Research scope: This review uses Makita’s current XLS01ZX1 product page and included-equipment list. We did not test dust capture, finish quality or runtime.

What the current package is

The XLS01ZX1 is Makita’s current 18V LXT brushless 9-inch drywall sander package. The older XLS01Z product page is marked discontinued, so buyers should check the complete suffix. XLS01ZX1 includes the sander, soft hook-and-loop backing pad, one 120-grit disc, hex wrench and carrying bag. Battery and charger are sold separately.

Makita lists 1,000–1,800 rpm, a flexible head and an extension pipe that adds up to 16-1/2 inches. Published weight is 10.7 pounds with battery. That reach can reduce ladder movement, but it also puts significant weight at the end of a long tool; overhead comfort deserves more attention than the bare-tool photo suggests.

Dust control defines the purchase

The round brush skirt and dust port are designed for extraction. The tool is AWS-capable, meaning a compatible extractor can start wirelessly, but the AWS transmitter and extractor are separate. It can also be connected by hose without wireless switching. Verify hose adapters and extractor capacity before buying.

Drywall dust is fine and pervasive. Use an extractor and filter rated for the work, follow local exposure rules and isolate occupied areas. The sander does not make lead-painted surfaces, asbestos-containing material or unknown texture safe to abrade; arrange testing and qualified remediation where those hazards may exist.

Finish and consumables

Begin with the abrasive grade suited to the compound and finish stage. Keep the head flat, use light pressure and inspect under raking light. A powered pole sander can remove material quickly and expose tape or paper if held in one place.

Price 9-inch hook-and-loop discs, replacement pad, extractor bags/filters, battery and charger. Makita offers different pad densities, so match the pad to the specified application rather than treating every accessory as interchangeable.

Verdict and buying route

XLS01ZX1 makes sense for repeated drywall finishing where cordless movement and a planned extraction system save time. For a single small room, rental or a manual pole sander may cost less and create fewer storage obligations.

Verify the current package and documents on the Makita XLS01ZX1 page before ordering.