Makita Cordless Chainsaw Review: Power Meets Portability

Current Model Lineup (2024)

1. Makita XCU04PT (Top Handle, 12″)

✔ Power: 36V (18Vx2)
✔ Bar Length: 12″
✔ Weight: 8.8 lbs (with battery)
✔ Chain Speed: 56 ft/s
✔ Best For: Arborists, pruning
✔ Kit Price: $399 (with two 5.0Ah batteries)

2. Makita XCU08PT (16″)

✔ Power: 36V (18Vx2)
✔ Bar Length: 16″
✔ Weight: 10.8 lbs
✔ Chain Speed: 56 ft/s
✔ Best For: All-purpose cutting
✔ Kit Price: $449

3. Makita XCU09PT (14″ with Electric Brake)

✔ Power: 36V (18Vx2)
✔ Bar Length: 14″
✔ Weight: 9.9 lbs
✔ Special Feature: 0.15s chain brake
✔ Kit Price: $479

Cutting Performance

Runtime (5.0Ah Batteries)

Material	XCU04PT	XCU08PT
6″ pine	90 cuts	70 cuts
4″ oak	60 cuts	50 cuts
8″ frozen	40 cuts	30 cuts

With 6.0Ah batteries: Add 25% more runtime

Standout Features

1. Brushless Motor Technology

• Star Protection prevents overloads
• Constant speed control under load
• 50% more motor life vs brushed

2. Smart Design Elements

• Tool-free chain tensioning
• Large oil window with flow control
• Automatic oiler with purge button
• Battery fuel gauge

3. Makita 18V Ecosystem

• Works with 100+ tools
• Fast charging (50% in 20 mins)
• 5-year battery warranty

Professional Applications

✅ Arborists: Top-handle model for climbing
✅ Landscapers: All-day power with spare batteries
✅ Firewood Processors: Clean indoor cutting
✅ Emergency Crews: Reliable in cold weather

Maintenance Requirements

• Daily: Check chain tension & oil level
• Weekly: Clean air vents
• Monthly: Sharpen chain
• Storage: Remove battery, empty oil

User Feedback

5/5 Stars (85% of reviews):
“Cuts like my old 40cc gas saw without the maintenance”
“The balance is perfect for overhead work”

4/5 Stars:
“Oil reservoir could be larger for big jobs”

Price Breakdown

• Bare Tool: $199-$249
• Kit with Batteries: $399-$479
• 6.0Ah Battery Upgrade: $179

Competitor Comparison

Feature	Makita XCU08PT	DeWalt 60V	EGO 56V
Power	56 ft/s	80 ft/s	65 ft/s
Runtime	70 cuts	100 cuts	80 cuts
Weight	10.8 lbs	12.3 lbs	12.1 lbs
Battery Cost	$179 (6.0Ah)	$249 (9.0Ah)	$199 (5.0Ah)

Final Verdict: 9/10

Makita cordless chainsaws deliver professional performance with unmatched versatility in the 18V/36V class. While not matching 60V systems in raw power, their lightweight design and ecosystem integration make them ideal for pros already invested in Makita tools.

Best Buy: XCU08PT kit with 5.0Ah batteries – the perfect balance of power and runtime for most users.

Pro Tip: Keep chains sharp and consider the rapid charger + spare battery for continuous operation. The top-handle XCU04PT is worth the premium for arborists.

Q&A