Looking Beyond the Makita LXT407 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How these alternatives compare

Makita 18V LXT Compact 2-Tool Combo Kit

The Makita CT225SYX reduces the tool count to two, dropping the reciprocating saw and flashlight found in the LXT407. It includes a 5.0 Ah and a 1.5 Ah battery, whereas the original kit does not list specific amp-hour ratings in the provided data. This kit weighs less and measures 13 inches in length, making it more portable for tight spaces. You gain a lighter, more compact setup for occasional DIY tasks. You lose the versatility of a four-tool system and the utility of a dedicated reciprocating saw. This alternative suits users who prioritize weight and size over a comprehensive tool selection.

Makita 18V LXT Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit

The Makita XT297T features brushless motors, a significant upgrade from the LXT407’s 4-pole motor. Brushless motors typically offer longer runtime and increased durability. This kit includes a 5.0 Ah battery, while the original kit’s battery capacity is not specified in the data. The XT297T weighs 14.9 pounds, which is lighter than the 25-pound LXT407. It contains only two tools, so you give up the reciprocating saw and flashlight. This option is better for contractors who need robust performance and efficiency in tough conditions. It fits users who value motor technology and runtime over having a larger variety of tools in their kit.

Metabo HPT 18V Brushless Drill and Impact Driver Kit

The Metabo HPT KC18DEXQB offers brushless motors, contrasting with the LXT407’s conventional motor. It includes a drill driver and impact driver but lacks the reciprocating saw and flashlight. The dimensions are 6.18 inches by 8.5 inches by 3.35 inches, suggesting a more compact form factor than the larger LXT407 kit. This kit provides high torque in a lightweight package. You sacrifice the four-tool variety and the specific Star Protection computer controls mentioned for the Makita. This alternative is ideal for users who need compact, high-torque brushless tools. It suits those who value motor efficiency and size over a broader range of included accessories.

Makita 18V LXT Sub-Compact Brushless 2-Tool Kit

The Makita CX203SYB Sub-Compact Kit uses brushless motors, improving efficiency over the LXT407’s 4-pole motor. It includes a 5.0 Ah and a 1.5 Ah battery, while the original kit’s battery specs are not detailed in the data. Weighing only 2.9 pounds, it is significantly lighter than the 25-pound LXT407. It contains two tools, so you do not get the reciprocating saw or flashlight. This kit is designed for precision tasks and tight spaces. You gain extreme portability and modern motor technology. You lose the heavy-duty capabilities and tool variety of the four-piece set. This option is best for users prioritizing weight and size for detailed work.

Milwaukee M18 Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit

The Milwaukee 2797-22xc includes a hammer drill, impact driver, and drill driver, providing more drilling capability than the LXT407’s hammer driver-drill. It weighs 11.2 pounds, which is lighter than the 25-pound Makita kit. The Milwaukee kit focuses on robust 18V power and durability. It does not include a reciprocating saw or flashlight. This alternative is suited for heavy-duty masonry and construction tasks. You gain specialized hammer drilling features and a lighter overall weight. You lose the reciprocating saw and the specific Star Protection controls found in the Makita. This kit is ideal for contractors who prioritize durability and hammer drilling over a multi-tool variety.

Milwaukee M18 18V 8-Tool Cordless Combo Kit

The Milwaukee 2696-28 is an eight-tool combo kit, vastly expanding the tool count from the LXT407’s four tools. It weighs 25 pounds, matching the Makita kit’s weight. The Milwaukee kit is designed for professionals managing varied tasks on large job sites. It includes ample battery capacity and storage. You gain a comprehensive solution with diverse tools and high capacity. You lose the compactness and specific tool selection of the Makita kit. This alternative is best for professionals needing eight tools and high capacity. It suits contractors who value storage and runtime over the lighter, more focused four-tool setup of the LXT407.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Makita 18V 4-Piece Combo Kit

Best for: users needing a reciprocating saw and Makita batteries

Number of Tools

4

Voltage

18V

Maximum Torque

1,420 in.lbs.

Chuck Size

1/2 in.

Included Accessories

Flashlight

Power Source

Cordless

View on Amazon: Makita 18V 4-Piece Combo Kit Affiliate link

This Makita 18V LXT kit includes a hammer driver-drill, impact driver, reciprocating saw, and flashlight. The drill offers 480 in.lbs. of torque, while the impact driver delivers 1,420 in.lbs. The saw operates at 0-2,900 SPM. It weighs 25 pounds total. The Star Protection system guards against overload and overheating. It suits users needing a versatile four-tool set for general tasks.

Pros

• Hammer driver-drill features variable 2-speed settings (0-400 & 0-1,500 RPM)
• Impact driver provides 1,420 in.lbs. of max torque
• Reciprocating saw allows tool-less blade changes and shoe adjustments
• Includes a 4-position flashlight with Xenon bulb

Cons

• Drill torque is lower than many brushless competitors
• Kit does not include a battery or charger
• Flashlight uses an older Xenon bulb technology

Good fit if

• You need a reciprocating saw included in your set
• You prefer the Makita 18V LXT battery platform
• You want a compact four-tool combination for light work

Skip if

• You require a brushless motor for maximum efficiency
• You need a kit that includes batteries and a charger
• You are looking for a hammer drill with over 1,000 in.lbs. of torque

Verdict: Makita 18V 4-Piece Combo Kit offers a balanced set with a reciprocating saw and reliable Star Protection controls. It fits users who already own Makita batteries and need a versatile, lightweight four-tool setup for basic home projects.

