The Makita XFD12Z is an 18V LXT compact brushless 1/2 in. driver-drill delivering 530 in-lbs of max torque with up to 50% longer run time per charge than brushed equivalents. At 6-3/4 in. long and 3.9 lbs with battery, it balances power and portability for a wide range of drilling and driving applications. A 2-speed gearbox (0–500 / 0–2,000 RPM), 21-position clutch, Extreme Protection Technology (XPT), and Star Protection Computer Controls complete the feature set. Battery and charger sold separately.
Is the XFD12Z a good replacement for an older brushed Makita 18V drill?
Yes. The XFD12Z improves on brushed predecessors like the XFD10Z in several ways: the BL brushless motor delivers 530 vs. 480 in-lbs of torque, provides up to 50% longer run time per charge, eliminates carbon brushes (reducing maintenance and extending motor lifespan), and adds a higher top speed (0–2,000 vs. 0–1,900 RPM). Your existing 18V LXT batteries transfer directly.
What batteries are compatible with the XFD12Z?
Any Makita 18V LXT battery with the Star symbol works — from the compact BL1820B (2.0Ah) through BL1860B (6.0Ah). Compact batteries (BL1820B, BL1830B) maintain the drill's 6-3/4 in., 3.4 lb profile. Larger packs increase weight but extend run time for heavy-use sessions.
What is the difference between the XFD12Z, XFD12R, and XFD12T?
The XFD12Z is the bare drill only. The XFD12R is a two-battery kit with 2x2.0Ah compact batteries and a rapid charger — ideal for users adding to an existing platform. The XFD12T is a two-battery kit with 2x5.0Ah batteries for maximum runtime. All three use the same XFD12Z drill body.
How does the XFD12Z compare to the DeWalt DCD777 and Milwaukee 2801-20?
All three are 18/20V brushless compact drills in the 500–600 in-lbs torque range. Key differences are ecosystem and ergonomics. Makita's 18V LXT platform covers 225+ tools; DeWalt's 20V MAX and Milwaukee's M18 are comparably broad. Performance on common tasks — drywall screws, pilot holes, cabinet hardware — is very similar across all three.
Does the XFD12Z work for drilling into metal?
Yes. The XFD12Z handles steel up to 1/2 in. at the appropriate speed (low gear, sharp bit, cutting fluid for thicker stock). The all-metal ratcheting chuck improves bit retention when drilling into harder materials. For repeated heavy-metal drilling or ferrous material, consider step bits and cutting lubricant to extend bit life.
Is the XFD12Z discontinued?
As of this writing, Makita still produces the XFD12Z. It is one of the core compact brushless drills in the 18V LXT lineup alongside the XFD14Z and XFD15ZB sub-compact. Check availability at your local Makita dealer or the product page for current status.
# Makita 18V LXT Brushless Compact 1/2 in. Driver-Drill (Tool Only) **Model:** `XFD12Z` **Brand:** Makita **Category:** Drill Driver > The Makita XFD12Z is an 18V LXT compact brushless 1/2 in. driver-drill delivering 530 in-lbs of max torque with up to 50% longer run time per charge than brushed equivalents. At 6-3/4 in. long and 3.9 lbs with battery, it balances power and portability for a wide range of drilling and driving applications. A 2-speed gearbox (0–500 / 0–2,000 RPM), 21-position clutch, Extreme Protection Technology (XPT), and Star Protection Computer Controls complete the feature set. Battery and charger sold separately. ## 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 | Yes | | Battery Included | No | | Charger Included | No | | Weight (lbs) | 3.9 | | Warranty | 3-year limited | | Barcode (UPC) | | ## What's Included - 18V LXT compact brushless 1/2 in. driver-drill (XFD12Z) Source: https://www.jaspecs.com/makita/drill-driver/xfd12z-makita-18v-lxt-brushless-drill-driver-tool-only/