Makita
Makita XPH14 18V LXT Hammer Drill
The XPH14 is Makita's flagship 18V LXT hammer driver-drill, released in 2021 as the XPH07's successor with 1,250 in-lbs of max torque in a body 14% shorter (7.0 in). It runs a 2-speed all-metal transmission (0-550/0-2,100 RPM, up to 31,500 BPM) with an all-metal self-ratcheting 1/2 in chuck. It remains the torque king of the LXT drill lineup, though it predates the newer 40V XGT models.
Specifications
Features
Pros
- ✓Delivers 1,250 in-lbs of max torque - the most in Makita's 18V LXT drill lineup and enough for large self-feed bits, hole saws, and lag work.
- ✓The 7.0 in head is 14% shorter than the XPH07 it replaced, making it unusually compact for a flagship-torque drill.
- ✓ToolGuyd commenters consistently praise Makita's build quality, calling out the Japan-made chuck engineering as superior to Milwaukee's.
- ✓The all-metal 2-speed gearbox and self-ratcheting chuck grip bits strongly, and owners report minimal slippage under load.
- ✓Home Depot buyers rate it 4.6/5, repeatedly praising its power, balance, and excellent battery life on 5.0Ah packs.
- ✓One owner summed up common sentiment: 'You won't find a better drill for the price - lots of power, small and compact, and just well balanced.'
- ✓It runs on Makita's enormous 18V LXT ecosystem (280+ tools), so batteries and chargers are cheap and probably already in your shop.
- ✓At roughly $175 bare it undercuts the street prices of DeWalt's and Milwaukee's flagship hammer drills.
Cons
- ✗No anti-kickback protection - ToolGuyd and multiple readers flagged this as a significant omission at 1,250 in-lbs, and bind-ups can wrench your wrist hard.
- ✗Heavy in the hand at 6.0 lbs with a 5.0Ah battery; ToolGuyd noted it weighs far more than Milwaukee's flagship for only slightly more torque.
- ✗Only a 2-speed transmission with a 550 RPM low gear - no middle gear, unlike DeWalt's 3-speed flagship or Makita's own newer GPH03.
- ✗Its 2021-era torque crown has been eclipsed - the Milwaukee 2904 (1,400 in-lbs) and Makita's XGT models now out-spec it.
- ✗A Home Depot reviewer raised durability concerns about the handle after jobsite use.
- ✗ToolGuyd's launch coverage advised buyers to wait, arguing the value proposition was weak versus lighter competitors at similar kit pricing ($319 vs $299).
- ✗The bare tool includes only the side grip handle - no belt clip or bit holder in the box.
- ✗No smart features at all - no kickback-sensing electronics, no tracking chip, and no app connectivity that DeWalt and Milwaukee flagships offer.
Common Questions
Does the XPH14 have kickback protection?
Which batteries does it take?
Is it strong enough for self-feed bits and hole saws?
Why do people say to buy it bare instead of as a kit?
How does it feel in the hand compared to rivals?
Compare the Makita XPH14 18V LXT Hammer Drill
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