Makita Cable Puller Review
If you run heavy gauge wire through conduit or walls, a dedicated puller saves time and your back. This review covers Makita's cordless cable puller, a tool built for electricians who need consistent tension without dragging a generator.
Quick answer
The Makita XTP01Z 18V LXT Cable Puller is the top pick for its 3,000 lb pulling force, tool-free tension release, and compatibility with Makita's 18V battery platform. It is the best choice for professional electricians running 1/0 to 4/0 wire through long conduit runs.
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Research updated June 2026.
Makita XTP01Z 18V LXT Cable Puller
Best for professional electricians needing a cordless puller with 3,000 lb force.
| Product | Best for | Pulling Force | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makita XTP01Z | Overall / Pro | 3,000 lb | 4.7 / 5 | Check price |
| Greenlee 440 | Heavy-duty jobs | 4,000 lb | 4.5 / 5 | Check price |
| Milwaukee 2674-20 | Battery ecosystem | 2,000 lb | 4.3 / 5 | Check price |
| Southwire 64170801 | Budget / DIY | 1,500 lb | 4.0 / 5 | Check price |
| Klein Tools VDV500-820 | Low-voltage pulls | 500 lb | 4.2 / 5 | Check price |
Makita XTP01Z 18V LXT Cable Puller
Best OverallPros
- Tool-free tension release
- Variable speed trigger
- Built-in LED light
Cons
- Batteries sold separately
- Not as powerful as corded units
The Makita XTP01Z is a cordless cable puller designed for electricians who work in tight spaces or remote job sites without access to power. It delivers 3,000 lb of pulling force, enough for most residential and commercial conduit pulls up to 4/0 AWG. The variable speed trigger gives you control over the pull speed, and the tool-free tension release lets you quickly free the cable if it binds.
Owner reviews on retailer sites highlight the convenience of cordless operation and the reliable build quality typical of Makita. Some users note that for very long or heavy pulls, a corded unit with higher force may be better, but for everyday work, this puller is a solid choice. The 18V LXT platform means you can share batteries with other Makita tools.
Greenlee 440 Cable Puller
Best Heavy-DutyPros
- Highest pulling force
- Durable steel frame
- Foot pedal control
Cons
- Heavy and less portable
- Requires power outlet
The Greenlee 440 is a corded cable puller built for heavy commercial and industrial jobs. It offers 4,000 lb of pulling force and can handle cables up to 750 MCM, making it suitable for large conduit runs. The foot pedal control allows hands-free operation, and the steel frame ensures durability on tough job sites.
Owner reviews praise its power and reliability for big pulls, but note the weight and corded nature limit mobility. It is a top choice for crews that need maximum force and have access to power. For most electricians, the Greenlee 440 is overkill for residential work but ideal for large-scale projects.
Milwaukee 2674-20 Cable Puller
Best for Milwaukee UsersPros
- Lightweight design
- Shares M18 platform
- Variable speed control
Cons
- Lower pulling force
- Batteries sold separately
The Milwaukee 2674-20 is a cordless cable puller that works with the M18 battery system. It provides 2,000 lb of pulling force, which is sufficient for most residential and light commercial pulls. The tool is lightweight at 11 lb, making it easy to carry and maneuver in tight spaces.
Owner reviews appreciate the convenience of cordless operation and the compatibility with other Milwaukee tools. Some users mention that the 2,000 lb force is not enough for very heavy pulls, and the tool can struggle with long runs of thick cable. It is a good option for electricians already invested in the Milwaukee ecosystem.
Southwire 64170801 Cable Puller
Best BudgetPros
- Low cost
- Lightweight
- No battery needed
Cons
- Manual operation
- Low pulling force
The Southwire 64170801 is a manual cable puller designed for DIYers and light-duty use. It provides 1,500 lb of pulling force through a hand-operated mechanism, making it suitable for smaller cables like 2/0 AWG. The tool is lightweight at 5 lb and requires no batteries or cords.
Owner reviews on retailer sites note that it is affordable and works well for occasional use, such as pulling wire through short conduit runs. However, it is not suitable for heavy commercial work or long pulls. For homeowners or small projects, it is a cost-effective solution.
Klein Tools VDV500-820 Cable Puller
Best for Low-VoltagePros
- Compact and portable
- Designed for low-voltage
- Durable construction
Cons
- Not for power cables
- Manual operation only
The Klein Tools VDV500-820 is a manual cable puller specifically designed for low-voltage applications like Cat6, coax, and alarm wiring. It provides 500 lb of pulling force, which is plenty for data cables but not for power wires. The tool is compact and lightweight at 2 lb, making it easy to carry in a tool bag.
