Makita has a deep roster of sanding and polishing tools across its corded and cordless product lines. Looking into the more recent cordless launches, the brand has added a dedicated compact sander/polisher to the 18V LXT platform. How does it stack against similar tools from other brands? I’m walking you through the Makita 18V 3-inch Polisher / 2-inch Sander to help you decide if it’s the right move for your auto body needs.
Makita 18V Polisher/Sander Performance
- Model: Makita XVP01
- Max polishing speed: 2800 RPM
- Max sanding speed: 9500 RPM
- Sanding disc diameter: 2 in
- Polishing pad diameter: 3 in
- Brushless motor
- Variable speed trigger
- Trigger lock-on
The Makita XVP01 sander/polisher is the first of its kind on the LXT platform. It features an interchangeable head design, letting you switch between a 2-inch sanding disc and a 3-inch polishing pad.
So, what tasks can it help you with? Detail polishers and sanders can perform rust removal, polish your car’s headlights, clean up welding joints, and more. Makita designed it to be ideal for mobile and shop-based auto detailers, auto/motorcycle body repair pros, marine applications, and engine repair shops.
It features a dual speed selector that provides up to 2800 RPM in polishing mode or 9500 RPM in sanding mode. You can further control your speed using the variable speed trigger.
A power lock-on function also reduces fatigue during long sanding/polishing sessions, and a trigger lock prevents accidental start-ups.
Note: Makita’s 12V sander/polisher was also recently added to the 12V max system. It features very similar specs to the LXT model, but it’s powered by Makita’s more compact 12V batteries.
Makita 18V Polisher/Sander Design
- Weight: 3.1 lb (bare)
- Tool-free accessory changes
- Wire mesh air vent intake
- Auxiliary handle
- Lock-off power switch
The design team went with a familiar blueprint for the XVP01 sander/polisher. Its drill-like design makes it intuitive to use, while an auxiliary handle provides more control while sanding or polishing.
Changing between the 3-inch polishing backing plate and the 2-inch sanding backing plate is a tool-free process. A spindle lock keeps your accessory locked in place to prevent it from spinning during plate changes.
I appreciate that the air intake valves are covered in wire mesh to prevent debris from getting lodged inside. It’s a design that goes the extra mile and comes in handy, particularly for sanding. Like most Makita cordless tools, it’s also equipped with XPT (Extreme Protection Technology) for improved dust and water resistance.
How Does it Compare?
While the Makita XVP01 is the most recent addition to the 18V sander/polisher market, there are a couple of similar tools I’d like to compare it to.
Note that all three models in the table below feature various sizes and target different users. However, it puts the XVP01 into context in the overall market against other brands.
| Makita XVP01 (This model) | Ryobi PBF102B | Ingersoll Rand G4621 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top Sanding Speed: | 9500 RPM | 7800 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Top Polishing Speed: | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Sanding Disc Size: | 2 inches | 2 inches | 2 inches |
| Polishing Pad Size: | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches |
| Price: | $229 (bare) | $129 (bare) | $314 (kit) |
Makita 18V Polisher/Sander Price
This sander/polisher retails for $229 as a bare tool, which includes a 3-inch polishing backing plate, a wool cutting pad, a yellow foam polishing pad, a white foam polishing pad, and a 2-inch sanding backing pad. At the time of writing, there are no kit configurations available.
Makita does offer a very similar model, the XVP01ZB, which is part of their black sub-compact line of tools on the LXT platform. The two tools are extremely similar in performance and design. However, the sub-compact version is a bit more expensive, at $259. It also has a kit available for $344, which includes a 2.0Ah battery and charger.
Should You Buy It?
If you’ve been waiting to drop the cord on your sanding/polishing jobs, the Makita XVP01 is a nice place to start. It’s compact enough to work on detail-heavy applications, yet robust and durable to complete larger jobs. Its top polishing speeds are also nothing to shake a stick at, reaching 9500 RPM on the high end.
There’s no question that this model is targeting professional automotive detailers and other pros in adjacent trades. If you’re a weekend warrior or auto enthusiast looking to keep your ride shining, you may be better off with a more value-oriented model, unless you’re already on Makita’s LXT system. If you don’t mind the trade-offs in speed, Ryobi’s PBF102 saves you around $100 for the bare tool, for example.
