Makita XT704 18V LXT Combo Kit Review: A Pro-Grade Cordless Workhorse
Introduction
The Makita XT704 18V LXT Combo Kit is a 7-piece cordless tool kit that targets professionals, remodelers, and heavy-duty DIYers who want reliable tools without piecing them together one at a time. It includes a versatile mix of drills, saws, and lights—all running on Makita’s 18V LXT battery platform, known for its durability and performance.But with a price tag near $500, is it really worth it? Here’s the real story.
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Section 1: What’s in the Box?
The XT704 includes:
1.1/2” Hammer Drill/Driver (XPH10Z)
2.1/4” Impact Driver (XDT11Z)
3.6.5” Circular Saw (XSS02Z)
4.Reciprocating Saw (XRJ04Z)
5.Cut-Off/Angle Grinder (XAG04Z)
6.LED Flashlight (DML185)
7.Cordless Vacuum (XLC02ZB)
8.2 x 18V LXT 3.0Ah Batteries
9.Rapid Charger
10.Contractor Tool Bag
All tools are compatible with Makita’s entire 18V LXT battery system—no off-brand or oddball chargers here.
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Section 2: Build Quality and ErgonomicsThis is where Makita earns its reputation.
•Rugged housings with rubberized grips
•Lightweight and balanced tools
•Built for jobsite use—not weekend toys
Tools feel premium in hand. No loose parts, no rattles, no shortcut designs.
Durability Score: 9/10
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Section 3: Performance Breakdown
1. Hammer Drill (XPH10Z)
•480 in-lbs torque
•Two-speed gearbox (0-600 / 0-1,900 RPM)
•Hammer mode for concrete and masonry
•Compact, but strong enough for light-duty pro work
Verdict: Ideal for wood, drywall, and concrete anchors—not a rotary hammer, but solid.
2. Impact Driver (XDT11Z)
•1,460 in-lbs torque
•2,900 RPM / 3,500 IPM
•Great for lag bolts, screws, decking, framing
Verdict: Surprisingly powerful—more than enough for most users.
3. Circular Saw (XSS02Z)
•6.5” blade with 3,700 RPM
•Cuts 2x lumber at 45° in one pass
•Lightweight magnesium components
Verdict: Strong performer for cordless; not quite corded saw power, but good for framing and rip cuts.
4. Reciprocating Saw (XRJ04Z)•0–2,800 SPM, 1-1/4” stroke
•Tool-less blade changes
•Variable speed trigger
Verdict: Tough enough for demolition, pruning, and pipe work. Well-balanced.
5. Angle Grinder (XAG04Z)
•4.5” disc
•Paddle switch, automatic speed change
•Brushless motor (nice bonus)
Verdict: A standout tool in the kit—can handle metal cutting, tile, rebar, and grinding.
6. Flashlight (DML185)
•Basic but useful
•Rotating head, long battery life
Verdict: Handy for work in crawlspaces or dim corners—not a floodlight, but it works.
7. Cordless Vacuum (XLC02ZB)
•Compact, bagless
•More of a dustbuster than a shop vac
Verdict: Fine for drywall dust or cleaning up wood shavings—not built for heavy debris.
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Section 4: Batteries and Charging
•Comes with two 3.0Ah batteries
•Rapid charger brings a full charge in ~30 minutes
•Compatible with all 18V LXT tools (200+ products)
If you’re working all day, consider a third battery or a 5.0Ah upgrade. Runtime is solid, but you’ll burn through juice on saws and the grinder.
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Section 5: Portability and Storage
The included contractor bag fits all the tools, though it’s heavy once packed. No hard case, but the soft bag is well-built and has room for bits and accessories.
Total weight with tools and batteries: ~35–40 lbs.
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Section 6: Pros and ConsPros:
•High-quality tools across the board
•Strong performance, even on heavy tasks
•Interchangeable batteries across the LXT system
•Excellent charger and battery life
•Grinder and saws are real standouts
•Great value for serious users
Cons:
•No brushless drill or impact driver (these are brushed)
•Heavy if carrying the full kit
•No hard case or modular storage system
•Vacuum is more of a bonus than a workhorse
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Section 7: Best Use Cases
Ideal For:
•Contractors and jobsite workers
•DIYers upgrading to pro-level gear
•Framing, light demo, deck building
•Home improvement with cordless freedom
Not Ideal For:
•Occasional users who only need one or two tools
•Ultra-compact or lightweight needs (look at Makita CXT)
•Someone who wants brushless tools across the board
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Conclusion: Final Verdict
The Makita XT704 Combo Kit is a powerful, professional-grade toolkit that covers everything from drilling to grinding to cutting—and does it with reliability and quality. It’s not the cheapest set, and the drill/impact driver aren’t brushless, but what you get is legit: 7 tools you’ll actually use, and performance that holds up day after day.
If you’re looking for a no-BS cordless kit that can handle real work, this is one of the best values in the pro market.
Final Score: 9.1/10