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DEWALT DCKO86M1 20V MAX* Cordless Pole Saw and vs Makita CX203SYB 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Sub-Compact

Updated July 2026 — DEWALT DCKO86M1 20V MAX* Cordless Pole Saw and wins on sales rank and price, Makita CX203SYB 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Sub-Compact wins on length.

The DEWALT DCKO86M1 is ideal for heavy-duty outdoor tasks, while the Makita CX203SYB excels in portability and versatility for smaller projects.

Why DEWALT DCKO86M1 20V MAX* Cordless Pole Saw and is better

Power

DEWALT has a pole saw with a 15 ft reach.

Functionality

DEWALT delivers up to 96 cuts per charge.

Heavy-duty

DEWALT is designed for extensive landscaping tasks.

Why Makita CX203SYB 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Sub-Compact is better

Price

Makita is $149 cheaper.

Weight

Makita weighs only 2.9 lbs.

Compact

Makita is designed for tight spaces.

Overall score

DEWALT DCKO86M1 20V MAX* Cordless Pole Saw and
85
Makita CX203SYB 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Sub-Compact
75

Specifications

SpecDEWALT DCKO86M1 20V MAX* Cordless Pole Saw andMakita CX203SYB 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Sub-Compact
Battery20V MAX18V LXT
TorqueN/A350 in.lbs.
Blade Length22 in.N/A
Speed2800 spm0-1700 RPM
DurabilityHighMedium

Dimension comparison

DEWALT DCKO86M1 20V MAX* Cordless Pole Saw andMakita CX203SYB 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Sub-Compact

Overview of the Products

In this comparison, we will look at the DEWALT DCKO86M1 20V MAX* Cordless Pole Saw and Pole Hedge Trimmer Combo Kit and the Makita CX203SYB 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Sub-Compact Brushless Cordless 2-Pc. Combo Kit. The DEWALT kit is priced at $398.00, while the Makita kit is significantly cheaper at $249.00, making it about 37% less expensive. While both products cater to different needs, they each have unique features that make them stand out in their respective categories.

Target Audience and Use Cases

The DEWALT DCKO86M1 is ideal for those who need powerful outdoor tools for cutting tall branches and hedges. With a pole saw that reaches up to 15 feet and a hedge trimmer that can extend to 12 feet, it's designed for heavy-duty landscaping tasks. On the other hand, the Makita CX203SYB targets users looking for compact and versatile tools for drilling and fastening in tight spaces. It’s perfect for professionals or DIY enthusiasts who require mobility and efficiency in smaller projects.

Pricing Comparison

The pricing of these two products reflects their target uses and features. The DEWALT kit is priced at $398.00, while the Makita kit is available for $249.00, making it about $149 cheaper. This price difference could be a deciding factor for budget-conscious consumers or those who do not need the specialized capabilities that the DEWALT kit offers. Given that the Makita’s features are designed for versatility in smaller applications, it represents a great value for its price point.

Features and Functionality

The DEWALT DCKO86M1 boasts impressive functionality with its pole saw, which delivers up to 96 cuts per charge, and a hedge trimmer with a 22-inch dual-action blade that operates at 2800 strokes per minute. This combination allows for efficient trimming and cutting of larger foliage. In contrast, the Makita CX203SYB features a brushless motor that delivers 350 in.lbs. of peak torque and is engineered for durability with its metal jampot design. This makes it versatile for various drilling and fastening applications, particularly in tight spaces where traditional tools may struggle.

Portability and Weight

Portability is a significant factor when comparing these two kits. The DEWALT DCKO86M1, while powerful, requires a bit more effort to maneuver due to its larger components designed for high reach and heavy-duty tasks. The Makita CX203SYB, weighing only 2.9 lbs. with the battery, is highly portable and designed for ease of use. Its compact size of just 5-7/8 inches long makes it perfect for working in confined areas, which is especially beneficial for on-site jobs that require frequent movement.

Battery Life and Charging

In terms of battery life, the DEWALT DCKO86M1 provides up to 96 cuts per charge, emphasizing its efficiency for outdoor tasks. This is particularly advantageous for those who engage in extensive landscaping jobs without the hassle of frequent recharging. In contrast, the Makita CX203SYB is designed to be part of a broader 18V LXT system, which is known for its fast charging times. This means that while it may not have the same endurance per charge as the DEWALT, it compensates with quick turnaround times between uses, allowing for continuous work.

Sales Rank and Market Position

The DEWALT DCKO86M1 has a sales rank of 198,570, indicating its position in the market compared to other tools. While it's a solid choice, the Makita CX203SYB has a better sales rank of 127,416, suggesting it may be more popular or widely accepted among users. This could be attributed to its versatility and compactness, appealing to a broader audience looking for efficient solutions for daily tasks.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the DEWALT DCKO86M1 and the Makita CX203SYB ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require robust tools for extensive outdoor work, the DEWALT kit’s features justify its higher price. However, if you are looking for a versatile and lightweight solution for drilling and fastening tasks, the Makita kit offers excellent value at a lower price. Consider your typical projects and budget to make the best decision that meets your requirements.