Best Makita Lawn Mowers | Updated for 2024

Makita Lawn Mowers Buying Guide

Are you tired of spending countless hours pushing a heavy, inefficient lawn mower around your yard? As a seasoned product review blogger, I’m here to bring you the ultimate list of the “Best Makita Lawn Mowers” that will transform your yard maintenance routine.

Makita is known for making power tools, and their lineup of cordless electric lawn mowers lives up to this reputation. Makita offers a wide selection of battery-powered mowers in walk-behind push, self-propelled, and even robotic models.

So, whether you have a sprawling garden or a cozy backyard, it’s time to level up your mowing game. Explore the complete list of the best Makita lawnmowers and choose the perfect one that suits your needs. Your dream lawn awaits – let’s make it a reality together.

If you’re anything like me, maintaining a perfectly manicured lawn is a top priority. That’s why I’ve scoured the market, conducted extensive tests, and compiled a list of the absolute best Makita lawn mowers out there.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardening guru or an aspiring lawn aficionado, finding the perfect mower is just one click away. Your yard deserves the best, and trust me, these top-notch Makita machines won’t disappoint.

This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know when choosing the best Makita lawn mower for your needs. We’ll look at the key features of Makita mowers, the different models available, how to choose the right one for your yard, and what current owners are saying about these innovative cordless mowers.

Makita XML08PT1 18V X2 (36V) Self Propelled Lawn Mower

LXT Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless 21″ Kit with 4 Batteries (5.0Ah)

71LpGc3zP3L. AC SL1500

We included the Makita XML08PT1 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 21″ Self Propelled Lawn Mower Kit with 4 Batteries as the second product on our list because it offers powerful performance and incredible convenience.

With its self-propelled feature and variable speed control, this mower allows you to effortlessly maneuver and adjust the cutting speed according to your preferences.

There is no doubt that this mower is unique because of its impressive battery system. It comes with four 18V LXT batteries, providing you with double the run time compared to other models.

If you need even more power, you can easily insert two additional batteries for extended mowing time. With this advanced battery technology, you can confidently tackle up to 1/2 acre of land without worrying about running out of charge.

Plus, for a limited time, you will receive two additional batteries for free, making this a fantastic deal. Overall, the Makita XML08PT1 18V X2 LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Lawn Mower Kit offers exceptional performance and convenience, making it a smart choice for any homeowner.

Pros

  • Self propelled with variable speed for easy maneuverability.
  • 4 Bay battery system provides extended run time.
  • Includes 4 batteries for added convenience and value.
  • Can mow up to 1/2 acre with 4 5.0Ah batteries.
  • Powered by 2 18V LXT batteries for efficient performance.

Cons

  • Expensive compared to other cordless lawn mowers.
  • Self-propelled feature may be too fast or too slow for some users.
  • Requires multiple batteries for optimum performance.
  • May struggle with thick or overgrown grass.
  • Limited availability of compatible Makita batteries.

Makita XML07PT1 36V (18V X2) LXT Commercial Lawn Mower Kit

Brushless 21″  with 4 Batteries (5.0Ah)
71JDum77PSL. AC SL1500

After extensive research and testing, we are thrilled to introduce the Makita XML07PT1 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless 21″ Commercial Lawn Mower Kit with 4 Batteries (5.0Ah) in our list of top-rated lawn mowers. This mower ticks all the right boxes when it comes to power, convenience, and durability.

One of the standout features of this machine is its battery-powered operation. Say goodbye to the hassle of gas, emissions, oil mixing, and pull starts.

With this Makita mower, all you need to do is charge the batteries and you’re ready to go. This not only reduces maintenance but also keeps noise levels to a minimum, making it perfect for early morning or late evening mowing sessions.

Another impressive feature is the 4-bay battery system. Equipped with (2) 18V LXT batteries, this mower already offers exceptional run time. But what sets it apart is the option to insert (2) additional batteries for extended run time. This means you can power through even the largest lawns without interruption.

The commercial-grade steel deck adds to the mower’s overall durability. It can withstand the rigors of regular use without showing signs of wear and tear. Additionally, the 3-in-1 design allows for versatile functionality. Whether you prefer mulching, bagging, or side discharge, this mower has got you covered.

