Makita Cordless Leaf Blower: Tool Review & Comparison

Overall, Makita has six different battery powered leaf blowers on offer. This article introduces them. As a start, we will provide an overview of the three 36V- respectively 2x18V leaf blowers in the first chapter. In chapter 2, we will introduce the three remaining 18V tools (including the well-known Makita Cordless Blower DUB 182). In the third chapter you will find a table summarizing all functional and technical specifications of the blowers which we discussed in this article. The fourth chapter provides some background about the history of Makita.

I. Makita 2x18V Leaf Blowers

In this chapter we will provide a detailed review of the three 2x18V tools. We will start with the Makita Cordless Blower XBU 02Z. Afterwards we will give an overview of the XBU 04Z and the XBU 01Z.

Makita Cordless Blower XBU 02Z – Review

The Makita leaf blower XBU 02Z does a good job at striking a decent middle ground between power, versatility and convenience. It comes in a fairly light and thin design, with more operational control options to optimize its work output relative to its energy requirements.

Not only does its brushless motor deliver longer runtime (up to 50% more per battery charge), it also offers increased power and speed, with an ultimately longer lifespan for the tool. The Makita blower is also ideal for people whose work is a bit demanding but isn’t very large scale. This is evident in the variety of speed options it provides, coupled with the ability to easily adjust its length and blow at varying distances over both small and slightly large areas. The tool also has zero emissions and reduced noise, making it more friendly for domestic use.

This use case is further supported by the fact that the Makita XBU 02Z requires minimal maintenance, with no need for gas or oil. When you factor in the shortened time for charging, which can happen concurrently for both batteries, this blower becomes even more favorable for a quick and abrupt clean up. Its in-line fan design also provides better tool balance, making it a user-friendly handheld blower.

1. Performance

makita-cordless-blower-review-2x18v When powered with two 5.0 ampere hours (ah) 18V batteries, the Makita XBU 02Z’s brushless motor can deliver a mid-speed of 15,800 RPM for up to 28 minutes, with an air velocity reaching 120 MPH and 473 CFM of air volume. The air volume and air velocity can be adjusted using a 6-stage dial with a variable speed control trigger. The leaf blower also has a lock-on button to help activate a blow-setting and keep it continuous.

This cordless device features Makita Extreme Protection Technology (XPT). XPT comes in the form of protective seals which channel water and dust away from the vital components to ensure reliable operation in harsh conditions.

2. Ergonomics

At only 36-5/8” long, the Makita XBU 02Z’s lean design makes it convenient for blowing leaves at a distance, requiring very little effort for any sweeping motion. The nozzle supports a 3-stage telescoping mechanism, allowing you to shorten it for nearer blowing, or make it longer for more focused blowing.

The Makita cordless blower XBU 02Z weighs 9 lbs. with the batteries included, but instead of a protruding underside block, its weight is well-distributed around the handle and all the way to the nozzle in a slender design, to reduce the effort needed for side-ways movement. It also has a rubberized soft grip for more comfort on the job. The blower has a sound pressure rating of 61 dB(A) as per the ANSI B 175.2 standard.This is less than other blowers in the 36-42V segment, as for example the Ryobi 40V Jet Fan Blower or the WORX 2x20V Cordless Blower WG 584.

3. Battery- & charging technology

Battery technology:

With two 18V 5.0 ah slide-style batteries, the Makita XBU0 2Z can run for 28 minutes on dial setting #3 on a single charge. Star Protection allows the blower to communicate with the battery in real time and avoids overheating, overloading or over-discharging. You will find information on Makita’s 18V battery technology in the second chapter of this article (see battery technology).

Charging technology:

The 5.0 ah batteries have an embedded L.E.D. charge level indicator. They can be charged fully within 45 minutes with the Makita Rapid Optimum Charger. Again, more information on charging can be found in the next chapter (compare charging technology).

Compatibility with other devices from Makita:

The battery standard is compatible with a wide range of 18- and 2x18V outdoor power equipment from Makita. This includes only other garden tools, such as battery-operated hedge trimmers, but also a huge variety of driver drills, jig saws and so on.

4. Scope of delivery & price

The Makita blower usually comes alone but can be supplemented with a flat end nozzle, an extension attachment, a 3-stage telescoping blower nozzle and a shoulder strap for easier carrying when in operation. The blower comes with a 3-year limited warranty.

