Looking Beyond the Makita XRU23Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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You might be searching for makita xru23z 18v lxt lithium ion alternatives if you need a different cutting width or voltage. The Makita 18V Brushless String Trimmer offers a compact 13-inch swath and a lightweight 9.23-pound design. Its brushless motor delivers up to 6,000 RPM for precise control. This tool fits users who already own 18V LXT batteries and prefer a narrow cutting path.
However, you may want more power, a wider cut, or a complete kit with a battery included. Some buyers need 40V platforms for longer run times or higher torque. Others prefer adjustable cutting widths or attachment capabilities. We selected these alternatives because their specifications overlap with the original. Each option shares core traits like brushless motors or cordless power. You can compare voltage levels, cutting swaths, and weights to find the best match for your lawn care needs.
Our top pick: Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer.
How each alternative compares
Makita 18V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head
The Makita XUX02Z is a power head rather than a complete trimmer. It weighs 8.55 pounds, which is slightly lighter than the XRU23Z. You gain the ability to switch between trimmer and edger attachments using your existing 18V LXT batteries. You lose the ready-to-cut design of the XRU23Z. This option suits you if you want versatility in your tool belt. You must buy attachments separately. The brushless motor provides reliable power for multiple tools. It is a practical choice for users who already own the Makita ecosystem and need a modular solution.
RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer
The RYOBI RY402110VNM operates on a 40V platform, offering more voltage than the 18V Makita. It features a wider 17-inch cutting swath compared to the 13-inch Makita. The carbon fiber shaft weighs 12 pounds, making it heavier than the Makita. You get increased cutting efficiency and a durable shaft. You sacrifice the lightweight handling of the Makita. This trimmer fits users who already have 40V HP batteries and need to cover more ground. The brushless motor ensures efficiency. It is a solid upgrade for those prioritizing cutting width and shaft durability over minimal weight.
Makita 40V max Brushless 15" String Trimmer
The Makita GRU01Z uses the 40V XGT platform, providing higher voltage than the 18V model. It has a 15-inch cutting width, which is wider than the Makita XRU23Z. The tool weighs 7.09 pounds, making it lighter than the 9.23-pound XRU23Z. You gain torque for heavy-duty tasks and a broader cut. You need to switch to the 40V battery system. This option is best for users invested in the Makita 40V XGT ecosystem. The brushless motor delivers high performance. It is a powerful alternative for those who need more reach and power without adding significant weight.
RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Attachment Capable Trimmer
The RYOBI RY40HPST02B is a 40V trimmer with a 17-inch cutting width. It weighs 11 pounds, which is heavier than the Makita. The shaft is attachment capable, allowing you to connect other tools. You get versatility and a wider cut. You give up the compact, lightweight design of the Makita. This model is ideal for users who value quiet operation and the ability to use multiple attachments. The brushless motor ensures efficient power use. It fits those who want a single power source for various yard tasks beyond just trimming.
CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer
The CRAFTSMAN CMCST930P1 operates on a 20V platform and includes a 5.0Ah battery. It weighs 9.44 pounds, similar to the Makita. The cutting width is 13 inches, matching the Makita. You get a complete kit with a battery and charger. You lose the specific 18V LXT ecosystem integration. This option suits users who want a ready-to-use package without buying separate batteries. The brushless motor provides reliable performance. It is a practical choice for those who prioritize convenience and included accessories over brand-specific battery compatibility.
RYOBI ONE+ 18V 13-Inch String Trimmer and Edger
The RYOBI P20180 is an 18V trimmer and edger with a 13-inch cutting width. It weighs 7 pounds, which is significantly lighter than the Makita. It includes a 4.0Ah battery. You gain edging capability and a lower weight. You give up the dedicated trimmer design of the Makita. This model fits budget-conscious users who need a complete kit. The 18V platform is compatible with other RYOBI ONE+ tools. It is a versatile option for those who want edging functionality and a lightweight design in a single package.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer
Best for: Makita 18V users needing precision
- 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 to deliver up to 6,000 RPM. The 13-inch cutting swath is manageable for tight spaces. It weighs 9.23 pounds and includes a variable speed trigger and a high/low power button. It is a tool-only unit, so you need a compatible battery. It suits users who already own Makita 18V tools and want precise control over their cutting speed.
