Makita Pumps Up Vacuum Performance On XGT Line
Makita has been making purpose-built vacuums on its 18V LXT platform for years and we use a couple of them in our shop. But does the 40V max XGT line offer anything different? We’re taking a closer look at the Makita 40V max XGT 4-gallon wet dry vacuum (GCV03) to find out.
Makita 40V max XGT 4-Gallon Wet Dry Vacuum Performance
- 148 CFM
- 92 inches of water lift
- Variable power dial
- Oversize on/off switch
- Two battery ports (only one battery required)
- Noise rated at 67 decibels
While the Makita GCV03 looks very similar to the 18V LXT models, the performance is significantly better. Compared to the 18X X2 version (XCV23), you can really see the difference. That model sports 74 CFM and 44 inches of water lift against the 40V max XGT hitting 148 CFM and 92 inches of water lift. It’s a really big difference that greatly improves your productivity.
One of the features we’ve come to appreciate is the oversize on/off switch. It’s a piece of cake to hit with your foot instead of having to bend over and flip a switch every time. Instead of a two-mode system, Makita uses a variable power dial, so you have more versatility in dialing in the performance.
Obviously, the additional power you get from the vacuum requires more power. To help extend the runtime, there are two battery banks, though you only need one battery to operate.
Makita 40V max XGT 4-Gallon Wet Dry Vacuum Design
- 4-gallon dry capacity
- 3.2-gallon wet capacity
- 1 1/4-inch and 5 1/2-foot anti-static hose
- Telescoping aluminum wand
- 12 1/2-inch floor nozzle
- Easy-rolling 360° casters (rear casters lock)
- Onboard hose and tool storage
This is a wet dry vacuum so the 4-gallon dry capacity drops to 3.2 gallons when you’re collecting wet messes.
One thing to consider is that Makita includes a 5 1/2-foot hose along with an aluminum telescoping nozzle, and a 12 1/2-inch floor nozzle. Along with its 360° casters, it’s dialed in really well for janitorial duties. It’s a very capable construction vacuum as well, but you may want to consider a longer hose and additional nozzles.
What About AWS?
Makita doesn’t have AWS capability on this vacuum. However, the GCV04 model does. You give up the wet cleaning capability, but you gain AWS if you add the chip and it comes with a HEPA filter. The performance is exactly the same.
Makita 40V max XGT 4-Gallon Wet Dry Vacuum Price
Without batteries or chargers, the Makita GCV03 runs $705.99. It’s also available as a kit with a pair of 4.0Ah batteries and a dual port rapid charger for $1129.99. Makita backs it with a 3-year warranty.