Aside from its benefits over other brushless lawn mowers, the Makita XML07PT1 36V (18V X2) LXT® Brushless 21″ Commercial Lawn Mower Kit with 4 Batteries (5.0Ah) is a game-changer in the world of lawn mowing.

Its powerful performance, easy maintenance, and convenient features make it a reliable choice for homeowners and professionals alike. So, if you’re in the market for a top-notch mower, look no further.

Pros

  • No gas, emissions, or oil mixing for eco-friendly operation.
  • Reduced maintenance and low noise levels for convenience.
  • 4-bay battery system for longer run time.
  • Commercial-grade steel deck for durability.
  • 3-in-1 design allows for mulching, bagging, or side discharge.

Cons

  • Expensive compared to gas-powered lawn mowers
  • Heavy and may require extra effort to maneuver
  • Limited battery life for larger lawns
  • Replacement batteries can be costly
  • May not be suitable for extremely thick or overgrown grass

Makita XML05Z 36V Residential Lawn Mower

(18V X2) LXT 17″ Tool Only

51r5ZtMMRKL. AC SL1000

We recently had the opportunity to test out the Makita XML05Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® 17″ Residential Lawn Mower, and we were thoroughly impressed with its performance.

One of the standout features of this mower is its battery-powered operation. With no need for gas, emissions, oil mixing, or pull starts, it offers a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional gas-powered mowers.

The powerful motor of the Makita XML05Z delivers an impressive 3,600 RPM, allowing for faster and more efficient cutting. We found that this speed is particularly helpful when tackling larger lawns, as it significantly reduces the time and effort required to get the job done.

The ergonomic plastic deck of the mower weighs less than comparable models, resulting in reduced required push force. This made maneuvering the mower around obstacles and tight corners a breeze.

In terms of design, the compact 18″ deck of the Makita XML05Z is perfect for those who value detailed landscaping. Whether you’re trimming around trees, flowerbeds, or other landscaping features, the smaller deck size offers greater maneuverability and precision.

The 17″ cutting width is also worth mentioning, as it provided optimum performance in terms of coverage and efficiency.

Overall, we consider the Makita XML05Z 36V (18V X2) LXT® 17″ Residential Lawn Mower to be a standout option for homeowners seeking a powerful and environmentally friendly lawn mower.

With its impressive motor speed, ergonomic design, and compact size, it delivers excellent performance and ease of use. Whether you have a small or large yard, this mower is sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

Pros

  • No gas, emissions, oil mixing, or pull starts.
  • The powerful motor delivers 3,600 RPM for faster cutting.
  • Ergonomic plastic deck weighs less for reduced required push force.
  • Compact 18″ deck ideal for detailed landscaping.
  • 17″ cutting width for optimum performance.

Cons

  • Only tool, no battery or charger included
  • A deck made of plastic, may not be as durable
  • Limited cutting width compared to other models
  • May be heavier to push than gas-powered mowers
  • Expensive compared to other residential lawn mowers
Things to Consider When Choosing the Makita Lawn Mower
Selecting the right lawn mower is an important and difficult task, as it can greatly impact your budget and overall satisfaction with the product. Choosing a high-quality lawn mower that meets your needs will ensure that you can maintain a beautiful and healthy lawn without having to spend a fortune on repairs and maintenance.
Key factors when choosing a Makita mower are lawn size, cutting width needed, battery voltage for runtime, push vs. self-propelled drive, special features like cruise control or quiet mode, and budget.

Try mowers in person and buy extra batteries for uninterrupted mowing over 1 hour. Makita’s cordless mower engineering provides battery-powered performance on par with gas models.

Here are the key factors to weigh when choosing the best Makita mower for your specific lawn:

Types of Makita Lawn Mowers

Makita offers a wide range of battery-powered and corded electric walk-behind lawn mowers for residential and commercial use.

Key types include 18V and 36V (18V X2) brushless motor cordless mowers in both push and self-propelled configurations. Higher-end 40V Max XGT models deliver extreme power for heavy duty commercial use.

