Which kit is better for driving long screws and lag bolts?

The XT297T. Its XDT20 impact driver is rated at 1,590 in.lbs. and adds Assist Mode, which cuts cam-out and cross-threading. The XT288T's XDT16 is capable but its torque is not stated in the listing.

Is the XT297T worth the extra $12.40?

At the November 3, 2026 prices, yes if you drive a lot of screws: you get the newer impact driver and A-mode for $399.00 versus $386.60. If you mostly drill, the two kits share the same XPH14 hammer driver-drill and batteries.

Do both kits include the same batteries and charger?

Yes. Both include two 18V LXT 5.0Ah batteries and the DC18RC Rapid Optimum Charger, plus a tool bag. The batteries fit the full LXT line.

Which has the better track record?

The XT288T rates 4.9 out of 5 from 12 ratings; the XT297T rates 4.4 out of 5 from 19 ratings. The XT288T sample is smaller, so treat the gap as a lean, not a verdict.

Can I use either kit overseas?

Check the charger first. One XT288T buyer reported the DC18RC is not 110–220V compatible and damaged it abroad. Both kits ship with the same charger model.

Which is better for hammer drilling into masonry?

Either. Both include the XPH14 hammer driver-drill at 1,250 in.lbs. and 0-31,500 BPM, so the choice comes down to the impact driver and price.

18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 2-Pc. Combo Kit (5.0Ah) By Makita XT288T vs Makita XT297T 18V LXT Lithium Ion Brushless Cordless 2 Tool Combo Kit

Both kits are Makita 18V LXT two-tool brushless sets with two 5.0Ah batteries and the same DC18RC rapid charger. The XT288T pairs the XPH14 hammer driver-drill with the XDT16 impact driver; the XT297T pairs the same drill with the newer XDT20 impact driver. At the November 3, 2026 prices, the XT288T is $386.60 at Significant Services Inc and the XT297T is $399.00 at Home Depot, a $12.40 gap. Buy the XT297T if you want the newer impact driver with A-mode; buy the XT288T if you want the lower price and the proven XDT16.

Today the 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 2-Pc. Combo Kit (5.0Ah) By Makita XT288T costs $12.40 less at its best price.

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