The Makita XPH07T 1/2" Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver earned a score of 8.6/10 in Pro Tool Reviews' extensive shootout, praised for its high torque output of 1,090 inch-pounds and smooth performance. Reviewers noted its stability under load thanks to the long side handle and minimal vibration. The tool's 21-position chuck and auxiliary handle enhance usability, though it's limited to 3-inch hole saws and weighs 5.1 pounds with a 5.0 Ah battery. While it performs well in value comparisons, some reviewers noted the weight could be a drawback for prolonged use.
Full review
Performance Under Load
The Makita XPH07T hammer drill demonstrated strong performance across various drilling tasks, particularly excelling in torque delivery with its 1,090 inch-pounds of maximum torque. Pro Tool Reviews noted that it managed its speed well and achieved the second-highest torque among competitors in their 50+ drill shootout. During testing with pressure-treated pine, the drill handled 1-inch spade bits without dropping into low-speed mode, maintaining consistent performance throughout the test. While the tool performed admirably with smaller bits, it struggled with larger hole saws exceeding the recommended 3-inch capacity. The drill's ability to maintain smooth operation under load was highlighted by both Pro Tool Reviews and TechGearLab, with the latter noting that it delivered 'impeccable performance when it came to driving in fasteners.'
In practical testing scenarios, the Makita XPH07T showed its strength with 1-1/2 inch spade bits, where it successfully drilled through treated pine material, though it required a shift to low-speed mode. The tool's performance with twist drills on steel sheets was also evaluated, with TechGearLab recording a 1.5-second time for 1/4-inch holes and 10 seconds for 1/2-inch holes, indicating the drill's capability to handle various materials. However, the tool's performance dropped significantly when tested with 4-1/4 inch hole saws, where it required multiple stops during the drilling process, suggesting limitations in its gearing optimization for larger diameter cuts. The tool's ability to drive fasteners was consistently praised across reviews, with TechGearLab noting it 'easily drove a large lag screw to the full depth.'
The hammer drill's performance was particularly notable when compared to other tools in its class. Pro Tool Reviews emphasized that the Makita's 1,090 inch-pounds of torque allowed it to break through the 1000 inch-pounds barrier that many competitors couldn't achieve. The tool's brushless motor design contributed to its consistent performance, with both Pro Tool Reviews and TechGearLab noting the smoothness of operation. However, the tool's performance under extreme conditions was tested by TechGearLab, who found that while it handled smaller hole saws well, it struggled with larger cuts, particularly when exceeding the manufacturer's recommended 3-inch capacity. The tool's ability to maintain performance under load was consistent, though its gearing optimization showed limitations with larger diameter applications.
Longest side handle the reviewer has used
The Makita XPH07T features a robust build quality with an all-metal gearing system and gear housing, contributing to its durability despite being a mid-sized tool. Pro Tool Reviews noted that while it wasn't obscenely heavy, it wasn't compact either, with the weight attributed to the durability of its construction. The tool's side handle was particularly praised, with Pro Tool Reviews highlighting that it was 'easily the longest Ive used,' which they felt contributed to a more stable drilling experience under load. The tool's design also includes a well-balanced weight distribution when paired with a 5.0 amp-hour battery, as noted by Pro Tool Reviews, making it comfortable to handle during extended use.
TechGearLab's review emphasized the tool's shorter length as a significant advantage, particularly when working in confined spaces, which the reviewer noted was 'very handy when using the drill in more confined areas.' The tool's ergonomics were also well-received, with Pro Tool Reviews commenting on the 'rubber overmolding' that helped with comfort levels. The tool's handle was described as 'agreeably suited to the size of my hand,' and the overall design was noted to be 'excellent as expected.' The inclusion of a clamp-on handle was also highlighted as a convenient feature, particularly for larger drill bits, as noted by TechGearLab. The tool's design also includes a 1/2-inch chuck, which was noted to be standard for its class, and the tool's overall dimensions were described as 'compact' for its power output.
The tool's construction quality was consistently praised across reviews, with Pro Tool Reviews noting that the all-metal gearing and housing contributed to its durability. The tool's brushless motor design was also highlighted as a key feature, with both Pro Tool Reviews and TechGearLab noting that it contributed to the tool's consistent performance. The tool's battery compatibility was also noted, with Pro Tool Reviews mentioning that it uses the standard Makita 18V LXT platform, which allows for battery interchangeability with other Makita tools. The tool's design also includes a battery indicator and a clutch adjustment system, which was noted to be 'adjustable with 21 different torque settings,' as mentioned by TechGearLab. The tool's overall design was considered to be well-balanced, with the weight distribution contributing to its stability during operation.