Makita also makes corded electric mowers that provide unlimited runtime when plugged in. Across models, deck sizes range from 17″ to 21″ for cutting capacities up to 3/4 acre. All Makita mowers are engineered for performance, efficiency, and ease of use with innovative features.

Makita makes corded electric, battery-powered, and robotic lawn mowers in both push and self-propelled configurations.

Cordless/Battery Powered

Makita’s cordless lawn mowers utilize 18V or 36V Lithium-Ion battery power for high performance with lower noise, zero emissions, and less maintenance than gas models. Efficient brushless motors and rapid optimum chargers give cordless Makita mowers extended runtimes of up to 90 minutes on larger batteries.

Convenient features include variable speed triggers, quick fold handles, and 3-in-1 cutting options. With deck sizes from 17″ to 21″, Makita’s expanding cordless mower lineup handles small urban plots up to large 1+ acre estates.

The majority of Makita’s mowers run on 18V or 36V Lithium-Ion battery power. This makes them lightweight, quiet, and easy to maintain compared to gas mowers.

Makita offers:

  • 18V mowers – Use one or two 18V LXT batteries for smaller lawns up to 1/4 acre.
  • 36V (18V X2) mowers – Use two 18V batteries together for longer runtime on larger lawns up to 1 acre.
  • 40V max XGT mowers – Makita’s most powerful battery system, ideal for commercial use.

Push vs. Self-Propelled

In both push and self-propelled configurations, Makita’s battery-powered mowers deliver efficient cordless cutting. Push models excel for maneuverability and value for smaller yards. Self-propelled Makita mowers feature variable speed rear-wheel drive to power the mower forward, making mowing large, flat lawns simple.

Choose push for affordability and maneuverability or self-propelled to save effort on bigger lawns. Both offer Makita’s innovative cordless mower engineering.

Makita has both push mowers where you provide all the propulsion by pushing, as well as self-propelled models that use the mower’s motor to help drive the wheels.

Self-propelled mowers are easier for mowing large, flat lawns since they help move the mower along. Push mowers are good for smaller yards or where maneuverability is key.

Robotic Lawn Mower

Makita offers one robotic lawn mower model called the Landroid. This automated mower roams freely around your yard cutting grass independently once boundary wires are laid. Just schedule mowing times and the Landroid operates unattended.

Ideal for yards up to 1/4 acre, the Landroid delivers hands-free grass cutting with adjustable cutting heights from 1.2″ to 2.4″. It runs for 60-90 minutes per charge.

Makita makes one robotic lawn mower model – the Landroid. This fully automated mower roams freely around your yard cutting grass on its own. Just set the boundary wire and schedule and it runs unattended.

Lawn Size

Consider the size of your yard and typical grass length to determine the deck width and power required. More cutting power is needed for larger lawns with thicker grass.

  • 17-18″ decks best for small yards up to 1/4 acre
  • 21″ deck better for lawns up to 1 acre
  • Self-propelled models easiest for large, flat lawns

Battery System

The 18V single battery mowers provide up to 45 minutes of runtime and can work for small yards. But for longer mowing, the 18V X2 or 40V Max models with more battery capacity are recommended.

Cutting Options

Many Makita mowers offer 3-in-1 cutting with rear bagging, side discharge, or mulching capability. Mulching kits are available on some models to convert to mulch mowing.

The cutting width relates to the width of grass each pass can cut. A wider cutting width means less time and effort spent mowing. Choose a Makita lawn mower with a cutting width that matches the size of your lawn to maximize efficiency.

Terrain Type

For flat, even lawns, a self-propelled Makita mower takes less effort to operate. Push mowers are good for yards with hills or tight spaces requiring maneuverability.

Special Features

Higher-end Makita mowers add features like variable speed triggers, cruise control to maintain a constant speed, and brushless motors for efficiency. Consider useful add-ons based on your needs.

Budget

Makita mowers range from $350 for a basic 18V push mower up to $700+ for a self-propelled 40V Max commercial model. Extra batteries add to the cost.

Height Adjustment

Look for a Makita lawn mower that offers multiple height adjustment options. This ensures that you can easily match the cutting height to the type of grass you have, promoting healthy growth and an even finish.

