Review: Makita LXFD01CW 18-Volt Compact Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill

The Makita LXFD01CW 18-Volt Compact Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill is a combination of power, ergonomics, and performance. It features a four-pole motor created by Makita that produces 480 inch-pounds of Max Torque. It also has an all-metal transmission with two speeds so it can be used for many types of tasks. At only 3.3 pounds and 7-9/16 inches long, this drill has an ergonomic design that helps users go for hours without feeling tired. It’s built to handle drilling and driving applications for woodworking, plumbing, electrical, and remodeling.

In comparison to traditional 18-volt Ni-Cd batteries, Makita’s batteries weigh 40 percent less, operate for longer periods of time, and the self-discharge is 5 times lower. The charge time for their batteries is only 15 minutes, which is highly impressive when compared to other 18V batteries.

Pros

Power
LED Light
Grip
Battery Life
Charge Time
Compact
Lightweight

The battery life has proven to be long lasting, as some customers noted that it has lasted three years without signs of wear. The charge time is around 15 minutes, which is a nice luxury when working long hours.

The drill is compact, while still containing 480 inch-pounds of Max Torque. At 3.3 pounds, this drill is extremely lightweight and weights over a pound less that the DeWalt DC720KA 18V Drill. The grip is very balanced and comfortable, which helps limit fatigue. The LED light is helpful when working in the dark. The belt clip is a nice little feature that comes in handy. Not all cordless drills have this.

What you are getting with this drill is a compact, lightweight, powerful drill that has a long lasting battery. Makita is a well-respected brand, and their line of cordless drills is outstanding.

Cons

Wobbling Chuck

If you have done any research on the Makita LXFD01CW, you will certainly come across complaints about the wobbling chuck. The chuck collar does have some wiggle, but it should be noted that the jaws are straight. This isn’t as big of a deal if you are doing projects around the house, but when doing jobs that require precision, it’s a bit of an issue. The wobble is not extreme, but enough to the point where you do notice it. Overall, it’s not a deal breaker, but rather a bit of an annoyance.

The Makita LXFD01CW Is Available At Amazon, You Can Check It Out Here
Amazon

Customer Reviews

This drill is much better than the previous models. Very compact, good feel, lot’s of power, batteries charge super fast. Not much more to say, except for try it for yourself. – Jordan

Today I sent it back to amazon because it quit working, its a great drill in many ways, looks amazing, powerful, battery lasts a long time and charges quickly, lightweight and the belt clip is nice. But after 2 weeks of working outside in MN weather its shot, if I hit the trigger the flashlight comes on (which is useless by the by, it doesnt light the bit it lights right below it). Also it does have chuck wobble, my works not precise enough that it bothered me but forewarning to those of you who need to be right on, apparently some of these wobble and some don’t. – GreedyWeeny

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