If you’ve invested in a collection of Makita 18V LXT batteries but inherited or borrowed a DeWalt 20V MAX tool, an adapter could save you from buying a whole new battery system. Battery adapters are simple mechanical clips that convert from one brand’s platform to another—allowing you to use your existing batteries in tools from a different manufacturer.
This guide covers the best Makita to DeWalt adapters currently available in the UK, how they work, which batteries are compatible, and the important limitations you need to know before buying one.
How Makita to DeWalt Adapters Work
The Makita 18V LXT and DeWalt 20V MAX platforms are electrically compatible—both platforms deliver approximately 18V nominal voltage to the tool. The difference is purely mechanical: the mounting contact points and shape are different. A Makita to DeWalt adapter solves this by clipping onto your Makita battery and presenting the DeWalt mounting interface to any 20V MAX tool.
Adapters are tool-use only. You cannot use them in reverse to charge a Makita battery in a DeWalt charger—the charging electronics on DeWalt chargers will not recognise a Makita battery, even with an adapter attached. Always charge your Makita batteries in a Makita charger.
The adapter typically adds 12–15mm of extra height to your battery, which can occasionally affect tool balance or fit in tight spaces. Always do a quick test fit before committing to a job on a ladder or in a confined space.
Best Makita to DeWalt Adapters
Badaptor MAK-DEW (Premium Pick)
The Badaptor MAK-DEW is a UK-designed adapter made from rigid ABS plastic with a snap-fit mechanism. It’s one of the most reliable options available and carries a lifetime warranty against defects—reassuring if you’re planning to use it regularly. The snap fit is firm and positive, with minimal wobble, and it works with all Makita 18V LXT batteries without modification.
Badaptor adapters are priced at approximately £23–29 on Amazon UK. Given the warranty and UK support, this is worth the premium if you plan extended use.
Buy Badaptor MAK-DEW on Amazon
MT20DL Adapter (Best Value)
The MT20DL is the most popular generic option and offers solid value at £16–20. It’s a straightforward plastic adapter with a clip-on design that holds securely. No USB port, no extra features—just a reliable bridge between Makita and DeWalt platforms. Thousands of tradespeople use this adapter weekly without issue.
The MT20DL is not brand-specific, so it works identically whether you’re adapting Makita to DeWalt or DeWalt to Makita. Fit and finish are acceptable, though it lacks the precision of the Badaptor. Warranty coverage is typically 12 months.
DM18M Multi-Adapter (Most Versatile)
If you own batteries from multiple brands, the DM18M is worth considering. This single adapter accepts both Makita 18V LXT and Milwaukee M18 batteries, converting either one to DeWalt 20V MAX compatibility. It also includes a USB charging port (5V, 2A), which can be handy for charging phones on site—though it will drain your power tool battery slowly.
The downside is complexity: the DM18M has more moving parts than a simple clip adapter, so there’s slightly more potential for wear. Priced at £18–25, it’s a middle ground between the budget MT20DL and the premium Badaptor. Best suited for mixed-brand shops or if you need USB charging capability.
Buy DM18M Multi-Adapter on Amazon
Comparison Table
| Adapter | Design Type | Price Range | USB Port | Warranty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Badaptor MAK-DEW | Snap-fit rigid ABS | £23–29 | No | Lifetime | Frequent, professional use |
| MT20DL | Clip-on plastic | £16–20 | No | 12 months | Occasional use, budget-conscious |
| DM18M Multi-Adapter | Modular, dual-battery | £18–25 | Yes (5V, 2A) | 12 months | Multi-brand tool owners |
Compatible Makita 18V LXT Batteries
All modern Makita 18V LXT batteries work with these adapters, including:
- BL1860B — 6.0Ah, latest generation with fuel gauge
- BL1850B — 5.0Ah, fuel gauge, widely available
- BL1840 — 4.0Ah, compact option
- BL1830B — 3.0Ah, lightweight
- BL1820B — 2.0Ah, rarely used but compatible
- BL1815N — 1.5Ah, older but still compatible
Not compatible: Makita 40V XGT batteries and G-Series batteries use different contact points and cannot be adapted to DeWalt tools, even with multi-adapters.
Important Limitations
No charging capability: Adapters work only for using your battery in a tool. You cannot charge a Makita battery using a DeWalt charger. Keep your Makita chargers connected and available.
Not for every DeWalt tool: The adapter works best with standard 20V MAX tools. DeWalt 60V MAX tools and higher require more current than an 18V adapter can safely deliver—never use an adapter on a 60V tool. Stick to the standard 20V MAX range: compact drills, impact drivers, circular saws, and mid-size grinders.
Height and fit: The adapter adds approximately 15mm of height. Test fit your tool before working overhead or in confined spaces. Some cordless tool trays and battery chargers may not accommodate the extra height.
Wear and tear: Repeated insertion and removal gradually wears the adapter’s contacts. Inspect regularly for cracks or loose clips, especially if your tool gets dropped or knocked around.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any Makita 18V battery in a DeWalt tool with an adapter?
Yes—any Makita 18V LXT battery will work. Older Makita 18V Compact batteries may not fit some adapters due to different contact geometry, but modern LXT batteries are universal. If you own older Makita batteries, check the adapter’s compatibility list before ordering.
Will the adapter damage my battery or tool?
No, provided the adapter is properly designed. The voltage is already compatible, and the adapter simply bridges the mechanical interface. Avoid dropping the adapter, which can crack the plastic and cause contact issues. Inspect for visible damage before each use.
Can I charge my Makita battery in a DeWalt charger with the adapter?
No. DeWalt chargers use voltage and current profiles specific to DeWalt batteries. The adapter does not supply charging signals, and forcing a Makita battery into a DeWalt charger—even with an adapter—risks damaging the charger or the battery’s internal electronics. Always use the correct charger for your battery brand.
Does the adapter work with DeWalt FLEXVOLT tools?
FLEXVOLT tools are designed for DeWalt’s 54V and 60V FLEXVOLT batteries. They will not recognise an 18V Makita battery, even with an adapter, because the tool is engineered to detect FLEXVOLT’s high-voltage circuitry. Do not attempt to use a Makita battery in a FLEXVOLT tool.
Which adapter should I buy?
If you use the adapter a few times a year, the MT20DL offers the best value. If you rely on it regularly or want peace of mind, invest in the Badaptor MAK-DEW. The DM18M is only worth it if you own batteries from multiple brands and need the USB charging port.
Can I use this adapter in both directions (Makita to DeWalt and DeWalt to Makita)?
No. A Makita-to-DeWalt adapter is specifically designed for Makita batteries in DeWalt tools. You would need a separate DeWalt-to-Makita adapter for the reverse. However, the MT20DL and DM18M are bidirectional—check the product description to confirm before ordering.
More on battery platforms: Makita 18V LXT Battery Compatibility | DeWalt 20V MAX Battery Compatibility
