New Makita Tools Worth Watching: Five Releases That Stand Out

Introduction

Makita rarely makes a loud fuss about its new releases, so catalog updates are often the best window into what is actually coming. The latest batch from the New Zealand release magazine covers a wide range: a long-awaited XGT barrel grip jigsaw, a surprise return to the 12V CXT line, a genuinely odd XGT microwave, a power-assisted wheelbarrow, and a charger that breaks the usual rapid-charger expectation. Here is a practical look at the five releases that stand out most.

Makita XGT Barrel Grip Jigsaw

Barrel grip jigsaw fans have been waiting a while for an 40V max XGT version, and here it is. Interestingly, Makita went with the barrel grip rather than the D-handle design first, which makes sense given the larger XGT battery packs hanging under the body. A barrel grip favors precise, controlled cuts, so this is the version many woodworking-focused users will actually prefer.

If you already own an older LXT jigsaw and are invested in XGT batteries, this is the natural upgrade path. Expect the usual Makita jigsaw strengths: smooth stroke action and comfortable one-handed control in tight work.

Makita CXT 12V Pruning Chainsaw

This one comes as a genuine surprise, because the 12V CXT line has been largely quiet for years. Makita now has a compact pruning-style chainsaw on that platform, joining Milwaukee in the 12V pruning saw space, and it seems only a matter of time before DeWalt follows.

Pricing seen so far puts these small saws around the $180 tool-only mark, so expect at least $200 in the US. A couple of honest caveats before buying: the saw ships with a 3.0Ah battery, and chainsaws really deserve at least a 4.0Ah pack for better runtime and cutting consistency. Also, if you already own the smaller top-handle version at a similar price, the top handle remains the more practical pick. This 12V saw makes the most sense for gardeners who want the lightest possible pruning tool on the smallest batteries.

Makita XGT Microwave

Yes, a cordless microwave. It has been floating around for a while, and it is exactly the kind of specialty product that sparks conversation. Realistically, it is aimed at jobsites and markets like Japan and Europe, and there is no guarantee it ever reaches the US in any volume.

On price: units imported into the US have been running around $1,000, so if Makita does bring it over officially, a figure of at least $500 seems like a reasonable guess. It is a niche convenience product, not a core tool, so most buyers should wait for confirmed local availability before getting excited.

Makita LXT Power-Assisted Wheelbarrow

A power-assisted wheelbarrow with a flat bucket is one of the more genuinely useful concepts in this batch, with a maximum load rating of 300 kg. It runs on two LXT batteries for 36V, and you can slot in four batteries at once, like some of Makita’s mowers, for double the runtime. That flexibility is a real plus for long hauling sessions.

It is an LXT product rather than XGT, which is a curious choice given the heavier loads involved, but that also means existing LXT battery owners can use it without buying into a new platform. Whether it reaches the US is unclear, but it would be a welcome addition for landscaping and property work.

Makita XGT Dual-Port Standard Charger

This one is quietly interesting: an XGT dual-port charger that is a standard charger, not a rapid one. XGT chargers have so far been rapid chargers, so this is a first for the platform.

Who is it for? The main appeal is price. If you simply want a cheaper dual-bay option and can accept longer charge times, it fills that gap. For a shared jobsite where two people need to top up batteries overnight rather than quickly, slower dual-bay charging can also make sense. Fast-charging users will want to stick with the existing rapid options.

Overall Buying Advice

Most of these releases reward patience. The barrel grip jigsaw is the clearest everyday buy for XGT users. The 12V pruning saw is appealing but only with a 4.0Ah battery plan, and only if you do not already own a comparable top-handle saw. The microwave and wheelbarrow are region-dependent specialty items worth watching rather than pre-ordering. The dual-port standard charger is a budget-focused accessory with a clear, limited use case.

Conclusion

Makita’s latest wave mixes one clear upgrade, one welcome platform revival, and a few specialty oddities. Matching each product to your existing battery platform and actual workload is the smartest way to decide which, if any, deserve a spot in your collection.