Makita's old 18V batteries and tools with the yellow connector are a discontinued line of products that were replaced by the newer, more powerful LXT line of tools and batteries. The yellow connector batteries are still compatible with some older Makita tools, but they are not as efficient or powerful as the LXT batteries. The yellow connector batteries were first introduced in 2004 and were the first 18V batteries available from Makita. They were based on NiCd technology, which is less efficient and less powerful than the Li-ion technology used in the LXT batteries. They were also larger and heavier than LXT ones.

What’s the difference between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacture) batteries and aftermarket batteries? Charge times: 14.4/18V 3.0Ah battery in 60 mins 18V 4.0Ah battery in 90 mins 18V 5.0Ah battery in 110 minsMakita technology delivers category-leading charge time so the battery spends more time working and less time sitting on the charger (charger not included) DC18RD is a two port fast charger that is able to charge two Makita Li-ion batteries (14.4V-18V) at the same time, as fast as DC18RC charges one battery. Compatible only with Star Protection tools, indicated by the Star Symbol™ and/or Yellow Battery Receiver under the tool

These batteries were discontinued in 2012 when Makita introduced the LXT line. The LXT batteries are based on Li-ion technology, which is more efficient and more powerful than NiCd technology. They are also smaller and lighter than the yellow connector batteries. Compact and lightweight battery charger designed to charge slide type lithium-ion batteries BL1011B, BL1021B and BL1016B. Charge times: 14.4/18V 3.0Ah battery in 22 mins 18V 4.0Ah battery in 36 mins 18V 5.0Ah battery in 45 mins Makita 18V Lithium-Ion batteries resist self-discharge so they’re ready for use even after long periods of storage. The Makita Rapid Optimum Charger (sold separately) is a smart-charging system that communicates with the battery during the charging process to monitor current, voltage and temperature. This advanced charging technology helps optimize battery life and deliver a faster charge. In addition, the Charger has a built-in fan to cool the battery for faster and more efficient charging, even in hot weather conditions. Charge Times: 2 x 14.4/18V 3.0Ah Batteries in 22 mins 2 x 18V 4.0Ah Batteries in 36 mins 2 x 18V 5.0Ah Batteries in 45 minsMakita 18V Lithium-Ion is the world’s largest cordless tool line-up powered by an 18V Lithium-Ion slide-style battery Makita created STAR Protection Computer Controls. STAR Protection is communication technology that allows the tool and battery to monitor conditions and exchange data in real time to protect against Overloading, Over-Discharging and Over-heating. The new Makita 4.0Ah battery with a 60 minute fast charge time with a DC10SB charger or 130 minute standard charge time with a DC10WD charger.

The new Makita 1.5Ah battery with a 22 minute fast charge time with a DC10SB charger or 50 minute standard charge time with a DC10WD chargerThe Li-ion range delivers 430% more working capacity during it's lifetime compared to Ni-Cad and is 40% Lighter than Ni-MH. The Li-ion has minimal depletion of power during use or in storage over it's lifetime. Equipped with Star Protection Computer Controls™ to protect against overloading, over-discharging and over-heating The 18V LXT® 4.0Ah battery (BL1840) is compatible only with Star Protection tools, indicated by the Star Symbol™ and/or Yellow Battery Receiver under the tool. The new Makita 2.0Ah battery with a 30 minute fast charge time with a DC10SB charger or 70 minute standard charge time with a DC10WD charger.