Available to buy here:
Welcome back to “Reviews inside tv”! Today, we’re taking a closer look at the Makita XLC08ZB 18V LXT® Lithium-ion Compact Brushless Cordless Vacuum, Tool Only. If you’re on the hunt for a compact, versatile vacuum to tackle your everyday messes, you’re in the right place. This vacuum boasts a set of features that promise to make cleaning a bit easier, whether you’re tackling fine dust, debris, or pet hair. Let’s break it down and see how it measures up.
First up, let’s talk about the suction power. The Makita XLC08ZB uses a brushless motor, which is known for running cooler and more efficiently than its brushed counterparts. The result? A solid 90 watts of suction power. In real terms, that means it should be capable of picking up light dirt, dust, and even some larger debris on hard floors and carpets. However, keep in mind that this is a compact vacuum, so it’s better suited for light to medium-duty cleaning rather than deep carpet cleaning or tackling heavy-duty messes.
When it comes to the floor types, the Makita XLC08ZB does a good job on both hard floors and low-pile carpets. It’s not going to replace a full-sized upright or canister vacuum, but for everyday quick clean-ups, it’ll get the job done. The bagless cloth filtration system is another nice touch, offering a more convenient way to clean out the dustbin and quickly dispose of debris. It’s also an allergy-friendly option, thanks to the bagless design, which minimizes dust clouds when emptying, but there are no specific HEPA filtration claims, so it may not capture ultra-fine particles.
The battery life is a key factor with any cordless vacuum, and here, you get the flexibility of using Makita’s 18V LXT® Lithium-ion batteries. The runtime will depend on the power mode you choose—trigger or slide switch mode. In the slide switch mode, it’s more efficient, running longer, while the trigger mode offers better control, especially for quick touch-ups. But be mindful that if you’re in trigger mode, the battery might drain a bit quicker. It’s a good option for users who already own other Makita tools with the same battery system, which adds to the overall convenience of maintaining just one type of battery.
At 3.5 pounds, this vacuum is light enough to handle with ease, whether you’re cleaning around furniture or lifting it to clean hard-to-reach spots. The thermoplastic hand grip ensures a comfortable hold, and it’s designed for durability, so you’re getting a vacuum that won’t wear down too quickly, even with regular use. The integrated LED light, with its Preglow function, is a clever addition—it helps illuminate dark corners, making it easier to see debris you might otherwise miss. However, while the LED light is handy, it’s more of a feature for convenience than a game-changer.
Now, let’s get into real-world testing. The Makita XLC08ZB is surprisingly versatile for its size. Cleaning up crumbs, dust, and small debris from hard floors is a breeze. The suction is strong enough to lift light debris from low-pile carpet, but it may struggle with deep, embedded dirt or high-pile carpets. Using the vacuum around furniture is easy thanks to its lightweight design, but if you’re cleaning under furniture or in tight corners, the absence of a motorized brush roll means you’ll have to rely on suction alone, which works, but it’s not as effective for stubborn dirt.
When it comes to pet hair, the vacuum handles it decently on hard floors and low-pile carpet, but the lack of a dedicated pet hair attachment means you might have to go over certain areas a few more times. The attachments that come with it aren’t specialized for upholstery or pet hair, so if that’s your main concern, you might need to invest in separate tools. That said, the simple design keeps things straightforward, which is great for anyone who prefers a no-frills cleaning experience.
Now, onto the pros and cons. One of the key benefits of this vacuum is its portability. It’s lightweight, easy to handle, and simple to use, making it perfect for quick touch-ups. The brushless motor provides efficient suction, and the LED light is a nice added touch for low-light areas. On the downside, it’s not as powerful as full-sized models, so you won’t be able to rely on it for heavy-duty cleaning or deep carpet work. The dustbin is small, so you may need to empty it more frequently, especially for larger cleaning jobs. Additionally, there’s no dedicated pet hair tool, and the filtration system, while decent, may not be sufficient for those with severe allergies or asthma.
In terms of value for money, the Makita XLC08ZB sits in the mid-range price category for cordless vacuums. It’s a great option if you’re looking for something portable, compact, and easy to use, especially if you’re already invested in Makita’s 18V battery system. However, if you’re looking for something that can handle deeper cleaning or more specialized tasks like pet hair removal or high-pile carpets, you might want to consider other options at a slightly higher price point.
When comparing this vacuum to alternatives in the same price range, a few models come to mind. The Dyson V7 Trigger, for instance, offers a bit more suction power and better performance on carpets, but it’s also pricier. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Shark ION W1 might also be worth considering, though it doesn’t feature the same efficient brushless motor or battery system. Each model has its strengths, but for those who want something lightweight and straightforward, the Makita XLC08ZB holds its own.
Looking at build quality, the Makita XLC08ZB is solid. The materials feel durable, and the hand grip is comfortable for extended use. It’s easy to maintain, with straightforward dustbin emptying and simple filter care. Long-term durability should be good, but as with any cordless tool, battery life will gradually decrease with use, so that’s something to keep in mind if you plan on using it for frequent cleaning sessions.
If you do need customer support, Makita is known for reliable after-sales service, and their warranty handling is generally well-regarded. While this vacuum doesn’t feature any smart tech or app integration, it’s a straightforward tool that works as expected, so you won’t be dealing with complex firmware issues.
To wrap up, the Makita XLC08ZB is a solid, lightweight, and efficient cordless vacuum ideal for quick, everyday clean-ups in homes with hard floors or low-pile carpets. It’s perfect for anyone who needs a compact and easy-to-use vacuum without the bells and whistles. However, if you’re looking for something with deep cleaning power, more attachments, or better pet hair capabilities, you may want to look elsewhere. For those who already own Makita tools and batteries, this is a practical addition to your collection.
Thanks for watching! If you have any questions or if you own this vacuum already, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit that bell icon for more honest reviews. Goodbye till next time—and keep those floors clean!
Available to buy here:
