Can You Use 18v Battery On 40v Makita? Compatibility Explained

Makita has two cordless tool systems: 18V LXT and 40V Max XGT. They are not compatible, but an adapter allows you to charge both batteries with one charger. Makita plans to keep both systems, and it’s uncertain if 18V will get XGT features. If you need tools now, choose based on your needs. Both systems will likely coexist for the next 2-5 years.

Let’s delve into this article to know more about whether you can you use 18v battery on 40v Makita. 

Key Takeaways

• Makita’s 40V XGT and 18V LXT systems aren’t compatible, so no swapping of batteries between them.
• The charger adapter simplifies battery charging for both systems, saving money.
• 40V XGT batteries differ in size and contacts from 18V LXT, preventing compatibility.
• XGT aims for modern cordless tools, but it’s a work in progress.
• Both 18V LXT and 40V XGT systems will coexist, so choose based on your tool needs. 

Makita 40V XGT and 18V Compatibility

Makita has introduced a new line of tools called XGT, which operates on a 40-volt system. 

This is different from their older 18-volt LXT tools, and unfortunately, the two systems are not compatible with each other. In other words, you can’t use 40V XGT batteries on 18V LXT tools, and vice versa.

Makita has made an adapter that allows you to charge both 40V XGT and 18V LXT batteries using the same charger. This can help reduce the number of accessories you need and save you money.

To clarify, the 40V XGT batteries are wider than the 18V LXT batteries, and their terminal contacts are arranged differently. So, they won’t fit on each other’s tools.

Makita’s goal with XGT is to offer a more powerful and modern cordless tool system. They argue that some other brands, like Dewalt and Milwaukee, also require users to buy into multiple systems for different tool categories. 

For example, Dewalt has its 20V Max and FlexVolt systems, while Milwaukee has its M18 and MX Fuel systems.

However, it’s important to note that Makita’s XGT lineup is still in its early stages, with a limited selection of tools available. It might take some time for XGT to become a complete “One System” solution.

If you’re a Makita user, you should be aware that XGT and LXT are separate systems, and you may need to invest in new tools if you want to switch to XGT. But don’t worry, Makita will likely continue to support the 18V LXT system for a while.

Can I Upgrade from Makita 18V LXT?

Makita’s 18V LXT system and the newer 40V Max XGT system are not easily compatible with each other. Unlike Dewalt’s FlexVolt system, where you can use 60V Max batteries with 20V Max tools, Makita doesn’t offer a similar upgrade path. 

Understanding battery compatibility is essential while using cordless tools like Dewalt’s weed eater.

If you’re using Makita’s 18V LXT tools, you can’t simply switch to the 40V Max XGT system without buying all new tools and accessories.

Dewalt made it easier for users to transition to their FlexVolt system from 20V Max, but Makita’s XGT is a separate and distinct system. 

This means if you want to switch to the 40V Max XGT system, you’ll need to replace your existing tools, batteries, and chargers.

Unlike Milwaukee and Bosch, which have maintained compatibility between their higher-powered tools and their standard 18V cordless tools, Makita has chosen to create a completely new system with XGT. 

This means you can’t use your existing 18V LXT tools with XGT batteries or vice versa.

We don’t know yet what the future holds for Makita’s 18V LXT system. Makita will need to show its commitment to supporting both systems and providing value to users. 

In the end, Makita’s decision to create a new cordless platform in XGT was likely driven by the need to offer solutions that weren’t possible with their older 18V system, which may have reached its limits in terms of performance and capabilities.

If you’re considering upgrading from 18V LXT to 40V Max XGT, be aware that not all tools are available in the new system, and you’ll have to invest in a completely new set of tools and accessories. It’s a big decision, so make sure to weigh the benefits and drawbacks carefully.

Will Makita’s 18V and 40V Tool Systems Exist Together?

Makita has two cordless tool systems, 18V LXT and 40V Max XGT. They say both will continue to exist.

XGT is supposed to be a “One System” with a wide range of tools, but we don’t know when they will release cordless table saws, vacuums, or nailers for it. Makita seems to make XGT tools with more advanced features, but 18V LXT tools are cheaper.

In the future, 18V LXT tools might get some of the same features as XGT, or XGT might get more affordable options. 

If you have 18V tools and want XGT features, you’ll need both systems. This means you might need two systems for different types of tools.

For some small tools, XGT might not be the best choice, and 18V LXT might stay around or be replaced by something like the CXT lineup.

Makita could make adapters if they ever decide to stop the 18V LXT system, but right now, they seem to want both systems to exist.

XGT isn’t really a “One System” yet, and it might have to replace a lot of what 18V LXT offers before it becomes one.

What Should Be Your Decision?

Makita’s new XGT launch might leave many users feeling unsure about what to buy. If you’re someone who uses tools for work, and you need tools right away, it’s a bit tricky. 

You should buy tools based on what you need for performance, features, or efficiency, both now and in the near future.

Now, you might wonder if Makita is phasing out their 18V system. Well, it’s possible, but probably not. The 18V LXT system is so big that Makita can’t just switch it off overnight.

Thinking about the next 2-5 years, it seems Makita plans for the 18V and XGT 40V Max systems to coexist. They are likely to keep both systems around.

However, if you’re a new user, it’s hard to decide which system to choose right now. We don’t know how Makita will separate the 18V and XGT systems, and their product plans aren’t clear yet. 

Also, neither of Makita’s systems currently matches up well with what other brands offer.

Bonus: Troubleshooting cordless tools such as Ryobi airstrike is a common concern as it is important to match battery compatibility.

If you need a wide range of tools and you want to go with Makita, be ready to work with two different and incompatible tools and battery systems. This might change in the future, but for now, it’s how it is. 

So, if you’re not in a hurry, don’t make a decision yet. Remember, this year will bring significant advancements in cordless power tool technology.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Closing Words

We hope this answers your query as to whether you can use an 18v battery on a 40v Makita.

Makita plans to keep both systems around, and their full range of tools is still growing for XGT. If you’re new to Makita, it’s best to wait and see how these systems evolve. Your choice should be based on your immediate needs.