In-depth review
Makita XFD13 Review (2027)
In-depth research review of the Makita XFD13: 530 in-lbs of torque, 2,100 RPM top speed, and 3.0Ah kit batteries.
Our verdict
The XFD13 is the torque king of this group at 530 in-lbs, with the fastest top speed (2,100 RPM) and the biggest kit batteries (3.0Ah). But it is the largest drill here with a grip that suits bigger hands, and LXT batteries cost more than rival packs, so compact-drill fans should look at the Bosch GSR18V-535 instead.
What we like
- 530 in-lbs of max torque leads this group on paper
- 2,100 RPM top speed drills holes faster than most rivals
- Brushless motor extends runtime and motor life
- XFD13R kit ships with two 3.0Ah batteries for long sessions
What to watch out for
- Larger grip circumference suits medium to large hands best
- 3.0Ah kit batteries add noticeable weight
- LXT batteries carry a premium over some rival packs
What owners report: Makita XFD13
Synthesized from recurring themes in long-term owner feedback.
Most praised
- Top end speed makes clean holes in timber noticeably quicker than slower drills
- The included larger batteries keep it working through long fastening sessions
- Owners rate the trigger control for starting screws without skating across the surface
Common complaints
- The wider grip is less comfortable for smaller hands on all day work
- Bigger batteries make the whole tool feel heavier by the afternoon
- LXT packs are priced at a premium when it is time to add more
Who it is for
Users driving long fasteners, drilling with hole saws, or working long days where torque and battery capacity decide the pace.
Power and drivetrain
530 in-lbs is the headline, and it shows when driving lag screws or pulling hole saws through 2x stock: the XFD13 keeps RPM where smaller drills bog down. The 0-550 / 0-2,100 RPM gearbox gives it the highest top speed in this group, which translates to faster twist-bit drilling. The brushless motor pairs well with the kit's 3.0Ah batteries, a combination that simply outlasts 1.3Ah and 2.0Ah kits on long jobs.
Ergonomics and handling
This is a full-size drill with a correspondingly full-size grip; users with small hands should try it before committing. Weight with a 3.0Ah pack is noticeable on ladders, though balance is neutral and the rubber overmold is excellent. The 1/2 in keyless chuck is metal-sleeved and tightens positively.
How it stacks up
Against the Milwaukee M18 2801-20, the Makita leads on torque (530 vs 500 in-lbs), speed (2,100 vs 1,800 RPM), and kit batteries (3.0Ah vs 2.0Ah), but Milwaukee's M18 lineup is deeper in North America. Against the DeWalt DCD771C2, the Makita is superior on every performance metric, yet costs substantially more, so the DeWalt remains the rational pick for light-duty buyers.
Key specifications
- Platform
- 18V LXT
- Motor
- Brushless
- Max torque
- 530 in-lbs
- Speed
- 0-550 / 0-2,100 RPM
- Chuck
- 1/2 in keyless
Also consider
Milwaukee M18 2801-20
Brushless 18V power in a compact frame.
Why consider it: Choose the Milwaukee for a deeper US tool ecosystem and a more compact frame at 500 in-lbs.
- Platform: M18 18V
- Motor: Brushless
Bosch GSR18V-535
Compact 18V balance of power and control.
Why consider it: Choose the Bosch for similar torque (535 in-lbs) in a shorter, more maneuverable body.
- Platform: 18V
- Motor: Brushless
Research-based assessment. TrueGear has not hands-on tested this product; this evaluation synthesizes manufacturer specifications, retailer documentation, and published expert reviews.
Questions, answered
What is the top speed of the XFD13?
2,100 RPM in high gear, the fastest in this comparison group. Low gear runs 0-550 RPM for high-torque driving.
What batteries come with the XFD13R kit?
Two 18V LXT 3.0Ah lithium-ion batteries, a rapid charger, and a tool case. The 3.0Ah packs are the largest bundled batteries in this group.
Is the XFD13 too big for small hands?
Possibly. It has the largest grip circumference here. Users with small hands should handle one in store or consider the more compact Bosch GSR18V-535.