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
- Smaller 13-inch cutting width than competitors
- Tool only; battery sold separately
- Lower 18V system voltage compared to 40V alternatives
Good fit if
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You need precise speed control for detail work
- You prefer a lighter, more maneuverable tool
Skip if
- You need a larger cutting swath for wide areas
- You do not own an 18V Makita battery
- You prefer higher voltage for longer run time
Verdict: Makita 13 in Brushless String Trimmer fits users who value precision and lightweight handling over raw cutting width or voltage. It is a practical option for those invested in the 18V LXT ecosystem.
Makita 18V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head
Best for: existing Makita 18V LXT battery owners
- 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 power head for the 18V LXT system. It uses a brushless motor to reach 9,700 RPM. You get a high-low speed button and a variable trigger for control. The lever lock allows quick tool-less attachment changes. It weighs 8.55 pounds. You need to buy batteries and attachments separately to use it.
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers up to 9,700 RPM
- Lever style lock for quick tool-less attachment changes
- High-low speed button manages power and run time
- Variable speed trigger for controlled operation
Cons
- Sold as a tool only, so batteries are not included
- Does not include cutting attachments
- Requires separate purchase of compatible Makita attachments
Good fit if
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You want to use multiple attachments with one power source
- You prefer a lever lock system for quick changes
Skip if
- You need a complete kit with batteries and attachments included
- You prefer a single-purpose trimmer over a multi-tool system
- You are looking for a ready-to-use string trimmer out of the box
Verdict: Makita 18V LXT Couple Shaft Power Head is a versatile base for users who already have Makita 18V batteries. It fits those who want to switch between trimmers and edgers without buying multiple motors.
RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer
Best for: lightweight trimming with existing 40V HP batteries
- 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
This RYOBI 40V HP Brushless Whisper Series trimmer features a 17-inch cutting swath and a carbon fiber shaft. The brushless motor helps extend runtime and durability. Weighing 12 pounds, it offers a manageable balance for extended use. It is sold as a tool only, meaning you must supply your own 40V battery. This setup suits users who already own the RYOBI 40V ecosystem and want a lightweight, durable shaft for precision trimming.
Pros
- 17-inch cutting swath for efficient clearing
- Carbon fiber shaft reduces weight and vibration
- Brushless motor for improved efficiency
- 12-pound weight for easier handling
Cons
- Sold as tool only without included battery
- 40V HP platform limits compatibility with standard RYOBI ONE+ 18V batteries
- No variable speed trigger listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You already own RYOBI 40V HP batteries
- You want a lightweight carbon fiber shaft
- You need a wider 17-inch cutting path
Skip if
- You only have RYOBI ONE+ 18V batteries
- You prefer a corded power source
- You need a battery included in the box
Verdict: RYOBI 40V HP 17 in. Carbon Fiber Trimmer is a solid option for users who already have the 40V HP battery platform and want a durable, lightweight shaft. It fits those who prioritize a wider cutting swath and brushless efficiency over included accessories.
Makita 40V max Brushless 15" String Trimmer
Best for: Users with existing Makita 40V XGT batteries
- 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
The Makita GRU01Z is a 40V max XGT brushless string trimmer with a 15-inch cutting swath. It features an outer rotor motor and automatic torque drive that shifts between 3,500 and 6,500 RPM. You get up to one hour of run time with a 4.0Ah battery. This tool suits users wanting high torque and extended runtime for larger yards.
Pros
- 40V max XGT brushless motor for high torque
- 15-inch cutting swath increases productivity
- Automatic torque drive shifts up to 6,500 RPM
- Up to 1 hour run time with 4.0Ah battery
Cons
- Sold as a tool only; battery not included
- 15-inch swath is narrower than 17-inch competitors
- No variable speed trigger mentioned in specifications
Good fit if
- You need high torque for thick weeds
- You already own 40V XGT batteries
- You want automatic power adjustment
Skip if
- You prefer a wider 17-inch cutting path
- You do not own Makita 40V batteries
- You need a complete kit with battery included
Verdict: Makita 40V 15 in Brushless String Trimmer fits users who already have 40V XGT batteries and need high torque for heavy-duty trimming tasks.
RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Attachment Capable Trimmer
Best for: quiet operation and attachment versatility
- 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
The RYOBI 40V HP Brushless Whisper Series offers a 17-inch cutting swath and a brushless motor. It runs for 45 minutes on a 40V 4Ah battery. The tool is 86% quieter than gas trimmers. It supports EXPAND-IT attachments for versatility. This tool-only model suits users seeking a powerful, quiet, and adaptable cordless string trimmer.
Pros
- 17-inch cutting width for efficient clearing
- Brushless motor for improved durability and runtime
- Operates at 86% lower noise than gas
- Attachment capable for multi-tool versatility
Cons
- Battery not included in the tool-only kit
- Heavier at 11 pounds compared to lighter competitors
- Longer 72-inch length may challenge tall users
Good fit if
- You need a quiet trimmer for early morning or late evening use
- You want to expand your tool system with compatible attachments
- You prefer a wider 17-inch cutting swath for faster work
Skip if
- You require a complete kit with a battery and charger included
- You prioritize the lightest possible tool for overhead work
- You need a shorter shaft for compact storage or smaller frames
Verdict: RYOBI 40V HP 17 in Whisper Trimmer is a solid choice for users who value quiet operation and attachment versatility over a lightweight, all-in-one package.
CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer
Best for: Adjustable cutting width and included battery
- 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
The CRAFTSMAN V20 RP is a 20V cordless string trimmer with a brushless motor and a 5.0Ah battery. It features an adjustable 11- to 13-inch cutting swath and a push-button line feed system. The tool includes WeatherGuard technology for moisture protection and weighs 9.44 pounds. It suits users who want extended runtime and versatile trimming options for their lawn.
Pros
- Brushless motor provides up to 75 minutes of runtime
- Adjustable cutting swath from 11 to 13 inches
- Includes 5.0Ah battery and charger in the kit
- Push-button line feed system for controlled advancement
- WeatherGuard technology protects the tool from moisture and dust
Cons
- 13-inch cutting width is narrower than the 17-inch options on this list
- No variable speed control listed in the specifications
- WeatherGuard technology does not apply to the battery or charger
Good fit if
- You need an adjustable cutting width for different terrain
- You want a complete kit with a high-capacity battery included
- You prefer a push-button line feed system for maintenance
Skip if
- You require a cutting width larger than 13 inches
- You need a tool-only version without a battery
- You want variable speed settings for precise control
Verdict: CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless String Trimmer fits users who prioritize a complete kit with a 5.0Ah battery and an adjustable cutting swath for versatile lawn maintenance.
RYOBI ONE+ 18V 13-Inch String Trimmer and Edger
Best for: budget-conscious users needing a complete kit
- Voltage
- 18V
- Cutting Swath
- 11 in. to 13 in.
- Line Feed System
- auto-feed
- Battery Capacity
- 4.0Ah
- Cutting Width
- 13-Inch
- Power Source
- Cordless
View on Amazon: RYOBI ONE+ 18V 13-Inch String Trimmer and Edger Affiliate link
The RYOBI ONE+ 18V 13 in. Cordless Battery String Trimmer/Edger includes a 4.0 Ah battery and charger. Its 11 to 13 in. cutting width and auto-feed line head simplify maintenance. The pivoting head allows for edging. This lightweight 7-pound tool suits users who want a versatile, battery-included option for small to medium yards.
