The Makita XMT04ZB 18V LXT Lithium-Ion “Sub-Compact” Brushless Cordless StarlockMax Multi-Tool, 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 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.
User Experience
I used the XMT04 for a few months on various jobs, comparing it to my other multi-tools. The main takeaway was that the Makita is a low-vibration, easy-to-handle, fast tool; however, it will stall repeatedly if I apply the normal amount of pressure that I use with my other multi-tools, including my corded Makita. 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 M18 Fuel, but faster than most.
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
Bottom Line
Initially priced at $229 for the bare tool, I’ve seen the XMT04ZB going for $159 on sale, and these days, things are on sale more often than not. On sale it’s a worthy upgrade over the previous model. At full price, this tool’s lower vibration, lower noise level, and higher speed may justify the cost for those who appreciate the refined build.
In my opinion, this tool is over-refined and overprotected. Starlock blades are great but expensive and less available at Home Depot, Lowe’s, and lumber yards compared to universal accessories.
All that said, if you’re strictly Makita, this is a great tool as long as you apply less pressure than other multi-tools allow.
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