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 high-quality cordless pole trimmer for professional or serious residential use, the Makita XNU01Z is worth a close look. This 20 inch pole hedge trimmer is part of Makita’s 18V LXT system and combines a brushless motor, articulating head, and lightweight design to tackle tall hedges and overhead trimming with less fatigue. Below you’ll find an honest, detailed review that covers features, performance, pros and cons, and where to order the Makita XNU01Z pole trimmer.
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What is this product?
The Makita XNU01Z is a tool only pole trimmer in Makita’s 18V LXT family. It’s a brushless pole hedge trimmer with a 20″ dual action blade and an articulating head that provides multiple angle settings for overhead and low-lying hedges. As a teal Makita articulating hedge trimmer tool only model, batteries and charger are sold separately, which lets owners choose compatible Makita batteries like the 18V LXT 5.0Ah for longer run time.
Key Features
- No gas, emissions, oil mixing or pull starts — cleaner and easier to maintain than gas models.
- Weighs up to 35% less than gas models — ideal for long trimming sessions and overhead work.
- 6 angle settings for efficient trimming of overhead and low-lying hedges; offers a 115° working range.
- 20″ dual action double-sided shear blade for optimal performance on branches and hedgerows.
- Up to 80 minutes of run time with an 18V LXT 5.0Ah battery (battery not included).
- Power source type: Battery Powered (18V LXT, star-protected battery recommended).
Quick Specs
- Model: Makita XNU01Z (tool only)
- Blade length: 20″ dual-action
- Motor: BL Brushless, up to 4,400 SPM
- Speeds: 3 (2,000 / 3,600 / 4,400 SPM)
- Articulation: 6 positions, 115° range
Detailed Description
Makita is expanding its cordless outdoor line with the Makita XNU01Z, an 18V LXT hedge trimmer built for both pros and homeowners seeking a powerful cordless pole trimmer. The brushless motor delivers up to 4,400 strokes per minute for faster cutting, and the commercial-duty gear case enhances durability for daily use. Makita’s Star Protection Computer Controls communicate between the battery and tool to protect against overloading, over-discharging, and overheating.
The articulating head with six angle settings provides a 115-degree working range, making it a practical 20 inch articulating pole hedge trimmer for tall hedges and for delicate overhead shaping. With the right 18V LXT battery (sold separately), you can expect up to 80 minutes of runtime — a solid runtime for a lightweight brushless cordless pole trimmer for overhead trimming. Makita’s XPT sealing improves performance in dusty or damp conditions, and because it’s battery-powered you get quieter operation compared with gas hedge trimmers — ideal as a quiet brushless pole hedge trimmer for residential use.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Lightweight vs gas: Easier to handle for extended periods and overhead work.
- Articulating head: Six angle positions for versatility (overhead and low hedges).
- Brushless efficiency: Better runtime and lower maintenance than brushed motors.
- Dual-action blade: Cleaner cuts and reduced vibration.
- Part of 18V LXT system: Compatible with many Makita batteries and chargers.
Cons
- Battery not included: This is a tool only pole trimmer, so budget for a Makita 18V LXT battery and charger.
- Price: Higher upfront cost than some consumer entry-level cordless trimmers — check Makita XNU01Z price for deals.
- Reach: Not telescoping — if you need extended reach you may prefer a telescoping pole hedge trimmer; check Makita compatible batteries and extensions.
Who Should Buy This Product
The Makita XNU01Z is a great option for:
- Landscapers and pros who want the convenience of the Makita LXT hedge trimmer ecosystem.
- Homeowners with tall hedges needing a 20 inch articulating pole hedge trimmer for tall hedges.
- Anyone searching for the best cordless pole trimmer to buy that balances power, run time, and weight.
- Buyers who want a teal Makita articulating hedge trimmer tool only to pair with existing Makita 18V batteries.
Comparison with Similar Products
Compared to gas-powered pole trimmers, the Makita pole hedge trimmer is quieter, lighter, and lower maintenance. Against other battery-powered models, the Makita XNU01Z stands out for its:
- Brushless motor and 3-speed control — more power and efficiency than many basic cordless options.
- Articulating head with 115° range — better flexibility than fixed-head models.
- Part of a large battery ecosystem — if you already own Makita 18V LXT batteries, this is a compelling upgrade.
If you need a telescoping pole hedge trimmer Makita compatible batteries solution, consider other Makita models with extension capability; otherwise the XNU01Z offers superior cutting performance and balance for most trimming jobs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Makita XNU01Z sold with a battery?
No — the Makita XNU01Z is a tool only pole trimmer. Search for an 18V LXT battery not included pole hedge trimmer tool only if you want to use your existing Makita battery. For best run time, pair with a 5.0Ah LXT battery.
How long does the battery last?
Makita states up to 80 minutes of runtime with an 18V LXT 5.0Ah battery under moderate use. Actual runtime varies with cutting conditions and speed setting.
Can I buy the Makita XNU01Z online?
Yes — you can order Makita 18V LXT pole trimmer online and find Makita pole trimmer for sale on major retailers like Amazon. Check current Makita XNU01Z price and availability with the link below.
Final Verdict
The Makita XNU01Z is a versatile, well-built cordless articulating pole trimmer ideal for both pros and serious homeowners. With a powerful brushless motor, 20″ dual-action blade, and six-angle articulation, it performs well for overhead and tall hedge trimming while remaining lighter and quieter than gas alternatives. If you’re looking to buy Makita XNU01Z pole trimmer or want a reliable Makita pole trimmer for sale listing to compare prices, this tool is a strong contender — just remember it’s a Makita hedge trimmer tool only for sale so you’ll need to add an 18V LXT battery if you don’t already own one.
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