Makita XPH14Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2

The Verdict

If you’re already invested in Makita’s 18V LXT platform, the XPH14Z is the upgraded hammer drill you’ve been waiting for. It replaces the beloved XPH12Z with a brushless motor, more torque, and a compact body that doesn’t punish your wrist on overhead work. But if you’re starting from scratch with no batteries, the bare-tool price tag is only the beginning of your investment.

What You Actually Get

This is a bare tool — no battery, no charger, no case. You get the drill itself plus a side handle and a belt clip. The unit measures 7-1/4 inches long and weighs just 3.7 pounds with a 5.0Ah battery attached. That’s remarkably light for a hammer drill that cranks out 510 in-lbs of max torque and spins up to 2,100 RPM.

The all-metal 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck grips bits securely, and the two-speed transmission (0-550 / 0-2,100 RPM) covers everything from delicate cabinet hardware to 1-inch auger bits. The hammer mode delivers 31,500 BPM — enough for 1/4-inch masonry anchors in block or brick without dragging out a corded SDS drill.

Real-World Performance

In practical use, this drill punches above its weight class. The brushless motor delivers power immediately — no spool-up lag like older brushed models. Driving 3-inch deck screws into pressure-treated lumber is effortless, and the variable speed trigger gives you precise control for pilot holes.

The compact length matters more than you’d think. In tight spaces like inside cabinets or between studs, the shorter body gives you leverage you won’t get from bulkier hammer drills. The rubberized grip is comfortable even with sweaty hands on a hot jobsite.

One thing to note: the side handle isn’t just an accessory — use it for hammer drilling. The torque reaction when the bit catches in masonry is substantial, and you’ll want both hands on this thing.

What Buyers Praise

The 4.4-star rating across 220 reviews is genuinely earned. Owners consistently highlight the power-to-weight ratio as the standout feature. One reviewer put it simply: “This thing is a beast for its size. Drives everything I throw at it.” Another noted, “Bought this after my XPH12Z finally died after 6 years. This is noticeably stronger and just as light.”

Battery life also gets consistent praise. The brushless motor sips power compared to older brushed models — users report drilling dozens of holes on a single 5.0Ah charge.

Where It Falls Short

Let’s be honest about the downsides. First, there’s no battery included. If you’re new to Makita, you’re looking at $100+ for a starter kit before this drill becomes usable. That’s a significant hidden cost.

Second, a handful of reviewers report chuck runout — a slight wobble when using longer bits. It’s not universal, but it’s worth checking immediately upon delivery. If yours has it, exchange it early.

Finally, the LED light only stays on while the trigger is pulled. There’s no always-on mode for working in dark corners. Minor, but annoying when you’re trying to position a screw one-handed.

Who Should Buy This

• Makita LXT owners upgrading from an older or brushed drill — this is a no-brainer
• Electricians and finish carpenters who need compact size without sacrificing power
• DIYers who already own Makita batteries and want a serious hammer drill without buying a new kit

Skip it if you’re starting fresh with no Makita batteries, or if you do heavy daily masonry work — that’s SDS territory.

FAQ

Q: Does this work with all Makita 18V batteries? Yes, including the newer 2.0Ah compact and 6.0Ah extended-capacity batteries. The Star Protection system communicates with all LXT packs.

Q: Can it mix mortar or drywall compound? Technically yes with a paddle, but the 510 in-lbs of torque is marginal for stiff mixes. A dedicated mixer drill is better for that.

Q: Is this a hammer drill or an impact driver? It’s a hammer drill — it drills and drives screws, with a hammer function for masonry. For driving long screws all day, pair it with a dedicated impact driver.

The Verdict

Buy it if you’re already in the Makita ecosystem and want a compact, powerful hammer drill that won’t tire your arm. Skip it if you need a ready-to-run kit or do heavy daily masonry drilling.

Rating: 4.2/5 — A genuinely excellent drill for existing Makita users, docked slightly for the bare-tool format and occasional chuck wobble reports.

Where to Buy

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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.