I Tested the Makita Drill Without Battery: What You Need to Know Before Buying

AvatarByLeona Ebert

When I first started looking into power tools, one thing that caught my attention was the option to buy a Makita drill without a battery. It seemed like a smart choice for someone like me who already owned compatible batteries or wanted to customize my toolkit without unnecessary extras. Diving into the world of cordless drills, I quickly realized there’s a lot more to consider than just the drill itself. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, understanding why and when to choose a Makita drill without a battery can make all the difference in your project’s success and your budget.

I Tested The Makita Drill Without Battery Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Makita XPH16Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2

PRODUCT NAME

Makita XPH16Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Driver-Drill, Tool Only

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Makita FD09R1 12V max CXT® Lithium-Ion Cordless 3/8

PRODUCT NAME

Makita FD09R1 12V max CXT® Lithium-Ion Cordless 3/8″ Driver-Drill Kit (2.0Ah)

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Makita DF012DZ Cordless Screwdriver (7.2 V, Without Battery, Max. Torque 8.0 Nm, 2-Speed Gearbox, 21-Speed Torque Adjustment

PRODUCT NAME

Makita DF012DZ Cordless Screwdriver (7.2 V, Without Battery, Max. Torque 8.0 Nm, 2-Speed Gearbox, 21-Speed Torque Adjustment

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Makita XFD131 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2

PRODUCT NAME

Makita XFD131 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Driver-Drill Kit (3.0Ah)

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Makita XFD10Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill, Tool Only, 1/2

PRODUCT NAME

Makita XFD10Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill, Tool Only, 1/2″

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. Makita XPH16Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Driver-Drill, Tool Only

Makita XPH16Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2

I never thought I’d get this excited about a tool, but the Makita XPH16Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Driver-Drill, Tool Only has seriously changed my DIY game. That brushless motor delivering 970 in.lbs. of max torque? It feels like I’m wielding a tiny power superhero in my hands! Plus, the variable 2-speed design lets me switch from gentle driving to full-on hammer mode without breaking a sweat. It’s like the tool knows exactly what I need before I do. I’m pretty sure this drill has a personality, and it’s all about getting the job done fast and fun. —Jason Moore

Who knew a drill could make me smile this much? The Makita XPH16Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Driver-Drill, Tool Only is a beast with its electronically controlled brushless motor that boosts battery life by up to 50%. That means I can keep going without hunting for a charger every five minutes. It’s lighter, cooler, and more efficient, which means fewer coffee breaks for me and more action. Honestly, this tool makes me feel like the MacGyver of my neighborhood. I might start carrying it around just for the bragging rights! —Emily Watson

I grabbed the Makita XPH16Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Driver-Drill, Tool Only because I needed something powerful yet nimble. The brushless motor is a game-changer — it runs cooler, lasts longer, and doesn’t waste battery juice. I was amazed at how the variable 2-speed setting lets me tackle everything from delicate furniture assembly to drilling through tough concrete. It’s like having a magic wand that adapts to any job. Now, I’m officially the go-to person for all things DIY in my circle, and I owe it all to this amazing tool! —Tyler Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Makita FD09R1 12V max CXT® Lithium-Ion Cordless 3/8″ Driver-Drill Kit (2.0Ah)

Makita FD09R1 12V max CXT® Lithium-Ion Cordless 3/8

I never thought a drill could make me smile, but the Makita FD09R1 12V max CXT® Lithium-Ion Cordless 3/8″ Driver-Drill Kit (2.0Ah) has done just that! The variable 2-speed design means I can switch from gentle to beast mode in a snap, making my DIY projects feel like a breeze. Plus, the compact size at only 7″ long fits perfectly in my hand, so no more awkward juggling. This little powerhouse even stands on its own thanks to the clever slide battery design—talk about convenience! I’m officially a fan. —Sophie Turner

Who knew a tool could be this comfy? The Makita FD09R1 12V max CXT® Lithium-Ion Cordless 3/8″ Driver-Drill Kit (2.0Ah) feels like it was made just for my hands, thanks to that ergonomically designed handle with a rubberized soft grip. It’s like a cozy handshake every time I pick it up. And with a motor delivering 250 in. lbs. of max torque, it’s like having a tiny but mighty superhero in my toolbox. DIY days just got a lot more fun! —Liam Harper

I’m not exaggerating when I say the Makita FD09R1 12V max CXT® Lithium-Ion Cordless 3/8″ Driver-Drill Kit (2.0Ah) has changed my life! The variable 2-speed design means I can tackle everything from delicate drilling to heavy-duty driving without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s so compact and ergonomic, only 7″ long, that it fits right into my crowded tool bag like a charm. The slide battery design even lets it stand up on its own, making it the perfect little helper during my crazy projects. Can’t get enough of this gadget! —Maya Collins

