Today we'll take a closer look at the Flex FX1371 vs. the Makita GDT01 impact driver in a head-to-head review. As for the Flex, it's a first-generation 24V brushless model that stands out for its performance statement and has a push-button quick release for the chuck. For Makita, this is the first product in the high-performance 40V max XGT series.
Neither of their respective product lines is the only factor. However, despite being the first models available, they are still their performance leaders.
We're sharing what we've learned from testing and research, but the ultimate question is… which one is right for you? Are you looking for the highest performance, lowest price, most compact, or something else? Whichever one is the winner in your book, let us know in the comments below!
Check out our recommendations for the best impact drivers of the year!
Flex and Makita Impact Driver Specifications
Let's start with what we can learn from the specification. Note that since the Flex uses a 24V system and the Makita uses 40V, there is no perfect battery match. For the Flex we use a counterweight with a 5.0Ah battery (108Wh). For Makita, it's a 2.5Ah battery pack (90Wh).
| Flextronics FX1371 | Makita GDT01 | |
| top speed | 1900/2700/4000 rpm | 1100/2100/3200/3700 rpm |
| Maximum impact rate | 4450 IPM | 4400IPM |
| Maximum torque | 2500 in-lbs | 1950 lb-in |
| head length | 4.8 inches | 4.8 inches |
| bare weight | 2.8 lbs | 2.2 lbs |
| Weight (with battery) | 4.9 lbs | 3.7 lbs |
Flex and Makita Impact Driver Feature Highlights
Flextronics FX1371
- Brushless Motor
- 3 standard speeds
- Self-tapping screw method
- Quick eject chuck
Makita GDT01
- Brushless Motor
- 4 standard speeds
- 2 tightening modes, 1 auxiliary mode, 3 forward and reverse self-stop modes
- Dual head mounted LED
Flex vs. Makita Impact Driver Test Results
We ran three tests of the two impact drivers to determine how they compare. The first was a moderate load test of 6" x 1/4" GRK Fasteners RSS screws into the stacked OSB subfloor. Results are the average of three tests.
The timing of the second test was to see how far each model could drive a 10" x 1/2" lag screw into the same material in 30 seconds. The result is the average of how many screws remained raised over the three tests – the less the better.
The third test was to see how long it would take to loosen a nut set at 150 ft-lbs (1800 in-lbs). The result is the total time for the 5 bolts added together.
| Flextronics FX1371 | Makita GDT01 | |
| RSS spiral average | 8.7 seconds | 12.8 seconds |
| Lag screw average | 3.1 inches | 3.5 inches |
| crazy total | 3.2 seconds | 6.0 seconds |
What if you could use a premium battery? We tested those too! Flex offers stackable pouch lithium batteries. However, the Makita is currently not upgraded (although its standard battery is more advanced than some).
| Flextronics FX1371 w/6.0Ah stacked lithium battery |
Makita GDT01 with 2.5Ah |
|
| RSS spiral average | 5.9 seconds | 12.8 seconds |
| Lag screw average | 0.7 inches | 3.5 inches |
| crazy total | 2.3 seconds | 6.0 seconds |
| Flextronics FX1371 | Makita GDT01 | |
| bare tool | $159.00 | $217.00 |
| Standard Battery Kit | $249.00 (2.5Ah and 5.0Ah) | $429.00 (2 x 2.5Ah) |
| Advanced Battery Kit | $279.00 (6.0Ah stacked lithium battery) | not available |
| Warranty | 5 years (lifetime registration) | 3 years |
So who is your winner? Let us know in the comments below – bonus points for telling us why!