tool hire - head to head
Hilti vs Makita
Both makes turn up on the same shortlists, and the honest answer is that they are built for different buyers rather than one being better than the other. Here is what actually separates them - from a directory that sells neither.
| Hilti | Makita | |
|---|---|---|
| Built in | Liechtenstein | Japan |
| UK availability | Widely available - large UK network | Widely available - large UK network |
| Range covers | Rotary hammers and breakers, Diamond coring and cutting, Fastening and anchoring systems, Measuring tools | Cordless and corded power tools, Outdoor power equipment, Site lighting and accessories |
| Best known for | TE rotary hammer range | LXT and XGT battery platforms |
Choose Hilti if...
The professional end, sold on a direct model with tool fleet management rather than over a merchant counter. Contractors choose it for breaking, coring and anchoring where downtime costs more than the tool does.
Look at: TE rotary hammer range
Full Hilti profile →Choose Makita if...
One of the two cordless platforms most British trades have already committed to, and battery platform lock-in is the real story in power tools - once a van is full of LXT batteries, the next tool is usually a Makita too.
Look at: LXT and XGT battery platforms
Full Makita profile →Where to hire or buy either
Most UK tool hire companies carry several makes and advertise none of them, so the practical move is to find the firms covering your area and ask what is on the yard.
Hilti vs Makita - common questions
Is Hilti better than Makita?
Neither is better outright - they are built for different buyers. The professional end, sold on a direct model with tool fleet management rather than over a merchant counter. Contractors choose it for breaking, coring and anchoring where downtime costs more than the tool does. One of the two cordless platforms most British trades have already committed to, and battery platform lock-in is the real story in power tools - once a van is full of LXT batteries, the next tool is usually a Makita too.
Which is easier to get hold of in the UK, Hilti or Makita?
Hilti: Sold direct rather than through merchants, with its own fleet management and repair service. Makita: Available everywhere tools are sold or hired in Britain.
Can I hire rather than buy?
Yes. Most UK tool hire companies hire as well as sell, and many carry several makes without listing them. Search by your area and ask what they have on the yard.
Other comparisons
GetBrent is an independent directory and is not a dealer for, nor affiliated with, either manufacturer. Brand and model names are the trademarks of their owners, used here only to identify the products they refer to. Specifications vary by model year and market - confirm weights, dimensions and towing limits with the supplier before hiring or buying.