributes to the tool’s durability and efficiency. You get high power and increased torque without the maintenance required by gas engines. The lack of gas, emissions, or oil mixing simplifies your workflow. You simply insert two 18V batteries to operate the device. The tool-only configuration means you supply your own power source if you are already in the Makita ecosystem.

Setup and everyday use

This model is sold as a tool only unit. You must supply two 18V Makita LXT batteries to operate it. The listing confirms the voltage is 36V when you install two cells in series. You will need to ensure your existing batteries are compatible with the LXT platform. There are no gas, oil, or emissions to manage. You also skip pull starts. This simplifies the initial setup significantly. You just insert the batteries and secure them. The trimmer weighs 19 pounds. This mass is notable for a handheld string trimmer. You will need to handle this weight during daily use. The tool features a 17-inch cutting swath. This width allows you to clear more grass in each pass. You can adjust the cutting speed using the variable speed trigger switch. This feature gives you control over the motor output. You can slow down for precision or speed up for thicker vegetation. The brushless motor provides high power and increased torque. This matches the performance of a 30cc gas string trimmer. You get consistent power without the maintenance of a gas engine. The overall length is 9.76 inches, and the handle width is 75 inches. These dimensions fit within the standard ergonomic design for this class of tool. You can use this trimmer for routine lawn edging and clearing weeds. The lack of gas mixing means you do not need to clean carburetors or replace spark plugs. You only need to replace the trimmer line as it wears down.

Check batteries and weight first

Before you buy, check your battery ecosystem. This trimmer requires two 18V Makita LXT batteries. If you already own Makita tools, these cells fit here. If you use a different brand, you must buy new batteries. This adds to your initial setup. The unit weighs 19 pounds. You need to manage this weight during long trimming sessions. The 17-inch cutting swath is narrow. You may need multiple passes for large lawns. This tool is not a lawn mower. It handles edges and weeds. It fits alongside mowers in your cordless workflow. Keep the string trimmer head clear of debris. Inspect the motor vents for dust. This brushless motor needs less maintenance than gas engines. You avoid gas mixing and pull starts. Ensure your existing Makita batteries hold a charge. Old cells may not provide full torque. Check the variable speed trigger for smooth response. This tool only includes the trimmer body. You do not get a battery or charger. Plan your power supply carefully before starting your yard work.

Check before you buy

• Verify you have two charged 18V Makita LXT batteries.
• Confirm the 19-pound weight is manageable for your needs.
• Ensure the 17-inch swath covers your edge trimming tasks.
• Check that your existing batteries hold sufficient charge.
• Remember this is a tool-only purchase without batteries.

The product at a glance

1

Makita 36V Brushless 17-Inch String Trimmer

Best for: Users with existing Makita batteries seeking gas replacement

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 that delivers power comparable to a 30cc gas model. It features a 17-inch cutting swath and a variable speed trigger for controlled operation. This tool-only unit weighs 19 pounds. It suits users seeking gas-free performance with high torque and no emissions or pull starts.

Pros

• Brushless motor provides high power and increased torque
• 17-inch cutting swath increases productivity
• Variable speed trigger switch for controlled cutting
• No gas, emissions, or oil mixing required

Cons

• Sold as tool only, requiring separate batteries
• 19-pound weight may cause fatigue during long use
• Fixed 17-inch cutting width limits versatility for narrow spaces

Good fit if

• You want gas-equivalent power without maintenance
• You prefer variable speed control for precision
• You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries

Skip if

• You need a complete kit with batteries included
• You prefer a lighter tool under 15 pounds
• You require adjustable cutting widths for tight areas

Verdict: Makita 36V Brushless String Trimmer is ideal for users who already have Makita batteries and want gas-equivalent power with variable speed control. It fits those prioritizing torque and reduced maintenance over included accessories.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• makita xru18z 36v alternatives
• best makita cordless string trimmers
• makita xcu08z 36v review
• makita xsr01z 36v review