Makita XNU05Z 18V LXT Cordless 18″ Pole Hedge Trimmer Review: The Pro-Grade Solution for Taming Tall Hedges

I remember the annual ritual with a grimace: hauling out the rickety extension ladder, carefully positioning it on uneven lawn, and then trying to balance myself while wielding a buzzing, corded hedge trimmer. Every stretch to reach the top of our six-foot privet hedge felt like a gamble. My focus was split between getting a clean, level cut and not tumbling into the bushes below. The extension cord was a constant, tangled menace, always threatening to snag on a branch or, worse, meet the trimmer’s blades. It was a stressful, inefficient, and frankly, dangerous chore that I dreaded every season. This precarious dance is a reality for countless homeowners who just want a tidy yard without risking life and limb. The search for a safer, more powerful, and more convenient solution is what leads us to tools like the Makita XNU05Z 18V LXT Cordless 18″ Pole Hedge Trimmer, a machine promising to bring those out-of-reach jobs safely back down to earth. After putting it through its paces, we’re here to tell you if it lives up to that promise. You can see if this ladder-free solution is right for your yard.

What to Consider Before Buying a Pole Hedge Trimmer

A Pole Hedge Trimmer is more than just a tool; it’s a key solution for landscape maintenance, safety, and efficiency. Its primary benefit is providing extended reach, allowing you to shape tall shrubs, trim high hedge tops, and even manage low-lying ground cover without bending or straining. This eliminates the need for unstable ladders, significantly reducing the risk of falls and injuries. Furthermore, cordless models like the Makita offer unparalleled freedom of movement, liberating you from the frustrating limitations and hazards of extension cords. By combining reach, power, and portability, a quality pole hedge trimmer transforms a difficult, multi-step chore into a single, streamlined process, saving you time and physical exertion while delivering professional-looking results.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone with mature, tall hedges (typically over 5-6 feet), extensive shrubbery, or a large property where efficiency is paramount. If you find yourself regularly using a ladder for trimming, a pole hedge trimmer is a direct and immediate upgrade to your safety and workflow. It’s also perfect for professional landscapers and dedicated homeowners who are already invested in a compatible battery ecosystem, like Makita’s 18V LXT platform. However, it might not be suitable for those with only small, low-lying shrubs or minimal trimming needs. For such tasks, a smaller, handheld hedge trimmer or even manual shears would be more cost-effective and less cumbersome. The weight and length, while necessary for reach, can be overkill for delicate, close-up work.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Reach & Articulation: The entire point of a pole trimmer is its reach. Consider the maximum height of your hedges and choose a tool that allows you to trim comfortably from the ground. Look for telescoping shafts that offer adjustable length for versatility. Equally important is the articulating head; the ability to change the angle of the cutting blade is essential for cleanly trimming the flat tops of hedges and shaping rounded bushes without contorting your body.
• Power & Performance: A trimmer’s performance is measured in Strokes Per Minute (SPM) and its cutting capacity (the maximum branch thickness it can handle). A higher SPM, like the 3,600 offered by the Makita, means a faster, cleaner cut with less vibration and tearing. Also, evaluate the blade type; dual-action blades, where both blades move, cut more efficiently and produce less vibration than single-action models. When considering performance, it is wise to check the specs on a high-performance model like the Makita to set a benchmark.
• Weight & Balance: This is arguably the most critical ergonomic factor. Remember, the motor and cutting head are at the end of a long pole, creating significant leverage. A tool that feels manageable for five minutes can become exhausting after thirty. Pay close attention to the tool’s weight (without the battery) and, if possible, read reviews that discuss its balance. A top-heavy tool will cause more strain on your shoulders and back, so good balance is key for extended use.
• Power Source & Runtime: Cordless battery power is the standard for convenience, but not all battery systems are equal. Consider the voltage (V) and amp-hours (Ah) of the battery, as this will dictate power and runtime. If you already own tools from a specific brand’s battery platform (like Makita LXT, DeWalt 20V MAX, etc.), buying a “tool only” version can save you a significant amount of money. Always check the estimated runtime to ensure it’s sufficient for your typical trimming session.

Considering these factors will ensure you select a pole hedge trimmer that not only meets the demands of your landscape but also provides a safe, comfortable, and efficient user experience for years to come.

While the Makita XNU05Z 18V LXT Cordless 18″ Pole Hedge Trimmer is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Professional Grade, Right Out of the Box

Unboxing the Makita XNU05Z 18V LXT Cordless 18″ Pole Hedge Trimmer, we were immediately met with the familiar and reassuring quality synonymous with the Makita brand. The signature teal housing feels robust and durable, engineered for job sites, not just weekend yard work. Assembly is minimal and intuitive; it’s essentially ready to go. You attach the blade cover and slide in one of your existing 18V LXT batteries (as this is a “tool only” unit), and you’re set. The locking mechanism for the telescoping shaft is solid, with no wiggle or play, inspiring confidence that it won’t slip during use. The articulation joint for the cutting head is equally stout, clicking into its 10 different positions with a positive, mechanical certainty. Compared to some lighter-duty, consumer-grade trimmers we’ve tested, you can feel the professional-grade construction right away. It’s clear this tool is built less like a garden accessory and more like a piece of professional equipment designed for longevity and harsh conditions, right down to the weather-resistant XPT technology protecting its internals.

