Product Review: Makita XNU01Z Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless, Tool Only 18V LXT 20" Articulating Pole Hedge Trimmer, Teal
Introduction
If you’re looking to buy a professional-quality cordless trimmer, the Makita hedge trimmer family offers a standout option in the Makita XNU01Z. This review covers the 18V LXT 20" articulating pole hedge trimmer — a lightweight, brushless hedge trimmer designed for homeowners and pros wanting a quiet, powerful, and easy-to-use solution for tall hedges. Whether you’re searching for where to buy Makita hedge trimmer or want to compare the best Makita pole hedge trimmer options, this post will help you decide.
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What is this product?
The Makita XNU01Z is a cordless pole trimmer in Makita’s 18V LXT line. It features a 20" dual-action double-sided shear blade and an articulating head with six angle settings (115° total working range). This tool is a true Makita LXT hedge trimmer — offering the benefits of a brushless motor, reduced noise, and no gas or pull-start hassles. It’s sold as a tool only, so you can pair it with your existing 18V LXT battery or choose the battery size to match your workload.
Key Features
From the Manufacturer (At-a-Glance)
- No gas, emissions, oil mixing or pull starts — ideal for residential areas and quieter jobs.
- Weighs up to 35% less than gas models — reduces operator fatigue for long sessions.
- 6 angle settings for efficient trimming — 115° working range for overhead and low-lying hedges.
- 20" dual action double-sided shear blade — precise cuts and cleaner finishes.
- Up to 80 minutes of run time with an 18V LXT 5.0Ah battery (battery not included).
- Power source type: Battery Powered — part of the 18V LXT ecosystem.
Detailed Description
Makita expands its cordless outdoor line with the 18V hedge trimmer XNU01Z, a brushless hedge trimmer optimized for professionals and serious homeowners. The BL brushless motor delivers up to 4,400 SPM, with three speed settings (2,000 / 3,600 / 4,400) to match cutting conditions. The articulating head and long reach make this a true articulating pole hedge trimmer for pruning high and wide hedges without ladders.
Built for durability, the commercial-duty gear case and Makita’s Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) shield the internals from dust and water. Star Protection Computer Controls manage battery-tool communication, guarding against overload and overheating. As part of the 18V LXT system, the tool is compatible with a wide range of Makita batteries — useful if you already own other Makita cordless tools.
Long-tail Use Cases
- Makita XNU01Z 20 inch articulating pole hedge trimmer cordless brushless — great for landscapers needing a long-reach solution.
- 18V LXT tool only pole trimmer for tall hedges — ideal for users who want to buy Makita XNU01Z tool only and use existing batteries.
- Lightweight cordless pole hedge trimmer with articulating head — reduces fatigue during extended trimming.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Lightweight and balanced: Easier to maneuver than gas models.
- Quiet brushless motor: Less noise for residential use — a true quiet brushless 18V pole hedge trimmer for residential use.
- Articulating head & long reach: Makes overhead and hard-to-reach trimming safer and faster.
- Compatible with 18V LXT batteries: Fast charging and good runtime with a 5.0Ah battery.
Cons
- Battery not included: You must buy Makita 18V batteries if you don’t already own them.
- Tool only model: Some buyers searching for a kit might prefer a bundled option.
- Blade length: 20" is great for many jobs, but larger commercial hedges might need longer blades or more passes.
Who Should Buy This Product
Consider the Makita XNU01Z if you are a landscaper, rental shop, or homeowner who wants to:
- Buy Makita XNU01Z as a tool only and use your existing Makita 18V LXT batteries.
- Find a cordless pole trimmer with reliable brushless performance for long jobs.
- Prefer a teal hedge trimmer with commercial-grade construction and low maintenance.
- Want a safe, ladder-free option for tall hedges — the articulating head and long reach are key features.
Comparison with Similar Products
When comparing the XNU01Z to other pole trimmers, keep these points in mind:
- Versus gas pole trimmers: The Makita hedge trimmer is lighter, quieter, and requires less maintenance — no mixing gas or oil.
- Versus corded electric pole trimmers: The cordless freedom from the Makita 18V LXT system gives far more mobility; however runtime depends on battery capacity.
- Versus competing cordless models: Makita’s brushless motor and XPT protection make it a strong contender for professionals; check Makita pole hedge trimmer price vs. competitors to find the best deal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the battery included?
No. This is a tool-only model. It is compatible with Makita 18V LXT batteries. If you need a battery, search for Makita 18V LXT 5.0Ah to get close to the advertised 80-minute run time.
Can I replace the blade with other Makita 20" blades?
Yes. The Makita cordless pole trimmer replacement blades 20 inch compatibility is generally good across Makita models — verify the exact part numbers for cross-compatibility.
Where can I buy the XNU01Z?
For trusted online purchase options, check major retailers and online marketplaces. If you’re ready to buy, use the link below to view current availability and Makita XNU01Z deals.
Final Verdict
The Makita XNU01Z is an excellent 18V hedge trimmer choice for those who want the performance of a commercial-grade pole trimmer without the hassle and weight of gas. Its brushless motor, articulating head, and 20" dual-action blade make it a versatile tool for professional landscaping and residential yard work. If your search includes phrases like buy Makita XNU01Z, Makita pole hedge trimmer price, or Makita XNU01Z deals, this model offers strong value — especially if you already own Makita 18V LXT batteries.
Recommendation: If you need a lightweight, powerful, and durable pole trimmer that’s part of a large cordless ecosystem, the Makita XNU01Z is worth serious consideration.