Other Makita 2x18V Blowers

Let’s take a quick look at the other two 2x18V battery-powered leaf blowers and make a few comparisons in certain aspects of these devices:

Makita Cordless Blower XBU 04Z

The Makita XBU 04Z also uses a brushless motor to deliver as much as 473 CFM of air volume and 120 MPH of air velocity. It comes with a cruise control level, with a variable speed trigger to help you adjust power and run time depending on how your work is progressing. In addition, the Makita blower has a speed lock that makes it easy to continue operating the device in a specific speed setting. Its sound pressure is rated at 61 dB(A), in accordance with the ANSI B 175.2 standard. In regard to maximum output, this blower is an equivalent of the Makita XBU 02Z.

The Makita cordless blower XBU 04Z takes on a design more geared towards heavy-duty use cases, weighing 8.4 lbs. without batteries, and 11.2 lbs. with batteries. It is also fitted with a 3-stage telescoping blower nozzle that has an adjustment range of 5” to bring the pipe closer to the ground for more convenient blowing. The blower’s design also allows you to easily convert it into a vacuum if you have the necessary accessories. Its rubberized soft grip makes for more comfortable handling while on the job. The Makita XBU04Z comes with a blower nozzle as well as a 3-stage telescoping blower nozzle. You can also purchase a Vacuum Attachment Kit to convert the blower into a vacuum cleaner.

Makita Cordless Blower XBU 01Z

This blower has a Makita-built motor, outputting a peak air volume of 155 CFM and providing a maximum air velocity of 208 MPH. It features a high/low button to control power and run time. The blower has a sound pressure rating of 60.6 dB(A) measured using the ANSI B 175.2 standard, making it just slightly less noisy than the other two 2x18V blowers. The Makita XBU 01Z also has a variable 2-speed motor offering as well as a long nozzle with a wide end that simplifies blowing over large floor areas, with an overall length of 36-1/4”.

This lightweight blower weighs only 8 lbs. with the batteries included, making it the lightest of the three 2×18 options from Makita. However, this blower may be the most preferable for someone who’s primary desire is to experience minimal fatigue while on the job. With a soft rubberized grip for better comfort and a sleek design, it allows for better precision when targeting smaller leaves and other objects. The 5.0 ah batteries deliver up to 90 minutes of run time. When operated at peak velocity, they can run for up to 30 minutes on a single charge. The power tool comes with a long blower nozzle.

II. Makita 18V Leaf Blowers

After introducing the three 2x18V blowers in chapter 1, this section will focus on the smaller 18V tools from Makita. These are the Makita Cordless Blower DUB 182 as well as the Cordless Floor Blower DUB 183 and the Brushless Blower XBU 03.

Makita Cordless Blower DUB 182 – Review

The Makita 18V blower DUB 182 is a perfect clean-up tool and a definitive choice for many job sites and hobby workshops. It strives to combine the accessibility and ease of cordless machines with the formidable power-to-weight ratio of Makita’s 18V LXT lithium-ion battery technology.

The 18V blower is a powerful yet user-friendly addition to any kit, tool bag or work shop. It is not only used by DYI fans, but also by professionals. Makita is not one to miss a trend, and thus, the battery blower is part of the expanding 18V lithium-ion series. Until now, this is the largest cordless tool range powered by 18V batteries. Makita also created Star Protection Computer Controls for improved tool performance and extended battery life. For maximum versatility, the tool should be powered by Makita 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries with the star symbol on the battery indicating protection.

Overall rating
  • 9/10
    1. Performance - 9/10
  • 9/10
    2. Ergonomics - 9/10
  • 10/10
    3. Battery & charging technology - 10/10
  • 7/10
    4. Scope of delivery & price - 7/10
8.8/10

1. Performance: 9/10

The Makita cordless blower DUB 182 features a high torque motor with a no load speed of 0-18,000 RPM. Its maximum air velocity of 179 mph and air volume of 91 cfm makes it one of the more powerful cordless blowers in the 18-/20V category. It has three different speed settings labeled 1, 2 and 3. Firstly, when using the 3.0 Ah battery with the lowest setting will get you a massive run-time of 75 minutes. Secondly, medium will get you 25 minutes of uninterrupted work. And thirdly, the highest setting can still brag with a solid 12 minute run-time.