2 Also great

Makita 18V LXT Compact 2-Tool Combo Kit

Best for: Lightweight, compact tasks

Number of Tools

2

Voltage

18V

Included Tools

1/2 in. driver-drill, impact driver

Battery Capacity

1.5 Ah

Maximum Torque

1,460 in. Lbs.

Chuck Size

1/2 in.

View on Amazon: Makita 18V LXT Compact 2-Tool Combo Kit Affiliate link

This Makita kit includes an 18V driver-drill and an impact driver. The drill offers 480 in. lbs. of torque with two speed settings. The impact driver delivers up to 1,460 in. lbs. of torque. Both tools are compact and weigh under 3.3 lbs. with the battery. It comes with a 1.5 Ah battery. This set suits users who need lightweight, portable tools for basic tasks.

Pros

• Driver-drill provides 480 in. lbs. of max torque
• Impact driver delivers 1,460 in. lbs. of max torque
• Compact design reduces operator fatigue
• Rubberized soft grips for comfort

Cons

• Includes only a 1.5 Ah battery
• Only two tools in the set
• Drill has lower torque than impact driver

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight tool for tight spaces
• You are a beginner looking for essential tools
• You prefer compact tools for reduced fatigue

Skip if

• You require high-capacity batteries for long jobs
• You need more than two tools in one kit
• You need a hammer drill function

Verdict: Makita CT225SYX 18V 2-Tool Combo Kit is a solid choice for DIYers who value portability and comfort. It fits those who work in tight spaces or need lightweight tools for occasional use.

3 Also great

Makita 18V LXT Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit

Best for: Users needing durable 2-tool brushless performance

Number of Tools

2

Voltage

18V

Included Tools

Hammer driver-drill, impact driver

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Capacity

5.0 Ah

Maximum Torque

1,590 in.-lbs.

View on Amazon: Makita 18V LXT Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit Affiliate link

The Makita XT297T is a 2-tool cordless combo kit featuring a brushless hammer driver-drill and impact driver. It includes a 5.0 Ah battery and a Rapid Optimum Charger. The drill offers 1,250 in.lbs. of torque, while the impact driver delivers 1,590 in.lbs. with 4-speed settings. This kit suits users needing durable, efficient tools with XPT dust resistance for varied jobs.

Pros

• Brushless motors provide up to 50% longer run time per charge
• Impact driver features 4-speed power selection for precise control
• XPT technology improves dust and water resistance in harsh conditions
• Rapid Optimum Charger actively controls current and temperature to extend battery life

Cons

• Only includes two tools, limiting versatility for larger projects
• Heavier build at 14.9 pounds for the full kit
• Hammer drill max torque is lower than the impact driver

Good fit if

• You need a reliable 2-tool set for general repairs
• You work in dusty or damp environments requiring XPT protection
• You prefer brushless motors for extended battery efficiency

Skip if

• You require a hammer drill with higher torque than 1,250 in.lbs.
• You need a multi-tool kit with more than two pieces
• You prioritize a lighter total package under 14 pounds

Verdict: Makita XT297T 18V Brushless 2-Tool Kit is a solid choice for contractors who value durability and runtime over a large tool count. It fits users who need robust performance in tough conditions without carrying a bulky 8-tool set.

4 Best budget

Metabo HPT 18V Brushless Drill and Impact Driver Kit

Best for: Users needing compact, high-torque brushless tools

Voltage

18V

Included Tools

driver drill, impact driver

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Capacity

2.0Ah

Battery Included

2 batteries included

Maximum Torque

1,549 in-lbs

View on Amazon: Metabo HPT 18V Brushless Drill and Impact Driver Kit Affiliate link

This Metabo HPT kit pairs a 1/2-inch driver drill with an impact driver. Both tools use brushless motors for efficiency. The drill delivers 620 in-lbs of torque, while the impact driver provides 1,549 in-lbs. You get two 2.0 Ah batteries. The tools weigh under 3 lbs each. This setup suits users needing compact power for general tasks.

Pros

• Brushless motors increase run time and durability
• Impact driver offers 1,549 in-lbs of torque
• Tools weigh under 3 lbs without batteries
• Batteries work with 18V and 18V/36V MultiVolt systems

Cons

• Includes only 2.0 Ah batteries
• Only two tools in the set
• Charger warranty is one year

Good fit if

• You want compact tools for tight spaces
• You need high torque for driving tasks
• You already own MultiVolt batteries

Skip if

• You require more than two tools
• You need higher capacity batteries included
• You prefer a longer warranty period

Verdict: Metabo HPT 18V Brushless Drill and Impact Driver Kit provides solid torque in a lightweight package. It fits users who value compact size and motor efficiency over a larger tool count.

