Makita XPH07Z Review: 18V LXT Brushless Hammer Driver-Drill
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Quick verdict: the Makita XPH07Z is a full-size 18V LXT brushless hammer driver-drill rated at 1,090 in-lbs of max torque and up to 31,500 blows per minute in hammer mode. It’s a strong, smooth tool for big holes in wood, driving large fasteners and drilling anchor holes in masonry. Makita’s electronically controlled brushless motor gives up to 50% longer run time per charge than its brushed equivalent. It’s sold as a bare tool and it’s on the heavy side, so it suits existing Makita LXT users who need serious power.
Best for Makita LXT users
Makita XPH07Z 18V LXT Brushless 1/2″ Hammer Driver-Drill
★★★★½ 4.5 / 5
- Brushless motor, 1,090 in-lbs max torque
- Up to 31,500 BPM hammer mode
- Up to 50% longer run time per charge
- Tool only, 3-year tool warranty
Makita hammer drills show up again and again in our keyword research: people search for “makita hammer drill”, “makita hammer drill tool only” and the XPH07Z by name. It has been a mainstay of the LXT range for years and still has a loyal following among trades.
How We Reviewed the Makita XPH07Z
We compared the Makita XPH07Z against the specs and features that matter for this type of tool, using the manufacturer’s published specifications, the current Amazon listing data, and the same technical standards we use in our drilling guides. We didn’t receive a free sample, and the score reflects value for the buyer, not commission. See our editorial policy for how we write reviews.
Makita XPH07Z Specifications
| Specification | Makita XPH07Z |
|---|---|
| Platform | 18V LXT |
| Motor | BL brushless, electronically controlled |
| Max torque | 1,090 in-lbs |
| Hammer rate | 0–31,500 BPM (high gear) |
| Chuck | 1/2 in keyless |
| Weight (listing, with battery) | About 5.5 lb |
| Kit | XPH07Z = tool only |
| Warranty | 3-year limited on the tool |
What We Like
Lots of torque
1,090 in-lbs is plenty for large spade bits, self-feed bits and hole saws in framing lumber, and for driving lag screws.
Fast hammer mode
At up to 31,500 BPM, hammer mode drills anchor holes in brick and block quickly. It’s ideal for occasional masonry work without an SDS rotary hammer.
Efficient brushless motor
Makita says the BL motor is electronically controlled to match torque and speed to the job, which gives up to 50% longer run time per charge and runs cooler with no brushes to wear out.
Smooth, well-balanced feel
Makita tools are known for refined ergonomics, and the XPH07Z is comfortable for its size.
What We Don’t Like
Heavy
About 5.5 lb with battery is a lot for overhead work.
Tool only
You need Makita 18V LXT batteries and a charger.
Newer models available
Makita has released newer hammer drills such as the XPH14Z. If you don’t need the XPH07Z specifically, compare prices and specs.
Overkill for light jobs
For furniture and small screws, a compact drill is easier.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1,090 in-lbs of torque | About 5.5 lb with battery |
| Up to 31,500 BPM hammer mode | Tool only |
| Efficient brushless motor | Newer XPH14Z exists |
| Comfortable for a big drill | Too big for light tasks |
| Large LXT battery platform |
Best Jobs for the XPH07Z
| Job | Fit |
|---|---|
| Large hole saws and self-feed bits in wood | Excellent |
| Lag screws and long structural screws | Excellent |
| Anchor holes in brick and block | Very good |
| Occasional concrete holes | Good for small diameters |
| Large or frequent concrete holes | Use an SDS rotary hammer |
| Furniture assembly | Too big |
XPH07Z vs DEWALT DCD996
Both are strong, pro-grade hammer drills. Choose by the battery platform you already own. Our DEWALT DCD996 review covers the DEWALT side.
Who Should Buy the XPH07Z?
- Makita LXT owners who need a heavy-duty hammer drill.
- Remodelers, deck builders and electricians drilling large holes.
- DIYers who drill into brick or block regularly.
Tips
- Use a 5Ah LXT battery for heavy work.
- Always use the side handle with large bits.
- Switch hammer mode off for wood and metal.
- Use sharp carbide masonry bits and clear dust often.
- For steel, use cutting fluid and the right bit; see our stainless steel bit guide.
Hammer Drill vs Rotary Hammer: Know the Limit
A hammer drill like the XPH07Z uses two ridged discs that click against each other to create many small, fast blows. It works well for small holes in brick, block and occasional concrete, typically up to around 1/2 in. A rotary hammer uses a piston to deliver fewer but much heavier blows, and it drills concrete several times faster. If you drill more than a handful of concrete holes a week, or holes larger than 1/2 in, a rotary hammer with an SDS bit is the right tool.
Drilling Masonry With the XPH07Z
- Use a carbide-tipped masonry bit in the correct size for your anchor.
- Mark and start slow without hammer mode to set the hole position.
- Switch on hammer mode and use high gear for the fastest blow rate.
- Let the tool work. Push firmly but don’t lean your full weight on it.
- Pull out every inch or so to clear dust.
- Blow or vacuum the hole clean before setting the anchor, so it grips properly.
Battery Choices for LXT
| Battery | What to expect |
|---|---|
| 18V LXT 2.0Ah | Lighter, short runtime, less sustained power |
| 18V LXT 5.0Ah | Best all-round match for this drill |
| 18V LXT 6.0Ah | Longest runtime for big hole saws and masonry |
Common Problems and Fixes
| Problem | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Slow progress in concrete | Dull bit, wrong tool for the size | Use a sharp carbide bit or switch to a rotary hammer |
| Drill twists in your hand | Large bit binding | Use the side handle and a lower gear |
| Bit slips in the chuck | Chuck not fully tightened | Tighten firmly with the bit centered |
| Overheating | Long heavy cuts | Pause to let the motor and battery cool |
Buying Checklist
- Already on Makita LXT? The bare XPH07Z is good value.
- Need masonry holes only occasionally? A hammer drill is enough.
- Drilling large concrete holes? Add an SDS-plus rotary hammer.
- Need a lighter drill for daily screws? Pair it with a compact drill or impact driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
5 quick answers from our editors
01Is the Makita XPH07Z brushless?
Yes, it uses Makita’s BL brushless motor.
02How much torque does the XPH07Z have?
1,090 in-lbs of max torque.
03What is the hammer rate?
Up to 31,500 blows per minute.
04Does XPH07Z include a battery?
No. “Z” means tool only.
05XPH07Z vs XPH14Z: which should I buy?
The XPH14Z is a newer model. If prices are close, compare current specs; both are strong LXT hammer drills.
Bottom Line
The Makita XPH07Z is a powerful, well-built hammer drill for Makita LXT users. It has lots of torque, a fast hammer mode and an efficient brushless motor. It’s heavy and sold bare, but if you need one drill for big holes and masonry, it’s a solid choice.
Check the Makita XPH07Z Price on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate, WellableMachine earns from qualifying purchases. Product details come from the manufacturer and Amazon and may change. Check the Amazon listing for the current price and availability. Specs from Makita’s Amazon listing. See the official Makita site.
