The Best Makita Tools of 2023: Four Releases That Stood Out

Introduction

Every year, tool makers flood the market with new releases, but only a handful genuinely change how you work. 2023 was a strong year for Makita, with launches across its 18V LXT and 40V XGT platforms that rewarded patience. This roundup focuses on four releases that stood out for their balance of size, power, and everyday usefulness.

What Made the Cut

The picks below share a common thread: each one solves a real jobsite problem without adding bulk. Some are refinements of already excellent tools, while others fill gaps that cordless users have been asking about for years. If you are building out a Makita collection or deciding where to spend your money next, these four deserve a close look.

Makita TD173D: The Impact Driver That Gets the Details Right

The TD173D, sold internationally as the DTD173, earns the top spot among 2023 releases. Compared with its predecessor, the handle has been moved forward for better balance, so the tool no longer wants to tip forward in the hand. The controls sit on the back of the body, making mode numbers and settings far easier to read while you work.

It keeps the same power class as the previous 18V impact drivers, but adds a nicer trigger, a more streamlined body, and a genuinely standout feature: lock the tool in the middle setting and tap the trigger, and the work light stays on for up to an hour. That turns the driver into a usable torch with a wide, shadow-free beam. It is not the most powerful impact driver on the market, but it will handle the vast majority of tasks, and anything beyond its reach should push you toward an impact wrench anyway.

Makita HS011G: The Blade-Left Circular Saw

The HS011G is the 40V blade-left 165mm (6-1/2 inch) circular saw that fans had been waiting for. It is modeled on the hugely popular DHS680 from the 18V LXT line, and it took Makita a while to bring it to the 40V platform, but the wait paid off.

The saw offers a good depth of cut, a light feel in use, and the blade-left layout so many users prefer for sighting the cut line. It is now available around the world, which makes it a realistic option no matter where you shop.

Makita DMC300: The Handy Cut-Off Tool

The DMC300 was a surprise. Skepticism about whether it would be any good gave way quickly once it proved itself across a wide range of tasks: cutting tiles, cutting metal, trimming plastic pipes, and slicing metal pipes. It is one of those tools that finds 101 uses once you own it.

It is light, easy to toss in a toolbox, and always on hand when you need to knock out a quick cut. An adjustable base with dust extraction attached makes it even more versatile across different materials and situations.

Makita HR010G: The Compact 40V Rotary Hammer

The HR010G is the compact, some would say baby, rotary hammer of the 40V range. It drills up to 20mm, and beyond straight and hammer drilling, it also accepts chisels for chipping away at concrete. Despite its small size, it has plenty of grunt, and for anyone who never drills over 20mm, it may be all the rotary hammer they need.

Pair it with the DX16 dust extraction system and the combination becomes genuinely brilliant: the extractor runs off the HR010G’s battery, so there is no extra power system to carry or charge.

Buying Advice

If you can only add one tool from this list, the TD173D is the strongest all-rounder thanks to its balance, ergonomics, and brilliant light. The HS011G suits framing and carpentry users who have wanted a 40V blade-left saw, while the DMC300 is the low-commitment, high-utility pick. The HR010G makes the most sense for electricians, installers, and anyone drilling concrete in the 20mm range who wants a lighter setup.

Conclusion

2023 gave Makita users plenty to be happy about. Each of these releases focuses on doing common jobs better rather than chasing headline specs, and that focus shows in daily use. Whichever one matches your workload, all four are tools that earn their space in the van.