Makita Corporation is a Japanese multinational manufacturer of professional-grade power tools, outdoor power equipment, cleaning equipment, and related accessories. Founded in 1915, the company has grown into one of the world’s leading power tool brands, serving professionals and DIY users in more than 40 countries through a global network of manufacturing facilities, subsidiaries, and distributors. Makita is widely recognized for its emphasis on durability, engineering quality, battery-powered innovation, and long-term platform compatibility.

• Company Name: Makita Corporation

• Founded: March 21, 1915

• Founder: Mosaburo Makita

• Headquarters: Anjo, Aichi Prefecture, Japan

• Industry: Power tools, outdoor power equipment, industrial equipment

• Products: Cordless power tools, corded power tools, outdoor equipment, accessories, batteries, chargers, cleaning equipment

• Market: Global

• Type: Public company (listed on the Tokyo and Nagoya Stock Exchanges)

Makita began in 1915 as Makita Electric Works, a company specializing in the sale and repair of electric motors, lighting equipment, and transformers in Nagoya, Japan.

During the following decades, the company expanded into manufacturing electrical equipment and became one of Japan’s pioneers in portable power tools.

A major milestone came in 1958, when Makita introduced Japan’s first portable electric planer. This success transformed the company into a dedicated power tool manufacturer.

In 1959, Makita officially shifted its focus to electric power tools and soon began exporting products internationally, beginning with Australia.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the company introduced numerous innovations, including one of the world’s earliest rechargeable cordless drills.

Over the following decades, Makita expanded globally through new manufacturing plants, overseas subsidiaries, and continuous investment in cordless technology.

Today, Makita is regarded as one of the world’s largest manufacturers of professional power tools.

Makita manufactures a broad range of equipment for construction, woodworking, metalworking, landscaping, cleaning, and industrial applications.

Major product categories include:

Power Tools

• Drills

• Impact drivers

• Hammer drills

• Rotary hammers

• Circular saws

• Miter saws

• Reciprocating saws

• Jigsaws

• Angle grinders

• Sanders

• Planers

• Routers

• Nailers

• Heat guns

Outdoor Power Equipment

• Lawn mowers

• String trimmers

• Chainsaws

• Hedge trimmers

• Leaf blowers

• Pole saws

• Brush cutters

Cleaning Equipment

• Vacuums

• Dust extractors

• Pressure washers

Accessories

• Drill bits

• Saw blades

• Grinding wheels

• Batteries

• Chargers

• Tool storage systems

Makita designs many of these products to share compatible battery platforms, allowing users to power multiple tools with the same battery system.

Makita is especially known for its cordless ecosystem.

CXT (12V Max)

Compact tools designed for lighter-duty applications.

LXT (18V)

Makita’s most established battery platform, featuring hundreds of compatible tools across construction, woodworking, landscaping, and maintenance.

LXT X2 (36V)

Uses two 18V batteries simultaneously to deliver higher power while maintaining compatibility with the LXT ecosystem.

XGT (40V Max)

Introduced as Makita’s next-generation high-performance battery platform for demanding professional and industrial applications.

ConnectX

A backpack battery system intended for extended runtime in heavy-duty outdoor equipment.

Makita manufactures products in multiple countries to serve global markets.

Major manufacturing locations include:

• Japan

• China

• Thailand

• Romania

• United Kingdom

• Germany

• Brazil

• Mexico

• United States

The company operates numerous production facilities worldwide while maintaining significant research and development operations in Japan.

Makita has developed several proprietary technologies, including:

• Brushless motor technology

• Lithium-ion battery systems

• Automatic speed control

• Active Feedback Sensing Technology (AFT)

• Extreme Protection Technology (XPT)

• Star Protection Computer Controls

• AWS (Auto-Start Wireless System) for compatible dust extraction

These technologies are designed to improve performance, runtime, durability, and user safety.

Makita products are commonly used in:

• Residential construction

• Commercial construction

• Carpentry

• Woodworking

• Metal fabrication

• Plumbing

• Electrical installation

• Landscaping

• Manufacturing

• Facility maintenance

• Home improvement

Makita operates through subsidiaries and distributors across North America, Europe, Asia, Oceania, South America, the Middle East, and Africa.

The company serves professional contractors, industrial users, government organizations, and consumers worldwide.

Makita has earned a reputation for:

• Reliable professional-grade tools

• Long-lasting battery systems

• Extensive cordless ecosystem

• Durable construction

• High-quality brushless motors

• Strong aftermarket support

• Wide availability of replacement parts

It is frequently considered alongside brands such as DeWalt, Milwaukee, Bosch Professional, Hilti, and Metabo in the professional power tool market.

Makita focuses on designing tools that combine high performance, durability, ergonomics, and environmental responsibility. The company places particular emphasis on battery-powered equipment as an alternative to fuel-powered products, aiming to reduce emissions and improve workplace efficiency.

Makita is one of the world’s most established and respected power tool manufacturers. From its beginnings as an electric motor repair business in 1915, it has evolved into a global leader in cordless technology and professional-grade tools. With a broad product portfolio, long-running battery ecosystems, and a strong reputation for quality and reliability, Makita remains a prominent choice for professionals and serious DIY users across construction, woodworking, landscaping, and industrial sectors.