6 Best Alternatives to the Makita XT255R 18V LXT Lithium-Ion (2026)

How alternatives differ from Makita

Makita 18V Brushless 2-Tool Kit

This Makita kit swaps the specialized drywall screwdriver for a standard drill and impact driver setup. It keeps the brushless motor technology but upgrades the battery capacity to 4.0 Ah, doubling the runtime compared to the 2.0 Ah cells in the XT255R. The tools weigh less, making them easier to handle for high-torque professional tasks. You lose the quiet push-drive feature and XPT dust resistance, so this kit is better for general construction than dusty drywall work. Choose this if you need more power and longer battery life for framing or general building tasks.

RIDGID 18V Cordless 1/2 in. Drill Driver Kit

The RIDGID option focuses on a single 1/2-inch chuck drill driver rather than a two-tool combo. It uses the same 18V voltage and 2.0 Ah battery capacity as the Makita, but offers a simpler configuration for basic home maintenance. You give up the second tool and the specialized drywall screwdriver, gaining a more versatile drill for occasional household projects. The orange color and standard chuck size make it a practical entry into cordless tools. Pick this if you only need one reliable drill for DIY tasks and do not require the specialized features of the Makita drywall kit.

Greenworks 24V Brushless 1/2-Inch Drill Driver

Greenworks steps up the voltage to 24V, providing extra power in a compact form factor compared to the 18V Makita. This brushless drill driver includes a work light, adding utility the Makita drywall screwdriver lacks. You trade the two-tool kit for a single drill with higher torque potential, suitable for users who prioritize motor longevity and precise control. The 2.0 Ah battery matches the Makita capacity, but the higher voltage offers different performance characteristics. Choose this if you want a step up in power for compact applications and value the included work light over a second tool.

Milwaukee 18V 1/4-Inch Hex Impact Driver

This Milwaukee impact driver is a bare tool, meaning you must buy batteries separately, unlike the Makita kit which includes a 2.0 Ah battery. It features a 1/4-inch hex chuck, designed for fastening rather than drilling, so it is not a direct replacement for the drill driver role. The 18V voltage matches the Makita system, allowing compatibility if you already own Milwaukee batteries. You gain high-torque fastening capability but lose the ability to drill holes. Pick this if you already have Milwaukee 18V batteries and need a dedicated impact driver for heavy-duty fastening tasks.

CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX 1/2-Inch Cordless Hammer Drill Kit

Craftsman offers 20V MAX power, slightly higher than the 18V Makita, in a kit that includes a hammer drill and work light. This provides more versatility for masonry work and better organization with VERSATRACK compatibility. You gain hammer drilling capability and a light, but the kit focuses on these features rather than a specialized drywall screwdriver. The 2.0 Ah battery matches the Makita capacity. Choose this if you need 20V power for tougher materials and value tool management features over the quiet, dust-resistant operation of the Makita drywall kit.

Milwaukee M18 1/2-Inch Drill Driver Kit

The Milwaukee M18 kit is a single drill driver with a 1/2-inch chuck, offering solid torque and cold-weather durability. It lacks the second tool and the specialized drywall screwdriver found in the Makita combo. The 18V voltage matches the Makita, but the kit is designed for users who prioritize a single, robust drill over a multi-tool set. You gain cold-weather performance but lose the XPT dust resistance and quiet push-drive technology. Pick this if you already own Milwaukee batteries and need a reliable single drill for general use, rather than a specialized drywall installation kit.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Makita 18V LXT Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit

Best for: Drywall installation and framing tasks

Power Source

18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless

Voltage

18V

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Included

Yes (2.0Ah)

Number of Tools

2-Pc. Combo Kit

Included Tools

Drywall screwdriver

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

The Makita XT255R is an 18V LXT cordless 2-piece combo kit featuring a drywall screwdriver with a brushless motor. It includes one 2.0 Ah battery. The XPT system offers dust and water resistance. Push drive technology reduces noise and saves power. This compact kit suits users who need efficient drywall and framing work in harsh conditions.

Pros

• Brushless BL motor runs cooler and more efficiently
• XPT engineering provides increased dust and water resistance
• Push drive technology starts motor only when engaged
• Optimized battery energy use for up to 50% longer run time

Cons

• Includes only one 2.0 Ah battery
• Single tool type limits versatility compared to multi-tool kits
• 2.0 Ah capacity is smaller than standard 4.0 Ah options

Good fit if

• You primarily perform drywall or framing tasks
• You work in dusty or damp environments
• You prefer quiet operation with push drive engagement

Skip if

• You need multiple tool types in one kit
• You require a higher capacity battery for long runs
• You already own compatible 18V LXT batteries

Verdict: Makita XT255R 18V 2-Tool Combo is ideal for drywall installers who value dust resistance and efficient battery use. It fits those who need a specialized, quiet tool for framing applications.

