Makita XWT18Z vs XWT14Z
Makita sells several 18V LXT brushless 1/2-inch impact wrenches, and the Makita 18V LXT Brushless Mid-Torque 1/2" Impact Wrench (Detent Anvil) (XWT18Z) and the Makita 18V LXT Brushless 4-Speed 1/2" Impact Wrench (Friction Ring) (XWT14Z) are easy to confuse. Both are bare tools on the same 18V LXT battery platform. They are built for different jobs, and the ratings show how.
Torque
The XWT18Z is the mid-torque model. It is rated at 520 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 740 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque. The XWT14Z is rated at 240 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 430 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque. The XWT18Z is the one to look at for stubborn, rusted or large fasteners such as suspension bolts. The XWT14Z suits lug nuts, general repair and tight engine bays, where a smaller wrench is easier to place. Our explainer on mid-torque versus high-torque impact wrenches covers how to match torque to the job.
Size
The XWT18Z measures 6-11/16 inches long and the XWT14Z measures 5-5/8 inches long, a gap of just over an inch. That matters more in cramped spaces than on an open wheel.
Anvil and features
The XWT18Z has a detent anvil, which holds a socket with a pin. The XWT14Z has a friction ring, which holds the socket by friction. Pin anvils hold sockets firmly, while friction rings usually make socket swaps quicker.
Both have a four-speed power selection switch, three forward and three reverse auto-stop modes, a full speed mode, and Extreme Protection Technology for dust and water resistance. The speed ranges differ: the XWT18Z tops out at 2,200 RPM and 2,700 impacts per minute, and the XWT14Z at 3,200 RPM and 4,000 impacts per minute.
Price and battery
Both are bare tools, so a battery and charger are extra, and both work only with Makita 18V LXT batteries. The XWT14Z falls in the "$200+" price tier.
Makita
Makita 18V LXT Brushless Mid-Torque 1/2" Impact Wrench (Detent Anvil)
The Makita 18V LXT Brushless Mid-Torque 1/2" Impact Wrench (Detent Anvil) is a bare tool rated at 520 ft-lbs of fastening torque. It has a four-speed switch and auto-stop modes in both directions. It delivers 740 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque, measures 6-11/16 inches long and weighs 6 lbs with battery.
Makita
Makita 18V LXT Brushless 4-Speed 1/2" Impact Wrench (Friction Ring)
The Makita 18V LXT Brushless 4-Speed 1/2" Impact Wrench (Friction Ring) is a bare cordless wrench measuring 5-5/8 inches long. Its brushless motor delivers 240 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 430 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque. A four-speed switch sets speeds up to 3,200 RPM and 4,000 IPM.
| Makita 18V LXT Brushless Mid-Torque 1/2" Impact Wrench (Detent Anvil) | Makita 18V LXT Brushless 4-Speed 1/2" Impact Wrench (Friction Ring) | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Makita | Makita |
| Price range | $100+ | $100+ |
| Category | Impact Wrenches | Impact Wrenches |
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
Our Verdict
Buy the XWT18Z if
- You expect to loosen large or seized fasteners and want the higher 520 ft-lbs fastening and 740 ft-lbs nut-busting ratings.
- You want a detent anvil to hold sockets in place.
- You accept a longer body, 6-11/16 inches, at 6 lbs with battery.
Product page: Makita 18V LXT Brushless Mid-Torque 1/2" Impact Wrench (Detent Anvil).
Buy the XWT14Z if
- Your work is mostly lug nuts and general automotive or repair tasks, where 240 ft-lbs of fastening torque is adequate.
- You need the shorter 5-5/8 inch body for tight spaces.
- You want a friction ring for quick socket changes.
Product page: Makita 18V LXT Brushless 4-Speed 1/2" Impact Wrench (Friction Ring).
If you only have budget for one and you work on trucks or rusty hardware, the extra torque of the XWT18Z is the safer choice. For lighter work in tight spots, the XWT14Z is the compact option. Check what is in the box to confirm you are buying the bare tool or a kit. See also our impact wrenches category.
Compare these side-by-side with more products in our comparison tool →