The Makita 18V LXT “Sub Compact” StarlockMax Oscillating Multi-tool, model XMT04ZB, known outside of the US and Canada as the DTM52 where it gets Makita’s regular black and teal colors, is their new offering in the world of cordless oscillating multi-tools. Here’s a look at what stood out about this tool after using it for three months:
PROS:
- Low vibration and great dust clearing ability with the power switch easily accessible when using one-handed.
- Faster than any multi-tool I’ve tried, other than Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL.
CONS:
- Stalls under normal applied pressure compared to my corded Makita, cordless DeWalt, and M18 FUEL multi-tools. This may be intentional stalling to protect the tool. But my other multi-tools have lasted years under heavy use without such protection so…
Blade Change
The XMT04 has a tool-less clamp system that allows for quick changes of Starlock accessories. This means it cannot take universal accessories without an adapter, if one exists.
Performance
Powered by a Makita-built brushless motor, the XMT04 delivers variable speed control from 10,000 to 20,000 oscillations per minute (OPM), allowing users to match the tool’s speed to the task at hand. The speed dial is located out of the way, but cannot effectively be used one-handed.
The Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT) on this tool reduces vibration, big time, which translates to more comfortable use over extended periods..
The 3.6-degree oscillation angle is up from 3.2 on the previous model, and the slight flex in the chuck may help it clear dust. I find dust removal is key to faster cutting. It’s a big problem for the DeWalt and non-Fuel Milwaukee.
Noise
Multi-tools may be the loudest hand tools of all once they start cutting into wood or metal. Much louder than an impact driver. The XMT04, aka DTM52, is quieter than my other multi-tools when sanding. Although, when cutting wood or metal, it’s pretty much just as loud.
“Sub-Compact”
The Makita XMT04ZB (Z for bare tool and B for black?) is part of Makita’s new black colored “Sub-Compact” line, which they rolled out in the USA and probably Canada too. But this tool is not compact.
I won’t harp on it too much, but it’s disappointing to see this kind of gaslight marketing from my favorite tool company. I mean, look at the marketing release photo below with an extra-long blade and no battery to try and drive the sub-compact point home.
Quick Specs:
- Motor: Brushless
- Voltage: 18V
- Speed: 10,000-20,000 Oscillations Per Minute (OPM)
- Oscillation Angle: 3.6 degrees
- Weight: Approx. 4.4 lbs with a 5 amp-hour battery (this is the weight we got)
- Blade Change: Tool-less
- Compatibility: StarlockMax, StarlockPlus, and Starlock accessories
- Price: Around $229 for the bare tool
- Variable Speed: Yes
- LED Light: Yes
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Makita XMT04ZB 18V StarlockMax Multi-Tool
Bottom Line
I used the Makita for a few months, comparing it to my other multi-tools. The main takeaway was the Makita is a low-vibration, easy-to-handle, fast tool that stalls too easily. If you’re willing to back off a bit, you will get fast, accurate cuts with less vibration and sound than the competition. Well, not faster than the Milwaukee M18 Fuel, but faster than most.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18V Multi-Tool
