Makita Brings Vibration-Destroying Oscillating Multi-tool Design to 40V max XGT Line
Back in 2021, we got our hands on the Makita 18V LXT SubCompact Oscillating Multi-Tool and it definitely turned some heads! Now, Makita is expanding the XGT lineup and migrating many of its beloved LXT tools to the 40V max XGT arsenal, including its popular OMT. Today, I’m taking a close-up look at the Makita 40V max XGT Oscillating Multi-Tool to see what it has to offer for Pros!
We just wrapped up testing of the Best Oscillating Multi-Tools on the market—check out the results!
Pros
- Extremely low vibration
- Quiet operation
- 6-speed motor
- Starlock Max interface
- Easy to maneuver
- Large oscillation arc
Cons
- The head design is a little bulky
- No kit options currently available
Makita XGT Oscillating Multi-Tool Performance
- No-Load Speed: 10,000-20,000 OPM
- Oscillation Arc: 3.6°
- Motor Type: Brushless
- Accessory Interface: Starlock Max
Cutting Power
At its heart, the Makita GMT01 oscillating multi-tool sports a brushless motor and six speed settings ranging from 10,000 OPM up to 20,000 OPM. Combined with a 3.6° oscillating angle, its working speed is excellent and noticeably better than most of the value models.
This speed is handy when making plunge cuts, undercutting door trim, and sanding smaller areas.
Vibration Control
Mitigating felt vibration is a big deal for oscillating multi-tool manufacturers. Excessive vibration can lead to hand fatigue and inaccuracy while making crucial cuts. However, Makita’s AVT counterbalance design is one of the best on the market and all but eliminates vibration.
Fein’s Multimaster and Milwaukee’s M12 Fuel and M18 Fuel designs did a great job of lowering vibration, but Makita managed to best them all. With the speed set to high, we felt very little vibration during our testing. Like other competitors, you notice it more at lower speeds, but Makita is still ahead of the game.
Hands-On Testing
In the past, testing these tools has always been a bit subjective because there was always that human element to contend with. To combat this factor, we built a rig to test oscillating multi-tools.
One end holds the material we’re cutting in place, while the tool is secured to a sled that’s pulled forward by a weight, applying even pressure for each test. The amount of weight varies based on what material we’re cutting, but every tool uses the same amount of weight as the others for each test.
Our testing materials included hard and soft woods, nail-embedded white pine, 1/2-inch CPVC pipe, 1/2-inch copper pipe, 1/2-inch EMT conduit, and 1/2-inch all-thread rod. Check out the full review for more details of the test setups.
| Test | GMT01 Results | XMT04 Results |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow Pine | 6.39 seconds | 6.01 seconds |
| Red Oak | 4.27 seconds | 11.23 seconds |
| Nail-Embedded Pine | 2.90 seconds | 9.93 seconds |
| CPVC | 1.10 seconds | 1.97 seconds |
| Copper Pipe | 12.28 seconds | 16.23 seconds |
| EMT Conduit | 5.19 seconds | 12.10 seconds |
| Threaded Rod | 41 seconds | 69 seconds |
It’s really cool to see how much the GMT01 has improved Makita’s overall performance level compared to many of the tools we’ve tested. While the specs are identical to the 18V XMT04, the 40V model is pushing the limits and proves that this is much more than a simple voltage migration.
Makita XGT Oscillating Multi-Tool Design Notes
- Model: Makita 40V max XGT GMT01
- Power Source: Makita 40V battery
- Weight: 3.1 lbs (bare tool), 4.6 lbs (with 2.5Ah battery)
- Length: 11 in.
Size and Weight
The Makita GMT01 weighs 3.1 pounds as a bare tool, 4.6 pounds with a 2.5Ah battery, and measures 11 inches from tip to tail. This is nearly identical to its LXT counterpart, which is labeled as Sub-Compact. However, there’s no denying that the head gives this a bulkier look despite being shorter than most.
The bulk is a conscious design choice by the product team and has a couple of benefits. First, the larger profile provides plenty of surface area for your hands so you can easily manipulate the tool. Second, the larger housing is actually somewhat of an exoskeleton that helps dampen vibration while you’re working.
Makita certainly didn’t skimp on comfort and the majority of the tool body is covered with a rubber overmold. As I mentioned earlier, this makes it possible to comfortably grip this tool in a number of positions while you’re working.
Starlock Max Accessory Interface
I’m glad to see that Makita is continuing to use the Starlock Max accessory interface. This system is also compatible with standard Starlock and Starlock Plus accessories, so you have the entire Starlock lineup available to you.
Unlike some of the other models we’ve tested, Makita’s system is not completely hands-free. Once you unlock the release lever, you still need to pull the central retaining pin. While it’s not as fast as other models using Starlock, it’s still faster than most other designs.
Additional Features
- LED worklight
- Compatible with all Makita 40V batteries
Makita XGT Oscillating Multi-Tool Price
The Makita GMT01 retails for $259 as a bare tool and comes with a 3-year warranty. At the time of writing this article, no kit options are available, so be sure to pick up a battery and charger.
The Bottom Line
Aesthetically speaking, the Makita 40V max XGT Oscillating Multi-Tool shares many of the same characteristics as its LXT counterpart. However, our testing showed that Makita has moved into uncharted territory. The Makita GMT01 moved up the ranks in performance while still maintaining a comfortable form factor and impressive vibration control. From remodeling and flooring to electrical and plumbing, if your job requires the cuts only an oscillating multi-tool can make, Makita’s GMT01 needs to be on your shortlist.
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