2. Ergonomics: 9/10

The Makita 18V blower weighs around 4 pounds (including the battery), giving it an average range in this tool category. The compact design comes in at around a modest 20 inches long as well as an ergonomic shape designed for reduced operator fatigue. The separately sold shoulder strap can alleviate even more the strain. The two-finger variable speed trigger is easy to locate and operate, even when operating the Makita blower with a gloved hand. In addition, the rubberized soft grip handle by Makita ensures maximum comfort for the operator.

3. Battery- & charging technology: 10/10

Battery technology:

The cordless leaf blower can be operated by any Makita 18V battery (lithium-ion) marked with the star symbol. Makita created Star Protection Computer Controls, a communication technology that allows the equipped tool and battery to exchange data in real time and monitors conditions during operation. The technology also protects against overheating, overloading, and over-discharging and thereby extends the overall Makita battery lifetime.

Keep in mind that usually the Makita cordless leaf blower comes without a battery included, unless you are getting it in a special deal. Makita offers five different batteries for the blower with the ranges of 2.0 Ah, 3.0 Ah, 4.0 Ah, 5.0 Ah respectively 6.0 Ah. According to the US website of Makita, the usage of a 5.0 Ah battery pack allows for continuous operation of the blower for up to 20 minutes at high speed.

Charging technology:

Makita 18V batteries have the fastest charge times in their categories, meaning they spend more time working and less time charging. The charging times depend on the battery used ranging from 25 minutes for the 2.0 Ah battery, to 55 min for the large 6.0 Ah battery when using the Makita Rapid Optimum Charger which communicates with the battery’s built-in chip throughout the charging process to optimize battery life by actively controlling current, voltage and temperature.

Compatibility with other 18V devices from Makita:

The 18V batteries and charging systems can be used to operate more than 225 18V products from Makita. In addition, a huge range of 2x18V applications can be operated by this technology.

4. Scope of delivery & price: 7/10

makita-cordless-leaf-blower-review The Makita cordless leaf blower DUB 182 comes with the easy to install Rubber nozzle, made of high quality materials. Other attachments like the long blower nozzle, the shoulder strap or the dual port charger are separately available. This is also true for the 18V lithium-ion batteries.

Furthermore, the 18V blower can easily be turned into a vacuum cleaner with the dust bag (sold separately). For dust suction, simply fit nozzle onto suction inlet and dust bag onto blower outlet. After the bag fills with dust, empty the contents of the bag into a dust bin by releasing the fastener.
The Makita battery leaf blower set (i.e. incl. one battery and charger) can be found in the higher price segment when compared to other 18V- or 20V solutions. The price goes even up further when adding the extra nozzle, a bag charger or additional batteries. Above all, we can conclude that the Makita 18V blower is a solid device with a rather good price-performance ratio.

Other Makita 18V Blowers

In addition to the 18V blower presented above, Makita offers two further cordless leaf blowers. Below we will give a short introductions of the Makita Floor Blower and the Makita Brushless Blower. We will concentrate on the differences between the tools so that you can choose the optimal handheld solution for your yard needs.

Makita Cordless Floor Blower DUB 183

The maximum air speed of the Makita 18V blower DUB 183 comes in at 116 mph. This is comparably less powerful than the DUB 182. This does not have to be a condemning factor though. The maximum air volume of the Makita DUB 183 is 91 cfm, which is the same as the DUB 182. In our research we have found that the Makita blower DUB 183 is a great solution for removing leaves and small debris from gravel filled areas in the yard without displacing the gravel. The tools integrated variable speed trigger allows for smooth adjustment of the speed to optimize battery runtime. Similarly, to the Makita DUB 182, the DUB 183 tool can be operated by any of the Makita 18V lithium-ion battery marked with the star symbol.