Self-propelled or Push

If you have a larger yard or struggle with physical limitations, a self-propelled Makita lawn mower may be a better option. It reduces the effort required to push the mower, making mowing less strenuous and more enjoyable.

Bagging or Mulching

Decide whether you want a lawn mower with a bagging feature to collect clippings or a mulching function that finely cuts the grass and returns it to the lawn as natural fertilization. Makita offers models with both options, so choose one that aligns with your lawn care preferences.

Most Important Factors:

  • Reliability: A Makita lawn mower is known for its durability and long-lasting performance. Ensure that the model you choose is made from high-quality materials that can withstand regular use and all weather conditions.
  • Battery Life: If you opt for a battery-powered Makita lawn mower, consider the battery life. Longer battery life will enable you to mow your lawn without interruptions and finish the job efficiently.
  • Grass Collection Capacity: If you prefer bagging your grass clippings, select a Makita lawn mower with a larger grass collection capacity. This will reduce the number of trips you need to empty the bag, saving you time and effort.
  • Maintenance: Check for ease of maintenance features such as tool-less blade changes or washout ports. These features make cleaning and maintaining your Makita lawn mower hassle-free.
  • Warranty and Customer Support: Ensure that your chosen Makita lawn mower comes with a warranty to protect your investment. Additionally, consider the availability of a reliable customer support team that can assist you if any issues arise.

By considering these factors, you can confidently choose the best Makita lawn mower that suits your specific needs and enjoy the benefits of a well-maintained and picturesque lawn for years to come. Happy mowing.

 

How We Tested Makita Lawn Mowers

When testing the best Makita lawn mower, we focused on providing you with the most comprehensive and unbiased review possible. We’ve done the hard work for you by evaluating various models and taking into consideration the most important factors to help you make an informed decision.

Here’s how we tested the Makita lawn mowers:

Performance

We rigorously tested each lawn mower for its cutting performance, including the ability to handle different types of grass and terrains. We assessed how efficiently the mower can trim the grass and provide a clean-cut finish.

Battery Life

As Makita offers a range of cordless lawn mowers, we extensively assessed the battery life of each model. We wanted to ensure that you can mow your lawn without interruptions or the need for frequent recharging.

Ease of Use

We evaluated how user-friendly each Makita mower is, assessing factors such as its weight, maneuverability, and ease of starting. Our aim was to find the most comfortable and hassle-free option for your mowing needs.

Versatility

We explored the additional features and capabilities of each model, such as the ability to mulch or bag the clippings. We sought to find a versatile lawn mower that suits a range of lawn care preferences.

Durability

We conducted durability tests to assess the build quality and overall sturdiness of each Makita lawn mower. We wanted to ensure that your investment in a Makita product is worthwhile and will last for years to come.

When choosing the best Makita lawn mower for your needs, consider the following factors:

  • Lawn Size: Assess the size of your lawn to determine whether a corded or cordless model would be more suitable.
  • Battery Power: If opting for a cordless model, consider the battery power and whether it will be sufficient to mow your entire lawn without the need for frequent recharging.
  • Cutting Width: Take into account the cutting width of the lawn mower to determine how efficiently and quickly it can cover your lawn area.
  • Height Adjustment: Look for a model with adjustable cutting height settings to ensure you can maintain your desired grass length.
  • Additional Features: Consider any additional features such as mulching or bagging capabilities based on your personal preferences for lawn care.

By providing you with this information, we aim to assist you in finding the best Makita lawn mower that suits your specific needs. Make an informed decision and enjoy a well-manicured lawn effortlessly.

 

Key Features of Makita Lawn Mowers

Makita mowers feature steel decks, efficient brushless motors, ergonomic handles, rapid battery charging, quiet operation, vertical storage capability, and weather resistant construction.

Cordless models utilize Makita’s 18V or 36V Lithium-Ion battery systems for extended runtime. Convenient 3-in-1 cutting options, cruise control, and anti-vibration mounts add comfort and control. Overall, Makita mowers provide innovative cordless performance and reliability.

Brushless Motors

Higher-end Makita mowers use brushless motors rather than standard brushed motors. Brushless motors are more efficient, last longer, and provide more torque.

