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Makita has come out with a new cordless lantern radio, with different models to fit all of their different cordless battery systems – XGT, 18V, and 12V Max CXT.
The international version features a lantern, AM/FM radio, flashlight, and USB charging.
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One of the interesting features is that you can adjust the color temperature.
The light can be adjusted to 5,000K (bright white/daylight), 3,500K (slightly warm/yellow), or 2,500K (warm, very yellow).
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From the product photos, the lantern looks aimed at both work and recreational applications.
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There’s a flashlight on top, although that’s not going to be a primary function due to the awkward ergonomics.
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It seems that the radio is strictly a radio, with digital AM/FM tuners, but no Bluetooth functionality or other advanced radio functions such as alt inputs that we can see.
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The USB charging port can recharge electronic devices, with a 5V output of up to 2.4A.
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Makita has numerous other cordless outdoors lifestyle/recreational products:
- Makita 18V cooler
- Makita 18V cordless TV
- Makita 18V coffee maker
- Makita 18V X2 cordless water kettle
- Makita 18V radio with charger
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The Makita lantern-radio will be available in 4 models:
- XGT 40V Max (36V) (teal): MR008GZ
- XGT 40V Max (36V) (olive green): MR008GZO
- 18V: MR054
- 12V Max CXT (10.8V): MR053
Price: ¥15,200 – ¥16,500 (~$126 – $136)
Discussion
It looks like Makita designed this more for outdoors and recreational use than for jobsite, construction, or other professional use, but it’s an interesting concept nonetheless.
I wonder – why an AM/FM radio, but no Bluetooth? Bluetooth has become a standard inclusion in modern jobsite radios and speakers.
The pricing seems fair, and it’s user-friendly for there to be a different model for each of Makita’s cordless power tool systems. It’d be better if there was one model that had multi-system compatibility, but having different models is better than Makita leaving any system – or users – out.
At the time of this posting, Makita has been promoting and selling the new cordless lantern-radio internationally, but there have been no announcements from Makita USA.
Is this something you’d like to see Makita USA bring to North America?
Intro Video
Here’s Makita’s YouTube launch video:
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