Which is better for drilling into concrete?

The XT288T. Its XPH14 hammer driver-drill has a hammer mode and 1,250 in-lb of peak torque. The XFD131 is a drill and driver only, with no hammer function.

Is the XT288T worth the extra money?

If you need an impact driver or masonry drilling, yes. You get two tools and 5.0Ah batteries for about $189 more than the $120.00 XFD131 kit at eBay as of November 4, 2026.

Which one is lighter to use overhead?

The XFD131. It weighs 3.8 lb with the 3.0Ah battery. Buyers of the XT288T describe its tools as a little bit heavy.

Do both use the same Makita 18V LXT batteries?

Yes. Both are part of the Makita 18V LXT system, so batteries and chargers work across both kits and other LXT tools.

Which has more runtime per charge?

The XT288T, because it ships with 5.0Ah batteries against the XFD131's single 3.0Ah battery. The XFD131 does charge in 30 minutes.

Which is better for driving lots of screws?

The XT288T. Its XDT16 impact driver has four speeds, Quick-Shift Mode and T-mode for controlled fastening. The XFD131 relies on clutch torque settings on a drill.

Makita 18V LXT Cordless 1/2" Driver-Drill Kit vs 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 2-Pc. Combo Kit (5.0Ah) By Makita XT288T

Buy the XFD131 drill kit if you need one drill and want to spend the least. At $120.00 at eBay as of November 4, 2026, it is about $189 less than the XT288T at $309.00 at Value Tools Co. Buy the XT288T combo kit if you want a hammer drill plus an impact driver and 5.0Ah batteries. It costs more, but you get two tools and more runtime.

Today the Makita 18V LXT Cordless 1/2" Driver-Drill Kit costs $189.00 less at its best price.

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