The newest cordless microwave from Makita can operate on batteries.

Image Credit: Toolguyd A hot meal in the middle of a long workday is occasionally the only thing that will keep you going. If you are stuck on a construction site or even the road, that might not always be an option unless you have with you Makita's newest power tool: a cordless microwave that zaps rather than cuts. Prepare for some depressing numbers if you thought your smartphone was a battery hog. A typical rechargeable battery can be completely drained by an electric motor in just a few minutes, especially when the motor is used in a heavy-duty power tool. Power tool batteries have undergone a lot of innovation to extend their lifespan under heavy loads, and there has recently been a push to make them compatible with other devices that typically rely on power outlets. Even power-hungry table saws can now be powered by a pair of 60-volt rechargeable batteries from companies like Dewalt, and Makita has adapted its own rechargeable battery technology to power everything from cordless coffee makers to job site wireless speakers. A pair of 40-volt rechargeable batteries can be clipped onto the back of the appliance to provide power because construction workers cannot operate on empty. Makita's new cordless microwave is compatible with the XGT system offered by the company. However, Makita's new microwave is not just intended for construction sites; it might also ensure that you do not miss your hot morning coffee during a power outage and seems like the perfect solution for camping. Off-grid vanlifers may find it entertaining as well. The Makita microwave can produce 500 watts of power for eight minutes on two fully charged XGT batteries before reducing to 350 watts until the batteries run out of power. The batteries can heat up to 20 hot drinks or about 11 lunches, but the actual results will vary, especially if you start with frozen food. The microwave has a very small interior volume, 0.28 cubic feet, but it should be adequate for single-portion meals. Image Credit: ITS Hub The 20-pound microwave, without batteries attached, is easier to carry because it has a handle on top and an included strap, but do not count on using it to reheat food while it is slung over your shoulder. The appliance is turned off by opening its door, but it is also turned off when it is moved around by a tilt sensor. Makita has only recently announced that its new cordless microwave will be sold in Japan for a price of ¥71,500, or around US $540. That is unquestionably expensive—almost twice as expensive as a countertop model with all the necessary features. On the other hand, the pleasure of securing this in the passenger seat of your car and eating a hot breakfast burrito while commuting to work is immeasurable.