1090 inch-pounds of torque, second highest in the shootout
Reviewers consistently praised the Makita XPH07T's torque capabilities, with Pro Tool Reviews noting it achieved 1,090 inch-pounds of torque, which they considered impressive for a cordless tool. The tool's ability to handle demanding applications was highlighted, with TechGearLab stating that it 'delivered an impeccable performance when it came to driving in fasteners' and earned one of the best scores in their testing. The tool's performance with fasteners was particularly strong, with TechGearLab noting it 'easily drove a large lag screw to the full depth,' and that it 'can easily drive them to their full depth with just a bit of pressure.' The tool's clutch adjustment system was also praised, with TechGearLab noting that it had 'adjustable clutch with 21 different torque settings,' making it easy to set not to overdrive or strip any fasteners.
The tool's battery life was another area of praise, with TechGearLab giving it a top-tier score for battery efficiency. The tool was able to complete nine full cycles of their battery draining assessment, dying on the 10th, which they considered very good performance. The tool's charging time was also noted to be relatively quick, with Pro Tool Reviews mentioning that charging took only 45 minutes from dead flat with Makita's Rapid Optimum Charger. The tool's compatibility with Makita's battery system was also highlighted as a significant advantage, with Pro Tool Reviews noting that it uses the standard 18V LXT platform, which allows for battery interchangeability with other Makita tools. The tool's shorter length was also appreciated, with TechGearLab noting that it 'can be very handy when using the drill in more confined areas,' which they considered a significant advantage.
The tool's overall performance in real-world applications was consistently positive, with Pro Tool Reviews noting that it 'managed its speed well' and had 'the second-highest torque' in their shootout. The tool's ability to maintain smooth operation was also highlighted, with Pro Tool Reviews noting that it 'was still smooth' even without the side handle installed for support. The tool's performance with various materials was also praised, with TechGearLab noting that it 'did quite well with the twist drills on the steel sheets' and that it 'only took around 1.5 seconds to drill a 1/4-inch hole and didn't stall or catch at all.' The tool's ability to handle different types of drilling tasks was considered a significant strength, with both Pro Tool Reviews and TechGearLab noting that it was well-suited for a wide range of applications.
Battery drains after one hole beyond 3 inches
Despite its strengths, the Makita XPH07T showed notable limitations in handling larger diameter hole saws, with TechGearLab reporting that it 'struggled with the larger hole saw' and that 'the battery depleted after just the one hole.' The tool's performance with hole saws exceeding the recommended 3-inch capacity was particularly poor, as it required multiple stops during the drilling process, indicating limitations in its gearing optimization. This was a significant concern for users who needed to perform larger cutting tasks, as the tool's performance dropped significantly beyond its recommended specifications.
The tool's weight was also cited as a potential drawback, with Pro Tool Reviews noting that while it wasn't obscenely heavy, it wasn't compact either, and the weight was attributed to its durability. The tool's size and weight were considered a disadvantage for users who needed to work in tight spaces or who were concerned about portability. Additionally, TechGearLab noted that the tool 'struggled a bit more with the ½-inch drill, requiring us to drop down to the lower gear and take around 10 seconds to drill the hole,' indicating that while it performed well with smaller bits, it had limitations with larger drills. The tool's performance with larger hole saws was also noted as a significant weakness, with Pro Tool Reviews mentioning that 'the good news is that youll love this drill on hole saws up to 3' but that 'its outside the recommended range, and we think you can bump that up to 3-1/2 with premium accessories.'
The tool's battery life, while generally good, was noted to be a concern when dealing with heavy-duty applications. TechGearLab reported that while the tool completed nine full cycles of their battery draining assessment, 'the battery depleted after just the one hole' when testing with larger hole saws, which they considered a significant limitation. The tool's performance with larger diameter applications was also noted as a weakness, with Pro Tool Reviews highlighting that 'the good news is that youll love this drill on hole saws up to 3' but that 'its outside the recommended range, and we think you can bump that up to 3-1/2 with premium accessories.' The tool's ability to handle larger cutting tasks was considered a significant limitation, particularly for users who needed to perform extensive hole saw work.
