Makita offers a range of chargers for their 18V LXT battery system, from basic single-port units to rapid dual-port chargers and even multi-voltage models that also charge 40V Max XGT and 12V Max CXT batteries. Every Makita LXT charger works with every LXT battery. The only difference is charging speed. This guide covers every current Makita charger, compatibility details, and how to choose the right one.
Quick Compatibility Rule
All Makita 18V LXT chargers charge all 18V LXT batteries. This includes the BL1820B (2.0 Ah) through to the BL1860B (6.0 Ah). Makita chargers use Active 3-Stage Charging with a built-in fan that cools the battery during charging, and communicate with the battery’s onboard chip to optimize charge rate, voltage, and temperature.
Makita LXT Charger Comparison
| Charger Model | Type | Ports | 18V LXT | 40V XGT | 12V CXT | Approx. Time (5 Ah) | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DC18SD | Standard | 1 | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ~90 min | Budget option, compact, no fan |
| DC18RC | Rapid Optimum | 1 | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ~45 min | Fan-cooled, the standard pro charger |
| DC18RD | Dual-Port Rapid | 2 | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ~45 min each | Two batteries simultaneously, fan-cooled |
| DC18RE | Multi-Voltage | 1 | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ~45 min | Charges both 18V LXT and 12V Max CXT batteries |
| DC40RA | XGT Rapid (also LXT) | 1 | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ~45 min | Charges both 40V XGT and 18V LXT batteries |
| DC40RB | XGT Rapid (also LXT) | 1 | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ~45 min | Compact version of DC40RA |
Which Batteries Work With Which Chargers?
| Battery Type | DC18SD | DC18RC | DC18RD | DC18RE | DC40RA/RB |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BL1820B (2.0 Ah) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| BL1830B (3.0 Ah) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| BL1840B (4.0 Ah) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| BL1850B (5.0 Ah) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| BL1860B (6.0 Ah) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 12V Max CXT batteries | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| 40V Max XGT batteries | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
Which Charger Should You Buy?
| Situation | Recommended Charger | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Budget / casual DIY | DC18SD | Cheapest option, charges overnight |
| Regular pro use | DC18RC | Fan-cooled rapid charging — the industry standard |
| Pro with multiple batteries | DC18RD | Two bays — keep both batteries topped up simultaneously |
| Own both LXT and CXT tools | DC18RE | One charger for both 18V and 12V batteries |
| Own both LXT and XGT tools | DC40RA | One charger for both 40V and 18V batteries |
Common Questions
Can I use the 40V XGT charger for my 18V LXT batteries?
Yes. The DC40RA and DC40RB chargers accept both 40V XGT and 18V LXT batteries. This is a great option if you’re invested in both Makita platforms — one charger handles everything.
Will the rapid charger damage my battery?
No. Makita’s Optimum Charging System communicates with the battery’s onboard chip throughout the entire charge cycle, monitoring voltage, current, and temperature. The built-in fan actively cools the battery during rapid charging. The charger will slow down or pause charging if the battery gets too warm.
Can I charge old NiCad Makita batteries with these chargers?
Some Makita chargers (like the DC18RC) can charge both lithium-ion and NiMH/NiCad batteries. Check the label on your specific charger — if it says “Li-ion / Ni-MH” it supports both chemistries.
What about Makita’s AWS (Auto-Start Wireless System)?
AWS is a Bluetooth system that wirelessly connects Makita tools to dust extractors — it’s not related to charging. AWS-compatible tools still use the same batteries and chargers as all other LXT tools.
Related Guides
- Every Makita 18V LXT Battery Compared
- Every Makita 18V LXT Tool and Which Batteries Fit
- Makita 18V LXT vs 40V XGT
- How Long Do Power Tool Batteries Last?
Video Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Charging Best Practices
How you charge your Makita batteries directly affects their longevity. Follow these guidelines to maximise your battery investment.
Temperature management: Charge batteries at room temperature (10-40°C) for optimal results. Makita chargers include Active 3-Stage charging that monitors battery temperature throughout the charging cycle. If you have just finished heavy use and the battery feels warm, allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes before charging.
Prompt removal: Remove batteries from the charger once the charge indicator shows full. While Makita chargers stop actively charging at 100%, prolonged connection is not beneficial for long-term cell health.
Storage charging: Before storing batteries for weeks or months, charge them to roughly 50%. Fully charged batteries stored long-term experience faster capacity fade than partially charged ones.
Troubleshooting Common Charger Issues
Red and green lights alternating: The battery temperature is outside the acceptable charging range. Wait for the battery to reach room temperature before retrying. In cold weather, bring batteries indoors to warm up before charging.
Red light stays on continuously: The battery is actively charging. Makita rapid chargers typically complete a full charge in 30-45 minutes depending on battery capacity.
No lights on the charger: Check the mains power connection and ensure the battery is properly seated on the charger rails. Clean battery contacts with a dry cloth if dirty. If the charger still does not respond, test with a different battery to isolate whether the charger or battery is at fault.
Battery charges but loses charge quickly: The battery cells have likely degraded beyond useful life. This is normal after 500-1,000+ charge cycles or 3-5 years of regular use. The battery should be replaced and the old one recycled at a proper collection point.
What is the difference between Makita DC18RC and DC18RD chargers?
The DC18RC is a single-port rapid charger that charges one battery at a time in approximately 45 minutes (for a 5.0Ah). The DC18RD is a dual-port charger that charges two batteries simultaneously, each in the same 45-minute window. The DC18RD is ideal for users rotating multiple batteries throughout the day.
Can I charge Makita 40V XGT batteries on an LXT charger?
No. LXT (18V) and XGT (40V) chargers are not interchangeable. However, Makita makes the DC18RE multi-voltage charger that can charge both 18V LXT and 40V XGT batteries (as well as 12V CXT). This is the most versatile option if you own tools from multiple Makita platforms.
Is the Makita DC18SD slow charger worth buying?
The DC18SD is the most affordable Makita LXT charger but charges significantly slower — approximately 90 minutes for a 5.0Ah battery versus 45 minutes on the DC18RC. It is suitable as a secondary or overnight charger, but for active work the DC18RC rapid charger is a much better investment for just a few dollars more.
Can Makita chargers charge non-Makita batteries?
No. Makita chargers are designed exclusively for genuine Makita and compatible third-party batteries that match the LXT or XGT electrical specifications. Makita chargers use a communication protocol to verify battery compatibility. Attempting to charge batteries from other brands is not possible and could be dangerous.
Frequently Asked Questions
Always use the charger specified for your battery platform. Using incorrect chargers can damage cells, void warranties, and create safety hazards.
Can I use any Makita charger with my 18V LXT battery?
Yes. All Makita 18V LXT chargers are compatible with all LXT batteries regardless of capacity. The DC18RC, DC18RD, and DC18RE all work with batteries from 1.5Ah to 6.0Ah.
How fast does the Makita DC18RC charge?
The DC18RC charges a 5.0Ah battery in approximately 45 minutes and a 3.0Ah in about 22 minutes. It is Makita’s most popular single-port charger.
Can I charge Makita XGT batteries on an LXT charger?
No. XGT (40V) and LXT (18V) chargers use different connectors and voltages. Each platform requires its own dedicated charger.