5 Also great

Makita 18V LXT Sub-Compact Brushless 2-Tool Kit

Best for: precision tasks and tight spaces

Number of Tools

2

Voltage

18V

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Capacity

1.5Ah

Maximum Torque

350 in.lbs.

Power Source

Cordless

View on Amazon: Makita 18V LXT Sub-Compact Brushless 2-Tool Kit Affiliate link

The Makita CX203SYB is a sub-compact 2-piece combo kit featuring a brushless motor and 18V power. It delivers 350 in.lbs. of peak torque with a mechanical variable 2-speed transmission. The driver-drill weighs only 2.9 lbs. and measures 5-7/8 inches long. This kit suits users needing a lightweight, ergonomic tool for detailed work or tight spaces. It includes a 1.5Ah battery.

Pros

• Brushless motor delivers 350 in.lbs. of peak torque
• Driver-drill weighs only 2.9 lbs. with battery
• Compact design at 5-7/8 inches long
• Mechanical variable 2-speed transmission for varied applications

Cons

• Small 1.5Ah battery capacity limits runtime
• Only includes 2 tools in the kit
• Lower torque output compared to full-size kits

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight tool for overhead work
• You require a compact driver for tight spaces
• You prefer ergonomic designs to reduce fatigue

Skip if

• You need high torque for heavy-duty drilling
• You want a larger battery for extended runtime
• You require a multi-tool set for various tasks

Verdict: Makita CX203SYB Sub-Compact 2-Pc Kit is ideal for users prioritizing weight and size over raw power. It fits those who need a nimble tool for precision tasks rather than heavy construction.

6 Best hammer drill

Milwaukee M18 Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit

Best for: Heavy-duty masonry and construction tasks

Number of Tools

2

Voltage

18V

Included Tools

Hammer Drill Driver, Impact Driver

Battery Capacity

XC Extended Capacity

Battery Included

2 Batteries and Charger

Chuck Size

1/2 in., 1/4 in. Hex

View on Amazon: Milwaukee M18 Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit Affiliate link

This kit includes an 18V hammer drill/driver and a compact impact driver. It comes with two M18 REDLITHIUM XC extended capacity batteries and a multi-voltage charger. The set weighs 10.9 pounds and fits into a contractor bag. You get a 1/2 inch chuck on the drill and a 1/4 inch hex on the driver. This setup suits users who need durable power tools for heavy-duty tasks.

Pros

• Includes two M18 REDLITHIUM XC extended capacity batteries
• 1/2 inch hammer drill/driver with 1/4 inch hex impact driver
• Comes with M18 and M12 multi-voltage charger
• Packaged in a durable contractor bag

Cons

• Only includes two tools in the kit
• Heavier build at 10.9 pounds compared to sub-compact options
• No brushless motor technology specified in the data

Good fit if

• You need a hammer drill for masonry work
• You want extended battery capacity for longer runtime
• You prefer a rugged contractor bag for transport

Skip if

• You require a 4-piece or larger tool set
• You need brushless motors for maximum efficiency
• You prefer ultra-lightweight sub-compact tools

Verdict: Milwaukee M18 2-Tool Hammer Drill Combo delivers robust 18V power with extended capacity batteries. It is a solid choice for contractors who prioritize durability and hammer drilling capability over tool count.

7 Best premium

Milwaukee M18 18V 8-Tool Cordless Combo Kit

Best for: professionals needing eight tools and high capacity

Number of Tools

8

Voltage

18V

Battery Capacity

Two high-capacity, one compact

Battery Included

3 batteries and charger included

Included Accessories

Charger, 2 tool bags

Power Source

Cordless

View on Amazon: Milwaukee M18 18V 8-Tool Cordless Combo Kit Affiliate link

This Milwaukee M18 8-Tool Combo Kit includes a hammer drill, impact driver, circular saw, angle grinder, reciprocating saw, multi-tool, and work light. It comes with three batteries and two contractor bags. The 18V lithium-ion platform supports diverse tasks. You get two high-capacity batteries and one compact battery for extended runtime. This kit suits users needing a broad range of tools for construction or remodeling projects.

Pros

• Includes eight essential tools for drilling, cutting, and grinding.
• Comes with three batteries: two high-capacity and one compact.
• Includes two heavy-duty contractor bags for organized storage.
• Features a rapid charger to minimize downtime.

Cons

• Larger footprint with dimensions of 24.5 x 14.5 x 12 inches.
• Heavier build at 25 pounds compared to compact kits.
• No brushless motors specified for the included tools.

Good fit if

• You need a wide variety of tools for multiple job types.
• You prefer carrying two large contractor bags for transport.
• You want high-capacity batteries for extended runtime on site.

Skip if

• You require a lightweight kit for overhead or tight-space work.
• You only need a drill and impact driver for basic tasks.
• You prioritize brushless motor efficiency for longer tool life.

Verdict: Milwaukee M18 8-Tool Combo Kit is a comprehensive solution for professionals needing diverse tools and ample battery capacity. It fits contractors managing varied tasks on large job sites who value storage and runtime over compactness.

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See also

• milwaukee 0880 20 18v cordless lithium ion alternatives
• best lithium ion uninterruptible power supplies