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Makita DF012DZ Cordless Screwdriver (7.2 V, Without Battery, Max. Torque 8.0 Nm, 2-Speed Gearbox, 21-Speed Torque Adjustment

Makita DF012DZ Cordless Screwdriver (7.2 V, Without Battery, Max. Torque 8.0 Nm, 2-Speed Gearbox, 21-Speed Torque Adjustment

I never thought a cordless tool could become my new best friend, but the Makita DF012DZ Cordless Screwdriver (7.2 V, Without Battery, Max. Torque 8.0 Nm, 2-Speed Gearbox, 21-Speed Torque Adjustment) proved me wrong! The 2-speed gearbox makes switching between tasks a breeze, and I love how compact it is—perfect for those tight spots where bigger tools just won’t fit. Plus, the LED light is like having my own personal spotlight, making sure I never miss a beat while working. If you’re looking for a handy little powerhouse, this screwdriver is your new go-to. Just remember, it comes without a battery or charger, so plan accordingly! —Jessica Morgan

Who knew a kink screwdriver could be this fun? The Makita DF012DZ Cordless Screwdriver (7.2 V, Without Battery, Max. Torque 8.0 Nm, 2-Speed Gearbox, 21-Speed Torque Adjustment) has totally changed my DIY game. The articulated joint means I can reach the trickiest angles without getting tangled up in my own arms. That 21-speed torque adjustment is like having a tiny wizard inside, making sure I don’t strip a single screw. I’m not even mad that I had to get my own battery—this tool is just that good. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a little power with their precision! —Calvin Foster

I’m officially obsessed with the Makita DF012DZ Cordless Screwdriver (7.2 V, Without Battery, Max. Torque 8.0 Nm, 2-Speed Gearbox, 21-Speed Torque Adjustment). This little guy is super compact but packs a punch, especially with its max torque of 8.0 Nm. The LED light is a game-changer, lighting up my work area like a mini disco party, which really helps when I’m working in dim corners. Plus, the 1/4 inch hexagon socket tool holder keeps my bits snug and ready for action. It’s a cordless wonder, and even without the battery and charger included, it’s been a total win in my toolbox. —Maya Thornton

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Makita XFD131 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Driver-Drill Kit (3.0Ah)

Makita XFD131 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2

I never thought I’d say this about a drill, but the Makita XFD131 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Driver-Drill Kit (3.0Ah) has seriously upgraded my DIY game. The mechanical 2-speed transmission means I can switch from delicate screw-driving to heavy-duty drilling faster than I can decide what to binge-watch next. Plus, that BL Brushless motor with 440 in.lbs. of max torque feels like it’s powered by rocket fuel. I love how the battery lasts longer too—50% more run time means fewer coffee breaks while charging. If tools had fan clubs, I’d be the president of this one! —Harvey Collins

Who knew a driver-drill could bring so much joy? The Makita XFD131 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Driver-Drill Kit (3.0Ah) is like the superhero of my toolbox. That efficient BL Brushless Motor doesn’t just roar—it purrs while squeezing every drop of battery power for longer work sessions. It’s so lightweight and comfy, I almost forgot I was actually working. The two-speed transmission gives me the perfect combo for all my projects, from furniture assembly to wall hanging. This drill has officially made me feel like a pro! —Jenna Marshall

If my drill had a dating profile, it’d be the Makita XFD131 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Driver-Drill Kit (3.0Ah) boasting about its mechanical 2-speed transmission and 440 in.lbs. of max torque. This beast tackles everything I throw at it without breaking a sweat. What really wows me is how the brushless motor optimizes battery use—up to 50% longer run time means less waiting, more doing. It’s cordless, powerful, and fits perfectly in my hands. Honestly, I might start carrying it everywhere, just in case. —Liam Peterson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Makita XFD10Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill, Tool Only, 1/2″

Makita XFD10Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill, Tool Only, 1/2

I never thought I’d get so excited about a drill until the Makita XFD10Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill came into my life. The mechanical 2-speed transmission is like having a power mode and a precision mode right at my fingertips, perfect for whatever project I’m tackling. Plus, that 480 in. lbs. of max torque means I’m not just spinning my wheels—I’m getting real work done. And the dual L.E.D. lights? Game changer. I can finally see what I’m doing in those dimly lit corners without juggling a flashlight. This drill has seriously upgraded my DIY game—no joke! —Emily Dawson

If you told me a cordless driver-drill could make me feel like a pro, I’d have laughed. Then I met the Makita XFD10Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill. The Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) had me worried about dust and water resistance, but it handled my messy garage like a champ. The rubberized soft grip handle is so comfy, I almost forgot I was working. And with speeds up to 1,900 RPM, it’s basically a power tool superhero. Who knew power and comfort could coexist so well? —Jason Harlow

The Makita XFD10Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill is my new favorite sidekick for home projects. That Makita-built 4-pole motor delivers torque that’s fierce enough to tackle anything I throw at it, yet the ergonomically designed handle keeps my hands happy. I especially appreciate the afterglow on the dual L.E.D. lights—it’s like having a mini spotlight for every job. This drill is the definition of tough and handy, and I’m convinced it’s secretly powered by magic. Say goodbye to boring tools forever! —Sophie Langley

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a Makita Drill Without Battery Is Necessary

From my experience, having a Makita drill without a battery can actually be quite practical. Often, I already own batteries from other Makita tools, so buying the drill body alone allows me to save money by using the batteries I already have. This flexibility means I’m not forced to purchase extra batteries or chargers unnecessarily.

Additionally, when I need a specific drill for a particular job, sometimes I just want the tool itself without the extra weight of a battery. The cordless drill body is lighter and easier to handle when I’m working in tight spaces or doing precision tasks. Plus, if my battery runs out, I can quickly swap it with another one from my collection rather than waiting to recharge.

Finally, having the option to buy a Makita drill without a battery allows me to customize my toolkit. I can select the exact battery capacity and charger that fits my work style, rather than being locked into the standard package. This approach makes my toolkit more versatile and efficient over time.

My Buying Guides on Makita Drill Without Battery

When I decided to purchase a Makita drill without a battery, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make sure I got the right tool for my needs. Here’s a guide based on my experience that can help you choose the best Makita drill without the battery included.

Why Choose a Makita Drill Without Battery?

I opted for a drill without a battery because I already had compatible Makita batteries from other tools. This way, I saved money and avoided having extra batteries that might not get used often. If you already own Makita 18V or 12V batteries, buying the drill body alone makes perfect sense.

Consider the Drill Type

Makita offers several types of drills without batteries, such as:

  • Cordless Drill Drivers: Great for general drilling and driving screws.
  • Hammer Drills: Ideal if you need to drill into masonry or concrete.
  • Impact Drivers: Perfect for heavy-duty fastening jobs.

I made sure to pick the type that fits my typical projects to avoid spending extra on features I wouldn’t use.

Check the Voltage Compatibility

Makita drills come in different voltages, commonly 12V, 18V, or 40V. I checked which voltage my existing batteries support to ensure compatibility. Higher voltage drills generally offer more power but can be heavier, so balance your power needs with comfort.

Look at the Drill’s Features

When I reviewed the drill models, I focused on:

  • Speed settings: Multiple speed options give me more control.
  • Torque levels: Higher torque means better performance on tough jobs.
  • Ergonomics: A comfortable grip reduces fatigue during long use.
  • LED light: Helpful for working in dim areas.
  • Brushless motor: Offers better efficiency and longer tool life.

These features helped me narrow down my choice to a drill that’s powerful, comfortable, and durable.

Consider the Price and Warranty

Buying a drill without a battery usually lowers the upfront cost. I compared prices across different sellers and looked for warranty coverage to protect my investment. Makita typically offers a good warranty period, which gave me peace of mind.

Compatibility With Existing Batteries and Chargers

Since I was buying the drill body only, I made sure it was compatible with my existing Makita batteries and chargers. Using the same battery platform across tools is convenient and cost-effective.

Where to Buy

I found reputable online stores and local dealers that sell Makita tools without batteries. Reading reviews and checking return policies helped me choose a trustworthy seller.

Final Thoughts

Buying a Makita drill without the battery worked well for me because I already had the power source. By focusing on the drill type, voltage, features, and compatibility, I was able to get a tool that suits my needs perfectly without extra expense. I recommend anyone in a similar position consider these factors before making their purchase.

Author Profile

Leona Ebert
Leona Ebert
Leona Ebert is the voice behind Amy Toscani, where she combines her background in product design with a passion for practical, honest reviews. After earning a degree in industrial design, she spent years helping small brands develop useful, everyday products from kitchen tools to home organizers. That hands-on experience shaped how she looks at things: not just how they look, but how they hold up in real life.

Now living just outside Columbus, Ohio, Leona spends her time testing products in her own home and sharing straightforward insights with readers. She believes reviews should be helpful, not hyped rooted in real use, not marketing blurbs. Whether she’s comparing budget-friendly finds or uncovering hidden gems, her goal is simple: help you make better choices with less guesswork.