2 Best premium

Makita 18V Brushless 2-Tool Kit

Best for: high-torque professional tasks

Power Source

18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless

Voltage

18V

Maximum Torque

530 in.lbs. (Hammer Driver-Drill)

Chuck Size

1/2 in. (Hammer Driver-Drill)

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Included

Yes (4.0Ah)

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

This Makita 18V LXT combo kit includes a brushless hammer driver-drill and impact driver. The drill delivers 530 in.lbs. of torque with two speed settings. The impact driver provides 1,500 in.lbs. of torque. Both tools run on a 4.0Ah battery. The brushless motors offer efficiency and longer run times. It suits users who need high power in a compact form factor.

Pros

• Brushless motors for extended run time
• 530 in.lbs. max torque on drill
• 1,500 in.lbs. max torque on impact driver
• Includes 4.0Ah battery for longer use

Cons

• Heavier build at 4.2 lbs with battery
• No keyless chuck for quick bit changes
• Single battery capacity compared to higher-end kits

Good fit if

• You need high torque for demanding tasks
• You prefer brushless motor efficiency
• You want a compact 2-tool setup

Skip if

• You require a hammer drill function
• You need a third tool in the kit
• You prefer keyless chuck systems

Verdict: Makita 2-Tool Brushless 18V Kit delivers serious power for pros who value torque over weight. It is the right pick if you prioritize performance and runtime in a standard 2-tool configuration.

3 Best budget

RIDGID 18V Cordless 1/2 in. Drill Driver Kit

Best for: basic home maintenance tasks

Power Source

18V battery

Voltage

18V

Chuck Size

1/2 in.

Battery Included

Yes, 2.0 AH battery and charger

Tool Weight

2.6 pounds

Included Tools

Drill Driver

View on Amazon: RIDGID 18V Cordless 1/2 in. Drill Driver Kit Affiliate link

This RIDGID kit includes an 18V cordless drill driver with a 1/2 inch chuck. It comes with a 2.0 Ah battery and charger. The tool weighs 2.6 pounds. It suits users needing a basic, reliable drill for light to medium tasks. The compact size fits tight spaces. It is a solid entry-level option for homeowners.

Pros

• Includes 18V battery and charger
• 1/2 inch chuck size
• Compact 2.6 pound weight
• Cordless power source

Cons

• Lower 2.0 Ah battery capacity
• Single tool in kit
• Brushed motor technology

Good fit if

• You need a basic drill for home repairs
• You prefer a lightweight tool
• You want a complete starter kit

Skip if

• You require high torque for heavy construction
• You need multiple tools in one box
• You prefer brushless motor efficiency

Verdict: RIDGID 18V Drill Driver Kit offers a simple, affordable entry into cordless tools. It fits DIYers who need a single, reliable drill for occasional household projects.

4 Also great

Greenworks 24V Brushless 1/2-Inch Drill Driver

Best for: Users needing extra power in a compact form

Power Source

24V Cordless

Voltage

24V

Maximum Torque

530 in-lbs

Chuck Size

1/2 in.

Motor Type

Brushless

Number of Tools

1-tool

View on Amazon: Greenworks 24V Brushless 1/2-Inch Drill Driver Affiliate link

This Greenworks kit offers a 24V brushless drill driver with 530 in-lbs of torque and a 1/2-inch keyless metal chuck. The brushless motor provides extended runtime and durability. It includes a 2.0 Ah battery and features a 2-speed gearbox with a 21+1 position clutch for precision. The compact design fits tight spaces, making it a solid alternative to 18V systems for users needing slightly more power.

Pros

• 24V brushless motor for increased power and runtime
• 530 in-lbs of maximum torque
• 1/2-inch keyless ratcheting metal chuck
• 21+1 position clutch for precise control
• Compact and lightweight design at 2.43 pounds

Cons

• Includes only one tool in this specific kit
• Lower torque compared to higher-end 24V or 18V FUEL models
• Battery capacity is 2.0 Ah, which may require swaps for heavy use

Good fit if

• You need more power than 18V tools provide
• You work in tight spaces requiring a compact tool
• You prefer a metal chuck for durability

Skip if

• You require a multi-tool combo kit
• You need high torque for heavy-duty drilling
• You already own a compatible 24V battery system

Verdict: Greenworks 24V Brushless Drill Driver is a practical choice for DIYers who want a step up from 18V power in a compact form factor. It suits users who prioritize motor longevity and precise torque control over having multiple tools in the box.

