The Makita GBU04Z 40V max XGT Brushless Backpack Blower is a cordless backpack blower that delivers the performance of a 65cc gas-powered model with lower weight, less noise and zero emissions. This is a backpack leaf blower designed for landscape maintenance, property cleanup and large-area debris clearing. The model number is GBU04Z, and it ships as a tool only with a flat nozzle and a concentrator nozzle. Batteries and charger are sold separately.

The brushless motor produces up to 32N of blowing force, 675 CFM of maximum air volume and 215 MPH of maximum air velocity. That is enough to move wet leaves, grass clippings and packed debris across parking lots, lawns and sidewalks in fewer passes. A tube-mounted variable speed trigger adjusts airflow from 0 up to 675 CFM, and two power modes (High at 675 CFM and Low at 572 CFM) switch with a tactile click button.

The Dual Battery System holds two 40V max XGT batteries on board and switches to the second battery automatically when the first one runs down, so you keep working instead of stopping mid-pass. Makita recommends the High Power 8.0Ah Battery (BL4080H), which uses tabless cell technology for up to 35% more power in this blower than the standard XGT 8.0Ah (BL4080F).

Comfort is where cordless pulls ahead of gas. The GBU04 weighs just under 20 lbs. with batteries, up to 23% lighter than comparable gas backpack blowers with a full fuel tank. The shoulder harness has breathable mesh padding that spreads the weight evenly, the control handle adjusts without tools, and a cruise control lever locks the trigger speed for long runs. A 10-in. telescoping nozzle adjusts length and locks with a twist ring for ground-level airflow control.

Noise is rated at 60 dB(A) sound pressure (measured per ANSI OPEI B175.2:2012), and Makita rates it up to 65% quieter than a leading 65cc gas backpack blower. The display panel shows real-time tool and power mode status. For durability, the blower carries an IPX4 weather-resistance rating and Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) for improved dust and water resistance.

It runs on Makita 40V max XGT batteries. XGT digital communication monitors the tool and battery to protect against overload, over-discharge and overheating, and the multi-layer contact interface keeps power delivery steady under high current.

Who should buy it: landscape and grounds maintenance crews, property managers, facility maintenance teams and homeowners with large properties who want gas-level clearing without gas. Crews working noise-restricted hours will get the most out of it.

Gas Power Without the Gas Can

The Makita GBU04Z 40V max XGT Brushless Backpack Blower matches a 65cc gas backpack blower on force while weighing less and running far quieter.

• Who it's for: Landscape crews, grounds keepers and property owners who want to retire a gas backpack blower.
• Why it stands out: 32N of force, 675 CFM, automatic dual battery switchover and a 60 dB(A) rating.
• Worth knowing: Tool only. It needs two 40V max XGT batteries, and Makita recommends the BL4080H for best performance.

• How many batteries does it use? Two 40V max XGT batteries mounted together. It switches to the second battery automatically when the first is depleted.
• How does it compare to a gas blower? Makita rates it at 65cc gas-equivalent blowing force, up to 23% lighter than comparable gas backpack blowers with a full tank, and up to 65% quieter than a leading 65cc gas model.
• What nozzles are included? A flat nozzle and a concentrator nozzle, plus the built-in 10-in. telescoping nozzle.