Handles everything from pressure-treated pine to steel
The Makita XPH07T is best suited for professionals who require a balance of power and portability in their drilling applications. Pro Tool Reviews noted that it's particularly well-suited for users who need to handle a wide range of materials, from pressure-treated pine to steel, with its 1,090 inch-pounds of torque. The tool's shorter length makes it ideal for users working in confined spaces, as highlighted by TechGearLab who noted that 'can be very handy when using the drill in more confined areas.' The tool's performance with fasteners was particularly strong, making it ideal for users who frequently drive screws and lag bolts, with TechGearLab noting that it 'easily drove a large lag screw to the full depth.'
The tool is also recommended for users who value battery efficiency and quick charging times, with Pro Tool Reviews noting that charging takes only 45 minutes from dead flat with Makita's Rapid Optimum Charger. TechGearLab also praised the tool's battery life, giving it a top-tier score for efficiency, as it was able to complete nine full cycles of their battery draining assessment. The tool's compatibility with Makita's battery system allows for easy battery interchangeability with other Makita tools, which is particularly valuable for users who own multiple Makita products. The tool's clutch adjustment system with 21 different torque settings makes it suitable for users who need to work with various materials and fasteners, as noted by TechGearLab.
However, the tool may not be ideal for users who frequently need to perform large diameter hole saw work, as its performance drops significantly beyond the recommended 3-inch capacity. Pro Tool Reviews noted that while it's 'outside the recommended range, and we think you can bump that up to 3-1/2 with premium accessories,' the tool's performance with larger hole saws is considered a significant limitation. Users who need to work in extremely tight spaces or who are concerned about portability may also find the tool's weight to be a drawback, as Pro Tool Reviews noted that while it wasn't obscenely heavy, it wasn't compact either, and the weight was attributed to its durability. It is also the wrong tool for heavy-duty concrete drilling — nothing on record shows it holding up in that application.
Beats the XPH14 on torque despite similar size
When compared to other hammer drills in its class, the Makita XPH07T holds its own against competitors, particularly in terms of torque and performance. Pro Tool Reviews noted that it 'competed in our epic 50+ drill shootout where it performed well' and achieved 'the second-highest torque' among competitors. The tool's ability to handle demanding applications was also highlighted, with TechGearLab stating that it 'delivered an impeccable performance when it came to driving in fasteners' and earned one of the best scores in their testing. The tool's performance with fasteners was particularly strong, making it competitive with other top-tier drills in the market.
In comparison to the Makita XPH14, which is a similar model in the LXT lineup, the XPH07T was noted to have better torque specifications, with Pro Tool Reviews highlighting that it 'pushed 1,090 inch-pounds' compared to the XPH14's specifications. The XPH07T was also noted to be 'not any smaller or lighter than the 40V model,' which suggests that while it may be slightly more compact, it's not significantly different in terms of size and weight. The tool's performance with various materials was also compared to other top-tier drills, with Pro Tool Reviews noting that it 'managed its speed well' and 'had the second-highest torque' in their shootout. The tool's ability to maintain smooth operation under load was also considered a significant advantage, with both Pro Tool Reviews and TechGearLab noting the smoothness of operation.
When compared to other brands in the market, the Makita XPH07T was noted to be competitive in terms of performance and value. Pro Tool Reviews highlighted that it 'rates well in value—something that can be tough for a premium tool,' suggesting that it offers good value for money. However, its performance with larger hole saws was noted as a significant limitation when compared to other tools in the market, with TechGearLab reporting that it 'struggled with the larger hole saw' and that 'the battery depleted after just the one hole.' This limitation was noted as a significant drawback when compared to other tools that were designed specifically for heavy-duty hole saw work.
Rates well in value despite the premium price
The Makita XPH07T offers solid value for money, particularly when considering its performance capabilities and build quality. Pro Tool Reviews noted that it 'rates well in value—something that can be tough for a premium tool,' which suggests that it provides good value for its price point. The tool's ability to deliver 1,090 inch-pounds of torque while maintaining a reasonable weight and size makes it a competitive option in the market. The tool's performance in various drilling tasks was consistently praised, with TechGearLab noting that it 'delivered an impeccable performance when it came to driving in fasteners' and earned one of the best scores in their testing. The tool's battery life was also considered a significant value proposition, with TechGearLab giving it a top-tier score for efficiency, as it was able to complete nine full cycles of their battery draining assessment.
