Makita Leans Into The Outdoor Sector With The LXT Radio Lantern
Makita got everyone’s attention when it announced its Outdoor Adventure lineup, which brought a new design to some of its existing 18V LXT tools and equipment. The teal blue we’ve all come to know has given way to the new forest green design more fit for an outdoorsy focus. The latest product to get this redesign is the Makita Radio Lantern and we’re taking a closer look.
Makita Radio Lantern: Combining Light and Sound
- Two lantern brightness settings: 130 lumens and 310 lumens
- Four LED modes
- Three lighting modes
- Bluetooth audio connectivity
- FM radio (no AM)
- Radio runs up to 44 hours
- Lantern runs up to 16 hours
- Lantern and radio run up to 12 hours
You have four LED modes (360° lantern, 3-side lantern, flashlight, and strobe flashlight) and three lighting modes (daylight white, neutral white, and warm white) to give you a variety of lighting conditions for your activities. These options, coupled with the long runtimes, make this radio lantern an excellent choice for weekend camping, evenings on the lake, or on the jobsite. Plus, you can hook up your device via Bluetooth to listen to your favorite tunes.
While this model looks similar to the XRM12, there are some differences. It lines up more closely with the GRM04 on the 40V max XGT line.
Makita Radio Lantern Design Notes
- Lightweight and compact (3.4 pounds with battery)
- Length: 11 3/8 inches
- Built-in USB port for charging mobile devices
- Lantern guard also functions as FM antenna
- Foldable metal hanging hook doubles as a handle for transport
- Water- and dust-resistant
Makita went for a lightweight, compact design on this model to keep your carry weight to a minimum. At just 3.4 pounds with a battery, they did a nice job.
One thing to note is that while Makita does say the unit is water and dust-resistant, there’s no specific IP rating they’re pointing you to.
Makita Radio Lantern Price
- $159 (bare)
- 3-year limited warranty
We’re seeing this radio lantern for $159 at the time of writing. If you don’t want the upgraded features or outdoor color theme, the XRM12 is still available at $119.