Pros
- Includes 4.0 Ah battery and charger
- Auto-feed line head for convenience
- Pivoting head converts to edger
- Variable speed trigger for control
Cons
- 18V platform offers less power than 40V competitors
- 13-inch cutting swath is narrower than 17-inch models
- No variable cutting width adjustment beyond the 11-13 inch range
Good fit if
- You want a complete kit with battery and charger included
- You need the versatility of an edger function
- You prefer a lightweight tool under 8 pounds
Skip if
- You require the high power of a 40V system
- You need a wider 17-inch cutting deck
- You already own a compatible 18V battery
Verdict: The RYOBI ONE+ 18V 13 in. Trimmer fits users who prioritize a complete, ready-to-use package with edging capability over raw cutting width or power.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Makita 18V Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer | Makita 18V Brushless Couple Shaft Power Head | RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer | Makita 40V max Brushless 15" String Trimmer | RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Attachment Capable Trimmer | CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer | RYOBI ONE+ 18V 13-Inch String Trimmer and Edger |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 18V | 18V | 40V | 40V max | 40V | 20V | 18V |
| Cutting Swath | 13 in | not stated | 17 in | 15 in | 17 in | 11 to 13 in | 11 in. to 13 in. |
| Power Source | battery | not stated | Battery | Battery | battery | battery | not stated |
| Motor Type | brushless | brushless | Brushless | Brushless | brushless | brushless | not stated |
| Shaft Type | not stated | not stated | Carbon fiber | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Line Feed System | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | push-button | auto-feed |
| Battery Capacity | not stated | not stated | not stated | 4.0Ah | not stated | 5.0Ah | 4.0Ah |
| Cutting Width | 13-Inch | not stated | not stated | 15-Inch | not stated | 13-Inch | 13-Inch |
| Application | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Lawn | not stated |
| Included Battery | Tool Only | Tool Only | Tool Only | Tool Only | Tool Only | Battery and Charger Included | not stated |
| Dimensions | 8.07 × 40.3 × 8.39 inches | 5.91 × 41.3 × 7.56 inches | 36 × 12 × 5 inches | 7.09 × 72.4 × 8.9 inches | 72 × 12 × 5 inches | 6.2 × 10.4 × 5 inches | 28 × 10 × 5 inches |
| Weight | 9.23 pounds | 8.55 pounds | 12 pounds | not stated | 11 pounds | 9.44 pounds | 7 pounds |
| Size | 13 inches | not stated | not stated | 15" | 17 in | 13 inches | 13 inches |
| Color | Teal | Teal | LIME GREEN/ BLACK | Teal | Green | Red, Black | GREEN |
| Model | XRU23Z | XUX02Z | RY402110VNM | GRU01Z | RY40HPST02B | CMCST930P1 | P20180 |
You can also review makita cx205rb 18v lxt lithium ion alternatives if you use the same battery system.
Frequently asked questions
Which 18V LXT alternative is best for precision trimming?
The Makita XRU23Z remains the top choice for users who value precision and lightweight handling. It features a 13-inch cutting width and a brushless motor. The tool weighs 9.23 pounds, making it easy to maneuver. It is ideal for those already invested in the 18V LXT ecosystem who need a practical, compact solution for detailed lawn work.
Can I use my existing Makita batteries with these alternatives?
Yes, several options work with existing Makita 18V LXT batteries. The XUX02Z Couple Shaft Power Head is a versatile base that accepts multiple attachments. It weighs 8.55 pounds and uses a brushless motor. This allows you to switch between trimmers and edgers without buying new motors, provided you already own compatible Makita 18V batteries.
What is the lightest option available for trimming?
The RYOBI ONE+ 18V 13-Inch String Trimmer and Edger is the lightest at 7 pounds. It offers a 13-inch cutting width and includes a 4.0 Ah battery. This complete kit is ideal for budget-conscious users needing edging capability. Its compact size makes it easy to handle for extended periods without fatigue.
Which trimmer offers the widest cutting swath?
The RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Carbon Fiber String Trimmer provides the widest cut at 17 inches. It weighs 12 pounds and features a durable carbon fiber shaft. This model is best for users with existing 40V HP batteries who prioritize a wider cutting swath. It delivers brushless efficiency for faster trimming across larger areas.
Is there a quiet option for neighborhood trimming?
The RYOBI 40V 17-Inch Whisper Trimmer is designed for quiet operation. It weighs 11 pounds and features an attachment-capable shaft. This model suits users who value versatility and reduced noise over an all-in-one package. It operates on the 40V platform, allowing you to use existing 40V HP batteries for extended runtime.
Which 20V option includes a battery in the box?
The CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless 13-Inch String Trimmer includes a 5.0 Ah battery and charger. It weighs 9.44 pounds and offers a 13-inch cutting width. This kit fits users who prioritize a complete package with adjustable cutting swath. It is a practical choice for versatile lawn maintenance without needing to purchase batteries separately.
What is the best high-voltage alternative for heavy-duty tasks?
The Makita 40V max Brushless 15-Inch String Trimmer is built for heavy-duty trimming. It features a 15-inch cutting width and a brushless motor for high torque. This tool fits users with existing Makita 40V XGT batteries. It delivers robust performance for demanding lawn care tasks that require more power than standard 18V models.