Makita XMT04ZB vs XMT03Z: Which Should You Buy?

Introduction

You’re stuck between two Makita multi-tools. The XMT04ZB looks newer, but the XMT03Z keeps popping up in search results. One of them will end up collecting dust in your garage. The other will become your go-to tool.

The winner: Makita XMT04ZB. The Makita XMT04ZB wins at $153 with its brushless motor delivering 30-40% longer runtime and zero maintenance. The XMT03Z costs $129 but needs brush replacement after heavy use.

What Makes These Makita Multi-Tools Different?

The Makita XMT04ZB vs XMT03Z comparison matters because you’re looking at two different generations of oscillating multi-tools. They look similar. They share the same 18V battery platform. But the differences change how fast you work.

The XMT04ZB came out later with upgrades that fix what users complained about in the XMT03Z. Same brand, same color scheme, completely different performance.

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The Real Difference: Brushless vs Brushed Motor

Features	XMT04ZB 🏆	XMT03Z
Motor Type	Brushless	Brushed
Price	$153	$129
Runtime	30-40% longer	Standard
Maintenance	Zero	Brush replacement needed
Speed Control	6-position dial	Variable dial
Weight	3.5 lbs	3.3 lbs
Overall Rating	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(4.7/5)	⭐⭐⭐⭐(4.5/5)

Both tools run on Makita’s 18V LXT batteries and accept universal oscillating tool accessories. The core difference is the motor technology—brushless vs brushed—which affects everything from runtime to long-term costs.

Why XMT04ZB Is the Better Buy?

The brushless motor in the XMT04ZB isn’t just marketing hype. Based on manufacturer specs and verified Amazon reviews, here’s what it delivers:

1. Significantly Longer Battery Life

The brushless motor wastes less energy as heat. According to user reports on Amazon, the XMT04ZB runs noticeably longer per charge—roughly 30-40% more runtime compared to the XMT03Z with the same 5.0Ah battery.

For a full bathroom demo or cabinet installation, that means finishing on two batteries instead of three. Fewer battery swaps = less downtime.

2. Zero Maintenance Required

The XMT03Z’s brushed motor uses carbon brushes that physically contact the motor commutator. After 200-400 hours of use (varies by intensity), these brushes wear down and need replacement.

Replacement costs $15-20 for parts plus 30-45 minutes of disassembly work. Not difficult, but it’s scheduled maintenance you have to remember.

The XMT04ZB eliminates brushes entirely. No replacement. No maintenance. Just use it until something else wears out (which takes years).

3. Better Power Under Load

Brushless motors maintain speed better when you press into material. Multiple Amazon reviews mention the XMT04ZB powers through hardwood and metal without bogging down as much as the XMT03Z.

When cutting through nail-embedded lumber or thick flooring, the XMT04ZB keeps oscillating at speed. The XMT03Z slows down more noticeably under heavy pressure.

Power Output: The Numbers That Matter

The XMT04ZB pushes 6,000 to 20,000 OPM (oscillations per minute). The XMT03Z maxes out at 18,000 OPM. Those extra 2,000 oscillations cut through materials faster.

On hardwood flooring removal, the XMT04ZB cuts through nails and adhesive without bogging down. The XMT03Z slows down when you push hard. You end up making multiple passes on tough materials.

What You Get in the Box?

Makita XMT04ZB includes:

• Multi-tool body (tool only, no battery)
• Wood cutting blade
• Metal cutting blade
• Grout removal blade
• Blade wrench (backup)
• Tool bag

Makita XMT03Z includes:

• Multi-tool body (tool only)
• One wood blade
• Blade wrench
• No bag

Real Performance Data

Based on Amazon review analysis:

• XMT04ZB: 4.7/5 stars from 1,200+ verified buyers
• XMT03Z: 4.5/5 stars from 890 verified buyers

Common praise for XMT04ZB: “battery lasts forever,” “way more powerful than my old brushed model,” “cuts through everything without slowing down”

Common complaints for XMT03Z: “battery drains faster than expected,” “bogs down in hardwood,” “had to replace brushes after a year”

When XMT03Z Makes Sense?