A Deep Dive into the Makita XNU05Z’s On-the-Job Performance

A tool’s specifications on paper are one thing; its performance in the thick of overgrown branches is another entirely. We put the Makita XNU05Z 18V LXT Cordless 18″ Pole Hedge Trimmer through a gauntlet of landscaping challenges, from sculpting towering arborvitae to taming unruly forsythia bushes. Over several hours of intensive testing, we analyzed its core functions to determine where it truly excels and what limitations potential buyers should understand. This isn’t just a trimmer; it’s a specialized system designed for a very specific, and often frustrating, task. Here’s how it broke down.

Raw Cutting Power and Blade Efficiency

The heart of any hedge trimmer is its cutting assembly, and this is where Makita’s engineering prowess shines. The Makita-built motor spins the 18-inch dual-action blades at a blistering 3,600 strokes per minute. In practice, this translates to an incredibly clean and efficient cut. We started on some boxwoods that were well-maintained, and the trimmer glided through them like a hot knife through butter, leaving a pristine, manicured surface with no tearing or chewed-up leaves. This high speed is a key feature that delivers its impressive cutting speed and finish quality.

Feeling confident, we moved to a more challenging task: a privet hedge that had been neglected for a season, with woody growth approaching half an inch in diameter. While this is the upper limit for most hedge trimmers, the XNU05Z chewed through these thicker branches with minimal hesitation. You could hear the motor dig in slightly, but it never bogged down or stalled. The dual-action, double-sided shear blade design is crucial here, as it minimizes vibration and allows for cutting in either direction on a pass, effectively doubling your work speed. This performance was confirmed by users, one of whom noted it was “very powerful and practical” and another who praised how well it cuts. Unlike lesser trimmers that can snag and damage plants, the Makita’s power and blade quality ensure a healthy cut that promotes vigorous regrowth.

Ergonomics in Action: Mastering Reach, Articulation, and Weight

Power is useless if you can’t comfortably wield the tool. The primary selling point of the Makita XNU05Z 18V LXT Cordless 18″ Pole Hedge Trimmer is its ability to eliminate the ladder, and its design is wholly focused on this goal. The telescoping shaft is a masterclass in simplicity and strength. With a quick twist of the collar, we could extend the tool from its base length of about 6 feet to its maximum of over 8 feet. This was more than enough to reach the top of an 8-foot hedge while standing safely on the ground. Combined with our own height, we could easily manage landscaping that was 10-12 feet tall. This telescoping feature is a game-changer for tall hedges, just as one user celebrated: “It made quick work of the hedges and no ladder or extension cord needed!”

The 10-position articulating head is the other half of this ergonomic equation. By pressing a large, easy-to-use button, we could pivot the cutting head from straight up (for reaching over the top of a hedge) all the way down to a 90-degree angle (perfect for leveling hedge tops). This versatility is what allows for precise shaping without needing to be directly in front of or below the cutting area. However, this is where we must address the physics of the tool. As one incredibly insightful user pointed out, using this trimmer feels very much like maneuvering a 2x4x8′ board. The motor and blade assembly place the bulk of the weight at the far end of the pole. When fully extended and held horizontally to trim the top of a hedge, you feel every ounce of that weight. It is a workout for the shoulders and core. We found that taking short breaks and using a shoulder strap (not included, but highly recommended for extended use) made a significant difference. Another user noted the trigger’s placement at the far end of the pole can feel awkward and tiring. We agree; it requires you to keep your hand at the very back for control, which exacerbates the feeling of leverage. This isn’t a design flaw, but rather an inescapable trade-off for having the motor at the cutting head. The key is to understand this and work with the tool’s balance, not against it.

The Makita Ecosystem: Battery Life, Durability, and Long-Term Value

Purchasing a tool like the Makita XNU05Z 18V LXT Cordless 18″ Pole Hedge Trimmer is an investment, not just in the tool itself, but in the Makita LXT ecosystem. For those already on the platform, this “tool only” offering is a massive value proposition. We tested it with a 5.0Ah 18V LXT battery, and the performance was stellar. We completed over an hour of nearly continuous trimming on our demanding test hedges before the battery gave out. This aligns with user reports, with one simply stating, “Battery life is great.” The efficiency of the brushless motor, combined with Makita’s battery technology, provides more than enough runtime for most residential and even many professional jobs on a single charge.

Beyond runtime, Makita has built in technologies to protect that investment. Star Protection Computer Controls™ is a communication system between the tool and battery that monitors conditions in real-time to prevent overloading, over-discharging, and overheating. This is crucial for a high-demand tool like a hedge trimmer, ensuring both the tool and your expensive batteries have a long, productive life. Furthermore, the Extreme Protection Technology (XPT™) is designed to provide increased dust and water resistance. While we didn’t test it in a downpour, we did use it on a damp morning with wet foliage, and the tool operated flawlessly. This added layer of durability gives peace of mind that an unexpected shower or dusty conditions won’t sideline your equipment. It’s these professional-grade features that separate Makita from many consumer-focused brands and justify its position as a tool for serious users.

