Cordless tools offer a lot more range and are undeniably more versatile than their corded counterpart. Thanks to improvements in battery tech, cordless models are also offering more performance power than ever before, as well.
In this Makita XAG04Z review, I’ll be introducing you to one of the top cordless angle grinders on the market.
About Makita Angle Grinders
Makita is one of the biggest players in the market for power tools. Established in 1915, this Japanese company has been designing, manufacturing, and selling high-quality tools for well over a century.
Makita’s grinder products are known for having highly ergonomic and functional designs. They tend to do well in performance and reliability ratings, also. But above all, the greatest selling point of Makita products is the special features that they come with. For example, Makita’s patented Super Joint System (SJS).
Overall, Makita can definitely give you a decent bang for your bucks, if you were to give it a shot.
Makita XAG04Z Review: Key Features
High-Efficiency Brushless Motor
The grinding and cutting power of the Makita XAG04Z angle grinder comes from the brushless motor inside. Without carbon brushes, the motor can run for longer, last longer, and output more power.
Without a load, the motor can spin at a decent rate of 8,500 RPM. Although this is quite low compared to corded models, it’s a very good performance point for cordless angle grinders. It provides a good balance between energy efficiency and raw working performance.
I assess that the Makita XAG04Z won’t have any issue dealing with medium-duty tasks like cutting and grinding thin metal sheets and stone. However, you shouldn’t expect the XAG04Z – or any cordless angle grinder, for that matter – to be able to handle heavy-duty works. Corded models are more preferable for such tasks.
Automatic Speed Change Tech
Makita gave the XAG04Z a very special feature: Automatic Speed Change.
The motor is controlled by a microprocessor and can automatically adjust speed and torque to suit the job you’re doing. Not only this will improve energy efficiency and working performance, but it will also lengthen the lifespan of the motor significantly.
Lock-on Slide Switch
You can activate the angle grinder via a slide switch. Makita has integrated a lock-on function to this switch, giving you the ability to use the grinder without having to keep your finger on the trigger.
While a slide switch is nice, some people may prefer a more secure and comfortable paddle switch, instead. If you’re part of this crowd, this could be a disadvantage.
Easy-Access Spindle and 5-inch Grinding Wheel
You can easily access the ⅝-inch 11 UNC spindle via a slide switch. The spindle accepts both 4.5 and 5-inch grinding wheels. This is a pretty decent wheel size for cordless tools. Most of the models I’ve seen in this price range only accept 4 ½ -inch wheels.
Comfortable Grips
Makita has done a very good job at making this angle grinder easy to use. The handle is wrapped up with a layer of soft rubber. If you don’t wear gloves, the rubber will cushion your palm and prevent sweat from turning the handle slippery.
Like every other angle grinder, you will find a side grip at the front. This side grip can be freely adjusted to either side of the grinder, depending on what your dominant hand is. The grip is sleek and comfortable to hold onto. It makes using the grinder for long periods a breeze.
Compact Size and Lightweight Body
Measuring 13.3 inches long, the Makita XAG04Z 18V LXT is a pretty compact angle grinder. You can use it in enclosed spaces like the attic without feeling too cramped or uncomfortable.
It further helps that the whole tool weighs around 4.8 pounds without a battery and 5.6 pounds with a battery. This weight is considered decent, right in the middle between heavy and light.
Battery Life and Battery Management System
Do note that when you purchase the Makita XAG04Z, you will only be buying the tool itself. The battery and the charger are sold separately. Depending on the kind of battery that you pick for your tool, battery life is going to be different.
Makita currently has three battery systems that work with the XAG04Z: 3-amp, 4-amp, or 5-amp. The higher the amperage, the longer the tool can work before it has to be recharged.
For DIY-ers and people who don’t need a lot of power or don’t use the tool often, a 3-amp battery will be enough. If you’re a more professional user, use battery cells with higher capacity.
Nevertheless, I still recommend that you splurge on an extra battery cell. Just in case one cell runs short and you need to have a spare on hand to continue working.
When you install the battery into the angle grinder, the microprocessor on-board will read the charge remaining inside of the battery. The result will show on a small LCD window on the grinder. You can use the LCD window to estimate when to recharge or how much power is still left in the cell.
Safety Mechanisms
Angle grinders are dangerous if they’re not properly handled. So, Makita has loaded many safety features into the XAG04Z. The battery has overload, overcharge, and overheat protection. It will reduce the chance of the battery misfiring or catastrophically failing.
The motor has Active Feedback Sensing technology. If the grinding wheel was to catch onto something, the grinder will automatically turn itself off to protect the motor from burning out.
Check more reviews of Makita 9565CV Grinder
What I Like About Makita XAG04Z
- Lightweight and compact design
- Ergonomic handles
- Capable brushless motor
- Convenient automatic speed change system
- Many safety features
What I Don’t Like About Makita XAG04Z
- Doesn’t come with a battery (or charger) in the box
- Some people may prefer a paddle switch over a slide switch
Review Summary
Our final assessment in today’s Makita XAG04Z review is that this is a capable and feature-rich angle grinder. As such, the XAG04Z is a pretty value-packed purchase. If you’re looking for an entry-level cordless angle grinder, there aren’t many models that can match up to the Makita XAG04Z.
However, do note that it’s not meant for heavy-duty work. If that’s what you’re looking for, you may need to look at corded angle grinders. Though they aren’t as versatile or portable, they offer a great deal more performance power.