Don’t overspend if you’re only making 10-15 cuts per year in softwood.

Choose XMT03Z if:

• You use an oscillating tool 2-3 times annually
• You’re cutting drywall, pine, or soft materials
• You need to stay under $130 no matter what
• You already own Makita 18V batteries and want the cheapest entry

At $129, it handles basic door jamb trimming, small drywall patches, and occasional DIY tasks without issue.

Upgrade to XMT04ZB when:

• You start using it monthly or more
• You cut hardwood, metal pipes, or tough materials
• Battery swaps and maintenance frustrate you
• You want a tool that lasts 5+ years of regular use

Quick Buying Decision: 3 Questions

1. What will you cut most often?

• Hardwood, metal, nail-embedded lumber → XMT04ZB (power under load matters)
• Softwood, drywall, light materials → XMT03Z (plenty of power for this)

2. How often will you use it?

• Weekly or monthly projects → XMT04ZB (runtime + no maintenance pays off fast)
• Few times per year → XMT03Z (save the $30, won’t wear it out)

3. What’s your budget today?

• Can spend $160? → [GET XMT04ZB – Better runtime + zero maintenance →]
• Limited to $130? → [GET XMT03Z – Saves $30 →]

Specs Comparison (The Details Matter)

Motor & Performance:

• Both operate at 6,000-20,000 OPM (oscillations per minute)
• XMT04ZB has 6-position speed dial with tactile clicks
• XMT03Z has smooth variable speed dial
• Both feature tool-free blade changes (same lever system)

Battery & Runtime:

• Both use Makita 18V LXT batteries (any capacity)
• XMT04ZB: More cuts per charge due to brushless efficiency
• XMT03Z: Standard runtime for brushed motor tools

Physical Specs:

• XMT04ZB: 3.5 lbs with battery
• XMT03Z: 3.3 lbs with battery
• Both include LED work lights
• Both accept universal oscillating accessories

Warranty:

• Both covered by Makita’s 3-year warranty
• Brushes on XMT03Z are wear items (not covered)

Bottom Line: Which Should You Buy?

For most people: The Makita XMT04ZB at $153 delivers brushless efficiency worth the $30 premium. Longer runtime, zero maintenance, and better performance under load make it the smarter investment for anyone using an oscillating tool regularly.

On a tight budget? The XMT03Z at $129 handles light occasional use fine. Just know you’re trading runtime and future maintenance for $30 in savings today.

Pro Tip: If you buy the XMT03Z and love oscillating tools, you’ll eventually upgrade to a brushless model anyway. Starting with the XMT04ZB saves you from buying twice.

FAQs

Is the $30 difference worth it?

For regular users, absolutely. The longer runtime alone saves you from buying extra batteries ($50-80 each). Add zero maintenance costs, and the XMT04ZB pays for itself within a year of steady use.

For occasional users making 10 cuts per year, the XMT03Z works fine and saves you $30 now.

How long until I need to replace brushes on the XMT03Z?

Depends on usage. Light DIY users might go years. Contractors using it 10+ hours weekly report needing replacement after 12-18 months. Replacement takes 30 minutes and costs $15-20 in parts.

Do both tools accept the same accessories?

Yes. Both use the universal oscillating tool mounting system. Bosch Starlock, Fein, DeWalt, Milwaukee, and generic accessories all fit both Makita models.

Which one cuts faster?

According to user reviews, the XMT04ZB maintains speed better under pressure, especially in hardwood and metal. The power difference is noticeable during demanding cuts but less obvious in softwood.

Can I use my existing Makita batteries?

Yes. Both tools run on any Makita 18V LXT battery. If you own other Makita 18V tools, your batteries work with either oscillating tool.