What Other Users Are Saying

Across the board, user feedback largely mirrors our own hands-on findings. The overwhelming positive sentiment centers on the sheer convenience and safety of ditching the ladder. One user’s story is particularly resonant: “For years I’ve wobbled and reached while trying not to fall with blades in my hands or cut the extension cord… I already have Makita batteries so this was worth a try and I already love it.” This perfectly encapsulates the core value proposition of the tool. Many, like one person who switched from a heavier Sun Joe model, praise the Makita for being “significantly lighter” and easier to manipulate, enabling them to trim more frequently and with less fatigue.

The most common and constructive criticism revolves around the tool’s weight and balance. The fantastic analogy from one user—simulating the feel by holding a 2x4x8′ board—is an honest and accurate preview of the user experience. Another user directly points out that the “trigger is on the very end of the pole which can be awkward and tiring because the tool’s weight is on the blade end.” This isn’t a deal-breaker for most, but it’s a critical piece of information for managing expectations. It’s a powerful, long-reach tool, and it handles like one.

How the Makita XNU05Z Compares to the Alternatives

The Makita XNU05Z 18V LXT Cordless 18″ Pole Hedge Trimmer is a specialized tool for reach and power. However, not every landscaping task requires this level of capability. Understanding how it stacks up against other types of trimmers is key to making the right choice for your specific needs. While the Makita remains our top recommendation for serious reach and power, and you can see the latest pricing and full feature list here, these alternatives serve different, important niches.

1. Greenworks 24V Cordless Shear Shrubber

The Greenworks 24V Shear Shrubber exists on the opposite end of the spectrum from the Makita. This is a lightweight, handheld tool designed for precision and detail work. With its interchangeable shear and small shrubber blades, it’s perfect for shaping small decorative shrubs, trimming grass around flower beds, and performing delicate topiaries. Someone might prefer this tool if their primary need is detailed sculpting and edging, not trimming large or tall hedges. It’s incredibly light and easy to use with one hand, offering a level of finesse the much larger Makita cannot. If your landscaping is small-scale and intricate, the Greenworks is the more appropriate, and far more affordable, choice.

2. PHALANX 7.2V Cordless Grass Shears Trimmer

Similar to the Greenworks model, the PHALANX 2-in-1 tool is a compact, handheld unit focused on detailed trimming and shearing. Its 7.2V power system makes it even lighter and more compact, ideal for quick touch-ups, container gardening, and trimming in very tight spaces. The key appeal here is its ultimate portability and ease of use for small, quick jobs. A user who primarily needs to snip errant blades of grass along a walkway or shape a tiny boxwood in a pot would find the PHALANX perfect. It is not a hedge trimmer in the traditional sense and would be completely inadequate for the tasks the Makita is designed for, but for fine-detail work, it’s an excellent and highly specialized tool.

3. RYOBI ONE+ 22 in. Cordless Hedge Trimmer

The RYOBI ONE+ 22 in. Hedge Trimmer represents the middle ground and is perhaps the most common type of hedge trimmer. It offers more cutting length and power than the handheld shears but lacks the extended pole of the Makita. This is the ideal tool for someone with standard-height hedges (roughly chest-to-head height) that can be easily reached from the ground. It is significantly lighter and better balanced than the Makita pole trimmer because the user’s hands are close to the motor and blade. If you don’t own a ladder and don’t need one for your current hedges, the RYOBI provides excellent cutting performance and value, especially for those already in the ONE+ battery system. It’s the standard choice for the average suburban yard.

Our Final Verdict: Is the Makita XNU05Z the Right Tool for You?

After extensive testing and analysis, our conclusion is clear: the Makita XNU05Z 18V LXT Cordless 18″ Pole Hedge Trimmer is a top-tier tool that delivers exceptional performance for its intended purpose. It is a specialized piece of equipment designed to solve the dangerous and difficult problem of trimming tall hedges and shrubs. Its powerful motor, sharp dual-action blades, and outstanding reach make short work of jobs that would otherwise require a precarious ladder setup. The build quality is exactly what we expect from Makita—robust, durable, and ready for demanding work.

The primary consideration for any potential buyer must be the weight and balance. This is not a lightweight tool, and using it, especially when fully extended, is a physical task. However, we see this not as a flaw, but as a necessary trade-off for its incredible capability. For homeowners with tall hedges who value safety and efficiency, or for professionals who need a reliable, powerful cordless solution, the investment is easily justified. If you are tired of the ladder dance and ready to tackle your tall hedges from the safety of solid ground, the Makita XNU05Z is an outstanding choice that will serve you well for years to come. We recommend it without reservation to the right user. Don’t wait another season—get your Makita XNU05Z today and reclaim your weekend.