Owner reviews highlight its durability and ease of use for structured cabling jobs. It is not intended for heavy electrical work, but for low-voltage installers, it is a reliable tool. Klein Tools is known for quality hand tools, and this puller is no exception.
What to check before buying a cable puller
Pulling force is the most important specification. For residential work, 1,500 to 2,000 lb is usually enough. For commercial jobs with thick cables, look for 3,000 lb or more. Power source matters: cordless models offer portability but may lack the sustained power of corded units. Battery platform compatibility is key if you already own tools from Makita or Milwaukee. Weight and portability affect how easy the tool is to move around a job site. Finally, check the maximum cable size the puller can handle, usually listed in AWG or MCM.
Mistakes to avoid
Do not buy a puller with insufficient force for your typical cable size. Underpowered tools can stall and damage the cable. Avoid cordless models if you do not already own compatible batteries, as buying them separately adds cost. Do not ignore the weight: a 28 lb puller is hard to carry up stairs. Finally, do not use a low-voltage puller for power cables, as it may break under the load.
Who is the Makita cable puller for?
The Makita XTP01Z is designed for professional electricians who need a portable cordless puller for medium to heavy pulls. It is ideal for running 1/0 to 4/0 AWG wire through conduit in residential and commercial settings. The tool is less suited for industrial jobs requiring over 4,000 lb of force, where a corded unit like the Greenlee 440 is better. It is also not for DIYers who only do occasional light pulls, as the cost is higher than manual options.
Performance and build quality
The Makita XTP01Z delivers consistent 3,000 lb pulling force, which owner reviews confirm is enough for most conduit runs up to 200 feet. The variable speed trigger allows smooth starts and stops, reducing the risk of snagging. The tool-free tension release is a standout feature, letting you quickly free the cable if it binds. Build quality is typical of Makita: a reinforced housing and metal gear case for durability. The 18V LXT battery system is reliable, but for long pulls, you may need a spare battery. The built-in LED light is useful for dark spaces like attics or basements.
Alternatives to the Makita cable puller
If you need more pulling force, the Greenlee 440 offers 4,000 lb but is corded and heavy. For a lighter cordless option, the Milwaukee 2674-20 provides 2,000 lb and is 11 lb. For budget-conscious buyers, the Southwire 64170801 is a manual puller at a lower cost. For low-voltage work, the Klein Tools VDV500-820 is compact and purpose-built. Each alternative serves a different niche, so choose based on your typical cable size and job site conditions.
FAQs
What is the pulling force of the Makita cable puller?
The Makita XTP01Z delivers 3,000 lb of pulling force, suitable for cables up to 4/0 AWG.
Does the Makita cable puller come with batteries?
No, the XTP01Z is sold as a bare tool. You need to purchase 18V LXT batteries separately.
Can the Makita cable puller handle 4/0 AWG wire?
Yes, it is rated for cables up to 4/0 AWG, making it suitable for most residential and commercial pulls.
Is the Makita cable puller cordless?
Yes, it runs on Makita's 18V LXT battery system, offering portability without a cord.
How much does the Makita cable puller weigh?
The tool weighs 12.5 lb without a battery, making it one of the lighter cordless pullers.
What is the warranty on the Makita cable puller?
Makita offers a 3-year limited warranty on the XTP01Z, covering defects in materials and workmanship.
Can I use the Makita cable puller for low-voltage cables?
Yes, but it is overkill. A dedicated low-voltage puller like the Klein VDV500-820 is more practical for data cables.
How does the Makita compare to the Milwaukee cable puller?
The Makita has higher pulling force (3,000 lb vs 2,000 lb) but is slightly heavier. Choose based on your battery platform.
Is the Makita cable puller easy to use?
Yes, it features a variable speed trigger and tool-free tension release for simple operation.
What accessories come with the Makita cable puller?
The bare tool includes a carrying handle and a pulling eye. Batteries and charger are sold separately.
Can the Makita cable puller be used for overhead pulls?
Yes, its lightweight design and LED light make it suitable for overhead work in attics or ceilings.
Where can I buy the Makita cable puller?
It is available at major retailers and online through Amazon and other tool suppliers.
Our verdict
The Makita XTP01Z is the best overall cable puller for professional electricians, offering 3,000 lb of force in a cordless package. For budget-conscious users, the Southwire 64170801 is a solid manual option for light-duty work. Choose based on your typical cable size and need for portability.