Steel Decks

Makita uses steel for the majority of their mower decks rather than plastic. The rigid steel prevents flexing and allows for crisp, clean cuts.

Ergonomic Handles

The handlebars on Makita mowers are designed for comfort and easy adjustment to fit all users. Self-propelled models have variable speed triggers.

Rapid Battery Charging

Makita’s rapid optimum chargers can fully recharge an 18V 5.0Ah battery in just 45 minutes. This provides a fast turnaround when you need to swap batteries.

Quiet Operation

Without noisy gas engines, Makita’s battery-powered mowers run very quietly – most around 60-70 decibels. This allows early morning or evening mowing.

Vertical Storage

The folding handles and upright storage position minimize the space needed to store Makita mowers. This makes them easy to tuck away in a garage or shed.

 

Makita Cordless Lawn Mower Models

Top Makita cordless mower models include the 18V XML02, XML03, and XML04 plus the 36V XML05, XML07, XML08 self-propelled, and the 40V Max XGT XML10 commercial mower.

The expanding cordless lineup ranges from value-priced 18V push mowers to high power 40V Max commercial self-propelled mowers. Makita mowers have cutting widths from 17″ to 21″ and can handle yards up to 1 acre or more.

Here is an overview of the main battery-powered walk-behind mower models Makita currently offers:

18V (Single Battery)

XML02 – 18V brushless, 17″ deck, push mower for small yards

XML03 – 18V brushless, 18″ deck, push mower, good for up to 1/3 acre

18V X2 (Two Batteries)

XML04 – 18V X2, 21″ deck, push, handles up to 3/4 acre

XML05 – 18V X2, 21″ deck, self-propelled, for large yards

XML07 – Same as XML05 but push version without self-propel

XML08 – 18V X2, 21″ deck, self-propelled, commercial grade

XML09 – 18V X2, 21″ deck, self-propelled, with Connect-X modular battery

40V Max XGT

XML10 – 40V Max, 21″ deck, self-propelled, commercial mower

GML01 – New 40V Max, 21″ deck, self-propelled, high torque brushless motor

In general, the 18V single battery models can handle small to mid-sized yards up to 1/3 acre, while the 18V X2 and 40V Max mowers have the power and runtime for larger lawns up to 1 acre.

The higher-end self-propelled and 40V Max commercial models are great for professional landscapers or larger properties.

 

Makita Lawn Mower Run Times

Depending on battery capacity, expect 30-60 minutes of mowing per charge for 18V models and 45-90+ minutes for 36V X2 mowers. Larger 40V Max batteries deliver over 1 hour of runtime. Actual mowing duration depends on lawn conditions and workload. Makita batteries charge rapidly in 30-45 minutes so extra packs extend mowing time.

A common question is how long can you mow on one charge with a Makita battery mower?

Here are some examples of run times to expect:

  • 18V 5Ah battery – Up to 45 minutes
  • 18V X2 with two 5Ah batteries – Up to 90 minutes total
  • 40V Max with 8Ah battery – Over 1 hour

So for larger yards, you’ll want a second battery or charger to be able to finish mowing in one session. Makita batteries charge quickly in around 30-45 minutes.

Actual run time depends on grass conditions, speed, terrain, and blade sharpness. Their batteries deliver consistent power and runtime when properly maintained.

 

Tips for Buying a Makita Mower

Key tips are to measure your lawn carefully, pick an appropriate cutting width and voltage for needed runtime, try mowers in person for fit and handling, buy extra batteries for uninterrupted mowing, compare pricing online and locally, and leverage Makita’s cordless power tool expertise for a high quality, innovative mower. Their mowers deliver gas-matching performance cordlessly.

Here are some useful tips to ensure you select the right Makita lawn mower for your specific needs:

  • Measure your lawn size carefully to determine the deck width and power required
  • Consider self-propelled models for flat, larger lawns over 1/2 acre in size
  • Buy extra batteries and rapid chargers for uninterrupted mowing over 1 hour
  • Check if mulching kits are available for models without native mulching ability
  • Handle and test mowers in person at a dealer to assess comfort and features
  • Add-on baggers and headlights can be useful optional accessories
  • Time actual mowing sessions to know how long the battery lasts on your lawn
  • Compare pricing online and at local dealers to find the best deals

Following these tips will help you choose the ideal Makita mower to make lawn maintenance fast and easy.