The tool's compatibility with Makita's battery system adds to its value proposition, as users can easily interchange batteries with other Makita tools, which is particularly valuable for users who own multiple Makita products. The tool's charging time was also noted to be relatively quick, with Pro Tool Reviews mentioning that charging takes only 45 minutes from dead flat with Makita's Rapid Optimum Charger. The tool's shorter length was also appreciated, with TechGearLab noting that 'can be very handy when using the drill in more confined areas,' which they considered a significant advantage. The tool's overall design was considered to be well-balanced, with the weight distribution contributing to its stability during operation, which adds to its value for users who need a reliable tool for extended use.
However, the tool's value proposition was somewhat limited by its performance with larger hole saws, which was noted as a significant drawback by TechGearLab. The tool's performance with hole saws exceeding the recommended 3-inch capacity was considered a limitation, with TechGearLab reporting that 'the battery depleted after just the one hole' when testing with larger hole saws. This limitation may impact the tool's value for users who frequently need to perform large diameter hole saw work. Despite this limitation, the tool's overall performance and features were considered to provide good value for money, particularly for users who need a reliable tool for a wide range of drilling applications.
Stayed smooth even without the side handle attached
The Makita XPH07T's build quality was consistently praised across reviews, with Pro Tool Reviews noting that it features 'an all-metal gearing and gear housing' that contributes to its durability. The tool's brushless motor design was also highlighted as a key feature that contributes to its longevity, with both Pro Tool Reviews and TechGearLab noting that it contributed to the tool's consistent performance. The tool's ability to maintain performance under load was considered a significant advantage, with Pro Tool Reviews noting that it 'was still smooth' even without the side handle installed for support, indicating that the tool's internal components are well-designed and durable.
TechGearLab's battery life testing was particularly relevant to long-term durability, as they noted that the tool was able to complete nine full cycles of their battery draining assessment, dying on the 10th, which they considered very good performance. This suggests that the tool's battery system is designed for longevity and can handle repeated use. The tool's compatibility with Makita's battery system also contributes to its long-term value, as users can easily replace batteries with other Makita tools, which extends the tool's useful life. The tool's charging time was also noted to be relatively quick, with Pro Tool Reviews mentioning that charging takes only 45 minutes from dead flat with Makita's Rapid Optimum Charger, which indicates that the tool's charging system is efficient and durable.
The tool's overall design was considered to be well-balanced, with the weight distribution contributing to its stability during operation, which is important for long-term durability. Pro Tool Reviews noted that the tool's side handle was 'easily the longest Ive used,' which they felt contributed to a more stable drilling experience under load, suggesting that the tool's design was thoughtfully considered for long-term use. The tool's ability to handle various materials was also noted as a strength, with TechGearLab reporting that it 'did quite well with the twist drills on the steel sheets' and that it 'only took around 1.5 seconds to drill a 1/4-inch hole and didn't stall or catch at all.' This performance consistency suggests that the tool's components are designed to last, as it maintained its performance across different materials and applications.
Strengths
- +Delivers 1,090 inch-pounds of torque, exceeding the 1000 inch-pounds barrier
- +Features a long side handle that improves stability and control under load
- +Smooth performance with minimal vibration transfer during operation
- +Includes a 21-position chuck for drilling and auxiliary handle for better grip
Watch-outs
- −Only rated for 3-inch hole saws, limiting its use with larger cuts
- −Weight of 5.1 pounds (with 5.0 Ah battery) may be cumbersome for extended use
How it compares
The Makita 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver delivers more torque than the DEWALT 20V MAX XR or Ryobi ONE+, but it's heavier and less versatile than the Milwaukee M12 FUEL. It's not as powerful as the Milwaukee M18 FUEL, but it's more capable than the Bosch 12V Max for heavy-duty drilling tasks.
Rating sources
“The Makita 18V LXT Brushless Cordless 1/2" Driver-Drill scored very well compared to the models in our best drill review, coming close to claiming the top spot.”
“this makita half inch hammer drill accomplished everything we set out to do”
Our 4.1 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
