The Makita XFD12R bundles the compact brushless XFD12Z driver-drill with two 2.0Ah LXT batteries and a rapid charger. The BL brushless motor delivers 530 in-lbs of max torque in a 6-3/4 in., 3.4 lb body, with a 2-speed gearbox (0–500 / 0–2,000 RPM) and 21-position clutch for precise drilling and fastening control. Each 2.0Ah battery charges fully in approximately 25 minutes with the included DC18RC, minimizing downtime when rotating packs.
Why does the XFD12R include 2.0Ah batteries instead of larger packs?
The XFD12R is positioned as a compact kit where weight and dimensions matter as much as runtime. The BL1820B at 2.0Ah charges in 25 minutes and keeps the drill at its listed 3.4 lb weight. For users who need longer runtime between charges, the XFD12T upgrades to 5.0Ah packs — or you can buy spare BL1830B or BL1840B batteries separately.
Is the XFD12R a good buy for someone new to Makita 18V LXT?
Yes. The two included batteries and charger give you everything needed to start working immediately, and both BL1820B packs are fully compatible with the entire Makita 18V LXT ecosystem. As you add more LXT tools, the batteries and charger from the XFD12R kit carry over.
What is the difference between the XFD12R and XFD12T?
The drill body is identical (XFD12Z). The XFD12R includes two compact 2.0Ah batteries (BL1820B) and weighs 3.4 lbs with battery; the XFD12T includes two full-size 5.0Ah batteries (BL1850B) and weighs 3.9 lbs with battery. Choose the R for portability and fast charging; choose the T for maximum runtime on demanding jobs.
Does the XFD12R include any accessories like a side handle or bit set?
The XFD12R kit includes the drill, two BL1820B batteries, one DC18RC rapid charger, and a tool bag. A side handle and belt clip are not included. If you need a side handle for heavy drilling applications, it can be purchased separately from Makita.
How does the XFD12R compare to the Milwaukee M18 2801-22CT compact kit?
Both are 18V brushless compact kits with roughly comparable torque (530 vs. 500 in-lbs). The main consideration is ecosystem: if your crew is already invested in one platform, staying on it avoids battery compatibility issues. Makita's LXT covers 225+ tools on one battery; Milwaukee's M18 system is similarly broad. Ergonomics, weight (both under 4 lbs), and price are the practical differentiators.
# Makita 18V LXT Brushless Compact 1/2 in. Driver-Drill Kit (2 x 2.0Ah) **Model:** `XFD12R` **Brand:** Makita **Category:** Drill Driver > The Makita XFD12R bundles the compact brushless XFD12Z driver-drill with two 2.0Ah LXT batteries and a rapid charger. The BL brushless motor delivers 530 in-lbs of max torque in a 6-3/4 in., 3.4 lb body, with a 2-speed gearbox (0–500 / 0–2,000 RPM) and 21-position clutch for precise drilling and fastening control. Each 2.0Ah battery charges fully in approximately 25 minutes with the included DC18RC, minimizing downtime when rotating packs. ## Specifications | Attribute | Value | |---|---| | Product Type | Driver-Drill | | Voltage | 18 | | Platform | LXT | | Chuck Size (in.) | 0.5 | | Max Torque (in-lbs) | 530 | | No-Load Speed (RPM) | 0-500 / 0-2000 | | Clutch Settings | 21 | | Drilling Capacity — Steel (in.) | 0.5 | | Drilling Capacity — Wood (in.) | 1.5 | | Brushless | Yes | | Tool Only | No | | Battery Included | Yes | | Battery Ah | 2 | | Charger Included | Yes | | Weight (lbs) | 3.4 | | Warranty | 3-year limited | | Barcode (UPC) | | ## What's Included - 18V LXT compact brushless 1/2 in. driver-drill (XFD12Z) - 2 x 18V LXT compact 2.0Ah battery (BL1820B) - 18V LXT rapid charger (DC18RC) - tool bag Source: https://www.jaspecs.com/makita/drill-driver/xfd12r-makita-18v-lxt-brushless-drill-driver-kit-compact/