The standalone weight of the blower is a total of 4.1 lbs, which is a little over the previous tools weight. Additionally, depending on the capacity of the battery, the weight can go up to 5.5 lbs. This can still be considered relatively lightweight. Regarding the noise level, with 85 db(a) the Makita blower DUB 183 is slightly louder than the DUB 182. Looking at the design, a major difference is the length of the blower tube. The Makita DUB 183 sports an unusually long blower tube which will be particularly interesting for taller people. The longer tube can spare you from bending at an uncomfortable angle, especially if you plan on working for longer periods of time. The placement of the comfortable rubber grip is also smart in design. This handheld is designed to be held pointing downward rather than at an angle, making handling very easy.

Makita Brushless Cordless Blower XBU 03

The maximum air velocity of the Makita leaf blower with the name XBU 03 comes in at 116 mph which is the same as the Makita DUB 183. However, the Makita XBU 03 has a maximum air volume 459 cfm. As most Makita cordless tools, the Makita 18V blower XBU 03 sports integrated cruise control lever with variable speed trigger. This adjustable speed option is crucial for run time management. Similarly, to the Makita DUB 182 and 183, the XBU 03 can be operated by any Makita 18V battery marked with the star symbol.

The Makita blower XBU 03 is the only one with a brushless motor. Brushless motors are more efficient at converting electricity into power than brushed motors. Due to the absence of brushes they also mitigate loss due to friction. This can give you up to 50 % longer run time per battery charge. The standalone weight of the Makita leaf blower XBU 03 is a total of 5.1 lbs, which is significantly over the previous tools weight. Additionally, depending on the capacity of the battery, the weight can go up to 6.5 lbs which can still be considered relatively lightweight considering that this leaf blower is held at a downward angle.

Regarding the noise level, with 60 db(a), the XBU03 is by far the most quiet solution, not only in comparison to the two other Makita blowers, but also relatively to comparable solutions, e.g. the Dewalt 20V blowers, the 20V solutions from Black + Decker or the 18V Milwaukee blowers. The Makita 18V blower XBU 03 is equipped with the Extreme Protection Technology. This is a protective seal inside the tool, which is engineered for improved operation in harsh conditions by directing water and dust from key internal components.

III. Makita Cordless Leaf Blower Data

Technical DataMakita DUB 182Makita DUB 183Makita XBU 03Makita XBU 02ZMakita XBU 04ZMakita XBU 01Z
Performance
Max. air speed179 mph116 mph116 mph120 mph120 mph208 mph
Max. air volume91 cfm91 cfm459 cfm473 cfm473 cfm155 cfm
Variable speed trigger++++++
Ergonomics
Weight (tool only)3.9 lbs4.1 lbs5.1 lbs6.2 lbs8.4 lbs5.2 lbs
Max. noise level83 db(a)85 db(a)60 db(a)61 db(a)61 db(a)60.6 db(a)
Soft-grip++++++
Max. battery run-times¹
3.0 ah: 12-75 min
5.0 ah: up to 18 min
n/a2x5.0 ah: 28 min at mid-speedn/a2x5.0 ah: 28-90 min (depending on speed level)
Table 1: Makita Cordless Blowers – Technical Data
¹ Battery run times times partially calculated.
Battery- and & Charging Technology
Battery Technology
Voltage18 Volt
Battery rangeLi-Ion 2.0
Li-Ion 3.0
Li-Ion 4.0
Li-Ion 5.0
Li-Ion 6.0
Electricity use2.0 ah: 36 wh
3.0 ah: 54 wh
4.0 ah: 72 wh
5.0 ah: 90 wh
6.0 ah: 108 wh
Charging Technology²
Charging times (fast charger)2.0 ah: 25 min
3.0 ah: 30 min
4.0 ah: 40 min
5.0 ah: 45 min
6.0 ah: 55 min
Table 2: Makita Cordless Blowers – Battery- & Charging Technology
² Charging times times partially calculated.

IV. Makita history

Makita Corporation was founded in 1915 as an electric motor repair and sales company in Nagoya, Aichi, Japan. Today, Makita is a global brand in over 40 countries with 10 plants operating in 8 countries. Makita was quick to incorporate mass production and assembly capabilities. By the 1970s, Makita had established a strong production base which afforded greater productivity as well as improved quality control. In 1985, Makita Corporation of America began manufacturing and assembling tools in Buford, Georgia. As part of the Makita global network of ten manufacturing and assembly plants, Buford is one source Development Team works closely with engineers on job sites to develop products that exceed the demands of the American contractor.