Product Review: Makita XCU11Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 14" Chain Saw, Tool Only
Introduction
Makita XCU11Z is one of the most talked-about cordless brushless chainsaws in the 18V LXT lineup. If you want a lightweight cordless chainsaw for yard work 14 inch or a reliable Makita 14 inch chainsaw for pruning, limbing, and small firewood tasks, this model deserves a close look. In this review I’ll cover real-world performance, features, pros and cons, and where to buy — including tips if you want to buy Makita XCU11Z or compare pricing for the best deal.
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What is this product?
Overview
The Makita XCU11Z is an 18V LXT cordless brushless chainsaw offered as a tool only unit (battery and charger sold separately). It features a 14" guide bar and a Makita-built brushless motor that delivers high torque and up to 1,520 FPM chain speed. This Makita cordless chainsaw is designed to provide a close-to-gas experience with zero emissions, lower noise, and reduced maintenance.
Key Features
- No gas, emissions, oil mixing or pull starts — makes it a cleaner alternative to gas models.
- High performance with low noise levels — brushless motor efficiency for demanding tasks.
- Compact body rear handle design for easy maneuverability and better balance.
- Makita-built brushless motor delivers high power and increased torque.
- High torque (1,520 FPM) powers through demanding applications with a 14" bar.
Detailed Description
Landscapers and contractors are increasingly choosing cordless tools, and the Makita XCU11Z 14 inch cordless brushless chainsaw tool only is built to answer that demand. Powered by a single 18V LXT battery (sold separately), the brushless motor offers remarkable efficiency. Makita states that with an 18V LXT 4.0Ah battery the XCU11Z can deliver up to 73 cuts in 4×4 cedar, which is impressive for a 14 inch cordless chainsaw running on one battery.
The saw removes many maintenance headaches of gas models — there’s no engine oil to change, no spark plug to replace, and no air filter or muffler to clean. Start-up is as simple as attaching an 18V LXT battery and pulling the trigger. Convenience features include tool-less chain adjustments, an electric brake, a large oil filling port with a viewing window, and a rubberized soft grip top handle for more even cutting pressure. The compact rear-handle design makes this a strong option for pruning, limbing, and lighter cutting jobs.
For those shopping for a Makita tool only chainsaw or seeking the Makita XCU11Z price, remember this is a bare tool. If you already have Makita 18V LXT batteries in your collection, this becomes a cost-effective upgrade to get into cordless outdoor power equipment.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Zero emissions — cleaner work, suitable for neighborhoods and enclosed spaces.
- Low noise — less disruptive than gas saws.
- Lightweight and compact — great for pruning, limbing and yard work.
- Brushless motor for longer life and efficient power delivery.
- Tool-less chain tensioning for quick field adjustments.
Cons
- Battery not included — this is a Makita bare tool 14 inch chainsaw battery not included, so you’ll need at least one 18V LXT battery and charger.
- Not for heavy-duty felling — better suited to homeowners, landscapers, and light contractors than full-time timber work.
- Runtime depends on battery capacity — you may need spare batteries for extended jobs.
Who Should Buy This Product
If you want a cordless brushless chainsaw that is easy to start, low maintenance, and sufficiently powerful for firewood and yard tasks, the Makita XCU11Z is an excellent pick. Ideal buyers include:
- Homeowners who want the best 14 inch cordless chainsaw for firewood without the hassle of gas maintenance.
- Landscapers and arborists needing a compact, low-vibration tool for pruning and limbing.
- Anyone who already owns Makita 18V LXT batteries and wants to buy Makita 14 inch chainsaw as a Makita chainsaw tool only buy.
Comparison with Similar Products
Compared to other 18V LXT chainsaw options, the XCU11Z stands out for its balance of power and portability. Full-size battery systems (36V/40V) may edge it out on pure cutting speed or runtime, but they also add weight and cost. Against other 14" cordless saws, Makita’s brushless motor and tool-less adjustments make it competitive. If you want heavier cutting, consider stepping up to larger battery platforms; if you want a compact brushless chainsaw for pruning and limbing, this Makita model is a top contender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Makita XCU11Z sold with a battery?
No — this is a Makita tool only chainsaw. Batteries and chargers are sold separately. Look for Makita 18V LXT batteries (4.0Ah or higher) for the best balance of power and runtime.
Can this saw replace a gas chainsaw?
For many homeowners and landscapers, yes. The XCU11Z delivers near-gas performance for light to medium tasks, with the benefits of lower noise and zero emissions. Heavy, continuous felling may still be better served by gas or higher-voltage battery systems.
Where to buy Makita chainsaw and find the best price?
You can buy Makita XCU11Z from authorized retailers. For competitive Makita XCU11Z price and deals, check Amazon or your local tool dealer. If you want to buy Makita 14 inch chainsaw during promotions, bookmark product pages and compare seller ratings.
Final Verdict Best Gas Chainsaw
The Makita XCU11Z is a thoughtfully engineered Makita LXT cordless chainsaw that delivers the convenience of battery power without sacrificing cutting performance for most residential and light commercial uses. If you’re in the market to buy Makita XCU11Z or are searching for the Makita cordless chainsaw sale that balances power, portability, and low maintenance, this 14" brushless Makita chainsaw is worth serious consideration.
Internal resources: Best Cordless Chainsaws