Do these batteries fit all Makita 18V tools?

Yes. They are 18V LXT batteries and work with Makita's 18V LXT cordless tools, including the bare tools sold without batteries.

How is 4.0Ah different from 5.0Ah?

Both fit the same tools. The 4.0Ah pack is lighter and gives less runtime per charge; the 5.0Ah gives more runtime at more weight.

Two 18V LXT 4.0Ah batteries (BL1840B) and one Rapid Optimum Charger (DC18RC). No tool is included.

Does the charger cool the battery while charging?

Yes. It has a built-in fan and monitors current, voltage and temperature during the charge.

Is this a good way to start with Makita?

It is the intended entry point: buy this pack, then add the 18V LXT bare tools you need.

Makita

18V LXT Lithium-Ion Battery and Rapid Optimum Charger Starter Pack (4.0Ah)

Q: Can I leave the batteries in storage for months?

Yes. Makita says the batteries resist self-discharge, so they are ready to use after long storage.

Q: Where is the 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Battery and Rapid Optimum Charger Starter Pack (4.0Ah) cheapest?

At The Home Depot, for $186.87, 17% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.

Q: Where can I buy the 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Battery and Rapid Optimum Charger Starter Pack (4.0Ah)?

6 stores we checked sell it, including The Home Depot, Hi-Line Tool Co., Ace Hardware, Grainger Industrial Supply, Tractor Supply Company.

Best price now

$186.87at The Home DepotChecked 9 h ago

17% under what the other stores charge

Compared across 6 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

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What reviewers say

Owners of Makita 18V tools generally rate the 4.0Ah packs and Rapid Optimum Charger as dependable everyday gear, with the fan-cooled charging and storage holding up well. The main complaint is runtime: 4.0Ah drains faster than the larger packs under heavy load.

What people mention

RuntimeMixedOwners say 4.0Ah is fine for light and medium work but drains quickly in high-draw tools like saws and grinders.
Charging speedPraisedThe Rapid Optimum Charger with its cooling fan is described as fast and consistent.
Battery lifePraisedUsers report the packs last years and hold charge through months of storage.
Build qualityPraisedOwners describe the batteries and charger as sturdy and reliable on job sites.
Charger capacityCriticisedSome wish the charger took two packs at once instead of one.

About the 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Battery and Rapid Optimum Charger Starter Pack (4.0Ah)

This starter pack includes two 18V LXT 4.0Ah batteries (BL1840B) and an 18V LXT Rapid Optimum Charger (DC18RC). It is the base for a Makita LXT cordless system. Makita offers over 350 cordless tools that use 18V lithium-ion batteries, and most are sold as bare tools with no battery or charger.

The batteries resist self-discharge, so they are ready to use after long periods of storage. The charger communicates with the battery while charging and monitors current, voltage and temperature. This helps optimize battery life and deliver a faster charge. A built-in fan cools the battery for faster, more efficient charging, even in hot weather.

Star Protection Computer Controls let the tool and battery exchange data in real time during use. They monitor conditions to protect against overloading, over-discharging and overheating. The batteries are slide-style lithium-ion batteries.

Model

BL1840BDC2X

In the box

2 x 18V LXT 4.0Ah batteries (BL1840B), 1 x 18V LXT Rapid Optimum Charger (DC18RC)

Voltage

18V

Capacity

4.0Ah per battery

Battery type

Lithium-ion, slide-style

Protection

Star Protection Computer Controls