5 Best impact driver

Milwaukee 18V 1/4-Inch Hex Impact Driver

Best for: users with existing 18V batteries

Power Source

Cordless

Voltage

18V

Maximum Torque

2,000"/lbs

Chuck Size

1/4" Hex

Battery Included

Tool Only

Included Tools

Impact Driver

View on Amazon: Milwaukee 18V 1/4-Inch Hex Impact Driver Affiliate link

The Milwaukee 2953-20 is a bare-tool 18V impact driver designed for fast screwdriving and bolt tightening. It delivers 2,000 in-lbs of torque and reaches 3,900 RPM. The compact 4.47-inch body weighs 2.2 lbs. You get tri-LED lights and a 4-mode drive control for precision. Since it is tool-only, you need compatible 18V batteries.

Pros

• 2,000 in-lbs of maximum torque
• 3,900 RPM speed
• 4-mode drive control
• Tri-LED lights for visibility
• Compact 4.47-inch length

Cons

• Sold as a bare tool with no battery
• No drill/chuck included for drilling holes
• Single handed bit insertion may limit heavy duty use

Good fit if

• You already own Milwaukee 18V batteries
• You need a dedicated impact driver for fasteners
• You want a compact tool for tight spaces

Skip if

• You need a complete kit with batteries and charger
• You require a drill/driver for drilling holes
• You prefer a brushless motor for longer life

Verdict: Milwaukee 2953-20 18V Impact Driver fits users who already have Milwaukee 18V batteries and need a high-torque driver for fastening. It is not a drill. You must buy batteries separately.

6 Best 20v

CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX 1/2-Inch Cordless Hammer Drill Kit

Best for: Users needing 20V power and VERSATRACK compatibility

Power Source

20V MAX cordless

Voltage

20V MAX

Chuck Size

1/2 in.

Battery Included

2 batteries (2 Ah), charger

Speed Settings

2-speed

Tool Weight

2.66 lbs (tool only)

View on Amazon: CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX 1/2-Inch Cordless Hammer Drill Kit Affiliate link

This Craftsman kit delivers 20V MAX power in a 2.66 lb tool. It features a 1/2 in. chuck and a 2-speed transmission reaching 1,700 RPM. You get two 2.0 Ah batteries and a charger. The design includes a bright LED and VERSATRACK compatibility. It suits users needing extra voltage and organization options for general drilling tasks.

Pros

• 20V MAX power rating
• 1/2 in. chuck size
• 2-speed transmission up to 1,700 RPM
• Includes two 2.0 Ah batteries
• VERSATRACK compatible for organization

Cons

• Only includes a hammer drill, no impact driver
• 2.0 Ah battery capacity is lower than some competitors
• No brushless motor mentioned in specifications

Good fit if

• You need 20V MAX voltage for tougher jobs
• You want a lightweight tool under 3 lbs
• You value VERSATRACK organization compatibility

Skip if

• You require an impact driver in the kit
• You prefer brushless motor technology
• You need higher capacity batteries than 2.0 Ah

Verdict: Craftsman 20V MAX Hammer Drill offers solid 20V power and organization features for users prioritizing voltage and tool management over a complete multi-tool kit.

7 Also great

Milwaukee M18 1/2-Inch Drill Driver Kit

Best for: Single drill needs in cold weather

Power Source

M18

Voltage

18V

Maximum Torque

500 in-lbs

Chuck Size

1/2 Inch

Battery Included

1 Battery

Included Tools

Drill Driver

View on Amazon: Milwaukee M18 1/2-Inch Drill Driver Kit Affiliate link

The Milwaukee M18 18V Compact Drill Driver Kit (2606-21CT) delivers 500 in-lbs of torque with a 4-pole frameless motor. It offers two speed ranges: 0-400 and 0-1,800 RPM. The tool weighs 2.9 pounds and includes one Redlithium battery. Redlink Intelligence protects against overload. It operates down to 0 F. This kit suits users needing a single, durable drill for general tasks.

Pros

• 500 in-lbs of maximum torque
• Dual-speed motor up to 1,800 RPM
• Redlink Intelligence overload protection
• Operates down to 0 F

Cons

• Includes only one battery
• Single tool in the kit
• No second speed range for high-torque low-speed work

Good fit if

• You need a single 1/2 in. drill driver
• You work in cold environments down to 0 F
• You prefer a compact 2.9 pound tool

Skip if

• You require a two-tool combo kit
• You need multiple batteries included
• You want a brushless motor upgrade

Verdict: Milwaukee M18 Compact Drill Driver Kit is a solid single-tool option for users who prioritize torque and cold-weather durability over kit size. It fits those who already own batteries or only need one drill.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• makita xvj04z 18v lxt lithium ion alternatives
• makita xbp02z 18v lxt lithium ion alternatives