 

FAQs About Makita Lawn Mowers

 

Q: How long does a Makita battery last?

A: On average, expect 30-45 minutes of mowing per 5Ah Makita 18V LXT battery and up to 1 hour with a higher capacity 40V Max 8Ah battery. Run times vary based on conditions.

Q: Are Makita mowers good for hills?

A: Push mowers work well on hills, but self-propelled models can struggle. Choose a push Makita mower for hilly terrain.

Q: Where are Makita mowers made?

A: Makita mowers are designed and engineered in Japan. Their U.S. website states some mowers are assembled in the USA using domestic and imported parts.

Q: Do Makita mowers mulch?

A: Most Makita mowers offer 3-in-1 cutting with mulching, bagging, and side discharge. Some require a separate mulching kit.

Q: How often do Makita mower blades need sharpening?

A: Plan to sharpen mower blades every 1-2 months depending on use frequency and conditions. This maintains a clean cut.

Q: Can you use Makita mowers commercially?

A: Yes, their 40V Max commercial models like the XML08 are built for heavy duty commercial use by landscapers and can mow over an acre per charge.

Q: Are Makita mowers good on slopes?

A: Push mowers are better on hills than self-propelled. But in general, Makita mowers work best on level ground rather than steep slopes.

Q: Do Makita mowers have brushless motors?

A: Some higher-end Makita mower models do have more efficient brushless motors, like the XML03 18V and XML08 36V self-propelled mowers.

Q: What is the warranty on Makita mowers?

A: Makita offers a 3 year limited warranty on their lawn mowers, 1 year for commercial use. Batteries have a 1 year limited warranty.

 

The Verdict on Best Makita Lawn Mowers

Makita has leveraged its engineering expertise with power tools to create a line of capable, innovative cordless electric lawn mowers. They offer light yet powerful options for small urban plots up to large estates.

Their 18V and 36V battery-powered mowers match the cutting performance of gas models while running cleaner, quieter, and with less maintenance. Convenient features like rapid charging, vertical storage, and smooth variable speed triggers make mowing effortless.

While Makita mowers carry a premium price, current owners say the quality, durability, and performance justify the cost over the long run. Makita’s outstanding reputation for power tool reliability applies equally to their lawn mowers.

Makita makes high-performance cordless electric mowers utilizing 18V, 36V, and 40V Max battery systems. Their expanding lineup ranges from value push models to commercial self-propelled mowers.

Here are some key facts about buying the best Makita lawn mower:

  • Makita offers cordless electric lawn mowers in a range of deck sizes from 17″ to 21″, using 18V, 36V, and 40V Max battery systems.
  • Larger deck sizes like 21″ are better for mowing large yards up to 1 acre. Smaller 17-18″ decks are good for tight spaces.
  • Look for high efficiency brushless motors and rapid optimum charging on premium models.
  • Battery voltage affects runtime – 36V models can mow for 60-90 minutes on a single charge.
  • Self-propelled mowers are ideal for large, flat lawns. Push mowers provide better maneuverability.
  • Useful features include 3-in-1 cutting, adjustable height levers, cruise control, and soft grip handles.
  • Prices range from around $350 for basic 18V push models up to $700+ for commercial-grade self-propelled mowers.
  • Top cordless models include the XML02, XML03, XML04, XML05, and XML08 self-propelled mowers.
  • Makita mowers match gas power and performance with the benefits of lower noise, zero emissions, and less maintenance.
  • Try mowers in person and buy extra batteries for uninterrupted mowing over 1 hour.

All provide cordless convenience and efficiency with less noise, zero emissions, and lower maintenance than gas. Makita’s latest battery technology, rapid charging, and innovative features give their mowers gas-matching cutting power and runtime.

If you’re seeking a world-class cordless mower from a proven brand, Makita delivers impressive results. Just size your model appropriately for your lawn and buy extra batteries to extend run times. Going cordless with Makita will have your lawn looking pristine with much less hassle.